Memphis Parent - May 2021 by Contemporary Media

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M AY 10

2021

MOM OF THE YEAR

Honoring our first Mom of the Year winner.

MOM! SUMMER READING GUIDE

Avoid the summer slide with these YA works.

By Shara Clark

A BASEBALL DIAMOND IS FOREVER (STILL)

By Samuel X. Cicci and Jesse Davis

SUSTAINING BABY

Breastfeeding can be a hard-earned win.

Values we hold dear can be found at the ballpark.

By Monika Patel

By Frank Murtaugh

WHY I FOSTER

A foster parent shares his story.

Math — Pre-Algebra, Algebra I, and Geometry

CAMP GUIDE

Compiled by Memphis Parent staff

NOW TUTORING ONLINE “Students Learn to Succeed”

DEPARTMENTS 6 901 FUN Dive into summer with these events 8 DEAR TEACHER Multiplication made easy

Over 30 years helping students learn

ACT, SAT, GRE, PRAXIS, ISEE and more

A roundup of camps to help with your search.

By Harry Cash

Tutoring for Success

17 OUTSTANDING TEACHER Celebrating unsung heroes

29 CALENDAR AND EVENTS Family-friendly fun all month long

24 DAD LIBS Jeff Hulett salutes the moms in his life

OUR STAFF Editor Shara Clark Art Director Bryan Rollins Advertising Art Director Christopher Myers Account Executive Michelle Musolf Production Operations Director Margie Neal Calendar Editor Julie Ray Social Media Coordinator Kalena Matthews

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

Memphis Parent strives to provide information of value to all who are invested in our children’s future.

OUR COVER KID Leo shares a moment with mom.

Memphis Parent is published by Contemporary Media, Inc. CEO Anna Traverse Fogle Director of Business Development Jeffrey A. Goldberg Editorial Director Bruce VanWyngarden Special Projects Director Molly Willmott Controller Ashley Haeger Digital Services Director Kristin Pawlowski

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E D I T O R ’ S

N O T E

MAKE A SPLASH!

As I write this in mid-April, I’m daydreaming of summer sunshine and swimming pools. I can almost smell the chlorine and backyard barbecues. I can

hear the call of the cicadas and see the glow of flickering fireflies. How about you? Ah, sweet summer! You’ll likely be looking for activities to keep the kids busy while school’s out, too, and we’ve compiled a list of venues offering a variety of summer camp programs to help you weigh the options. Is your child interested in sports, music, theater, technology? There’s something for every kid — check out our Camp Guide, beginning on page 25. For those less-busy summer days, Samuel X. Cicci and Jesse Davis have put together a short list of great young adult books to pass the time, including one set in Memphis and written by a former Rhodes College student — Indestructible Object by Mary McCoy. Flip to our Summer Reading Guide on page 18 for more on that and other books that might interest your teens. Plan to check out a ball game this season? The Redbirds are set to hit the field this month, and in “A Baseball Diamond is Forever (Still),” Frank

Murtaugh reflects on the ways in which the values we hold dearest can be found at the ballpark. Batter up! Of course, May is for mothers, and we’re excited to feature our first Mom of the Year honoree within these pages. We’d like to thank all of our readers who nominated some amazing moms. Choosing just one to feature was an impossible task, as you can imagine. Know that each and every one of you is mother of the year in our book! We think you’ll agree that Terry Combest is special, too. Read about her on page 10. We’ll see you right back here in August with our Back to School Issue. In the meantime, savor every moment the hot, hot days of summer offer — run through the sprinkler with the littles, do a cannonball in the pool, or just soak up the sun on the sidelines. Take care!

Shara Clark

Editor

Our Biggest Summer Ever!

A DV E N T UR E BEGI NS HERE

M AY 202 1

Explore STEAM projects. Play Games. Read for fun. Hone your Sports skills. Pick up some tech pointers. Get wet! More than 60 fantastic camps to beat summer boredom. For boys & girls in rising PK - 6th Grades Register now: pdsmemphis.org/summer

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MAY 1 SATURDAY

Disney’s The Little Mermaid

A talented cast of young actors brings Disney’s story of Ariel the mermaid to life on the stage at Bartlett Performing Arts and Conference Center, 3663 Appling, at 7:30 p.m. on May 1st. Also Sunday, May 2, at 2 p.m. $15/adults, $10/ kids. bpacc.org. 385-6440.

SATURDAY

Bird Talk & Walk Series: Purple Martins

Purple Martins, birds that winter in Brazil, are back at Lichterman Nature Center (5992 Quince). Learn more about this species and help monitor their nests. Take a walk around the lake to see what other birds you can see and hear. Binoculars are available to borrow. For ages 12 to adult. May 8th, 9 a.m., $10. 636-2224.

THURSDAY

Zoo Stroll: P is for Panda

Take a guided tour stroll before the gates open at the Memphis Zoo (2000 Prentiss Place). Fun and interactive program designed for a 1:1 ratio of 1 stroller + 1 caregiver. 8-9 a.m. on May 13th. $15 members, $19 nonmembers. memphiszoo.org. 333-6500.

SATURDAY

Fling into Spring Tea Party

Mallory-Neely House (652 Adams) hosts this tea party with light snacks and sweets from 1 to 4 p.m. on May 22nd. The first floor will be open

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Dive into summer with birds, bugs, balloons, and more.

for touring. After you have finished with your tea, enjoy learning about the language of the flowers while planting and decorating your own succulent. $25/adult, $15/child. 523-1484.

FRIDAY

Firefly Drive-In

Pinecrest Camp (21430 Highway 57, Moscow, TN) hosts this outdoor event from 7 to 9:30 p.m. on May 28th. Enjoy the lightning bug display in chemical-free fields and forest edges. Take a hayride and hop off out in the fields to frolic with thousands of fireflies and a variety of species, each with its own flash pattern. $10 per vehicle. 878-1247.

JUNE 4 FRIDAY

Chimes Square Movie Night: How to Train Your Dragon

Overton Square’s (2101 Madison) movie nights continue with a showing of How to Train Your Dragon on Friday, June 4th. Movie begins at 8 p.m. Enjoy family-friendly movies on an outdoor screen with state-of-the-art surround sound. Tipsy Tumbler will be on-site selling adult beverages. Free. overtonsquare.com.

THURSDAY

Motherhood: The Musical

A funny, yet loving look at being a mom at any age. It’s climbing the emotional mountain only to find that there’s laundry at the top. Germantown Community Theatre (3037 Forest Hill-Irene) presents this show on Thursday, June 17th, at 8 p.m. Continues Thursdays-Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2:30 p.m., through June 27. $28.

FRIDAY

Songs for a New World

A musical theater song cycle composed by Jason Robert Brown takes four singers through a journey of discovery. Posing the question, “When your back is against a wall and you are faced with a decision: Do you take a stand? Or turn around?” With a small, powerhouse cast and a driving, exquisitely crafted score that runs the gamut of today’s popular music, it’s a great way to bring the next generation into theater. Live-streaming from Playhouse on the Square, playhouseonthesquare.org. June 18th through 27th. Fridays-Saturdays, 7 p.m., and Sundays, 2 p.m. $25. 726-4656.

Bluff City Balloon Jamboree

Bring the family out to Maynard Way and Byhalia in Collierville to enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts displays, and more. Balloon flights, glows, and tethered rides (weather permitting) add to the fun at dawn and dusk. June 18th through 20th. Free. thebluffcityballoonjamboree.com.

