Charlotte Parent November 2014

November 2014 • Free CharlotteParent.com

241 Reasons

to Love November

MOTIVATING A MIDDLE-SCHOOLER

Gifts That Give Back

People Who Care LOCAL PARENTS MAKING A DIFFERENCE

special advertising section

hooray for the holidays

Experience our annual guides in a whole new way with our new

iPad apps!

Download free, enhanced versions of our annual guides and watch them come to life with multimedia, slideshows, videos and interactive directories. Everything you need at your fingertips! Available now for iPad.

november 2014 24

features

20 People Who Care

Meet local parents dedicated to benefiting the lives of children in Charlotte

24 The Great Turkey Debacle

One mom’s in-the-moment grasp of what a happy Thanksgiving really means

26 Dazzling Holiday Tree Lightings and Parades Mark your calendar for these time-honored Charlotte-area holiday festivities

special advertising section

44

29 Hooray for the Holidays

This month: Places to go and things to do as a family this holiday season

in every issue

2 from the editor 5 family fyi 8 doc says 10 chalk talk 11 step-up 15 food for thought 16 mother of style 18 growing up 33 getting out 34 daily calendar 44 excursion 47 daddy derek 48 carolina smiles

26

Photo by Maura MacKinnon macphotography9.weebly.com.

20

November 2014 • Free CharlotteParent.com

33 241 Reasons

to Love November

10 16

MOTIVATING A MIDDLE-SCHOOLER

Gifts That Give Back

People Who Care

20

LOCAL PARENTS MAKING A DIFFERENCE

special advertising section

hooray for the holidays

CharlotteParent.com | NOVEMBER 2014

1

FROM THE EDITOR MICHELE HUGGINS

Counting Blessings

GROUP PUBLISHER Sharon Havranek

PUBLISHER/ EXECUTIVE EDITOR Eve White

EDITOR

Michele Huggins

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

M

y mom is dutiful in her reminders to me that we should always count our blessings. When the going gets tough, I remind myself to be grateful for the things I have, both big and small.

Sometimes I take my many “blessings” for granted, but when I stop and really think about the goodness in my life, I feel lighter somehow. When I first became a parent five years ago and struggled with the demands of being a mom, my mom continually reminded me to “count my blessings.”

Five years in, I’d say being a parent has given me a new perspective on gratitude, some obvious, others maybe less so, including a good night’s sleep, living in the present, family and friends that help ground me, and other friends that make sure I’m not so grounded I lose my sense of adventure.

With Thankgsving comes a good time to stop and count your blessings and be grateful. As my child gets older, I’m trying to teach him to be appreciative. It’s hard in our material culture for children to really understand the value of things, especially the intangibles. But it’s an important character trait to grow. It’s also important I teach him the value of helping others when there’s a need. Local mom Karen Little is helping her four children grasp the spirit of appreciation and giving back through her Wagon Wheel program. We spotlight Little for her contributions to helping Charlotte children in the feature People Who Care on page 20. She is one of six parents we recognize in this issue for their commitment to making a difference in the lives of children. Some have overcome obstacles and loss, others simply see a need and want to help, but all are grateful and believe in paying it forward to help others in our community. We hope you’ll be inspired by their stories.

And as the holidays blow in, be sure to mark you calendar for local tree lightings and parades (page 26). More family fun can be found in our calendar of events beginning on page 33. Enjoy the twinkle of the season as a family, together, in the moment.

Cheers,

Mikala Young

ART DIRECTOR Melissa Stutts

DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER Susannah Carpenter

SALES TEAM LEADER Leslie Hatheway

lhatheway@charlotteparent.com

MEDIA CONSULTANT Jen Byrum

jbyrum@charlotteparent.com

Dawn Field dfield@charlotteparent.com

ADVERTISING SALES COORDINATOR Kia Moore

ads@charlotteparent.com

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Cher Wheeler

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Logan Eason

MORRIS VISITOR PUBLICATIONS REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT Karen Rodriguez

PRESIDENT

Donna Kessler

DIRECTOR OF MANUFACTURING Donald Horton

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR Shelonda West

PUBLICATION MANAGER Kris Miller

CONTACT US

Phone: 704-344-1980 | Fax: 704-344-1983 214 W. Tremont Ave., Suite 302 | Charlotte, NC 28203 advertising@charlotteparent.com | editorial@charlotteparent.com Circulation 40,000. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. Charlotte Parent reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the publication’s standards. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

morrismedianetwork.com

A Publication of the Visitor Publications Division of Morris Communications Company, L.L.C. 725 Broad St., Augusta, GA 30901 Chairman and CEO President William S. Morris III Will S. Morris IV

PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION

2

NOVEMBER 2014

|

CharlotteParent.com

2014 Bronze Award Winner Editorial Awards Competition

what’s new at …

MANNERS PLEASE

CHARLOT TEPARENT.COM

Etiquette expert and mom Aimee Symington shares insight on teaching children to mind their manners at home, school and throughout their lives. …/blogs

Pin-spiration:

M I N I G R AT I T U D E J O U R N A L Help kids get into the spirit of being grateful by making a mini gratitude journal. Pinterest/ CharlotteParent

THINGS TO DO

EDUCATION GUIDE

MOM APPROVED

From outdoor playgrounds to indoor play spaces, find place to go, things to do and ways to explore the city as a family.

Your digital guide to preschools, public and private schools, and other valuable educational resources.

Sniffles and coughs are coming. Find a pediatrican in Charlotte recommended by those who know best – moms!

…/thingstodo

…/educationguide

Pinterest.com/ CharlotteParent

4

NOVEMBER 2014

|

CharlotteParent.com

Facebook.com/ Cltparent

…/favedocs

@CharlotteParent

CONTEST:

G R AT E F U L G O O D I E S Win the “Soups, Stews and Chili” cookbook, a “My First Baking” cookbook, and “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” sticker book, just in time for Thanksgiving… /contests instagram.com/ CharlotteParent

fyi

FAMILY

Ph

o to

by Pat

ri c k S c h n e i der

Be a High-Flyer at LINCOLN PARK

Art installations by students at Northwest School of the Arts goes up at Savona Mill.

Local Students’ Art Installation Part of West End Revitalization

A

group of students from Northwest School of the Arts is helping to revitalize the west corridor of Charlotte through art installations at the old Savona Mill on Turner Avenue. The towering 180,000 squarefoot structure, once a cotton mill, has been boarded up for years, but is undergoing a renovation by Argos Real Estate Advisors. Those boarded up windows now serve as a gallery for original works of art created by students from Northwest School of the Arts.

Through a partnership between Northwest School of the arts and

Argos Development, a curriculum was developed for the school’s spring 2014 semester. Students completed original works of art, demonstrating their understanding of certain required skills, techniques and subject matter. The pieces were then juried and reduced to 56 finalists.

Each of the finalist pieces were digitally reproduced, enlarged and printed on banner vinyl, then installed on each of the mill’s first floor windows facing the street.

The artwork represents the history and industrial context surrounding the Savona Mill, including

the trolley line to the mill and Charlotte as a textile center in the early 1900s, in juxtaposition to Charlotte’s contemporary architecture.

Renovation at Savona Mill continues, but the art installations are up and available for public viewing.

Once the mill renovations are complete, it will serve as a mixed-use facility that could include a market and family-oriented, heritage tourism projects like a working trolley that would run along restored tracks from the mill to Cedar Street behind Bank of America Stadium.

Children can feel like they are flying while gliding back and forth on the new Playworld Systems Cruise Line flyer at Lincoln Heights Park. Thanks to a partnership between Mecklenburg County Parks and Recreation and the National Recreation and Park Association, the park has new children’s play equipment, paved walking trails, a five-piece fitness station, and an improved community garden.

61% of parents think TV programs influence their child’s ambitions.

Source: couponcodespro.com

CharlotteParent.com | NOVEMBER 2014

5

fyi : : COMMUNITY

*

good deed: Davis Dawson

get real with

Jo Cowan

Quick stats: owner of Blo Charlotte, blow dry bar on Selwyn Avenue … Family tree: lives in Southpark with husband Will and three daughters — Isabelle, 11; Lillie, 8; and Susannah 6, plus a fat cat named George; a new standard poodle puppy; and a rose hair tarantula called Suri … Favorite indulgence: chocolate or great cheese …

Favorite outing: the library.

I can get lost for hours and invariably walk out with about 20 books … Favorite local eats: Brooklyn Pizza followed by TCBY; without the children, Barrington’s … iPod: Justine Balmer, a contemporary crossover soprano with a beautiful voice … Latest read: “The Orphan Train” by Christina Baker Kline … DVR: an awful lot of “Sofia the First” … In your bag: My Macbook and my iPhone in a gorgeous Lilly Pulitzer case which keeps me happy … Can’t live without: my family … Stress buster: Massage or a cold glass of Sauvignon Blanc, depending on the circumstance.

6

NOVEMBER 2014

|

CharlotteParent.com

When Davis Dawson was planning his Eagle Scout project he knew he wanted to do something big, something ambitious that would stand the test of time. Dawson, who is a junior at J.M. Robinson High School in Cabarrus County, chose to lead the build on a Habitat for Humanity house. The project, called The Eagle’s Nest, was started in the summer and is schedule for completion in November. Dawson has coordinated more than 200 volunteers and has surpassed his $35,000 fundraising goal through in-kind donations from individuals and local organizations, including the Joey Logano NASCAR team. He’s also been on site nearly every weekend helping build. “I wanted to have a project that had a lasting impact on the community so in 20 years it is still serving the community in a meaningful way,” he says. Follow the project at theeaglesnestcabarrus. org — a website designed and built by Dawson — or on Facebook.

Davis Dawson, (front row, fourth from lef t), with a crew at The Eagle’s Nest project. 

Book Release: “ABC Charlotte” Take an alphabetical tour of Charlotte in the newly released book “ABC Charlotte” written by Christy Berkau Pope and illustrated by her brother Thomas Berkau. From an albatross aviator at Carolinas Aviation Museum to Peppy Penguin showing her Carolina Panthers pride, it’s a cute book with local flavor. Meet the author Nov. 8 at LILA Home or Dec. 3 at Morrison Regional Library.

It’s Just Good ‘Cents’ The North Carolina Association of Certified Public Accountants Charlotte Chapter is empowering kids to be financially savvy at its Making ‘Cents: A Financial Literacy program. Through games and personal finance sessions, students in grades seven through 12 and their parents can gain insight to money management. Registration is required for the free event happening Nov. 8, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Piedmont Natural Gas at Piedmont Row. More at ncapa.org.

fyi : : WELLNESS

Helping the Perfectionist Child Find Balance

H

ow many times have we heard, “practice makes perfect?” How often do we say it to our children? If you have an overachieving child, striving for perfection could set your child up for disappointment.

DOC SAYS Studies have shown that constantly striving for perfection BYTRACI LAMOTHE reduces productivity and can be psychologically harming, Perfectionism also can be a risk factor for depression and eating disorders – possibly due to pressure individuals place on themselves to please others and appear perfect.

Parents should absolutely expect the best from their kids, but perfection and excellence are different. Those who strive for excellence realize that no one is perfect, including themselves. Excellence should include developing coping skills, such as maintaining a healthy diet, getting exercise and adequate rest, socializing and having downtime.

How do you know if your straight-A, athletic child is becoming overwhelmed?

If he exhibits excessive self-doubt, skips sleep to catch up on homework, isolates himself socially, or puts on a façade that “everything’s fine,” then he may be under excessive stress.

Help your child by talking to him about your childhood mistakes to show that even parents aren’t perfect, plus it may provide a good laugh. Set a study schedule to avoid late-night cramming. This can help your child get adequate sleep, and focus on the effort rather than the result. If your child begins avoiding activities because he isn’t the best, try noncompetitive games or activities, especially with the family, letting him know that he is loved, no matter his skill level.

How do you know if you are the overachieving parent? Exercising introspection and developing awareness that there may be a problem are the first steps. Often, unrealistic parental expectations stem from a parent’s upbringing. Parents may try to compensate for their unmet childhood needs by setting goals for their children based on their own experiences rather than on their child’s abilities. Examining your attitude toward perfection, then provide a loving, supportive environment with clear, age-appropriate rules to help your child set his own realistic goals. Modeling a healthy work-life balance goes a long way. If children see their parents taking time for themselves in healthy ways, they will follow suit.

Dr. Traci Lamothe is a pediatrician at Novant Health Ballantyne Pediatrics. She is married, has three children and enjoys training for triathlons.

