May 2012

Parent Atlanta’s No. 1 Parenting Magazine

atlantaparent.com / May 2012

What Metro Moms Learned from

Their Moms Make Your Back Yard

Nature’s Playground Facebook Primer for Parents

Ready, Set,

Summer!

atlanta

B A

- - C’s of a

Smile!

A

Apple a day By offering healthy alternatives such as apples or other foods that are naturally sweet, children avoid unhealthy snacks.

This is the easiest way parents can help children prevent tooth decay and cavities.

C

B

Brush! Brush!

Most children will be able to brush their own teeth by age 6 or 7. Select a brush that has soft, rounded bristles and teach them to use only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. They should brush for a minimum of two minutes twice a day.

Check-ups

Most children need to see the dentist twice a year. It is recommended that children start seeing the dentist by their first birthday. Our Pediatric Dentist specializes in making your child’s visits calm and comfortable.

www.NaturalSmile.biz Two Convenient Locations Lawrenceville Marietta

Michael Mansouri D.M.D., F.A.G.D. Azita Mansouri D.M.D. Amanda Sengel D.D.S. Board Certified Pediatric Dentist

2401 Lawrenceville Hwy., Lawrenceville, GA 30044

(404)475-3002

4720 Lower Roswell Rd. Marietta, GA 30068

(404)475-3003

WE TREAT 17,000

BREAKS AND SPRAINS A YEAR.

AND STILL COUNTING. When a child or teen gets a fracture, he needs special care. So trust the doctors with the expertise to fix growing bones and growth plates the right way. Find out more at choa.org/fracture.

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

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amy cooper, m.d., m.P.H., m.s.

Pediatrics eva montgomery-mcGuire, m.d., FaaP Pediatrics susan staviss, m.d., FaaP Pediatrics

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4 Atlanta Parent May 2012

Pediatrics

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atlantaparent.com

Inside Vol. 29 / Number 5

Features

14

20

Facebook Primer

How does a parent monitor and protect a child hooked on Facebook? Also, parents share their concerns about youngsters wanting to be “on” Facebook before they’re ready.

Departments 8 Publisher’s Note 10 News You Can Use 42 Education

Keep Reading This Summer

74 Humor in the House 10 Not-So-Proud Parenting Moments

Stress-Free Summer

Oh, those lazy days of summer. Or are they? Our story guides you toward making this a worry-free summer.

22 28 30

May

Lessons That Last

For Mother’s Day, Atlanta moms share meaningful advice they learned from their own mothers.

Mom, Take Care of You

You do everything very well, but sometimes put your own health on the back burner.

Nature’s Playground

Find plenty of tips for turning your own yard into a multi-sensory landscape that will enrich your family.

Just Kids Special Section

46

When babies are developmentally delayed or have other disabilities, parents need help. Thankfully, there is a network of organizations ready to assist. Also: 15 ways that moms of special kids rock.

Magazine Association of the Southeast

2011 Award Winner atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide 53 54

Not-to-Miss Events

Eating Out: Blue Moon Pizza Strawberry Picking

56

Review: ‘Peter Pan’ at Center

58

Exhibit:

59

Playground:

for Puppetry Arts

‘Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition’ Ben HIll Park

Rug Rat Romp: Touch-a-Truck

60 Roller Skating Roundup 61 Festivals 62 May Calendar 64 Mother’s Day Events

Like us on Facebook; facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine May 2012 Atlanta Parent 5

Atlanta’s Award-Winning Parenting Publication Publisher Liz White

lwhite@atlantaparent.com

Associate Laura Powell publisher lpowell@atlantaparent.com

Editor Julie Bookman editor@atlantaparent.com BUSINESS Amy Smith DEVELOPMENT asmith@atlantaparent.com

MANAGER

Account Julia Sparks Executives jsparks@atlantaparent.com

Andi Levine alevine@atlantaparent.com

Stacy LaVictoire slavictoire@atlantaparent.com

Editorial Sheri Taylor-Emery

ART DIRECTOR creative@atlantaparent.com

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

TIRED OF

TAKE PART IN A CLINICAL RESEARCH STUDY!

If YES then consider volunteering for a clinical research study conducted at Emory University. This clinical trial is for children 1–5 years of age, who suffer from wheezing.

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

Contact:

Shanae Wakefield 404-727-5176 slwakef@emory.edu or Denise Whitlock 404-712-1773 drwhitl@emory.edu

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

production Natalie Thavenot manager apads@atlantaparent.com

Editorial Robin Mintz production rmintz@atlantaparent.com

ARTIST COPY EDITOR Glenn Emery

Office Caroline Ward Coordinator cward@atlantaparent.com

special events Kaitlyn Morris coordinator kmorris@atlantaparent.com Marketing Mom Felicia Barman

HIGH SCHOOL Jaclyn Turner INTERN

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

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

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

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

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

© Atlanta Parent, Inc. 2012

atlantaparent.com

®

Ages 4+

By J.M. Barrie; Adapted and directed

by Michael Haverty

Now through May 27 A new adaptation for everyone who is young at heart!

Supported in part by: Clay Walker

By Tears of Joy Theatre of Portland, OR

June 1 - 10 Travel back to the 18th century with this stylish musical adaptation of the beloved fairy tale.

Courtesy of Tears of Joy Theatre

Adapted and directed

by Jon Ludwig

June 14 - July 15

Previews: June 12 & 13

Bill Jones

Hoist up the main sail and get ready for Hans Christian Andersen’s tale with a swashbuckling, musical twist!

404.873.3391 www.puppet.org

Publisher’s Note “One day you’ll have kids, and…”

Mom used to say that to me. Your mom probably said it to you too. The phrase usually ended, “you’ll understand.”

As it was with so many things she taught me as a child, my mother was right.

You never really appreciate what your parents did for you until you are a parent yourself.

My mother, who raised six children, set an example in so many ways – the value of a strong work ethic, the ability to juggle time and responsibilities, the importance of family connectedness, the flexibility to adapt to change. We moved many times, always for my father’s jobs, and I’m sure the moves were as hard on mom as the rest of us, but she never let on. She got us settled in a new school and a new neighborhood and cheerfully made life return to normal.

I admire her for all those things, but the most important gift she gave my five brothers and me was unconditional love and acceptance, even when we weren’t always so lovable. With my daughter, and now my grandson, I am passing that gift on.

As we celebrate the month that honors mothers, it’s a good time to remember that all mothers work. Love and acceptance can help make up for the challenges of everyday life. So your house isn’t as tidy as the neighbor’s? Not so important.

So you can’t afford a vacation this year? Not so important. So your friend is a stay-at-home mom (or conversely, has a great career)? Not so important.

Some metro-Atlanta mothers talk about what is important in this month’s magazine (Page 18). And though they may describe their mothers differently – one mother valued reading, another service to others, another compassion – their mothers really were very much alike: They made it clear they loved and supported their children.

Now that my daughter Laura is a mother, I get to experience again, from a different perspective, some of the special moments between mother and child. I cherish the day-to-day contact with my grandson Elliot, and cheer his developmental milestones and priceless smiles. And I sympathize with Laura when she feels overwhelmed – a baby has a way of turning your life upside down, doesn’t it? Laura and I, and all mothers for that matter, realize that the words “mother” and “sacrifice” are somewhat synonymous, and none us would have it any other way.

1404 Spring Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30309 Limited FREE Parking MARTA Accessible Advance purchase is highly recommended.

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

8 Atlanta Parent May 2012

How to Reach us: Telephone 770.454.7599

E-Mail lwhite@atlantaparent.com

Fax 770.454.7699

Website www.atlantaparent.com

The Old Fashioned Way 2346 Perimeter Park Drive Atlanta, Georgia 30341

We welcome your views and comments. Letters that appear in the magazine may be edited for content and space.

atlantaparent.com

ItFigures Are you

Bikini

Motherhood Matters

Ready?

44

Percent of out-of-hospital births in the U.S. in 1940

1

Percent today

Free Consultation

1,000

Approximate number of surrogate mothers who give birth every year in the U.S.

visit website for details

1522

Year Dr. Wertt of Germany, a male physician interested in obstetrics, was caught trying to sneak into a labor room dressed as a woman and burned at the stake for his crime

code AP

59

Percent of obstetricians in the U.S. who are men

3.9 million

Number of moms with children under 18 who write blogs, usually about parenting

9

Percent of mothers of newborns in 1990 who were 35 or older

14

Percent in 2008

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Percent of Mother’s Day flowers bought by women for themselves

48

Percent of social-media users who are Facebook Friends with their mothers

19

Percent of parents who regret choosing the names they did for their children, often because so many other youngsters have the same name Sources: Sojourners, Glamour, Pregnancy-Place.com, U.S. Dept of Health and Human Services, ADWEEK Online, Instablogs.com, PewResearch.org, AboutFlowers.com, Y98. radio.com, Newslite. tv

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

News You Can Use

by Amanda Miller Allen

Teamwork, redefined Playing a team sport builds character – at least, that’s what all the coaches say. No doubt, the best teams model leadership, cooperation, work ethic, fitness and goal-setting, and they’re fun, too. But what do the kids say?

A recent survey found 84 percent of kids wish they had more fun playing sports, and the same percentage say they have quit a team or wanted to quit a team. Almost a third of kids, 31 percent, say they don’t want adults watching them play because adults yell too much, make players nervous and put too much pressure on them to win. The online survey, conducted by the youth sports franchise i9 Sports, involved 160 boys and 140 girls, ages 8-14.

Chores for Pay? Does your child get an allowance for doing chores?

He may be in the minority – a new study found most parents assign jobs to their kids, but don’t tie completion of the chores to an allowance.

The study by DoughMain.com involved 2,034 parents. Most – 89 percent – expect their kids to perform chores, but just 51 percent give an allowance. Only 21 percent of parents say the allowance is in recognition of doing chores. Twentysix percent of parents who don’t give an allowance say they give their kids extra privileges for completing chores, such as an extra hour of TV. DoughMain.com, a free financial education and family organization website, says today’s parents may be missing an opportunity to connect work with income and financial management and responsibility.

And the Best Family Movie Is… In the 1980s, the Best Family Movie was Back to the Future. In the 1990s, it was Home Alone, and in the 2000s, the Harry Potter series came in at No. 1. Those were results of an online poll conducted by sodahead.com.

Start a discussion of great family movies at facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine.

Websites Worth Visiting n SaveYourMoneySaveYourFamily.com Feeding a family is never cheap. With food prices expected to rise again in 2012, you need a plan. You’ll find plenty of helpful tips to tame your grocery bill on this site, from the author of Savvy Shopping: How to Reduce Your Weekly Grocery Bill to $85 Per Week. One tip: Buy only food in the grocery store – you’ll find better prices on non-food items such as toothbrushes elsewhere. The site has coupons and easy, healthy recipes with inexpensive ingredients. You may not get the weekly bill to $85, but you’ll surely reduce it.

10 Atlanta Parent May 2012

n DadsBehavingDadly.com It’s a wonder so many succeed at one of the world’s toughest jobs – being a good father. Those who do this job well have some wisdom to pass on. The Dads Behaving Dadly Project is collecting stories for a book that looks at committed, engaged fathers. The goal is to provide good role models for other dads and validate a father’s contributions to parenting. Submit your story at dadsbehavingdadly.com/submission-guidelines.

atlantaparent.com

Book Spotlight If you want to spice up your next camping trip, or if your brood is venturing into the woods for the first time, this family camping guide is a must.

The Down and Dirty Guide to Camping with Kids: How to Plan Memorable Family Adventures & Connect Kids to Nature, by Helen Olsson (Roost Books, $17.95) is full of planning ideas, packing tips and activities to keep everyone happy and occupied. This sturdy guide offers parents everything from tent instructions and a great “camp kitchen checklist” to fun recipes, boredom busters and warnings of such things as poisonous bugs and plants.

Calling All Talented Kids!

Is there a budding Justin Bieber in your house? If so, consider entering your talented youngster in Atlanta Parent’s “Talent Showdown.” Top applicants, grouped into age brackets and three performance categories (singing, dance and variety) are invited to audition for our celebrity judges on August 20 at the Center for Puppetry Arts in Atlanta. Winners will perform at this year’s Family Block Party on October 13 at Mercer University’s Atlanta campus. Download an entry form at atlantaparent.com. Submit application, non-refundable application fee ($25 for up to four applicants, $50 for larger groups), picture and demo (CD, DVD, video or website link). Each application will receive four tickets to Family Block Party. Entry deadline: July 13.

Days in May OK, so you know that May 5 is Cinco de Mayo. But did you know that May 14 is “Dance Like a Chicken Day”? Throughout the year, there are all sorts of “special” days that somebody somewhere dreams up. Here are some “May days” that your family can observe – if only for kicks.

May 1: Mother Goose Day May 2: Brothers and Sisters Day May 9: Lost Sock Memorial Day May 10: Clean Up Your Room Day May 11: Eat What You Want Day May 12: Limerick Day May 15: National Chocolate Chip Day May 18: No Dirty Dishes Day May 25: Tap Dance Day May 30: Water a Flower Day Source: holidayinsights.com Cont’d on page 12

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Message and data rates may apply.

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atlantaparent.com

May 2012 Atlanta Parent 11

IS YOUR KID A STAR?

Enter your child (or group) for a chance to perform at Atlanta Parent’s Family Block Party on October 13. Fifteen of the most talented youngsters will be showcased at the event.

News You Can Use

What to Expect Film: Need Moms to Weigh In Are you expecting? Or perhaps you read Heidi Murkoff’s What to Expect When You’re Expecting and now are looking forward to the movie version, which opens May 18. Billed as a “hilarious and heartfelt” romantic comedy that centers on five couples linked by the “challenges of impending parenthood,” the film was shot in Atlanta. Stars include Cameron Diaz, Jennifer Lopez, Elizabeth Banks, Matthew Morrison, Dennis Quaid and Chris Rock.

For an upcoming story on the movie, Atlanta Parent is seeking moms (and moms to be), who would like to attend a “sneak peek” at What to Expect before it opens, then share thoughts about it with us. Please email Atlanta Parent editor Julie Bookman at editor@atlantaparent.com with your name, address, and the ages of your kids (and/or your due date). Please include a daytime phone number so we can reach you. Thanks!

Kim Mitas Photography

a Atlantt’s Paren

t n e l Ta n w o d w Sho

l Local radio and TV personalities will be on hand at the auditions to select the winners on August 20 at the Center for Puppetry Arts. l Entries are $25/act for up to four kids, and $50/act for more than four kids. Up to eight Family Block Party passes are included with each entry.

Age Groups: 5-9, 10-13 and 14 & up Talent Categories: Singing, Dancing and Miscellaneous (includes jump roping, instruments, monologue, etc.)

Download an entry form today at www.atlantaparent.com and mail it in by July 13. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity!

12 Atlanta Parent May 2012

Autism Walk and Fair Every 11 minutes, a family receives the news that their child has an autism spectrum disorder.

Join Georgia Autism Speaks and Marcus Autism Center for the 6th annual Walk Now for Autism Speaks event on May 20, at Atlantic Station. Registration begins at 8 a.m., followed by the 9:40 a.m. walk, which is about 3 miles. The event is a “one-stop shop” for families affected by autism; a resource fair is also on the bill.

Powered by volunteers and families with loved ones on the autism spectrum, this event generates vital funds for autism research and raises awareness about the increasing prevalence of autism and the need for more research funds to combat this complex disorder.

Walk Now’s community resource fair, from 8 a.m. to noon, will include therapists, schools, organizations, and child-friendly activities. For more information: 770-451-0570; walknowforautismspeaks.org/georgia.

Atlanta Parent’s Family Block Party 2012 Atlanta Parent magazine is proud to introduce the beneficiaries of this year’s Family Block Party – Atlanta’s best family festival, set for Oct. 13 on the Atlanta campus of Mercer University. The organizations that will benefit from the event are: n Athletes on the Rise combats childhood obesity among girls ages 8-18, by providing them with mentors, coaches and year-long programming. n Atlanta Diaper Relief distributes diapers to low-income families in Cobb, Fulton and Douglas counties. n Camp Sunshine enriches the lives of Georgia’s children with cancer and their families through yearround recreational, educational and support programs.

Family Block Party seeks volunteers – who wind up having a lot of fun. If you or your organization wants to learn more, please contact Atlanta Parent special events coordinator Kaitlyn Morris at 678-222-1911, or email Kmorris@atlantaparent.com.

Scholastic Books Bargains May is the month when educators can reap big savings (25-80 percent off) on a wide variety of books from the leading publisher of children’s titles. As the school year wraps up, Scholastic opens its warehouses across the country to educators and Scholastic Book Fair chairpersons and volunteers. From Kennesaw to Peachtree City, there are several Scholastic warehouses in metro Atlanta, and all will be open in May (from anywhere from two days to two weeks) for this opportunity. For warehouse locations and the special sale hours at each: scholastic.com/bookfairs/warehouse.

atlantaparent.com

Making Friends with Facebook:

What Parents Need to Know

O

by Lela Davidson

On the way to school, I asked my son how many of his classmates were on Facebook. “Um… all of them!”

He is the youngest in his class, and still 12 years old. For a few more months, I get to blame the Facebook rules for not allowing him to open an account because users must be 13. However, my time is running out. “The first thing I’m going to do when I wake up on my birthday is sign up for Facebook,” my son tells me. That gives me only a few months to nail down a strategy.

Although I work, play and promote online, when it comes to dealing with my own children interacting in cyberspace, I lack confidence. How do I monitor without being overbearing, protect without smothering? Every day there seems to be a new Internet-enabled threat. Still, I’m not willing to forbid my kids from using social networking.

Kids can easily circumvent parents’ oversight, says Sharon Miller Cindrich, a mother of two and author of A Smart Girl’s Guide to the Internet. She also provides resources to help parents manage technology on her website, PluggdInParent. com. She says it’s important for us to build trust and start conversations about things like Facebook, adding, “The most important message kids should get is that they need to be mature and responsible online, and talking to kids about that face to face is critical.”

14 Atlanta Parent May 2012

Be a Friend A recent survey by Kaplan Test Prep found that more than a third of teens whose parents are on Facebook are not actually friends with them on the site. Don’t fall into this group.

Make sure your kids understand that accepting your friend request on Facebook is optional.

Just as you wouldn’t allow them to interact unsupervised in real life, you don’t want them roaming around online without your guidance, either. Most kids won’t want mom and dad watching their online interactions, and this is the perfect opportunity to discuss how everything they do online is not only traceable, but also permanent.

