Charlotte Parent October 2014 by Charlotte Parent

October 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ Free CharlotteParent.com

Discover Lost Hollow

TALKING ABOUT GUNS

The loaded question you need to ask

Myths About

MAMMOGRAMS

Howling Good Ideas for Halloween

OCTOBER 2014

CharlotteParent.com

CharlotteParent.com | OCTOBER 2014

Retailers:

Get ready for the holiday shopping season! Reach parents looking for gift ideas in Shop Local: A Holiday Gift Guide. This special advertising section will be published in the November and December issues and on CharlotteParent.com. Contact 704-344-1980 or advertising@charlotteparent.com.

OCTOBER 2014

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october 2014 24

features

24 31 Ways to Have a Howling Halloween

Scare up family fun to make it the best Halloween ever

28 Do You Have a Gun in Your House?

Before the playdate or sleepover, how to start the conversation that could save your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life

31 Free Your Imagination at Lost Hollow Explore a magical new space designed with children in mind

special advertising section

36 Fall Fun This month: Places to go and things to do as a family this fall

in every issue

4 from the editor 9 family fyi 12 doc says 14 chalk talk 15 stay-at-home dudes 19 food for thought 20 mother of style 22 growing up 37 getting out 38 daily calendar 48 excursion 51 daddy derek 52 carolina smiles

Photo by Maura MacKinnon macphotography9.weebly.com.

October 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ Free CharlotteParent.com

31 28

Discover Lost Hollow

TALKING ABOUT GUNS

The loaded question you need to ask

Myths About

Howling Good Ideas for Halloween

MAMMOGRAMS

CharlotteParent.com | OCTOBER 2014

FROM THE EDITOR MICHELE HUGGINS GROUP PUBLISHER

Playing the Role of Protector

Sharon Havranek

PUBLISHER/ EXECUTIVE EDITOR Eve White

EDITOR

Michele Huggins

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Mikala Young

ART DIRECTOR Melissa Stutts

s I write this, I’m anxiously waiting to hear from my sister who is patiently (no pun intended) residing in the antepartum wing of the hospital on bed rest until she delivers her identical twins. It’s not time for those baby girls to celebrate their birthday, as she’s just shy of 34 weeks with hopes of making it to 36 weeks or beyond. But as a mom, it’s her job to do what is best for her children, even before they are born. Her situation is not something all moms-to-be go through, but her stamina, courage, patience and strength are qualities all parents muster up through the ages and stages of a child’s life. As parents, it’s our job to protect and guide our children, whether it’s car-seat safety as infants and toddlers, or making sure they know the dangers of driving and texting as teens (and all the other risks and challenges that happen inbetween). And in the role of protector, we sometimes have to ask tough questions of other adults to ensure our child’s safety. In the story on page 28, we delve into one of those sensitive topics that can be hard to talk about with other parents: Do you have a loaded gun in your house? It’s not a question that is always top of mind when you send your child for a play date or sleepover, but there are too many children killed by accidental shootings to not have the conversation. In my role as parent, I also like to be sure my child has plenty of life experiences. I’m not going to let crisp, sunny October days get away without getting out and about. In this issue, we offer up 31 great ways to celebrate Halloween as a family (page 24) and where to find local pumpkin patches (page 42) and corn mazes (page 41). Also, be sure to mark your calendar for the grand opening Oct. 18 of Lost Hollow at Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens (more about that on page 31). We’ll be there to share in the magic and intrigue of this new garden designed for kids.

DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER Susannah Carpenter

SALES TEAM LEADER Leslie Hatheway

lhatheway@charlotteparent.com

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Donna Kessler

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PUBLICATION MANAGER Kris Miller

Phone: 704-344-1980 | Fax: 704-344-1983 214 W. Tremont Ave., Suite 302 | Charlotte, NC 28203 advertising@charlotteparent.com | editorial@charlotteparent.com Circulation 109,000. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. Charlotte Parent reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the publication’s standards. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

Cheers,

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

2014 Bronze Award Winner Editorial Awards Competition

OCTOBER 2014

CharlotteParent.com

CharlotteParent.com | OCTOBER 2014

what’s new at …

BOOKS FOR KIDS

CHARLOT TEPARENT.COM

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library media specialists share their best picks for fall and Halloween books for kids. …/blogs

Pin-spiration:

MINION PUMPKINS “Despicable Me 2” fans will love making their own Stuart and Dave Minion pumpkins. Pinterest/CharlotteParent

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

SMILING FACES

BIRTHDAY TIME

Find ghoulishly good recipes, the big list of local pumpkin patches and where to find the best haunted houses and trails.

Browse our photo collection of cute smiles and happy faces shared by our readers. Share one of your own for a chance to be in a future issue.

Whether planning a party for your baby or big kid, find hundreds of local entertainers, venues and party suppliers to create a birthday to remember.

…/halloween

Pinterest.com/ CharlotteParent

OCTOBER 2014

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…/photogallery

Facebook.com/ Cltparent

…/party

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CONTEST:

CO U N T D O W N TO CO S T U M E S Win a Disney’s “Frozen” Elsa costume or a Raphael Ninja Turtle costume for your tot or preschooler. Contest ends Oct. 19. … /contests instagram.com/ CharlotteParent

CharlotteParent.com | OCTOBER 2014

Gather your friends and family â&#x20AC;&#x201C; tickets start at just $25.

Over 100 performers with the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra Special daytime performances for students & seniors - visit charlotteballet.org 8

OCTOBER 2014

DECEMBER 12-23 | BELK THEATER CHARLOTTEBALLET.ORG | 704.372.1000

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Photo by Jeff Cravotta

o to by Pat

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FAMILY

Heroes Against BULLYING

PHOTO CAPTION PHOTO CAPTION

American Girl Store Grand Opening

xpect to hear giggles of glee Oct. 11 in the main hall outside Macy’s at Southpark Mall as American Girl unveils its new retail experience. The 12,000-square-foot-retail site is a place for girls, and their family and friends to shop for American Girl products, have tea, or spend the day at the salon with their American Girl dolls. Beyond shopping, store guests can treat their doll to a new ‘do in the Doll Hair Salon, where they can choose from a variety of salon services — from ponytails to pampering to pierced ears — before picking out a new outfit

for their doll. After spa time, girl and doll can pick something out for themselves from the Dress Like Your Doll collection or create matching, stylish T-shirts at Creativi-tees boutique. And after all that shopping and pampering, stop by the Bistro for lunch, dinner or dessert and tea. Menu items include Cheesy Cheese Pizza or more adventurous dishes such as herb-roasted salmon with lemon buerre blanc for the older guests. Best of all, favorite dolls are seated next to their owners in “treat seats” and are provided their own doll-sized menus.

The store features a complete assortment of the company’s popular historical and contemporary dolls, including Isabelle, the 2014 American Girl Doll, each with their own story to tell. And if a doll is in need of a general freshening up or a major surgery, bring her to the Doll Hospital for a fix-up. Packages are available for birthday parties and other special occasions in the Bistro or a private party room perfect for organized activities for the special guest, friends and, of course, her American Girl dolls. americangirl.com.

Make a trip to a local comic store in October as the world’s most popular superheroes — Captain America, The Avengers, The Guardians of the Galaxy and more — are featured on allnew variant covers to spotlight National Bullying Prevention Month and STOMP Out Bullying’s Blue Shirt Day® World Day of Bullying Prevention, Oct. 6. The variant issues are available exclusively at comic shops, including Heroes Aren’t Hard to Find. stompoutbullying.org.

86% of kids say what stresses them out most is how stressed out their parents have become. Source: American Academy of Pediatrics

CharlotteParent.com | OCTOBER 2014

fyi : : COMMUNITY

good deed: Reid Bond

get real with

Krissie Newman Quick stats: 37, president and executive director of Rescue Ranch … Family tree: Lives in Statesville with her husband Ryan; daughters Brooklyn, 3, and Ashlyn, 2; five dogs; two cats, as well as Angus cows, buffalo and chickens … Favorite indulgence: Dunkin Donuts coffee … Favorite outing: Lavendar Boutique in Mooresville, and any kind of beach trip … Favorite local eats: Mi Pueblo Mexican Grill … iPod: pop, hiphop and country … Latest read: animal zookeepers journal, and kids books — “Goodnight Gorilla” and “Chicka Chicka Boom Boom” … DVR: “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse,” “The Incredible Dr. Pol,” “American Pickers,” “American Restoration,” “Scandal” and “Grey’s Anatomy” … In your bag: Qore-24, Chapstick, keys, wallet, extra hair ties, phone charger, wipes, baby powder and extra change of clothes for the kids … Can’t live without: animals and coffee … Stress buster: Krav Maga and target shooting.

OCTOBER 2014

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Reid Bond, a seventh-grader at Alexander Graham Middle School, is putting a twist on traditional trick-or-treating. For the past two Halloweens, instead of going door-to-door asking for candy, Reid has asked for donations to support Cookies for Kids Cancer. In addition to raising awareness of childhood cancer research, he is honoring his friend Grier Christenbury, who died in November 2013 at the age of 9 after a long battle with neuroblastoma. Last year Reid raised $210 trick-or-treating for donations. He and a group of friends plan to trickor-treat in their neighborhood for donations again this year, and he is rallying other friends to do the same in their neighborhoods. Reid also participates in Cookies for Kids Cancer bake sales in December, and hosts a bake sale for Cookies for Kids Cancer in his front yard on Mother’s Day. Reid Bond with money collec ted for Cookies for Kids Cancer. 

Halloween Candy Buy Back October is National Orthodontic Health Month. To celebrate, Braces by Bird is encouraging families to surrender the copious amounts of Halloween candy to give teeth a healthy boost. From Nov. 3 to Nov. 28, for each pound of candy you donate, $1 will be awarded to your local middle school of choice. Candy can be dropped off and weighed during office business hours. Collected candy will go to Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina. bracesbybird.com.

Harris Y Expands Education Outreach The Harris Y is expanding education outreach with construction of the Cato Education Center. The center includes 10 classrooms, as well as the Sara Harris Bissell Pavilion with an open-air gymnasium and stage. Harris Y preschool, day camp and after-school programs will utilize the center, in addition to broader community programs, such as teen leadership development, that improve quality of life. Completion is expected before the summer of 2015.

