September 2014 by Atlanta Parent

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

atlanta

atlantaparent.com / September 2014

Thrills on Wheels Ramp up the fun at a skate park Perfect Playdates

Tips for Great Get-Togethers

Win a Birthday Party! Like Us on FACEBOOK

PLUS: Ideas for

Celebrating

Don’t Miss Atlanta’s

BEST

Block Party!

Saturday, October 11 Mercer University Atlanta Campus

10 am - 4 pm

More than 50 family-friendly activities! TODDLER-ONLY PLAY AREA • MOON BOUNCES ANIMALS • SNOW SLIDES LIVE ENTERTAINMENT • CRAFTS TRICK OR TREAT STREET • GAMES FOOD • EXHIBITORS & MUCH MORE! SPONSORS:

BENEFICIARIES: Page Turners Make Great Learners Georgia Center for Child Advocacy For more info contact Jordan at JLisvosky@atlantaparent.com, 678-222-1911 or visit our website.

familyblockparty.com #familyblockparty

Inside 3 O September YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

Vol. 31 / Number 9

Features 14

Playdates 101

Appreciating Grandparents

Plan the perfect get-together for your child and his friend, plus strategies to limit sibling rivalry when a friend visits.

Win a y a Birthdy, Part 7 2 Page

Use these ideas to ensure everyone will have a positive experience when grandparents help out. And, eight ways to show grandparents how much they’re loved.

34 40 52

Atlanta Baby

Older children naturally feel a bit of jealousy toward a new sibling, but parents can set the scene for love and acceptance. Plus, baby news you can use.

Fear of Factors

Departments 8 Publisher’s Note 10 News You Can Use 12 Free & Cheap 74 Humor: Mommy vs. Baby:

Outsmarting a 1-Year Old

Family Fun Guide 49 50 51 55 56

Math is scary for some children. Here’s how to help them overcome anxiety and succeed in class.

Ramp Up the Fun

Skateboarding provides hours of thrills and it’s much safer than most parents might think. Here’s how to get started.

Party On!

Instead of the traditional birthday cake, make fun party cupcakes instead. And learn the dos and don’ts of party etiquette, from gift buying to gift opening.

Magazine Association of the Southeast

2013 Award Winner

Not-to-Miss Events

Eating Out: Campfire Grill Free Fun: Ga. State Parks Topgolf Center for Civil and Human Rights: Heroes and Hard Times

58 60

Delta Flight Museum

62 64 66

Fall Festivals and Fairs

Playground: Haw Creek Park, Cumming

September Calendar Corn Mazes

On the Cover: Cover Kid Quin O’Keeffe, 3, of Atlanta. Photo by Kristie Andraschko, Turning Leaf Photography

Cover Kid Winners Page 46

Like us on Facebook; facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine

Atlanta’s Award-Winning Parenting Publication PUBLISHER Liz White

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

BUSINESS Amy Smith DEVELOPMENT MGR asmith@atlantaparent.com ACCOUNT Carolyn Haushalter EXECUTIVE chaushalter@atlantaparent.com

JR. ACCOUNT Diane Radloff EXECUTIVE dradloff@atlantaparent.com SPECIAL EVENTS & Jordan Lisvosky DIGITAL SALES jlisvosky@atlantaparent.com ASSOCIATE EDITOR Dalia Faupel

CONTRIBUTING Amanda Miller Allen EDITOR CALENDAR Hayley Markowitz EDITOR calendar@atlantaparent.com

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

Why wait? Enroll at Dental

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

(678) 819-3919

3020 Roswell Rd. Ste 100 Marietta GA 30062

dentalstaffschool.com

Staff School & start your new career today! What sets us apart from other schools? With Dental Staff School, you begin right away. We’re leading the way with online, interactive classrooms. This means you can study to become a dental assistant at your own convenience. Combined with a hands-on class that meets for 10 Saturdays from 8 am -5 pm, you will find yourself moving into your future faster than imagined. Scared of the price tag that comes with top quality education? You don’t need to be! The program costs $3,000.00 – $4,692.00 (depending on state requirements) and includes an online classroom, three certifications, tuition, supplies, and RDA license in TN. Want more? We also offer front office administration, orthodontic assisting, dental instructor training as well as continuing education classes for sealant, nitrous, and coronal polishing. Take control of your education and start your career right away.

PRODUCTION Robin Mintz

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

DESIGN INTERN Marie Krikorian (Kansas City Art Institute)

EDITORIAL INTERNS Ryan Rhodes (Morehouse College) Teresa Farkas (University of Alabama) Camille Moore (Kennesaw State University)

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.

Dental Staff School – Make it Happen.

6 Atlanta Parent September 2014

atlantaparent.com

ember M r o f E E FR

A world of adventure awaits!

Explore a multi-level clubhouse, shimmy up the inside of a mighty oak tree and more in Fernbankâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s award-winning childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exhibition.

fernbankmuseum.org

Publisher’s Note One Lucky Grandparent There is something very special about grandchildren. Especially 3-year-olds. Elliot already knows how to win a grandmother’s heart. “I love you so very much Nona!,” he recently exclaimed. He is getting used to sharing his favorite toys and people with his 18-month-old sister Eleanor. She is definitely a princess and the fearless baby sister. Those of us who have our grandchildren nearby, or in a not-too-distant city, are so fortunate. We see those grandkids taking their first steps and forming their first sentences. We’re around when they laugh as they “get” their first joke or catch their first lightning bug. We are so, so lucky, but so are our children and grandchildren. We celebrate Grandparents Day on Sept. 7, and I’ve been reflecting on how it does take a family (and a community) to raise a child. Grandparents play a role that’s much more than convenient babysitter. We guide and advise (as unobtrusively as possible); we support our children and their spouses in their lives, even if we don’t always agree with their choices, and we provide unconditional love to those grandkids. No child can have too much love in his life. In this month’s issue, you’ll find ways you can accept help from grandparents while still maintaining boundaries (Page 20) and ideas to show grandparents how much you appreciate them (Page 22). Grandparents who live hundreds of miles away have a more difficult time than I do. They must make much more of an effort to maintain that close connection. Most of them, you can bet, are becoming adept at using Skype and Facetime, staying in touch with texts and emails, and perhaps even Tweeting a thought or two. When my daughter Laura was a child, my parents and in-laws lived in distant states. At the time, I always wished they were closer but I didn’t really realize then how much we all missed by not being geographically close. Becoming a grandparent gives you insights you just don’t have when you’re younger. Our family’s life is richer for our proximity. On Grandparent’s Day, let’s recognize how important those generational ties are, and encourage families to keep them strong.

How to Reach us: Telephone 770.454.7599

Email lwhite@atlantaparent.com

Fax 770.454.7699

Website www.atlantaparent.com

Snail Mail 2346 Perimeter Park Drive Atlanta, Georgia 30341

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

8 Atlanta Parent September 2014

atlantaparent.com

ItFigures by Cynthia Washam

Back to School BLUES? Take a one hour beauty break with Dr. Deutsch

Assorted Stats 35

Percent of sixth-grade peanut eaters in a 2013 study who were overweight

Percent of sixth-grade non-peanut eaters in the study who were overweight

20% OFF

Injectables

More than 66

Percent of Americans who are unfamiliar with tax-deferred, 529 college-savings plans:

Botox & Juvederm September only - Code: AP20

$27,000

Average debt in student loans of today’s college graduates

$25

Minimum investment needed to start a 529 savings plan

Percent of children who’ve read an ebook

Percent who say they’ll stick with print versions even when ebooks are available

Minimum age Facebook requires to create an account

7.5 million

Estimated number of underage Facebook users who lied about their age

www.perimeterplasticsurgery.com • • • • • • •

ACTUAL PATIENT

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

Patient - Before

Patient - After

Percent who admit they don’t have time to monitor their children’s use of social media

2,500

Number of hand-blown glass icicles in SeaWorld Orlando’s Antarctica attraction, which opened in May

Temperature Fahrenheit inside SeaWorld’s penguin palace, where visitors see penguins in their habitat Sources: Foodnavigator-USA.com, CNBC.com, Babycenter. com, Scholastic.com, Fastcompany.com, Chicagotribune. com, NBCNews.com

atlantaparent.com

Mark F. Deutsch, MD, FACS

Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery

(404) 255-0886 Atlanta/Fayetteville www.perimeterplasticsurgery.com

Big or Small Save Them All September 2014 Atlanta Parent 9

News You Can Use

by Amanda Miller Allen

History Center, Zoo Plan Big Changes

Obesity Epidemic Childhood obesity is linked to depression, low self-esteem, cardiovascular disease, asthma and diabetes. Did you know …

33 percent

of the world’s children are considered overweight or obese

1 in 5

elementary schools have abolished recess

96 percent of schools do not provide daily physical education

Sources: Compiled by pulppr.com from statistics at cdc.gov, globalhealth.duke.edu and who.int.

Guide Helps Aid Toy Selection The 20th issue of Toys“R”Us Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids is out, providing a resource for purchasing safe toys tailored to children’s physical, cognitive or developmental disabilities. The guide partners with the National Lekotek Center to identify appropriate toys. It is available at Toys “R” Us stores and online at toysrus.com/ differentlyabled.

10 Atlanta Parent September 2014

Zoo Atlanta and the Atlanta History Center are both expanding as part of a plan to relocate The Battle of Atlanta Cyclorama painting. The history center will build a 23,000-square-foot annex to house the 128-year-old painting. It will restore 3,228 square feet of the painting and display it as it was intended. The locomotive Texas also will move to the history center. Construction begins in summer 2015. Once the painting moves, the zoo will take possession of and restore the 1921 building that housed the Cyclorama. The building will become an event space that will overlook an expanded African savanna exhibit. Beautiful Baby Contest! Show Off Your Boy or Girl

Who isn’t proud of the youngest addition to the family? Atlanta Parent has seen some stunning infants and toddlers as sponsor of the annual Beautiful Baby Contest at the North Georgia State Fair, Sept. 18-28 in Marietta. Enter your beauty, younger than age 3, in the contest Sept. 23. Entry is free, but you’ll need to pay admission to the fairgrounds (adults $7, ages 10 and younger free; parking $3). Signup begins at 5:30 p.m., and the contest starts at 6:30 p.m. with babies 0-6 months and continues in 6-month increments up to age 36 months. Winners receive a plaque or second- and third-place ribbons. Judging is informal and contestants may dress any way they wish; previous contestants have worn cowboy outfits or come as cheerleaders and princesses, or worn their Sunday best. If your girl is older than age 3, she’s eligible to enter the North Georgia State Fair Pageant on opening night, Sept. 18. Find more information at northgeorgiastatefair.com.

Average Child Gets $1,360 Per Year It pays well to be a good boy or girl. A survey found kids age 10 and younger get an average of $113 per month, or $1,360 per year, from their parents, mostly for good behavior. The survey, conducted by vouchercloud.net, interviewed 2,174 parents of children ages 5 to 10. Some 71 percent said they give their child money regularly, as a monthly allowance (77 percent), reward for good behavior (61 percent), bribes to make them behave (55 percent), occasions such as birthdays (46 percent) and in exchange for chores (44 percent).

atlantaparent.com

UnitedHealthcare Offers Grants to Families Families who need help paying their child’s medical bills may be eligible for up to a $5,000 grant from UnitedHealthcare Children’s Foundation. To qualify, a child must be age 16 or younger, the family must have a commercial health insurance policy (not Medicaid, Medicare or other government programs) and parents must meet adjusted gross income guidelines (ranging from $50,000 or less for a family of two to $125,000 or less from a family of five or more). Applications are reviewed each month by four regional boards. For more detailed rules or to apply or a grant, visit uhccf.org.

atlantaparent.com

Biking for a Cure

Hop on a bicycle for a fun event to support cancer charities when 24 Hours of Booty rolls into Atlanta starting at 2 p.m. Oct. 4 and continuing through 2 p.m. Oct. 5. The fifth annual event will be at Mount Vernon Presbyterian School in Sandy Springs. Proceeds benefit Livestrong and the Aflac Cancer Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Last year, more than 500 bicyclists participated and raised more than $350,000. Entry fee is on a sliding scale, and riders must meet a $200 fundraising minimum. Non-riders are welcome to cheer on friends and family, to visit the Bootyville expo area, and of course, to contribute to the fundraising. More information at 24hoursofbooty.org.

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 11

by Dalia Faupel

How to Save on… Halloween Costumes Most parents don’t even think about celebrating Halloween until Oct. 1 – or later – but now’s the time to find a great selection and deals on gently used costumes or the components to create the perfect costume for your child. n Shop consignment and thrift stores. You’ll find used costumes at steep discounts or props to make your own: cowboy hats, children’s swords, capes, princess dresses, crowns, masks and more. n Shop online. Numerous websites sell new or used costumes at discount prices. For instance, eBay.com recently had a sheriff’s costume with bids starting at $5.99 and a Disney’s Belle costume for $21; Amazon.com had a boy’s Superman costume for $23.23 and a Wizard of Oz Cowardly Lion costume for $21.75. n DIY. Ask your child which character he wants to be, then make it yourself. Do a web search for “how to make a (blank) costume” for creative ideas and photos from parents who’ve done it. n Look for coupons and discounts. Websites such as Groupon often negotiate a discounted price for seasonal goods. Download The Find app for iPhones and iPads for easy price comparisons and coupons for any item you’re searching for, at local stores or online. Sources: goodwill.org, usedhalloweencostumes.net, amazon.com, mint.com

Carlos Museum.

DEALS

Around Town 12 Atlanta Parent September 2014

Get free admission to the museum on select afternoons 1-4 p.m. Upcoming dates: Sept. 18 and Oct. 23. carlos.emory. edu/visit/hours-admission

Reuse It! Photo courtesy of iinfarrantlycreative.net

FREE cheap

Colorful CEREAL BOXES can be upcycled into fun, useful items for home and school. With some scissors, craft glue and a plan, you can transform empty boxes into:

n Notepads (instructions: infarrantlycreative.net/cerealbox-crafts-notepads) n Pencil cases (template here: cdn.makezine.com/make/ craft/2010/03/pencibox.pdf) n Drawer organizers n Postcards or greeting cards n Mail or magazine holders n Folders n Puzzles (instructions here: cutoutandkeep.net/projects/ diy-recycled-cereal-box-puzzle) Sources: networx.com, infarrantlycreative.net, pinterest.com

Kids Eat

FREE n Mojo Pizza ‘N’ Pub. Oakhurst. Tuesday nights, kids eat free from the kids’ menu with an adult meal purchase. Mojopizzanpub.com n Varners Tavern. Smyrna. Kids eat free on Fridays with an adult meal purchase. varnerstavern.com n Sid’s Pizza & Grill. Suwanee. On Mondays after 5 p.m., get one free kids’ meal (12 and younger) with the purchase of a medium or large pizza. Sidspizza.com

Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Mommy & Me Mondays (available for any adult caregiver) include museum admission for one adult and up to two children ages 5 and younger for $20, plus free parking. Along with access to all exhibits, toddler and preschooler activities are offered for the special program. The deal excludes holidays and is available through Oct. 27. fernbankmuseum.org/mommydeal.

atlantaparent.com

15 Strategies for

Playdates by Jennifer Bingham Hull

Oh for the good old days when the kids roamed free in their neighborhoods! Now, instead of socializing on the corner, children visit during “playdates” at appointed hours. It’s one more thing the modern mom needs to master: How to plan playdates. Playdates help kids learn to get along. When the playdate goes well, mom and dad also can get a break as the children entertain themselves. And these gettogethers are a nice way to connect with other parents. But playdates can turn ugly in the time it takes to say, “That’s mine!” With a few faux pas, it’s also easy to alienate the parents of the small guest who attends the same school as your child. As a mother who has hosted get-togethers successful and not so stellar, here are my best tips:

1 2 3 4 5

Let your child pick her friends.

With toddlers, playdates are about getting the parents together, so it makes sense to target kids whose folks you like. When children can be dropped off, however, it’s best to consult them on playdate picks.

Avoid threesomes. Two’s company, three’s a crowd was never truer than with children.

Invite the parent in. Your little visitor may dash in the door and not look back. But if the playdate is a first, his mom or dad will appreciate getting a lay of the land.

Note how to stay in touch. Get

the contact number and ask whether your guest has any food allergies or special issues. Also, set a pickup time, making the playdate short and sweet, say around two hours long. Ask permission if you want to do something unusual, like take the kids swimming.

Corral the guest’s stuff. There’s

nothing worse than racing around to search for missing shoes while the other mother waits at your door, car running, toddler crying in the back seat. Put the friend’s things aside early on.

14 Atlanta Parent September 2014

6 7 8 9

Set Rules. For playdate success, tell the

kids what they can and cannot do, but keep the list short. In our house there’s no playing in mom and dad’s room and no jumping on beds.

Butt Out. With children younger than

age 4, you’ll have to supervise them closely. But let older kids play independently and come up with their own fun. Check in often, though.

Feed them. Popcorn, pretzels and fruit

have resuscitated many an ailing playdate at our house. Low blood sugar makes for lousy relations.

Prepare for revolt. Your guest may

act well while your own child undergoes a Jekyll-Hyde transformation. Kids like to test their powers when entertaining on home turf. Let your child stew, and engage the friend in a game. Your kid will eventually join in.

atlantaparent.com

10 11 12 13

End on a high note. Children may

argue for most of the playdate but if it ends while they’re having fun, that’s what they’ll remember. Rescue a flagging playdate by doing something silly, like making a yucky potion out of toothpaste, ketchup, vinegar and baking soda.

Don’t trade belongings. Especially

early on, kids want to take toys home from other houses. I’ve played this game. No sooner has one child agreed to give away her precious bear, than she changes her mind and bursts into tears. Ban these little exchanges.

Tell all. Okay, so the playdate was a

disaster. Her daughter broke your child’s favorite toy and then walked in on your husband while he was getting dressed. Let the other parent know what happened. It’s better for her to hear the straight, bad version from you than a horrifying, inaccurate one.

Take her up on it. The other mother picks up her child, thanks you and says she’d love to have yours over. Really? When? Set a date; it’s great when you can take turns hosting.

atlantaparent.com

14 15

Don’t expect reciprocity. Be understanding if the other parent doesn’t offer to host the next playdate. These get-togethers don’t fit well into many families’ schedules. Don’t take it personally. Parents’ lives are so busy these days that they often don’t have time to date each other.

Opt out. Playdates are optional. Kids can develop

social skills in all sorts of other environments. And if they play at the park, you don’t have to clean up afterwards! Hull is author of Beyond One: Growing a Family and Getting a Life; more information at growingafamily.com

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 15

Kid Get-Togethers in Metro Atlanta

Atlanta Parent’s friends on Facebook weigh in on a successful playdate:

“

A designated end time – nothing more than 1½ hours for the little ones – still lets them have fun, but no one wears out their welcome ... and they always want a chance to come back! – Keri Anne Paarz Michaelis

My secrets to a great playdate are creativity when it comes to picking out the activity so that the kids don’t get bored, healthy snacks, and always bring a change of clothes. Creativity and imagination are key to the perfect playdate! – Phil and Sydnee Marchese It’s always nice to share an experience together; we’ve brought along our wagon to take rides around the park or neighborhood with friends, a watermelon to share or bubbles! – Meredith Field Snellings

To keep it fresh, do something new each playdate. Meet at a new park, play with something new or different, listen to a new song or music, do a new activity. And when I say new, I don’t mean you have to go out and buy stuff, just something you haven’t done before.” – Rachel Louise Reith

16 Atlanta Parent September 2014

Know the personalities of the children. Too many Type A’s and we have fights, too many Type B’s and no one decides what to do. – Emily Lowman Noble

Two secrets to a great playdate. 1. Timing. As long as it is before nap time, it should be fine. 2. Food. Enough snacks for your own kids and the other kids so there’s so crying over who wants what. – Abby Lett

Designate a weekday and time (preferably a two-hour block) immediately after school to meet. This way, if a mom or dad asks you about a playdate, you’ll know if it works for you and your family. If you already have another playdate or plans for that time, you can reschedule for the same day next week, because that’s your Playdate Day!