JULY 13 TUESDAY

Summer Lecture Series: “Southeastern Bats”

Becky Rosamond, wildlife biologist and chair of the Mississippi Bat Working Group, will discuss bats of the southeastern United States, online from Wolf River Conservancy (wolfriver.org). July 13th at 6:30 p.m., free.

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D E A R

By Marge Eberts and Peggy Gisler

T E A C H E R

x x x x x

x xxx x

MULTIPLICATION MADE EASY A while back, I believe that you had an article on multiplication for those students who were not learning in traditional ways. You mentioned using three paper plates and five blocks to show 3 x 5 = 15 instead of rotely memorizing 3 x 5 = 15. Can you explain it again? I hope this helps my third grader who just doesn’t get multiplication. — Parent Whether students do or don’t get multiplication, the best way to acquaint them with the concept is through the use of pictures, drawings, and hands-on material. This gives them an understanding of what multiplication looks like, instead of drilling them to memorize the facts at the start. Later on, there is time to commit these facts to memory. Here’s how the paper plate introduction to multiplication works. Have your children lay out three plates and place five blocks on each plate. Ask,

x xxx x

“How many blocks did you use altogether?” Then have the children count the blocks. Repeat the activity using different combinations of plates and blocks. Next, introduce the symbol for multiplication — “x,” the “times sign.” Use the symbol in a sample multiplication sentence, such as 2 x 3. This time use blocks. The height of the blocks is two and the length is three. The figure contains six blocks, so 2 x 3 = 6. Repeat this with other number combinations. Now your children are ready to make multiplication cards, starting with 1 x 1 through 6 x 6 for younger children and continuing to 9 x 9 for older ones. Do not include the answers (products) on either the front or back of the card, as the products should be determined by the learner. Go back to the plates and blocks and have the children select a multiplication card at random. If it is 3 x 5, for example, they should follow the same steps as they did earlier. They should count all the blocks and then write the fact 3 x 5 = 15. Work through all of the flash cards in this way. Once children begin to learn some of the multiplication facts, they should write down the problem with the answer if they know it. If not, they can use the plates and blocks to determine it. This is better than you telling them what the answer is and is the first step in their learning of multiplication facts.

Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@dearteacher.com or to the Dear Teacher website. ©Compass Syndicate Corporation, 2021 8

M AY 202 1

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F E AT U R E

MOM OF THE YEAR

Honoring our first MOTY winner!

Terry Combest is a mom in every sense of the word. She has three biological children, two adopted children, and many students she’s mothered in one way or another through the years, as a teacher, coach, and tutor. Combest’s own mother passed away when she was very young. “Growing up, I didn’t have everything that my kids have,” she says. “I was raised by a single father. We were poor, but we [kids] didn’t know we were poor. My dad made the best of the situation. And he instilled in us that it’s important to go to school and get an education so you can take care of yourself and not rely on anybody else.” Combest was born in Augusta, Georgia, but her father moved them to Yonkers, New York, to be closer to family after her mother passed. “I was always a little athlete, kind of a tomboy,” she says, “so I took to sports. I started playing, and I excelled. I thought this might be an avenue for me to get a college degree because my dad couldn’t afford to pay for me to go to college.” Sports would ultimately be what led Combest to Memphis; she was awarded a track scholarship at what was then Memphis State. And she credits her support system for helping open those doors. “My coaches were wonderful,” she says. “I had some excellent people in my corner.” Combest recalls once when she came home from a track meet feeling a bit defeated. Her father shared words of wisdom. “I was a middle-distance runner,” 10

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she says. “At the time, there weren’t that many African Americans running distance. I came home and I said, ‘Dad, I didn’t win the race.’ He said, ‘Terry, did you give it 100 percent? That’s all I can ask. That’s all anybody can ask of you.’” That’s a lesson Combest has tried to convey to her own children — Brittney (20), Boris (18), Byron (14), Quadir (15), and Malayzia (10). She and her husband Boris adopted the latter two, Combest’s nephew and niece, a few years ago, when Malayzia was just 13 months old. “Our biological children were young,” she says. “I had to sit them down and explain [the situation]. We had to make a few sacrifices, but I promised my dad that if anything were to happen that I would step in and take on the responsibility.” As a mom and a teacher, Combest knows responsibility well, and aims to ingrain good habits in her children by encouraging them to pursue their interests — from track to tennis to swimming, “to make sure they have a youthful life and try different things” — while staying on top of their academics. “Sports was a balance for me,” she says. “I was never a bad child, but sometimes sports keep children out of trouble, keep them focused. It builds character. You’ve got to go to practice,

which builds discipline. If you don’t put in the work, you don’t get anything out of it.” In addition to being active and engaged in her own kids’ lives, Combest currently teaches 7th grade math — she’s been teaching 29 years — and coaches the girls’ track team at Colonial Middle School. She also tutors in the evenings two days a week. (“When we went virtual, I knew the kids were not getting all that they needed,” she says.) Last year, she even took in a student who was in a bad situation. He had previously lived in shelters, she says, but “he was, at the time, living with another student, and that wasn’t the best environment.” After some deliberation with her husband, the boy came to live with them, and they got him enrolled into Middle College High School. “Not all parents are going to be there to give them whatever they need,” she says. “We wanted to see him excel.” He stayed with the Combest family for just over a year, until this past March, when he chose to return to his mother and sister. Combest’s oldest, Brittney, who nominated her as Mom of the Year, is currently a tennis player and student at Grambling University in Louisiana. All of her children are “doing well academically,”

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she says, “and want to go to grad school. I have one more year before I can retire, but I will work a few more to support them to Classes now in Midtown, East Memphis, Collierville, and Cordova Visit us on the web at www.memphisaardvarks.com get them to where they need ortocontact be.” us at 871-0227 or info@memphisaardvarks.com Being a mother is everything to Combest. “I would do anything for my children,” she says. “I just want to be the support. I tell my kids all the time, mom’s not perfect. I don’t always do everything perfectly or correctly, but I’m going to love you. I’m going to be there for you. I’m going to be your biggest cheerleader. And if you’re doing something you don’t have any business doing, I’m going to let you know. But I’m going to say it in a tactful way, and it’s going to come from the heart. “I love being a mom. I love guiding kids, being there for them, letting them know that you can be the best you,” she continues. “That’s all I ask — just be the best you. Give it a hundred percent, whether it’s in a classroom or on the track or on the tennis court. Same thing with being a mom. As long as I give the best that I can … I hope I can be half as good of a parent as my father was. “Thank you for giving mothers a voice, for giving us an opportunity to shine when sometimes we just don’t shine — we just do what we do.”

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A few months ago, we asked our readers to submit nominations for Memphis Parent’s first Mom of the Year Award. We received nominations for so many outstanding mothers — choosing a “winner” was not easy. Each and every one of you deserves more recognition than we could ever give, and you are all mothers of the year in our book! Thanks to those of you who told us about the special moms in your lives. Thanks to our contest sponsor, Saddle Creek Orthodontics. And most of all, thank you to all the mothers out there who are selflessly and fearlessly raising up the next generation!

Summer registration happening now! Ask us about hosting an outdoor class at your home! • Great Music • Fun for parents too! • Live guitar and storytelling, singing and dancing • Great for birthday parties, special events, and school programs

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F E AT U R E

The simple values we hold dearest can be found at the ballpark.

