Baton Rouge Parents Magazine January 2020

2020

T H E M A G A Z I N E T H A T B A T O N R O U G E FA M I L I E S L I V E B Y

THE TODDLER

CONSTITUTION

TWEENS

WITH ATTITUDE

NEW DECADE NEW CHECKLIST

ALL THINGS PRIVATE SCHOOL

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CONTENTS JANUARY 2020 ▪ ISSUE 354

FEATURES 36

ON THE COVER

2019-20 Cover Kid Kylie B. enjoys tumbling, exercising, riding horses, hanging out with friends, and even math. This two-time Cover Kid had a great time at her photo shoot, and she has a baby brother on the way!

She’s really looking forward to being a big sister. Kylie also loves making TikTok videos and spending time with her guinea pig, four dogs and fish, and she’s getting a horse in a few months.

Kylie is very strong, bold, determined, hardworking, and a good friend.

DEALING WITH DEFIANCE

Understand tweens and their sometimes defiant behaviors

2020 PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE

Make the private school decision with help from local listings, profiles, and open houses

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FULL STEM AHEAD

Learn how private schools are increasing engagement with STEM

EXCEPTIONAL STUDENTS AND PRIVATE SCHOOLS

SPOILED FOR CHOICE

Know what to ask and how to choose your child’s school

TODDLER PROPERTY LAWS

Discover if your property is really your own or your toddler's

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PARENTS’ BUCKET LIST FOR THE DECADE

CONNECT

16 COMMUNITY 22 EDUCATION 23 ONE AMAZING KID 26 PATHWAYS TO PARENTING

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LIVE

28 LOCAL PROFILE 30 MOM NEXT DOOR 32 EXCEPTIONAL LIVES 34 FAITH

PLAY

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF DAD GET OUT OF TOWN THINGS WE LOVE MOMS ONLY

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Photo Credit: Kleinpeter Photography

86 TODDLER PROPERTY LAWS

2019-20 Cover Kids: Britton, Bryson & Sabastian H-J. Photo Credit: Lauren Leopold Photography

30 MOM NEXT DOOR

90 92 94 96

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Take on the new decade by tackling these goals

Cover Kids 2019-20 Kylie B. Photo Credit: Kleinpeter Photography Uniforms Provided by: Inka's Uniforms

IN EVERY ISSUE

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Get the lowdown on how private schools are working with students who have IEPs

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12 A MOTHER’S VOICE 14 LAGNIAPPE 100 CALENDAR 111 MARKETPLACE 112 THE LAST WORD 114 SNAPSHOTS

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Photo Credit: Lauren Leopold Photography

IN EVERY ISSUE FREEBIES T H E M A G A Z I N E T H AT B AT O N R O U G E F A M I L I E S L I V E B Y

Win Freebies!

P U B L I S H E R / E D I TO R I N C H I E F A MY F O R E M A N-P L A I S A N C E A S S O C I AT E P U B L I S H E R BRANDON FOREM AN

Visit brparents.com and click “Register for Freebies.”

Deadline to enter is January 20, 2020.

D I R E C TO R O F O P E R AT I O N S A MY L . F O R E M A N E D I TO R I A L M A N A G I N G E D I TO R A M ANDA MILLER S E C T I O N E D I TO R M A R I WA L K E R C A L E N D A R E D I TO R NANC Y LEBL ANC A R T/ P R O D U C T I O N SENIOR GR APHIC DESIGNER M E LO DY TA U Z I N

Have your espresso while dropping your crew off at school with the Minipresso GR. You can enjoy an authentic espresso wherever you are with this compact, lightweight and sturdy coffee bullet. ▪ wacaco.com

GR APHIC DESIGNER L AUREN LEOP OLD CONTRIBUTING GR APHIC DESIGNER DES TIN Y ALE X ANDER C O V E R P H OTO G R A P H E R K L E I N P E T E R P H OTO G R A P H Y A DV E R T I S I N G /M A R K E T I N G ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE TERI HODGES ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE S AVA N N A H L E D E T ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE G A B R I E L L E T H E R I OT COMMUNIT Y E VENTS M ANAGER L A U R I E A CO S TA

Sing, dance, and listen to stories with Codi, the Storytelling Robot. Codi is an adorable AI-enabled toy that provides over 200 fully-curated songs and stories, and he even encourages good habits like brushing teeth and cleaning. For added fun, you can even dress him up in fun and adorable outfits! ▪ pillarlearning.com

COMMUNIT Y OUTRE ACH ROX ANE VOORHIES

C O N TAC T B R PA R E N T S .CO M E D I TO R I A L @ B R PA R E N T S .CO M C A L E N D A R @ B R PA R E N T S .CO M O F F I C E 2 25-2 92-0 032 FA X 2 25-2 92-0 03 8 11 8 3 1 W E N T L I N G AV EN U E B ATO N R O U G E , L A 70 8 1 6-6 055

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ISSN # 1050-8708

Last Month’s WINNERS

Look who won December's Freebies: Denim Bradford won the Yumology! Sweet Lab; Amy Donaldson won the Toy Story 4 Puzzle; and Jillian McNeely won Playmobil's Castle and Stackable Towers.

Reproduction prohibited without permission. The opinions expressed in Baton Rouge Parents Magazine are those of the authors or advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products or services herein. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any paid advertisement.

Baton Rouge Parents Magazine is a division of Family Resource Group Inc.

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IN EVERY ISSUE A MOTHER’S VOICE

The Start of a New Decade

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et’s toast the days of Auld Lang Syne..(and learn what the words mean in 2020).

As I began the New Year singing “Auld Lang Syne,” it is fitting to me that we reflect on times gone by and remember friends from the past before moving forward. Toasting “the good old days” and friends of the past are beautiful sentiments despite the humor of listening to a crowd singing anything but the chorus in unison, and the titled words sounding more like “Old Lane’s Sign.” There’s much to be done in 2020, but reflecting on what was good is a nice beginning before we get started.

That said, January’s issue features our Private School Guide, and we take it very seriously that we are the go-to resource for private, parochial, and boarding schools for southeast Louisiana. We have heard your questions and have provided you with useful tips for choosing the right fit for your family. Additional profiles have been provided by many private schools to give you a special inside look.

At the end of the day, all private schools simply want to make sure your child will be in an environment that promotes his or her best chance for a positive educational experience.

Don’t let the private school decision stress you, though. Focus on the excitement of this new year, this new decade, and we hope that you all start the year on a positive note.

May 2020 be a year in which we all take joy in watching our children grow–and shine.

Amy Foreman-Plaisance Publisher/Editor in Chief

Have ideas? I'd like to hear from you.

By mail: Amy P., 11831 Wentling Ave., Baton Rouge, LA 70816 Email: editorial@brparents.com. Be sure to include your name, address, and daytime phone number.

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IN EVERY ISSUE LAGNIAPPE CUTE OR CRINGEWORTHY? Infant ear piercing is quite common. Seeing little ones with their adorable little studs can be quite cute. However, there is a debate on whether or not parents should stop piercing their babies' ears and instead wait for them to decide if they want to have them pierced when they are older. We let our readers share their sides of the story. Here’s what they had to say.

“Pierce babies’ ears at one month.”

—Cynthia H.

“I pierced my daughter’s ears when she was a baby.

It was a bad idea because she didn’t like the way they would feel when she laid down, and she would take them out and lose them.

So, I stopped buying new ones and let the holes close. She likes clip ons, though.”

—D'Juana T.

‘‘

—Annette B.

“I did all my girls' ears at eight weeks, after their shots.

My mom did mine as a little baby also. We went to a jewelry store and none of my girls' ears ever got an infection. I think they learn to not play with them as babies, but it's an individual choice to make.”

—Angela C.

—Sharon W.

“Their body, their choice.”

—Lauren K.

“Let them decide. She chose for her fifth birthday. It’s her body, and this is cosmetic.

Plus, I'm allergic to all earrings, so there [wasn’t a] need to put a baby through that if she was, too.”

—Brittany R. “Six months.”

“One year.”

“Let them decide.”

—Pamela R.

“It's cosmetic; it's a physical hole in the child's ear. They should decide.”

—Amy F.

Sleep at this point is just a concept, something I’m looking forward to investigating in the future.

—Amy Poehler 14

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CONNECT COMMUNITY JUICE-JACKING: AVOID PUBLIC USB PORTS

With all their new devices gifted over the holiday season, tweens and teens will be looking for ways to recharge while on the go. Their best bet is a portable backup battery to keep the juice flowing, but one thing they shouldn’t do is use public USB ports. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office issued a warning that phones can be hacked to install datastealing malware while they are charging, called “ juicejacking.” If you or your teen has no alternative, you can use a charging cable without data capabilities, or at the very least, ensure you don’t agree to give the port access to your device’s data, usually a pop-up when you first connect.

MAMAS, KICK UP YOUR HEELS WITH YOUR LITTLE MAN

If you have a little one made of snakes and snails and puppy dog tails, nurture that sweet relationship by attending the annual Mother-Son Dance benefiting the new Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital. Held at the Crowne Plaza on Sunday, January 12, the funfilled, memorable evening will include not just dancing but also face painting, balloon artists, contests, and games. Activities are geared toward boys up to age 13. Tickets start at $50 for each person, and for an additional $25 per person, party-goers can enjoy a Superpower Hour of early access granting fewer lines and more fun. ■ ololchildrens.org

BATON ROUGE A TOP 10 DIGITAL CITY

Living an extremely online life can be done right here in the Red Stick. The Center for Digital Government named Baton Rouge a Top 10 Digital City for the fifth year in a row. Ranking fifth among mid-sized U.S. cities, Baton Rouge has focused on aligning technology with city goals to improve experiences; save money through efficiencies; and boost transparency, cybersecurity and engagement. “From expanding our award-winning Open Data BR program to streamlining the process for doing business with the City-Parish as we embark on the largest transportation program in the history of East Baton Rouge Parish, we are committed to using technology at every level to better serve our citizens and Baton Rouge community,” says Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome. ■ govtech.com/cdg

SWEET DREAMS FOR BABY WITH OWLET’S DREAM LAB

Parenting a newborn is hard work, but when you’re exhausted because your baby doesn’t sleep well, that work is even harder. If hiring a personalized sleep consultant is out of your price range, new technology can provide some of those same benefits. Owlet’s Dream Lab is a platform for parents that starts with a multi-point assessment of your baby’s sleep. From the parent-provided info, Dream Lab generates a sleep report to better understand the reasons for poor sleep and provides a customized plan with detailed instructions and step-by-step videos. At $179, it might be worth a try, and there is a six week refund period if your stubborn sleeper can’t be convinced.

■ owletcare.com/pages/dreamlab 16

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CELEBRATE WINNIE THE POOH AT LIVINGSTON PARISH LIBRARY

A beloved willy nilly, silly old bear has his very own celebration at Livingston Parish Library. Winnie the Pooh Day is January 18, the birthday of his author A.A. Milne. There are four chances to party with a story, games, crafts and refreshments for little readers ages three to seven: January 7 at 5:30 p.m. at the Watson Branch, January 16 at 5:30 p.m. at the Denham Springs-Walker Branch, January 22 at 11 a.m. at South Branch, and January 30 at 5 p.m. at the Main Branch in Livingston.

Perhaps we should celebrate Pooh all month long and put some “hunny” in our tummies.

■ mylpl.info

EBRPL HONORS WHAM LIBRARIAN

A long-time librarian for the East Baton Rouge Parish Public School System was honored by the parish’s public library. Pamela Cambre Lakvold, currently a librarian at Westdale Heights Academic Magnet School, accepted the 2019 Spaht Scholar Award presented by the East Baton Rouge Parish Library’s Children’s Services. Lakvold has degrees from Nicholls State University and Louisiana State University and is the mother of three daughters.

Established by The Will and Leona Huff Fund, the Spaht Scholar Award recognizes exceptional educators who make a difference in their students’ lives by encouraging a love of learning.

■ ebrpl.com

PENNINGTON SEEKS MOTHERS FOR RESEARCH STUDY

Mamas who are planning to have another baby can help advance science by taking part in the LIPP research study at the Pennington Biomedical Research Center. The Lifestyle Intervention in Preparation for Pregnancy study will evaluate if a mom’s lifestyle changes before pregnancy can improve her baby’s health. To qualify, participants must be 18-40 years old, already have given birth to a full-term baby (born after at least 37 weeks gestation), be planning to have another baby within the next 24 months, not be a smoker, and not be diagnosed with diabetes. Chosen participants will be randomly divided into two groups, one of which will receive lifestyle interventions. Compensation will vary according to group assignment. ■ pbrc.edu/lipp JA N UA RY 2020 | B R PA R EN T S .COM

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CONNECT COMMUNITY PARENTS HAVE EQUIVALENT OF PART-TIME JOB DRIVING KIDS AROUND

Getting one child from point A to point B while child two needs to be transported from point C to point D while their parents both need to be at work is a complex equation. And all that drive time adds up. A survey from carpooling service HopSkipDrive shows that 51 percent of parents spend at least five hours per week driving around their littles, and a third of those spend more than 10 hours. “When we looked at the actual number of hours spent coordinating logistics and actual driving time, it is the equivalent of a second job,” says Joanna McFarland, HopSkipDrive CEO and co-founder. Apps like HopSkipDrive or GoKid can help families connect with others and coordinate carpool to ease the burden. ■ hopskipdrive.com

ESSAY CONTEST FOR 11TH GRADE DEMCO CUSTOMERS

Powering homes and businesses in Ascension, East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Livingston, St. Helena, Tangipahoa and West Feliciana parishes is the priority of DEMCO. But the state’s largest electric cooperative also powers the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour Essay Contest sponsoring high school juniors on a trip to Washington, DC. This year’s topic is to write a letter to a political leader addressing any topic of concern important to the student. DEMCO selects 12 semifinalists to compete with an oral presentation of the written essay and a brief test on rural electrification before announcing four winners who join more than 2,000 others in our nation’s capital. Applicants must be DEMCO members. The deadline to enter is January 24. ■ demco.org/essay-contest

EXCESS SCREEN TIME MAY IMPACT BRAIN STRUCTURE

We’ve all seen the kids–probably even our own–basking slack jawed in the glow of screens, glued to a show or game.

The American Academy of Pediatrics has guidelines in place to help parents know how much screen time is best for developing children. A new study from Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center published in JAMA Pediatrics showed concerning evidence that brain structure may be altered in preschoolers who use screens in levels greater than the AAP recommendations. The authors suggest caution with screen time during this crucial developmental age.

NO ANESTHESIA REQUIRED FOR NEW EAR TUBE PROCEDURE

NEW CONTACTS CAN SLOW NEARSIGHTEDNESS

Does your little one have trouble seeing the class SmartBoard or other things at a distance? Myopia, or nearsightedness, typically begins in childhood, progressing until about age 20. About 42 percent of 5-19 year olds have been diagnosed as nearsighted, according to a study published in Clinical Ophthalmology. The Food and Drug Administration has recently approved a new type of contact lens that can slow myopia’s progression when first prescribed between the ages of 8-12 years.

MiSight 1 Day from CooperVision are daily wear, single-use contact lenses. “Eye care professionals who embrace this breakthrough approach will improve the quality of life and eye health for so many children,” says Daniel G. McBride, CooperVision president. ■ coopervision.com

Ear infections are basically a right of passage during childhood, but for some, they can recur so frequently to require treatment with tympanostomy tubes inserted into the eardrum. Until now, that procedure required a trip to a hospital’s operating room and general anesthesia. The Food and Drug Administration recently announced approval of a new system for delivery of those ear tubes. “This approval has the potential to expand patient access to a treatment that can be administered in a physician’s office with local anesthesia and minimal discomfort,” says Jeff Shuren, MD, director of the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health. The system from Tusker Medical has been approved for children older than six months. ■ tuskermed.com 18

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PLANT A TREE IN THE BURDEN WOODS FOR ARBOR DAY

Louisiana trees are a beautiful part of our landscape, particularly the live oaks that grace so many of our historic sites. Honor our trees at LSU AgCenter’s Botanic Gardens on Saturday, January 18. The free Arbor Day event includes plenty of tree climbing, a meet-and-greet with the iconic Smokey the Bear, and a scavenger hunt. Families will learn about trees native to Louisiana and actually plant a tree. Then, you can watch your tree grow for generations using its GPS coordinates. The trees help reforest those lost during Hurricane Gustav. Additional trees will be for sale for $5 and $10, and concessions will be available for purchase.

■ lsu.edu/botanic-gardens

EXPERIENCE MSY AIRPORT WITHOUT A TICKET AND LESS STRESS

Do you want to leisurely explore the new terminal at the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport without worrying about finding your gate or having to drag a carryon?

A new program, the MSY Guest Pass, allows non-ticketed visitors to enjoy the shops and restaurants post-security. It’s free, except for parking costs, and available every day from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. You’ll still go through security, and need to sign up online at least 24 hours in advance using your name exactly as it appears on your government-issued photo ID. Visitors under 18 can come with an adult, and all visitors are limited to one visit per month.

■ flymsy.com/msy-guest-pass JA N UA RY 2020 | B R PA R EN T S .COM

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CONNECT COMMUNITY KICK IT OUT WITH OF MOVING COLORS

Start off 2020 with an annual tradition from Of Moving Colors Productions. The contemporary dance theatre brings Kick It Out: That’s Entertainment! to the stage on Saturday, January 25 with performances at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. in the Brown Holt Theatre at The Dunham School. The multimedia show promotes community, culture, creativity and fun with dance, narration, music and pizazz. Along with a worldrenowned spoken word artist, company dancers perform alongside children in the production featuring music from the Rat Pack and Motown eras to Rockette-style high kick tunes.

■ ofmovingcolors.org

HEAR STORIES FROM FROZEN TOLD BY THE CHARACTERS

“Hey Google, tell me a Frozen story.” This new Google Assistant skill may take over your Google smart speakers once your little snowflakes know how to ask for it.

Frozen fans can hear tales straight from Arendelle told in their favorite characters’ voices. After some music and a brief intro, listeners are transported to a campfire with some of the film’s main characters. Stories come to life with the voices of Elsa, Anna, Olaf and Kristoff, and you can choose who you’d like to hear. The smart speakers can also read along with Little Golden Books by asking, “Hey Google, read along with Frozen 2.” It sure beats trying to make up your own princess stories.

EAT SMART WHILE DINING OUT IN BATON ROUGE

January 1 rolls around every year along with New Year’s resolutions. If 2020 is the year you make eating better a priority, there’s a free, local app for that. Eat Fit BR is for those looking to dine out healthier and choose dietitian-approved foods. “We work with restaurants in each of the regions we’re in to analyze and identify betterfor-you choices, the clean eating options on the menu,” says Vanessa Richard, RDN, LDN, Eat Fit BR dietitian. The app also has recipes and brand-specific grocery shopping lists to make eating well easier. Part of the Ochsner Eat Fit brand, Eat Fit BR is supported by the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Foundation and is available in the iTunes store and on Google Play.

GO OUTSIDE! PENNINGTON STUDY LOOKS AT REASONS WHY KIDS AREN’T

Playing outside is important for children’s development, but a number of factors keep children from roaming freely in their neighborhoods. A new study conducted at the Pennington Biomedical Research Center found those include safety from crime, social relationships among neighbors, and whether a park is within walking distance.

Community-level interventions may be needed to convince parents to allow more unsupervised outdoor play, which would improve developing youth’s health and well-being through greater physical activity. The study was published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. ■ pbrc.edu

NEW INDOOR PLAY SPACE OPENS

Although snowy days are a rarity in south Louisiana, we do get our share of cold, gray days when it’s better to just stay inside. A new indoor play space has opened to give parents one more option for getting out of the house on those days when a trip to the park isn’t an option. Operation Imagination, on Jones Creek Road in Baton Rouge, provides a unique and imaginative play experience for young children from six months to seven years old.

Babies younger than one are admitted for $4, and children older than one are admitted for $7 each. The 2,000-square-foot facility also hosts birthday parties, story times and other special events. ■ operationimagination.com 20

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OLOL NAMES NEW PHYSICIAN GROUP PRESIDENT

Expanding access and using technology in new ways to serve patients is a goal of the newly named Our Lady of the Lake Physician Group President. James Craven, MD, will lead the group of more than 500 doctors in our area.

“Today’s patient expects the partnership of his or her physician at the most personal and individual level,” says K. Scott Wester, OLOL president and CEO. “Dr. Craven will be guiding our physicians to bring the most value and clinical excellence as Our Lady of the Lake serves the families in our community.” Dr. Craven is a vascular surgeon whose medical degree is from the LSU Health Science Center in Shreveport.

