June 2014 • Free CharlotteParent.com
36 Movies & CONCERTS OUTDOOR
ADVICE FROM Stay-At-Home Dads
LEMONADE STAND Lessons
+
DISCIPLINE WITHOUT DRAMA
SAILING THE DREAM
DISNEY CRUISE MAGIC FOR KIDS
it’s ok when they share their history notes, not
their prescription
pills.
misuse of prescription drugs is a growing cause of death among teens today. and it can happen when friends share pills, take medicine intended for other family members or use their own medication improperly. the confidential carolinas poison center help line is open 24/7 if you need help or want to know more.
sharing pills can kill.
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“It was so engaging ... really sparked great, unexpected conversations among our whole family!” -- museum visitor Housing the nation’s most comprehensive interpretation of post-Civil War Southern history, Levine Museum is a Charlotte must-see! All ages enjoy the award-winning interactive exhibit Cotton Fields to Skyscrapers, plus changing exhibits, innovative programs, and free family days that explore Southern history and culture from 1865 to today.
He is learning more than just the fundamentals of the game.
COME TO UNDERSTAND 200 E. 7th St., uptown Charlotte GROUP TOURS AND RATES AVAILABLE www.museumofthenewsouth.org
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j u n e 2014 29
features
24 Sailing the Dream
Take a trip aboard the Disney Dream cruise ship
29 Lemonade Stand Learning
Five really good reasons to let your child start their own lemonade stand business
30 Fit Family Challenge: Part 3 The wrap-up and results for our Fit Family Challenge spotlight families
34 5 Things Moms Can Learn From Stay-at-Home Dads
Good advice to help make the job of parenting a little easier
30
35 3 Smart Things for Dad
Good reads and more for helping dad be the best ever
in every issue
4 from the editor 9 family fyi 12 doc says 14 chalk talk 15 stay-at-home dudes 18 food for thought 20 mother of style 22 growing up 39 getting out 40 daily calendar 48 excursion 51 daddy derek 52 carolina smiles
34
Photo by Maura MacKinnon macphotography9.weebly.com.
24
June 2014 • Free CharlotteParent.com
OUTDOOR Movies 39 36 & CONCERTS
34 29
ADVICE FROM Stay-At-Home Dads
LEMONADE STAND Lessons
22 +
DISCIPLINE WITHOUT DRAMA
SAILING THE DREAM
DISNEY CRUISE MAGIC FOR KIDS
24
CharlotteParent.com | JUNE 2014
3
FROM THE EDITOR MICHELE HUGGINS GROUP PUBLISHER
Summertime in the Queen City
J
une is here and I couldn’t be happier. I love summer, including hot days and muggy nights. With summer nights come fireflies, more daylight for late-evening adventures and drippy popsicles on the porch. Hot days are perfect for pool splashing and going to local park splash pads to cool off. I’m personally excited to venture to the new one at Romare Bearden Park across from the new Knights Ballpark with my 4-year-old. And I cannot wait to eat a juicy red, fresh-from-the-vine tomato, and maybe have an ice-cold glass of lemonade (see our picks on page 29). June brings the end of an era for my family. We wrap up preschool and jump into the world of day camps before beginning kindergarten in August. I choke up a little whenever I think about it, but my son’s enthusiasm about his new school ventures keeps me looking forward and certain to make the most of this summer before the elementary-school mayhem begins. June is the month dads get their day (in a good way). Father’s Day is June 15 this year. If you’re pondering ideas for what to give dad, check out our Mother of Style column on page 20 for some unique ideas. And if the dad of your house is more of an out-and-about sort of person, see our roundup of things to do with dad on page 44 as well as some fun father-son activities featured on page 17. Summertime is vacation time while kids are out of school. If you’ve been thinking about taking a cruise, let me suggest the Disney Dream! My family had the pleasure of setting sail in March aboard Mickey’s big boat and had a blast! Read all about it on page 24. And if your family is more into roller coasters, we highlight a new coaster at Dollywood and more about the legendary country singer’s theme park in this month’s Excursion on page 48. Whatever it is that makes your summer great, get out there and enjoy because it goes fast!
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Phone: 704-344-1980 | Fax: 704-344-1983 214 W. Tremont Ave., Suite 302 | Charlotte, NC 28203 advertising@charlotteparent.com | editorial@charlotteparent.com Circulation 109,000. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. Charlotte Parent reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the publication’s standards. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.
OMISSION: We omitted a photo credit in the May issue. The image for the Mother of Style column was taken by Donna Jernigan, momentsbydonna.com.
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Follow the life of WCCB News Rising host Derek James in his role of Dad to two sons under age 6. …/blogs
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FATHER’S DAY
PRESCHOOL PRIMER
OUT AND ABOUT
Make it special day for the No. 1 guy in their lives with these ideas for gifts and ways to play.
Your go-to guide for choosing a Charlotte-area preschool.
Find fun ways to spend summer weekends whether on a family daytrip or in-town excursion.
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{
This is your kids’ classroom
and here’s their teacher.
}
We encourage laughter and talking and waving in class. Because when you experience nature on such a grand scale, the learning kind of sneaks up on you.
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fyi
FAMILY The Powerade State Games bring high school athletes from across the state to Charlotte to compete in more than 20 outdoor sports.
Ph
o to
The baseball event is the premier event and draws more spectators and scouts than any other. Each year 32 high school coaches volunteer their time to hold tryouts in their regions and then select the 20 best players. The Baseball Showcase will take place June 18-22 at UNC Charlotte, BB&T Ballpark uptown and Hopewell High School in Huntersville. Rugby and inline hockey are two of the new sports added this year to the list that also includes BMX, golf, gymnastics, fencing, karate, swimming, track and field and wrestling. Games begin May 31 and run through June 29.
Kids may particularly enjoy opening ceremonies held June 20 at the Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord. It’s an Olympic Day Celebration featuring the parade of athletes and lighting of the ceremonial cauldron. The Powerade Fanfest, happening the same day, includes interactive sportsthemed inflatables, games, music and mascots. Try a three-lap racecar ride-along with the Richard Petty Driving Experience. With speeds of up to 165 mph, this is as close to racing as you can get. pag.ncsports.org.
der
othing says summer like outdoor sports. How about 20 different sports played by 14,000 stellar athletes all across the Charlotte region? Hosted by North Carolina Amateur Sports, the 28th edition of the Powerade State Games brings all that and more to the Queen City this month. High School baseball, soccer, softball and lacrosse will pit the marquee players against each other, all hoping for a chance to be noticed by attending college and professional scouts, and in some cases, to win a gold, silver or bronze medals.
ri c k S c h n e i
Photo by Patrick Schneider
by Pat
N
N.C.’s Largest Teen Sport Festival Comes to Charlotte
Kids Summer MOVIE SERIES STARTS The Children’s Summer Series at the EpiCentre’s Studio Movie Grill begins June 16. “The Croods” tops the lineup, followed by “Epic,” “Turbo,” “Rio,” Shrek Forever After,” “Charlotte’s Web,” Kung Fu Panda 2,” “Puss in Boots,” Madagascar 3,” and the “Rugrats Movie.” Tickets are $2. Visit studiomoviegrill.com
60% of boys play on an organized sports team by age 6. Source: ESPN’s Summer 2013 Kids In Sports survey.
CharlotteParent.com | JUNE 2014
9
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COMMUNITY
::
fyi
*
good deed: Mongai Fankam
What happens when kids have to run through the rain juggling all their pencils, books and school paraphernalia? That’s what Mongai Fankam thought about each time she went to Africa with her mother on missionary trips. “I have seen first hand how the children struggle to carry their school supplies,” says Mongai, a fifth grader at Blythe Elementary. “I wanted to figure out a way to help them.” Mongai launched No Backpack Day at her school to raise money for backpacks for students in Cameroon. With the assistance of her mom and her friends, the idea caught on and now more than 30 schools participate, donating more than 5,000 backpacks to kids in Cameroon to date. Mongai recently shared her success with Sen. Chris Coons (D-Delaware), who chairs the Senate’s Foreign Relation Subcommittee on African Affairs. Mongai hopes to make No Backpack Day a nationwide event. Mongai Fankam launched No Backpack Day at Blythe Elementar y to raise money for backpacks for students in Cameroon.
Playing Dirty Kids know a thing or two about playing in the mud. This year, they can drag their parents right along with them in Charlotte’s first Big Muddy Challenge. It’s an event series designed for children (ages 6 and older) and adults to share the adventure race experience via obstacles that they must run, walk, slosh, climb and crawl over. June 28, Hunter Farm. bigmuddychallenge.com
Book Review: "Bea is for Business" Local authors and entrepreneurs Jamie A. Brown and Meg Seitz, along with illustrator Karen Lee, l showcase a platform for children to develop or enhance business skills in "Bea is for Business." In the book, Bea and her best friend Lander come up with the perfect summer strategy-to make money using wildflowers found in their backyards. Not only a fun book to motivate kids to create businesses, it also provides do-it-at-home activities and teacher guides to encourage business education. Consult with Bea at beaisforbusiness.com. $9.99.
get real with
Jodi Richardson Quick stats: age, 42, office manager for Leadership Martial Arts that is owned by her husband … Family tree: lives with husband Derek, 1-1/2-year-old twins, Eli and Fiona, four cats, and one dog … Favorite indulgence: pedicures … Favorite outing: beach vacation in the summer … Favorite local eats: Cowfish … iPod: Everything from classical to Justin Timberlake, Bruno Mars, and tons of photo apps … Latest read: “The Summer Girls” by Mary Alice Monroe … DVR: "Revenge," “Grey’s Anatomy,” “NCIS,” “Criminal Minds,” and “Big Bang Theory” … In your bag: Chapstick and baby wipes … Can’t live without: Starbucks Venti Chai Tea Latte every morning … Stress buster: Barre class at Dowd YMCA.
CharlotteParent.com | JUNE 2014
11
fyi : : WELLNESS
Ready, Set, Go: How to prep for a trip to the pediatrician
T
he American Academy of Pediatrics recommends 24 preventive care visits between birth and age 18, plus any potential sick visits. Here are three easy steps for being prepared and making the most of all these visits.
DOC SAYS
BY DR. SARAH DRENNAN AND DR. SHIVANI MEHTA
Get Ready
Before heading out, pack the essentials: insurance card, identification, and any forms you need completed, such as school forms. If you are new to a practice, bring prior records. Be ready to list any prior diagnoses, surgeries, hospitalizations and allergies. Bring a list of medications with current doses, including supplements, so your provider can look out for potential side effects or interactions. Consider bringing a symptom log if your child is being seen for an ongoing problem like headaches. Include when the symptom occurs, severity, associated symptoms, and whether anything makes it better or worse. This can often help your provider identify a pattern that can guide diagnosis and treatment. Finally, make a list of any questions that you might have for your provider.
Set Expectations
Pediatric visits are divided into well and sick visits. During a well visit, your child will have age-appropriate screenings done and may receive vaccinations. Be active in communicating your concerns. This is the time to ask questions related to development, such as “What should my child do over the next month?” or “How do I potty-train?” Sick visits tend to be shorter and focused to address a specific symptom or illness. Sometimes a diagnosis is made in one appointment, but multiple appointments may be needed to fully address chronic issues such as obesity, asthma, or ADHD. Medical emergencies and unplanned procedures and treatments can slow down a clinic schedule, however, you can usually expect medical staff to provide your child with their undivided attention while in the exam room.
Ask Questions
Be an active communicator. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarity on topics that you do not understand. Consider asking: What is the name of my child’s diagnosis? Why is this treatment important? How do I give this medication? Are there side effects? What are the risks or benefits of this treatment? Repeat any instructions back to your provider to ensure that everyone is in agreement on the care plan and you feel confident in understanding your child’s health.
TIP Pack snacks, drinks and a favorite blanket or toy to make waiting for your appointment easier on you and your child.
Dr. Sarah Drennan is a pediatric resident at Levine Children’s Hospital at Carolinas Healthcare System and Dr. Shivani Mehta is a board-certified pediatrician at CHS Myers Park Pediatrics Clinic.
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Concussion recovery continues long after physical symptoms disappear. Researchers found that children who suffer from a concussion can experience cognitive and emotional symptoms, including frustration, irritability, mood swings and difficulties concentrating long after physical symptoms subside.