8

NOVEMBER 2014

|

CharlotteParent.com

Nine out of 10 children ages 6 to 18 in the U.S. eat more salt than they should, according to the CDC, increasing their risk for high blood pressure and heart disease. Cut back on the sodium intake by paying close attention to nutrition labels and using less salt to season food.

A recent study found doctors are prescribing antibiotics twice as often as they are actually needed, increasing the risk of antibiotic resistance for infections. The study suggests that if a child older than 2 has bronchitis, an upper-respiratory infection, a sore throat or an ear infection, doctors should wait until the child gets worse before prescribing an antibiotic.

Building strong bones starts when you’re young. In addition to an increase in daily calcium and vitamin-D-containing foods and beverages, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children do weight-bearing activities, such as walking, dancing and running to help optimize bone health throughout childhood.

fyi : : EDUCATION

School News Freshmen entering high school in 2015, will be graded using a 10-point scale rather than the seven-point scale currently in place. The change aligns N.C. schools with other large districts in the nation that use the 10-point grading scale.

How to Motivate a Middle Schooler

App Alert: Kid Awesome Kindergarten

P

arents, along with teachers, definitely play an extremely important

Kindergarteners become heroes rescuing puppies and kittens by solving language and math activities. Flashy graphics, easy-tounderstand visual cues and motivating music keep learners engaged. iPad and iPhone, $2.99.

CHALK TALK

BY MARGE EBERTS AND PEGGY GISLER

Tip Have a zealous reader?

Suggest your child start a book club with friends.

10

NOVEMBER 2014

|

role in motivating children to learn. The teacher is in charge of the classroom climate, and when it is a caring, supportive environment where students are valued and assignments are challenging (but achievable) students can flourish. If a middle-school student is totally unmotivated in school, and his report card grades definitely reflect his lack of effort, it’s time to schedule a meeting with your child’s teacher. Include your child in the meeting so he can hear directly what the teacher

CharlotteParent.com

thinks are his strengths and weaknesses, and any reasons for his lack of achievement.

Not doing well in school is not always a case of a child being unmotivated. Study skills or lack of effort can be the culprit. Many students can rely on their natural brightness to do well in school until the material becomes more challenging and requires concentrated effort for success.

Ask your child how much time he is putting into his schoolwork. Find out how he thinks he might be able to do better in school. Also, put on the table the possibility of a learning disability.

At the conclusion of the meeting, make sure that

there is a plan in place to help turn things around for the middle-school student who is struggling. Discuss with the teacher and the child, how the child approaches studying.

One thing that could help is using a homework contract, which ensures that he will do one hour of schoolwork each day in your presence, and consider using the help of a tutor. Also, be sure to schedule another meeting within a month to six weeks to check on whether progress is being made.

Marge Eberts and Peggy Gisler are experienced teachers who together have more than 60 educational publications to their credit.

LIFE

Creating Traditions as a Blended Family

H

olidays are a time filled with traditions, from mashed potatoes and turkey at Thanksgiving to ceremonies of unwrapping gifts at Christmas. For parents who are recently divorced or who STEP-UP

BY KAREN ALLEY are part of blended families, old traditions might be the last thing you want to worry about. Keep in mind, however, that while you might be ready for a change, your children might not be.

Be prepared to hear “but that’s how we’ve always done it,” most likely in a whiny tone.

“The repetition of traditions provides security and identity for children,” said Anne Dickerson, a family counselor in Charlotte. “If traditions can be continued, that can ease children’s stress during the holidays.”

Of course, not everything can be the same as it always was. Here are a few tips for managing the minefield of holiday traditions in blended families.

Listen to your kids. Good listening skills are crucial when talking with children about holiday traditions and potential changes, but it’s also important to observe your child’s behavior for signs of stress.

“Parents often assume their child will react in a predictable way, and then forget to pay attention to what the child may actually be feeling,” says Dickerson. “Listen carefully to what your children are expressing through words, body language and unusual behaviors in order to validate what the child is feeling, and then convey empathy to them.”

Weed it out. While everyone complains there is not enough time to truly enjoy the holiday season, this is especially true for families living with the “every-other-weekend” schedule. Talk with your kids to see what they really want to do, and then set priorities. Keep in mind it’s easier to keep traditions that are kid focused and not the ones that depended on both parents being present.

::

fyi

Good listening skills are crucial when talking with children about holiday traditions and potential changes.

Start new traditions. Whether you are starting life as a single parent or have remarried and now have a blended family, the holidays are a good time to create some new traditions that have meaning for your family as it is now. Take the kids to an event you’ve always wanted to check out, or do something as simple as having ham instead of turkey for your holiday dinner.

Whatever you choose for your new traditions, make it fun and relaxing. It will surprise you how fast a new activity becomes “something we’ve always done.”

Karen Alley lives in the Triad and is proud to be part of a blended family.

CharlotteParent.com | NOVEMBER 2014

11

fyi : : LIFE

TOP 5 Thanksgiving Parades 1. Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York 2. The McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade in Chicago 3. America’s Hometown Thanksgiving Parade in Plymouth, Massachusetts

Parenting Toolbox: 5 Traits of Disciplined Children You see them at the grocery store, doctor’s office and playground. Unruly children are easy to find, but how do you identify — and create — a child who is disciplined? Sherrie Campbell, a licensed psychologist and author of “Loving Yourself: The Mastery of Being Your Own Person,” suggests looking for these signs.

1.

Self-control. Emotional maturity is the ability to delay gratification. Disciplined children commit to doing what is right even when they don’t feel like it.

2.

Empathy. Disciplined children are able to put themselves in the shoes of someone else, which allows them to develop understanding and genuine care.

3.

Motivated to feel good. Disciplined children have been parented to know they are “good,” and because of this they are driven, through their own behaviors, to maintain this state of internal well-being.

4.

Responsible. Disciplined children have been raised to be motivated from within to help around the house, school and in the world at large because they see the value in contributing to the whole rather than just thinking about their own needs.

5.

Self-love. Children who are disciplined have an internal sense of self worth.

Their confidence is derived from within and not just from performance or outside validation.

4. America’s Thanksgiving Parade in Detroit, Michigan 5. The Annual H-E-B Holiday Parade in Houston, Texas Source: travelchannel.com

R i n g e r To s s p h o t o c o u r t e s y o f To d d A d a m s . t o d d a d a m s p h o t o g ra p h y. co m

choices ... BRAIN-BUILDING BOARD GAMES

Squiggle Selection inspires creativity as players create drawings from a “squiggle.”

The judge then picks a voting card and awards it the drawing that he thinks best describes the word. Ages 7+. $19.99, amazon.com.

12

NOVEMBER 2014

|

CharlotteParent.com

Math is a blast with The Magic School Bus Math Explosion. The goal is to be the first player to explode the volcano by getting math facts correct. Players can customize math facts, making it suitable for kindergarten to middle school. $29.99, theyoungscientistsclub.com.

More stealth than flashcards, Number Ninjas is a game of math mastery that includes rolling dice and solving equations in order to travel through four distinct areas to reach the Golden Dragon first. Ages 7+. $19.99, fatbraintoys.com.

Books That Teach Gratitude “Ten Thankful Turkeys” by

Angela Muse (4EyesBooks, $8.99) is an exciting and colorful tale that follows the adventures of 10 turkeys as they get ready for a celebration.

Throughout the story, children can learn the importance of gratitude while learning interesting facts about these wild birds.

“Meet the Parents” by Peter

Bently (Simon and Schuster, $17.99) explores the many ways Mom and Dad come through for their kids — whether they are giving you a ride around the house like a horse, or carrying all of your belongings like a donkey. Hardcover. Ages 4-8.

Make communicating with your child fun by using Toymail, a free app you can use to send a message to your child via one of six toys that connect to your home’s Wi-Fi network. Send a voice message from your phone, and either Snort, Milksop, Fairfax, Rochester, Buck or Bushwick will snort, wheeze or whinny to let your child know she has a message waiting. She can respond right from her toy. $59; available for Android and iPhone, iPad and iPod touch (iOS 5.0 or later) devices. Learn more at toymail.co.

CharlotteParent.com | NOVEMBER 2014

13

fyi : : LIFE

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Apple and Sausage Stuffing

BY HEIDI BILLOTTO

T

he best recipes this time of year are family recipes — the ones that with just one bite, you are automatically transformed to a time and place of your youth. This recipe is from many a family Thanksgiving of my past and I still make it today.

Originally from the kitchen of my aunt Lore Edidin, I’ve made it local with the use of North Carolina apples and local sausage – enjoy!

AUNT LORE’S SAUSAGE AND APPLE STUFFING • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil • 1/2 large onion finely diced • 2 stalks celery diced small • 1 cup mushrooms rough chopped (use a mix of button and wild) • Salt and pepper • Dried thyme and parsley to sprinkle

• 6 ounces local hot Italian or sweet breakfast sausage meat • 1 tablespoon fresh sage leaves • 1 Gala apple peeled and diced small (or try local pears!)

• 5 cups assorted bread torn • 1/2 cup apple juice or cider • 1/2 cup chicken stock

Heat a nonstick high-sided pan with the olive oil. Add finely chopped onion and celery. Sauté on medium-high heat for about three minutes until vegetables start to soften. Add mushrooms and continue cooking another three minutes. Season with salt, pepper, parsley and thyme.

Squeeze sausage meat out of casings into the mix. Break up with spoon. Add chopped apple or pear and sauté for two minutes. Add sage leaves. When sausage meat is cooked through add bread pieces. Mix well with spoon to incorporate.

Pour apple juice over the stuffing to moisten the mixture. Add chicken stock and continue stirring to combine. The stuffing should be moist and cohesive, with distinctive chunks of apples, mushrooms and sausage. More liquid may be needed depending on how dry the bread was. Add extra apple juice as needed.

If you are roasting a turkey, you can stuff the bird just before roasting, but make sure the stuffing is cooled to at least room temperature first. Otherwise place the prepared stuffing in a buttered baking dish that can be covered with foil or lid. Bake 30 to 45 minutes at 350 degrees.

Heidi Billotto is a culinary expert who hosts cooking classes throughout the Charlotte area. Find more at heidibillottofood.com.

CharlotteParent.com | NOVEMBER 2014

15

fyi : : LIFE

MOTHER OF STYLE »»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» BY WHITLEY ADKINS HAMLIN Photo courtesy of Donna Jernigan. momentsbydonna.com Little Scarlett and Scarlett dresses, from $34.99, TheMatchingDots.com. 

Give Fifty One watches, $51.51, givefiftyone.org. 

Pay it Forward With Fashion Give Fifty One

With the holiday season right around the corner, we thought it would be fun to share some local, fashionable companies that are making an effort to give back to the community. From jewelry to children’s clothing, there is something for every stylish mama to give (and get) this holiday season.

The Matching Dots. The Matching Dots is a Charlotte-based line of unique matching dresses for girls and moms who want to coordinate in style. For every dress sold, The Matching Dots feeds two hungry children through donations to the national organization Stop Hunger Now. As part of its campaign, the company partners with different celebrities throughout the year, and whenever they are spotted wearing a design by the brand, The Matching Dots feeds 200 hungry children on the celebrity’s behalf. thematchingdots.com.

I.C. London. This veteran Charlotte lingerie store works with not-for-profit organization

Bless Back Worldwide to provide both medical and nonmedical support for Haitian females in need. Last year, I.C. London sent more than 250 gently used bras donated by customers.

The organization in turn gives a donated bra to each lady who signs up for the women’s clinic in Haiti. Bring your gently used bra to I.C. London to donate to receive $10 off your next purchase. iclondon.com.

In December of 2011 Alexander Greer discovered that the 10-year-old child he was mentoring was homeless, and that the child was helping take care of his other younger homeless siblings. This realization inspired him to start Give Fifty One with friend Jonathan Jones. Through the sale of stylish watches and apparel for men and women, the organization gave 51 percent of its profits in its first year to help impoverished children in Charlotte.

Since Sept. 1, 2014, the organization gives 100 percent of its profits. givefiftyone.org. 

Julie Lopez Shoes

Julie Lopez, a former orthopedic nurse, tapped into her medical expertise to create her own collection of luxe shoes manufactured in Italy.

Throughout the fall months, for all sales on its Edie Bordeaux Snake flat, the company donates $25 to earlier.org, an organization focused on early breast cancer detection. julielopezshoes.com. 

Erin McDermott Jewelry. Charlotte-based jewelry designer Erin McDermott handcrafted “The Holmes Team necklace,” a sterling silver disc with the words “Love Heals” engraved on one side, to support the Desmelik family whose 5-year-old child has a brain tumor. For each necklace sold, $20 goes to the Desmelik family to help with medical bills and other related costs. erinmcdermott.com.