■ ololrmc.com

RESOLVE TO FRESHEN YOUR KITCHEN WITH CITRUS

Resolutions don’t always require getting in shape. Choosing to clean and brighten our spaces can be just as revolutionary. Give your kitchen a little TLC to start 2020 off right by putting lemons, limes, oranges or even satsumas to work. Toss the skins into your garbage disposal and run it for a minute. The peels’ oils and juices will help clean and deodorize the inner walls.

Pack peels in distilled white vinegar and let soak in an airtight container. In a couple weeks, strain and spray with the resulting powerful, all-natural cleaner. For something faster, put citrus juice, slices and water in a bowl and microwave for three minutes. The steam will loosen any gunk, and wiping down the inside will be a breeze.

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CONNECT EDUCATION LSU PRESCHOOL SUPPORTS CREATIVITY WITH MAKERSPACES

When you think of preschool art, you might envision bright colors and learning to color inside the lines.

Those have their place, but at the LSU Early Childhood Education Laboratory Preschool, students are invited to stretch their creativity through the use of the school’s makerspace. Art supplies and recycled materials such as cardboard, loose fabric, plastic water bottles, toilet paper and paper towel rolls, and bottle caps are collected. Students are free to come up with their own ideas and create 3D art, costumes and more. “Makerspaces facilitate learning by providing opportunities for children to demonstrate inventiveness, persistence and problem-solving skills,” says Angela Barnes, preschool director.

RUNNELS SENIOR WINS STATE CROSS COUNTRY TITLE

Runnels Senior Annie Fink ran her way to gold during the 2019 Class B Louisiana High School Athletic Association cross country state championship meet at Northwestern State University in Natchitoches. In the three-mile race, Fink shattered a record and retained her state title for the second consecutive year. She ran the race in 19 minutes and 25.1 seconds, breaking the previous record by 30 seconds. The Lady Raiders won silver as the state runner-up team, and sophomore Dawson Latona won the bronze in individual competition.

Fink was also honored for her 4.0 grade point average along with seniors Ryan Ly and Eric Ho as members of the 2019 Cross Country All-State Academic Team.

LIVINGSTON FEMALE STUDENTS PONDER AUTO CAREERS

SCOTLANDVILLE HIGH HOSTS THIRD ANNUAL DESIGN SYMPOSIUM

Scotlandville Magnet High School’s Academy of Engineering students showed off their professional skills during the Engineering Symposium. Focusing on electrical engineering, the event was the culmination of an eightweek project in which the students conducted research, built circuits and worked alongside engineers, including learning about programming from Southern University Professor Dr. Yasser Ismail. The winning engineering team was Darryl Veals, Timothy Pichon, Joshua Williams and Matthew Bui. The winning business team was Damon Perkins, Jordan Moore, Dejeana Barrow and Kobi Leggett.

Judges were from Capital City Collision, Dow Chemical, Inolect, Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, DezinInteractive, Fusion, and Southern’s College of Business and computer science department.

Girls from all nine high schools in Livingston Parish visited the parish’s automotive learning center in the Livingston Literacy and Technology Center in Walker to learn about career pathways in the auto industry. The student ambassadors donned pink reflective vests, headbands and protective eyewear, and along with their school counselors, heard from professionals and academic leaders who desire to enroll and hire more women in automotive certification programs.

“Our goal is to better educate and create greater awareness of career opportunities that women have in those career fields that are now male-dominated,” says Staci Polozola, career technical education coordinator. “There is now a high demand for women in many of these fields, but for many girls, these opportunities are not even on their radars.”

MAGNOLIA TREES DEDICATED AT HIGHLAND ELEMENTARY

Learning about the sacrifices of Louisiana soldiers during World War II, Highland Elementary students, parents, and community members gathered under three magnolia trees for a long-overdue dedication ceremony. The trees were planted in the 1950s to honor the fallen World War II soldiers. Principal Justin Robicheaux introduced four students, Shyne Allen, Marley Woods, Makenzy McCray and Evolet Herrera, to read their essays about what patriotism means to them. Robert Benedict, chaplain of Post 58 of the American Legion, was the guest speaker. The McKinley High Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps presented colors and performed the National Anthem. A plaque was installed at the school to honor those veterans’ service and ultimate sacrifice.

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When nine-year-old Alvin L. Murphy, III, wrote a research paper about Henry Ford, he didn’t know where it would lead him. Kerri T.S. Overstreet, guidance counselor at Westdale Heights Academic Magnet School, where Alvin is a fourth grader, nominated him for the National Youth Leadership Forum: Pathways to STEM. The Envision program introduces elementary students to science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Alvin’s parents, Valencia Murphy and Alvin Murphy, Jr., didn’t know about the nomination until Alvin’s acceptance came in the mail.

Alvin traveled to the University of Houston and spent a week participating in hands-on workshops and simulations in medicine, engineering and crime scene investigation.

“He loves LEGO, so he already has some affinity for building and tinkering with things,” Valencia says. “I’m really glad that we were able to take Alvin and let him participate.

He really seemed to enjoy it.”

Alvin’s favorite thing about the program was building a bristle bot because he got to bring it home. “It cleans up after your messes,” he says. Participants also dissected a cow’s heart and built a lung model.

Although focusing mainly on academics, Alvin plays recreational soccer and has been involved in his school’s robotics club when it was offered and is on the science lab team. Alvin also likes playing video games with friends and meeting new people.

When asked what makes Alvin one amazing kid, Valencia says, “He is very compassionate, has a lot of character and is very outgoing. He’s very special.” ■ DO YOU HAVE ONE AMAZING KID? Email education@brparents.com.

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CONNECT EDUCATION BATON ROUGE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL TOPS LEGO TOURNAMENT

Can you build a better world with LEGO? Teams of students are accepting the challenge in the 2019 FIRST LEGO League robotics tournament. Baton Rouge International School’s Tech Team won the Core Values Award in the local qualifying tournament at LSU. Competing against other students around the area, the BRIS Tech Team of fifth through ninth graders advance to the state championships in New Orleans later this month. The Core Values Award recognizes the team’s excellence in the inspiration, teamwork and gracious professionalism categories.

Team co-captains are ninth grader Ava Bush and eighth grader Gordon Crawford, and the team’s mentor is Abraham Delos Reyes Jr.

THRIVE ACADEMY HOSTS ADULT 101 DAY

Gaining the skills necessary to become a successful grown-up can be difficult, and Thrive Academy is helping its students by offering Adult 101 days. The first provided high school students with information about topics ranging from budgeting, clothing fitting, and cooking to college planning, career development, and auto maintenance. The school partnered with Capital Area United Way to host the event, and the second Adult 101 day will be in the spring. Thrive Academy is a unique five-day-per-week public boarding school in Baton Rouge that serves students in 6-12th grade from around Louisiana. ■ thrivebr.org

GIRL SCOUT SISTERS SELL $2K OF FALL PRODUCTS

PARKVIEW SENIOR ATHLETES HONOR SPECIAL TEACHERS

Saying thank you to teachers is something students do throughout their academic careers, but there’s something bittersweet about an act of gratitude during the last year.

Senior athletes at Parkview Baptist School have a new tradition called “Shirt Off My Back” or the “Psalm 32:8 Award.” Each athlete chooses a teacher to thank based on how they’ve impacted them both in and out of the classroom. Teachers receive a handwritten letter and a T-shirt with the student’s name on the back, which they’re asked to wear to the student’s senior night in support.

Everyone knows about Girl Scout Cookie sales, but troops can also earn money by selling fall products.

Two local Girl Scouts, sisters Lily and Kate Dixon, sold more than $2,000 of the nuts and candies.

They were motivated to earn a special award for selling $1,000 each. Their family helped them pound the pavement in their neighborhood and visit family workplaces to sell the products. Both girls are students at BASIS Baton Rouge, a public charter school. Lily is a third grader in troop 10521, and Kate is a first grader in troop 10518. Cookie pre-sales begin January 10, so check with the Girl Scout in your life to get your hands on some of those sweet treats. ■ gsle.org

U-HIGH DONATES 5,000+ POUNDS OF FOOD

For the school’s second annual “One Great Day of Giving,” University Laboratory School donated more than 5,000 pounds of non-perishable holiday food items to The Shepherd’s Market, a client-choice food pantry located in south Baton Rouge. The University Laboratory School’s Middle School Student Council sponsored “T-Shirts for Turkeys,” and students each donated $2 for the privilege of wearing a T-shirt to school instead of their normal uniform shirt. The T-Shirt drive helped add $400 to the donations. After filling a bus with the 640 bags of groceries collected, University Laboratory School students, faculty, staff and parent volunteers came together to help sort all of the donated food, which was used as part of the pantry’s ninth annual Great Turkey Giveaway. The Great Turkey Giveaway provided holiday meals for more than 500 families this year.

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ASCENSION COUNSELOR RECEIVES STATE HONOR

Middle school is hard for even the most resilient student, but having a great guidance counselor can make all the difference. Students at St. Amant Middle School have the best in the state. Candace Sharper is the Louisiana School Counselor Association Middle School Counselor of the Year. “Candace is the epitome of a great counselor,” says Linda Honey, supervisor of child welfare and attendance. “She is energetic, personable, professional, and innovative. She projects an aura of quiet dignity and is noted for her compassion and dedication to her students.”

Sharper is president of the Ascension Parish School Counseling Association, teaches a student leadership group, and runs The Wildcat Way, a school-wide character education program. ■ lacounseling.org

EPISCOPAL NAMED TOP 500 STEM HIGH SCHOOL

Newsweek partnered with STEM.org to rank America’s Best STEM High Schools, and Episcopal School of Baton Rouge is ranked as the top science, technology, engineering and math high school in the city, number seven in Louisiana, and 448th nationwide. “We seek to offer a comprehensive variety of courses not only in STEM, but also the humanities, arts, athletics and spirituality,” says Dr. Sara Fenske, Episcopal’s dean of academics. Unique at the school is its Episcopal Students Take Action in Advanced Research program in which students are partnered with university professors and experience hands-on lab work. STEM activities, including Mu Alpha Theta and Fab shop are offered, and a full range of STEM courses are available to students.

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CONNECT PATHWAYS TO PARENTING

PANDAS Syndrome

E

ven mild winters like we experience see an uptick of seasonal illnesses. The fairly common Streptococcus pyocenes infection makes its rounds and can range from minor skin problems or sore throats to much more severe strep throat or scarlet fever.

While most people make a full recovery, for some children, a scary syndrome can develop suddenly a few weeks after a strep infection and get worse quickly.

Despite its cute name, PANDAS, or pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcus, is quite serious. Children between ages 3 and 12 who have had a strep infection within the last four to six weeks are most susceptible. Symptoms include sudden psychological and physical symptoms that are similar to obsessive-compulsive disorder and Tourette syndrome.

“PANDAS is an interesting, frustrating and chronic condition about which too many people and doctors are not well versed with,” says Dr. Prem Menon, founder of the Asthma, Allergy and Immunology Center in Baton Rouge, who is board certified in allergy, immunology and pediatrics.

The exact cause of PANDAS is unknown, but theories include immune reactions to strep bacteria confusing antibodies, specifically causing them to target the brain. “The main thing is to diagnose and treat strep immediately,” Dr. Menon says. “Don’t dilly dally or wait around.” Penicillin is the drug of choice to knock out the infection and hopefully avoid any strep complications.

“The sudden onset of symptoms would be a red flag,” Dr. Menon says. “These symptoms occur within two-four weeks of strep throat, overnight, no warnings.”

Dr. Menon treats a few patients with PANDAS, which is fortunately rare. One patient who suffered for years was able to get better after intravenous immunoglobulins treatments. By clearing the patient’s immune system with a megadose of IVIG every day for five days, Dr. Menon was able to improve her symptoms, which included tremendous separation anxiety and other mood alterations.

Receiving a diagnosis can be an uphill battle. “With rarer conditions like this, they don’t get diagnosed because pediatricians are busy seeing a lot of patients and don’t think about it,” Dr. Menon says. He encourages patients to be persistent and proactive with their health care providers. ■

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LIVE LOCAL PROFILE

Trafficking Hope

By Melanie Forstall Lemoine

W

hen Lee and Laura Domingue traveled to Europe as part of a team to end human trafficking, the Baton Rouge couple did not realize this same atrocity was happening back at home. The couple was greatly moved by what they experienced abroad and were called to action to help.

While the Domingues decided to launch the Trafficking Hope campaign, many friends and family members questioned why they were choosing to focus on this type of work. Amy Wagar, the Director of Trafficking Hope in Alabama, says, “People thought they should focus on animal rescue, or disaster relief; very few people know of the magnitude of trafficking and how many people are affected.”

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According to the Department of Children and Family Services, Orleans, Caddo and East Baton Rouge are the three most frequently identified as locations for both adult and juvenile trafficking. As reported in the 2019 report, East Baton Rouge had 59 adult and 47 juvenile victims.

Trafficking Hope was initially launched as an information campaign.

The focus was to inform and educate Baton Rouge residents about human trafficking through billboards and radio interviews. During this time, the founders discovered that human trafficking was not actually illegal. “In 2017, the founders of Trafficking Hope helped to pass RS 14:46.2 which made trafficking a crime in Louisiana,” says Wagar.

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Through the campaign, the Domingues began to notice an interest in their work was coming from churches.

Local churches began contacting them to find out how they could help.

Trafficking Hope began to formally partner with local churches and launched the C.A.R.E.S Initiative (Coalition, Awareness, Rescue, Education, Services) which empowers churches to combat trafficking in their areas. Through this, Trafficking Hope has been able to expand outreach and support.

The organization quickly realized the need for housing. After victims are rescued from trafficking, they often do not have the resources for housing, medical, or mental health care. In 2012, the Domingues purchased a 32-acre site of property in Baton Rouge to establish the first Hope House. This residential facility served trafficking victims with a place to live, education opportunities, medical and dental care, legal services, and general rehabilitation services, all free of charge.

Trafficking Hope has rescued over 400 victims since its inception and 17 just this year. They have well over 600 victims identified and ensured over 500 arrests for the crime of trafficking. The initiative has expanded into both Texas and Alabama and internationally to subSaharan Africa in an effort to eliminate human trafficking worldwide.

January is Human Trafficking month, and communities can continue to support the efforts through donations. Also, individuals can collaborate with local churches who are participating in the C.A.R.E.S Initiative. Lastly, since the founding members have moved out of the area, according to Wagar, “The local Baton Rouge chapter needs a champion for the cause–they need a local leader!” ■

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LIVE MOM NEXT DOOR

Namisha Patel Vasanji

By Amanda Miller

OCCUPATION ▪ Attorney HUSBAND ▪ Vishal CHILDREN ▪ Jaylen, 8; Ria, 6; and dog, Milli, 5 HOBBIES ▪ Watching TV, eating, and spending time with family Namisha Patel Vasanji leads a busy life. As a wife, mother of two, attorney, and president of the Junior League of Baton Rouge, she can often be seen around town, going from one event and activity to the next.

Although her schedule is usually very busy, she’s actually big on staying home and enjoying some peace and quiet on the couch. Namisha describes herself as an extroverted introvert, which a lot of people don’t know about her, because spending time at home with her family while in her pajamas is what she truly enjoys the most.

Photo Credit: K l e in p ete r P h oto gr a p hy

How would you describe raising your children?

How has parenthood changed you?

How do you make time to relax?

N: It’s super busy. I’m the current president of

N: Parenthood broke me. Before, I was selfish

N: Relaxing comes when the kids go to bed and I

the Junior League, so it’s really a team effort

and materialistic, and parenthood taught me

watch TV. We have so many schedules to juggle,

between my husband and myself. He lets me

patience. Also, to not be scheduled because

so my husband and I make it a point to spend

sleep in, and he does the morning routine since

things are just going to happen.

time together. We have to for our sanity.

What career did you want to pursue when you

What’s your favorite date night?

I’m not a morning person. We really live our lives around our kids.

were a kid?

N: Going to New Orleans and hanging out at a

What do you like to do as a family?

N: I wanted to be a doctor but the years of

hole in the wall restaurant just catching up on life.

N: We enjoy inflating an air mattress in the living

schooling scared me. My parents said I always

room, making a charcuterie board, and watching

had an answer and an argument for everything,

What kind of mom are you?

movies. We also love going to the grocery store

so in my second year of college, I realized that

N: It depends on the child. My oldest is a mama’s

together, and spending time outdoors.

becoming an attorney was my true passion.

boy. I am a helicopter mom with him. With my

What’s the greatest thing about being a mom?

What do you love most about your job?

tougher. She is strong and opinionated and she’s

N: To watch the humans you created become

N: I love the people I work with, my job, and my

going to be a phenomenal woman.

mini versions of you. It’s amazing to see their

boss. He has been so patient with me. I practice

faces light up when they finally get something

family law and it has really been such a rewarding

What do you hope to instill in your children?

that they have been struggling with.

career for me.

N: Have good morals and values, and be strong

daughter, she is a mini version of me, so I am

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and independent. Do what’s right and be successful, not in terms of money, but in terms of happiness.

What’s the best parenting advice you have ever received?

N: Just let it go. Everything may not be perfect, but your kids are alive, they have clothes on their backs, and everything’s okay. Just let it go.

What personality trait of yours do your children also have?

N: Stubbornness and not willing to take no for an answer. Also, they have determination and a willingness to help others.

Which family members have been your greatest role models in life?

N: My parents. They started with nothing and they worked every day and sacrificed so much for us. To watch them enjoy life now is amazing. I wish I could be half the mom my mom is.

Do you have any advice for other parents?

N: Enjoy this time with your young ones. They grow up so fast and one day they will go from fighting in the backseat to having earbuds in and not even talking to one another. Hearing “Mommy, Mommy, Mommy,” over and over will eventually stop, so enjoy this time–the good, the bad, and the ugly. ■

Q&A

The parenting item I couldn’t live without…Netflix.

In my fridge, you will always find…wine and milk.

Favorite movie growing up…Parent Trap.

My guilty pleasure is…trash TV and a bowl of Froot Loops.

Music I’m loving…Sam Smith, Taylor Swift, a lot of Pandora top hits, and Whitney Houston.

I feel my best when I…take care of myself.

My favorite television show is...All of the Real Housewives, This is Us, and The Voice.

My favorite ice cream is...Bubblegum from Baskin-Robbins.

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LIVE EXCEPTIONAL LIVES

Dancing Through Life Despite Diagnosis

By Mari Walker

The day after Kelli Guillory was born, she stopped breathing twice. The code blues were terrifying experiences for her mother, Jennifer Guillory. But the medical professionals weren’t sure why baby Kelli was having trouble.

It wasn’t until Kelli was out of intensive care and following up with their pediatrician that Jennifer finally heard of very-long-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (VLCAD, pronounced V-L cad), the condition with which Kelli, who turns 11 this month, is living.

Because of the rare genetically inherited disease, Kelli’s body is unable to break down certain fats. “For us, our food sticks to us and turns to energy,” Jennifer says. “For her, it doesn’t. It burns right through her.” So Kelli must stick to 32

a strict high carb diet with less than 20 percent of fats per day. A fourth grader at Parkview Elementary, she has extra snacks built into her days at school, and any time she’s more active, she must also eat more.

For any type of vomiting or diarrhea, both typical childhood illnesses, Kelli has to go to the hospital and emergency protocol must be followed. “If they don’t, it can leave her with brain damage or kill her,” Jennifer says. “She’s been hospitalized 71 times.”

It has only been a year since Kelli has been in the hospital, making it only the second time in her life that she has gone that long without an admission to the hospital. “Sometimes when I was little, I used to call the hospital my second home because I had been there so many times,” Kelli says.

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Kelli also has hemolytic anemia; her red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be made. But the exact cause of that problem is unknown. “Everything they’ve tested her for (at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital), it’s come back negative,” Jennifer explains.

“She has been my fighter since birth.”

Because of the frequent hospital visits, Kelli has had a port implanted since her first year of life. It makes IV medication much easier to administer, and it must be flushed monthly. Kelli is a pro at managing those parts of her care.

“She could check her blood sugar at three years old by herself,” Jennifer says. “In the hospital, she would help the nurses flush her ports.”

Kelli leads a full life while managing VLCAD. She’s active in her Girl Scout troop and part of the Healing Place Church kids program. Kelli loves dancing and singing and says her top favorite thing is crafting. She has two younger brothers, David and Gary.