If you put your child’s pacifier in your mouth to give a spit-clean, you may actually be helping him avoid eczema and asthma. A recent Swedish study concludes that by cleaning a “binkie” with saliva, parents introduce gut microflora that live in the digestive tract. More diverse microflora is tied to less allergy and eczema by stimulating an infant’s immune system. In addition the study found that “spit-cleaning” had no effect on respiratory illness transmission, meaning babies aren’t more likely to catch a cold from their parents sucking on the pacifier.
A UCLA research study suggests that the development of autism can be traced to the formation of the brain cortex in the womb. The cortex normally has specific cells in specific layers of brain tissue, but those layers show varying disorganized patches of cells in people with autism, which may explain why the symptoms of autism greatly vary.
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fyi : : EDUCATION
School News Charlotte Preparatory School has named Nicole Girvan head of the lower school. Girvan has 18 years experience teaching lower school grades. Charlotte Prep is a private, independent pre-K through eighth grade college prep institution with an enrollment of approximately 385 students. charlotteprep.org.
App Alert: Animal Alphabet Band Featuring Key Wilde and Mr. Clarke, kids can experience vivid illustrations, discover new instrument combinations and jam along using Mibblio’s keyboard, “strum pad,” and percussion instruments. iPad. 99 cents.
Tip Read at least 20 minutes each day with your young child to help him learn to read, and keep his mind alert during summer.
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The Positive Learning Effects of Dad
C
hild rearing, from wiping runny noses to helping kids with their homework, has traditionally been relegated to the mother. CHALK TALK
BY MARGE EBERTS AND PEGGY GISLER
But what if fathers could positively impact their children’s success in school? For younger children, the father can be one of his child’s first teachers by helping him or her develop literacy skills. You don’t need expensive toys, just imagination and your child’s favorite playmate — YOU! A recent study of 1- to 2-year-olds found that those who played with blocks with their parents for 20 minutes a day scored 15 percent higher
CharlotteParent.com
on language-development tests and were 80 percent less likely to watch television. The real involvement begins when Dad begins to work consistently with a child as he or she gets older. The extent and form of participation is very important. It is sitting with the child, with much patience and consistency, and helping the child advance. Standing back and using threatening words and actions are counterproductive. Many educational experts believe that a father’s participation in the educational process is paramount to a child’s progress. According to the National Parent Teacher Association, studies show students perform better when
mothers and fathers are both involved in the education of their children. Men and women think differently and bring different perspectives and skills to school and PTA activities. Yet men remain a largely untapped resource primarily because there is that persistent idea that mothers always have lots of time, and fathers are always too busy to be involved in their children’s schooling. School communities and PTAs thrive when both men and women participate. Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts are experienced teachers who have more than 60 publications to their credit.
LIFE
::
fyi
Decapitated Doll Disambiguation
I
shouldn’t have been surprised to open the front door and find a decapitated Barbie head on the front porch, her dead eyes covered by loose, knotted hair. And, yet, I was surprised. Enough for the STAY-AT-HOME DUDES BY RICHARD JONES highpitched squeal of horror to be heard clearly by the no-longer-trying-topretend-they-were-innocent gaggle of giggling youngsters grouped across the street. The surprise was genuine. The squeal less so. To the young kids in my neighborhood, I’ve been around as long as they’ve been alive. I’m also the only nonparental adult who’s likely to say more than hello in passing. I’m known for my silly jokes and possibly the best fake death from cap pistols or misfired Nerf darts in history. All of which goes a long way toward explaining why I stopped to have a chat with a young boy neighbor and several girl neighbors when Buzz, The Garbage Disposal Who Walks
Like A Dog, and I happened to pass by and saw them running over a naked Barbie with their bikes. So I had nothing but happy thoughts for the Barbie beat down in progress and said as much. Often and through much laughter. Along with several appalling suggestions for more inventive recreation. When it came time to dispose of the evidence, that is put away their toys, I guess it was only natural to remember the goofy guy who had so much fun at Barbie’s expense. And we all know that doing anything else is better than picking up after yourself. So, let’s add up the day. Squealing to the delight of children. Finding a decapitated Barbie on the front steps. Doesn’t matter what else
happened that day, it was a winner. Yep. Being a stay-at-home dude offers some awesome perks. Richard Jones and Barry Robert Ozer are the authors of "A Dude’s Guide to Babies: The New Dad’s Playbook," a fast and funny how-to book to help new dads cope with being responsible for a smelly, loud and very messy life. And also their baby.
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At Davidson Day School Zach learned collaboration, creativity, and character development...
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2013-2014
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LIFE
TOP 5 Great '80s Movies for Kids 1. "The Fox and the Hound" – 1981; rated G 2. "E.T. the Extra Terrestrial" – 1982; rated PG 3. "War Games" – 1983; rated PG 4. "Karate Kid"– 1984; rated PG 5. "The Goonies" – 1985; rated PG
::
fyi
Parenting Toolbox: 5 Cool Outdoor Father/Son Activities Celebrate Father's Day and the start of summer with these bonding activities for fathers and sons. Grill together. Your preteen boy might not want to bake quiche in the kitchen, but what kid could resist learning how to cook over an open flame? Teach him to prep and spice the meat and top it off with your secret sauce! Go fly a kite. Choose the right type of kite and then head out to the park (or at the beach) for some big time flying fun. Watch the weather for an optimal experience. Build a birdhouse. A mini construction project can demonstrate the value of planning, attention to detail and teamwork. For older boys, home improvement stores offer weekend building workshops. Attend a minor league baseball game. Baseball is the quintessential summer sport, and cheering on the home team together is a great bonding experience. The new Charlotte Knights stadium makes it even more exciting to attend a game. Play paintball, outdoor laser tag or Nerf wars. Find an outdoor venue, suit up and get ready for a little friendly competition.
Source: buzzfeed and common sense media
R i n g e r To s s p h o t o c o u r t e s y o f To d d A d a m s . t o d d a d a m s p h o t o g ra p h y. co m
choices ... BACKYARD GAMES YOU’VE NEVER HEARD OF
Murbles look like giant marbles but the game rules are loosely based on Bocce. Perfect for the backyard or the beach. Custom colors available. murblegame.com
Ringer Toss is a new, fun, fast-scoring game where players gain points for knocking cups off with ringers. Easy to tote because everything fits into a small backpack and weighs less than seven pounds. ringertoss.com
Bring the family outside for a rollicking good time with the game Rollers. The player/team who positions his disk closest to the goal is the winner. rollers.com
CharlotteParent.com | JUNE 2014
17
fyi : : LIFE Cool-off With a Summer Wedge FOOD FOR THOUGHT
BY HEIDI BILLOTTO
H
ere is a great summertime play on the classic wedge salad. Everything can be made in advance, so this makes for great picnic food (and grape tomatoes make a good snack for kids) – take all the parts along separately and then assemble on site. You may use fat-free or low-fat mayo, sour cream and cream cheese for the dressings if you would like; and the recipe works with real bacon, turkey bacon and veggie bacon, too.
GRILLED BLT SALAD WITH TWO DRESSINGS • 2 heads Romaine lettuce,
cut in half lengthwise • 1 pint grape tomatoes cut in half For the blue cheese dressing:
• 2 cups real mayonnaise • 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons sour cream • 1/4 cup buttermilk • 1 teaspoon organic sugar
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5/20/14
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AD DEADLINE: JULY 26
For the ranch dressing: • 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened • 2 cups sour cream 1 cup mayonnaise 8:10:56• AM • 1 clove garlic, minced • 1/4 cup minced red onion • 2 tablespoons chopped flat leaf parsley • 2 tablespoons minced chives • 2 tablespoons chopped dill weed
• 5-6 strips of your favorite bacon,
baked or fried, and then crumbled
• 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt • 1-1/2 cups crumbled sharp blue cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped tarragon leaves
• Zest of 1 lemon, finely grated or chopped
• 1-1/2 teaspoon red wine vinegar • 1 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika • Fresh ground black pepper to taste
1 For the blue cheese dressing: Mix together mayo, sour cream and buttermilk, blending well. Add sugar and seasoned salt, and a dash or two of pepper. Gently fold in blue cheese (you want to keep it chunky). Keep refrigerated until ready to use. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper if you like. 2 For the ranch dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream cheese, sour cream and mayonnaise until very smooth. Whisk in the garlic, onion, parsley, chives, dill, tarragon, lemon zest, vinegar, salt and chipotle pepper. Season to taste with additional salt, vinegar and black pepper. Cover and chill until needed. This dressing tastes best if the flavors are allowed to develop two to three hours before serving, and will keep for up to three days, refrigerated. 3 For the lettuce and tomato part of the salad: Cut each head of romaine in half and trim off the top leaves. Place the cut side of the Romaine on a grill, grill pan or under the broiler just until the lettuce starts to char. Place on a plate cut side up and spoon your choice of dressing over the top. 4 Finish with cut grape tomatoes and crumbled bacon. Heidi Billotto is a culinary expert who hosts cooking classes throughout the Charlotte area. Find more at heidibillottofood.com.
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5/20/14 10:39:20 AM
fyi : : LIFE
MOTHER OF STYLE »»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» BY WHITLEY ADKINS HAMLIN Photo courtesy of Donna Jernigan. momentsbydonna.com
Great Father’s Day Gifts Father’s Day is just around the corner. A round of golf, a six pack of beer or even just a handmade card are all sure fire winners. If you’re looking for something a little out of the norm, however, perhaps Dad will get a kick out of one of these less conventional ideas.
Dad and the kids can bond on a weekend excursion to YMCA Camp Harrison.
Make him something. Hiho Batik is an experiential retail store and art space offering people of all ages one-of-a-kind products in a mass produced world. Hiho’s wide variety of garments, accessories and designs are handmade on site in their Brooklyn, New York retail space, using 100 percent cotton materials. Select from a T-shirt, tote bag, or throw pillow, or shop their already created one-of-a-kind pieces of art inspired by every day experiences. hihobatik.com Straight razor shave. For a real treat, give Dad the gift of a straight razor shave at an
old-school barber shop. The shaving lather and steam from the hot towel is a pampering experience of a bygone era. Unlike a regular salon, old-school barber shops tend to employ men who are experienced at cutting hair with clippers versus scissors. Chances are they have worked at the shop for a long time and have a few interesting stories to share.
Brew ha-ha in the mountains. Named Beer City USA in 2010, Asheville plays host
to one of the most entertaining beer tours around. Since 2006, Brews Cruise has taken thousands of beer fans on in-depth tours of hip Asheville’s brew scene, by way of bus or foot. Dad’s not able to get away for the weekend? Brews Cruise now hosts tours of more than 10 craft breweries right here in the Queen City. brewscruise.com
A weekend away with Dad. My husband and oldest son, 6, just returned from a weekend at YMCA Camp Harrison, located between Lenoir and North Wilkesboro, in the mountains of North Carolina. Over the course of the weekend, the activities included everything from archery and riflery to canoeing and fishing, hiking, playing basketball, going on pony rides, challenging themselves on the high ropes course, and riding the water zip line. I’m not sure who had more fun, my son or my husband, and the weekend together provided for an amazing bonding experience. campharrison.org Whitley Adkins Hamlin is a local stylist and mom to two boys under age 5. Read her Mother of Style blog at CharlotteParent.com/blogs.
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State Traditions
Founded on the idea of a creative way to showcase their state pride, State Traditions creates high-quality state and country-inspired apparel and accessories. Belts, hats, polo shirts, cuff links and koozies, find a bevy of personal items reflecting the overall personality of each state. My boys look quite dapper in their coordinating Carolina blue polos. State Traditions Adult Polo, $68, statetraditions.com.
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Growing Up: Discipline Without Drama
H
ave a hitting toddler, a mouthy grade-schooler, or a defiant teen? Time for some loving discipline. But take note; modern kids require a new brand of parental guidance. GROWING UP BY MALIA JACOBSON “Unlike previous generations, children today live in a much more egalitarian world,” says Robert Ryan, a licensed counselor in Chicago. Today’s children resist overly harsh punitive measures. In fact, these tactics can backfire and actually reinforce misbehavior. Read on for age-by-age discipline strategies that build self-worth, squelch power struggles, foster thriving relationships and put an end to endless yelling.
Malia Jacobson is a nationally published health and parenting journalist, and mom of three.
