Charlotte Parent GPS 2013

a publication of

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2013-2014

GO PLAY SEE

NAVIGATING CHARLOTTE-AREA FAMILY LIFE 49

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523 553 Places to Play &

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Things to See!

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contents group publisher Sharon Havranek

publisher/editor Eve White

associate editor/web editor Michele Huggins

art director Melissa Stutts

ad designer Wade Baker

digital media manager Susannah Carpenter

editorial assistant Katy LeGrand

Sales

sr. media consultant Leslie Shinn leslies@charlotteparent.com

media consultants Jen Byrum jbyrum@charlotteparent.com Adrian Garson agarson@charlotteparent.com

sales and marketing assistant Maria Vita mvita@charlotteparent.com

business office manager Kara Lynn Mann karalynn@charlotteparent.com

Features 10

Hot Tickets

38

The best of Charlotte spectator sports

18

All Around Town

Top family picks for where to play, shop, learn

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Navigating Charlotteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s transportation options Contact Us Phone: 704-344-1980 | Fax: 704-344-1983 214 W. Tremont Ave., Suite 302 Charlotte, NC 28203 advertising distribution @charlotteparent.com editorial 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 publicationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s standards. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

Published by Carolina Parenting Inc.

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Explore the Arts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; With Kids!

Top 5 Local Family Festivals

51

School Rules The basics on area education choices

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Make sure these are on your family calendar

Communities

Top 5 Family-Fun Attractions Top spots that are worth checking out

From dance to painting, find art for all ages

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Readers Favorites

Health Matters Where to go and who to see to stay well

Resources

The inside scoop on some Charlotte-area neighborhoods.

4 12 20 28 34

Central North South East West

44 47 57

Attractions Community Resources Health Care

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Kannapolis

Lincolnton

Concord

CABARRUS GASTON Gastonia

MECKLENBURG Charlotte

IREDELL

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Statesville

YORK

LINCOLN

Kannapolis

Lincolnton

Monroe

Concord

CABARRUS GASTON Gastonia

MECKLENBURG Charlotte

Rock Hill

S D O O H R NEIGHBO Elizabeth Population: 3,812 AHV: $418K

Plaza Midwood Population: 3,428 AHV: $355K

Dilworth Population: 7,509 AHV: $487K

Myers Park Population: 10,306 AHV: $830K

Cotswold Population: 4,136 AHV: $279K AHV=Average Home Value Sources: 2010 Census data; charmeck.org Quality of Life study

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YORK

Monroe Rock Hill

The tree-lined streets in Charlotte’s central neighborhoods are in close proximity of uptown Charlotte, making commutes light. Most all of Charlotte’s central neighborhoods have clusters of restaurants, coffee shops, parks, playgrounds and shops that are easily accessible on foot or by bicycle. Many have their own farmers markets, and all have their own unique flavor. Metropolitan, one of the city’s newer retail centers is minutes away from these neighborhoods, and hosts a Trader Joe’s Grocery Store, Target, Marshall’s, Staples and several restaurants and backs up to Little Sugar Creek Greenway.

Elizabeth

Minutes from uptown Charlotte and close proximity to many locally-owned shops and restaurants, as well as Novant Healthcare and Independence Park, Elizabeth is a historic neighborhood, established in 1907, that boasts a mix of larger homes with large front porches and some smaller bungalows. Elizabeth Traditional Elementary is located in the heart of Elizabeth, as are several well-established churches that offer daycare and preschool.

Central Piedmont Community College offers opportunities for continuing education, and is home to the Dale F. Halton Theater that hosts CPCC Summer Theatre and Tosco Music Parties for families. Kids (and kids-at-heart) browse the shelves of comic books at Heros Aren’t Hard To Find, a neighborhood mainstay for 30 years. Catch the Charlotte Hounds lacrosse team playing at Memorial Stadium adjacent to CPCC.

Plaza Midwood

Bungalows, new craftsmen style homes and newly built apartments are what you’ll find in Plaza Midwood (sometimes simply referred to as Midwood), only seven minutes from uptown. With patio and rooftop restaurants, a newly renovated Harris Teeter shopping center, lots of locally owned, ecclectic retail shops, Plaza Midwood has big city energy, but a small town atmosphere. Play shuffleboard before brunch at Zada Janes, get a scone and a latte at Nova’s Bakery, or bicycle under the expansive green canopy of trees to Rita’s Italian Ice. At the center sits Midwood Park, complete with a playground, small amphitheatre, tennis and basketball courts, and a playing field.

It hosts the annual Midwood Maynia festival that draws families for its kidfriendly events, live music and home tour.

Local favorite, Amelie’s Bakery is nearby in artsy NoDa, where you’ll find local art galleries, music venues and breweries.

Central // C

Dilworth

East Boulevard anchors the Dilworth neighborhood with locally owned shops and restaurants.

Large, craftsmen-style homes are shaded by oak canopies that surround two parks. Latta Park has a small splash pad, playground and shaded walking trails and is adjacent to Dilworth Elementary and Tom Sykes Recreation Center.

It’s also home to the annual Dilworth Jubilee festival. Freedom Park is one of Charlotte’s largest and is home to Dilworth Little League and other sporting leagues. Tucked in the trees you’ll find the Charlotte Nature Museum, a kidfriendly favorite, filled with cute critters and educational exhibits. Walk or bike to the the grocery store, as well as Atherton Market in Historic Southend, where you can board the LYNX train for a ride to uptown or south Charlotte. Several well-established churches in the area offer daycare and preschool.

Myers Park

This wellestablished, affluent neighborhood boasts some of Charlotte’s finest homes and oldest trees lining Queens Road. Queens University campus is in the center of it all. Myers Park Country Club is one of Charlotte’s oldest, and offers golfing, tennis, swimming and more. Myers Park High School, one of Charlotte’s largest high schools, is also located in the heart of Myers Park. Travel along Providence Road to shop high-end boutiques, grab a coffee at Starbucks and shop for provisions at the newly renovated Harris Teeter at Myers Park Shopping Center. Scoot over to Selwyn Drive for a mix of casual and upscale dining and specialty shops that are very close to Park Road Shopping Center, one of Charlotte’s first outdoor shopping centers, where you’ll find Suarez Bakery, as well as everything from a movie theater to a toy store and a hardware store.

MMUNITY

Cotswold

Conveniently located between uptown and Southpark, Cotswold is a mix of 1950 ranch-style, brick homes on larger lots, mid-century modern homes and new construction.

Cotswold Village Shops, known for being Charlotte’s first suburban mall, now houses all the modern conveniences for families including a large grocery store, a Marshall’s, Toys & Co., and IHOP. Down Sharon Amity Road is Eddie’s Place, a frequent weeknight gathering spot for families at dinnertime. Many of Charlotte’s best private schools are less than five miles from Cotswold neighborhoods, and Cotswold IB Elementary and Randolph IB Middle schools are a draw for many families.

A plethora of well-established nearby churches offer daycare and preschool, and many families join the Charlotte Swim and Racquet Club for its swim and dive teams, plus tennis clubs.

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CHECK THESE OUT

MMUNITY // Central

CHECK THESE outdoor play!

OUT! Freedom Park

Veteran’s Park Sprayground

1900 East Blvd. parkandrec.com When the weather is nice in Charlotte, Freedom Park is sure to be filled with families. The 98-acre park, which is built around a lake, is home to two playgrounds, walking trails, sports fields, volleyball courts and a nature center. Wide paths are great for scooters and bicycles, and many people enjoy picnicking on its sloping green spaces. Kids can play inside a steam engine permanently parked by one of the playgrounds. The annual Festival in the Park in September is one of the most popular outdoor festivals in Charlotte.

2136 Central Ave. parkandrec.com Little offers more refreshment from the summer heat than the spray field at quiet Veterans Park. Jets of water shoot out of a concrete pad, creating cool fun for kids and adults. One of the few covered spraygrounds in the region, Veteran’s Park is a great place for kids to play in the water outdoors while staying out of the summer sun. The park also has a great playground with equipment for various ages, tennis courts, playing fields and basketball courts, plus a picnic shelter that can be rented for birthday parties and other occasions.

CHECK THESE OUT!

Points of Interest

Little Sugar Creek Greenway

by Metropolitan Kings Drive and 4th Street parkandrec.com Urban living meets the great outdoors where Little Sugar Creek Greenway intersects Metropolitan, a shopping and dining center in Midtown. The wide, paved greenway is ideal for a family bike ride, and families can bring their own bicycles or rent them from Charlotte B-Cycle, a bike-sharing program with a station at the Metropolitan. Stop in for self-serve yogurt, sandwiches or pizza at Metropolitan before continuing down the greenway. Freedom Park is a short bike ride or walk from Metropolitan.

CHECK THESE OUT!

Mecklenburg County ·(704) 348-2181 Cabarrus County (704) 786-1024 Union County (704) 238-8800 Rowan County (704) 210-1008 Stanly County (704) 550-0103

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MMUNITY

must-do family fun!

Discovery Place

Ray’s Splash Planet

Carolinas Aviation Museum

301 N. Tryon St. | 704-372-6261 discoveryplace.org Filled with hands-on fun and informative exhibits, Discovery Place science education center in uptown Charlotte appeals to kids of all ages. Its extensive interactive KidScience center lets kids test theories of science, engineering and math, and its aquarium and rainforest exhibit offers close-up views of birds, reptiles and fish. Discovery Place’s ever-changing special events and IMAX movie selections mean repeat visits never get old. Check the website for changing exhibitions, special programs and summer camps.

215 N. Sycamore St. | 704-432-4729 rayssplashplanet.com This year-round indoor waterpark operated by Mecklenburg County Parks and Recreation is a popular destination for fun and fitness. Kids love the waterpark’s three-story slide, lazy river and zero-entry pool, and the park’s squirters, fountains and multiple pools offer swimming options for all ages. The facility also includes a snack bar, outdoor covered picnic area, basketball gym, fitness programs and horseshoe pits.

Mecklenburg County residents get discounts on memberships and entry fees.

4672 1st Flight Dr. | 704-359-8442 carolinasaviation.org In 2011, the museum welcomed the U.S. Airways aircraft known as “The Miracle on the Hudson,” which Captain Chesley Sullenberger successfully landed on the Hudson River in January 2009 after its engines failed. The museum’s informative exhibits include a replica of the Wright brothers’ flyer, helicopters and military and commercial planes. Children love the interactive displays and everyone enjoys sitting in an actual cockpit. A scavenger hunt worksheet turns learning about aviation into fun for young ones.

Photo courtesy of Discovery Place

Let’s

B OWL Kids’ Party Packages Available Get your birthday rolling with an afternoon full of bowling!

RSVP 704.716.9300

party@strikecitycharlotte.com

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MMUNITY // Central

kid-friendly dining!

Loco Lime

Mellow Mushroom

Bad Daddyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Burger Bar

1101 Central Ave. 704-333-7837 locolimecharlotte.com One of the most popular Mexican-inspired restaurants in Charlotte, kid-friendly Loco Lime in Plaza Midwood is known for its excellent chips and salsa and guacamole appetizers made at the table. Enjoy $1 tacos on Tuesdays and kids eat free with an adult meal purchase every Wednesday.

The Central Avenue location also offers skee ball in the lobby to keep them entertained while you wait, and on warm days, look for cornhole games outside.

2820 Selwyn Ave #100 704-966-7499 mellowmushroom.com Mellow Mushroom, known for eclectic dĂŠcor and pizza, keeps it interesting at its Myers Park location with a tie-dyed school bus parked inside the restaurant. Kids love eating at the booths set up inside the bus. The $5.50 kids menu includes French bread pizza, pretzel dippers and all-natural mac-and-cheese, while adults can choose from a variety of pizzas, salads, calzones and hoagies.

1626 East Blvd.

704-714-4888 baddaddysburgerbar.com Bad Daddyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Burger Bar in Dilworth has something for even the pickiest eater. Diners can choose from set burger combinations or build-your-own burger with ingredients ranging from the standard American cheese to more exotic rosemary ham or pineapple.

Sides include kid-friendly tater tots and fruit cups. The restaurantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boisterous atmosphere is great for kids, who can top off their meal with a gourmet milkshake. A favorite: Ghirardelli chocolate and peanut butter.

Davidson Day School â&#x2014;&#x20AC; Confident Independent Thinking Speaking Mandarin Chinese

â&#x2014;&#x20AC;

C

Compassionate Heart

â&#x2014;&#x20AC; â&#x2014;&#x20AC;

Hands on Science

Davidson Day School Nurtures the WHOLE Child Age 2-12th Grade www.davidsonday.org

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ZACH

“Creating Beautiful, Healthy Smiles That Change Lives” Orthodontics for the entire family

Specializing in the treatment of children, teens and adults Growth-monitoring Orthodontics

Alexis Gonzalez Miss Lake Norman 2013 Patient of Drs. Burrow & Case Photo by Lenn Long

Pre-orthodontic Tooth Guidance Pre-prosthetic Orthodontics Habit appliances TMJ Therapy Convenient state-of-the-art offices

2711 Randolph Road, Suite 600 • Charlotte, NC 28207

704-334-7202

7922 Rea Road, Suite A • Charlotte, NC 28277

704-334-7204

www.charlotteorthodontists.com

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hot

There’s no lack of professional sports teams and sporting attractions in Charlotte to keep fans of all ages entertained year-round. Settle in and cheer on the home teams.

Charlotte Bobcats

See NBA action on the courts at Time Warner Cable Arena, and maybe get a glimpse of team owner Michael Jordan.