To take full advantage of being your child’s Facebook friend, you’ll need to keep up with the technology. It is one more thing to add to your parenting to-do list, but this one is critical and you must be proactive because Facebook site functioning changes often. Don’t let this overwhelm you. It’s not that complicated, just annoying – like when they move your crackers at the grocery store. One of the most important aspects you’ll want to understand is privacy.

Manage Privacy Settings There is very little privacy online, but we can protect all that is available. Instead of fighting this new social norm, parents can learn to manage it and teach children to as well. In their Parents Guide to Internet Safety, the FBI suggests that parents maintain access to atlantaparent.com

children’s accounts. They also point out that chat rooms are often prowled by sex offenders.

The use of chat rooms, in particular, should be heavily monitored. And while parents can and should use technology to monitor kids’ online life, they should never rely completely on these tools.

Keeping tabs on privacy settings is an ongoing process, not just a one-time setup.

Just as Facebook’s policies change over time, the types of things your child shares will change as well. To complicate matters, Facebook allows users to create groups and share certain items and conversations with these groups, while they are kept hidden from the view of others. By establishing your role as arbiter of the privacy settings, you’ll have a better understanding of how your child is using groups to communicate privately with his friends and whether you want to allow this.

Lurk and Listen “Facebook conversations very much reflect those on the bus, at the lunch table and in the locker room,” says Cindrich. The Internet poses many dangers for kids, but things that they or their friends say on Facebook can also give you unprecedented insights into their world.

Cont’d on page 16

atlantaparent.com

Facebook Etiquette 101 If parents want to be Facebook friends, they need to keep a low profile.

That is not to say that parents can never interact with their children in social media, but some rules of thumb could prevent a world of embarrassment and hurt feelings. n Resist the urge to comment on your child’s page. If you see something you’d like to discuss, do it face to face. n If you must post photos of the child, don’t tag them without prior approval. Tagging a photo automatically posts the photo to the child’s Facebook profile page. What you find adorable may be painfully embarrassing to an adolescent. n Do not send friend requests to your child’s friends, and do not accept friend requests from them unless you have cleared it with your child first. n Use the information you gather on Facebook carefully. Criticizing your child or her friends based on status updates or photos is not a good idea. You will probably use your new knowledge to make decisions about whom your kids spend time with in real life, but they don’t need to know that.

Resources n PluggedInParent.com: Sharon Cindrich’s website covers all kind of family and technology issues, including social media. n The Parent’s Guide to Texting, Facebook, and Social Media: Understanding the Benefits and Dangers of Parenting in a Digital World, by Shawn Marie Edgington. Published in April 2011, this is possibly the most current, comprehensive and authoritative resource available on this topic. n Free monitoring software: For general monitoring of your child’s online interactions, check out the free software at k9webprotection.com.

May 2012 Atlanta Parent 15

Making Friends with Facebook When your child hosts a party at your house, you don’t hang around and join the conversation; you pop in periodically to provide snacks and make sure no one is misbehaving.

Strive for the same level of presence of Facebook, minus the snacks. Think of your child’s online interactions as an opportunity to observe them in their “natural habitat.”

You don’t have to match their level of online engagement. “Parents should not spend a lot of time commenting on their kids’ Facebook,” Cindrich says, “especially if kids are resistant to being friends with them.”

Monitor Mobile Devices Most of us have heard the advice to keep the computer in a public area of the home, simply because it is too easy for teens and tweens to be lured into risky behaviors when they are unsupervised. But “computers” aren’t the only way we get online today.

Mobile devices like phones and iPods often have Internet access. Even if you don’t purchase a data plan, many of the newer devices can access any open Wi-Fi network.

You might have a password on your home network, but your neighbor might not. One way

16 Atlanta Parent May 2012

to keep kids safe from online manipulators and remove the temptation to text their friends late at night is to have them turn in their phones and iPods before bed.

Create a Contract Writing things down makes them clear.

Some families find using a contract is an effective way to make sure there are no misunderstandings about expectations for

behavior and consequences.

Cindrich agrees that a written document can help. “Set time limits and boundaries and make sure the consequences for breaking the house rules are very clear before you even get started.”

Vanessa Jensen, a pediatric psychiatrist at the Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital, agrees and says parents should tell kids at the outset, “If you have a Facebook account, you’re going to have to friend me and I want to know what’s happening. I’m your parent. That’s part of how we do things.”

It’s easy to panic over the pace of technology, the access our children have to all kinds of information, and the access others have to our kids. Listen to your children, read up on the latest gadgets and sites, and talk to other parents every chance you get.

And remember that you’re the parent, and as such you control your child’s resources and, to a great degree, how he spends his time.

Phones and computers do pose a challenge, but you can use them to your advantage as well.

After all, the threat of taking the phone away can often be the best leverage you’ve got. c

atlantaparent.com

Keeping a Watchful Eye Metro Atlanta parents are well aware of the dangers of social networking, but also see its pluses.

W

by Amanda Miller Allen

“We want to hear your thoughts and concerns about privacy settings on Facebook and whether or not you monitor your kids’ use.” That’s the simple query Atlanta Parent sent to some of our readers. The simple answer is “YES!” The parents we spoke with are more than a bit concerned, and with good reason. But they also see the positive aspects of the social network. Here are their stories:

On Facebook Without Permission “I found out through my aunt that my 11-year-old, who was 10 at the time, had a Facebook page,” Rewa Berry says. “He’d sent a message to her asking to be her friend.”

Unlike some kids who use a fake name and age to set up a Facebook page, Mylahn used his real name. On his page, though, he was 28 and went to the University of California Los Angeles.

Berry and her husband, Jay, sat him down for a talk about the dangers of social networks. “We told him, ‘This is why you have parents. We have to monitor your activities for your well-being.’”

Her child had set up his page using a friend’s iPad. Turns out, a whole group of Mylahn’s friends had Facebook pages.

The parents got together and the pages are history, but Berry had to contact Facebook four times to get Mylahn’s page removed – the first three times she got no response. And one of the other parents discovered their young daughter was “chatting” online with an adult man, who was posing as a teen and suggesting they meet.

“The world has access to your kids” online, and it’s scary, Berry says. Parents need to stay connected and monitor.

The Berrys have four children to be concerned about: Malik, 16; Mylahn, 11; Parah, 10, and McKale, 7.

Berry, a real estate agent and president of the PTA at Centennial Place Elementary, has her own Facebook page for social and business networking. Social sites can be positive for teens and parents, and a great way to stay in touch with clients, friends and grandparents, she says.

She looks at her 16-year-old’s Facebook page every week or two. Early on, she had to talk with him about inappropriate atlantaparent.com

language and lingo, and told him that what you post can follow you throughout your life.

“You can’t ‘parent-lock’ Facebook and Twitter,” she says, but you can monitor the sites. And with four children, she’s learned: “What the oldest does, it’s going to trickle down,” so staying involved is just smart parenting.

Holding Off Facebook, for Now “Elijah is about to turn 13, and he has talked about getting his own Facebook page, but we want him to wait until he’s a little older,” Samantha DeGrasse-Carter says.

Many of Elijah’s friends already have pages, because they fibbed about their age.

“We’ve told him when he gets on Facebook that we will have his password and he will be monitored,” she says. Her 9-yearold, Jaden, also is asking when he might join the site, and she and her husband Reico Carter have told him it’s a long way in the future.

Daughter Sophia, age 4 ½, isn’t asking – yet.

DeGrasse-Carter, an Atlanta author who writes children’s books as Samantha DeGrasse, has an account for business and social networking, but she’s careful about what she posts.

“If people want to pry into your personal information, it’s really easy,” she points out.

And Google mapping on the site also gives her pause, because people can locate where you are when you post.

Her husband signed up for Facebook in 2007 or 2008, but he recently closed his

“The world has access to your kids” online, and it’s scary, Rewa Berry says. Parents need to stay connected and monitor.

Samantha DeGrasse-Carter and son Jaden

account. “He didn’t see the point of having it anymore,” she says, “because it wasn’t up to date.”

DeGrasse-Carter likes Facebook because of its ability to let her connect with family members and people she’d lost contact with, and to discover connections between people she knows and people who are also friends with her friends, a sort of “six degrees of separation.”

“Lots of people would rather text or send a Facebook message, and I stay in touch with them that way, but I’d rather pick up the phone and call a friend,” she says.

A Teacher’s Concern Teachers in upper elementary grades are very familiar with the issue of kids being on Facebook before they’re ready, says Aisha Burchfield, a fifth-grade teacher who lives in Newton County. “I hear parents voicing their concerns all the time, and I agree with them that children as young as fourth-graders and fifth-graders are not mature enough to deal with some of the issues that surface during Facebook activity.”

Aisha Burchfield and daughter SaNiiyah Cont’d on page 19

May 2012 Atlanta Parent 17

Keeping a Watchful Eye Fifth-graders are generally ages 10 and 11, and sometimes they can’t wait to be a part of the social network and community that they see their older siblings enjoying, Burchfield says. Sometimes parents condone a fourthor fifth-grader’s Facebook activity, and other times they’re unaware of it, she says.

“Parents need to be mindful that it’s not just about monitoring their child’s computer use at home. Some students will create a Facebook page and access other questionable Internet sites using a friend’s smart phone, for example.”

Another problem: Students have asked Burchfield to be her “friend” on Facebook, and one fifth-grader’s feelings were hurt when she said no. Burchfield explained to the student that her most important role is to be a teacher and mentor. She added that she liked the student very much, but didn’t think being Facebook “friends” was entirely appropriate.

Though Burchfield has seen the minefields of the social networking site, her friends who have older children say there are some advantages for the kids, including keeping up with out-of-town family and not talking on the phone as much.

When Burchfield’s 6-year-old daughter,

18 Atlanta Parent May 2012

SaNiiyah, is old enough for Facebook, what will she do? “I want to say I’d tell her 100 percent, no,” she says, adding that’s probably an unrealistic wish. “We’d definitely set up firm guidelines and I would have her password. And if she’s potentially rebellious at that age, she would not have a page.”

Facebook as a Teaching Tool “My daughter and I have a pretty good relationship, and I was furious when I found out she had gone behind my back and started a Facebook page,” says Erica McDonald of Southwest Atlanta. She was more concerned than furious, really, but McDonald still wanted the page taken down immediately.

After consulting with the parents of her child’s friends and her child’s godfather, and given the fact that her daughter Brandy turns 13 in June, McDonald relented.

“She’s a fairly responsible child and she’s so close to the age, I allowed her to continue,” McDonald says. “Also, she’s mainly playing games on Facebook.”

McDonald, an educator with Atlanta Public Schools and Cobb County Adult Education, and Brandy’s godfather keep

Erica and Brandy McDonald

close tabs on the page, as does Brandy’s brother, Bryan, 20.

McDonald has the password to Brandy’s account, and she’s had Brandy “de-friend” one girl who posted inappropriate comments.

Facebook has its pluses, too, McDonald says. Brandy is able to chat regularly with her grandmother in New York and an uncle in Saudi Arabia and other relatives.

“I’m using it as a teaching tool,” McDonald says. “We’re doing a lot of talking about what’s appropriate and what’s not appropriate.” c

atlantaparent.com

Plan a Worry-Free

Summer Time-Savers n Keep a designated bag packed for the pool or park.

Include sunscreen, non-perishable snacks, towels, wipes, toys and pool passes. n Designate age-appropriate household chores for the kids. Distributing duties will help keep the house cleaner and free up more time for fun.

Summer

n Freeze strawberries for an instant, healthy cold treat. n Keep sunscreen and bug spray in a designated location so they can be found quickly. n Create a rotating play date with another mom so that you (and she) can run errands without the kids.

by Julie Steed

Summer! School is out, schedules are free and the living is easy. Or is it? With a little prep work and a plan in place, you can schedule your summer the way it should be – worry-free.

Plan It or Wing It?

*

Much of summer’s appeal is a slowerpaced day with less-restrictive schedules.

So why put a plan in place? The days will progress more smoothly if everyone knows what to expect. Even the most loosely planned season will help you get special trips and events completed before summer’s end.

If you are a planner, create a summer calendar and post it in a place the entire family can view. Write vacations and regularly scheduled activities (swim lessons and summer library programs) on the calendar first. Then, add in special day trips and excursions. Ask family members to be involved in choosing activities so that everyone will have an event to anticipate.

Do thoughts of calendars and schedules make your head ache? If you are a mom who likes to wing it, you can benefit from thinking ahead without over-doing the schedule.

Jennifer, mom of two, says, “I do a combination of planning and flying by the seat of my pants. I try to schedule one or two activities each week and leave the rest of the time open for spur-of-the-moment activities.”

Another mother of two, Jenni, also mixes up the summer schedule. “We plan periodic ‘big’ days – a trip to the zoo, for example.

We also plan lots of group activities and play dates and leave at least two days each week for running the sprinkler and climbing trees in our own yard.”

20 Atlanta Parent May 2012

Be Consistent

*

Routines offer day-to-day consistency and can be crucial to the overall success of a single day.

“I have younger kids [ages 2 and 6],” says Kelly, “and if they don’t stick to some type of schedule, I have two super monsters on my hands!”

Routines don’t need to be boring or restrictive. Eat meals at about the same time each day, but take advantage of the relaxed schedule and try something new. Eat breakfast outside in pajamas, take lunch to the park, or share a snack under a shade tree.

Find the natural ebb and flow to your days and include regular naptimes and rest breaks in your daily routine. “Our older son benefits from his daily quiet time, and our younger is much happier, at 2 years old, if he gets his afternoon nap,” says Liz, mom of two.

Keep bedtime consistent, too. Whether your kids play until dark or go to bed promptly at 8, a regular bedtime will benefit the entire family. “As parents, we think it will be a treat to let our kids stay up late. Then I’m always sorry that I did the next day because they are tired and cranky,” says Jan, who has five children.

Organize Fun

*

A touch of organization means more fun and less stress for everyone.

“I keep a set of Rubbermaid drawers in my garage with things like water guns, sidewalk chalk, jump ropes, balls and gloves so whenever the kids want to play outside they know right where to go to pick up their favorite toy,” says Nicole, mom of three. Nicole also keeps healthy snacks on hand. “For my teens, food is key! Anything they can pick up with their hands and take on the run is great.”

“Something we are looking forward to this summer is getting together with families in our neighborhood for dinner once a week,” says Jenni. “We’ll meet at rotating houses on Thursday afternoons, let the kids run and play and all eat dinner together, picnic style.”

Don’t wait another minute! Get busy scheduling a worry-free summer and watch your entire family have a great season. c atlantaparent.com

Lessons That Last Moms recall what they learned from their own mothers.

by Mary Beth Bishop

One way to celebrate a great mom is to pass on her unique brand of wisdom to the next generation.

Once they become mothers themselves, women often look back to their own childhoods and the things their mothers said or did that impacted them the most.

Friends on the Page Popular author Joshilyn Jackson moved often as a child and says her mother knew where the library was before she found the grocery store.

With Jackson’s classmates left behind, her mother “was able to take me right to Nancy Drew” and other such friends she loved. Now Jackson is a best-selling author with two bookworms of her own. Her children love to read so much, in fact, that Jackson has a household rule: books must be closed at the top of the stairs lest readers tumble down the steps.

The author of Gods in Alabama, A Grown-Up Kind of Pretty and other works of fiction isn’t the only writer in the family’s Decatur home. Maisy Jane, age 10 , uses the “Crayola and stapler method” to come up with books of her own, says Jackson, who is also mother to 15-year-old Sam. She still enjoys discussing books with her own mom Betty Jackson.

Her children got an early education in the classics when Jackson soothed her fussy newborns with the help of literary heavyweights such as Charles Dickens and Jane Austen. The author, who used to love to hear her own mother read aloud, wanted to choose something she herself would enjoy during late nights up with babies.

A Chance for More

Author Joshilyn Jackson (above) with her two kids and with her mother Betty Jackson in 1979.

22 Atlanta Parent May 2012

Fox 5 News anchor and reporter Deidra Dukes was a student body president at her junior high school when the leadership group had the chance to travel to Japan. When there weren’t enough funds in the family budget for Dukes to make the trip, her mother taught her a new way to look at things she couldn’t have.

“She told me she was giving me opportunities in life to get those kinds of things for myself later,” says Dukes, adding that her mother instilled in her a Deidra Dukes and son Michael. strong faith and made sure she got a good education.

Her mother is shy, the anchor says. So Marion Dukes made an extra effort to see that her daughter wasn’t afraid to go after the things she wanted. Now the Fox anchor, who lives in South Fulton, works to make sure her 8-year-old son Michael has that same drive and solid foundation.

She wants him to know that it’s OK “if he doesn’t ace a test or if he strikes out.

My mother taught me to celebrate success and learn from mistakes,” says Dukes. “She said the only way to reach your true potential is to fall down and dust yourself off.” atlantaparent.com

Born to Serve

Kim Hudson and her three children (left) and Kim’s mom Debbie Bruner (above).

A job should be more about giving than about making money. That’s one lesson Kimberly M. Esmond Adams says her own mother taught her children.

“She taught us to choose a profession based on what God put you on earth to do,” says Adams, a judge in Fulton County Superior Court. “She said you were not born for yourself. You were born to serve.”

Adams has passed on her mother’s spirit of generosity to her stepson Michael, 20, who has taken part in mission trips and service projects. “That’s part of who he is,” says the judge.

Cont’d on page 24

Cheering Them On Kim Hudson remembers the “really good, secure feeling” of knowing her mother Debbie Bruner would always be there at school parties and other events.

“I never wondered if she’d show up,” says Hudson, who wants her own children to experience that strong sense of support.

“I wish I could be at every single thing,” says the part-time lawyer, who is married to Atlanta Braves pitcher Tim Hudson. “But there’s one of me and three of them.” The Hudson kids – Kennedie, 10; Tess, 8; and Kade, 7 – all play on different sports teams

with different practice schedules. Theirs is a busy, sports-loving family with baseball, softball and basketball all in the mix.

Tricky logistics aside, Hudson makes it a point to always have a supporter in the stands for each of her young players. She might enlist a friend if she or her husband can’t be there. “There’s never a time,” she says “that somebody’s not there watching.”

The Hudsons lives in Auburn, Ala., and Kim and Tim also run the Hudson Family Foundation, which provides supports to children in need. hudsonfamilyfoundation.com.

Judge Kimberly M. Esmond Adams and her stepson Michael.