2-5 years
TIME IN
Parents of young children can find themselves dishing up “time-outs” left and right. Time-out entails removing a child from the scene of his misdeed for a period of time, and is one of the most widespread discipline tactics around. Time-out, however, is often less than effective, says Stephanie T. Jones, parenting coach with Possibility Parenting and chair of the North Carolina Parenting Education Network. That’s because parents aren’t consistent about what behavior will result in a time-out, many only use it when they are angry. While time-out may give parents a brief break from an unruly tot, it does little to address the underlying cause of the misbehavior. A more effective strategy: Look for the root cause of the behavior you’re trying to correct (often, exasperating behaviors are ploys for attention or control), then employ logical consequences, like taking a child home if he can’t behave appropriately at the store or park.
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6-12 years
STRENGTH TRAINING
During the elementary years, misbehavior becomes more pronounced and harder to ignore; it’s no longer cute when your 7-year-old gets sassy. But reacting with harsh punishments can leave parents locked in a battle of wills that hurts the parent-child bond and fails to correct the misbehavior. Escaping this damaging downward spiral requires a fresh look at discipline, says Jones. “Many think of discipline in terms of punishment, but I think of it in terms of teaching, leading and guiding. And learning is best accomplished in the context of meaningful relationships.” Developing a strong bond increases cooperation and reduces defiance and the need for punishment; children who feel connected to the adults in their lives are more likely to comply with their requests and are usually eager to please them. Spend time together, free of distracting screens, work email and wireless devices to build bonds. Try hiking, touch football, fishing, planning meals and cooking together, family game nights, and movie outings.
GROUND GAME 13-18 years
Think twice before yelling “You’re grounded!” This big kid form of time-out provides a Band-Aid fix, not a longterm solution. A grounded teen who sits around stewing probably isn’t learning the intended lesson. Consequences should be tailored to the behavior parents want to correct. “Natural consequences are those things that will happen without any intervention. Logical consequences are those things related to the misbehavior that parents do to help a child learn.” A natural consequence of forgetting homework is no credit. A logical consequence of neglecting to empty the dishwasher might be after-dinner dish duty for a week. Above all, parents need to establish a relationship of trust and respect with their teens, says Ryan. Laying down ironclad rules without explanation is a surefire way to spark dissent. “Teens react positively to respect more than almost any other style of engagement.”
Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools
Faith Tradition Academic Excellence
For over 80 years, Catholic Schools have provided a faith based education dedicated to academic excellence to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area. Children learn in an environment where the teachings of Jesus are promoted and upheld as core values of both school and life. Visit one of our nine schools and see what a Catholic education can mean to your child.
MACS admits students of any race, color, religion or ethnic origin
Admissions: (704) 370-3273
Visit us at: www.charlottediocese.org/macs Charlotte Catholic High School Christ the King Catholic High School Holy Trinity Catholic Middle School St. Ann Catholic School St. Gabriel Catholic School St. Patrick Catholic School St. Mark Catholic School St. Matthew Catholic School Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic School
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David H. Moore, DDS, MS, PA
David H. Moore, DDS, MS, PA
We Love you Daddy! Happy Father’s Day
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Our 3 Locations: Cotswold/Midtown University & Davidson Phone: 704-377-3687 www.CltPediatricDentistry.com
5/19/14 12:31:53 PM
T
BY MICHELE HUGGINS
hough a cruise was never on our bucket list, when I was invited by Disney Cruise Lines to take a trip
SAILING
TH
on the Disney Dream, it was hard to say no — if not for us, for our 4-year-old that had Disney on his mind. What we found was an awesome vacation with quality accommodations, a superb and friendly staff, and integrity that comes with the Disney name. With Captain Mickey (Mouse) and Admiral Donald (Duck) as hosts; and
Disney Dream cruise ship offers
loads of character friends onboard, (including Minnie, Pluto, Goofy, Chip and Dale, Captain Hook, Jake and a dreamy cast of princesses); Broadway-style shows; interactive youth activities; and a deck-side fireworks show, the Dream is a magical vacation at sea.
Photos courtesy of Disney Cruise Lines.
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ON DECK Within an hour of boarding the Dream, my 4-year-old son had taken photos with Pluto and Goofy, and was sliding down the big yellow waterslide by Mickey’s pool on Deck 11. The slide is a great for kiddos like mine who aren’t quite tall enough to ride the AquaDuck, the shipboard water coaster/flume ride featuring twists, turns, drops and river rapids through a clear tube that circles high above the ship. The AquaDuck is a huge hit with kids and kids at heart (like my husband), so be prepared to wait at least 20 minutes and up to more than 45 minutes to catch a ride. There are two pools on Deck 11 by the slides, plus Nemo’s Reef, a fanciful water-play area (think sprayground) for little ones who like splashing in puddles and with a small slide for small tykes. Sundecks by the pools are lined with chairs for relaxing in the sun, or for watching a Disney movie on the 24-by-14 feet Funnel Vision LED screen. My son and I enjoyed an afternoon break watching Pixar shorts on the big (make that humongous) screen with a soft-serve cone from the Eye Scream Treats ice cream shop. Though Deck 11 is the main pool hangout, there is a designated adultsexclusive pool and special tween-teen pool. So if you have a tween or teen, let them go play the day away at their pool, while you soak up some rays and read a book in the kid-free zone. Wave phones, much like walkie-talkies, enable parents to keep up with their sea-faring crew throughout the day.
HE
‘DREAM’
magic for everyone in the family
CASTAWAY CAY The Disney Dream sails from Port Canaveral, Florida to Nassau, Bahamas and then to Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. While at Castaway Cay, you can parasail, go on a glass-bottom boat, pet stingrays, or ride bikes around the island. Children with Oceaneer Club bands can join in planned activities with activity counselors at Scuttles Cove — a good option if you TIP: Be sure to try the ribs at have a bigger kid who might Cookies II, one of the island restaurants. There’s all-you-can enjoy a bigger adventure eat self-serve ice cream and with you elsewhere on the drinks, too. island. Get-wet fun includes water slides and water cannons at Pelican’s Plunge, located within swimming distance from shore. We purchased a shovel for $10 that was good for digging in the sand and made for a good souvenir. Float the day away at Castaway Cay, Disney's private island. // Mickey enjoys the day at Castway Cay.
Disney Dream sails from Port Canaveral, Fla. to the Bahamas. // Nemo’s Reef has small water slide and water sprays for toddlers and preschool-age kids // Don’t miss a ride on the the AquaDuck, the shipboard water coaster.
KIDS’ CLUBS Disney knows what it’s doing when it comes to creating youth activities to entertain different interests, as well as give mom and dad a minute to themselves without worry. My son joined in the fun with Disney characters, interactive games, dance parties and more at the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab, open to ages 3 to 12. Entrance to the Oceaneer Club is done with the Oceaneer Band, an electronic identification bracelet that connects your information to your child. Children cannot leave the Oceaneer Club without a parent showing his key card and giving a secret password that is synced to the child’s bracelet. Youth activity counselors are specially trained and experienced in child care and have undergone background checks, so you can feel safe leaving them to play while you enjoy a date night at one of the adult-exclusive restaurants, Palo or Remy, or exploring The District — a nighttime entertainment neighborhood with clubs and pubs. CharlotteParent.com | JUNE 2014
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MY KID’S
N O T-T O - M I S S
TO P 5 LIST
1 | Midship Detective. The coolest thing possibly onboard for my child was the Midship Detective Agency. Enchanted paintings, strategically placed for a ship-wide scavenger hunt, are LCD screens that give clues to help you solve either the mystery of the missing puppies or the missing artwork. By holding a personalized QR-code badge up to the interactive art, the art comes to life and provides a clue to solve the mystery. Pick up a QR-code badge and map on Deck 5 to begin. 2 | Goofy’s Sports Deck. Playing Goofy’s Golf — a miniature golf course — while gazing out at the blue sea from Deck 13 is pretty nice. My son loved it so much, we played every day a couple times. Bigger kids can play basketball, foosball, ping-pong, or join in group dodge-ball matches. FROM TOP TO BOT TOM: Pluto was the first of many character sightings onboard. // My son and I on our way to lunch in Nassau, Bahamas. // A full-day of activities made it hard to stay awake for the 10:30 p.m. pirate party.
3 | Room service. A first for my son, room service for breakfast while watching Disney cartoons, not a bad way to start the day. We were all happy to find warm cookies and milk in our room mid-afternoon, just in time for a little siesta break from all the activities. 4 | Free ice cream. We treated ourselves to free self-serve ice cream all day on Deck 11 at the Eye Scream Treats ice cream shop. You know you’ve found the right place when you see Mike Wazowski from “Monsters, Inc.” 5 | The Pirate Party. Though the show doesn’t get started until 10:30 p.m., getting decked out in pirate gear is almost as great as the live-action pirate show on Deck 11 before the Bucaneer Blast fireworks display.
There are kid-only activities during the day, too. Kids can have fun playing in Andy’s Room with larger-than-life toys from “Toy Story.” Monster’s Academy includes a play structure for climbing and computers with interactive games, and Pixie Hollow offers a designated craft space. They play while you steal a moment to yourself in the sauna at Senses Spa and Salon on Deck 12. The Edge on level 13 is the tween-only hangout where they can make their own movies with green-screen technology. Teens can hang out at The Vibe. The club-like space is appointed with video-editing software and video games, plus a high-tech DJ that offers DJ trainings. For a more relaxed time, ages 13-17 can take a breather at the Chill Youth Spa, with services designed just for them. Infants and toddlers are cared for and entertained at It’s a Small World Nursery, where all staff are trained and have child-care experience.
DREAM DINNER AND A SHOW Each night guests rotate to one of the three restaurants: Enchanted Garden, Animator’s Palate and Royal Palace. Personal servers also rotate with you to the themed restaurants. Midway through our meal at Animator’s Palate, Crush, the sea turtle from the Disney-Pixar film “Finding Nemo,” began popping up on screens around the room, naming and conversing with guests dining that night. After dinner, we went to a couple Broadway-style shows at the Walt-Disney Theatre. Special effects, princesses, villains, and song and dance entertained. You can always opt for a first-run motion picture release or Disney classic movie at the Buena Vista Theatre. By the time the show wrapped each night, my family was ready to call it a night. Our deluxe stateroom — complete with a queen-size bed and sitting area with a couch that converts to a twin bed, and top bunk tucked away that could also convert to a bunk bed — was a nice place to retreat and recharge. The chocolates on the bed each night were a bonus. Four days at sea seemed fast, but enough for my family to get a taste of what makes a Disney cruise so great. My 4-year-old is already booking us for the trip again next year.
Buccaneer Blast, the first fireworks display of its kind at sea. Disney princesses join dinner guests to sign autograph books. Undersea magic while dining at Animator’s Palate.
call for l l f or a c
NOMINATIONS
PEOPLE who
CARE We’re looking for local parents who are actively involved in giving back to children and children’s charities in the community. Know someone special? Tell us about the great things that they’re doing and they could be featured in an upcoming issue of Charlotte Parent.
charlotteparent.com/care Nominations close July 31.
BY KERRIE MCLOUGHLIN
LEMONADE STAND W
hen your kids ask you if they can have a lemonade stand today, do you sigh in anticipation of all the work required? Me too, especially because I never did a lemonade stand when I was a kid. Instead, my best friend and I went door-to-door in her neighborhood attempting to sell “must-have” summer items like rocks and pamphlets. So when my kids suggested doing a lemonade stand in our yard, I first blamed television for putting the idea in their heads. I soon reluctantly agreed, and we were on our way to several whole days of fun and (don’t tell my kids this part) learning. To start, I told the kids to hunt down a small table, folding table or stable cardboard box. Then we ran to the store for cups, ice and powdered lemonade mix. The kids made signs to put on their
table and on sticks stuck in the ground. One of the kids held up a sign and yelled, “Lemonade!” to attract business. My money-obsessed 10-year-old son started the first day by charging a big fat buck for each medium-size glass of lemonade. He actually had a few takers, but the next day he decided to charge half price and ended up earning much more. Some days the kids would put up a sign that said all the proceeds from the day would be going to a specific cause, like to a cat shelter or to the Red Cross. Those were the days I didn’t gripe about having to sit outside in the heat acting as lemonade stand manager and instead beamed with pride.
Lemonade Stand Starter Kit Review // Make your child’s summer even more delightful with their very own Bizainy™ Lemonade Stand Activity Kit. The kit includes business-minded creativity essentials like a sales banner and a decorateyour-own money box, and gives children the opportunity to come up with their very own sales strategies, as well as recipes to make their lemonade stand out! $29.99, bizainy.com. *Enter to win this product! See page 6 for more details.
