Chesapeake Family Life January 2020

FrEE FrEE || DECEMBER january 2020 2019

PRESCHOOL DIRECTORY

Find the Perfect Fit

How to Keep Your Resolutions

YOUR FIT FAMILY

Workout Together!

PLAY IN PRESCHOOL Tech-Free Toddlers

Anne Arundel County

Preschool & Childcare Fair

January 25th | 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Westfield Annapolis Mall Who will be there?

AACPS Birth to Five Services Abrakadoodle Anne Arundel Community College Child Development Center Bright Beginning Children's Learning Center Calvary Center School Chesapeake Family Life Magazine Chesapeake Montessori School Community United Methodist Child Development Center Edinboro Early School Grannie Annie's Child Care & Learning Center Heritage Learning Center Kids Farm, Inc.

Maryland State Department of Education - Div. of Early Childhood NAPS - Naval Academy Primary School River's Edge Forest Play Saint Andrew's Day School Severn School Severna Park Gymnastics/Thrive Severna Park United Methodist Nursery School Soccer Shots St. Anne's School of Annapolis Woods Child Development Center Anne Arundel County Department of Health - Dental Care - WIC - Access to Care - Healthy Babies

Pre-Register Today to get a goodie bag with special offers

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JANUARY 2020

January | ChesapeakeFamily.com

in this issue 12

Features

Family Fun

10/ MENTAL HEALTH TASK FORCE

Anne Arundel County’s new Mental Health Task Force aims to combat the growing problem teens are facing today.

Play-based learning is still the best way to teach preschoolers about the world.

16/ PRESCHOOL DIRECTORY

23

Getting fit and healthy is probably on your list of 2020 resolutions. Here’s how to do it without having to drop the kids at the gym’s day care.

Stay Inspired

12/ PRESCHOOL IS FOR PLAY

10

26/ FAMILY FITNESS

32/RESOLUTIONARY ROAD

This resolution roadmap will help you achieve your goals in the new year and beyond.

School Open Houses Special Advertising Section

DEPARTMENTS 05 / EDITOR'S LETTER Being resolute is tough!

New & Notable 07 / Education: Don’t miss our Preschool Fair!

08 / Lifestyle: Dolle’s Candy turns 110 09 / Health: Zono: the future of sanitizers

28 / GET OUT!

Events, activities and fun things to do this month

34 / EVENTS WORTH A BABYSITTER

Fun for grown-ups in January

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READY, SET, SMILE. DENTAL CHECK-UPS $ 99

BRACES 25% OFF Vol. 30 No. 4 PUBLISHER Donna Jefferson ext. 212 djefferson@jecoannapolis.com EDITOR Ann Levelle ext 200 ASSOCIATE EDITOR Joyce Heid CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Steve Adams Jillian Amodio Mary McCarthy Dylan Roche ART DIRECTOR Jenny Patrick C. ext. 202 artdirector@jecoannapolis.com AD DESIGN Jessica Kannegieser OFFICE MANAGER Claire Kovacs ext. 204 ADVERTISING Jen Jeffries ext. 226 jen@jecoannapolis.com Pam Beall ext. 226 pam@jecoannapolis.com PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY: Jefferson Communications, LLC 121 Cathedral Street 3A Annapolis, MD 21401 Phone: 410-263-1641 Fax: 443-782-1495 These materials are neither sponsored by or endorsed by the Board of Education of Anne Arundel County and all other Maryland counties, the superintendents or the schools.

The acceptance of advertising does not constitute endorsement by Chesapeake Family Life of products or services. Advertisers are not given special consideration or placement in editorial content. The publisher reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the policies or standards of this publication. Jefferson Communications assumes no financial responsibility for errors in advertisements. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of Chesapeake Family Life, by any means without permission, is strictly prohibited. ©2017 Jefferson Communications, LLC.

Find us on Facebook & Twitter: Facebook.com/ChesapeakeFamilyMagazine Twitter: @ChesFamily ChesapeakeFamily.com

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The acceptance of advertising does not constitute endorsement

by Chesapeake Family of products or services. Advertisers are not given special consideration or placement in editorial content.

The publisher reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the policies or standards of this publication. Jefferson Communications assumes no financial

editor's letter

Online this month

The editor and her husband in St. Kitts at the end of 2009.

Martin Luther King Day Celebrations and service opportunities ChesapeakeFamily.com/winter

Becoming Resolute

H

appy New Decade! Somehow this one snuck up on me after a decade packed full of diaper stages, toddlerhood, and now, elementary school fun. I can’t wait to see what the next decade brings.

Yet as I welcome a new decade, I don’t have many resolutions, other than a few items on my to-do list. I’ve never been a big resolutions person. I can see why when I think about the beginning of another decade—the one when I turned 30. I thought that because I was getting “older” I needed to ramp up my skincare and makeup game. If I were going to combat age, I would obviously have to learn to use real makeup to adjust to wrinkles. No longer would a bit of eyeliner and eye shadow cut it. So for my birthday I asked my mom to take me out for a full workup at the local Sephora, where we purchased new items like face creams, powders, fancy brushes and bronzer. I used my new regimen for maybe a month before it fell by the wayside, where some of it still lies (coughcough) years later, lingering in the bottom of a drawer in the bathroom.

My makeup regimen fail goes to show you that change doesn’t come on a whim. You have to be purposeful in changing yourself, and lay

out specific goals and a plan of action. If this sounds like an area you need a bit of help in, don’t miss Steve Adams’s story on page 32 about resolutions. He managed to complete his personal resolution in 2019, and gives some great ideas for achieving your goals this year.

And for those of you resolving to get healthier by working out more in 2020, head to page 26 for a list of health and fitness spots in the area that provide classes for both kids and adults.

This way when you head to the gym you can avoid the day care zone and actually get your kids moving too!

Preschool Fair Get updates and preregister at ChesapeakeFamily.com/ preschoolfair

Happy New Year! I hope 2020 and the decade beyond is your best yet!

Ann Levelle, Editor Ann@jecoannapolis.com Cabin Fever Beaters ChesapeakeFamily.com/fun

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Health Care Directory Pediatrics Dentistry Birth Centers Urgent Cares & more!

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Open House! play, explore, soar!

C h e ck t his out!

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Visit us and experience our inspired, innovative & inclusive learning environment!

January 24th 9 am -11 am

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new & notable LIFESTYLE

TRENDS

EDUCATION

HEALTH

NEWS

I

Preschool and Child Care Fair

t’s tough to find the perfect preschool or child care spot for your little one(s). We know, we’ve been there. Which is why Chesapeake Family Life is hosting the annual Preschool and Child Care Fair on January 25 at the Westfield Annapolis Mall.

The fair is a great opportunity to find the perfect fit for your child. During the fair, parents can meet with teachers and child care pros to get information the best options in Anne Arundel County for their children.

In addition, there will be plenty of activities for young children to enjoy provided by both Chesapeake Family Life and representatives from the schools and child care centers.

The Anne Arundel County Preschool and Child Care Fair will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2020 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Westfield Annapolis Mall. You can find out which schools and child care centers will be at the fair at ChesapeakeFamily.com/preschoolfair.

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new & notable

Hello, Dolle’s

SECRETS OF ANNAPOLIS TOUR

Dolle’s Candyland celebrates 110 years in business.

A

Grab some friends and discover the hidden treasures of Annapolis. Our city has so many great local shops and restaurants that often go unnoticed. This self-guided tour allows you and your friends to explore at your own pace and go on the hunt for special discounts, unique items and potential prizes.

Weekends of February: 7th-9th, 15th-16th & 21st-23rd

Tickets: $10 per person

For more information: chesapeakefamily.com/secrettours

All Our Dentists are Board Certified: Hakan O. Koymen, DDS, MS Luz M. Tennassee DDS Marta Jolesz, DDS Hyejin Esther Cho, DMD Sylvia Yen, MPH, DMD Myrnelle Damas, DDS Jennifer Mai, DDS

You Can Find the Right Pediatric Dentist for Your Child! chesapeakepediatricdental.com NOW WITH THREE LOCATIONS! ARUNDEL MILLS 7556 Teague Road Suite 110 Hanover, MD 21076 410.799.0780

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WHITE MARSH 5009 Honeygo Center Dr. Suite 228 Perry Hall, MD 21128 410.248.3384

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JANUARY 2020

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ABINGDON/BEL AIR 3400 Box Hill Corporate Center Drive, Suite 120 Abingdon, MD 21009 410.569.4300

nna Dolle drinks her coffee black.

When you buy sugar 14 pallets at a time, and you have a 25,000-gallon tank of corn syrup behind your office that arrives in tanker trucks, you see so much sugar in a day that you don’t want any in your coffee.

“We move a lot of sugar off this corner,” Anna says with her characteristic twinkle-eyed grin.

Anna takes a lot of pride in her family’s fourth-generation business, which celebrates its 110th anniversary in 2020. Rudolph Dolle and his son Rudolph Dolle Jr. founded Dolle’s Candyland 1910 in Ocean City, Maryland after they arrived to scout a location for their carousel. They purchased a small saltwater taffy stand on the corner of Wicomico Street and the Boardwalk. Not much has changed in over a century; the flagship store still operates at that location overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. And the company now has four locations, though Anna and Andrew Dolle, the great-grandchildren of the original owners, still run the business.

On a tour of the facility on the historic boardwalk where her grandfather installed the same saltwater taffy making equipment in the 1950s that’s still in use today, Anna also shows me where her brother pulls taffy, using the same heavy stainless steel taffy hook used by their great-grandfather. This day, Andrew is also making handmade lollipops for the first time, so that they could be created from scratch locally and not imported from Europe.

Nearly all products are handmade here at Dolle’s, from caramel apples and popcorn to the holiday chocolate figurines and the classic Boardwalk favorite, saltwater taffy.

In the busy summer season, Dolle’s has 70 full-time employees across its four locations, and makes 5,000 pounds of taffy and 200 caramel apples a day. Candy-makers even make the taffy to accommodate the weather— if it’s extremely hot or cold outside, they’ll cook the taffy a bit softer or harder to match temperatures on the boardwalk. Dolle’s makes candy for 150 wholesale customers as well.

Taffy is Dolle’s number-one best-seller (most popular flavor? peanut butter); other beachgoer favorites include popcorn, chocolate and fudge. “We are making the candy here where we’ve always been,” says Anna, “where we can see the beach.”

—Mary McCarthy

new & notable

Germ Zapper

‘T

is the season for snow and the sharing of sniffles, sneezes, and dare we say, snot. If your child is in day care or preschool, wouldn’t it be wonderful if there were a vanishing cabinet like in the Harry Potter series to make the germs go away?