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Moms recall what they learned from their own mothers Her own mom, Janice Stallworth, made it clear “that life should not be guided by money and things.” Adams grew up in a happy, active family where money was sometimes tight.

But “you couldn’t tell us,” she says, “that we didn’t have as much as the other children.”

Some of her memories are funny. As Adams got older, her name for her mother “went from Mommy to Mama to Ma. She hated that,” the judge recalls. “She’d say this wasn’t Little House on the Prairie.”

Her mother passed away before she could see her daughter get married or be sworn in as a judge. “But she deposited so much in us,” says Adams, who is thankful for lessons that last.

Mary Emily O’Bradovich gathers with her two daughters and her mom, Georgia’s First Lady Sandra Deal.

Mom to Many When it got chilly at ball games or practices, Mary Emily O’Bradovich remembers that her mom would be on the case, bundling up not just her daughter, but any of her teammates who were caught without a coat.

“She always filled the back of her car with coats and hats,” says O’Bradovich, whose mother is Georgia First Lady Sandra Deal. If it takes a village to raise a child, “she was the high priestess. She took everyone under her wing.”

O’Bradovich remembers that lots of her friends put their trust in her mom. Now she hopes she herself can be there for her daughters’ friends, should they need some extra support. O’Bradovich is mother to Rosemily, 9, and 6-year-old Cordelia.

She’s also struck by the respect her mother has always shown toward everyone she meets. With that in mind, O’Bradovich

chose a school and address where diversity could be a part of her girls’ lives. Her mom “didn’t judge people by social status or skin color” and that made an impression that O’Bradovich only fully realized when she had children of her own.

“My mother taught me to accept all people and exclude no one,” she says, “and that’s what I teach mine.”

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Taking the Time Painful memories as well as good ones can shape the choices a mother makes.

Jewel Lucien said she sometimes longed for something as simple as having a parent who was present more often at meals.

When she became stepmother to Elijah, who turned 14 this month, she was mindful of how it felt not to get the adult attention she sometimes needed as a child. “I realized that there’s more to parenting than setting rules,” the Lilburn actress says. “It’s important to make time.”

Lucien was a child of divorce and as an actress she recently sang about the subject from a parent’s point of view in Motherhood the Musical, which recently closed at 14th Street Playhouse. One of the show’s more poignant moments comes when Lucien’s character sings about sending her children off with their dad “Every Other Weekend.”

The actress says she’s made it a point to have her stepson understand “how important he is in our lives.” When he was younger, he would often choose to accompany her to rehearsals instead of staying home with a

Jewel Jucien with husband Melvin and stepson Elijah.

sitter. Soon, he was correcting her lines when she practiced at home. He grew to love show tunes and costumes and still enjoys being a part of school plays, taking his stepmother’s profession to heart.

Empathy and Kindness In smalltown Alabama, where people loved to talk, Robin Gibbs’ mother told her to choose kindness over gossip. “She said you never know what the other person’s life might really be like,” Gibbs recalls.

“Hogwash” was what Karen Elizabeth Collins thought of the old saying that words don’t hurt as much as sticks and stones. “She would really use the word hogwash,” Gibbs says.

Now a mother of two, Gibbs is featured on the reality series Say Yes to Dress: Atlanta in her role as bridal manager at Bridals by Lori.

Keeping in mind her mother’s compassion, “I have really instilled empathy into the hearts of my boys,” says the Marietta mom of Christian, 12, and Dylan, 10.

The two boys, it seemed, were somewhat of a surprise. “I am very much all about tradition and couldn’t wait to teach my daughter the same polite manners and Southern traditions passed down from generations. So can you imagine how stumped I was when I ended up with only boys? This is when Mama reminded me that God knows what he is doing and nothing is ever by chance.”

Gibbs said her mother made her feel loved, even when the talk had to turn to disappointing behavior. “She was and still is my No. 1 fan. One of the best things a mama can do for their child,” she says, “is to always root for him or her.” She always, she says, wants her kids “to know that I believe in them.” c atlantaparent.com

Robin Gibbs shares a hug with mom Karen Elizabeth Collins (above) and is flanked by her two sons (below).

May 2012 Atlanta Parent 25

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Jessica’s New Future

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bout 2 years ago, Jessica Demby was struggling. After graduating from McEachern High School, in Powder Springs, Jessica had tried college, but soon realized it wasn’t for her. Jessica did not know what to do and felt she had run out of options. All she knew was that living at home and making minimum wage was not what she wanted - not then or in the future - but she didn’t see a good way out. Thinking about her life at that time she exclaims, “I was just really frustrated!” Now, in less than two years she’s doubled her salary, has paid vacations and holidays, and is truly enjoying her work every day. What did she do? And more importantly, how did she do it?

Luckily, Jessica’s mom, Janet Waldron, was offering a new opportunity for people like Jessica. With a successful career as a dental assistant and practice consultant, Janet knew that there were many people who would be interested in becoming professional dental assistants if they only had the opportunity. Little did she know that her own daughter would be one of her first students!

The Dental Staff School, run by Janet and her husband, practicing dentist Dr. Jon Waldron, offers students the same great opportunity to build a career Jessica has enjoyed. In just ten weeks, students learn professional dental assisting in a real-office setting (the classes are held at Waldron Dentistry in East Cobb). Like many students, Jessica was attracted to the medical environment and loved the fact that she could work in a safe, professional setting without needing a college degree. “I went to Kennesaw State University and I did okay, but I knew college wasn’t for me,” Jessica says. “I liked the fact that the dental assisting school was only ten weeks long, and we only had class once a week - on Saturdays.”

Each Saturday, Waldron Dentistry hosts the current class of students and offers state-of-the art dental equipment for students’ lessons. From working on models to practicing with the dentists and fellow students, Jessica really enjoyed the hands-on learning. “It wasn’t boring,” she says, “it was a whole lot of fun!”

Today, she’s just glad she completed her training with good instructors. In her new fast-paced job in a pediatric dental office in Austell, it was “sink or swim.” Jessica thinks she was offered the very first job she applied to because she was able to perform at a high level right away. In school, she had the chance to practice as much as she wanted, because students are invited to spend working days at Waldron Dentistry to fine-tune their skills by observing seasoned assistants and hygienists.

“Nothing went to waste - today I use everything I learned in school,” says Jessica. It’s not surprising that her education was top-notch, since the dentists directing the Dental Staff School have a wealth of teaching experience. Dr. Waldron taught dental and medical training in the Navy, and Dr. Edward Schlissel came to Waldron Dentistry straight from a faculty position at the Dental School at Stony Brook in New York. (In fact, Dr. Schlissel was the Chairman of Restorative Dentistry.) Aside from the technical skills she perfected, such as taking x-rays and impressions, she points out that the most important thing she learned was how to make patients feel welcome and comfortable. “When I see I’ve made a child smile who was really scared, I know I did a great job!” Jessica’s new career couldn’t have come at a better time. After getting her first job, she and her boyfriend started making wedding plans, and they were just married last summer. She was thrilled when her office gave her a surprise wedding bonus, but she knows that the best part of her new job is the opportunity each day to help people. It’s worked out so well, she says it was “almost fate!”

Dental Staff School (www.DentalStaffSchool.com) is a ten-week dental assisting school in Pelham, Alabama, Marietta, Georgia and Franklin, Tennessee. Classes are held on Saturdays at the offices of Waldron Dentistry and Dr. Chad Follis and Patterson Dental Supply. The program is accredited through National Accreditation for Colleges and Schools, Non-public Postsecondary Commission in Georgia, and the Alabama and Tennessee Higher Education Commission. The school can be reached at (678) 819-3919 or email janet@dentalstaffschool.com Photography by Ashley Waldron Hope. awaldron@zenfolio.com.

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This Mother’s Day, Write a Letter

by Tiffany Reevior

W

ould you like to say a unique thank you to a special mom in your life this Mother’s Day, without breaking the bank? These days, writing a letter may seem like a throwback to a bygone era.

However, taking the time to write down your thoughts and feelings can be a great opportunity to say thank you to someone you love or to reflect on your own experiences.

That’s why Mother’s Day is a perfect time to write a letter.

Writing a letter is unlike talking, or even thinking, about something. “When you actually put pen to paper or fingers to keyboard, it is really different and powerful,” says Ellyn Spragins, author of What I Know Now: Letters to My Younger Self. “It’s highly personal but, at the same time, there are these very universal things that you learn.”

So take a few minutes this Mother’s Day and write a letter to a mom who’s important to you, or write a letter to yourself as a way to step back and reflect on your journey as a mom. You may just find it’s the best Mother’s Day gift you can give. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Take a few minutes to write a friend and tell her why she’s a great mom.

Write a Letter to Your Mom

Write a Letter to Yourself

Your mom would love to receive a Mother’s Day letter from you. Go ahead and write her, or try writing to a female relative or friend who’s like a mom to you. Tell her how much you love her and appreciate everything she’s done for you. Of course, you can write to her even if she’s no longer with you.

If it feels odd to write to yourself, try this exercise.

Think back to the first time you took your child home and realized you were fully responsible for another human being. How did you feel in that moment? A little proud, a little overwhelmed, perhaps a little unprepared?

Remember the mom you were in that moment – and write a letter to her. Tell her what you’ve learned about motherhood since then. Tell her how much your child has changed, and how much your child has changed you.

Then put the letter away for next year, when you can write another letter to yourself reflecting on everything that’s happened in the meantime. You’ll find you’ve learned a lot in a year, about motherhood and about yourself.

No matter how you do it, make sure you take a moment this Mother’s Day to look back at how far you’ve come – and what a great mom you are today. c

Write a Letter to a Mom Friend Take a few minutes to write a friend and tell her why she’s a great mom. She’ll love hearing from another mom on Mother’s Day, and your letter will give her a wonderful self-confidence boost.

Write a Letter to Your Child Write a letter telling your child how much she’s grown and what you love about being her mom. You can give it to her now or save it for when she’s older. She will treasure that letter years from now when she’s all grown up. atlantaparent.com

May 2012 Atlanta Parent 27

Mom...

Take Care of Yourself!

by Sandra Gordon

E

veryday decisions about your health can impact your well-being, such as whether to tough out the flu or see the doctor, go for a power walk or watch TV, take the medicine or skip it. You do the best you can. But let’s face it – you’re juggling your own responsibilities along with your kids’ health, school stuff, home life and sports activities.

And your husband, friends and relatives are probably in the mix, too.

With so much going on, it’s easy to get distracted and make large and small judgment calls about your own healthcare that can do more harm than help. n A regular exercise schedule is one way to squeeze your own well-being onto an already full to-do list. Ann Nichols of Roswell tries to play tennis or work out as soon as her children have left for school and before the phone starts ringing and obligations crowd in. “If it doesn’t happen then, it might not happen,” says the working mom of three. n Sometimes things around the house might have to wait, but Nichols says she functions better for her children “if I take time for myself.” And she doesn’t forget herself when she’s making sure the family is up to date on doctor and dentist visits. n Where do you go wrong? Here are some of the biggest medical mistakes multitasking women (that’s you) make that doctors wish they wouldn’t and what you can to do to remedy the situation.

Oversight: You have an ob/gyn

but not a primary care doctor.

If you have a gynecologist but not a primary care physician (PCP), it’s time to go doctor shopping. “Women should have both an ob/gyn and a PCP,” says Dr. Michael Roizen, division chair at the Cleveland Clinic and co-author of You: The Smart Patient.

PCPs have broad-based medical knowledge and training in the prevention area. “There are so many nuances in drug therapy and drug interactions that PCPs are expert in,” Roizen says. If your blood pressure is creeping up, for example, your gynecologist shouldn’t be the one to write a prescription for blood pressure medication. You’ll also need a PCP to make sure you undergo age-appropriate screening tests. And if you should need a specialist, a PCP is invaluable for coordinating your care. n To-do tactic: To choose a PCP, interview two or three until you find one you’re compatible with. Clues a doctor is right for you: The waiting room has patients similar to your age and the doctor isn’t near retirement (a sign that she won’t be able to care for you long term). She’s also up to date on what’s 28 Atlanta Parent May 2012

likely to happen to you. “If you have a family history of heart disease, for example, you want a physician who focuses on heart disease prevention,” Roizen says.

Oversight: You take your kids to well-child checkups like clockwork, but you haven’t seen a physician in years.

Sure, your kids come first, but you need regular checkups too, even if you feel fine.

If you don’t have your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose tested regularly – preferably every five years if you’re in your 20s and 30s and otherwise healthy, and yearly after that – you won’t know if you’re at risk for a major condition such as diabetes, heart attack or stroke.

Dr. Sharon Horesh Bergquist, a PCP and assistant professor of medicine at Emory University, says your kids benefit too when you make time for healthy mom checkups.

“They grow up learning that taking care of their healthcare needs is important,” she says. n To-do tactic: Stay on top of your own health. In addition to getting routine

gynecological care, schedule a physical every five years if you’re healthy and under 40. Key markers to look for: blood pressure (less than 120/80), total cholesterol (less than 200), LDL or “bad” cholesterol (70 to 160, depending on your heart disease risk), HDL or “good” cholesterol (50 or higher for women), triglycerides (less than 150), fasting blood glucose (less than 100), body mass index (less than 25), and waist circumference (35 inches or less for women). If you’re over 40 or have a strong family history of cancer, heart disease or diabetes, or have had an abnormal mammogram, breast biopsy, abnormal Pap test or ovarian cyst, get a checkup every year. Depending on your situation, you could start with your internist or your gynecologist. Schedule your annual appointment near a memorable date such as your birthday so you don’t forget.

Oversight: You forget to get your prescription filled but go to your followup appointment anyway.

“It’s a waste of time to go to your followup appointment if you haven’t even taken your medication in the first place,” says Dr. atlantaparent.com

Margaret McKenzie with the Cleveland Clinic Women’s Health Institute. That’s because the path to getting well is a process that often goes like this: You come in with symptoms; your doctor writes a prescription; you take the medication until your next appointment; your doctor assesses if the medication is working and whether you’re getting better. If you don’t get your prescription filled, you’ll still be at square one. Your symptoms will linger, your condition could worsen, and your doctor won’t have any new information to fine-tune your treatment plan. n To-do tactic: When you get a prescription, get to the pharmacy right away instead of letting it slide. “Put ‘fill prescription’ at the top of your to-do list,” says McKenzie, who takes her own advice. “I write everything down.

If it isn’t written down, it isn’t happening.” Then take the medication as directed before going to your follow-up doctor’s visit.

Oversight: You brush off your symptoms or wait until the last minute to mention them.

Symptoms related to incontinence or sexuality, such as urine leakage or pain during intercourse or decreased sex drive, are the big ones that patients often fail to bring up during medical appointments unless the doctor asks.

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If you don’t hear from your doctor’s office after taking medical tests, it’s your responsibility to follow-up.

“Or they’ll mention these or other symptoms as they’re walking out the door of my office and then a whole new visit starts,” says McKenzie.

Atlanta’s Bergquist adds that women often fail to tell their doctor if they’re feeling really tired, chalking it up to a busy lifestyle and lack of sleep. “Fatigue may be lifestyle-induced,” she says, “but it can be also be a symptom of so many things.” n To-do tactic: To make the most of your next doctor’s visit, prepare by making a list of troublesome signs and symptoms and bring them up yourself, no matter how embarrassing or minor you think they are.

If you’re uncomfortable mentioning them, practice saying them out loud at home or in the car on the drive over, as in “I feel pain when I

pee,” “I leak when I laugh,” or “my periods last forever.” When the doctor asks the reason for your visit, put it out there so you don’t miss an opportunity to get treatment.

Oversight: You don’t hear back about test results, so you just assume they’re normal.

No news isn’t necessarily good news.

Doctors are especially pressed for time these days, so things can fall through the cracks. n To-do tactic: Don’t let your doctor drop the ball. If you don’t hear from your doctor’s office after taking medical tests, it’s your responsibility to call the doctor to follow up. “Just like in school, you’ve taken the test, so you deserve to get the grade to see how well you’ve done,” says Dr. Dawn Calderon, a cardiologist and director of the Women’s Wellness Program at Deborah Heart and Lung Center in Browns Mills, New Jersey.

What’s a reasonable length of time to wait?

For a Pap test, allow a month for lab results.

For blood tests and X-rays, give it three days before dialing your medical office. “You’re not bugging the doctor,” says McKenzie. “You’re helping her to stay on task and on time.

Healthcare is a partnership.” c – Mary Beth Bishop contributed to this story

May 2012 Atlanta Parent 29

Mother Nature’s Playground Turn Your Back Yard into a Multi-Sensory Wonderland that Engages the Kids

by Christa Melnyk Hines

Transform an ordinary back yard into a captivating, natural wonderland and you’ll harness the curiosity and imagination of your children in a whole new way.

A multi-sensory landscape provides your children with an enriching, year-round, fresh-air retreat.

Jocelyn Chilvers, a 30-year veteran in landscape design, as well as an artist, teacher and author of the blog “The Art Garden,” suggests that your landscape should include three areas – for active play, interactive play and seasonal observation – and they should evolve with your child’s changing interests.

Active Play Plan open spaces to accommodate your children’s ages and their favorite activities. While a young child might prefer a sandbox and swing set, an older child might need space for playing croquet or volleyball.

Also, include an area in which the children can do whatever they like. “For my three boys, that means unfettered digging! In fact, they have been working on ‘the crater’ for at least three years now,” says Jamie McIntosh, an award-winning writer and author of the blog “Organic Gardens.”

In addition, an enclosed area encourages imaginative play. “Kids appreciate an area that feels like they are in their own little world,” says Chilvers, whose daughter played dolls for hours under an apricot tree in their back yard. If you live in an area with few mature trees, create structures for shady retreats such as a canvas canopy or a gazebo.

30 Atlanta Parent May 2012

atlantaparent.com

Interactive Learning Designate a space for you and your children to plant a garden or design a birdhouse together. A low bench for potting plants and a raised garden make it easier for a child to get involved. Make a special place for gloves and gardening tools alongside your potting area.

“Let her select the plants and help her plant them,” Chilvers says. “Take digital photos and make a picture book of the summer.” At the end of the season, reflect and share in the progression of her garden, reviewing pictures of her planting, watering and weeding her growing flowers or vegetables.

Annette Pelliccio, founder and CEO of The Happy Gardener Inc., whose company provides earth-friendly products to gardeners, says that when her daughters were toddlers she integrated storybook elements in their “play garden,” including a Charlotte’s Web wire in a tree, a cottage playhouse and plants with names like Blue Fairy Clematis, Robin Hood tulips and Ruby Slipper poppies.

