June 2017 and Summer Fun Guide by Atlanta Parent

AtlantaParent June 2017 / atlantaparent.com

Make Dadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day

S GU UM ID ME E R IN F SI UN DE

Mom Approved Pediatricians

It’s PlaYTiMe. AgaIn. Every day is playtime when you visit Ya Lun and Xi Lun, Atlanta’s new set of giant panda twins.

Sandy Springs / Lawrenceville-Suwanee

404-409-0827 Sandy Springs

4 Atlanta Parentâ&#x20AC;&#x192; â&#x20AC;&#x192; June 2017

678-985-8080 Lawrenceville-Suwanee

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Inside 33 June Vol. 34 / Number 6

YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

Features 14

Go on a Photo Safari

Make Your Child a Happy Camper

Get your kids in touch with nature by going on a fun photo safari or scavenger hunt. Plus, good camera options. Does your child love art or design? Is he fascinated by zoo animals? What about computers and gaming? These 10 amazing camps still have room for a few more campers. SPONSORED CONTENT

Love You, Dad

Summer on Your Doorstep

Try one of these six simple ideas to show Dad you care on Father’s Day, from a jar full of his favorite treats to words of love. Subscription boxes are a near-foolproof way to make sure your kids never utter these two words: “I’m bored.”

Magazine Association of the Southeast

2013 Award Winner

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Pediatricians We Love / 25 Families develop a strong bond with their pediatrician. Find a great one with Atlanta Parent’s Mom-Approved Doctors.

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June 2017 Atlanta Parent 5

PUBLISHER Liz White

lwhite@atlantaparent.com ASSOCIATE Laura Powell

PUBLISHER lpowell@atlantaparent.com

BUSINESS Amy Smith DEVELOPMENT MGR asmith@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Carolyn Haushalter EXECUTIVE chaushalter@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Sarah Bergeron

EXECUTIVE sbergeron@atlantaparent.com

CONTRIBUTING Amanda Miller Allen

EDITOR

STAFF Teresa Farkas

WRITER tfarkas@atlantaparent.com

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

PRODUCTION Robin Mintz

OPERATIONS Caroline Ward MANAGER cward@atlantaparent.com

ADMINISTRATIVE Amelia Ramirez

ASSISTANT

MARKETING MOM Felicia Barman

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

6 Atlanta Parent June 2017

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DON’T MISS THE SOUTHEAST’S FAVORITE ROCK SHOW! Gem, mineral, fossil, and jewelry dealers from all around the country will be set up throughout the Museum. You will see rare and exotic jewelry, plus ancient fossils and mineral specimens from around the world that you can purchase for your own collection.

SAT + SUN : 10 AM – 5 PM

JUNE 10 +11 MEMBERS : FREE NON-MEMBERS : REGULAR ADMISSION SUITABLE FOR ALL AGES

I-75

EXIT 293 CARTERSVILLE GA

770-606-5700

MEMBERS: FREE NON -MEMBERS: REGULAR ADMISSION SUITABLE FOR ALL AGES

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Publisher’s Note Summer’s Short, So Get Out There!

Pregnant & looking for ways to relax? We have the answer! 60, 75 or 90 minute massage sessions!

School’s finally in recess and Atlanta’s families are ready to play! At Atlanta Parent and at home, we get excited about summer. We have more time to be outside, more time to explore – time to splash around, chase fireflies, ride bikes, sample a few playgrounds, take in an outdoor movie and so much more. In fact, there’s so much more, it wouldn’t fit into just one issue. Our June issue will make you flip. Open one cover, and you’ll find our June issue, full of our usual features and ideas – how to make Father’s Day special, Atlanta’s Mom-Approved Pediatricians and great subscription boxes with science projects, books, cooking projects and other fun activities to keep kids learning all summer long. Flip over the magazine, and you’ll find our Ultimate Summer Fun Guide to help you make this summer the best one ever for your family. We’ve collected our favorite things to do and assembled all the info you need to take the family and go, including: * Must-see exhibits and attractions, such as the new Treetop Trail at Zoo Atlanta. * Top events in June and July. * Free and nearly free summer activities, including bowling and skating, and indoor and outdoor movies. * Local and chain restaurants where kids eat free when adults buy a meal. * Toddler-friendly fun and crafts. * Great places to get wet, from pools to splash pads. * July 4th fireworks, festivals and events. We’ve had a ball finding the best summer has to offer and packaging it in our June issue. You can find even more at atlantaparent.com, including a recap of last month’s Top Playgrounds – always a good choice for a summer romp. Use our guide and get going – summer never lasts as long as we think it will in those first glorious days of June. We hope you’ll make some wonderful memories in the sunny days to come.

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The Importance of Sleep for Preschool Children Getting enough sleep will improve your child’s mood and educational performance dramatically.

n What Happens When

Preschoolers Sleep

During the day, a preschooler’s brain is constantly processing new feelings and information and forming synapses at a rate of 800 per second. A brand new synapse is fragile, especially immediately following its creation. The brain takes care of this through a process called neuroplasticity. During sleep, the brain forms these connections together and makes them stronger. This happens during “slow wave sleep,” in the part of the brain called the hippocampus, to help vocabulary, and during stage two of the non-REM sleep to help motor skills. Any emotional or social memory is solidified during REM sleep.

n Kids’ Sleep Is

Different than Adults’ Forty percent of a child’s sleep time is spent in slow wave sleep, which is 10 times more than an adult’s sleep pattern. Kids use this sleep time to process what they’ve learned. Studies show that missing a single hour of sleep can reduce cognitive maturation by the equivalent of two years. An 8-year-old will preform at the level of a 6-year-old. IQ drops 7 percent with a single

missed hour, and children lose the ability to “catch up” if the sleep loss in chronic. Children should get a minimum of 8 to 10 hours of sleep.

n A Lack of Sleep

Affects Attention Span Less sleep means less attention, less focus, and less self-control, because a lack of sleep reduces the body’s ability to extract glucose from the bloodstream. Glucose is the energy pill that all cells use to function, and lack of glucose affects the brain’s prefrontal cortex.

n Sleep Promotes More

Positive Emotions

The brain stores any emotional component of a memory in one of two locations. If the memory is negative, it is stored in the part of the brain called the amygdala. If the memory is positive, it is stored in the hippocampus. Sleep deprivation hits the hippocampus much harder than the amygdala and results in children only remembering negative memories. One reason why some children experiencing puberty seem sullen and depressed is they get less sleep, and the negativity of their day sticks with them.

n Sleep Deprivation

Leads to Memory Loss When children get enough sleep, it changes the fundamental structure of their brain and alters every other brain process the following day. They feel happier, are smarter, and have less ADD, and will develop a brain that can handle life’s challenges. We cannot control many things in the lives of our children, like what they see or hear, but we can control one thing: We can create a bedroom environment for a good night’s sleep, without a cell phone, TV, computer or any other electronic device. For more information on special preschool programs that support your child in reaching his or her learning goals, talk to the staff at kidsrkidsatlanta.com. The Kids ‘R’ Kids First Class Curriculum® incorporates many learning tools that are fun and engaging and the staff would love to discuss each program with you.

This article is brought to you by Kids ‘R’ Kids Atlanta

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June 2017 Atlanta Parent 9

Atlanta

SPONSORED CONTENT

Last Chance for Summer Camp Safari Day Camp at Zoo Atlanta

Procrastinating parents – it’s not too late. Here are 10 camps that have a few openings. Give your kids great summer memories.

Atlanta’s Wildest Day Camp Safari Day Camp at Zoo Atlanta is an exciting way for kids to learn about animals and wildlife conservation efforts through real life experiences. Kids get up-close and personal with animals at the Zoo as they learn from expert educators and animal care professionals. Each day is full of animal observation, arts and crafts, projects and hands-on learning all while having fun. Campers learn through creative play and exploration, and each weekly session is filled with themed games, experiments and more. Ten sessions May 30 through Aug. 4. Ages 4-14 separated by age group. 404-624-9453. zooatlanta.org

Play in the Museum The Children’s Museum of Atlanta day camps combine learning through play for a full-package, engaging summer experience. Depending on theme, campers will create new recipes with a chef, experiment with chemical reactions and participate in robot Olympics or even learn about yoga. All camps feature playing on the museum’s exhibit floor, making take-home items such as instruments or crafts, playground time and water play in Centennial Olympic Park. Children will experience a little bit of everything and learn new skills while enriching old ones. June 12-16, 19-23 and July 10-14 and 17-21. Ages 5-9 separated by age group. 404-527-3693. childrensmuseumatlanta.org

Hands-on with Art and Language Vinings School of Art instructors teach children to paint large canvas paintings, grout mosaics, create with oven/kiln clay, draw by learning techniques such as animation, perspective and portraiture. Three separate age groups of 10 students: 5-7 years, 7-10 years, 10-14 years. Camps include a one-hour daily PE/fitness class in the gym next door. Students can do art in the morning, PE/fitness and a different type of art in the afternoon. Another option is doing art in the morning, fitness and afternoon Spanish crafts and cooking. Students can choose five mornings (half days), afternoons, or full-day camp. Open 7:20 a.m.-6:20 p.m. May 25-Aug. 16. 678-2134278. viningsschoolofart.com

Learn through Play

Vinings School of Art

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Children’s Special Services, LLC offers three summer camps: Weekend Outdoor Sensory Experience with Learning on the Log™, WIN™ handwriting and POP™ social skills. Social Skills POP™ Personal Options and Preferences™ is a sensory-integrative social play group using pediatric yoga, Music Therapy ART and Occupational Therapy. There are staff therapists on-hand throughout the day and the goal is for each child to leave with an improved or newly-developed skill – from motor to social to cognitive. A number of proven methods, weaving play intricately with communal interaction and increased proficiency are designed to meet the child’s personal goals. 770-394-9791. childrensservices.com Cont’d on page 18

June 2017 Atlanta Parent 17

SUMMER CAMP: LAST CHANCE

Children’s Special Services, LLC

The Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Sew, Knit or Craft

Fabricate Studios

Campers can explore talents for sewing, photography and fashion design at Fabricate Studios. The camps are staffed by professional educators to guide kids and teens through a variety of projects including a beach tote, summer skirt, custom clutch and more. Whether your child is a beginner or has advanced skills, Fabricate offers the perfect fit with a variety of half-day and full-day camps for kids ages 5-15. All supplies are provided, including sewing machines, fabric and photography equipment. Located in West Midtown. Year-round classes are also offered for kids and adults. 404-981-4665. fabricateatlanta.com

Calling all Budding Designers

Museum of Design Atlanta

At the Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA), any child who loves to design, build and create can take their skills to the next level. MODA believes design is a great tool for making a difference. The museum’s camps teach kids to think like designers and to use STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art/ design, and math) tools to prepare them for the real world. Camps provide opportunities to explore LEGO robotics, Minecraft, microcontrollers, animation, and architectural design. Unique themes include “Pet Project: Designing and Prototyping for Animals in Need,” “Stop Motion Animation” and “Designing and Coding in Minecraft.” Ages 5-14. Full-day or half-day options. JuneJuly. 404-979-6455. museumofdesign.org/campMODA

Start Creating and Coding Current gamers and future programmers will be fascinated by the opportunity to learn the language behind games and computer programs with Start Code summer camps. Not only will campers learn coding language, but they will be able to apply these tools to their interests and create exciting games, stories and digital artwork. Campers will dive into hands-on projects using Python, Processing or Java and will even get to modify a Minecraft world. Start Code offers year-round classes, for the child who gets a taste and wants to continue throughout the year. Full-day programs June 5-July 28. Ages 8-18. 404-507-2772. startcode.net Start Code

A Summer Full of Fun It takes a village to raise a child, however it takes a community to present a great summer camp. Camp Village inspires children to do their best with the help of 60 community partners. Campers participate in arts, basketball, chess, etiquette, fashion, gardening, golf, gymnastics, horseback riding, Jr. Apprenticeship Program, math, music, public speaking, reading, robotics, rocket building, science, skating, soccer, Spanish, swimming, Taekwondo, tennis, writing, yoga, weekly field trips and more. One-week sessions, June 5-July 15 for ages 5-18. Disney’s The Lion King Training Camp is June 5-July 15. For the 15th anniversary celebration, Camp Village’s Production of Disney’s Lion King Experience is July 14-15, at The Ray Charles Performing Arts Center. 404-349-0122. campvillage.com

Camp Village

18 Atlanta Parent June 2017

[ SPO NSO R ED C O NTENT ]

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P N for aren ick Be t's elod st Pic eo Ar ks n tsy A Cl war as d se s

City of Sandy Springs

Get Artistic and Active Whether your child is an athlete, artist or both, the City of Sandy Springs offers a variety of fun summer camps. Campers will have a blast in traditional day camp and sports camp, exploring the outdoors in Discover Nature camp and learning about performing and creating in theatre and art camps. Gymnastics camps start at the preschool level and even include a rhythmic gymnastics camp. Kids will be immersed in the arts, sciences and sports and taught by experienced staff members for an opportunity to learn new skills. June 5-Aug. 4. One-week sessions for ages 5-11. Preschool gymnastics: starting at age 3. 770-730-5600. registration.sandyspringsga.gov

Step Back in Time

Your child’s best opportunity to learn music is now.

The most favorable time to learn music is from birth to six years. Help your young child achieve his or her full musical potential with an innovative, developmental music and movement program. Parent + child classes are playful and creative and each family receives the acclaimed CDs and song books to continue developing their musical abilities at home. Over 150 classes are offered in metro Atlanta. Summer sessions Developed by Rob Sayer start June 3–9, so call now for class times and schedule a free observation class.

770•645•5578 www.themusicclass.com/atlanta Buckhead • Kirkwood • Sandy Springs • Roswell • Toco Hills • Cumming Woodstock • Johns Creek • Dunwoody • East Cobb • Smyrna • Suwanee

The Southern Trilogy invites campers to travel back in time to historic Roswell. Kids can connect with local history through 19th century games and activities, while exploring the group of historic homes. At Bulloch Hall, children will be immersed in blacksmithing, fabric dying, candle dipping and more, and girls will love learning entertaining skills of women from the 1800s to today. Camps at Smith Plantation include butter churning, Native American experiences and gold panning, and Barrington Hall writing camps are led by an award-winning children’s book author. Kids will learn through historical experiences while having a blast. Ages 6-14. 770-641-3705. roswellgov.com/ registration

Southern Trilogy

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June 2017 Atlanta Parent 19

DAD’S FAVORITE TREATS

MAKE DAD’S

DAY

Ask most fathers what they want on their special day and they’ll modestly tell you they don’t need anything. These fun ideas help you make a fuss over dad without – well – making a fuss.

This gift couldn’t be easier. Take an empty mason jar and fill with roasted peanuts in the shell (or if dad has another favorite … say pistachios … those will work as well). Make a label that says “I’m NUTS about you, Dad!” or use the free printable available at designdininganddiapers.com. A second version uses an empty candy jar that you fill with father’s favorite sweets. A “Dad’s Stache” printable also available at thoughtsfromalice.com.

LEGO CUFF LINKS Little boys love LEGOs. But so do big boys. Make this simple pair of cuff links that will remind dad of his kids and keep his playful spirit alive. You’ll need: Blank cuff links (can purchase at Etsy or Ebay – search “cuff link blanks”) Two LEGOs (four dot thin ones preferable) Silver spray paint (optional) Glue If you want, paint your LEGOs first, then cover with a fine coat of spray polyurethane in satin. Allow to dry. Glue the LEGOs to the cuff links. (Make sure you ordered silver blanks or sprayed them to match if you painted your LEGOs). If you want to use a heavy duty bonding agent, this is definitely a task for an adult. Let dry well. dreamalittlebigger.com

GIVE DAD A HAND

IS DAD A GOLFER? Get some old/recycled golf balls and let the kids decorate them using colored Sharpies. Save the expensive balls for the course, but these are great fun for practice.