A company called ZONO Technologies has the answer. The first ZONO Sanitizing Cabinet has arrived in Anne Arundel County at the recently opened Kiddie Academy in Hanover. This magical answer to every parent’s prayers kills staph, E. coli, hand/ foot/mouth and many other viruses without using chemicals.

The eco-friendly cabinet uses ozone created from ambient air and less than a half-ounce of water to sanitize porous, semi-porous and nonporous surfaces. One 30-minute cycle eliminates odors, and requires no wiping down or rinsing of items prior to use. The manufacturer also states it will not discolor or damage items.

Items as small as crayons, markers, and LEGOs, as well as large items like strollers and car seats are sanitized with ease.

Paper and craft supplies, which previously would have to be tossed, can now be cleaned. Stuffed animals, dress-up clothes, and bedding can also be sanitized without

having to go into a washer and dryer. Wet sports equipment comes out sanitized and dry.

Kiddie Academy owner Gulnar Patel was interested in acquiring a ZONO Sanitizing Cabinet for the health and safety of her students and staff. The Academy serves families with children from 6 weeks to 12 years, so like in all child care centers, at any given time someone is sniffling. To stay on top of things, classroom items are regularly sanitized.

Patel also extends the sanitizer as a free service to the Academy’s clients. “Families can bring in their car seats or strollers when they pick up or drop off their child and we will sanitize the items for them,” says Patel.

While items do not have to be washed down first, if a child has vomited, had an accident, or there is mud or other yuckies, they should be spot cleaned before going into the cabinet.

Patel says families can schedule a tour of the new Kiddie Academy and check out the ZONO sanitizer by calling 410-205-8611 or visiting the Academy’s website, kiddieacademy.com.

—Joyce Heid

ROCKBRIDGE ACADEMY ~ Celebrating 25 years!

Preview Night!

Friday, Jan 17 7:30 PM

Open House

Monday, Mar 23 9:00 AM

Story Time

Thursday, Jan 9 Thursday, Mar 12

Contact us today! www.rockbridge.org admissions@gmail.com 410-923-1171

Announcing our NEW EVERGREEN CAMPUS! Come visit and tour!

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TACKLING MENTAL HEALTH ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY’S MENTAL HEALTH TASK FORCE IS WORKING ITS WAY TOWARD INCREASED ACCESS TO MENTAL HEALTH CARE FOR STUDENTS.

BY JILLIAN AMODIO

M

ental health issues among teens and youth are on the rise nationwide. Numerous studies point to increased use in social media as a leading cause. While mental health is multifaceted, and social media use cannot be solely to blame, there is no denying the fact that access to technology and smart phone use in general has made a mark on the youth population. Increased access to social media often leads to “fear of missing out” and aspirations for the level of

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perfection that youth see on their screens. Cyber bullying has become more prevalent with more youth having access to social media and online gaming platforms.

According to a recent report from the CDC, teen suicide rates in the United States have rapidly increased over the last decade. Suicide is now ranked as the second leading cause of death among 15- to 25-year-olds.

In May of 2019 Anne Arundel County Public School board member Melissa Ellis brought up the idea to address the rise in the number of students needing mental health services in the county. The board voted unanimously to put her proposed efforts into action by creating a Mental Health Task Force.

Director of student services, Ryan Voegtlin, and executive director of the Anne Arundel Mental Health Agency, Adrienne Mickler, have been working in collaboration with Anne Arundel County Public Schools officials to help bring awareness, education, and insight into the lives of youth and families.

Voegtlin worked with chief communications officer, Bob Mosier; deputy superintendent, Monique Jackson; and superintendent, George Arlotto to develop a proposal for what the structure of the task force would look like. After developing a working proposal, Dr. Arlotto then met with County Executive Steuart Pittman to involve both the community and the school system.

The task force’s aim is to lessen the likelihood of individuals suffering detrimental consequences from mental health needs being left untended.

“Two of the biggest things we are seeing,” says Voegtlin, “are an increase in the number of younger children who are displaying more difficult behaviors and more signs of aggression and other behavior issues in the school setting, as well as a lack of coping skills among students.”

He also mentioned that since 2012 the county has seen an increase in the number of reports pertaining to suicide and selfharm. Pinpointing the exact cause of increase in these sorts of behaviors and reports can be speculative, though Voegtlin says that better reporting and in-depth training among teachers and staff have led to getting better at spotting issues early on.

Within the county, officials keep track of self-harm and suicide reports supplied by schools. Risk assessments are made and both the county and the schools work cohesively to address each report taking suitable action to protect those involved.

In September, the Mental Health Task Force held its first of four planned meetings. The task force is comprised of 70 members including board members and members of AACPS staff. The chief of communications and director for safe and orderly schools are involved, as is the office of physical education and health. In an effort to be as far reaching as possible, the list of task force members is impressively expansive, including principals, assistant principals, school social workers, and individuals from the expanded school based mental health services department. Representatives from National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) of AA County, the MD coalition for

families, Youth Suicide Awareness Action Team, Anne Arundel Medical Center, and Baltimore Washington Medical Center are involved, as is the chief of police. Parents and students are giving their insight as well, including representatives from McArthur Middle’s student leadership program and Severna Park High School’s teen mental health advisory.

It is the hope of the county that by involving members from various organizations that the far-reaching and diverse aspects of mental health needs can be fully addressed. At the first meeting the task force split into subcommittees to identify some of the contributing factors to the increase in mental health needs in children and focus on ways to properly address each issue. Subcommittees will focus their efforts on specific issues or subcultures of the mental health spectrum.

They will then explore their specified area of focus including topics such as stress and pressure, impacts of social media, substance abuse, LGBTQ needs, trauma exposure, poverty, discrimination and racism.

Some of the questions being asked in the meetings are what are the biggest contributing factors to mental health, what resources are currently available, what can we do to better collaborate as a community, and how can we better educate?

In discussing these questions the task force hopes to identify specific areas for improvement and collaboration to better serve the needs of students and families.

After the four scheduled meetings the task force aims to develop a plan of action based on the findings of each subcommittee. The overall intention is to remove the stigma associated with mental health concerns and implement parent education courses to address these needs in the home. “We need to provide better parent, student, and staff education,” says Voegtlin. The task force plans to examine programs like Mental Health First Aid to use some of their research based courses for education purposes.

Voegtlin stresses the fact that although the task force is a work in progress, it does not mean that there is not mental health help available now. “A student’s best line of action is the school counselor. That should be the first person a student goes to,” he says. All schools have a school psychologist and school based social workers available as well. When asked where individuals who are not in the school system could go for help, including those in homeschool communities, Voegtlin suggests the warmline as a resource, and utilizing the mobile crisis team. Systems of Care, a partnership between all local child-serving agencies, is also an invaluable resource for families.

By April, after the four meetings have taken place, the task force will have recommendations to present to the school board, according to Bob Mosier. The last two meetings are planned for January 24 and March 25, and will be open to the public. Details are available online at aacps.org/mentalhealthtaskforce.

Anne Arundel County Crisis Warmline: 410-768-5522; 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Systems of Care: 800-485-0041 JANUARY 2020

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by Dylan Roche

PRESCHOOL IS FOR PLAY In a high-tech world, preschool teachers and child care providers maintain play-based lessons

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LEE KRIEL/WEEMS CREEK

W

ith the internet offering a wealth of information and countless apps providing opportunities for enrichment and learning, technology has quickly established itself as a useful tool in the world of education—but it’s not the best method for very young children.

According to the experts, modern technology proves to be a hindrance, not a help, in the realm of early childhood development. It’s the reason preschools continue to use play-based lessons, encouraging social interaction, physical activity and hands-on experiences to help youngsters build a strong, vibrant understanding of the world around them.

“The point of education from birth to age five is to educate the whole person,” says Jessica Kemper, director of Woods Child Development Center in Severna Park. “We want to develop their body, their mind and their heart.

What part does technology play in that?

Not much.”

As Kemper points out, adults and older children might be able to glean information from what they see on a tablet or computer screen, but small children don’t. “Little kids learn best when there’s a person right in front of them, and there’s social interaction with give and take,” she explains. “You cannot give and take with a screen.”

Other local leaders in early childhood development agree. The sensory experience of using modern technology is irrelevant at best and detrimental at worst. “The research is pretty consistent at this point with the message it’s putting out,” says Mary Ostrowski, owner of Weems Creek Nursery School in Annapolis. “A child’s brain is developing quickly and is susceptible to all the stimuli around it.”

Educators are right to be cautious about using too many electronics in the classrooms. As technology has become more ubiquitous and taken over the lives of adults, children are being exposed to it at younger

ages, and scientists and doctors are only just beginning to understand the full effects. A report, “Children’s Environmental Health in the Digital Era,” published in 2018 in the medical journal Children supports Kemper’s assertion that children can neither learn from screens nor apply what they see on a 2-dimensional screen to the 3-dimensional world around them.

And to Ostrowski’s point that a child’s brain is sensitive to stimuli, the report lists the many consequences of too much screen time at too young an age: decreased cognitive ability, decreased growth, increased body mass index, decreased vocabulary acquisition, poor school performance and addictive behavior.

That’s not to say children can’t have any screen time at all. If children find it entertaining, the educators agree that parents can use it at their discretion. But that means it’s all the more important for children to have unplugged hours when they’re in child care or preschool. “They get so much screen time outside of the time they are in our care, I hesitate to add any to my program,” says Ruthi Claytor, owner of Grannie Annie’s Child Care & Learning Center in Pasadena. As technology has become more affordable, Claytor has considered incorporating it, but she maintains play-based learning is more advantageous for children.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children between JANUARY 2020

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the ages of 2 and 5 be limited to using digital media for no longer than an hour a day, and during the other waking hours they should be encouraged to engage in activities that are meaningful to their health and development.

As Ostrowski puts it, there needs to be balance for the children both at home and at school or in child care. “Be thoughtful of the overall amount of time in both environments,” she encourages.

Using Their Senses

Young children learn best by using all five of their senses, and preschool teachers encourage children to build their understanding of the world around them by actually experiencing it firsthand.

“To find out how things work, you have to get your hands on it,” Kemper says. “Children are very sensory driven.

They want to smell it, taste it, touch it.

They want to be in it up to their elbows. . . . You’re not going to get that from a screen.”

Ostrowski shares a story of a recent classroom lesson in which her prekindergarteners had the chance to taste a cranberry. She got to watch as each one of them reacted to its sour taste.

“That’s an experience,” she says. “It gives them a connection to make

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later on. Being able to make connections is what builds your critical thinking toolbox.”