Whitley Adkins Hamlin is a local stylist and mom to two boys under age 5. Read her Mother of Style blog at CharlotteParent.com/blogs.

16

NOVEMBER 2014

|

CharlotteParent.com

For each pair of Edie Bordeaux Snake flats sold in the fall, $25 goes to earlier.org to support early breast cancer detection research. 

fyi : : LIFE

Growing up: Raising Cheery Volunteers

V

olunteering with children can facilitate family bonding and impart valuable lessons in giving back. More than 15 million youth — around 55 percent — participate in GROWING UP

BY MALIA JACOBSON volunteer activities, mostly through religious, school, or youth organizations, according the Corporation for National and Community Service. But kids aren’t always willing helpers.

Parents may wonder how to volunteer with a tiny tot, or about the best way to motivate a self-centered tween.

Looking to get kids excited about giving back? Here’s ageby-age guidance on raising kids who give joyfully.

Malia Jacobson is an award-winning health and parenting journalist and mom of three.

1-5 years

HELPING HEARTS

Don’t assume that kids need to be schoolage before they can volunteer. “When kids are very young, you can volunteer as a family unit,” says Simon Lockyer father of two and founder of online giving platform everydayhero.com. Volunteering helps teach tots interpersonal skills including communication, empathy, and respect for others, and can foster future interest in volunteering. Toddlers and preschoolers can help plant community gardens, wrap or decorate gifts, help pick up litter or rake leaves for an outdoor clean-up, sort and stack donated coats and scarves, or help shelve items at a food bank. Lockyer recommends bringing young ones to visit the elderly in nursing homes or deliver Meals on Wheels. “Their presence makes the experience really beautiful, brightening the faces of the sad and lonely who live either away from home or on their own.” Don’t expect little ones to truly get the concept of giving back — just let them enjoy the act of helping others.

18

NOVEMBER 2014

|

CharlotteParent.com

6-12 years

CARING CONNECTION

School-age children have a host of new worries and responsibilities, from friend cliques to math homework, and they can be pre-occupied with their own daily lives. They can also make excellent, caring volunteers, says licensed family therapist Jen S. Miller, owner of Foothills Family Therapy in Winston Salem. It’s all a matter of finding something that sparks a child’s interest. “When children have decisionmaking autonomy to choose the type of charity or organization they want to work with, it gives them additional motivation and empowerment,” she says. Parents can present grade-schoolers with several options, preferably ones that relate to the child’s own life. Kids who have been bullied can volunteer with a group that advocates for bullying victims; pet lovers can work with animals; and bookworms can help out at a book drive.

Kids not only feel great about giving back, but also connect with others who share their struggles or interests.

GIVE AND TAKE 13-18 years

Volunteering can be especially meaningful for teens who can more fully appreciate the concept of altruism, says Miller. “Through volunteering, they can grasp the good feelings of giving, instead of receiving, and apply more meaning to their lives and relationships.” That doesn’t mean giving back doesn’t have personal benefits, says Lockyer. “Volunteering has become an increasingly important social and professional statement — professional networking website LinkedIn has added a volunteer section where job-seeker can showcase volunteer experiences, and many colleges factor volunteer pursuits along with other extracurricular activities in admission decisions,” he says. Teens looking to get involved — and or beef up a professional resume or college application — can visit volunteermatch. org to connect with nonprofits based on their skills and experiences.

Pwho

eople

Care

PROFILES BY MARTY MINCHIN

We believe that Charlotte is a community of families always available to help each other, and families that stand up for causes that they

are passionate about. With that idea

in mind, we asked readers to nominate parents in the area that are making a difference by giving back and contributing to children in Charlotte.

From supporting babies in neonatal intensive care to guiding teens on paths for success, we feel the following people stand out for tireless dedication to their causes and the people that benefit. _ Michele Huggins

Rosie MOLINARY

Circle de Luz | circledeluz.org

Rosie Molinary is changing young girls’ lives by partnering young Latina students with people who want to help them succeed. Circle de Luz, Molinary’s nonprofit organization, provides intensive mentoring, cultural experiences and college scholarships to groups of girls who are in the program from seventh through 12th grade.

Rosie Molinary is the founder of Circle de Luz.

20

NOVEMBER 2014

|

CharlotteParent.com

Photo by Ashley Frisk Photography.

H

eather H U C K S

Bee Mighty, Novant Health NICU Family Advisory Council | beemighty.org

Heather Hucks with her husband Darrin Hucks and their son, Tucker.

Molinary, a former Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools high school teacher and author of “Hijas Americanas: Beauty, Body Image, and Growing Up Latina,” conceived Circle de Luz after meeting many Latina high school students on her book tour. “One of the things that struck me was high school girls would talk about their dreams, and all of those dreams required higher education,” says Molinary. From her research, Molinary knew that the girls likely did not have the resources to attend college.

Circle de Luz organizes groups of women who commit to donate annually to a scholarship fund for a class of Circle de Luz girls, called “hijas.” Each year, six or seven hijas are chosen from a CharlotteMecklenburg Schools middle school and stay together until high school graduation. They meet regularly for experiences such as navigating the high ropes course at Davidson College or taking a photography class, and they work on life and academic skills. In 2014, the first Circle de Luz class graduated from high school, and all five girls will attend college — many will be the first in their families to do so.

Heather and Darrin Hucks’ son Tucker spent 151 days in the NICU as a micro-preemie. The experience fueled a compassion and drive in them to volunteer, which has led them to become leading advocates of support for parents of preemies. “The experience taught us perspective,” says Heather Hucks, “and understanding that very complex and hard things can happen to anybody, and everybody in that situation needs support.”

Hucks took over Bee Mighty, a charity that raises money to pay for therapy and medical equipment for NICU graduates, when founding couple Candace and Michael Richter moved to Colorado. In 2012, Hucks’ first year at Bee Mighty, she hoped to raise $15,000. The organization raised more than $100,000 that year, and is on track for a similar total in 2014. “The community has stepped in and supported us in a way that we could never have imagined,” she says.

The Novant Health NICU Family Advisory Council, which Hucks is helping to launch, begins in January 2015 and matches veteran parents who have had a baby in the NICU with parents going through the NICU experience. The Hucks will offer “NICU 101” for parents new to the experience and will visit the NICU once a week. The Hucks also have become outspoken advocates of the Ronald McDonald House, where they stayed during Tucker’s hospitalization.

CharlotteParent.com | NOVEMBER 2014

21

Sean ennifer

and

SOAR

JM c G R A T H With

Grace

|

soarwithgrace.org

Days after Sean and Jennifer McGrath’s 7-yearold daughter Grace had trouble lifting her arm to put on a sweater for church, a doctor diagnosed her with Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG), an aggressive, untreatable brain tumor. Her parents had never heard of DIPG, but they quickly learned that no significant medical advancements had been made toward a treatment or cure in 30 years. Grace, who was a student at Weddington Elementary School, died in 2010, less than a year after her diagnosis. “You could either not continue or press forward,” says Sean McGrath, who started SOAR With Grace with his wife Jennifer. “I think I owe it to Gracie and other families in the community to allow them to become aware of (DIPG).”

SOAR With Grace honors Grace’s legacy of courage and determination, and raises money to fund research into a treatment and cure for DIPG. The McGraths hold the RACE Against the Odds 5K and a tennis event each year, which have helped raise more than $135,000 for the foundation. They are passionate about educating people about DIPG, and have gotten to know Oren Becker, an assistant professor at Duke University and a leading DIPG researcher. “In my lifetime, if I can make one step in the right direction for a cure, that’s the drive that burns within me,” says Sean McGrath.

Karen Little having fun at an Alexander Youth Network birthday party.

Racers flood the streets of Matthews at the Race Against the Odds 5K, which was started by Sean and Jennifer McGrath.

Karen

Alexander Youth Network and Wagon Wheel alexanderyouthnetwork.org

Karen Little knows how to throw a good party. Whether she’s helping kids duct tape a teacher to the wall or use squirt guns as paint brushes, she makes monthly birthday celebrations for kids served by Alexander Youth Network’s day treatment program events to remember. “The kids are just so sweet and kind and appreciative,” says Little, who has volunteered for Alexander Youth Network for more than three years. She got involved with Alexander Youth Network, which provides treatment for children with serious emotional and behavioral problems, when she was looking for a place to volunteer. She attended a birthday party at the agency to check it out, and

LITTLE

22

NOVEMBER 2014

|

CharlotteParent.com

Michelle

Michelle Icard wants parents — and children — to rethink middle school. The Michelle in the Middle author of “Middle michelleinthemiddle.com School Makeover: Improving the Way You and Your Child Experience the Middle School Years,” Icard is a nationally sought-after writer and speaker on the topic.

Through years of working with students and ongoing research, Icard has become an expert in helping parents and children make middle school a positive experience. “My hope is for us to express empathy for this time of life and inspire people (to think) that instead of dreading this time period, embrace and be excited about it,” says Icard.

Michelle Icard is the founder of Michelle in the Middle.

Her initial interest in middle school was sparked about 10 years ago when she noticed that many of the students she was privately tutoring weren’t actually having academic struggles. Their brains were overwhelmed trying to navigate the social world of middle school.

Icard’s work with students became the foundation for Michelle in the Middle, an organization offering a wide array of resources for middle school students and parents, including online courses; and Athena’s Path and Hero’s Pursuit summer camps for rising fifth through eighth graders; and conferences and meet-ups for parents.

When her children, ages 12 and 14, left elementary school, Icard felt prepared. “I didn’t feel nervous about middle school or high school,” she says. “I really liked both transitions. For me, it was a happy experience.”

ICARD

has helped organize every party since by mobilizing her friends and contacts to pitch in. Little, a stay-at-home mom, and her children, who are ages 7, 8, 9 and 10, brainstorm ideas for each party. Little is willing to try almost anything her kids believe would be fun.

To get kids more involved in community service, Little founded Wagon Wheel, an initiative that mobilizes children to give back to the community. Her children collected more than 750 pounds of food in their neighborhood for charities, and she arranged for the Alexander Youth Network choir to sing Christmas Carols at an assisted living center. Little also meets each week with an Alexander Youth Network lunch buddy. “Everybody can volunteer and make a difference,” she says. “You don’t have to be a certain age or size. You just have to have the heart to put together an idea.”

CharlotteParent.com | NOVEMBER 2014

23

the

Great

Turkey Debacle

BY JONNA JEROME

D

oes the prospect of tackling a holiday meal fill you with anxiety? Don’t despair, those cooking shows and glossy magazines can make anyone feel inadequate, there is hope for the rest of us.

When I learned I would be hosting the extended family Thanksgiving for the first time, I was excited. Thanksgiving at home and not driving! The start of our own traditions. Then reality set in.

My sister is the consummate hostess, and has regally carried that mantle for years. She makes Martha Stewart look like a toddler banging a pan with a spoon. Then I thought about the two sides of our family mingling. I started to perspire. That’s not entirely accurate, I was sweating profusely. My family does not mingle well. They often over-share my most embarrassing life moments. Or talk politics. Or make innocently gross remarks about their latest medical procedures.

24

NOVEMBER 2014

|

CharlotteParent.com

I decided to focus on the food. I consulted friends and family, online cooking sites, cookbooks and magazines.

I borrowed my parents’ heirloom roasting pan and prayed the skill of whipping up an amazing feast ran in the genes. I went shopping the day before, three kids in tow and purchased a fortune’s worth of food. I was prepared, or so I thought.

When “Turkey Day” arrived, my husband and I got up bright and early to prepare. I now understand why people are vegetarians. Turkeys are surprisingly slippery sans feathers, and wrestling with a raw one is stomach turning.

Emptying its cavities is horrifying.

Stuffing said cavities even more so. Once it was in the roasting pan, my husband fled for work. I can’t reach our oven, so I climbed on my step stool to slide the bird inside. I could not shut the door.

I grabbed the kids and lugged them back to the very crowded store. I put my baby and toddler in the shopping cart

and pulled my older son after me.

I bought an iced espresso and stuck it on the cart as I searched for a foil pan that would fit into my easy-bake sized oven.

I heard an odd slurping sound and turned to find my toddler just finishing off my espresso.

I performed automotive gymnastics getting home, concerned my daughter might have a bathroom emergency, but she was very cheerful. I packed the turkey in the pan again, then began tidying up the house. The kids made interesting additions to the decor that I did my best not to re-arrange. Shortly thereafter I noticed a strange smell.

Before I quite placed it, the smoke alarm started shrieking. I leaped onto my stool and threw open the door as smoke poured into my face. The foil had torn and the precious drippings were emptying into the oven instead of my gravy boat. I yanked the pan out and it collapsed, depositing the turkey on the floor and burning my arm in the process.