I became a father on May 6, 1999. I knew at the time — such a profound milestone in my life — that baseball would help raise my daughter. Well, baseball has helped me raise two daughters. And they can each swing a bat better than I ever could. This is a version of an essay I wrote in April 2000 (for Memphis magazine), as my first Opening Day as a parent approached. The lessons, I hope, will apply for those just now fitting a child with her (or his) first glove. 12

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Baseball is a game that lends itself to storytelling. Nothing taps the sponge that is a child’s brain like a good story, particularly one in which she (or her parents) participated. It often seems as though my youth’s timeline was tracked according to baseball lore. Aside from his account of shaking Elvis’s hand as a teenager at Katz Drug Store, my father’s boyhood tale of bumping into Hall of Famer Stan Musial in the bowels of old Russwood Park (during a St. Louis Cardinals exhi-

bition game) was the single most repeated legend in the Murtaugh household. My mom still get laughs in telling friends how her son was far more interested in seeing Chief Knock-A-Homa do his dance at Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium than in witnessing the Hank Aaron home run the Braves’ mascot was celebrating. My daughters have heard my story of shaking Ozzie Smith’s hand. A lot. (My firstborn’s friendship with Willie McGee? Now that’s a story.)

By Frank Murtaugh Baseball is easy to teach (and learn). Try and explain the difference between a middle linebacker and a strong safety to a child. Or a shooting guard and small forward. Good luck. How much easier it is to gaze at a diamond and point out the shortstop, the centerfielder, the pitcher, and the catcher. Each position has its own defined space, its own responsibility. The bases and baselines are clear. Aside from the strike zone, there is little subjectivity to baseball. The ball is caught or it isn’t. A batter is out or is safe. Granted, the infieldfly rule will take some time, but remember the joy of learning? It can be found in a baseball stadium.

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Baseball is timeless. From the moment you begin watching a football game (or basketball, or soccer for that matter), the clock is counting against your visit. Settle into your seat at AutoZone Park, though, and you may see five innings, most likely nine, but perhaps 15. We spend far too much of our time, even our personal time, rushing places. A baseball game offers a setting where time simply does not matter. There’s no such thing as a deadline in the world of baseball and, heaven knows, families need to escape deadlines now and then. Baseball bonds. I’ve lost touch with nearly all my high school and college teachers, most of whom are completely decent people (and impacted my life). But to this day, I correspond with my high school baseball coach, a man now coaching on the college level, grandchildren his top priority. I can’t fully explain or measure the connection my coach and I still feel. I suppose its closest comparison is that of an older sibling or friend opening your eyes to something that has since become dear to you. While you cherish the wisdom passed down, your heart keeps a place for the one who shared it with you. A teammate is forever. As in most endeavors, to succeed in baseball requires individual achievement, but within the framework of a goal-oriented team. Like every father should, I do all I can to encourage and support whatever my daughters enjoy and whatever skills they show. I try to remind

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F E AT U R E

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them, though, that any achievement is made all the more rewarding when in the context of a group of friends, colleagues, or teammates. My fondest memory of winning a high school baseball championship? The hugs and laughter after the game was over. Take turns. Elementary, you say? Find a children’s soccer game and just watch the swarm of legs and arms surround the ball like so many electrons clinging to an atom. (There’s a great hockey expression when players converge on the puck in front of the net: “a dog breakfast.”) In a baseball game, every player gets an at-bat … one at a time. The pace of the game is conducive to teaching young people that their moment will come, if they can just be patient. Furthermore, a child will learn to support others in their moment. After all, the best way to get to that at-bat a little earlier is for your predecessors to get on base themselves. Baseball is not life. Matter of fact, what makes the game most essential is that it is a diversion from our everyday routine. Now for four generations of my family, the game of Ruth, Cobb, Mays, and Mantle has added a healthy dose of color to the Murtaugh fabric. My daughters learned right from wrong by listening to their parents, teachers, and yes, coaches. They’re now learning (in college) what they’ll need to succeed on their own, to build careers that reward in ways beyond a salary. But hopefully Sofia and Elena have gathered a few happy tidbits — maybe a golden rule or two — from watching and sharing the game I hold so dear. (As softball teammates for White Station High School in 2017, the Murtaugh sisters helped the Spartans to a state sectional for the first time in school history.) The baseball lesson I’ve most wanted to instill in my daughters’ way of thinking is the game’s central mission, the idea around which the rest of the game has been structured. I hope they’ll always remember that throughout their lives, wherever they go, the greatest joy of all — just as in the game of baseball — is to come home.

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F E AT U R E

By Harry Cash

WHY I FOSTER

A foster parent shares his story.

What if your family gave up their custody rights for you? Or if you entered state custody on your birthday? In Tennessee, approximately 8,000 children are in foster care at any given time. With fewer than 4,000 foster families, the need for more families is real. Many kids in foster care have experienced the unimaginable, and they demonstrate daily their courage, resilience, and unconditional love by showing up to live life. Now, imagine this … the Memphis Tigers Cotton Bowl game in Dallas, barbecue at Cozy Corner, formal dinner at Folk’s Folly Prime Steak House, Jerry’s Sno Cones, snorkeling at the U of M pool, Stonewall Tigers drag show, Science Museum in St. Louis, hiking in local forests, yoga at Anybody Yoga and Midtown Yoga, biking on the Greenline, urban farming at Landmark Training Development in Orange Mound, horseback riding at Shelby Farms, and concerts at the Levitt Shell. Those are a few experiences my foster sons and I have shared together. Now, I don’t want to give the impression that all has been rosy because it has not. We’ve worked through challenging issues, like managing anger and stress, stealing, substance abuse, and disrespect;

but, if we’re truthful, some of that applied to us growing up, too. Fostering was something I always wanted to do, and I cannot quite remember when it first entered my mind. Maybe it was times when my family helped other kids or when my community helped us. But I know it’s my mission to strengthen families and build stronger communities. Who I am is linked to the investments others made in me, and I acknowledge and am humbled by that privilege. As we journey to make this world more just and loving for youth and families, it’s our responsibility to leverage our privilege to make a difference. Over the years, Stax Music Academy, City of Memphis’ Ambassadors Program and MPLOY, MIFA’s Teen Jobs and COOL Programs, and First Baptist on Broad’s Boys to Men ministry prepared me for fostering, and the young people of those programs groomed me to be a better father to Gabrielle, my biological daughter,

and a supporter of these young men and their families. In October 2018, I was walking through my house and thinking about the best use of space. Gabrielle had chosen an out-of-state university, and my roommate had moved. Different ideas came to mind, and the last thought was foster care. So I emailed that night to sign up for a foster care training. Even though I spent many years in youth development, Youth Villages’ foster care training was really helpful. The training schedule was flexible, and the best part was meeting other like-minded people who wanted to do more for youth. Being a single foster parent, Youth Villages’ staff, family, and friends have been my support system. Keon Falkner, Chris Key, Melody Weathers, Brandy Watkins, Kenya Bradshaw, and Courtney Jackson believed in me enough to write personal recommendation letters. Ron Teamer brings Christmas gifts every year. One day, my dad called and said, “Harry, your mom would be proud of you. And if you ever need a break, just let me know. If the boys ever want to make some extra money, they can help me in the yard. If you ever have to go out of town, I will stay with them.” That moment was a definite top-five father-son moment for me. While reading this article, you may be asking yourself: Can I do this? How will they blend with my family? How will I juggle fostering with work demands? Those questions are valid — they crossed my mind, too. The question I have for you is what will happen to a young person if you do not foster? Lastly, fostering is not a one-way relationship where the adult pours into a traumatized young person, but rather, it’s a two-way relationship focusing on mutual growth from knowing each other. Foster families can be single parents, couples with or without children, older couples — just about any household with room to care for and support foster children. The most important qualification is keeping a child safe and providing a stable, caring environment.