”

– Latasha Covington Johnson

Join our discussions on Facebook.com/AtlantaParentMagazine

atlantaparent.com

Give Peace a Chance Playdate Harmony Among Siblings and Their Friends by Malia Jacobson

Playdates were anything but playful for Piper Leslie’s two older children, 11-year-old Kaylee and 10-year-old Kyle. “When we first started playdates, Kaylee was usually the one to have friends over,” she says. “Kyle has Asperger’s syndrome and has a harder time making friends, and I never wanted him to feel left out, so I always made Kaylee include him.” But when fights started springing up between the normally close pair, Leslie knew she needed a new playdate plan of action. In theory, playdates are supposed to be fun, but visits from friends can spark squabbles between even the friendliest of tween siblings. From “She always wrecks everything!” to “It’s my room!” to “You always take his side!” scuffles abound as kids jockey for alone time with pals, stake their claim to bedrooms and playrooms, and try to one-up siblings in an attempt to appear cool in front of their friends. Brokering household peace can leave parents exhausted. atlantaparent.com

Playdate Pandemonium Clinical psychologist Michelle P. Maidenberg is a mom of four who referees playdate problems on a regular basis with her three school-age boys, Addison, Foster and Wyatt. “Sometimes, we’ll have several playdates in a week,” she says. “It’s a constant struggle keeping everyone happy.” So why are playdates such a pain? Though kids may fight over fairness and alone time with their friends, the real issue is sibling rivalry, Maidenberg says. Playdates can set the stage for siblings to feel excluded and hurt, and conflicts ignite when one sibling thinks he’s been wronged, especially if he perceives that another child is being favored. When tempers flare, kids often set parents up to take sides: “Make him leave us alone!” or “Tell her that it’s my room!” Parents should tread carefully, Maidenberg says, because the time-honored tactic of forcing one child to include a left-out sibling in their play can strain sibling relationships. A child who is forced to include a sibling may feel resentful and angry, and direct those feelings at the playdate-crashing brother or sister.

Peacekeeping Playdates don’t have to be breeding grounds for sibling rivalry. Instead, they can be exercises in family problem-solving, says Adele Faber, co-author of the New York Times best-seller, Siblings Without Rivalry: How to Help Your Children Live Together So You Can Live Too (Quill, an imprint of Harper Collins Publishers, 2002). Since most playdates are planned in advance, Faber recommends that parents sit down with kids and draw up an action plan. Cont’d on page 18

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 17

Give Peace a Chance “You know your own kids; you know if one child is going to want alone time with their friend and the other child is going to be moping around,” she says. “So sit down together and ask them, ‘How can we make this playdate fun for everyone?’” When kids are involved in creating a plan, they become invested in the solution, Faber says. Creating a shared plan of action also sends an important message to each sibling: One child doesn’t get to have fun at the expense of another. Every family member has valid needs and ideas. Rivalry diffuses when kids see that they are valued and that one sibling isn’t being favored, she says.

Everyone’s Included Planning ahead is ideal, but even the best-laid playdate plans aren’t foolproof. Plans can fall through (for example, when a surprise rain shower keeps everyone indoors) and sometimes planning is impossible (such as when a neighbor knocks on the door for an impromptu playdate). When planning isn’t possible, parents can keep the peace by finding activities that everyone can enjoy. Great examples are bowling, ice skating,

18 Atlanta Parent September 2014

jumping rope, and active electronic gaming systems like the Nintendo Wii that allow kids of different ages and skill levels to participate side by side. Finding a special “job” for a younger child can help that sib join in the fun; for board games, younger kids can be in charge of money or rolling the dice, and for an obstacle course, a younger child can operate the stopwatch. After a round of group play, parents can give the child with the playdate some alone time with her pal by asking siblings to help fix a snack for everyone. Leslie found playdate peace when she stopped micromanaging the friends’ visits. Instead, she talked with her kids about the importance of kindness and inclusion, and then she stepped back and trusted her kids’ judgment. “I realized it wasn’t Kaylee’s responsibility to keep Kyle entertained. I let them know that while I expect Kaylee and her friend to be kind to Kyle (and vice versa), it’s up to her to decide if she wants to include her brother. Overall, they’re both good about including the other. They know it’s not fun to be left out.” c

A Perfect Playdate Follow these tips to promote harmony among siblings: n Sit kids down one to two days in advance. Ask everyone to come up with ways to make the playdate fun for everyone, guests and siblings. n Write down all ideas, even ones that sound impractical and ridiculous, like “Eat cotton candy at the zoo!” and “Bake 1,000 cookies!” n Use websites like familyfitness.about. com and gameskidsplay.net to find ideas for physical games for the entire family. n Discuss why the ideas may or may not work for the playdate. Together, come up with several ideas that enable everyone to have fun together. Source: Adele Faber, author of Siblings Without Rivalry: How to Help Your Children Live Together So You Can Live Too

Jacobson blogs about parenting and family health at thewellrestedfamily.com.

atlantaparent.com

Ahoy, matey! No wonder kids love pirates – they get to find buried treasure and sail upon the sea. Talk Like a Pirate Day is Sept. 19, so get ye talking right or be faced to walk the plank. Here are some ideas for swashbuckling fun. Everyday Treasures Pirate’s Cove is a miniature golf theme park with planks to walk across as you putt your way through waterfalls, caves and natural treasures of a pirate island. 3380 Venture Pkwy., Duluth. 770-623-4184. piratescove.net Mason Mill Park has a pirate-themed slide that will have your children and their buckos screaming “arrgh!” as they speed down. 1340 McConnell Dr., Decatur. 404-679-1349

Dig for Booty Ready to have ye hearties find their own treasure? Parents will have to set up the booty. Fill a chest or a large plastic tub about three-quarters full of sand, then add as much treasure you like – gold doubloons chocolate candy, plastic swords, faux jewels, dimes and quarters and more. Have a small plastic shovel or gardening tool to help your child find the loot.

Sail On Over Pirates from the Atlanta Pirates and Wenches Guild will be roaming the streets during the Little 5 Points’ 5Arts Fest noon-8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6. Have your children dress up so they can join the pirate lads and lasses. Euclid Avenue NE, Atlanta. 844-695-2787. 5artsfest.com Bring your prince, princess or pirate for a day of royal treatment and fun during the Georgia Aquarium’s Pirate and Princess Day, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13. Free entry for children 12 and younger dressed in costume with paying adult. 225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta. 404-581-4000. georgiaaquarium.org Help your pirate find their way to the “hidden treasure” (also known as the exit) in Jaemor Farms pirate ship themed corn maze. 5340 Cornelia Hwy., Alto. 770-869-3999. jaemorfarms.com

Pirates on the Horizon In December, Pirates and Princess Adventure will sweep in for a never-before-seen Disney Live Tour at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre Dec. 13-14. Go on an adventure with Sofia the First and her family with special guest Cinderella, then swing into Neverland with Jake and his mateys, Cubby and Izzy, has they defend their doubloons from Captain Hook. Tickets start at $23. 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy, Atlanta. 770-916-2800. cobbenergycentre.com – Camille Moore atlantaparent.com

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 19

How Everyone Can Win

When Grandparents Help Out by Sandra Gordon

hen it comes to raising a child, grandparents have always helped out – from emotional support to occasional babysitting to purchases of baby gear, clothes, toys and games. Some parents may accept more help than they ever planned from their parents or in-laws – perhaps full or part-time childcare, bags of groceries or cash to pay the mortgage. It’s hard not to feel mixed emotions about needing help, but the situation can be a win-win for everyone. Besides the financial and emotional support your family receives, grandparents get to be more involved in your children’s lives. In turn, “children get exposed to more than just their parents and a chance to see how other people interact and have relationships, which is learned at an unconscious level,” says Deanna Brann, a clinical psychotherapist and author of Reluctantly Related: Secrets to Getting Along with Your Mother-inLaw or Daughter-in-Law. Grandparents also fit a niche that a babysitter doesn’t because they have a vested interest in your child. Still, as much as you need and value your parents’ (or in-laws’) assistance, their involvement can be a source of conflict and confusion. “There are strings attached, whether they’re spoken or not,” Brann says. If your mother volunteers to pay for your daughter’s birthday bakery cake, for example, how much say does Grandma get in choosing the cake or planning the celebration? What about differences in opinion about childrearing? With a few ground rules, your parents’ or in-laws’ increased involvement in your family and financial life can be a positive experience.

Set clear boundaries

Know you’re still in charge

No matter how grateful you are that your parents or inlaws provide childcare, you should still insist that they follow your parenting rules. “Let your parents or in-laws know what your guidelines are for your child’s eating, sleeping, and screen time before they start babysitting,” Brann says. Team up with your spouse so you present a united front. You might even say something like, “When the kids are with you as a grandparent, you can do what you want in your home. But when you’re acting as a caregiver here, this is what we need you to do and we’re wondering if you’re okay with it?” Brann says. Better yet, write your household rules down so your parents don’t forget. Express them nicely, of course, so no one gets offended. Defining your expectations from the onset gives the arrangement a foundation you can refer to if the rules aren’t followed.

If your parents/in-laws volunteer to pay for something, you can specify what you’d like them to buy and from where. “Just because someone else is paying for something doesn’t usurp your right as a parent,” Brann says. “It’s not written that whoever pays for something gets to take over.” As the parent, you need to be clear about what you want. If your motherin-law says she’ll pay for your 5-year-old daughter’s bakery birthday cake, for example, you might say, “Thank you so much for offering to pay for Sophie’s birthday cake. The princess cake we have planned costs $30 from our favorite bakery down the street. That may be more than you were planning to spend. If you’d still like to pay for it, that’s great. If not, that’s okay too. We’ll figure something out.” Though it might feel awkward to communicate so directly, if you don’t, resentment can build that can fracture your relationship.

20 Atlanta Parent September 2014

atlantaparent.com

Have a back-up plan Formulate a plan B in case your parents (or in-laws) don’t follow your parenting rules or you get the feeling they don’t really want to babysit or pay for something even though they said they did. Your back-up plan can protect you from feeling trapped. “If you don’t have a back-up plan, your parents’ help can feel like extortion,” Brann says, as in: We have to have them babysit because we can’t afford anything else. Or, we have to get the butterfly cake because that’s what Grandma wants. Can you cut back somewhere in your budget to pay for something yourself, even part-time childcare if you had to? Just knowing you have other options can help preserve your relationship if things don’t work out. “If it comes to that with your childcare arrangement, you might say, for example, ‘We decided we’d rather you be a grandparent than a caregiver because that’s more important to us,’” Brann says.

atlantaparent.com

It’s hard not to feel mixed emotions about needing help,

but the situation can be a win-win for everyone. Besides the financial and emotional support your family receives, grandparents get to be more involved in your children’s lives. Pay back with appreciation Whether your parents or in-laws graciously provide childcare or help pay for things your family needs, such as childcare tuition, a new stroller or a new computer, be sure to reciprocate in nonfinancial ways. Tell them how much you appreciate their support, even if it’s unsolicited. Acknowledgement is important. You might say, for example, “I hope you don’t feel like you have to do this, but we appreciate it.” Other small gestures, such as

sending an occasional thank you note, can mean a lot too. “And if you really want to score points with your mother-in-law, put a photo of her with your kids somewhere in your house,” says Linda Della Donna, 63, a grandmother of Hunter, 2, and Zoey, 1, who babysits for them weekly. Inviting your parents/in-laws over for dinner occasionally or including them on family outings is also a nice way to give back and to let them know you value them and their contributions. c

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 21

Celebrating Grandparents

Eight Ways to Show Love and Appreciation by Judy M. Miller

Grandparents offer sage advice, wisdom and wonderful “listening ears.” Sometimes, especially when mom and dad aren’t around, they let their grandkids get away with things their parents won’t. President Jimmy Carter recognized the importance of grandparents when he made Grandparents Day a national holiday in 1978. The holiday falls on the first Sunday after the Labor Day weekend, this year Sept. 7. How can you and your children show love and appreciation for grandparents? Here are some of my favorite family-tested ideas. n Photo Calendar I love revisiting pictures and memories as I create the calendar, and it’s one of the most appreciated gifts. My mother-in-law never disposes of the calendars, even after they have served their purpose. Sites like Shutterfly and Snapfish have easy-to-use templates in which you can include pictures of the grandchildren (with and without grandparents), artwork, pictures of drawings, poems, stories, and anything else that has been saved and can be uploaded as JPEGs. The only limitation is your imagination.

Over 8,000 SquareFeet

Unity Learning Network 678-753-5192

Booking Parties & Hair Appointments NOW Ages 5-16

After School and Saturday Classes School Pick Up Available

DIY Bath Products

Not your average Party Place!

Party Packages to choose from OR customize your own Dazzling experience. Outdoor Garden or Tea Party Rip the Runway with real fashions Luxurious Spa Party & MORE 141 Sams Street Decatur 404-806-9248

www.RazzleDazzleGirls.com 22 Atlanta Parent September 2014

Our 20,000-square-foot air conditioned facility is ﬁlled with inﬂatable bouncies, slides and obstacles. Perfect for Parties, Groups and Families!

185 Sams Street ♦ Decatur (inside Leapin Lizards)

Also serving DeKalb & Rockdale counties

185 Sams Street u Decatur 404-371-9700

LEGO ROBOTICS GAME DESIGN SCIENCE LABS SINGAPORE MATH PIANO • VIOLIN

WWW.LeapinLizardsPlay.com

www.UnityLearningAcademy.com atlantaparent.com

n Movie Night

n Brag Book Grandparents love to brag about their grandbabies, no matter what their ages. A brag book full of current pictures makes it easy. I created a number of brag books for the grandparents when my four were really young, and continue to update them. Keep the brag books small, a size that can fits conveniently into grandma’s purse and can be readily shared. The smaller size is also much easier for hands that may not be as nimble as they used to be.

n Framed Pictures With the digital age, hard copies of pictures aren’t shared and framed like they used to be. Single? A collage? What about a handmade frame with the picture? Check out your local pottery painting studio or craft store for inspirational ideas. Consider purchasing a digital frame if you want to give the grandparents multiple pictures. The frame allows grandparents to view a revolving set of pictures that have been uploaded via a memory card, USB, or a wired or wireless connection to the home’s network. The digital frames range in physical size, style and storage capacity.

n ‘Love’ Coupons We generously give “love” coupons in our family. These special and personal handmade coupons can be embellished with stickers, drawings, puffy paint, artwork, etc. The ideas are endless, but a few of our favorites are for picnics in the park, library or reading time, and baking together. Allow the kids to lead on what they and their grandparents like to do. The emphasis of our coupons is the gift of time to foster deeper connections and lasting memories.

n Game Night We love board games and cards. They’re a multi-generational and expected pastime within our family. Games teach kids fairness, patience, strategy, teamwork, and good sportsmanship. Make sure the games will work well with and hold the interest of the ages of the grandkids and grandparents. For example, most ages can play Dizios, but this does not hold true of Bananagrams.

atlantaparent.com

Do the grandparents enjoy movies? How about a movie night and sleepover, complete with popcorn and/or the grandparents’ favorite snacks? You might want to save this special night for a cool or cold evening when the kids can snuggle in with their grandparents, in front of a fire in the fireplace.

n Grandparent Interview Help the kids create a list of open-ended questions to ask. The interview can be recorded. You can also dedicate a journal for this purpose, preferably created by the kids, something like “The Biography of ____________, My Grandpa.” If you opt for the journal, the list of questions can be in the front pages. Sharing stories is bonding. Grandchildren also learn surprising and wonderful things about their grandparents and are able to see them as more than “just” grandparents. They learn to appreciate what their grandparents have experienced.

n Appreciation Poster Create a “Why we love...” poster. The kids can construct and decorate a poster small enough to fit somewhere visible on one of their grandparents’ wall. Again, leave the kids to their imaginations. One thing fun we have done is to include a hand-in-hand area, the child’s hand outlined in pencil, ink, paint, glitter glue, or puffy paint, inside the shape of the grandparent’s hand, also outlined in a contrasting color. This can be added before or after the gift is given. Put a date next to the outlines. The ideas to honor and celebrate grandparents are endless. Get the kids started early because if they are anything like mine, they will spend a lot of time creating something special for these remarkable people in their lives. And grandparents will appreciate knowing they matter and are loved. c

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 23

mycakeschool.com

LET THEM EAT

Fish Cupcake display

by Teresa Farkas

Try one of these ways to decorate cupcakes to wow the crowd at your child’s next birthday party. One is somewhat challenging but the rest are easy.

This cupcake display would be perfect at any child’s under-the-sea celebration. Directions: Bake one 6” layer (about 2” thick) round cake and 12 cupcakes in any flavor. Cut the round cake in half and cut a notch in the middle of one side to make the tail. Frost the head and tail pieces with yellow crusting buttercream and place in the fridge to harden. Frost all of the cupcakes using pink and green buttercream frosting using a 2D large closed star tip. Attach all of the pieces, using buttercream as glue, to a cake board. Now it’s time to add the finishing details, pipe on buttercream lips with a medium to large size piping tip or cut them out using pink fondant. Next add the eyes and eyelashes using fondant or icing. Source: Melissa Diamond from mycakeschool.com (search for fish cupcake)

Cupcakethemed party ideas Not only are creatively decorated cupcakes popular these days, now entire parties are taking on a cupcake theme.

Arrange cupcakes in giant numbers corresponding to your child’s age for a display that would catch anyone’s eye.

24 Atlanta Parent September 2014

String together cupcake liners on a piece of yarn for a cute and easy garland.

“Make your own cupcake” at the party using paint pallets to organize the toppings. mamamiss.com (search for palette)

Party Planner

Cut out scraps of fabric to look like icing and cupcakes and let kids make a collage to take home.

Pin the candle on the cupcake. Cut out a large cupcake out of poster board, blindfold the kids and let them try to pin the candle in the right spot.

atlantaparent.com

CUPCAKES! More fun ideas: l

Go Fish

Make these for a fishingthemed party or a pool party using goldfish crackers, pretzel sticks and assorted icing colors. Source: threepixielane.blogspot.ca (search for fishing pole cupcakes)

Oink Oink

Mini pigs would be perfect for a barnyard bash or pink pig party. Make them by using pink marshmallows, strawberry icing, mini chocolate chips and edible eyeballs. Source: gourmetmomonthego.com (search for pig cupcakes)

All About Sports

Your child will love these sporty cupcakes made to look like baseballs, basketballs and footballs. Using white, orange and black M&M’s and red licorice, you can design these cupcakes to look like your favorite activity. Source: thejoysofboys.com/sports-cupcakes/

Sunflower

Perfect for any girl’s party, these cupcakes made to look like sunflowers will wow the crowd. Use orange, yellow and black mini jelly beans, green fruit laces and candied mint leaves to decorate these unique treats. Source: www.lovethatparty.com.au (search for sunflower cupcakes)

Hootie Hoot

Everything about owls is all the rage right now. Have a cute owlthemed party this fall, and make these easy cupcakes to match the theme. Top with chocolate icing, Oreos and Reese’s pieces. Source: budgetsavvydiva.com (search for owl cupcakes)

Snake

For a jungle- or reptilethemed bash, display these cupcakes in the shape of a snake. Add green, orange, yellow and brown M&M’s to decorate. For the snake’s head, cut a small triangle from a graham cracker and place it onto a frosted cupcake. Frost over the graham cracker to cover it completely. Source: celebrating-family.com (search for snake cupcakes)

Mickey Mouse

These cupcakes would be perfect for a Disney-themed party. Attach mini Oreos with toothpicks and cover with chocolate sprinkles and chocolate frosting. Source: ericasweettooth.com (search for Mickey-cupcakes)

atlantaparent.com

Shark Fin

These cupcakes are perfect for a Jaws- or surferthemed celebration. Decorate with blue icing and a shark fin cut out of grey or blue cardstock. Source: KarasPartyIdeas.com (search for shark)

Party Planner

Cont’d on page 26

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 25

It’s PARTY Time!

Celebrate your special occasion: Birthday Parties, Anniversaries, Family Reunions Weddings & Corporate Events

Kid’s Day Out!

Train Rides | Gift Shop Pre-School Thursday

Southeastern Railway Museum (every 2nd Thursday of the month)

Georgia’s “Official” Transportation Museum It’s PARTY Time!

Celebrate your special occasion: Birthday Parties, Anniversaries, Family Reunions Weddings & Corporate Events

Kid’s Day Out!