Once again, I loaded my now very grumpy kids into the car. Even my formerly espresso-fueled daughter was yawning.

I returned to my personal aisle just as an elderly lady ahead of me picked up the last foil pans. I rummaged frantically through the already ravaged shelf. “Mom! Can we just buy some mac-and-cheese?” my son asked wistfully. I blinked rapidly, trying to resist the sudden burning in my eyes. And then it happened, the first Thanksgiving miracle of the day. The lady said, “I think I’ll go with a cooked chicken. Just me and my neighbor … we don’t need a big fancy dinner.” She handed me the pans. I paid for her chicken to thank her.

I broke all land speed records getting home again with the pans and jars of gravy. My firstborn witnessed me washing the ruined turkey in the sink. “I’m not gonna eat that,” he said solemnly. He cheered up when I allowed him to shove apples and carrots into the bird. Better him than me. I dumped it into the double-stacked pans for the third time, hoping for tear resistance. I mean rips in the pans, not tears of my own. OK, both actually.

By now I was quite disheveled and smelled strongly of smoke. There was no time to shower again, so I settled for changing my clothes and picking celery out of my hair. I was getting more and more upset with myself. Why couldn’t I enjoy this process? Admittedly I had been attacked by a turkey, beaten down by the grocery store, and deprived of my coffee.

Still, why do I have this quest for perfection? It’s not like my family would disown me over a dry turkey.

The moment of truth arrived. As I delivered the meal to the table, I was in shock. It was the second miracle of the day. That bird was beautiful. My sister mixed what was left of the drippings with the store bought variety for perfect gravy.

I can’t recall what anything actually tasted like, which is my entire point. If you act like a lunatic at Thanksgiving, that’s all your family will recall even if everything else is in shambles.

Who wants to carry that mantle?

As I watched my kids happily holding court, wrinkled from their belated nap and not dressed in their fancy holiday attire, I realized the cliché is true. What’s on the table doesn’t matter as much as those around it. So go ahead and mess up the meal, perfect is dull. Have turkey hot dogs on the back deck. Laugh when your family says something embarrassing to the neighbors. Stir the pot and invite the chaos. These are the things you will remember in years to come — that and a sweet lady at the grocery store who restores your faith in human kindness.

2015 ONLINE

CAMPFAIR advertise with us Reach parents looking for summer camp options!

In Print • Online • On-the-Go

Call today to advertise

704-248-5207

advertising@charlotteparent.com

Jonna Jerome is a freelance writer who now lets her sister handle Thanksgiving dinner for the family.

CharlotteParent.com | NOVEMBER 2014

25

Dazzlingholiday

Tree Lightings

AND

Parades

Nothing says hello holidays like twinkling lights and holiday parades. Make it a bright start to the season with these long-standing holiday favorites. Several include a visit from Santa and all promise to be fun for the whole family.

COMPILED BY MEGAN FINKE

FRIDAY, NOV. 21

Concord’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony Ring in the season in historic downtown Concord with music, children’s amusements, horse-drawn wagon rides and trolley rides, plus Santa Claus and a fireworks display.

5:30-7:30 p.m. Historic Downtown Concord. concorddowntown.com.

THURSDAY,

NOV. 27

Miracle on Piedmont Row Drive

SouthPark Tree Lighting Celebration

Be there for the countdown to the tree lighting at 7 p.m., and enjoy horseand-carriage rides, balloon animals, a train for kids, hot chocolate, face painting, carolers and Santa! Bring an unwrapped toy to donate to Toys for Tots. 6-9 p.m.

Piedmont Town Center, 4725 Piedmont Row Drive. piedmonttowncenter.com

Watch as Santa lights the tree at Symphony Park, followed by fun activities for the kids. 5-7 p.m. Symphony Park, 4400 Sharon Road. simon.com.

SATURDAY, NOV. 22

Concord Christmas Parade Marvel at the parade floats and bands, and get in your requests to Santa.

Thousands have viewed the parade since it was first presented in 1928.

The parade travels south, from Lake Concord Road and Church Street, down

Union Street and ends at Corban Avenue. 2:30-5:30 p.m. Downtown Concord. abarrusevents.org.

FRIDAY, NOV. 28

Holiday Festival of Lights Wander through the more than 75,000 lights illuminating historic buildings and hear Victorian singers as they stroll the streets. Kids can also visit Santa and give him their wish list for Christmas Day. Oh and there will be snow! 5-7 p.m. Downtown Waxhaw. waxhaw.com.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING Novant Health Thanksgiving Day Parade

Credit: Jim McGuire and Charlotte Center City Partners.

Celebrate the holidays by bringing your family out to one of the largest Thanksgiving Day parades in the country. Expect marching bands, large balloons and floats, and live performances in front of the Levine Center for the Arts on South Tryon Street.

See replay on WBTV at 1 p.m. The parade airs on television again on Christmas Day. Kick-off at 9:30 a.m. Tryon Street from Stonewall Street to 9th Street. charlottecentercity.org.

2014-15 Education Guide

ON STANDS NOW SATURDAY, NOV. 29

Light Up Cornelius  Watch the inaugural tree lighting at Cornelius Town Hall, and enjoy choirs, dance performances, children’s activities, holiday crafts, carriage rides, train displays and a visit from Santa.

Refreshments and holiday shopping on-site. 4-6 p.m. cornelius.org.

Light Up Cornelius photos courtesy Mindi Stoner, Cornelius PARC Department.

MONDAY, DEC. 1

Christmas Town Festival

Join in the annual tree-lighting ceremony at Legacy Park on Elm Street in McAdenville. Be there at 5:30 p.m. when the big switch is pulled and more than 500,000 red, white and green lights start another Christmas Town USA season. See Santa between 6 and 9 p.m. mcadenvillechristmastown.com.

TUESDAY, DEC. 2

Belmont Christmas Parade One of downtown Belmont’s greatest annual events, with thousands lining the streets to see the floats, bands and other entries. 4 p.m. Downtown Belmont. cityofbelmont.org.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 3

Pick up your copy today!

• The big list of preschools, private, public, charter and boarding schools

Mount Holly Christmas Parade

• 775 education resources

Parade floats, bands and jolly ‘ole Saint Nick. Downtown Mount Holly. 4 p.m. mtholly.us.

• Why early education matters

THURSDAY, DEC. 4

Christmas in Cramerton Enjoy activities for kids and live music beginning at 2 p.m. at Cramerton Town Center. Stay for the parade as it marches down Eighth Street beginning at 4 p.m., followed by the official town tree-lighting at the Cramerton Town Hall and Police Station at 5:15 p.m. 2-6 p.m. Downtown Cramerton. cramerton.org.

• The switch from public to private school • The lowdown on parental homework help

View the digital edition CharlotteParent.com/EducationGuide

PLUS...

Download the free Education Guide iPad App, an enhanced version of the print edition featuring multimedia, slideshows, videos and interactive directories.

Coming soon!

CharlotteParent.com | NOVEMBER 2014

27

Monroe Christmas Parade Enjoy tree-lit streets, bands, Christmas carols and a visit from Santa. The theme this year is “All American Christmas,” celebrating men and women who serve our country. 6:30 p.m. Downtown Monroe. monroedowntown.com.

Fort Mill Tree Lighting Enjoy the annual event at Confederate Park to light up the town with a performance from Fort Mill Elementary School singers.

Main Street, Fort Mill, S.C. fortmillsc.org.

FRIDAY, DEC. 5

through downtown Rock Hill in the Light the Night parade, from Winthrop University to downtown Rock Hill. 6:30-9 p.m. cityofrockhill.com.

SATURDAY, DEC. 6

Christmas in Downtown Monroe Enjoy downtown Monroe’s annual Christmas tree lighting featuring wandering carolers, live music, carriage and trolley rides, food vendors, a Christmas petting zoo, and guaranteed snow. Treelighting at 7 p.m. 6-9 p.m. historicdowntownmonroe.org.

Rock Hill Christmas Parade

Fort Mill Christmas Parade

See beautiful floats and Christmas lights as they make their way

Enjoy community floats, marching bands and a visit from Santa. Free. 11a.m.

Downtown Fort Mill, S.C. fortmillsc.org.

Hometown Holiday Festival and Tree Lighting Enjoy family-friendly activities, carriage rides, exhibitors and refreshments. A ceremony from 5-6 p.m. includes performances, followed by Santa’s arrival, a fireworks display and the lighting of the town tree.

3-6 p.m. Town Hall Village Green. matthewsnc.gov.

NOVEMBER 2014

See marching bands, dance groups, community-group floats and Santa at one of North Mecklenburg’s largest annual events. Marches from Davidson to Cornelius along Highway 115. 1 p.m. townofdavidson.org.

|

CharlotteParent.com

TOP: Photo courtesy of Charlotte’s Got A Lot. LEFT: Boys and Frosty photo courtesy of Monroe Parks and Recreation.

Pineville’s Annual Tree Lighting Be there as the town lights up its holiday tree. Enjoy carols, crafts, hot chocolate, cookies and the arrival of Santa Claus at the Old Police Building. 6:30 p.m. townofpineville.com.

SUNDAY, DEC. 7

Gastonia Christmas Parade Watch the parade of floats, listen to bands perform and see Santa. 2-4 p.m.

Downtown Gastonia. gastoncojaycees.org.

SATURDAY, DEC. 13

Kannapolis Christmas Parade Enjoy the illuminated night parade that includes fire trucks, bands, horses and floats, plus Santa. 6 p.m.

Main and First streets and West Avenue, Kannapolis. cabarrusevents.org.

Light Up Lowell Come out for the holiday festival, parade, Santa and tree lighting. 2-6 p.m., parade at 3 p.m. Downtown Lowell. lowellnc.com.

Credit: Town of Matthews Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource Department

28

North Mecklenburg Christmas Parade

SUNDAY, DEC. 14

Waxhaw Christmas Parade See local marching bands, horses, and floats by hundreds of businesses and members of the community.

After the parade, kids can have a snack and take photos with Santa.

3 p.m. Downtown Waxhaw. waxhaw.com.

FRIDAY, DEC. 19

Yule Log Parade and Ceremony

Join in a Christmas tradition as children help pull the Yule Log through town to Legacy Park where it is then ignited. Afterward, gather around to sing Christmas carols. The evening ends with a visit from Santa.

5:30 p.m. Pharr Yarns Main Office, Main Street, McAdenville. mcadenvillechristmastown.com.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

FOR THE

Cabarrus Events Association Come celebrate the magic of the holidays with the 86th annual ACN Concord Christmas Parade on Nov. 22 at 2:30 p.m. and the 76th Annual Cannon Pharmacy Kannapolis Christmas Parade on Dec. 13 at 6:30 p.m. The Kannapolis Parade is the only nighttime parade in Cabarrus County with all entries illuminated. For more information visit www.cabarrusevents.org.

7th Annual Live Nativity & Christmas Tree Lighting Come Nov. 30 at 5 p.m. for the live nativity, and at 6:15 p.m. for the lighting of the tree.

Cabarrus Events Association 2406 S. Cannon Blvd., Kannapolis 704-699-1702 cabarrusevents.org

We’ll have a camel, donkey, sheep and more! We have a new awesome nativity program too! Invite friends and neighbors to come prepare for the holiday season. Refreshments and ornament-making for children of all ages. Don’t miss this free holiday tradition!

The Vine 2101 Belvedere Ave. 704-334-7348 thevinecharlotte.com

Holidays at Northlake Mall Ice Palace: Nov. 6-Dec. 24 Take pictures with Santa, play in the falling snow and have a cold seat on the Ice Throne. Join us for the best holiday experience in Charlotte!

Breakfast With Santa: Nov. 8, 8:3010 a.m. Enjoy music, crafts and story time with Santa. The first 200 kids get free breakfast.

Northlake Mall | 6801 Northlake Mall Drive 704-921-2000 | shopnorthlake.com

Historic Latta Plantation Folk Life Festival: Nov. 8 and 9, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Family activities, vendors, entertainment and history.

Plantation Christmas: Nov. 28 and 29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Meet Father Christmas and enjoy Colonial Christmas traditions, and meet the farm animals.

Candle Light Christmas and Live Nativity: Dec. 6, 6-9 p.m. See the plantation by candlelight and enjoy caroling.