CharlotteParent.com | OCTOBER 2014

fyi : : WELLNESS

When to Subtract an Add-enoid?

oes your child’s snoring rival Grandpa’s? Does your son constantly breathe through his mouth? Does your daughter still have ear pain or infections even after having ear tubes? If these scenarios sound DOC SAYS familiar, the problem may be related to your BY DR. JEREMY PICKELL AND DR. SHIVANI MEHTA child’s adenoid. Adenoid tissue is similar to tonsils and helps fight infections. While tonsils are located on either side of the throat, the adenoid can’t be easily seen. It is tucked away above the uvula, that dangly thing above the tongue. Just like tonsils, the adenoid can get larger during infections. It often returns to normal size once the illness is over but in some children it is larger than average at baseline. Because of its location, a large adenoid can cause problems with sleeping, breathing and drainage of fluid from the ears. Adenoidectomy is the surgical removal of the adenoid and if indicated, may be beneficial. Snoring is one of the many reasons children have poor sleep. An enlarged adenoid can block airflow causing the characteristic snoring sound. The blockage can be detected during a sleep study and if severe enough may be diagnosed as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Other signs of obstruction and poor sleep may be frequent nighttime awakenings, daytime fatigue, and even hyperactivity and inattention. If your child has these problems, it is worthwhile discussing with your physician. Removal of an enlarged adenoid and/or tonsils by an ear, nose and throat doctor (ENT) can make OSA better. Signs of obstruction may also be present during the day. Children who only breathe through their mouths often do so because air doesn’t easily pass through their nose. They may have a “nasal/throaty” sounding voice and trouble smelling. Nasal sprays and other medicines may help, but sometimes adenoid removal is necessary. An enlarged adenoid may also block the drainage of fluid from the ears and lead to more infections and hearing problems. If your child needs a second set of tubes, the ENT doctor may discuss removing the adenoid at the same time. However, not all snorers, mouth breathers, and children with frequent ear infections need surgery. If your child is one of these, try not to lose sleep over it. Your primary physician can guide you through options.

Dr. Jeremy Pickell is a pediatric resident at Levine Children’s Hospital of Carolinas HealthCare System, and Dr. Shivani Mehta is a board-certified pediatrician at CHS Myers Park Pediatrics.

OCTOBER 2014

CharlotteParent.com

Distracted driving is a leading cause of crashes. For teens it causes 11 percent of fatal crashes, and 21 percent of those deaths involved cell phones. In a recent study, 53 percent of teen drivers across 31 states reported they are talking on the phone to their parents while driving. If you know your teen is driving, don’t call them. Don’t text them. Ask them to call or text you before they leave or when they reach their destination.

The sleep-wake cycles of adolescents can shift up to two hours later at the start of puberty. Adolescents who don’t get enough sleep often suffer physical and mental health problems, an increased risk of automobile accidents and a decline in academic performance. For this reason, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends middle and high schools delay the start of class to 8:30 a.m. or later so teens get more sleep.

Parents perception of a healthy weight is shifting. In a recent CDC study, 83 percent of the overweight boys and 78 percent of the overweight girls were judged to be “about the right weight” by their parents. If parents don’t recognize a problem, they aren’t likely to be part of the solution, researchers say.

CharlotteParent.com | OCTOBER 2014

fyi : : EDUCATION

School News Achieve 225, a grantfunded physical activity and nutrition program has some CMS students playing more at recess. Designated game zones encourage students to be more active. The goal: to determine if more physical activity improves overall fitness and nutrition choices.

App Alert: Cookie Monster’s Challenge The lovable Cookie Monster is helping preschoolers practice self-control, focus and problem-solving with whimsical, brain-building mini games. As children beat levels, they earn pieces of a giant cookiemaking machine they can use to decorate and deliver a cookie to Cookie Monster. iPad, $2.99.

Tip Look at your child’s schoolwork each day, whether it is a picture drawn by a first-grader or a paper written by a middle-schooler.

OCTOBER 2014

Getting the Most From a Parent-Teacher Conference

arent-teacher conferences are the time to ask specific questions

CHALK TALK

BY MARGE EBERTS AND PEGGY GISLER

about your child’s academic progress, but it’s easy to get sidetracked in conversation. Don’t let the 15- to 20-minute time slot slip by without getting the information you want. Teachers typically give you answers to the following questions, but if they don’t, then you should ask.

3. What do you see as my child’s educational strengths and weaknesses? 4. Does my child need any special help to succeed in the classroom, and can the school provide the needed help? 5. Do you have any recent achievement, intelligence or aptitude test scores for my child? 6. Is my child’s behavior in the classroom satisfactory? If not, what needs to be improved? 7. What can I do at home to support my child’s learning?

1. What performance level is my child working at in the basic content areas?

8. Do you see any academic or behavior problems that we need to discuss at another conference?

2. Is my child working to his or her full academic potential?

If there is a need for a more lengthy conference,

CharlotteParent.com

you should try to schedule one at this time. You may also find out about your child’s participation in class discussions, standardized tests to be given during the school year and the amount of time that should be spent on homework. Be supportive and appreciative of all the hard work that the teacher puts in daily, and let the teacher know you want to do what is necessary to help your child succeed in school. Marge Eberts and Peggy Gisler are experienced teachers who have more than 60 publications to their credit.

LIFE

What A Boo-tiful Day!

on’t let the face of stunning manliness and beauty you see in my column picture fool you (I’m the guy on the right). Beneath this handsome brow lurks the soul of a monster and this is the month I get to let him out. It’s also STAY-AT-HOME DUDES the month BY RICHARD ED JONES when all of you stay-athome dudes can bring your inner monsters out to play with the little monsters, I mean lovely children we all love so much and would never disparage, who live in your house. Ah, yes. It’s Halloween, the greatest single day of the year. I’ve always loved getting to dress up as someone I’m not, or maybe someone I wish I could be,

and running around the neighborhood, hanging out with similar-minded (or at least similar emotioned as not too many of us were thinking around that time) guys and gals. Despite all the years, all the gorilla suits, the pirate eye-patches, the swords, the gorilla suits, all the torn shirts and green body paint and delusional beliefs that I was — or could be — a Hulk, not a Blob, in spite of all that, I never had more Halloween fun than I did after I started spraying out spawn with my darling bride, She Who Must Be Commented Upon Whenever Possible. Nothing beats walking the neighborhood, transformed to ghoulish, taking it in through the eyes of a young child for whom every costume is a new reality, and every cackle inspires a shriek of joy. Pumpkins with goofy smiles and gooey, chocolate-smeared mouths. Land-

fyi

walking lobsters with an inexplicable hunger for Nerd Ropes. A penguin barely able to walk. A family of Incredible superheroes. So many memories. So many good times. My advice? Take a lot of pictures. I mean, a lot. Like so many good things during childhood, it won’t last long and will be over before you know it. A scary thought, but it’ll fit right in with Halloween. And so will that mask you’re wea— What do you mean you’re not wearing a mask? You mean that’s your. . . Never mind. Gotta go. See you next time. Richared ED Jones and Barry Robert Ozer are the authors of the fast and funny how-to book for new dads “A Dude’s Guide to Babies: The New Dad’s Playbook.”

CharlotteParent.com | OCTOBER 2014

fyi : : LIFE

TOP 5 Myths About Mammograms 1. Radiation causes cancer.

Parenting Toolbox: Breaking Down Breast Cancer With Your Child One in eight women are affected by breast cancer, many that are moms. Finding out that you have breast cancer isn’t an easy pill to swallow, especially when kids are in the picture. Here are five tips to help you navigate the conversation.

Answering the ‘why’ questions. Children are curious and may want to know why mommy got breast cancer. Clarify with them that they did or said nothing that caused the illness, and that cancer is not something you catch like a cold.

se simple language. Don’t use “doctor talk” when discussing treatment and U physical issues with your children. Instead, explain to them by pointing to the area and keeping the words you use short and brief.

Listen. Listening helps you avoid talking above their level of understanding and possibly causing confusion. Encourage your children to express their feelings, and that’s it’s OK to ask questions.

Don’t beat around the bush. Avoiding questions about death does not protect children from potential anxiety and fears. If your child asks about death, be upfront and use the words “die” or “death.” One response to a question about death could be: “Some people do die from having cancer, but a lot of people get better and live to be old.”

Don’t forget how strong your kids are. Children, including younger ones, go through a lot with each developmental milestone. The information you choose to share with them about breast cancer can actually be a learning environment.

2. A breast lump equals breast cancer. 3. No family history means you won’t get breast cancer. 4. Digital mammography doesn’t use compression. 5. You need a referral from your doctor to get screened. Source: charlotteradiology.com

Source: rethinkbreastcancer.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 ... PINK RIBBON PRODUCTS THAT GIVE BACK

Filled with rice, Relaxing Microwaveable Comfort Wrap delivers therapeutic scents of lavender, chamomile and citrus. Five percent of all proceeds go to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. $11.99. earththerapeutics.net.

OCTOBER 2014

CharlotteParent.com

Look “fab” while giving back when you buy the Sonia Kashuk Proudly Pink five-piece makeup brush set. The professional makeup brushes have chic silver accents and pink plush bristles. Fifteen percent of the purchase price benefits the the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. $15.99. target.com.

Give your lips an extra pink pop and shine with the limited-edition Bobbi Brown Pretty Pink Ribbon Lip Gloss Collection. With each purchase of the set of four, $12 goes to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. $60, bobbibrowncosmetics.com.

2014online

baby& toddler fair Browse the best baby products, services and resources for new and expectant parents in Charlotte.

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OCTOBER 2014

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fyi : : LIFE

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

BY HEIDI BILLOTTO

For the Love of Latkes

hen I was growing up, potato pancakes — or latkes — were a staple side dish in our house. My mom had to make tons of them because my brother, Dad, and I would eat them right out of the pan as she cooked, way before we all sat down to dinner. This recipe always brings back great memories. And with my updated twist on the original theme, it’s a great way to make use of fall butternut squash and sweet potatoes. Start making memories with your family and give this recipe a try.

MY MOM’S OLD-FASHIONED POTATO LATKES WITH A TWIST • 5 sweet potatoes • 1-2 butternut squash • 2 medium onions (for savory version) • 2-3 large local or organic eggs

• 1/4 cup flour or breadcrumbs • Salt and pepper • Brown sugar and cinnamon (for sweeter version) • Canola oil for frying

Peel the potatoes and keep them in cold water. Grate the potatoes, squash and onion into a big bowl (this is easily done in the processor and is a lot easier on the fingertips than the old box graters my mom used to use). Blend the potato, squash and onion mixture with the flour and eggs, and salt and pepper for a savory latke. For a sweeter option, leave out the onion, and opt for brown sugar and cinnamon as a topping. Heat one inch of oil in the bottom of a large frying pan. Drop about one tablespoon of the potato batter into the hot fat and fry until golden brown, turning once. Drain on several thicknesses of paper towels. Serve warm topped with applesauce, sour cream or smoked salmon; or with pork, chicken or veggie sausage. Note: To make these a bit less fat-full, use just a drizzle of extravirgin olive oil in a non-stick pan — every bit as delicious.