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As summer wore on, the kids enjoyed coming up with bigger and better ideas, like Kool-Aid mixed with clear soda, and that was a hit. They looked like mini businesspeople sitting around the dining room table discussing the next big idea. They started getting repeat business from people who drove down our street every day and made labels for the cups with their business name: Summer Kids Drink Stand. The lemonade stand was a simple venture at first glance, but when I looked a little deeper I saw it for all the lessons it taught my kids and their friends, like:
Financial. Kids learn
how to seek out a deal on cups and lemonade and to make their own ice in advance at home since they should pay mom back for start-up business costs. They also learn about making change, counting money, measuring, dividing earnings between kids, how much to charge, record-keeping, saving for something they want and altruism (through donating their money to a specific cause or charity).
Social and general business.
Safety and stranger danger.
There’s much for kids to learn about business, like the fact that there are good and bad times and days to sell lemonade (lunch and rush hour are good; neighborhood garage sales days are great; chilly days are not). They also get to meet and greet neighbors and strangers and learn patience and perseverance.
I’m sure your kids know not to go up to a car when they don’t know who is in it, but selling lemonade helps reinforce that message and lets your child know it’s OK to tell someone “no, I’m not allowed to do that.” Your child should know to let the customer get out of their car and come to get their lemonade (it’s not a drive-through, after all).
Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation
Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) was started in 2000 by Alex Scott, who was diagnosed with childhood cancer when she wasn’t even 1-year-old. When she was 4, she set up a lemonade stand to donate the money to help find a cure. Soon others around the
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Basic manners. I made sure the kids knew to not hold cups by the lip or stick their hand in the cup. For a little humor break, I showed them the clip from “National Lampoon’s Vacation” where the kid stirs the drink up with her bare, dirty arm and told them never to do that. When telling customers how much the lemonade was, they would say, “Fifty cents, please” and thank the customer upon
country were also setting up stands to donate their money, as well. Alex died at the age of 8, but her lemonade stand legacy has raised more than $40 million for childhood cancer research and more. Visit alexslemonade.org to register your stand, and they’ll send you a packet of materials to make your fundraiser a success.
Lemonade That Makes the Grade Our staff and editors did a blind taste test of different lemonade brands. Here’s how they ranked.
A
Simply Lemonade (Cost: 40 cents per 8-ounce cup) “ It tastes fresh and I love that it has pulp in it. I would definitely buy this one.” — Dawn Field, media consultant
B Minute Maid Premium Frozen Lemonade
receiving the money. If they got a tip, they would say an extra profuse term of gratitude.
Bonus:
Your neighbors may be broke and sick of lemonade, but your kids won’t ask to borrow money from you again — at least, not until summer’s over.
Kerrie McLoughlin is a mom of five and the author of “Make Money to Write About Your Kids.” Catch up with her at thekerrieshow.com.
(Cost: 25 cents per 8-ounce cup) “ Its not too sweet, it makes you pucker your lips from the tartness and has a freshly squeezed taste.” — Michele Huggins, editor
C Tropicana Premium
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Lemonade
(Cost: 35 cents per 8-ounce cup) “ It tastes real, but very sweet.” — Eve White, publisher/executive editor
D Country Time
Powder Lemonade (Cost: 13 cents per 8-ounce cup) “Tart and tangy, it looks lime green!” — Susannah Carpenter, digital media manager
F Turkey Hill Lemonade
(Cost: 20 cents per 8-ounce cup) “Is this even lemonade?” — The entire staff
CHELITA KAYE KELLEY, DDS
MICHAEL HOLT, DDS
Accepting New Patients Board Certified in Pediatric Dentistry
brookdalepediatricdentistry.com Exit 36, off of I-485 9601 Brookdale Drive, Suite 400, Charlotte, NC 28215 704-599-3901 O
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CHALLENGE &
3
Kathleen and Chuck Cram with children (left to right) Regan, Neave, Kelleen and Breanna. Below: Marlo Zappley (in middle) with her children Christion and Ariana.
5TIPS
TO MOTIVATE CHILDREN TO MOVE
1
Seems obvious, but make it fun! If a child hates team sports, let him run or shoot hoops alone. Have sack races in the backyard so she doesn’t even realize she’s exercising. Practice what you preach. Don’t force the kids to turn off the TV and play outside if you’re on the couch eating chips. Get out there and run or play with them; let them see that fitness is a regular part of your lifestyle.
Powered up for Success
2 W
Have a little healthy competition. Many children thrive on “beating” someone else – especially siblings. Who can eat the most veggies today? Who will be the first one to run to the end of the street and back?
3
4
Choose the right activities. If the sport, game, or play doesn’t suit the child’s interests; or it’s too difficult or too easy, he will become bored or frustrated.
5
Invite friends! If your preteen can socialize while hiking through the woods, she’s more likely to agree to do it. The more the merrier!
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e introduced you to our spotlight families, the Zappleys and the Crams. We organized a team of experts – doctors, dieticians, and fitness pros – to work with each family. The families put their plans into action for eight weeks, and now we've caught up with all the busy people involved in this challenge to find out how it worked. Hopefully their stories will inspire you to become part of a more fit family, too.
THE PLAN “As is often the case,” says Samuel Adkins, physician with Cabarrus Family MedicineProsperity Crossing, “one of the biggest challenges for the Zappley family was the diversity within the family in their levels of interest in healthy living.” The plan was to engage the children and give them ownership over their participation in healthy family activities. “Marlo is getting buy-in from the children, both for meal choices and for physical activity outlets,” says Adkins.
CharlotteParent.com
Because Christion Zappley, 12, and Arian Zappley, 8, have different food preferences, Tonda Gridley, a registered dietician and nutritionist with Cabarrus Family Medicine-Concord, worked to help the family expand its menu. “[Marlo] already purchases healthy foods, which is wonderful,” says Gridley, “but I recommended the family visit a farmers’ market and each child plan one meal weekly with an open mind regarding trying what the other planned.” The Cram family was living a healthy lifestyle before the challenge, but wanted help preparing quick, healthy foods, and finding more fitness activities everyone could enjoy together. “The first thing we did was help [Kathleen Cram] realize they were already doing a great job,” says Tara Branton, physician at Weddington Family Medicine. They worried others thought they were pushing physical activity at “too young” of an age. “Children are never too young to learn about fitness or be encouraged to live a healthy lifestyle,” says Branton. Branton suggested fitness time with the Wii
Photo by Maura MacKinnon | macphotography9.weebly.com.
: E G N E L L A H C Y L I M FIT FA
BY LISA HASSELL
PART
t i F family
they own, Shaun T.'s T-25 program (25-minute program with varying intensity levels for different stages), or even having fun with jumping jacks during TV commercials. Kelsey Knasel, a registered dietitian at Carolinas Medical Center-Pineville, suggested the Cram children choose their own produce to have ownership over mealtime. “We encouraged the family to make food preparation fun, such as cooking together or growing a garden. The Crams do a wonderful job at not forcing the children into eating healthy, but lead by example and provide them with healthy foods each child enjoys so that they can unknowingly make good decisions.”
THE ACTION Devan Kline, founder and creator of Burn Bootcamp and MamaBurst, met with the Zappleys to get them started on the fitness part of the challenge. He gave Marlo Zappley his DVD, MamaBurst, and recommended that the family begin the 60 Day Summer Xelerator program. The program pushes for exercise three to six times per week. “It also calls for the ‘extra mile challenge,’ which is a simple task each day to keep the mind and body on fitness,” says Kline. “Some examples are to take the stairs instead of the elevator or do 25 push ups first thing in the morning.” Marlo Zappley and her children were very enthusiastic, motivated and ready to begin. A busy schedule, however, prevented Marlo Zappley from attending any of the bootcamp sessions. Fitness and nutrition expert Chris Bryan worked with the Cram family. Based on the family’s goals, he recommended they try a carb-cycling food plan. “This is where they would eat high carbs on certain days and low carbs on other days, to help maximize fat loss,” says Bryan. Bryan also helped Chuck Cram try a new weight-lifting program at his local gym four to five days per week while the rest of the family enjoyed workouts together with online fitness videos after school a few times each
week. Lastly, Bryan stressed the importance of starting off each day with a healthy breakfast, which can greatly improve energy levels by mid-morning.
THE RESULTS “We are definitely making more [health] conscious decisions on a daily basis,” says Kathleen Cram. Chuck Cram has lost eight pounds and three inches, and Kathleen Cram lost three pounds and four inches. Scheduling healthy habits into a weekly plan ensures that the habits happen. The Crams make a weekly meal plan and grocery list every Saturday. The children share which activities they want to do most, so things like bike riding, playground visit or soccer get added to the calendar. “The challenging part of the [Fit Family Challenge] were the demands in scheduling and balance,” says Marlo Zappley, “but I have increased my workouts, enjoyed quality time with family, and [got] professional insight to help our family reach our fitness goals.” In speaking of obstacles, Kathleen Cram says, “The biggest challenge was trying to focus on the areas of healthy eating and fitness while taking care of all the other aspects of our lives, such as work and housekeeping,” she says. “Obviously work obligations still needed to be met, but the housekeeping has not been at the top of the priority list during the challenge.” Adding fitness activities and planning healthier meals does take up more time in an already busy life, as both of our spotlight families can attest. But having more energy, avoiding colds and illnesses, and living a longer, healthier life are positive outcomes of making healthy compromises.
KID FIT:
Superhero Plank The Superhero Plank is sure to help kids make superhero-strong muscles. It works arm, leg and core muscles that support strong abdominals and back muscles. A strong core equals great posture, something all superheroes have. How to do it: Kneel on the floor and put hands on the floor in line with shoulders. Have your child put toes straight behind her making a straight line with her body, tummy off the floor. Let them pretend to be a superhero flying through the air. Encourage her to keep her tummy from dropping to the floor or bottom going too high. Hold it for 10 to 20 seconds and repeat two or three times, having the superhero fly to a different place each time. Parent challenge: Let children slither like snakes underneath you while you are in plank position. Then challenge yourself with a side plank. To do side plank, lie on your side with your arm extended and your head resting on your arm. Push yourself up from the floor onto an elbow with forearm on the floor. Legs are extended straight with one on top of the other. Hold for 20 seconds and then repeat on other side. Kid Fit move provided by Launch Your Kid. launchyourkid.com
Lisa Hassell is a freelance writer and former elementary school teacher who currently lives just outside Charlotte with her 5-year-old son. Writing this story motivated her to eat a few less M&Ms and get outside with her child more.
Maddie Behrens, 6, demonstrates the Superhero Plank.
CharlotteParent.com | JUNE 2014
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Photo courtesy of Adam Brophy
BY JILL C. MOFFETT
I
t’s a sunny afternoon and the park is full of kids. Toddlers whoosh down the slide. Parents rock babies in their arms. It’s the usual routine, except for one thing: Each parent is a man attending a part of a stay-at-home dads playgroup that gathers regularly to socialize and share child-minding responsibilities. “It’s awesome,” says Austin Dowd, organizer of the group located in the Triangle region of North Carolina. The other dads agree. What’s more, they have a few tips for moms. Here are five things moms can learn from stay-athome dads.
5 THINGS Moms can Learn From STAY-AT-HOME
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1. MAKE CONNECTIONS. Because athome dads are in the minority, it can be alienating. “It’s important to have other dads to connect with so you know you’re not alone,” says James Kline of Apex, another group organizer and an at-home dad of two. This is true for moms too: Whether it’s a weekly playgroup at the library or an informal get together with other moms, finding a community of families to talk to and swap child care with can help make the job easier and more enjoyable. 2. FIX THINGS WITH DUCT TAPE. Lunchbots or Ziplocks? Snugglis or Ergos? Amber beads or teething rings? The sheer volume of baby and toddler gear on the market is overwhelming. While the right stuff makes the job easier, it also makes it unnecessarily expensive and burdensome. Stay-athome dads don’t worry about stuff like that. “I think dads are less inclined than moms to do what everyone else is doing,” says Kline. “The moms in my neighborhood are more likely to buy the latest gadget for their kids, but we just fix up the old stroller with duct tape.” 3. DON’T GO IT ALONE. It can be hard to co-parent, especially if one parent works and the other stays home. “At first, I’d hear my wife talk about the
kids and what they needed and for a while I felt like: ‘I can figure this out on my own!’” says Scott Benner, an at-home dad of two and author of “Life is Short, Laundry is Eternal.” “At first it was a bit combative. Then I realized that I needed to include her, so I’ve tried really hard to make sure I incorporate her ideas into what I’m doing with the kids.” It’s good advice for moms, too, who may think they are supposed to have all the answers. Remember, everyone is figuring out this parenting thing as they go along. 4. FORGE YOUR OWN PATH. In an era of Pinterest and endless streams of parenting advice, don’t get overwhelmed by directives such as, “Is your child overprotected?” “Does he get enough outside time?” “Should I limit her screen time?” “One thing I learned early on is that I just had to do this in a way that suited me,” says Dowd. “At first I was concerned that there was one right way, but once I let go of that, it became so much easier.” The same holds true for moms. Whether you work a high-powered job or are raising the kids at home, let go of expectations and don’t be afraid to forge your own path, tailored to your family’s unique quirks and demands. 5. TAKE A GENDER-NEUTRAL APPROACH. Sure, men still tend to mow the lawn and fix things around the house, but at-home dads can also soothe crying infants and make dinner. Likewise, Mom can throw a ball with her kids or teach them how to build a treehouse. “This experience has really taught me that the reactions you have to your kids are based in your responsibilities, not your gender,” says Benner. Jill Moffett is a freelance writer and full-time mother in Durham. She blogs regularly at jillmoffett.com.