Giving back is a passion for Kelli, and she’s involved in raising money for the new Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital through an annual dance marathon at LSU and a toy drive for children in the hospital during the holidays. She participates in radiothons for Dreams Come True, a local nonprofit that grants wishes for Louisiana children facing life-threatening diseases. Kelli was able to go to Disney World when she was six thanks to the program.

“Sometimes I don’t like having VLCAD, and sometimes I’m frustrated about it,” Kelli says. “Sometimes it aggravates me taking so much medicine.”

Kelli has two penpals who also have VLCAD, and being connected with others who understand helps. ■

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LIVE FAITH

A Come and Go Affair

By Rev. Thomas Howe, Pastor of St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church

A

s a child growing up in South Texas, my family would always celebrate New Year’s with a few carefully selected fireworks. Then, on the Sunday following the New Year’s celebration, we were always in church to participate in a worship service that usually offered less excitement than did our fireworks. However, little did I know then that church, synagogue or Mosque services were not the end all or culmination of faith. They were one part of what I call a “come and go affair.”

The “come and go affair” can be described like a chef who comes in each day and checks to see what is on the menu. The chef will check the menu and then prepare and serve the meal. Or in the football world, the players will gather around the quarterback to hear the play. Then, they go to the line of scrimmage and carry out the play.

We come to church to hear what’s on our faith menu, or what that week’s faith play will be.

It’s a “come and go affair.” We come to God to hear the play, then we go into the world to live it out.

If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to help your family become more involved in faith, try one of these approaches: When you’re at the service or teaching, ask your children to pick one point they hear. Then as a family, share how you can live out that point during the week. If the message they heard is regarding feeding the hungry, then have the children make a food bag that you can give to a person who is hungry. If it is helping others, make a plan to rake a neighbor’s yard. You might try the football analogy–create a family huddle, let one of the children be the quarterback who gives this week’s play, then huddle up at the end of the week to see how the play is working.

Helping our children to understand that faith is not merely going to church, but instead becoming the church in the world, will help to make a difference in how they view faith and life. It will give them a sense of empowerment, that they too can make a difference by living out the plays of faith. ■ 34

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You Can’t Always Get What You Want Dealing with Defiance

By Emily Egan

There are days when parents feel like time flies when it comes to their children. Their children were once little, full of energy, and occasionally acted up, but overall, they idolized their parents. However, once they hit their preteen years, things changed.

As children grow into young adults, they begin to experience this need for independence.

They want to do more, go to more places, see what all life has to offer them. Unfortunately, preteens are stuck at an age where they are no longer little kids, but also not yet young adults, 36

causing a growing frustration that leads to resentment and defiance at those who they see as hindering them, their parents. This causes preteens to lash out, question decisions, and makes parents question how to address this new attitude toward them.

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A Part of Development Depending on how well-behaved children are when they were younger, the defiance and resentment coming from them as a preteen may come as a surprise to some. While some may see this change in behavior as abnormal,

others may see it as their behavior continuing as it always has. But, whatever the case, what parents really need to know is that this is perfectly normal.

In his 28 years as a Licensed Professional Counselor, Leroy Scott has seen many cases where preteens can act in defiance of their parents, and it is not always because of their behavioral issues.

“While there are cases that can be attributed to mental illness, ADHD, birth order or parenting, defiance is generally a natural part of development. It’s a way for them to test and properly integrate into society while developing their own levels of control,” explains Scott.

However, while this is how preteens learn to interact with the world, there is no sole parenting technique that will work for all forms of defiance a parent may see. Ultimately, it depends on the characteristics of the preteen themselves and parents learning how to address their behaviors.

Preteens Push the Limit Though natural, this is not cause for parents to let them do whatever they please. This is also a way for them to test the boundaries to see what limits they can push, and which ones that should not be crossed.

As a parent, it is important that you always maintain control during their moments of defi-

ance, while also letting your preteens test their limits as well.

“Parents need to observe what boundaries their preteens are testing,” says Scott. “In order to see why they are acting out, they need to try to understand what they want without resorting to extreme measures.” While Scott is saying that parents can’t be too hard on their preteens, they also can’t be too soft either, and they need to set boundaries.

As a mother of two sons, Rachel Artigues had decided to set boundaries her own way to both discipline and set a standard for her sons.

“Initially, I became upset when they began to become defiant, but I realized that it couldn’t continue,” she says. “They could generally sense what they could get away with, but I couldn’t let it continue further on.

I decided that when they acted up too much, I would take away things that they appreciated, like their phone and games.”

Keith Jones, a local father to three daughters, did the same.

“I would send them to their rooms and take away whatever privileges they had, especially the television,” he says.

While preteens act out in defiance, parents need to establish that privileges that are given to their preteens can also be taken away from them if need be.

Jones especially saw this with his middle daughter. “While the other two knew when

they did wrong, my middle was more aggressive and pushed harder,” he says. “She liked to use the argument where if Mom told her no, she would then ask me or vice versa,” he explains. “We handled it by having both parents there to confront her and admit what she had done wrong.”

Because his middle child was more aggressive, Jones had to adjust how he handled her defiance, like how parents may have to adjust how they handle their own preteens should they act similarly. If this doesn’t work and the preteen just won’t respect boundaries set up for them, sometimes extra help may be needed.

When to Ask for Help “Sometimes too defiant preteens need help,” says Scott. “If needed, parents should reach out to professionals and try not to depend on systems alone, such as schools or other family members.” Sometimes extra help is needed.

Ultimately, what parents need to understand is that it is about compromise.

“There needs to be a mutual expectation from both parents as well as the preteen,” says Scott. Both must have an expectation out of each other and respect those expectations to the best of their ability.

“There must be a steady boundary but also mutual respect on both sides,” says Artigues.

“When parents show respect to their children, this in turn teaches them to respect others.” ■

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Meet the Faces of Baton Rouge When choosing our care, it’s important to us to find a professional who provides us with the help we need. However, we also strive to form a relationship with them in order to feel comfortable and well taken care of. These Faces are the best of the best in their fields.

They provide a helping hand, a friendly conversation when one is needed, and care that is unmatched.

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Photo Credit: Aimee Rabb Photography

The Face of

PEDIATRIC MEDICINE Dr. Dana Fakouri Dr. Brannon Perilloux

Associates in Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine Being an active participant in your own medical care is important, and Dr. Brannon Perilloux often encourages his patients to do just that. Dr. Perilloux takes the time to explain everything to his patients, regardless of age, about their diagnosis and treatment, and he will also send them home with instructions to make sure their care continues long after each visit.

When visiting Associates in Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine (APAM), Dr. Perilloux is just one of the many happy faces you will see. He truly cares about his patients and strives to make sure they’re healthy, both physically and mentally, by getting to know the whole family, but especially the child.

Dr. Perilloux was born in Houston, Texas, but he grew up right here in Baton Rouge. He’s happily married to his wife, Alicia, and they have four children. When he’s not working, he enjoys basketball, golf, landscaping, gardening and traveling throughout America with his family.

Another friendly face you will see when visiting APAM is Dr. Dana Fakouri. Dr. Fakouri is a Louisiana girl through and through. She was born in New Orleans, but she grew up in Baton Rouge.

When it comes to taking care of your little ones, you can bet they are in good hands as she practices pediatric medicine with a special child-friendly approach. Dr. Fakouri always knew that she wanted to be a physician, and when decisions need to be made, she often involves the parent, as a parent’s comfort and confidence in the treatment plan is top priority.

Dr. Fakouri enjoys visiting with her little patients, and she has two daughters of her own so she understands the parents’ perspective. Dr. Fakouri also enjoys spending time with her family, whether out shopping, jogging, or participating in outdoor activities.

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Photo Credit: Aimee Rabb Photography

The Face of

AUTISM PLANNING AND CONSULTING Shelley Hendrix

Different Beat Consultants, LLC For Shelley Hendrix, owner of Different Beat Consultants, LLC, it is her interest in politics that led her to start her own business. She finds excitement in identifying a problem and brainstorming ways to improve issues.

She has learned firsthand of challenges that families and individuals diagnosed with autism may experience as they encounter both governmental, and private sector, systems.

For 21 years, she has worked directly with families to more efficiently integrate systems to reduce stress as families navigate them.

Different Beat Consultants, LLC, started in 2015, assists with planning 40

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more independent futures for individuals from their initial diagnosis through adult transition. Additionally, they foster constructive conversations involving the autism community at all levels – local, state and national - to create paradigm shifts in the medical treatment and education of individuals on the spectrum.

Helping people and companies better understand what individuals with autism may be experiencing is what she loves most about her job. Breaking down barriers to allow everyone to work together in peace and unity gives her hope that change is coming.

Shelley explains that Different Beat Consultants, LLC serves a special population and is always seeking companies that can provide products and services to those in need, even when they might not initially see a connection. They work hard to build a network of bridges between family and those solutions, so they can operate more efficiently in their communities.

The Face of

PUBLIC EDUCATION Warren Drake

East Baton Rouge Parish Schools While Superintendent Warren Drake has worn a coat and tie to work all of his life, he still refers to himself as a country boy at heart. Mr. Drake grew up in North Louisiana where he hoped to one day become a lawyer. However, his path changed shortly after when he began student teaching. He knew then that he found his true passion.

Mr. Drake describes teaching as one of the most important jobs in the world, and his love for educating the children in Louisiana is adamant in everything he does.

His incredible experience in education eventually lead him to being chosen as the Superintendent of East Baton Rouge Parish Schools, where he worked closely with the wonderful team of men and women who serve on the school board. He credits their hard work for helping to get our school system to where it is today.

Although Mr. Drake will soon be retiring, he leaves behind a strong foundation that has been built by the incredible leaders and educators of East Baton Rouge Schools.

The future of East Baton Rouge Schools is certainly bright, and things can only continue to get better.

Mr. Drake isn’t quite sure what will be next for him. A possible return to teaching could be in the cards, but only time will tell.

For now, Mr. Drake plans on spending time with his family and taking some time to travel.

“It has been a true honor to serve Baton Rouge. My heart has always been in education. I don’t know what my future holds, but this has been a great experience and an awesome responsibility. It’s been a great ride.” - Warren Drake JA N UA RY 2020 | B R PA R EN T S .COM

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The Face of

ORTHODONTICS Bryan Hollis, DDS

Hollis Orthodontics

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Creating beautiful smiles, building relationships with patients and their families, and getting to see his family and friends are a few of the reasons why Bryan Hollis, DDS loves his job so much.

Dr. Hollis has been practicing for 24 years. He’s a Specialist in Orthodontics and is also Board Certified by the American Board of Orthodontics. Dr. Hollis feels blessed to own his own business and be able to give back to the community that he grew up in.

A visit to Hollis Orthodontics is a special one. The goal at Hollis Orthodontics is to treat everyone like friends and family. Dr. Hollis and his incredible staff members provide a fun-filled environment in a stateof-the-art facility that utilizes the latest technology.

You can rest assured that you are receiving the very best in orthodontic care with each visit.

In his spare time, he enjoys bowling with his son, Easton. He’s a sportsman and a hunter at heart, and he loves farming on his food plots. Most of all, he loves spending time with his family, his wife, Celeste; his four beautiful children; his son in law; and his two-month old grandson.

The Face of

STUDENT HOUSING Collin Webster

Ion Baton Rouge Moving out of the house and heading off to college is a monumental time in a young person’s life, and helping your child find the perfect home-away-from-home can be a daunting task. Collin Webster with Ion Baton Rouge is taking a new approach to help students and parents alike feel perfectly at home.

“A college apartment is so much more than what it used to be,” Webster says. “Your apartment is something unique to you; it says something about who you are and what you value. Helping students see themselves reflected in their community is incredibly rewarding, and giving parents the peace of mind that their child will be taken care of at the VIP level is what sets Ion apart.”

Ion is luxury living, steps away from campus. This newly renovated, seven-story community sits so close to everything. Your student has the option of walking to the game or cheering the Tigers on from the rooftop pool that overlooks Tiger Stadium. No expense spared or detail overlooked, Ion is unmatched in quality, location and experience that you’ll have to see to believe.

Originally from Detroit, Collin married Baton Rouge native Elizabeth, where they now live with two miniature dachshunds and three mischievous cats who turned up one day and refused to leave.

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The Face of

FAMILY PSYCHOLOGY Dr. Maxine Campbell-Flint

JMJ Psychological Services Dr. Maxine Campbell-Flint has always had an interest in learning how we function. Through her curiosity of the mind, she discovered that she wanted to pursue psychology, especially if it meant she could help those in need.

Dr. Campbell-Flint was born in Huddersfield, England, but her wonderful career has been here in the states. She received her masters in clinical psychology and a Ph.D. at Virginia Commonwealth University before she traveled to Louisiana, where she began JMJ Psychological Services in 2007.

Dr. Campbell-Flint is a medical psychologist who works with a wide range of clients. She provides services to people in need from all walks of life, including those who are living in underserved communities.

When she’s not working, she enjoys gardening and spending time with her daughter, Jade, and her family and friends. She also also enjoys bringing her dog, Coco, to her office.

Dr. Campbell-Flint understands that it takes a lot to walk through the door to seek the help that is needed.

With the help of Rhonda, the friendly face who greets you at the door, Dr. Campbell-Flint is able to maintain that “like home” environment that every patient experiences.

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The Face of

TRANSITIONING WITH AUTISM Dr. Catherine Lark Steve Whitlow Alvanesha Ford

Photo Credit: Aimee Rabb Photography

Merakey Autism Center Merakey Autism Center helps to create pathways for families from diagnosis to adulthood. They help build a bridge between services, so that no client will go without receiving the resources and support they need.

Merakey works with clients ages 2-35 to help enhance their social and emotional abilities. Merakey provides education services, specialized therapy, ABA therapy, and transition services.

Although most clients are referred to Merakey by doctors, referrals can come from the school system, if there is a need that they cannot accommodate.

Dr. Catherine Lark, psychologist, recently joined the team to support Merakey’s focus on early intervention as well as individuals over the age of 21. Executive Director of Transition Services, Steve Whitlow has been a part of the team for over a year, specializing in the transition phase of an individual’s life.

Merakey works with clients to help them transition from adolescence to adulthood. Individuals learn social skills, soft skills such as cooking and cleaning, communication skills, pre-vocational skills, and independent living skills. There’s even a group skills program that gives clients the opportunity to be exposed to different working environments to see what they would most likely want to pursue as a career.

Residential services are provided at the Merakey Cheatham Transition House, which is home to eight individuals with autism ages 21-35. The home provides an opportunity to learn independent living and transition skills, with on-site staff support.

With our experience, expertise and compassion, Merakey empowers everyone within our communities to reach their fullest potential.

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Photo Credit: Aimee Rabb Photography

The Face of

COSMETICS AND AESTHETICS

Jon Perenack, MD, DDS Shelly Esnard, PA-C

Williamson Cosmetic Center & Perenack Aesthetic Surgery Jon Perenack, MD, DDS joined Williamson Cosmetic Center just fifteen years ago and is already one of the most sought after facial cosmetic surgeons in the Baton Rouge area.

Dr. Perenack’s primary focus is facial cosmetic surgery, as it marries science and art–two things he enjoys the most. For him, his clients’ happiness is paramount. He enjoys the one-on-one interaction with each client and finding ways to help them reach their aesthetic goals.

As an Associate Professor at LSU Health Sciences Center, he has a strong love for teaching and training, he lectures internationally, and has written numerous textbook chapters and journal articles. He is considered a thought leader among his peers of physicians and cosmetic surgeons.

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As a father of three and a “Canadian who fell in love with a Louisiana girl,” Dr. Perenack enjoys spending quality time with his family, painting, and attending LSU and Saints’ games.

Shelly Esnard, PA-C has been practicing at Williamson for over 18 years. Shelly is the center director, a national trainer, and leads the #1 Botox team in Louisiana. Client interaction is what she enjoys most. Shelly works closely with each client, helping them to look and feel their best, while developing a plan that works best for them.

Together, Dr. Perenack and Shelly have created an amazing team at Williamson Cosmetic Center & Perenack Aesthetic Surgery. They are known for their blend of surgical and non-surgical treatment options creating the ideal union of beauty and aesthetics. This variety allows them to have lifelong relationships with their clients and is one of the many reasons why clients refer their friends and family.

Although they may be the faces, they have an amazing team who are key opinion leaders in the industry. They strive to bring the latest technology to Baton Rouge and provide the best services and care to all clients. At Williamson Cosmetic Center & Perenack Aesthetic Surgery, your result is their reputation.

Photo Credit: Aimee Rabb Photography

The Face of

OPHTHALMOLOGY

Dr. Charles H. Williamson Williamson Eye Center Deciding on his career in life was probably one of the easiest things Dr. Charles Williamson has done. His father was an eye doctor who started this practice in Baton Rouge in the early 1950s, and his brother, who is four years older, decided to go to medical school to become an eye surgeon.

Around 13 or 14 years old, Dr. Williamson decided that he would like to play football at LSU, then go to medical school and join the family practice. And, that’s exactly what he did.

All four brothers chose ophthalmology and practice it today. Now that Dr. Williamson has been in practice for over 40 years, looking back at that decision might seem unusual for many people in this day and time, but for those who were born and grew up in the middle of the last century, setting goals and establishing a career in life at an early age wasn’t really an unusual thing.

For Dr. Williamson, ophthalmology turned out to be the perfect career. Blindness is the most feared disability in the world and it’s a rewarding profession as he’s been able to take care of patients, including generations of families in our community.

Clinical practice, research and teaching have all been part of his career. The most important goal for Dr. Williamson is that patients who come to the Williamson Eye Center find a welcoming and professional environment.

Even though Williamson Eye Center has now grown to five offices, a surgery center, laser center and cosmetic center, they still pride themselves in being a family practice and giving patients the feeling of being part of something special when they visit.

Expertise and the pursuit of excellence, along with a caring environment seems to fit what Baton Rougeans are seeking in their medical care.

Certainly in the early part of building the practice, Dr. Williamson didn’t have much spare time; but, as the years have passed with four children, and now nine grandchildren, he is able to enjoy time with them as he continues to build a legacy in eye care.

When it comes to hobbies, Dr. Williamson and his wife enjoy sailing, scuba diving, and snow skiing, but the hobby he most enjoys has been painting. His degree was in art history and creative writing, and having come full circle at this point of his career, he’s been able to start painting again. In the last several years, he has owned a gallery and has had shows and exhibitions of art allowing him to enjoy both the art of painting and surgery.

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The Face of

MENTAL HEALTH ADVOCACY Chelsea Borruano

You Aren’t Alone Project Driven by passion and her own journey of pain, loss and triumph, Chelsea Borruano founded the You Aren’t Alone Project in 2019. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to building a network of support for mental health and wellness in our community so that no one ever has to feel alone. Chelsea is currently pursuing her graduate degree in Mental Health Counseling to build upon her role as Executive Director by providing counseling services and programs for those who need it most. The ultimate vision of the project is to be the platform that paves the way for mental and behavioral health to be treated and talked about in the same way as physical health.

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Private School

GUIDE When it comes to education, the kids aren’t the only ones with something to learn. Parents faced with choosing the right school for their children may find the task daunting, particularly given the vast range of private schools in Baton Rouge and the surrounding areas.

Some families make their decisions based on a school’s reputation, others base their choice on recommendations from friends. However, there is another piece that is here to help you make your decision.

The 2020 Private School Guide includes listings for private schools to give you the basics of what each school has to offer, profiles on select schools who have chosen to give you an even closer look, and open houses so you can actually take a look inside each school.

With this guide, you will be able to find the perfect fit for your future scholars and even your family.

54 Private School Listing 63 Private School Open Houses 66 Private School Profiles 80 Full STEM Ahead 82 Exceptional Students and Private Schools 84 Spoiled for Choice

Cover Kids 2019-20 Condoleezza S., Brayson L., Bryce C. Photo Credit: Kleinpeter Photography Uniforms Provided By: Inka's Uniforms

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Private School

LISTING Get all of the facts you need on private schools in our area by browsing through our comprehensive listing. This listing contains contact information for each school, their religious affiliation, accreditation, the grades taught at the school, tuition, fees, discounts, and whether or not the school offers transportation and IEP assistance.

Information for the listing, profiles, and open houses was provided by each school and was up-to-date at the time of press.