Physical Being

Physical movement is also important, and children who are hooked on screens spend less time getting exercise and developing the motor skills they need. Claytor believes that lack of physical activity is one of the reasons children engage in negative behavior.

“When you spend hours sitting, playing a game or watching videos, you get out of balance and your brain finds a reason to make your body move,” she says. “So you pick a fight with your sister. . . . Without the tech, you are playing, and your body is moving organically, and your brain doesn’t need to find a reason to move.”

Staying Social

The final component of child development is social interaction.

Children need to learn important lessons like waiting their turn, resolving conflict, managing their feelings and even expressing themselves with language come from interacting with another person, whether it’s their peer or a trusted adult. Videos can instruct children to share their toys, but they

don’t register until they actually do it themselves. “Even Mr. Rogers telling you to be nice to friends isn’t the same as learning from an experience,” Kemper says.

Although preschool teachers and child care providers don’t incorporate technology into their activities, parents shouldn’t assume this means children need to live tech-free existences.

“Technology in and of itself is not evil, but it’s important to be intentional about why we’re using it,” says Ostrowski.

“Parents know their kids and they know what is best for them and their family.”

Televisions, computers, tablets and even smartphones offer videos and games that small children might enjoy. Preschool and child care serve as opportunities for children to get away from screens and get the type of interaction and experience they need to develop their minds and bodies.

“When we’re in a child care center or a preschool, our job is not to entertain them—our job is to teach them,” Kemper says. “If we’re going to teach them, then technology certainly is not the best tool.”

For Claytor, who is a mom to a 9- and 11-year-old, she tries to avoid too much screen time at home. “Frankly, my own daughters . . . are just plain nicer children without the technology,” she says.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends creating designated unplugged spaces and times of day at home, and urges parents not to allow digital media to displace activities like sleep, exercise, play, reading aloud and social interactions.

By limiting technology, parents can continue the lessons that their teachers and care providers are implementing throughout the day.

“The bond between young children and their caregivers is so important,” Kemper says. “That’s the rock of their development [from] birth to five. Giving up that relationship to a screen isn’t helpful and doesn’t improve anything.

Little children need the guidance and care of trusted adults, and you’re not going to get that from a screen.”

Outcomes

W

hether it’s developing new collegelevel courses like Calculus 2/3 to challenge our most tenacious mathematicians, or building a 70-acre athletic park to meet the needs of a growing, championshipcaliber athletic program-Key School is constantly evolving programming to best prepare the leaders and innovators of tomorrow. Come see why Key is one of the most sought-after educations in Maryland, why 82% of 2019 graduates earned merit scholarships to college, and why 98% of parents of recent alums recommend the school to friends and family.

KEY GRADUATES ARE: • Independent thinkers • Intrinsically motivated • Creative innovators • Effective collaborators • Tenacious problem-solvers • Articulate leaders

OUTCOMES 2019 • Over 82% of the Class of 2019 received merit scholarships • 81% will attend “Most/Highly/Very Competitive” colleges/universities • 25% of the Class of 2019 scored 1430+ on the SATs; Class Mean of 1313

VISIT US!

• 11% earned National Merit Scholarship Recognition (national avg. < 1%) • 35% intend to pursue STEM-related studies including engineering, computer science, marine and environmental science, pre-health/vet, and architecture.

Next drop in date for grades 9-12 January 10, 2020 8:20 - 12:00

• 24% will attend Research 1 Universities • 98% of alumni parents surveyed would recommend Key to a friend, colleague or family member.

RSVP keyschool.org/visitkey

• For a complete list of 2019 college acceptances and matriculations, please visit keyschool.org/Classof2019

Contact us to schedule an individual weekday tour.

The Key School engages children from 2.5 years of age through grade 12 in a progressive, coeducational, college-preparatory program on its picturesque 15-acre campus located 4 miles from downtown Annapolis.

534 HILLSMERE DR. • ANNAPOLIS, MD • 21403 • 410. 263.9231 • KEYSCHOOL .ORG JANUARY 2020

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ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY A Giants Preschool Edgewater, 443-764-1217 agiantspreschool.com 6 weeks–4 years

Annapolis Language School

Annapolis, 410-533-4209 annapolislanguageschool.com 2 years–5 years Tuition: $200-$600 Annapolis Language School is the area’s only Spanish Immersion Program for Preschoolers.

Your child will be exposed to Spanish in a natural way through total immersion, authentic situations, songs, and books.

See our ad on page 35

preSchool Directory

I

f your child is ready for preschool and you’re ready to find the perfect school, our Preschool

Directory is the place to go. Schools with descriptions are advertisers, and information is provided by the school. You can find additional information about all schools, including class size, financial aid, foreign language offerings and more, online at ChesapeakeFamily. com/preschools. Only preschool programs are listed here. Programs that start at kindergarten or higher are listed in our Private School Directory at ChesapeakeFamily.com/ privateschools.

AACC Child Development Center

Arnold, 410-777-2450, aacc.edu/cdc 2 years–PreK-4

Asbury Community Christian Preschool and Clubhouse Preschool

Arnold, 410-757-7113 2 years-PreK-4, Before & after care (also available for students at Arnold Elementary) Tuition: Please call asburychristianpreschool.org Helping children develop physically, socially, emotionally, intellectually and spiritually within a loving, Christian environment and serving the diverse needs of their families.

Enrollment in the Preschool and Clubhouse is open to the community without discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, origin or religious conviction.

See our ad on page 17

Bay Country Learning Center

Annapolis, 410-974-6700, baycountrylc.com Infants-PreK-4

Beth Shalom Preschool

Arnold, 410-757-0552, annapolistemple.org 2 years–PreK

Bright Beginning Children’s Learning Center

Crownsville, 410-923-3192 Glen Burnie, 410-768-4526 bright-beginning.com 2 years–PreK-4, Tuition: $254-$276/wk Bright Beginning provides quality early education that exceeds MSDE standards and guidelines, offering full- and part-time care for children ages 2-5. We provide a

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directory | preschool curriculum that promotes fine and gross motor skills, cognitive development and social-emotional well-being for every child.

See our ad on page 35

Preschool Program Ages 2 - 4 Extended Day available Clubhouse- Before and After-School Program serving Arnold Elementary School Students

Calvary Baptist Church Academy

Glen Burnie, 410-768-5324, cbcaknights.org 3 years–12th grade

Calvary Center School

Annapolis, 410-268-3812 calumc.org/calvary-center-school 3 years–PreK-4, Before & after care Tuition: $180-$1,025 Our classes are taught by teachers with college degrees. Weekly specials are music, physical education, and chapel. We offer extended care options. Please call for a tour.

See our ad on page 35

Where children develop physically, socially, emotionally, intellectually and spiritually within a loving Christian environment

Open House WednesdaysBeginning January 8th, 10:00-11:00 a.m.

78 Church Road • Arnold, MD 21012

410.757.7113 AsburyChristianPreSchool.org

Chesapeake Montessori School

Serving the Arnold, Severna Park area for over 35 years MSDE Accredited

Best Kept Secret...

2s, 3s, PreK & STEAM classes Summer Camp Wednesdays at Weems

Annapolis, 410-757-4740 chesapeake-montessori.com 18 months–8th grade, Before & after care Tuition: $11,000-$16,500/yr Chesapeake Montessori School guides children and adolescents in their development to become confident, respectful, kind, and independent individuals with well-developed powers of reasoning and a joy for learning. CMS graduates are selfaware, confident, intellectually curious, and gracious.

See our ad on page 23

www.weemscreeknurseryschool.com

Schedule a tour by calling 410.266.5522

Colonial Nursery School Annapolis, 410-266-8064 colonialnurseryschool.org 2 years–PreK-5

Creative Garden Nursery School and Kindergarten

Crofton, 410-721-7711 creativegardenschools.com 2 years–Kindergarten Tuition: Varies Since 1968, Creative garden-Crofton has enjoyed the reputation of being one of the most highly qualified preschools/day cares in the area. Licensed by MSDE, Creative Garden has a staff of educators with college degrees chosen for their unique qualities and their specialties in early childhood education.

See our ad on page 22

Edinboro Early School Severna Park, 410-544-2476 edinboroearlyschool.org

Our

earned over 400 in

from area high schools.

Serving Preschool through Grade 8

OPEN HOUSE:

January 10, 2020 from 9:30-11:30am Htrinity.org

admissions@htrinity.org

301-262-5355

Visit us online for even more details on each school at ChesapeakeFamily.com/Preschool JANUARY 2020

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directory | preschool

Celebrating 65 Years of Inspiring Students'

Let us count your child among generations of successful graduates

Faith, Knowledge & Service

e Inquir y a tod !

Conveniently located near the intersection of Route 100 and I-97

Pre-K2 through 8th grade • Transfer grants available • Sixty--ve years of fostering academic excellence and spiritual growth • Inspiring students who lead and serve as disciples of Christ

msladeschool.com | 410.766.7130

OCC# 40328

MONTESSORI INTERNATIONAL Voted Best Montessori School 6th Year in a Row! Finalist Best Lower Private School

Seeing is Believing Open House for Families

January 26, 2020 12:00pm - 2:00pm

MICH in Action Tours

Wednesday Mornings

Call to Let Us Know You Are Coming

« 18 mo nt hs thro u gh 6 th g ra de « Education, Not Just Daycare « Gifted Teachers & Staff « Ext en ded D a y A va i la b le « Safe, S ec u r e & Nu t u ri ng « Span i sh & M u s i c appy, En ga d re Happy, E ng a g ed C hi lld ren «H Located at the base of B&A Trail, 1641 N Winchester Road, Annapolis, MD 21409 410-757-7789, www.montessoriinternational.org

2016 National Blue Ribbon School

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Grannie Annie’s Child Care & Learning Center

Pasadena, 410-255-0478, granniecare.com Infants–5th grade, Before & after care Tuition: Please call Cozy Care, Quality Education. We have been providing child care for Pasadena’s families for over 15 years. MSDE approved curriculum for 3s and Pre-K. Before and After care, Pre-K through 5th, servicing Riviera Beach, Sunset and Solley. Also offers fullday, all-summer camp.

See our ad on page 35

Heritage Learning Center

Annapolis, 410-263-5153 preschoolannapolis.org 2 years-PreK-4 Tuition: $115-$375/mo Heritage Learning Center offers activities that are designed to encourage each child’s growth. Through cooperative play and creative activities, kids reach their social, emotional and physical milestones naturally and with ease. All activities are designed to nurture emotional and intellectual growth.