THE WORD IS FATHER Whether you have a computer or a box of crayons, this heartfelt gift is easy to pull off. With your kids, brainstorm adjectives and nouns that describe dad and have letters found in the word “FATHER.” Once you have a workable list write down six words that when correctly aligned, will spell “FATHER” vertically. If you’re a crafter you can cut out the letters and put colored paper behind the openings. Got mad design skills? Use a design program on your computer and print out the results on card stock. Want to go low tech? Let the kids draw and color the words, then put the finished product in a frame for dad’s wall or desk. fynesdesigns.com

20 Atlanta Parent June 2017

Fold a sheet of colored card stock in half and trace your child’s hands on one side. With card folded, cut out the hand so you end up with two identical hand shapes. On the top hand, you can write or use transfer letters to spell out “I love you …”. Next, cut a strip of card stock. Fold it accordion style until you have 12 spaces and write the words “this much!” on the strip (the first and last squares should be left blank, and the message will take up the remainder.) Write a personal message on the outside of the second hand then glue the blank accordion squares to the blank side of the two hands. sarahyewman.blogspot.co.uk

ADVERTISE YOUR DAD Websites like cafepress.com and redbubble.com (though there are others) have plenty of T-shirts and mugs (often funny) that honor a swell dad. Most will give you a discount on your first purchase if you sign up for email alerts.

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10 WAYS TO SPEND THE DAY WITH DAD There are plenty of opportunities to show Dad just how much he’s appreciated this Father’s Day. Dads will get free admission to many of Atlanta’s family attractions.

DADS GET IN FREE Children’s Museum of Atlanta is having a Father’s Day Celebration with a Father’s Day photo booth, dad Olympics and parade, “I Love My Dad” storytime and picture frame decorating on June 17 and 18. Dads get in free on June 18. childrensmuseumatlanta.org It’s Father’s Day at the Zoo at Zoo Atlanta on June 18, and dads get free admission with purchase of any regularly-priced child’s or adult’s general admission ticket. zooatlanta.org A Father’s Day Car Show will be held at Stone Mountain Park, featuring vintage Camaros, Mustangs, Chevys from the 1950s and more. In honor of Father’s Day, families receive one free Adventure Pass for dad on June 18. stonemountainpark.com The College Football Hall of Fame will give free admission to dads on June 18. cfbhall.org

The College Football Hall of Fame

FREE FOR THE FAMILY The Atlanta History Center will have free admission on June 17 and 18 for its annual Juneteenth celebration, a two-day family program that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. The center will have special family activities, performances and crafts. atlantahistorycenter.com Cont’d on page 22

! S T OU

C S B

U C IN

Program starts at age 7 or in the 1st grade atlantabsa.org/cubscouts | 770.989.8820 atlantaparent.com

June 2017 Atlanta Parent 21

Not feeling silly? Let our digestive experts help relieve your little ones’ tummy troubles so they can get back to being kids.

11 WAYS TO SPEND THE DAY WITH DAD Oakland Cemetery also will have free events commemorating Juneteenth on June 17, 9 a.m.-noon, with guided walking tours of the cemetery’s African American grounds, storytelling, a headstone cleaning workshop, a kids’ guided walking tour, a kids’ scavenger hunt and more. oaklandcemetery.com The Atlanta Fatherhood Expo on June 17, 1-5 p.m., at Greenbriar Mall will celebrate all fathers with a children’s entertainment area, giveaways, presentations and resources for fathers, and more. Admission is free for families. atlfatherhoodexpo.com

FOR SPORTS-MINDED DADS Alpharetta | Duluth | Marietta | Sandy Springs AGApediatrics.com | 404.843.6320 AGA, LLC and its affiliates are participating providers for Medicare, Medicaid, and most healthcare plans offered in Georgia. We comply with applicable Federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. CHÚ Ý: Nếu bạn nói Tiếng Việt, có các dịch vụ hỗ trợ ngôn ngữ miễn phí dành cho bạn.

Breathe Easy Early

An ORBEX Study of Asthma & Wheezing Your child may be eligible to participate in a clinical trial at Emory University / Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta to help prevent asthma in children PARTICIPANTS MUST: • Be 5 - 17 months old • Have eczema (atopic dermatitis), OR • Have 1 biological parent who has been diagnosed with asthma

Another idea for spending the day with Dad: Take him out to a ball game with the Atlanta Braves, who will be playing the Marlins at 1:30 p.m. on June 18. Buy inexpensive seats for the whole family or splurge for Father’s Day Catch on the Field (tickets are $101 each for Diamond Infield seats and include $30 to spend on concessions, and Dad gets to participate in a postgame catch on the field). braves.com Dads who love the outdoors would enjoy a Father’s Day Paddle afternoon canoe trip with the family, offered at the Chattahoochee Nature Center, June 18. 1-4 p.m. Water squirters will be distributed to beat the heat. Tickets are $30 each (children must be age 6 or older); register by June 15. chattnaturecenter.org Dads who gave up their sports cars for a family van would be thrilled with a day at the Porsche Experience Center behind the wheel of a Porsche or with the driving experience at Atlanta Motor Speedway (driving or riding in a NASCAR race car). Prices vary by experience: The Porsche Experience starts at $350, and Speedway thrills start at $109. porschedriving.com and drivepetty.com

Qualified participants will receive: • Compensation for time and travel

For more information, contact: 22 Atlanta Parent June 2017

Alice Bruce 404.712.1773 alice.bruce@emory.edu

Porsche Experience Center

atlantaparent.com

Having the most pediatric specialists in Georgia is only half of what makes us super. choa.org

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

WellStar Health System WellStar considers it a privilege to be an essential part of your children’s and young adult’s lives – that’s why we partner with parents to deliver world-class care. The WellStar Pediatric Network works closely with specialists throughout Metro Atlanta. From newborn care through young adulthood, our providers offer the highest quality wellness check-ups, immunizations and treat everything from respiratory illnesses to sports physicals and everything in between. We keep good healthcare close to your home, with many convenient locations, and deliver pediatric care in WellStar Medical Group offices, pediatric imaging, anesthesia, physical therapy and after hours, emergency centers at WellStar Cobb, Douglas, Kennestone and Paulding hospitals along with specialty care such as pediatric orthopedic surgery at WellStar Windy Hill Hospital.

Dr. Sheba Antony WellStar Kenmar Pediatrics, Acworth

Dr. Avril Beckford WellStar Pediatric & Adolescent Center, Smyrna

Dr. Larry Clements WellStar Kenmar Pediatrics, Marietta

Dr. Ana Combes Osacar WellStar Pediatric & Adolescent Center, Smyrna

Dr. Sivanthini Hines WellStar Pediatric & Adolescent Center, Smyrna

Dr. Rogena Miller WellStar Primary Care Center, Smyrna

Dr. Sandra Rodriguez-Sfeir WellStar Kennestone Pediatric Associates, Marietta

Dr. Jose Rodriguez WellStar Kennestone Pediatric Associates, Marietta

Dr. Tina Vothang WellStar Pediatrics East Cobb, Marietta

The WellStar Pediatric Center offers a wide range of high-quality, child-centered services with convenient hours for busy parents. Our specially trained pediatric experts – including radiology, pediatricians, subspecialists, technologists, physical therapists, a supportive child life specialist and other

caring team members – are dedicated to your child’s well-being. Water-themed décor and interactive play areas create a calming effect for pediatric and adolescent patients. When imaging or lab tests are needed, our prompt appointments and rapid test results give you peace of mind.

wellstar.org/forchildren

24 Atlanta Parent June 2017

MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS

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Doelling, Nancy, MD Northside Cherokee Pediatrics, Woodstock Doyle-Littles, Loreen, MD Kaiser Permanente Cascade Medical Center, Atlanta Ecklund, David, MD Kaiser Permanente Cumberland Medical Center, Atlanta Ellerine, Nicole, MD Peachtree Park Pediatrics, Atlanta Elliott, Steven, MD Piedmont Pediatrics, Atlanta

Parents are choosy when it comes to medical care for their children. Atlanta Parent asked our readers – moms and dads just like you – to nominate pediatricians that they would recommend. We wanted to know why your child’s doctor is special and you told us. PEDIATRICIANS

Blair, Fiona, MD ABC Pediatric Group, Stone Mountain

Adams, Michael, MD Kaiser Permanente Southwood Medical Center, Jonesboro

Brown, Lauren, MD Peachtree Park Pediatrics, Atlanta

Adan, Dante, MD Kaiser Permanente TownPark Medical Center, Kennesaw Alegria, Jamilet, MD CentreSpringMD+Peds, Johns Creek Alli, Renee, MD Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta Ani, MaryGrace, MD Pediatric Associates, Marietta Antony, Sheba, MD WellStar Kenmar Pediatrics, Acworth Anwar, Raseefa, MD Childrens’ Medical Group, Suwanee Axelrod, Maria, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw Bataille, Fredly, MD Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, Atlanta Baudean, Lise, MD Lawrenceville Pediatrics, Lawrenceville Beckford, Avril, MD WellStar Pediatric & Adolescent Center, Smyrna

Brugner, Briana, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw Burnham, Robert, MD Roswell Pediatric Center, Alpharetta and Cumming Butler-Rice, Angela, MD Amazing Pediatrics, Tucker Calk, Thomas, MD Children’s Medical Group, Atlanta Carter, II, Stephen, MD West Atlanta Pediatrics, Dallas and Lithia Springs Chaplin, Karen, MD A Kids World Pediatrics, Fayetteville Clark, Gerald, MD North Fulton Pediatrics, Roswell Clay, Pamela, MD Kaiser Permanente Gwinnett Medical Center, Duluth Clements, Larry, MD WellStar Kenmar Pediatrics, Marietta Combes Osacar, Ana, MD WellStar Pediatric & Adolescent Center, Smyrna

Fairlie, Tarayn, MD Kaiser Permanente Gwinnett Medical Center, Duluth Faroqui, Mahnaz, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Lawrenceville Fatema, Tayaba, MD United Pediatrics, Norcross Fleming, Shea, MD Peachtree Park Pediatrics, Atlanta Gaspard, Patrice, MD Kaiser Permanente Sandy Springs Medical Center, Atlanta Gauthier, James, MD Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Decatur Gfroerer, Terrence, MD Dunwoody Pediatrics, Dunwoody Gotlieb, Edward, MD The Pediatric Center, Stone Mountain Gray, Charmaine, MD Kaiser Permanente Panola Medical Center, Lithonia Gregory, Alexia, MD Sandy Plains Pediatrics, Marietta Griffith, Elizabeth, MD Piedmont Pediatrics, Atlanta Grosso, Ana, MD Kaiser Permanente Gwinnett Medical Center, Duluth Hammad, Wa’el, MD Hammad, Platner, Charles-May, Atlanta Harmon, Paula, MD Pediatric Ear Nose and Throat of Atlanta, Atlanta Harris, Laura, MD Piedmont Pediatrics, Atlanta Hassel McNeil, Stephanie, MD PAMPA Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Marietta

Cooper, Jeffrey, MD Cooper Pediatrics, Duluth

Herd, Hal, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Sugar Hill

Cotton, Byron, MD Kids & Teens Primary Healthcare, Decatur

Herron, Merinda, MD Herron Pediatrics, Atlanta

Cumberbatch Peete, Marcia, MD ABC Pediatric Group, Stone Mountain

Hill, Andrea, MD Monroe Pediatrics, Loganville and Monroe

Bergman, David, MD The Pediatric Place, Alpharetta

Darby, Scott, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Dacula

Hinchcliffe, Annette, MD Georgetown Pediatrics, Johns Creek

Bien, Elizabeth, MD Pediatric Physicians, Roswell

Dewling, Karen, MD Johns Creek Pediatrics, Suwanee

Hines, Sivanthini, MD WellStar Pediatric & Adolescent Center, Smyrna

Benaroch, Roy, MD Pediatric Physicians, Roswell Beno, Luke, MD Kaiser Permanente Cascade Medical Center, Atlanta

Cont’d on page 26

atlantaparent.com

MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS

June 2017 Atlanta Parent 25

Ho, Laurette, MD Sandy Plains Pediatrics, Marietta Jackson, Joanne, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Dacula Jattan-Cunningham, Lynette, MD Conyers Pediatrics, Covington Johnson, Yolanda, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Sugar Hill Jones, David, MD Kaiser Permanente Sandy Springs Medical Center, Atlanta

Morgan, Bakari, MD PAMPA Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Marietta and Roswell Morgan, Vicki, MD Lawrenceville Pediatrics, Loganville

Smiley, Susan, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Sugar Hill

Nguyen, Amanda, MD Children’s Healthcare of West Georgia, Villa Rica

Spandorfer, Pip, MD North Atlanta Pediatric Associates, Atlanta

Olderman, Jada, MD Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Alpharetta

Steele, Sharon, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Lawrenceville

Ologunja, Kola, MD Spectrum Pediatric Group, Kennesaw

Kubagawa, Homare, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Dacula and Lawrenceville

Palmos, Lirio, MD Care-Well Pediatrics, Columbus

Landry, Alicia, MD Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Douglasville Leard, Steven, MD Eagles Landing Pediatric Associates, Stockbridge Lin, James, MD Duluth Children’s Medicine, Duluth Long, Mark A., MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw Lynes, Nathan, MD West Atlanta Pediatrics, Dallas and Lithia Springs Marcus, Peggy, MD Dekalb Pediatric Center, Decatur Marcus, Sally, MD Northside Pediatrics, Sandy Springs McKenna, Meaghan, MD Kaiser Permanente TownPark Medical Center, Kennesaw McKinnon, Elizabeth, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw Meeks, Jessalyn, MD Children’s Medical Group, Atlanta Mekelburg, Kirsten, MD Children’s Wellness Center, Atlanta Melamed, Yitzhak, MD Kids Start Pediatric, Lithia Springs Miller, Caroline, MD Pediatrics at Whitlock, Marietta Miller, Rogena, MD WellStar Primary Care Center, Smyrna Mitchell, Tarissa, MD Kaiser Permanente Southwood Medical Center, Jonesboro

Shu, Jennifer, MD Children’s Medical Group, Decatur

Morris-Robinson, Glenda, MD Kaiser Permanente Cascade Medical Center, Atlanta

Kelly, Linda, MD Dunwoody Pediatrics, Alpharetta and Dunwoody

Kute, Vaishali, MD Chattahoochee Pediatrics, Alpharetta

Sherwinter, Julius, MD Dunwoody Pediatrics, Dunwoody

Pitts, John, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw Polokoff, Jay, MD Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Sugar Hill

Steimer II, Thomas, MD Kaiser Permanente Gwinnett Medical Center, Duluth Stephens-Hodges, Belinda, MD Kaiser Permanente Henry Towne Centre Medical Center, McDonough Stewart, Danita, MD A Kids World Pediatrics, Fayetteville

Price, LaKimberly, MD Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, Atlanta

Stickney, George, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Lawrenceville

Proctor, Keishaun, MD Atlanta Pediatric Partners, Atlanta

Stokes, TaShawna, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw

Pugel, Scott, MD Kaiser Permanente Gwinnett Medical Center, Duluth

Stolle, Ashley, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Duluth

Quisling, Yvette, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Sugar Hill

Strauss, Peter, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw

Ransom, Lindsey, MD West Atlanta Pediatrics, Dallas and Lithia Springs

Thomas, Jr., John, MD Children’s Care Pediatrics, Atlanta

Reines, Susan, MD Kaiser Permanente Panola Medical Center, Lithonia

Verras, Athanasios, MD Verras Pediatrics, Tucker

Reisman, A. Gerald, MD Dunwoody Pediatrics, Dunwoody

Vothang, Tina, MD WellStar Pediatrics East Cobb, Marietta

Roberts, Benjamin, MD Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Austell and Kennesaw