Now ages 10 and 8, Pelliccio’s daughters planted a serenity rose garden choosing varieties of roses based on what they want in their lives.

“Varieties include Home and Garden, Easy Living, Cha Ching ... [and] America.

They are painting tiles to hang throughout the garden with words of what we find important, including Peace, Family, Laughter,” Pelliccio says.

Further cultivate an appreciation for the world outside through recycling. “It’s never too early to teach children how to be good environmental stewards,” McIntosh says.

“We compost all of our kitchen vegetable scraps and my children like to see what insects are crawling around in the compost bin when we add the scraps.”

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Seasonal Observation Children love to study bees collecting pollen, observe birds searching for worms, search for animal tracks or patiently wait for a butterfly to break out of its chrysalis. “Include features in your garden that allow you and your child to observe nature and seasonal changes throughout the year,” Chilvers says.

Bring calming water elements into your garden and follow the aquatic life cycle of fish and plants. For younger kids, “a self-contained waterfall fountain is safe and inexpensive,” McIntosh says.

Cont’d on page 32

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To exhibit or sponsor contact Kaitlyn Morris 678-222-1911 or e-mail kmorris@atlantaparent.com atlantaparent.com

May 2012 Atlanta Parent 31

Mother Nature’s Playground Create a bird-feeding station in the winter and consult your state bird field guide to identify the birds that visit your bird feeders.

Plant flowers in the spring that attract bees and butterflies to your garden throughout the summer. In the fall, put the “garden to bed” in preparation for the winter while noting the change of the seasons highlighted in the glory of rich fall colors.

Children love to study bees collecting pollen,

observe birds searching for worms, search for animal tracks or patiently wait for a butterfly to break out of its chrysalis.

A Multi-Sensory Garden A garden can satisfy all five of the senses.

Plant showy, fast-growing sunflowers or lilies and fragrant herbs like mint and lemon balm. And since children love to pick flowers, McIntosh suggests flowers like snapdragons, pansies, cosmos and marigolds that “respond to picking by producing more blossoms.

“Encourage birdsong in your garden with drought-tolerant coneflowers and zinnias, which attract goldfinches with their seeds,” McIntosh adds.

Children can taste the fruits of their labors if together you plant fruits or vegetables.

Thorn-free raspberry or blackberry bushes are a great option. (As a cautionary note, instruct your children to always ask you before eating anything from the garden.)

Create a WildlifeFriendly Garden David Mizejewski, an Emory University graduate, naturalist, blogger and author with the National Wildlife Federation’s Certified Wildlife Habitat program, shares these additional tips for attracting wildlife to your back yard: n Water is one of best ways to attract wildlife, even something as simple as a birdbath. Change the water every few

days to make sure the birds have clean water to drink and bathe in and you’ll ensure mosquitoes aren’t breeding in it. n Plant sunflower seeds indoors in small pots with the kids and then transplant the seedlings outside. The sunny yellow flowers will brighten your yard and provide nectar to bees and butterflies. In late summer, they’ll go to seed and become natural bird feeders for chickadees, goldfinches and other colorful birds.

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

Additional Resources n Check with your local county extension office for information about soil, as well as plants and flowers that grow well in your particular region. For a list of extension offices in Georgia, see extension.uga.edu. n Walter Reeves, Georgia’s well-known master gardener, offers information and answers questions on his website, walterreeves.com.

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n For expert landscape advice, consult an experienced independent landscape designer with formal training in landscape design or landscape architecture. Request examples of designs. n Get more ideas from these books: A Child’s Garden: 60 Ideas to Make Any Garden Come Alive for Children by Molly Dannenmaier; Attracting Birds, Butterflies and Other Backyard Wildlife by David Mizejewski; and Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder by Richard Louv. n Add a nesting box for bluebirds, swallows, chickadees or even wood ducks or screech owls and give your family a great opportunity to witness animal parents taking care of their babies. n Plant a butterfly garden. Include native wildflowers such as purple coneflower, black-eyed Susan, yarrow, coreopsis and liatris to attract nectar-drinking adult butterflies. Add plants such as milkweed for caterpillars (milkweed is the host plant for monarch butterflies). n Create a butterfly feeder by putting chunks of watermelon, mashed berries or overripe bananas on a shallow dish in a sunny spot in your yard. Butterflies will stop by to sip up the sweet juices. n Plant a small tree or large shrub this spring. Native dogwood, fringetree, holly, elderberry, chokeberry, beautyberry and viburnum all have beautiful blooms that attract pollinators and later have berries that feed birds. n Adopt organic gardening practices and forgo using toxic chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Not only is this better for wildlife, it is safer for your family and pets. c

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May 2012 Atlanta Parent 33

June 4-8 • June 11-15 June 18-22 • July 9-13 July 16-20 • July 23-27 9 A.M. – NOON $150 PER SESSION

34 Atlanta Parent May 2012

Camp 2012

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Special Advertising Section

Atlanta Parent’s Camp Preview The Bedford School/Squirrel Hollow Camp

Camp Invention

quirrel Hollow Camp is a 4week summer program for children who need an academic boost.

The program is held on the wooded 45-acre campus of The Bedford School in Fairburn, approximately 15 miles south of the Atlanta Airport.

Students receive academic tutoring in small groups in the areas of math, reading and written expression.

They use materials and techniques that are multisensory and individualized for each student. Parents receive a detailed report at the end of camp, including pre- and post test scores and recommendations. Students also participate in recreational activities on the Challenge Course, the soccer field, the gym and the outdoor pool.

Academic gains average 1-2 grade levels in reading and math as well as immeasurable gains in self-esteem, confidence and social skills. The program is open to students currently in K-8th grade.

Dates for 2012 are June 18-July 12; hours are 8:304:00; extended care available. Some partial scholarships are available. Contact Dr. Betsy Box, Director, 770-774-8001.

Visit the website www.thebedfordschool.org for more information.

amp Invention is a fun-filled adventure fostering inventivethinking skills, science literacy, history and the arts in four activity-oriented modules created for children entering grades 1-6 (current K-5th graders).

Directed and taught by local teachers, children are challenged to identify solutions to real-world problems and are immersed in challenges that draw upontheir sense of curiosity.

In the Create Program: return home from an alien planet, green up and rebuild a polluted town, and build miniature amusement parks. In the Envision Program: find the magnificent island of Magnetropolis by navigating hand crafted upcycled ships, explore the science behind buoyancy and magnetism, and take a fantasy adventure on the Ci600 Space Modulator Time Machine to explore serendipitous moments.

In both programs, younger children create fantasy inventions while older children work in teams to build complicated, multi-step machines that solve a challenge! It is learning disguised as fun! Weekly sessions.

To view Camp Invention in action: http://www.youtube. com/user/CampInvention. To register: www.campinvention. org or call 800-968-4332.

S

The Cooler

L

et your kids beat the heat this summer! Send them to The Cooler’s Coolest Sports & Learn to Skate Camps!

Conveniently located in Alpharetta at 400 & Mansell, camp is Monday- Friday 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM or until 5:30 PM. Camp is for kids 5 - 12 years of age. Healthy lunch and snacks are included. Pay $20 less for the week by packing their lunch.

Come join the only camp that includes both ice and roller skating! Other activities include: volleyball, dodge ball, soccer, basketball, wiffle ball, kickball, arts and crafts and more! No skating experience is required and they have professional skating coaches to help your kids learn along the way! Each day includes at least one hour of fully supervised ice skating time. This camp is guaranteed to keep your kids engaged and entertained.

Coolest Sports Camp dates: May 28-June 1; June 48; June 25- 29; July 16– 20; July 30 - Aug 3; Aug 6-10.

The two Coolest Learn to Skate Camps are: Camp 1: June 18- 22 and Camp 2 July 23- 27.

Space is limited, so be sure to sign up for the COOLEST camps in Atlanta now! Call 770-649-6600 or register online www.cooler.com. atlantaparent.com

C

Dojo American Karate Centers

T

he Dojo American Karate Centers offers summer camp for children ages five to twelve years of age with sessions beginning on June 4th. Throughout the day, children are constantly engaged with activities that change every thirty minutes in a variety of stimulating skills including karate classes.

The camp educates the youths with interactive language games, sparring, movies, gymnastics as well as arts and crafts projects with Asian culturally-oriented themes.

During the first session, campers will be introduced to the Chinese martial arts of Kung Fu and learn songs in Cantonese.

Campers will learn to use chopsticks and face off with padded swords like a feudal samurai during the “Japan” session (beginning on June 18th). The fun continues all summer long with sessions that include themes such as Thailand and Medieval Europe.

The Dojo’s Karate Camp will excite the imagination as well as keep kids active and fit. The camp director and certified radKids® black belt instructor maintains a maximum of six to one ratio with the kids in the newly renovated facility.

Full-day and partial-day sessions are available.

Call 770-451-9900 today! Visit www.TeamDojo.com.

Camp 2012

May 2012 Atlanta Parent 35

June 11 - August 3

THE ALPHARETTA FAMILY SKATE CENTER

The Cooler’s Coolest Sports & Skating Camps

Sports: May 28-June 1, June 4-8, June 25-29, July 16-20, July 30-August 3, August 6-10 Learn to Skate: June 18 – 22 and July 23-27 Enjoy all varieties of activities/sports inside and outside at the biggest sports facility in Alpharetta!

Facility includes volleyball nets, basketball hoops, gymnastics space, 2 ice rinks, roller rink and space for all other sports!

Includes fully supervised free ice & roller skating/ no experience required!

Guaranteed to keep your kids engaged and entertained!

For campers 5 - 12 years of age No roller or ice skating experience required

Call 770-649-6600 or register online

www.COOLER.com 10800 Davis Dr., Alpharetta, GA 30004

Experience a Summer Adventure of Learning

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36 Atlanta Parent May 2012

Camp 2012

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Special Advertising Section

Atlanta Parent’s Camp Preview

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Camp 2012

May 2012 Atlanta Parent 37

Bowling Summer Camp in Decatur SESSIONS WEEKLY:

Mon – Fri: 9:00 – 12:45 p.m., Ages: 5 – 14

2619 N. Decatur Rd. Decatur, GA 30033

We are a family friendly bowling center perfect for family reunions, team building outings, fundraisers, school events, birthday parties, and much more!

JUICE BOXES AND SNACKS PROVIDED • $75/SESSION PER CHILD

Kids Bowl Free All Summer Long Go to www.kidsbowlfree.com/suburbanga

Call Tom Walker @ 404-219-6282

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Choose from

5 EXCITING CAMPS! June 4-29 & July 16-20

Camp Sunshine provides year round programs for kids with cancer and their families in Georgia Learn more by visiting us at: mycampsunshine.com Summer camp registration is now available online for kids ages 7-18 who have had or currently have cancer!

404.325.7979 38 Atlanta Parent May 2012

Camp 2012

Broadway: Dance, sing, audition!

Triple Threat: Sing, dance and act!

Prince & Princess: From scenery to show, do it ALL! Hip Hop: Learn ALL the moves!

“My First Single”: Write, record, perform!

www.rispa.net 678-620-3500

Check out our complete list of camps and summer programs online at atlantaparent.com atlantaparent.com

Special Advertising Section

Atlanta Parent’s Camp Preview Little Da Vinci International School

RISPA School of Performing Arts

ummer camp announcement – Welcome to Little Da Vinci International Airlines.

This is the pre-boarding announcement for flight 2012 around the world. Passengers with young children, and those requiring special assistance, are invited to enroll at this time. Please have your boarding pass and identification ready. Boarding will begin June 4th.

Ulysses, Little Da Vinci International School’s Globe Trotter, is taking you on a trip around the world.

You will learn about different countries and cultures through cooking, science experiments, songs, dance and art. This is a full immersion camp in your choice of Spanish, French, or Mandarin.

Little Da Vinci International School’s Summer Camp is one of the most exciting camps for your child in Atlanta. It reflects the school’s philosophy of learning, with consideration of the child’s needs, in order to facilitate overall development.

They strive to provide ample opportunities for students to develop the skills needed in today’s world, such as, creativity, open mindedness and bilingualism. Little Da Vinci International School is conveniently located, in the heart of Buckhead, in the Blue Heron Nature Preserve, a natural treasure.

For all boarding information, please contact a Flight attendant at 678-510-1214 or visit www.littledavincischool.org.

he RISPA School of Performing Arts offers Summer Intensive Programs and Summer Camps during June and July. Workshops and Camps will feature dance, voice and acting for ages 3 up to teens.

Camps run weekly from June 4 - 29 and July 16 - 20 with prices ranging from $160 - $260 per week.

Camps include Broadway Camp where you’ll learn Broadway musical dance, song, and audition techniques; Triple Threat Camp which features a full day of singing dancing and acting; Your First Single Camp where you’ll write, record and perform your own song in their own in-house recording studio; Prince & Princess Camp for ages 3-6 which includes art and crafts, costumes and dancing; and Hip Hop where you’ll learn the moves from the best.

There will be a showcase at the end of each week where students may perform for family and friends and show what they’ve learned. A 20% discount will be given for the second week of camp taken by a child.

For additional information about RISPA, their programs, and to download a camp registration form, please visit their web site at www.rispa.net. You may also call 678-620-3500.

Camps may be subject to change depending on enrollment.

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Camp 2012

May 2012 Atlanta Parent 39

Just in time for a GREAT SUMMER! Offering 1 and 2 week sessions for girls ages 6-16 Just 1 1/2 hours from home!

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Summer Adventure Camp at the beautiful Fox Hall Resort & Sporting Club located in Atlanta’s Chattahoochee Hill Country

Connecting Youth to the Outdoor Sporting Life AGES 7-14 June 4th through August 3rd

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Empowering the Youth of Today, to Become the Masterminds of Tomorrow

A unique summer camp experience motivating youth ages 6 to 14 to master the balance between work & play!

▪Create a small business ▪Learn to earn,save & budget money ▪Leadership & self confidence ▪Team building ▪Build social skills & more Camps located in Atlanta, Morrow, Marietta, Decatur, Sandy Springs, & Griffin

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40 Atlanta Parent May 2012

Camp 2012

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Now Enrolling

Foreign Language Immersion Camp Summer Camp May 21 - Aug. 6

Spanish, French, Mandarin Chinese, Portuguese, Hindi, English and Sign Language

404-855-7844

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May 2012 Atlanta Parent 41

Keep on Reading this Summer for Backto-School Success

by Kim Seidel

A

mong your list of summer activities, remember to read in the next three months. Research studies repeatedly find that children who read during the summer do much better in school when it starts again in the fall.

It may not be easy to get your child to read with all of the summer fun waiting for him. The good news is research shows that elementary-aged children who read only four to five books during the summer can prevent achievement loss.

The best way to motivate your child to read is to be actively involved with them in the process – no matter their age.

A self-proclaimed book lover, Chris Kubal strives to instill a passion for reading in her three children. Though her family’s reading habits vary, Chris consistently creates a home where books are central to their lives. Reading is part of their daily routine.

Kubal’s practices can be easy for any parent to create a passion for reading: n Create a home library. “We have a lot of books around here in our home,” Chris says. Books are stacked high on shelves in the kids’ bedrooms, including series of books.

about her son’s disinterest in books. To help spark his desire to read, she places inviting reading materials, particularly about sports, throughout their home.

n Subscribe to magazines. Each family member subscribes to several magazines geared toward their interests. This keeps everyone reading for pleasure and for learning.

Motivating the kid who hates to read

n Celebrate the season. To maintain their interest, Chris focuses on holidays with related books she keeps in separate tote bags.

It’s fun for her and her kids to read stories for special times of the year, including the summer. They also check out “fresh” seasonal books at the library. n Scatter reading material around home. While her two daughters are well on their way to a lifetime of reading, Chris worries

42 Atlanta Parent May 2012

For parents like Kubal who have a child who dislikes reading, be creative and think outside of the box. Try these following tips and see if you can lure him into an enticing book after all. n Tie-in books with movies, fun facts. If he loves movies, get him to read the books that relate to their favorite films. In addition, many excellent titles are chocked full of fun information, from creepy facts to world records. “These types of books are especially popular with boys who tend to be reluctant readers,” says author Francie Alexander.

n Enhance their reading online.

Allow your child to go online to complement their reading. One report shows that 64 percent of kids actually go online to extend their reading experience, whether they’re visiting author fan sites or social networking on bookrelated sites to buzz about their favorite titles.

“The report shows that kids who go online more frequently are more likely to read a book for fun every day. They just don’t want to let that book experience go, so parents should let kids ‘tech it up’ and extend that reading experience,” Alexander says.

Read for academic success Along with reading four to five books each summer, others studies show reading 20 minutes a day is a key to success for kids of all ages. Following are some great ideas to help your children meet that 20-minute goal and then some more! n Help kids find books to enjoy.

Studies have shown that kids’ reading frequency tends to decline after age 8, Alexander says.

“The No. 1 reason kids give as to why they don’t read more is that they can’t find books they like to read,” she says. “Parents should take an active role in helping kids find the books they’ll want to read.” n Never leave home without a book.

Whether you’re traveling for vacation or to the grocery store, always take a book with you. “Books keep kids from getting restless in traffic,” Alexander says. “There’s never a reason for a child to say, ‘I’m bored’ when there’s a book around.”

Cont’d on page 44

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May 2012 Atlanta Parent 43

Keep on Reading this Summer

FRENCH CLASSES FOR CHILDREN Saturday program ages 18 mo-12 yrs • Buckhead location at Atlanta International School New Class: Bébé et Moi (Baby and Me) for children ages 18-36 months

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Parent Atlanta’s No. 1 Parenting Magazine

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What Metro Moms Learned from

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Nature’s Playground Facebook Primer

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44 Atlanta Parent May 2012

n Have your child start a series.

Kids love to find characters that they admire and can relate to. Many series are available that fit various ages and interests to engage imaginations and to keep them reading. Have fun helping your child discover a series that he can enjoy for several years. n Let them choose books. “Guide your child to books that fit his or her interests, but ultimately let them pick their own book,” Alexander says. One report on children’s reading habit found that 89 percent reveal the book they loved the most is one they personally selected. n Don’t stop reading together. The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) reports children today are reading less often for shorter time periods. Their time is filled with other activities, including sports, video games, and television.

To keep reading on their list of activities, continue to read to your children. No matter the age, you can keep reading aloud to your kids.

When your child can read himself, you can take turns reading and devour longer, chapter books together.