3 Smart Things for Dad These items can help dads who stay-at-home — and those that don’t — as they work on being the best dad ever. For some dad’s having a manual by their side is always a guaranteed marker for success. In Dr. Kevin Leman’s book Be the Dad She Needs You to Be (Thomas Nelson publishers, $17.99), he shares insider tips for dads who are looking for a stronger relationship with a young daughter. Leman, a dad of four daughters, shows how to get the fathering job done and also how to make each daughter feel unique, special and valued. Like a manual, this book encourages a little effort but also guarantees a relationship that will last a lifetime.
When time is precious, a box of activities for dad and the kids may be the perfect way to spend quality time together. Cooper Kits, designed for dads and kids ages 5-9, are available with different themes and come every three months packed with games, toys, a bedtime story, a themed dinner menu with recipes dad and the kids can make, related digital resources and an activity book that guides you through. $59/year, cooperandkid.com.
Adrian Kulp, author of DAD OR ALIVE: Confessions of a Stay-at-Home Dad (New American Library, $15), offers his raw, unedited truths about raising his first child days after losing his job. Dads can either relate or laugh at what’s it like playing dress up with his daughter and cleaning a messy crib. From having to pack up his GI Joes and redecorating his man cave into a nursery, this book shares loads of laughter.
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Hollywild Animal Park Experience Hollywild Animal Park! Visit with Animal Movie Stars in our natural park setting. Ride the Safari Bus where you can hand-feed a bison, watusi, zebra and more! Enjoy a Creature Feature show, and take time to pet and feed animal babies in our petting barn. $8-$12, infants are free. Great fun for all!
Morrison Family YMCA Kids’ Tri! Ballantyne The Kids’ Tri! Ballantyne Triathlon is presented by Publix and held on July 12 at the Morrison Family YMCA. This event allows athletes to swim, bike and run to the finish line with distances designed appropriately for their ages. Register online today! $20 before June 19, $30 from June 19-July 12. Ages 6-14. Proceeds benefit the YMCA Annual Campaign.
Hollywild Animal Park 2325 Hampton Road, Wellford, SC 864-472-2038
Morrison Family YMCA 9405 Bryant Farms Road 704-716-4650 ymcacharlotte.org/branches /morrison/kidstri
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ROC Race is the original game show-inspired obstacle run featuring 12 larger-thanlife obstacles including the infamous Wrecking Ball, the brand new Sweeper, Jump Balls, and the World’s Largest Inflatable Water Slide! Ages 13 and up. June 28. Starting at $59. Use the code PARENT5 to save $5 on registration.
There is so much to see at the Carolinas Aviation Museum. Sit in actual cockpits, participate in scavenger hunts and go on outdoor tours of our ramp. Be sure to visit us the last Saturday of the month for Family Days, when we build aviationrelated crafts.
Charlotte Motor Speedway 5555 Concord Pkwy. S., Concord 858-273-7223 rocrace.com/charlotte
Carolinas Aviation Museum 4672 First Flight Drive 704-997-3770 carolinasaviation.org
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June 2014 go. see. play.
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13
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Monroe Shopping Center 2115-290 W. Roosevelt Blvd., Monroe shopmonroecrossing.com
Fullwood Theatre 100 McDowell St. E., Matthews 704-846-8343 matthewsplayhouse.com
Mint Museum 500 S. Tryon St. mintmuseum.org
Anne Springs Close Greenway Adventure Center 9835 Springfield Pkwy., Fort Mill ascgreenway.org
Spend your Saturday having a Beach Blast. Today is all about making everyone smile with face painting and live performances for all ages. Kids can enjoy bouncy houses, inflatable slides and lots of obstacle courses. Stick around for special guest performances. Just sit back, relax and enjoy this summer day. 2-10pm. Free.
The giant green ogre is back in town and this time he’s singing! Have a great night out enjoying Shrek the Musical. Laugh and sing-along as the overly talkative Donkey accompanies his best friend Shrek as they embark on the journey of a lifetime. Follow the bumpy ride as they rescue a princess in a tower and deliver her to the Kingdom of Duloc. 8pm. $12-$18. See page 45 for more dates and times.
It doesn’t matter what kind of artist you are on Sunday Fun Day: Every Picture Tells a Story! Bring the family out for a day of creativity. Use your imagination and create a comic strip filled with favorite real or made-up characters and pictures. Kids can also help artist Jonathan Grauel document the day via digital finger painting on an iPad and learn how to make an art journal. $5 for adults, free entry for children.
Pitch a tent with the kids and take advantage of warm summer nights watching fireflies dance across the sky at the Great American Backyard Campout. Join in a guided hike, kayaking, fishing, playing games, and a hotdog dinner over the campfire. Then wrap up the evening with s’mores and a campfire sing-along under the stars. Registration required. Starts at 5:30pm. Free.
CharlotteParent.com | JUNE 2014
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T U O
MU CHARLOTTE
M & IC
Charlotte Symphony Summer Pops. Pack a picnic and enjoy the sounds of the symphony under the evening sky. $10, free under age 18. 8:15pm. Symphony Park, 4400 Sharon Road. 704-714-5112. charlottesymphony.org June 8: A Night on Broadway June 14: Music of the Movies at Romare Bearden Park, 300 S. Church St. June 15: Orchestra Americana June 22: Instrumental Opera June 29: That’s Amore Movies on the Green. Bring a lawn chair and blankets for a movie on the lawn. Free. 7-10pm. Movie begins at dusk. Promenade on Providence, corner of Providence Road and Interstate 485. promenadeonprovidence.com. June 13: “Frozen” June 27: “Despicable Me” Movies on the Lawn. Free popcorn and lemonade served; bring a blanket or chair. Free. 8pm. Kilgo, 2101 Belvedere Ave. 704-334-7348. kilgoumc.com. June 14: Movie TBD Music on the Green. Select Sundays are Kid’s Nights, when children can enjoy creations made by a balloon artist. Fridays and Saturdays, 7-10pm; select Sundays, 4pm. Promenade on Providence, corner of Providence Road and Interstate 485. See website for more information. promenadeonprovidence.com Through Sept. 27 Summer Concerts. Bring the family, picnic baskets, a chair and blanket, and enjoy live music Free. 7pm. Sharon Presbyterian Church, 5201 Sharon Road. 704-553-0869. sharonpcusa.org June 13: “Lonesome Pine Bluegrass” June 20: “Tosco Music Party House Band” USNWC River Jam. Experience a sunset over the Catawba River while enjoying great music, food and drink. Parking
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fee applies. 7-10pm. USNWC, 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy. 704-391-3900. usnwc.org. Thursdays and Saturdays, June 6-Aug. 30
CORNELIUS
Cornelius Outdoor Cinema Series Outdoor movies under the stars on a giant blimp screen. Free. 8:30pm. Kenton Place, 17105 Kenton Drive, Cornelius. cornelius.org. June 11: “Here Comes the Boom” June 25: “Hotel Transylvania” Summer Pops. Enjoy the sounds of the symphony under the evening sky. $10, free under age 18. Bailey Road Park, 11536 Bailey Road, Cornelius. 8pm. charlottesymphony.org June 28: Celebrate America
DAVIDSON
Concerts on the Green. Bring comfy chairs, a blanket and picnic. Free. 6-8pm. Village Green, corner of Main Street and Concord Road, Davidson. concertsonthegreen.com. June 1: Gal Friday Band June 8: Band of Oz June 15: The Dickens
FORT MILL Bring your family, a blanket or chair and picnic dinner. Free-$3. Anne Springs Close Greenway, 288 Dairy Barn Lane, Fort Mill. ascgreenway.org. June 12: Skate Rink Jukebox
HUNTERSVILLE
Movies in the Park. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and cozy up for some outside entertainment. Come early to participate in giveaways and premovie entertainment. Free. 6pm. North Mecklenburg Park, 16131 Old Statesville Road, Huntersville. 704-766-2220. huntersville.org.
CharlotteParent.com
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June 6: “Despicable Me 2” Summer Pops. Enjoy the sounds of the symphony under the evening sky.. $10, free under age 18. 8pm. Energy Explorium, 13339 Hagers Ferry Road, Huntersville. charlottesymphony.org June 20: Music of the Movies
INDIAN TRAIL Celebrate summer nights with music, activities and a featured movie. Free. 7pm. Crossing Paths Park, 120 Blythe Drive. indiantrail.org. June 6: “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2”
KANNAPOLIS
Movies at the Park. Live music performances before the movies. Movies start at dusk. Free. 8:45pm. Village Park, 700 W. C St., Kannapolis. 704-920-4343. cityofkannapolis.com. June 13: “Catching Fire” June 27: “Despicable Me 2” Summer Concerts. Enjoy live music with fireworks. Free. 7pm. Village Park, 700 W. C St., Kannapolis. 704-920-4343. cityofkannapolis.com. June 6: National Country Artist Joe Diffie June 21: Live tribute to music featuring On the Border (Eagles) and Tuesday’s Gone (Lynyrd Skynyrd)
MATTHEWS
Movies and Concerts in the Park. Free. 7-10pm. Stumptown Park, 120 S. Trade St., Matthews. matthewsnc.gov. June 7: Cruize Control (concert) June 14: “Monster’s University” June 28: “One Direction: This Is Us” Summer Pops. Enjoy the sounds of the symphony under the evening sky. $10, free under age 18. 8pm. Stumptown Park, 120 S. Trade St., Matthews. June 21: Music of the Movies
1 SUNDAY Levine JCC Kids Triathlon. Participate in swimming, biking and running competitions to help benefit rehabilitation programs at the Levine Children's Hospital and the Adaptive Sports and Adventures program. Ages 5-14. Registration required. $25. 2pm. Levine Jewish Community Center, 5007 Providence Road. 704366-5007. ljcckidstri.org. Teen Summer Reading: Crack the Code. Explore cryptography by cracking the code and using it to decipher the secret message. Ages 12-18. Free. Beatties Ford Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. 704416-3000. cmlibrary.org.
2 MONDAY Computer Basics for Kids. Learn basic computer terms and concepts. The program also includes an introduction to the windows operating system. Ages 5-11. Free. 4:30pm. Mountain Island Library, 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way. 704-416-5600. cmlibrary.org. First Monday Family Nights. Bring the entire family out to enjoy stories, songs and movement activities that support early literacy skill development. Free. 6:30pm. Hickory Grove Library, 5935 Hickory Grove Road. 704-416-4400. cmlibrary.org.
3 TUESDAY Paws to Read. Children can boost reading skills and confidence by reading aloud to a volunteer therapy dog. Ages 5-11. Free. Tuesday 5:30pm. Mountain Island Library, 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way. 704-416-5600. cmlibrary.org. Read with Baron the Dog. Come to the library and read to Baron, the lovable long-haired German Shepherd, a certified therapy dog. Free. 3:30pm. Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville. 704-664-2927. ci.mooresville.nc.us/portal/library.
4 WEDNESDAY Comic Creations. Grasp a full understanding of comics and graphic novels, and learn storytelling and cartooning techniques. Ages 8-11. Free. 2pm. Scaleybark Library, 101 Scaleybark Road. 704-416-6400. cmlibrary.org. Wee Wednesdays. Little ones and their caregivers can enjoy stories, movement with music, and a special craft. Infant-3 years. $5. 10:30am-11am. Main Street Children's Museum, 133 E. Main St., Rock Hill, SC. 803-909-7218. chmuseums.org.