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

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

South Carolina State Museum

Holidays at the Garden

Holiday shows and events at the South Nature and abundant fascinations come together to create a winter Carolina State Museum! “Polar Express, the wonderland like no other at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Our 4D Experience” and The Christmas Star in the contemporary, elegant lighting display will brighten your holidays while our fire planetarium ongoing Nov. 8 through Jan. 4, 2015. pit keeps you warm. And with the opening of Lost Hollow, our new children’s Winterfest, a celebration of the holidays for families garden, Holidays at the Garden has become an even greater family tradition. runs from Dec. 20-Jan. 4, 2015. General admission Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens and special pricing for shows.

6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont South Carolina State Museum 704-825-4490 301 Gervais St., Columbia, S.C. dsbg.org 803-898-4953 | scmuseum.org

StrikeCity Holidays

Run Run Rudolph 5K/10 Run and Walk

StrikeCity is your holiday headquarters. With a little something to do for everyone, spare the boring parties, you can’t go wrong booking here. Whether it is a family get-together or a corporate party, StrikeCity has packages, offers, and unbeatable amenities just for you. Ages 4+.

Contact Carey Hurley at 704716-9300 or churley@ strikecitycharlotte.com for more information.

Bring your holiday spirit to the 2nd annual Run Run Rudolph 5K/10K and support the Brain Tumor Fund for the Carolinas! Join us Sat., Dec. 6 for this family-friendly event. All proceeds benefit The Brain Tumor Fund for the Carolinas, a local not-for-profit. Registration and donation info can be found at www. btfcnc.org. Prizes for best costumes and hot cocoa for everyone. $15-$30.

Peak 10, 10101 David Taylor Drive 704-635-8643 btfcnc.org

StrikeCity 210 E. Trade St. 704-716-9300 strikecitycharlotte.com

The Singing Christmas Tree for KIDS Saturday, Dec. 13, 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Grab a seat on the Polar Express and get into the spirit of the season with this Carolina Voices’ family-friendly holiday show! Rousing sing-a-longs, a singing “Tree”, The Grey Seal Puppets, amazing dancers and, of course, a visit from good old St. Nick make this show an annual favorite! $10$20. Ages 3-10.

Ovens Auditorium, 2700 E Independence Blvd.

704-374-1564 carolinavoices.org

Clara’s Trip: A Nutcracker Story Dec. 12, 7 p.m. | Dec. 13, 2 and 7 p.m.

Clara LeBlanc trips at a holiday party and breaks her ankle dancing. That night her friends and get-well gifts swirl in her dreams. This show is the perfect family event during the holiday season. $20-$55.

Recommended for a ages 6+.

Caroline Calouche & Co. Booth Playhouse, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-844-0449 carolinecalouche.org

Holiday on Ice Holiday On Ice returns Nov. 21 for the 2014 holiday season!

Join us at the coolest place in the city, Charlotte’s only outdoor ice skating rink. Don’t miss this holiday favorite as we share the tradition from our family to yours. Open Nov. 21- Jan. 4, 2015 with extended holiday hours Dec. 22- Jan. 4, 2015. $13 admission and skate rental.

Holiday on Ice 400 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

704-390-3715 holidayonicecharlotte.com

Krueger Reindeer Romp 5K Join the Harris YMCA Dec. 13 for our third annual holiday race. Fun for the entire family, the 5K Run/Walk begins at 8 a.m.; and for our younger runners, Santa’s Express Fun Run begins at 8:45 a.m. Hot chocolate and food at the finish line, pictures with Santa and prizes for best costume. Register online: racesonline.com. Ages 5+.

Harris YMCA 5900 Quail Hollow Road 704-716-6800 ymcacharlotte.org/harris

CharlotteParent.com | NOVEMBER 2014

31

32

NOVEMBER 2014

|

CharlotteParent.com

G O! ETTING UT

COMPILED BY MIKALA YOUNG

November 2014 go. see. play.

8

It’s Dinosaur Day at the Museum of York County. Dress the kids up like their favorite dinosaur or bring a stuffed animal of a prehistoric reptile. Featured activities include handling real dinosaur fossils and playing Dinosaur memory.

Children can also create a dinosaur rubbing or coloring page. For those who dress up in a costume, look forward to a parade at noon. Noon-2 p.m. $3-$5.

Museum of York County 4621 Mt. Gallant Road, Rock Hill, S.C. 803-329-2121 chmuseums.org

14

Twenty-five superheroes, including Thor, Iron Man, SpiderMan, Captain America and Hulk, band together at Marvel Universe Live! to save the world from its enemies — Loki, Doc Ock, Red Skull Green Goblin to name a few — in the battle over the Cosmic Cube. Watch as your favorite characters come to life through action-packed stunts.

Through Nov. 16. See website for times. $45+.

Time Warner Cable Arena 333 E. Trade St. 704-688-9000 timewarnercablearena.com

22

Join “Frozen” characters Elsa and Ana at the uptown ice-skating rink at Holiday on Ice to skate the day away. Hear music from the movie soundtrack, join in a sing-a-long, enjoy princess art projects and get your picture made with the two of Disney’s most beloved princesses. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. $10 admission, $3 skate rental. Holiday on Ice runs through Jan. 4.

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

704-277-2636 holidayonicecharlotte.com

29

Start your holiday event traditions early at Plantation Christmas. Learn how Christmas was done in previous decades.

Explore Christmas décor, meet Father Christmas, experience baking in the kitchen, and learn about Christmas customs from the past. $6-$9, free for children 5 and under.10 a.m.-4 p.m.

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

CharlotteParent.com | NOVEMBER 2014

33

Photo courtesy of Wendy Yang Photography.

Family Day at the Bechtler J Puts Spotlight on Firebird

BY MEGAN FINKE

oin the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art Nov. 8 for a day of family-friendly activities that spotlights one of the museum’s most well-known sculptures — Firebird.

Throughout November, the Bechtler is celebrating the fifth anniversary of Firebird, the playful mirrored, mosaic sculpture at the museum’s outdoor entrance plaza. Firebird, the work of French sculptor Niki de Saint Phalle, has become something of a cultural mascot for uptown Charlotte since its installation in November 2009. Whether your family has seen the sculpture before or not, Family Day will be an exciting way to experience the art and musuem.

Throughout the day, choose from a host of activities including art projects, story time, gallery games, and family-friendly Before your family goes to the Bechtler’s tours. Create imaginative animal-shaped Family Day, enjoy the Charlotte artwork inspired by Firebird and Niki de Symphony Lollipop’s presentation of Saint Phalle’s work. Children can read, the The Emperor’s New Clothes at 11 draw, write and play with puzzles in a.m. at Knight Theater (which shares the Firebird Interactive Gallery. And just lobby space and is connected to the for fun, make your own Firebird using Bechtler Museum of Modern Art). The mosaic tiles.

Charlotte Symphony has transformed Family Day is from noon to 4:30 p.m. Admission is free for children under the classic story into an animal fable age 18 and $8 for adults. Art activities are with a big, pink Emperor pig, and puppet adaptation that includes intended for children ages 5 and older. audience interaction. Tickets are from The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art $19.50-$25.50 and available online at is located at 420 S. Tryon St. For more charlottesymphony.org. information, visit bechtler.org.

34

NOVEMBER 2014

|

CharlotteParent.com

1 SATURDAY Classroom Central Field Day. Enjoy a day of family-friendly competition, including face painting, live music and sports mascots. Proceeds will be used to buy school supplies for students in need. $5 for adults, kids Free. 1-4pm. Memorial Stadium, Rain site: Grady Cole Center, 310 N. Kings Drive. classroomcentral.org/fieldday.

Enchanted Fall Festival. A fairy-house competition, fall family photos, touch-a-truck, hole-in-one golf, fun carnival games and a bake sale. Free. 11am-3pm. Piedmont Progressive Preschool, 9704 Mallard Creek Road. 704-510-1022. progressivepreschool.org.

Family First: Batik Art for the Family. Learn an alternative way to make batik art using glue and acrylic paint. Ages 4+. $7-$9. 11am-1pm. The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts + Culture, 551 S. Tryon St. 704-547-3700. ganttcenter.org.

Home Depot Kids Workshop. Build a “Wizard of Oz” birdhouse to take home, receive a free certificate of achievement, a workshop apron, and a commemorative pin (while supplies last). Ages 5-12. Registration required. Free. 9am-noon. Home Depot Locations. workshops.homedepot.com.

Hoot and Howl: Day of the Dead. Remember extinct species, make paper flowers, engage in traditional face painting and explore the sugar skull tradition. $10, children 4 and under are Free. 11am-3pm. Carolina Raptor Center, 6000 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-875-6521. carolinaraptorcenter.org.

Living History: American Revolution Encampment.

Musket demonstrations, weaving and spinning, open-hearth cooking, blacksmithing, encampment tours, battle drills and more. Free. 10am-4pm. Rural Hill, 4431 Neck Road, Huntersville. 704-875-3113. ruralhill.net.

Pumpkin Run 8K Road Race and Costumed 2K Fun Run. Dress up and run to benefit the Mooresville Recreation Foundation. $15-$25. 9am. War Memorial Center, 220 N Maple St., Mooresville. ci.mooresville.nc.us.

OnStage: Omimeo’s Black Light Magic: Halloween Dream; You Can’t Take It With You. See page 38.

2 SUNDAY Day of the Dead Festival of Souls. Experience a traditional Day of the Dead celebration with activities, alters, food, and story-telling. Free. Noon-4pm. Levine Museum of The New South, 200 E. 7th St. museumofthenewsouth.org.

Dilworth/SouthEnd Chili Cook-Off. All you can taste chili, live bands, pumpkin painting and games. $10; free for kids.

11am-4pm. Atherton Mill and Market, 2100 South Blvd. dsechilicookoff.com.

Living History: American Revolution Encampment.

Musket demonstrations, weaving and spinning, open-hearth cooking, blacksmithing, encampment tours, battle drills and

more. Free. 10am-4pm. Rural Hill, 4431 Neck Road, Huntersville. 704875-3113. ruralhill.net.

3 MONDAY Sensory Storytime. Filled with stories, songs and activities for individuals with autism spectrum disorders, sensory integration issues, and other developmental disabilities. Free. Mint Hill Library, 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road. cmlibrary.org.

4 TUESDAY Afternoon Adventures. Develop literacy and critical-thinking skills through books and hands-on activities. Ages 5-11. Free. 5pm.

Scaleybark Library, 101 Scaleybark Road. 704-416-6400. cmlibrary.org.

Tiny Tots Storytime. Stories, music and movement designed to develop language, listening and coordination skills. 3 and under. Free. 11:15am.

Mountain Island Library, 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way. 704-416-5600. cmlibrary.org.

OnStage: Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella.

See page 38.

5 WEDNESDAY Baby Storytime. Engage your little one with new sights and sounds through books, songs and rhymes. Free. 10:30 and 11:30am. University City Regional Library, 301 E. W.T. Harris Blvd. 704416-7200. cmlibrary.org.

Nature Detectives: Moles, Voles and More. Become nature detectives learning about things that are found in the woods. Featuring stories, games and activities. Ages 4-6. $3. 1:30-3pm.

Latta Plantation Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-8751391. parkandrec.com.

OnStage: Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella.

See page 38.

6 THURSDAY

daily calendar

Creative Journaling: Girls Let’s Journal. Learn about writing and self-expression by journaling with words, photos, collages, and other art forms. Ages 8-12. Free. 4pm. Hickory Grove Library, 5935 Hickory Grove Road. 704-416-4400. cmlibrary.org.

OnStage: Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella.

See page 38.

Tiny Tots Storytime. Stories, music and movement for tiny tots to develop language, listening and coordination skills. Ages 18-35 mos. Registration required. Free. 11am. Beatties Ford Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. 704-416-3000. cmlibrary.org.

7 FRIDAY Britax Car Seat Checks. Learn the correct way to install a child seat plus safety recommendations.

No appointment needed. Free.

8-11:30am. Britax North American Headquarters, 4140 Pleasant Road, Fort Mill, S.C. 704-409-1695. britaxusa.com.

OnStage: Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella.

See page 38.

Gobblefest. Join the community for carnival fun with s’mores, inflatables, face painting and hayrides. Free.

5-7pm. Harris YMCA, 5900 Quail Hollow Road. 704-716-6835. ymcacharlotte.org.

OnStage: Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella; Step Afrika!; Seussical Jr.; Seussical the Musical. See page 38.

8 SATURDAY Charlotte Walk For Wishes. Walk to celebrate hope, strength and joy while raising funds to grant the wishes of local children with lifethreatening medical conditions.

Registration required. Free. 9:30am.

Romare-Bearden Park, 300 S. Church St. walkforwishesnc.org.

Dinosaur Day. Dress up as your favorite dinosaur or bring a stuffed animal of your favorite prehistoric reptile, enter a dress-up pageant and participate in themed activities. $3-$5, includes museum admission. Noon-2pm.