As you listen to your child read, you can interact and support her. Reading together is one of the most important things you can do to help your child become a successful and happy reader.

Visit the Library Does your child have a library card? There’s no minimum age requirement to get one, and kids can feel empowered, and excited to go to the library to choose and checkout books, when they have their very own card. n Not just books. You can also borrow movies, CDs, audio books, and more. Libraries always offer story time and occasional special events. During the summer look for even more fun programming. The Zoomobile will visit almost every Atlanta-Fulton branch with animals and a zoo staffer who will to tell you about the critters. Library programs are free. n Get a pass. With your library card, you can borrow a “Georgia State Parks pass,” good for free parking and admission to any of the 63 parks and historic sites. The pass is good for five days; be sure to plan ahead, as these passes are limited. Zoo Atlanta has also partnered with the Georgia Public Library system to provide family passes to library cardholders. n Summer reading. Finally, ask your library branch about its summer reading programs and clubs that incentives for each book your child reads. Visit the library branch near you, and keep tabs on your library system’s website for programming updates.To access the link to your public library system: georgialibraries.org. c

atlantaparent.com

Ask a Teacher

Q: A:

How can my child keep his math skills sharp over the summer break?

Summer vacation provides a needed break for all. But if children don’t engage in continuous learning activities over the summer, they will inevitably forget some math skills. Regular practice with computation, problem-solving and basic math facts will maintain and strengthen the mathematical gains made over the school year.

To prevent summer “brain drain,” parents can easily incorporate the “Three P’s” into daily activities: Play, Projects and Practice. n Play: Many games and puzzles involve some math and encourage logical and strategic thinking. Tap children to serve as scorekeeper or banker in games like Monopoly. Other board games include Othello, Battleship, Mancala and Connect Four. Two fantastic visual spatial games are Blokus and SET. Find Jane Nagle a free, daily SET puzzle at setgame.com.

Math websites: funbrain.com, aplusmath. com, mathplayground.com, trafficjam.com, coolmath4kids.com and puzzles.com n Projects: Look for ways to discover the math in recipes, gardening, shopping budgets and sports statistics. Open a lemonade stand or take on a small construction or sewing project. Let your child be the one to calculate mileage and costs for a trip, or to chart the rise in gasoline prices. n Practice: My favorite math workbook designed for summer practice is the Summer Math Skills Sharpener, which can be ordered online at summerskills.com. Most students should use the book for their current grade level, which will provide a review of topics just completed.

To incorporate technology and an approach tailored to your child’s specific needs, visit IXL Math online. This is a helpful math site that incorporates the math skills learned in a particular grade. Sign up for a monthly membership at ixl.com.

You have probably heard the recent buzz about Khan Academy, an online collection of video tutorials that teach a variety of subjects, including math. Click on khanacademy. org and select one of the mini-lectures on thousands of different topics.

As you work math into your summer routine, keep it fun, light and interactive for the whole family. Remember, your child is on vacation!

– Jane Nagle is a math specialist at The Westminster Schools. atlantaparent.com

May 2012 Atlanta Parent 45

just kids

A quarterly focus on Special Needs

Who Can I T urn T o?

If your baby has a developmental delay or other concern, there is help.

I

by Julie Bookman

nfants with special needs can’t wait until next week or next month to start making progress toward the best life they can have.

That’s where Babies Can’t Wait enters the picture. It can help steer you toward numerous other resources, services and programs. Every day, children are born with disabilities that impair normal development.

One in six children experiences developmental problems or delays, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“Everyone knows somebody who either has a child or knows of a child who may have some delay – whether the child was born with a problem or experiences a delay of some kind during early development,” says Raymer Wilson, a supervisor with Georgia’s Babies Can’t Wait program who works in Cobb and Douglas counties.

Everyone might indeed know of a baby or toddler who should perhaps be evaluated for some disability or developmental delay, or could benefit from a specific program, therapy or medical attention. But that doesn’t mean everyone knows where to start in seeking help or guidance.

“We wish all families knew about Babies Can’t Wait,” Wilson says. Early intervention for babies is a federally mandated program, and in Georgia that program is called Babies Can’t Wait (BCW). Under the Georgia Department of Public Health, BCW provides a “comprehensive, coordinated interagency system of early intervention services” for children with developmental delays or disabilities” from newborn to age 3 and their families. All eligible children are guaranteed access to early intervention services, regardless of their disability. Babies and toddlers can 46 Atlanta Parent May 2012

The BEGIN program

Every day, children are born with disabilities that impair normal development. One in six children

experiences developmental problems or delays, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. be tested for delays, and if results indicate a specific need, a coordinator will work with your family to recommend services for which your child is eligible.

It’s common for Babies Can’t Wait to receive calls from parents who are fretful or just need reassurance. Parents often call because they fear their child may be delayed in some way – perhaps in the areas of language development or fine motor skills.

“They will often call just to check to see what’s normal,” says Georgia Public Health’s Beth Mathison, director of Children and Youth with Special Needs, which oversees Babies Can’t Wait in Cobb and Douglas counties (just one of 18 district offices for BCW in the state). “Sometimes parents just have a feeling something’s wrong, or their aunt mentioned something, or the neighbor child is doing

something their child isn’t doing and there’s only a month age difference. They call us, we talk to them, send literature, direct them toward resources.” And, if there is a specific concern, then the young child will be evaluated. Doctors and hospitals often direct parents toward Babies Can’t Wait, but parents can utilize the program without having a referral.

Babies Can’t Wait coordinates with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and with a myriad of other programs that serve the youngest special needs children and their families. There’s also significant interaction with nonprofit organizations such as Parent to Parent, which provides valuable emotional support to new parents of children with special needs by matching them with an experienced parent who has dealt with similar issues.

Another option is FOCUS (Families of atlantaparent.com

Children Under Stress), which offers resources and information plus “comfort, hope and fun” to families with children who are medically fragile or have significant developmental or physical disabilities.

“Sometimes, a parent needs to learn that there’s life even after finding out that your child has a rare genetic disorder,” says Joy Trotti, associate director of FOCUS. Matching a new parent up with a parent who has already learned to negotiate such a life can make all the difference.

FOCUS will sometimes get calls from parents “who are at their wit’s end,” Trotti says. “They’ll say, ‘I just don’t know what to do. My husband is at work and I am home alone with this baby and I am so frustrated because I can’t cope.’ Sometimes, it helps just to be able to talk to someone who knows what you are feeling and can validate your feelings.”

Hayley Alli is just one of thousands of Atlanta moms with a special needs child. Her daughter, Raveena, now 5, is blind. Adopted in India, she was born with a rare disease called bilateral anopthalmia, which means the absence of eyeballs. The family moved back to Atlanta from India when Raveena

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“Sometimes, a parent needs to learn that there’s life

even after finding out that your child has a rare genetic disorder.”

– Joy Trotti, associate director of FOCUS was 2. Hayley and husband Bryan were fortunate that Bryan’s sister is an Atlanta pediatrician who steered the family toward the BEGIN program at Atlanta’s Center for the Visually Impaired (CVI). The program provides education and services for newborn to early school-age children with severe visual impairments and their families.

“We have gone diligently and religiously every single week since January 2009, when Raveena was 2½,” Hayley says. “BEGIN has truly opened up our world to visual impairment, so things do not seem as intimidating anymore.

The people at BEGIN provide reassurance that it’s going to be OK, that Raveena can and will be just as independent as any other child and grow into being an independent teenager, a woman, and a mother, hopefully.”

Helpful organizations n Babies Can’t Wait: Statewide system for infants and toddlers with development delays or disabilities and their families. BCW has a statewide directory of information managed by Parent to Parent of Georgia.

The directory provides information about the BCW office closest to your family. To access the directory, call 770-451-5484. For general information, call 404-657-2726 or visit georgiafamiliesmatter.org and health.state. ga.us/programs/bcw. n Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta: Leading pediatric hospital offers extensive family support services for a child’s physical, emotional and mental health. 404-250-5437; choa.org n FOCUS: Offers comfort, hope and information to parents and accessible recreational and social programs for children and their families. 770-234-9111; focus-ga.org n Parent to Parent of Georgia: Provides emotional support from other parents who have experience living with a disability.

770-451-5484; p2pga.org

Cont’d on page 48

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May 2012 Atlanta Parent 47

just kids

Who Can I Turn To? She adds that she has appreciated the chance to get to know other parents with visually impaired youngsters during the structured three-hour sessions each week.

“I’ve made friends, and Raveena has made friends, and she absolutely loves being there. It continues to be a great support group for us,” Hayley says, adding, “I’ve learned Braille, and I love it.” This summer, Raveena will enjoy extended time in the program and a number of activities with her pals at CVI, including horseback riding and a visit to a water park. Like many other programs that serve special needs children, Hayley appreciates that BEGIN is focused on helping her daughter become independent and “to learn to be on the same level as typical kids – because she can.”

The BEGIN program at CVI (which has another program for ages 6 and up) has already been instrumental in changing Raveena’s life, but Atlanta is home to countless organizations serving families of babies and young children with medical and developmental disabilities.

If you suspect that your child has any unexplained problem or developmental delay, you should talk first with your pediatrician. You might also call Babies Can’t Wait, because, as Mathison says, the statewide system “is the glue that brings it all together.” If they can’t help you, they can point you toward those who can. c

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48 Atlanta Parent May 2012

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just kids

A quarterly focus on Special Needs

Why Moms of Kids with Special Needs

ROCK 1 2 3

Atla

nta’s

il Fam

id y Gu

S e to

ds

Because we are willing to do something 10 times, 100 times or 1,000 times if that’s what it takes for our kids to learn something new.

6 7 8 9

Because we have bad days and breakdowns and bawl-fests, and then we pick ourselves up and keep right on going.

Because we gracefully handle the stares, the comments, the rude remarks. (Well, mostly gracefully.)

Because we manage to get ourselves together and get out the door looking pretty damn good.

Heck, we even make sweatpants look good!

Because we are strong. Man, are we strong. Who knew we could be this strong?

Because we inspire one another in this crazy blogosphere every single day.

Cont’d on page 50

The Resource Guide for Families of Children with Special Needs and the Professionals Who Serve Them!

y, Read , t e S Play!

ip, s to Z Place and Soar Scale Some Meet zing Kids Ama r gies fo Stratedling Han downs Melt l menta Experipies Offer Thera ope for New H tric Pedia Tumor s Brain

Because we’ve discovered patience we never knew we had.

5

Because we have heard doctors tell us the worst, and we’ve refused to believe them. Take that, naysaying doctors of the world!

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ids k t s ju e l Ne pecia

Because we never thought that “doing it all” would mean doing this much.

But we do do it all – and then some.

4

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May 2012 Atlanta Parent 49

10

11 12 13 14 15

Because we aren’t just moms, wives, cooks, cleaners, chauffeurs and women who work. We are moms, wives, cooks, cleaners, chauffeurs, women who work, physical therapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, teachers, researchers, nurses, coaches and cheerleaders. Whew!

Because we work overtime every single day.

Because we also worry overtime, but we work it through. Or we eat chocolate or gourmet cheese (which aren’t reimbursable by insurance as mental-health necessities, but should be).

Because we are more selfless than other moms. Our kids need us more.

Because we give our kids with special needs endless love, and then we still have so much love left for our other kids, our husbands, our families. And our hairstylists, of course.

Because we understand our kids better than anyone else – even if they can’t talk; even if they can’t gesture; even if they can’t look us in the eye. We know. We just know.

– Courtesy: Love That Max blog from www.momlogic.com

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Spotlight on

Special Needs Resources

Brain Balance Achievement Centers of Atlanta Help Children Overcome ADHD, Asperger’s, Dyslexia and Autism

B

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

When you look at what is actually happening in the brains of children with ADHD, Asperger’s Syndrome, Dyslexia, OCD, Autism, Social Issues, Language Issues or Learning Disabilities, you see a similar problem: Namely, that there are areas in the brain, especially between the two hemispheres, that are not connected the way they should be. As a result, one of the two hemispheres of the brain becomes STRONGER AND FASTER and the other becomes WEAKER AND SLOWER. When this happens the two hemispheres become functionally disconnected and are unable to communicate effectively. It’s as if one hemisphere is using a high speed DSL connection and the other is using an old dial-up modem. The characteristics of the stronger, faster hemisphere naturally become amplified

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urora is an award-winning, Georgia accredited school offering a nationally accredited curriculum designed to accelerate learning for academic achievement.

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while the characteristics of the weaker, slower hemisphere are muted. This lack of balance translates into the noticeable academic, social and behavioral issues that these children exhibit.

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

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

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

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

Porter Academy

P

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

Porter Academy believes that children can reach untapped potential when provided with appropriate small group instruction, social guidance, and therapeutic support. They also believe that children are best able to succeed both academically and socially when the school utilizes a whole-child approach that simultaneously develops academics and foundational abilities (e.g., processing skills, attention, motor skills), while also promoting self-esteem and intrinsic motivation.

Porter Academy fosters lifelong success through the development of cognitive, academic, social, and psychological skills and abilities. For more information or to take a tour of the school, call: 770-594-1313 or visit: www.porteracademy.org.

There is a five week Summer Camp that begins on June 11th. Their weekly themed camp offers academics, PE, arts and crafts, and more. Check the website for more information so, “Your Child Can Succeed in the Right Environment.”

Special Advertising Section

May 2012 Atlanta Parent 51

this is where memories are made.

this is whY we ChoP.

fun for the whole family at turner field enjoy the perks of every home game kids run the Bases Children ages 4 – 14 are invited to run the bases after Sunday home games at Turner Field publix friday night fireworks Every Friday night enjoy a spectacular fireworks display after the game Braves alumni sunday Braves legends will be in the Fan Plaza before the game for autograph signings, Q&As and more

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Batting practice experience Enjoy on-field access as the Braves warm up for the big game.

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Exhibits

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Playground

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Calendar

Not-to-miss events for May

1

The Georgia Renaissance Festival Saturdays and Sundays (and Memorial Day) through June 3 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

Dress the little knights and ladies in their best walking shoes, load up the car and head to Fairburn any weekend through June 3. You’ll find a wondrous kingdom to explore. The Georgia Renaissance Festival has jousters on horseback, actors and common folk in medieval dress, plenty of turkey legs and meat “on a stick,” jugglers and belly dancers, and even men in kilts, the Atholl Highlanders Pipes and Drums. Tickets $19.95 adults, $8.95 ages 6-12; free for ages 5 and younger. 6905 Virlyn B. Smith Road, Fairburn.

770-964-8575; garenfest.com

atlantaparent.com

2

Good Neighbor Day Airshow DeKalb-Peachtree Airport May 12, noon-5 p.m.

This annual open house and airshow entertains children and their parents, with kids’ activities (jump and slide, inflatables, sand castles, face painting, wacky hair and more), aerial acts and an up-close look at antique planes, military aircraft and helicopters. U.S. Aerobatic Champion Skip Stewart and his amazing biplane, Team AeroShell, and the Circus Maximus flying team will be part of this year’s show. Free admission; parking $5.

2000 Airport Road, Atlanta.

770-936-5440, pdkairshow.com

3

Berryng Pickin Fu 4 5 Page

PDK Good Neighbor Day

Pirates & Princesses Weekend Fernbank Museum of Natural History / May 12-13, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Walk the plank, make a pirate sword or princess wand, go on a scavenger hunt for treasure, see a puppet show, have fun with Georgia Bubbleman and more during this two-day event. And don’t forget to come dressed like a pirate or princess. Most activities span both days. An appearance

by Truman the dragon from Kidsville News! is 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, and the puppet show “The Princess and the Pea, Y’all” is at 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. Sunday. Free with museum admission.

Tickets $17.50 adults, $16.50 ages 3-12, free for ages 2 and younger. 767 Clifton Road, Atlanta. 404-929-6300; fernbankmuseum.org

May 2012 Atlanta Parent 53

Family Fun Guide Blue Moon Pizza

bluemoonpizza.com Four locations: 2359 Windy Hill Rd., Marietta (770-984-2444); 4600 West Village Place, Smyrna (770-436-4446); 325 East Paces Ferry Road, Buckhead (404-814-1515); 5610 Glenridge Dr., Suite 101, Sandy Springs (404-236-7200).

All locations: Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; closed Sundays Blue Moon Pizza has been on our “need to check it out” list since last spring. We recently visited the Smyrna/Vinings location. It’s official: My family joins the ranks of the many who are over the moon for Blue Moon Pizza. With four metro locations, it’s easy to reach a Blue Moon for lunch or dinner. n What’s on the Menu: Blue Moon starts with fresh, made-daily dough, then piles on tasty toppings. You can get your favorite toppings or gourmet choices such as steak, chorizo sausage or artichoke hearts. As for in-house specialty pizzas, the moon’s the limit! One choice, the “Sante Fe,” comes with seasoned black beans, chicken, cilantro, red onions, spicy ranch, fresh avocado and house cheese.

We dined with another family of four and the adults shared a delicious large Greek salad and a house favorite, “Grandma’s Pizza,” with hand-

EATING OUT

crushed plum tomatoes, fresh-sliced garlic, extra virgin olive oil and fresh basil. At the suggestion of our server, we added cayenne-candied bacon. Mama Mia! The four adults split the final and 16th piece, as no one was willing to forfeit the last bite.

Blue Moon Pizza also uses that same fresh dough to make its signature warm and toasty “flatwiches” (think sandwiches with pizza dough for bread), like the “Italian,” with a host of Italian meats and dressing. For stromboli lovers, there’s “The Other Side of the Moon,” and for calzone lovers, there’s “Half Moon” selections that include your favorite ingredients and marinara sauce. For dessert, Blue Moon owners Kelvin and Mandy Slater serve up homemade treats such as a turtle cheesecake topped with pecans, chocolate and caramel – a dessert-lovers dream. n Why Parents Will Like It: Blue Moon Pizza servers are trained to BOLO (be on the lookout)

for the arrival of tiny diners, who are immediately served a plate of pizza dough so they can make their own dough creation. When the art creation is ready, servers take it away to bake into a mini masterpiece. The atmosphere and service is casual and spot-on. Blue Moon Pizza goes the extra mile by offering gluten-free options. There are weekday lunch specials: A full lunch is about $5. n Why Kids Will Like It: Blue Moon will not disappoint pizza-loving kids. The kids’ menu features a cheese or pepperoni pizza for $4.99, with small soda and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

For that no-pizza kid, there’s chicken fingers with dipping sauce, fries, small soda and a scoop of ice cream for $5.29.