Brighton School, The Kenneth Henderson 12108 Parkmeadow Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 291-2524

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IB, BESE

K-12

450

86

$8,0009,975

N/A

$400

None

CABAS

K-5

85

93

$1,000

N/A

$75

Nondenominational

AdvancED, ICAA

K4-6

102

11

$4,5255,825

$350

$400

Catholic

AdvancED, BESE

K-12

71

13

$11,00013,000

N/A

$450

None

SACS

K-12

150

35

$11,99012,410

$695

$700

TUITION RANGE

Nondenominational

TOTAL FACULTY

REGISTRATION FEE

Blessed Margaret of Castello REACH Program Mary Clare Polito 1800 S. Acadian Thwy., Baton Rouge (225) 336-8735 | csobr.org/exceptional-studentservices

BOOK/ SUPPLY FEE

Bethany Christian School Stephanie Edmonds 11107 Honore Ln., Baton Rouge (225) 412-5337 | bethanychristianschool.com

TOTAL ENROLLMENT

Behavioral Intervention Group Cassie Bradford & Renee Cole 8180 Siegen Ln., Baton Rouge (225) 757-8002 | big-br.com

GRADES TAUGHT

Baton Rouge International School Nathalie Guyon 5015 Auto Plex Dr., Baton Rouge (225) 293-4338 | brintl.com

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION

SCHOOL NAME PRINCIPAL/HEADMASTER ADDRESS PHONE NUMBER | WEBSITE

ACCREDITATION

Cover Kids 2019-20 Condoleezza S., Kylie B. Photo Credit: Kleinpeter Photography Uniforms Provided By: Inka's Uniforms

Private School Accreditations Key AdvancED advanc-ed.org ACCS Association of Classical Christian Schools, accsedu.org ACSI Association of Christian Schools International, acsi.org AFSA America Foreign Service Association, afsa.org AMS American Montessori Society, amshq.org CABAS Comprehensive Application of Behavior Analysis to Schooling, cabasschools.org CBSA Catholic Boarding Schools Association, cbsa.org DBR Diocese of Baton Rouge, diobr.org

FAMILY DISCOUNT

FINANCIAL ASSITANCE/ SCHOLARSHIPS

EXTENDED DAY

IEP ASSISTANCE

No

CAFETERIA B/L

TRANSPORTATION SERVICE

IBO International Baccalaureate Organization, ibo.org

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

ICAA International Curriculum and Assessment Agency, icaag.com ISAS Independent Schools Association of the Southwest, isasw.org LDOE Louisiana Department of Education, louisianabelieves.com LMA Louisiana Montessori Association, lma.solaramg.com MAIS Mississippi Association of Independent Schools, msais.org MDE Mississippi Department of Education, mde.k12.ms.us

No

N/A

No

No

Yes

Yes

MPSA Mississippi Private School Association, mpsa.org NAEYC National Association for the Education of Young Children, naeyc.org NAIS National Association of Independent Schools, nais.org

No

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

NCEA National Catholic Educational Association, ncea.org NCPSA National Council for Private School Accreditation, ncpsa.org

Yes

B/L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

SACS-CASI Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement, sacs.org SAES Southwestern Association of Episcopal Schools, swaes.org

No

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

SAIS Southern Association of Independent Schools, sais.org

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REGISTRATION FEE

ACCREDITATION

1,121

96

$11,400 $100-175

AdvancED

K-7

300

38

$7,8509,200

N/A

$495-610

K3-12

413

50

$5,5005,950

N/A

$550

BOOK/ SUPPLY FEE

8-12

TUITION RANGE

AdvancED, SACS

TOTAL FACULTY

TOTAL ENROLLMENT

Catholic

GRADES TAUGHT

Catholic High School Lisa Harvey 855 Hearthstone Dr., Baton Rouge (225) 383-0397 | catholichigh.org

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION

SCHOOL NAME PRINCIPAL/HEADMASTER ADDRESS PHONE NUMBER | WEBSITE

$450

Cedarwood School Kathryn S. LeBlanc 607 Heavens Dr., Mandeville (985) 845-7111 | cedarwoodschool.com

denominational

Central Private School Robert Martin 12801 Centerra Ct., Central (225) 261-3341 | centralprivate.org

denominational LDOE, SACS,

Covenant Classical Christian School Galen Sorey 8025 Antioch Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 751-2065 | covenantbr.com

Presbyterian

ACCS

K-8

30

5

$4,500

$50

$500

Catholic

AdvancED

9-12

173

13

$2001,000

N/A

$40

denominational

Non

AdvancED, SACS, SAIS, NAIS

PK3-12

759

91

$10,55018,875

N/A

$750

Elan Vital Montessori School Molly Smith 7518 Highland Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 767-6620 | elanvitalmontessori.org

None

LMA, AMS

K-3

55

10

$5,23010,200

$550

$300

Episcopal School of Baton Rouge Hugh McIntosh 3200 Woodland Ridge Blvd., Baton Rouge (225) 753-3180 | episcopalbr.org

Episcopalian

925

104

$10,00019,000

$418

$656

Family Christian Academy Dr. Christopher Granier & Carolyn Richards 8919 World Ministry Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 768-3027 | fcacademy.net

Christian

State Approved

K4-12

223

50

$5,000- $385-540 6,000

$450

None

State Approved

K-12

100

28

$10,60010,900

$700

Cristo Rey Baton Rouge Franciscan High School Claire Willis 4000 St. Gerard Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 615-7479 | cristoreybr.org Dunham School, The Steven A. Eagleton 11111 Roy Emerson Dr., Baton Rouge (901) 496-0481 | dunhamschool.org

Greater Baton Rouge Hope Academy Linda L. Stone 15333 Jefferson Hwy., Baton Rouge (225) 293-0141 | hopeacademybr.org 56

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Non-

Non-

MAIS

SAES, NAES, PreK3-12 SAIS, NAIS

N/A

FINANCIAL ASSITANCE/ SCHOLARSHIPS

EXTENDED DAY

B/L

No

Yes

No

No

No

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

B/L

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

No

N/A

No

No

No

No

Yes

B/L

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

B/L

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

L

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

L

No

Yes

Yes

No

No

L

Yes

No

Yes

No

No

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

IEP ASSISTANCE

FAMILY DISCOUNT

TRANSPORTATION SERVICE

CAFETERIA B/L

0

No

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Hosanna Christian Academy Monique Burdette 8850 Goodwood Blvd., Baton Rouge (225) 926-4885 | hcablazers.org

SACS, NCEA, PreK4-8 LRSCE, LDOE

REGISTRATION FEE

BOOK/ SUPPLY FEE

TUITION RANGE

TOTAL FACULTY

TOTAL ENROLLMENT

Catholic

GRADES TAUGHT

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION

Holy Family School Alise Ashford 335 N. Jefferson Ave., Port Allen (225) 344-4100 | holyfamilyschool.com

ACCREDITATION

SCHOOL NAME PRINCIPAL/HEADMASTER ADDRESS PHONE NUMBER | WEBSITE

410

42

$4,5005,000

$150

$150

Assemblies of God

BESE

K4-8

550

55

$4,8106,190

Varies

$500

None

LMA

PreK3-K

65

9

$6,950

$695

$250

Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic School Cheri M. Gioe 8033 Baringer Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 751-0273 | mbsbr.org

Catholic

SACS, AdvancED

PK4-8

520

48

$5,8006,900

$400

$360

Our Lady of Mercy School Chris Porche 400 Marquette Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 924-1054 | olomschool.org

Catholic

AdvancED, SACS, BESE

K-8

965

87

$4,9506,700

$600

$275

Parkview Baptist School Dr. Don Mayes 5750 Parkview Church Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 291-2500 | parkviewbaptist.com

Baptist

AdvancED, SAIS

PreK-12

1,155

150

$9,105- $300-500 11,515

Redemptorist St. Gerard School Cheryl Domino 3655 St. Gerard Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 355-1437 | rsgbr.org

Catholic

AdvancEd, SACS

PK-8

202

25

$5,800

N/A

$400

None

BESE

K-12

554

137

$8,35515,180

$2702,480

$250-750

Catholic

SACS, AdvancED

PreK-8

230

30

$5,6256,225

N/A

$420

Non-denominational

AdvancED, SACS

PreK-12

520

42

$4,0005,000

$200

$75

Montessori School of Baton Rouge Molly Williams 8227 Wimbledon Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 766-9942 | montessorischoolofbatonrouge.org

Runnels School Marcia Mackay 17255 South Harrell's Ferry Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 215-5706 | runnels.org Sacred Heart of Jesus School Cecilia Methvin 2251 Main St., Baton Rouge (225) 383-7481 | sacredheartbr.com Silliman Institute Kevin Lemoine 10830 Bank St., Clinton (225) 683-5383 | sillimaninsititue.org 58

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$350-610

CAFETERIA B/L

FAMILY DISCOUNT

FINANCIAL ASSITANCE/ SCHOLARSHIPS

EXTENDED DAY

IEP ASSISTANCE

TRANSPORTATION SERVICE Yes

B/L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

0

No

B/L

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

0

No

N/A

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

0

Yes

B/L

No

No

Yes

No

Yes

B/L

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

610

No

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

0

Yes

B/L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

N/A

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

B/L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

B/L

Yes

No

Yes

No

50

0

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50

$1,7002,100

N/A

$50

Catholic

SACS

PK3-8

450

43

$4,9505,660

N/A

$225-515

Catholic

SACS, BESE

PreK-8

1,176

100

$5,4006,710

$375

$120

Episcopalian

SAES

K-5

270

40

$7,7359,770

$200

$525

Catholic

SACS

PK-8

475

40

$5,210

N/A

$300

Catholic

LDOE, SACS

9-12

1,101

84

$11,455

N/A

$575

Catholic

SACS

PK-8

565

52

$4,9955,960

$250

$250

Christian

BESE

K-12

50

9

$10,00013,250

$600

$250-500

St. Luke's Episcopal School Connie Bradford 8833 Goodwood Blvd., Baton Rouge (225) 927-8601 | stlukesbrschool.org

Episcopalian

SAES, ICAISA

PK-8

240

35

$5,68110,449

$450

$400

St. Michael the Archangel High School Ellen B. Lee 17521 Monitor Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 753-9782 | smhsbr.org

Catholic

9-12

570

70

$8,825

$600

$550

St. Alphonsus Catholic School Cindy Ryals 13940 Greenwell Springs Rd., Greenwell Springs (225) 261-5299 | stalphonsusbr.org St. George Catholic School Jack Nelson 7880 St. George Dr., Baton Rouge (225) 293-1298 | st-georgeschool.com St. James Episcopal Day School Michael Kuhn 445 Convention St., Baton Rouge (225) 344-0805 | stjameseds.org St. Jean Vianney School Wendy Ross 16266 South Harrell's Ferry Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 751-1831 | stjeanvianneyschool.org St. Joseph's Academy Stacia Andricain 3015 Broussard St., Baton Rouge (225) 383-7207 | sjabr.org St. Jude the Apostle School Michelle Gardiner 9150 Highland Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 769-2344 | stjudebr.org St. Lillian Academy Elissa McKenzie 8130 Kelwood Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 771-8173 | stlillian.org

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AdvancED, SACS, LDOE

REGISTRATION FEE

TOTAL ENROLLMENT 302

BOOK/ SUPPLY FEE

GRADES TAUGHT K-12

TUITION RANGE

ACCREDITATION AdvancED

Southern University Laboratory School Herman Brister Jr. 129 Swan Ave., Baton Rouge (227) 771-3490 | sulabschool.com

TOTAL FACULTY

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION None

SCHOOL NAME PRINCIPAL/HEADMASTER ADDRESS PHONE NUMBER | WEBSITE

FAMILY DISCOUNT

FINANCIAL ASSITANCE/ SCHOLARSHIPS

EXTENDED DAY

L

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

L

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

B/L

No

No

Yes

No

No

L

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

B/L

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

B/L

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

0

No

L

No

Yes

Yes

No

0

Yes

L

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

15

0

0

00

IEP ASSISTANCE

CAFETERIA B/L

TRANSPORTATION SERVICE No

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Trinity Episcopal Day School Linda Brown 3550 Morning Glory Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 387-0398 | trinityschoolbr.org Trinity Lutheran School Marinea McGehee 15160 South Harrell's Ferry Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 272-1288 | tlcbr.org/trinitylutheranschool Victory Academy Sue Cashio 3953 N. Flannery Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 272-8339 | victoryacademybr.org

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AdvancED, SACS, NCEA

REGISTRATION FEE

85

$5,5007,600

$280

$360

150

22

$9,805

N/A

N/A

Episcopalian SAES, NAES, PreK3-5 ICAISA

BOOK/ SUPPLY FEE

735

TUITION RANGE

PK-8

TOTAL FACULTY

TOTAL ENROLLMENT

Catholic

GRADES TAUGHT

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION

St. Thomas More Catholic School Brian Moscona 11400 Sherbrook Dr., Baton Rouge (225) 275-2820 | stmbr.org

ACCREDITATION

SCHOOL NAME PRINCIPAL/HEADMASTER ADDRESS PHONE NUMBER | WEBSITE

Lutheran

DOE Approved

K-8

60

11

$5,6005,775

N/A

$475

Nondenominational

State Approved

PK-8

220

26

TBA

TBA

TBA

FAMILY DISCOUNT

FINANCIAL ASSITANCE/ SCHOLARSHIPS

EXTENDED DAY

B/L

Yes

No

Yes

IEP ASSISTANCE

CAFETERIA B/L

TRANSPORTATION SERVICE Yes

Yes

Private School OPEN HOUSES SCHOOL

GRADE

DATE

TIME

Baton Rouge International School

K-12

Jan. 25

9 a.m.

Bethany Christian School

K4-6

Jan. 29

9 a.m.

REACH Program

All

By Appointment

N/A

Brighton School, The

K-12

Feb. 12

9 a.m.

Catholic High School

6-8

Nov. 12

4:30 p.m.

Cedarwood School

K-7

Jan. 23

9 a.m.

Central Private School

K3-12

Jan. 30

6 p.m.

Covenant Classical Christian School

K-8

Feb. 20

7 p.m.

Dunham School, The

PK-12

Jan. 31

8:30 a.m.

All

Jan. 23

5 p.m.

Family Christian Academy

All

Aug. 7

7 p.m.

Greater Baton Rouge Hope Academy

All

Jan. 29

N/A

Holy Family School

PK-7

Jan. 30

9 a.m.

Our Lady of Mercy School

K-8

Jan. 15

8 a.m.

Parkview Baptist School

1-12

Jan. 15

8:30 a.m.

Runnels School

All

By Appointment

N/A

Sacred Heart of Jesus School

PreK-8

Jan. 23

9 a.m.

Southern University Laboratory School K-12

Jan. 30

9 a.m.

St. Alphonsus Catholic School

PK3-8

Jan. 26

1 p.m.

St. Jean Vianney School

PK4-8

Jan. 16

5 p.m.

St. Joseph's Academy

6-8

Oct. 15

4 p.m.

St. Jude the Apostle School

PK-8

Jan. 10

9 a.m.

All

Jan. 17

9 a.m.

St. Luke's Episcopal School

PK3-8

Jan. 23

9 a.m.

St. Thomas More Catholic School

PK-8

Jan. 16

5 p.m.

Trinity Episcopal Day School

PK3-5

Jan. 15

All Day

Trinity Lutheran School

All

Feb. 6

5 p.m.

Victory Academy

PK-8

Jan. 25

9 a.m.

Blessed Margaret of Castello No

Yes

No

L

L

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

All of the 2020 Private School Listings can be found on our website with the information you see here. You can visit us online at brparents.com to have this great resource right in the palm of your hand.

Elan Vital Montessori School

St. Lillian Academy

For more information on private schools in our area, visit us online at brparents.com.

Our website features listings, profiles, and open houses on the school of your choice. All of this information will help you and your child to come together to make the very important decision of which school your child should attend. â– JA N UA RY 2020 | B R PA R EN T S .COM

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Private School

PROFILES Take a dive inside your child’s prospective school through the Private School Profiles.

These profiles allow you to learn pertinent information about each school, including the school’s history and achievements, educational and athletics programs offered, and what to expect when it comes to your child’s development at school.

Cover Kid 2019-20 Condoleezza S. Photo Credit: Kleinpeter Photography Uniforms Provided By: Inka's Uniforms

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FULL

STEM

AHEAD

By Anita RaJean Walker

Imagine a middle school student dribbling a basketball while a second student is filming the series of bounces. A third eighth-grader has graph paper, while a fourth is developing an equation on a dry erase board.

Welcome to a typical Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) exercise.

Cover Kid 2019-20 Brayson L. Photo Credit: Kleinpeter Photography Uniforms Provided by: Inka's Uniforms

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This physics activity is one example of how children learn in the Dunham School’s Innovation Lab or the Episcopal School of Baton Rouge’s Maker Spaces.

MITIGATING MISCONCEPTIONS Both independent schools educate students from PreK to 12th grade. The implementation of STEM begins with project-based learning at the earliest level of education. The thought is that building blocks in PreK lead to success throughout a student’s academic journey.

A common misconception about STEM is the acronym itself. In 2001, the introduction of the science-based curriculum started to seep into the conversation. By 2009, the new approach to education became a mainstream concept for the classroom.

“Our kids don’t learn the way we did," says Jennifer, a local parent of a high school student. “We were handed math facts and given the test by Friday.

I watched my son in second and third grade use his LEGOs and the living room floor to learn math.”

But, Jennifer admits that the changes were not easy. “I was learning with my son. It is not about memorizing anymore; it is about doing. Now, I am the one who asks to help with his engineering projects,” she explains.

The other worry about STEM is the lack of humanities. But, at some local private schools, they strive for balanced, integrated learning. The cross-curriculum focus weaves art with building and concepts with writing. It continues to stack the building blocks of learning in a seemingly poetic way.

MORE THAN MATH Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math are necessary given the shift in professional fields. The global digital economy is the reason the evolution in education happened. But, STEM is only an acronym.

The basis is for students to enjoy the world around them and to stay forever

curious. The primary tenets of STEM’s objectives in independent schools are communication, collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, and global citizenship.

Group work and presentations are part of every classroom, from art to science.

Helping one another learn creates a peer friendly environment. But, not every student is comfortable in social settings.

Dana, the mother of a fifth grader, expresses, “Middle school is a difficult time for students. My daughter’s social anxiety was always a concern of mine as projects got bigger and harder. But, it seems that every semester, she comes out of her shell a little more. She’s made friends through group work, and it has changed her attitude towards social situations completely.”

Not every story is a success, but the focus on the individual student doesn't waver. Regardless of what some believe, conformity is not part of STEM. Everyone learns differently, excels differently, and sees the world through different eyes. The curriculum allows every child’s academic journey to be a unique one.

Creativeness is a fostered trait. The Dunham School offers equal parts with their high school electives. Where there is an Intro to Engineering class, there is also Creative Writing. No one size fits all approach exists.

ENGAGING EVERYONE Static grades are how people are accustomed to gauging academic success.

But, with the slow elimination of “bubble tests” or a mixed approach, parents sometimes struggle measuring their child’s progression.

Episcopal School of Baton Rouge features Maker Spaces, a lab-like environment that encourages independent projects. They also are renovating a building to work as a Quest Center. The Lower School and Upper School will utilize the space to watch their learning come alive.

The Dunham School also has Innovation Labs for students to learn and apply their skills in coding, building, designing, and engineering. The process of rebuilding and redesigning is encouraged in the labs.

What happens in the Learning Spaces is not kept a secret, or merely used as a grading exercise. The students share their work with the public.

Episcopal School of Baton Rouge hosts events for parents. LAUNCH is a popular day-long event for Upper School students. Students present their projects, talk about their research, and exhibit their talent to peers, parents, and industry partners. At the Dunham School, parents attend Innovations Nights (PreK) or STEM nights (MS), so they can view and understand their child’s progress.

In both independent schools, industry partnerships are essential for both the school and the company.

Engagement beyond a school’s walls opens up opportunities and creates a broader community of learning and understanding.

LSU, Shell, and Exxon are a few companies that champion STEM, offer up future role models, and provide their expertise. In turn, schools educate their students to one day not only take over corporations, but also the world. ■

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EXCEPTIONAL STUDENTS AND PRIVATE SCHOOLS

By Jessica Aslin

You may have heard that “private schools do not provide services for students who have disabilities or exceptionalities.”

However, this is actually a common misconception. While private schools are not required to provide these services, most have programs in place to help meet the needs of all of their students.

ADHD in the Classroom With the prevalence of children with ADHD on the rise, every educational institution will be serving students in need of accommodations from a traditional learning environment.

According to the Center for Disease Control, almost 11 percent of children ages 5-17 will be diagnosed with ADHD (2015-2017).

The Attention Deficit Disorder Resource Center suggests most parents will notice symptoms around the time their child enters school, if not before, and are most likely to be diagnosed by the age of seven. The likelihood that this disorder hits parents close to home is really high.