Expect excitement in 2014 as the Bobcats changes its team name back to the Charlotte franchise’s original – Charlotte Hornets. nba.com/bobcats

TICKETS

C ARO LINA PANT Cheer on the Pant hers at a football game at Bank of America Stadium.

panthers.com NO T VA LI D IF DE

TACH ED

HERS

Charlotte Knights

Visit the practice fie ld with the kids for Fu el Up to Play 60 to try a variety of football skills and drills.

Kids can run the bases each Sunday at Charlotte Knights home games in Fort Mill, and visit the Rookie Play Zone. Make plans to catch a game at the new stadium in uptown Charlotte in 2014. charlotteknights.com

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For more baseball, check out the Kannapolis Intimidators in Kannapolis and Gastonia Grizzlies in Gastonia.

Charlotte Checkers

See action on the ice at Time Warner Cable Arena, October through May. Kids get perks for joining the Charlotte Checkers Kids Club. gocheckers.com

Rendering of new BB&T Ballpark. Beginning in 2014, the Charlotte Knights will play at the new uptown stadium.

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chas ple

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Queen’s Cup Steeplechase

Thoroughbreds and Jack Russell Terriers race for the prize at this event held each April at Brooklandwood in Union County.

Hat contests and pony rides add to the fun. queenscup.org

Wells Fargo Golf Championship

PGA golfers compete for the Wells Fargo Championship title at Quail Hollow Country Club each spring. Watch tour pros warm up and practice after rounds are completed. wellsfargochampionship.com

Qu

ee

n’s

NA SC AR Two of NASCAR ’s biggest events ar e held at the Charlotte Motor Speedway in Co ncord.

Catch the action at the Coca-Cola 600 each May and the Bank of America 500 in October .

charlottemotorspee dway.com NO T VA LI D IF DE

TACH ED

NA SC AR VI P 3554

Charlotte Hounds

Plan a family outing to see a Hounds’ lacrosse game at Memorial Stadium near Central Piedmont Community College, just minutes from uptown. charlottehounds.com

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h t r o N

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Statesville

LINCOLN

Kannapolis

Lincolnton

Concord

red by

sponso

CABARRUS GASTON Gastonia

IREDELL

MECKLENBURG

Statesville

LINCOLN

Kannapolis

Lincolnton

Concord

CABARRUS

Charlotte

GASTON Gastonia

MECKLENBURG Charlotte

UNION

YORK

Monroe Rock Hill

A 20 to 30-minute drive commute from Charlotte north up Interstate 77 leads to the heart of Lake Norman. Lake Norman’s waters flow across county lines into Mecklenburg, Iredell and Lincoln counties.

Though collectively referred to as Lake Norman, each town in the area has its own distinct personality.

S D O O H R NEIGHBO Huntersville Population: 46,781 MSP: $230K

Cornelius Population: 24,866 MSP: $221K

Davidson Population: 10,944 MSP: $260K

Mooresville Population: 32,711 MSP $214K

Cornelius

MSP=Median Sales Price Sources: 2010 Census data; Trulia.com

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Huntersville

Beautiful green expanses of land dotted with horses and livestock are mixed with newly built subdivisions. North Mecklenburg Park hosts many athletic league games and Huntersville Family Fitness and Aquatic Center is a hotspot for family activities, swimming lessons and a kids’ triathlon series. Downtown is also home to Discovery Place KIDS. Huntersville Elementary anchors the small downtown area, and due to large population growth in the area, new public elementary, middle and high schools have been built, as well as new private schools. Shop, eat and live at Birkdale Village, a mixed-use community with luxury apartments and single-family homes, complete with restaurants, retail and a movie theater.

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Many locals split Cornelius in half by the bridge that crosses I-77. To the west of I-77 is the Peninsula Club that boasts a championship golf course, a pool and club, as well as large

homes and lakefront properties. To the east, find more modest homes and the charm of old town Cornelius, as well as the Cornelius Public Library and Cornelius Elementary. There are many newly built subdivisions that include single-family homes and townhomes, neighborhood pools and access to the lake.

High-end boutique shopping, specialty shops, restaurants and entertainment are plentiful in the area.

Davidson

The small town is built around Davidson College, and is designed to encourage residents to be active and get to know one another face to face. There are more than 19 parks in Davidson. Look for year-round activity on The Green including a seasonal Farmers Market and an outdoor concert series.

Charming old homes make up most of the area, with a mix of new construction.

Stroll Main Street and you’ll find local coffee shops, restaurants and galleries.

SPONSOR

From its beginning, Winston-Salem State University has had a long and respected history in advancing healthcare and clinical research through affiliations and collaborations with other institutions. In 1955, affiliation agreements for nursing programs included hospitals in New York, Tennessee, Georgia and Maryland.

Today, WSSU is leading advancements in health sciences and biomedical research through collaborations with other institutions including Wake Forest University, Duke University and Appalachian State University and through partnerships in the Biotechnology Alliance and the Piedmont Alliance for Cancer Research and Education.

In addition, the WSSU Biomedical Research Infrastructure Center (BRIC), located in the Piedmont Triad Research Park, conducts research and clinical studies in association with Wake Forest University School of Medicine and other area universities â&#x20AC;&#x201C; furthering the legacy of advancing medicine through collaborative education.

This is WSSU now.

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MMUNITY // North

sponsored by

Mooresville

Approximately 30 miles north of Charlotte is Mooresville. Home to more than 60 motorsports racing teams, this is the hub for NASCAR and autosports history. Take a trip to Memory Lane Museum to see 150 exhibits dedicated to the history of the automobile.

Neighborhoods in the downtown area vary from small bungalows that were once mill houses to brick ranch-style homes. Located in Iredell County, the suburbs of Mooresville are a mix of brick ranches built between the 1950s and 70s on large lots, and newly built communities, while large tracts of farm land still exist on the outskirts of town. There are major retail shopping centers with big-box stores on the edge of I-77.

Mooresville Graded School District is one of the smallest in North Carolina and is known nationally for its digital conversion where every child in grades 4-12 receives a MacBook for use at home and school.

Points of Interest outdoor play!

Jetton Park

Lazy 5 Ranch

Patterson Farm

19000 Jetton Road, Cornelius 704-896-9808 parkandrec.com This scenic county park is ideal for a family afternoon outdoors. The 1.5-mile paved trail loops around the park and is shaded in many parts with views of Lake Norman. The playground is also shaded and the restrooms are usually quite clean. Decks have grills and there are plenty of picnic tables, perfect for a picnic lunch or a family celebration. There is also a small beach, but no swimming is allowed. From March to October there is a $3 car entrance fee.

15100 Mooresville Road, Mooresville 704-663-5100 lazy5ranch.com The 3.5-mile safari drive (or horse-drawn wagon ride) through this wild animal park gets you a car window away from more than 750 of the world's most amazing animals including zebras, giraffe, rhino, emus, kangaroos and Watusi cattle. Get out of the car to visit camels, llamas and goats.

Even the smallest visitors enjoy feeding the animals from buckets. Numerous covered picnic tables, a concession stand with ice cream and a large playground round out this one-of-a-kind outing.

3060 Millbridge Road, China Grove 704-857-5242 pattersonfarminc.com Pick your own strawberries in the spring and pumpkins in the fall. In between, stop by the Patterson Farm market in Mount Ulla for a larger variety of fresh-picked produce such as tomatoes, peppers, corn, squash and muscadines. Special events are designed with kids in mind, such as the Strawberry Puppet Show that includes feeding farm animals and a wagon ride. Be sure to check the event location â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it may be at the market, not the farm.

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North // C

MMUNITY sponsored by

must-do family fun!

P

rte sy o hoto cou

f Discove

ry Place

Discovery Place KIDS

Latta Plantation

EnergyExplorium

105 Gilead Road, Huntersville 704-372-6261 huntersville.discoveryplacekids.org The folks behind Discovery Place Kids know that imaginative, hands-on play is the best way for children to learn about the world. Explore themed environments, from I CAN Grow designed for toddlers to a whole "town" where children can role play different careers, as well as areas for underwater exploration, gardening, art and more. Perfect to make a day of it with kids under 10, but be sure to pack a lunch because there is no on-site restaurant.

5225 Sample Road, Huntersville 704-875-2312 lattaplantation.org At the heart of Latta Plantation Nature Preserve is the 1800s cotton plantation.

Learn about the homestead, which looks much like it did when the Latta family lived here 200 years ago, through living history tours and events. Within walking distance is the Carolina Raptor Center where you can get up close to the birds of prey, and Latta Equestrian Center with trail and pony rides.

With the Nature Center, 16 miles of trails and access to Mountain Island Lake, you can easily spend a day here.

13339 Hagers Ferry Road, Huntersville 800-777-0003 duke-energy.com/visitor-centers/ energyexplorium.asp Located at McGuire Nuclear Station on the south end of Lake Norman, the free EnergyExplorium invites visitors to discover how electricity is made. Take a virtual tour of the nuclear power plant, play games to learn about electricity, weather and saving energy, and test your knowledge through the Energy Master Challenge. Watch a short film on how Lake Norman – a man-made lake – was built. Afterward, take advantage of the picnic area and trail around the lake.

KIDS

kid-friendly dining Lupie’s Café

Carolina Cones

Toast Café

101 S. Old Statesville Road, Huntersville 704-948-3959 There is no kids menu at this no-frills cafe, but the dishes found on the regular menu are the homey comfort foods that little ones love anyway, such as meatloaf, chili, burgers and sandwiches. The best part about this eatery is the affordable prices and hearty servings. Hot dogs are $2.95 and sides start at $1.10. Located just across the street from Discovery Place KIDS, it’s a great place to have a bite or special banana pudding treat after a day at the museum.

20801 N. Main St., Cornelius 704-892-8190 This small family-owned shop serves almost 50 flavors of ice cream and frozen yogurt from spring until fall, including delicious combinations such as peanut butter pretzel, moon pie and chocolate amaretto. A trip to this longtime hometown favorite means generous portions, plenty of outdoor seating, a playground and the chance to admire the model train that runs around the ceiling.

101 N Main St., Davidson 704-655-2778 toastcafeonline.com/davidson This small spot in the heart of Davidson is for families who see breakfast as something to savor rather than rush through. Though Toast Café also serves lunch, and dinner Wednesday through Sunday, many folks find breakfast and brunch the most tempting with fluffy omelets, stuffed French toast and even gluten-free pancakes. Dinner features a children's menu and a threecourse prix-fix menu.

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Great ideas live here.

“We like the family feeling in University City and our kids love their schools.

It’s a great place to live and work.

Everything we need is here – shopping, dining, excellent nearby healthcare and fun family activities. We have easy access to the airport and to the best parts of Charlotte. Plus, we can see green just about everywhere we look!”

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These days, people can’t stop talking about healthcare.

We can’t stop listening.

It’s simple, you know people better when you spend time together.

That’s why our nurses go beyond today’s standards and spend more time with you. More time starting conversations about your healthcare. More time listening to your questions and concerns. That way you’re receiving the most attention and best treatment possible.

It’s that simple.

Visit us at NovantHealth.org to learn more

All Around Town Charlotte can be a confusing transportation web for natives and newcomers alike. Avoid entanglement by reading these fast facts to be sure your family is headed in the right direction.

BY KATY LEGRAND

Charlotte Transportation Images courtesy of Charlotte Area Transist System.

Riding the Rails The LYNX Blue Line is a 9.6 mile long light rail that runs from I-485 at South Boulevard to Seventh Street uptown. Park at one of the seven park and ride stations, jump on the LYNX and head north for a fun ride with the kids to the last stop ... ImaginOn. Children 5 and under ride free.

In the Loop I-485 inner and outer loops circle the Charlotte area, extending to Matthews, Concord, Pineville and Huntersville. Direction signs can be misleading, so think of it as a clock, with Charlotte’s center city in the middle. If you are traveling clockwise, then you are on the outer loop, and counter-clockwise is the inner loop. Inner or outer, expect rush hour traffic on the loop as commuters head home.

Ding Ding Goes the Trolley If you’re looking for a streetcar on the tracks traveling up Elizabeth Avenue, you’ll have to wait until the hotly-debated project gets the green light. Until then, head to Center City and hop on the Gold Rush, a trolley replica, for a free ride up Tryon Street weekdays 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Stop at Discovery Place for an afternoon excursion with the kids.

B All aboard! Amtrak is family-friendly travel without the driving.

The Piedmont goes to Raleigh; the Carolinian continues through D.C. to N.Y. amtrak.com

Wheels up!

Charlotte Douglas International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, with more than 140 nonstop destinations.

B-cycle Charlotte is the largest urban bike sharing program in the Southeast, with 200 bikes at 20 stations.

Perfect for a bikefriendly city! charlotte. bcycle.com

Hitch a ride in a pedicab, and cruise around uptown, WednesdaysSaturdays after 7 p.m. Or try a segway tour with teens, 14 and older. charlottenctours.com

Queenly Confusion While driving around in the Myers Park area, you may encounter three Queens — Queens Road East, Queens Road West and Queens Road. But if you stay on them long enough they become another street entirely. Confused yet? You are not alone. We recommend a GPS to help you navigate the Queen City.

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THE SHORTEST DISTANCE TO FAMILY FUN IS A BLUE LINE. The LYNX Blue Line is part of one of the safest transit systems in the country. Parking is free. Kids five and younger ride free. And you never have to deal with traffic congestion.