– Dana DiLorenzo

BerryFun

What’s better than eating delicious, ripe strawberries? Picking them! It’s a perfect warm-weather family activity. May and June are prime strawberry-picking months in this region We’ve rounded up some “berry” great strawberry patches that are just a short drive away.

Adams Farm Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

1486 Hwy. 54 West, Fayetteville. 770-461-9395. adamsfarmfayettevillega.com You pick: $1.99/lb.; pre-picked: $2.50/lb.

Harry Stacy Farms Open daily by appointment.

623 Poplar Rd., Dallas. 770-443-0292. harrystacyfarms.com You pick: $12/4 liters, $8/2 liters

Cottle Strawberry Farms Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-7:30 p.m.; Sun., noon-5:30 p.m.

290 Banks Rd., Fayetteville. 770-719-2600; 4830 E. Fairview Rd., Stockbridge. 770-761-7822. cottlefarms.com/strawberries You pick: $11/gal.; pre-picked: $13/gal., $4/qt.

Southern Belle Farm Mon.-Sat., 8 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 1-6 p.m.

1658 Turner Church Rd., McDonough.

770-288-2582. southernbellefarm.com You pick: $10/gal.; pre-picked: $12/gal.

Washington Farms

54 Atlanta Parent May 2012

The Rock Ranch Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5p.m.

5020 Barnesville Hwy., The Rock.

706-647-6374. therockranch.com You pick: $2.50/lb.; pre-picked: $3/lb.

Washington Farms Mon.-Sat., 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

270 Willowwind, Loganville. 770-554-8119; 5671 Hog Mtn. Rd. (Hwy 53), Athens.

706-769-0627. washingtonfarms.net You pick: $10/gal.; pre-picked: $12/gal.; containers: $1.

– Jaclyn Turner

Family Fun Guide

Southern Belle Farm

Berry Picking Tips: n Be careful that your feet and knees do not damage plants or fruit. n Pick only berries that are fully red. n Don’t throw berries into the container; they could get bruised. n Berries to be used immediately may be picked any time, but if you plan to hold the fruit for a few days before using, try to pick in the early morning or on cool, cloudy days. n Avoid placing picked berries in direct sunlight any longer than necessary. n Leave the caps on berries until ready to eat – this keeps them juicy. n Never wash berries until you are ready to use them. Washing makes them more prone to spoiling.

atlantaparent.com

Woohoo! Water Parks to Open Summer is around the corner, which means it’s almost time to grab your swimsuits and sunblock and head on down the “lazy river,” or wobble your way across the “lily pads.” The two major water parks in metro Atlanta open soon. Next month, we’ll bring you a roundup that includes a number of other get-wet locations.

White Water The park that introduced Atlanta to the Cliffhanger, Tornado, Little Squirts Island and Wiggles Water World first opens its gates for a preview weekend May 19-20. Get set for the official opening on May 26, when the park begins daily operations for summer 2012.

Preview weekend hours: 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Regular season hours after May 26: 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m. 250 Cobb Pkwy. N, Marietta. 770-9489290. Buy tickets online and print out before you arrive to save $6 per adult ticket.

Adults, $37.99; children under 48 inches tall, $26.99. Parking $12. sixflags.com/whitewater

Lanier World Lake Lanier Islands’ beach and water park offers a sneak peek weekend on May 12-13, then opens for the season on May 19.

Splash around in Georgia’s largest wave pool, visit the Kiddie Lagoon or brave various water slides. The park is open at 10 a.m. daily, but closing hours vary so check website before you go. 7000 Holiday Rd., Lake Lanier Islands. 800-840-5253. Adults, $34.99; children under 48 inches tall, $19.99. Parking $10. lanierworld.com

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Family Fun Guide

May 2012 Atlanta Parent 55

Review: A Sparkling New Peter Pan If You Go Peter Pan Center for Puppetry Arts, 1404 Spring St., Atlanta 404-873-3391; puppet.org n Times: Through May 27.

Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.; Sat., noon and 2 p.m.; Sun., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. n Admission: $16.50; under age 2, free

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Child Models

f you’ve been wondering whether your 4or 5-year-old can sit through a live theater production, wonder no more. An all-new production of Peter Pan at the Center for Puppetry Arts is bright and breezy enough to captivate most preschoolers older than 3. One Atlanta mom who brought her 3-year-old son to a recent morning performance said that sitting still during the one-hour show was not the issue. Mostly, her young boy experienced small pangs of fear: worrying that Peter might die, or that Wendy might die, or that Captain Hook might die. Or, oh no, Tinkerbell.

The fate of Captain Hook and a certain crocodile will not be revealed here. Suffice to say that this production sticks faithfully to J.M. Barrie’s classic tale. And hold tight to something Peter says in the middle of the show: “No one stays hurt for long in Neverland.”

Under the sparkling direction of Michael Haverty, this new show is brought to life through rod puppetry performed behind a backlit scrim. Painted with an ultraviolet reactive paint, then exposed to black light, the comically adorable puppets (by Jason von Hinezmeyer), take on a fluorescent glow. Prefilmed segments rendered in shadow puppetry

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Family Fun Guide

add another layer. Engaging animations by Travis Overstreet are projected onto the scrim to enhance Kat Conley’s “storybook” set design. Greatest of all: Five highly versatile puppeteers – unseen behind the scrim – concoct delightfully specific personalities for the many puppets they expertly maneuver to prance, romp, and fly in the fantasy-adventure.

“I thought this was real cool, like HD puppetry, as in high definition,” says Pierre Bertrand of Stockbridge. Bertrand’s 4-year-old son Justyn “enjoyed it a lot, so we’ll definitely be back for more experiences like this.”

Hold tight to what Peter says: “No one stays hurt for

long in Neverland.”

The audience was whisked off to Neverland with Peter, Wendy, Michael and John – and there was nary a dull moment. Everyone loved the frisky Lost Boys and the mischievous Jolly Roger pirates. One little girl cried out: “Ahh, pretty!” when the operatic mermaids appeared on Marooner’s Rock, tossing around a floaty ball. Quick gags, such as John falling out of bed, brought bursts of laughter from kids.

But Tinkerbell, a screaming-green fairy with personality, pizzazz and wings that flutter rapidly, is the puppet that captures the collective heart of her audience. Those familiar with Peter Pan know that “a fairy somewhere falls down dead every time someone says they don’t believe in fairies.” When the spunky and faithful Tinkerbell drinks the poison that Captain Hook intends for Peter, and the audience is then asked to help save Tink by clapping softly together – it’s a moment of wonder and magic that will remain a warm memory for many years to come.

– Julie Bookman atlantaparent.com

Photo courtesy of James Reynolds

Kids on the Run

2012 AJC Peachtree Jr. Piedmont Park May 19, 8:30 a.m.

C

hildren can’t be part of the annual Peachtree Road Race on July 4, but they can experience the fun of running in the Lil’ Peach Dash (50 meters) or the Peachtree Jr. 3K. They’ll have a great time while getting a head start on the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

The race is open to ages 7-12, and the dash is for those 6 and younger. Just like in the grownups’ race, those who finish get a T-shirt.

The dash starts at 8:30 a.m., and the 3K race at 9 a.m. Register by May 16. Entry fee $20 for 3K, $10 for Lil’ Dash. atlantatrackclub.org

May 26: Two new exhibits n Get set for “The Big Adventure,” which moves into Imagine It! The Children’s Museum on May 26 and sticks around until Sept. 9. Think of this exhibit as a 3-D board game filled with ways kids can explore, investigate and physically challenge themselves. There are “tunnels of fun,” and even a virtual flyer, where kids “fly” an airplane, dodging mountains, flying saucers and more. childrensmuseumatlanta.org n Fernbank Museum of Natural History’s got “The Scoop on Poop,” yep, you heard right, May 26-Sept. 3. Learn how animals use poop to build homes, send messages and much more.

Live animals are part of this exhibit, which will be “a fun way to show that science is far from a dirty word, even when it involves poop,” says Lynn Anders, Fernbank’s animal programs manager. fernbankmuseum.org

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Family Fun Guide

May 2012 Atlanta Parent 57

Exhibit: Atlanta’s ‘Return’ to Titanic

I

t was a little eerie. Late on a recent afternoon, there was no one at the new “Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition” at Atlantic Station except two Atlanta Parent reporters and the security guards who make sure visitors behave themselves. Eerie because the exhibit is dark and somber, and because we’re at a special moment in history for paying homage to the roughly 1,520 lives that were so swiftly and tragically lost a century ago. On its maiden voyage crossing the Atlantic from Ireland to New York, the mighty “floating palace” that represented the greatest technology in its time, struck an iceberg. The flooded, broken ship sank in the early morning darkness on April 15, 1912.

Another Titanic exhibit visited Atlanta six years ago. For this encore, about half of the more than 200 items are on view for the first time, newly conserved from expeditions to the wreckage site discovered in 1985.

Period songs such as “Oh, You Beautiful Doll” (1911), help form a soundtrack for this “Titanic” show. Fittingly, the experience with enlarged wall photographs throughout begins with an overview of the ship’s design and construction, then moves into more personal territory. We even learn what second-class

If You Go “Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition” Atlantic Station’s Premier Exhibition Center, 265 18th St. (second floor, Escalator No. 5) n Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri.-Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m. n Tickets: $24, adults; $16, ages 4-16; 866-866-8265.

TitanicAtlanta.com

passengers ate on their last day on this voyage: tapioca, curried chicken and rice, spring lamb with mint sauce, coconut sandwiches, “American ice cream,” and on and on. Thirdclass passengers had fewer choices including soup, roast pork, boiled potatoes and oranges.

Glimpse everything here from passengers’ hairpins and shirt buttons to a perfume bottle.

Here’s a rusted oval doorknob, and there’s a porthole. And here’s a first-class chocolate cup and saucer that has a string of brown stains inside it now – but almost looks as if they are chocolate remains not yet washed out. Here’s a lady’s tiny gold brooch, a dainty blue pitcher, some soiled “Steamboat” playing cards. A favorite with kids: the chance to touch a simulated iceberg that’s kept at 28 degrees. Also of intrigue: a metal-and-clay model of the bow of the ship in its current position at the bottom of the ocean.

The eerie feeling continues as you come across things such as a quote from first-class passenger Edith Russell that’s blown up on

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one wall: “My feeling was so strong that I would never reach America in that ship.”

A visitor will learn many things, such as Titanic’s furnaces consumed 850 tons of coal per day, and that there was no moon on that fateful night, so icebergs were harder to see.

School groups of all ages are visiting this “Titanic,” for which no end date has been announced. For a family experience, plan on spending one-two hours here.

– JB

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Playground: Ben Hill Park

Rug Rat Romp: Touch-a-Truck Fun!

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lenty of kids love to play with cars and trucks, but what’s more exciting than the real deal? Douglas County rolls up with a Touch-a-Truck Experience on May 5, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. This is a chance for kids and their folks to climb in and explore about 20 different vehicles plus other equipment from the police and fire departments and other agencies. Kids can even try driving simulator stations inside a semi truck.

What’s it really like inside an ambulance? Find out at this free event in the Arbor Place Mall parking lot, 6700 Douglas Blvd, Douglasville.

And don’t forget cameras, parents! For more information: 770-920-7593.

– JB

n Features: While driving my 12-year-old daughter to her old elementary school so she could burn off energy on its playground, we stumbled upon another playground – a hidden gem – tucked within our own Ben Hill neighborhood in Southwest Atlanta. We have visited Ben Hill Park several times since then, and we’ll be back a lot. Ben Hill is great, because it has something for every age. My older son can play basketball while my daughter and I can have a little quality time together on the swings. Open seven days a week, the park is adjacent to the Ben Hill Recreation Center.

My daughter, who has no siblings in her age group, can quickly find herself in a sea of other youngsters at Ben Hill.

The playground area in this 13.6-acre community park is partially shaded. I can stay on a (shaded) swing while still keeping an eye on my daughter as she gleefully runs on the soft-surface playground from the climbing structures (a jungle gym), to the winding slides to the merry-go-round.

The swing set has infant seats as well.

The park also boasts full basketball and tennis courts, as well as football and baseball fields, plus a grassy practice field. In my imagination, I can see a game of kickball, soccer or horseshoes taking place when the field is open.

n Amenities: Restrooms are located inside the Ben Hill Recreation Center.

A concession stand is usually open if sports games are taking place.

Picnic tables, a pavilion and a grill are available. The park is open from dawn until 11 p.m. (but restrooms are only available during rec center hours). n Directions: The park is at 2405 Fairburn Road SW, Atlanta. Entry can be gained on Fairburn Road across from Fire Station 31.

– Erica McDonald

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Family Fun Guide

May 2012 Atlanta Parent 59

Roller-Skating

The Ultimate Family Pastime

Roller-skating is a terrific air-conditioned activity, and always good as a rainy-day option for the family. Skating is good exercise and is great fun for all ages – even if some have to clutch onto the railings for dear life. As summer arrives, rinks may expand hours.

Check websites before you go. Here are some family options:

Gwinnett County

Atlanta

Sparkle’s Family Fun Center. See previous listing.

Skate-A-Long USA. On Mondays after 6 p.m., it’s just $1 to skate. On Wednesdays from 6-9 p.m., two can skate for the price of one. 744 Beaver Ruin Rd., Lilburn.

770-921-0800. Open daily; admission varies from $3-$6; skate rental, $2. recreationatl.com/sau/Skatealongusa

Cascade Roller Rink. $3 Tuesdays, 7-10 p.m. Also enjoy family skate time Fri., 7:30-11 p.m.; Sat., noon-6 p.m.; Sun., 3-7 p.m. 3335 MLK Jr. Dr. Atlanta. 404-699-9559. Cost: Fri.-Sun., $8 to skate only, $10 combo ticket includes inflatables and rides.

Skate rental included. atlantafamilyfuncenters.com Skate Towne Roller Rink. Family skate times: Sat., 1-6 p.m. and 7:30-11:30 p.m. ($6 plus $2 skates rental); Fri., 7:30-11 p.m. and Sun., 3-7 p.m. ($5.50 plus $2 skates rental). 5570 Old National Highway, College Park. 404-768-0095. skatetowne.com

Cobb County Sparkles Family Fun Center. Come for “Monday Madness” (6-9 p.m.), when admission for skating and skates rental is $2. Or on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, enjoy skating, laser tag and play zone for $8.50. Wednesdays: “Family Fun Night,” 6-9 p.m., $8. Thursdays: dads skate free with a child. Hours/skate-only prices: Mon., Tues., Thurs., 4-8 p.m., $8.50; Fri., 4-11 p.m., $12; Sat., 10:30 a.m.-11 p.m., $8 (“kid time” for 7 and younger is 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m.), $8; Sun., 2-7 p.m., $7. Locations in Kennesaw, Hiram, Gwinnett and Smyrna. 770-943-4446. Visit website to learn when kids can skate free. sparkleskennesaw.com

Fulton County The Cooler/Alpharetta Skate Center. Public skating Tues. and Thurs., 3:30-5:45 p.m.; Fri., 3:305:30 p.m.; Sat., 1-5 p.m.; Sun., 1-4 p.m., 10800 Davis Drive, Alpharetta. 770-649-6600. Skate Tues. and Thurs.-Sun., $7; Sat., $8; children under 4, $4; Skate rental $3. cooler.com

DeKalb County n All American Skating Center. Center has a smaller rink perfect for kids just learning. Mon. - Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.: $3 to skate. From 6-9 p.m. on Mondays only, pay $1 to skate, $1 for skate rental, $1 for a slice of pizza (plus other $1 deals). Family Skate Night: Fri. from 7-11 p.m., $7; Sat., 7-11 p.m.; “Girls Night” is Wed., 6-9 p.m. (all girls and women free). On Sun. from 1-4 p.m. parents skate free with a child’s admission; $6. Skate rental: $3. 5400 Bermuda Rd., Stone Mountain. 770-469-9775. allamericanrecreationcenter.com n Golden Glide Roller Rink. $3 Tuesday nights. Adult night and Saturday Night Teen nights offered. Tues., 7-10 p.m.; Fri., 7:30-11 p.m.; Sat., noon-6 p.m.; Sun., 3-7 p.m. Cost: Fri.-Sun., $8 skate only; $10 combo. Tues. and Thurs., $5 skate only; $7 combo. Skate rental included. 2750 Wesley Chapel Road, Decatur. 404-288-7773. atlantafamilyfuncenters.com – JT

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Family Fun Guide

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} l t f es iva s

Beat the heat and enjoy the city’s many outdoor festivals this May. Kick off the month by celebrating Hispanic heritage, craft kites in Centennial Park and say goodbye to May with a weekend full of jazz music in Piedmont Park.

Buckhead Spring Arts and Crafts Festival. Chastain Park. Arts and crafts vendors, children’s play area, live music and food. May 5-6. Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 4469 Stella Dr., Atlanta. 404-8450793. Free.

Barefoot in the Park Festival. Duluth Town Green. Artist market and children’s activities, plus live entertainment and food. May 5-6.

Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

3142 Hill St., Duluth. 678-475-3512. Free.

Tunes From The Tombs. Historic Oakland Cemetery. Features bands and musicians of all genres performing in and among Oakland’s extraordinary monuments, mausoleums and renowned gardens. Also, take a guided tour of the cemetery. May 19, 1-8 p.m; May 20, 1-7 pm. 248 Oakland Avenue.

404-688-2107. Adults, $10 for one day/ $15 for two days; ages 4-12, $5 for one day/ $10 for two days; 3 and younger, free.

May-Retta Daze. Glover Park. Art festival with children’s activities and live entertainment. May 5-6. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., Noon-5 p.m. Historic Marietta Square. 770794-5601. Free.

Snellville Days. Briscoe Park. Handmade crafts and food vendors, live entertainment and fun for the whole family. May 5-6. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 2500 Sawyer Pkwy., Snellville. 770-985-3500. Free.

Fiesta Atlanta. Centennial Olympic Park. A day-long celebration of Latino culture, music and food. Radio Disney will be at the event.

May 6. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. 265 Park Avenue West, Atlanta. 404-350-0200. Free.

May Day Celebration. Serenbe Stables.

Day in the country with live music, fantastic shopping amid the shops at Serenbe as well as local vendors and artists, farmstands, food and drinks. May 6. Noon-4 p.m. 9055 Selborne Lane, Chattahoochee Hills. 770463-9997. serenbe.com. $5 per person.