Washington, Keyana, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Lawrenceville

Roberts, Lisa, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Duluth

Washington, Tandua, MD Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Sugar Hill

Roberts, Nikki, MD Cobb Pediatrics, Marietta

Welsh-Evans, Monique, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Dacula

Rodbell, Kevin, MD Sage Hill Pediatrics, Atlanta

White, Crystal, MD West Vinings Pediatric Group, Smyrna

Rodriguez-Sfeir, Sandra, MD WellStar Kennestone Pediatric Associates, Marietta

Wilburn, Kelly, MD Dunwoody Pediatrics, Alpharetta and Dunwoody

Rodriguez, Jose, MD WellStar Kennestone Pediatric Associates, Marietta

Wilkiemeyer, Claire, MD All About Kids Pediatrics, Lawrenceville

Rosenfeld, Joseph, MD Snapfinger Woods Pediatrics, Decatur

Winters-Smith, Lisa, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw

Molock, Suzanne, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Dacula and Lawrenceville

Royal, Dina, MD PAMPA Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Marietta

Wiskind, Robert, MD Peachtree Park Pediatrics, Atlanta

Rudnicki, Kerith, MD Children’s Medical Group, Atlanta

Young, Earl, MD West Atlanta Pediatrics, Dallas and Lithia Springs

Moncino, Mark, MD Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Duluth and Tucker

Sells, Deneta H., MD Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, Atlanta

Youngblood, Elaine, MD Kids First Pediatric Group, Stockbridge

Morales, Daliannys, MD Georgetown Pediatrics, Alpharetta

Seth, Jagdish, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw

Yount, Sarah, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw

26 Atlanta Parent June 2017

MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Deneta H. Sells, MD; Fredly Bataille, MD LaKimberly Price, MD

Intown Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine was founded by Dr. Sells in 2006 to provide warm, friendly and excellent care for the growing population of in-town families. After becoming acquainted with the staff and patients at Intown Pediatrics, Dr. Bataille officially joined the practice in 2010. In the spring of 2017 Intown Pediatrics announced its newest location in Brookhaven and welcomed Dr. Price. The mission of Intown Pediatrics is to be a true “neighborhood” practice by being involved in community activities, offering convenient appointment times and after-hours advice to concerned parents. The physicians are committed to partnering with families to foster the healthy growth and development of their children, while striving to be easily approachable and communicative. The entire staff at Intown Pediatrics is dedicated to providing comprehensive and informative care for the whole patient. Visit IntownPediatrics.com today and learn more about their team and all they can offer your family as they develop a “provider-parent” partnership with you. Town Brookhaven 705 Town Boulevard, Suite S560 • Atlanta 30319 Glenwood Park 490 Bill Kennedy Way • Atlanta 30316 404-446-4726 IntownPediatrics.com

Julius Sherwinter, MD A. Gerald Reisman, MD; Kelly Wilburn, MD Terrence Gfroerer, MD; Linda Kelly, MD

Dr. Julius Sherwinter opened Dunwoody Pediatrics and began practicing in Dunwoody more than 30 years ago. The pediatricians and staff at Dunwoody Pediatrics take great pride in assisting you in raising healthy, happy children. With a combined experience of more than 100 years in pediatrics, our professionals extend the greatest caliber of care for you and your children. Dr. Sherwinter, Dr. Reisman, Dr. Wilburn, Dr. Gfroerer and Dr. Kelly are honored to be nominated among their peers for the 2017 Mom Approved Doctors. They each bring a unique perspective to medicine with their training, experience and medical focus. Some areas of their expertise include Pediatric Nutrition, Obesity, ADHD, Kidney Disease, Hypertension, Gastroenterology, Adoption and Foster Care. All Dunwoody Pediatric Physicians are Board Certified in Pediatrics and Fellows of the American Academy of Pediatrics. For more information on their Providers, office hours and office locations that serve Dunwoody, Alpharetta, Roswell and the Cumming areas, please visit DunwoodyPediatrics.com to find out which location is most convenient for you and your family.

1428 Dunwoody Village Parkway 3300 Old Milton Parkway, Suite 200 Dunwoody, GA 30338 Alpharetta, GA 30005 770-394-2358 770-664-9299 DunwoodyPediatrics.com

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MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS

June 2017 Atlanta Parent 27

SPECIAL ADVERTISING ADVERTISING SECTION SECTION SPECIAL

Stephen Carter, MD; Earl Young, MD Lindsey Ransom, MD; Nathan Lynes, MD

West Atlanta Pediatrics provides excellence in pediatric and adolescent medicine to the Lithia Springs and Dallas areas. We pride ourselves on our academic credentials, extensive pediatric experience and our dedication to providing accessible healthcare to our patients. West Atlanta Pediatrics is committed to quality healthcare for children of all ages through regular preventive health screening, patient and parent education, and appropriate management of illnesses and concerns. It is our privilege to follow children from birth through age 18. We have been in the Lithia Springs area since 1992, and in Dallas since 2004. The many years that we have spent practicing have given us the opportunity to care for two generations of children. We know that the relationship that a family has with their pediatric practice is very important, and we strive to provide excellent service. Doctors Carter, Young, Ransom, and Lynes are honored to be nominated two years in a row as Mom Approved Doctors. We appreciate your support and welcome new patients to our West Atlanta Pediatrics family. 915 Thornton Rd. Lithia Springs 30122 770-739-9292 2713 Charles Hardy Pkwy., Suite 122 Dallas 30157 770-505-3162

WestAtlantaPediatrics.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Jeﬀrey D. Cooper, MD

Providing excellence in pediatricbeen kind and considerate, but what makes him stand “Dr. Cooper has always and adolescent health care out is his ability to truly understand the kids – their fears, worries and cries. Dr. Cooper takes the time to make sure the parent understands what is going on, by answering any number of questions. He is funny, caring, and truly special. I have been taking my 3 kids to Dr. Cooper’s office for 10 years. Even when I moved over 30 minutes away, I still make the drive once a month (due to my son’s needs) because he is so worth it. The level of care from him as well as all the other doctors and staff is remarkable.”

Cooper Pediatrics is thrilled to be honored as a Mom Approved Top Doc! Pediatric specialists Laurie Boden, M.D., Ryan Pahl, PNP and Susan Smith, PNP strive to provide a good experience for growing families while using the latest science to ensure the best quality care available. Our staff is warm, friendly, competent, and especially good with children. Our goal is to walk beside you as your family grows and to see your children become whole, healthy, happy adults. We look forward to making your family part of ours.

3645 Howell Ferry Road Duluth 30096 678-473-4738 CooperPediatrics.com

28 Atlanta Parent June 2017

MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine

Dr. Hal Herd; Dr. Suzanne Molock; Dr. Sharon Steele Dr. Joanne Jackson; Dr. Yvette Quisling; Dr. Susan Smiley; Dr. Lisa Roberts Dr. Ashley Stolle; Dr. George Stickney; Dr. Monique Welsh-Evans Dr. Keyana Washington; Dr. Homare Kubagawa Dr. Yolanda Johnson; Dr. Mahnaz Faroqui; Dr. Scott Darby Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine is the oldest established practice in Gwinnett County. We are proud to provide traditional, conservative health care in agreement with recommendations and guidelines offered by the American Academy of Pediatrics. We consider it a great honor to partner with you in facing the challenges of caring for and raising your children. Working with parents throughout life’s most important endeavors has been the mission of GPAM for more than 40 years.

Our 15 board certified pediatricians are part of a group including three nurse practitioners and also, two new pediatricians coming in July 2017. We have four locations in Gwinnett county for your convenience. Our offices are in Duluth, Dacula, Lawrenceville and Sugar Hill. For information about us see our website GwinnettPeds.com or follow us on Facebook. Call us at 770-995-0823 for additional information or to schedule an appointment.

Duluth • Dacula • Lawrenceville • Sugar Hill 770-995-0823 GwinnettPeds.com Facebook.com/GwinnettPeds.com

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MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS

June 2017 Atlanta Parent 29

SPECIAL SPECIAL ADVERTISING ADVERTISING SECTION SECTION

Dr. Jamilet Alegria, MD Dr. Jamilet Alegria MD is a board-certified pediatrician who joined CentreSpring MD + Peds in the fall of 2016 after spending years as a Pediatric Hospitalist at both CHOC Children’s in Orange County and at the Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center Inpatient Pediatrics Unit in Southern California. Dr. Jamilet has a compassionate and thorough approach to integrative pediatric care, and is passionate about partnering with parents and caregivers to navigate a child’s health journey in a holistic manner. As a mom, she understands both the challenges and the deep responsibility and love that come with parenting. After spending years in pediatric practice, Dr. Jamilet took a special interest in the nutritional component of pediatric treatment. She studied pediatric nutrition extensively and believes many chronic pediatric conditions and disease can be avoided or greatly altered through nutritional supplementation. At CentreSpring MD + Peds, getting to the root of a child’s recurring health issue is of toppriority to her and her team, instead of simply treating or masking symptoms. Dr. Jamilet works with a team of seven board-certified providers, and was trained directly by CentreSpring MD founder and nationally known physician, Dr. Taz Bhatia MD. The center offers pediatric well checks, newborn visits, sick visits, nutritional counseling and vaccine counseling, and also offers an affordable pediatric membership program, to make integrative health care and a personal relationship with your child’s provider more accessible to everyone. Dr. Jamilet sees pediatric patients in Brookhaven and in Johns Creek, which was opened in January of this year and serves as the practice’s second location. Brookhaven 1401 Dresden Drive Atlanta 30319

Johns Creek 10220 Medlock Bridge Road Johns Creek 30022

404-814-9808 CentreSpringMD.com/Pediatrics

Dr. Bataille graduated from New York University in 2000 with a degree in Anthropology and Biology. Following graduation he received a grant from the National Institutes of Health to do scientiﬁc research at Columbia University for three year. He then went on to receive his medical degree from the Morehouse School of Medicine in 2007, where he also completed his Pediatric residency in 2010, training at the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta hospitals/ Dr. Laurette Ho established Sandy Plains Pediatrics in 2000 facilities. During his residency Dr. Bataille became well acquainted with the staffcare and patients with the intention of providing personalized pediatric for the families of East Cobb. Dr. Gregory joined practice in at Intown Pediatrics, and in July of 2010 he ofﬁ cially joined theAlexia practice. . Hethe is committed to andthe between both doctors, thereand is a combined 38 years of of IPAM’s mission of partnering with families to2004, foster healthy growth development pediatric experience. Dr. Ho and Dr. Gregory, along with Joanna Atlanta’s children. Kerr, PNP believe their small practice allows patients and families

Laurette Ho, MD and Alexia Gregory, MD

to feel comfortable. In addition to regular checkups, the practice

Dr. Bataille strives to be an easily approachable, communicative Pediatrician dedicated to also addresses issues ranging from newborn rashes to teenage depression. providing comprehensive and informative care of the whole patient. He is a member of the Doctors Ho and Gregory are both Board Certified Pediatricians American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Medical Association. and Joanna Kerr is a Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. Sandy Plains Pediatrics also has an in-house Child and Adolescent

Visit IntownPediatrics.com today and learn Psychiatrist, more about theirHo. entire team andmost all they Dr. Vincent The practice accepts major can insurances including Medicaid and PeachCare offer your family as they develop a “provider-parent” partnership with you for Kids. Call to schedule an appointment or to learn more.

3225 Shallowford Road, Building 1300 Marietta 30062 678-560-7160 SandyPeds.com

30 Atlanta Parent June 2017

MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Kennesaw Pediatrics

Dr. Maria Axelrod

Dr. John Pitts

Dr. Briana Brugner

Dr. Peter Strauss

Dr. TaShawna Stokes

Dr. Sarah Yount

Dr. Elizabeth McKinnon Dr. Jagdish Seth

Dr. Mark A. Long

Dr. Lisa Winters-Smith

At Kennesaw Pediatrics our entire team of staff and physicians is committed to providing exceptional pediatric healthcare with a personal touch. We are honored that each of our physicians has been nominated as a 2017 Mom-Approved Doctor. At our three specialized centers, award winning pediatricians and staff offer care for your child from cradle to college. From the time you bring your new arrival into the comforting Newborn Center, to your school day visits at the Main Office, to care for your high schooler at the Teen Center, we meet the needs of your child at every age and stage. Kids don’t take days off and neither do we. We’re here for you seven days a week. You’ll find the services you need under one roof: check ups to sick visits, sports physicals to asthma care, on site labs, allergy clinic, classes, support groups and more. And most importantly, we listen. At every location, at every visit, we take the time to hear your concerns and provide the best in skilled, compassionate healthcare for your growing child.

3745 Cherokee St. NW Kennesaw 30144 770-429-1005 KennesawPediatrics.com

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MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS

June 2017 Atlanta Parent 31

Special Delivery: Learning in a Box Subscription boxes are a near perfect answer to the annual summer lament, “I’m bored!” The boxes deliver fun activities to your door, based on your children’s interests, and they have the sneaky benefit of reinforcing what kids learned during the school year. Best of all, most companies can deliver a box in less than 10 days for a “we can afford it” price.

For STEAM Kids KiwiCrate.com Ages: 3-16 Subscription boxes contain all the materials for a STEAM project (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) and kid-friendly instructions, plus extras depending on the kit ordered. Koala Crates (ages 3-4) focus on creative fun, Kiwi Crates (ages 6-8) have hands-on science and engineering projects, Doodle Crates (ages 9-16) appeal to kids who love art and design, and Tinker Crates (ages 9-16) are STEM projects.

SteveSpanglerScience.com Ages: 7-14 STEM Snack, STEM Lab and STEM Deluxe deliver science projects monthly. The Snack box is an introduction to STEM with one experience each month, Lab contains up to five experiences per month and Deluxe up to 10 experiences each month. A new option, STEM Camp for ages 5-11, is a onetime purchase and delivers five projects at once; a child could have a week of “science camp” or do a project every few days. n What You Get: Our sample box for ages 7-14 was a fun STEM Lab project. It contained a kit for experiments with water: A glass jar, some plastic and foam cups, a “water gel” powder, a scooper, and a baby’s diaper. Two of the experiments were “magic” tricks with water to amaze friends, one was a game and another experiment explained how baby diapers work; all came with easy-to-follow instructions. n What It Costs: Subscription boxes range from $9.99 to $29.99 per month; purchase for one, three or 12 months. STEM Camp option, $89.95.

32 Atlanta Parent June 2017

n What You Get: Our sample box for ages 5-8 contained all the parts and step-by-step instructions to make a simple pinball machine, plus explore! magazine with fun experiments, activities and online links.

For Would-Be World Travelers

n What It Costs: $19.95 per month for a onemonth or three-month subscription; $18.50 per month for a six-month subscription or $16.95 per month for a 12-month subscription.