Please visit youthvillages.org or call 1-888-MY-YV-KID for more information about fostering. Harry Cash is Youth Villages’ Foster Parent and Foster Care Advisory Council Member. 16

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O U T S TA N D I N G

T E A C H E R

AKITA BANGERGRAY Since she was little, Akita Banger-Gray knew that teaching was in the cards for her future. “I’m from a line of teachers,” she says. “My aunt was a teacher, and my mom as well. Those are my icons. My mom was fresh out of college when she became a teacher. That’s kind of my same story. I was fresh out of college when I started teaching.”

Banger-Gray, who spent a year teaching at Southside High School and the next 22 years at Whitehaven High School, attended college at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga for her undergrad. She then went to Union University for her master’s in education. While there, Banger-Gray began looking at ways that writing could intersect with other subjects. “I try to get the kids to understand that reading and writing go hand in hand,” she says. “They write about events that are going on right now. So sometimes this can feel like social studies class a little bit. It encompasses everything.” Though Banger-Gray teaches both literature and writing at Whitehaven High, writing holds a special place in her heart when it comes to teaching. “You can use writing as an outlet,” she says. “Sometimes you can write down things that you can’t vocalize. Sometimes you can release your feelings through your writing.” Her approach to writing in the classroom ties

“You can use writing as an outlet. Sometimes you can write down things that you can’t vocalize … you can release your feelings through your writing.”

by Matthew J. Harris in with the way she sees herself interacting with her students. One thing that’s important to her is for her kids to see their value and to respect the values of others in her class, even when they disagree. Part of that means writing down their thoughts and being able to articulate their feelings. “I like for my kids to respect others and respect others’ opinions,” she says. “Everything is not a debate. You have to respect what they said, whether or not you agree with it. I want my class to be as inclusive as possible and exclusive of none.” A core part of Banger-Gray’s classroom is building a rapport with the students with whom she works. She and her students bond. They joke around and talk about life, and she tries to be an outlet for their worries. “I like to build a relationship with my students because that’s very important,” she says. “Sometimes, because of something that happened, that negative emotion can overflow into the classroom. It may have happened in school, it may have happened at home. “Sometimes you get kids who come to school and they’re crying. As the teacher, you have to deal with those issues or help them to deal with the issues. When you build that relationship with the kids, they’re more prone to talk to you and let you know what’s going — because a lot of kids don’t; they’ll just lash out because it’s all they know.” Through her two decades of teaching, BangerGray has found it’s something that requires a deep love of the profession — and the students. “You have to love these children unconditionally, because they come from all different backgrounds,” she says. “Low, high, or in the middle, you’ve got to treat them all with respect and listen to all of them. You can’t do it unless you love them. “Children can feel your energy. If you don’t love them, if you’re just coming for a paycheck, they know that. But if you’re coming in and giving your all, they know they can come to you. “[It’s also important] to realize that all children are different. It’s not just a cookie-cutter. It’s not a one-size-fits-all. There are always some gray areas, and you’ve got to be ready for them when they come.” 

We want to shine a light on your child’s teacher, or even a teacher who made a difference in your life. Submit your nomination today by emailing teacher@memphisparent.com. M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

F E AT U R E

g n i d a e R r e m m SuG U I D E Avoid the summer slide with these YA works. Literary works for young readers are just as important as ever, and talented authors continue to spin out books that will leave them turning page after page and going cover to cover. Memphis Parent has selected a few books to get you started on your summer reading fix, so grab a blanket, head outside, and bask in the sunshine while flipping through some exceptional YA works!

Indestructible Object by Mary McCoy

When Mary McCoy’s Indestructible Object begins, Lee’s life is complicated and growing more so. There’s her impending graduation from high school, her mom’s move from Memphis to New Orleans, her breakup with her boyfriend, Vincent, and the subsequent dissolution of their podcast, Artists in Love. Then Lee begins a new podcast, Objects of Destruction, and meets Risa, a young woman who might be more than a friend. It’s a tangle of plans and ambitions, relationships reconfigured or reimagined. It might just be the most true-to-life YA novel to land on my desk in quite some time. “Thankfully, I am not named after a Confederate general. My parents named me after the photographer Lee Miller,” Lee muses, listing her namesake’s many bohemian accomplishments, from World War II photojournalism and Vogue modeling to organizing topless picnics for her artist

Josephine and the Quarantine by Candace Echols

Quarantine is tough. That’s no secret at this point, and for some kids, having to spend that time apart from friends can make it even more difficult. So it’s no surprise that in Candace Echols’ Josephine and the Quarantine, the titular Josephine is looking for a friend to play with. After all, what’s a child to do when they’re bored and alone? But Josephine isn’t simply looking for another human companion; no, she has her eyes set on a furry, cute, and cuddly friend to keep her company during the long quarantine days. But bringing a dog into the family will be no easy feat. In a story we’ve seen played out so many times before, a reluctant parent is hesitant to take the plunge. Echols’ prose paints a stark contrast between Josephine and her mother. The heroine’s rhyming, sing-song thoughts are melodic, and let the reader ﬂow through the pages. The passion that daughter feels may be channeling Echols herself (mom to a little Bernedoodle named Rookie). But in the book, mom’s short, curt responses put a stop to any momentum Josephine can muster. These arguments are all conducted in black-and18

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friends. “I guarantee you Robert E. Lee never once organized a topless picnic.” The quote says much about the tone of the novel — the arts (especially music) are held in high esteem, and there are quips aplenty. The wit and humor make Indestructible Object a pageturner. Printz Honor award-winning author McCoy studied in Memphis, at Rhodes College, and her familiarity with the Bluff City shows throughout the novel. Risa and Lee visit Black Lodge to peruse the shelves of cult classics. The Time Warp Drive-In

white and white illustrations, pulling readers into Josephine’s despondency. But when the pandemic hits, mom has a change of heart. With her daughter’s best interests in mind, a canine companion starts to look more like a reality. This is when Josephine and the Quarantine starts to come to life. Faint colors begin to creep into the pages as mother and daughter discuss all the things they can do with a dog. As the possibility grows, Dare Harcourt’s illustrations truly blossom, bursting with pastel vibrancy and transmitting all the joy that comes with pet ownership. Spoiler alert: Josephine gets her dog, but the relationship is one that benefits the whole family. It just goes to show that even when the going gets rough, there’s always a silver lining, one perhaps in the shape of man’s best friend. — Samuel X. Cicci

Take Back the Block by Chrystal D. Giles

2020 is in the rearview mirror, but the social and political ramifications that it brought won’t go away overnight. And while the issues might be tough for some kids to unpack, Charlotte, North Carolina author Chrystal D. Giles is looking to explore youth involvement with social issues in her middlegrade debut, Take Back the Block. Wes Henderson is the coolest kid in his sixth-grade class, and all he wants to do is hang out with his friends and play video games. But the protests his parents keep taking him to are getting in the way, and prove to be a real drag. But for Wes, everything changes when a big real es-

By Samuel X. Cicci & Jesse Davis and the Memphis Flyer get mentions, as does the Amtrak station with its routes to New Orleans and Chicago. McCoy uses Memphis’ status as a liminal space to her advantage. Memphis is a small enough space that DIY counterculture movements can grow here, but its status as the “Buckle of the Bible Belt” sometimes puts those with vibrant personalities at odds with some culture here. As such, it might be the perfect setting for a music-themed LGBTQ coming-of-age story. As Lee better learns to know and love herself fully, she also becomes more aware of the struggles of the people around her, of the privileges that have given her options not readily available to all of her friends. McCoy excels in this, telling a nuanced story of growth, love, and acceptance. — Jesse Davis Mary McCoy’s Indestructible Object is due to be released June 15, 2021.