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

CharlotteParent.com | OCTOBER 2014

fyi : : LIFE

MOTHER OF STYLE »»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» BY WHITLEY ADKINS HAMLIN Photo courtesy of Donna Jernigan. momentsbydonna.com Photo by Donna Jernigan, momentsbydonna.com.

Flask bangle, $225, available at cynthiarowley.com.

Flask Bangle

On-the-Sidelines Fashion Temps are dropping, leaves are changing, and Monday nights are a little more exciting. October means fall, and in the Queen City, fall means football. We are lucky to have our very own NFL team in the Carolina Panthers, but no matter what team you route for, be it in the NFL, college, high school or little league, with these great fashions, you are definitely ready for some fall sports action.

Cute NFL gear for the mamas. ‘80s girl-next-door heartthrob Alyssa Milano

has created her own line of cute game-day tops for most of the major league sports teams. One night in 2006, Milano was underdressed and chilly at Dodgers Stadium. She made a mad dash for the team store and quickly realized there was nothing cute and fashionable for her to wear as she cheered on her team. With that, the birth of touch by Alyssa Milano. Shop all of the sweetheart’s looks at touchbyajm.com.

For its ingenuity and sleek design, quite possibly my favorite accessory since the turn of the century is Cynthia Rowley’s Flask Bangle. Available in stainless steel or 24-karat plated gold, this bracelet is the most stylish hot chocolate (or whatever else you’re sipping on!) container you’ll ever carry. cynthiarowley.com. 

Accessorize

Whether you cheer from the stadium or the comfort of your own couch, flaunt your favorite team colors this season with a wide array of spirited clothing and accessories by Slater Zorn. As we head into fall and the temperatures drop, stay cozy and cute with the company’s silk-fringe ombre- shaded scarf. slaterzorn.com. 

Dress to impress. You want to be comfortable sitting in those hard-as-a-rock stadium seats. It’s fine to dress casual, but whatever you do, please, do not be sloppy. This is the South. Everybody knows everybody, so always, as a rule-of-thumb, dress better than you have to. You never know when you might be meeting someone who could actually be next in line to hire you. Color coordinate. Want to be on point with your team’s colors but not overtly so?

The easiest way to do this is to have your sports team’s color on hand and ready in the form of a button down oxford shirt. Pair it with your favorite blue jeans or denim skirt and cowgirl boots, and you’ve got your game-day uniform at the ready.

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.

OCTOBER 2014

CharlotteParent.com

Ombre-shaded three-color scarf, $135, available at slaterzorn.com.

CharlotteParent.com | OCTOBER 2014

fyi : : LIFE Growing up: How Kids Choose Good Role Models

ole models for children run the gamut from Grandpa to a gold medalist to a Grammy winner, and help impart life lessons as they encourage kids to strive for success. Role GROWING UP BY MALIA JACOBSON models help children learn about themselves and the world, says Jenny Aiello, a certified life coach and mom of five based in Raleigh. But not all role models are good ones. For example, the latest pop starlet may teach your child more about the value of shortshorts than about positive values. Read on for age-by-age guidance on helping children pick and learn from positive, enduring role models. Malia Jacobson is an award-winning health and parenting journalist and mom of three.

0-5 years

PARENT PLAY

Want your little ones to take turns, play peacefully, speak kindly, and gobble up fruits and veggies? Then start by taking up these habits yourself. Parents are a child’s first role model, says family therapist Jay Fitter, author of “Respect Your Children: A Practical Guide to Effective Parenting.” Children begin observing parents’ behaviors and attitudes almost from birth, even when you’re not aware you’re being watched. So if you gossip about neighbors, spend hours glued to your smartphone, or snack on junk food, don’t be surprised if your little mimic follows suit. “Parents and other role models help teach toddlers and preschoolers about socially acceptable behavior,” says Fitter. Modeling healthy conflict resolution can help preschoolers avoid hitting and bullying behavior, he says. After a small argument, allow your child to see you resolve the conflict in a respectful way.

OCTOBER 2014

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6-12 years

MEDIA MAVEN

Elementary-aged children look up to people who have overcome obstacles and experienced failure, defeat or hardship with a positive mindset, says Aiello. “Those type of role models will teach them that it’s OK to try and fail, and get up and try again,” she says. So Olympic athletes, musicians, authors and other celebrities can be appropriate role models, but beware — it’s easy for an impressionable school-ager to get caught up in “celeb worship” instead of seeing their role model as an imperfect person, or to fixate on the glamorous aspects of a role model’s image. Keep the dialogue focused on values; ask kids which values they look for in a role model, and why. And remind kids that it’s OK to choose more than one role model, and to change role models as they grow up and expand their interests.

WINNING WORDS 13-18 years

Positive adult role models are vital to high schoolers. In a recent study from Ohio Connections Academy, 79 percent of 10th and 11th graders rated role models as “extremely important.” What role should a role model take? Most students want a verbal cheerleader; in the same study, three-quarters of students said they wanted a role model to say encouraging words. “When real-world (as opposed to celebrity) role models who have the potential to become real-life mentors in a teen’s life, it’s a win/win,” says Aiello. She recommends talking to teens about the role models they choose. Why do they look up to them? What do they admire most about them and why? When teens hone in on qualities they admire in role models, dig deeper to encourage big-picture thinking, says Aiello. “Ask how they could use those qualities in their own lives and how those qualities might help them accomplish their goals in life. It opens up great conversations!”

CharlotteParent.com | OCTOBER 2014

Roast marshmallows and make s’mores over a fire in your backyard barbecue.

WAYS TO HAVE A

h wling

HALLOWEEN C O M P I L E D B Y E M I LY U S H E R A N D M I C H E L E H U G G I N S

Halloween is a fun time for the whole family! Make the most of the month of October and venture around Charlotte

have some frights. These 31 things are sure to make this Halloween your favorite Halloween.

MAKE A Make it scary, make it goofy, but make it together! OCTOBER 2014

Go pick a pumpkin at a pumpkin patch. The list of pumpkin patches is long, but we’ve got your covered. See Page 42 for the big list of area pumpkin patches. Read spooky stories. Foster their love for books with special Halloween books. The Charlotte Library is a great resource for finding ageappropriate stories. cmlibrary.org. Watch “Hocus Pocus” as a family. Laugh and scream as a family at the three Salem witches.

to see some sights and

Enjoy spooky stories and s’mores. Settle in around a bonfire to hear three spinetingling tales while enjoying s’mores at Aw Shucks Farm in Monroe. Friday and Saturday nights in October. awshuckscornmaze.com.

CharlotteParent.com

Take the little ones to Spinning Spiders and Creepy Crawlers for not-so-scary puppet shows, story time and crafts about spiders, bats, bees, scorpions and other critters that scurry about. Kids are encouraged to wear costumes. Charlotte Nature Museum, Oct. 18. charlottenaturemuseum.org.

Eat candy corn

Watch “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown!” A Charlie Brown classic that the whole family can enjoy. Make scary Halloween ghosts to hang in trees. All you need is a paper plate and some toilet paper and you have a haunting new friend to decorate your yard.

It’s only around once a year, so enjoy it while it’s here!

Stuff a scarecrow. Even if you aren’t on a farm, a scarecrow is a fall decoration that has been around forever. Find your way around a haunted corn maze at night with the tweens and teens in your family, or go by day with kids of all ages. See a list of local corn mazes on page 41. Plan a trip to Scarowinds. If you’re all about a frightfully good time, Scarowinds doesn’t disappoint with its mazes and scare zones, and all-too-real terrifying costumed actors. Plus you can take a thrill ride on some of the Carowinds’ best roller coasters. Open Fridays-Sunday through Nov. 1. Scarowinds has corn mazes, face painting, and lots more fun for the younger set during the day. Invite your kids’ friends and their scarowinds.com. parents for a Halloween party. Stream in spooky tunes and play silly games.

Plan a Halloween costume party

Take a family bike ride to look at the neighborhood Halloween decorations This is a fun fall past time that gets the family moving and you can borrow some inspiration for next year.

Halloween cookies

If they love “Despicable Me,” wow them by creating Dave and Stuart Minion pumpkins Find easy-to-follow instructions at CharlotteParent.com/Halloween.

Bake a pumpkin pie You need a reward for that bike ride, right?

Strawberry

Plan a Halloween Halloween cookies ostume party Plan Plan Halloween BUaY a MAKE Halloween Halloween Halloween costume party costume party

Take a night tour through the house at Historic Rosedale Plantation to encounter a living-history team that presents a family-friendly program and stories about spirits bound to the plantation. Ages 6 and older. Oct. 24-25 and 31. historicrosedale.org.

cookies cookies

I f you

don’t have

the time to make them from scratch, buy

Visit a Halloween store and try on different costumes. To help decide on the perfect costume, bring the whole family and make it a fashion show.

the classic prepack aged Halloween cook ies.

Host a trunk-ortreat at your church or neighborhood community center

Plan a Halloween costume party

Great for little kids who don’t have the stamina to walk the neighborhood on Halloween night. Dress with your kids and wander to various

Halloween cookies

environment.

Spookify your yard with fake cobwebs and spooky lights. Take a Saturday and get the family outside to make the yard as spooky as possible.

Bob for apples atStrawberry your Strawberry Strawberry Halloween party

Play Pin the Wart on the Witch. A pin-the-tailon-donkey type game with a Halloween twist. A perfect Halloween party game. Go to your local library on Halloween to hear spooky ghost stories before you trick-ortreat! Charlotte Mecklenburg Library combines literary skills with their love of spooky stories. Appropriate for all ages. cmlibrary.org. Watch Halloween specific shows. CURIOUS GEORGE: A Halloween Boo Fest returns Oct. 27 to PBS. pbskids.org.

It is one of the most classic Halloween games that must live on forever.

car stations for treats in a safe

Attend the Spirits of Rosedale Tour

Simply dip

Ghosts M Ghosts A K E Strawberry

Ghosts

strawberries in melted white chocolate chips, cool, and then use baking markers to make scary ghost faces. Sweet treats that aren’t all bad. Find full instructions at CharlotteParent.com/ Halloween.

Find a cute costume for your petGhosts Walk the Schiele Trail of Treats. Come Why should everyone get to dress up except the animal? Find something that speaks to their personality and be sure to take lots of pictures.

in costume for an evening of treats, planetarium shows and hands-on activities. Bring your own flashlight to light your way along. Schiele Museum, Gastonia. Oct. 24. schielemuseum.org.

Spend an afternoon with your child creating a trickor-treat candy bag to use on Halloween. Buy an inexpensive canvas tote bag and use fabric pens and paint, googly eyes and glitter to make the best bag on the block.