Train Rides | Gift Shop Pre-School Thursday

(every 2nd Thursday of the month)

3595 Buford Hwy | Duluth, GA 30096 770-476-2013

www.southeasternrailwaymuseum.org

3595 Buford Hwy | Duluth, GA 30096 770-476-2013

www.southeasternrailwaymuseum.org

Why do we love cupcakes? Let us count the ways… One Size Does Not Fit All.

From cake pops – small cupcakes on a stick – to cupcakes baked in small jelly jars, there are endless ways to enjoy the popular sweet. Personalize a basic cupcake with shaped, silicone cupcake pans or funky-printed cupcake liners.

Variety.

Specialty cupcakes come in every flavor – from traditional red velvet to key lime pie and Canadian maple with bacon. Become inspired by your favorite flavors and re-create them at home. Experiment with different fillings. Pipe coconut-cream filling into a half-dozen of the cupcakes for Sally, and gooey strawberry jam into another six for Billy.

Less Stress.

Big Book of Parties COMING SOON! Fall 2014 26 Atlanta Parent September 2014

fUN-O-RAMA PARTIES

Cakes can be lopsided, crumbly or stuck to the pan, but it’s hard to mess up a cupcake. If one batch goes astray, there’s usually plenty of batter to try again. And if you need to transport the baked goods, cupcakes are easier than driving with a towering, three-layer cake on the back seat of your car.

Less Waste.

Full Service Themed Parties

Inﬂatables & Party Rentals • Face Painting Creative Balloon Art • Characters & Mascots Puppets, Magic & MORE!

770-572-1737 www.funoramaparties.com Party Planner

You won’t be stuck with an awkward leftover chunk of cake or messy cake plate to clean. Simply toss the cupcake liners or pop sticks in the trash for cleanup. You can deliver leftover cupcakes to co-workers or neighbors, or store in the freezer for your next occasion. – Alexi Wilbourn

atlantaparent.com

Enter to win a party from:

Brunswick Bowling Center 770-988-8813 - Marietta 770-840-8200 - Norcross Brunswicks.com

Chattahoochee Nature Center 770-992-2055 ChattNatureCenter.org

Who loves birthday parties?

The kids!

Who loves FREE birthday parties?

The parents!

Atlanta Parent has teamed up with seven local Atlanta companies to each give away a birthday party for 8. Did your child just celebrate their birthday? No problem, you have until August 2015 to redeem.

Dragon Goal 404-734-0718 DragonGoalUsa.com

Leapin’ Lizards 404-371-9700 LeapinLizardsPlay.com

Olivia’s Dollhouse Tea Room 404-908-9073 oliviasdollhouseatl.com

Razzle Dazzle 404-806-9248 RazzleDazzleGirls.com

Tiny Towne Drive Safely 470-545-7227 TinyTowne.com

Visit Facebook.com/AtlantaParentMagazine to enter to win through Sept. 29! atlantaparent.com

Party Planner

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 27

28 Atlanta Parentâ&#x20AC;&#x192; â&#x20AC;&#x192; September 2014

Party Planner

atlantaparent.com

Just Right or Rude? Follow This Roadmap to Avoid Birthday Etiquette Potholes by Kerrie McLoughlin

Navigating the world of children’s birthday parties can be overwhelming. Do I have to invite my kid’s entire classroom? Is Evite rude? I love that my child is invited, but what if I don’t have the cash for all those birthday presents? Here’s how to avoid birthday blunders: n Happy

Birthday to your kid

Let’s start with who to invite. Not everyone has the space/ money to accommodate every child your kid wants to (or feels they have to) invite. Find out the rule at your kid’s school for inviting politely (e.g., invite all the girls to a girl party, invite only who you want but send invitations discreetly and don’t blab about it). You can always give your child a set number for the party, and have her choose wisely. Now that you have a number in mind, it’s time to hit the computer to set up that Facebook event and start inviting, right? Hold on a minute. Instead, hit the party store with your little birthday child and have him pick out some themed invitations he can fill out himself or at least help decorate. However, I am all for sending out electronic reminders to RSVP if you do not hear back within a few days before the party. You need an accurate count, and sending an email reminder or giving a quick phone call is no more rude than someone not sending their response in the first place. (But remember that moms are busy and might forget, or their child might not have mentioned the invitation in the first place.) If someone asks what your kid wants for his birthday, it’s polite to say, “I’m sure anything your son picks out will be wonderful,”

atlantaparent.com

but you might want to throw out some general small gift ideas ($10 range). If you have no idea, art supplies are usually a sure bet. Now you have to decide about the great Gift Opening Controversy – open gifts at the party or wait until after? I say put the birthday kid in one chair and the gift bearer in another. Have your child open the gift bearer’s present while you snap a picture of them together. If the kids get bored, remind them cake is on the horizon. Oh, and don’t forget to remind your child about the basics of receiving gifts (say “thank you” even if you hate the gift or already have the same thing in four colors). Parents should promptly put the gifts (especially gift cards and cash!) out of sight so new things don’t get broken or lost. These days many kids are either allergic to some food item or their parents won’t allow it. So even though we eat a steady diet of processed foods, I like to have some all natural ice cream (easy to find and not expensive) and sometimes even make an all natural or low-sugar cake. If an attendee is allergic to something, and if you can easily accommodate them, it’s just a thoughtful thing to do. It’s up to you if you want to give kids goody bags or favors. Maybe you can’t afford them or just think they are ecologically ridiculous. At one party my daughter attended, the girls painted wooden birdhouses to take home. If you love putting together goody bags, however, feel free to go all out! Thank you notes? Remember that picture you snapped earlier? Have it printed and place it in a thank you note your child writes (or maybe he can just “sign” it if he’s too small).

Party Planner

Cont’d on page 30

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 29

The

POLO CLUB

of ATLANTA

atlpoloclub@yahoo.com 770-317-7546

5% OFF Party Packages

www.poloclubofatlanta.com

Parties include: • Pony Rides • Petting Zoo • Play Area • Picnic Area

TUMBLE TOTS

Preschool & Parties & Drop In Age s 1-7

PRIVATE B-DAY PARTIES!

Norcross www.funttots.com

770-729-9660

FUN INDOOR PLAYGROUND

*reservations required

Day Care, Mother’s Morning Out, Church Groups & Day Camp outings available

Just Right or Rude? n Happy

Birthday to someone else’s kid

It’s hard to watch your child get upset over not being invited to a party because, even as adults, we know how that feels. Explain that maybe the parents of the birthday kid had to limit the number of guests and that it’s nothing personal. What if Audrey came to your daughter’s party recently, but now you can’t attend Audrey’s party? Please don’t worry about taking a gift anyway unless you want to, unless this is a great friend of your child’s or unless you want to go broke. What if you have many more children than your friend does? Well, you have two choices here. You can either splurge on a big present for her kid annually or take care of her in little ways throughout the year (grab her a coffee, pay for her movie, etc.).

Where fun never tasted so sweet.

678-708-2321

• Spa Parties • Fashion Show • Pastry decorating and more! 678-528-8981 • lollipopdreamsatl.com

Alligators, Monkeys, Farm Friends and more!

Live animals of all kinds! Hands-on, Fun, Educational

www.azootoyou.com

Parties for Aspiring Drivers

Ages 3-15

www.tinytowne.com Norcross

30 Atlanta Parent September 2014

470-545-7227

Party Planner

If your giftgiving budget is close to zilch, consider baking something with your child to give to the birthday child or make a special craft as a gift. If you have more kids than just the one who was invited, ask the birthday child’s parent if the other kids can come. The hostess might be okay with that, or it might make her uncomfortable to add more chaos to the party. Ask beforehand so you don’t show up with your huge family when you only RSVP’d for one. That would be rude. What to spend? There is no magic number, but make sure your child participates in the process of picking out the gift. If your gift-giving budget is close to zilch, consider baking something with your child to give to the birthday child or make a special craft as a gift. When you see some fun toys in a clearance bin, stock up. If the party is at a place with an admission fee and you simply can’t afford it, it’s okay to turn down the invitation. You might want to have the birthday child over for a playdate another time to give them their gift and celebrate with them. c atlantaparent.com

Tutu Birthday Parties and Custom Tutus for your own

TutuManiac

404-939-0708

www.tutumaniac.com

Kid’s Party

Entertainment • Great Costumes • Cartoon Characters • Princesses • Superheroes • Face Painting • Balloon Tying • Clowns • Magic

(770)

424-2287

WWW.COPYCATSFORKIDS.COM

SCIENCE creations!

O’Brien P roductions, Inc.

• Trackless Train & Fire Truck • Snow Cones • Popcorn • Cotton Candy • Rock Wall

Birthday Parties BOOKInG Afterschool Programs NOW !!

al Specits Even

770•422•7200 ObrienProductions.com

atlantaparent.com

We come to you!

Call 678-531-2357 WWW.sciencecreations.COM

Party Planner

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 31

How to Avoid

Birthday Gift Glut

n Prime

The Parents

Some people love to give presents, even if the invitation clearly states “no gifts.” It may be as hard to explain this idea to some parents as it is to some children. Try to get parents on board in advance so that they don’t buy a gift unnecessarily. Ask them to respect your efforts to limit the amount of “stuff” in your child’s life. Who knows? You may be a cultural trendsetter. n Age

Appropriate Approach

Explaining to a child that guests won’t give them presents on their birthday may feel like trying to tell them that Santa Claus will skip your house this year. Regardless of your child’s age, if you want to introduce alternatives to collecting a pile of birthday gifts, such as donating gifts to a charity, make sure to talk about it well before the party to give them a chance to get used to the concept. Read on to see ways to adjust your plan to your child’s age. n Make

A Gift (pre-school)

Marilyn Price-Mitchell Ph.D., a developmental psychologist and researcher who has written about mindful gift-giving for Psychology Today Magazine, says preschool children may be too young to grasp the concept of collecting gifts at a party to give to people in need. However, they love to make gifts for people they know. Tell your guests they do not need to bring a gift – they will make one as part of the party. Provide gift wrap and the kids can wrap them up, take them home and give them to whomever they like. n Give

by Mary Helen Berg

When your child plans a birthday party and generously invites the entire class, you rejoice that you have raised a kind soul who is sensitive and inclusive. Then you imagine a table groaning under the weight of dozens of presents. How much is too much? How do you limit gift glut when any birthday child can tell you that the most important part of the big day is opening the countless presents? There are alternatives that can promote empathy and generosity while helping to contain the excess that often accompanies a typical birthday party. 32 Atlanta Parent September 2014

Party Planner

a Book–Take a Book (early elementary) How many times has your child come home from a party with a bag full of plastic trinkets that soon end up in the garbage? This simple, inexpensive idea promotes reading and big heartedness while offering a fun surprise for each guest to open. Ask each guest to gift-wrap a favorite book and bring it to the party. When they arrive, they will place the books into a basket. Add a book from your child as well. When guests leave, they can select a book from the basket as a “goody” to take away. Your child will be able to open a book as well and this becomes her birthday “present” from all her guests. n Make

It Personal (older elementary)

Perhaps a family at your school or in your neighborhood is going through a rough time. At our school, one girl’s aunt and uncle atlantaparent.com

died in a plane crash, leaving children behind. In response to the tragedy, children from school who had birthday parties began to ask for donations to this family, in lieu of presents. When guests arrived at a party, they simply dropped money into a bowl. Kids at the school raised thousands of dollars to help the orphaned children with food, housing and education costs. n Choose

A Charity (tween)

Instead of bringing a fancy birthday gift, ask that each child bring a pair of new or gently used shoes to donate to children who need them. Homeless shelters, orphanages and other non-profits are always in need of items such as children’s shoes, new socks and underwear. Donating items for other children will make more sense to young guests than asking them to give to an organization that serves other populations. Place a box near the front door for guests to drop their donation in. Once you select an organization for your donation, invite your child’s friends to accompany you when you drop off the goods so they can see where their donation is going. n Work

Party (teen)

Your teenager is old enough to really contribute the time and elbow grease it takes to help others by volunteering with a non-profit organization. Instead of a traditional teen slumber party, organize an outing to feed the homeless, clean up a beach or help build shelters. Opportunities for young volunteers are countless and your teen will gain untold benefit from the experience. n Birthday

Party Burnout

Materialism is something that needs to be addressed year-round, not just at birthday time, advises Price-Mitchell. But the birthday party circuit is always a good place to start. Talk with other parents. If attending multiple events every weekend seems overwhelming to you, you are probably not alone. Consider coordinating events by grouping birthdays together. Kids can have fun planning a party with their friends and some may even find it a relief to share the glare of the spotlight and the burden of hosting. Several families can co-host a party each month or each season for all the kids born during that time. Pitch in on expenses and host the event at a park, ice rink or bowling alley so that no one family has to accommodate the whole crowd at home. c atlantaparent.com

Party Planner

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 33

BRINGING

BABY HOME ❋

How to Help Older Children Accept the New Arrival ❋ Teach Life Skills

by Carol Muse Evans

When it comes to handling sibling rivalry, Supernanny television star and book author Jo Frost is an expert. ❋ We’ve watched her deal with parents and children on television for years, handling every type of sibling rivalry and difficult parent, from the too-stern to the pushover. Now, she’s written a new book, Jo Frost’s Toddler Rules: Your 5-Step Guide to Shaping Proper Behavior (2014, Ballantine Books, $16). It’s designed to help parents tame toddler tantrums and curb troublesome behavior – from mealtime struggles to bedtime battles and everything in between. ❋ Frost shares her strategies for helping older children accept a new baby. 34 Atlanta Parent September 2014

“One of the best things you can do is help children learn life skills before the baby comes home,” Frost says. “You need to do it anyway, and this is the time.” The older child will feel a sense of achievement. They need to know how to feed themselves, dress themselves, and many other skills, depending on their age, to be more selfsufficient. “You don’t want to have two babies,” she adds. Once the baby arrives, you may want to help the older child hold it, discuss that they are a “big boy” or “big girl,” and show them how to deal with the baby and let them do it while watching them, Frost says.

❋ Make the Journey Fun

“It’s inevitable that a child will ask, ‘When is it coming?’ But nine months is a long time,” Frost says. “Your older child is likely to ask often about how much longer it will be.” Make the journey fun with a countdown calendar or anything else that will help your older one understand the process takes time, she says.

❋ Don’t Make Everything

about the Baby

“Not everything you do is because of the baby, and don’t leave your older child with the impression that everything he or she does is around baby,” Frost says. “It can build resentment.” Be sure to do things that are fun for the older child. “Don’t let them forget how important they are,” Frost says. “Most parents say they just didn’t know if they had enough love in their heart to love a second child like they love the first one. Of course, they find out they can, but make sure you communicate how important your first child is.”

atlanta baby

atlantaparent.com

❋ Work on Patience It’s going to take the firstborn longer to get used to the baby than it will take you, Frost says. “Work on the transition before and after the baby arrives,” she says. “Putting everything into place physically and mentally for a new baby can be overwhelming. You have a new routine, double work, and you need to get sleep as much as possible.”

❋ Anticipate Sibling Rivalry

“Curb bad behavior by showing that all actions with the baby should be through love,” Frost says. “All behavior has boundaries … but what your child may be testing or asking is, ‘Am I still loved by my parents?’”

❋ Share the Load

“I definitely urge parents to communicate how they will handle everything ahead of time,” Frost says. “Of course some things will have to be handled on the fly, but try to have the important conversations ahead of time.”

atlantaparent.com

“

Not everything you do is because of the baby,

and don’t leave your older child with the impression that everything he or she does is around baby, it can build resentment. – Jo Frost

This not only includes how to handle the older child’s behavior, but basic things like how your baby is going to be fed, and based on that, who will handle feeding and changing shifts, who will put the baby to bed, bath time, helping the older child, etc. “This creates a smooth transition, and also it makes it easier for the older children,”

atlanta baby

Frost adds. Planning ahead also gives the parents peace of mind, Frost says. “Feeling good about the situation creates a healthy energy, and children are really receptive to the overall energy between the parents and in the home,” Frost says. c

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 35

Baby Bits

by Amanda Miller Allen

Good News About Morning Sickness TRUST-IT CHOICE A referral agency specializing in referring CPR certiﬁed nannies, babysitters and care providers with mobile streaming availability.

info@trustitchoice.com | 770-569-3993 www.trustitchoice.com

Pregnant women with symptoms of nausea and vomiting have fewer miscarriages and healthier babies than women who have no symptoms, a study published in the August issue of Reproductive Toxicology found. An estimated 85 percent of women have morning sickness symptoms during pregnancy. Researchers believe the hormone, human gonadotropin, and perhaps other hormones, may contribute to a better prenatal environment for the baby. Medications to relieve symptoms have no effect on hormone levels and should not influence the baby’s development, the researchers said. And women who have no symptoms shouldn’t worry, they said, because most likely their baby will be fine, too.

Nine Detergents For Baby’s Laundry

infant

massage

INSTRUCTION F Increase bonding

F Reduces gas/colic/constipation F Stimulate all the systems F Promotes more restful sleep

Call today for the next class! Classes held monthly!

404-465-3391 1300 Upper Hembree Rd., Roswell Tara@natlantapregnancy.com

Daniel Tiger Gets a Sister

Many new parents worry that harsh detergents may cause a rash or irritation for their infant, so what laundry detergent to use? These nine are recommended by allergists and others: l Dreft

When the new season of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood debuted on PBS, Daniel’s life was complicated by a baby, his new sister Margaret. This year, the animated show will tackle themes older siblings experience – feeling left out; meeting the new baby for the first time; understanding that things may be different, such a playtime and mealtime and learning about sharing.

l All

Free and Clear Ultra Liquid Detergent for Baby l Selestial Soap Natural Laundry Detergent l Seventh Generation Baby Laundry Detergent l Method Squeaky Green Rice Milk & Mallow Detergent l Mrs. Meyer’s Baby Blossom Laundry Detergent l Charlie’s Soap l Up & Up Unscented Laundry Detergent l Purex

Diaper Kits For New Moms Cloth for Everybum, which lends free cloth diaper kits for new moms, has opened a branch in metro Atlanta. The nonprofit was started by moms at Fort Stewart near Hinesville, in southeast Georgia, to support moms who can’t afford to get started with cloth diapers (after the initial investment, cloth diapers are far less expensive than using disposable diapers). The organization lends diapers for six

months, and pairs the new family with mentors who know all about using cloth diapers. At the end of the six months, moms can purchase the kit, a $200 value, for $50, or return it. The organization also holds classes on cloth diapering; the next Cloth 101 session is Aug. 28 in Buford (time to be arranged). It also welcomes donations of money or diapers. Find more information: clothforeverybum.org or facebook.com/c4ebATL.

A giveaway for new moms! For mom a PacaPod Jura baby bag, a $150 value.

For baby a $100 gift certificate to pediped.

You can enter this giveaway every day in the month of September. Visit facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine to enter to win.

36 Atlanta Parent September 2014

atlanta baby

atlantaparent.com

Spotlight on

Baby Resources Northside Pediatrics

s parents, we all want happy, healthy babies. It doesn’t take long to develop the confidence and calm of an experienced parent. Your baby will give you the most important information—how he or she likes to be treated, talked to, held, and comforted. As your baby grows, there are common problems and questions which arise that can be upsetting and puzzling to new parents. There are many approaches to various problems and these vary from child to child. Loving your child, common sense, and the ability to adapt to particular situations are the keystones to successful child rearing. Choosing the right pediatric practice is one of the most important decisions you can make for you and your baby. During your baby’s first year, you will visit your pediatrician’s office many times for check-ups, shots, and other unanticipated baby events. You should rely on your pediatric practice for answers to your questions, including those about infant feeding and nutrition; development; immunization schedule and conditions common in newborns.