Talk about fun for the whole family.

ridetransit.org

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h t u o S

S CABARRUS

GASTON

red by

sponso

Gastonia

MECKLENBURG Charlotte

IREDELL

YORK

UNION

Statesville

LINCOLN

Kannapolis

Lincolnton

Concord

CABARRUS GASTON Gastonia

MECKLENBURG Charlotte

Rock Hill

S D O O H R NEIGHBO SouthPark

Indian Trail

Population: 11,974

Population: 33,521 MSP: $185K

Ballantyne Waxhaw

Population: 20,083 AHV: $378K

Population: 9,859 MSP: $310K

Matthews Fort Mill

Population: 27,198 MSP: $210K

Population:10,802 MSP: $188K

Mint Hill Rock Hill

Population: 22,722 MSP: $238K

Population: 66,520 MSP: $123K

Pineville Lake Wylie Tega Cay

Population: 7,479 MSP: $159K

Population: 8,231 MSP: $283K AHV=Average Home Value MSP=Median Sales Price Sources: 2010 Census data; Trulia.com; charmeck.org Quality of Life study

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UNION

YORK

Monroe Rock Hill

Some of Charlotte’s original neighborhoods are just south of uptown, but continue farther into South Charlotte and you’ll be treading on former farmlands and pastures, once considered “far away” from the city. There is a mixture of old and new here and plenty of education options, with at least 40 CharlotteMecklenburg Schools, several Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools and three of the largest established private schools – Charlotte Country Day, Charlotte Latin and Providence Day schools – plus many more religious and independent schools. Travel farther down the road and you’ll reach South Carolina where lower tax rates, York County School districts and waterfront homes on Lake Wylie entice families to the other side of the border.

Southpark

Centrally located just six miles to uptown, this area is anchored by the upscale shopping mecca SouthPark Mall, one of the largest in the Carolinas, with Symphony Park next door. Neighborhoods are characterized by homes built in the 1970s and ‘80s with mature trees, large lots and sidewalks, surrounded by plenty of retail, dining and business offices. Due to the area proximity to top private and public schools, and an easy commute, it is popular with families. Find lots of kids annually at the Fairview Road Ben & Jerry’s for free cone day. Around the corner, the Morrison Library’s kid section hosts preschool story times and the enormous 24-hour Harris Teeter (known as the Taj-Ma-Teeter by locals) has everything families need. Park Road Park, off Fairview Road is 72-acres with a small lake, basketball courts, sports fields and a playground featuring a yellow caterpillar crawl.

Ballantyne

One of the largest new developments in South Charlotte was once farmland. Now marked by four elegant stone arches at its entrance, Ballantyne houses plenty of newly built homes, apartments and condominiums from mid- to high-range.

Shop, eat or catch a movie at Stonecrest Shopping Center and stop by Blakeney in the summer for live music near the playground. The Sports Connection draws families for a variety of programs year round. Education opportunities abound with Hawk Ridge Elementary, one of eight K-5 public schools and independent British American School for grades K-8. Nestled in the midst of Ballantyne is Hall Family Farms with hayrides, strawberry picking and pumpkin patch activities in the fall.

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MMUNITY // South

sponsored by

Matthews

Bordering Charlotte on the southeast, this once small farming community named Stumptown for the stumps left behind after clearing the land, was incorporated in 1879 and is now one of Charlottes’ largest suburbs with almost 28,000 residents. See a musical at Matthews Playhouse, located in the Matthews Community Center, a children’s theater with seasonal performances; or catch a free concert at Stumptown Park, home to the annual Summer Concert and Movie Series, and Matthews Alive! one of the Southeast’s largest Labor Dayweekend festivals.

Mint Hill

The Town of Mint Hill, home to more than 22,000 residents, has both city and county parks including Wilgrove Park, the first municipal park dating back to 1974. Queens Grant Community School is a popular option for families seeking charter schools; and Independence High School, a football powerhouse, is known for winning 109 straight games. Visit Carl J. McEwen Historical Village for a peek at local history and hosts the local farmers market.

Pineville

Small town charm, quaint neighborhoods and an historic downtown plus easy access to I-485 and some of the best medical facilities in the Southeast, make this city in the southernmost tip of Mecklenburg County worth a look. Widely known for Carolina Place Mall, Pineville, population 7,500, has not experienced the explosive growth of neighboring cities. The recently renovated Jack Hughes Memorial Park features multiple sports fields, batting cages, a playground and walking trails. And, the James K. Polk Museum, a historical site exploring the history of our 11th president, is worth a visit.

Indian Trail

Just across the line in Union County is the town of Indian Trail and Stallings community. Access to I-485 and Highway 74 has influenced the tremendous development in the past decade with population growth booming, from under 2,000 to 33,518 as reported by the 2010 Census. New developments include a range of home styles and prices, but many offer community pools and parks. Home to many horse farms

and riding stables, the surburburan communities allow residents with a passion for horses to have easy access to Charlotte’s amenities and an equestrian community.

Colonel Francis Beatty Park provides kayak, fishing and canoeing opportunities, and the Town of Indian Trail hosts family friendly events throughout the year at Crossing Paths Park.

Waxhaw

One of the oldest towns in Union County, Waxhaw’s Main Street is filled with locally owned stores and restaurants. Children play at David G. Barnes Children’s Park nearby the town’s center, and skateboard enthisasts ride at the sk8 Park, located behind Barnes Park. Equestrian centers, greenway trails, and subdivisions that offer enough land to create mini-farms attract horse riders. Andrew Jackson State Park and Cane Creek Park offer ample outdoor opportunities. Downtown community festivals and performances at Storefront Theatre bring residents together in this close-knit community.

SouthCarolina Carolina Crossing the Border South Crossing the Border Less than a half hour away from uptown, this area just over the state line draws many families due to the low taxes and relaxed living.

Fort Mill

A suburb of Rock Hill and Charlotte, Fort Mill is home to almost 11,000 residents and straddles York and Lancaster counties. There are plenty of kid-friendly playgrounds in local parks and Steele Street Park features a small water park. Hike the trails around Anne Springs Close Greenway and enjoy the scenic surroundings, or catch a game at Knights

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Stadium before the team moves uptown.

Rock Hill

Rock Hill encompasses small town charm with no lack of big city luxuries just 22 minutes from Charlotte. Discover and learn at the Museum of York County and Main Street Children’s Museum, and sit back to view the stars at the Settlemyre Plentarium. Rock Hill is home to one of the top South Carolina school districts, York County District Three, and Winthrop

University’s 7,000 co-ed students. Take the family to Cherry Park, a National Softball Association Hall of Fame park for a game, and enjoy scenic trails and a large playground, or catch a concert at the Old Town Amphitheater.

Lake Wylie

The waterfront community of Tega Cay attracts water lovers with plenty of parks, from lakeside Windjammer Park to Central Bark, a dog park for four-legged family members.

Hall Family Farm

CHECK THESE OUT! CHECK THESE OUT!

Points of Interest

CHECK THESE OUT

South // C

MMUNITY sponsored by

outdoor play!

Squirrel Lake Park

McDowell Nature Center

Hall Family Farm

1631 Pleasant Plains Road, Matthews 704-841-4458 matthewsfun.org The recently renovated Squirrel Lake Park features one of the area’s premier disc golf courses, with 12 holes winding through shaded woods. Kids enjoy the large playground and lake, where people regularly fish from its wooden observation dock.

Eat lunch at one of several covered picnic tables or take a walk on the Four Mile Creek Greenway, which has an entry into Squirrel Lake Park and includes more than two miles of paved trails lined with informational plaques about local flora.

15222 York Road 704-588-5224 parkandrec.com The McDowell Nature Center is the hub of educational and fun programs built around the 1,100-acre McDowell Nature Preserve in southwest Mecklenburg County. The center’s regular exhibits include live animals and butterfly gardens. Playground and picnic tables are outside the center, and families can observe nature in action on one of McDowell’s numerous hiking trails. The center regularly offers programs for all ages of children, including geocaching and night sky observation.

10713 Providence Road West 704-562-4021 hallfamilyfarm.com Owned by the Hall family for 70 years, Hall Family Farm has become a local destination for pick-your-own strawberries. The farm usually opens around mid-April for the season, and the low-growing berries are just the right height for little hands to pick. The farm has added funnel cakes to its snack bar this year, and kids also can enjoy musical hayrides and other activities. In the fall, the farm is open for hayrides, pumpkin picking and a 5-acre corn maze. Admission is free.

CHECK THESE OUT!

must-do family fun!

Main Street Children’s Museum 133 E. Main St. Rock Hill, S.C. 803- 327-6400 chmuseums.org/childrens Geared for children ages birth through 6 years old, a visit to the Main Street Children’s Museum encourages kids to use their imaginations and creativity. The museum is based on the work of illustrator Vernon Grant, who lived in Rock Hill, and includes a pumpkin house, magic ship and tree house.

Interactive exhibits, such as a kitchen, dressup room and train, encourage kids to play.

Plaza Fiesta Playground

Inner Peaks Climbing Center

Crossroads Mall 3700 Avenue of the Carolinas, Fort Mill plazafiestacarolinas.com Plaza Fiesta Playground is a six-story play area with slides, soft structures and obstacle courses, all in a big roped-off area totaling 5,000 square feet. It costs $5 for three hours during the week, or 1 hour and 45 minutes on the weekend. The play area is in the food court of Crossroads Mall. There is also an arcade next door, so be prepared with quarters.

9535 Monroe Road #170 704-844-6677 innerpeaks.com Inner Peaks indoor and outdoor rock climbing center offers 13,000 square feet of climbing terrain with challenges for all ages and skill levels. The center offers memberships and day passes, as well as climbing training for the under-12 set and an adult. Youth ages 7-17 can join a climbing “team” that competes in local and regional climbing competitions. Beginning climbers can hone their skills at week-long summer camps.

CharlotteParent.com Courtesy of Inner Peaks Climbing Center

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C

MMUNITY // South

sponsored by

kid-friendly dining Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar

Brixx Wood Fired Pizza

Big View Diner

4310 Sharon Road 704-365-1922 thecowfish.com The whimsical food and atmosphere in this Southpark restaurant has made it a favorite for people of all ages. Menu items range from giant hamburgers, including one called the “Hunka Hunka Burning Love,” to sushi to “Burgushi,” a fusion of a hamburger and sushi. The interactive sushi bar is outfitted with inlaid screens, where customers can place their orders and then track their progress on a giant screen behind the bar.

Scaled-down portions of kids’ favorites are available including a peanut butter and jelly roll and macaroni-and-cheese.

7814 Fairview Road 704-295-0707 brixxpizza.com The fountain and sizable patio at Brixx’s Southpark location has become a regular hangout for families, whether it’s Saturday afternoon or weekdays after school. The outdoor courtyard has plenty of room for strollers and toddlers on the move. The $4.95 kids’ menu features popular items such as cheese pizza and penne pasta, and the selection of specialty pizzas and tap beers are appealing for parents. Stroll to the other side of the shopping center and get a scoop of ice cream at Ben & Jerry’s.

16637 Lancaster Highway 704-544-0313 xeniahospitality.com/big-view A traditional 1950s diner with a modern edge, Big View Diner is known for its breakfast and brunch menus and extensive offering of baked goods that greet patrons as they walk in the door. The kids menu includes healthy choices such as gluten-free hotdogs and whole-wheat pasta with vegetables, and the casual atmosphere is welcoming for families and children. Big View Diner hosts occasional family nights with live entertainment and movies for kids in its party room while parents enjoy drinks and dinner specials in the dining room.

scholars discover multiple solutions to life’s questions. ...where

Creating Scholars, Nurturing Spirituality & Embracing Diversity in Charlotte’s Center City.

Visit our website or tour our beautiful campus today!

www.TEScharlotte.org | 704.358.8101

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d pe

t iatric herapy

Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy Speech Therapy

Crossway Academy is a combined Clinic/School Working together to bridge the gaps on the journey to success! www.crosswaytherapy.com

704.847.3911

www.crosswayacademy.com

704.847.2033 fax

9129 Monroe Rd., Suite 100-105, Charlotte NC 28270

Great Education Begins Here.

Charlotte Country Day School Challenging students to achieve their very best.

Interested in academic excellence for YOUR children?

IT BEGINS HERE : charlottecountryday.org/cp CharlotteParent.com

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dancers

2013

at Award-winning dance instruction

for dancers from 2 years to adult

Summer programs for ages 2 1/2 - Teen

Competitive and Recreational Levels Serving South Charlotte and Fort Mill

REA VILLAGE

Baxter Town Center

11532 Providence Road Suite O Charlotte

967 Market Street Suite 100 Fort Mill

704-889-TOES (8637)

803-396-JAZZ (5299)

www.millerstreetdanceacademy.com MEMBER DANCE MASTER OF AMERICA

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Photography by www.ExultingImages.com

Lyrical Tap Ballet Pointe Acrobatics Hip-Hop Jazz We personalize learning so each child can achieve more.

Empowering learners from age 2 through high school to achieve outstanding progress.

British American School of Charlotte Empowering Individual Achievement

704.341.3236 e.causier@wclschools.org www.britishschoolofcharlotte.org

BY MICHELE HUGGINS

Explore the Arts ... With Kids!

North Carolina Dance Theatre Nutcraker photo courtesy of Jeff Cravotta. Mint Museum Uptown photo at dawn courtesy of Jeff Clare.

F

rom onstage performing arts to hands-on painting, sculpting and creating, the art scene is alive in Charlotte with children in mind.

ARTventure scavenger hunts, Family Fun Days and hands-on activities at the Lewis Family Gallery, entice families to explore the Mint Museum Uptown at the Levine Center for the Arts. More special exhibitions and hands-on classes can be found at the Mint Museum Randolph.

The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art hosts Family Days with reduced admission that include special art activities, scavenger hunts, and familyfocused museum tours.

The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture hosts Family First events on the first Saturday of each month that includes films for children, plus storytelling and hands-on art.

North Carolina Dance Theatre, led by award-winning choreographer Pierre Bonnefoux, has seasonal shows for children, including the anticipated “Nutcracker” held at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center. The North Carolina Dance Theatre School of Dance hosts classes, camps and workshops for interested dancers beginning at age 3.