Collect left over candy and give it to the homeless shelter and children’s hospitals. Once Halloween is over, take left over candy and do something good with it, sharing a special treat.

CharlotteParent.com | OCTOBER 2014

ded ents a o l The ion pa r t q u e s to a s k ne e d BY MARTY MINCHIN

n a time when parents are willing to talk about everything from breastfeeding to preteen “sexting,” one simple question often remains off limits: Do you have a loaded, unlocked gun in your house? The answer, gun safety advocates say, can be life changing. Newsfeeds are filled with story after tragic story about children who find loaded guns in a home, pull the trigger and accidently kill someone. “I think that’s as relevant a question as, ‘Do you keep your liquor locked up?’ or ‘Do you keep your prescription medicine out of reach of children?’ ” says Dan Starks, personal safety expert and owner of Starks Training Institute in Charlotte. “I think it’s just common courtesy and common sense.” According to Asking Saves Kids (ASK), a national campaign promoting conversations about guns in homes with children and other parents, one out of three American homes with children has a gun, and nearly 1.7 million children in the U.S. live in homes with an unlocked, loaded gun. In North Carolina, four out of 10 homes have a gun, and it is estimated that more than 82,000 children in the state live with unlocked and loaded guns. Research presented to the American Academy of Pediatrics in late 2013 found that the prevalence of household gun ownership was linked to child gunshot wounds. Results showed that about 7,500 children are admitted to hospitals

7,500 children are admitted to hospitals each year with gunshot wounds, and about 500 of those die from those injuries. each year with gunshot wounds, and about 500 of those die from those injuries. “Handguns account for the majority of childhood gunshot wounds and this number appears to be increasing over the last decade,” says Arin L. Madenci, lead study author. He adds that states with a higher percentage of household firearm ownership tended to have a higher proportion of children who received gunshot wounds, especially in a home.

Life-saving Education

Accidental shootings often happen when children find a loaded, unlocked gun in a home and play with it. For example, in February, Tmorej Smith, 3, found a pink handgun in a bedroom at his home in Greenville, South Carolina. He thought it was a toy, and while playing with it shot himself in the head and died. Gun safety advocates say that children should be taught early about guns. Kids are curious about guns, and parents should not keep them off limits, says Stark. Though firearms and ammunition should always be locked in a gun safe, children who have accidentally shot others have found guns under couches, in drawers and inside closets. “I think the biggest mistake parents make is they buy guns and try to hide them from their children,” he says. “My suggestion is they should have a family meeting and introduce the firearms to the kids and let them know there are firearms in the house.” Josh Mitten of Fort Mill, and former Army personnel, owns three guns and already has talked with his children, ages 3, 6 and 8, about gun safety. He tries to take

the mystery out of guns and likens them to tools that can be extremely dangerous. “If you’re going to choose to have firearms as part of your family’s life, I think it’s important that everyone in the home has some level of understanding of why it’s appropriate, to their age level,” he says. He and his wife Melissa teach their children not to point any gun, including toy or pretend guns, at people and pull the trigger. Instead, their children draw pictures of animals, tape them around the house and go on safari hunts. Since 1988, the National Rifle Association’s Eddie Eagle GunSafe program has taught more than 26 million children what to do if they find a gun. The program primarily is presented in schools, but its basic premise is that children should stop, don’t touch the gun, leave the area and tell an adult. The program does not promote firearm use or ownership among children.

Starting the Conversation

While parents who own guns can control how they are stored, they usually have no idea whether other families own firearms, and if they do, how they store them. Gun ownership can be a touchy topic, so much so that many parents feel too awkward to ask people they are just getting to know whether they have unlocked guns in the house. Some don’t even think to ask the question or worry that if they do, it will cause a confrontation. Experts suggest approaching the topic in a friendly way, preferably when the kids aren’t around. The question can be included in a larger discussion about safety rather than about whether people should own guns.

Stark said he would encourage parents, especially primary caretakers, to bring it up in casual settings. Ask how the family protects itself from intruders. If they have guns, ask how they are stored. Research shows that 93 percent of parents, including those who own guns, would not be offended by the question, says Jennie Lintz, public health and safety director for ASK. “Parents understand this is a safety conversation, just like you would ask about a fence around a pool or let a parent know if your child had a food allergy,” says Lintz. Since ASK began educating parents about the importance of talking about guns with each other, more than 19 million parents have asked the “life-saving question.” “(Asking) is one tangible thing every parent can and should do to protect his or her children,” she says. Marty Minchin is a freelance writer who lives in Charlotte.

GUN SAFETY in the Home :: While gun safety education can benefit children, the best way to ensure that children do not handle guns is to properly store firearms and ammunition. :: Keep all guns locked in a gun safe. For loaded firearms kept on hand for personal protection, small gun safes that fit in nightstands can be purchased for less than $150 and quickly accessed with a digital keypad. :: Any gun not stored in a safe should never be loaded when it is not in use. Ammunition and guns should always be stored in separate places. :: Only adults who use the firearms should know where they are stored and how to access them. :: If you carry a handgun throughout the day, make it a habit to immediately put the gun in a safe when you arrive home.

CharlotteParent.com | OCTOBER 2014

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OCTOBER 2014

CharlotteParent.com

September 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ Free CharlotteParent.com

BE YOUR

OWN BOSS

Making it as a MOMPRENEUR

15 Local Festivals and Fairs

TOP NC Family-Friendly Companies

Join us for Moms@Work Sept. 26 See page 37

Letting Go of Mommy Guilt

Clockwise from left: Artist renderings of Moon Keep; Children peer out from Moon Keep, a tower of a castle that doubles as an observation tower; A view of Moon Keep and the entrance to the Fireplace Cave, two of the eight destinations at Lost Hollow.

Free

Your

Imagination

CHILDREN’S GARDEN

Photo by Craig Neal McCausland

BY SARA KENDALL

n Saturday, Oct. 18, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden unveils Lost Hollow Children’s Garden. Children can experience imaginative play around an amphitheater and a naturalized pond within 3 acres artistically designed just for them, but engaging for the whole family. Old European architectural elements from Daniel Stowe’s estate are interwoven in a naturally shady garden creating lots of magical areas for all ages to discover. Designed with sophistication, there are eight destinations that have been woven into the existing landscape — a true lost hollow. “It’s a safe and natural experience,” says Kara Newport, executive director at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. “We encourage children to step off the path and roll in the grass.”

The Design The Commons is your first destination. It is a circular gathering place where visitors pass over an all-seeing eye surrounded by six terracotta chimney pots. Walk on over to Moon Keep, a tower of a castle that doubles as an observation tower. You can survey all of the land then descend through flying buttresses to the next stop. Look for the Fireplace Cave, an entrance to a five-foot high cave. Once inside, gaze upon a night sky complete with stars and a moon. Next up, is The Mantlet, a fort of sorts built of natural materials. Kids can frolic inside and secretly watch people pass by. Wander down the path to The Aviary. For a true feel of the place, hop inside the seven-foot rotating enclosure that housed birds at Daniel Stowe’s estate. Beyond the hill is the Sunken Pond. Gaze into Sunken Pond to find

GRAND OPENIN

C E L E B R AT I O N Join Charlotte Parent for opening weekend at Lost Hollow, Oct. 18 and 19. Discover a long lost land with special performances at the Hillside Theatre, including magical story times presented by Charlotte Parent. Grey Seal Puppets also performs fairy-tale classics, such as Billy Goats Gruff and Three Little Pigs. Stop by the Charlotte Parent table for fun fairy-tale crafts and activities. Admission is $6-$12, and free for children under age 4. dsbg.org

CharlotteParent.com | OCTOBER 2014

Above: Venture into Fireplace Cave and see a dazzling night sky. Below: Sketches of the Fireplace Cave entrance.

a secret castle, and be sure to investigate Hillside Theatre, an amphitheater built into the hillside that overlooks the pond’s floating stage that will host family-friendly performances. As you make your way through Lost Hollow, you may wonder to yourself if there is an intended storyline that connects each destination. The true gem is that there is no story to uncover. It’s entirely up to everyone’s own interpretation, and that’s exactly what internationally renowned landscape designer and artist W. Gary Smith intended when he created the unique children’s garden. “Staff members have enjoyed developing their own stories, and you might hear them along the way,” says Newport. “We encourage visitors to use the given elements to spark their own imagination.”

Bring the kids and join us at the

NING E P O D N GRA

at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

OcTOBER 18-19 fe a tu r in g :

Storytime presented by Charlotte Parent

$12/adult $6/child

Performances by the Grey Seal Puppets

Bring this ad for special discount!

OCTOBER 2014

Fun fairy tale crafts and activities

CharlotteParent.com

Good to Know According to Newport, Lost Hollow is an interactive, natural experience for children. “The garden’s features are sized and positioned for children to explore,” says Newport. Lost Hollow is geared for children ages 10 and under. This portion of Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden should take a family from one-and-a-half to two hours to explore. Extend your experience at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden at the Orchid Conservatory viewing orchids and luscious tropical plants, or meander along Meadowood Walk for a more natural experience that follows a three-quarter mile path. On the trail, take the Woodland Loop to see an overlook of Lake Wylie. Sara Kendall is a freelance writer and mom of two daughters who lived in Charlotte.

CharlotteParent.com | OCTOBER 2014

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Hodges Family Farm and Pumpkin Patch Come support your local agriculture! We are open everyday in October from

Apple Picking at SkyTop Orchard At SkyTop Orchard, you pick the apples or we do it for you! Enjoy panoramic mountain views, hayrides, ponds with ducks and geese, and a barnyard with sheep, goats, chickens and turkeys. SkyTop Orchard Explore a live bamboo forest and relax in the picnic and One mile from the intersection of Highway play areas. Treat yourself to homemade jams and jellies, 225 and Pinnacle Mountain Road, Flat Rock 828-692-7930 | skytoporchard.com plus cider donuts and slushies.

9 a.m. until dark, seven days a week. “Pick Your Own

Pumpkin”

hayrides Hay

Patch,

every

hour,

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farm

animals, and pony rides (Saturday and Sunday

Northlake MallStars Mall-OWeen Celebration Looking for a fun, safe place to trick-or-treat this Halloween? Join us at Northlake Mall on Friday, Oct. 31, from 5-7 p.m. for the MallStars Mall-OWeen Celebration. Enjoy cool tricks, sweet treats and the first 200 kids receive a FREE MallStars trickor-treat bag. It’s free! It’s fun! It’s MallStars! Join online today. For children 10 and under. Northlake Mall 6801 Northlake Mall Drive 704-921-2000 shopnorthlake.com /mallstars

Carolina Balloonfest Carolina BalloonFest, running October 17-19, is a fun-filled weekend of outstanding entertainment, attractions and family activities. Bring lawn chairs and blankets to bask in the beautiful Carolina autumn weather as the backdrop to all the sights and sounds of 50 colorful hot air balloons. (Pets and coolers are not permitted). Ages 12 and under are free. $5-$15. Statesville Regional Airport 260 Hangar Drive, Statesville 704-818-3307 | carolinaballoonfest.com

only).