Families Of Children Under Stress (FOCUS)

hen a baby is diagnosed with a lifelong disability or serious medical condition, parents just want to kiss and make it better. This can be a scary and emotional time, and some parents may be so overwhelmed by the medical terms and by their emotions that they really do not understand; they might not even know the questions to ask! Parents often feel relieved to know that they are not alone. Families Of Children Under Stress (FOCUS) offer comfort and encouragement and is there to help – to listen and cry, to inform and educate, and to offer programs for the families and the baby with special needs through our support groups and programs. Seek support so you can have the information and tools to help your baby and to help meet your emotional needs. FOCUS offers support groups all over metro Atlanta; a newsletter with stories by families about their experiences and information about equipment and resources; an education conference; community respite programs; and several annual activities for the entire family. FOCUS believes that if your baby has special needs, then your family has special needs – FOCUS cares. If your child has a physical, cognitive or developmental disability, please call FOCUS at 770-234-9111 or visit www.focus-ga.org. atlantaparent.com

Being comfortable with the practice and how they treat you and your baby is important to your well-being. Many new parents don’t realize that your baby’s pediatrician is also your “go-to” when there are middle of the night fevers, terrible two tantrums or emotional outbursts at age 15. Take time to interview, understand and select a pediatric practice that best fits you and your family’s needs. At Northside Pediatrics, we focus on total wellness of children from birth through age 21. We call our comprehensive care philosophy 360Care™. That means we spend more time with each child because some things that can impact your child’s long-term health can’t be determined quickly. When it comes to your children, we will not compromise on quality. We follow the American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines. It’s a higher standard, and many families in Atlanta are looking for that. Call 404-256-2688 (Sandy Springs) or 770-9280016 (Woodstock) to schedule an appointment at Northside Pediatrics. For more information, visit www. northsidepediatrics.com.

North Atlanta Pregnancy, Massage & Wellness

ant to feel your best throughout your pregnancy? North Atlanta Pregnancy, Massage and Wellness helps keep you feeling great through different stages of pregnancy, childbirth and early infancy. They offer a variety of services for expecting and new mothers from massage, doula services, instructional classes and monthly infant massage classes. “Tara’s pregnancy massages are great for helping you feel more comfortable during a time when you need it most”, says Laura Powell, local mom of two. Tara Thompson is a Licensed Massage Therapist, Certified Infant Massage Instructor, Certified Prenatal Massage Therapist, Certified Pediatric Massage Therapist, Certified Labor Doula and a Childbirth Educator. Tara strives to give you what you need to help you make knowledgeable decisions about your pregnancy, birth and postpartum experience. Her mission is to provide information, education, and relaxation so you can make the best decisions about your pregnancy, birth and beyond. Tara believes being more informed about your body and the changes you go through while you’re pregnant is important. For more information, visit natlantapregnancy.com or call 404-465-3391.

Special Advertising Section

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 37

Reader Essay

Where are my

Mommy Friends? by Nhien Dutkin

I am a happily married mother of two toddler girls and yet I recently dived into the dating scene again. No, I am not committing infidelity. Yes, I do find that trying to find my own mommy group is very similar to dating. Although I have always been in long-term romantic relationships, when it comes to making mommy friends, I’ve failed miserably. I first became a mom in January 2010, and I thought that it would be so easy to become friends with moms who also had children born in the same year. I quickly joined my hospital’s “mommy and me” group where other moms were venturing into the unknown world of breastfeeding, sleepless nights, colic episodes, and comparing their child’s growth chart like a report card. Not to brag, but I thought that surely everyone would want to be my friend since I am an easy going, typically described as “sweet” woman. When my baby and I arrived at the first group, more than 25 new mothers were there with their loved ones. These moms used a language of their own – “DS (dear son), DD (dear daughter), DH (dear husband), BM (breast milk)” – and already I felt alone. It was like high school over again, with cliques quickly forming around me, like the stay-at-home mom cliques, the organic food and gluten free cliques, the baby-wearing cliques, the overachieving mom cliques but I didn’t fit in anyone of them. I work full time. The only organics that I purchase are organic milk. My 38 Atlanta Parent September 2014

husband has joked that I’ve bought multiple and various types of baby wraps but can’t figure out how to wear the baby on me. I am not a Tiger mother – I’d rather have a happy, self-confident child than insist on perfection. However, I knew that making friends (as with the dating pool) means taking risks and that I should make an effort to greet and engage in the small chat that I do not like but know that’s where one begins. Unfortunately for me, if I find that I don’t think the mom and I have similarities, I quickly move on. I’m at an age where I don’t want to waste time, which is a precious commodity to moms. I did initiate chatting with a fitness instructor mom with a son only 5 months older than my daughter, and after realizing I liked her personality, we exchanged numbers. We made plans and kept plans while I was on leave from work, but then when I returned to the workforce and could no longer make it to weekday events, we lost touch. No one can accuse me of lack of trying because I then joined my church’s mothers fellowship group. I went to a moms-only social event in the church’s fellowship hall and felt relieved because it was a small group of women who seemed approachable. One mother atlantaparent.com

there seemed to be friends with everyone, and I wondered how she did this. I ended up meeting and chatting with a young mother (I was considered of advanced maternal age for giving birth at age 36, and these mothers were in their late 20s). We seemed to have such an enjoyable conversation and yet we never spoke again. We have run into each other at church services, but she does not seem to recognize me. Then I joined the Internet world of MeetUp. I have attended four social play dates, but I have not found my forever friend. I’ve signed up to attend a play date with 13 other moms and their little ones, and I wonder if my chances of finding my mommy friend would be better if the crowd is larger (the probability would be higher) or smaller (being an introvert, I speak much easier in small groups). As it is in the dating world, if I give my number out, will anyone call? Will I have a play date at my house and be stood up? Will we not hit it off and continue to run in the same circles and awkwardly avoid each other? Or maybe we’ll really enjoy each other’s company but then feel nervous about seeing other people?

Does your child have ASTHMA? Take part in a Clinical Research Study! Consider joining a research study at Emory University / Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta to improve asthma treatments for African Americans/Blacks. To participate in this study, you must: Be 5-21 years old Have at least one grandparent of African descent Qualified participants will receive: Asthma medications

Jennifer Dodds | 404-727-5176 jcdodds@emory.edu Alice Bruce | 404-712-1773 alice.bruce@emory.edu Shanneka Douglas | 404-727-7687 sdougl5@emory.edu

Pulmonary evaluation Compensation for time and travel

As it is in the dating world, if I give my number out, will anyone call? Will I have a play date at my house and be stood up? Now that my DD is 4 years old and joining a flurry of activities (her choice, not mine) of ballet classes and swim lessons, I’ve found that sitting on the bench at the pool and leaving my cell phone and tablet tucked away, I may have just met my mommy friend. Like me, she is Asian and not only that, she is also Vietnamese. She has been easy to converse with and it leaves me to wonder if we have even more similarities. After four years of looking for mommy friends, it seems that my daughter’s drive to learn how to swim has potentially led me in the right direction of the friendship journey. Rather than thinking that I have to work on changing myself (smile more, talk more, listen more), I have come to realize that my forever friend will be looking for me to be just who I am. c atlantaparent.com

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 39

Step 1: Identify a Comfort Level As a teacher, it’s important to have a sense of how students see themselves as learners. As a parent, and your child’s most important (and influential) teacher, you need to have the same sense. So ask them: on a scale of one to five, with five being the most confident, how confident are you in math? Accept the answer your child gives you, even if it seems way off. Your job isn’t to convince him he’s wrong, it’s to help him feel intrinsically confident. So if he says he’s a two, talk about why. Brainstorm how a three confidence level would feel and jot down ideas about what she could learn to get there.

Step 2: Set Measurable, Achievable Goals

Fear of Factors

How to Help Your Child Build Confidence in Math by Beth Fornauf

he first day of school is exciting: new teachers, new supplies, a fresh start. While many kids are able to coast through September on back-toschool momentum, others battle anxiety and a lack of confidence from the start. For many students, the cause of these feelings is related to one subject: math. In metro Atlanta, many students score poorly on tests to assess math comprehension. On the most recent Criterion-Referenced Competency Tests, metro students in the fifth and eighth grades were seven times more likely to pass the reading portion of the test than the math section. Nearly half of the eighthgraders in seven DeKalb County middle schools did not meet the CRCT standards for math. 40 Atlanta Parent September 2014

You’ve heard the claims before: “I can’t do math” or “Oh, I’m just not a math person,” or even, “I hate math!” Most often, it’s adults sharing these thoughts, but as a teacher I frequently heard these cries creeping into my classroom. Nothing kills motivation like negative, can’t-do attitudes. Math anxiety is a real condition, defined as a fear of math that interferes with one’s performance. Researchers have been looking closely at its roots and impact since the early 1980s. Causes vary greatly, and are largely environmental. For children who lack confidence in math, or suffer from anxiety, simply seeing a subtraction sign is enough to send them into a panic. If this sounds like your child, here’s what you can do to help them overcome their fear of factors (and multiples), and begin building confidence in math.

Kids who struggle in math feel that “not being good at it” is a life sentence. They’ll never get it, so why try? Don’t allow that attitude to prevail. Setting small, measurable goals achieves two purposes. Students feel ownership in what they want to accomplish, and success when they master it. The key is to make the goals specific. Instead of saying “I want to understand subtraction” or “I want to be good at algebra” start with something manageable, such as, “In two weeks, I will know how to subtract using regrouping (borrowing).” This way you and your child can map out the steps you need to take, and there will be no confusion once the goal is met.

Step 3: Eliminate Your Own Negatives An Ohio State University study published in March 2014 concluded that math anxiety is not purely environmental. The research indicates that genetics can actually have a role. This doesn’t mean that if a mom struggled in math, her kids are doomed. But it does mean you should eliminate your negative associations – or at least keep them to yourself. If you say you don’t like math, or you shudder when your daughter brings home a fractions sheet, you’re sending a message that math is scary. And if your child is predisposed to have some difficulty in math, adding fear into the mix won’t help. You can’t expect your child to feel good about math if he knows that you don’t see value in it. Stay positive, and model the learning process. If your child needs help with something and you don’t have a clue what to do, show him some steps she can atlantaparent.com

If you say you don’t like math, or you shudder when your daughter brings home a fractions sheet, you’re sending a message that math is scary. take to get going. Check online for ideas or similar problems. Email the teacher and ask for examples. Maybe even have your child call a friend for help. Let him know that being stuck is not an excuse to give up, and that struggling is part of learning.

Step 4: Allow Affect It’s hard to see your child upset. Parental instinct dictates that kids need support, encouragement and affirmation. And they do – but they also need to feel frustrated.

Students who genuinely lack confidence in, or even fear math, need to feel like they are being heard. Honor their feelings. Don’t try to change their minds or convince them that math isn’t so bad, because to them it is. Accept and acknowledge the way they feel, and help them to move past that.

Step 5: Let Them Teach Once your child thinks he has learned a skill, let him practice by “teaching” a younger sibling. Even toddlers can learn strategies like sorting shapes or drawing pictures that solve problems. In addition to boosting your math-anxious child’s confidence, these skills are useful math tools that are great to introduce to young kids. But don’t let the lessons stop there. Parents of my former students were often puzzled about the “new math” and how solving problems isn’t like it used to be. Okay, so learn. Let your kid teach you how to divide using the partial quotients method. Or maybe the Pythagorean theorem is a distant, fuzzy memory? Relearn it. Ask questions, reinforce, and model positive learning habits. Cont’d on page 42

Teacher Strategies That Work at Home n Create a K-W-L chart for new concepts.

Make a chart with three columns, a “K,” a “W” and an “L.” Under the “K,” write what your child knows, and under the “W” write what he wants to know. When he masters the concept, reflect by listing what he has learned under “L.” n Use authentic math models. Organize

your grocery lists into quadrants for produce, meat, etc.; make a table of family chores; use tally marks to keep track of behaviors. Be creative! n Talk the talk. Use math language

whenever possible. Point out shapes like rectangles or circles in nature, and the house. Use terms like area and perimeter when cleaning or reorganizing rooms. You may find it helpful too! n Create a word wall. Use Post-it notes and

a marker to stick up math vocabulary words in your kitchen or your child’s bedroom. If your child is artistic, have her illustrate each word’s meaning n Take a motor break. If your homework

hour is hitting a wall, take a break and move around. Often a simple change in position or environment can refresh a tired mind.

imagine Your Child? What do you want for

IMAGINE A SCHOOL WHERE YOUR CHILD LEARNS…

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

Montessori School at Emory

Montessori School of Cumming

404-634-5777

770-205-6773

3021 N. Decatur Road Decatur, GA 30033

4601 Post Road Cumming, GA 30040

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

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 41

Fear of Factors Step 6: Don’t Rush the Process One of the biggest issues kids have with math is a problem that is not quick or easy to figure out. As kids advance in elementary and middle school, problem solving evolves into a multi-step process, and there are different ways to figure things out. Encourage deliberation. In math, struggling is a good thing – it means you’re working hard, trying different approaches, not giving up. Going through that process will help kids learn perseverance as they continue in math, and in life.

Step 7: Celebrate Success Remember those goals your child set? Achieving them is cause for celebration, especially in the beginning. No, you don’t need to throw a party when your child masters place value, but you do need to acknowledge when a goal has been met. So slip your student some stickers (even older kids like them!) or let them stay up a little later that night. Celebrating small victories will help maintain momentum as math

Books for Healthy Math Habits n Toddlers-Kindergarten: Duck and Goose

123 by Tad Hills; Chicka Chicka 123 by Bill Martin Jr. and Michael Sampson, and The Greedy Triangle by Marilyn Burns n Grades 1- 3: A

Place for Zero by Angeline LoPresti; Multiplying Menace by Pam Calvert; Full House: An Invitation to Fractions by Dayle Ann Dodds n Grades 4-6: Sir Cumference Series by

becomes more challenging. Celebrating also lets your child feel good about an area that previously caused them stress. Building confidence won’t happen overnight, but with consistent support at home, it will happen. You may even end up sharpening your own skills. So fight the math fear from the start and help your child go back to school with confidence. c Fornauf has taught math at the elementary and middle school levels.

Cindy Neuschwander; Zachary Zormer, Shape Transformer by Joanne Anderson Reisburg; Chasing Vermeer by Blue Balliett, and What’s Your Angle Pythagoras? by Julie Ellis n Middle School

and Older: Math Doesn’t Suck by Danica McKellar; The Number Devil by Hans Magnus Enzensberger, and Secrets, Lies and Algebra (part of the Do the Math series) by Wendy Lichtman.

French Classes

For Adults & Children

OPEN HOUSES: Sept. 17 • Oct. 15

Saturday

Paris?

for Classes Online NOW! Saturday Program 18 months - 12 yrs. • Buckhead location at the Atlanta International School

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

Join Us!

www.frenchschoolatlanta.org

Decatur: Preschool/Pre-K Program Chinese and Spanish Dual Immersion for 3-5 Year Olds 404-828-0810 • 134 New Street, Decatur 30030

770-634-6228

For more information, call 404-828-0810 or visit www.LittleLinguistsPreschool.com

42 Atlanta Parent September 2014

atlantaparent.com

Breakfast Strategies for Busy School Mornings by Rachael Moshman

Eating a healthy breakfast gets the school day off to a great start, but for families struggling to get out the door on time, that breakfast had better be quick. Here are some ideas:

Make breakfast bags. Set up an

assembly line on Sunday afternoon to make five breakfast bags for each child. Good fillers include fruit, hard boiled eggs, string cheese, dry cereal, granola bars and trail mix. Include a few different items to make a complete breakfast. Your child can eat it on the way to school. I also tuck a few extra granola bars in my daughter’s backpack for mornings when we run out of time and she forgets to grab breakfast to go.

Have it already on the table. Put

out cereal, bananas, bowls, and spoons the night before. Make sure the milk carton is at the front of the fridge. Instruct children to pour themselves some cereal and eat as soon as they get up.

Make extra servings when you prepare breakfast on the weekends. Store individually wrapped single servings in the freezer. You or your child can simply heat one in the microwave before school each morning. Simple breakfasts include sandwiches of ham and egg on English muffins or sausage links wrapped in a pancake.

Put your freezer to work.

Rely on an old standard, PBJ! Peanut butter and jelly is a filling,

healthy, kid-friendly breakfast. Up the nutrition value by using low sugar jam and whole grain bread. Add a piece of fruit and a glass of milk to round out the meal. My daughter loves peanut butter and a banana rolled in a tortilla.

SCHOOLS:

breakfast in the cafeteria for under $2 a meal. If ensuring your children get breakfast adds an extra layer of chaos to your morning, make sure they get to school early enough to eat there instead. This option often saves time and money. My daughter’s school allows parents to see what their child purchases online, so I know if she’s really eating breakfast or just pocketing the money to buy ice cream at lunch. With a little planning, you can be sure your child has a healthy breakfast no matter how rushed you are. c

Reserve your space in our

Building Foundations for a Strong Future

of Schools

 ONE Norcross and TWO Smyrna Campuses

BIG BOOK e’s nt Magazin Atlanta Pare

K BIG BOO ols of Scho

on Early Educati

Private

Public

Boarding

e Th ate n im o Ultucatie Ed Guid 3 1 20

• The ultimate guide dedicated to Schools and Education. Call for advertising information

Special Needs

770-454-7599 atlantaparent.com

Let them eat breakfast at school. Most schools serve

 AMS Afﬁliated & GAC Accredited  Montessori Trained Teachers

NORCROSS Country Brook Montessori School 2175 N. Norcross-Tucker Rd. Norcross, GA 30071 770-446-2397 countrybrookmontessori.com

SMYRNA Covered Bridge Montessori School 3941 Covered Bridge Place & 488 Hurt Rd. Smyrna, GA 30082 770-434-3181 & 770-801-8292 coveredbridgemontessori.com

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 43

Parents Can Help Make the Most of

SCHOOL FIELD TRIPS

FIELD TRIPS

at Tiny Towne! 2-5 Hour Programs Pre-K - High School High Tech Cars For Aspiring Drivers Ages 4-15 - 36,000 SF Indoor Park Two Tracks - Driving School - Train Party Room - Restaurant

Norcross

470-545-7227

www.tinytowne.com

Want to Get This Party Started

The Best Place to Start is with Atlanta Parent Advertisers! 44 Atlanta Parent September 2014

by Laura Reagan-Porras

A well-planned school field trip makes topics of study come alive by helping children associate concepts learned in the classroom with real world applications. Students retain information on the subject as a result of field trips and they demonstrate a greater interest in learning more through in-depth study on their own. Parents have a vital role to play – they can help enhance learning outcomes, address related safety issues and ensure the fun! FIELD TRIP FACT FINDING

FIELD TRIP SAFETY ISSUES

Ask your child:

Safety concerns may arise on field trips but preparation can minimize potential problems. Increased adult-to-child ratios also can minimize safety issues. Volunteer to chaperone for field trips, or if you can’t volunteer, use these strategies to keep your child safe on field trips.

Parents Can Boost Learning Outcomes n Why are you going on this field trip? n What have you been studying in school that relates to the field trip? n What do you expect to see on the field trip? n Because I know you will have an assignment to do after the field trip, how will you remember what information you need for your report or project?

Parents Can Improve Security

n Make sure your child knows their contact information, (phone numbers, addresses, where parents work) n Emphasize to your child how important it is that they stay with their group. atlantaparent.com

Plan Ahead n Pick a destination that fits the area of interest you plan to explore. Zoo Atlanta, for instance, would be perfect for a lesson on pandas, with mom Lun Lun recently giving birth to a rare set of twins. n Schedule the trip as far in advance as you can. Some venues offer group discounts, so ask how many you need in a group to qualify. For popular destinations, visits made early in the week will be less crowded. n If you’re taking a group, talk with your guide in advance to tailor the visit to your group’s interests. For instance, young children visiting the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site might be more interested in Dr. King’s life as a young boy than in his time in a Birmingham, Ala. jail. n Make sure you have enough chaperones for your group – a good ratio is one adult per five children – and make sure the chaperones know the itinerary, have a list of each child’s name and a list of the items each child should see, and they know where and when to meet if the group splits up.

n Wash their school shirt ahead of time so your child is wearing the same color as their group. n In a calm manner, prepare your child for what to do if they are separated from their group. You may want to make several suggestions, like return to the zoo entrance or ticket office and ask that an adult page your teacher over the loud speaker or tell your child to look for a uniformed security guard or museum docent to ask for help in locating the class.

n If taking a large group, outfitting the kids in fluorescent T-shirts will help chaperones keep track. n Before the field trip, gather information from the destination’s website, read books, watch videos or take virtual field trips. Make sure the kids have a good basic knowledge of the place they’ll be visiting and why they’ll be there.