One local mom’s son who was diagnosed with ADHD and anxiety attended private school until this school year. She shares that she noticed some changes in his behavior. “Although he is very brilliant, he was getting in trouble in 82

class for being disruptive and he was not completing his work or turning it in on time,” she says.

After visiting with a psychologist at Louisiana State University for a psychoeducational assessment, she learned about his ADHD and anxiety diagnosis. She was able to bring these concerns to her then private school. The school was able to work with her son to provide “small group testing, preferential seating, and extended time that allowed for a calm environment, thus helping to reduce his anxiety.”

Parental input is often critical to the school in helping to develop a plan that works best for each student both at school and at home. Local child psychologist Dr. Lynn Schechter provides some specific examples of behavior management techniques she uses to create a structure for children with ADHD. For preschool and elementary school children, she suggests implementing a highly structured day with emphasis on rules and routines. One way to help establish this is through a rewards system. Parents can select a specific behavior they want their child to complete, and when they do complete the behavior, he or she earns a reward.

“Of course, it is critical that parents be consistent and use the chart every

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day. High structure in each day is very important,” says Dr. Schechter.

For middle school children, Dr. Schechter emphasizes the importance of providing the kids with the tools they need to feel confident and reduce stress, like teaching effective study skills and time management techniques.

Since private schools have more flexibility and access to different resources, they may be more apt to address certain needs of students who have ADHD, as well as other specific disabilities.

Students with IEPs The United States Department of Education requires an IEP or Individualized Education Program under the Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) for students who receive special education and related services in a public school.

A student diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and/or other disabilities may be eligible for an Individualized Education Plan or IEP based on the Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in a public school. Depending on the student, an IEP may not be indicated, but instead, a Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act plan may be better.

Federal funding received by private schools indicates whether they are required to follow the same educational laws that public schools are bound to. Renee Yesso, school counselor at Brighton School, explains, “Generally, private schools create their own accommodations, rather than using the ones in the public school system.”

The Brighton School in Baton Rouge specializes in serving area K-12 students with dyslexia and other related learning differences. “To be admitted, it is preferred that a student have a full psychoeducational evaluation from a psychologist. There are recommendations for accommodations in those, but we also create our own plan highlighting that student’s needs using the evaluation, parental input, student input depending on age, and teacher input,” says Yesso.

Often, the difference in how public and private schools serve students with disabilities are the resources that are available to serve them at the individual school, and the source of the psychoeducational evaluation occurring outside of the school or school system.

Where to Find Help Private schools work closely to put together their own plan if they have the resources and staff to assist the student. Another practical example is The Dunham School’s McKay Academic Center. This in-school center focuses on providing resources to help all their students, while offering reading and dyslexia remediation, individual and small group courses, and classroom accommodations to identified students.

If your student is currently attending a private school and you find that your child is experiencing problems in the classroom, it's important that you talk to your child's school about how the school can help. The school may be able to refer your child for testing in the community to help identify any potential issues you may not be aware of.

LSU’s Psychological Service Center offers this testing, along with psychotherapy services for adults, adolescents and children in the community on a sliding scale. ■ JA N UA RY 2020 | B R PA R EN T S .COM

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SPOILED FOR CHOICE It feels like one of the most important parenting decisions we will ever make, and it probably is. Where will I send my child to school? Every community has a public school system, but for some parents, the public school system is not an option.

Mom of two, Rene F. shares, “Public school services in our area are"D" rated schools, with the exception of the magnet school that Aubrey (their oldest daughter) is in, which requires testing to get in. We didn’t feel that public school was even an option education-wise for the little one.” Lack of access to quality public schools, religious education, small class sizes, and access to individualized services are just some of the reasons why parents may choose to educate their children in private schools

By Jannean Dixon, M.Ed.

WHERE DO I BEGIN? “Most parents come to us through word-of-mouth referrals, so it’s always a good idea to talk to family, friends, or co-workers and ask them to share their opinions and experiences,” shares Michelle Pricer, Director of Enrollment at The Dunham School. “Many families also begin with a web search to 84

Cover Kid 2019-20 Bryce C. Photo Credit: Kleinpeter Photography Uniforms Provided by: Inka's Uniforms

narrow down their options, familiarize themselves with the admissions process, and decide which schools they’d like to visit. Once parents have determined

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the schools they’d like to consider, scheduling a personal tour should be the next step. Nothing can replace experiencing a school firsthand.”

Head of School at St. Lillian Academy, Elissa McKenzie, agrees and shares, “I think most parents begin their search, like most things now, with a Google search.”

I certainly remember doing this when I was looking for a school for our oldest daughter. I made a spreadsheet of all of the things that were important to me and my husband when it came to finding the right school. Then, I searched the websites for the answers to my questions before he and I sat down to discuss all of our options.

WHAT IS IMPORTANT TO US? “Start by examining what factors are most important for the family such as world language learning, a spiritual program, music, athletics, etcetera.” Elena McPeak, Director of Admission at Episcopal School of Baton Rouge recommends. “Having this information can help identify schools with the right set of academic and cocurricular opportunities.”

Other factors that may be important are exposure to the arts, rigorous STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) programming, leadership opportunities, or a particular emphasis on a chosen sport. If your child has unique learning or medical needs, this should also be part of the decision making process.

WHAT QUESTIONS DO I ASK? McPeak from Episcopal School of Baton Rouge and Linda Stone from Greater Baton Rouge Hope Academy share some of their most frequently asked questions: What is the student to teacher ratio? What curriculum is offered by the school? What supports are available for students who are academically advanced or academically challenged? What is the school’s educational philosophy and method of discipline?

After having these questions answered, parents should ask the questions that are important to them personally: What types of financial assistance are available? If it is a faithbased school, and how does the school support families of similar or different faith values? Where do students typically go to college after graduating from the school? Are the class sizes small enough to provide individualized care the child requires in order to blossom?

WHAT ABOUT SPECIAL STUDENT SERVICES? For students with special needs, additional questions may need to be asked, points out Stone and McKenzie, both Heads of Schools at schools which educate students with special needs.

Does the school complete diagnostic assessments to assure proper placement and determine strengths and growth opportunities? Is the school capable of creating a program to fit the child rather than forcing the child to fit a program?

Does the school provide a variety of educational programs and extracurricular opportunities such as daily living skills, a high school diploma and or vocational training, sports, dancing, music, and technology? Are there opportunities for interaction with typically developing peers? Are therapies such as speech, occupational, physical, and adapted

“I think visiting schools is the best way to determine if a school is the right fit for a family,” physical education provided on campus?

What is the school’s behavior philosophy, and is there a full-time school counselor or behavioral expert on staff? Are teachers experienced in working with children with exceptionalities?

SHOULD I TAKE A TOUR? “I think visiting schools is the best way to determine if a school is the right fit for a family,” shares McPeak. “While on the tour, be sure to pause and really observe what is going on around you–are the students engaged; are the teachers engaged; has the tour guide only brought you to the shiny or pretty parts of campus, or did you get to see all parts of the school?

One of the best indicators for school success is how strong and positive the school community is. It can be hard to 'quantify' a school’s community, but you should be able to feel it when you are touring a school.”

ARE THERE TIPS FOR TUITION? Most of our area’s private schools include their tuition and fees on their websites, or you can find them in Baton Rouge

Parents Magazine's Private School Listing in this issue, but as Pricer points out, “When comparing the cost, it’s important to look at each school’s tuition and fees to get a better picture of the total cost to attend.”

However, there may be additional fees included with the tuition. McPeak adds, “Fees might include the enrollment fee, lunch fee, technology and/or book fees.”

It's important for you to look at all fees and then see if there are fees that aren't obvious right away or not available on the website. For instance, are there going to be additional participation fees for class trips or fees for activities that will be taking place after school?

When comparing the true cost of enrollment for different area schools, it is important to know what fees are assessed up-front and which fees will be added on later during the school year.

HOW CAN FUTURE STUDENTS GET INVOLVED? Students are almost always welcomed to visit the school they are interesting in learning more about, either with their parents or at a later scheduled time.

McKenzie with St. Lillian shares her school’s unique perspective on including children. “Following the parent visit, we schedule a student visit for the child to spend time in our classrooms and at recess, sometimes through lunch as well.

This gives the student a chance to provide feedback to his/her family as they make their decisions and gives our team a chance to decide on initial classroom placement.”

Many of our area private schools offer some version of a try before you buy experience, so it is important to ask about these opportunities for your child. After the visit, listen carefully to what your child has to share about his or her day at the potential new school. Write down their questions to have them answered by school personnel and thank your child for her help in the decision.

Gaining your child's perspective on the school will be a crucial step in the decision making process. The student is the one who will be spending his or her days there the most, so it's important that, as a family, you are a choosing an environment that your child is not only comfortable in, but an environment that your child can excel in, and one that she enjoys is always positive. ■

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Toddler Property

Laws

By Brittany McCabe

Cover Kids 2019-20 Britton, Bryson, Sabastian H-J. Photo Credit: Lauren Leopold Photography

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s a mom of toddlers, you are familiar with toddler tantrums over things that don’t make sense, say a major meltdown when you won’t let them eat cereal and milk from a plate, because you know, gravity, or when you won’t let them eat dog food, because um, they are not a dog, or when you won’t let them cross the street solo, because of the minor fact that they have no sense of judgment and are only two feet tall.

Yes, we can all relate, but I am here to talk to you about toddler property laws. What are those, you say? Let me spell it out for you: M-I-N-E! Have you ever heard of the song “7 Rings” by Ariana Grande? Her chorus certainly “rings” with the toddler laws buzzing around my house.

Here are a few minor adjustments to the song to help set the tone of what us toddler moms hear as background music, on the daily: “I want it, I got it, I want it, I got it. I want it, I got it, I want it, I got it. I like your truck, gee thanks, just took it. I see it, I like it, I want it, I got it.”

Mama, I feel you! Toddlers are both equally cute and challenging, but they can’t help it. According to Piaget’s Four Stages of Child Development, toddlers are fully into the preoperational stage, which is a stage of egocentrism. In this stage of development, children are unable 86

to see the world from another person’s point of view, hence the ego running the show. Children do not possess the full cognitive ability to understand beyond their thinking and feelings until the age of seven, so, hang in there.

Any toddler mom knows the ways through their egocentric kiddo, but what can we do to help get through this time without losing our hair, sleep, or mind?

First off, take a long, deep, even deeper breath. We need to remind ourselves this is a moment in time.

Children respond very well to calm tones, validation, and simple direct messages

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of what they can do. For example, if your child is building blocks and screams, “Mine!” when his or her sibling or a peer tries to use some of the pieces, calmly

"A tactic that I find helpful is to give ownership to items, either what they belong to or where they belong." bend down to your toddler’s level, place a comforting hand on his back, and ask, “Are you playing with these blocks?” He may respond with, “Yes! They’re mine!”

You can reassure your child that you hear

and understand his words, which will immediately put him at ease and allow him to hear your next response.

A tactic that I find helpful is to give ownership to items, either what they belong to or where they belong. For example, with the blocks, I would say, “The blocks belong to the school or the playroom. Let me help you get a lot of pieces, so you can continue building your block tower.”

Giving ownership to the item will help your child understand the parameters and alleviate some of the immediate “Mine!” action. Another example of calm tones, validation, and simple direct messages are helpful when a child is no longer playing with something, but he is staking claim when someone else picks it up. A way to handle this is to, again, calmly get down to your child’s level and validate him. He needs to feel that you understand why he is upset. This is a crucial step. If your child is not calm, he will not be able to process your words.

Sometimes, quickly getting the point across works well. For example, “You

want that car back!” When your child feels understood, you will then be able to reason with him.

Take-home messages with toddlers are: be calm, validate their needs, and keep it simple. Toddlers work well with redirection and distraction, but only after they feel understood. Also, sometimes, it’s just not worth it. If they insist on sleeping with something because it’s “theirs;” if it is safe, then, by all means, let them sleep with it.

Being a parent of a toddler comes with its ups and downs, but we are all in this together, mama. ■ Property Laws from Toddler Moms “If it’s yellow, it’s mine. Also, blue. If it’s blue, it’s mine.” -Kate A. “If It’s mine, I need to bring it everywhere. Yes, my telescope is coming to the water park.” -Melissa B. “It’s mine even if I haven’t looked at it or touched it in a week!” -Danielle C. “The birds are mine. The rocks are mine The dinner I won’t touch is mine.

If another child has it, it’s mine. If

it’s a ball, it’s mine. If it has dogs, it’s mine. If it makes noise, it’s mine. Milk?

Mine. Daddy? Mine. Band-Aids? Mine.

The food I gave you and you are now chewing? Mine. Yep. Everything is mine.” -Sherre S.

Toddler Property Laws - I saw it; it’s mine.

- I saw it first; it’s mine.

- I wanted that; it’s mine.

- If I can climb it, it’s mine.

- If I can look at it, it’s mine.

- If I can touch it, it’s mine.

- If it looks like mine, it’s mine.

- The birds are mine.

- The rocks are mine.

- If I like it, it’s mine.

- If it’s mine, you must never have it.

- If it’s mine, I must sleep with it.

- I didn’t know that even existed until just now; it’s mine.

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PLAY A DAY IN THE LIFE OF DAD STAY CONNECTED If you would like to read more of Brandon’s adventures from A Day in the Life of Dad, visit us online at brparents.com.

GEAR UP Create a three-dimensional soundscape in your home with Amazon’s Echo Studio.

Ask Alexa to play a song to learn more about your favorite music, or ask her to check the weather, set alarms, and control smart home devices. ■ amazon.com

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FROM THE MOUTHS OF DADS

New Things, New Year

By Brandon Foreman

H

ave you ever slept on the beach or camped in the backyard, or even started on a trip and didn’t know where you were going? These are a few of the things that I think lie in store for me in this next year. Too many times, we all make new year resolutions, and they all seem to come from a place of changing something we don’t like.

I don’t want to do the normal thing of saying, I am going to get healthy or in shape, or we are going to keep the house clean. I think changes are fine, but to really make a change, I think it will be more about doing new things, not less. So this year, my New Year’s resolution is to do new things with my family. I want to have new experiences and new memories and new stories to tell. Too many times, we get caught up doing the same things and going to the same places, so let’s all plan to do new things.

With doing this, the trick will be stepping out of our comfort zone, and the best way I can think to do this, and really do it, is to get three jars and label them: “All day,” “Weekend,” and “Two hours.” Once you have this done, sit down with the whole family and make a list of things to do that take that much time. Write them down on separate slips of paper, fold each one up, and put them in the correct jar. Now, when you have that amount of free time, or can make that much free time, let everyone in the family take turns picking from the jar. No matter what it is, you and the family go do it. Let me know how it goes and where you go. Share your stories with us on social media.

Happy New Things New Year to you and your family.

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All the things you hear about going into parenting are true. I've never known love like this."

–Matthew Morrison PIC OF THE MONTH

JT and his sons, Jackson and Cameron, pose for a photo on a perfectly sunny day.

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PLAY GET OUT OF TOWN

CALLAWAY RESORT AND GARDENS IN PINE MOUNTAIN, GEORGIA

By Julie Engelhardt Coordinates: 32.86467° N, -84.85477° E Distance from Baton Rouge to Callaway Resort and Gardens: 462 miles Driving Time: 7 hours, 4 minutes Flying Time: 1 hour, 9 minutes Why Callaway Resort and Gardens? This is an idyllic vacation spot where your family can rest and relax, hike, bike, play in the water, and laze on a white sand beach. This beautiful resort, located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, was founded by Cason Callaway and his wife Virginia Hand Callaway in 1952 as a way to share their love of nature with friends and family. New for 2020: Mega Bugs–a permanent exhibit featuring gigantic insects, and debuting in September, the Pumpkin Festival showcases fun, animated pumpkins.

WHERE TO STAY

Glamping is all the rage, so we recommend the Cottages at Callaway. This home-away-from-home is set in an inviting neighborhood atmosphere that is perfect for your getaway. For larger parties, there are two bedroom cottages with four queen beds, two bathrooms, a full kitchen and fireplace; and for small parties, they have one bedroom cabins with a master bedroom that includes two queen beds and all of the amenities.

WHERE TO EAT The Gardens Restaurant The Gardens Restaurant, located near Mountain Creek Lake, serves delicious dishes that incorporate locally-grown foods. Seared halibut, panroasted lamb chops, and marinated New York strip steak are just a few of the entrees on the menu. Complete your dinner with a warm apple tart or sweet potato and maple cheesecake.

Country Kitchen For a more casual and relaxed dining option, check out the Country Kitchen inside the Callaway Gardens Country Store. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are available, offering hearty meals that will keep your energy up for a day of outdoor activities. Buttermilk pancakes, corned beef hash or biscuits and gravy are a great way to start the day, or choose a fried green tomato sandwich for lunch, and end your day with a bountiful plate of shrimp and grits.

Piedmont Dining Room The Piedmont Dining Room also offers up breakfast, lunch and dinner, but they’re known for their specialty dining as well. The Friday night Seafood & Prime Rib Buffet is from 5-9 p.m., allowing guests to indulge in cut-to-order prime rib, crab legs, shrimp, and oysters on the half shell.

On Saturday evenings, dig into their Flavors of the South Buffet offering 92

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great eats that incorporate regional favorites from the Heart of Texas to the Georgia Low Country.

WHAT TO DO Immerse yourself in a garden blooming with beautiful butterflies! The Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center is a glass-enclosed conservatory that allows you to get up close and personal with 1,000s of these delicate winged creatures. Enhance your experience by becoming a Butterfly Keeper for a Day where you learn how to care for butterflies, identify butterflies, and help release newly-emerged butterflies into their new home.

Callaway is a beautiful place to learn about the world, especially about nature’s feathered friends. Join experts in the Discovery Amphitheater as they share their knowledge at the Birds of Prey Show. Several birds are present at each show, demonstrating their strength and speed.

If your family is looking for a sky-high adventure, head over to the TreeTop Adventure and Zip Lines Course. Zoom along at 70 feet above the forest floor, with more than 3,000 feet of horizontal courses, zip lines, and other challenges that include ladders, wires, logs, discs and netting, along with other suspended surfaces.

Let’s swim and splash the day away at Aqua Island at Robin Lake Beach, available Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Inflatables include large mountains, monkey bars and trampolines, and they make this the best "waterpark" for miles around. Challenge yourself on The Glacier, their newest attraction, which tests your balance and agility.

Let’s go ride a bike! The Discovery Bike Trail is a 10-mile paved bike path that winds through property with stops at all attractions and gardens. This is a great way for guests of all ages to get some exercise and explore the resort’s 2,500 acres.

Start planning for the Summer Family Adventure 2020s–a camp for everyone. Members of the Florida State University Flying High Circus lead children in a variety of great day camp activities, while the grownups split off to participate in fun of their own. ■

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PLAY THINGS WE L

VE

As the Chaos Coordinator of your life, it’s important to start the New Year off right. The Chaos Coordinator Mom Planner is the perfect way to keep your family organized–from school and appointments to activities and recitals.

■ purpletrail.com

The winter chill can do a number on your skin which is why protecting it is so important.

Lancôme’s Advanced Génifique Youth Activating Serum is perfect to add into your routine as it instantly makes your skin feel hydrated, smooth, and more radiant.

■ lancome-usa.com

Whether you use it for daily drinking or when you’re exploring the wilderness, you can be sure to have clean, filtered water with every sip. The JTTVO Water Filter Bottle improves water taste and offers safe drinking water.

■ amazon.com

A bag that lasts is at the top of the musthave list when looking for a purse. With Wilsons Leather’s Curved Top Shopper, you can add a little “wow!” to every outfit, all while toting around your necessities, too. ■ wilsonsleather.com

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These boots were made for walking, so you can walk into the New Year in style. The Fergalicious Bonus Booties feature a back zipper entry, so you can slip them on and strut your stuff. ■ macys.com

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PLAY MOMS ONLY

New Year, New Mommy

By Jami & Katrina After having kids, every part of your body seems to head south, whether it's fine lines, wrinkles, stretch marks, or age spots.

We sometimes have fantasies of tweaking something on our bodies or doing more invasive procedures such as tummy tucks or facelifts.

For those who are considering this, we want to talk about key dos and don'ts of cosmetic surgery, how to find the right doctor, and review some of the trendiest procedures for 2020.

Cosmetic Procedures Dos and Dont’s DOs. ▪ Eat right and lose excess weight before surgery, if possible ▪ Have some resources in place to help take care of yourself, your family, and your pets.

▪ Make a list of medications and check with your doctor on when or if you need to stop taking any of them.