Charlotte Youth Ballet holds its auditions and performances at the Dale Halton Theater on the campus of Central Piedmont Community College, and at Knight Theater at the Levine Campus for Cultural Arts.

Introduce children to theater via Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. The season runs each year from August to May. Those with a flair for dramatics can join in drama camp in the summer.

The Charlotte Symphony Lollipops series is specially designed for children with kid-friendly themes, such as “The Wizard of Oz” that may include puppetry by Grey Seal Puppets.

Carolina Voices is the city’s choral arts group. It is known for its “Singing Christmas Tree” and “Singing Christmas Tree KIDS” performances each holiday season.

The Charlotte Children’s Choir includes more than 200 children ages 8-18, and is comprised of six main choirs beginning with a preparatory choir and progressing to the senior choirs. The Choir School at St. Peter’s hosts auditions for children as young as 7 with no prior training, and performs for the community throughout the year.

Explore Arts in Charlotte With Kids Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte: actorstheatrecharlotte.org Bechtler Museum of Modern Art: bechtler.org Blumenthal Performing Arts Center: blumenthalarts.org Carolina Calouche and Co.: carolinacalouche.org Carolina Voices: carolinavoices.org Charlotte Children’s Choir: charlottechildrenschoir.org Charlotte Symphony: charlottesymphony.org Charlotte Youth Ballet: charlotteyouthballet.org Children’s Theatre of Charlotte: ctcharlotte.org Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture: ganttcenter.org Mint Museum: mintmuseum.org N.C. Dance Theatre: ncdance.org Opera Carolina: operacarolina.org Theatre Charlotte: theatrecharlotte.org The Choir School at St. Peter’s: web.st-peters.org/choirschool/ CharlotteParent.com

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Statesville

Kannapolis

Lincolnton

Concord

CABARRUS GASTON Gastonia

MECKLENBURG

IREDELL Statesville

LINCOLN

Kannapolis

Lincolnton

Charlotte

Concord

CABARRUS GASTON Gastonia

MECKLENBURG Charlotte

UNION

YORK

Monroe Rock Hill

From shopping at one of North Carolina’s largest malls, Concord Mills, to cheering on your favorite driver at the Charlotte Motor Speedway, venues attract crowds that you would expect from a big city, but the rural areas and farms still give this area a down-home feel.

S D O O H R NEIGHBO University City Population: 102,313 AHV: $99K

Harrisburg Population: 11,526 MSP: $200K

Concord Population: 79,067 MSP: $174K

Kannapolis Population: 42,612 MSP: $120K AHV=Average Home Value MSP=Median Sales Price Sources: 2010 Census data; Trulia.com; charmeck.org Quality of Life study

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University City

Northeast of uptown is University City, home to the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and UNCC 49ers, who launch a new football team in fall 2013. The area boasts the state’s only Ikea, a kid-friendly favorite with play areas throughout the store. Highland Creek, one of North Carolina’s largest neighborhoods, is a resort-style neighborhood that accommodates many growing families with large, new brick homes. It includes a championship golf course and has five community swimming pools, and a plethora of parks, playgrounds and trails. Catch a national act at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre. Annual festivals in the area attract local families, including Green Goats and Gardens in the spring, a green lifestyle event, and the International Festival at UNCC in September, featuring the cultures of more than 50 countries.

Town Center is a popular hub in the heart of town. It includes various shops and venues including the Canon Memorial YMCA. Local families come together for the annual July 4th Celebration and outdoor summer movies at Harrisburg Park.

Concord/ Kannapolis

The town of Harrisburg has rural roots established in the 1920s that are still reflected today.

Expect a 30-minute commute to the center of Charlotte. The Harrisburg

Thirty-five miles northeast of Charlotte is Cabarrus County, home to the small towns of Concord and Kannapolis. There are more than 35 active neighborhood organizations* in Concord including traditional older sections of the city and newly developed subdivisions.

The Speedpark at Concord Mills puts junior racers behind the wheel, while Charlotte Motor Speedway is home to the real thing — some of NASCAR's best events. The N.C. Research Campus and Village Park anchor downtown Kannapolis. Surrounding neighborhoods are a mix of revitalized mill houses, older subdivisions and rural areas with new subdivisions. Catch minor league baseball team, the Kannapolis Intimidators, playing at the CMCNortheast Stadium.

*Source: concordnc.gov

Photos courtesy of UNC Charlotte and Erin Stubbs Photography

Harrisburg

OUT

OUT

Kannapolis Village Park Splash Pad

CHECK THESE OUT! CHECK THESE OUT!

Points of Interest

CHECK THESE OUT

East // C

MMUNITY

outdoor play!

Reedy Creek Nature Center and Park 2900 Rocky River Road 704-432-6459 parkandrec.com Reedy Creek is actually part park – with a playground, dog park, picnic areas and various playing fields and courts including an 18-hole disc golf course – and part nature preserve – with a nature center, fishing ponds and 10 miles of trails. Hikes offer views of forests, fields, lakes and streams, making a great opportunity for families to get to know nature. The nature center helps with this too, frequently scheduling events – for example, meetand-greets with snakes – to introduce little ones to the world around them.

Kannapolis Village Park 700 W. C St., Kannapolis 704-920-4343 cityofkannapolis.com Village Park has many elements of fun. The Rotary Express Train is a handcrafted replica of a CP Huntington, first used in the 1860s.

Five-minute train rides are $1. Nearby is the Splash Pad where kids up to age 12 can enjoy getting splashed, sprayed and drenched for $1. The water park is divided into two age-appropriate areas – over and under 5 – so little visitors won’t get knocked over by active, bigger children.

Enjoy free concerts and kids movies in the amphitheater each summer. The Gem Theatre around the corner, offers movie matinees for $3.

CHECK THESE OUT!

Dave’s Paddleboats at University Place W. T. Harris Boulevard and N. Tryon streets 704-598-0281 davespaddleboats.sitesvr.com Dave’s Paddleboats is open all year, though hours change seasonally, and is one of the few places in the area for paddleboating.

Take a boat out for a 30-minute ride ($10) and use your foot power to glide across the lake that’s a part of the Shoppes at University Place. Each boat holds two adults and two small children; life jackets are provided. The shopping center has a variety of shops and restaurants for after your water adventure.

must-do family fun!

Concord Mills

Kannapolis Intimidators

Reed Gold Mine

8111 Concord Mills Blvd., Concord 704-979-3000 simon.com/mall/concord-mills Often cited as the state's top tourist attraction, this outlet mall offers more than 200 stores, a movie theater and go karts. Among the stores are several for children, such as Carters and Osh Kosh B'Gosh. Don’t bypass The Lego Store, where you can try out a new play set or replace the one missing piece from your set at home. Take a shopping break at the free play area. The highlight of a trip for many tikes is the carousel at the food court. Coming soon is a SeaLife aquarium, set to open in May 2014.

2888 Moose Road, Kannapolis 704-932-3267 intimidatorsbaseball.com Part of the South Atlantic League and the Class A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox, the Intimidators play about 70 home games during their April-September season, so it's easy to catch a game. Games are generally in the evenings, and a couple of games a month feature fireworks. For little ones who get restless, there's Pit Stop Playground down the first base line. This inexpensive outing is a fun way to introduce kids to baseball. Ticket prices start at $5 for children and $6 for adults.

9621 Reed Mine Road, Midland 704-721-4653 nchistoricsites.org/reed Reed Gold Mine is where gold was first discovered in the U.S. in 1799. In fact, North Carolina was the top gold-producing state until the California Gold Rush started in 1848.

Now visitors can take a free, guided tour of the tunnels and an ore-crushing stamp mill and even pan for gold themselves ($2 charge). The visitor center displays mining equipment and shows a film about that first gold discovery by John Reed. Also at the historic site are plenty of picnic tables and trails to explore.

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MMUNITY // East

kid-friendly dining!

Amalfi’s Pasta and Pizza

Afton Tavern

Harrisburg Family House

8542 University City Blvd., Charlotte 704-547-8651 amalfi-charlotte.com Named for the hometown of the owners, Amalfi’s serves large portions of traditional Italian favorites in a casual atmosphere.

Its extensive menu features more than 20 different pasta dishes plus chicken, veal, hot subs and pizzas, from gourmet to build your own. Off the children’s menu, kids can get one pizza slice at a time for a just-theright-size meal.

355 John Galt Way, Concord 704-262-7866 aftontavern.com Dinner is the time to visit the casual Afton Tavern. Its large dinner menu features typical tavern fare, with build-your-own burgers, salads, steaks and fish and chips.

The kids menu offers favorites such as chicken tenders and mac-and-cheese with a large variety of healthy sides such as fresh fruit, carrots and celery, and sweet potato fries. Better yet, on Mondays, kids eat free.

5429 N. Carolina 49, Harrisburg 704-455-3525 harrisburgfamilyhouse.com Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, fast service, large portions and affordable prices, this local favorite is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner (except for Sunday dinner), with daily specials such as pot roast and chicken and dumplings.

The extensive menu features Italian and Greek favorites along with seafood, steaks, sandwiches and burgers, plus kids’ favorites such as spaghetti, and chicken fingers with fries

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5 TOP

Festival in the Park Each September since 1964, locals have flocked to Festival in the Park at Freedom Park for music, art and family-friendly fun. The award-winning three-day festival hosts local and regional artists, as well as a main stage with live music, a family fun zone, youth variety stage, magicians and more. festivalinthepark.org.

Local Family Festivals

Greek Festival Go for the homemade pastries and Greek cuisine, stay for the entertainment, kids’ rides, shopping and general festive spirit. Many locals make it an annual tradition to grab take-out for lunch. “Greek Fest” is held each September at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Dilworth. yiasoufestival.org.

More than a superior education.

Offering Junior Kindergarten – 8th grade Palisades Episcopal School is a school honoring Christ and committed to providing a classical education challenging the mind, body and spirit.

Please inquire about the Merit Award Program for students in 5th – 8th grades.

704-583-1825

www.pescharlotte.org

13120 Grand Palisades Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28278 32

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Matthews Alive Each Labor Day weekend, Matthews Alive boasts some of the best Midway rides, festival food, crafts, fun and games for children of all ages. Local, regional and national recording artists perform throughout the weekend, and there’s a Kids Stage with entertainment just for the young set. matthewsalive.org.

Come-See-Me Festival

Carolina Renaissance Festival

Celebrate spring in Rock Hill at the Come-See Me Festival each April. The 10-day festival spans venues across the city. From the Everything Trucks and Mayor’s Frog Jump events to a barbecue cook-off, fireworks extravaganza, and skydiving exhibition, it’s worth a visit. comeseeme.org.

Catapult back to medieval times each November at this 16th-century European-style art and entertainment festival set in a 20-acre theme park filled with cottages and castles. There are jousts, live entertainment, rides, arts and crafts, and turkey legs for all. royalfaires.com/carolina.

CONCERNED ABOUT YOUR CHILD’S SPEECH?

Visit www.childspeechlanguage.com

n e with u t n i n o Educ atie ed s o f y our child the n

Your child will receive the utmost care, expertise and sensitivity from the speechlanguage pathologists at Child Language and Developmental Speech, PLLC. Through one-on-one intervention plans, we work to: understand your child’s unique speech and language needs determine if your child has a speech or language delay offer you fun activities to do with your child to strengthen speech and language skills

For more information, call 704.845.0561 or visit www.childspeechlanguage.com “Not only did my son’s speech therapist help him with his speech difficulties, she was always knowledgeable, friendly, and most importantly, patient with us.”

— C. Sanders, homemaker, South Charlotte

Why Choose South Charlotte Baptist Academy?

Distinctively Christian Education Low student-teacher ratios – Average 10 to 1 Extended Hours – 7:30am-6:00pm Kindergarten* – Grade 12 Preschool K-3** & K4* – Half and Full Day Programs Located near Carolina Place Mall *Age 4 or 5 by 10/31. **Age 3 by 12/31.

704-544-READ (7323)

www.SCBAcademy.org CharlotteParent.com

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t s e W

W LINCOLN

Kannapolis

Lincolnton

CABARRUS GASTON Gastonia

MECKLENBURG Charlotte IREDELL Statesville

LINCOLN

Kannapolis

Lincolnton

Concord

CABARRUS GASTON

York

Gastonia

YORK

MECKLENBURG Charlotte

UNION

YORK

Monroe Rock Hill

Follow the setting sun to the water’s edge at Mountain Island Lake toward Gaston and Lincoln counties, both rich with Southern history, charm and hospitality.

Mountain Island Lake

S D O O H R NEIGHBO Mountain Island Lake Population: 34,721 MSP: $218K

Belmont Population: 10,249 MSP: $165K

Gastonia Population: 71,741 MSP: $103K

Denver Population: 18,287 MSP: $234K MSP=Median Sales Price Sources: 2010 Census data; Trulia.com

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Gastonia

Ten miles from Charlotte’s center city, Mountain Island Lake divides Mecklenburg and Gaston counties.

Massive growth in the past five years has led to numerous subdivisions popping up, as well as waterfront communities with larger homes. Waterfront communities on both sides of the lake in Charlotte and Mount Holly have community pools and boat slips. Waterfront zoning rules provide for wooded buffer areas on the lake’s edge. Growth sparked the construction of Northlake Mall, and a nearby I-485 connection is convenient for commuters.

Gastonia is the largest city in Gaston County, and second largest in the Charlotte-Gastonia-Rock Hill metropolitan area. An ongoing revival of downtown includes a Farmers Market, new restaurants, salons and Arts on Main.

The main branch of Gaston County Library offers story times and cultural events, and you can cheer on the Gastonia Grizzlies minor league baseball team.

New subdivisions are peppered in with communities that have been around for decades. Westfield Eastridge Mall and the many retail centers along Franklin Boulevard provide for any shopping needs.