Sweet Auburn Springfest. Sweet Auburn Historic District. Live entertainment, Fantastic FunZone for kids with face painting, pony rides, slides and crafts; a car and bike show and more. May 11-13. Fri., 5-10 p.m., Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 2-8 p.m. 236 Auburn Ave., Atlanta. Sweetauburn.com. Free.

South Fulton Community Rodeo and Festival. Southern K Ranch. 12th annual Bulls and Barrels show featuring a motorcycle show. May 12. 10 a.m. 3203 Demooney Rd., College Park. 404-964-3601. southernkranch. com or DownnDirtyRodeoTour.com. Adults, $12 in advance; $15 at the gate; ages 5-13, $8; younger than 5, free.

Cherokee County Indian Festival and Mother’s Day Pow Wow. Boling Park.

Primitive skills demonstrations, traditional dances, food, drumming, and Native Americans from around the country gather for this pow wow. May 12-13. Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m. 1200 Marietta Hwy., Canton. 770-735-6275. Adults, $10; ages 6-12, $5; 5 and younger, free.

Colors Festival of the Arts. Roswell Historic Town Square. Live music, children’s activities, artwork, performances and more.

May 12-13. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 617 Atlanta St., Roswell. 770-640-3253. Free.

atlantaparent.com

Arts in the Park. Suwanee Town Center Park. Celebrate, appreciate, witness, create and purchase artwork. Over 100 artists, performers and food vendors with special performances by Peach State Opera. May 19. 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. Buford Hwy NW and Lawrenceville Suwanee Rd Suwanee. 770945-8996. Free.

Colors Festival of the Arts

Decatur Green Fest. Decatur Square. Live music, recycled artwork displays, green vendors, kids’ activities and more. May 12.

2-10 p.m. 101 East Court Square, Decatur.

404-371-8262. Free.

Dunwoody Arts Festival. Dunwoody Village Shopping Center. Live music, artists, children’s arts and crafts, rides, games and more.

May 12-13. Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., 12:30-6 p.m. 5515 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta.

Splashfestivals.com. Free.

Marietta Greek Festival. Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church. Greek Hellenic dancing, Greek food and pastries, traditional gifts and jewelry, and kids’ activities. May 1820. Fri., 3-11 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m. 3431 Trickum Rd., Marietta.

770-924-8080. Admission, $3.

Atlanta Caribbean Children’s Carnival.

Salem Park. Kid fun activities including music and games. May 19. Noon-8 p.m. 5920 Salem Rd. Lithonia. 404-519-6120. Free.

Kirkwood Spring Fling. Bessie Branham Park. Artists market, children’s area, live music, food and more. Plus, a 5K race and tour of homes. Festival, May 19. 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Tour of Homes, May 19-20, noon-6 p.m.; 5K race, May 19, 8 a.m. 2051 Delano Ave., Atlanta. Kirkwoodfling.com. Festival, free; home tour, $20; 5K race, $25-$30.

Canton Festival of the Arts. Brown Park.

Artists market, live entertainment, literary panel, wine and beer garden, hands on activities for kids and more. May 19-20. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 151 Elizabeth St., Canton. 770-704-6244.

Free.

Family Fun Guide

Flavors of Forsyth. Forsyth Conference Center. Tasty fare from dozens of local restaurants, main stage performances by local musicians, artists market and Kids Zone activities. May 20. Noon-6 p.m. 7745 Majors Rd., Cumming. 770-781-6974. Free Admission. Food samples are $.50 each. Flavors participating restaurants food samples are $1-3.

Strawberry Stroll. Thrasher Park. Sample and buy locally grown strawberries, enjoy live music and purchase homemade goods.

May 26. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 1 Park Dr., Norcross.

770-448-2122. Free.

Decatur Arts Festival. Scott Park. Artists market, music performances, dance, literary arts, Children’s Art Festival on Saturday, community parade, jugglers, pony rides and more. May 26-27. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun., 11 a.m.-6 pm. Children’s Parade, Sat., 9:45 a.m.; kids and teen activities Sat. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 231 Sycamore St., Decatur. 404-3719583. Free.

American Indian Festival. Gwinnett County Fairgrounds. Native American arts and crafts, storytelling, flute playing, primitive skills demonstrations and a grand entry each day with a parade and dancers. May 26-28. Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Mon., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Grand entry, Sat., 1 and 6 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m.; Mon., 1 p.m. 2405 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville.

706-963-6522. Adults, $7; children 5-12, $4; 4 and younger, free.

Atlanta Caribbean Carnival and Parade. Auburn Avenue. The parade travels from the Civic Center Marta station on West Peachtree to Auburn Avenue. Costumes, live music and food. May 26. 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

404-519-6120. Free.

Atlanta Jazz Festival. Piedmont Park. A weekend of jazz performances, kids activities and more. May 26-28. Festival, 11 a.m.11 p.m.; KidZone, noon-6 p.m. 400 Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-546-6820. Free.

May 2012 Atlanta Parent 61

Calendar

May

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

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Events may be cancelled or changed after our deadline.

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Please call the event beforehand to confirm dates and times.

Home Depot Kids’ Workshop. All locations. Learn tool safety while building a craft and receive a kid-sized orange apron. May 5. 9 a.m.-noon. homedepot.com. 5-12. Free.

Drop-in Family Class. Atlanta Botanical Garden.

Gift in a Jar: Herbal Bath Salts. Discover the therapeutic benefits of three herbs from the Edible Garden while creating a personalized Mother’s Day gift. May 5, 12. 10:30 a.m.-noon.

1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-876-5859. $6 plus admission; Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95; 2 and younger, free.

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

Art Workshops. Vinings School of Art. Take a drawing, painting or pottery class. Supplies included. Ages 2-13. Saturdays, 10 and 11 a.m.

1675 Cumberland Pkwy., Smyrna. 678-2134278. Pre-register. $15 for one-hour workshop.

dance & music Pickin’ on the Square. Historic Newnan Square.

All musicians are invited to head to the square to play. All skill levels and genres welcome.

May 5 and 19. 11 a.m. Historic Downtown Newnan Courthouse Square. 770-253-8283.

Free.

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Riverside Sounds. Riverside Park. Outdoor concert series in the park. May 5 from 7-9 p.m.

575 Riverside Rd., Roswell. 770-641-3705.

Free.

Spring Concerts on the Plaza. O’Neal Plaza.

Free concerts. May 5, 12, 26 at 7 p.m. Downtown Douglasville. 770-949-2787. Free.

Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra Spring Concert. Atlanta Symphony Hall. One of the youth orchestra’s three annual performances.

May 13 at 3 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Tickets, $10.

Concerts by the Spring. Heritage Green. Free outdoor concerts. Swingin’ Medallions. May 13. Gates open at 5 p.m. Concert from 7-8:30 p.m. 6110 Bluestone Rd., Sandy Springs. 404851-9111. Free.

Beauty and the Beast. Gwinnett Performing Arts Center. Northeast Atlanta Ballet presents Beauty and the Beast. May 18 at 7:30 p.m. and May 20 at 3 p.m. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 800-745-3000. Tickets, $12-$21.

Build and Grow Clinics. Lowes. Clinics teach kids to build wooden crafts. Kids receive a free apron, goggles and merit patch. Saturdays, May 12, 26. 10 a.m. Visit lowesbuildandgrow.com for locations. 800-445-6937. Pre-register. Free.

62 Atlanta Parent May 2012

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Friday Jazz. High Museum of Art. Listen to jazz artist Takana Miyamoto on May 18 at 5 p.m.

1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-5000.

Free with museum admission. Adults, $18; ages 6-17, $11; 5 and younger, free.

American Girl Crafts. American Girl Boutique and Bistro. Spirit Scrunchie Craft, May 11, 4-6 p.m.; McKenna’s Mirror Crafts, May 16, 30. 4-6 p.m.; Marie Grace and Cecile’s Crafts, May 21. 4-6 p.m.; Braids and Bows, May 25. 4:30 p.m. 1202 North Point Circle, Alpharetta. 877-247-5223. 8 and older. Free.

Magic Mondays. Atlanta History Center. Storytime, sing-a-longs and crafts. May 14. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

130 W. Paces Ferry Road., Atlanta. 404-8144000. Adults, $6.50; kids, $5.50.

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This sixth annual daylong event, the largest in the Southeast, celebrates Cinco de Mayo, a day honoring Mexican heritage and pride.

Take the kids for continuous live musical performances on two stages, mariachi music, and enjoy Mexican folk dancing, youth soccer clinics, free product samples, arts and crafts and a chance to try international foods. Festivities begin with a 5K run/ walk, and the festival gets under way at 10 a.m. Free admission. 265 Park Ave. West, Atlanta. fiestaatlanta.com

Toddler Thursdays. High Museum of Art. Create masterpieces to complement the museum’s current exhibits. May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31. 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4550. Adults, $18; ages 6-17, $11; 5 and younger, free.

INK Craft Weeks. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids. Mother’s Day Craft, May 7-11; Fish Craft, May 14-18; Turtle Craft, May 21-25; Memorial Day Craft, May 28-31; free with paid admission.

Museum hours, Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun., 1-5 p.m. 999 Chestnut St., Gainesville. 770-5361900. Adults, $8; children, $6.

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Centennial Olympic Park May 6, 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.

Lil’ Bean Heads Crafts. Bean Head Toys. Create an art project. All ages welcome but smaller children may need assistance. May 2, 16. 3-4 p.m. 220 Johnson Ferry Rd., Sandy Springs.

404-851-2980. Free.

EnviroVentures Saturday Drop-By. Piedmont Park. Kids make crafts while parents shop at the Green Market. May 5, 19. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 1320 Monroe Drive, Atlanta. 404-875-7275. Free.

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Fiesta Atlanta

classes

Crafts for Kids. Lakeshore Learning Store. Make a craft. May 5, Thank You Bouquet Card; May 12, Handprint Keepsake; May 19, Rainbow-colored Creatures; May 26, Patriotic Wand. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 4287 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-578-3100.

3 and older. Free.

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Blue Sky Concerts

Family Fun Guide

The Imagination Movers. Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Disney Channel’s Imagination Movers present their “In a Big Warehouse” rock ‘n roll live show for kids of all ages. May 19 at 2 p.m. or 5 p.m. 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. 770-916-2800. Tickets, $27-$37.

atlantaparent.com

Calendar

ATLANTA BABY AND CHILD EXPO

Music at Noon. Centennial Olympic Park. Enjoy live music, including pop, R&B and jazz performed by local artists. Tuesdays and Thursdays in May from noon-1 p.m. 265 Park Avenue West, Atlanta. 404-223-4412.

Free.

Fox Theatre May 12, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Meet professionals in the baby industry (ob/gyns, doulas, pediatricians), pick up ideas for the nursery, shop for kids’ clothing and gear, and win door prizes such as strollers and nursery furniture. It’s an extravaganza for new moms and moms-to-be, with lots for dads to enjoy, too. Egyptian Ballroom, Fox Theatre, 660 Peachtree St., Atlanta. Tickets: $20 advance, $25 at door; $40 VIP (includes a swag bag and early admission.) atlantababyandchildexpo.com

Blue Sky Concerts. Decatur Square. Bring your lunch and enjoy music on the square. Every Wednesday in May from noon-1 p.m. Downtown Decatur. 404371-8386. Free.

Wednesday WindDown. Centennial Olympic Park.

Free concert series, including jazz, R&B and Blues artists. Wednesdays in May. 5:30-8 p.m. 265 Park Avenue West, Atlanta. 404-223-4412. Free.

Concerts on the Square. Decatur Square. Bring a picnic dinner and listen to eclectic music. Every Saturday in May from 7-9:30 p.m. Downtown Decatur.

404-371-8386. Free.

exhibits KAWS: Down Time. High Museum of Art. A major multi-site exhibition of work by Brooklyn-based artist Brian Donnelly, a.k.a KAWS. Through May 20.

Tues., Wed., Fri., Sat.,10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thurs., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. Closed Mon. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Adults, $18; ages 6-17, $11; 5 and younger, free.

George Washington Carver. Jimmy Carter Library and Museum. Browse the exhibit that examines the life of this famous scientist and humanitarian. Through May 27. Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-4:45 p.m.; Sun., noon4:45 p.m. 441 Freedom Pkwy., Atlanta. 404-8657100. Adults, $8; 16 and younger, free.

atlantaparent.com

Georgia Artists: A Juried Art Exhibit. Abernathy Arts Center. See showcase of accepted work by established and emerging artists from across Georgia exhibits in various mediums to include oils, acrylics, watercolors, mixed media, drawing, pastel, photography, clay, sculpture, printmaking, and wood. May 4-June 15. Opening reception Fri., May 4, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Tues.-Thurs., 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 254 Johnson Ferry Rd. N.W., Sandy Springs. 404-613-6172. Free.

Family Fun Guide

Off the Hook Exhibition. Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center. Approximately 200 handmade antique, modern and contemporary hook rugs by dozens of Southeastern artists are on view in the state of the art galleries. Through June 30. Mon-Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Sun., closed. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. Adults, $7.50, students 13-22 with student ID, $5.50, children 3-12, $3.50, 2 and younger, free.

May 2012 Atlanta Parent 63

Make Mom’s Day Special Mother’s Day Events Mother’s Day After Dark. Zoo Atlanta. Make Mother’s Day an event to remember - spend the night in the zoo! Explore the special bond that exists between parent and child in the animal kingdom with fun crafts, games, and animal encounters. Learn about some of the zoo’s newest parents! Age 6 and up. May 12. 6 p.m.-10:30 a.m. 800 Cherokee Ave., Atlanta. 404-624-9453. $65 per person.

Mother/Daughter/Granddaughter Luncheon. Alpharetta Adult Activity Center. Take all the women in your family to this covered dish luncheon to celebrate Mother’s Day. Bring a dish to share. May 12. 11 a.m. 13450 Cogburn Rd., Alpharetta. 678-297-6140. Pre-register. Free.

Second Sunday Family Funday: Mother’s Day. High Museum of Art. Design a one-of-a-kind street art tote bag for mom and her very own magnetic graffiti tag. Be inspired by the KAWS: DOWN TIME exhibition. May 13, 1-4 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404733-4550. Free with admission. Adults, $18; ages 6-17, $11; 5 and younger, free.

Gardens for Connoisseurs Tour. Atlanta Botanical Garden.

Breathtaking sites feature 11 private gardens in metro Atlanta. Ranging in scale from intimate to grand, they include a garden with more than 300 types of Japanese maples, one adorned with family heirlooms and sculpture, and one featuring formal parterres fashioned after a famed French estate. May 12-13. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Locations vary. 404-591-1597. Tickets, $25 in advance at atlantabotanicalgarden.org; $30 on tour days; children younger than 12, free.

Mother’s Day Open Houses. Barrington Hall, Bulloch Hall and Archibald Smith Plantation. These three historic homes are open to the public for free in honor of Mother’s Day, as long as you bring canned goods to donate to the North Fulton Food Bank. May 13. 1-3 p.m.

535 Barrington Dr., Roswell, 770-640-3855; 180 Bulloch Ave., Roswell, 770-992-1731; 935 Alpharetta St., Roswell, 770-641-3978. Free.

64 Atlanta Parent May 2012

Family Fun Guide

Mother’s Day Brunches Alon’s Bakery. Dine on carved meats, fresh-baked breads, cakes, croissants, chocolate and of course, Mimosas and Bellinis. May 13. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 4505 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta. 678397-1782. Purchase tickets in advance on alons.com. Adults, $29.99; children 6-12, $12.99; 5 and younger, free.

103 West. A classy Mother’s Day meal at Atlanta’s ritzy private event space.

Menu includes carved meats, fresh seafood, salads and dessert. May 13.

10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. 103 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-233-5993. Pre-register.

Adults, $59; children 6-12, $24.50; kids 5 and younger, free.

The Georgia Aquarium. Dine on a mouthwatering brunch from Wolfgang Puck catering alongside whale sharks, manta rays and beluga whales. May 13.

10:45 a.m. 225 Baker St., 404-581-4000.

Pre-register. Adults, $75.95; children 3-12, $42.95; under 3, free.

Mother’s Day Brunch. Park Tavern.

Dine on eggs Benedict, cheese grits, green beans, potato strata French toast and more at this deluxe buffet in the park. May 13. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 500 10th St., Atlanta. 404-249-0001. Pre-register.

Adults, $19; children, $9.50.

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Calendar

LEE HARPER STUDIOS Home of

Hubble Exhibit. Tellus Science Museum. See amazing, huge images from space thanks to the Hubble space telescope. Includes images of galaxies, exploding stars, stars being born, even some planets. May 5-Nov.11. Mon.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770606-5700. Adults, $12; ages 3-17, $8.

Dolphin Tales. Georgia Aquarium. The live show incorporates agility of dolphins, live human actors, dramatic costuming, and special effects.

Shows Mon.-Thurs. noon, 2:30, Fri.-Sun., 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m. Reservations recommended. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-581-4000.

Admission price depends on date of visit; Adults, $29.95 or $34.95; ages 3-12, $23.95 or $28.95.

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibit. Atlantic Station.

Travel back in time and experience the wonder and tragedy of this ill-fated ship. Mon.-Thurs.

11 a.m.-6 p.m.(last ticket sold at 5 p.m.); Fri.Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m. (last ticket sold at 6 p.m.).

265 18th St. (second floor), Atlanta. 866-8668265. Adults, $24; Ages 4-12, $16.

Lee Harper & Dancers and

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

Now Registering for the 2012-2013 School Year

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

33 Years of Teaching and Performing in Atlanta Call for class schedule & registration package

404-364-9555 • leeharperanddancers.com

JUST KIDS DENTISTRY 1350 Scenic Hwy, Suite 262 Snellville, GA 30078

Anne Frank in the World: 1929-1945. Parkside Shopping Center. Learn about the life of the Frank family and others who lived in the secret annex in Amsterdam; includes replica of Anne’s room in the annex. Tues.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 12-4 p.m. 5920 Roswell Rd., Sandy Springs.

770-206-1558. 10 and older. Free.

The Scoop on Poop. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Fish do it, frogs do it, pythons, turtles and humans do it. A hands-on, humorous, informative exhibit about dung, poop and scat, sprung from the popular The Scoop on Poop children’s book by Wayne Lynch. Includes live animal displays. May 26-Sept. 3. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 767 Clifford Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Adults, $17.50; ages 3-12, $15.50; 2 and younger, free.