Indian Creek School

Crownsville, 410-923-3660 indiancreekschool.org 2.9 years–12th grade, Before & after care Tuition: $8,910-$26,990 Indian Creek School is a private, co-educational, nonsectarian day school. ICS is distinguished by its welcoming community, neuroscience-based approach to education, opportunities for extra-curricular involvement, innovative faculty, student-centered culture and commitment to being a family school.

See our ad on page 20, 23

Joy Kids Learning Center

301-262-0203 14710 Annapolis Road, Bowie, MD 20715

Edgewater, Mayo, 443-837-6001 joykidslearning.com 2 years–PreK-5

For more information visit

Annapolis, 410-263-9231, keyschool.org

www.stpiusbowie.org 18

2 years–Kindergarten, Before & after care Tuition: Varies Four-year degreed teachers implement MSDE approved curriculum. Structured programs include language arts, math, music, science, art and social studies. Child Care Aware (military) approved. Playground time, homework help, snack, crafts and games in a safe, nurturing environment.

See our ad on page 35

Key School

directory | preschool 2.5 years–12th grade, Before & after care Tuition: $8,545-$29,200/yr Key School engages children in a progressive, coeducational, collegepreparatory, day program on its picturesque 15-acre campus. Key emphasizes experiential learning, interdisciplinary studies and global perspectives. Key graduates are independent thinkers, creative innovators, effective collaborators, tenacious problemsolvers, and articulate leaders.

See our ad on page 15, 24

Kid’s Farm Academy and Preschool

Davidsonville, 410-798-5573 davidsonvilledaycaremd.com Infants-12 years, Before & after care Tuition: Please call, License #250440 We believe in quality early education that optimizes learning and growth through effective differentiation and the teaching of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) to diversify your child’s skillset, inspire exploration and strengthen critical thinking and learning through specially developed activities and experiences.

Kneseth Israel Preschool Annapolis, 410-263-3924 x8 knesethisrael.org/pre-school.html 2 years–PreK-5

London Towne Academy Edgewater, 410-798-5128 londontowneacademy.org 3 years–Kindergarten

Monsignor Slade Catholic School

Glen Burnie, 410-766-7130 msladeschool.com 2 years - 8th grade, Before & after care Tuition: $7,712-$8,552/yr The mission of Monsignor Slade Catholic School is to promote Catholic faith and intellectual development in our students. We do this by teaching about and modeling the precepts of the Catholic faith, as well as challenging our students with a rigorous course of study. See our ad on page 18, 24

Montessori International Children’s House

Annapolis, 410-757-7789 montessoriinternational.org 18 months–6th grade, Before & after care Tuition: $10,100-$11,950/yr Montessori International (MICH) is a

coeducational independent school that inspires excellence, nurtures curiosity and enhances creativity. Our student-centered learning community emphasizes hands-on experiential learning, respect for self and others, and the development of inquiry skills that enhance life-long learning.

See our ad on page 18,34

Naval Academy Primary School

Annapolis, 410-757-3090, napschool.org 3 years–5th grade, Before & after care Tuition: $4,931-$11,017/yr NAPS is a warm nurturing environment that is open to military families and the Annapolis communities. We have small class sizes and an inviting school house that stimulates children’s abilities to grow and mature intellectually, physically, emotionally and socially.

See our ad on page 21

Play and Learn

Annapolis, 410-263-4029 Crownsville, 410-987-3312 Odenton, 410-296-4880 playandlearnmaryland.org Infants–6 years

Right Start Academy

Gambrills, 410-923-7575 rightstartacademy.org 2 years–5 years, Before & after care Tuition: Please Call Right Start Academy is a Kindergarten preparatory program for children ages 2-5.

We are dedicated to developing your child’s potential into reality.

See our ad on page 22

Rockbridge Academy

Crownsville, 410-923-1171, rockbridge.org 5 years–12th grade, Before & after care Tuition: $7,000-$15,080/yr Rockbridge Academy is devoted to teaching students how to think critically and wisely with a Christian worldview, instilling heartfelt joy for learning, while encouraging lives of character and leadership.

See our ad on page 9

Saint Andrew’s Day School

Edgewater, 410-266-0952 school.standrewsum.org 3 years–8th grade, Before & after care Tuition: $8,940-$13,015/yr Saint Andrew’s intentionally small classes allow our experienced faculty to provide

an engaging classroom environment that challenges all students. Our integrated curriculum and educational foundation ensures continued academic success.

See our ad on page 24

Severn School

Severna Park, 410-647-7700 severnschool.com 3 years–12th grade Tuition: Please call At Severn we feel socialization and “Learning by Doing” are key components of a young learner’s first school experience.

See our ad on page 22, 24

South County Pre-Kindergarten Cooperative

Davidsonville, 410-798-5650 davidsonvilleprek.com 3 years–PreK-4

Ss. Constantine & Helen School

Annapolis, 410-573-2078, sschschool.org 3 years–PreK-4

St. Anne’s School of Annapolis Annapolis, 410-263-8650 st.annesschool.org 2 years–8th grade

St. John the Evangelist School

Severna Park, 410-647-2283 stjohnspschool.org 4 years–8th grade, Before & after care Tuition: $8,075/yr Our school offers a stimulating, dynamic and challenging academic program in a nurturing environment. Contact us today to see how we merge faith, technology and academics to create good citizens and future leaders.

See our ad on page 21, 24

St. Margaret’s Day School

Annapolis, 410-757-2333 stmargaretsdayschool.org 2 years–Kindergarten, Before & after care Tuition: $2,200-$7,400/yr Provides children with an opportunity to learn about themselves and the world around them. The school exposes children to learning experiences and gives them ample opportunity to explore, experiment, create and feel successful.

See our ad on page 21, 25

Visit us online for even more details on each school at ChesapeakeFamily.com/Preschool JANUARY 2020

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directory | preschool

Your children will spend over half of their waking hours at school.

St. Martin’s-in-the-Field Episcopal School

Severna Park, 410-647-7055 stmartinsmd.org 3 years–8th grade, Before & after care Tuition: $3,300-$13,200/yr We are an independent school educating students from early childhood to 8th grade.

At St. Martin’s, we encourage students to stretch their thinking and discover their unique potential, while learning with confidence, serving with compassion, and leading with character.

See our ad on page 6

St. Martin’s Lutheran School

Annapolis, 410-269-1955 stmartinsonline.org 3 years–8th grade, Before & after care Tuition: $3,900-$12,900/yr Saint Martin’s School, PK3-8th, strives to develop well-rounded students by promoting academic achievement, character education, and spiritual growth. Our nurturing environment and strong sense of community fosters every child to thrive.

See our ad on page 22

St. Mary’s Elementary School

MAKE SURE IT’S A SCHOOL YOU BELIEVE IN.

Annapolis, 410-263-2869 stmarysannapolis.org PreK 4–8th grade Tuition: $8,537-$9,812/yr St. Mary’s Elementary School is a parish coeducational Catholic institution servicing many parishes within the greater Annapolis area. Anchored in Faith. Rooted in Tradition.

Committed to Excellence.

See our ad on page 22

Weems Creek Nursery School

Pre-Kindergarten 3 through Grade 12

OPEN HOUSES

LOWER SCHOOL Grades Pre-K3 - 6 Wednesday, March 4 9:00-11:00 a.m.

UPPER SCHOOL Grades 7-12 Tuesday, January 28 9:00 - 11:00 a.m.

indiancreekschool.org

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Annapolis, 410-266-5522 weemscreeknurseryschool.com 2 years–PreK Tuition: $3,900-$5,650/yr Weem’s Creek provides a safe and playbased setting that recognizes each child’s uniqueness and inherent curiosity to develop a love of learning. Our teachers encourage creative self-expression, development of selfconfidence, and constructive self-discipline.

See our ad on page 17

Woods Child Development Center Severna Park, 410-647-9168 woodscdc.org 2 years–PreK-4

directory | preschool CALVERT COUNTY Busy Bee Nursery

Prince Frederick, 410-535-0687 busybeenursery.org 2 years–PreK-4

Imagine Nations Early Learning Center Owings, 410-286-3300 imaginenationselc.com 2 years–PreK-4

HOWARD COUNTY Abrakadoodle

Howard County, 410-381-5566 abrakadoodle.com/md-howard-county/ Abrakadoodle Art Classes for kids are all about creativity! Kids use their imaginations while using a wide variety of materials, such as paints, wire, clays and more. They explore artists, techniques, world cultures and more. We offer Toddler Art classes (20 months-3 years), Preschool Art classes (3-5 years), and Elementary School Art classes (ages 6 and up).

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY Holy Trinity Episcopal Day School

Bowie, Glenn Dale, 301-464-3215 htrinity.org 3 years–8th grade, Before & after care Tuition: $9,690-$13,370/yr Our mission is to help students become “The Best You.” We offer strong academics and provide opportunities in visual arts, athletes, technology and help students become leaders of tomorrow.

See our ad on page 17, 23

St. Pius X Regional School

Christ Episcopal Church Day School

Stevensville, 410-643-8248, cecds.org 3 years–Pre-K Tuition: $2084-$6,000/yr Kent Island’s original preschool has been providing children with a fun, nurturing learning environment for over 48 years. We offer a challenging curriculum that includes Christian Education, English language arts, social studies, creative movement, math, science, music, art, Spanish and mindfulness.

Naval Academy Primary School PreK- Fifth grade (must be 3 by Sept 1)

A student-centered,

Special tuition for military families

developmentally appropriate curriculum, warm nurturing environment with class sizes averaging 12-18 students

AIMS accredited Performing Arts, science labs, & foreign language curriculum

naps.napschool.com | 410-757-309074 | Greenbury Point Road, Annapolis

Academic Excellence in the Catholic Tradition Since 1959 FAITH • FAMILY • ACADEMICS

Open House!

January 29, 2020 • 9 am-12 pm & 7-8 pm Kindergarten Information Night • February 11th • 6:30 pm Middle School Information Night - February 13th • 6:30 pm Preschool Information Night • March 10th • 6:30 pm Welcome Wednesdays – Come Visit Us! Tours at 9:00 am

St. Matthew’s Early Education Center

Bowie, 301-464-1813 stmatthewseec.org 2 years-Kindergarten, Before & after care St. Matthew’s Early Education Center is a preschool, kindergarten and child care center serving ages 2-6. We are open 7 a.m.-6 p.m. year-round for child care, with an additional summer enrichment camp for ages 7-9. The EEC is accredited and licensed by MSDE and has been nurturing young families since 1965.