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

n Chaperones can ask students what they think they will see when they arrive at their field trip location, while students are riding on the bus. n Sing songs on the bus ride to the field trip location. n Give your child an old fashioned disposable camera to take photos on the field trip.

n Remind your child to go to the restroom with a buddy or small group.

Parents Can Set the Mood

Help boost the fun factor on field trips and avoid behavior issues by keeping students engaged. Parents can also help create social learning opportunities. n Use name tags so new parent chaperones learn student’s names quickly. n Have the kids think up nicknames for the parents for their chaperone nametags. atlantaparent.com

Georgia’s Official Frontier and Southeastern Indian Interpretive Center

• Native American Art & Dioramas • Nature Trail and Log Cabins • Historic Craft Tools on Exhibit • Guided Group and Class Tours • Georgia History Timeline Oct. 8-9 • Pioneer Days May 6-7 Reinhardt University in Waleska, GA, near Canton & I-575. Information and reservations:

770-720-5970

www.reinhardt.edu/funkheritage

Center for Natural Urban Agriculture

n Play a brief reminder game about Stranger Danger and what to do. Praise your child for remembering.

FIELD TRIP FUN

FUNK HERITAGE CENTER

• Family and School Field Trips

n Talk to students throughout the field trip about what their favorite part is.

• Opportunity to promote environmental stewardship

n On the bus ride back to school, play a sequence game about what students saw first, second, third and finally, last on the field trip.

• Children can learn to explore their own eco-system

n Remember to catch students being good and affirm random acts of kindness that you see, such as: Susie, I really like the way you are taking turns. Joey, that was really nice of you to let Max see the exhibit first. c

• Learn about healthy eating

• Have fun doing farm based activities

(678) 973-0997

Visit our new website: www.TrulyLivingWell.com September 2014 Atlanta Parent 45

Cover Kids winners! CONTEST 2014

We are pleased to report that Atlanta really does have the country’s cutest kids! Say hello to our 2014 Cover Kids winners. With the help of our friends at HOP Models, Presence Models and Suspended Image Photography, the challenging task of picking Atlanta’s cutest kids is now complete. Be sure to look for them on future covers of Atlanta Parent. Thank you to all the families that submitted photos this year.

Edward Hudson Jr Fairburn

Kruz Mendoza Powder Springs

Kristina Oubre Duluth

Izzy Rice Waleska

Boston VanBelle Atlanta

Katelyn Vetro Marietta

46 Atlanta Parent September 2014

atlantaparent.com

& finalists

Alex Bolsen Tucker

Parker Bolsen Tucker

Henry Caldwell Atlanta

Katherine Caldwell Atlanta

McKenna Calvo Marietta

Jordan Carter Lithonia

Savanna Castle Canton

Reagan Cook Braselton

Riley Cooper Oxford

Lacey Dahmani Alpharetta

Olivia Floyd McDonough

Laila Harvey Mableton

Quinton Holliday Marietta

Madison Holt Smyrna

Elle Gianna Hudson Fairburn

Dylan Iszard Buford

Alexandria Johnson McDonough

Ethan Johnson Stockbridge

Audrey Lampa Milton

Ava Lee Atlanta

Lawson Lee Austell

Rory Lichtman Atlanta

Li’Brian Mayfield Atlanta

Jack Morgan Kennesaw

Valentino Onate Smyrna

John Persichetti Atlanta

Asher Prestridge Gainesville

Isaac Salinas II Atlanta

Grant Smith Marietta

Caitlin Spaulding Atlanta

Cecelia Springfield Smyrna

Sienna Ware Stone Mountain

Chloe Wilburn Cartersville

Kayla Wurster Fayetteville

Jayde & Jayda Joy Atlanta

Gabriella Mendoza Powder Springs

Madden Morales Marietta

Eliana Setzer Atlanta

Suri Siddon Lawrenceville

London Squire Sandy Springs

Nia Stephens Atlanta

atlantaparent.com

Reese & Lily Smallman Smyrna

Arielle Urquhart Grayson

Vanessa Vera Auburn

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 47

48 Atlanta Parentâ&#x20AC;&#x192; â&#x20AC;&#x192; September 2014

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide * Eating Out

Free Fun

Exhibits

Playground

Not-to-miss events for September

Calendar

Apple g Pickin 1 6 Page

Sesame Street Live: Make a New Friend

North Georgia State Fair

Fox Theatre Sept. 12-14. Fri., 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.; Sat. 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.; Sun. 1 and 4:30 p.m.

At the largest fair in the metro Atlanta area, enjoy carnival rides and games, a petting zoo and pony rides. This year’s live entertainment includes racing pigs and paddling porkers, sandscapes and The Puppetone Rockers. 2245 Callaway Rd., Marietta. 770-528-8989. Adults, $7; ages 10 and younger, free; discounts for advance purchase. Parking, $3. northgeorgiastatefair.com

Join Elmo and the Sesame Street gang as they welcome Grover’s friend from India. Together they explore the universal fun of friendship and celebrate cultural similarities. 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 855-285-8499. Tickets $5-$37. sesamestreetlive.com

atlantaparent.com

Fall Folklife Festival

Jim R. Miller Park Sept. 18-28. Mon.-Thurs., 4-11 p.m.; Fri. 4 p.m.-midnight; Sat., 10 a.m.-midnight; Sun., 12:30-10 p.m.

Family Fun Guide

Smith Family Farm at the Atlanta History Center Sept. 27. 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. A variety of farm demonstrations, music and kid-friendly activities represent traditions of the Southeast. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; 3 and younger, free. atlantahistorycenter.com

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 49

Family Fun Guide Campfire Grill

Crossroads inside Stone Mountain Park 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain 770-413-5389; stonemountainpark.com Weekend hours; check website for current schedule which follows the SMP attractions schedule.

EATING OUT

Isabella, Sophia and I camped out for dinner. “Is that real fire!” were the first words once we sat down and checked out our digs. Each room is a different campsite feel such as Forest Trail, Lakeside Path, Lake Room and Treetop Trek. We were seated in Treetop Trek and immediately greeted by our camp counselors. Atop our table was a crayon bucket for the different games on the kids menu, as well as table game suggestions. n What’s on the menu: The menu sports campfire treats as well as Southern favorites, most entries around $13.99. We started with nachos and quesadillas. The quesadillas are perfect for sharing as all the toppings are on the side. The Little Campers Menu is $6.99 for one of three options; cheeseburger, chicken tender or grilled cheese skillet meal. You can upgrade the kids drink to a souvenir cup for an extra $1.99, then refill throughout the park for 50 cents. The baby back ribs are perfect with fall-off-the-bone meat and even a Georgia specialty cooked right in, CocaCola! The tasty catfish and chicken are served on a cast iron skillet for the camping feel. n Why parents will like it: Campfire Grill is located in Crossroads near many family activities. This makes it the perfect place to wind down for a

meal. The restaurant understands dietary needs or food allergy restrictions and has an ingredient book that lets you know how the food is prepared. The chicken fingers come in two types, one made with eggs and one without. Kids and adults will both love the upgraded Campfire s’mores! n Why kids will like it: It takes them on a fun, non-planned adventure to the great “outdoors.” The animal tracker game keeps kids busy. Some animal prints look similar, so we counted the toe prints to make sure we had the right one. We continued our search for prints as we “hiked” to the restroom. If you get seated at one of two specialty tables, you will be in for a surprise (hint: ask ahead of time). The small river outside is great for after dinner or wait time playing, though you might want to bring a change of clothes. Also, Campfire Corner has storytelling next door.

Mark your Calendar: Oct. 11, Family Block Party Ride a Camel or Slide in the Snow With more than 50 activities for the whole family, Family Block Party is sure to please. Live performances, parrot shows, animals to ride and pet, interactive exhibits and a huge toddler play area are just a few of the activities this year.

High Museum of Art Through Sept. 14. Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fri. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun. noon-5 p.m. Also, be sure to check out these adventures: n Pose with a parrot Hold a parrot on your arm or just watch and learn but this memory will stay in your heart forever thanks to Parrot Productions.

n Take a wild ride Step into this exotic land and take a camel for a ride. Sam’s Path Mobile Petting Zoo gives you a chance at this unique opportunity. No hump day required!

10 a.m.-4 p.m. / Mercer University, Atlanta Campus. $5; 1 and younger, free. Each admission includes three activity tickets. More information on how to exhibit, volunteer and buy your tickets today at familyblockparty.com

50 Atlanta Parent September 2014

LAST CHANCE Dream Cars: Innovative Design, Visionary Ideas

New for 2014: n It’s a snowy day in fall Get the chance to tube in real, cool, slippery snow. Cool off on one of SnowKings “King of the Hill” snow slides. Adults and children are welcome to become Snow Kings or Queens. n Super heroes come to life Let your imagination take over in the Marvelthemed interactive Lego area, where you can meet and greet heroes and villains. Feld entertainment and Legoland of Atlanta will be bringing your favorites.

– Jordan Lisvosky

Family Fun Guide

Don’t miss this chance to see some of the rarest and most imaginative cars in the world before they leave Atlanta. From the early 1930s to the 21st century the exhibit features cars by Ferrari, Bugatti, General Motors and Porsche. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; ages 5 and younger, free.

atlantaparent.com

FREE FUN

Your State Parks Day Grab your outdoor gear, pack a picnic, and load the car up. Free admission and parking at participating sites courtesy of Friends of Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites. On Sat., Sept. 27, over 60 parks and historic sites across Georgia will be offering numerous volunteer projects and family-friendly programs in honor of National Public Lands Day. Here are our Top Three choices: Roosevelt’s Little White House Historic Site 401 Little White House Rd., Warm Springs 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tour Franklin D. Roosevelt’s still-furnished vacation home and see his wheelchair made from a kitchen chair. Touch the naturally warm spring in the historic pools. Also see FDR’s cane collection, an iron lung and hand-controlled convertible car. 75 minutes southwest of Atlanta. 706-655-5870 Regular Admission: Adults, $12; ages 6-17, $7; 6 and younger, $2 gastateparks.org/LittleWhiteHouse

Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site 813 Indian Mounds Rd., Cartersville. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Climb to the top of a 63-foot earthen mound or go inside a recreated mud house and walk the riverside nature trail. 45 minutes north of Atlanta. 770-387-3747. Regular Admission: Adults, $6; ages 6-17, $4; 6 and younger, $2 gastateparks.org/EtowahMounds

New Echota Cherokee Capital 1211 Chatsworth Hwy NE., Calhoun. 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Tour several buildings and learn how 1800s Cherokee lived much like their American neighbors. Kids can explore the print shop, furnished houses and nature trail. One hour north of Atlanta. 706-624-1321. Regular Admission: Adults, $7; ages 6-17, $5.50 gastateparks.org/NewEchota – Hayley Markowitz

Tickets On Sale Now! OCT. 8 – 12 Buy Tickets: Ticketmaster.com 800-745-3000 Venue Box Office Groups of 10 or more, call (770) 578-5125

282295

DisneyOnIce.com

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

#DisneyOnIce

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 51

RAMP UP the Fun! Skateboarding Offers Thrills and Challenges (and Sneaks in Exercise) by Ryan Rhodes

n a sunny Saturday afternoon in Kennesaw, dozens of beginner skateboarders gather around Kennesaw Skate Park, trying to catch a glimpse of cool tricks that they hope one day to recreate. More experienced skaters are dropping into the half pipe, and catching air after coming off a ramp, leaving these young spectators in awe. Skateboarding is a fun and challenging sport, and it’s much safer than most parents fear – kids are less likely to get injured on a skateboard than while playing baseball. The sport has many physical benefits, including coordination, concentration, balance and exercise. And it helps children develop an understanding of the importance of practice, patience, and dealing with consequences, parent Eric Tarver of Kennesaw says. Tarver marvels at the effect skateboarding has had on his 10-year-old son, Kevin. “Skateboarding has helped Kevin understand the importance of hard work, not only in the skate park but in the classroom and at home,” Tarver says. “He’s come to understand that when you work hard for something, your efforts will be rewarded.” If your child wants to try skateboarding, follow our guide:

How to Get Started The first step is purchasing the proper gear to ensure that your son or daughter has the safest skateboarding experiences possible. Your child will need: Elbow pads ($14-$30) Wrist guards ($13-$25) Knee pads ($20-$40) Skateboard ($150-$180) Helmet ($25-$30) If your child already owns a bicycle helmet, he can use that instead of buying a new one. “Realistically all you need to skateboard is a board, your pads, and to go outside,” says Jordan Smith, who works for Ambush Board Co. in Kennesaw. When buying your skateboard deck, make sure that you purchase at a store where employees have a good knowledge of skateboarding because the size of board should be matched to the size and weight of your child. Purchasing the wrong size skateboard could lead to injuries or cause damage to the board, which would mean having to buy a new one.

Does Your Child Need Lessons? Kids can learn the basics by watching how-to videos on YouTube, but personal instruction is better. For extra guidance, skate parks and organizations offer lessons to beginner skaters. Mike Gruwell, who operates ChutingStar Skate Park & Shop in Marietta, says lessons start a new skater off with a good foundation. “We highly recommend lessons for the beginner as it’ll help reduce the chances of a preventable injury early on as they learn to skate. Our instructors spend a good amount of time initially on just how to fall. It’s an important self-preservation skill to learn. The basics also focus on how to stand on the board, how to push, how to stop, how to turn, and the like.” Skateboarding lessons provide peace of mind for parents and help guarantee that a child will learn the ins and outs of the sport in a safe environment. Brook Run Skate Park in Dunwoody offers group lessons 9 a.m.-noon on Saturdays for $25 per skater. Cont’d on page 54

52 Atlanta Parent September 2014

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

photo credit: Turning Leaf Photography Kennesaw Skatepark

Where to Skate Most kids climb on a skateboard for the first time in their neighborhood, but skating on a sidewalk, parking lot or street – even a cul-de-sac – is not a good idea. Instead, try one of these skate parks in metro Atlanta and Athens. n The Historic Fourth Ward Park, 830 Willoughby Way, Atlanta. The park offers world-class skateboard amenities as well as a playground and multi-use athletic field. The skate park is sectioned off by skill level. No park supervision, so parents will want to stay with younger children. Free. h4wpc.com/skatepark.htm n Brook Run Skate Park, 4770 N. Peachtree Rd., Dunwoody. This park has concrete bowls and half-pipes. All patrons must complete a signed waiver to enter and skate in the park. Children 11 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Daily fees run from $3-$6. dunwoodyga.gov (click “city of Dunwoody” then Parks and Recreation Department). n Kennesaw Skatepark, 3140 Old 41 Hwy., Kennesaw. This 40,000-square-foot park is the first ever permanent skate park to feature elements modeled on a competitive street skate park plaza design. No park supervision. Free. skatekennesaw.com n ChutingStar Skate Park & Shop, 1349 Old U.S. 41 NW, Marietta. This 3,000-square-foot indoor park is adjacent to the shop, and open 3-8 p.m. Mon.-Thurs. and noon-8 p.m. Fri.-Sun. Skaters must sign a waiver and follow posted rules. Free. 770-445-4000, chutingstar.com. n DeShong Skate Park, 2859 North DeShong Rd., Stone Mountain. Features a twisting and winding streetscape to explore, complete with stairs and grinding rails. No park supervision. Free. 770-822-8840. gwinnettcounty.com (click on Parks and Recreation, then Explore Your Parks) n Duncan Creek Park, 3700 Braselton Hwy, Dacula. This skate complex is the largest skate park available in Gwinnett County, offering community users a safe environment to practice their sport. Free. 678277-0855. gwinnettcounty.com (click on Parks and Recreation, then Explore Your Parks)

atlantaparent.com

n Bay Creek Skate Park, 175 Ozora Rd., Loganville. Outdoor skate park with skateboard and BMX ramps. No park supervision. Free. 770978-5271. gwinnettcounty.com (click on Parks and Recreation, then Explore Your Parks) n Shakerag Knoll Skateboard Park, McIntosh Trail Complex, Peachtree City. Various ramps and half pipes available for skateboard and BMX. No park supervision. Free. 770-631-2542. ptcgovernment.org/ recreation/aug03/ fac.htm n Skate!Decatur, McKoy Park, 1000 Adams St., Decatur. This park offers pipes, rails and ramps. No park supervision. Free. 404-377-0494. decaturga.com (click on City Departments, Active Living) n Skate Park of Athens, 4440 Lexington Rd. An ChutingStar Skate Park & Shop outdoor skate park whose central feature is a 10-foot bowl. No park supervision. Free. 706-613-3991. athensclarkecounty.com/524/Skate-Park

Family Fun Guide

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 53

RAMP Up the FUN

Surprising Fact Females make up only 15 percent of skateboarders.

Source: dropintoskateboarding.com /stats.php

54 Atlanta Parent September 2014

Family Fun Guide

ChutingStar Skate Park & Shop offers individual lessons for $30 an hour, or $40 an hour for two skaters, by appointment, before the indoor skate park opens to the public each day. FC Skate Shop in Cumming (fcskateshop.com) offers individual lessons by appointment on Mondays and Wednesdays starting at 5:30 pm; prices range from $30-$50. Kennesaw Skatepark conducts skateboard day camps periodically, teaching safety and techniques for beginners and more experienced kids. Three camps this summer were sold out. The next camp for ages 6-12 will Sept. 15-19, 9 a.m.-noon. Cost is $100 for a Kennesaw resident, $115 for a nonresident. Many skateboard retailers also can refer customers to instructors. At goskate.com, parents can arrange for group instruction at an Atlanta area park with a certified instructor or for individual instruction, which allows parents to pick the time and location of their child’s lesson. Long time skateboarder and Kennesaw resident Robert Shelton, 25, who was showing his moves at Kennesaw Skatepark, believes that lessons aren’t really necessary but could help beginners. And he adds, “My mom would have also been a lot more OK with skateboarding, too,” if he’d taken lessons. c

atlantaparent.com

If You Go Topgolf 10900 Westside Pkwy., Alpharetta 770-217-0513; topgolf.com/us/alpharetta n Hours: Mon.-Thurs. and Sun., 9 a.m.-midnight; Fri., 9 a.m.-2 a.m.; Sat., 8 a.m.-2 a.m. n Cost: Depending on package; usually $25-45/ hour divided among players.

Get in the Swing at Topgolf

hough I’m a well-seasoned putt-putt player – sinking a hole-in-one every once in a while, have I ever taken a full golf swing? Nope, never! So I was kind of nervous to try Topgolf for the first time with 9- and 12-year-old kids. We learned quickly that you do not have to be skilled on the driving range to enjoy Topgolf, an entertainment complex that’s fun for beginners and experienced golfers. My kids and I actually hit the ball pretty well, considering it was everyone’s first time. We had many giggles every time one of us missed the ball (it seemed like baseball with all the missed swings/strikes we had), but we loved it. A “bay host” showed us around and how to set up the cards each person gets. We learned the different levels of play, including those that track distance of putts, but we stuck with the basic level. Each group plays from its own bay, which aligns with a green. When it’s your turn, you wave your golf club over a button for a ball to come out and you can hit the ball from the grass matt you’re standing atlantaparent.com

on or put it on a tee. Each bay has a computer screen showing the stats of the players. The “bay host” takes food orders. The menu includes burgers and bar food, but also more unusual choices. A “knock off on sushi” appetizer is a burrito-style appetizer shaped in sushi form; it was creative and spicy! The handmade donut holes come with different flavored syrups placed in syringes that you inject into your donut. We got the chocolate and Bavarian crème flavors and they were yummy. A kids’ menu is available, too. Topgolf can accommodate many players at once with more than 100 bays on three different levels. Families with children younger than 7 are usually placed on the ground level, which has a game/lounge area with pool tables, shuffle board, and TVs. Anyone can use the lounge during their visit or while awaiting a bay. You can bring your own golf clubs or use the free ones provided at each bay. Topgolf can be for serious golfers, novice players, or a fun family affair. My kids want to hit the driving range again soon! – Michele Gergans

Fun begins with Fencing

Calling all Beginners!