Lee Harper named a 2002 Lexus Leader of the Arts.

aworldofsmiles.us Sarita M. Henry, DDS Pediatric Dentistry

(770) 972-0921

The Big Adventure. Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Kids climb a rock wall and move through dark tunnels in this new exhibit that’s like a 3-D game board. The Big Adventure encourages their natural desire to explore and investigate, while challenging their physical abilities with fun activities such as Adventure Mountain, Virtual Flyer, and Out on a Ledge. May 26-Sept. 9. Mon.Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Adults and ages 2 and older, $12.75; younger than 2, free. Take advantage of Target Free Second Tuesday; admission is free on the second Tuesday of every month.

movies Outdoor Movie Series. Swift Cantrell Park.

Watch Puss in Boots this month outside in the park. May 5. 6 p.m. 3140 Old 41 Hwy., Kennesaw. 770-422-9714. Free.

Born to Be Wild. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Meet the people who rescue orphaned orangutans and elephants in the rainforests of Borneo. Through May 18. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m., noon, 2 and 4 p.m.; Sun., noon, 2 and 4 p.m.

767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300.

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

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

May 2012 Atlanta Parent 65

es Childcare

Calendar

PRESCHOOL & CHILDCARE CENTER

Atlanta Kids Zone

Register NO W! for Summer Ca mp

Georgia Pre-K Program Available!

Art Classes Available!

• Dynamic 2,3,5 day • Infants to 6 years Preschool with half • After School Program 3-6pm & full day options • Parents’ night out

6:30am - 6:30pm Half day

Monday - Friday 9am - 1:30pm

Sat & Sun

Less than 5 min.

Birthday parties from CdC & emory

daily drop-Ins tutoring 6-9 pm mon-fri & weekends

404-315-4658 www.atlantakidszone.com 1940 Briarwood Court, Atlanta 30329

Certified teachers with 10 yrs. criminal background check, CPR & 1st aid certified.

SHEEP SHEaRING DAY Stone Mountain Park May 13, 11 a.m.

Did you know the fleece from one sheep is enough wool to make a man’s suit? And a single sheep can be sheared in less than five minutes? Losing their wool helps the sheep stay cool on hot summer days in Georgia. Go see it happen at the annual sheep-shearing event at the Antebellum Plantation & Farmyard. Free with admission to the park. U.S. Highway 78 East, Stone Mountain, 770-498-5690. Adults, $28, ages 3-11, $22, parking, $10. stonemountainpark.com

To the Arctic. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Discover a world beneath the ice.

Through Sept. 3. Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m.; Sun., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m.

767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300.

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

Dream Big Wednesday Movies. Morrow Branch Library. Enjoy a family movie every Wednesday on a big screen as part of our “Dream Big, Read” Summer Reading Program. Bring snacks and drinks. Pre-register.

May 23-Aug., 3 p.m., 6225 Maddox Rd., Morrow. 404-366-7749. Free.

Turtle Tours. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum. In Turtle Tours, an educational series for children ages 2-5, Sandy the Chipmunk and Spring the Turtle introduce preschoolers to history. May 12.

11 a.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Cir., Sandy Springs.

404-851-9111, ext. 4. Free, donations encouraged.

Night Hike. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Explore the woodlands and wetlands by moonlight, then roast marshmallows by the campfire. Ages 5 and older. May 26. 8-10 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell.

770-992-2055. $10/person.

The Sky Tonight. Fernbank Science Center. An astronomer leads the tour through the constellations, planets and events of the evening sky. Saturdays in May. 11 a.m. 156 Heaton Park Dr., Atlanta. 678874-7102. Adults, $4; children, $3.

nature Friday Feeding Time. Autrey Mill Nature Preserve. Watch the animals at chow time! See frogs crunch crickets, turtles munch mango, and more. May 4. 4 p.m.; show lasts about 45 minutes. 9770 Autrey Mill Rd., Johns Creek. 678-366-3511. $7 per child; parents are required to stay with children (one free parent entry with paid child).

66 Atlanta Parent May 2012

Parent

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GET THE ATTENTION YOUR BUSINEES NEEDS

First Saturday Hike: Birds and Migration.

Elachee Nature Science Center. Hike through the Chicopee Woods Nature Preserve and learn about Georgia’s stream animals. May 5.

10-11:30 a.m. 2125 Elachee Dr., Gainesville.

770-535-1976. Adults, $5; ages 2-12, $3.

special events Heritage Crafts Day. Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. Living historians, skilled crafters and artisans will demonstrate age-old skills ranging from basketry to blacksmithing. Children’s crafting area and local musicians and dancers will provide family-oriented entertainment. May 5. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 900 Kennesaw Mountain Dr., Kennesaw. 770-427-4686. Free.

Full Moon Night Hike. Panola Mountain State Park. See wildlife at night and watch the sun set and the moon rise. Bring flashlights and hiking boots. May 5. 7:30 p.m. 2600 Ga. Hwy. 155, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. Preregister. $7/person; parking, $5.

Yaarab Shrine Circus. Jim R. Miller Park. Check out high-flying trapeze acts, aerials and acrobats, show horses, elephants, bears, daredevil acts, carnival rides and, of course, world-famous Shriner clowns.

In addition to 22, 90-minute circus performances over 10 days, the rides and attractions, check out the iconic carnival food, including funnel cakes, cotton candy, fried Oreos, snow cones, elephant ears, hot dogs, candy apples, fluffy fries, burgers, pizza. Through May 6. 2245 Callaway Road.

Marietta. Adults, $10; 6-11, $6.

Kiddie Gardener Series. Smith-Gilbert Gardens. Kids can walk through the gardens, listen to storytelling, sing and dance at this special nature event for families. Ages 5 and younger. May 11, 25. 10 a.m. 2382 Pine Mountain Rd., Kennesaw. 770-919-0248.

Kids, $5; adults, free.

Renaissance Festival. Enjoy 32 acres transformed into a 16th-century kingdom, complete with period food, games, music, exhibits, shopping, and more.

Saturdays and Sundays through June 3, plus Memorial Day, May 28. 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. 6905 Virlyn B. Smith Rd., Fairburn. 770-964-8575. Adults, $19.95; ages 6-12, $8.95; 5 and younger, free.

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

Calendar Canoeing 101. Chattahoochee Nature Center.

Learn the basics of canoeing on the CNC’s ponds. Ages 5 and older. May 6, 26. 12:30-2 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055 ext. 237 to pre-register. $15/person.

Taste of Alpharetta. Downtown Alpharetta.

Sample food from more than 60 restaurants, watch cooking demonstrations, visit exhibits and more. May 10. 5-10 p.m. 2 South Main St./ Hwy 9., Alpharetta. 678-297-6000. Free admission, tasting samples for a small fee.

Kids Fishing Festival. Panola Mountain State Park. Kids 15 and younger can learn to hook catfish and bluegill while they learn fish identification and fishing skills. Bring your own bait and rods. May 12. Noon-3 p.m. Ga. Hwy. 155, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. Pre-register.

Parking, $5.

Pirate & Princess Weekend. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Dress like a pirate or a princess and participate in hands-on activities, games, crafts and plenty of music and fun! May 12-13. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta.

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

Start of Summer Play Day. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Have fun with hula hoops, Frisbees, parachutes and sidewalk chalk. Make your own bubbles and much more. May 26. Noon-4 p.m.

9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $8; ages 3-12, $5; 2 and younger, free.

memorial day EVENTs

Institute for Behavioral Medicine: 770-319-8025

Fort packages start at $999 installed and delivered.

Mention this ad and receive a FREE Rock Wall. (no other discounts apply)

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park May 24-28 Artillery demonstrations, a performance by Kennesaw Mountain High’s drill team, and an exhibit of veterans’ uniforms and memorabilia – from World War I to Operation Iraqi Freedom – are among Memorial Day activities in store at Kennnesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park.

The exhibit is May 24-28, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; artillery demonstrations: May 27-28, at 11 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., and 3 p.m.; drill team performs on May 28 at 1 p.m. in the Visitor Center front field. 900 Kennesaw Mountain Drive, Kennesaw. 770-427-4686, nps.gov/kemo. Free. atlantaparent.com

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www.weemonstersplay.com 770-995-5439 Family Fun Guide

May 2012 Atlanta Parent 67

Calendar Sunday Funday. East Cobb Park. Pack a picnic dinner and bring the family. Live music with Jay Memory. Obstacle course fun at 5 pm. Sundays through May 27 (weather permitting). 4-7 p.m.

3322 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-591-3160. Free Fourth Saturday Family Fun Day. Centennial Olympic Park. This month’s theme is “Flights and Kites.” May 26. Noon-4 p.m. 265 Park Avenue West, Atlanta. 404-543-7407. Free.

Veteran’s Remembrance Day. Atlanta History Center. Listen to war veteran’s stories, see living history interpretations from World War I, II and the Civil War, complete with authentic dress, equipment and vehicles. May 27. Noon-5 p.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; younger than 4, free.

storytelling Children’s Story Time. FoxTale Book Shoppe.

Age-appropriate stories followed by dance and song period. Mondays and Saturdays. 11 a.m.

105 East Main St., No.138, Woodstock. 770-5169989. Free.

Storytime at Little Shop. Little Shop of Stories.

Storytelling three times a week; Thursday nights, milk and cookies provided and kids can come in pajamas. Sundays, 3 p.m.; Tuesdays, 11 a.m.; Thursdays, 7 p.m. 133A East Court Sq., Decatur.

404-373-6300. Free.

IMAGINATION MOVERS

Cobb Energy Centre May 19, 2 and 5 p.m.

The “In the Big Warehouse” national concert tour last year drew more than 150,000 fans. This year’s tour by the Disney Channel’s singing stars likely will be just as popular, with the group’s release of a new CD/DVD titled Rock-OMatic. The New Orleans-based dads write music inspired by their children, with songs that range from hip-hop to pop rock to country. $27 and up, plus fees and taxes. 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. imaginationmovers.com; Ticketmaster: 800-745-3000.

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M A G A Z I N E 68 Atlanta Parent May 2012

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

Party Planner

Calendar Tales for Toddlers. Bean Head Toys. Stories read in the indoor tree house, then kids make a small craft to take home every Thursday 10:30 a.m. 220 Johnson Ferry Road, Sandy Springs.

404-851-2980. Free.

Wren’s Nest Storytelling. The Wren’s Nest.

Wren’s Nest Ramblers host storytelling sessions every Saturday. 1 p.m. 1050 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd., Atlanta. 404-753-7735.

Adults, $8; children $5, 4 and younger, free.

theater A Wrinkle in Time. Theatrical Outfit. Based on Madeleine L’Engle’s 1963 Newbery Medalwinning novel. Through May 6. Wed.-Sat., 7:30 p.m. (except May 2-3); Sat.-Sun, 2:30 p.m. , May 2-4, 11 a.m. (May 3 sold out). 84 Luckie St., Atlanta. 877-725-8849. Adults, $16.2037.80; kids and any student with ID, $16.20-27.

A Year with Frog and Toad. Marcus Jewish Community Center. Follow cheerful Frog and grumpy Toad as these two great friends go through four fun-filled seasons. May 9-10, 1213. Wed., 7 p.m., Thurs., 10:30 a.m., 7 p.m., Sat., 8 p.m., Sun., 2 p.m. 5342 Tilly Mill Rd., Dunwoody. 678-812-4002. Adults, $15-$18; younger than 13, $10-$15.

Shakespeare in the Park. Legacy Fountain in Piedmont Park. See William Shakespeare’s The Tempest. Picnicking before and during the performances. May 9-13. Wed.-Sun., 7:30 p.m.

1320 Monroe Dr., NE, Atlanta. 404-504-1473.

Tickets, $10. Not recommended for young children.

Cinderella. Aurora Theatre. Aurora favorite Wendy Bennett puts her own spin on the beloved tale with puppets, costumes, props and plenty of audience participation. May 12.

10 a.m. 128 Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-2266222. Tickets, $7.

Peter Pan. Center for Puppetry Arts. This adaptation of the J.M. Barrie classic is for all ages.

Through May 27. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m.; Sat. Noon, 2 p.m., Sun. 1 p.m., 3 p.m.

1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404-873-3391. Tickets, $16.50.

Day Out With Thomas

Curious Moon Puppet Show. Morrow Branch Library. See a traditional puppet show with handmade puppets. Children will be enthralled by the stories and will have the chance to learn how puppets are made and how they work. All ages. Pre-register. May 31. 10 a.m., 6225 Maddox Rd., Morrow. 404-366-7749. Free.

beyond atlanta Day Out With Thomas. Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Take a 25-minute ride with the full-size Thomas, meet Sir Topham Hatt, listen to storytelling, enjoy live music and more. May 5, 6, 12. Visit tvrail.com for departure times.

4119 Cromwell Rd., Chattanooga, TN. 866468-7630. Tickets, $19 for ages 2 and older.

Kids Fish ‘n’ Fun Fishing Derby. Camp Jordan Park and Pond. Pros from the Outdoor Adventures Network help kids learn about fish habitat, behavior and equipment. Pros teach kids how to cast, tie knots, bait hooks and reel in fish.

Kids 12 and older must have a fishing license.

May 19. 8:30 a.m.-noon. 323 Camp Jordan Pkwy., East Ridge, TN. 423-267-3474. Free.

Kids Day at the Park. Smithgall Woods State Park.

Hands-on exhibits in outdoor sports, recreation and environmental education where kids learn to stay healthy and appreciate the great outdoors..

Archery, animal exhibits, compass games and more. May 19. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 61 Tsalaki Trail, Helen. 706-878-3087. Parking, $6.

Glow-In-The-Dark Play Area Features: minigolf football soccer basketball air cannons glow-in-the-dark inflatables lighted interactive game floor

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Memorial Day Blast. Unicoi State Park and Lodge. Join in on sack races, field day activities, campfires, concert and a hoedown. May 25-28. Times vary. 1788 Hwy. 356, Helen. 800573-9659 ext. 305. Parking, $5. c

A Wrinkle in Time

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

May 2012 Atlanta Parent 69

Classified Pages

Party Planner

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Recycle this Magazine May 2012 Atlanta Parent 71

Classified Pages

Marketplace

business

CAM P

Summer Camp May 21 - August 31 Enroll Today

Children Will Learn to Paint in a Week!

Summer Art Camps for ages 6-13 Discover Basic Drawing, Oil Painting, Color Theory, and Recyclable Art. Taught by MFA graduate Cynzia Sanchez at her Sandy Springs studio.

June 11-15, 25-29, July 9-20, and July 30-August 10. www.cynziasanchezclasses.com 404-275-5151

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IGF Virtual Christian Academy. Non-traditional Christian school. A Beka accredited curriculum. Small school/big results. Reading & writing workshops. Virtual teachers/instructional coaches. www.igf-k12.org 404919-9212.

Seven Arts Center: Offering computer, art lessons, photography workshops, painting for parents, arts-ncrafts parties, private lessons, & field trips. Affordable prices. 404-919-9778 www.sevenartscenter.com Listen: sevenartsradio.com

Dance The Bush Centre for Ballet: Classical ballet, contemporary and modern ballet, and jazz classes for children 4+, adults 18+. Annual recital, Field Trips, Summer Camp, Private & Pointe Lessons, community service participation.

Sandy Springs wwwbushballetcentre.com 404-256-5542 Dance and Arts Showcase: Offering Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Piano, Guitar, Math, Reading, Middle Eastern, Yoga, Hip Hop, Ballroom. Chamblee, Alpharetta, 770-934-5010 www. danceandarts.com

RESEARCH ST U DY

Atlanta Irish Music School Boys & Girls 3rd - 12th Grade (2011-2012 school year)

June 4-July 30

Irish Fiddle, Flute, Whistle, Mandolin, Piano Accordion and more!

Ages 8 to 21 years

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Camp Ace: Academic Career Enrichment Program.

3 weeks of Project-Based Learning, Academic Enrichment, Fun, & Food.www.CampAce.net 404-933-2235. Starts in June!

Camp Etiquette & Club Blue: Exquisite Etiquette Parlour.

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LaGrange 706-402-5777 www.TheBlueDoorOfEtiquette. com May 21st-2 Sessions Peachtree Etiquette: Equipping children with lifetime skills! Mannners, Social & Dinning Skills. K-5th Couth Camp & Summer Session. 6th-12th Youth Culture Program. N. Fulton. www.PeachtreeEtiquette.com 404-578-1129 Summer Fun Camp: May 28 to Aug 3, M-F, 7am - 7pm.

ONLY $85: Trips, Activities, Fun, FREE lunch. $25 Referral fee. Register: www.imiatlanta.org or call 404-532-8988.

72 Atlanta Parent May 2012

Join us for June Summer Camp, Beginning Fiddle & Whistle Classes, Group Ceili Classes and Private Lessons!

Roswell/ Alpharetta, GA

ph: 770-712-9334 www.AtlantaIrishMusicSchool.com

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Now interviewing for Advertising Sales Representatives.

Send us a cover letter explaining why you are the sales person we need at Atlanta Parent along with your resume to LWhite@atlantaparent.com May 2012 Atlanta Parent 73

Humor

by Heidi Smith Luedtke

1O

Not-So-Proud

Parenting Moments

You insist your kids share toys, treats and TV time but hoard fancy chocolates and diet Coke out of sight. Mom needs some guilty pleasures all her own.

Your 2-year-old performs her rendition of “Sexy and I Know It” for all the adults at the church picnic. Inquiring minds want to know where she learned it.

You instituted topless spaghetti dinners to avoid marinara stains that just won’t come out. The kids tell your mother-in-law they eat dinner naked.

You say no to sugared cereals but yes to brownies for breakfast.

With milk.

When the tooth fairy goes missing in action, you tell the kids she’s on strike because they don’t floss twice a day.

Your preschooler enthusiastically commends you for “making a poopie” in a crowded public restroom. Strangers clap as you exit the stall.

74 Atlanta Parent May 2012

You let your son take the heat when he throws his dad’s souvenir homerun baseball into the swimming pool. It doesn’t matter who threw the first pitch, right?!

Your daughter tells her firstgrade class that her dad wears panties.

Apparently the distinction between boxers, briefs and women’s underwear is unclear to 6-year-olds.

You gush that “the neighborhood kids are such a bad influence!” when your kid cusses like a rap star at playgroup. Silently, you vow to clean up your language if you aren’t struck dead on the spot.

When he asks about avian anatomy, you tell your son the “nugget” comes from the chicken’s backside. He repeats your explanation to the school lunch lady using the phrase “chicken butts.” She doesn’t find it so funny. c atlantaparent.com

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