See our ad on page 6

QUEEN ANNE’S COUNTY

Bowie, 301-262-0203 stpiusbowie.org PreK 3-8th grade, Before & after care Tuition: $8,405-$10,405 St. Pius X Regional School has been providing Catholic education for PreK 3-8th grade since 1962. Our primary aim is to provide an educational program that builds faith, academic excellence, values, and service to others. We believe intellectual development takes place through manipulative, motor, and sensory activities, and through abstract and critical thinking level activities. See our ad on page 18

4 year old Prek School through Grade 8 410.647.2283 | stjohnspschool.org | Severna Park, MD 21146

National Blue Ribbon School Of Excellence

St. Margaret’s Day School Kindergarten and Preschool Classes (Ages 2-5)

• MAEOE Green Certified School • STEM Program • Weekly Specials

• Financial Aid • Before & After Care •

• A Nut-Free School • MD EXCELS rated Level 5 • Summer Camps

OPEN HOUSES: January 16th & 17th, 9:15 am- 11:15 am 1605 Pleasant Plains Rd. • Annapolis, MD 410.757.2333 • www.StMargaretsDaySchool.org Our students are accepted without regard to sex, race, religion or national background.

Visit us online for even more details on each school at ChesapeakeFamily.com/Preschool JANUARY 2020

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Coffee & Cake with Pre-K & Kindergarten Friday, Januar y 24 th at 9:00 a.m.

NURSERY SCHOOL | KINDERGARTEN | DAY CARE

GROWING UP STRONG • Reading Readiness • Number Concepts • Natural Science & Art • Spanish • Music & Social Graces • Exceptional Learning Program • Multi-Sensory Infant Program

CROFTON 410.721.7711 AGES 2-6 YRS.

Pre-K4 Full & Half Day Available 111 Duke of Gloucester Street Annapolis, MD 21401 410-990-4135 | stmarysannapolis.org/es-admissions

ANNAPOLIS 410.268.0900 INFANTS-6 YRS. GLEN BURNIE 410.761.7600 INFANTS-6 YRS.

Mention this ad for FREE registration!

Over 50 Years Enriching the Lives of Children God Bless Our Troops & God Bless America

creativegardenschools.com

LOWER SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE JANUARY 17 TH AT 9 AM

MSDE #161229

I L o ve RSA!

Now Enrolling for Fall 2020! ★ Preschool for 2-5 Year Olds ★ All Meals and Snacks Included

1185 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd, Arnold, MD 21012 Call Sue Richburg • 410.647.7700 ext 2040

Educating students from PreK 3 - 8th grade.

Creative Teaching & Interactive Learning Where Every Child Thrives School, Family, Community

★ Monthly Field Trip or In-House Activity ★ Online Video Feed of Your Child’s

Classroom Available

★ Owned and Operated by Educators

331 Gambrills Rd., Suite 1 Gambrills, MD 21054 www.rightstartacademy.org 410-923-7575

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Open Houses 9am Friday, January 24, 2020 Thursday, March 26, 2020

1120 Spa Road . Annapolis, MD . 410-269-1955 . stmartinsonline.org

directory | preschool

open houses T

special advertising section

hough the school year is not quite half over, if you’re considering a school change or enrolling a child in preschool or private school for the first time, it’s already time to start thinking about next fall. Many schools hold open houses in the winter

so parents can visit, see the campus, meet teachers and staff, and learn more about the programs. Check the following open house dates and information so you don’t miss out on these opportunities to see prospective schools in action and learn more about schools that might be a good fit for your child.

CHESAPEAKE MONTESSORI SCHOOL 30 Old Mill Bottom Road, North Annapolis, MD 21409 410-757-4740; Chesapeake-Montessori.com

Open House: February 23, 2020- 2 - 4 p.m.

March 15, 2020- 2 - 4 p.m.

Please register in advance at our website.

Guiding children 18 months - 8th grade since 1977. Association Montessori Internationale Recognized and Accredited by the Association of Independent Maryland Schools.

HOLY TRINITY: AN EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

SERVING PRESCHOOL TO GRADE 8 13106 Annapolis Road, Bowie, MD 20720 11902 Daisy Lane; Glenn Dale, MD 20769 301-262-5355 htrinity.org htrinity.org/school-video/

Open House: January 10, 2020 from 9:30-11:30 a.m.

February 9, 2020 from 1-3 p.m.

Find The Best You: Holy Trinity is a transformative education. We seek to intimately know and understand your child.

We cultivate their talents; we shape their emerging skills; we shepherd their dreams.

Here, we do not just produce the best student - we produce The Best You.

INDIAN CREEK SCHOOL Lower School (Pre-K 3 through 6) 680 Evergreen Road Upper School (Grades 7-12) 1130 Anne Chambers Way, Crownsville, MD 21032 410-923-3660 / 410-849-5151; IndianCreekSchool.org

Open House: Lower School Spring Open House March 4, 2020- 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.

Upper School Winter Open House January 28, 2020- 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.

ICS prepares students for their future by relentlessly pursuing innovative and effective ways to teach and engage students. Our teachers build strong relationships and apply current educational research, resulting in a positive and rewarding learning experience.

Special Advertising Section JANUARY 2020

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School open Houses

KEY SCHOOL

534 Hillsmere Drive, Annapolis, MD 21403 410-263-9231; KeySchool.org

Upper School Drop In Day Friday, January 10 (Grades 9-12) 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Register at keyschool.org/visitkey Individual weekday tours Available year-round for all grade levels (2.5 years - Grade 12) Schedule at keyschool.org/visitkey Key School is constantly evolving programming to best prepare the leaders and innovators of tomorrow. Come see why Key is one of the most sought-after educational experiences in Maryland, why 82% of 2019 graduates earned merit scholarships to college, and why 98% of parents of recent alums recommend the school to friends and family.

SAINT ANDREW’S DAY SCHOOL

MONSIGNOR SLADE CATHOLIC SCHOOL

SERVING PRESCHOOL TO GRADE 8 120 Dorsey Road Glen Burnie, MD 21061 410.766.7130 msladeschool.com

Open House: January 26, 2020: 8:30-10:30 a.m.

Pre-K & Kindergarten Information Night February 27, 2020: 6:30 p.m.

Educating students since 1954, Monsignor Slade welcomes 600 students ages Pre-K- 2 through 8th grade. Slade integrates faith formation and character development with sound intellectual preparation – bringing out the best in each student before, during and after school. Come experience the Spirit of Slade today!

SEVERN SCHOOL

201 Water Street, Severna Park, MD 21146 410-647-7700; SevernSchool.com

4B Wallace Manor Road Edgewater, MD 21037 410-266-0952 school.standrewsum.org

Open House: Lower School: January 17 9-11a.m. on Chesapeake Campus

Open House: January 17- 9 a.m - 11 a.m.

Early School Open House Events: February 6: 10-11 a.m. on Chesapeake Campus April 9: 10-11 a.m. on Chesapeake Campus

Saint Andrew’s intentionally small classes allow our experienced faculty to provide an engaging classroom environment that challenges all students. Our integrated curriculum and educational foundation ensures continued academic success.

Severn School is a coed day school for preschool through grade 12. We challenge our students to pursue excellence in character, conduct and scholarship, to marshal the courage to lead, and to develop the lasting desire to serve and achieve. We believe this is best realized in a community where adults model high standards and where each student is known and valued.

Special Advertising Section

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MONTESSORI INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S HOUSE

1641 N. Winchester Road Annapolis, Maryland 21409 410-757-7789; MontessoriInternational.org

Open House: Noon-2 p.m.

January 26, 2020 Wednesday Morning ToursCall to reserve Discover why we were voted the Best Montessori School in the Annapolis area! We inspire excellence, encourage curiosity and enhance creativity. Montessori International educates children from 18 months through 6th grade in a nurturing atmosphere that emphasizes hands-on experiential learning, respect for self and others, and the development of critical thinking and collaboration skills that last a lifetime. Extended Day program available from 7:00am – 6pm. Call to arrange a visit.

ST. JOHN THE EVANGELIST SCHOOL 669 Ritchie Highway, Severna Park, MD 21146 410-647-2283; StJohnSPSchool.org

Open House: January 29, 2020 9 a.m.-12 p.m. & 7 p.m.-8 p.m.

Information Nights: 6:30 p.m.

Kindergarten – February 11, 2020 Middle School – February 13, 2020 PreK –March 10, 2020 St. John the Evangelist School provides a 21st century educational experience rooted in values, compassion, and nurturing.

Faculty, parents, and school leaders work in collaboration to develop each child spiritually, academically, artistically, socially and physically in a nurturing environment that promotes living faith, academic excellence, leadership and service.

School open Houses

ST. MARGARET’S DAY SCHOOL 1605 Pleasant Plains Road, Annapolis, MD 21409 410-757-2333; StMargaretsDaySchool.org

Open Houses: 9:15-11:15 a.m.

January 16 & 17 Preschool registration begins on January 24 at 7 a.m.

SMDS is a Christian learning environment that is nationally accredited by NAEYC and a green certified school. We have pre-school classes starting at age 2 and going through kindergarten. We offer a developmentally appropriate, child-centered curriculum, including early childhood STEM. We offer small classes led by degreed teachers, half-day and full-day class options & before and after school care. Our campus is part of an Episcopal Parish over 300 years old on the Broadneck Peninsula in Annapolis.

ST. ANNE’S SCHOOL OF ANNAPOLIS

3112 Arundel on the Bay Road Annapolis, MD 21403 410-263-8650; StAnnesSchool.org; Twos-Eighth Gr.

Open House: January 10 8:30 - 10:00 a.m.

A small school with global impact.

Compassionate hearts with fearless ideas. A community that cares now about the future.

St. Anne’s School of Annapolis is an independent Episcopal school focused on a rigorous, inquiry-based academic and social curriculum that shapes the innovative leaders of tomorrow. St. Anne’s School invests in the intellectual and spiritual promise of each student in a community that celebrates diversity and upholds the dignity of every human being.

March 7 th 11am-3pm Westfield Annapolis Mall chesapeakefamily.com/ campfair

DISCOVER

Happy New Year It is a privilege to partner with more than 500 families in Anne Arundel County and beyond who have entrusted their childrenʼs education to us. Our faculty engage more than 920 students through a comprehensive K-12 learning experience that is distinctly Christian.

Register online NOW for an Open House

Four locations in Anne Arundel County

410 519 5300 aacsonline.org

January10, Lower School in Annapolis January 13, Lower School in Severn January 30, Middle School

February 6, Lower School in Annapolis February 13, Lower School in Severn JANUARY 2020

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family fun

THE FAMILY THAT GETS FIT TOGETHER . . .

I

f one of your resolutions in 2020 involves getting healthy, losing weight, or exercising more, one of the barriers might be finding time to make it to the gym. You either need to leave the kids at home with a spouse or sitter, or bring them along to the day care. But, if neither of those options suits you or your schedule, why not consider exercising with them!