Ages: 3-14

LittlePassports.com Spark their interest in other cultures and places with fun activities. Early Explorers (ages 3-5) gets them started with a small suitcase, stickers, a world map and an activity book. With World Edition (ages 6-10) or USA Edition (ages 7-12), kids learn about a new country or two new states each month. Science Expeditions (ages 9-plus) has hands-on science experiments. n What You Get: Our sample box, the World Edition, contained a parent’s guide, a great 2x3-foot map of the world, a passport that looks like the real thing, a letter from cool kids Sam and Sophia who are traveling around the world on a magic scooter, an activities booklet and a Boarding Pass with a secret code for access to online games and activities. n What It Costs: Subscription boxes range from $12.95 to $21.95 per month for a month-to-month subscription, depending on the age group, with discounts for six- and 12-month subscriptions.

atlantaparent.com

For Young Chefs

For Kids Who Love Reading

Kidstir.com

GiftLit.com

Ages: 5-10

Ages: 1-Young Adult

Kids can have great fun cooking while developing a lifelong skill and a love of fresh ingredients. They’ll learn to shop for food and use science and math skills for measuring and figuring out how much ingredients cost. Each month’s kit includes kid-sized cooking tools, three recipes developed by food experts (chefs, cookbook authors, nutritionists and more) and three games or activities; 12 months of kits create a cookbook of dishes kids can prepare.

Librarians, authors, educators and booksellers collaborate to select great books for all ages. Pick an age category and an interest, and see the recommendations. Don’t like one? It’s easy to switch that month’s book for another book that GiftLit recommends or a book that’s one of your favorites.

n What You Get: Our sample box for ages 5-10 contained a vegetable peeler and ice cream scooper, and easy-to-follow recipes to make Toaster Oven S’mores and Summer Sips – smoothies, shakes and a watermelon drink – and suggestions to customize those recipes for different taste buds. Kids would learn how to use a vegetable peeler to peel a cucumber and a spoon to remove seeds and how to use a blender, among other kitchen skills.

n What You Get: Our sample box for ages 5-12 contained a sampling of four gift-wrapped books, “The Phoenix of Destiny” by Geronimo Stilton, “Click Here to Start” by Denis Markell, “Futhermore” by Tehereh Mafi and “Real Friends” by Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham. We were impressed with the presentation and each of the books, especially a beautifully illustrated Scholastic book following the fantasy adventures of the mouse Geronimo Stilton (ages 7-10).

n What It Costs: One-month or three-month subscription, $15.95 per month; six-month subscription, $14.50 per month; 12-month subscription, $12.95 per month.

n What It Costs: For a three-month subscription, about $20 per month, depending on the age of the recipient and the type of book.

Cont’d on page 34

a school where your child learns

HALF OR FULL DAY, YEAR ROUND PROGRAMS

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

Montessori School at Emory

3021 N. Decatur Road • Decatur, GA 30033 MontessoriSchoolatEmory.com • 404-634-5777

Accredited Toddler Through Middle School Programs atlantaparent.com

June 2017 Atlanta Parent 33

Fulton County Schools

Is Here To Help…

The school system can evaluate any child age 3 or older for a suspected disability, at no cost.

➢ Diagnostic and Evaluation Services ➢ Speech/Language Therapy ➢ Specialized Community and School-Based Education

Special Delivery: Learning in a Box

We serve students with disabilities such as developmental delays, speech/language delays, autism spectrum disorders, hearing and vision impairments, orthopedic impairments who are three to five years of age and reside within the Fulton County School District.

Call or visit for more information: 470-254-0404 fultonschools.org It is the policy of the Fulton County School System not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, or disability in any employment practice,educational program, or any other program, activity, or service.

Ivy-Kids.com Ages: 3-8 Each box contains about 10 activities built around a children’s book for that month. Families read the book, then do the crafts and games developed by early childhood teachers to encourage curiosity, problem solving and creativity. Most kits have enough materials for two siblings to share.

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(770) 795-8399 Sponsor of www.americanhomecleaning.org We are a non-profit that employs low income single Moms and allows then to earn a livable wage. Proverbs 3:5,6.

34 Atlanta Parent June 2017

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n What You Get: Our sample box for ages 3-8 had activities built around the illustrated storybook “Are You a Ladybug?” It contained the book and tips for parents to discuss the book with their kids, a clay model of the bug’s life cycle, Forget-Us-Not wildflower seeds to plant a ladybug garden, and materials for a ladybug paper plate, observational drawings, a ladybug keepsake box and more, plus activities such as “catch the aphids” and painting ladybug rocks. What fun! n What It Costs: One-month subscription, $38.95; three-month subscription, $36.95; six-month subscription, $34.95. – Amanda Miller Allen

Want to win a subscription box? Enter Atlanta Parent’s contest at atlantaparent.com/contests atlantaparent.com

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Atlanta Parent is accepting applications for our 2017-18

Parent Advisory Board Share your opinions about parenting in Atlanta! As a member, you’ll give input on articles, contribute your talents and ideas, and get involved with special events. Apply at atlantaparent.com. Deadline, June 15.

36 Atlanta Parent June 2017

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Classified Pages Party

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Classified MARKETPLACE C O UN SELING Forward Steps Counseling. Provides counseling for couples, families, and individuals. We specialize in helping couples rebuild and restore their relationships. Call 678-552-2689 today to begin moving forward. Forwardstepscounseling.com. 2011 Commerce Drive. Peachtree City, GA 30269

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To advertise on this page please call 770-454-7599

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LIKE US ON FACEBOOK June 2017 Atlanta Parent 37

Swim and Splash: Get Wet Guide

AtlantaParent June 2017 / atlantaparent.com

SUMMER Fun Guide

Yummy! Kids Eat Free

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Don’t be late. Your adventure awaits—all under one roof. Now - September 10, 2017 Enjoy family fun inspired by Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland: • Hatter’s Floating Tea Party Cruise and “Follow the White Rabbit” Scavenger Hunt exploring 9 acres of indoor gardens • Aquafina® Splash Party and “Eat Me, Drink Me” Jr. Chef Camp • FREE nightly fountain show, movie nights, dining events and live entertainment • Award-winning spa and golf course, nearby attractions and more!

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4 Atlanta Parent June 2017

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SUMMER Fun Guide 7 8 11

Four Must-Visit Attractions

12 18

Get Wet Guide

20 24 26 28 32 36 38

Out-of the Box Places

Not-to-Miss June and July Events Up Close with Butterflies

Float Down the ‘Hooch

Free & Almost Free Kids Eat Free Hop on a Train Toddler-Friendly Fun Top 4th of July Events Totally Atlanta Summer Go-To Bucket List / 39 SPECIAL ADVERTISING PAGE

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June 2017 Atlanta Parent 5

Say hello to sensational summer fun! Family and Adult Performances Museum Exhibits and Tours Workshops for all ages Special Events Films and more! PUPPET.ORG ∞ 404.873.3391 1404 SPRING STREET NW, ATLANTA, GA 30309

Limited FREE Parking • MARTA Accessible via Arts Center Station Advance purchase is highly recommended as many shows and events sell out quickly.

6 Atlanta Parent June 2017

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SUMMER Fun Guide

4 Must-Visit Attractions l Mammoths and Mastodons Fernbank Museum of Natural History June 17-Aug. 27. Daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Photo © The Field Museum

Explore the world of mammoths and mastodons through fossils, artifacts, media and the story of the best preserved baby mammoth ever found. Atlanta. 404-929-6300. $18; ages 3-12, $16; ages 2 and younger, free. fernbankmuseum.org

l Blue Man Group-Making Waves Children’s Museum of Atlanta June 10-Sept. 4. Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. This exhibit brings together science and art through a multi-sensory exploration of sound. Make music on the sand drum, tube phones or PVCs just like the Blue Man Group. Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $14.95; younger than 1, free. childrensmuseumatlanta.org

l Treetop Trail Zoo Atlanta Test your skills like tree-dwelling animals in this new aerial playground high above Zoo Atlanta. Children must be 48 inches tall and fit inside the safety harness to participate without an adult chaperone. Kids less than 48 inches tall cannot go on the Sky Rail, which is the zip line at the very top of the aerial playground. Atlanta. 404-624-5936. $13.95 plus general admission; ages 12 and older, $25.99; ages 3-11, $17.99; ages 2 and younger, free. zooatlanta.org

l Dinosaur Explore Stone Mountain Park / Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Through Dec. 31 Meet over 20 life-size dinosaurs that act like the real thing! Kids can see them roar and move, play in the dino dig area, learn about dinosaur habitats and more. Stone Mountain. 800-401-2407. Admission included with daily Adventure Pass ($31.95; ages 3-11, $26.95; ages 2 and younger, free) or yearly membership. Daily parking, $15. stonemountainpark.com

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June 2017 Atlanta Parent 7

SUMMER Fun Guide

Not-to-Miss June and July Events

Events may be canceled or changed after our deadline. Please check beforehand to confirm dates and times.

l Flying

Colors Butterfly Festival

Chattahoochee Nature Center June 3-4. Sat. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 p.m. See hundreds of native butterflies and plants. Enjoy crafts, face painting, sidewalk art and more. Roswell. 770-992-2055. $12; ages 2 and younger, free. chattnaturecenter.org

l Good

Neighbor Day Airshow DeKalb-Peachtree Airport June 10. Noon-5 p.m. See planes soar above and perform mesmerizing tricks. View antique airplanes, military aircraft and helicopters. Take a biplane ride or helicopter ride for a fee. Atlanta. Admission, free; parking, $10. pdkairshow.com

l The

Dancing Granny by Alliance Theatre

June 10-18, Oglethorpe University; June 24-July 2, The Galloway School; July 8-16, Spelman College Based on the children’s book by Ashley Bryan, kids and adults will be tapping their feet as Ananse, the clever spider of African folklore, tries to trick Granny into dancing away from her garden. 404-733-5000. Adults, $15; ages 6-17, $8; ages 5 and younger, free. See alliancetheatre.org for showtimes and show locations.

l Juneteenth l Family

Festival

Woodruff Arts Center June 11. 1-4 p.m. Enjoy art-making activities, dance and musical performances, workshops, demonstrations and more by the High Museum, Alliance Theatre and Atlanta Symphony. Atlanta. 404-733-4200. Free; register for tickets online.

Atlanta History Center June 17-18. Sat. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sun. noon-4 p.m. Commemorate the end of slavery and explore themes of freedom and family history through activities, immersive museum theatre performances and crafts. Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Free admission for the day. atlantahistorycenter.com

l Rockfest

Tellus Science Museum June 10 and 11. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. See rare and exotic jewelry, ancient fossils, and mineral specimens from around the world. Enjoy geology-themed children’s activities or visit the Geode Station to see one cracked open. Cartersville. 770606-5700. Adults, $14; ages 3-17, $10; ages 2 and younger, free. tellusmuseum.org

8 Atlanta Parent June 2017

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l Roswell l Go

Skateboarding Day

Summer Puppet Series

Kennesaw Skatepark June 21. 6-10 p.m. A day for skateboarders and spectators with open skate sessions, live music, contests, giveaways and games. Kennesaw. 770-422-9714. Admission, free; food for purchase. kennesaw-ga.gov

Roswell Cultural Arts Center June 5-July 22. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m. Second show Wed. and Fri. 1:30 p.m. Puppets perform in seven productions this season, including “Rumpelstiltzkin,” “Robin Hood,” “Beauty and the Beast” and more. Roswell. 770-594-6232. Ages 2 and older, $5; younger than 2, free. roswellgov.com/ puppetshows

l Superhero

l Tunes

Saturday

Tellus Museum July 8. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Visit The Arrow, Supergirl and The Flash for photo ops, then enjoy various make-and-take activities and watch shows in the Tellus Theater. Cartersville. 770-606-5700. Adults, $14; ages 3-17, $10; ages 2 and younger, free. tellusmuseum.org

l Reptile

from the Tombs

Oakland Cemetery June 10. Noon-8 p.m. Bring beach chairs and blankets for this music festival featuring musicians performing among the historic cemetery. Children’s activities, food trucks and more. Atlanta. 404-688-2107. Ages 13 and older, $20; ages 4-12, $5; ages 3 and younger, free. oaklandcemetery.com

Day

Fernbank Museum of Natural History July 8. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Come face-to-face with live reptiles and amphibians, including snakes, tortoises, lizards and more. You’ll be close enough to touch these reptiles as you learn about why they are ecologically important. Included with admission. Adults, $18; ages 3-12, $16; ages 2 and younger, free. Atlanta. 404-929-6300. fernbankmuseum.org

l Summer

in the City

Downtown Decatur June 16. 5-11 p.m. The Decatur Beach Party has been revamped this year, but still includes 60 tons of sand to play in, children’s activities and a rock climbing wall along with a band, street food, sidewalk art chalk and more. Decatur. 404-371-8386. Free. decaturdba.com/events/beach-party l Cinderella l Paw

Patrol Live

Fox Theatre July 8-9. Sat. and Sun. 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Paw Patrol to the rescue! The pups share many lessons for all ages as they make heroic rescues in their race to the finish line. Atlanta. 404-881-2100. $19-65. foxtheatre.org

Della Circus

Center for Puppetry Arts June 20-July 23. No show sJuly 4. See puppet.org for showtimes. With high-flying thrills, Cinderella Della Circus brings puppetry and the circus together with fairytale magic. Ages 4 and older. Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $19.50. puppet.org Cont’d on page 10

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June 2017 Atlanta Parent 9

SUMMER Fun Guide l Coca-Cola

Film Festival

Fox Theatre July 16-Sept. 3 Enjoy sing-a-long versions of “Mary Poppins,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Casablanca” or a “Harry Potter” marathon. Atlanta. 404-881-2100. See foxtheatre.org for showtimes and pricing. l Atlanta

Ice Cream Festival Piedmont Park July 22. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Ice cream samples and scoops for purchase, live entertainment, fitness and children’s activities. Atlanta. 678-964-5944. Admission, free. atlantaicecreamfestival.com

l Repticon

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

Atlanta

Gwinnett County Fairgrounds July 22-23. Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Many things that slither – from boa constrictors to bearded dragons – will be on display at this fun and educational traveling exhibit. Families can see live reptile shows, learn about caring for a reptile and buy reptile supplies. One-day tickets: Adults, $10; ages 5-12, $5; ages 4 and younger, free. Lawrenceville. repticon.com

Could your baby, toddler or kid be one?

Atlanta, New York, LA

404-636-1974

www.williamreynoldsagency.com 10 Atlanta Parent June 2017

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SUMMER Fun Guide

Up Close with Butterflies!

See a butterfly land right on your hand, arm or even head! These annual festivals also include face painting, crafts, music and more. Dunwoody Nature Center

Colors Butterfly Festival

Interact with hundreds of native butterflies in these butterfly encounters:

Chattahoochee Nature Center June 3-4. Sat. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 p.m. Cost: $12; ages 2 and younger, free. Roswell; 770-992-2055. chattnaturecenter.org

l Butterfly Encounter Chattahoochee Nature Center June 5-July 31. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Sun. noon-4:30 p.m. Cost: Adults, $10; ages 13-18, $7; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free. Roswell; 770-992-2055. chattnaturecenter.org

l Butterfly Festival Dunwoody Nature Center Aug. 19. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Cost: Adults, $10; ages 4-12, $5; ages 3 and younger, free. Dunwoody; 770-394-3322. dunwoodynature.org

l Day Butterfly Center Callaway Gardens Open year-round 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (until 6 p.m. March-Labor Day Weekend). Cost: Ages 13 and older, $20; ages 6-12, $10; ages 5 and younger, free. This ticket price also includes other Callaway Gardens attractions. Pine Mountain; 800-225-5292. callawaygardens.com

l Flying

ADMISSION FOR UP TO 4 PERSONS

I-75 EXIT 293

100 TELLUS DR CARTERSVILLE

BECAUSE SCIENCE MATTERS! Not valid with any other discounts, coupons, offers, specials or deals. Excludes programs and special ticketed events. Must present this coupon at the time of purchase. Offer expires 10-31-2017

tellusmuseum.org atlantaparent.com

770-606-5700 June 2017 Atlanta Parent 11

SUMMER Fun Guide

Get Wet Guide

Summer in Atlanta gets hot – stay cool with these ways to splash! Jump through a fountain or splash pad, soar down a waterslide or hang at a beach close to home. Events may be canceled or changed after our deadline. Please check beforehand to confirm dates and times.