Museum of York County, 4621 Mt. Gallant Road, Rock Hill, S.C. 803-3292121. chmuseums.org.

Family Day at The Bechtler. Learn about Firebird artist Niki de Saint Phalle and create whimsical animalshaped artwork inspired by de Saint Phalle’s tile sculptures. $8, free for children. Noon-4:30pm. Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, 420 S. Tryon St. 704-353-9200. bechtler.org.

Folk Life Festival. Enjoy story telling, crafts, games and face painting. $8, free for children 5 and under.

10am-4pm. Latta Plantation, 5225 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-8752312. lattaplantation.org.

Fourth and Fifth Grade Fun Night.

Listen to music, dance, play games, enjoy concessions and hang out with friends. Ages 9-11. $8. 7-9:30pm.

Siskey YMCA, 3127 Weddington Road, Matthews. 704-716-4200. ymcacharlotte.org.

Leaf Art. Bring a white T-shirt to decorate using leaves that are collected on a short hike. $3. 10am-noon. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704-432-6459. parkandrec.com.

Making Cents: A Financial Literacy Program. Features personal finance sessions specifically designed for students, parents and teachers.

Grades 7-12. Registration required.

Free. 9am-1pm. Piedmont Natural Gas, 4720 Piedmont Row Drive. 919469-1040. ncacpa.org.

Rural HIll Sheepdog Trials and Dog Festival. Dog sports demonstrations, activities for kids, tractor exhibits, pumpkin chunkin’, hay rides, food, drink and merchandise vendors. $7-$10. 8am-5pm. Rural Hill, 4331 Neck Road, Huntersville. 704-8753113. ruralhill.net.

Sharing God’s Love. Children and families are invited to a morning of family activities, fellowship, and a free doughnut breakfast.

Registration required. Free.

9-11:30am. Billy Graham Library, 4330 Westmont Drive. 704-401-3263. billygrahamlibrary.org.

The Power of Water. Learn all about the power of water and its use as a renewable energy source. Design and build your own water turbine. $6-$10, includes museum admission. 11am and 2pm. The Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704-8666900. schielemuseum.org.

OnStage: Charlotte Symphony Lollipops Series: The Emperor’s New Clothes; Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella; Step Afrika!; Seussical Jr.; Seussical the Musical; The Emperor’s New Clothes. See page 38.

9 SUNDAY Fall Colors. Dive into the chemistry of leaves learn about chromatography.

Ages 9-13. Registration required. $3.

2pm. McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 York Road. 704-588-5224. parkandrec.com.

Nutcracker Tea. Characters greet and serve guests at tables featuring the main themes of the “Nutcracker” ballet. Tea, lemonade and treats will be served. 5-12 years. $15. Noon, 2 and 4pm. The Carriage House at Johnson Farms, 1360 Brawley School Road, Mooresville. 704-663-2233. adfastudio.com.

Rural HIll Sheepdog Trials and Dog Festival. Dog sports demonstrations, activities for kids, pumpkin chunkin’, and hay rides. $7-$10. 8am-5pm. Rural Hill, 4331 Neck Road, Huntersville.

704-875-3113. ruralhill.net.

CharlotteParent.com | NOVEMBER 2014

35

2015

TER RIF IC

TEENS

Looking for teens with outstanding character, leadership and heart! Tell us about a teen you know that is doing something great in our community. Nominations open through Nov. 30.

CharlotteParent.com/tweensteens

36

NOVEMBER 2014

|

CharlotteParent.com

Sunday Fun Day: Cranes, Trains and Boats. Dig into art projects and engineering activities, inspired by the special exhibition Connecting the World: The Panama Canal at 100. $6 for adults, free for kids. 1-4pm. Mint Museum Uptown, 500 S. Tryon St. 704-337-2000. mintmuseum.org.

OnStage: Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella; Seussical Jr.; Seussical the Musical; The Emperor’s New Clothes; Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! Music is Awesome. See page 38.

10 MONDAY Young Explorers: Knock Knock Woodpeckers. Discover nature through stories and activities. Ages 2-3. $3. 10:15-11am. Latta Plantation Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-875-1391. parkandrec.com.

11 TUESDAY Children’s Storytime. Share story time with a storyteller who brings faithbased children’s book to life. Free.1011am. The Grounds Bookstore and Cafe, 8335 Browne Road. 704-5989800. thegrounds.mecklenburg.org.

Free Tuesday at Schiele Museum.

Enjoy a late afternoon exploring exhibits and the nature trail. Stick around for a special showing of “Skyquest” at 7pm. Free. 4-8pm.

Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704-866-6900. schielemuseum.org.

Once Upon a Time in 398.2. A magic call number in nonfiction. Explore fairy and folk tales from all over the world that can be found in this section of the library. Ages 5-11. Free. 5pm.

ScaleyBark Library, 101 Scaleybark Road. 704-416-6400. cmlibrary.org.

12 WEDNESDAY Preschool Storytime. Engage in books, activities, stories and songs that encourage language and prereading skills. Ages 3-5. Free. 10:30am.

Mountain Island Public Library, 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way. 704-416-5600. cmlibrary.org.

13 THURSDAY Story Explorers. Explore books and stories in creative ways through interactive activities including math, science and games. Ages 5-11. Free.

6:30pm. Beatties Ford Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. 704-4163000. cmlibrary.org.

14 FRIDAY Second and Third Grade Fun Night.

Listen to music, dance, play games, enjoy concessions and hang out with friends. Pizza, snacks and drinks available for purchase. Ages 8-11. $5-$7. 6:45-9:15pm. Harris YMCA, 5900 Quail Hollow Road. 704-716-6800. ymcacharlotte.org.

Teddy Bear Party. Bring your Teddy Bear and sing songs, make a craft and hear stories. Ages 3-6. Registration required. $2. 10:30-11:30am. Ivory/Baker Recreation Center, 1920 Stroud Park Court. 704-432-4580. parkandrec.com.

OnStage: Seussical Jr.; Seussical the Musical; The Emperor’s New Clothes. See page 38.

15 SATURDAY College 101: ACT Practice. Prepare for the ACT with a free practice exam.

Ages 12-18. Free. Call for time. Beatties Ford Road Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. 704-416-3000. cmlibrary.org.

Fall Fest. Meet a few of the animals that are out and about this time of year and take part in some autumnal activities. $8, includes museum admission. 10am-1pm.

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

Family Storytime. Enjoy stories, songs and movement activities that support early literacy skill development. Free.

Saturday 11am. Myers Park Library, 1361 Queens Road. 704-416-5800. cmlibrary.org.

Krafty Kidz. Have fun learning while making nature-themed crafts. Ages 2-7. $2. 11am-noon. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road.

704-432-6459. parkandrec.com.

Military Timeline. Visit with Cherokee warriors, WWII G.I.’s and grunts from Vietnam, and learn how military uniforms, equipment and experiences have changed throughout time.

Free. 10am-4pm; Sun., 10am-3pm.

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

Pawsitively Matthews. More than 50 pet-friendly vendors, and interactive agility course, Matthews Mutt Strut Best Pet Trick Contest, MPD K9 demonstrations and 2K dog walk.

Free. 10am-4pm. Stumptown Park, 120 South Trade St., Matthews. 704321-3462. matthewsnc.gov.

Sensory Storytime. Filled with stories, songs and activities for individuals with autism spectrum disorders, sensory integration issues, and other developmental disabilities. Ages 3-7.

Registration required. Free. 10:15am.

South County Regional Library, 5801 Rea Road. 704-416-6600. cmlibrary.org.

OnStage: Seussical Jr.; Seussical the Musical.; The Emperor’s New Clothes. See page 38.

16 SUNDAY America Recycles Day. Recycled crafts, games and activities. Free. 1-4pm.

Museum of York County, 4621 Mt. Gallant Road, Rock Hill, S.C. 803-3292121. chmuseums.org.

Bilingual Storytime and Music.

Features fun and interactive Spanish and English music, plays and stories.

Ages 2-8. $6, free for children. 11am.

Mint Museum, 2730 Randolph Road.

704-337-2000. mintmuseum.com.

Military Timeline. Visit with Cherokee warriors, WWII G.I.’s and grunts from Vietnam, and learn how military uniforms, equipment and experiences have changed throughout time. Free.

10am-3pm. Fort Dobbs, 438 Fort Dobbs Road, Statesville. 704-873-5882. fortdobbs.org.

Turbo Turtles. Learn about turtle homes, diets, and top speeds. Registration required. Free. 2-3pm. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road.

704-432-6459. parkandrec.com.

OnStage: Seussical Jr.; Seussical the Musical.; The Emperor’s New Clothes. See page 38.

on exhibit DISCOVERY PLACE Dinosaurs in Motion. Features 14 fully interactive recycled metal dinosaur sculptures with exposed mechanics inspired by actual fossils. $12-$15, includes museum admission. Through Jan. 16, 2015. discoveryplace.org.

Fantastic Frogs. Meet live frogs and participate in interactive learning games. $12-$15, includes museum admission. Through Jan. 2015. Mon.-Fri., 9am-4pm; Sat., 10am-6pm; Sun., noon-5pm. 704-372-6261. discoveryplace.org. 301 N. Tryon St.

MUSEUM OF YORK COUNTY On Holiday With Santa. Celebrate some of Vernon Grant’s most popular holiday illustrations. $3-$5, includes museum admission. Through Jan. 4, 2015. Tues.-Sat.,10am5pm; Sun.,1-5pm. 803-329-2121. chmuseums.org. 4621 Mt. Gallant Road, Rock Hill, S.C.

NASCAR HALL OF FAME Rockin’ and Racin’ Exhibit. Explore artifacts including the 1959 Chevrolet Corvette featured in a famous country star’s music video. Starting at $17.95, free for children under 5. Through Jan. 2, 2015. Mon.-Sun., 10am-6pm. 704-654-4400. nascarhall.com.

400 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

CharlotteParent.com | NOVEMBER 2014

37

17 MONDAY

Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! Music Is Awesome, Nov. 9 at Ovens Auditorium. 

on stage ARMOUR STREET THEATRE Seussical Jr. Follow the Cat in the Hat and Jojo on a whirlwind adventure. $10. Nov. 7-16. Fri.-Sun.; 1, 4 and 7pm performances. 704-892-7953. davidsoncommunityplayers.org.

307 Armour St., Davidson.

BLUMENTHAL PERFORMING ARTS Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella. Features an orchestra, amazing transformations and all the moments that make this story a classic, including the pumpkin, the glass slipper, the masked ball plus a few surprising twists. Tickets start at $20. Nov. 4-9. See website for times. 704-372-1000. blumenthalarts.org. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St.

CARMEL CHRISTIAN SCHOOL You Can’t Take It With You. Carmel Christian Students Upper School fall play. $10-$15. Nov. 1. 2 and 7pm. 704-849-9723. carmelchristian.org.

Thoroughly Modern Millie. Carmel Christian Students Middle School fall musical. $10-$15. Nov. 14-15. 7pm. 704-849-9723. carmelchristian.org. 1145 Pineville-Matthews Road, Matthews.

CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CHARLOTTE Omimeo’s Black Light Magic: Halloween Dream. Follow the story of a young trick-or-treater as she magically travels from her bedroom to a fantastical world of dreams. Ages 5+. $14.

Nov. 1. 1pm. 704-973-2828. ctcharlotte.org.

Step Afrika! Dancers use kicks, stomps and rhythms along with spoken word to fill the air with music and rhythm. Ages 5+. $14. Nov. 7-8. Fri., 7:30pm; Sat., 11am and 1pm. 704-973-2828. ctcharlotte.org.

The Emperor’s New Clothes. A vain and selfish emperor is duped by a mother and her son who convince him that they can make a unique and magical suit of clothes for him. Ages 5+. $14. Nov. 8-23. Sat., 11am and 1pm; Sun., 2pm. 704-9732828. ctcharlotte.org. 300 E. 7th St.

CALENDAR POLICY: 38

NOVEMBER 2014

|

KNIGHT THEATER Charlotte Symphony Lollipops Series: The Emperor’s New Clothes. The Charlotte Symphony and Grey Seal Puppet’s present a clever adaptation of the classic tale. Includes audience participation. $20-$26. Nov. 8. 11am. 704-972-2000. charlottesymphony.org. 430 S. Tryon St.

MATTHEWS PLAYHOUSE Seussical the Musical. This high-energy, colorful musical transports audiences from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus as the Cat in the Hat tells the story of an elephant named Horton, who discovers a speck of dust containing tiny people called the Whos. $10-$12. Nov. 7-16. Fri., 7:30pm; Sat.-Sun., 2pm. 704-846-8343. matthewsplayhouse.com. 100 McDowell St. E., Matthews.