It’s great to get kids involved in exercising early, as it helps them develop healthy habits they can keep for life. Plus, it helps them burn off that wild, little-kid energy!

Here are a few spots in the Annapolis area that offer ways to get the family moving together— or at least moving under the same roof. Other ideas include checking in with your local yoga studio, joining a running club like Girls on the Run or Hero boys.

“Pip” Moyer Recreation Center at Truxtun Park

Annapolis annapolis.gov Starting at age 14, kids can go to the fitness center with their parents as long after an orientation. Youth 16 and older can take fitness classes with their parents. There is also an indoor track for family runs, three courts for basketball and a rockclimbing wall. The Kidz Zone is available to kids ages 4 months to 12 years, and the Ballocity indoor playground gets kids moving. There is also a host of classes just for kids.

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JANUARY 2020

Easton Family YMCA

Easton talbotymca.org/easton Kids ages 11 to 15 can complete a Teen Fitness Clearance Pass course to use the circuit weight and cardio equipment in the gym. There is a Kids Bootcamp class that runs at the same time as the adult Bootcamp on Saturday mornings and allows kids to get in shape with their peers while parents work out. Teens can start taking most strength and cardio classes with their parents at age 16, but they can take Zumba starting at age 12.

Heat Cardio Club

Severna Park facebook.com/turnuptheheat Heat Cardio Club is committed to providing a fun, energetic and safe environment for clients to exercise and reach their fitness goals. All classes are formatted to fit every fitness level. Whether it is your first class or you are a long standing member, they will make sure you are challenged within your comfort level.

Unless they specifically hold a kids class or event, the minimum age to attend a fitness class will be 13.

family fun Sport Fit Bowie

Zumbini

Fit4Mom Annapolis

Y in Central Maryland

Imagine Yoga & Wellness Center

NinjaBe

Zava Zone

Crofton Yoga

Bowie sportfitclubs.com/bowie Kids can start taking classes alongside parents when they are 13.

In the meantime, Sport Fit offers a full schedule of fitness classes designed especially for children ages 18 months to 12 years at the same time as the Adult Fitness classes. Family Spin is offered for parents and their kids to work out together in the Cycle Studio, and there are daily family swim times in the therapy pool.

Arnold, Ellicott City, Pasadena Ymaryland.org Children younger than 16 can use the weight room and cardio if they have taken the teen strength training class.

This allows parents and children the opportunity to work out together.

Both Arnold and Ellicott City Y’s have a climbing wall that families can enjoy together. Depending on the class, youth can start attending with their parents at age 15. There are also a host of classes for kids.

ClimbZone

Laurel climbzone.us All of the indoor climbing walls are individually themed at ClimbZone, where you and your children can climb to the top of Jack’s giant beanstalk, negotiate an enormous spider web, reach for the stars aboard the giant space rocket, rise to the top of the Empire State Building, scale the ancient bones of a T-Rex, or look each of the Presidents on Mt. Rushmore in the eye.

Columbia, Severna Park facebook.com/ zumbiniwithmsmichelle Zumbini is an early childhood development program focused on movement & music for children ages 0 to 4 years, to attend with their caregivers. Created by Zumba and BabyFirst for kids ages 0-4, the Zumbini program combines music, dance and educational tools for 45 minutes of can’t-stop, won’t-stop bonding, learning and fun!

Bowie imaginetheplace.com Sundays weekly. Children learn to manage stress in a healthy way. This class combines yoga, art, meditation, and singing. Karma Yoga for adults takes place across the hall.

Rockville zavazone.com This multi-attraction indoor experience allows families to spend time together, have fun and get in shape while doing it. Attractions include a ninja warrior training course, giant slide, parkour course, stunt jump, trampoline dodgeball, high ropes, and so much more!

facebook.com/fit4momannapolis FIT4MOM is a nationwide leader of pre- and postnatal fitness. Offering a variety of classes, with and without children, that are appropriate for all fitness levels and all stages of motherhood. They also offer community through their fitness classes, free weekly playgroups, and monthly mom’s night out.

Columbia ninjabe.com If you watch TV shows like “American Ninja Warrior” and want a chance to prove your strength on a similar course, you’re in luck.

At NinjaBe, you can become more fit and mentally focused on a real Ninja Warrior obstacle course. You can do it alone or experience with family or friends. Participation at NinjaBe ranges from 5 to 99 years old.

Crofton croftonyoga.com You and your kids can benefit from relaxing, strength-building and mindful yoga practice. Crofton Yoga offers a wide variety of classes for adults and children, including a Mommy and Me class for moms with tots ages 2 to 5; Kids Yoga for ages 3 to 8; Mindful kids, an hour-long class for elementary school kids; Tween Yoga for ages 9 to 12.

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calendar | january

get out TONS OF FUN THINGS TO DO THIS MONTH

E

vents are subject to change; check websites before heading out. For even more events visit chesapeakefamily.com/calendar.

1 Wednesday

Happy New Year!

Polar Bear Plunge

Plungers will take a mad dash into icy Chesapeake Bay waters to benefit a local charity, then enjoy hot cocoa around a bonfire to celebrate. Free. 1 p.m.

North Beach, northbeachmd.org/polar-bear-plunge

Jug Bay First Day Hike

Join a master naturalist for a vigorous exploration of the Sanctuary’s extensive trail system and see what it looks like when the leaves are off the trees. Dress for the weather. Sturdy footwear, binoculars, and cameras recommended. Ages 12 and older. Free.

9–11 a.m. Registration required: 410-741-9330 or e-mail programs@jugbay.org. Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, Lothian. jugbay.org

Maryland Parks First Day Hikes

On Jan. 1, 2020, the Maryland Park Service will offer more than three dozen hikes on more than 30 state lands and parks, as part of a nationwide event sponsored by America’s State Parks. dnr.maryland.gov

3 Friday First Friday

Celebrate the first Friday of each month with discounted admission in the evening. $10.

5–8 p.m. Maryland Science Center, Baltimore. mdsci.org

Family Fridays Under the Dome: Hands-on Astronomy

Treat your family to unique shows at the Robinson Nature Center’s NatureSphere planetarium. In January, family activities will feature hands-on fun in the auditorium. $7. 6:30–7:30 p.m. Robinson Nature Center, Columbia. howardcountymd.gov/ RNC/programs

4 Saturday Bird Walk

Harbor Point Ice Festival

Learn the skills of identifying birds by sight and sound. Binoculars and field guides are available to borrow. Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather. 8–11 a.m. Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, Lothian. jugbay.org

January 11

Weekend Walk-In: Crazy Crown

Central Plaza in Harbor Point will be transformed into a magical winter wonderland with ice sculptures lining the walkways, live music, food vendors, family activities, and more. Watch the excitement as award-winning ice sculptors use chainsaws and chisels to create spectacular ice sculptures. 2–8 p.m. Harbor Point, Baltimore. waterfrontpartnership.org

Everyone needs a crown! Create a custom royal headpiece just for YOU using shiny tape, faux flowers & more. $5. 1–4 p.m. American Visionary Art Museum, Baltimore. avam.org

Go to ChesapeakeFamily.com/Calendar for more events!

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calendar | january Drop-in Art Fun

4–5. Use the art on view at the Walters as inspiration for your own creations as you drop-in and make a work of art to take home. Free.

11 a.m.–4 p.m. The Walters Art Gallery, Baltimore. thewalters.org

Paws to Read

Children in elementary school can improve their reading skills while enjoying the rapt attention of canine tutors. Call to schedule an appointment, 410222-1905. 1–3 p.m. Broadneck Library. aacpl.net

5 Sunday Kids Yoga

Sundays weekly. Children learn to manage stress in a healthy way. This class combines yoga, art, meditation, and singing. Karma Yoga for adults takes place across the hall. 2:30 p.m. $12. Imagine Yoga & Wellness Center, Bowie. imaginetheplace.com

11 Saturday

Music Box: Snowflakes on Parade

11–12; 25. This half-hour lobby concert features the musical talents of a small ensemble of musicians of the BSO performing classical and children’s songs to develop musicality, creativity, coordination and literacy. $12. 10 and 11:30 a.m.

Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, Sun. Gordon Center for the Performing Arts, 25, Strathmore, Baltimore. bsomusic.org

Jug Bay Tour

Join a Jug Bay Naturalist for a free guided tour of the wetland boardwalk to discover the wonderful and unique plants and animals found at the Sanctuary. Tour is approximately 45 minutes in length and $6 vehicle entrance fee to the park is required. 1 p.m. Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, Lothian. jugbay.org

Harbor Point Ice Festival See page 28 for details.

6 Monday

Glimpse

DEAR: Dogs Educating and Assisting Readers

Read to dogs! Fidos for Freedom’s therapy dogs available for drop-in reading sessions. 6:30 p.m. for ages 5–10; allow 20 min. All ages may visit 6:30– 7:30 p.m. Parent/guardian must sign permission slip prior to each session. Savage Library, Savage. hclibrary.org

Maker Monday

De-stress after school with a different craft, game or activity each month! This month, fill a little treasure chest with your dreams for the new year. When you need that inspiration, your wish chest will be there.

Free. 3:30–5 p.m. Glen Burnie Library. aacpl.net

8 Wednesday

Mixed-age Music Together Class

Come spend a morning moving and making Music Together with your child. Classes are for children ages 0–5 years old and a caregiver. Free.

9:30 a.m. Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, Annapolis. musictogetherchesapeake.com

10 Friday

Kids Night Out: Abominable

Paint Abominable themed pottery. Pizza and drinks provided. Ages 6 and up. 6–8 p.m. Clay Bakers, Annapolis. theclaybakers.com

Toddler Time—Outdoor Explorers

Tots can investigate sights, smells, textures and sounds of nature while in the great outdoors.

Instructors will facilitate play activities for parents and toddlers. Dress for the weather. $7 (includes one adult, one child). 10 a.m. Robinson Nature Center, Columbia. howardcountymd.gov/RNC/ programs

11–12. This concert presented by Dutch music company Oorkaan transports young audiences to an enchanted world in which music, artists, images, and technology interact with one another.

Jazzy melodies mix with bright visuals, forming a captivating new way to relate to music and sounds. $20. Kennedy Center Terrance Gallery, Washington, D.C. kennedy-center.org

Repticon Baltimore

Jan. 11–12. Reptile event features vendors, pets, live animal seminars and more. $5–$12. Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Maryland State Fairgrounds, Timonium. repticon.com/maryland/ baltimore

12 Sunday

Free Family Sunday

Create a craft with family. Materials provided. Free.