Let us introduce you to the coolest Olympic sport around! FENCING IS FUN GROUP PROGRAM (ages 5-7; 8-10; 11-13) TRY IT CLASS • (ages 5 + up) COMPETITIVE START PROGRAM (ages 5 + up) SABRE SATURDAY

(a free Learn-to-Fence program for ages 10-13) Sponsored by:

All programs under the direction of U.S. Olympic Coach, Maestro Arkady Burdan

1530 Carroll Dr. NW Atlanta 30318 (404) 603-3600 www.nellyafencers.com

Family Fun Guide

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 55

Center for Civil and Human Rights

Heroes and Hard Times

isiting the Center for Civil and Human Rights was a powerful opportunity to expose my 6-yearold daughter Micah to the idea that we shouldn’t take for granted our many privileges and rights. The center encompasses three permanent galleries and one temporary exhibition space. In the “Spark of Conviction: The Global Human Rights Movement” gallery, the wall of mirrors introduced us to stories from people all over the world who still live in areas plagued by violence and prejudice. We saw portraits of positive historical figures such as Gandhi, Eleanor Roosevelt and Nelson Mandela opposite pictures of dictators who committed acts of evil. Immediately, we recognized the symbolism of good versus evil – Micah

pointed out that the dictators were all photographed in black and white, while those who fought for human rights were in beautiful color canvas prints hanging on the wall like a ray of sunshine. This location also had some history that Micah found disturbing. We learned about how some countries allow children to be employed in “sweat shops” making items that we use here. We saw stories of children making soccer balls all day and working on cocoa plantations for little or no money. We discussed how that differs from the life she knows. We expressed our thankfulness by adding a message to the “I Am Screen.” Ours was simply, “I am thankful 4 chocolate.” The “Rolls Down Like Water: The American Civil Rights Movement” gallery felt heavy and dark from the color on the

walls to the footage on the videos. We were drawn to a bus covered in pictures of those who participated in the “Freedom Rides.” The vehicle in the gallery brought to life the concept that Americans gave up their individual freedom to fight for the freedom of all. There were many video clips throughout the gallery that continued to share these historical moments, including a room that honored the four little girls killed in the 16th Street Baptist Church Bombing in Birmingham, Ala. Stained glass windows that hang high on the wall depict each little girl with her name. Micah asked, “Mommy, what are their names?” As I read each name, I became teary. History does not recall them by individual names, but instead as “the four little girls.” Reading their names made it more personal.

If You Go Center for Civil and Human Rights 100 Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd. 678-999-8990; civilandhumanrights.org n Hours: Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. n Cost: Adults, $15; ages 3-12, $10; 2 and younger, free

56 Atlanta Parent September 2014

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

Saturday, September 27, 2014 ✪ 10:30 AM - 4:30 PM ✪ A family guide, Across Generations, available on the center’s website, includes kid-level explanations of concepts like civil disobedience, discussion and reflection activities, an overview of kids’ rights, descriptions of historical heroes and a crossword puzzle and a word search. While most adults know about “the four little girls,” for instance, few know about a brave 6-year-old named Ruby Bridges, the only African-American in her school in New Orleans. Download a copy of the guide at civilandhumanrights.org/family-guide before you visit to make the experience richer. We also visited the “Voice to the Voiceless” Morehouse College Martin Luther King, Jr. Collection. On display here are portions of Dr. King’s most honored speeches, handwritten on scraps of paper with markings and changes throughout. I used the moments we stood surrounded by his work to share with Micah the value in making your voice heard to change the world for the better. – Caren Lightfoot

petting

✪

live

✪ ✪

zoo

music

kid

✪ ✪

storytelling food

friendly

folklife

trucks

crafts

✪

Major funding for this program is provided by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners under the guidance of the Fulton County Arts Council.

demonstrations

✪

Poppy Garden Club

FAMILY PROGRAM

Sheep to Shawl

AtlantaHistoryCenter.com/Family

Sheep to Shawl

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

Could your baby, toddler or kid be one?

Atlanta, New York, LA

404-636-1974

www.williamreynoldsagency.com atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 57

Taking Flight With Delta

id you know that Delta Air Lines, founded in 1924 in Macon, was the world’s first aerial crop dusting company? On a recent visit to the newly renovated Delta Flight Museum, my family and I learned a lot about Delta’s history. The museum is just north of HartsfieldJackson International Airport. It is inside two former maintenance hangars built in the 1940s that once served as the original Delta headquarters. Hangar One displays the age of the Propeller Planes. Five planes are on exhibit, along with remnants from the past that show the humble beginnings of flight. The exhibit covers the 1920s to the arrival of prop jets in 1959 and captures the evolution of closed cabin comfort, customer service and luxury travel. A sound tunnel bridges the gap between Hangar One, Delta’s past, and exhibits in Hangar Two, Delta’s future. At the entrance of the tunnel, you hear the sound of propeller planes, then gradually, the sound of jet engines as you enter the Jet-Age. Hangar Two covers 1959 to the present and takes you on a journey to the future of flight. The Spirit of Delta, Delta’s first Boeing 767, dominates Hangar Two. The plane was purchased by Delta employees, retirees and friends and donated to Delta in1982. My family and I were amazed as we toured the inside of the Spirit of Delta, which houses exhibits that include vintage designer uniforms and games and toys that were inspired by Delta. The museum has interactive touch

58 Atlanta Parent September 2014

If You Go Delta Flight Museum 1060 Delta Blvd., B-914, Atlanta 404-773-1219 or 404-715-7886; deltamuseum.org n Hours: Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. and Sat.: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sun.: noon-4:30 p.m.; closed Wed. n Cost: $12 adults, $6 ages 5-17, free ages 4 and younger

screens – a big hit with my kids – throughout both exhibits. The highlight of our tour was sitting inside of the Boeing 737 flight simulator. This is the same simulator used to train Delta pilots and the only full-motion professional flight simulator open to the public in the United States. The cost to rent the simulator for up to a group of four (16 and older) is $395. The simulator experience can be added to your cart when purchasing

Family Fun Guide

tickets online. The experience lasts for an hour; it includes a 10-minute pre-flight briefing, 45 minutes of actual flight time, and 5 minutes of post flight review. Insider Tips: The museum does not have lunch options, but plenty of restaurants are nearby. If you are taking younger children be sure to check out the scavenger hunt and preflight check pamphlets at the entrance counter of the museum. – Marteeta Cannon Spradling

atlantaparent.com

Wooo, woo – Alllll Aboard!

hat’s a common phrase heard in my house from my 6-year-old. He’s been fascinated with trains since before he could walk, so I knew we had to visit the Tellus Science Museum on his birthday, to check out the new “All About Trains” exhibit. Although the exhibit is in a relatively small space, in the Cars to Space gallery, it is large with information and fun for any model train enthusiast! The exhibit offers viewers of all ages a guide on how to build your own model train, a brief overview on the construction/history of this exhibit, and a 100-foot model train that brings to life a charming and realistic modelsized seaside village. Besides running up and down the length of the modelsized village to keep up with the moving trains, my son and I both loved the game on the wall of the exhibit – challenging “How observant are you?” You are asked to find 10 items within the model train village. Examples range from Girls jumping rope (my son screamed “easy peasy!!!” when he found it) to Man using a bullhorn (we’ll give you a hint – he’s on one of the cargo ships!). We were proud to find eight of the 10 miniature items and glad this challenge brought the whimsy of the model-sized village to life.

The instructions on how to build a model train exhibit truly broke it down, layer by layer, paint color by paint color, model tree by model tree. My son was hooked. It appeared so simple that even I, who normally shy away from anything involving acrylic paint and children, promised my son we could give it a try. Yes, parents, be ready to take DIY to a whole new but nostalgic level. I was glad I guided my son to the “All About Trains” exhibit first before seeing the rest of the large museum, as it seemed to set the stage for play and exploration in the rest of the galleries. What a perfect place to take my conductor-in-training birthday boy to further his love of all things train. – Valerie Shepherd

If You Go Tellus Science Museum 100 Tellus Drive, Cartersville 770-606-5700; tellusmuseum.org Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, through March 29, 2015 n Cost: $14 adults, $10 ages 3-17, younger than 3, free.

JOIN THE FUN!

October 11 Mercer University Atlanta Campus 10 am – 4 pm

Exhibit, Volunteer, Donate Contact Jordan for more information: 678-222-1911 JLisvosky@atlantaparent.com

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 59

Museum Day Live! Sept. 27

Playground: Haw Creek Park, Cumming

Celebrate culture, history and art for free

Local museums welcome anyone presenting a Museum Day Live Ticket. To learn more and claim your ticket for this event hosted by Smithsonian Magazine visit smithsonian.com/museumdaylive. Some participating locations include: n APEX Museum n Booth Western Museum n Bulloch Hall n Center for Puppetry Arts Museum n Funk Heritage Center n Heritage Sandy Springs Museum n High Museum of Art n Hudgens Center for the Arts n Museum of Design Atlanta

Imagine the colorful, soft-play area in a mall, but then place it in the middle of the woods, designed with a nature theme, and constructed of concrete. Haw Creek Park is a one-of-a-kind play space. n Features: Three “pods” are connected by walking paths in this play area, which has no traditional slides or swings. Kids are challenged to let their imaginations take over. The first pod has two giant acorns and a few giant logs. The second pod has giant logs, big bugs that you can sit on or climb on, and super-sized mushrooms and leaves on the ground. The last pod has an enormous log that has a bench inside, a giant mama bear and her two cubs, and a big log with a climbing net attached. My kids played for nearly two hours on the structures and enjoyed the cool shade that’s provided in two of the three pods.

PARADE: 10am

EAST COBBER

n Amenities: Bike trails and hiking trails wind through this park. The play area is accessible by an unpaved path (approximately 250 feet long and ADA accessible) leading from the pavilion. That path meanders around the park, for a little over three miles. n Location: 2205 Echols Rd., Cumming. The park is open daylight hours. – Cathy Walker

FESTIVAL: 11am Fountains of Olde Towne Shopping Center 736 Johnson Ferry Road Marietta/East Cobb

Parade & Festival

For Parade Application, Festival Booth Forms: www.eastcobber.com

60 Atlanta Parent September 2014

Family Fun Guide

14 September 13, 20

atlantaparent.com

When it Comes to

Picking the Best The fall season is here and so are your favorite apples. Take the family to an apple orchard and pick apples right off the tree. R&A Orchard

B.J. Reece Apple House

9131 Hwy. 52 East, Ellijay. 706-276-3048; reeceorchards.com Sept. 1-Oct. 31, Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sun. 1-6 p.m. U- Pick is a chance to go into the orchards and pick your own apples with your very own hands. You can even try a taste of each apple in season to find your favorite. Gala, Red and Golden Delicious are just a few of the apples in season at this orchard. To pick your own, pay the $2 orchard entrance fee and buy a bag to fill with apples. Prices range from $6 for a half-peck to $18 for a bushel.

Hillcrest Orchards

9696 Hwy. 52 East, Ellijay. 706-273-3838;hillcrestorchards.net Weekends in Sept. - Oct., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. “Apple Pickin’ Jubilee” is this orchards apple picking festival. Small children will especially enjoy picking from Hillcrest’s dwarf trees with apples hanging well within reach. Seven varieties of apples are available to pick. All admission is $7 with apple picking bags costing $6 for a half-peck, $9 for a peck and $14 for a half-bushel.

Mercier Orchards

8660 Blue Ridge Dr., Blue Ridge. 706-632-3411; mercier-orchards.com Weekends in Sept.-Oct., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. This orchard is the largest in the state. The do-it-yourself apple picking starts with a tractor ride to the orchards and a brief talk about Mercier’s history. The tractor ride is $2 per person and $10 for a peck of apples. One peck can be split so each child can have their own bag for picking.

R&A Orchard

5505 Hwy. 52 East. Ellijay. 706-273-3821; randaorchards.com Weekends in Sept.- Oct., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Grab the family and walk or take a wagon to the orchard. Here you only pay for the apples that you pick. Granny Smith, Rome Beauty, Fuji and Golden Delicious are a few of the apples in harvest at the orchard. Call ahead for a reservation for your family.

Mercier Orchards

Red Apple Barn

3379 Tailscreek Rd., Ellijay. 706-635-5898; redapplebarn.com Weekends in Sept.-Oct., Sat. 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. 1-4 p.m. Load the family on the tractor and head out to the orchard. Tractor ride to and from the orchard, tour of the farm, pick an apple from the orchard, a cup of cold cider and an apple cider donut are all included in the $5 admission with 3 and younger being free. Additional bags can be purchased for $4, a quarter peck; $6, a half-peck; $10 for a peck.

Red Apple Barn

– Hayley Markowitz Hillcrest Orchards

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 61

fallfestivals&fairs Celebrate the autumn season with festival fun. Enjoy live entertainment, stroll through an artists market or just hit the midway!

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

Gwinnett County Fair. Gwinnett County Fairgrounds. Thrill rides, live music performances, carnival games, craft and produce competitions, pageants and livestock displays. Sept. 11-21. Mon.-Fri., 5-11 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-midnight; Sun., 1-10 p.m. 2405 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville. 770-963-6522. Adults 6-64, $5; younger than 6, free. Parking, free. North Georgia State Fair. Jim R. Miller Park. A petting zoo, pony rides, carnival rides, fairway games, and car and flower shows are the main attractions. New live entertainment this year includes racing pigs and paddling porkers, sandscapes and The Puppetone Rockers. Sept. 18-28. Mon.-Thurs., 4-11 p.m.; Fri. 4 p.m.-midnight; Sat., 10 a.m.-midnight; Sun., 12:30-10 p.m. 2245 Callaway Rd., Marietta. 770-528-8989. Adults, $7; children 10 and younger, free. Ride tickets, $1.25 each. Parking, $3. Inman Farm Heritage Days. Minter’s Farms. Antique machines, including a printing press, steam engine and cotton gin, are on display at the fair that recalls a simpler time and celebrates the farming community. Live music, crafts for sale and festival foods are also planned. Sept. 19-21. Fri.-Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sun., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 283 Hills Bridge Rd., Fayetteville. 770-461-2840. Free. Yellow Daisy Festival. Stone Mountain Park. More than 400 artists and craftspeople will be displaying and selling their works, plus you’ll find fun in the Children’s Corner, craft demonstrations, festival food and live entertainment. Sept. 4-7. Thurs., Fri., Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Highway 78, Stone Mountain. 770-498-5690. Free; parking, $10.

Gwinnett County Fair

Marietta Streetfest. Marietta Square. Classic cars, live bluegrass music, an artist market and a children’s zone featuring inflatables and makeand-take crafts make for a fun-filled day. Sept. 20. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. 50 N. Park Square, Marietta. 770-794-5710. Free.

Hapeville Happy Days Festival. Jess Lucas Downtown Park. Live music Friday; games, rides, and arts and crafts. Sept. 19-20. Fri., 7-11 p.m.; Sat., Festival 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 680 S. Central Ave., Hapeville. 404-6698269. Free.

Johns Creek Fall Festival. Newton Park. Crafts, carnival games, moonwalks, a giant slide, obstacle courses, food and live music. Sept. 6. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 3150 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek. 678-512-3200. Free.

Art in the Square. Downtown Gainesville. Live entertainment, including belly dancing and music, food from local restaurants and more. Sept. 20-21. Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 10 am.-5 p.m. Downtown Gainesville. 770-297-1141. Free.

Pine Log Arts and Crafts Fair. Pine Log UMC Campground. Live entertainment, barbecue, and arts and crafts. Sept. 6-7. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Off Highway 411, Rydal. 770-607-5350. 12 and older, $3; children younger than 12, free. Taste of Kennesaw. Downtown Kennesaw. Taste food from local restaurants, enjoy live entertainment, and take the kids to the children’s zone with inflatables, a trackless train and more. Sept. 6. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-423-1330. Free admission, tickets for samples, $1-$4. Atlanta Arts Festival. Piedmont Park. Fine arts exhibit showcasing 200 artists, entertainment, children’s activities and food. Sept. 13-14. Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 400 Park Dr. NE, Atlanta. 770-941-9660. Free.

Inman Farm Heritage Days

62 Atlanta Parent September 2014

Taste of Smyrna Festival of Delectable. Downtown Smyrna. Taste food from local restaurants, enjoy live music and take the kids to the interactive kids zone. Sept. 13. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. 200 Village Green Cir., Smyrna. 770-423-1330. Free, tickets for samples, $1-$4.

Family Fun Guide

East Cobber Parade & Festival. Fountains of Olde Towne shopping center. Live entertainment, arts and crafts, carnival games and parade. Sept. 13. Parade starts at 10 a.m., festival 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 736 Johnson Ferry Rd., Marietta. 770-640-7070. Free. Honeybee Festival. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Come and celebrate this crucial part of Georgia agriculture. Don’t miss the bee costume contest, games and crafts. Sept. 13. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. Adults 13 and older, $5; ages 3-12, $3; 2 and younger, Free. JapanFest. Gwinnett Center. Experience Japanese culture with musical and dance performances, martial arts demos, a tea ceremony, workshops about Japanese kimonos, kids’ area with crafts and games and much more. Sept. 20-21. Sat., 10 a.m.6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 404-842-0736. Adults, $8; children 6 and younger, free.

atlantaparent.com

Roswell Arts Festival. Roswell Town Square. Live performances and arts and crafts for purchase. Children’s activities and food vendors. Sept. 20-21. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Downtown Roswell. 770-6413705. Free. Sandy Springs Festival. Heritage Green. Children’s park, live entertainment and more than 600 artists, crafters, vendors and entertainers. Lightning 10K and 5K races and pet parade. Sept. 20-21. Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Cir., Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111. Adults, $5; ages 6-17, $2; younger than 5, free. Shakerag Arts and Crafts Festival. Shakerag Knoll. More than 100 art vendors selling handmade jewelry, pottery, candles and more; children’s activities, live entertainment and food. Sept. 20-21. Sat., noon-6 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 191 McIntosh Tr., Peachtree City. 770-631-2542. Free. Suwanee Fest. Town Center Park. Celebrate the City of Suwannee with games, kids activities, all-day on-stage entertainment, a parade and more. Sept. 20-21. Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., noon-6 p.m. 370 Buford Hwy., Suwannee. 770-945-8996. Free. Candler Park Fall Fest. Candler Park. Familyfriendly neighborhood festival with live music, artists, kids’ area, food vendors and 5K road race. Sept. 27-28. Sat.-Sun., noon-9 p.m. Corner of McLendon Ave. and Candler Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-895-9276. Free.

atlantaparent.com

Duluth Fall Festival. Taylor Miller Park. Live entertainment, arts and crafts, parade, 5K road race and silent auction. Sept. 27-28. Sat., 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. W. Lawrence St. and Main St., Duluth. 855-385-8841. Free. Fall Folklife Festival. Smith Family Farm at the Atlanta History Center. Enjoy a variety of farm demonstrations, music and kid-friendly activities representing traditions of the Southeast. Sept. 27. 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; 3 and younger, free. Riverfest Arts and Crafts Festival. Boling Park. Arts and crafts, children’s area, antiques and live entertainment. Sept. 27-28. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1200 Marietta Hwy., Canton. 770-704-5991. Adults, $5; children 10 and younger, free. Crossroads in Crabapple Antique and Arts Festival. Antique dealers and local artists are featured at this one day show in Historic Crabapple. Food vendors, children’s activities and roaming musicians. Oct. 4. 10 a.m.-5p.m. 12624 Broadwell Rd., Alpharetta. Free. c

Family Fun Guide

East Cobber Parade & Festival

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 63

Calendar

September S M T W TH F S

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

Events may be canceled or changed after our deadline.