Belmont

Denver

You’ll find a lot of Southern charm in the city of Belmont.

The small-town feel is inviting, and it’s an easy commute into uptown Charlotte and to Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Mill houses are being converted into cute bungalows, downtown is revitalized and Stowe Park hosts familyfriendly events throughout the year.

The holiday parade is big here, and nearby McAdenville’s Christmastown USA is legendary. Plus it’s a short drive from downtown to Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.

On the west side of Lake Norman and 30 minutes outside of Charlotte is Denver. Golfing communities and waterfront properties lure families looking to retreat from the city. Located in Lincoln County, Denver is built on neighborhoods that branch off Highway 16, and a quick trip down Highway 73 connects residents to Huntersville and Cornelius. Cowan’s Ford Golf Club attracts many families for its golf, pool and tennis amenities and children’s entertainment.

West // C

MMUNITY

Points of Interest

outdoor play!

Goat Island Off Cramer Mountain Road, Cramerton 704-824-4231 cramerton.org Thirty-acre Goat Island sits in the middle of the South Fork River and is a playground for all ages. For the adventurous there are kayak, canoe and paddle boat rentals as well as an 18-hole disc golf course. For the less adventurous, there’s a treehouse playground and a paved greenway that’s part of the Carolina Thread Trail, which consists of 115 miles of trails linking 15 counties. Covered picnic areas are also available.

U.S. National Whitewater Center 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy.

704-391-3900 usnwc.org There is much more here than whitewater rafting. On land, hike the 20 miles of trails, try zip lines, ropes courses and rock climbing. Kids as young as 4 can climb the rock wall. On water, there’s kayaking and paddle boarding on the adjacent Catawba River. And yes, there’s whitewater rafting of varying degrees of difficulty. Relax at the restaurant overlooking the whitewater course while listening to the rushing water.

Crowders Mountain 522 Park Office Lane, Gastonia 704-853-5375 ncparks.gov Train your future hikers on these scenic mountain trails, keeping an eye out for the abundant birds and blossoms along the way.

None of the trails are very long. A few easy loop trails are only .8 miles; the longest – a moderately difficult one – is 6.2 miles. Most trails are less than 2 miles, though some are quite steep and strenuous even on this mountain of only 1,625 feet. To relax, there are picnic grounds and a small lake with canoe rentals near the park entrance.

Photo courtesy of U.S. National Whitewater Center

must-do family fun!

The Schiele Museum of Natural History 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia 704-866-6908 schielemuseum.org This gem in Gaston County boasts an authentic Catawba Indian Village and an 18th century living history farm complete with farm animals. Permanent exhibits include examples of prehistoric life (dinosaurs!) as well as more recent flora and fauna. Be sure to take in the night sky or the rings of Saturn at the James H. Lynn Planetarium. Traveling exhibits and frequent special events mean you’ll want to return again and again.

Photo courtesy of Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens

Adventure Landing 2600 E. Franklin Blvd., Gastonia 704-866-4242 adventurelanding.com/parks/gastonia This entertainment center is open all day every day for a variety of family fun activities. Try your luck on three different themed 18-hole miniature golf courses. Contestants of all ages can drive, dance or blast their way to prizes with 29 different arcade games. Seven batting cages can be reserved or rented hourly on a first-come first-serve basis and offer variable pitch speeds. Find different daily specials as well as coupons on the website.

Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont 704-825-4490 dsbg.org There’s something to see in every season on the growing 380 acres of gardens, fountains and pathways. A highlight is the five-story, 8,000 square-foot Orchid Conservatory, featuring walls that overflow with orchids and tropical plants. Be sure to visit around Christmas to see Santa and the garden strung in lights, as well as at Easter when Peter Cottontail hops by for pictures and spring fun with the kids. Lost Hollow, a new children’s garden is currently in the planning stages.

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MMUNITY // West

C

kid-friendly dining!

Tony’s Ice Cream 604 E. Franklin Blvd., Gastonia 704-867-7085 tonysicecream.com Family-owned Tony’s Ice Cream has been a Gastonia staple since 1947. Twenty-eight flavors are made in its plant right next door, ranging from kid favorites such as grape and cotton candy to Southern favorites such as peach, black walnut and banana pudding. Kiddie cups are $1 on Tuesdays.

Dessert isn't the only thing on the menu.

Try a Pimento cheese or liver mush-andegg sandwich. Everything is easy on the wallet, but Tony's is cash only .

Portofino’s Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria 3637 E. Franklin Blvd., Gastonia 704-824-2143 portofinoitalianrestaurant.com Portofino’s stands out in an area populated with chain restaurants. Open for lunch and dinner daily, it has an extensive menu with pastas, chicken, veal, seafood, sandwiches and, of course, New York-style pizzas.

The casual atmosphere combined with affordable prices and daily specials makes this a friendly place to take the kids any day of the week.

Sports Page Food and Spirits 179 Cross Center Drive, Denver 704-827-6283 sportspagenc.com/denver-nc This sports bar menu has something to please everyone in the family, from burgers and salads to steak and pasta dishes. Voted a favorite by LKN Parents magazine readers.

Apples and fries come with all the entrees on the kids menu of chicken fingers, cheeseburgers and hot dogs. Be sure to check their calendar for kids eat free nights, often on both Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Want to know where kids eat free?

CharlotteParent.com/familydining Chlt Parent GPS 2013:Layout 1 5/31/13

…where teaching is valued and learning is celebrated 9502 Providence Road Charlotte, NC 28277 704.846.1100 www.charlottelatin.org Financial assistance is available.

Please inquire about the Malone Scholarship for gifted students in 7th - 12th grades.

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Health Care BEST FAMILY DENTIST Bird Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics 2nd: Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics 3rd: Laxar, Long and Savage

BEST FAMILY DOCTOR University Pediatrics 2nd: Charlotte Pediatric Clinic 3rd: Township Pediatrics of Matthews

BEST ORTHODONTIST Bird Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics 2nd: Robinson Orthodontics 3rd: Laxar, Long and Savage

BEST PLACE TO GIVE BIRTH Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center 2nd: Carolinas Medical Center - Pineville 3rd: Carolinas Medical Center

Dining Out BEST ETHNIC FOOD Thai Taste 2nd: The Blue Taj 3rd: Azteca Mexican Restaurant

BEST FARMERS MARKET Matthews Community Farmers’ Market 2nd: King's Drive Farmers Market 3rd: Charlotte Regional Farmers Market

BEST FROZEN TREAT TCBY 2nd: Sweet Frog Premium Frozen Yogurt 3rd: Bruster’s Real Ice Cream

BEST KIDS EAT FREE McAlister’s Deli

BEST SPECIAL NEEDS SERVICES BEST LOCAL FAMILY RESTAURANTS Showmars 2nd: Landmark Restaurant Diner 3rd: Big View Diner

BEST NATIONAL FAMILY RESTAURANT Cracker Barrel Old Country Store 2nd: Olive Garden Italian Restaurant 3rd: IHOP Restaurant

BEST PIZZA PLACE Brixx Wood Fired Pizza 2nd: Hawthorne’s New York Pizza & Bar 3rd: Mellow Mushroom

Lazar Center for Learning and Achievement 2nd: Levine Children’s Hospital 3rd: Achieve Therapy Clinic

Out & About BEST AREA SPORTS TEAM Carolina Panthers 2nd: Charlotte Checkers 3rd: Charlotte Knights

BEST CULTURAL SPOT/MUSEUM Discovery Place 2nd: Mint Museum 3rd: Charlotte Nature Museum

BEST FAMILY DAY TRIP Riverbanks Zoo and Garden

2nd: Moe’s Southwest Grill

2nd: Lazy 5 Ranch

3rd: Firehouse Subs

3rd: Carowinds

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BEST LIVE PERFORMANCE Children’s Theatre of Charlotte 2nd: Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus

BEST PARTY FACILITY Monkey Joe’s 2nd: Sports Connection 3rd: Space Kidets

3rd: Disney On Ice

BEST LOCAL FESTIVAL

BEST PLACE TO BUY A CAKE Harris Teeter

Festival in the Park

2nd: Costco

2nd: Matthews Alive Festival

3rd: Suarez Bakery

3rd: Carolina Renaissance Festival

BEST PARK Freedom Park

Places to Learn BEST ARTS/MUSIC CLASS

2nd: Reedy Creek Nature Preserve

Noah’s Art

3rd: Latta Park

2nd: Kindermusik 3rd: Music Together of Charlotte

BEST PLACE TO RIDE BIKES Freedom Park

BEST DANCE/CHEER PROGRAM

2nd: Mecklenburg County greenways

Miller Street Dance Academy

3rd: U.S. National Whitewater Center

2nd: Jami Masters School of Dance 3rd: Carolina Dance Capital

BEST POOL/SPRAYGROUND Ray’s Splash Planet

BEST EQUESTRIAN

2nd: Morrison YMCA

Latta Plantation

3rd: Latta Park

2nd: Providence Equestrian Center

BEST RAINY DAY OUTING

BEST GYMNASTICS

Monkey Joe’s

Thomas Gymnastics

2nd: Discovery Place

2nd: My Gym

3rd: Discovery Place Kids

3rd: Gymboree

BEST MARTIAL ARTS

(THREE-WAY TIE!)

King Tiger Tae Kwon Do Charlotte ATA Martial Arts The Peaceful Dragon

BEST PRESCHOOL Ivybrook Academy Weddington 2nd: Ivybrook Academy Fort Mill

Party Time

3rd: The Goddard School (Continued on page 40)

BEST PARTY ENTERTAINER Wish Upon a Star Children’s Parties 2nd: Amy Arpan’s Illusions and Confusions 3rd: Blue Moon Puppets CharlotteParent.com

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(Readers Favorites continued from page 39)

BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL Ivybrook Academy Weddington 2nd: Charlotte Christian School 3rd: Charlotte Latin School

BEST PUBLIC/ CHARTER SCHOOL Queen’s Grant Community School 2nd: Marvin Elementary 3rd: Community School of Davidson

BEST SWIMMING LESSONS Little Otter Swim School 2nd: Charlotte Aquatics 3rd: Charlotte Swim Academy

Shopping & Services BEST BOOK STORE Barnes and Noble 2nd: Books-A-Million 3rd: Park Road Books

BEST CHILDREN’S SHOE STORE Stride Rite 2nd: Shoe-In 3rd: Kixx Shoes

BEST FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER Jody G Photography 2nd: Portrait Innovations 3rd: Alicia Sutton Photography

BEST HAIR CUT Pigtails and Crewcuts 2nd: Doolittle’s 3rd: Great Clips

BEST KID’S CONSIGNMENT Kid-to-Kid Consignment 2nd: Once Upon a Child 3rd: Karrousel Kids Consignment and Retail Boutique

BEST TOY STORE Toys”R”Us 2nd: Toys and Co. 3rd: Brilliant Sky Toys and Books

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5 TOP

Family-Fun Attractions

Carowinds

U.S. National Whitewater Center

Stretching across the border of North and South Carolina, the 398-acre amusement park features more than 50 rides, including 13 hair-raising roller coasters and a 20-acre water park.

New in 2013 – Dinosaurs Alive! See 32 roaring, moving, life-sized dinosaurs and interactive attractions. carowinds.com.

An urban mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, the U.S. National Whitewater Center offers kayaking and whitewater rafting instruction, but that’s not all. Mountain bike, soar through the canopy tour, climb to the top of the climbing wall, or paddleboard on the Catawba River. usnwc.org.

Tweetsie Railroad 2013 Special Events: Dora the Explorer & Diego from Go, Diego, Go ! ™

™

June 21–23, Appearances at 11 am, 1 pm, & 3 pm

Fireworks Extravaganza Thursday, July 4, Open Until 9 pm Cool Summer Nights July 6, 13, 20, 27 ™

Open Until 9 pm, See tweetsie.com

SpongeBob SquarePants and Patrick July 12 – 14 ™

™

Appearances at 11 am, 1 pm & 3 pm © 2013 Viacom. SpongeBob SquarePants created by Stephen Hillenburg ®

K-9s in Flight Frisbee Dogs July 20–28 Shows at 11 am, 1 pm & 3 pm; Saturday evening show at 7pm

Riders In The Sky August 10 & 11 Shows at Noon & 3 pm

Railroad Heritage Weekend September 7 & 8 Ghost Train Halloween Festival ®

September 27 –28, October 4 –5, 11– 12, 18–19 25–26, November 1–2, Gates Open at 7:30 pm Even t s su bj ect t o ch an g e

Open April 12 to November 3 Complete schedule listed online 300 Tweetsie Railroad Lane, Blowing Rock, NC 28605

Visit tweetsie.com or call 1-877-TWEETSIE (877-893-3874)

Ride an Authentic Narrow-Gauge Steam Locomotive • Enjoy Live Shows & Amusement Park Rides • Pan for Gold • Deer Park • Gift Shops

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Discovery Place

NASCAR Hall of Fame

Great Wolf Lodge

Science comes to life through hands-on adventures, groundbreaking exhibitions and films shown at the larger-than-life IMAX Dome Theatre, summer camps and educational programs. One of the top hands-on science museums in the nation, your first visit likely won’t be your only visit. discoveryplace.org.

Experience the thrill of racing at the iRacing Simulator Refuel, take the Kobolt Pit Challenge to see how quickly you can jack up a car and change a tire, watch a film about the history of NASCAR at the High Octane Theater, then refuel at the Pit Stop Café. nascarhall.com.

With more than 11 water slides, a 1,000 gallon tipping bucket and four pools, children of all ages can splash and plunge to their hearts’ content at this 80,000 square-foot indoor waterpark.

The full-service family destination resort features more than 400 all-suite guest rooms, kid-friendly spa, and much more. greatwolf.com.