▪ Take your pain medications as prescribed.

▪ Drink plenty of water.

▪ Research. Be sure to look at reviews and pictures of the doctor's work, especially the procedures that you want to have done.

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▪ ▪ ▪

Try to have realistic expectations.

Maintain a healthy body weight.

Wait 6-12 months before you begin judging your final results.

DON’Ts ▪ Do not smoke or vape before surgery.

Nicotine can slow down healing.

▪ Don’t overdo it! Rest and enjoy your time off to recover.

▪ Don’t be afraid to ask questions or call your doctor regarding your concerns. Speak up!

▪ Take advice, but don’t automatically listen to naysayers. Plastic surgery has come so far in recent years and a lot of people have attached a stigma to plastic surgery.

▪ Do not make cost your number one deciding factor. We can’t stress this enough.

▪ Nitpick and obsess. You can ruin what could be a positive experience.

So now that we have shared what to do and what not to do before and after surgery, let’s talk about what’s trending.

What’s Trending?

Fat eliminating non-invasive treatments are super hot right now. One of these is CoolSculpting, which is an FDAapproved device that uses controlled cooling to permanently freeze fat cells that are resistant to diet and exercise.

Sculpsure, another in the same field, is a

quick 20-minute fat dissolving procedure that shocks the body with intense heat and then cools down.

Skin tightening treatments are also hot right now. Exilis is one of these treatments, and it uses radio frequency and ultrasound to tighten and build collagen.

Some procedures that are more invasive but also on the trending list include: The BBL (aka Brazilian Butt Lift) is a game changer for some body types.

The fat transfer procedure uses fat that is extracted from your own body by liposuction and then injected back into your buttocks and hip area to create a fuller, more shapely appearance. Fat transfer can also be done to increase breast size, which makes a more natural alternative to getting breast implants.

When it comes to the facial area, there are also several procedures available. There is the Mini Facelift which focuses on the lower cheeks, jowls, and jawline. In this procedure, which is less invasive than a full facelift, a surgeon will remove excess skin and “Titan” the skin.

The incision is easily concealed with this procedure.

The Non-Surgical Nose Job uses injections of safe and effective filler, and it alters the shape of the nose. This procedure is great for people who have "bumps” on their nose.

We hope that if you are considering any type of procedure in the new year that you do your research and use these important tips. Ultimately, the decision is up to you and your doctor.

Social media is bringing us closer than ever; it is creating more personal relationships between doctors and patients, and you can almost get a feel for a doctor’s style just by online research alone.

If a cosmetic procedure is going to improve your overall happiness, we say go for it! Do what makes you happy, but never forget that true beauty will always lie on the inside.

Share your journey with us, and be sure to follow us on Facebook @JamiandKatrina for more on lifestyle and beauty in the 225. ■

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PARENTS' FOR THE DECADE

By Kim Gilly

10. 9. 8. 7. 6. 5. 4. 3. 2. 1...

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

The New Year countdown can be filled with excitement for those ready to take on the New Year, or it can be filled with dread for those who have vowed to early mornings at the gym. But 2020 isn’t just the beginning of a new year; it’s the start of a new decade.

For some parents, the 2020s will mean the departure of diapers and sippy cups and the introduction to kindergarten or middle school. For others, it might mean empty nesting completely. Rather than creating short term resolutions this year, why not think further into the next 10?

Here's a countdown that includes four things you might tell your kids to do, but should maybe consider doing yourself.

4. Join the Club!

Parents invest so much time and energy 98

into kids’ activities. Why not take on a hobby or find a team of your own? Getting into an activity of your own can be good motivation to incorporate exercise into your schedule, or to spend time in fellowship with other adults who share similar interests that aren’t your children.

Start a book club, sign up for a Bible Study, take an adult dance class, or register for a beginner’s tennis clinic. These are things you can do well into your empty nest years, and will provide you with a sense of belonging outside of your role as mom or dad.

spare time. With a major university in our backyard, there is a plethora of resources available to help you learn a new skill.

Robin Toups, an attorney and mom of three, took advantage of an LSU Leisure Photography Class after her first son was born. “I signed up after we purchased a nice camera so I could learn how to take advantage of all its features. I didn’t realize I even had an interest in photography before taking the class, but now my friends have appointed me as the official group photographer because I have an eye for lighting and backgrounds.”

3. Continuing Ed Of course, not all activities require a group setting. Maybe you want to learn to play a musical instrument or take an art class so you can paint or draw in your

2. Clean Your Room Best-selling author turned Netflix reality TV star Marie Kondo has become a cultural phenomenon with her “KonMari” Method of tidying up. Her philosophy

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encourages us to only keep things that “spark joy,” and dispose of the rest.

Most will agree that children come with a lot of stuff. And with every stage of life, more stuff is added. Getting rid of the excess you have accumulated over the years can help to create order, both in your home and in your head. It can also help to relieve stress and anxiety.

Lauren Walker, a Baton Rouge mom of three, compares decluttering and getting her home in order to a “spiritual experience.” She recently hired a professional organizer and admits this was really the game changer.

“Every. single. thing. has a place (and label!). Mornings run smoother, packing is a breeze and the kids are able to pick up on their own. It was definitely an investment but worth every penny,” she shares.

Once you experience the emotional benefits of living with less, you might also lose the interest to purchase more, which will ultimately benefit your bank account as well.

1. Don’t Write in the Margins If you learned to write on a piece of looseleaf, you’ve probably heard a teacher say, “Don’t write in the margins!” They are actually there for a reason; to create a boundary telling us when to STOP. But do you have margins in your daily life?

Parents today pride themselves on “hurry uppedness,” constantly leaving one thing early just to get to the next thing late. When we don’t create a space in our lives to be still and present, we can often miss out on the things that bring us true joy. It’s important for us to remember to slow down and enjoy life.

Jenny Cohn, a mom of three and member at First United Methodist Church, did a book study of “The Good and Beautiful God” at church, where she was first introduced to the concept of margins. “I try to put this spiritual practice into place, and have found that on the weeks that I create margins in my time and choices, I’m able to be more centered, which makes me a better wife and mom.”

Wherever you’ll find yourself over the next 10 years, try to create space in your life to be able to savor moments in the here and now.

Make this a decade that you’ll look back on with joy and gratitude when 2030 rolls around.

Happy New Year, and let's cheers to the 2020s! ■ JA N UA RY 2020 | B R PA R EN T S .COM

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IN EVERY ISSUE CALENDAR

January

THE LOUISIANA MARATHON

Baton Rouge area from January 17-19. Run a fast, flat, and fun race course before enjoying a true Louisiana Festival featuring local musicians, locally brewed craft beer, and some of the best southern cuisine around. Includes a full, half, and quarter marathon; a 5K; and kids marathon.

■ thelouisianamarathon.com

1 WEDNESDAY NEW YEAR’S DAY ALLSTATE SUGAR BOWL. Mercedes Benz Superdome, New Orleans, at 7:45 p.m.

86th annual game. allstatesugarbowl.org CELEBRATION IN THE OAKS. City Park, New Orleans. Holiday lights display through today from 6-10 p.m. Tickets start at $10 per person with children under the age of three admitted free. Train rides and amusement park rides are an additional cost. neworleanscitypark.com HOLIDAY LED LIGHT SHOW. Zachary Historical District from 6-10 p.m. through January 5.

Blinking and twinkling lights synchronized to Christmas music. cityofzachary.org I CARE LIVE. Webinar series at noon by the I CARE 100

program with various guest speakers who promote personal safety, drug prevention and self-help educational resources. icare.ebrschools.org POLAR EXPRESS RIDE. New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. The train ride is a recreation of the classic children’s story on board a real Amtrak train.

Tickets run $38-68. nolathepolarexpressride.com TOUR FOR TWO (OR MORE). Baton Rouge General Hospital, Bluebonnet, from 6-7 p.m. Free tour of the Birth Center. brgeneral.org

2 THURSDAY

FLASHLIGHT CANDY CANE HUNT. BREC’s Womack Park from 5:307:30 p.m. Hunt candy canes throughout the center and the park. Build an indoor snowman, enjoy

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activities and arts and crafts, as well as hot cocoa. brec.org HOLIDAY LED LIGHT SHOW. Zachary Historical District from 6-10 p.m. through January 5.

Thousands of blinking and twinkling lights synchronized to Christmas music. cityofzachary.org SKATING ON THE RIVER. Raising Cane’s River Center through January 5.

The fun sessions are $12-14 per person. raisingcanesrivercenter.com WINTER BREAK MOVIE FEST. EBR Main Library at 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Children can enjoy the movie, Cars. Children under the age of nine must be accompanied by an adult. ebrpl.com

3 FRIDAY

COLOR WAR GAME MANIA. BREC’s Baker

Park from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Teens ages 11-15 will show up in their favorite color to be divided into teams and play games such as video games, bingo, board games and more. mckinley.williams@brec.org FAMILY FRIENDLY CONCERT. New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park, New Orleans, at 11 a.m.

Children’s storyteller and musician, Johnette Downing, performs. johnettedowning.com FAMILY FRIDAY. Tin Roof Brewing Company from 4-6 p.m. On the first Friday of the month, there is entertainment for the kids, including inflatable bounce houses, face painting, sweet treats, live music and balloons, There will be a rotating food truck also. facebook.com FLASHLIGHT CANDY CANE HUNT. BREC’s Antioch Boulevard Park

and Jackson Park from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Hunt candy canes throughout the center and the park.

Build an indoor snowman, enjoy activities and arts and crafts, as well as hot cocoa. brec.org HOLIDAY LED LIGHT SHOW. Zachary Historical District from 6-10 p.m. through January 5.

Thousands of blinking and twinkling lights synchronized to Christmas music. cityofzachary.org SKATING ON THE RIVER. Raising Cane’s River Center through January 5.

The fun sessions are $12-14 per person. raisingcanesrivercenter.com WIZARD WORLD NEW ORLEANS. Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, New Orleans, through January 5. Live entertainment, gaming, and Q&A sessions with celebrities. wizardworld.com

CALENDAR IN EVERY ISSUE

4 SATURDAY ACT PRACTICE TEST. Greenwell Springs Road Library at 9:30 a.m. Students can take a practice ACT for free. Registration required.

(225) 274-4450 AMATEUR ASTRONOMY COURSE. BREC’s Highland Road Observatory from 3:30-7:30 p.m.

Three classes for adults.

Today’s topic is “Learn Your Telescope.” Sessions are $15-18 each. Registration required. (225) 768-9948 BEGINNER’S BIRDING. Port Hudson State Historic Site, Jackson, from 8:30 a.m.-noon. Walk and lesson.

Bring your own binoculars.

(888) 677-3400 BOARD GAME CAFE. Jones Creek Library at 3 p.m. Teens can try a game called Throw, Throw Burrito or others. (225) 756-1170 CLINTON MARKET DAY. Downtown Clinton in front of Courthouse from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Monthly open market. (225) 683-5531 FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH HIKE. Port Hudson State Historic Site, Jackson. Join a park ranger on a guided hike.

(888) 677-3400 FLASHLIGHT CANDY CANE HUNT. BREC’s Highland Park from 10 a.m.-noon and 5:30-7:30 p.m. Hunt candy canes throughout the center and the park. Build an indoor snowman, enjoy activities and arts and crafts, as well as hot cocoa. brec.org HOLIDAY LED LIGHT SHOW. Zachary Historical District from 6-10 p.m. through January 5.

Thousands of blinking and twinkling lights synchronized to Christmas music. cityofzachary.org LIBRARY TOURS FOR ADULTS. Bluebonnet Library at 10 a.m. Registration required.

(225) 763-2250 MUSIC TIME. Java Mama Baton Rouge from 10-10:30 a.m. Musician plays the cello and guitar. facebook.com

OLD SOUTH JAMBOREE. 9554 Florida Boulevard, Walker, at 7 p.m. featuring Carlton Jones and His Red Hot Country Band. Tickets are $10 and $5 for children ages 6-12. livingstontourism.com PET ADOPTIONS. Petco on Siegen from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. rrrofsouthla.com SKATING ON THE RIVER. Raising Cane’s River Center through January 5. The fun sessions are $12-14 per person. raisingcanesrivercenter.com SWAMP BIRD WALK. BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp from 7-9 a.m. Hike led by a volunteer of the Baton Rouge Audubon Society. General admission.

(225) 757-8905 THREE BILLY GOATS GRUFF STORY/CRAFT. Bluebonnet Library at 10:30 a.m. Children ages four to seven will listen to Three Billy Goats Gruff and make a Billy goat face using a paper plate.

(225) 763-2250 WILDERNESS 10 MILER. Hwy 965 at Oakley Plantation Audubon Historic Site, St. Francisville, at 8:30 a.m.

Entry fee includes sweatshirt, hot chocolate, coffee and jambalaya. imathlete.com WIZARD WORLD NEW ORLEANS. Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, New Orleans, through January 5. Non-stop live entertainment, gaming, exclusive Q&A sessions with top celebrities, and more. wizardworld.com

Old State Capitol, USS Kidd, Capitol Park Museum and BREC’s Magnolia Mound Plantation. visitbatonrouge.com HOLIDAY LED LIGHT SHOW. Zachary Historical District from 6-10 p.m.

Thousands of blinking and twinkling lights synchronized to Christmas music. cityofzachary.org MAGIC HAPPENS RABBIT RESCUE ADOPTION DAY. Millerville PetsMart from 2-4 p.m. Includes rabbits and guinea pigs looking for forever homes. magichappensrescue.com PREPARING FOR DELIVERY. Woman’s Hospital from 1-5 p.m. Learn basic information so you can recognize signs of labor and practice comfort measures.

Registration required. Cost is $35. (225) 231-5475 SENSORY SENSITIVE SUNDAY. Chuck E. Cheese’s at 9 a.m. Opens two hours early on the first Sunday of the month with reduced lighting and games for children with autism and other special needs. chuckecheese.com SKATING ON THE RIVER. Raising Cane’s River Center through today.

The fun sessions are $12-14 per person. raisingcanesrivercenter.com WIZARD WORLD NEW ORLEANS. Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, New Orleans. Non-stop live entertainment, gaming, exclusive Q&A sessions with top celebrities, and more. wizardworld.com

EPIPHANY CONCERT. St. John the Evangelist Church, Plaquemine, from 4-5:30 p.m. Stars Rev. Gregory J. Daigle. Tickets are $25. stjohnchurchplaq.org FIREPOWER. Port Hudson State Historic Site, Jackson, from 1-2 p.m. Visitors will experience the sights and sounds of Civil War-Era weapons.(888) 677-3400 FREE FIRST SUNDAY. Free admission to LSU Museum of Art, LASM, the

EPIPHANY/KINGS DAY

5 SUNDAY

6 MONDAY

HOSPITAL ORIENTATION. Woman’s Hospital from 6:30-7:45 p.m. or 8-9:15 p.m. Tour the labor birth suites, family waiting areas and Transition Nursery while learning what you can expect. Registration required. Free.

(225) 231-5475 LINE 4 LINE. O’Neils Barber and Beauty Salon.

Free haircuts once a month

to boys ages 2-16 who read to the barbers.

(225) 389-7207 MOMMY AND ME. Baton Rouge General Hospital, Bluebonnet, from 11 a.m.-noon. A continued breastfeeding support and education group designed to help mothers and babies learn about successes and challenges with breastfeeding. Free. Babies are welcome. brgeneral.org PARENTS NIGHT OUT FOR SPECIAL NEEDS REGISTRATION DEADLINE. St. Jean Vianney Church on January 10 from 6:30-9 p.m. for children with special needs ages 2-12 and their siblings. Registration requested. $5 donation requested. parentsnightout@stjeanvianney.org TABLETOP GAMING NIGHT. Denham Springs/ Walker Library at 5 p.m.

Ages 12 and up can play roleplaying, adventure, strategy or board games.

(225) 686-4140

7 TUESDAY

AFTER BABY COMES (ABC): BABY CARE AND PARENT CARE. Woman’s Hospital from 6:30-9 p.m.

Plan to take this class in the sixth month of pregnancy.

For new parents, grandparents, adoptive parents or other caregivers. Cost is $35. (225) 231-5475 BREASTFEEDING BASICS. Baton Rouge General Hospital, Bluebonnet, from 6-9 p.m. Course on the advantages of breastfeeding, how to care for yourself while breastfeeding and proper breastfeeding techniques. Cost is $30 per couple. brgeneral.org BYOC (BRING YOUR OWN CRAFT). Galvez Library at 6 p.m. Adults can bring their own project to work on at the library and socialize with others. The library will have free access to thousands of arts and crafts video classes through Creativebug.

(225) 622-3339 HANKIES2HOPE SUPPORT GROUP. Bistro

Byronz, Zachary, at 6 p.m.

Monthly ministry held on the first Tuesday for moms who have lost a child to help with encouragement. facebook.com HOPE CHESTS BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP. Ochsner Hospital, High Grove, from 6-7 p.m.

Monthly support group with speakers and light refreshments. ochsner.org TEEN HANGOUT. Denham Springs-Walker Library at 5 p.m. Teens can play video games and activities, make crafts, and eat snacks.

(225) 686-4140 WINNIE THE POOH. Watson Library at 5:30 p.m. Children ages three to seven will celebrate the willy, nilly, silly old bear with stories, games, crafts and refreshments. Registration required.

(225) 686-4180

8 WEDNESDAY

ANNIVERSARY OF THE BATTLE OF NEW ORLEANS WREATH LAYING CEREMONY. Chalmette Battlefield, Chalmette, at 8:30 a.m.

The ceremony honors the troops who fought at the Battle of New Orleans.

Free. nps.gov/jela BREASTFEEDING EXPRESS. Woman’s Hospital from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Small group class for women only and is recommended as a refresher class or for women who prefer a fast-paced class. Cost is $20 person.

(225) 231-5475 CENSUS 101: WHAT, WHEN, WHY AND HOW. EBR Main Library at 6:30 p.m. A representative from the U.S. Census Bureau will lead a seminar for adults designed to answer questions about what to expect this spring and how the community counts on its citizens. (225) 231-3750 GROCERY STORE TOUR. Rouses, Bluebonnet, from 10-11 a.m. Join Baton Rouge General’s dietitians for a grocery tour to learn how to choose

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IN EVERY ISSUE CALENDAR fresh and healthy foods.

Free. Registration required. brgeneral.org JAZZ LISTENING ROOM SERIES: MARK ZALESKI, A TRIBUTE TO DAVE BRUBECK. Chorum Hall at 7:30 p.m. International touring musician. Tickets are $25. artsbr.org LEGAL ASSISTANCE. West Baton Rouge Library, Port Allen, from 10 a.m.noon. A representative from Southeast Louisiana Legal Services will be available to answer legal questions. (225) 342-7920 PENGUIN STORY CRAFT. Zachary Library at 10:30 a.m. Children ages two to five will listen to I Can’t (Can) Fly and then make an adorable penguin craft. ebrpl.com

how their bodies grow, what changes to expect during puberty, and how to take care of themselves. Cost is $15. Registration required.

(225) 231-5475 GSR TEENS: AT YOUR SERVICE. Greenwell Springs Road Library at 4:30 p.m. Teens will create catnip felt toys to donate to the local animal shelter. ebrpl.com WREATH MAKING CLASS: MARDI GRAS. BREC’s Palomino Drive Park from 6-8 p.m. Adults can make a wreath from supplies provided. Cost is $45. brec.org

10 FRIDAY

9 THURSDAY

BABY CARE BASICS. Baton Rouge General Hospital, Bluebonnet, from 6-9 p.m. Learn how to prepare for your baby’s arrival, what to expect on the big day and how to survive the first two weeks. Cost is $30 per couple. brgeneral.org BODY BASICS FOR GIRLS. Woman’s Hospital from 6:30-8 p.m. Preteen girls ages 9-12 will learn

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Courtnee E. 2019-20 Cover Kid 9 years old ANNIVERSARY OF THE BATTLE OF NEW ORLEANS. Chalmette Battlefield, Chalmette,

from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Living history experts dressed as civilians and soldiers from 1815 will share their stories, fire cannons and muskets, and explain the importance of the battle in American history with period music, hands-on period activities and crafts. Free. nps.gov/jela BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT GROUP. Woman’s Hospital from 9:30-11 a.m. Learn from a certified lactation nurse and other moms about their own successes and challenges with breastfeeding. Free.

(225) 231-5475 PARENTS NIGHT OUT FOR SPECIAL NEEDS. St. Jean Vianney Church from 6:30-9 p.m. for children with special needs ages 2-12 and their siblings.