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

classes Mommy and Me Preschool Program. Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History. Different activities each week. Sept. 4, 11, 18 and 25. 10 and 11:30 a.m. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-427-2117. Recommended for ages 3-5. Adults, $7.50; ages 4-12, $5.50; ages 3 and younger, free. Home Depot Kid’s Workshop. All locations. Learn tool safety while building a craft and receive a kid-size orange apron. First Sat. of each month. Sept. 6. 9 a.m.-noon. Homedepot.com. Ages 5-12, free. INK Craft Weeks. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids. Dragon craft, Sept. 1-5; 9/11 craft, Sept. 7-12; Elephant craft, Sept. 15-19; It’s Fall craft, Sept. 22-26. $1 with museum admission. Mon.Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun., 1-5 p.m. 999 Chestnut St., Gainesville. 770-536-1900. Mon.-Sat., $8; Sun., $6. Indoor Basic Archery. Panola Mountain State Park. Learn archery basics. Equipment provided. Sept. 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 and 28. 10 a.m.-noon and 2-4 p.m. 2600 Highway 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770389-7801. Pre-register. $10; parking, $5. Magic Monday. Atlanta History Center. Storytime, sing-a-longs and crafts. Sept. 8. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4110. Adults, $6.50; ages 5 and younger, $5.50. American Girl Crafts. American Girl Boutique and Bistro. Have fun making crafts inspired by the stories of American Girl. Sept. 4, 18, 25, BeForever Postcard Craft, 4-6 p.m.; Grandparents Day Card Craft, Sept. 5. 4:30-6:30 p.m., Sept. 6, 9-11 a.m., Sept. 7, noon-2 p.m.; Autumn Card Craft, Sept. 23. 4-6 p.m. Ages 8 and older. 1202 North Point Circle, Alpharetta. 877-247-5223. Free. Mice Tours. Marietta Museum of History. Mascots Murray and Etta mouse introduce history through tours, storytime and craft. Sept. 10. 10:30 a.m. 1 Depot St., Marietta. 770-794-5710. Reservations required. Ages 3-5, $5. Second Thursday Program. Southeastern Railway Museum. Parents and tots program includes circle time, an activity and craft. Ages 1-4. Sept. 11. 10:30 a.m.-noon. 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth. 770-495-0253. $7 per child, one adult free, additional adult, $8. Turtle Tours. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum. Museum mascots Sandy the chipmunk and Spring the turtle introduce history through stories, hands-on exhibits and crafts. Sept. 13. 11 a.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Cir., Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111. Recommended for ages 2-5. Donations encouraged. Toddler Thursdays. High Museum of Art. Create masterpieces to compliment the museum’s current exhibits. Ages 2-4. Thursdays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404733-4400. Free with admission. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free.

64 Atlanta Parent September 2014

Please call the event beforehand to confirm dates and times.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

BELTLINE LANTERN PARADE Eastside Trail SEPT. 6. 8:30 P.M. Light up the BeltLine! Bring a lantern to join in the glowing nighttime parade that kicks off Art on the Atlanta BeltLine, Atlanta’s largest temporary public art exhibition. Lanterns can be any size or shape; the parade now includes six giant lantern creatures each over ten feet tall! The parade steps off with The Seed & Feed Marching Abominables leading the way with Wasted Potential Brass Band brings it on home! Line up at Irwin Street and Krog Street; the parade concludes at Piedmont Park’s lawn adjacent to Park Tavern. 404-477-3636. Free.

Yoga for Kids. Johns Creek Yoga. Preschool and children’s yoga classes each Sat. Ages 3-5, 9:30-10:30 a.m.; ages 6-9, 11 a.m.-noon. 11705 Jones Bridge Rd., Johns Creek. 770619-1283. $12. Saturday Morning Art Classes. Vinings School of Art. Take a drawing, painting or pottery class. Supplies included. Ages 2-13. Sat. 10 and 11 a.m. 1675 Cumberland Pkwy., Smyrna. 678-213-4278. Pre-register. $15, siblings $12. Build and Grow Clinics. Lowes. Clinics teach kids to build wooden crafts. Free apron, goggles and merit patch. Visit lowesbuildandgrow.com for times and locations. 800-445-6937. Pre-register. Free. Crafts at Lakeshore Learning. Lakeshore Learning. Make a different craft each week. Sat. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 4287 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-578-3100. Free. Drop-In and Draw. Gas-Art Gifts at North DeKalb Mall. Make a different project each week. Every Sat. in Sept. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Every Sun. in Sept. 1- 5 p.m. 2050 Lawrenceville Hwy. 404-801-4926. $5.

exhibits The Civil War in Sandy Springs. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum. Exhibit detailing the Civil War in Sandy Springs featuring letters, diaries, family artifacts and cannon shells. Through April 2015. Wed. and Sat., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Cir., Sandy Springs. 404-8519111. Adults, $3; ages 6-12, $1; ages 5 and younger, free.

Family Fun Guide

Native Lands: Indians and Georgia. Atlanta History Center. Celebrates the state’s original inhabitants beginning with the Mississippian peoples and continuing with their descendants, the Creeks and the Cherokees. Through October 12. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Sun., noon-5:30 p.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; ages 3 and younger, free. Imaginary Worlds: A New Kingdom of Plant Giants. Atlanta Botanical Garden. An exhibit featuring twenty-eight topiary-like sculptures includes three life-sized gorillas, an earth goddess, a shaggy dog and a unicorn. Through Oct. 31. Tues.-Sun. 9 a.m.7 p.m. Thur., until 10 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95; ages 2 and younger, free. Bodies: The Exhibition. Atlantic Station. An intimate and informative view into the human body. Mon.Thurs. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Fri.- Sun. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Last ticket sold 1 hour before closing. 265 18th St., Atlanta. 404-496-4274. Adults, $24; ages 3-11, $16. Cinderella’s Tightrope: Adapted Childhood Tales Special Exhibit Gallery. Center for Puppetry Arts. See how characters like Cinderella and the Little Mermaid from classic childhood tales can be adapted for the puppet stage. Tues.-Fri., 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Sat.; 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404-873-3391. Museum admission, $8.25. Free admission Thursdays from 1-3 p.m. Dolphin Tales. Georgia Aquarium. The live show incorporates dolphins, actors and special effects. Multiple shows per day, times vary. Reservations recommended. Sun.- Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404581-4000. Admission price depends on date of visit; Adults, $38.95; ages 3-12, $32.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

atlantaparent.com

Calendar

HARVEST MOON FESTIVAL

Dream Cars: Innovative Design, Visionary Ideas. High Museum of Art. Exhibit featuring cars by Ferrari, Bugatti, General Motors and Porsche from the early 1930s to the 21st century. Through Sept. 14. Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fri. until 9 p.m. Sun. noon-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; ages 5 and younger, free. Goose Bumps! The Science of Fear. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. This highly interactive exhibit examines the physiological, neurological and sociological aspects of the often misunderstood emotion of fear. Hands-on activities encourage visitors to experience fear in a safe and enjoyable environment. Opens Sept. 27. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. noon-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6400. Adults, $18; ages 3-12, $16; ages 2 and younger, free. Tech City. Gwinnett Environmental Heritage Center. Solve real-world problems that engineers face. Meet various challenges by using engineering approaches for designing, building, testing and modifying. Opens Sept. 29. Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sun. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. Adults, $10.50; ages 13-22, $8.50; ages 3-12, $6.50; ages 2 and younger, free.

The Children’s Museum of Atlanta SEPT. 6-7. SAT. NOON AND 3 P.M., SUN. 3 P.M. Learn about The Harvest Moon Festival, a Korean holiday held on the 15th day of the Eighth Moon. Children are invited to hear the story “Sori’s Harvest Moon Day: A Story of Korea,”and then use fresh fruits and vegetables to stamp designs or pictures. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-6595437. $12.75; younger than 1, free. childrensmuseumatlanta.org

All About Trains. Tellus Museum. Exhibit featuring model trains on 100 feet of track running past scenes of an imaginary village, displays about the basics of model railroading, how to build railroad scenes and popular model scales. Through March 2015. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. Adults, $14; ages 3-17, $10; ages 2 and younger, free.

Anne Frank in the World: 19291945. Parkside Shopping Center. Learn about the life of the Frank family in Amsterdam. Includes replica of Anne’s room. Tues.-Thurs. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Fri. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sat.-Sun. noon-4 p.m. 5920 Roswell Rd., Sandy Springs. 770-2061558. Ages 10 and older, free.

FALL FAMILY

FUN

Win great prizes from our Fall Family Fun advertisers. Go to atlantaparent.com by September 19 to enter.

9TH ANNUAL FAMILY CORN MAZE SEPT. 6-NOV. 2 FRI-SAT-SUN at THE FARM LOCATED 12 MILES NORTH of GAINESVILLE

770-869-3999 5340 Cornelia Highway (Hwy. 365) Alto, Ga 30510 www.jaemorfarms.com

The Pumpkin Patch at Yule Forest V Pick pumpkins right off the vine V Sunflower Garden Bee house V Puppet show Hayrides V Petting zoo V Fun zone and so much more! 770-954-9356 Yu l e F o r e s t . c o m FEAR THE WOODS.com (Night Time Weekends Only)

AHaunted House AHaunted Hayride AZombie paintball Hayrides

atlantaparent.com

Milk a Cow Pig Races Petting Farm Playground Mini Golf Apple Museum School Field Trips weekdays

706-273-3838

www.hillcrestorchards.net applelan@ellijay.com

Family Fun Guide

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 65

Corn Mazes

Where Ahh-MAZE-ing autumn adventures grow! n Cagle’s Family Farm Corn Maze. Explore the 10-acre corn maze, enjoy tasty concessions and gather around the bonfire. Aug. 29-Nov. 14. Fri., 5-11 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 355 Stringer Rd., Canton. 770-345-5591. Corn maze: $10; younger than 3, free; haunted barn, $12; farm tour, $7; hayride and bonfire, $7. n Buford Corn Maze. Corn maze, hayride, Haunted Forest, corn box, pony rides. Aug. 30-Nov. 16. Fri., 6-10 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.- 10 p.m.; Sun., noon-10 p.m. 4470 Bennett Rd., Buford. 678-835-7198. Corn maze: $14; Haunted Forest: $14; combo corn maze/Haunted Forest, $22. n Buck’s Corn Maze. Explore this 12-acre corn maze with a beautiful view of the Appalachian Mountains. Sept. 6-Nov. 2. Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 1923 New Hope Rd., Dawsonville. 706-344-8834. Adults, $8; ages 5-10, $7; 4 and younger, free with paid adult. n Jaemor Farms. Experience 8 acres of corn; features a pumpkin train, hayrides, apple cannons, duck races, farm slide and more. Sept. 6-Nov. 2. Fri., 3-10 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 1-6 p.m. 5340 Cornelia Hwy., Alto. 770-869-3999. Corn maze, Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $9; ages 2 and younger, free with paying adult. “Value access pass” includes maze, hayride and all attractions, $12. With petting zoo, $15.

66 Atlanta Parent September 2014

Jaemor Farms

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

n North Georgia Corn Maze. Find your way through the 7-acre maze, relax on the hayride, enjoy a movie at dark or venture into the haunted “House of Burm” and take the elevator down to the “Dungeon of Fear”! Sept. 13-Nov. 16. Fri., 6-10 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-7 p.m. 559 Tom Bell Rd., Cleveland. 1-800-959-1874. Adults, $10; ages 4-10, $9; hayride and House of Burm, extra.

MAKES A FOUR-LEAF CLOVER SEEM FAIRLY ROUTINE.

n Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze. A 12acre maze, pumpkin patch, “Great Goat Trek” attraction, hayride and bonfire. Sept. 13- Nov. 23. Fri., 4-10 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 4520 Highway 53 E, Dawsonville. 1-888-674-8257. Maze, $10; combo hayride/maze, $13. 4 and younger, free. n Colonel Cob’s Corn Maze. Admission to corn maze includes attractions such as a petting zoo, giant mountain slide, inflatable cow jumper and pumpkin patch. Sept. 26- Nov. 2. Fri.-Sat., noon-10 p.m.; Sun., 1-5 p.m. 797 Macedonia Church Rd., Oxford. 770-786-8805. Corn maze and hayride, $10 ; 3 and younger, free. n Uncle Bob’s Pumpkin Patch and Tricky Crop Maze. Redwine Farms. See farm animals, try the crop maze, listen to storytelling, take a hayride, see puppet shows and choose a pumpkin. Sept. 21-Nov.16. Fri. and Sun., 1:30-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 3781 E. Happy Valley Cir., Newnan. 770-253-8100. $16; 2 and younger, free. n Washington Farms. Eight and a half acres of ears to explore, with new jumping pillows. Ride on the cow train, see pig races, take a romp in the corn box or a hayride, then choose a pumpkin. Sept. 27-Nov. 2. Fri., 4-11 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun., 1-6 p.m. 5691 Hog Mountain Rd., Bogart. 706-769-0627. Ages 5 and older, $12 for farm fun and corn maze; ages 2-4, $8 for farm activities and corn maze; younger than 2, free. c

No Time To Clean?

since 1988

AMERICAN HOME CLEANING • A CHRIST-centered Home Cleaning Ministry • Licensed, Bonded, Insured, over 85,000 homes cleaned • Distributed to ﬁne homes in litter free protective bags under 6/18/2002 federal supreme court ruling.

(770) 795-8399 Uncle Shuck’s

atlantaparent.com

Sponsor of www.TheWageRevolution.com We are a non-proﬁt that employs low income single Moms and allows then to earn a livable wage. Proverbs 3:5,6.

Family Fun Guide

#1 Cleaning Special

$47.95

#2 Cleaning Special

$77.95

1 Bedroom, 1 bathroom, Kitchen and Breakfast Room, Living Room, Halls and Foyer. All work 100% guaranteed! Up to 800 sq ft

3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 Bathrooms, Kitchen and Breakfast Room, Living Room, Dining Room, 1 Stairs, Halls and Foyer.

#3 Cleaning Special

#4 Cleaning Special

$157.95

WHOLE HOUSE ULTRA DEEP CLEAN

Includes #2 Special PLUS we deep clean by hand all baseboards, easy-off inside oven, inside fridge and up to 3 Ceiling Fans.

$317.95 A two cleaner team for all day for the ultimate deep clean.

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 67

Win

FRE E Stuff!

Every Friday, we give you free stuff! This month, enter to win family packs of tickets for the following: Week 1 JapanFest Sat. Sept. 20-21 Week 2 North Georgia State Fair Thurs. Sept. 18-28 Week 3 Family Block Party Sat. Oct. 11 Week 4 Zoo Atlanta

Visit facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine to enter to win each week.

Plus, a giveaway just for new moms! Atlanta Parent has teamed up with PacaPod and pediped to keep both mom and baby in top style! For mom a beautifully crafted PacaPod Jura baby bag, a $150 value. For baby a $100 gift certificate to pediped. You can enter this giveaway every day in the month of September.

Sign up for our enewsletter at bitly.com/apmnews to make sure you don’t miss out on future giveaways. 68 Atlanta Parent September 2014

JAPANFEST Gwinnett Center SEPT. 20-21. SAT., 10 A.M.-6 P.M.; SUN., 10 A.M.-5 P.M. Experience Japanese culture with musical and dance performances, martial arts demos, a tea ceremony, workshops about Japanese kimonos, kids’ area with crafts and games and much more. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 404-842-0736. Adults, $8; ages 6 and younger, free. japanfest.org

Outside the Box. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Create cities, buildings, castles and bridges with cardboard boxes, cylinders and tubes. Invent high-powered paper airplanes or walking robots. Through Dec. 31. Museum closed Wednesdays. Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free admission after 1 p.m. second Tuesday of the month made possible through a Target grant. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-6595437. $12.75; younger than 1, free. Sea Monsters Revealed: Aquatic Bodies. Georgia Aquarium. An exhibit of sea creatures includes an 18-foot-long, 3,000 pound whale shark. Sun. Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-581-4000. Admission price depends on date of visit; Adults, $38.95; ages 3-12, $32.95; ages 2 and younger, free. Centennial Olympic Games Exhibit. Atlanta History Center. Learn about the 1996 Olympic Games held in Atlanta. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Sun. noon-5:30 p.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; 3 and younger, free. Quarry Exhibit at Stone Mountain. Stone Mountain Park. This outdoor display was developed to tell the story of an industry that played a significant part in the history of Stone Mountain. Mon.-Sun., dawn to dusk. 770-498-5690. U.S. Hwy 78 E., Stone Mountain. Free. Parking, $10.

ghost tours Decatur Ghost Tours. Decatur. Come meet some of Decatur’s ghosts on this historical, paranormal walking tour of downtown Decatur. Fridays and Saturdays, 8 p.m. 101 East Court Sq., Decatur. 404-296-7771. Reservations required. Adults, $15; 10 and younger, $12. Ghost Tours. Lawrenceville. Listen to vivid stories of the strange and supernatural as guides lead groups on a 90-minute adventure. Every Fri. and Sat. through Sept., 8:30 p.m. 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. Adults $12; 16 and younger, $9.

Family Fun Guide

Roswell Georgia Paranormal Investigations. Roswell. Take a walking ghost tour led by paranormal investigators. Every Fri., Sat. and every other Sun. 8 p.m. 617 Atlanta St., Roswell. 770-649-9922. Adults, $15; ages 12 and younger, $10. Ghosts of Marietta. Marietta. A 90-minute lantern led walk through historic Marietta. Thurs.-Sat. 8:30 p.m. 131 Church St., Marietta. 770-425-1006. Adults, $17; ages 12 and younger, $12.

movies Pandas: The Journey Home. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Opens Sept. 2. Witness the incredible story of loveable and highly endangered pandas and their reintroduction into the wild. See fernbankmuseum.org for show times. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6400. IMAX tickets: Adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; 2 and younger, free. Movies and Music in the Park. Emory Point. Enjoy complimentary live music and movies with your family in Emory Point Park. Music and activities begin at 6 p.m. Movie begins at sundown. Sept. 13, “The Great Gatsby.” 1727 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. Free. Movies Under the Stars. Gerald Matthews Sports Complex. Movie begins at dusk (9 p.m.). Bring your popcorn and a blanket. Sept. 13, “The LEGO Movie.” 1935 McDonough Rd., Hampton. 770-477-3766. Free. Great White Shark. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Through Oct. 16. A documentary following one of the greatest undersea predators. See fernbankmuseum.org for show times. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6400. IMAX tickets: Adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; 2 and younger, free.

atlantaparent.com

Calendar

FUN FOR KIDS AND GRANDPARENTS

music Roswell Riverside Sounds Concert Series. Riverside Park. Outdoor concert series in the park. Rosco Bandana, Sept.6. Concerts from 7-9 p.m. with food trucks available from 6-9 p.m. 575 Riverside Rd., Roswell. 770641-3705. Free. Pickin’ on the Square. Newnan. Acoustic musicians of all genres and skill levels are welcome to join in on the first and third Saturday of every month. 11 a.m. on Sept. 6 and 20. Historic Downtown Newnan Courthouse Square at LaGrange St. and E. Broad St. 770-253-8283. Free. Summer Concert Series. Thrasher Park. Terry Lee and the GT’s, Sept. 12. 7:30-9:30 p.m. Playground adjacent to concert area. Picnic dinners permitted. 93 Park Dr., Norcross. 678-421-2049. Free. Concerts by the Springs. Heritage Green. Bogey and the Viceroy, Sept. 14. Bring picnic baskets, coolers and blankets. Smoking and pets prohibited. Lawn opens at 5 p.m., concerts from 7-8:30 p.m. 6110 Bluestone Rd., Sandy Springs. 404-8519111. Free. Friday Night Music Remix. High Museum of Art. Live music every third Friday of the month. Extended hours and access to special exhibitions. Friday, Sept. 19. 5-10 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-7335000. $10.