Families

all

sizes are free to enter, no reservations needed. Call Frank Hodges at 704608-8897 or see website for more details.

Hodges Family Farm and Pumpkin Patch 3900 Rocky River Road East 704-494-0107 hodgesfarmnc.com

Halloweenfest in Transylvania Come celebrate Halloween in Transylvania! Halloweenfest provides thrills, chills and scary fun for everyone in your family. Costume contest, pumpkin carving contest, kids activities, Mountain Music Mash music Halloweenfest in Translyvania competition, “Osktoberfest” featuring Oskar Blues Brewery 175 E. Main St., Brevard and live music on the stage. For more information, go to 828-884-3278 halloweenfestnc.com. halloweenfestnc.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Pineville Fall Fest Come celebrate fall at Pineville Lake Park Oct. 17, 6-10 p.m., and Oct.18, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Family fun, including music, rides, games, craft vendors, and food. New this year: dog show; Big, Bang BOOM; pie-eating and a pie-baking contests. Friday night wristbands, $15. FAMILY FUN FOOD

17 AN

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AND

Pineville Lake Park 1000 Johnston Drive, Pineville 704-889-2400 pinevillefallfest.com

EAT

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NU AL

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THE BEST BA NDS IN THE W C R A F T S ORLD

The Rural Hill Amazing Maize Maze The Rural Hill Amazing Maize Maze, every weekend through Nov. 2. Get lost in our 7-acre corn maze featuring more than two miles of interconnecting paths. Bring a flashlight to do the maze in the dark during Family Friendly Friday and Saturday Night Mazes with bonfires and music, plus pumpkins, hayrides, hiking and mini-mazes. The Rural Hill Amazing Maize Maze 4431 Neck Road, Huntersville 704-875-3113| ruralhill.net

Tiger Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Boo at the Zoo Trick-or-treat with the animals on Oct. 24 and 25, see our new bear and cougar habitats, and help Tiger World improve our animal and visitor experience. Costume contest, haunted house, face painting, and fun for all. Exit 68 off I-85. Tiger World 4400 Cook Road, Rockwell 704-279-6363 tigerworld.us

2015

TER RIF IC

TEENS

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for teens with outstanding character, leadership and heart to profile in our annual Terrific Teens feature. Tell us about a teen you know that is doing something great in our community. Nominations open through Nov. 30

charlotteparent.com/tweensteens CharlotteParent.com | OCTOBER 2014

OCTOBER 2014

CharlotteParent.com

G O! ETTING UT

COMPILED BY MIKALA YOUNG

October 2014 go. see. play.

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

Historic Rural Hill 4431 Neck Road, Huntersville 704-875-3113 ruralhill.net

Main Street, downtown Monroe historicdowntownmonroe.org

Ada Jenkins Center 212 Gamble St., Davidson 704-892-7724 thechildrensschoolhouse.com

It’s opening night for Ariel, Belle, Cinderella, Rapunzel, Tiana, Jasmine, Aurora, Snow White and their adventurous counterparts at Disney on Ice: Princesses and Heroes. Watch as favorite princesses glide across the ice to meet their heroes, and the occasional nemesis, including Maleficent as a fire-breathing dragon. 7pm. Happening through Oct. 5. See website for more showtimes. Tickets start at $20.

Home-school students can experience 18th-century life at Homeschool Day on the farm. Learn about life in a two-room cabin, and see fire-building and primitive cooking demonstrations. A special viewing of the oneroom Davidson Schoolhouse is open to all in attendance without an extra charge. 10 a.m.-1 p.m., and 2-4 p.m. Also happening Oct. 20. $8 for students, free for adults.

Celebrate the upcoming spooky holiday at downtown Monroe’s Halloween Happenings. The event features crafts, a petting zoo, mechanical bull and bounce houses. Make sure to wear your Halloween costumes and participate in the costume contest at noon. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free.

On of the longest running events in Davidson, the Children’s School House Carnival brings families out to celebrate the season, and enjoy bounce houses, pony rides, pick-a-prize, and mini-golf, plus cheerleading, soccer and acrofitness demonstrations. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free.

CharlotteParent.com | OCTOBER 2014

1 WEDNESDAY Two-Time Storytime. Enjoy storytime experience that encourages language development, listening and social skills. Age 2. Free. 10:30am. Cornelius Library, 21105 Catawba Ave., Cornelius. 704-416-3800. cmlibrary.org. On Stage: Disney on Ice: Princesses and Heroes. See page 44.

2 THURSDAY Viewers can explore dinosaur replicas at the Dinosaurs in Motion exhibit, beginning Oct. 4.

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. Oct. 4-Jan. 16, 2015. Mon.-Fri., 9am-4pm; Sat., 10am-6pm; Sun., noon5pm. 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 .

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.

THE SCHIELE MUSEUM National Geographic’s 50 Best Photographs. Discover the stories and photographers behind the iconic images. $7-$10, includes museum admission. Through Oct. 26. Mon.-Sat., 9am-5pm; Sun., 1-5pm. 704-866-6900. schielemuseum.org. The Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia.

CALENDAR POLICY: Theand Charlotte low-cost

Parent calendar lists free 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.

OCTOBER 2014

CharlotteParent.com

Family Storytime: Pajama Party. Wear a set of pajamas and share stories, songs and movement activities that support early literacy skills. Free. 7pm. Morrison Regional Library, 7015 Morrison Blvd. 704-416-5400. cmlibrary.org. On Stage: Disney on Ice: Princesses and Heroes. See page 44.

3 FRIDAY Children’s Sensory Storytime. Songs, activities and stories designed for children with autism spectrum disorder, sensory integration issues, or other developmental disabilities. Ages 18 mos.-11. Free. 10:30am. Scaleybark Library, 101 Scaleybark Road. 704-4166400. cmlibrary.org. OnStage: 101 Dalmatians; Disney on Ice: Princesses and Heroes. See page 44.

4 SATURDAY Autumn Jubilee. Crafts, food, live entertainment, Carolina Puppet Theater, a magician, pumpkin and face painting. Free. 10am-6pm. Dan Nicholas Park and Campground, 6800 Bringle Ferry Road, Salisbury. dannicholas.net. Disney Muppet Most Wanted. Watch the movie and participate in related activities. Ages 5-11. Free. 2pm. Sugar Creek Library, 4045 N. Tryon St., Suite A. 704-416-7000. cmlibrary.org. Family First: Writing Workshop With Kwame Alexander. Meet the nationally acclaimed author and participate in a special poetry-writing

program. Registration required. $7-$9. 11am-1pm. The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts + Culture, 551 S. Tryon St. 704-547-3700. ganttcenter.org. Hola Charlotte Festival. Authentic Latin food and beverage, cultural dance performances, Zumba demos, art, music and an interactive kids zone. Free. See website for times. 704-3331887. holacharlottefestival.com. Jazzy Strings for Kids. Enjoy a mix of jazz and puppetry by the Mountain Marionettes. $5. 2pm. Community Performance Center, 249 E. Main St., Rock Hill, S.C. yorkcountyarts.org. Mars/Not Mars Evening Star Party. Learn how to tell a star from a planet and about different types of telescopes. $6-$7. 7-10pm. Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704-866-6900. schielemuseum.org. Musical Petting Zoo. Make your own music with woodwinds, brass, percussion and stringed instruments. Free. 11am. ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St. 704-416-4600. cmlibrary.org. Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. Walk with the family and help to raise awareness about breast cancer. Registration required. $10-$35. 6am. Marshall Park, 800 E. Third St. komencharlotte.org. OnStage: 101 Dalmatians; Disney on Ice: Princesses and Heroes. See page 44.

5 SUNDAY Autumn Jubilee. Crafts, food, live entertainment, Carolina Puppet Theater, a magician, pumpkin and face painting, clogging barn and pumpkin painting. Free. 10am-6pm. Dan Nicholas Park and Campground, 6800 Bringle Ferry Road, Salisbury. dannicholas.net. OnStage: 101 Dalmatians; Disney On Ice: Princesses and Heroes. See page 44.

6 MONDAY Baby Palooza. Connect with your baby through fun stories, songs and activities. Ages 3-12 mos. Registration required. Free. Call for times. Romp n’ Roll, 4200 Main St., Ste. 100, Harrisburg. 704-455-2623. rompnroll.com. Fall Homeschool Day. Learn about life in a two-room cabin, and see fire building and primitive cooking demonstrations. Registration required. $8, free for adults. 10am-4pm. Historic Rural Hill, 4431 Neck Road, Huntersville. ruralhill.net.

7 TUESDAY Afternoon Adventures. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and develop literacy and critical-thinking skills through books and hands-on activities. Ages 5-11. Free. 5pm. Beatties Ford Road Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. 704-4163000. cmlibrary.org. Too Many Pumpkins. Read pumpkin tales and create a pumpkin out of used books. Ages 5-11. Free. 5pm. Scaleybark Library, 101 Scaleybark Road. 704-416-6400. cmlibrary.org.

8 WEDNESDAY STEM 101. Hands-on science experiments, engineering projects and math puzzles. Ages 12-18. Free. 2:30pm. Independence Regional Library, 6000 Conference Drive. 704416-4800. cmlibrary.org. Tiny Tots. Stories, music and movement designed to develop language, listening and coordination skills. Ages 18-35 mos. Free. 10:30am. Myers Park Library, 1361 Queens Road. 704-4165800. cmlibrary.org.

9 THURSDAY Bojangles’ Pole Night. The stars of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series compete for the top starting spot for the Bank of America 500. $12-$20; free for

daily calendar children 13 and under. 7pm. Charlotte Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Pkwy. S., Concord. 704-455-3200. charlottemotorspeedway.com. Read and Recycle. Re-purpose used books to create useable items. Ages 12+. Free. 4pm. Mint Hill Library, 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road. 704-4165200. cmlibrary.org. Story Explorers. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by exploring 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. 704416-3000. cmlibrary.org.