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RESOURCE LISTINGS

attractions

MUSEUMS, HISTORIC SITES AND SCIENCE CENTERS

Energy Explorium 13339 Hagers Ferry Road, Huntersville 980-875-5600 duke-energy.com

Levine Museum of the New South 200 E. 7th St. 704-333-1887 museumofthenewsouth.org

Fort Dobbs Billy Graham Library 4330 Westmont Drive 704-401-3200 billygraham.org

438 Fort Dobbs Road, Statesville 704-873-5882 fortdobbs.org

Heritage Farmstead Bost Grist Mill 4701 Highway 200, Concord 704-782-1600 bostgristmill.com

1335 Museum Road, Statesville 704-873-4734 iredellmuseums.org

Historic Brattonsville C. Grier Beam Truck Museum

Lincoln County Museum of History 403 E. Main St., Lincolnton 704-748-9090 lincolncountyhistory.com

9621 Reed Mine Road, Midland 704-721-4653 nchistoricsites.org/reed

Mint Museum Uptown: 500 S. Tryon St. Randolph: 2730 Randolph Road 704-337-2000 mintmuseum.org

Schiele Museum of Natural History

Museum of the Waxhaws

Wells Fargo History Museum 401 S. Tryon St. 704-715-1866 wellsfargohistory.com

Historic Rosedale

7601 Matthews-Mint Hill Road 704-573-0726 minthillhistory.com

3427 N. Tryon St. 704-335-0325 historicrosedale.org

Carolinas Aviation Museum

Hugh Torrance House and Store

8215 Waxhaw Highway, Waxhaw 704-843-1832 museumofthewaxhaws.com

4672 First Flight Drive 704-997-3770 carolinasaviation.org

8231 Gilead Road, Huntersville 704-875-3271

Museum of York County

1507 Camden Road 704-375-0850 charlottetrolley.org

James K. Polk Historic Site Discovery Place 301 N. Tryon St. 704-372-6261 discoveryplace.org

12031 Lancaster Highway, Pineville 704-889-7145 nchistoricsites.org/polk

Latta Plantation Discovery Place KIDS 105 Gilead Road, Huntersville 704-372-6261 discoveryplacekids.org

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5225 Sample Road, Huntersville 704-875-2312 lattaplantation.org

12031 Lancaster Hwy., Pineville 704-889-7145 nchistoricsites.org/polk

133 E. Main St., Rock Hill, S.C. 803-327-6400 chmuseums.org

Carl J. McEwen Historic Village

Signal Hill Mall, 1613 E. Broad St., Statesville 704-450-0756 iredellmuseums.org

President James K. Polk Historic Site

Reed Gold Mine State Historic Site

1444 Brattonsville Road, McConnells, S.C. 803-684-2327 chmuseums.org/brattonsville

Iredell Museum kids@play

411 S. Salisbury Ave., Spencer 704-636-2889 nctrans.org

Main Street Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum

111 N. Mountain St., Cherryville 704-435-3072 beamtruckmuseum.com

Charlotte Trolley Powerhouse Museum

N.C. Transportation Museum

4621 Mt. Gallant Road, Rock Hill, S.C. 803-329-2121 chmuseums.org/myco

1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia.

704-866-6900 schielemuseum.org

GARDENS, NATURE CENTERS, AND ZOOS

NASCAR Hall of Fame 400 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

704-654-4400 nascarhall.com

Anne Springs Close Greenway 250 Dairy Barn Lane, Fort Mill 803-547-4575 ascgreenway.org

N.C. Auto Racing Hall of Fame 119 Knob Hill Road, Lakeside Park, Mooresville 704-663-5331 ncarhof.com

Blue Planet Water Environmental Center 7980 Babe Stillwell Road, Huntersville 704-621-0854 blueplanet.charmeck.org

ENJOY A

HIS TORY EXPERIENCE

UNLIKE

ANY OTHER

Just in case you missed a day...

“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.

COME TO UNDERSTAND

Open 7 Days A Week; Extended Hours

1-800-216-4654

200 E. 7th St., uptown Charlotte GROUP TOURS AND RATES AVAILABLE www.museumofthenewsouth.org

NextCareCharlotte.com

/LevineMuseum

Visit website for multiple locations throughout North Carolina

CharlotteParent.com NC_CharParent_QTRSqr4c_0213.indd 1

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Find Above and Beyond Learning Store on

Come find us on the web:

www.aboveandbeyondlearningstore.com

• Learning Games & Puzzles • Educational Toys • Preschool Items • Great Gift Ideas • Teacher Supplies • Arts and Crafts • Homeschool Supplies • Sunday School and VBS • We Laminate!

• Consignment & Layaway

NOT YOUR TYPICAL TOY STORE!!

803-802-TOYS (8697)

(bring ad in for 10% off in store purchase) OPEN 1362 Hwy 160 E (160 & Mon - Sat 10 am – 6 pm Springfield Parkway by Food Lion)

Anami Montessori Primary (Ages 3-6) Elementary (Ages 6-12)

Anami Montessori School Association Montessori International (A.M.I.) Accredited

2901 Archdale Drive

(3/10 Mile from Park Rd./Archdale Intersection)

704-556-0042

Established 1986

www.anamimontessori.org

Accepting applications for 3 and young 4 year olds

ACCELERATE YOUR CHILD’S FUTURE AT THE JOHN CROSLAND SCHOOL. Children with learning differences or attention deficit disorder have great potential to succeed, especially when they receive an education dedicated to their needs. The John Crosland School is Charlotte's premier K-12 school focused on learning differences and attention deficit disorder.

Schedule a tour today to see how our unique approach and focus can help nuture your child.

Take a look at a special place called The John Crosland School.

COME VISIT US Call: 704-365-5490 or Email: peley@johncroslandschool.org

5146 Parkway Plaza Blvd. • Charlotte, NC 28217 • 704.365.5490 • JohnCroslandSchool.org Crosland does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, age, marital status, disability, religion, creed, or national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational programs, admissions, financial aid policies or employment practices.

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RESOURCE LISTINGS

Carolina Raptor Center

Hollywild Animal Park

McGill Rose Garden

Tiger World

6000 Sample Road, Huntersville 704-875-6521 carolinaraptorcenter.org

2325 Hampton Road, Wellford, S.C. 864-472-2038 hollywild.com

940 N. Davidson St. 704-333-6497 mcgillrosegarden.com

4400 Cook Road, Rockwell 704-279-6363 tigerworld.us

Latta Plantation Nature Center

North Carolina Zoo

UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens

6211 Sample Road, Huntersville 704-875-1391 parkandrec.com

4401 Zoo Parkway, Asheboro 800-488-0444 nczoo.org

9201 University City Blvd.

704 687-0720 gardens.uncc.edu

Charlotte Nature Museum 1658 Sterling Road 704-372-6261 charlottenaturemuseum.org

Cold Blooded Encounters

Lazy 5 Ranch

Reedy Creek Nature Center

Wing Haven Gardens

3513 Hwy. 74 W., Monroe 704-649-6296 coldbloodedencounters.com

15100 Mooresville Road, Mooresville 704-663-5100 lazy5ranch.com

2900 Rocky River Road 704-432-6459 parkandrec.com

248 Ridgewood Ave. 704-331-0664 winghavengardens.com

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

McDowell Nature Center

Riverbanks Zoo

Zootastic Park

6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont 704-825-4490 dsbg.org

15222 York Road 704-588-5224 parkandrec.com

500 Wildlife Pkwy., Columbia, S.C. 803-779-8717 riverbanks.org

448 Pilch Road, Troutman 888-966-0069 zootasticpark.com

Girl Scouts Peaks to Piedmont

Carolina Juniors Volleyball

community resources PARKS AND RECREATION

YOUTH ORGANIZATIONS

800-672-2148 girlscoutsp2p.org

704-583-1444 carolinajuniors.com

Cabarrus County

4H

Girl Talk Foundation Inc.

Carolina Storm Volleyball

Gaston County

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Charlotte

Right Moves for Youth

Challenge Baseball

Y Guides

Charlotte Aquatics

Young Life

Charlotte Junior Soccer Foundation

704-920-3350 cabarruscounty.us/parks 704-922-2160 gastongov.com/departments/ parks-recreation

Iredell County

704-878-3103 co.iredell.nc.us/departments/recreation

Lincoln County 704-748-1518 lincolncounty.org

Mecklenburg County 704-336-3854 parkandrec.com

Union County 704-843-3919 co.union.nc.us

York County

803-684-3742 yorkcitysc.com/departments/recreation

704-336-2082 mecklenburg.ces.ncsu.edu

704-910-1301 bbbscharlotte.org

Boys and Girls Clubs

Cabarrus – 704-721-2582 bgclubcab.org Gaston – 704-864-6171 bgcgreatergaston.org Greater Charlotte – 704-714-4738 bgccharlotte.org Our Towns/Davidson –704-895-6686 York – 803-324-7920 bgcyc.org

Boy Scouts of America Mecklenburg County Council 704-333-5471 mccscouting.org

Boy Scouts of America Piedmont Council/Gastonia 704-864-2694 piedmontcouncilbsa.org

Girl Scouts Hornets Nest Council 704-731-6500; hngirlscouts.org

704-335-5885 girltalkfoundationinc.com 704-377-4425 rightmovesforyouth.org 704-716-6282 yguides.org

704-334-0220 younglifecarolinasregion.younglife.org

YOUTH SPORT LEAGUES Bethel Athletic Association 704-918-1346 bethelathletics.org

Breakaway Sports 704-918-1346 breakawaysports.info

Carolina Courts 704-882-1115 carolinacourts.com

704-763-7767 carolinastormvolleyball.com 704-423-0030 challengebaseball.com 704-341-9673 charlotteaquatics.com

704-366-3030 charlottejuniorsoccer.org

Charlotte Junior Rugby Association

980-322-5464 charlottejuniorrugby.com

Charlotte Swim and Racquet Club 704-364-8352 charlotteswim.com

Charlotte United Futbol Club 704-583-8354 charlotteunited.com

See the latest league listings at CharlotteParent.com/directories CharlotteParent.com

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RESOURCE LISTINGS

Charlotte Youth Lacrosse Association

704-608-1126 charlotteyouthlacrosse.com

Gastonia Parks and Recreation Department 704-869-1020 cityofgastonia.com

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Advance Youth Football League

Girls on the Run of Charlotte

Char-Meck Girls Softball

Greater Charlotte Youth Athletic Alliance

704-210-8100 c-meck.com

704-847-0752 charmecksoftball.org

Cornelius PARC

704-837-0102 gotrcharlotte.org

704-919-6323 leaguelineup.com/gcyaa

H.O.O.P.S.

704-896-8823 creativeartexchange.org

704-277-4777 hoopscamps.com

CoulOak Baseball

eteamz.com/couloakbaseball

Davidson Youth Baseball Association 704-892-3349 d-Recs.org

Dilworth Youth Sports Association dyaa.net

Harrisburg Youth Association 704-455-8572 hyanc.com

Huntersville Parks & Recreation Department 704-766-2220 huntersville.org

Huntersville Youth Athletic Association hyaasports.com

Indian Trail Athletic Association 704-821-7460 itaanc.com

Lake Wylie Athletic Association

Matthews Softball Association matthewssoftball.org

Mecklenburg Aquatic Club

lwsports.org

704-846-5335 swimmaccarolina.org

Lakeshore Youth Athletic Association

Mecklenburg County Aquatic Center

lyaasports.org

Leroy Springs Recreation Complex 803-547-1020 leroysprings.com

704-336-DIVE parkandrec.com/aquatics

Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation parkandrec.com

Levine JCC

704-366-5007 charlottejcc.org

Mint Hill Athletic Association

Lil’ Kickers Soccer

Myers Park Trinity Little League

Mallard Creek Youth Association

NC Dixie Softball

Matthews Athletic and Recreation Association

Nomad Aquatics and Fitness

mhaa.us

704-583-1444 sportsconnectionnc.com/little_kickers.html mallardcreekoptimist.com

704-847-0752 marasports.org

mptll.org 704-905-7655

704-986-0500 ncdixiesoftball.org

740-949-1555 nomadaquatic.com

ACADEMIC SKILLS

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Offer valid for Academic Evaluation or Tuition, new students only. Not valid with any other offer.

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HPA100-4

RESOURCE LISTINGS

N.C. Community Sailing & Rowing 704-947-7245 nccsailrow.org

North Carolina Spring Football League 704-567-2977 leaguelineup.com/nsfl

North Carolina Youth Rugby Union

Pineville-Ballantyne Athletic Association pcaasports.org

Sardis Dixie Youth Baseball 704-542-1149 sardisbaseball.org

Sardis Forest Swim Club

ncyru.org

704-847-0637 sites.google.com/site/sardisforestswimclub

North Meck Soccer Club

SOAR Sports

704-894-9995 northmecksc.org

Odell Recreation Sports odellsports.com

Olde Providence Recreation Association oprasports.com

Park Sharon Athletic Assoc.