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tate developer comes to town. It makes an offer to buy Kensington Oaks, the neighborhood where he’s lived his whole life, and everything descends into chaos. Adults are arguing, his friends are arguing, and some CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

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F E AT U R E families are thinking about moving out of the neighborhood. With his home on the line, Wes springs into action, rallying friends and neighbors in an effort to find the missing piece of the puzzle that can save the neighborhood. Despite setbacks, Wes is undaunted. He pushes forward, showing young readers that, even though it might feel like they aren’t being heard, they can still have a voice when it comes to serious matters. Giles’ book tackles many prominent issues: social justice, community, family. And crucially, it faces head-on the challenge of forced gentrification and the erosion of Black neighborhoods and their history. It’s crucial yet fun reading; Wes is an easy protagonist to root for, rallying his entire neighborhood together for a good cause. While some of the topics might be heavy, Giles deftly maneuvers readers through them. After all, if Wes can navigate through these difficult events, maybe we can, too. — SXC

Closer to Nowhere by Ellen Hopkins

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Growing up is tough, but it’s even tougher when uninvited guests show up in your home. In Ellen Hopkins’ Closer to Nowhere, the 12-year-old Hannah Lincoln has exactly the kind of life she wants. Her parents love her, school is a breeze both socially and academically, and being good at sports doesn’t hurt. But a new arrival threatens to derail her carefully curated school life. But to tell her tale of familial strife and growing up, Hopkins tosses away the shackles of prose and turns, rather, to poetry. Each chapter is told in verse. Hannah’s neat thought pattern easily conveys what she’s thinking, and from the outset, it’s clear that cousin Cal, who just moved in with her after the death of his mom, isn’t going to fit in at school with his weird jokes and strange stories. “Cal’s stupid stories/always have punch lines/attached. Usually they land/with a thud,” Hannah muses at an early school encounter. “A few kids snicker/in the way that says Cal/should just jump off a cliff.”

Cal’s elaborate tales — such as the time he is allegedly kidnapped by hippies, and only escapes by singing songs from the musical Hair — put a strain on Hannah and her parents. Each of his chapters is posed as a “Fact or Fiction” conundrum, with his potential fantasies causing readers to pull out their hair just as much as Hannah wants to. But Hopkins’ verse pulls back the curtain, diving into what makes Cal the way he is. The aspiring writer is dealing with the emotional fallout of his previous home life, with the death of his mother and imprisonment of his father taking a heavy hold. Hopkins, an adoptee herself, utilizes her personal experience to get to the heart of Cal’s dilemma. He’s been burnt before, and

is afraid to reach out to the family he still does have. But while he and Hannah have different upbringings and don’t always get along, Hopkins’ storytelling always indicates that there’s a path forward for these two disparate souls. They are, after all, family. And no matter how hard it might be, it’s good for young readers to learn that there’s always room for a little empathy. — SXC

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F E AT U R E

Prior to becoming a mother, breasts were simply a part of my anatomy. After giving birth, however, they suddenly became an uncomfortable center of focus requiring minute-by-minute attention. They became tools for an important life-sustaining trade, and I was unapprenticed. Precious son at my chest, he loudly requested that I learn what to do, and quickly. The responsibility was both exciting and daunting. As a physical therapist, I am predisposed to think that the body is trainable. There were things I could do to assist my body for a safe pregnancy and delivery. But no exercise or nutrition program could truly prepare me for nursing. I’d read about it. Watched instructional videos. Talked to doulas, midwives, lactation consultants, and other mothers. Although valuable, none of that education prepared my body for what breastfeeding felt like to me: repetitive mini shark bites during grueling failed attempts to latch, sustaining a seriously awkward position, and being immobilized for over 40 minutes (because fear of disrupting the latch once it’s 22

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achieved was enough to glue me in place as if by rubber cement) every 45 minutes around the clock for weeks — and then the raw, searing, burning, can’t-even-letgentle-shower-water-touch-me discomfort between feedings. And beyond physical pain was the pang of feeling inadequate. Out of curiosity, I looked through scholarly articles for a statistical understanding of exactly what percentage of new mothers struggle with breastfeeding. I wanted to feel normal. According to the Surgeon General’s Call to Action to Support Breastfeeding (published in 2011), an estimated 33 percent of breastfed infants were exclusively breastfed through age

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SUSTAINING BABY

Breastfeeding can be a hard-earned win.

three months, and only 13 percent were exclusively breastfed for six months. That means a whopping 87 percent of mommas must’ve faced some pretty significant challenges if they decided not to continue breastfeeding. The article went on to state: “The incongruity between expectations about breastfeeding and the reality of the mother’s early experiences with breastfeeding her infant has been identified as a key reason that many mothers stop breastfeeding within the first two weeks postpartum.” I concur. The phenomenon of breastfeeding was not immediately a nurturing or bonding. Additionally, a systematic review published in the Journal of Oklahoma State Medical Association states that although most women intend to breastfeed, rates decrease “quickly” in the first four to eight weeks postpartum and a “majority of women do not breastfeed for the period of six to 12 months recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.” I can now understand why. Breastfeeding is tough. I had no idea how helpless I’d feel when letdown happened while in the middle of a conversation with my visiting in-laws. Or how uncomfortable it would be to attempt letting tender places air-dry in the middle of winter. Or how distracting the ebb and flow of empty to full breasts would be. Or what it would feel like mentally and emotionally to waver within what I referred to as the Milk Quandary: the dread of nursing through raw places that looked like “sliced butter” (my pediatricians words, not mine) countered by a primal and irrevocable determination to provide optimal nutrition for my son. Metaphorically, creating the proper environment for a latch, a symbiosis, was also a personal challenge. For it to work, I had to be still, let go of external agendas, and put my independent nature on hold. It required patience and even, for me, a little bit of metaphorical fight instead of flight. When both myself and my son were exhausted from unsuccessful latch attempts, I’d take a deep breath, pull back my hair, cradle him behind his tiny shoulders, gaze into his eyes, and repeat, “We are OK. We are OK,” and keep trying until the latch happened successfully. For the

By Monika Patel first few weeks, those three words became our nursing mantra, our subtle fight song; words I used to guide and comfort us both through the experience together. At four weeks postpartum, after immense intervention: encouragement from other mothers, two different lactation consultant visits, application of four different nipple ointments, occasional application of refrigerated cabbage, usage of the Hakka pump and the Brest Friend nursing pillow, and the addition of occasional feedings of breast milk from a bottle, nursing did gradually become better. It felt strange to see the bottle provide something so effortlessly I had struggled with for weeks, but sharing the responsibility was honestly a relief. It gave me a chance to recover and heal. And the bottle also helped my son get enough milk. Somehow, women’s bodies have the potential to magically produce enough milk to sustain a sweet, tiny, voraciously hungry little human hour after hour. Yet successful nursing is the outcome of surmounted obstacles that are different, but perhaps relatable, for many mothers. Nursing did not come naturally for me, and for some it does not happen at all. Sustaining an infant is not something emphasized as a classic everyday act of heroism the way helping a senior cross the street or retrieving a cat from a tall tree limb are, and I think it should be. The magnitude of early motherhood responsibility and adaptation is significant. No matter how mothers feed their babies, dedication, determination, pushing beyond exhaustion, and a significant degree of self-sacrifice are involved. The experience of feeding a newborn turns each day into a hard-earned victory. Monika Patel is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and strength and conditioning specialist. She has a passion for empowering women to prepare for well-balanced motherhood — both mentally and physically. She has applied her knowledge of preventative medicine to establish Train4Birth, an affordable online course with a built-in accountability feature. She is also the mother of a truck-loving toddler and couldn’t be happier digging with him in the backyard. Visit train4birth.com for more information.