Fountains Free: l Duluth

Town Green Fountain

In the middle of Duluth’s Town Green, this kid-friendly fountain spews water two stories in the air. Where: 3167 Main St., Duluth. 770-476-3434. duluthga.net l Fountain

of Rings, Centennial Olympic Park

Get sprayed, surprised and chilled in these dazzling fountains, and stick around for the water show that’s synchronized to music. Showtimes: 12:30, 3:30, 6:30 and 9 p.m. daily. Where: 265 Park Ave. NW, Atlanta. 404-222-7275. centennialpark.com l Legacy

Fountain at Piedmont Park

Splash in this fountain that has more than 70 jets reaching up to 30 feet in the air. Where: 1320 Monroe Dr. NE, Atlanta. 404-875-7275. piedmontpark.org l Suwanee

Town Center Park: Big Splash Interactive Fountain The largest interactive fountain in Gwinnett County uses 1,400 gallons of recycled water every minute. Where: 330 Town Center Ave., Suwanee. 770-945-8996. suwanee.com l Village

Pavilion in Mall of Georgia This fountain surrounded by shops and restaurants is a sweet spot for kids to splash around. Where: 3333 Buford Dr., Buford. 770-2719458. simon.com/ mall/mall-of-georgia Village Pavilion in Mall of Georgia

For a Fee: l Geyser

Suwanee Town Center Park: Big Splash Interactive Fountain

12 Atlanta Parent June 2017

Towers, Stone Mountain Park

This attraction features a splash pad and a climbing structure with gushing geysers. Where: 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain. 800-401-2407. stonemountainpark.com Cost: Included in daily Adventure Pass: ages 12 and older, $31.95; ages 3-11, $26.95. Parking, $15.

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Geyser Towers, Stone Mountain Park

l Atlanta

Botanical Garden

l Laurel

Park Sprayground

With the recent renovation, the Children’s Garden boasts a new splash pad area complete with great seating for caregivers. Where: 1345 Piedmont Avenue NE, Atlanta. 404-876-5859. atlantabg.org Cost: Included with paid admission: Adults, $21.95; ages 3-12, $15.95; ages 3 and younger, free.

This spot is a great area for kids to expend their energy by running through the numerous sprinklers and water sprayers. Where: 3100 Old Cleveland Hwy., Gainesville. 770-535-8280. hallcounty.org, go to “Parks and Leisure” Cost: $2

l Splash

l Lillian

Fountain at Zoo Atlanta

During the heat of summer, this splash pad adds fun to your zoo trip. Where: 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-624-9453. zooatlanta.org Cost: Included with paid admission: ages 12 and older, $25.99; ages 3-11, $17.99; ages 2 and younger, free.

Webb Park

An awesome fountain, waterfall and interactive splash pad for kids to play in all summer long. Where: 5 College Street, Norcross. 678-421-2010. norcrossga.net, go to “Parks and Facilities” Cost: Free Cont’d on page 14

Splash Pads l Center

Hill Park Splash Pad

Kids will love playing in a water tunnel and hurdling over in-ground spray jets to fight the heat at this city park splash pad. Where: 2305 Donald Lee Hollowell Pkwy. NW, Atlanta. 404-546-6788. atlantaga.gov Cost: Free l D.H.

Stanton Park Splash ‘N Play

This splash pad is the first solar-powered park in the city. Kids love the spray jets, stationary water cannons and structures to hide behind. Where: 1052 Martin St. SE, Atlanta. 404-477-3003. beltline.org/parks/d-h-stanton Cost: Free l Historic

Fourth Ward Park Splash Pad

Prepare to leave with soaking-wet kids because this splash pad has jets that stream water from all directions. Where: 680 Dallas St., Atlanta. 404-477-3003. beltline.org/parks/historic-fourth-ward-park Cost: Free

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Historic Fourth Ward Park Splash Pad

June 2017 Atlanta Parent 13

SUMMER Fun Guide l Old

Atlanta Park

Kids of all ages will have loads of fun at this 34-acre park with a splash pad and playground. Where: 810 Nichols Rd., Suwanee. 770-205-4646. forsythco.com/parks Cost: $2 l Perkerson

Park Splash Pad

This water zone features spectacular fountains for great water fun. Park offers tennis and basketball courts, too. Where: 770 Deckner Ave. SW, Atlanta. 404-477-3003. beltline.org/parks/perkerson-park Cost: Free l Riverside

Old Atlanta Park

Park Splash ‘N’ Play

Cool off beneath a spinning mushroom and try to dodge the in-ground spray jets at this Roswell sprayground. Where: 575 Riverside Rd., Roswell. 770-594-6158. roswellgov.com, go to “Recreation and Parks” Cost: $2 l Sewell

Park Pool

This splash pad is perfect for cooling off during the hot summer days and having fun under the palm tree fountain. Where: 2055 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-509-2741. cobbcounty.org/parks Cost: Ages 18 and older, $4.50; ages 2-17, $3.50. l Splash

Island at Adams Park

Prepare for some fun at this newly-designed splash pad at Adams Park. Don’t forget to pack a picnic to eat under their large pavilion. Where: 1581 Logan Ln. SW, Atlanta. 404-753-6091 Cost: $5 l Spray

Perkerson Park Splash Pad

Station at East Roswell Park

This premier sprayground offers hours of fun and extravagant features for kids and toddlers Where: 9000 Fouts Rd., Roswell. 770-594-6188. roswellgov.com, go to “Recreation and Parks” Cost: $2 l Waleska

Splash Pad

This splash pad will leave kids with smiles as they play under the water buckets and umbrella fountains. Where: Cline Park at 704 Bartow Street near Reinhardt University. 678-880-4760. crpa.net/parks Cost: Free

Pools & Waterparks On the Cheap: l Bethesda

Riverside Park Splash ‘N’ Play

14 Atlanta Parent June 2017

Park Aquatic Center

This location features a giant waterslide that curves out of the building and then re-enters before dropping you into a pool, a lazy river, zero-depth entry into the leisure pool and dunking buckets. Where: 225 Bethesda Church Rd., Lawrenceville. 678-277-0880. gwinnettparks.com, search “Aquatics” Cost: Adults, $10.50; ages 4-10, $8.25; ages 3 and younger, $6.25.

atlantaparent.com

l Bogan

Park Aquatic Center

Indoor leisure pool with beach entry, giant waterslide and water play structures. Where: 2723 North Bogan Rd., Buford. 678-277-0853. gwinnettparks. com, search “Aquatics” Cost: Adults, $10.50; ages 4-10, $8.25; ages 3 and younger, $6.25. l Browns

Mill Family Aquatic Center

This aquatic center is a water amusement park featuring slides and sprayers to keep children happy and smiling. Where: 4929 Browns Mill Rd., Lithonia. 770-414-2119. co.dekalb.ga.us, search “Aquatics” Cost: Adults, $12; ages 17 and younger, $10. l Cherokee

Aquatic Center

Climb the steps all the way to the top of the two wild water slides and zip down into the outdoor pool featuring a playground with water cannons, a zero-depth entry area, geysers, deck sprays, a current channel and basketball hoops. Where: 1200 Gresham Mill Pkwy., Holly Springs. 678-880-4760. crpa.net Cost: Adults, $7; ages 2-13, $6; younger than 2, free. l Collins

Hill Aquatic Center

This outdoor attraction has a zero-depth pool entry, interactive water features, slides, squirty play areas and more. There is also a toddler pool and lazy river. Where: 2200 Collins Hill Rd., Lawrenceville. 770-237-5647. gwinnettparks.com, search “Aquatics” Cost: Adults, $10.50; ages 4-10, $8.25; ages 3 and younger, $6.25. Cont’d on page 16

Cumming Aquatic Center

Open Daily 9-6 Memorial Day – Labor Day (weather permitting)

Cool River Tubing

Zip the Hooch NEW Aerial Adventure Park Tubing • Zip Lines • Water Slide

COOL RIVER TUBING Edelweiss Strasse Helen, GA 30545

COOL RIVER ADVENTURES 112 Poplar Stump Road Helen, GA 30545

www.coolriveradventures.com • www.coolrivertubing.com 706-878-COOL

atlantaparent.com

Group Rates Available

June 2017 Atlanta Parent 15

SUMMER Fun Guide l Cumming

Aquatic Center

Enjoy two slides, a lazy river and a play structure for children. Where: 201 Aquatic Cir., Cumming. 770-781-1781. cummingaquaticcenter.com Cost: Adults, $5; ages 2-17, $4; ages 1 and younger, free. l Seven

Springs Water Park at Wild Horse Creek Park

The activity pool is four feet in depth and has an in-water seating area and two basketball back boards. The spray and fountain play areas and two water slides connected to a leisure river also add to the fun. Where: 3820 Macedonia Dr., Powder Springs. 770-528-4035. cobbcounty.org, go to “Aquatics” Cost: Adults, $9; ages 2-17, $7. l South

1-844-FUN-TUBE DULUTH AND

MACON

Cobb Aquatic Center

Splash down the huge enclosed spiraling slide, slip through the yellow tube slide and into the water and finally enjoy a “lazy river” float. Where: 875 Riverside Pkwy., Austell. 770-739-3180. cobbcounty.org, go to “Aquatics” Cost: Adults, $4.50; ages 2-17, $3.50. l Piedmont

Park Aquatic Center

Features beach entry, lap lanes, natural and structured shade on the pool deck, concessions and recreational activities. Where: 1320 Monroe Dr. NE, Atlanta. 404-875-7275. piedmontpark.org Cost: Adults, $4; ages 6-16, $2; ages 5 and younger, $1.

Summer Splurge: l LanierWorld Find Georgia’s largest wave pool at Lake Lanier Islands’ beach and waterpark. Splash-happy tots adore “Kiddie Lagoon” and thrill seekers soar down the four-lane slide for a race, plus there is a wide variety of slides for all ages. Where: 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford. 770-932-7218. lakelanierislands.com/lanierworld Cost: Adults, $41.99; kids under 42 inches, $30.99; ages 2 and younger, free. Parking, $10. l Six

Flags White Water

The largest water park in the South boasts some 50 attractions, including the “Dive Bomber” featuring a five-story drop down an enclosed slide, the “Atlanta Ocean” wave pool and “Little Squirts Island” for younger kids. Where: 250 Cobb Pkwy. N, Marietta. 770-948-9290. sixflags.com/ whitewater Cost: Adults, $44.99; kids under 48 inches $39.99; ages 2 and younger, free. Parking, $15.

Find the June calendar of events online at atlantaparent.com 16 Atlanta Parent June 2017

Piedmont Park Aquatic Center

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The Beach at Clayton County International Park

l Six

Flags Hurricane Harbor

Ride the surf in the giant wave pool, plummet down an enclosed tunnel into a zero-gravity wave slide on the “Tsunami Surge” or take on the three, twisting slides of the “Bonzai Pipelines.” “Paradise Island” includes an interactive children’s playground. Where: 6 Riverside Pkwy. SW, Austell. 770-739-3400. sixflags.com/ overgeorgia/hurricane-harbor Cost: Included with Six Flags Over Georgia General Admission: $66.99; children under 48 inches, $46.99; ages 2 and younger, free. l Malibu

Grand Prix Norcross

Buccaneer Cove has a super-sized water play area that is five levels high with slippery slides, wet tunnels, spray loops and a huge splash bucket. The park features a two-lane open slide and both lanes start at the first level for a big thrill for kids under 36 inches. Where: 5400 Brook Hollow Pkwy., Norcross. 770-416-7630. malibunorcross.com Cost: All day unlimited access pass, $9.99 all day.

Beaches l Acworth

Beach at Cauble Park

The beach area features a white sand beach and roped off area for swimming. Where: 4425 Beach St. NW, Acworth. 770-917-1234. acworth.com/attractions/acworth-beach Cost: Swimming is free. Parking, free Mon.-Fri.; $10 per vehicle. Cash only. for non-Acworth residents on weekends between 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. l Big

Beach at Lake Lanier Islands

Hang out on the beach, play some volleyball, catch some rays and enjoy food from the boardwalk. Where: 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford. 770-945-8787. lanierislands.com Cost: Big Beach only: Adults, $10 Mon.-Fri., $15 Sat.-Sun; ages 6 and younger, free. Parking, $10. l Robin

Lake Beach at Callaway Gardens

Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, miniature golf, a floating playground with obstacles, paddle boats, inflatable waterslide, rock climbing wall and more. Where: 17800 US Hwy. 27, Pine Mountain. 800-852-3810. callawaygardens.com Cost: Adults, $20; children ages 6-12, $10; ages 5 and younger, free. l The

Beach at Clayton County International Park

The colorful and immense “adventure kiddie pool,” with fountains, towers, “water shooters” and more offer something for the big kids, too. The beach action includes big slides and even a water trampoline. Where: 2300 Highway 138 S.E., Jonesboro. 770-603-4165. claytonparks.com Cost: Ages 13 and older, $11; ages 3-12, $9; ages 2 and younger, free. Bonus: One price gains access to both the beach with lake for swimming and the water park area. See website for special and holiday pricing. l The

Swimming Beach at Red Top Mountain State Park

Six Flags White Water

atlantaparent.com

Cool off in the sandy beach area and roped off swimming area nestled in a cove and surrounded by trees at Lake Allatoona, and enjoy the nearby putt-putt golf and large playground. Where: 50 Lodge Rd. SE, Cartersville. 770-975-4226. redtopmountainstatepark.org Cost: Parking, $5.

June 2017 Atlanta Parent 17

SUMMER Fun Guide

Float Down the ‘Hooch

Traveling down the Chattahoochee River by inner tube or raft is a great way to cool off. Do it yourself or visit one of these companies for a relaxing day on the river. l DIY

Shoot the ‘Hooch The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is open for rafting and tubing from dawn to dusk during the summer; all you need is a life vest and raft or tube. It can be an economical way to cool off with your family. Parking is $3 at any of the parking lot access points. Just make sure to leave a second car where you decide to end on the river. l Check weather reports and call for dam water release information. This provides recommended calm water times for floating. Buford Dam: 1-855326-3569. l Minimum age to float down the river is 5, if renting supplies from a company; if not, it is up to the parent.

Cool River Tubing

l Cool

River Tubing, Helen

The fun thing about this tubing company is that it sits right in the German-inspired village of Helen and also has a zip line, waterslide and climbing areas. After snaking down the Chattahoochee River, explore the town and have a German dinner. Cost: Purchase tickets at the Headwaters or Chattahoochee Outposts or the Main Street Booth. $10 per person for a onetube trip; $14 per person for all-day tubing; prices vary for other activities. The Details: Open daily, 9 a.m. to dusk. The minimum age for tubing is 3. 706-878-2665; coolrivertubing.com

l $10

River Tubing, Duluth

If you want a river tubing experience close to home, try this tubing company. They provide the life vests, tubes and shuttle service needed for a day on the river. Cost: $10 per person for a two-hour trip. The Details: Open daily, 10 a.m.7 p.m. 678-349-6880; rivertubing.com

l Ages 12 and younger must wear a life vest at all times. Ages 13 and older must have one in the raft or tube. l Rubber-soled shoes are a must for tackling slippery rocks.

Where to Go: l Abbotts Bridge to Medlock Bridge, 4 miles; 3-4 hours. l Medlock Bridge to Jones Bridge, 3 miles; 1.5-2 hours. l Morgan Falls Dam to Johnson Ferry, 2 miles; 1-2 hours. l Johnson Ferry to Powers Island, 3.5 miles; 2-4 hours. l Powers Island to Paces Mill, 3 miles; 1-3 hours. See nps.gov/chat/planyourvisit/ boating.htm. Call 678-538-1200 for more information.