704-643-0016 parksharonsports.com

Piedmont Youth Football 704-506-3251 piedmontyouthfootball.com

704-814-1063 soarsports.com

Soccer Shots

SouthPark Youth Association spyasports.org

Steele Creek Athletic Association scaasports.com

Stewards of the Game 704-992-0681 stewardsofthegame.org

Stick With Us

Western United Soccer Club

Xtreme Lacrosse

704-432-0237 swimcharlotte.com

Town of Davidson Parks and Recreation

South Iredell Athletic Association

Turn and Burn Lacrosse

704-554-6397 southparkstc.com/Swim_Team.html

704-843-0127 wcwaa.org

Swim Charlotte

South Charlotte Recreation Association

SouthPark Swim Club

WCWAA Challenger Sports Program

980-216-4997 wuscsoccer.org

Team Charlotte

siaa.vicid.net

704-844-2241 waxhawathletics.org

stickwithus.org

704-890-0988 soccershots.org/charlotte

704-393-8988 southcharlotterec.com

Waxhaw Athletic Association

teamcharlotteswimming.com

704 892-3349 ci.davidson.nc.us 704-249-6757 tblax.com

xtremelacrosse.com

Yes I Can Basketball 704-442-1238 yesicanbasketball.com

YMCA of Greater Charlotte 704-716-6200 ymcacharlotte.org

Youth Hockey 704-882-1830 xicenter.com

Zenith Lacrosse 704-773-3585 zenithlax.com

CharlotteParent.com

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Leaders

Photo Cour te s

y of C

h

GROWING

CHARLOTTE PREPARATORY SCHOOL PLEASE JOIN US FOR A CAMPUS TOUR Spending time on our campus is the best way to experience Charlotte Prep.

We host drop-in tours every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. - no appointment necessary!

Carolina Kids Dentistry specializes in treating children from infancy to young adulthood and individuals with special needs in a state-of-theart and inviting environment.

WWW.CHARLOTTEPREP.ORG

Family Allergy Asthma & Sinus Care Board-certified in Allergy & Immunology. Specializing in Pediatrics & Adults Quality Personalized Care!

ASSIONATE P M CO REATMENT T ALL AGES FOR Services include: Allergy (hayfever) Cough Sinus problems Bee sting allergy Food allergy

Asthma Eczema Hives Anaphylaxis Drug allergy

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Welcoming New Patients!

Call 704-817-2022 10370 Park Road, Suite 202 (Pineville)

www.AllergyForAll.com

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Like us on

CharlotteParent.com

Bevin K. Malley, DDS, PA Board Certified Pediatric Dentist 5829 Phyliss Lane Suite A Mint Hill, NC info@ckdentistry.com

704-790-0590 www.ckdentistry.com

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School RULES

Photo Cour te s

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From small to large, public to private Charlotte-area schools offer education options for every child.

Public Schools Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools www.cms.k12.nc.us Superintendent: Heath Morrison Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) is the largest district in the area. Ranked 17th in the nation, it serves more than 141,000 K-12 students in 159 schools. The district won the 2011 Broad Prize for Urban Education, the largest education prize in the country and received $550,000 in college scholarships for the class of 2012. The mission of CMS is to maximize academic achievement by every student in every school.

Vision: Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools provides all students the best education available anywhere, preparing every child to lead a rich and productive life.

> 25,000

students

Union County Public Schools www.ucps.k12.nc.us Schools: 53 | Enrollment: 39,900 Gaston County Schools www.gaston.k12.nc.us Schools: 56 | EnrollmentSchools: 32,225 Cabarrus County Schools www.cabarrus.k12.nc.us Schools: 38 | Enrollment: 27,747

< 25,000

students

Iredell-Statesville Schools www.iss.k12.nc.us Schools: 36 | Enrollment: 21,311

HIGHER EDUCATION Check out the many colleges and universities in the Charlotte area: Central Piedmont Community College, UNC Charlotte, Johnson & Wales University, Johnson C. Smith University, Winthrop University and the Arts Institute.

CHARTING A NEW COURSE Currently 15 charter schools operate in the Charlotte area. On March 1, 2013, the NC Office of Charter Schools received 26 applications for new charter schools to open in August 2014.

Lincoln County Schools www.lincoln.k12.nc.us Schools: 24 | Enrollment: 11,872

< 6,000

students

Mooresville Graded Schools www.mgsd.k12.nc.us Schools: 8 | Enrollment: 5,404 Kannapolis City Schools www.kannapolis.k12.nc.us Schools: 8 | Enrollment: 5,140

Want to know more about school choices?

CharlotteParent.com/educationguide *data represents Cabarrus, Gaston, Iredell, Lincoln, Mecklenburg, Union and York counties only.

Sources: ncdnpe.org; ncpublicschools.org; sccharterschools.org; privateschoolereview.com

Private School by the Numbers* Private Schools in Mecklenburg County

19,545 9

Students Enrolled in Mecklenburg County

Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools PK-12

Private Schools in Cabarrus, Gaston, Iredell, Lincoln, Union and York counties

New Private Schools added in 2012-13

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The 3 largest private schools in Mecklenburg County are Charlotte Country Day, Charlotte Latin and Providence Day, each with more than 1,400 students enrolled.â&#x20AC;?

CharlotteParent.com

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RESOURCE LISTINGS

LOCAL LIBRARIES

Check these library websites for information on neighborhood branch hours.

Cabarrus County

704-920-2000 cabarruscounty.us/library

Charlotte Mecklenburg 704-416-0100 cmlibrary.org

Gaston County 704-868-2164 gastonlibrary.org Photo courtesy of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library

ImaginOn! Designed With Kids in Mind Part library, part theater, ImaginOn is one awesome collaboration of organizations for Charlotte families. The three-story facility uptown offers an interactive play area for toddlers and a dedicated library space for youths 11 and under, a puppet booth for guests to make their own puppet shows, a teen loft, a multimedia production studio, as well as houses two state-of-the art theater spaces where Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Theatre of Charlotte performances come to life. As at many Charlotte Mecklenburg Library branches, ImaginOn hosts story times throughout the week, and special exhibits to promote a love for reading and learning. Lively, bright colors, innovative, functional art for kids and its proximity to the LYNX, Levine Museum of the New South and Seventh Street Market make it a great place to see a play, hear a story time or simply go to explore. Be sure to hop on the oversized typewriter key sculptures out front.

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Iredell County 704-878-3090 iredell.lib.nc.us

Lincoln County 704-732-9040 lincolncounty.org

Union County 704-283-8184 union.lib.nc.us

York County, S.C. 803-981-5858 yclibrary.org

Health Matters When your child is sick or hurt, nothing else matters. Living in Charlotte means you have access to some of the best healthcare professionals in the country.

Jeff Gordon Children's Hospital Located at CMC-Northeast Affiliated with Levine Children’s Hospital.

Levine Children’s Hospital Other Local Hospitals Iredell Memorial Hospital Statesville CaroMont Regional Medical Center Gastonia Piedmont Medical Center Rock Hill, S.C.

At Carolinas Medical Center Main | A regional pediatric care leader, Levine Children’s Hospital is part of the Carolinas HealthCare System, one of the largest systems in the nation. Other Carolina Medical Centers (CMC): Lincoln, Mercy, Northeast, Pineville, Union and University.

Hemby Children’s Hospital At Presbyterian Medical Center | Nationally recognized for pediatric care, Hemby Children’s Hospital opened in 1995 and is part of the Novant Health, ranked among the best hospitals in the nation. Also operates medical centers in Matthews and Huntersville.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY Urgent Care and Minute Clinics CharlotteParent.com/urgentcare

CharlotteParent.com

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PickyParents

I’ll help you choose a high quality preschool AND CHILD CARE... I go with and for you to visit and evaluate programs.

Contact me at Donna@PickyParents.net or 251-9300.

www.PickyParents.net.

Charlotte Families Are OUR Favorite!

Cotswold Village Shops

310A S. Sharon Amity, Charlotte, NC 28211

704•366•9100 no appointment necessary

www.pigtailsandcrewcuts.com 54

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CharlotteParent.com

2013

RESOURCE LISTINGS

HOSPITALS Carolinas Healthcare System Carolinas Medical Center 1000 Blythe Blvd.

704-355-2000 carolinashealthcare.org/cmc Carolinas Rehabilitation 877-734-2251 carolinashealthcare.org/carolinas-rehab Jeff Gordon Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital at Carolinas Medical Center NorthEast 920 Church St. N., Concord 704-403-3000 carolinashealthcare.org/childrens-services Levine Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Carolinas Medical Center 1000 Blythe Blvd.

704-381-2000 levinechildrenshospital.org Lincoln 433 McAlister Road, Lincolnton 980-212-2000 carolinashealthcare.org/cmc-lincoln Mercy 2001 Vail Ave. 704-304-5000

carolinashealthcare.org/cmc-mercy NorthEast 920 Church St. North, Concord 704-403-3000 carolinashealthcare.org/cmc-northeast Pineville 10628 Park Road 704-667-1000 carolinashealthcare.org/cmc-pineville Union 600 Hospital Drive, Monroe 704-283-3100 carolinashealthcare.org/cmc-union University 8800 N. Tryon St. 704-863-6000 carolinashealthcare.org/cmc-university Waxhaw 2700 Providence Road S., Waxhaw.

704-667-6800 carolinashealthcare.org/cmc-waxhaw

Caromont Regional Medical Center 2525 Court Drive, Gastonia 704-834-2000 caromonthealth.org

Davis Regional Medical Center 218 Old Mocksville Road, Statesville 704-873-0281 davisregional.com

Iredell Memorial Hospital 557 Brookdale Drive, Statesville 704-873-5661 iredellmemorial.org

704-316-4000 novanthealth.org/huntersville Matthews Medical Center 1500 Matthews Township Pkwy.

704-384-6500 novanthealth.org Charlotte Orthopaedic Hospital 1901 Randolph Road 704-316-2000 novanthealth.org/orthopedic

Lake Norman Regional Medical Center

Piedmont Medical Center

171 Fairview Road, Mooresville 704-660-4000 lnrmc.com

222 S. Herlong Ave., Rock Hill, S.C. 803-329-1234 piedmontmedicalcenter.com

Novant Health

Shrinerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital for Children

Presbyterian Medical Center 200 Hawthorne Lane 704-384-4000 novanthealth.org/charlotte Hemby Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital 200 Hawthorne Lane 704-384-4021 novanthealth.org/hemby Huntersville Medical Center 10030 Gilead Road, Huntersville

950 W. Faris Road, Greenville, S.C. 864-271-3444 shrinershospitalsforchildren.org

Find resources for children with special needs at CharlotteParent.com/exceptional

CONSIDER COUNTRYSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

WE GROW LEADERS HERE...

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Countryside is the only independent school in North Carolina offering the complete cycle of Montessori education from Toddler to college preparatory High School. $BNQVT UPVST FBDI 8FEOFTEBZ BU BN

Serving children with specific learning disabilities since 1982.

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www.thefletcherschool.org CharlotteParent.com

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your essential

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Available at 900+ locations in Mecklenburg, Cabarrus, Gaston, Iredell, Lincoln, Union and York counties, including Harris Teeter, public libraries, medical offices and more.

Go to CharlotteParent.com/MagazineLocator to find a location near you!

CharlotteParent.com 56

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CharlotteParent.com

RESOURCE LISTINGS

health care C.W. Williams Community Health Center

Huntersville Pediatrics and Internal Medicine

7800 Providence Road, Suite 203 704-512-2610 arboretumpeds.org

West Charlotte – 3333 Wilkinson Blvd.

Midtown – 900 East Blvd.

704-393-7720 cwwilliams.org

17220 Northcross Drive, Suite 110, Huntersville 704-384-8720 huntersvillepedsandim.com

Ballantyne Pediatric Associates

Davidson Clinic

14215 Ballantyne Corporate Place, Suite 130 704-384-1950 ballantynepediatricassociates.com

705 Griffith St., Suite 100, Davidson 704-801-7900 davidsonclinic.org

6030 W. Highway 74, Suite F, Indian Trail 704-246-2900 indiantrailpediatrics.org

Ballantyne Pediatric Associates – Steelecroft

1315 East Blvd., Suite 280 704-384-1866 dilworthpediatrics.com

PEDIATRICS Arboretum Pediatrics

13557 Steelecroft Pkwy., Suite 2200 704-316-1080 ballantynepediatricssteelecroft.com

Cabarrus Pediatrics 66 Lake Concord Road, Concord | 704-403-7720 543 Jackson Park Road, Kannapolis | 704-403-7735 cabarruspeds.org

Carmel Pediatrics

Dilworth Pediatrics

Eastover Pediatrics 517 S. Sharon Amity Road 704-384-8800 eastoverpediatrics.com

Elizabeth Pediatrics 2630 E. 7th St., Suite 101 704-384-1000 elizabethpediatrics.org

7825 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy., Suite 100 704-752-2000 carmelpediatricspa.com

Gastonia Children’s Clinic

CaroMont Pediatric Partners

Gilead Road Pediatrics & Internal Medicine

209 Park St., Suite 500, Belmont | 704-829-0025 705 Summit Crossing Place, Gastonia | 704-671-6300 caromonthealth.org

Center for Child and Adolescent Medicine 1994 Wellness Blvd., Suite 110, Monroe 704-384-8460 centerforchildmedicine.org

Charlotte Pediatric Clinic • 4501 Cameron Valley Parkway, Suite 100 | 704-367-7400 • 332 N. Trade St., Matthews | 704-512-6820 • 6235 Blakeney Park Drive, Suite 100 | 704-512-5060 • 13640 Steelecroft Parkway, Suite 210 | 704-512-6100 charlottepediatricclinic.org

2544 Court Drive, Suite C, Gastonia 704-867-5356 gastoniachildrensclinic.org

Indian Trail Pediatrics

Kids First Pediatrics 8169 Ardrey Kell Road 704-542-5540 charlottekidsfirstpediatrics.com

Lake Norman Pediatrics 656 Carpenter Ave., Mooresville 704-664-5133 lakenormanpediatrics.com

Lakeshore Pediatric Center 275 Highway 16 N., Suite 103, Denver 704-489-8401 lakeshorepediatric.com

Matthews Children’s Clinic

Palmetto Pediatrics 2450 India Hook Road, Rock Hill, S.C. 803-327-5772 palmettopeds.org

Pediatric Associates 3030 Randolph Road, Suite 102 704-512-4475 peds-associates.org