5 THURSDAY Internet Basics for Kids. Kids with little or no previous Internet experience can learn the basic techniques for finding information and being safe online. Ages 5-11. Registration required. Free. 5pm. Beatties Ford Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. 704-416-3000. cmlibrary.org. Thursday Toddler Tales: Giraffe's Can't Dance. Enjoy sing-alongs and stories. Ages 2-6. Free. 9:30am. Barnes and Noble, The Arboretum, 3327 Pineville-Matthews Road. 704-3419365. barnesandnoble.com.
6 FRIDAY Middle School Madness. Friends are welcome to enjoy music, dancing, hoops, contest and video games. Ages 11-13. $5-$8. 8-11pm. Lake Norman YMCA, 21300 Davidson St., Cornelius. 704-716-4400. ymcacharlotte.org. Nutrition 101. Learn the basic building blocks for eating smart. Ages 13 and up. Free. 11am-Noon. Harris YMCA, 5900 Quail Hollow Road. 704-7166800. ymcacharlotte.org. Sensory Storytime. Join this program filled with stories, songs and activities specifically designed for children with autism spectrum disorders, sensory integration issues, or other developmental disabilities.
daily calendar Registration required. Free. Friday 10:15am. Matthews Library, 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews. 704416-5000. cmlibrary.org. Taste of Charlotte. Delicious food and entertainment, plus inflatable jumpers and games, rides and obstacles courses. Free entry; must purchase coins to taste food and play games. Fri-Sat, 11am-11pm; Sun, 11am-6pm. Uptown Charlotte, Tryon Street. 704262-9847. tasteofcharlotte.com.
7 SATURDAY Arts in the Park. An evening of arts and cultural experiences, and music by the Gaston Symphonic Band. Free. 5pm. Biggerstaff Park, 1301 DallasCherryville Hwy., Dallas. 704-853-2787. gastonarts.org. Beach Blast. A day with face painting, bouncy houses, obstacle courses and inflatable slides. Stick around for entertainers with special guest performances. Free. 2-10pm. On the Green at Monroe Crossing, 2115290 W. Roosevelt Blvd., Monroe. shopmonroecrossing.com. Billy Graham Library's 7th Anniversary. Celebrate and fellowship with cake, and explore the Journey of Faith Tour, the Memorial Prayer Garden and the Graham Family Homeplace. Free. 9:30am. Billy Graham Library, 4330 Westmont Drive. billygrahamlibrary.org. Bump Day. Join Omni Wellness Center for a celebration for planning, expecting and new mothers. Mothers and mothers-to-be only. Free. 10am-2pm. Assurance United Methodist Church, 9700 Mt. HollyHuntersville Road. 704-392-9999. omniwellnesscenter.com. Family Fun Day. Enjoy a full day of activities for the whole family. Free. 11am-5pm. Crossing Paths Park, Blythe Drive, Indian Trail. indiantrail.org. Guiding Parents to Services ASD Workshop. An interactive program within Smart Start of Mecklenburg
County for families of young children with an autism spectrum diagnosis. Free. 10:30am. ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St. 704-416-4630. imaginon.org. McCarthy Kids and Preschool Triathlon. Little athletes compete to swim, bike and run during this multisport event. Make sure to bring your own bike/equipment. Helmets required. Ages 3-12. Call or visit website for event cost. 7:30-9:30am. Harris YMCA, 5900 Quail Hollow Road. 704-716-6800. ymcacharlotte.org. Middle School Madness. Have some fun playing basketball, dancing and participate in plenty of gaming tournaments. Ages 11-13. $9. 7-10:30pm. Siskey YMCA, 3127 Weddington Road, Matthews. 704716-4200. ymcacharlotte.org. Science Saturday Book Club for Kids. Discuss books and do science activities about frogs. Ages 5-11. Free. 2pm. Davidson Library, 119 S. Main St., Davidson. 704- 416-4000. cmlibrary.org. Super Duper Lil Chefs. Pint-sized food lovers and even the pickiest eaters can start building culinary skills through demonstrations and interactive activities. $5; free for Kidgits members. 11am-1pm. Concord Mills, Food Court, 8111 Concord Mills Blvd., Concord. simonkidgitsclub.com. Taste of Charlotte. Delicious food and entertainment, plus inflatable jumpers and games, rides and obstacles courses. Must purchase coins to taste food and play games. Free. Fri-Sat: 11am-11pm Sun: 11am-6pm. Uptown Charlotte, Tryon Street. 704262-9847. tasteofcharlotte.com. World Ocean's Day. Explore what makes 71 percent of the Earth's surface so amazing, and chat with experts from Polar Bears International and the North Carolina Fossil club. $12$15, includes museum admission. 10am-5pm. Discovery Place, 301 N. Tryon St. 704-372-6261. discoveryplace.org.
8 SUNDAY
Taste of Charlotte. Delicious food and entertainment, plus inflatable jumpers and games, rides and obstacles courses. Must purchase coins to taste food and play games. Free. Fri-Sat: 11am-11pm Sun: 11am-6pm. Uptown Charlotte, Tryon Street. 704262-9847. tasteofcharlotte.com.
9 MONDAY Microsoft Basics for Kids. Kids learn how to create, edit and save documents in Microsoft Word. Ages 5-11. Free. 4:30pm. Mountain Island Library, 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way. 704416-5600. cmlibrary.org. Sensory Storytime. Stories, songs and activities specifically designed for children with autism spectrum disorders, sensory integration issues, or other developmental disabilities. Registration required. Free. 11:15am. Mint Hill Library, 6840 Matthews Mint Hill Road. 704-416-5200. cmlibrary.org.
10 TUESDAY Jack in the Box Summer Shootout Series. See school bus races and a full program of Legend Car and Bandolero racing. $7, free for ages 13 and under. 5pm. Charlotte Motor Speedway, 555 Concord Parkway South, Concord. 800-455-3267. charlottemotorspeedway.com. Free Tuesday at Schiele Museum. Museum exhibits and nature trails open for exploration. At 5pm learn about nocturnal neighbors. A special showing of Hubble Vision II plays at 7pm in the James H. Lynn Planetarium. Free. 4-8pm. The Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704-866-6908. schielemuseum.org. Paws to Read. Children can boost reading skills by reading aloud to a volunteer therapy dog. Ages 5-11. Free. Tuesday 5:30pm. Mountain Island Library, 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way. 704-416-5600. cmlibrary.org.
CharlotteParent.com | JUNE 2014
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ummer itters
S S 704-335-0501
Share -ASit ter P rog ram
310 East Blvd Ste 7 • Charlotte, NC 28203 www.charlottecareservices.com
We get a lot
O v er 3 Year s 0 In C h arlo tt e!
Read with Baron the Dog. Read a book to Baron, the lovable longhaired German Shepherd, a certified therapy dog. Free. Tuesday 3:30pm. Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville. 704-664-2927. ci.mooresville.nc.us/portal/library.
11 WEDNESDAY
Afternoon Adventures. Develop literacy and critical-thinking skills through books and hands-on activities. Ages Like Us! 5-11. Free. 2pm. Scaleybark Library, 101 Scaleybark Road. 704-416-6400. cmlibrary.org. 5/14/14 4:07:59 PM Wee Wednesdays. Little ones and their caregivers can enjoy stories, movement with music, and a special craft. Infant-3 years. $5. 10:30am-11am. Main Street Children's Museum, 133 E. Main St., Rock Hill, SC. 803-909-7218. chmuseums.org.
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Teen Summer Reading Kickoff. Dress as your favorite book or movie character and participate in games, book sharing and snacks. Ages 12 and up. Free. 2pm. North County 5/15/14 11:23:10 AM Regional Library, 16500 Holly Crest Lane, Huntersville. 704-416-6000. cmlibrary.org. Thursday Toddler Tales: Giraffe's Can't Dance. Sing-alongs and story CHARLOTTE CONVENTION CENTER time. Ages 2-6. Free. 9:30am. Barnes and Noble, The Arboretum, 3327 th Pineville-Matthews Road. 704-3419365. barnesandnoble.com.
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13 FRIDAY Comic Creations. Grasp a full understanding of comics and graphic novels, and learn storytelling and cartooning techniques. Ages 8-11. Free. 2pm. West Boulevard Library, 2157 West Blvd. 704-416-7400. cmlibrary.org. Sensory Storytime. Stories, songs and activities specifically designed for children with autism spectrum disorders or other developmental disabilities. Registration required. Free. 10:15am. Matthews Library, 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews. 704416-5000. cmlibrary.org.
Summer Reading Kick-off on the Green. Enjoy the music of kids’ rock band Lunch Money and literacy activities on the Green in front of the library. Free. 10am. Davidson Library, 119 S. Main St., Davidson. 704-4164000. cmlibrary.org. Summer Reading Kickoff with Professor Whizzpop. Kick off summer reading with Professor Whizzpop, magician and general goofball. Ages 5-11. Free. 2pm. Myers Park Library, 1361 Queens Road. 704416-5800. cmlibrary.org. Teen Open Mic Night. For experienced groups that love to play in front of people or a new musician that wants to try something new. Ages 11 and up. Free. 8-10pm. The Blackbox Theatre, Ballantyne Arts Center, 11318 N. Community House Road. 704-7164650. ymcacharlotte.org.
14 SATURDAY Action Reaction With Discovery Place. Engage in chemical reactions such as exploding hydrogen balloons and mysterious color changes while learning about properties of materials, physical and chemical changes and the effect of heat on a substance. Free. 11am. Hickory Grove Library, 5935 Hickory Grove Road. 704-416-4400. cmlibrary.org. 4th and 5th Grade Fun Night. Listen to music, dance, play games, enjoy concessions and hang out with friends. Ages 9-11. $8. 7-10:30pm. Siskey YMCA, 3127 Weddington Road, Matthews. 704-716-4200. ymcacharlotte.org. Doughnuts with Dad. Start the morning with a doughnuts and coffee, and tour the Billy Graham Library. Free. 9:30am-noon. Billy Graham Library, 4330 Westmont Drive. 704-401-3200. billygrahamlibrary.org. Get Set For Kindergarten. Rising kindergartners participate in stories and activities to build reading skills and prepare for success in school. Ages 3-5. Registration required. Free. 11am. Matthews Library, 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews. 704416-5000. cmlibrary.org.
Alien Worlds and Androids at Discovery Place.
JAARS Day. Events and displays include: plane, helicopter, boat and 4-by-4 vehicle rides, demonstrations of media in various languages and special speakers. Free; cost for food, and aviation and 4-by-4 rides. 9am-4pm. JAARS , 7405 JAARS Road, Waxhaw. 704-843-6130. jaars.org/events/ jaarsday.
15 SUNDAY Father’s Day Father's Day at The Planet. Splash around, swim and play games. $5-$11, free for dads. 1-6:30pm. Ray’s Splash Planet, 215 N. Sycamore St. parkandrec.com. Kids Club Central and Dad. Celebrate dad with a baseball-themed party. Play games and dance with Radio Disney. Stop by Charlotte Parent’s table to play a game and most of all to have some fun. Free. 1-3pm. EpiCentre, 210 E.Trade St. 704-6885980. epicentrenc.com.
16 MONDAY Sensory Storytime. Stories, songs and activities specifically designed for children with autism spectrum disorders, sensory integration issues, or other developmental disabilities. Registration required. Free. 11:15am. Mint Hill Library, 6840 Matthews Mint Hill Road. 704-416-5200. cmlibrary.org.
17 TUESDAY Afternoon Adventures Activity Table: Bouncy Balls. Drop in and participate in our Summer Reading Program with hands-on activities, such as making bouncy balls using chemistry. Ages 3-11. Free. 1pm. Mountain Island Library, 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way. 704-416-5600. cmlibrary.org. Backyard Birds with Latta. Explore Backyard Birds with Latta Plantation Nature Center. Ages 5-11. Registration required. Free. 2pm. North County Regional Library, 16500 Holly Crest Lane, Huntersville. 704-416-6031. cmlibrary.org.