$10 River Tubing

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June 2017â&#x20AC;&#x192; â&#x20AC;&#x192; Atlanta Parent 19

SUMMER Fun Guide

Out-of-the Box Places

We love Atlanta’s well-known landmarks and traditions, but here are some other lesser-known places to weave into your plans. l Sunflowers

on Display

Copper Creek Farm hosts a summer festival all about the sunflower. Pick a bucket of sunflowers and take a hayride around the field. Then enjoy pig races, the barn loft slide, giant jumping pillow and more. June 16-17, 23-24, 30 and July 1 and 4. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Calhoun. 706-280-5592. $1215.50. coppercreekfarm.com l Get

a Clue

Explore metro Atlanta with Clue Town Books, a series of scavenger hunts in locations such as Piedmont Park, Oakland Cemetery, Downtown Decatur, Atlanta BeltLine, Grant Park and Emory University. Each book comes with a pencil and compass to help solve clues. Buy books ($7$15) at cluetownbooks.com and some specialty shops. l The

New Hollywood

Get the inside scoop on the film industry in Georgia with Atlanta Movie Tours. Guides will share behind-the-scenes stories as you visit film sites from “The Walking Dead,” “Gone with the Wind” or the “Hunger Games” series. Atlanta. 855-255-3456. atlantamovietours.com l Ride

on a Miniature Railroad

North Georgia Live Steamers miniature outdoor railroad club gives public rides on small live steam locomotives. Adults and children can both ride. Upcoming dates for rides are June 17 and Aug. 26. Trains run 1-4:30 p.m. weather permitting. Conyers. All ages, $2 per ride. northgeorgialivesteamers.org l Walk

Around the Solar System

Learn about the placement of planets in relation to the sun and moon on the Solar System walking tour that serves as a scale model of the solar system. Created by the North Georgia Astronomers Group, the tour covers 1.8 miles, one way, and begins in downtown Gainesville. For a copy of the brochure, containing descriptions of planets and a directional map, call the Gainesville Tourism Office, 770-5312680. gainesville.org/attractions/solar-system-walking-tour l Watch

a Bicycle Race

Take in a bike race at Dick Lane Velodrome, with family admission, music and commentators explaining the action. The one-fifth mile, 36-degree banked concrete track is set in a green space, providing tranquil views. East Point. Visit dicklanevelodrome.com for a complete schedule of upcoming races. Sunflowers on Display

20 Atlanta Parent June 2017

atlantaparent.com

BAPS Mandir

l Taste

Tiny Doors of Atlanta

of India in Atlanta

l Hunt

The BAPS Mandir, a Hindu place of worship and community gathering place, was assembled like a giant 3-D puzzle from more than 34,000 individual pieces of three types of stone. Take an audio tour that gives details about the building, as well as info about Hindu art, architecture and philosophy. Lilburn. 678-9062277. baps.org l Robin

Hood in the Garden

Photo by BreeAnne Clowdus

Enjoy the classic story of the man who steals from the rich to give to the poor at Serenbe Playhouse. Characters will fly through Serenbe’s magnificent forest on a zip line, redistributing wealth as they go. June 2-Aug. 13. Showings Fri. and Sat. 11 a.m. and Sun. 2 p.m. Chattahoochee Hills. 770-463-1110. Adults, $20; younger than 12, $10. serenbeplayhouse.com

for Tiny and Secret Doors

Go on a family scavenger hunt for the tiny and hidden doors of Atlanta. They are hand-crafted and painted to go along with their locations, and some even include tiny figurines and pets. Tiny Doors of Atlanta: Krog Street Tunnel, Old Fourth Ward Skate Park, King of Pops and more. tinydoorsatl.com The Secret Doors of Decatur: Sushi Avenue, Decatur Visitor Center, Wylde Center and more. secretdoorsdecatur.com l Backyard

Campout

Learn camping basics from educators for an overnight experience at Dunwoody Nature Center. Enjoy a night hike, fire, s’mores, games and camp songs. June 24. 4 p.m. Dunwoody. 770-394-3322. $25 per campsite. dunwoodynature.org l Public

Art Tour

The Atlanta Office of Cultural Affairs offers a Public Art Tours App highlighting unique works of art in Downtown Atlanta. ocaatlanta.com. Also take a walking art tour of downtown Suwanee. Suwanne SculpTour brings a variety of sculptures to the area each year. suwanee.com l We

All Scream for Ice Cream

Stay cool by taste-testing different flavors of made-from-scratch ice cream and sorbet. The Highroad Creamery Ice Cream tasting room is open every Sat. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Marietta. 678701-7623. highroadcraft.com l Become

a Junior Ranger

Kids can earn badges to become a Junior Ranger through the Georgia state parks and historic sites program for ages 6-12. Stop by a Georgia state park and pick up the free Junior Ranger Activity Book or download the book from the website. Work through the book to earn badges. Some activities include tree identification, fishing and bird/wildlife observation. gastateparks.org/juniorranger. l Get

Spooked

Ghost tours aren’t just for Halloween; several ghost tour companies are also open in the summer. Decatur, Roswell, Marietta and Lawrenceville Ghost Tours all offer spooky frights while walking around old mansions, cemeteries and paranormal hot spots. Visit websites for schedules: decaturghosttour.com, roswellghosttour.com, ghostsofmarietta.com and scarystroll.com Serenbe Playhouse

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Cont’d on page 22

June 2017 Atlanta Parent 21

LIFT EVERY VOICE!

SUMMER Fun Guide

Juneteenth Free Admission

Saturday, June 17th 11:00am–4:00pm Sunday, June 18th 12:00–4:00pm

This two-day family program focuses on the appreciation and commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States. atlantahistorycenter.com

Butterfly Encounter

June 5 - July 31

Get up close and personal with hundreds of native butterflies! Presented by

Everett’s Music Barn

l Hear

Old-School Tunes

Hear bluegrass and gospel musicians at Everett’s Music Barn, a heritage concert venue where Saturday night shows have been played for 50 years. Suwanee. everettsmusicbarn.net l Go

Fishing

The Buford Trout Hatchery is located on the banks of the Chattahoochee River and includes a family fishing pond for catch and release fishing. Ages 15 and younger can fish for free, but ages 16 and older must have a Georgia Fishing License. Cumming. 770-781-6888. georgiawildlife. com/Hatcheries/Buford l CDC

Museum

Learn about the history of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention right next to the world headquarters. They really are discovering new diseases and cures right here in Atlanta. Older kids will love seeing the studies behind Ebola or the development of vaccinations. Atlanta. 404-639-0830. cdc.gov/museum/

Included with general admission and FREE to CNC members 770-992-2055 x238 • 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell, GA 30075

Chattnaturecenter.org

22 Atlanta Parent June 2017

CDC Museum

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June 2017â&#x20AC;&#x192; â&#x20AC;&#x192; Atlanta Parent 23

SUMMER Fun Guide

Free and Almost Free

Plenty of ways to have an awesome summer without spending a lot. Museums with free days l Atlanta History Center, High Museum, Tellus Science Museum and Center for Civil and Human Rights: One free admission on the first weekend of each month for Bank of America and Merrill Lynch cardholders. l The Children’s Museum of Atlanta: Free admission the second Tuesday of each month. 1-7 p.m, June and July. Reverts to 1-6 p.m. in Aug. l High Museum of Art: Free admission the second Sunday of each month. Special programming from 1-4 p.m. l MODA (Museum of Design Atlanta): Family Free Day the second Sunday of each month. l Michael C. Carlos Museum: To celebrate the museum’s centennial, they are hosting 100 days of free admission from 1-4 p.m. on Thursdays in June and July and Aug. 17; see carlos.emory.edu for other dates.

Museums (always free) There are several museums in metro Atlanta that don’t charge admission. Here are a few: The Georgia Capitol Museum Tour, where kids can learn about the government; The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Site, which includes his boyhood home; The Marietta Fire Museum and the Roswell Fire Museum, where fire fighting history and antique fire trucks are just part of the artifacts that fascinate kids.

Bowling Visit kidsbowlfree.com, bowlsummergames.com or the bowling center’s website for information. Discounted bowling at these locations and more: l Metro Fun Center l Bowlmor Atlanta l Bowlero l AMF Lanes l Most locations of Stars and Strikes l Pin Strikes Entertainment Center l The Comet Pub and Lanes

Concerts Metro Atlanta has an abundance of free, family-friendly outdoor concerts in the summer. Make sure and check out our comprehensive list on atlantaparent.com l Roswell Riverside Sounds at Riverside Park: first Saturday each month. l Summer Concert Series at Mall of Georgia: every Saturday through July 29. l Glover Park Concert Series in Marietta Square: times vary; last Friday night of month beginning after Memorial Day. marietta.com/glover-park-concert-series l Concerts by the Springs on Heritage Green in Sandy Springs: second Sunday of each month. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta

24 Atlanta Parent June 2017

l The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra: free concert in Piedmont Park on June 15, 7:30 at Oak Hill, in the southwest corner of the park.

atlantaparent.com

At the Library Local libraries offer a great list of free children’s storytimes, but they also offer special events such as yoga, music or language classes as well as free crafts, origami or cartooning. Check with your local library for schedule. Check out free passes at your local library to several area attractions: l Georgia ParkPass or a Historic Site Pass for free admission and parking for up to four visitors at Georgia State Parks and Historic sites. l Free admission for two adults and two children to Zoo Atlanta. l Up to four free museum admission passes to the Center for Puppetry Arts Museum. l Other free admissions that vary by county (Gwinnett County, for instance, has passes to the Hudgens Center for the Arts and the Southeastern Railway Museum).

Free Classes Many stores offer free or almost free class for kids year-round: l Michaels stores: Arts and crafts classes for ages 3 and older for $2 per child.

AMF Lanes

l Home Depot and Lowe’s: free classes on weekends for young builders. l Bass Pro Shops: Outdoor skills workshops and special, free children’s events held monthly. Check basspro.com and choose the Lawrenceville location for schedule. l Lakeshore Learning: Make a different free craft each week. Every Sat. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Ages 3 and older.

Roller Skating Several metro Atlanta roller skating centers participate in a Kids Skate Free Program by kidsskatefree.com. Kids 10 and younger can register to receive a free coupon (does not include skate rental). Each center sets their own “free” skate hours. Rinks include: Sparkles Family Fun Center, Hot Wheels Skate Center and Skate Zone.

Movies

Summer Movies

In the summer there is an abundance of free, outdoor movies in local parks. Make sure to check out our comprehensive list on atlantaparent.com. Theater chains also offer low-cost kid-rated movies for as little as $1-$2 a movie on weekdays. Some participating theaters include: Aurora Cineplex, Cinemark Fayetteville, Georgia Theatre Company and Regal Cinemas. Visit websites for showtimes.

Playgrounds with Shade These playgrounds give some cover from the sun on hot summer days. For more great places to play, see Atlanta Parent’s 75 top playgrounds at atlantaparent.com l Brook Run Park Playground The Children’s Adventure Garden has clusters of bright play structures with shades above to hide from the sun. There is so much to get into: slides and swings of varying sizes, several sets of monkey bars, a multicolored tunnel, and a “log roll” for balancing. 4770 N. Peachtree Rd., Dunwoody. l Morgan Falls Overlook Park Playground This modern playground with unusual climbing elements has plenty of green spaces and overlooks the Chattahoochee River. Shades give cover from the sun and the AstroTurf helps with falls. 200 Morgan Falls Rd., Sandy Springs.

Morgan Falls Overlook Park Playground

l Gary Pirkle Park Playground This playground wins for hot summer days or the unexpected rainstorm because it is completely covered by a large pavilion to keep the weather out. No more having to leave the playground because of a storm. 6195 Austin Garner Rd., Sugar Hill.

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June 2017 Atlanta Parent 25

SUMMER Fun Guide

Kids Eat Free

Eating out with your family can sometimes be pricey – we rounded up a list of the places where kids eat free, some every weekday or every day! Call each restaurant before visiting to ensure the deal is still valid. Restaurants often change their deals and menus.

Local: l Buckhead Pizza: Tuesdays with purchase of an adult entrée. Buckhead and Cobb Galleria. buckheadpizzaco.com l Doc Chey’s Noodle House: Morningside: Mon.-Thurs. 3-6 p.m. and Grant Park: Sat. and Sun. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Children eat free when guests use their registered “Karma Card” (one free kids’ meal per adult entrée with beverage purchase). doccheys.com l El Azteca: Tues. 5 p.m.-close with purchase of an adult entrée. Buckhead, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs and Milton. elaztecaatlanta.com l Fickle Pickle: Tues. 3-9 p.m. with purchase of an adult entrée. Roswell. ficklepicklecafe.com and Fun Begins Where The for All Ages! ds Never En

Book No w fo Birthday r a Great Party!

l Genki - Noodles & Sushi: Sundays. Buckhead, Sandy Springs and Virginia Highland. genkiatl.com l HOBNOB: Sun.-Thurs. 5-7 p.m. Atlanta. hobnobatlanta.com l Holy Taco: Tuesdays with $20 minimum purchase per table. Two kids eat free per table. Atlanta. holy-taco.com l Imperial l Radial

Buy One ALL-DAY Wristband & get another for Half Price! INCLUDES UNLIMITED: Go Karts • Mini Go Karts • Mini Golf Tornado Ride • Pirate Ship • Rock Wall • Bumper Cars Spider Zone • Bumper Boats • 2 Sessions of Laser Tag 10 Water Balloons • 2 Down Pour Derby & a $5 play card. Recommended for 44” or over. Cannot be combined with other offers.

Challenge your mind and figure out the mystery of the Egyptians and escape the tomb!

Fez: Sundays. Atlanta. imperialfezrestaurant.com

Café: Weekdays. Atlanta. radial.us

l Suburban Tap: Mondays with purchase of an adult entrée. Marietta. suburbantap.com l Tin Drum Asian Café: Saturdays and Sundays with purchase of an adult entrée. Dine in only. North Druid Hills, Lindbergh Plaza and Atlantic Station. tindrumasiankitchen.com

$25/person 6 max. / session Reservations must be made in advance

706-335-3866

706-335-FUNN

40155 Hwy 441 • Commerce, GA • Interstate 85@ Exit 149

www.FunopolisFamilyFunCenter.com 26 Atlanta Parent June 2017

Buckhead Pizza

atlantaparent.com

Flying Biscuit Cafe

l Wahoo!