2–5 p.m. Baltimore Museum of Art. artbma.org

Sensory-Friendly Sunday

Designed for families with kids, teens, and adults with sensory processing differences, autism spectrum disorder, or developmental disabilities. Center opens early, allowing visitors to enjoy a calm environment.

Explore the exhibits, Discovery Room, trails, and outdoor play area. Planetarium opens between 11:30 a.m. and noon. Robinson Nature Center, Columbia. howardcountymd.gov/RNC/programs

Tiny Tots

12–13. Kids ages 16 months to 4-years will learn about wildlife at the refuge through fun and interactive songs, stories and activities. Parent participation & registration required. 10:30–11:15 a.m. Patuxent Research Refuge, Laurel. fws.gov/ refuge/patuxent

Go to ChesapeakeFamily.com/Calendar for more events!

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calendar | january Family Second Sundays

This month’s drop-in activity celebrates the 1970s and you can make a local vintage Hon accessory.

View 1970s vintage objects from our collection and decorate your own cat eyeglasses. No advanced registration is required. 1–4 p.m. Maryland Historical Society, Baltimore. culturefly.org

14 Tuesday

Preschool Book Club— The Snowy Day

This month we are reading The Snowy Day, about a young boy waking up and discovering that snow has fallen! After story time, we will be painting a related pottery piece. Ages 2 and up (with parent). $15.

10 a.m. Clay Bakers, Annapolis. theclaybakers.com

Music for Young Audiences: Beauty and the Beat

18; 26. See NSO principal second violinist Marissa Regni and NSO principal percussionist Eric Shin in an exciting new program exploring the magic created when the violin and percussion join together.

Ages 3 and up. $20. Jan. 18, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; Jan. 26, 1:30 and 4 p.m. Kennedy Center Family Theatre, Washington, D.C. kennedy-center.org

Dinosaur Park Open House

Meet paleontologists, learn about Maryland prehistory, and search a real fossil quarry for 110-million-year-old fossils. Free. Noon–4 p.m.

Dinosaur Park, Laurel. pgparks.com

Lil’ Stars: Hide & Seek Moon

17 Friday

Family Fun: Who was Here?

17–18. Come learn about tracks, scat and other animal signs through hands-on activities and games for all ages. free. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. (drop-in). Patuxent Research Refuge, Laurel. fws.gov/refuge/patuxent

Rapunzel

Select days Jan. 17–Feb. 16. Told with hand puppets, kids will love this “bewitching” tale, adapted from the Brothers Grimm fairytale. $12.

The Puppet Co., Glen Echo. thepuppetco.org

18 Saturday Princess Skate

Dress like your favorite princess or prince and get a free crown. 2–4 p.m. $9–$10, skate rentals $4. Pandora Ice Rink, Inner Harbor, Baltimore. innerharboricerink.org

Animal Party

Meet live animals that live in or around the Chesapeake Children’s Museum, then bake dog biscuits and make cat toys. $12 per child, $4 adults.

9 a.m.–noon and 1–4 p.m. One adult free for every 5 children. Chesapeake Children’s Museum, Annapolis., theccm.org

18. Let your little one discover outer space through views of the stars and planets, stories, crafts or song and give your child a special nighttime experience during the day! Preregister to secure your spot. $3 per ticket with daily admission. 10–10:30 a.m.; 11–11:30 a.m. Robinson Nature Center, Columbia. howardcountymd.gov/RNC/programs

MLK Days

Jan. 18–20. Celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King with a community engagement project. Free. 11 a.m–4 p.m. Annmarie Garden, Solomons. annmariegarden.org

19 Sunday Frozen Fest

Explore the “Snowball Alley” and all things frozen through fun experiments, enjoy an ice cream sandwich bar, take a virtual tour of the Arctic, create tracks in the snow, and embark on a guided winter hike along the trails. Plus, check out the cold-blooded creatures that live at the nature center through live animal presentations. $7. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Robinson Nature Center, Columbia. howardcountymd.gov/ RNC/programs

20 Monday

MLK Dare to Dream Day

Celebrate the life and dreams of one of the greatest visionaries with guided museum tours, birthday cake, music, workshops, and special performances. Free.

10 a.m–5 p.m. American Visionary Art Museum, Baltimore. avam.org

Baltimore Martin Luther King Jr. Parade

Parade celebrating the life of Martin Luther King Jr. with high school and community bands, honor/color guards, equestrian units, dance squads and civic organizations. Free. Noon–2 p.m. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, Baltimore. promotionandarts.org

The Skin You Live In

Hands-on activities about skin color. Ages 6–12. $8; no charge for accompanying adults. Sessions at 10:30 a.m. and noon. Chesapeake Children’s Museum, Annapolis. theccm.org

MLK Day Celebration

Cultural performances, craft activities, speakers and more. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Reginald F. Lewis Museum, Baltimore. lewismuseum.org

23 Thursday

Baltimore Symphony Youth Orchestras Chamber Concert The BSYO comprises three orchestral ensembles of over 250 of the region’s most talented young musicians. $10; $5 for students. 7 p.m. Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, Baltimore. bsomusic.org

Baltimore Boat Show

Jan. 23–26. Boating skills and safety education for ages 8–12, toy boatbuilding for kids, food, seminars and more. $14; ages 15 and under, free. Check website for times. Baltimore Convention Center. baltimoreboatshow.com

24 Friday Red

CAMP CONRAD WEISER How The World Should Be!

Jan. 24–Feb. 16. This is the story of artist Mark Rothko, and his assistant, Ken, who questions Mark’s work and his theories on art and becomes the teacher—as all students eventually do. $23–$38. Compass Rose Theater. Annapolis. compassrosetheater.org

25 Saturday Traditional, Riding, Theme and Adventure Camp Programs, as well as Teen Leadership and International Travel opportunities.

610-670-2267 SMYMCA.ORG

Annapolis Opera: Mr. Brewster’s Invigorating Invention

Mr. Brewster’s Invigorating Invention is a fun, musical journey through the history and science of the kaleidoscope. A unique opera experience combining art and science for children young and old! $16.

11 a.m. Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, Annapolis. annapolisopera.org

Go to ChesapeakeFamily.com/Calendar for more events!

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calendar | january MSP Polar Bear Plunge

26 Sunday

Join more than 10,000 people diving into the icy Chesapeake Bay to benefit Special Olympics Maryland. Must raise at least $75 to plunge. Sat. 8 a.m.–2 p.m. Sandy Point State Park, Annapolis. plungemd.com

Lunar New Year Celebration

Celebrate the Year of the Rat with performances by the Baltimore Chinese School and Johns Hopkins Lion Dance Troupe. Plus, make paper flowers to add to the giant floral rat sculpture, explore zodiac animals through a scavenger hunt of the Arts of Asia galleries, and share a fortune for good luck in the New Year! Free. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Walters Art Museum, Baltimore. thewalters.org

Feeding Frenzy: Snowflake Swirl

Join Irvine naturalists to explore the natural world of science. Families can enjoy free activities focused on a new and exciting science theme. $2 for members, $5 non-members. 10–noon. Irvine Nature Center, Owings Mills. explorenature.org

Open daily 10 am to 4 pm

January Events: Junior Girl Scouts aMuse Journey Sunday, Jan. 5, 9 am-5 pm, $27 Animal Party, Ages 5-10, Saturday, Jan. 18, 9am-12pm & 1-4pm. Meet live animals! $12 /child. $4 /adult The Skin You Live In, Ages 6-12, Mond Monday, Jan. 20, 10:30-12 & 1-2:30, $12 Happy Chinese New Year!

Sunday, Jan. 26, 2-4 pm, $5 Baby Talk Workshop for Adults Tuesday, Jan. 28, 6:30-8:30 pm Call: Arundel Child Care Connections 443-782-5001, $33

Living the Dream . . .

Singing the Dream

For more than 25 years, Washington Performing Arts’s Gospel Choirs have shared the inspirational gift of gospel music with audiences throughout the D.C. region and beyond. The choirs’ annual concert with the Choral Arts Chorus, honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., is a joyful celebration of the power of music and the human spirit. $25–$75. 7 p.m. Kennedy Center, Washington, D.C. kennedy-center.org

Londontowne Symphony Orchestra Celebrates Annapolis Green

Nia Franklin, Miss America 2019, will join the Londontowne Symphony Orchestra in performing works by Puccini, Gershwin and Beethoven. $20; students free. Sat. 7:30 p.m., St. John’s College Key Auditorium, Annapolis. lso-music.org

Preschool and Childcare Fair

Ongoing Events:

29 Wednesday

Chesapeake Family Life hosts the Anne Arundel County Preschool and Childcare Fair, where you can meet and chat with local educators and find the perfect school for your little one. Details on page

Breakerspace

Take apart computers, toys, radios and other items to see what’s inside! Tools, safety gloves, and safety goggles provided. Free. 2–3 p.m. Severn Library, aacpl.net

7. Westfield Annapolis Mall. 11 a.m.––3 p.m.

ChesapeakeFamily.com/preschoolfair

(incld. with $5 admission)

Creek Critters: Nature Walk, Thursdays 10:30 am. All Ages Art & Story Time: Fridays 10:30 am. Ages 2-5 theccm.org | 410.990.1993 25 Silopanna Road | Annapolis,MD 21403 info@theccm.org

MAKE THE MOST OF PLAYTIME LAUNCH RIGHT IN WITH . . .

a SUPER SPACECRAFT!

GATHER THESE MATERIALS:

Pencil

2 toilet paper tubes

Paper towel tube

2. Draw a rounded 1. Lay a toilet

paper tube on top of a piece of cardboard.

Trace it.

nose to the traced shape. Then draw two rounded triangles for wings.

Small piece of cardboard

Markers or paint

3. Cut out

Scissors

(with an adult�s help)

Paper

Glue

5. Glue your cut tube on top

of the cardboard in the shape of a spacecraft, and let it dry.

the shape.

4. Trace the bottom

of a toilet paper tube on top of another.

Then cut out the round shape.

6. Color or paint your spacecraft.

You can also decorate it with stickers. Place a small toy inside and go for a ride. Tell a story about where you’re going!

TinkerActive Workbooks cover essential skills using curriculum-based exercises and interactive tinkering, making, and engineering activities using common household materials!

The Active Way to learn through play

Odd Dot

An imprint of Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group

AVAILABLE WHEREVER BOOKS ARE SOLD

Go to ChesapeakeFamily.com/Calendar for more events!

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DATE NI G HT & MORE

stay inspired

BUILD YOURSELF A RESOLUTION ROADMAP FOR A SUCCESSFUL 2020.