CMLibrary Presents: Carolina Raptor Center. Watch and engage in a live animal program. Free. 10:30am. Davidson Library, 119 S. Main St., Davidson. 704-416-4000. cmlibrary.org. Dine Out for Kids. Eat at a participating restaurant to support Communities in Schools that helps in the progression of lowering the school dropout rate in the Charlotte area. Participating Restaurants. cischarlotte.org. Fish the Magish. Learn science through the world of magic with Fish the Magish, an entertaining and talented magician. Ages 8-11. Free. 2pm. Cornelius Library, 21105 Catawba Ave., Cornelius. 704-416-3800. cmlibrary.org. Jack in the Box Summer Shootout Series. Watch school bus races and Legend Car and Bandolero racing. $7, free for ages 13 and under. 5pm. Charlotte Motor Speedway, 555 Concord Parkway South, Concord. 800-455-3267. charlottemotorspeedway.com. Paws to Read. Children can boost reading skills and confidence by reading aloud to volunteer therapy dogs. Ages 5-11. Free. Tuesday 5:30pm. Mountain Island Library, 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way. 704-416-5600. cmlibrary.org. Read With Baron the Dog. Read a book to Baron, the lovable long-haired German Shepherd, a certified therapy dog. Free. 3:30pm. Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville. 704-664-2927. ci.mooresville.nc.us/ portal/library.
18 WEDNESDAY Cold Blooded Encounters: Kitchen Chemistry. Explore chemistry cooking. Ages 5-11. Free. 2pm. Scaleybark Library, 101 Scaleybark Road. 704-416-6400. cmlibrary.org. Get Set For Kindergarten. Rising kindergartners participate in stories and activities that build reading skills and prepare children for school success. Ages 3-5. Registration required. Free. 11am. Matthews Library, 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews. 704-416-5000. cmlibrary.org.
on exhibit
DISCOVERY PLACE
Alien Worlds and Androids. Join scientists in their search for alien life within and beyond our solar system, discover strange alien-like creatures found here on Earth, and learn about the technologies used to explore remote solar systems and extreme environments found on Earth. $12-$15, includes museum admission. June 28-Sept. 14. Mon.-Fri., 9am-4pm; Sat., 10am-6pm; Sun., noon-5pm. 704-372-6261. discoveryplace.org Van Gogh Alive. Synchronized to a powerful classical score, more than 3,000 Van Gogh images at an enormous scale create a display that fills giant screens, walls, columns, ceilings and even the floor. $18-$20. Through June 1. Mon.-Fri., 9am-4pm; Sat., 10am-6pm; Sun., noon-5pm. 704-372-6261. discoveryplace.org. 301 N. Tryon St.
IMAGINON: THE JOE AND JOAN MARTIN CENTER Once Upon a Time Summer. Step inside beloved stories from around the globe in this hands-on exhibit that brings favorite multicultural fairy tales and folk tales to life. Enter the larger-than-life pages of seven favorite tales. Free. Through June 28. Tues.-Thurs., 10am-7pm; Fri.-Sun., 10am-5pm. 704-416-4600. imaginon.org. 300 E. 7th St.
LEVINE MUSEUM OF THE NEW SOUTH Faces of Freedom Summer. View and explore 102 photographs taken by Herbert Randall in Hattiesburg, Miss. that document the struggles and triumphs of Civil Rights activists and African-American voters during the summer of 1964. $5-$8, includes museum admission. Through Aug. 17. Mon.-Sat., 10am-5pm; Sun., noon-5pm. museumofthenewsouth.org. Out of the Shadows: Undocumented and Unafraid. Explore how art can be a deliberative and imaginative forum for exploring complex issues about immigrant labor, education, and legal status. $5-$8, includes museum admission. Through June 29. Mon.-Sat., 10am-5pm; Sun., noon-5pm . 704-333-1887. museumofthenewsouth.org. 200 E. 7th St.
MUSEUM OF YORK COUNTY Way Back When: Ice Age Beasts of Carolina. Travel back in time to the Carolina Piedmont during the “Ice Ages” when massive mastodons browsed our woodlands, and giant ground sloths ambled along the forest edge. $3-$5. Through July 31. Tues.- Sat. 10am-5pm; Sun. 1-5pm . 803-329-2121. chmuseums.org. 4621 Mt. Gallant Road, Rock Hill.
THE SCHIELE MUSEUM Woodland Indians. Visit the Catawba Village to discover how local American Indians used plants, animals and even the earth itself to provide for tools, clothing, food and shelter. $9-$10,includes admission. June 9- Aug. 10. Tues.-Sat., 10am, 2pm. 704-866-6908. schielemuseum.org. 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. CharlotteParent.com | JUNE 2014
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Transform Father’s Day With AllT Weekend Adventures
BY MIKALA YOUNG
his year surprise dad in a new and exciting way by experiencing local events dedicated to him. Start Father’s Day celebrations Saturday, June 14, at the Billy Graham Library’s Doughnuts for Dad event with a cup of Joe and a doughnut. A special gift is involved for all dads who attend and the family can even enjoy the CLTPM_140600_ClearChannel.indd 1 5/20/14 4:09:16 PM Journey of Faith tour around the library. If dad is more into airplanes and hands-on activity, then head to JAARS Day on Saturday afternoon. With loads of demonstrations and an opportunity to take a lift in a helicopter, it’s fun for all ages. Continue the weekend fun with a day of swimming at Ray’s Splash Planet’s Father’s Day at The Planet on Sunday, June 15. Take a splash and have some extraordinary fun playing games and competing against dad in the pool. As an extra incentive, dad’s admission is free all day. Dry off and venture uptown to continue the celebration with a baseball-themed party at Epicentre. Bowl a game at Strike City or check out a movie at Studio Movie Grill after dancing to tunes with Radio Disney. Make sure to stop by the Charlotte Parent table for games and activities. Later in the evening, The McGlohon Theater inside Spirit Square is hosting a Father’s Day and Family Comedy show. This knockout Your child will be show features three comedians ready to make everyone in the Q Healthier Q family laugh, and most of all brings the family together. Q Smarter Safer If Dad’s style is more laid back, consider at hike at Crowders w! o n Mountain or a day by the lake at Latta Nature Preserve and a visit to l l Enro the Carolina Raptor Center. Pack a picnic and enjoy Q Q time together. 704.341.9673 info@charlotteaquatics.com www.charlotteaquatics.com
Teaching kids to swim since 1996.
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John Green Fest. Join a discussion on John Green books and the June movie release of “The Fault in Our Stars” and earn prizes. Ages 12 and up. Registration required. Free. 2pm. North County Regional Library, 16500 Holly Crest Lane, Huntersville. 704-416-6000. cmlibrary.org. Rookie Science: Catch a Wave. Discover the science of waves through books, hands-on educational activities and experiments. Ages 5-11. Registration required. Free. 2pm. Morrison Regional Library, 7015 Morrison Blvd. 704-4165400. cmlibrary.org. Teen Summer Reading Kick Off. Kick off the summer through this program by making crafts and listening to music. Ages 12-18. Free. 2pm. University City Library, 301 E. W.T. Harris Blvd. 704-4167200. cmlibrary.org. Wee Wednesdays. Little ones and their caregivers can enjoy stories, movement with music, and a special craft. Infant- 3 years. $5. 10:30am-11am. Main Street Children's Museum, 133 E. Main St., Rock Hill, SC. 803-909-7218. chmuseums.org.
19 THURSDAY Petapalooza. Celebrate a favorite animal companion, meet rescued and exotic pets, and learn about responsible pet ownership. $6, includes museum admission. 10am-1pm. Charlotte Nature Museum, 1658 Sterling Road. 704-3726261. charlottenaturemuseum.org. Thursday Toddler Tales: Giraffe's Can't Dance. Get ready for the upcoming weekend through a morning of sing-alongs and story time. Ages 2-6. Free. 9:30am. Barnes and Noble, The Arboretum, 3327 Pineville-Matthews Road. 704-341-9365. barnesandnoble.com.
20 FRIDAY Preschool Storytime. Engage with book and activities that encourage language and pre-reading skills. Hear stories, sing songs, and develop the skills needed to become a successful reader. Ages 3-5. Free. Friday 10:30am. Sugar Creek Library, 4045 N. Tryon St., Ste. A. 704416-7000. cmlibrary.org.
Sensory Storytime. Join this program filled with stories, songs and activities specifically designed for children with autism spectrum disorders, sensory integration issues, or other developmental disabilities. Registration required. Free. Friday 10:15am. Matthews Library, 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews . 704-416-5000. cmlibrary.org.
21 SATURDAY First Day of Summer Adventures in Folklore. Four multicultural folktales presented by Red Herring Puppets. Free. 2pm. Gaston County Library, 1555 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704-868-2164. gastonlibary.org. Farm Day. Visit the little farm in the big city and get up close to rabbits, goats, chickens, geese, sheep and more. $6, includes museum admission. 10am-1pm. Charlotte Nature Museum, 1658 Sterling Road. 704-372-6261. charlottenaturemuseum.org. Harrisburg Art Walk. Shop for jewelry, wood carvings and pottery by local artists and hear live music. Free. 10am-2pm. Harrisburg Town Center, 4100 Main and Roberta Road, Harrisburg. 704-458-0362. harrisburgartwalk.com. Juneteenth. Enjoy local entertainers, artifacts, a variety of vendors and a fish fry that celebrates the ending of slavery. 2-8pm. Stowe Park, 24 S. Main St., Belmont. cityofbelmont.org. Northlake MallStars Summer Fun Saturday. Celebrate the first day of summer with Radio Disney, playing in the pop-jet fountain and enjoying crafts and music. First 200 kids receive a MallStars gift. Ages 10 and under. Free. 1pm. Northlake Mall, 6801 Northlake Mall Drive. 704-921-2005. shopnorthlake.com. Traveling Through Latin America With Music. Explore Latin America through a combination of jazz, blues, and folk music. Ages 12 and up. Free. 3pm. Independence Regional Library, 6000 Conference Drive. 704-416-4800. cmlibrary.org.
Balloonacy at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte June 6-8.
on stage CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CHARLOTTE Balloonacy. Watch as a solitary old man is steadfast in his silent routine until a mischievous balloon finds him and insists on becoming his friend. Ages 3 and up. $10. June 6-8. Fri., 11am; Sat., 11am and 1pm; Sun., 2pm. 704-973-2780. ctcharlotte.org. ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St.
LITTLE THEATER OF GASTONIA Little Women: The Musical. Follow the adventures of three girls Jo, Meg, Beth and Amy March as they grow up in Civil War America. $10. Through June 7. Thurs.Sat., 8pm; Sun., 2:30pm. 704-865-0160. littletheaterofgastonia.com. 238 S. Clay St., Gastonia.
MATTHEWS PLAYHOUSE Shrek the Musical. Watch this fairytale about a green ogre who rescues a princess in a tower and delivers her to the Kingdom of Duloc. $12-$18. June 13-29. See website for various times. 704-846-8343. matthewsplayhouse.com. Fullwood Theatre, 100 McDowell St. E., Matthews.
MCGLOHON THEATER AT SPIRIT SQUARE Father's Day and Family Comedy Show. Have fun with Dad and the rest of the family listening and laughing to three knockout comedians. $38.50-$42. 7:30pm., 704- 372-1000. blumenthalarts.org. 345 N. College St.
The Charlotte Parent calendar lists free and
CALENDAR POLICY: low-cost local events targeted to children
and families. Time, dates and details subject to change. Call venue to confirm. Want to get listed? Go to CharlotteParent.com/calendar, then click on Submit an Event. CharlotteParent.com | JUNE 2014
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Wipe out Waste: Trash to Treasure. Learn what’s accepted for recycling and why. Ages 12-18. Free. 2pm. University City Library, 301 E. W.T. Harris Blvd. 704-416-7200. cmlibrary.org.
22 SUNDAY Grandparents Day. Enjoy craft projects, gallery visits, and Let's Move! healthy living activities, artist demonstrations, and more. $5; free for children. 1-4pm. Mint Museum, 500 S. Tryon St. 704-337-2000. mintmuseum.org/ happenings/479/grandparents-day. HFFA Kids Triathlon Series. Race number three in the series. A fun run, a bike race, and a swim race. Kids receive prizes and awards at the end of the race. Ages 4-10. $5. 2pm. Huntersville Family Fitness & Aquatics, 11725 Verhoeff Drive, Huntersville. jonesracingcompany.com/hffa-kids-tri/. Sunday Fun Day: Every Picture Tells a Story. Sketch a comic strip, tell a tall tale at family storytelling sessions, TO REQUEST A CATALOG AND TO REGISTER VISIT PROVIDENCEDAY.ORG and hear surprising stories behind Ages 0 24 months artworks on view. $5; free for children. 1-4pm. Mint Museum, 500 S. Tryon St. CLTPM_140600_ProvidenceDay.indd 1 5/12/14 12:51:12 PM 704-337-2000. mintmuseum.org.