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D A D

L I B S

By Jeff Hulett

MOM LOVE

A celebration of the moms in my life.

With Mother’s Day coming up, I thought I would take the opportunity to shout out to some of the special moms in my orbit. This should also be your notice to get on it if you haven’t started your celebratory plans. First and foremost, there’s Annie — my wife and mother to Ella and Beatrice. Annie is so incredibly kind and patient with our children. She’s present and thoughtful and always available to get into the trenches with them when a problem surfaces. It’s amazing to see Annie navigate the demands of motherhood and then take all of that empathy and passion to her classroom every day. And let’s be honest: I’m like another big kid over here mucking things up on the regular. Happy Mother’s Day, Annie! Then there are my neighbors, Janina and Anna. Janina is mom to Jack, who is almost two years old. Anna is mom to Lena, who is almost one year old. Jack is all boy, all the time, and puts Janina through her paces constantly and consistently. If you take your eyes off Jack, there’s no telling what type of mischief he’ll get into. Janina is calm and nurturing as she redirects Jack with love and encouragement. You know their bond is strong when Jack cries as Janina leaves to

take her daily lunch walk. Anna had Lena smack-dab in the middle of the pandemic and has been such a joy to watch as she brings Lena outside for sunshine time as often as the weather permits. She’s also so caring and attentive as they play and frolic in the front yard. The neighbors on North Belvedere all can’t wait to see her walking and talking up a storm. It won’t be long now until Lena is running things. Happy Mother’s Day, Janina and Anna! Next up is my mother-in-law Cheryl. Cheryl is in the midst of some heavy things in her life as she cares for her husband of 53 years who has Alzheimer’s. It would be an understatement to say she is handling it with grace, compassion, and above all, love. She also has four kids who range in age and who all have kids of their own, from babies to 20-somethings. Cheryl is as patient as they come, and calm and realistic about life. She always makes me laugh and does the little things that moms do to make you feel special.

Happy Mother’s Day, Cheryl! And last but not least, there’s Susan Marie Hulett, my mom. She’s had a rough go of it these past years with some unruly health problems, but she’s stayed the course and is ready to get through this pandemic and start creating some more family memories. We’re all vaccinated now, so we’ll soon be making plans for my parents’ 50th wedding anniversary celebration next year. My mom and I have a special bond, as we have always been the ones who make sure my dad and brother have what they need. Because of that, we get to poke fun at them. It’s quite funny, and we are only kidding — most of the time. My mom has always been the one to tell me that I need to learn to say no, stop burning the candle at both ends, prioritize what’s important, and just relax. I’m grateful for those messages and the encouragement for 42-plus years. Happy Mother’s Day, mom! To all the mothers out there — I salute you.

Jeff Hulett is a freelance writer, musician, and PR consultant in Memphis. He lives in the Vollintine Evergreen neighborhood with his wife Annie, two girls Ella and Beatrice, and two dogs Chalupa and Princess Freckles. 24

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C A M P

Compiled by Memphis Parent staff

G U I D E

CAMP TIME!

A roundup of programs to help with your search. Arrow Creative

Arrow will continue the legacy of Memphis College of Art’s Youth Summer Camp by collaborating with past MCA teachers and other local artists and educators. The camp will host approximately 48 sessions over an eight-week period, ranging from drawing and painting to ceramics and digital design. They will work with teachers and staff to ensure that the artmaking at each level fits the needs of the students while allowing them to work with one another, encourage one another, and grow in their understanding of their artistic endeavors. Register at arrowcreative.org/summercamp2021.

Briarcrest Christian School

Briarcamp serves BCS students in Little Saints through 6th grade by providing a safe, healthy, and fun recreational experience for children in a Christian environment. Briarcamp is available beginning June 1 and runs until July 23, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with early- and after-care provided at an additional charge. A half-day option is available from 9 a.m. to noon or noon to 3 p.m. Briarcamp will adhere to physical distancing and DOE guidelines. Will only be open to BCS students with a signed contract for the fall of 2021-2022. Should the status of COVID improve, they may consider opening Briarcamp to non-BCS families.

Brooks Summer Art Camp

Brooks is offering art camps for children ages 5 through 11, inspiring young minds to explore art and creativity. Camp includes active learning in the galleries, looking at original works of art, creating studio projects, active play outdoors, and more. Visit brooksmuseum.org/camps for more information. Camp runs WednesdayFriday, June 30-July 2, July 7-9, and July 14-16, 9:30 a.m. drop-off, 3:30 p.m. pick-up. Members: $150 per week/nonmembers: $180 per week.

Camp of The Rising Son

This is a Christ-centered residential summer camp for ages 7-17, located at French Camp Academy. Experience a summer of life-changing fun. For more information, visit campoftherisingson.com or call 662-547-6169.

Christian Brothers High School

CBHS offers fun summer camp experiences for your rising preschool to 12th graders that enrich the mind and body. In addition to the popular sports camps, this year they will host a two-week band camp and a series of academic enrichment camps called Brothers LEAD for middle schoolers. Camps are held throughout June and July, offered to both boys and girls. Register at camps.cbhs.org.

Code Ninjas Collierville

Unleash your child’s inner ninja. Transform your child’s love for technology into an exciting learning adventure. Guided by a team of Code Senseis, Code Ninjas camps empower kids to gain valuable tech skills and make new friends. It’s an unforgettably fun learning experience! For more information, visit codeninjas.com/tncollierville/camps or call 901-910-6510.

Collage Dance Collective

Collage Dance Collective will be hosting a variety of sessions this summer. Register at collagedance.org/summer-programs.

Collierville Christian Academy

SonRock Kids Camp, where kids build their lives on the rock, June 1-August 6. School-age and preschool camps. On-site swimming pool, air-conditioned gym, field trips, and a.m. & p.m. snacks. For more information, visit colliervillechristianacademy.com or call 901-854-4334.

Evangelical Christian School

Summer at ECS, June 7-July 30, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., with before- and after-care available. Camps: all-day camp, athletic camps, and specialty camps. Registration costs range from $125 to $245. To register, visit ecseagles.com or contact Camp Director Cate Foy at cfoy@ ecseagles.com or at 754-7217.

Hutchison School

Build a dollhouse, experiment with elephant toothpaste, dance your heart out, create your first comic book, and more! Hutchison

Center for Excellence and SPARK Day Camp, June 1-August 14. For girls and boys entering grades JK-12. SPARK Day Camp runs daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with early care starting at 7:30 a.m. and late care available until 6 p.m. The Center for Excellence (CFE) offers unique full- or half-day camps and workshops for boys and girls of all ages. Make a day of it with a CFE/SPARK crossover. Discounts are available for multi-week campers, siblings, and crossover campers. For more information, visit hutchisonschool.org/summer.