10 FRIDAY Adventure Seekers Kids Night Out. Have a pizza dinner, play games in the adventure center, make s’mores, take a night hike, and practice archery skills. Ages 7-14. Registration required. $25. 5:30-9pm. Anne Springs Close Greenway, 841 Springfield Pkwy., Fort Mill. 803-547-4575. ascgreenway.org. Dakota and Friends. Meet and interact with Dakota, a life-size Deinonychus, and his dinosaur friends. Free. 11:30am. ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St. 704-416-4600. imaginon.org.

11 SATURDAY American Girl Store Grand Opening. See Page 10 for details. Free. SouthPark Mall, 4400 Sharon Road. 704-364-4411. simon.com. Belmont Fall Festival. Arts and crafts, merchandise displays, food, live entertainment and the Belle of Belmont pageant. Free. 6pm. Stowe Park, 24 S. Main St., Belmont. Hispanic Heritage Month: Manta de memorias/Legacy Quilt. Learn about the Hispanic culture and heritage through an interactive project. Free. 11am. ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St. 704-416-4600. imaginon.org.

JAARS Day. Events and displays include: plane, helicopter, boat and 4-by-4 vehicle rides, demonstrations of media in various languages and special speakers. Free. 9am-4pm. JAARS, 7405 JAARS Road, Waxhaw. 704-843-6130. jaars.org/events/ jaarsday. Walk With Me. A family-fun walk that benefits Easter Seal programs. Registration required. $25. 9am. Freedom Park, 1900 East Blvd. WalkWithMe.org/Charlotte. OnStage: 101 Dalmatians; The Lion and the Little Red Bird. See page 44.

12 SUNDAY Latin American Festival. Enjoy international musical acts, savory cuisine, visual artist demonstrations, authentic crafts, dance presentations, and interactive children’s activities. $5; free for children under 8. Noon-8pm. Symphony Park at South Park Mall, 4400 Sharon Road. 704-941-2557. latinamericancoalition.org. OnStage: 101 Dalmatians; The Lion and the Little Red Bird. See page 44.

13 MONDAY Monday Movies at Beatties Ford Road Regional Library. Bring a lunch and enjoy a movie screening with light refreshments. Free. 11:30am. Beatties Ford Road Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. cmlibrary.org.

14 TUESDAY North Carolina Ghosts and Legends. Hear the tales of Blackbeard, the Devil’s Tramping Ground and the Legend of the Blowing Rock. Ages 5-11. Free. 5pm. Scaleybark Library, 101 Scaleybark Road. 704-416-6400. cmlibrary.org. Story Explorers: Book Nuts. Explore books and stories in creative ways through interactive activities including

math, science and games. Ages 5-8. Registration required. Free. 4pm. Matthews Library, 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews. 704- 416-5000. cmlibrary.org.

15 WEDNESDAY Wee Wednesdays. Little ones and their caregivers can enjoy stories, movement with music, and a special craft. Ages Infant-3. $5. 10:30am-11am. Main Street Children’s Museum, 133 E. Main St., Rock Hill. 803-909-7218. chmuseums.org.

16 THURSDAY You’re a Poet and Didn’t Know it. Share poetry in different ways, from reading to writing. Ages 12-18. Free. 3pm. Beatties Ford Road Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. 704416-3000. cmlibrary.org. OnStage: Disney’s Aladdin, Jr. See page 44.

17 FRIDAY Luke-A-Palooza. Karaoke, carnival rides and games, food and drinks, silent auction, book and bake sale. Free. 5-10pm; Sat., 10am-10pm. St. Luke Catholic Church, 13700 Lawyers Road, Mint Hill. 704-545-1224. lukeapalooza.org. Pineville Fall Festival. Live music, pieeating contest, kids activities, carnival rides and plenty of food vendors. Free. 6-10pm. Pineville Lake Park, 1000 Johnston Drive, Pineville. 704889-2400. pinevillefallfest.com. Preschool Storytime. Engage with books and activities that encourage language and pre-reading skills. 3-5. Free. 10:15am. Davidson Library, 119 S. Main St., Davidson. 704-416-4000. cmlibrary.org. OnStage: 101 Dalmatians; Disney’s Aladdin, Jr. See page 44.

= Halloween Events

CharlotteParent.com | OCTOBER 2014

18 SATURDAY 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. Blakeney Boo Bash. Pumpkin painting, sand art, wax hands, slides, moon bounce, swing, train rides, live DJ and a dog costume contest. $5. 9am-4pm. Blakeney Shopping Center, Rea Road and Ardrey Kell Road. 704523-0272. shopblakeney.com City of Belmont Fall Festival. Arts and crafts, children’s inflatables, karaoke, games and vendors for all. Free. 10am-4pm. Stowe Park, 7 S. Main St., Belmont. cityofbelmont.org. Halloween Happenings. Crafts, petting zoo, inflatables and a costume contest. Free. 10am. Downtown Monroe, historicdowntownmonroe.org. Lost Hollow Children’s Garden Opening. Explore the new children’s garden, watch a special performance at the Hillside Theatre and participate in hands-on activities. Stop by the Charlotte Parent booth to do a fairy tale craft. $6-$12, includes garden admission. Noon-5pm. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont. 704-825-4490. dsbg.org. Luke-A-Palooza. Karaoke, carnival rides and games, food and drinks, silent auction, book and bake sale. Free. 10am-10pm. St. Luke Catholic Church, 13700 Lawyers Road, Mint Hill. 704545-1224. lukeapalooza.org. Pineville Fall Festival. Live music, pie eating contest, kids activities, carnival rides, and plenty of food vendors. Free. 10am-10pm. Pineville Lake Park, 1000 Johnston Drive, Pineville. 704889-2400. pinevillefallfest.com. Spinning Spiders and Creepy Crawlers. Enjoy Halloween treats and learn about all of the little friends that scurry underfoot, including spiders, bees, bats and scorpions. $8, includes museum admission. 10am-1pm. Charlotte Nature

Museum, 1658 Sterling Road. 704372-6261. charlottenaturemuseum.org. Unlocking the Great Pyramid. Hear an exciting presentation about Egypt’s Great Pyramid. $6-$10, includes museum admission. 1pm. The Schiele Museum, 1500 East Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704-866-6900. schielemuseum.org. OnStage: 101 Dalmatians; Disney’s Aladdin, Jr. See page 44.

19 SUNDAY Fall Festival. Enjoy food, games and prizes, train and pony rides, bounce houses, arts and crafts. Free. 3-6pm. Providence United Methodist Church, 2810 Providence Road. 704-366-2823. providenceumc.org. Sunday Fun Day: Art Rebels and Cool Crafters. Learn about artists who challenge the idea of beauty in their art, and break the rules with fun and funky crafts inspired by the special exhibition. $6 for adults, free for kids. 1-4pm. Mint Museum Uptown, 500 S. Tryon St. 704-337-2000. mintmuseum.org. OnStage: 101 Dalmatians. See page 44.

20 MONDAY Creative Journaling. Learn about writing and self-expression by journaling with words, photos, collages and other art forms. Ages 12-18. Free. 4pm. South County Regional Library, 5801 Rea Road. 704416-6600. cmlibrary.org. Fall Homeschool Day. Learn about life in a two-room cabin, and see fire building and primitive cooking demonstrations. Registration required. $8, free for adults. 10am-4pm. Historic Rural Hill, 4431 Neck Road, Huntersville. ruralhill.net. Measure up! Teen Cooking Challenge. Learn to cook fun and 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. = Halloween Events

OCTOBER 2014

CharlotteParent.com

Get Lost in a

Corn Maze BY MICHELE HUGGINS

went on my first corn maze excursion last year. We went on a whim one Sunday morning. I had no idea what to expect, except sunshine on my shoulders, lots of green grass and blue sky out on a farm. Our family and another family joined together on the quest to complete the maze. We checked in, and after a brief orientation, we were given our map “gameboard” to find our way around the 7-acre maize maze. We were also given a tall pole and flag to carry along and to raise and wave if there was an emergency or if we needed assistance. We marched into the field of corn stalks that hovered high above each of us with confidence. We were on our way to find the 12 mailboxes that each contain map pieces. Each mailbox map piece has a number that has a specified spot on the gameboard map. The goal: get all 12 map pieces and complete the maze. As the pieces are taped together, the picture of the maze comes together, as does the path to the exit. We found about four mailboxes, but not without hitting multiple deadends. It’s fun challenging your mind to figure out which way you’ve been and which way is North, South, East or West. The 7-yearold with us with loved it, but the 4-year-old tired of all the walking. Come prepared with water and sunscreen, and maybe a snack in your pocket as it can take a couple hours or more to complete. I loved spending part of a crisp fall day exploring on the farm, but for families with older children who love a nighttime scare, consider a flashlight maze. LO C A L CO R N M A Z E S

Country Days Corn Maze, Indian Trail countrydayscornmaze.com

The Amazing Maize Maze at Rural Hill, Huntersville ruralhill.net

Edgar Allen Poe Corn Maze at Hall Family Farm, Ballantyne hallfamilyfarm.com

The Corn Maze at Aw Shucks, Monroe awsuckscornmaze.com

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

iPad apps!

Regal Farm Corn Maze, Statesville regalcornmaze.com 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.

CharlotteParent.com | OCTOBER 2014

COMPILED BY MIKALA YOUNG

Pick-Your-Own-

Pumpkin Patches

Taking a trip to the pumpkin patch is so much more than just picking out the perfect pumpkin. From hay rides to petting zoos, pig races and pony rides, these nearby farms offer up a day of family fun. Be sure to wear shoes or boots that you don’t mind getting dirty, and bring sunscreen, a hat, and cash for games and to purchase food as not all farms except credit cards.

B A L L A N T YN E

Hall Family Farm Little ones can dress up in a kid-size fire suits and slide down the firetruck tube slide before taking a hay ride and picking a pumpkin. 10713 Providence Road W. 704-562-4021 hallfamilyfarm.com Through Nov. 8 C H A R LOT T E Hodges Farm Pumpkin Patch Explore the farm life, pet the barn animals and participate in the corn maze. 3900 Rocky River Road 704-494-0107 hodgesfarmnc.com Sept. 27 - Oct. 31 CO N CO R D/H A R R I S B U R G CO N CO R D Riverbend Farm Dominate the slidezilla and three other interactive slides ranging from 24- to 42-feet long, and shoot apples with an air cannon for $1. 12150 McManus Road, Midland 704-888-2891 riverbendfarm.net Oct. 1- 31 FORT MILL Fall Frolic Weekends on the Greenway Duck races, pedal carts, corn cribs and even a cow train make this search for the great pumpkin extra fun. Anne Spring Close Greenway 1604 U.S. Highway 21, Fort Mill 803-548-7252 ascgreenway.org Oct. 4 – 26 G A S TO N I A Lewis Farm Harvest Festival Kids can enjoy hand-led pony rides, and the whole family will love seeing pigs and more on a horse-drawn hay ride. 330 Lewis Road, Gastonia 704-842-1208 lewisfarm.org/fall-festival Through Oct. 26

OCTOBER 2014

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HUNTERSVILLE Rural Hill Amazing Maize Maze Have a picnic, hike the trail, explore the historic sites or take a hay ride. 4431 Neck Road, Huntersville 704-875-3113 ruralhill.net Through Nov. 2 M AT T H E WS The Hunter Farm Go on a hay ride and visit the petting barn before picking out a pumpkin. 13624 Providence Road, Matthews 704-846-7975 thehunterfarm.org Through Nov. 17 MONROE

21 TUESDAY It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown. A special viewing of the classic children’s movie. Ages 5-11. Free. 5pm. Scaleybark Library, 101 Scaleybark Road. 704-416-6400. cmlibrary.org. Storytime in the Secret Gardens. Read a story and romp in the garden. Registration required. $5. 10-11am. Wing Haven Gardnes, 248 Ridgewood Ave. 704-331-0664. winghavengardens.com.