OVENS AUDITORIUM Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! Music is Awesome. Celebrate the fifth anniversary of the singing and dancing stars of Yo Gabba Gabba with DJ Lance Rock. $35+. Nov. 9. 2 and 5pm. 704-3723600. ovensauditorium.com. 2700 E. Independence Blvd.

THE NARROWAY THEATRE The Real Christmas Story. Watch and hear your favorite Christmas songs and scenes. Guaranteed snowfall at each performance. $5-$29.95. Nov. 1- Dec. 21. See website for a list of times. 803-802-2300. narroway.net. 3327 Hwy 51, Fort Mill, S.C.

THEATRE CHARLOTE To Kill a Mockingbird. Follow the journey of Jem and Scout Finch, whose father has been appointed to defend Tom Robinson, a black man framed for a crime he didn’t commit.

Ages 12+. $27. Through Nov. 9. See website for list of times.

704-376-3777. theatrecharlotte.org. 501 Queens Road.

TIME WARNER CABLE ARENA Marvel Universe Live. An authentic and original story that brings more than 25 Marvel characters together on one epic quest. Starting at $45. Nov. 14-16. Fri., 7pm; Sat., 11am, 3 and 7pm; Sun., 1 and 5pm. 704-688-9000. timewarnercablearena. com. 333 E. Trade St.

The Charlotte Parent calendar lists free and low-cost local events targeted to children and families. Time, dates and details subject to change. Call venue to confirm. Want to get listed? Go to CharlotteParent.com/calendar, then click on Submit an Event.

CharlotteParent.com

Measure Up! Teen Cooking Challenge.

Learn to cook easy meals and snacks while learning important skills for the future. Ages 12-18. Free. 3pm.

Beatties Ford Road Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road.704-416-3000. cmlibrary.org.

Sensory Storytime. Stories, songs and activities for individuals with autism spectrum disorders, sensory integration issues and other developmental disabilities. Free. 11:15am. Mint Hill Library, 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road. cmlibrary.org.

18 TUESDAY Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Presents: Puppet Show. Explore traditional stories, books and songs through a puppet show. Ages 3-5. Free.

11:30am. ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. 704-4164600. imaginon.org.

Comic Creations. Learn story-telling and cartooning techniques used by comic book artists. Ages 5-11. Free. 5pm.

Scaleybark Library, 101 Scaleybark Road.

704-416-6400. cmlibrary.org.

Preparing for the Holidays. Coretta Chaffin, registered dietitian, shares tips for healthy living at the holidays. Free.

6pm. Beatties Ford Road Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. 704416-3000. cmlibrary.org.

Storytime in the Secret Gardens. Read a story and romp in the garden. Bring a snack and enjoy the Children’s Garden after the program. Registration required. $5. 10-11am. Wing Haven Gardnes, 248 Ridgewood Ave. 704-331-0664. winghavengardens.com.

19 WEDNESDAY Mini Masters Workshop: Fall Veggie Patch Paintings. Mix colors to paint a pretty pumpkin, try out corn-cob printing, and go on a harvest hunt for ancient American food vessels. $14$18. 10:30-11:45am. Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Road. 704337-2000. mintmuseum.org.

Nature Detectives: Animal Dissections.

Become a nature detective investigating things that are found in

the woods. Featuring stories, games and activities. Ages 4-6. $3. 1:30-3pm.

Latta Plantation Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-8751391. parkandrec.com.

Preparing for the Holidays. Coretta Chaffin, registered dietitian, shares tips for healthy living at the holidays. Free.

6pm. Beatties Ford Road Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. 704416-3000. cmlibrary.org.

Scott Clark Toyota: Kat Country Jam. Different artists perform a number of hit songs that every member of the family can enjoy. Proceeds benefit the St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. $9.69. Doors open at 6:30pm. The Filmore, 1000 NC Music Factory Blvd. wkktfm.com.

Young Explorers: Turkey Trotters.

Discover nature with your little one through stories, crafts and activities. Ages 2-3. $3. 10:15-11am.

Latta Plantation Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road. 704-875-1391. parkandrec.com.

20 THURSDAY Mini Masters Workshop: Fall Veggie Patch Paintings. Mix colors to paint a pretty pumpkin, try out corn-cob printing, and go on a harvest hunt for ancient American food vessels. $14-$18. 1:30-2:45pm. Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Road. 704337-2000. mintmuseum.org.

Tiny Tots Storytime. Stories, music and movement to develop language, listening and coordination skills. Ages 18-35 mos. Registration required. Free.

11am. Beatties Ford Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. 704-4163000. cmlibrary.org.

21 FRIDAY Concord’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Music, children’s amusements, horse-drawn wagon rides and trolley rides, Santa Claus and a fireworks display.

Free. 5:30pm-7:30pm. Historic Downtown Concord. 704-784-4208. concorddowntown.com.

Literacy Activities. Participate in a variety of self-directed activities that

support the five literacy practices as identified by the Every Child Ready to Read program. Ages 3-11. Free.

Friday 10am. Sugar Creek Library, 4045 N. Tryon St., Ste. A. 704-416-7000. cmlibrary.org.

Miracle on Piedmont Row Drive. Treelighting, enjoy horse-and-carriage rides, balloon animals, a train for kids, hot chocolate, face-painting, carolers and Santa. Unwrapped toys will be collected for Toys for Tots. Free.

6-9pm. Piedmont Town Center, 4725 Piedmont Row Drive. 704-566-7371. piedmonttowncenter.com.

SouthPark Tree Lighting Celebration.

Santa lights the tree and enjoy activities for the kids. . Free. 5-7pm.

Symphony Park, 4400 Sharon Road.

704-364-4411. simon.com.

OnStage: The Emperor’s New Clothes. See page 38.

22 SATURDAY Concord Christmas Parade. Marvel at the parade floats and bands and a visit from Santa. Free. 2:30-5:30pm.

Downtown Concord, Union Street.

704-784-4208. cabarrusevents.org.

Feathers and Friends. Make a pinecone bird feeder and window art.

Free. 2-3pm. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704432-6459. parkandrec.com.

OnStage: The Emperor’s New Clothes. See page 38.

23 SUNDAY Charlotte International Auto Show Family Day. Entertainment by clowns, bands, area mascots and a variety of cars on display. $8-$10, free for children 12 and under. 10am-6pm.

Charlotte Convention Center, 501 S. College St. 704-364-1078. charlotteautoshow.com.

Novice Birding and Turkey Hunters.

Discover the unique characteristics of turkeys and learn some turkey facts. Ages 12 and up. Registration required. Free. 2-4pm. Latta Plantation Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-875-1391. parkandrec.com.

CharlotteParent.com | NOVEMBER 2014

39

OnStage: The Emperor’s New Clothes. See page 38.

24 MONDAY Sensory Storytime. Stories, songs and activities, designed for individuals with autism spectrum disorders, sensory integration issues, and other developmental disabilities. Free.

11:15am. Mint Hill Library, 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road. cmlibrary.org.

25 TUESDAY JYO and CSYO Fall Concert. Enjoy the musical stylings of the Charlotte Symphony Youth Orchestra. $6-$8.

7:30pm. Halton Theater, 1206 Elizabeth Ave. 704-651-2957. csyo.net.

26 WEDNESDAY “The LEGO Movie.” Enjoy light refreshments while watching the feature film. Ages 5-11. Free. 3:30pm.

Scaleybark Library, 101 Scaleybark Road. 704-416-6400. cmlibrary.org.

Tiny Tots. Stories, music and movement to develop language, listening and coordination skills. Ages 18-35 mos.

Free. 10:30am. Myers Park Library, 1361 Queens Road. 704-416-5800. cmlibrary.org.

27 THURSDAY Happy Thanksgiving!

Charlotte South Park Turkey Trot.

Bring the whole family for either the

1-mile fun run, 8K run, Baby Jogger 8K, 5K, or Tot Trot. Wear a costume.

Special awards are given to the best dressed participants. Registration required. $10-$45. 8:30am. By Southpark Mall, 4400 Sharon Road. charlotteturkeytrot.com.

Mooresville Christian Mission Turkey Trot. Celebrate a healthy holiday and help those in need by doing a 5K or the kids’ turkey dash. All proceeds go to families in need. Registration required. $10-$30. 9am. Mooresville Christian Mission, 266 N. Broad St., Mooresville. mooresvillechristianmission.org.

Novant Health Thanksgiving Day Parade. See marching bands, large balloons and floats, and live performances in front of the Levine Center for the Arts on South Tryon Street. Free. Kicks off at 9:30am.

Uptown Charlotte, Tryon Street. 704332-2227. charlottecentercity.org.

Turkey Dash. Start the holiday with lots of energy featuring a timed 4-mile run and a 1-mile fun run. $35-$45. 8:30am.

The Village at Robinson Farm, 8410 Rea Road. turkeydashcharlotte.com.

28 FRIDAY Cotton: Bolls, Bales, Batts and Beyond. Lend a hand with costumed interpreters as they pick, gin, dye and spin the fluffy fiber into the cotton garments. $3-$6.

10am-4pm. Historic Brattonsville, 1444

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

Giving Thanks to Animals. Discover some of the many ways animals improve our daily lives. $6-$10. 11am and 2pm. Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704-8666900. schielemuseum.org.

Holiday Festival of Lights. More than 75,000 lights light up historic buildings, hear Victorian singers as they stroll the streets and visit Santa.

Free. 5-7pm. Downtown Waxhaw, Waxhaw. 704-843-2195. waxhaw.com.

Plantation Christmas. See period Christmas decor, meet Father Christmas, see Christmas baking in the kitchen, and learn about period Christmas traditions. $6-$8, free for children 5 and under. 10am-4pm.

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

Polar Express Train Ride. This train ride comes to life with music from the movie soundtrack, singing, dancing and reading of “The Polar Express.”

Registration required. $24-$32. See website for times. North Carolina Transportation Museum, 411 S. Salisbury Ave., Spencer. 704 636-2889. nctrans.org.

29 SATURDAY

gin, dye and spin the fluffy fiber into the cotton garments. $3-$6.

10am-4pm. Historic Brattonsville, 1444 Brattonsville Road, McConnells, S.C. 803-684-2327. chmuseums.org.

Fall Scavenger Hunt. Come to the preserve to look for signs of fall and take a nature walk to look for items on the scavenger hunt list. Be prepared to walk 1-2 miles on uneven trails.

Free. 2-3pm. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704432-6459. parkandrec.com.

“Frozen.”Watch the Oscar-winning movie. Ages 3-11. Registration required. Free. 2pm. Mountain Island Library, 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way. 704416-5600. cmlibrary.org.

Home Depot Kids Workshop.

Build a give-and-save bank to take home, receive a certificate of achievement, a workshop apron, and a commemorative pin while supplies last. Ages 5-12. Registration required.

Free. 9am-noon. Home Depot locations. workshops.homedepot.com Light up Cornelius. Watch the inaugural tree-lighting and enjoy choirs, dance performances, children’s activities, holiday crafts, carriage rides, train displays and a visit from Santa. Free.

4-6pm. Cornelius Town Hall, 21445 Catawba Ave., Cornelius. 704-8926031. cornelius.org.

Cotton: Bolls, Bales, Batts and Beyond. Lend a hand with costumed interpreters as they pick,

CharlotteParent.com | NOVEMBER 2014

41

Nature Treasure Hunt. Prizes for those who collect all the clues on a walk in the woods. Ages 7-14. Registration required. Free. 2-3pm. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 704-588-5224. parkandrec.com.

Plantation Christmas. See period Christmas decor, meet Father Christmas, see Christmas baking in the kitchen, and learn about period Christmas traditions. $6-$8, free for children 5 and under. 10am-4pm. Latta Plantation, 5225 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-875-2312. lattaplantation.org.

Polar Express Train Ride. This train ride comes to life with music from the movie soundtrack, singing, dancing and reading of “The Polar Express.” Registration required. $24-$32. See website for times. North Carolina Transportation Museum, 411 S. Salisbury Ave., Spencer.

704 636-2889. nctrans.org.

Sensory Friendly Films:“Home.” Movie auditoriums have lights brought up and the sound turned down, and families can bring their own gluten-free, caseinfree snacks. No previews or advertisements are shown before the movie. $4-$6. 10am. AMC Concord Mills, 8421 Concord Mills Blvd., Concord; and AMC Carolina Pavilion, 9541 South Blvd., Charlotte. autism-society.org.

Winter Wonderland Craft Fair and Candy Cane Hunt.