Registration requested. $5 donation requested. parentsnightout@stjeanvianney.org SING AND SWING. Crowne Plaza at 7 p.m. Celebrity karaoke competition benefiting Opera Louisiane.

Features Ned Fasullo and His Fabulous Big Band.

Tickets start at $100. operalouisiane.com WIGGLE WORMS. Denham Springs-Walker Library at 10:30 a.m. Children up

3

HOLIDAY LED LIGHT SHOW. Zachary Historical District from 6-10 p.m. through January 5. Thousands of blinking and twinkling lights synchronized to Christmas music. ■ cityofzachary.org 102

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to age five and their caregivers will participate in music and dance activities that enhance life-long learning and neural development.

(225) 686-4140

11 SATURDAY

KID INVENTORS’ DAY A BABY IS COMING. Woman’s Hospital from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. for children ages four to eight years old to learn about their new sibling’s arrival by talking about what new babies are like. Cost is $25. Registration required. womans.org ACT PRACTICE TEST. Bluebonnet Library at 9:30 a.m. Students can take a practice ACT for free.

Registration required.

(225) 763-2250 ANNIVERSARY OF THE BATTLE OF NEW ORLEANS. Chalmette Battlefield, Chalmette, from noon-4 p.m. Living history experts dressed as civilians and soldiers from 1815 will share their stories, fire cannons and muskets and explain the importance of the battle in American history. Free. nps.gov/jela BODY BASICS FOR GIRLS. Woman’s Hospital from 9:30-11 a.m. Preteen girls ages 9-12 will learn how their bodies grow, what changes to expect during puberty, and how to take care of themselves. Cost is $15. Registration required.

(225) 231-5475 BREASTFEEDING BASICS. Woman’s Hospital from 1:30-5 p.m. Learn the benefits of breastfeeding, how to prepare for breastfeeding. Cost is $35.

Registration required.

(225) 231-5475 CASA ORIENTATION. CASA office at 10 a.m.

Capital Area Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Association holds orientation. Registration required. casabr.org CELEBRATE DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY. Pride-Chaneyville Library at 11 a.m. Children

ages 6-11 will listen to Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and create a colorful dove painting and a dot painting.

(225) 658-1550 CHILDBIRTH CLASS. Ochsner Medical Center from 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Free class covers pregnancy, pain theories, pre-labor signs, postpartum/newborn procedures and basic breastfeeding. Registration required. (225) 755-4854 CODY JINKS. Raising Cane’s River Center at 7 p.m. In concert with special guest, Wade Bowen. Tickets start at $20. raisingcanesrivercenter.com GARDEN DISCOVERIES SERIES: GARDENING FOR HUMMINGBIRDS. EBR Main Library at 10 a.m.

The Baton Rouge Botanic Garden Foundation will host a free Garden Discoveries series for adults.

(225) 231-3750 LAHOUSE WINTER OPEN HOUSE. LSU AgCenter’s LaHouse Resource Center from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Highlights the array of cozy technologies in the high-performance house with exhibits, free educational publications on the topic, and experts on hand to answer questions. lsuagcenter.com/lahouse MODEL TRAINS. Republic of West Florida Historical Museum, Jackson, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free indoor and outdoor model train displays by the Greater Baton Rouge Model Railroaders. (225) 634-3473 STORIES IN ART. LSU Museum of Art at 10:30 a.m. Free program for children from birth to age six and their caregivers with a Spanish and English reading of a children’s book and a fun art activity.

(225) 389-7207 THE BOYS OF ‘61. Audubon State Historic Site, St. Francisville, from 10 a.m.-3 p..m. Reenactors will be dressed in historically accurate uniforms of 1861 and presenting the daily life of citizens turning soldiers.

(888) 677-2838

WEEKLY EVENTS BALLET AUDITIONS. Dancer’s Workshop on January 11, 12, 18 and 25. Each year, Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre brings dance companies to Baton Rouge to audition regional dancers for National Dance Intensives next summer. ■ batonrougeballet.org BATON ROOTS DEMO DAYS. 5509 Winbourne Avenue on Wednesdays from 4-6 p.m. Families can learn about growing their own food, harvesting, and eating healthy in Baton Rouge. ■ facebook.com/batonroots BATON ROUGE JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL. Manship Theatre from January 15-19.

13th annual festival with films costing $11.50 each. ■ manshiptheatre.org FREE FRIDAY NIGHTS. LSU Museum of Art from 5-8 p.m. Free admission to the museum. ■ lsumoa.org FRIDAY NIGHT LECTURE SERIES. BREC’s Highland Road Park Observatory at 7:30 p.m. followed by evening sky viewings. Free. ■ hrpo.lsu.edu GUYS AND DOLLS. Theatre Baton Rouge from January 30-February 2 at 2 p.m.

Young Actors Production of the Broadway show that opened in 1950. Tickets run $20-31. ■ theatrebr.org MLK FEST 2020. January 17-21. Work will be done along Plank Road, including side streets of Choctaw Drive and Chippewa Street. ■ thewallsproject.org PLANETARIUM FAMILY HOUR AND STARGAZING. LASM on Saturdays at 10 a.m. Gather around the campfire and learn about stars and constellations in the local nighttime sky before enjoying a featured planetarium show. ■ lasm.org RED STICK FARMERS MARKET. Saturdays on 5th Street between Main and North Street, Tuesdays at the Main Library, and Thursdays in the Pennington Biomedical Conference Center parking lot from 8 a.m.-noon. ■ (225) 267-5060 SATURDAY NIGHT FAMILY NIGHT SKY VIEWING. BREC’s Highland Road Park Observatory at 7:30 p.m. Standard sky viewing. Free. Plus Night is January 11.

■ hrpo.lsu.edu STORYWALK IN THE GARDEN. LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens. Stroll through the gardens, enjoy nature, and read the pages of Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf posted along the path. ■ lsuagcenter.com TRAVELING TRUNK SHOW. LASM on Saturdays at 11 a.m. Sing, dance, and share stories in this interactive program that explores the art and science of the seasons. Regular admission applies. ■ lasm.org TWILIGHT TUESDAYS. Families Helping Families of Greater Baton Rouge from 4-8 p.m. Open late for working families to obtain resources. ■ (225) 216-7474 WINTER READING CHALLENGE AT ASCENSION PARISH LIBRARY. Ascension Parish Library challenges readers to keep a record of the books they read during the month of January. ■ myapl.beanstack.org

CALENDAR IN EVERY ISSUE TYKE HYKE. Woman’s Hospital from 9-10:15 a.m.

Prepare your three year old for your hospital stay by taking a brief tour of the hospital and through practice with baby dolls.

Registration required. Cost is $25. womans.org V. WATTS TRADE MART TRADE DAY. V. Watts Trade Mart, 13060 Florida Boulevard, Livingston from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. outdoors and 8 a.m.-6 p.m. indoors. 100 indoor vendors and acres of outdoor vendors. facebook.com

12 SUNDAY

HOSPITAL ORIENTATION. Woman’s Hospital from 1:30-2:45 p.m. or 3-4:15 p.m. Tour the labor birth suites, family waiting areas and Transition Nursery while learning what you can expect. Registration required. Free.

(225) 231-5475 MOTHER-SON DANCE. Crowne Plaza Hotel from 4-6 p.m. A fun-filled evening with face painting, balloon artists, dancing contests, fun games, costumed characters and music sponsored by Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital. Tickets are $50. ololchildrens.org NY DOG FILM FESTIVAL. Manship Theatre at 2 p.m. Short films from around the world that inspire, educate and entertain, benefiting local animal welfare groups that bring people and pets together.

Tickets are $11. manshiptheatre.org OLD TIME COUNTRY JAM. West Baton Rouge Museum, Port Allen, every second Sunday from 3-5 p.m. Anyone with an acoustic instrument is welcome to join and music lovers are welcome to sit back, relax and enjoy. Free. westbatonrougemuseum.org SUPER CONFERENCE 39. Cajundome Convention Center, Lafayette, through January 13. The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) is a professional association of educa-

tors dedicated to advancing the success of children and youth with exceptionalities. community. cec.sped.org WREATH MAKING CLASS: MARDI GRAS. BREC’s Palomino Drive Park from 2-4 p.m. Adults can make a wreath from supplies provided. Cost is $45. brec.org

13 MONDAY

PREGNANCY 101. Woman’s Hospital from 6:30-9 p.m. Learn how to provide your baby with the best possible environment for growth and development.

Cost is $25. Registration required. (225) 231-5475 SUPER CONFERENCE 39. Cajundome Convention Center, Lafayette. The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) is a professional association of educators dedicated to advancing the success of children and youth with exceptionalities. community. cec.sped.org

14 TUESDAY

BODY BASICS FOR GIRLS. Woman’s Hospital from 6:30-8 p.m. Preteen girls ages 9-12 will learn how their bodies grow, what changes to expect during puberty, and how to take care of themselves. Cost is $15. Registration required.

(225) 231-5475 BREASTFEEDING BASICS. Ochsner Medical Center, first floor classroom, from 6-9 p.m. Learn from the experienced Lactation Department the essential information needed to breastfeed successfully. Cost is $35.

(225) 755-4854 GROWING UP GIRLS: A CLASS FOR PRETEEN GIRLS. Our Lady of the Lake Livingston, Walker, from 6-7:30 p.m. A class for girls ages 9-11 and their moms. Cost is $15. Preregistration required.

(225) 621-2906 HANKIES2HOPE SUPPORT GROUP. New Life Church, New Roads, at 6 p.m. Monthly ministry held on the second Tuesday for

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IN EVERY ISSUE CALENDAR moms who have lost a child to help with encouragement. facebook.com IMPRACTICAL JOKERS. Denham Springs-Walker Library at 5 p.m. Teens can work on their comedic skills and compete in improv challenges. Registration required. (225) 686-4140 LOVE IS IN BLOOM MOVIE NIGHT. Watson Library at 5:30p.m. Adults can celebrate springtime love with the romcom movie, 50 First Dates. Registration required.

(225) 686-4180 PENGUIN WREATH STORY/CRAFT. Carver Library at 4:30 p.m. Children ages 8-11 will listen to The Second Sky and make a penguin wreath.

(225) 389-7450 ZOO AND ME MORNING. BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo from 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Children’s program for ages three to six. Cost is $18 per session for one child and $12 per session for each additional child. Registration required. (225) 775-3877

15 WEDNESDAY

ARE ADVANCED DIRECTIVES ON YOUR BUCKET LIST? Gonzales Library from 10-11 a.m.

Learn about living wills, health care power of attorney, and other advanced directives. Sponsored

by Our Lady of the Lake Ascension. Registration preferred. (225) 621-2906 CASA ORIENTATION. CASA office at 3 p.m.

Capital Area Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Association holds orientation. Registration required. casabr.org I CARE LIVE. Spanish version webinar series at noon by the I CARE program with various guest speakers who promote personal safety, drug prevention and self-help educational resources. icare.ebrschools.org STEM SNOWFLAKE SYMMETRY STORY/ CRAFT. Fairwood Library at 4 p.m. Children ages 6-11 will listen to Snow104

flake Bentley and make symmetrical snowflake using science, technology, engineering and mathrelated (STEM) techniques.

Registration required.

(225) 924-9385 THE HISTORICAL LEGACY OF LOUISIANA SWAMP POP. EBR Main Library at 7 p.m. The Library’s Special Collections Department will host a special discussion on the Louisiana Swamp Pop music genre. Nicholls State University history professor, Dr. Stuart Tully, will lead a free seminar.

(225) 231-3750

16 THURSDAY

ARTISTS OF WEST BATON ROUGE EXHIBIT PREVIEW PARTY. West Baton Rouge Museum, Port Allen, from 5-7 p.m. The public is invited for a sneak peak of the exhibit and to visit with the artists. Free. westbatonrougemuseum.org DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY STORY/ CRAFT. Greenwell Springs Road Library at 5 p.m.

Children ages six to eight will listen to Let’s Celebrate: Martin Luther King Jr. Day and make abstract art.

Registration required.

(225) 274-4450 PFLAG SUPPORT GROUP. Unitarian Universalist Church at 6:30 p.m.

Support group for friends and family of LGBT people. unitarianchurchbr.com PLAY DATES AT THE LIBRARY. Ascension Parish Library Branches Thursdays, through January 30 from 10-11 a.m. Toys and books appropriate up to age 18 months will be available. myapl.org SWAMP ART SPECTACULAR SOIREE. BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Adults are invited to the opening reception of the inaugural Swamp Art Spectacular. brec.org TEEN ANIME CLUB. Watson Library at 5:30 p.m. Anime and Manga enthusiasts can watch anime, discuss manga, learn about

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Japanese culture and play games. (225) 686-4180 WINNIE THE POOH. Denham Springs-Walker Library at 5:30 p.m. Children ages three to seven will celebrate the willy, nilly, silly old bear with stories, games, crafts and refreshments. Registration required. (225) 686-4140

DATE NIGHT

17 FRIDAY

CHILDREN EMPOWERED BY CAREGIVERS OF LOUISIANA, INC. SUPPORT GROUP MEETING. Delmont Gardens Library at 10 a.m.

Provides education, empowerment, and advocacy for grandparents, other relatives as parents and non relatives as parents raising minor children who are not their own. (225) 775-4164 FAMILY DINNER IMPROV COMEDY SHOW. Manship Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Rated R-ish. Tickets are $6. manshiptheatre.org FRIDAY LUNCH LIVE: BETSY BRAUD AND FRIENDS. Baton Rouge General Hospital, Bluebonnet Cafeteria, at noon. Free performance. brgeneral.org LOUISIANA ARBOR DAY CELEBRATION. Rural Life Museum from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. In partnership with LSU, Baton Rouge Green will be welcoming Dr. Ed Gilman as the keynote speaker. Tickets are $75.

(225) 381-0037 RED DRAGON SERIES SONGWRITERS PRESENTS: JAMES MCMURTY BAND. Manship Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Singer, songwriter, guitarist and actor. Tickets run $40-60. manshiptheatre.org SUNSHINE SOCIAL. BREC’s Womack Ballroom from 6-9 p.m. Dance for ages 16 and up, with special needs and their friends and families. The theme is “A Night in Times Square.”

(225) 216-7474

18 SATURDAY

WINNIE THE POOH DAY

SKATING ON THE RIVER Lace up your skates and put on your mittens (or gloves) and get ready to skate the evening away with your special someone. Don’t miss your chance to skate on the river at Raising Cane’s River Center through Sunday, January 5. Show off your best skating tricks before heading out for a delicious dinner.

The sessions are $12-14 per person.

■ raisingcanesrivercenter.com

SING AND SWING We all have a favorite karaoke song, but we aren’t sure if it’s more fun singing to our favorite tunes or watching others do the same! For a fun date night, visit the Crowne Plaza at 7 p.m. on Friday, January 10 for a celebrity karaoke competition that will benefit Opéra Louisiane. This great night features Ned Fasullo and His Fabulous Big Band. Tickets start at $100. ■ operalouisiane.com

FAMILY DINNER IMPROV COMEDY SHOW Sometimes there’s nothing better than laughing the night away after a hard work week, especially with those you’re close with. Get ready to share a laugh with your special someone at Manship Theatre at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, January 17. This comedy show is rated R-ish, so you’ll want to make sure you have your babysitter ready to watch your little ones.

Tickets are $6. ■ manshiptheatre.org

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IN EVERY ISSUE CALENDAR AMATEUR ASTRONOMY COURSE. BREC’s Highland Road Observatory from 3:30-7:30 p.m.

Three classes for adults.

Today’s topic is “Learn Your Sky.” Sessions are $15-18 each. Registration required.

(225) 768-9948 ARBOR DAY AT BURDEN. Burden Center from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Scale a Louisiana live oak, meet Smokey the Bear, enjoy a scavenger hunt, and plant a tree. Includes Storytime in the Garden from 9 a.m.noon. lsu.edu BARKS ‘N BRUNCH. The Pub on Sherwood from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. rrrofsouthla.com BMX BEGINNER SKATEPARK CLINIC. BREC’s Perkins Road Extreme Sports Park from 9-10 a.m. Clinic for beginners who have no to minimal riding experience.

Cost is $20. brec.org BRECKENRIDGE: STATESMAN, SOLDIER, SYMBOL. Port Hudson State Historic Site from noon-1 p.m. Historian Chip Landry will give a talk on former U.S. Vice President and Confederate General, John C. Breckinridge.

(888) 677-3400 BREC STUDENT HORSE SHOW. BREC’s Farr Park

Equestrian Center from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Students will show what they have learned in lessons by competing in English events and on January 19 for Western events. (225) 769-7805 CAJUN DANCE. UCT Hall at 7:15 p.m. with free dance lessons and the band at 8 p.m. Admission runs $10-12. Students with ID get a discount. batonrougecajundance.com COLLEGE FUNDING SEMINAR. Donaldsonville Library at 10 a.m. and Dutchtown Library at 10:30 a.m. Career Coaches from the Ascension Parish School Board will share their expertise about the free application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and TOPS. myapl.org FELICIANA TRADE DAYS. Graceland Portable Buildings at the corner of Hwy. 10 and Line Road, Jackson, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Crafts, pottery, clothes, yard sale items, a farmer’s market and food.

(225) 719-2199 LAMAZE: LABOR OF LOVE. Woman’s Hospital from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. for couples wanting to learn how Lamaze techniques assist in labor and birth.

Cost is $75. Registration required. womans.org

LIBRARY TOURS FOR ADULTS. Bluebonnet Library at 10 a.m. Adults can get a free tour of the library. Registration required.

(225) 763-2250 LIGO SCIENCE SATURDAY. The Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory, Livingston, 1-5 p.m. Tour the facility, talk to a LIGO Scientist or science specialist and explore and interact with over 40 LIGO Science Concept exhibits. ligo.caltech.edu LOUISIANA SATURDAY NIGHT VARIETY SHOW. Suma Crossing Theatre, Satsuma. Grand Country Junction show. Tickets run $7-12. grandcountryjunction.com MAKE AND TAKE CRAFT. Gonzales and Galvez Libraries and on January 25 at the Donaldsonville and Dutchtown Libraries, all from 9:30-11:30 a.m. The craft, designed for ages six and younger, will be from Super Simple Songs. myapl.org MID CITY MAKERS MARKET. 541 South Eugene Street from 4-8 p.m. Makers’ booths, food, a bar, a kids’ area and music. midcitymakers.market MUSIC TIME. Java Mama Baton Rouge from 10-10:30 a.m. Musician

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plays the cello and guitar. facebook.com SOLAR VIEWING. BREC’s Highland Road Park Observatory from noon-2 p.m. Staff shows the sun in three manners so visitors are able to see any sizable sunspots or flares occurring. Free. hrpo.lsu.edu TEEN STEAM: DA VINCI BRIDGE BUILDING. Jones Creek Library from 3-4:30 p.m. Teens can build a bridge that supports itself. Registration required.

(225) 756-1170 THE LOUISIANA MARATHON. Louisiana State Museum for races and AZ Young Park for Festival. The Quarter Marathon and 5K is today at 8 a.m. followed by the Kids’ Marathon at 10:30 a.m. followed by the Kids Zone. The Full Marathon and Half Marathon is on January 19 at 7 a.m. thelouisianamarathon.com TRAIN DAY AT THE LIBRARY. EBR Main Library from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. with exhibits, working train models, train books and slideshows.

(225) 231-3750 VERY SPECIAL MISS LOUISIANA. Mission Church 41347 I-55 Frontage Road, Hammond. Sixth annual event for those with special needs. Admission to the pageant is $6. Pageant entry is free. facebook.com WINTER BUTTON TREE COLLAGE. PrideChaneyville Library at 11 a.m. Teens can create a tree collage using buttons and other materials.

(225) 658-1550

19 SUNDAY

TABLETOP GAMING NIGHT. Denham Springs-Walker Library at 5 p.m. Ages 12 and up can play roleplaying, adventure, strategy, or board games.

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BOYS TO MEN. Baton Rouge General Bluebonnet from 2-3 p.m. Class for boys ages 10-13 and a parent or trusted adult that focuses on how a boy transitions through puberty.

Cost is $10. Pre-registration required. brgeneral.org BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT GROUP. Ochsner Medical Center, First Floor Classroom, from 2-4 p.m. Share stories and tips

on what works and what doesn’t with moms who are living the experience. Free.

(225) 755-4854 BREC STUDENT HORSE SHOW. BREC’s Farr Park Equestrian Center from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Students will show what they have learned in lessons by competing in Western events.