RESOLUTIONARY ROAD

By Steve Adams

W

hether you think

subject found that despite some shuffling, the

Unfortunately, another familiar aspect of

they’re positive

top ten resolutions for 2019 matched those of

New Year’s resolutions is that most of us will

or pointless, New

years past:

fail to change our bodies, minds or daily

Year’s resolutions

• Exercise more

routines as much as we’d like. According

provide plentiful

• Eat healthier

to a well-circulated statistic from U.S. News

fodder for news coverage, surveys,

• Save money

& World Report, an estimated 80 percent

Google searches, and even car

• Lose weight

of resolution-makers will fail by the second

commercials, each December

• Reduce stress

week of February.

and January.

• Stick to a budget

Yet the more we make them, the more

But all hope is not lost; the answers to just

• Get more sleep

a few simple questions—ones that I arrived

they seem to stay the same. Indeed, an

• Spend more time with family

at when making my now-achieved 2019

NPR/PBS Newshour/Marist Poll on the

• Learn a new skill

resolution—can help you not only choose,

• Travel more

but also achieve, a better resolution in 2020.

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JANUARY 2020

stay inspired What do you want to change?

and driving the 368.5 miles from Annapolis

goals but don’t necessarily make the best

A good resolution starts with asking yourself

to Valley Falls, N.Y.

resolutions). In most cases, this will involve

what you—not your family, friends, pop culture, or anybody else—sincerely want to change. While this could definitely be one or more of the ten items above, the key is to stop and think hard about what specific area of self-improvement you consider worth your yearlong time and effort; to ask yourself what, if anything, you find yourself regretting as each year comes to a close.

This time last year, my personal answer was an easy one, the same answer that I’d had every year since graduating high school: I had not been spending as much time as I’d like visiting Adams-Myers-Bryan Farmstead, a roughly 150-year-old Greek Revival house and collection of barns that’s been in my family for five generations.

a mix of quantitative and qualitative

Will achieving it benefit you? And perhaps others?

measurements that provide yet another source of ongoing motivation.

The next task is to defining your resolution’s

For me, this first simply meant counting

“why.” Then arm yourself with the motivation

up the number of days I spent at the farm

to accomplish your goals by constantly

in 2019 (somewhere around 15) and

reminding yourself of how they’ll benefit you

contrasting them to those spent on it in

and, in many cases, others.

2018 (five or six), and reflecting on what

In my case, I knew that visiting the farm

I accomplished (building a picket fence,

would benefit:

snowshoeing in our woods, discussing our

• Me, by allowing me to perform manual

lease with my dad, etc.) and how I felt

labor that summers spent on the farm

(proud, connected to past generations,

made me truly love; spend time outdoors,

happy, etc.) while there. Again, writing this

at a place where I’m most at peace; and,

stuff down was a huge help!

when there with my dad, have plenty of conversations that mix fond memories with

What about next year?

future plans.

Last but not least, if you’ve chosen a

• My dad, not only through these

resolution that truly matters to you it’s

How can you change it?

conversations but also by showing him my

only rational to not only want to continue

After figuring out what you want to change,

commitment to keep the farm in our family.

achieving it but hopefully expand upon it

the next question is if it can actually be changed (for example, you can’t change your height) and, if it can, how you can go about changing it.

In the context of my resolution, this meant taking stock of holidays and vacation hours; deciding when some time off would make sense, then requesting it. And finally, in what is the most difficult part for me, a guy known for constantly postponing or canceling “vacations,” actually sticking to my plans

• The farm itself, given that my labor helps

beyond December 31, 2020.

preserve it.

While I obviously won’t resolve to continue

• My dog, Buddy, because the farm offers

tripling my year-over-year days on the farm,

him some rare leash-free freedom.

a surefire route to losing my job, I can do this by spending more days there with my

Can you measure its achievement?

dad and other family members, getting more

Before you’re ready to enter the resolution-

work (e.g., painting the aforementioned

achievement process, it’s important to

picket fence) and play (e.g., paddleboarding

consider if and how you can track its

on the Hudson River) done while there.

attainment (one reason why “be kinder,”

And voila, there you have my resolution for

“work harder, etc. are great everyday

2020. Good luck on yours!

Treating Children & Adolescents Ages 0-18

410-604-2211 160 Sallitt Drive, Suite 106 Stevensville, MD 21666

www.KIPediatricDentistry.com

Margaret C. McGrath, DMD, MPH Stella Chukwu, DDS, MS Diplomates, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

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JANUARY

Events worth hiring a babysitter Strathmore, 8 p.m.; Sun. Meyerhoff, 3 p.m.

Meyerhoff Symphony Hall and Strathmore, Baltimore. bsomusic.org

5 Sunday Design a Sign

Express yourself with a custom wood sign that showcases your personal style. Select your design from stylish stencils or personalize one that’s uniquely you. A master crafter will guide you through this 2-hour event where you’ll build and paint your one-of-a-kind sign. $55. 1 p.m. Old Stein Inn, Edgewater. yaymaker.com

10 Friday Kinky Boots

Jan. 10–Mar. 22. Kinky Boots features a joyous score by Cyndi Lauper. Inheriting his father’s bankrupt shoe factory, Charlie Price finds inspiration in Lola, a fabulous entertainer with wild ideas. $65. Toby’s Dinner Theatre, Columbia. tobysdinnertheatre.com

Baltimore Restaurant Week Jan. 10–19. Try somewhere new, go out to lunch, have a date night (or two). Twocourse brunch and lunch menus range from $12–$20, and three-course dinner menus range from $20–$35. Baltimore area restaurants. baltimorerestaurantweek.com

11 Saturday

Night out for Newbie Parents

JAN 26 | Little Italy Meatball Fest

Join the Science Center for a night tailored to parenting newbies. No need for a sitter, this is a baby friendly event with activities to keep mommies, daddies, and babies happily

1 Wednesday

2 Thursday

entertained. $15. 5:30–7:30 p.m. Maryland

Join volunteers from Spa Creek Conservancy in

BYOB and receive 25 percent off your pottery and

celebrating 2020 with a hike to the headwaters of

glass projects. Reservations recommended. 5 p.m.

16 Thursday

Spa Creek. You’ll walk through restored areas of

Claybakers, Annapolis. theclaybakers.com

First Day Hike on Spa Creek

the creek and see beaver dams, a wooded marsh, skunk cabbage, bald cypress trees and signs of a creek on the mend. Dress appropriately for the weather with shoes you don’t mind getting muddy.

Not appropriate for young children. 1 p.m. Meet in the parking lot at the track behind Bates Middle School at Weems Whalen Field, Annapolis.

Spacreek.net

Ladies Night Out

3 Friday

Movie With the Orchestra: Amadeus 3–5. Experience the multi-Academy Award winning 1984 motion picture, Amadeus, on a giant HD screen while Mozart’s most celebrated works are performed live by the Baltimore Symphony, joined by the BSO Symphonic Chorale. $30–$75. Fri. Meyerhoff, 8 p.m.; Sat.

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Science Center, Baltimore. mdsci.org

Drag Bingo

Head to Camp Severn Shore every third Thursday for food, drinks and Drag Bingo! Evon Michelle will be hosting with performances by two additional queens! 9 p.m. The Graduate Hotel, Annapolis. Eventbrite.com

18 Saturday Paint Your Pet!

Join artist Katie Detrich as she guides you through the creative process of painting a presubmitted

stay inspired headshot of your pet on an 18-by-20 canvas. $20–

Calvary Center School

$40. 4 p.m. Green Turtle, Crofton. Eventbrite.com

19 Sunday

Chocolate and Wine Tasting Try four different chocolates paired with four wine tastings. $20. (wines will be available for purchase by glass or bottle.) Plus half-priced appetizer special after the event. 2–4 p.m. Luna Blu, Annapolis.

Christian Preschool Program for ages 3-5

lunabluofannapolis.com

■ Approved MSDE Curriculum ■ MD EXCELS rated ■ Early Care and Extended Care

26 Sunday

Little Italy Meatball Fest The fourth annual Meatball Fest promises to be an afternoon of great food, killer meatballs, fantastic company, music and good times! There will also be raffles, giveaways and a meatball-eating contest. $40. 3–6 p.m. Pandola Learning Center, Baltimore. eventbrite.com

28 Tuesday

G. Love & Special Sauce G. Love and Special Sauce on tour for new album “The Juice,” produced with Keb Mo. $47.50. 8 p.m.

■ Weekly Chapel, Music & Physical Education ■ Beautiful waterfront location License #98524

Call to SChedule a tour!

301 Rowe Blvd. Annapolis (410)268-3812 • calumc.org

■ Childcare - age 2+ ■ Nursery School - age 3+ ■ Pre-K - age 4+ ■ Kindergarten - Full Day - age 5+ ■ Before & After Care - up to age 7 ■ Talented & Gifted Programs Pre-K Scholarships Available For Low Income Families on Food Stamps or Below 300% FPG

380 Jumpers Hole Rd. Severna Park, MD

410-544-2476

ANNAPOLIS LANGUAGE SCHOOL

Providing care for infants through school-age since 2003 Call to Schedule Your Visit!

Rams Head on Stage, Annapolis.

The Area’s Only Spanish Immersion Program for Children ages 2-5!

Mondays-Fridays 9:30am to 12pm Tuesdays and Thursdays 12 - 3pm (3½ - 5 year olds only) AnnapolisLanguageSchool.com

Full Day Camp

Now Enrolling!

2 Carvel Court Pasadena • 410-255-0478 Two Convenient Locations!

At Annapolis Area Christian School Middle School Campus | 716 Bestgate Rd Mon-Friday sessions, 9am-3pm

Session 1 : July 6-10 Session 2 : July 13-17 Session 3 : July 20-24 Ages 2 - PreK • Developmentally Appropriate Curriculum • Serving Breakfast, Lunch and Snacks • Small, Caring Environment • Spanish, Yoga, Sports & Fitness Programs Included

• #1 Basketball Camp in Annapolis since 1996!

• Boys and Girls, ages 6-14 • ALL skill levels welcome Sibling & multi-week discounts!

BEST

deal in Annapolis!

$20 Earlybird discount if registered by 3/31

Register online at www.webersbulldogbasketball.com

Discover the power of family music making.

867 Buttonwood Trail Crownsville, MD License# 130684

License# 160256

Annapolis - Crofton - Severna Park musictogetherchesapeake.com (301) 262-9538

410-923-3192

410-768-4526

543 Old Stage Road Glen Burnie, MD

Bright-Beginning.com JANUARY 2020

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Summ e Regis r 2020 tr Now ation Open !

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JANUARY 2020