Grill: Mon.-Fri. 5-6:30 p.m. Decatur. wahoogrilldecatur.com

l Williamson Bros. Barbeque: Mon.-Thurs. with purchase of a platter ($10.99 value) or more and a beverage. Canton location only. williamsonbros.com l Yeah! Burger: Mondays with purchase of an adult entrée. Virginia Highland and West Midtown. yeahburger.com

Chains: l Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar: Tues. 4-10 p.m. ($0.99 kids’ meals). Two kids’ meals per purchase of an adult entrée. Dine-in only. 36 Atlanta locations, call ahead to check participation. applebees.com l Barberitos: Varies by location, with purchase of an adult entrée. Buckhead: Mon. after 4 p.m. Roswell: Thursday and Sunday. Buford: Wed. after 4 p.m. and Sundays. barberitos.com l Chick-fil-A: Varies by location. Call ahead to check participation. chick-fil-a.com l Denny’s: Tues. and Sat. 4-10 p.m. Call ahead to check participation. dennys.com l Flying Biscuit: Candler Park and Midtown: Mon.-Thurs. 4-7 p.m. Brookhaven, Peachtree City, Terminus and Howell Mill: Mon.-Fri. all day with purchase of an adult entrée. Dine in only. flyingbiscuit.com l IHOP: Every day 4-10 p.m. with purchase of an adult entrée. ihop.com l Moe’s Original Barbeque: Midtown: Tues. after 5 p.m. with purchase of an adult entrée. Roswell: Mon. after 5 p.m. with purchase of an adult entrée. Carrollton: Mondays, kids eat for $1 with any adult purchase. moesoriginalbbq.com l Moe’s Southwest Grill: Saturdays at these locations: Alpharetta, Windward Plaza; Alpharetta, Old Milton Parkway; Chamblee, ChambleeTucker Road; Atlanta, Auburn Avenue; Canton, Reinhardt College Parkway; Carrollton, South Highway; Fayetteville, GA Highway 85; Marietta, Johnson Ferry Road; Roswell, Shallowford Road. moes.com l O’Charley’s: Every day with purchase of an adult entrée. ocharleys.com l Ruby Tuesday: Tues. 5 p.m.-close with purchase of an adult entrée. rubytuesday.com l Steak ‘n Shake: Every day with printed website coupon. One kids’ plate with every $9 spent. steaknshake.com

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June 2017 Atlanta Parent 27

SUMMER Fun Guide

All Aboard! Hop on a Train Get out of town for the day or plan an overnight trip with these excursions perfect for families who love locomotives. l Great

Smoky Mountains Railroad Bryson City, N.C. 800-872-4681. gsmr.com The Wizard of Oz Train Ride: July 14-30. Fri.Sun. 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Arrive early. This 2½ hour round-trip journey will retell the story of “The Wizard of Oz,” on board a real train. Dorothy and several of her friends will climb aboard. Ages 13 and older, $38-$62; ages 2-12, $33-$45; ages younger than 2, $10, free in coach. Other train routes also available. Parking, $5.

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

28 Atlanta Parent June 2017

l Tennessee Valley Railroad Chattanooga, Tenn. 423-894-8028. tvrail.com Choose from a variety of trains this summer: Missionary Ridge Local, Hiwassee River Rail Adventure and more to see scenic views of the Tennessee wilderness. Prices vary by excursion.

l Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Blue Ridge, Ga. 877-413-8724. brscenic.com The summer four-hour tours go around the Toccoa River and to the towns of McCaysville, Ga. and Copperhill, Tenn. Train departs at 11 a.m. daily. Ages 13 and older, $44-79; ages 2-12, $29; younger than 2, free. l SAM

Shoreline Excursion Train

Cordele, Ga. 229-276-0755. samshortline.com Watermelon or Peanut Express Train Rides: Travel to Jimmy Carter’s childhood home by train, explore the museum and sample peanut butter treats. During the Peanut Express, explore the Georgia Rural Telephone Museum. Ages 13 and older, $35.99-45.99; Ages 2-12, $25.99-35.99. VIP, $55.99 per person. Other train routes also available.

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Trying to Find Thomas the Tank Engine? l Tweetsie Railroad Blowing Rock, N.C. 800-526-5740. tweetsie.com Head to this amusement park with rides of all kinds from Tilt-A-Whirl to the Tweetsie Twister, enjoy live entertainment and the petting zoo. The park has various themed train rides throughout the year. Day Out with Thomas: June 9-18. Spend the day with Thomas and Friends, play in the Imagination Station and enjoy storytelling and more. Ages $13 and older, $45; ages 3-12, $30; ages 2 and younger, free.

ALPHARETTA and MIDTOWN

Close to Home: l Stone Mountain Scenic Railway Stone Mountain. 800-401-2407. stonemountainpark.com Climb aboard the full-size locomotive from the 1940s with open-air cars that will take you on a five-mile excursion around the mountain. Marvel at beautiful views of Stone Mountain and the surrounding landscape. Included with daily adventure pass: Ages 12 and older, $31.95; ages 3-11, $26.95; parking, $15.

atlantaparent.com

FROM ATLANTA

PARENT MAGAZINE

Swim and Splash: Get Wet Guide

AtlantaParent

t Magazine’s Atlanta Paren

PaRTY

GuiDe

June 2017 / atlantaparent.com

Atlanta Paren t Magazine’s

Education Guide 2017

2O17

atlantaBABY

Atlanta Parent Magazine’s

Camp Guide

SUMMER Fun Guide

Hand-Pick Your Hospital

50 Kid-Fr iendly Pla ces

Books What Baby Don’t Tell You

ost Activities Little-or-No-C

and Pediatricians Entertainers

●

Mobile Party Services

●

Party Places

●

Supplies and

The Bestol Scho Guide

Rentals

Yummy! Kids Eat Free

Early Education Private Scho Public Scho ol ol Boarding Scho Special Need ol s Field Trips

Day Camps

Overnight Camps

Summer Program s

pproved OBs

Inside: Mom-A

Splish,Splash, It’s Bathtime

Ju for O ne ou VE Is r R su e

l The Southern Museum Kennesaw.770-427-2117. southernmuseum.org Experience the history of railroads in the South through models and hands-on activities. Kids can head to the telegraph stations to send messages via Morse Code or drive a replica train on their own. The Mommy & Me Preschool Program is every Thursday, and includes different themes each month. Railroad Rendezvous is each July and includes model trains, crafts and more. Adults, $7.50; ages 4-12, $5.50; ages 3 and younger, free.

The Atlanta Parent Family of Publications

l Southeastern Railway Museum Duluth. 770-476-2013. train-museum.org Walk around and explore the 90 pieces of historic steam and diesel locomotives. Kids can pretend to be a engineer for the day while they explore train cabooses, see giant wheels and more. Don’t miss the Second Thursday preschool program every month or Trains, Trucks and Tractors, Aug. 4-6. Ages 13 and older, $10; Ages 2-12, $7; younger than 2, free.

Call 770-454-7599 for advertising information. AtlantaParent.com

June 2017 Atlanta Parent 29

U-Pick U-Pick

U-PIC SUMMER Fun Guide

U-PIC U-PIC

Ways to Keep Your Cool

Summertime family

F FUO RN

EVERYONE! Subject to availability … and Mother Nature! Call or visit us online for details & events.

Escape the heat by visiting these indoor locations.

Tasting Room

Bakery & Market

Kids Classes

706 - 632 - 3411 • MERCIERORCHARDS.COM 8660 BLU E R I D G E D R I V E • BLU E R I DGE , GA 30513

OPEN DAILY

7am-6 pm

Drive. Play. Learn.

l Shake Things Up Stop in for a milkshake and stay awhile in cool surroundings. Try Shake Shack (shakeshack.com) in Buckhead and Perimeter Mall, Shakeaway in Cumming (shakeaway.com) or Steak ‘n Shake (steaknshake.com), with locations all over metro Atlanta.

Summer Fun Field Trips Norcross • 470-545-7227 tinytowne.com Voted Best of Atlanta Parent FAMILY FUN 2016, 2017 30 Atlanta Parent June 2017

Parties

l Get Ice Cold Lace up a pair of ice skates and do some laps around the rink – even a novice can master the basics and have fun. Try one of these locations: the Alpharetta Family Skate Center (coolerathletics.com), Center Ice Arena in Sandy Springs (centericearena.com), Ice Forum in Duluth or Kennesaw (iceforum. com), The Ice in Cumming (theice. info) and Marietta Ice Center (mariettaicecenter.com). l Glow in the Dark Indoor mini-golf courses that glow-in-thedark are cool in all respects. Two to try are Lunar Mini Golf in Sugarloaf Mills Mall in Lawrenceville (glowminigolf.com) and Monster Mini Golf in Marietta (monsterminigolf.com). Glow Galaxy in Norcross (glowgalaxy. com) has mini-golf as well as a lot of other glow-inthe-dark entertainment.

atlantaparent.com

9 LOCATIONS IN THE ATLANTA AREA TO SERVE YOU! LAWRENCEVILLE 770-277-7300

SOUTH FORSYTH 770-346-9809

JOHNS CREEK 770-418-2424

SNELLVILLE

770-982-0822

NORTH FULTON 770-993-4428

WOODSTOCK 770-592-3844

EAST COBB

770-977-7073

CONYERS

770-760-9460

PEACHTREE CITY 770-632-0330

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June 2017 Atlanta Parent 31

SUMMER Fun Guide

Toddler-Friendly Fun

Atlanta’s museums and major attractions are introducing kids to fun and educational environments at an early age. Spend time with your toddler making music, being artistic, or staying active. Please check beforehand to confirm dates and times.

For Every Toddler l Little Acorns The Plaza at Avalon / Every Tues. through Oct. 10 a.m.-noon. Face painting, storytime, crafts, character visits and more for preschoolers. The Details: Free. Alpharetta; 770-765-1000. experienceavalon.com l Toddler Tuesdays: Preschool Playshop Center for Puppetry Arts / Select Tues. 10 and 11:30 a.m. Workshops for ages 2-4 featuring reading activities, fingerplays and puppet-making to help build toddler motor and social skills. The Details: Adults and children age 2 and older, $10.50; younger than 2, free. Atlanta; 404-873-3391. puppet.org l Tot Spot Atlantic Station’s Central Park / Every Tues. through Sept. 10 a.m.-noon. Atlantic Station becomes a playground on Tuesdays for toddlers, with games, storytelling, toys, music and special guest appearances. The Details: Free. Atlanta; 404-410-4010. atlanticstation.com l Toddler Time LEGOLAND Discovery Center / Every Tues. 10 a.m. Guided play and storytime for toddlers in the DUPLO Village. After storytime, toddlers can stay and play as long as they wish inside the attraction. The Details: $11.95 per person; ages 2 and younger, free. Atlanta; 404-848-9252. atlanta.legolanddiscoverycenter.com

Learn About History l Magic Mondays Atlanta History Center / Second Mon. of each month. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. A different theme each month lets parents and children explore history together, with hands-on activities including arts and crafts projects, music and storytime. Ages 18 months to 5 years. The Details: Adults, $6.50; children, $5.50. Atlanta; 404-814-4000. atlantahistorycenter.com l Mice Tours Marietta Museum of History / Second Wed. of every month. 10:30 a.m. Mascots Murray and Etta mouse introduce history through tours, storytime and crafts for ages 3-5. Reservations required. The Details: $5 per family (one adult and up to three children). Marietta; 770-794-5710. mariettahistory.org

Little Acorns

32 Atlanta Parent June 2017

l Mommy and Me Preschool Program Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History Every Thurs. 10 and 11:30 a.m. Explore the museum’s history with themes and educational activities for ages 3-5. The Details: Adults, $7.50; ages 4-12, $5.50; 3 and younger, free. Kennesaw; 770-427-2117. southernmuseum.org

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l Welcome Wednesdays The DeKalb History Center / Second Wed. of each month. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Children will listen to a story and work on an art project based on that program’s theme. The Details: Ages 2-5 and one adult, $6. Decatur; 404-373-1088. dekalbhistory.org l Second Thursday Program Southeastern Railway Museum / Second Thurs. of each month at 10:20 a.m.-noon A vehicle-themed class with five components, 15 minutes each, including games, stories and songs, activity and crafts. Ages 2-4. Advanced registration preferred. The Details: $10 per child, one adult free, additional adult, $12. Duluth; 770-495-0253. train-museum.org.

Get Artsy l Toddler Thursdays High Museum of Art / Every Thurs. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Create masterpieces to complement the museum’s current exhibits. Recommended for ages 2-4. The Details: Free with admission. 6 and older, $14.50; 5 and younger, free. Atlanta; 404-733-4400. high.org l Toddler Fridays Hudgens Center for the Arts / Last Fri. of every month. 10:30 a.m.-noon Hands-on art activities, music and storytime for ages 1-4 led by a retired art educator. The Details: $7/child; $5 each additional child. Duluth; 770-623-6002. thehudgens.org

Explore Nature l Preschool Adventures Autrey Mill Nature Preserve / Select Tues. and Fri. Sept.-May 10-11 a.m. Kids ages 3-6 learn about the natural environment of Autrey Mill Nature Preserve. Adventures might include a walk and hands-on activity or craft. Advance registration preferred. The Details: Adults, free; $10 per child. Johns Creek; 678-366-3511. autreymill.org l Garden Stories Smith-Gilbert Gardens / June 14 and 28. 10:30 a.m. Story on a garden-related topic, crafts and more for ages 3-6. The Details: Adults and children ages 2 and older, $7. Kennesaw; 770-919-0248. smithgilbertgardens.com l Garden Grooves Atlanta Botanical Garden / Every Thurs. through Oct. 10:30-12:30 p.m. Get ready to wiggle and warble in the Children’s Garden Amphitheater to songs and dances for ages 2-5. The Garden also offers Garden Playtime and Storybook time. The Details: Included with admission, adults, $21.95; ages 3-12, $15.95; ages 2 and younger, free. Atlanta; 404-876-5859. atlantabg.org l Tadpole Tales/Tree Top Tales Fernbank Museum of Natural History June 10, 11:45 a.m.; June 17, 11:30 a.m.; July 1, 11:30 a.m.; July 15, 11:45 a.m. Preschoolers will enjoy a story with a Fernbank educator along with an activity or song. The Details: Included with admission, adults $18; ages 3-12, $16; 2 and younger, free. Atlanta; 404-929-6300. fernbankmuseum.org l Adventure Cubs Zoo Atlanta First Wed. of each month. Select Sat. 10-11 a.m. Go on a Zoo tour, explore and play at interactive learning stations and meet an animal ambassador up-close. The hands-on program allows you to explore different toddler-friendly concepts about animals. Ages 3 and 4. Registration required. The Zoo also offers Stroller Cubs for ages infant-2 years. The Details: $24 for one adult/child pair includes Zoo admission. Atlanta; 404-6245822. zooatlanta.org

atlantaparent.com

High Museum of Art

Get Moving l Toddler Time Sky Zone trampoline parks offer special jump times for ages 5 and younger. The Details: Suwanee, Roswell, Kennesaw, McDonough or Newnan. Check each location for schedule and prices. skyzone.com l HippoHop Mon.-Thurs., 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri. 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Sat. 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-7 p.m. This indoor play place has an eco-friendly indoor play area, a café with healthy choices and a large toddler area. The Details: Ages 3-10, $9; ages 1-2, $5; younger than 1, free. Atlanta; 404-634-4964. hippohopp.com l Tiny Tots Sparkles Skating Rinks 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Kids younger than age 5 using ride-on toys and skates are welcome on the skate floor or in the bounce house. The Details: Kennesaw, Smyrna, Hiram and Lawrenceville. See sparklesfamilyfuncenters.com for dates. $5-$8 with lunch.