(225) 769-7805 LE JAM. West Baton Rouge Museum Barn, Port Allen, every third Sunday from 3-5 p.m. with live music, singing and dancing.

Free. westbatonrougemuseum.org MAGIC HAPPENS RABBIT RESCUE ADOPTION DAY. Millerville PetsMart from 2-4 p.m.

Includes rabbits and guinea pigs looking for forever homes. magichappensrescue.com THE LOUISIANA MARATHON. Louisiana State Museum and AZ Young Park for Festival. Starts at 7 a.m. for Marathon and Half-Marathon followed by the Finish Festival. thelouisianamarathon.com

20 MONDAY

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY HEARTS AND HOOVES VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION. BREC’s Farr Park Equestrian Center from 10 a.m.-noon. Learn about volunteering for the Hearts and Hooves program and interact with therapeutic horses, instructors, other volunteers and some of the students. For ages 13+.

(225) 769-7805 MLK DAY OF SERVICE. LSU Student Union Ballroom from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Approximately 200 LSU students, staff and community volunteers will participate in service projects. Registration required. lsu.edu SAFE SITTER COURSE. Woman’s Hospital from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Sitter can learn safety skills, first aid and rescue skills, life and business skills and child care skills. Registration

CALENDAR IN EVERY ISSUE required. Cost is $75.

(225) 231-5475

21 TUESDAY

BABY PLAY BASICS. Baton Rouge General, Bluebonnet, from 11-11:45 a.m. from birth to ages six months and from noon12:45 p.m. for ages 7-12 months. A unique class that teaches bonding and hands-on ways to engage and develop play with your infant. Cost is $12 per session. brgeneral.org CLEAN START BATH POUF WREATH. Watson Library at 10:30 a.m.

Adults can make a wreath out of bath poufs. All supplies provided. Registration required. (225) 686-4180 COLOR WAR GAME MANIA. BREC’s N. Sherwood Forest Park from 6-8 p.m. Teens ages 14-16 will show up in their favorite color to be divided into teams and play games such as video games, bingo, board games and more. mckinley.williams@brec. org GROWING UP: GIRLS. Our Lady of the Lake Ascension, Gonzales, from 6-7:30 p.m. Class on puberty for girls ages 9-11 and their moms. Cost is $15.

Pre-registration required.

(225) 621-2906 HANKIES2HOPE SUPPORT GROUP. La Madelines, Perkins Rowe, at 5:30 p.m. Monthly ministry held on the third Tuesday to moms who have lost a child to help with encouragement. facebook.com IMPRACTICAL JOKERS. Watson Library at 5:30 p.m. Teens can work on their comedic skills and compete in improv challenges. Registration required. (225) 686-4180 KEVIN HAND. Manship Theatre at 7:30 p.m.

Presented by National Geographic Live which is a highly acclaimed speaker series creating long-lasting emotional connections with local communities. Tickets are $38. manshiptheatre.org

MLK COMMEMORATIVE PROGRAM. LSU Student Union Theater from 5-6:30 p.m. Keynote speaker will be Yusef Salaam, one of five teens from Harlem tried and convicted in the Central Park jogger case who was later exonerated by DNA evidence. (225) 578-4339 TEEN ADVISORY BOARD. Denham SpringsWalker Library at 5 p.m.

Teens can suggest programs, volunteer at the branch and help choose books.

(225) 686-4140

22 WEDNESDAY

GROCERY STORE TOUR. Rouses, Juban Crossing, from 10-11 a.m.

Join Baton Rouge General’s dietitians for a grocery tour to learn how to choose fresh and healthy foods.

Free. Space is limited and registration is required. brgeneral.org HISTORICAL HAPPY HOUR. West Baton Rouge Museum, Port Allen, from 6-8 p.m. Unwind and enjoy the museum after hours.

Visit the Juke Joint on the museum grounds and enjoy a King Cake party. BYOB, soda or tea. Free. westbatonrougemuseum.org MLK PERFORMING ARTS NIGHTS AND CANDLELIGHT VIGIL. LSU Student Union Theater from 7-8:30 p.m. Free. lsu.edu TEEN STEAM DAY. Bluebonnet Library at 3 p.m. Teens can enjoy some science, technology, engineering, art and mathrelated fun with a variety of robotic gadgets.

(225) 763-2250

tal from 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Preteen boys ages 10-13 and their dads/moms will learn how their bodies grow and what changes to expect during puberty. Cost is $15. Registration required.

(225) 231-5475 DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. STORY/CRAFT. Eden Park Library at 4 p.m.

Children ages 7-11 will listen to Be a King: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Dream and You and make a craft to celebrate Dr. King’s message of unity and equality.

(225) 231-3250 GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN. Family Roads of Greater Baton Rouge at 9 a.m.

Information and support group for grandparents and others raising children not their own. lagrg.org LEGO CLUB. Watson Library at 5:30 p.m. Children ages 5-11 can enjoy this club with different monthly themes. (225) 686-4180 LIFE-SIZED BOARD GAMES. Denham SpringsWalker Library at 5:30 p.m.

Teens can play life-sized board games including Jenga, Kerplunk and Hungry Hungry Hippos.

(225) 686-4140 MOZART BIRTHDAY BASH. First Baptist Church at 7:30 p.m. Baton Rouge

Symphony Orchestra performs Mozart. Tickets run $25-65. brso.org PLAY DATES AT THE LIBRARY. Ascension Parish Library Branches on Thursdays through January 30 from 10-11 a.m. Toys and books appropriate up to age 18 months will be available. myapl.org

24 FRIDAY

BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT GROUP. Woman’s Hospital from 9:30-11 a.m. Learn from a certified lactation nurse and other moms about their own successes and challenges with breastfeeding. Free.

(225) 231-5475 CASA ORIENTATION. CASA office at noon. Capital Area Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Association holds orientation. Registration required. casabr.org SPOOF NIGHT: WATERWORLD. Manship Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Improv performance by the The Family Dinner Comedy Troupe.

Rated R-ish. Tickets are $12. manshiptheatre.org

25 SATURDAY

CHINESE NEW YEAR

ACT PRACTICE TEST. Zachary Library at 9:30 a.m. Students can take a practice ACT for free.

Registration required.

(225) 658-1840 CHILDBIRTH PREPARATION. Baton Rouge General Hospital, Bluebonnet, from 8 a.m.-noon.

Learn the basics of labor and birth including pregnancy changes, nutrition, relaxation techniques and comfort measures from certified RNs. $40 per couple. brgeneral.org COLLEGE FUNDING SEMINAR. Galvez and Gonzales Libraries at 10 a.m. Career Coaches from the Ascension Parish School Board will share their expertise about the free application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and TOPS. myapl.org DUCT TAPE KEY LANYARDS. Jones Creek Library at 3 p.m. Teens can make a keychain or lanyard with duct tape.

(225) 756-1170 HOME AND REMODELING SHOW WITH RALPH’S MARKET’S FOOD FEST. Lamar Dixon Expo Center, Gonzales, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Features the very best products and services for everything in your home,

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23 THURSDAY NATIONAL HANDWRITING DAY

ARCHERY 101. BREC’s Milton J. Womack Park from 6-7:30 p.m. Introduction class to archery for ages eight and above. Cost is $10-12. webtrac.brec.org BODY BASICS FOR BOYS. Woman’s Hospi-

NY DOG FILM FESTIVAL. Manship Theatre at 2 p.m. Short films from around the world that inspire, educate and entertain, benefiting local animal welfare groups that bring people and pets together. Tickets are $11. ■ manshiptheatre.org JA N UA RY 2020 | B R PA R EN T S .COM

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IN EVERY ISSUE CALENDAR inside and out. eventbrite.com HOW TO CATCH A DRAGON. Barnes and Noble, Citiplace and Perkins Rowe, at 11 a.m. Celebrate Lunar New Year with paper lanterns, red envelopes and more. bn.com KICK IT OUT: THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT. Brown Holt Theatre at The Dunham School at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Of Moving Colors Productions presents a program of dance, narration, music and pizazz with the Company dancers, students and a spoken word artist.

Tickets are $25. bontempstix.com LSU VETERINARY SCHOOL’S OPEN HOUSE. LSU Vet School from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. More than 50 exhibits will feature veterinary medicine, animal welfare or research.

Free. vetmed.lsu.edu MAKE AND TAKE CRAFT. Donaldsonville and Dutchtown Libraries, both from 9:30-11:30 a.m. The craft, designed for ages six and younger, will be from Super Simple Songs. myapl.org MODEL TRAINS. Republic of West Florida Historical Museum from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Model train displays.

(225) 634-3473

OUR LADY OF THE LAKE ASCENSION FAMILY FEST. LamarDixon Trade Mart Building, Gonzales, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free annual health and learning festival for the whole family. olormc.com PRESERVING THE CULTURE OF LIVINGSTON PARISH RECEPTION. The Arts Council of Livingston Parish, Denham Springs, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Artists will be present and light refreshments will be served. Free. artslivingston.org RECYCLED READS. 3434 North Blvd. at Acadian Thwy., behind the Baton Rouge General. Enter on Westmoreland Drive from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Cash only. (225) 231-3741 SCOTLAND SATURDAYS. Scotlandville Plaza between Scotland Avenue and Scenic Highway from noon-3 p.m. Open air market. scotlandsaturdays@ gmail.com SPECIAL SATURDAYS. LSU Museum of Natural Science, Foster Hall, from 10-11 a.m. with the exhibit area open from 11 a.m.noon. A STEM program that focuses on introducing children ages 5-12 and their parents to the world of natural science. Today’s

topic is “Bust a Move.”

Free. Registration at least one week prior is required. lsu.edu SURREAL SALON SOIREE. BREC’s Baton Rouge Gallery. Celebration of the exhibition with hundreds of wonderfully-costumed guests, live music, interactive experiences and food. batonrougegallery.org

26 SUNDAY

AFTER BABY COMES (ABC): BABY CARE AND PARENT CARE. Woman’s Hospital from 12:30-5:30 p.m. For new parents, grandparents, adoptive parents or other caregivers. Cost is $35.

(225) 231-5475 EARLY CHILDHOOD EXTRAVAGANZA. Park Elementary School from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Annual event with vendors, childcare centers and EBR PreK programs. ebrearlychildhood.com HOME AND REMODELING SHOW WITH RALPH’S MARKET’S FOOD FEST. Lamar Dixon Expo Center, Gonzales, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Features the best products and services for everything in your home, inside and out. eventbrite.com

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Photo Credit: Lauren Leopold Photography

MID CITY MAKERS MARKET. 541 South Eugene Street from 4-8 p.m. Makers’ booths, food, a bar, a kids’ area and music. ■ midcitymakers.market 108

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MEMOIRS WITH FORMER PRO FOOTBALL PLAYER CHARLES JEFFERSON. EBR Main Library at 3 p.m. Join the Library’s Special Collections Department for a free talk led by Baton Rouge native Charles Jefferson on his amazing life.

(225) 231-3750 WALK ON: THE STORY OF ROSA PARKS. EBR Manship Theatre at 2 p.m.

The play, by Mad River Theatre Works, dispels myths about Parks and her protest as it paints a portrait of a complex woman who had to find reconciliation within herself in order to become an effective Civil Rights leader. Tickets are $18. manshiptheatre.org

27 MONDAY

CHALK PLAY ON THE PATIO. Eden Park Library from 3-4 p.m. Play games such as Four Square, Beanbag Toss and Hopscotch on the concrete patio. ebrpl.com MICROSOFT EXCEL BASICS. Denham SpringsWalker Library at 2 p.m.

Students ages 12+ will learn the basic features of Excel along with entering, sorting, and computing data. Registration is required.

(225) 686-4140

28 TUESDAY

BODY BASICS FOR GIRLS. Woman’s Hospital from 6:30-8 p.m. Preteen girls ages 9-12 will learn how their bodies grow, what changes to expect during puberty, and how to take care of themselves. Cost is $15. Registration required.

(225) 231-5475 CHINESE NEW YEAR FANS STORY/CRAFT. Fairwood Library at 4 p.m.

Children ages 4-9 will listen to The Nian Monster and make a handheld fan for Chinese New Year.

(225) 924-9385 CURIOUS ABOUT KETO. Denham Springs-Walker Library at 6 p.m. Caroline Gilmore, Registered Dieti-

tian, will provide information and answer your questions about the Keto Diet.

Registration required.

(225) 686-4140 KARAOKE FUN. Central Library at 4:30 p.m. Teens can belt out tunes playing on the karaoke game on the Wii U. ebrpl.com LIFE-SIZED BOARD GAMES. Watson Library at 5:30 p.m. Anyone can play life-sized board games including Jenga, Kerplunk and Hungry Hungry Hippos. (225) 686-4180 LSU SCIENCE CAFE. Varsity Theatre from 5-7 p.m. Free lecture on various topics. This month’s topic is “Music” by Dr. Loraine Sims. Registration requested. eventbrite.com

29 WEDNESDAY

CASA ORIENTATION. CASA office at 5 p.m.

Capital Area Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Association holds orientation. Registration required. casabr.org ONE HALF OF THE PEOPLE: ADVANCING EQUALITY FOR WOMEN PRESENTATION. Old State Capitol at 5 p.m. Dr. Nancy Isenberg, LSU professor of American History, will give a presentation in conjunction with the opening of the exhibit. louisianaoldstatecapitol.org RIVER CITY JAZZ MASTERS SERIES: NICHOLAS PAYTON QUARTET. Manship Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Multi-instrumentalist, composer and trumpet master. Tickets run $2848. manshiptheatre.org

30 THURSDAY

LUNCHTIME LECTURE. West Baton Rouge Museum, Port Allen, at noon.

Randell Henry will speak on Art, the Creative Process and the Importance of Art Education. Free. westbatonrougemuseum.org PLAY DATES AT THE LIBRARY. Ascension Parish Library Branches through today from 10-11 a.m. Toys and books appropriate up

to age 18 months will be available. myapl.org SAFE SITTER COURSE. Woman’s Hospital from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Sitter can learn safety skills, first aid and rescue skills, life and business skills and child care skills. Registration required. Cost is $75.

(225) 231-5475 TEENS GIVE: COUNCIL ON AGING. Watson Library at 5:30 p.m. Teens will create a DIY nosew plush pillow, enjoy refreshments and have an opportunity for service.

Registration required.

(225) 686-4180

31 FRIDAY

ENSLAVED LIFE HOMESCHOOL DAY. Audubon State Historic Site, St. Francisville, from 9-11 a.m. An interactive visit for middle school students to learn about the daily life of slaves on a Louisiana cotton plantation.

(888) 677-2838

1 SATURDAY AMATEUR ASTRONOMY COURSE. BREC’s Highland Road Observatory from 3:30-7:30 p.m.

Three classes for adults.

Today’s topic is Learn Your Binocular. Sessions are $15-18 each. Registration required. (225) 768-9948 CLINTON MARKET DAY. Downtown Clinton in front of Courthouse from 8 a.m.1 p.m. (225) 683-5531 FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH HIKE. Port Hudson State Historic Site, Jackson. Join a park ranger on a guided hike. (888) 677-3400 LOUISIANA YOUTH ORCHESTRA I. Broadmoor Baptist Church from 5-6:30 p.m. The LA Youth Orchestras showcase students ages 5-21 in four different ensembles: The LA Junior String Ensemble, LA Junior Youth Orchestra, LYO Percussion Ensemble, and LA Youth Orchestra.

CALENDAR IN EVERY ISSUE Admission charged. brso. org OLD SOUTH JAMBOREE. 9554 Florida Boulevard, Walker, at 7 p.m. featuring Carlton Jones and His Red Hot Country Band. Tickets are $10 and $5 for children ages 6-12. livingstontourism.com SPECIAL SATURDAYS. LSU Museum of Natural Science, Foster Hall, from 10-11 a.m. with the exhibit area open from 11 a.m.noon. A STEM program that focuses on introducing children ages 5-12 and their parents to the world of natural science. Registration at least one week prior is required. lsu.edu SWAMP BIRD WALK. BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp from 7-9 a.m. Hike led by a volunteer of the Baton Rouge Audubon Society. General admission.

(225) 757-8905 WINTER READING CHALLENGE GRAND PRIZE DRAWING. Ascension Parish Libraries.

Each book logged on their Beanstack page in January will equal one chance in the drawing up to 31 times. myAPL.beanstack.org

2 SUNDAY

FREE FIRST SUNDAY. Free admission to LSU Museum of Art, LASM, the Old State Capitol, USS Kidd, Capitol Park Museum and BREC’s Magnolia Mound Plantation. Visitbatonrouge.com GIRL TALK. Baton Rouge General Hospital, Bluebonnet, at 2 p.m. One-day class led by Baton Rouge General OB/GYN physicians for girls ages 9-11 and a parent or trusted adult and focuses on what girls experience during puberty.

Cost is $10. brgeneral.org

EDITOR’S NOTE

Occasionally the date or location of an event may change after publication.

Always phone ahead or check website to confirm important information.

SUBMISSIONS

Baton Rouge Parents Magazine welcomes submissions of events of interest to families.

Send all calendar submissions to: calendar@brparents.com.

Include: dates, times, location with address, recommended age, cost, public telephone number, website address, and photos.

Submit information for the February calendar by January 5, 2020.

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MARKETPLACE IN EVERY ISSUE

Make it your business to know their business

Call 225-292-0032

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IN EVERY ISSUE THE LAST WORD

Resolved: No More Resolutions!

By Diane Burton Robb, A Stupor Mom

It’s over. It’s January 2nd and the nog has soured, Big Hair Barbie has turned to rubble, and the garbage can looks like Mount St. Helens preparing to erupt. The heart that once yearned for the sight of a twinkling Christmas tree now sees it for what it really is: a prickly dead plant spewing sap on the carpeting. It’s time to sweep out the old and make some fresh resolutions for the coming year.

But wait a minute. I didn’t really make a caterpillar costume out of a used garden hose last year like I said I would, did I? Or move the Stupor family toward consumption of the next level of leafy greens? In fact, I didn’t even try. Come to think of it, my goals for the coming year are becoming different than they were when I first started parenting…

Resolution No. 1

Then: Manage the mountain of papers that invades the house from school and other activities, gradually building a chronicle of each of my children’s lives in individual, archival quality scrapbooks.

Now: Buy a shredder.

Resolution No. 2

Then: Plan (and serve) nutritious, highquality meals and healthy snacks that keep the kids off the junk food wagon.

Now: Refine the art of consuming ice cream in a coffee cup while turning down 112

the request for spinach-flavored rice cakes “because it is too close to dinner.”

Resolution No. 3

Then: Lose the Mommy pounds gained during pregnancy, birthday parties, holidays, and days consuming ice cream in a coffee cup while you’re loading kids on the bus.

Now: Buy stock in Elastic Waistbands R Us.

Resolution No. 4

Then: Get control of the stuffed

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animals by making use of the latest innovations in wall clips, shelving, and organizational offerings from Pottery Barn Kids.

Now: A black garbage bag, a heavy stone, the nearest pond. Enough said.

Resolution No. 5

Then: Teach children respect for personal property.

Now: Shop for vomit-colored carpeting and begin a fund to replace the bedroom suite into which occupant’s initials have been carved.

Resolution No. 6

Then: Plan for last-minute children’s gift occasions by stocking up on inexpensive trinkets, educational toys, wrapping paper, and all-occasion cards.

Now: Learn the art of speed painting faces on rocks. (Hey, potato printing might be good for something, after all!)

Resolution No. 7

Then: Set aside money every month to invest in prepaid tuition programs, 529 plans and education accounts to guarantee each child will be able to attend college at the institution of his/ her choice.

Now: Bank any loose change toward pounding out the basketball dents in the garage door.

Resolution No. 8

Then: Organize the toys in labeled boxes that will facilitate cleanup and at the same time encourage budding reading skills.

Now: Designate the playroom as a “black hole.”

Resolution No. 9

Then: Vow to be the best caregiver/ psychologist/cook/chauffeur/laundress/ secretary/advocate/intermediary/ cheerleader/accountant/maid/tutor/ problem solver/entertainer/Jill-of-alltrades you can possibly be.

Now: Don’t make resolutions. Just enjoy being a parent.

Happy 2020!

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IN EVERY ISSUE SNAPSHOTS

Cali P.

WANT TO SEE YOUR CHILD’S PICTURE HERE?

PIC OF THE MONTH Aiden L. was looking sharp while getting his picture taken!

Go to brparents.com and click on the blue “Upload Snapshots” button to submit photos for consideration.

All photos must be at least 1MB in size. “Pic of the Month” photos are chosen at random and must be at least 5MB in size.

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Kairi C.

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