Piedmont Healthcare Pediatrics 129 Sherlock Road, Statesville 704-838-8245 piedmonthealthcare.com

Piedmont Pediatrics 1085 Northeast Gateway Court, Suite 290, Concord 704-403-4650 piedmontpeds.org

Pineville Pediatrics 10700 Kettering Drive, Suite D 704-540-3036 pinevillepediatrics.com

Presbyterian Medical Plaza Pediatrics

1401 Matthews Township Parkway, Suite 100, Matthews 704-384-1080 matthewschildrensclinic.com

8401 Medical Plaza Drive, Suite 220 704-384-1570 medicalplazapediatrics.com

Meridian Medical Group

14214 Ballantyne Lake Road, Suite 300 704-667-2600 providencepedsballantyne.org

Providence Pediatrics

1918 Randolph Road, Suite 275 | 704-384-1354 11030 Golf Links Drive, Suite 100 | 704-384-1166 8420 University Executive Park Drive, Suite 850 | 704-316-1750 meridianmedicalnc.com

QC Kidz Pediatrics

Myers Park Pediatrics

Randolph Pediatrics

Harborside Pediatrics

1350 S. Kings Drive 704-446-1422 carolinashealthcare.org

133 Welton Way, Suite C, Mooresville 704-664-2552

North Charlotte Pediatrics

6324 Fairview Road, Suite 350 | 704-384-8600 10508 Park Road, Suite 100 | 704-384-1440 randolphpeds.org

10030 Gilead Road, Suite 360, Huntersville 704-316-5635 presbyterian.org

Growing Up Pediatrics 8311 Magnolia Estates Drive, Suite E, Cornelius 704-895-9060

Hickory Grove Pediatrics 2225 E. W.T. Harris Blvd., B 704-509-0933

416 McCullough Drive, Suite 140 704-717-3383 northcharlottepeds.com

Northlake Children’s Associates 150 Professional Park Drive, Suite 400, Mooresville 704-663-5240 northlakechildren.com

6801 South Blvd., Suite E 704-643-7200 qckidzpediatrics.com

Rock Hill Pediatrics 1601 Ebenezer Road, Rock Hill, S.C. 803-328-6281 704 Gold Hill Road, Suite 207, Fort Mill, S.C. | 803-802-5900 rockhillpediatrics.org

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The leading provider of childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s behavioral healthcare is in your backyard.

since 1888, Alexander Youth Network has provided

SUMMER PLANS? SUMMER PROGRAMS!

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t o l e a r n m o r e a b o u t w h at w e d o a n d c o n s i d e r g e t t i n g i n v o lv e d , v i s i t

REGISTER AT WWW.PROVIDENCEDAY.ORG 58

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www.alexanderyouthnetwork.org

RESOURCE LISTINGS

Rocky River Pediatrics 5427 Highway 49S, Suite 103, Harrisburg 704-455-5565 rockyriverpeds.org

Sharon Lakes Medical Associates 7701 Sharon Lakes Road, Suite R 704-643-8500

Suite 201, Huntersville | 704-801-3097 southlkpeds.org

SouthPark Pediatrics 4601 Park Road, Suite 100 704-522-6656 southparkpediatrics.net

Snitz Pediatrics

Starks Pediatrics at Mallard Creek

2620 E. 7th St., Suite 100 704-332-7141 snitzpediatrics.com

2315 W. Arbors Drive, Suite 115 704-717-2826 starkspediatrics.com

South Charlotte Pediatrics

Suburban Pediatrics

10410 Park Road, Suite 100 704-540-6860 southcharlottepediatrics.com

3396 Cloverleaf Parkway, Kannapolis | 704-403-7740 2101 Shiloh Church Road, Suite 101, Davidson | 704-439-3700 suburbanpeds.org

South Charlotte Primary Care Pediatrics 7030 Pineville-Matthews Road 704-667-4130 southcharlotteprimarycare.org

SouthLake Pediatrics 9908 Couloak Drive, Suite 103 | 704-801-2025 9625 Northcross Center Court,

Township Pediatrics of Matthews 201 E. Matthews St., Suite 100, Matthews 704-847-0572 townshippedsofmatthews.org

University Pediatrics 101 W.T. Harris Blvd., Suite 1121 | 704-717-2000 5435 Prosperity Church Road, Suite 1500 | 704-863-9910 10545 Blair Road, Suite 3200, Mint Hill | 704-863-9550 universitypeds.org

University Internal Medicine & Pediatrics 10320 Mallard Creek Road, Suite 120 704-384-0570 presbyterian.org

Walker Pediatrics 149 Providence Road 704-384-1056 walkerpediatrics.com

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY Ballantyne Pediatric Dentistry 12105 Copper Way, Suite 102 704-752-1900 ballantynepedo.com

Bird Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics 16607 Riverstone Way, Suite 300 704-313-8911 birddentistry.com

Dr. Kim Blanding, Pediatric Dentist 1843 South Ridge Ave., Kannapolis 704-938-8523 drblanding.com

Burrow & Case 2711 Randolph Road, Suite 600 7922 Rea Road, Suite A 704-332-7202 charlotteorthodontists.com

Carolina Kids Dentistry 5829 Phyliss Lane, Mint Hill 704-790-0590 ckdentistry.com

See Mom-Approved Doctors at CharlotteParent.com/ favedocs

Putting you at ease makes all the difference in your care. We want you to be comfortable talking about your expectations, needs and medical history. Just as important, you need to be comfortable with our expertise. Get to know us at midtown-obgyn.com or 704.316.5270. Because when it comes to your health, the care is more important than the clothes.

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RESOURCE LISTINGS

Charles H. Crawford, Jr., D.M.D., P.A. Pediatric and Adolescent Dentistry 1236 Ebenezer Road, Suite 110, Rock Hill, S.C. | 803-324-7540 1686 W. Hwy. 160, Fort Mill, S.C. | 803-548-2333 drchuck4kids.com

Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry 10320 Mallard Creek Road, Suite 150 | 704-547-8438 411 Billingsley Road, Suite 106 | 704-377-3687 130 Harbour Place Drive, Suite 180, Davidson | 704-896-8100 cltpediatricdentistry.com

Clark Pediatric Dentistry 7810 Providence Road, Suite 100 704-543-3766 clarkpediatricdentistry.com

Cotswold Family Dentistry 135 S. Sharon Amity Road, Suite 204 704-365-2765 cotswoldfamilydentistry.com

Dentistry for Kids 10115 Hickorywood Hill Ave., Huntersville

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CharlotteParent.com

704-948-8494 dentistryforkidsnc.com

laxerlongandsavage.com

Dentistry for Young People

Mountain Island Pediatric Dentistry

734 Hartness Road, Statesville 704-872-6534 dentistryforyoungpeople.net

10226 Couloak Drive, Suite 100 704-971-7272 charlottencpediatricdentist.com

Eastfield Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics

Northeast Pediatric Dentistry

8631 Arbor Creek Dr., Suite D-3 704-875-9075 eastfieldpedoortho.com

11223 DaVinci Drive, Davidson 704-895-6445 npdsmiles.com

Eastover Pediatric Dentistry

Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics

2711 Randolph Rd., Suite 201 704-372-0432 eastoverpediatricdentistry.com

1146 North New Hope Road, Gastonia 704-865-6425 peddent.com

Kool Smiles

Pediatric Dentistry of Matthews

2349 Cherry Road, Suite 49, Rock Hill, S.C. 866-343-8049 mykoolsmiles.com

1340 Matthews Township Pkwy., Suite 201, Matthews 704-847-4717 pediatricdentistryofmatthews.com

Laxer, Long and Savage 7820 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy., Suite 200 1994 Wellness Blvd., Suite 200, Monroe 704-759-0000

Pediatric Dentistry of South Charlotte 7741 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy.

704-845-0955 pediatricdentistryofsouthcharlotte.com

Selden Orthodontics and Dentistry 10125 Hickorywood Hill Ave., Huntersville 2325 W. Arbors Drive, Suite 106 704-992-1022 seldensmiles.com

Southpark Pediatric Dentistry 2700 Coltsgate Road, Suite 204 704-749-5700 southparkpediatricdentistry.com

Steele Creek Pediatric Dentistry 13521 Steelecroft Pkwy., Suite 100 704-714-5380 steelecreekpediatricdentistry.com

University Pediatric Dentistry 2325 W. Arbors Drive, Suite 104 704-688-1664 universitypediatricdentistrync.com

Young and Polite Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dentistry 2514 Cuthbertson Road, Suite B, Waxhaw 11010 S. Tryon St., Suite 101 7215 Lebanon Road, Suite F, Mint Hill 980-245-3451 youngandpolite.com

Learning is lifelong.

YOU CAN’T START TOO SOON.

Programs for 18 months to 5 years.

Half-day Preschool 2013

BEST PRESCHOOL BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL

Weddington Campus - 704.845.2310 • Fort Mill Campus - 803.802.2390

www.IvybrookAcademy.com

Maximize the Learning, Reflect Christ United Faith Christian Academy is an academically rigorous Christ-centered college preparatory school for grades TK-12.

8617 Providence Road Charlotte, NC 28277

704.541.1742 • www.ufca.org CharlotteParent.com

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CharlotteParent.com

704-344-1980 CharlotteParent.com

704-344-1980 PiedmontParent.com

B U S I N E S S PA RTIES

Epic meaning impressive; surpassing the ordinary.

Charlotte’s Premier Event Planning Service. We specialize in upscale children’s Birthday Parties. Our approach is simple full service event planning. We provide set up, clean up, coordination of your event, even entertainment.

The best part? We bring the party to you!

Check us out at www.epiceventsqueencity.com!

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FUN FOR ALL AGES! INDOORS OR OUTDOORS! WEATHER PERMITTING

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Activities for pick up and drop off include: School • Sports Practice • CMS Magnet Shuttle Stops • Child Care Providers Summer Camps • Door-to-door Service We work well with learning disabled kids

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LYNNWOOD EQUESTRIAN CENTER

Come to the barn and Party with the Ponies!

“America’s Fastest Growing In-Home Service”

Piano & Violin Lessons Private & In-Home Ballantyne Studio Group Piano Courses Ages 3-5, 6-8, 9-12 & 13-Adult

Supervised Ring Riding • Miniature Pet Pony & Donkey • Pizza, Drinks & Decorations S P E C I A L P R E S E N T F O R T H E B I R T H D AY C H I L D !

In-House Vet • Boarding Facility • Girl Scout Horse Program Located off Doby’s Bridge Road, Fort Mill, SC (10 minutes from Ballantyne)

See your ad in this space each month.

Strengthening Your Educational Foundation Specialized support in Reading, Writing and Mathematics 1833 Dickerson Blvd.

Monroe NC 28110

704-635-8268

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Creative Education in Music

Harmony House for Kids private music classes for ages 5 and up piano, voice, guitar, drum, bass guitar special rates for morning classes Bring this ad - get first month 50% off for classes SUMMER CAMP INFORMATION AT: harmonyhouse4kids.com 704.364.1421

PlaySpanish SPANISH CHINESE FRENCH ITALIAN GERMAN invites you to Play Languages with Us!

GET STARTED ON THE PATH TO A SECOND LANGUAGE TODAY

custom tailored one-on-one lessons student concerts and recitals, no fee to participate experienced staff money back guarantee flexible scheduling on-site receptionist for the best possible customer service

Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, French, Italian & German

FREE TRIAL LESSON!

Locations throughout the Greater Charlotte area!

Call 704-442-5616 for information!

10046-G East Independence Blvd, Matthews, NC 28105 704-708-8961 www.musicmatterscharlotte.com

www.playspanish.com www.playlanguageswithus.com

Instruction for children as young as six months old.

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A D V E R T I S E R Above + Beyond Learning Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Alexander Youth Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Allegro Studios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Anami Montessori . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 British American School of Charlotte . . . . . . . . . . 26 Brixx Wood Fired Pizza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Burrow + Case Orthodontics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Cannon School. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Carolina Asthma + Allergy Center . . . . Back Cover Carolina Dance Capital. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Carolina Kids Dentistry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 CATS/LYNX Rapid Transit Services . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Charlotte Care Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Charlotte Country Day School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Charlotte Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Charlotte Latin School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Charlotte Preparatory School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Childcare Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Child Care Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Child Language + Developmental . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Theatre of Charlotte . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Christian Montessori School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Club Z Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Countryside Montessori School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Covenant Day School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Crossway Pediatric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Davidson Day School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Developmental Disabilities Resources . . . . . . . . . 60 Dickens-Mitchener & Associates . .Inside Back Cover Discovery Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Discovery Place Kids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 EpiCentre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Epic Events QC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Family Allergy, Asthma + Sinus Care . . . . . . . . . . 50 Focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Gaston Day School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Harmony House for Kids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Huntington Learning Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Ivybrook Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 King Tiger Tae Kwon Do . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

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Laxer Long + Savage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Levine Museum of the New South . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Lindenwood Learning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Little Otter Swim School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Lynnwood Equestrian. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools. . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Midtown OB/GYN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Miller Street Dance Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Monroe Crossing Mall. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Music Matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Nationwide Insurance . . . . . . . . Inside Front Cover NC Transportation Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 NextCare Urgent Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Novant Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Olde English District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Palisades Episcopal School. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Palmetto Childproofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Party Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Picky Parents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Pigtails + Crewcuts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Play Spanish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Providence Day School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 South Charlotte Baptist Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Strike City Bowling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 The Choir School at St. Peters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 The Fletcher School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 The Goddard School. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 The John Crosland School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Totz N Tow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Trinity Episcopal School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Tweetsie Railroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 United Faith Christian Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 University City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Winston-Salem State University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Women Earning 6 Figures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Young & Polite Children's Dentistry . . . . . . . . . . . 30

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