22 WEDNESDAY Afternoon Adventure: Home School Rocks. Develop literacy and critical-thinking skills through books and hands-on activities. Ages 3-7at 1pm; Ages 8-11 at 2pm. Free. University City Regional Library, 301 E. W.T. Harris Blvd. 704416-7200. cmlibrary.org. Wee Wednesdays. Little ones and their caregivers can enjoy stories, movement with music, and a special craft. Ages Infant-3. $5. 10:30am-11am. Main Street Children’s Museum, 133 E. Main St., Rock Hill. 803-909-7218. chmuseums.org.

23 THURSDAY

Aw Shucks! Share spooky stories and s’mores on Friday and Saturday nights, toss a football, explore the tree house and venture out on a hay ride. 3718 Plyler Mill Road, Monroe 704-709-7000 awshuckscornmaze.com Through Nov. 16

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. 704-416-3000. cmlibrary.org.

MOORESVILLE Carrigan Farms Pumpkin Patch Tour Kids can pick their very own pumpkin ranging from two to 20 pounds. 1261 Oak Ridge Farm Highway, Mooresville 704-664-1450 carriganfarms.com Oct. 1 – 31

Boo Bash. Halloween crafts, games, giveaways, treats, and a costume parade. Ages 3 and under, 3-4:30pm; ages 3+, 5-6:30pm. Registration required. $12 for the first child, $8 siblings. Noah’s Art and My Gym, 5110 Park Road Suite 2 D and E. 704-521-6657. Ghost Walk. Venture through the explosive battlefields, and make your way through the haunted field hospitals and the creepy cemetery. Ages 10+. $7-$8. 6-9pm. Latta Plantation, 5225 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-875-2312. lattaplantation.org. Movies On the Green at Promenade on Providence. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy an evening watching the feature film “Monsters University.” Free. 7-10pm. Promenade on Providence, Providence Road and Ballantyne Pkwy. promenadeonprovidence.com. Schiele Trail-O-Treats. Enjoy planetarium shows, hands-on activities, and collect treats as you explore outdoors. Don’t forget a flashlight.

Patterson Farm Featuring a barnyard, bee barn, an expanded barnyard ball zone, and Pappaw Carl’s Playground. 10390 Caldwell Road, Mount Ulla pattersonfarminc.com 704-636-4005 Through Nov. 8 S TAT E S V I L L E Regal Farm Corn Maze Play a game of checkers, enjoy a regal rodeo, shoot corn out of a cannon and even slide down a hay mountain. 347 Bell Farm Road, Statesville 980-777-6277 regalfarm.com Through Nov. 9

24 FRIDAY

Ford Road Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. 704-416-3000. cmlibrary.org. Ghost Walk. Venture through the explosive battlefields, and make your way through the haunted field hospitals and the creepy cemetery. Ages 10 and up. $7-$8. 6-9pm. Latta Plantation, 5225 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-875-2312. lattaplantation.org. Halloween at The Haven. Play games, hear ghost stories, and make goblin-friendly cookies. Registration required. $10. 10-noon, 2-4pm. Wing Haven Gardens, 248 Ridgewood Ave. 704-331-0664. winghavengardens.com. Halloween Bash. Come out for carnival games, a zombie run, super slide, food, candy, prizes and a costume contest. Free. 5-9pm. Stowe Park, 7 Main St., Belmont. 704-8250514. cityofbelmont.org. Halloween Daze and Spooky Nights. Come out for a Halloween treasure hunt, trick-or-treating, and all the fun of the Renaissance Festival. Ages 12 and under. $21, free for children 12 and under. 10am-5:30pm. Carolina Renaissance Festival, 16445 Poplar Tent Road, Huntersville. 704896-5555. royalfaires.com/carolina. Not-So-Spooky Halloween. Join K104.7 to enjoy carriage rides, games, Curley the Clown, candy prizes and a costume parade. Ages 10 and under. Free. 11am-2pm. Stumptown Park, 120 S. Trade Street, Matthews . 704708-1261. matthewsfun.com. Pumpkin Patch Party. Enjoy this fall festival with face painting, pumpkin carving and a pumpkin pooch parade. Free. 11am-3pm. Romare Bearden Park, 300 S. Church St. parkandrec.com. Pumpkinpalooza. Wear your costume and enjoy games, a bounce house, a balloon artist and trunk or treat. Free. 4-6pm. Sardis Presbyterian Church, 6100 Sardis Road. 704-3661854. sardis.org.

Kids are encouraged to wear costumes. $5-$7. 6-8pm. The Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704-866-6900. schielemuseum.org. Southeast Psych Super Conference. Learn, connect and grow through 20 free presentations by experts including parenting, anxiety, school concerns and more. Special guest, Michelle Icard. Adults and parents only. Free. 9am-3pm. Southeast Psych Southpark Office, 6060 Piedmont Row Drive S., Suite 120. southeastpsych.com/southeast-psychsuper-conference. Spirits of Rosedale. Learn about the spirits bound to the plantation because of tragic epidemics, insanity, greed and even the hope for freedom on the Underground Railroad. Ages 6+. $15. 6:30pm. Historic Rosedale, 3427 N. Tryon St. 704-335-0325. historicrosedale.org. On Stage: Omimeo’s Black Light Magic: Halloween Dream; To Kill a Mockingbird. See page 44.

25 SATURDAY Boo at the Zoo. Enjoy a nighttime experience at the zoo featuring trickor-treating with the animals, face painting, a haunted house and costume contest. $5-$6. Fri. 6-9pm; Sat. 5-9pm. Tiger World, 4400 Cook Road, Rockwell. 704-279-6363. tigerworld.us. Bootanical. Participate in fun, plantbased activities and ghoulish games. Free admission for kids who wear a costume. $6-$12. 11am-2pm. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont. 704-825-4490. dsbg.org. Fall Community Extravaganza. Vendors, children’s activities and bounce house, trick or treat, live music, car and truck show and more. Free. 9am-5pm. Huntersville United Methodist Church, 14005 Stumptown Road, Huntersville. humconline.com. Fall Family Fun Festival. Celebrate the season “out on the green” and enjoy storytelling, music, literacy activities, fun and games. Free. 11am. Beatties

= Halloween Events CharlotteParent.com | OCTOBER 2014

See some of Disney’s most popular characters perform at this year’s Disney On Ice: Princesses and Heroes, happening Oct. 1-5.

on stage CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Charlotte Christian School Presents Disney’s Aladdin, Jr. Watch a wish-granting genie in a lamp, a princess being forced by her father to marry, a street beggar who falls for her, and the magic carpet they ride on. $7-$12. Oct. 16-18. Thurs.Fri.,7pm; Sat., 2pm. 704-366-5657. charlottechristian.com. 7301 Sardis Road.

CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CHARLOTTE 101 Dalmatians. Follow Pongo, Missis and their two lovable Dalmatians as they try to rescue their puppies from the clutches of the scheming Cruella de Vil and her bumbling henchmen. Ages 5+. $12. Through Oct. 19. See website for list of times. 704-973-2828. ctcharlotte.org. The Lion and the Little Red Bird. Watch as an unlikely friendship unfolds as Little Red Bird sets out to discover why Lion’s tail keeps changing colors. Ages 3 and up. $12. Oct.11-12. Sat., 11am, 1pm; Sun., 2pm. 704-973-2828. ctcharlotte.org. 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. Oct. 24-Nov. 1. See website for times. 704-973-2828. ctcharlotte.org. ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St.

THEATRE CHARLOTTE Happy Birthday to us Seven Comedy Improv Musical Variety Extravaganza Starring the Chuckleheads: We’re Itchy. This improvisation show features birthday-themed musical activities, audience participation, and improvisational game-show elements. May contain adult language and situations. $10-$15. Oct. 18. 8pm. 704-301-1564. planetimprov.com 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. Oct. 24- Nov. 9. see website for list of times. 704376-3777. theatrecharlotte.org. 501 Queens Road.

TIME WARNER CABLE ARENA Disney On Ice: Princesses and Heroes. Watch your favorite Disney Characters travel through adventures for a once in a lifetime experience. Tickets start at $20. Oct. 1-5. See website for a list of performance times. 704-688-9000. timewarnercablearena.com. 333 E. Trade St.

OCTOBER 2014

CharlotteParent.com

Rescue Ranch Fall Festival. See animal presentations, adopt a local rescue animal, take a hayride, paint a pumpkin, listen to live music, and watch the Food Truck Throwdown. $10 parking fee. 11am-4pm. Rescue Ranch, 1424 Turnersburg Hwy., Statesville. 704-768-0909. rescueranch.org. Spirits of Rosedale. Learn about spirits bound to the plantation because of tragic epidemics, insanity, greed, and even the hope for freedom on the Underground Railroad. Ages 6 and up. $15. 6:30pm. Historic Rosedale, 3427 N. Tryon St. 704-335-0325. historicrosedale.org. The Children’s Schoolhouse Carnival. Enjoy games, live music, food, a silent auction, and a carnival raffle. Free. 10am-3pm. Ada Jenkins Center, 212 Gamble St., Davidson. thechildrensschoolhouse.com. Walk Like MADD. Join Mothers Against Drunk Driving and the community to create awareness about drunk driving. 8:30am-noon. Freedom Park, 1900 East Blvd. madd.org. On Stage: Omimeo’s Black Light Magic: Halloween Dream; To Kill a Mockingbird. See page 44.