Harding Academy

Join the Day Camp to make new friends, take in-house field trips, and participate in service projects. Sign up for sports camps to work on your swing/shot/kick. Or take a LEAP class to learn how to write code, play the piano, and more. Whatever you choose, you’ll make great summer memories this year at Harding. For details and registration, visit hardinglions.org/ summer. Contact for Day Camp & LEAP Camp: Brenda Stewart, stewart.brenda@ hardingacademymemphis.org, 312-2836. Contact for Sports Camp: Cody Nelson, nelson. cody@hardingacademymemphis.org, 3122837. 1100 Cherry Road, Memphis,TN 38117.

Kroc Center

From virtual learning childcare to seasonal break camps and after-school activities, Kroc child and youth development programs are designed to provide enrichment and variety to keep kids active, academically engaged, and socially connected. Kroc kids learn, grow, and thrive in a nurturing environment that focuses on Christian values. To register, visit krocmemphis.org/youth-activities/campsafterschool.

Lakeshore Camp

Whether you get excited about worship and music arts, arts and crafts, fishing, wilderness, aquatics, hammocking, or you just want to hang out at Main Camp, Lakeshore has the summer experience for you. Experience life, love, and God of Grace at one of the 40+ camp options for all ages and interests. Lakeshore is looking forward to another year of phenomenal staff, exquisite leadership, and amazing campers. This is a summer you won’t want to miss! To register, visit lakeshorecamp.org/summer-camp.

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Lakeside Behavioral Health System Does your child need a structured summer program? Lakeside Behavioral Health System can help. Their five-week program is designed for elementary, middle, and high school students and runs Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., June 21-25, June 28-July 2, July 6-9, July 12-16, and July 19-23. Students may attend one week or any number of consecutive weeks. For more information or to register, contact Marceia Ashe at marceia.ashe@ uhsinc.com or call 901-373-0931. Lausanne Collegiate Operating June 1-August 13, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with both morning, afternoon, and fullday options. Closed the week of July 5-9. To register, visit lausanneschool.com/summer. Little Medical School MidSouth From birthday parties, CPR/first aid, and Scout badge classes to after-school programs, in-school field trips, homeschool programs, mini camps, or summer camps. Little Medical School is a STEM-based enrichment program for children and youth aged 4-15 that teaches greater health awareness through educational roleplay and introduces them to careers in healthcare in an exciting way. To register, visit littlemedicalschool.com/midsouth. Memphis Zoo Zoo Camp runs June 7-August 6, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. $235, members/$265, nonmembers. Offering camps for grades JK through 5th, with reduced overall capacity. Camps with a focus on nature exploration will foster an appreciation for the outdoors and encourage creativity, observation, and positive interactions with the natural world. Select camp grade level according to the grade level your child will enter in the 2021-2022 school year. Memphis Jewish Community Center MJCC Camp is open to all children ages 3 through 10th grade. Facilities include an outdoor water park, indoor pool, expansive field space, and much more. Register at jccmemphis.org/camp. MUS Owls Memphis University School’s all-new Camp U will offer an immersive, high-energy day camp experience for boys entering 1st through 7th 26

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grades. Week-long, whole-day, or half-day sessions begin June 7 and 14 and July 12 and 19. Enjoy indoor and outdoor games, science experiments, makerspace activities, arts and crafts, and more. MUS will also offer sports camps, including baseball, basketball, soccer, and lacrosse. For more details on all camps, visit musowls.org/summer. Memphis Botanic Garden On-site camps: June 7-11, June 14-18, June 2125, and July 12-16 Garden on the Go!: June 14-18, June 21-25, June 28-July 2, July 12-16, July 19-23, and July 26-30 Summer fun is blooming at the Garden! Nature camps are dedicated to connecting kids with nature. Whether they’re exploring 96 acres during on-site camps or taking activities home with Garden on the Go, aspiring nature-lovers and adventurers are covered. Learn more at memphisbotanicgarden.com/camps. Missouri Military Academy 288 acres of woods, fields, rocks, creeks, and ponds are there to be explored and enjoyed. Summer Academy, academic residential camp for boys, day camp for boys or girls, grades 7-12; Leadership camp for boys, ages 12-17; Confidence camp, for boys, ages 8-11; AllSports camp for boys, ages 8-14; Equestrian day camp for boys and girls, ages 8-18; Summer Jazz Academy for boys and girls, ages 12-18; Bagpipe and Drums summer, co-ed, all ages. Visit missourimilitaryacademy.org/summer for more information. Orpheum Camps may be virtual this year. Please check the Orpheum website for up-to-date information. Orpheum camp options include: Camp Collaborate, Arts Explore!, Story Lab, Mending Hearts Camp, and Musical Theatre Intensive. For details and pricing, visit orpheum-memphis.com. Panther Creek Stables Panther Creek Stables is proud to offer a safe and fun summer day camp for ages 6-17. Riding lessons, games on horseback, cow work, horsey crafts, swimming in the lake, and more await. Go to panthercreekstables.simpletix.com for more information and to register.

Playhouse on the Square Summer youth theatre conservatory summer camps and theatre intensives. June 7July 30. Visit playhouseonthesquare.org for more information and to register online. Presbyterian Day School Explore STEAM projects, play games, read for fun, hone your sports skills. Pick up some tech pointers. Get wet! More than 60 fantastic camps to beat summer boredom. For boys and girls in rising PK-6th grades. Register now at pdsmemphis.org/summer. School of Rock School of Rock | Memphis 400 Perkins Ext. • memphis.schoolofrock.com School of Rock | Germantown 9309 Poplar Ave., Ste 102, Germantown • germantown.schoolofrock.com School of Rock | Wolfchase 8385 Hwy. 64, Ste. 111, Memphis • wolfchase.schoolofrock.com This comprehensive camp experience is designed to hone music performance and ensemble skills in a creative and fun environment. Playing in a band situation speeds learning and creates “seasoned” musicians. Even relatively advanced musicians are amazed at the amount of progress they make when regularly playing with other musicians. Students work in a handson atmosphere. St. Agnes Academy / St. Dominic School Open to the community and offering a catalog of over 70 professionally run and highly rewarding camps for PK-12th grade students. From drama and fine arts to sports and all-day camps, there is something for everyone. Choose from Junior Day Camp for rising PK-K students and Day Camp for rising 1st-6th grade students. Auxiliary Camps for all students (rising PK-12th grade), as well as partial or extended day care before and after camp programs (rising PK-6th grade students). June 1-July 31. Main school number: 901-767-1356. Summer front desk: 901-435-5893. Visit saa-sds.org/summer for more info. St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School For rising 3K-8th graders, Camp Timberwolf offers the opportunity for kids to learn and try new things while having fun. June 1-July 30, extended hours: 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m. For more

HELP Empower Deaf Children to HELP Listen, Learn, and Talk. HELP HELP

Compiled by Memphis Parent staff information, visit sfawolves.org/summer or call 901-381-2595.

Empower Deaf Children to Deaf to Empower Deaf Empower Children to Children Listen, Learn, and Talk. Listen, Learn, and Talk. Listen, Learn, and Talk.

St. George’s Independent School

Visit sgis.org/summer to take a look at the wide variety of specialty camps. Full-day and half-day camps, mix and match for full-day coverage. Drop-ins welcome and early care is available. June 7-August 6, grades PK-12.