Other Ideas l Model Train Garden Gainesville Botanical Garden Tues.-Sun. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. March-Oct. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov.-Feb. Calling all train-loving children, visit the Model Train Garden to play with toy trains and watch the model train go around the tracks. The Details: Included with admission. Adults, $8; ages 3-12, $5; ages 2 and younger, free. Gainesville; 404-888-4760. atlantabg.org/ visit/gainesville l TinyTowne Your car enthusiast will love getting to drive around in small cars and watch big kids drive in larger ones. Ages 1-3 can learn to hold onto the steering wheel and ages 3-6 can drive a freely-moving vehicle on the Tiny Track.. The Details: Norcross; 470-545-7227. See tinytowne.com for pricing. l Local Libraries Libraries are ideal, free places to visit with toddlers. Not only do you encourage picking up a book and reading from a young age, most metro libraries schedule weekly storytimes, craft activities and even puppet shows. Visit your local library’s website for a calendar of events. Cont’d on page 34

June 2017 Atlanta Parent 33

SUMMER Fun Guide l Decatur Toy Park Scooters, tricycles, small slides, push cars galore – this toy park is filled with toys families have donated, and is a great place for toddlers to play. The sidewalk “track,” which runs along the edges is great for riding all types of plastic toys, which are readily available all over the grass and mulch area. The Details: First Christian Church, Decatur. decaturdisciples.org

Year-Round Toddler Fun These two museums take toddler time to the next level, with engaging exhibits and displays to delight any child. l Children’s Museum of Atlanta Kids can climb aboard a John Deere tractor, try milking a cow or play chef in the diner. Resuming in the fall, kids ages 2-5 can also participate in Tiny Club Mondays to become a Tiny Artist, Tiny Foodie, Tiny Maker or Tiny Scientist. The Details: $14.95 per person. Atlanta; 404-659-5437. childrensmuseumatlanta.org l Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, Inc. Toddlers will love pretending to fly in an airplane, checking out x-rays on a light board, pretending to be a dentist or learning how to handle money. INK allows for many role-playing experiences. The Details: Mon.-Sat. $8 per person. Sun. $6 per person. Gainesville; 770-536-1900. inkfun.org

Get Splashing! It gets really hot during Atlanta summers – stay cool and learn swim skills with these programs. l Aqua-Tots Swim Schools Swim lessons for ages 4 months and older. From infant safety classes to swimming technique classes, you can start your child young. The Details: Alpharetta, Kennesaw, Douglasville and Atlanta (opening fall 2017). aqua-tots.com l Dynamo Swim Club Dynababies classes are for ages 6 -36 months in a heated pool; these introductory classes help get baby Goldfish Swim School comfortable in the water. Preschool classes are for ages 3 and 4 to work on basic swim skills. The Details: Seven Atlanta locations. See dynamoswimschool.com for schedule and pricing. l Goldfish Swim School Year-round swim lessons for children 4 months to 12 years and for swimmers of all abilities. The pool is even heated to a warm 90 degrees for year-round swimming. The Details: Johns Creek; 770-744-0250. See goldfishswimschool.com for schedule and pricing. The Children’s Museum, Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Alliance Theatre for the Very Young also have great toddler programs that resume in the fall. Check websites for schedule of events.

A healthy, green kids party & play space! Featuring a Full st Bi ro-Style Café

Aw a rd W in n in g B ir th d a y P a rt ie s 34 Atlanta Parent June 2017

where science truly becomes an adventure! Visit the Wonders of the Universe! Daily Planetarium Programs 70-ft. Diameter Planetarium 4K Laser Projection System Exhibit Hall With Live Reptiles

HIPPOHOPP.COM 404-634-4964 1936 Briarwood Ct. NE Atlanta, GA 30329

fernbank science center 156 heaton park drive • atlanta 30307

678-874-7102 • fsc.fernbank.edu atlantaparent.com

SUMMER Fun Guide Hear a Great Tale Every child loves a good story. The addition of special guests, costumed characters or music adds to the fun. Visit any of these places to listen to a free story. l Libraries Metro libraries offer more than reading programs. Find family-friendly events all summer long. Check with your local branch to learn about their special events. Atlanta-Fulton: afpls.org Clayton County: claytonpl.org Cobb County: cobbcat.org Coweta County: cowt.ent.sirsi.net DeKalb County: dekalblibrary.org Forsyth County: forsythpl.org Gwinnett County: gwinnettpl.org Henry County: henry.public.lib.ga.us Conyers-Rockdale County: conyersrockdalelibrary.org

Learning Express

l More

Storytelling

Barnes and Noble Storytelling Saturdays 11 a.m. barnesandnoble.com Brilliant Sky Toys & Books Sandy Springs / Thursdays 10:30 a.m. brilliantskytoys.com Learning Express Alpharetta; Marietta; Woodstock Alpharetta and Marietta: Mondays 11 a.m. Woodstock: Thursdays 11 a.m. learningexpress.com Little Shop of Stories Decatur / Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays 11 a.m., Sundays 3 p.m. littleshopofstories.com

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June 2017 Atlanta Parent 35

SUMMER Fun Guide

Photo courtesy of Decatur Development Authority

Top 4th of July Events

Star Spangled Fourth, Mall of Georgia

l Fantastic Fourth Celebration. Memorial Lawn at Stone

Mountain Park. Enjoy a fireworks display following the Laser show Spectacular. July 1-4. 9:30 p.m. Hwy. 78, Stone Mountain. 770-498-5690. Fireworks show, free; parking, $15.

l Cumming Fourth of July Celebration. Cumming

Fairgrounds. Festivities begin July 3, 6-11 p.m., with a dance contest, food and vendors, children’s activities and fireworks at 9:30 p.m. 235 Castleberry Rd., Cumming. 770-881-3491. Free.

l Sparks in the Park. E.E. Robinson Park. Fireworks,

inflatables, food and drinks and live entertainment. July 3. 6:30-10:15 p.m. 850 Level Creek Rd., Sugar Hill. 770-8317413. Free.

l Independence Day Celebration. Peachtree City. Fourth of July parade begins at 9 a.m. on Peachtree Parkway. Festival starts at 5 p.m. at City Hall Plaza. Food vendors and fireworks at dusk. July 4. 9 a.m.-11 p.m. 151 Willowbend Rd., Peachtree City. 770-631-2525. Free.

l Dunwoody Fourth of July Parade. Dunwoody Village. Celebration features marching bands, floats, clowns and animal units who will march from Mount Vernon Road and Jett Ferry Road to Dunwoody Village. July 4. 9 a.m. Dunwoody Village Pkwy., Dunwoody. 678-382-6700. Free.

l Fourth in the Park. Glover Park. A parade, free

concerts, museum tours, arts and crafts show, food, carnival games and fireworks. Parade begins at Roswell Street Baptist Church and ends at North Marietta Parkway. July 4. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. 50 Park Square, Marietta. 770-7945601. Free.

l July Fourth Festival at the Park and Fireworks Show.

Pied Piper Parade, Concert and Fireworks

36 Atlanta Parent June 2017

Parade begins at 10 a.m. and proceeds west down Church Street. Festival starts at 11 a.m. at Hunter Memorial Park. Fireworks begin at dusk. July 4. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. 6695 Church St., Douglasville. 678-449-3124. Parade and fireworks show, free; festival rides, $3 wristband.

atlantaparent.com

t i s i V & e Com

l Fourth of July Extravaganza. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta.

March in the children’s parade around the museum floor, enjoy storytime, sing patriotic songs, and see special indoor “fireworks” with bubble wrap. July 4. 3 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Adults and ages 1 and older, $15.95; wear your 2017 Peachtree Road Race T-shirt to receive one half-price admission per T-shirt (with purchase of one fullpriced admission).

A DAY AT THE FARM JUNE 29TH

l July Fourth Concert and Fireworks. Cauble Park. Live music in the

afternoon, followed by fireworks at dark. Food, inflatables and more. July 4. 4-10 p.m. 4425 Beach St., Acworth. 770-917-1234. Free.

Come and Enjoy Rancho Alegre’s Full Farm Experience! Take a tour through six educational stations on this special day open to the public! $9 per person (2 and older) Teachers free!*

l Star Spangled Fourth. Mall of Georgia. Live music, children’s area, a

movie and Gwinnett’s biggest fireworks display. July 4. Festivities begin at 5 p.m.; fireworks begin at dark. 3333 Buford Dr., Buford. 678-482-8788. Free.

*Please bring school badge.

l Chamblee Fourth of July Celebration. Keswick Park. Activities for kids and adults, food vendors, live music and an elaborate fireworks show in the park. July 4. 5-10 p.m. 3496 Keswick Dr., Chamblee. 770-986-5016. Free.

SUMMER CAMP

3-DAY CAMP (JUNE 5-7 and JULY 10-12) Campers play with the animals while they learn about gardening, composting, how animals help with growing food, and see how a farm works on daily basis.

l Pied Piper Parade, Concert and Fireworks. Downtown Decatur.

Decorate a wagon, ride your bike, skate or walk along with the parade that begins at First Baptist Church of Decatur. The Callanwolde Concert Band performs after the parade. Fireworks display at dark. July 4. Parade line-up, 5:30 p.m.; concert, 7 p.m.; fireworks, 9 p.m. Downtown Decatur. 678-6150915. Free.

DISCOUNT DAYCARE DAYS

l July Fourth Festivities and Fireworks. Wills Park. Face painting,

entertainment, local bands, food vendors and fireworks at dusk. July 4. 6-10 p.m. 1825 Old Milton Pkwy., Alpharetta. 678-297-6130. Free.

JUNE 8 & 13 and JULY 7 & 28 Your group can come out and enjoy a field trip at a discounted price!

l Fourth of July Celebration. Centennial Olympic Park. Live music,

food vendors, fireworks set to patriotic music for the Southeast’s largest fireworks show. July 4. Gates open at 6 p.m. Fireworks at 9:45 p.m. 265 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-222-7275. Free.

2225 Givens Road • Dacula, GA 30019 (770) 339-3065 • www.RanchoAlegreFarm.com

Beyond Atlanta l Celebrate America. The Rock Ranch. All day family fun with evening

concert and a world-class fireworks extravaganza. Entertainment includes farm access and more than 35 family rides and attractions. June 24. Gates open at 2 p.m. 5020 Barnesville Hwy., The Rock. 706-647-6374. $12/person from 2 p.m.-6 p.m., $25/carload after 6 p.m.

More than 50 family-friendly activities Back for our

l Fourth of July Parade and Rotary Celebration. Downtown Newnan.

A patriotic, hometown parade starts at 9 a.m. at Veteran’s Memorial Park and ends at Greenville Street Park; followed by entertainment and food at Newnan High School’s Drake Stadium at 5:30 p.m.; fireworks at dusk. July 4. Newnan. 770-253-8283. Free.

14th year, it’s Atlanta’s favorite family

l Freedom Train. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Celebrate

Independence Day all aboard in Bryson City. July 4. Departure 7:30 p.m. 226 Everett St., Bryson City, NC. 800-872-4681. Adults, $61-$95; ages 2-12, $39-$54; ages 23 months and younger, free-$20.

festival!

l Fourth of July Independence Day Celebration. Georgia Mountain

Photo by Katie Darby

Fairgrounds. Fireworks extravaganza. July 4. 9:45 p.m. 1311 Music Hall Rd., Hiawassee. 706-896-4191. Free.

October 14th, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Mercer University Atlanta Campus

Join the FUN!

Images By N’Neka and Butler Family Photography

Exhibit, Volunteer, Donate 770-454-7599 • LPowell@atlantaparent.com Fourth of July Celebration, Centennial Olympic Park

atlantaparent.com

www.atlantaparent.com/familyfestival June 2017 Atlanta Parent 37

SUMMER Fun Guide

Totally Atlanta Put these icons on your to-do list.

l Atlanta Braves SunTrust Park, the brand new home of the Atlanta Braves, was built with families in mind. From the impressive, carnival-like children’s area to an enormous Atlanta Braves symbol made out of LEGOs, there is so much to see and do before the first pitch. Atlanta. braves.com l Delta Flight Museum Our city has one of the busiest airports in the world, but we have one hometown airline – Delta Air Lines. The Delta Flight Museum allows visitors to experience the rich history of Delta Air Lines and get up-close with some massive airplanes. Atlanta. 404-715-7886. deltamuseum.org

l Inside CNN Studio Tour The tour begins with a ride on the world’s largest freestanding escalator. Next, see what it’s like to work inside the control room, and try your hand at delivering the news and weather. Atlanta. tours.cnn.com l Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Watch doughnuts chug down the conveyor belt and be showered in sweet, sticky glaze, still piping hot. (Just be sure the sign reads “Hot Now” before you head over). Atlanta. 404-876-7307. krispykreme.com l Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center includes his birth home, Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church and Freedom Hall, where you can view Dr. King’s Nobel Peace Prize and one of the largest collections of American civil rights materials in the world. Atlanta. 404-331-5190 ext. 5046. nps.gov/malu/index.htm l Oakland Cemetery Tours and walks through the cemetery reveal the rich history behind each gravestone. Maynard Jackson, Atlanta’s first African-American major and Margaret Mitchell, author of “Gone with the Wind” are both buried here. Atlanta. 404-688-2107. oaklandcemetery.com

World of Coca-Cola

l Stone Mountain The area has great attractions, but also boasts a lot of history. The Confederate Memorial Carving is the largest high relief sculpture in the world. Hike up the mountain or take a tour of the Quarry exhibit. Stone Mountain. 800-401-2407. stonemountainpark.com l The Big Chicken Located at the intersection of Cobb Parkway and Roswell Road, the “Big Chicken” stands tall. The chicken and KFC was renovated this year, keeping the signature eye roll and moving beak, but also adding a voice. Tune into 820 AM to hear the chicken speak. Marietta. 770-422-4716. marietta.com/attractions l The Varsity What’ll ya have at this famous drive in? Try a chili dog, a frosted orange and a fried pie. This Atlanta institution has been serving up the favorites since the 1920s. Your children will soon be yelling “One naked dog walking, mom!” Atlanta. 404-881-1706. thevarsity.com

Atlanta Braves

l The Fox Theatre Stop by this landmark for a show, or take a behind-the-scenes guided tour. You can learn facts about the building including the “Mighty Mo,” the largest working Moller theatre organ in the world. Atlanta. 404-881-2100. foxtheatre.org l World of Coca-Cola For most children, the best part about visiting the World of Coca-Cola is the tasting room at the end, where you can sample Coke products from around the world. Also don’t miss the Vault of the Secret Formula where the legendary recipe for Coca-Cola is secured. Atlanta. 404-676-5151. worldofcoca-cola.com

The Varsity

38 Atlanta Parent June 2017

l Waffle House Museum The very first Waffle House restaurant was in Atlanta, and now stands as a museum. Today, the chain now has 1700 restaurants in 25 states. The Museum features Waffle House memorabilia from the past 60 years. Decatur. 770-3267086. wafflehouse.com/waffle-house-museum

atlantaparent.com

Your Summer Go-To Bucket List

Don’t worry about bored kids! Use this checklist to make the most of your summer.



High Museum of Art high.org

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The Dancing Granny alliancetheatre.org

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Hippo Hopp hippohopp.com

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Atlanta History Center atlantahistorycenter.com

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Lane Southern Orchards lanesouthernorchards.com

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Atlanta Braves braves.com/kids

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Lift Up Atlanta Summer Fun Festival liftupatlanta.org

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Lion King Jr. Experience campvillage.com

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Mercier Orchards mercierorchards.com

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Center for Puppetry Arts puppet.org

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Museum of Aviation museumofaviation.org

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Chattahoochee Nature Center chattnaturecenter.org

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Music and Arts Center musicarts.com

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Children’s Museum of Atlanta childrensmuseumatlanta.org

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Rancho Alegre ranchoalegrefarm.com

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Cool River Adventures coolriveradventures.com

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River Tubing rivertubing.com

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Cool River Tubing coolrivertubing.com

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Dynamo Swim School dynamoswimschool.com

Roswell Summer Puppet Series at Roswell Cultural Arts Center roswellcac.com

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Fernbank Museum of Natural History fernbankmuseum.org

Southeastern Railway Museum train-museum.org

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Funopolis Family Fun Center funopolisfamilyfuncenter.com

Tellus Science Museum tellusmuseum.org

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Summerfest at Gaylord Opyrland Resort gaylordopryland.com/summerfest

Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum tvrail.com

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Glow Galaxy glowgalaxy.com

Tiny Towne Drive Safely tinytowne.com

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Goldfish Swim School goldfishswimschool.com

Topgolf topgolf.com/kidzone



The Wizard of Oz Train Ride at Great Smoky Mountains Railroad gsmr.com

Woodruff Arts Center Family Fun Days woodruffcenter.org/create-atl



Zoo Atlanta zooatlanta.org

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June 2017 Atlanta Parent 39