26 SUNDAY Boo-seum. Dress up in your costume. Stories, activities and a craft. $5. 3-5pm. Main Street Children’s Museum, 133 E. Main St., Rock Hill. chmuseums.org. Boo at the Zoo. Enjoy a nighttime experience at the zoo featuring trickor-treating with the animals, face painting, a haunted house and costume contest. $5-$6. Fri. 6-9pm; Sat. 5-9pm. Tiger World, 4400 Cook Road, Rockwell. 704-279-6363. tigerworld.us. Bootanical. Participate in fun, plantbased activities and ghoulish games. Free admission for kids who wear a costume. $6-$12. 11am-2pm. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont. 704-825-4490. dsbg.org.

Halloween Daze and Spooky Nights. Come out for a Halloween treasure hunt, trick-or-treating, and all the fun of the Renaissance Festival. Ages 12 and under. $21, free for children 12 and under. 10am-5:30pm. Carolina Renaissance Festival, 16445 Poplar Tent Road, Huntersville. 704896-5555. royalfaires.com/carolina. On Stage: Omimeo’s Black Light Magic: Halloween Dream; To Kill a Mockingbird. See page 44.

27 MONDAY Monday Movies at Beatties Ford Road Regional Library. Bring a lunch and enjoy a movie screening with light refreshments. Free. 11:30am. Beatties Ford Road Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. cmlibrary.org.

28 TUESDAY Boys Will Be Boys. Join other kids for fun times, good laughs, and a great conversation discussing Brian Selznick’s book “The Boy With a Thousand Faces.” Ages 2-5. Free. 4:30pm. Cornelius Library, 21105 Catawba Ave., Cornelius. 704-4163800. cmlibrary.org. Fall Festival. Enjoy literacy activities, storytelling and more. Free. 4:30pm. University City Regional Library, 301 E. W.T. Harris Blvd. 704-416-7200. cmlibrary.org. Slightly Spooky Stories. Storytime filled with tricks, treats and stories. Ages 5-11. Free. 5pm. Scaleybark Library, 101 Scaleybark Road. 704-4166400. cmlibrary.org.

29 WEDNESDAY Tiny Tots. Stories, music and movement designed to develop language, listening and coordination skills. 18-35 mos. Free. 10:30am. Myers Park Library, 1361 Queens Road. 704-4165800. cmlibrary.org. Two-Time Storytime. Enjoy storytime experience that encourages language development, listening and social skills. Age 2. Free. 10:30am. Cornelius Library, 21105 Catawba Ave., Cornelius. 704-416-3800. cmlibrary.org. = Halloween Events

CharlotteParent.com | OCTOBER 2014

On Stage: To Kill a Mockingbird. See page 44.

Photo by Michele Cooke

30 THURSDAY Boo Bash. Dress in a Halloween costume (no glitter, please), participate in gym activities and have lots of special treats. Ages 3 mos.-5. Registration required. $20. 4-5:30pm, 6-7:30pm. Romp n’ Roll, 4200 Main Street, Ste. 100, Harrisburg. 704-455-2623. rompnroll.com. Read Aloud Tales Around the Campfire. Thrilling stories, food, drinks and a spooky atmosphere. Ages 12-18. Free. 6pm. University City Regional Library, 301 East W.T. Harris Blvd. 704-416-7200. cmlibrary.org. On Stage: To Kill a Mocking Bird. See Page 44.

31 FRIDAY

Up, up and Away at Carolina Balloon Fest

BY MIKALA YOUNG

kies will be dappled in color Oct. 17-19 during the Carolina Balloon Fest at Statesville Regional Airport. Dedicated to helping out local charities, the fun-filled weekend allows families to bring lawn chairs and blankets to bask in the Carolina autumn weather, and enjoy the sights and sounds of 50 colorful hot air balloons. Thousands of local and visiting spectators flood the festival area with hopes of seeing the 50- to 100-feet tall balloons take off, as well as live entertainment, a kids play zone, festival food, and North Carolina wines and craft beers. This year the kids play zone offers inflatable’s, bungee jumping and a climbing wall. Jef Lambdin, founder of InterActive Theater, will be on site featuring his acts of mime, roving artistry and juggling. Families can also take in the scenery from a different perspective with a tethered balloon ride ($5-$10, cash only). Hot air balloon rides can be scheduled with individual balloon pilots, but come with a price tag of $225 per person, and only take place in the morning and late afternoon, depending on the course of the winds and weather. Unlike any other year, pilots are hosting a meet-and-greet for families to peruse the balloons on Saturday and Sunday between 2 and 3 p.m. Enjoy carnival-type food on Eat Street, and peruse the Artisan Village and Marketplace to purchase souvenirs to take home. Family-friendly concerts are also scheduled Saturday afternoon. Come early Sunday to join in the Kids Fun Run and 5K to help raise funds for the American Cancer Society-Relay for Life of Statesville. Everyone will have the opportunity to run the flat course with balloons in hand. Race registration includes admission to the Sunday festival, free parking, a race shirt, and lawn seating for the afternoon concert. Registration fees are $25-$40 between Oct. 2-19. Last year, the festival generated $60,000 worth of donations for local charities. General admission is $5-$15. Purchase tickets in advance online or bring cash to purchase tickets at the gate. Find more information at carolinaballoonfest.com.

OCTOBER 2014

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Happy Halloween! Northlake MallStars Mall-O-Ween Celebration. Enjoy cool tricks and sweet treats. The first 200 kids receive a free MallStars trick-ortreat bag. Ages 10 and under. Free. 5-7pm. Northlake Mall, 6801 Northlake Mall Drive. 704921-2000 shopnorthlake.com/mallstars. Trunk or Treat. Hotdog dinner, inflatables, face painting and a DJ. Free. 5-7pm. Sharon Baptist Church, 6411 Sharon Road. 919-330-7954. mysharon.org. OnStage: To Kill a Mockingbird. See page 44. = Halloween Events

FUN

For more things to do and to see what’s happening next month, go to

F U N

CharlotteParent.com/ calendar

Excursion Western North Carolina Nature Center BY MIKALA YOUNG

’ve got a fascination with goats. I’ve always wanted to see what a Nigerian Dwarf Goat looks like in the flesh (or fur). I now have the opportunity to see one at the Western North Carolina Nature Center in Asheville. Just a two-hour drive from uptown Charlotte, the 42-acre WNC Nature Center is home to the Nigerian Dwarf Goat and almost 100 other animal species from around the globe, including one of the largest collections of Southern Appalachian animals. Visitors have the opportunity to see and learn about the animals, including a bobcat, a Cotswold sheep, a Sicilian donkey, or maybe even a salamander and screech owl, through exhibits and presentations. One of the most interesting exhibits is the Red

OCTOBER 2014

Wolf Run. In 1980, the red wolf was declared officially extinct. Since then, WNC Nature Center has been a crucial partner in this animal’s survival and is one of only 46 wolf-breeding sites. Each fall, a special program is held for guests to experience the haunting howls of the wolves at the center. The presentation is lead by a conservationist who shares information about red and gray wolves, their habitats, environments and pack preferences. During the presentation, guests are taught to howl like the wolves, and later are put to the test for a call-and-response to see if the wolves howl back. Otter Falls, another popular exhibit, gives an inside look at how North American river otters adapt to existing surroundings. Clear

CharlotteParent.com

tank walls let guests watch the otters underwater. Black Bear Ridge features American black bears, hawks, owls and deer; and the indoor exhibit Appalachian Station features a variety of snakes and amphibians, as well as small mammals. There are also slides and a small playground integrated into the landscape when the kids need a break from looking at the animals. Year after year, the nature center hosts more than 100,000 curious visitors. To see all the exhibits and what the center offers, plan on an hour-and-a-half. If you’re

TOP: A resident mountain lion. CENTER: A planning for conservationist gives a presentation in the an all-day amphitheater. affair, pack a lunch and enjoy a meal at one of the picnic tables scattered throughout the nature center. Soft drinks and snacks can be purchased at on-site vending machines. The WNC Nature Center is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $8 for adults, $4 for ages 3-15, and free for children 2 and younger. For more information and to see the otter cam, go to wncnaturecenter.com.

Looking for a daytrip to take with your family this fall? Visit charlotteparent.com/daytrips.

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DADDY DEREK

BY DEREK JAMES

I Miss my Kindergartener (Really)

Tyler, 5, enjoys a good game of Parcheesi.

ne of the best parts of my job is that my early morning hours at WCCB News Rising (3 a.m. to noon), is that it has allowed me a lot of time with my two sons, Tyler and Chase. When both boys were in preschool, I’d pick them up every afternoon at 1 p.m. Weather permitting, we’d immediately head to the playground for a half hour of play before heading home for a snack, and when Tyler was young, a nap. My wife Kristen is a teacher so she doesn’t get home until 5:45 p.m. each night. That gave me several hours each day to spend quality time with my boys. That all changed recently when my oldest, Tyler, started kindergarten. There were days where I was exhausted and had to make a Starbucks run at 3 p.m. in the afternoon to keep

up with them, but I’m pretty lucky I’ve been with them so much. I was able to take them to their doctor appointments, swim lessons and haircuts. I was able to play with both of them in the backyard, take them with me to the store, or just snuggle up on the couch in their “Star Wars” blanket with a movie. I’ve often joked about how once both boys are in school all day I’ll be able to get so much more done (work out, clean, actually sleep). Now that Tyler is at school, it’s just Chase and me. He’s 3, which means we still nap on some afternoons. I need it more than he does. I appreciate the fact that we are now getting some more one-on-one time like Tyler got before Chase came along. We’re doing more of the things Chase likes to do, and I

do not have to referee as many sibling squabbles. I can tell he really enjoys it even though he misses Tyler too. At the same time, I’m getting nervous about a few more years down the road when Chase leaves for kindergarten and it’s just me and my thoughts in the afternoon. I’m struggling with not seeing Tyler as much. It first really hit me back in August when we took our yearly trip to the beach for a week with my in-laws. I wouldn’t get as much Tyler time when he went off to kindergarten. He was going to school with the “big kids” now. Also came the realization that as he gets older it will probably get harder and harder. While many people talk about the separation anxiety kids have with going to school, I was the one who seemed to struggle most with it. In order to combat my anxiety I talked to Tyler before he started kindergarten about the fact I was going to miss him while he was at school all day. His response: “I know.” So I suggested every few weeks we have a special “Big Dudes Night Out” (or afternoon). Tyler gets to pick what we do (within reason). A movie, minigolf or just a chat while he enjoys a strawberry donut with sprinkles at Dunkin Donuts. Mom and brother get to have their special time while we are out. It’s definitely helped ease some of my separation anxiety. This is just kindergarten. What am I gonna do when they leave for college? Derek James is a host on WCCB News Rising, and lives with his wife and two sons, ages 3 and 6. Read more from James in his Daddy Derek blog at CharlotteParent.com/blogs.

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