Shop for unique Christmas and holiday gifts, and at noon search for candy canes left on the greenway

by Santa. Afterwards roast marshmallows and make s’mores. Registration required. Free. 9am. Anne Springs Close Greenway, 841 Springfield Pkwy., Fort Mill. 803547-4575. ascgreenway.org.

30 SUNDAY Live Nativity and Christmas Tree Lighting. See a live nativity and stay for the tree-lighting. Refreshments and ornament making for children of all ages. Free. Begins at 5pm. The Vine, 2101 Belvedere Ave. 704-334-7348. thevinecharlotte.com.

Paws to Read. Boost reading skills and confidence by reading aloud to a volunteer therapy dog. Ages 3-11.

Free. 2-4pm. ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. 704-416-4600. imaginon.org.

Polar Express Train Ride. This train ride comes to life with music from the movie soundtrack, singing, dancing and reading of “The Polar Express.” Registration required. $24-$32. See website for list of times. North Carolina Transportation Museum, 411 S. Salisbury Ave., Spencer. 704-636-2889. nctrans.org.

For more things to do and to see what’s happening next month, go to CharlotteParent.com/calendar 42

NOVEMBER 2014

|

CharlotteParent.com

holiday happenings NOV. 13 - 23

NOV. 28-29

Southern Christmas Show Holiday crafts, gifts, decorations, festive foods, art, and plenty to wrap up and take home. Show features include the Enchanted Village of dollhouses and miniature scenes, Christmas Tree Lane, a holiday entertainment stage and Santa himself. $3-$11; Children under 6 admitted free. Sun.-Tues. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Wed.-Sat. 10 a.m.9 p.m. The Park Expo and Conference Center, 2500 E. Independence Blvd. southernshows.com/scs.

Plantation Christmas See period Christmas decor, meet Father Christmas, see Christmas baking in the kitchen, and learn about period Christmas traditions. $6-$8, free for children 5 and under. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Latta Plantation, 5225 Sample Road, Huntersville. lattaplantation.org.

NOV. 21 – JAN. 3, 2015

Polar Express Train Ride This train ride comes to life with music from the movie soundtrack, hot chocolate and cookies. Passengers can enjoy singing, dancing and a reading of “The Polar Express.” Registration required. $24-$32. Nov. 28-30, Dec. 5-7, Dec. 12-14, Dec 17-22. Train rides at 4 and 6 p.m., and 8 p.m. on select dates. North Carolina Transportation Museum, 411 S. Salisbury Ave., Spencer. nctrans.org.

Christmas Wonderland of Lights Drive through 2 miles of forest decorated with more than 3.5 million lights, plus pony rides, roasting pits for marshmallows, Santa, and a petting zoo. $6 per person.

Mon.-Thurs. 6-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sun. 6-10 p.m. Zootastic Park, 448 Pilch Road, Troutman.

888-966-0069. zootasticpark.com.

NOV. 21 – JAN. 4, 2015 Holiday On Ice Enjoy a day of family-friendly ice-skating. The rink has more than 7,000 square feet of ice and a view of the city skyline. Skate with “Frozen” characters Elsa and Ana on Nov. 22 and enjoy a winter carnival with rides and games on Dec. 6. $10 admission; $3 skate rental. Wed.-Fri. 5-10 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Closed Mon.-Tues. NASCAR Hall of Fame Plaza, 400 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. holidayonicecharlotte.com.

NOV. 21 – DEC. 31 Holidays at the Garden Enjoy a natural winter wonderland with thousands of lights, visits from Santa, crafts, holiday treats and more. See the new Lost Hollow display and traditional favorites like the one-of-a-kind train displays. $6-$12; children under 4 admitted free. Mon.-Sun., noon-9 p.m. Closed Christmas Day. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 New Hope Road, Belmont. dsbg.org.

NOV. 21 – DEC. 30 Speedway Christmas See more than 3 million Christmas lights while driving on the Charlotte Motor Speedway track, and enjoy the Christmas Village in the infield, plus movie nights on a gigantic 16,000 square foot HDTV every Friday and Saturday night. Mon.Wed., $15 per vehicle; Thur.-Sun., $20 per vehicle. 6-10 p.m. Charlotte Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Pkwy. S., Concord. charlottemotorspeedway.com.

NOV. 28 – DEC. 22

NOV. 28 – DEC. 22 12 Days of Christmas Celebrate the season with tons of festivities starting the Friday after Thanksgiving through the weekend before Christmas. Includes Holiday Festival of Lights, GingerSnap 5K, Santa’s Ride through the Neighborhoods, a parade and more!

Friday-Sunday. Most events are free. See schedule online. waxhaw.com.

DEC. 1-23 Christmas at the Library Experience a live Nativity, horse-drawn carriage rides and a Christmas story time for kids. Free parking; $3-$7 for carriage rides. Mon-Thurs., 5-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 5-10 p.m. Billy Graham Library, 4330 Westmont Drive. billygrahamlibrary.org.

DEC. 1-26 Christmas Town USA Drive through this town that is all aglow with lights and holiday decorations.

Free. Mon.-Fri. 5:30-9:30 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. 5:30-11 p.m. Downtown McAdenville. mcadenville-christmastown.com.

DEC. 4-6 Christmas in Davidson Enjoy horse-drawn carriage and hayrides, a doggie fashion show, and Santa’s house. Free. 6-9 p.m. Downtown Davidson. christmasindavidson.com.

DEC. 4-7 ChristmasVille See Rock Hill transformed with an event that features carolers, carriage rides, music, contests, tons of activities for kids and more than 20 tons of real snow. Free. See website for schedule. Old Town Rock Hill. christmasvillerockhill.com.

CharlotteParent.com | NOVEMBER 2014

43

Photo by Brandy Metzger.

Excursion Grove Park Inn

WARM WELCOME The Grove Park Inn is a massive structure made of the most beautiful stone that somehow seems so warm and inviting, as is the hotel staff. Before heading to our

44

NOVEMBER 2014

|

ABUNDENT AMENITIES We spent our two days enjoying the amenities on site at the Grove Park Inn which include indoor tennis, racquetball, hiking, golf and a nicely outfitted fitness center.

With such active days, we decided to wind down with a trip to the spa one evening.

The Spa on site is the most

CharlotteParent.com

sitN f Vi yo

amazing facility of its kind that I have ever visited.

The 43,000-squarefoot spa feels like an underground grotto and features rock walls, arches, tunnels and 20 water features.

In addition to all the activities, there are several incredible dining options available on site ranging from casual dining to fine dining.

Overall, the experience at the Grove Park Inn was phenomenal. The historic building is like a living museum and the additional buildings add the conveniences and amenities

te s

A

room, which was located in a newer wing, we spent a bit of time wandering around the lobby to admire its many unique features. The inviting feel of the exterior is matched by the warmth and charm of the interior lobby. There are two grand fireplaces made of stone at each end of the room, enormous windows that overlook the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and a piano bar.

co

ur

s a young girl growing up in North Carolina, I visited the Asheville area many times and was always amazed at the beauty of the Biltmore House and the surrounding mountain views. However, there was one grand structure that I never had the opportunity to visit … the Grove Park Inn. So, when my husband and I decided to embark on a romantic getaway, we chose the Grove Park Inn as our destination. Situated in an idyllic location in Asheville, it offers a variety of amenities, activities and restaurants.

C.co

m.

BY BRANDY METZGER

Pho

to

TOP: The Grove Park Inn in Asheville.

that one seeks CENTER: The National Gingerbread House when staying Contest is held each holiday season at the in a first-class Grove Park Inn. resort. It is the perfect location for a couple’s retreat or a place to relax with the family. The resort also offers supervised children’s activity packages for ages 5-12 and inroom babysitting is available.

Brandy Metzger enjoys exploring new places with her daughter and husband.

On Monday, Nov. 17 the Grove Park Inn hosts the 22nd annual National Gingerbread House Competition.

This competition features competitors from around the country in categories ranging from adult to child.

Families visiting the Grove Park Inn between Nov. 19 and Jan. 1, 2015 will get to view entries from this competition.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY PARTIES

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

PRESCHOOL

JOIN THE PARTY!

Your Ad. This Space.

Next Month.

704.344.1980

704.344.1980

INSTRUCTION

Your Ad. This Space.

Next Month.

704.344.1980

PRESCHOOL

e m o c l e W

! y l i m a f t n e r a P e t t o l r a h Support local advertisers and tell them you saw to the C their ad in Charlotte Parent!

Westminster Catawba Christian School

DADDY DEREK

BY DEREK JAMES

Tyler, 5, enjoys a good game of Parcheesi.

Born to be Picky

M

y wife and I were both notoriously picky eaters, and still are today. What we don’t eat typically leaves people giving us looks of both shock and awe. I don’t like mac-and-cheese, and my wife nearly died eating a grape (in her 20s) because it grossed her out to the point of choking. It should come as no surprise that our two boys (ages 6 and 3) are picky eaters. Then again almost all little kids are, right?

Chicken fingers rule our household.

As long as they’re the ones shaped liked dinosaurs. I’ve learned that chicken fingers that don’t come in fun shapes “are yucky.” Exception being the ones that come from a fast food restaurant. We’re also good on cheeseburgers as long as daddy doesn’t cook them too long. If our food has any burnt parts, odds are it’s

going to take an act of Congress to eat them. Other popular foods at our house include pizza, peanut butter sandwiches and noodles with butter. Baked chicken and pork chops are sometimes accepted, and neither will eat steak. Are we sure these kids are mine? Who doesn’t love a good steak?

I recently saw a list of tips from the Mayo Clinic on keeping mealtime from turning into a fight over food. The list pretty much said everything I do is wrong. One big no-no is something nearly every parent does: offer dessert as a reward. Who hasn’t said, “Eat two more bites and you can have ice cream.”

The article explained that this teaches your kid that the dessert is the best part of the meal, which it is. And this is wrong how? It seems to work for us.

The Mayo Clinic also says you

shouldn’t bribe your kids to eat certain foods or clean his or her plate. That’s especially difficult when Pop Pop offers the boys a dollar to clean their plates. I also make the mistake of letting the kids fill up on juice at snack times, which may decrease their meal appetites.

While our kids are both really picky, they do love their fruits and vegetables.

Loved fruit includes apples, bananas, strawberries, various melons, and even those dangerous grapes that nearly killed their mother. We also eat plenty of carrots, celery, corn, peas and broccoli.

If my kids are eating broccoli, we can’t be doing too bad on food exploration.

Still feeling a little nervous, I hit up Google on a search to find something that made me feel like a better parent when it comes to food and nutrition.

I found something interesting from a professor at Penn State University. The professor explained that it’s normal for kids between the ages of 2 and 5 years to resist new foods, and that they may have only four or five favorite foods that they readily accept. We’ve got at least that many and more.

Here’s where it gets really scary. A little one may need to try a food 10 to 15 times before being willing to eat it. Is that number the same for adults? Seems like a lot of wasted food to me when we can just have chicken fingers or pizza instead. We’re trying to get Tyler to sample more foods and started making a list of things he will agree to try. He said to us “I’ll try grapes, potatoes and beer.” I will try mac-and-cheese again if you give me a dollar and I’ll try beer again for free.

Derek James is a host on WCCB News Rising, and lives with his wife and two sons, ages 3 and 6. Read more from Derek in his Daddy Derek blog at CharlotteParent.com/ blogs.

CharlotteParent.com | NOVEMBER 2014

47

CAROLINAsmiles

More cute pictures from our readers. We love seeing the smiles.

Upload your smiles at CharlotteParent.com/photogallery. Choose Reader Photos.

Non-professional photos only. Photos must be high-resolution.

48

NOVEMBER 2014

|

CharlotteParent.com

your essential

EVERYDAY RESOURCES AWARD-WINNING MONTHLY MAGAZINE • • • • •

The region’s BEST family calendar Educational features Family health and wellness information Camp and school listings Online directories

Subscribe to our free Digital Magazine and receive the latest issue straight to your inbox each month.

ANNUAL GUIDES baby & toddler 2014

FREE

a publication of Charlotte Parent • charlotteparent.com

407forRESOURCES New Families What You DON’T Know About

BREAST-FEEDING

Crawling-to-Walking

MILESTONES Baby Home

MAKEOVER

SPONSORED BY

The Trusted Resource for Expectant and New Parents charlotteparent.com

|

BABY & TODDLER 2014

A

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

CharlotteParent.com/MagazineLocator View the latest issue on your tablet or desktop at CharlotteParent.com.

CharlotteParent.com | NOVEMBER 2014

C

D

NOVEMBER 2014

|

CharlotteParent.com