CRAFTS AT AMERICAN GIRL Have fun making crafts inspired by the stories of American Girl. Sept. 4, 18, 25, BeForever Postcard Craft, 4-6 p.m.; Grandparents Day Card Craft, Sept. 5, 4:30-6:30 p.m.; Sept. 6, 9-11 a.m.; Sept. 7, noon2 p.m.; Autumn Card Craft, Sept. 23, 4-6 p.m. Ages 8 and older. 1202 North Point Circle, Alpharetta. 877-247-5223. Free. americangirl.com/atlanta GRANDPARENTS’ DAY Zoo Atlanta Sept. 7. 9:30 a.m. -5:30 p.m. Make a trip to the Zoo a family affair – treat grandparents to a special day! Enjoy free admission for up to two grandparents with purchase of any full-price adult’s or child’s general admission ticket. Mention “Grandparents’ Day” at Zoo Atlanta Admissions to redeem this discount. 800 Cherokee Ave., Atlanta. 404-624-9453. Adults, $21.99; ages 3-11, $16.99; 2 and younger, free. zooatlanta.org GRANDPARENTS’ DAY Chattahoochee Nature Center, Sept. 7. 1- 4 p.m. Honor grandparents with an old fashioned ice cream social (until 3 p.m.), games on the meadow, and story time. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Grandparents eat for free, everyone else $4 plus admission. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free. chattnaturecenter.org

Embracing Strengthening

Metro Atlanta Families since 1983

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

Family Fun Guide

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 69

WIN a Birthday Party from:

Brunswick Bowling Center 770-988-8813 - Marietta 770-840-8200 - Norcross Brunswicks.com

Chattahoochee Nature Center 770-992-2055 ChattNatureCenter.org

Dragon Goal 404-734-0718 DragonGoalUsa.com

Leapin’ Lizards 404-371-9700 LeapinLizardsPlay.com

Olivia’s Dollhouse Tea Room 404-908-9073 oliviasdollhouseatl.com

Razzle Dazzle 404-806-9248 RazzleDazzleGirls.com

Tiny Towne Drive Safely 470-545-7227 TinyTowne.com

Visit Facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine to enter to win through Sept. 29! 70 Atlanta Parent September 2014

NIGHT HIKES FRIDAY NIGHT HIKE Dunwoody Nature Center Sept. 26. 7:30 -8:30 p.m. Enjoy this rare chance to hike and connect with nature after-hours, allowing for a completely different sensory experience as the night animals take over. The hike will be followed by cocoa, stargazing, and a warming fire. No strollers. 5343 Roberts Dr., Dunwoody. 770-394-3322. free. dunwoodynature.org MOONLIGHT MOUNTAIN HIKE Panola Mountain State Park Sept. 6. 7 p.m. Grab your boots and explore the mountain during this night hike. 2600 Highway 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. Pre-register. Ages 8 and older, $7; $5 parking. gastateparks.org/PanolaMountain Music at Noon. Centennial Olympic Park. Enjoy lunch and live music performed by local artists. Tues. and Thurs. through Oct. Concerts from noon-1 p.m., 265 Park Ave. West, Atlanta. 404-2234412. Free. Wednesday Wind Down. Centennial Olympic Park. Concert series includes jazz, R&B and blues performed by local and national touring acts. Wednesdays through Sept. Concerts from 5:30-8 p.m., 265 Park Ave. West, Atlanta. 404-223-4412. Free. Friday Night Live. Atlantic Station. Up-and-coming artists perform on the stage in Central Park; genres range from country to rock, jazz to blues. Last Friday of the month. Sept. 26. Concerts begin around 7 p.m. 18th St. NW., Atlanta. 404-733-1221. Free. Glover Park Concert Series. Glover Park. Pack a picnic and blanket to hear the Paradocs. Sept. 26. 8 p.m. 50 Park Sq., Marietta. 770-794-5601. Free. Moonlight and Music Concert Series. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse Lawn. Yacht Rock Schooner, Sept. 26. Concert begins at 8 p.m. Bring chairs, blankets and food. Alcohol is prohibited. 185 Crogan St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-2639. Free. Drum Circle. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Chuck Cogliandro leads a drum circle open to drummers and spectators. Sept. 27. 8 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. $5 donation.

nature Adventure Cubs. Zoo Atlanta. Learn about animals on the African savanna, tour the zoo and meet an animal ambassador. Sept. 3 and 6. 10-11 a.m. 800 Cherokee Ave., Atlanta. 404-624-5822. Recommended for ages 3-4. Reservations are requested. $12 per person includes zoo admission. International Moon Watch. Tellus Science Museum. Enjoy this annual International Observe the Moon Night that encourages people to use the 20-inch telescope in the Observatory to take notice of our nearest neighbor, the moon. Sept. 6. 8:30-10: 30 p.m. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. $5 per person.

Family Fun Guide

Friday Night Hike. Dunwoody Nature Center. Enjoy this rare chance to hike and connect with nature after-hours allowing for a completely different sensory experience as the night animals take over, and nature truly runs its course. The hike will be followed by cocoa, stargazing, and a warming fire. No strollers. Sept. 26. 7:30 -8:30 p.m. 5343 Roberts Dr. Dunwoody. 770-394-3322. Free. Moonlight Mountain Hike. Panola Mountain State Park. Night hike up the mountain. Sept. 6. 7 p.m. 2600 Highway 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. Pre-register. Ages 8 and older, $7; $5 parking. Night Treks. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Explore colorful evening trails and discover how plants and animals in the forest adapt and prepare for upcoming seasonal changes. Sept. 6. 7:30-9 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. Preregister. Adults, $8; ages 3-12, $6; family, $20. Trail Hikes. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Journey through the CNC trails using biofacts and activities to spark your curiosity. Saturdays and Sundays at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free. Tree Top Excursions: Introduction Climb. Panola Mountain State Park. Explore the tree canopy using ropes and harnesses. Registration required. Sept. 13 and 20. 1 and 3 p.m. 2600 Highway 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. Ages 8 and older, $15; $5 parking. Treasure Hunt. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Search for golden and sparkly treasures in the Children’s Garden. Meet in the Levy Parterre. Through Sept. Thur. 10:30 a.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Free with admission. Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95; ages 2 and younger, free. Weekends in the Naturalist Center. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Activities include animal encounters, science explorations and more. Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Activities included with price of admission. Adults, $18; ages 3-12, $16; younger than 3, free.

atlantaparent.com

Calendar Feeding Time. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Join a naturalist for an in-depth look at one of the resident animals as the Wildlife Dept. feeds them. Tues. and Sat., 4 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Ages 5 and older, $10 plus admission. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free. Stroller Cubs. Zoo Atlanta. Programs for babies2 years and parents/caregivers. Sept. 24 and 27. 10-11 a.m. 800 Cherokee Ave., Atlanta. 404624-5822. Reservations are requested. $12 per person includes zoo admission.

special events Fridays -N- Duluth. Duluth Town Green. Activities include movies, musicians and children’s activities each Friday night. Sept. 5, 12, 19 and 26. 6-9 p.m. Food for purchase or bring a picnic. 3167 Main St., Duluth. 770-476-3434. Free. Atlanta Beltline Lantern Parade. Eastside Trail. Bring a lantern to join in the glowing nighttime parade that kicks off Art on the Atlanta BeltLine, Atlanta’s largest temporary public art exhibition. Sept. 6. 8:30 p.m. Line up at Irwin Street and Krog Street; parade concludes at Piedmont Park’s lawn adjacent to Park Tavern. 404-477-3636. Free. Fulton County Free Saturday. High Museum of Art. Admission is free for Fulton County residents with I.D. on the first Saturday of each month until 1 p.m. Sept. 6. Regular hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Free.

atlantaparent.com

Harvest Moon Festival. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Learn about The Harvest Moon Festival, a Korean holiday held on the 15th day of the Eighth Moon. Listen to the story “Sori’s Harvest Moon Day: A Story of Korea”, and then use fresh fruits and vegetables to stamp designs or pictures. Sept. 6-7. Sat. Noon-3 p.m., Sun. 3 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $12.75; younger than 1, free.

SHAKE A TALE FEATHER WITH MOTHER GOOSE

Arts and Rec: Family Day. High Museum of Art. This interactive family day features race cars, demonstrations, art-making and more. Sept. 7. Noon-4 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Event included with general admission. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; ages 5 and younger, free. Grandparents Day. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Honor grandparents with an old fashioned ice cream social, games on the meadow, and story time. Sept. 7. 1-4 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Grandparents eat for free, everyone else $4 plus admission. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free. Sunday Funday. East Cobb Park. Enjoy live entertainment and family fun. Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic dinner. Sept. 7. 4-8 p.m. 3322 Roswell Rd. Marietta. 770-5913160. Free. History Tours. Piedmont Park. Learn about Piedmont Park’s history and the city of Atlanta. Saturdays through Dec. 11 a.m. Meet at the Green Market Info booth near 12th St. park entrance. Piedmont Park. 404-875-7275. Free.

Family Fun Guide

Center for Puppetry Arts THROUGH SEPT. 21. THURS.-FRI. 10 A.M. AND 11:30 A.M.; SAT. 11 A.M., 1 AND 3 P.M.; SUN. 1 AND 3 P.M. Help Mary Mary find Mother Goose by sorting out nursery rhymes with Humpty Dumpty, Little Bo Peep, Jack and Jill and other citizens of Rhymeville. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404-873-3391. Ages 2 and older, $16.50. puppet.org

September 2014 Atlanta Parent 71

GOOSE BUMPS! THE SCIENCE OF FEAR Fernbank Museum of Natural History GRAND OPENING ACTIVITIES, SEPT. 27, 10 A.M.-2 P.M. EXHIBIT MON.-SAT. 10 A.M.-5 P.M., SUN. NOON-5 P.M. THROUGH JAN. 4, 2015 This highly interactive exhibit examines the physiological, neurological and sociological aspects of the often misunderstood emotion of fear. Hands-on activities encourage visitors to experience fear in a safe and enjoyable environment, while also measuring their responses and thinking about what it means to them. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6400. Adults, $18; ages 3-12, $16; ages 2 and younger, free. fernbankmuseum.org

WORKSHOPS CLASSES

Alive After Five. Downtown Roswell. Enjoy a break from the busy workweek with live music, outside vendors, late hours at retailers, face painting and more. Bring your family, a date, your dog or your friends, and be sure to hop on the free trolley. Every third Thurs. of the month, through Oct. 5-9 p.m. Downtown Roswell. 770-640-3253. Free. Sesame Street Live. Fox Theatre. Enjoy the “Make a New Friend” Tour as Elmo and the Sesame Street gang welcome Grover’s friend from India. Together they explore the universal fun of friendship and celebrate cultural similarities. Sept. 12-14. Fri., 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.; Sat. 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.; Sun. 1 and 4:30 p.m. 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 855-285-8499. $5-$37. Teen Arts Night. City Center. Teens can bring instruments, poetry, artwork and short stories to share. Includes a slice of pizza and a soda. Sept. 12. 6-8 p.m. 8534 Main St., Woodstock. 678-4944251. Ages 12-15, $5. Lab Coat Kids Science Show. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Children will learn about robots and how they are brought to life. Sept. 13 and 27. Noon. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $12.75; younger than 1, free. City of Kennesaw’s Worldwide Day of Play. Swift-Cantrell Park. Celebrate all things active in this entire morning devoted to play. Activities include obstacle course, playground games, relay challenges, inflatables, rock climbing wall and more. Refreshments provided. Sept. 27. 9 a.m.-noon. 3140 Old 41 Hwy., Kennesaw. 770-4229714. Free.

storytelling Storytime by the River. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Join the volunteer librarian as she uses books, puppets and songs to share stories about nature. Ages 3-5. Sept. 3. 10:30-11:30 a.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free. Princess Bitty Baby Story Time. American Girl. Hear an enchanting fairytale about a princess, a dragon, and a frog. Sept. 9. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. 1202 North Point Cir., Alpharetta. 877-247-5223. Ages 3 and older, free.

72 Atlanta Parent September 2014

Family Fun Guide

Storytime at Little Shop. Little Shop of Stories. Storytelling three times a week. Thurs. nights kids can come in pjs. Milk and cookies provided. Tues. 11 a.m., Thurs. 7 p.m., and Sun. 3 p.m. 133 A East Court Sq., Decatur. 404-373-6300. Free. Storybook Time. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Storytime in the Children’s Garden Amphitheater. Weds. through October. 10:30 a.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-8765859. Free with admission. Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95; ages 2 and younger, free. Wren’s Nest Storytelling. The Wren’s Nest. Ramblers host storytelling each Sat. 1 p.m. 1050 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd., Atlanta. 404753-7735. Adults, $8; ages 4-12, $5; 4 and younger, free. (Price includes storytelling). Children’s Storytime. FoxTale Book Shoppe. Storytimes are followed by dance and songs. Mon. and Sat. 11 a.m. 105 E. Main St., Woodstock. 770-516-9989. Free. Next Chapter JV Book Club. FoxTale Book Shoppe. This book club is for ages 6-12 and includes a snack, discussion and an activity. Sept. 12. 4:30 p.m. 105 East Main St., Woodstock. 770-516-9989. Free.

theater Shake a Tale Feather with Mother Goose. Center for Puppetry Arts. Help Mary Mary find Mother Goose by sorting out nursery rhymes with Humpty Dumpty, Little Bo Peep, Jack and Jill and other citizens of Rhymeville. Through Sept. 21. Thurs.-Fri. 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.; Sat. 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m.; Sun. 1 and 3 p.m. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404-873-3391. Ages 2 and older, $16.50. Mamma Mia! Fox Theatre. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago. Sept. 23-28. Tues.Thurs., 7:30 p.m. Fri., 8 p.m. Sat., 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Sun., 1 p.m. and 6:30 pm. 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 855-285-8499. Tickets $30-$80.

atlantaparent.com

Calendar The Old Man and the Monkeys and Other Chinese Tales. Center for Puppetry Arts. Five traditional and not-so-traditional vignettes are woven together to recount tales of ancient China. Sept. 24-Oct. 5. Wed.-Fri., 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Sat., noon and 2 p.m. Sun., 1 and 3 p.m. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404-873-3391. Ages 2 and older, $16.50.

Classified Pages Marketplace C H I LDC AR E

R E SALE

Quality Child Care with Preschool Performing arts creative curriculum* technology* Spanish. Ages 2 - 5 / $120 wk / CAPS welcome. 678-754-2352 / philfur@ bellsouth.net

Celebrating over 30 years!

C L ASSE S

The Secret Garden. Dancing Goat Theatre. Witness a garden come back to life and its magical effect on all who come into it in this literary classic. Sept. 26-28 and Oct. 3-5. See performingartsnorth.org for show times. 10700 State Bridge Rd., Johns Creek. 770-772-0762. $12.

ity & Matern ens’ Childr s! Clothe

Now Accepting FALL & WINTER Clothes 800 Miami Circle • Buckhead 404•261•7519

beyond atlanta First Friday Night Concert Series. Hancock Park, Dahlonega. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs and listen to entertaining bands. Sept. 5. 6:30 p.m. North Park and Warwick Streets, Dahlonega. 706-4822707. Free. Railroad Heritage Weekend. Tweetsie Railroad. Celebrate Tweetsie’s historic coal-filled steam locomotives. Includes special attractions, Cherokee dancers and crafts. Sept. 6-7. Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 300 Tweetsie Railroad Ln., Blowing Rock, NC. 1-877-893-3874. Requires special Heritage Railway pass. Adults,$39; ages 3-12, $26; 2 and younger, free. Railfest 2014. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. This 13th annual railroading event begins with a special “Wet Your Whistle” invitational train excursion. The festival offers tastes of railroad food, memorabilia, storytelling, dance, music, special excursions and entertainment. Sept. 12-14. Fri., 10:30 a.m-3:30 p.m. and 6:30-8 p.m, Sat. 9 a.m-8 p.m., Sun., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 226 Everett St., Bryson City, NC. 800-872-4681. Festival is free; purchase tickets for train rides. Adults, $51-$98; ages 2-12, $29-$38; ages 23 months and younger, $20. Saturday Market on the River. Augusta Riverwalk. Browse local produce, baked goods, art and more on the banks of the Savannah River. Saturdays through Nov. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. 8th St. Plaza, Augusta. 706627-0128. Free. Historic Trolley Tour. Downtown Augusta. Take the Lady Liberty Trolley for a kidfriendly ride to see some of Augusta’s most famous homes and the Augusta Canal. Hear a historical story and head to the James Brown exhibit at the Augusta History Museum. Saturdays. 1 p.m. 560 Reynolds St., Augusta. 706-724-4067. Pre-register. $12 per person, includes admission to the museum. River Giants Exhibit. Tennessee Aquarium. A collection of freshwater fish at legendary sizes, the “goliaths” of freshwater. Open daily 10 a.m.-6 p.m. One Broad St., Chattanooga, Tenn. 800-262-0695. Adults, $26.95; ages 3-12 $16.95; 2 and younger, free. c

atlantaparent.com

SC H O O LS Arts Math, Science Homeschool Academy. Grades 2 - 7 / Qualified Teachers / Ratio 1:5. / Income Scaled Tuition. 4344 Danforth Road SW. Atlanta 404-914-6809 www.scienceartacademy.org

SE R V I C E S

Keys 4 Soul. Discover the benefits of music. Affordable piano lessons for beginners, ages 4 & up. Serving Dunwoody, Roswell, and Sandy Springs. 770-3670024. www.facebook.com/keys4soul The Bush Centre for Ballet: Classical Ballet Program (Ages 3-adult). Contemporary lyric jazz, pointe, pre-pointe. Annual recital. Summer Camp. Sandy Springs. www.bushballetcentre.com. 404-256-5542. European School of Music & Chess. Piano, violin, guitar, drums, voice, math, and chess instruction develops musical and intellectual abilities, focus, attention and helps students reach full academic potential. Buckhead/Sandy Springs. 404-255-8382 www.euroschoolmusic.org

To advertise please call Diane at 678-222-1914.

The First Membership Salon for Children Ages 1-16 We welcome toddlers, special needs and tender-headed children. Open Every Holiday Enjoy the luxury of saving

ir YPES of ha LL T EARS experience with A Y 21

404-642-2041

www.braidsofnaturalart.com

CcharmingCherries.com Quality Thank You notes for all ages; make an impression; for birthday gifts & more. www.ccharmingcherries.com.

Please Recycle September 2014 Atlanta Parent 73

Humor

by Corrine Johnson

Mommy vs. Baby:

Outsmarting a 1-Year-Old I settle down for a relaxing evening with my husband, after all the kids are asleep. I’m all snuggled into my armchair and ready to watch a good story on the television. We choose from over 120 items we have saved on our DVR (because we want to do this more often than we actually get to do this).

Illustra

ust when the story is getting so good I’m barely eating my popcorn, it suddenly stops and a message appears on the screen: “Your Playback Has Ended.” Which translated really means: “Your kid’s been messing with me!”Parent’s night in has once again been foiled by our genius 1-year-old, who has a knack for knowing how to push just the right buttons on the DVR to cause our favorite shows to stop recording at pivotal plot points. The next morning I see her butt scooting across the floor, with toys in both hands, pretending to play with them while getting gradually closer to the DVR. From my armchair I say, “No.” She looks my way with her mischievous grin and scoots a little closer. She even points to it and babbles a few words. They sound like,“Try and stop me.” I give her my best motherly,“Don’t you dare” stare. This only seems to make her more determined as she drops the toys and heads for the machine in a full out speed-crawl. She’s challenged me to a race and I take the bait. I lunge from my armchair to stop her hand, but I arrive too late. The buttons have been pushed and I don’t know how to undo it. I won’t know what damage has been done to my favorite television characters until it is too late. I have tried every tactic I know, but she won’t bend her will, so I am forced to bring out the secret weapon. It stands about four feet tall and has a stylish purple handle. The 1-year-old pauses her plans for television domination and watches me unravel the power cord. Just as my finger nears the red power button, her eyes defy me with a “You wouldn’t” glare. “I would,” my eyes reply. She tests my resolve and while her eyes never leave mine, she reaches for the DVR. Her finger reaches the button just as mine does. Suddenly, the loud whirr of the orian e Krik

ari tion: M

“When she points to the DVR, I point to the vacuum, and I win.” vacuum causes her arm to recoil and now I have her undivided attention. I push the purple handled whirring machine toward her and she zooms to the other side of the room. I continue sweeping the carpet, pretending I don’t notice her, except when she moves toward the DVR, I turn the vacuum back toward her. Soon, she is sitting in a corner gripping her soft-edged Pooh blanket and her eyes pleadingly say, “Make it stop.” So, I do. I let the vacuum sit out for now, so I can return to parenting from my armchair. When she points to the DVR, I point to the vacuum, and I win. For now, the score is even. c

Johnson is a homeschooling mom of seven children, ages 1 through 18. Read her Armchair Parent blog at corinne-johnson.blogspot.com 74 Atlanta Parent September 2014

atlantaparent.com

GAC ACCREDITED ESTABLISHED 2002

G FR A P EE re K

• Year-round open enrollment Infants - 12 Years • M-F 6:30 AM - 6:30 PM • Certified and Experienced Montessori Teachers • Fully Equipped Montessori Classrooms • Full Service Childcare • Summer Camp, Field Trips, ASP • Ballet, Karate, Music, Piano, Spanish, Chinese • Full & Part Time, Mother’s Morning Out

Scholarships for 4/5 Years Old Available! Call Us Today for Details! Franchising Opportunity Available