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23 MONDAY Professor Whizzpop. Join in on a show designed to encourage kids to read some of literature's more eccentric figures; scientists and inventors. Ages 5-11. Registration required. Free. 2pm. North County Regional Library, 16500 Holly Crest Lane, Huntersville. 704416-6031. cmlibrary.org. Sensory Storytime. Stories, songs and activities specifically designed for children with autism spectrum disorders, sensory integration issues, or other developmental disabilities. Registration required. Free. 11:15am. Mint Hill Library, 6840 Matthews Mint Hill Road. 704-416-5200. cmlibrary.org.
24 TUESDAY American Girl Book Club. Learn about historical periods related to this month's doll and share their opinions. Ages 7-10. Registration required. Free. 3pm. South County Regional
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Library, 5801 Rea Road. 704-416-5200. cmlibrary.org. Cold Blooded Encounters. Learn fun science with a cool reaction from the people of Cold Blooded Encounters. Ages 8-11. Free. 2pm. Cornelius Library, 21105 Catawba Ave., Cornelius. 704-416-3800. cmlibrary.org. Jack in the Box Summer Shootout Series. Watch special attractions, including the school bus race and a full program of Legend Car and Bandolero racing. $7, free for ages 13 and under. 5pm. Charlotte Motor Speedway, 555 Concord Parkway South, Concord. 800-455-3267. charlottemotorspeedway.com. Paws to Read. Children can boost reading skills and confidence by reading aloud to a volunteer therapy dog. Ages 5-11. Free. Tuesday 5:30pm. Mountain Island Library, 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way. 704-416-5600. cmlibrary.org. Read with Baron the Dog. Read a book to Baron, the lovable longhaired German Shepherd, a certified therapy dog. Free. Tuesday 3:30pm. Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville. 704-664-2927. ci.mooresville.nc.us/portal/library. Turtles With Latta. Learn about turtles at Latta Plantation Nature Center. Ages 5-11. Free. 2pm. North County Regional Library, 16500 Holly Crest Lane, Huntersville. 704-416-6031. cmlibrary.org.
25 WEDNESDAY Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Presents: Discovery PlaceElectrifying Action. Conduct hair-raising experiments with the Van de Graff generator, and learn about electricity and magnetism. Ages 5-11. Free. 2 and 3pm. Morrison Regional Library, 7015 Morrison Blvd. 704-4165400. cmlibrary.org. Learn, Connect, Play: Scrabble. Practice word-making skills playing Scrabble. Ages 5-11. Free. 2pm. Scaleybark Library, 101 Scaleybark Road. 704-416-6400. cmlibary.org.
26 THURSDAY Thursday Toddler Tales: Giraffe's Can't Dance. Sing-alongs and story time. Ages 2-6. Free. 9:30am. Barnes and Noble, The Arboretum, 3327 Pineville-Matthews Road. 704-3419365. barnesandnoble.com.
27 FRIDAY Great American Backyard Campout. Enjoy a hike, fishing, games, and a hot-dog dinner and camping as a family. Free. 5:30pm. Anne Springs Close Greenway Adventure Center, 835 Springfield Pkwy., Fort Mill. 803547-4575. ascgreenway.org. Sensory Storytime. Stories, songs and activities specifically designed for children with autism spectrum disorders, sensory integration issues, or other developmental disabilities. Registration required. Free. Friday 10:15am. Matthews Library, 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews. 704416-5000. cmlibrary.org.
28 SATURDAY A Pride of African Tales. Live story telling by award-winning author and performer Donna Washington. Free. 2pm. Gaston County Library, 1555 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704-8682164. gastonlibary.org. Great American Backyard Campout. Encourage kids to trade screen time for green time. All you need is a
taste for adventure and a desire to share the great outdoors with your children. Free. In your backyard, a park, campground or even your balcony. 800-822-9919. nwf.org/greatamerican-backyard-campout. Middle School Madness. Music, dancing, hoops, contests and video games and more. Ages 11-13. $5-$8. 7-10:30pm. Morrison Family YMCA, 9405 Bryant Farms Road. 704-7164650. ymcacharlotte.org. Sensory Storytime. Stories, songs and activities specifically designed for children with autism spectrum disorders, sensory integration issues, or other developmental disabilities. Ages 3-7. Registration required. Free. 10:15am. South County Regional Library, 5801 Rea Road. 704-416-6600. cmlibrary.org. Story Explorers. Explore books and stories in creative ways through interactive activities including math, science and games. Ages 5-11. Free. 2pm. West Boulevard Library, 2157 West Blvd. 704-416-7400. cmlibrary.org.
29 SUNDAY Summer Pops. Enjoy an evening filled with music by the Charlotte Symphony. $10; Under 18 Free. 8:15pm. Symphony Park, 4400 Sharon Road. 704-714-5112. charlottesymphony.org.
55877-Doughnuts-CLT Parent Ad_FINAL.indd 1 CLTPM_140600_BillyGrahm.indd 1
30 MONDAY Sensory Storytime. Stories, songs and activities specifically designed for children with autism spectrum disorders, sensory integration issues,
1 TUESDAY
or other developmental disabilities. Registration required. Free. Monday 11:15am. Mint Hill Library, 6840 Matthews Mint Hill Road704-4165200. cmlibrary.org.
early july
Summer Pops - Pineville. Enjoy an evening filled with music by the Charlotte Symphony. $10. 8pm. Belle Johnston Park, Lake Drive, Pineville. 704-714-5112. charlottesymphony.org.
2 WEDNESDAY Summer Pops - Kannapolis. Enjoy a night of musical concerts and the outdoor weather. $10. 8pm. Village Park, 740 W. C St., Kannapolis. 704- 920-4343. charlottesymphony.org. Disney’s Little Mermaid Jr. Journey under the sea with Ariel as she longs to leave home. Meet her aquatic friends and find out what she must overcome in order to meet the prince. $8-$12.10am. Dalton F. Halton Theater, 1206 Elizabeth Ave. 704-330-6534. tix.cpcc.edu.
3 THURSDAY Red White and Boom. Celebrate the kick off to Independence Day with family and friends. Free. 5pm. Old Town Amphitheater, 144 Black St., Rock Hill, SC. 803-3263886. onlyinoldtown.com. Summer Pops. Enjoy an evening filled with music by the Charlotte Symphony. The theme is Celebrate America. $15. 8:15pm. Symphony Park, 4400 Sharon Road, Charlotte. 704-714-5112. charlottesymphony.org
4 FRIDAY Huntersville 4th of July Celebration. Participate in bike decorating, face painting, a clown parade and a water fight between the fire stations. Enjoy food and loads of games. Free. 10am-1pm. Birkdale Village, Birkdale Commons Pkwy. and Sam Furr Road, Huntersville. huntersville.org.
CharlotteParent.com | JUNE 2014 47 5/8/14 8:58 AM 5/8/14 11:09:21 AM
Excursion Dol ly wood BY MYRA WRIGHT
panning 150 acres in Pigeon Forge and the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Dollywood has more than 40 rides and attractions. As a guest of the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce, I recently traveled to Tennessee for Dollywood’s media day and had the opportunity to interview legendary entertainer Dolly Parton and tour the park.
S
Something for Everyone
“We always try to cater to families,” says Parton. “That’s what Dollywood is all about.” Mystery Mine, a steel coaster that travels through an abandoned coal mine, with a thrilling 95-degree, 85-foot vertical drop that plunges into darkness, is great for older kids. Adventure-seekers can experience Wild Eagle that rises 21 stories and gives riders the sensation of flying. The coaster reaches a top speed of 61 miles per hour and maneuvers four inversions including a giant
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loop, a “zero-G” roll and a giant flat spin. Younger ones can enjoy the rides in the County Fair section of the park. Hop aboard the Dollywood Express, the 110-ton coal-fired steam engine for a five-mile journey around the park, or the traditional Village Carousel.
FireChaser Express
New to the park this season is the FireChaser Express, the nation’s first dual-launch family coaster. The FireChaser Express launches twice, blasting riders forward and backward on a winding 2,427foot track. The coaster celebrates the volunteer-based fire departments of the 1940s when firefighting trains were common and protected Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With a 39-inch minimum height requirement, the coaster is designed so that even very young children can ride with their families.
CharlotteParent.com
Homespun Entertainment
In addition to rides, Dollywood is highly themed with local history and preservation. See many demonstrations of turnof-the-century crafts, such as blacksmithing, candle making, woodcarving and glass blowing. Music plays a big part of the entertainment at Dollywood. Enjoy a variety of live entertainment including country, bluegrass, Southern gospel, classic rock ’n’ roll, and Appalachian music. If you are a Dolly Parton fan, don’t miss Chasing Rainbows, an interactive museum with memorabilia from Dolly’s life and career, including movie costumes, awards, handwritten song lyrics and even the original Coat of Many Colors, the coat Parton sang about in her hit 1971 song.
DreamMore Resort
Scheduled to open summer of
TOP: The Amazing
Flying Elephants ride. 2015, the CENTER: FireChaser 300-room Express is the new DreamMore dual-launch family coaster. Resort will be next to Dollywood and Dollywood’s Splash Country, the adjacent 35-acre water park. “We really wanted to have a resort, so we can make Dollywood a complete vacation destination,” says Parton. “We’re going to play heavily on the front-porch theme because back in the country, I think people like to sit out on the porch where you can plan, where you can dream.” Dollywood is open March through January, 10 a.m to 7 p.m. with summer hours, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. beginning June 14. Admission is $46-$58. dollywood.com.
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DADDY DEREK
BY DEREK JAMES
Tyler, 5, enjoys a good game of Parcheesi.
Ain’t no Fairy Like the Paci Fairy
W
hen my youngest son Chase turned 3, my wife and I had two major goals for him. We were going to say goodbye once and for all to his pacifiers and diapers. For almost a year the pacifier had only been for bedtime, and Chase had been occasionally peeing in the potty at home and school for a few months. Getting rid of the paci was much easier than the diapers. More on that next month. If you haven’t heard of “The Paci Fairy,” odds are you don’t have a child younger than 5. It’s the most guiltfree way to get your little one to lose the paci. While our parents made us go cold turkey, we decided to go the
easy route. The story explains that the fairy takes pacifiers from little boys and girls who don’t need them anymore to give them to the babies who do. It’s not that simple though. In exchange for your little one’s paci, the fairy offers a bribe, er, toy. Big brother Tyler got a toy lawnmower a few years back. We started reading the book a couple months before Chase turned 3 so he understood the story and to warn him that on the night of his birthday, the paci fairy would be visiting. Tyler helped us sell the story to Chase so that by the time his third birthday rolled around we were ready. “It’s awesome Chase! The paci fairy
brings presents,” he would say. After reading the story again that night, all the pacis went into an envelope and were left outside for the paci fairy. It’s amazing that all of the pacis that seemed to have disappeared over the previous three years suddenly showed up. We used to spend 20 minutes trashing the house just to find one. Chase said “bye bye pacis” and that was it. No major complaints that night. The next morning Chase woke up to find that the paci fairy had brought him a Perfection Game and some Batman stuff. That night, when it was bedtime Chase asked me for his blue paci, which was always the favorite. I reminded him that we gave all the pacis to the paci fairy because he was now 3 and now longer “a baby.” He looked at me, paused for a moment and said, “Tell her I want them back.” I laughed, and then told him that we couldn’t do that because he was a big boy now. He cried for a while that night. Then I could hear him on the monitor pleading softly, “Come back paci. Paciiiiiii. I need paci.” Since then, there’s rarely been any mention of the paci. When he falls down and gets hurt or is scared, paci has come up a time or two. I know we probably let him have the pacifier longer than we should have but it doesn’t appear to have caused any earaches or dental problems. No one wants their kid’s teeth to resemble Charlie Sheen’s and we have the paci fairy to thank for that. Now if only there were a potty fairy. Derek James is a host on WCCB News Rising, and lives with his wife and two sons, ages 3 and 5. Read more from James in his Daddy Derek blog at CharlotteParent.com/blogs. CharlotteParent.com | JUNE 2014
51
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Upload your smiles at CharlotteParent.com/photogallery. Choose Reader Photos. Non-professional photos only. Photos must be high-resolution.
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2014-15 Season
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