St. Mary’s Episcopal School

At St. Mary’s, summer equals fun for artists and princesses, athletes and astronauts, with a variety of activities for boys and girls of all ages. June 1-August 6. Visit stmarysschool.org/ summer or call 901-537-1415 to register.

Tennis Memphis

Tennis Summer Camps, building a better community and enhancing lives through tennis and education. NJLT camp, June 21-July 30, for ages 5-18, from 8 a.m. to noon. Early Childhood Camp, June 21-July 30, for ages 5-6, from 8 to 9:30 a.m. For more information, visit tennismemphis.org/summer-camps or contact one of the following locations. Bellevue Tennis Center: Chip Malone, 662-386-7334, cmalone@tennismemphis.org; Eldon Roark Tennis Center: Nick Laskaris, 740-360-6885, nlaskaris@tennismemphis.org; Raleigh Tennis Center: Arnold Thompson, 901-679-7394, athompson@tennismemphis.org; Wolbrecht Tennis Center: Jon Bell, 901-212-2069, jbell@ tennismemphis.org. Competitive Training Summer Camp, this camp is for players who have competed in middle school, high school, USTA Junior Team Tennis, and USTA tournaments, ranging from state to national levels. For more information, visit tennismemphiscamps.org.

Woodland Presbyterian School

GIVE A GIVE CHILDATHE GIFT THE OF SOUND CHILD GIFT OF SOUND

BLAST Summer Camp. Creative, academic, and athletic camps for kids from 2K through 8th grade, from June 1-July 30. Woodland’s camps are packed with excitement, discovery, and adventure through organized play, STEM challenges, Digital Discovery, and arts and crafts. BLAST offers day camp, along with specialty camps, or a combination of both. For more information, visit woodlandschool.org/ blastsummercamp, email BLAST@woodlandschool.org, or call 901-825-0588.

www.mosdkids.org

GIVE A CHILD THE GIFT OF SOUND

GIVE A CHILD THE GIFT OF SOUND www.mosdkids.org

www.mosdkids.org MEM PH I SPA R ENT.COM 27

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By Julie Ray

BLUFF CITY BALLOON JAMBOREE FRIDAY, JUNE 18 SUNDAY, JUNE 20

Bring the family out to enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts displays, and more. Balloon flights, glows, and tethered rides (weather permitting) add to the fun at dawn and dusk. Free. thebluffcityballoonjamboree.com.

MAYNARD WAY AND BYHALIA, COLLIERVILLE, TN 1 • SATURDAY Memphis Big BBQ Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K. Shelby Farms, 7188 Mullins Station. 7 a.m. Run through beautiful Shelby Farms or choose the virtual option and choose your own course. Commemorative shirts, bibs, and finish line bling will be mailed. Benefits Mid-South Food Bank. $35-$100. tennesseeruns.com/memphisbigbbq. 224-757-5425. Moms and Mimosas. Diamond Event Center, 5392 Knight Arnold. Noon-4:30 p.m. A day of shopping, socializing, and good vibes featuring 15 unique vendors, music, lunch plates available to purchase, and free mimosas while supplies last. Bring your mom and friends and support local small businesses. Free. vibewithscents.com. 295-9543. Neat. Hattiloo Theatre, 37 S. Cooper. 2 p.m. Continues through May 9, Sat. and Sun., 2 p.m., and Fri., 7:30 p.m. The story of an urban African-American girl bursting into adulthood, experiencing first love, and embracing both Black pride and feminism. $150 for a four-seat package. hattiloo.org. 502-3486.

Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Bartlett Performing Arts and Conference Center, 3663 Appling. 7:30 p.m., and Sun., May 2, 2 p.m. A talented cast of young actors brings Disney’s story of Ariel the mermaid to life on the stage. $15, $10 kids. bpacc.org. 385-6440.

Chimes Square Movie Night: Back to the Future. Overton Square, 2101 Madison. 8 p.m. Enjoy family-friendly movies on an outdoor screen with state-of-the-art surround sound. Tipsy Tumbler will be on-site selling adult beverages. Free. overtonsquare.com.

7 • FRIDAY

8 • SATURDAY

May Bouquets for Mom. Pinecrest Camp, 21430 Highway 57, Moscow, TN. 10 a.m. Miniadventures for you and your little one. Social distanced nature fun. Arrive early or stay after to play and picnic. Register on the website in advance. $6 per child. 878-1247.

Bird Talk & Walk Series: Purple Martins. Lichterman Nature Center, 5992 Quince. 9 a.m. Purple Martins, birds that winter in Brazil, are back at Lichterman Nature Center. Learn more about this species and help monitor their nests. Take a walk around the lake to see what other birds we can see and hear. Binoculars are available to borrow. For ages 12 to adult. $10. 636-2224.

Birth of Soul Music. Halloran Centre @ The Orpheum, 225 S. Main. Friday-Sunday, May 7-9, 8 p.m. A documentary film that was made in Memphis with the purpose of exploring music history from Memphis, Detroit, and Philadelphia. Screening plus live concerts by Bobby Rush, Larita Shelby, and Brigitte Purdy. $75-$125. 525-3000.

12 • WEDNESDAY Summer Lecture Series: “Mid-South Birds.” Online from Wolf River Conservancy. 6:30 p.m. Dr. Michael Collins will introduce the audience to the birds of Tennessee, with a focus on the birds that can be seen in backyards or along the Wolf River. Free. wolfriver.org.

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C A L E N DA R 13 • THURSDAY

Zoo Stroll: P is for Panda. Memphis Zoo, 2000 Prentiss Place. 8-9 a.m. Take a guided tour stroll before the gates open. Fun and interactive program designed for a 1:1 ratio of 1 stroller + 1 caregiver. $15 members, $19 nonmembers. memphiszoo.org. 333-6500.

Fling into Spring Tea Party. Mallory-Neely House, 652 Adams. 1-4 p.m. Tea party with light snacks and sweets. The first floor will be open for touring. After you have finished with your tea, enjoy learning about the language of the flowers while planting and decorating your own succulent. $25, $15 child. 523-1484. Bird Talk & Walk Series: Purple Martins.

14 • FRIDAY Chimes Square Movie Night: To Kill a Mockingbird. Overton Square, 2101 Madison. 8 p.m. Enjoy family-friendly movies on an outdoor screen with state-of-the-art surround sound. Tipsy Tumbler will be on-site selling adult beverages. Free. overtonsquare.com.

17 • MONDAY Agape Kids Classic Golf Tournament. TPC Southwind, 3325 Club at Southwind. Noon5 p.m. Participate as a sponsor, golfer, or simply donate to benefit Agape Child & Family Services. Presented by Greystone. $500 for an individual player, $2,000 for a team of 4. agapemeanslove.org. 626-3601.

21 • FRIDAY

4 • FRIDAY

22 • SATURDAY River Series with Amy LaVere and Will Sexton. Maria Montessori School Amphitheater, 740 Harbor Bend. 5-8 p.m. The ticket includes beer from Wiseacre and a goodie bag from Miss Cordelia’s with snacks, bug spray, hand sanitizer, and a meal coupon. $50. riverseries.org. 30

Lichterman Nature Center, 5992 Quince. 9 a.m. Purple Martins, birds that winter in Brazil, are back at Lichterman Nature Center. Learn more about this species and help monitor their nests. Take a walk around the lake to see what other birds we can see and hear. Binoculars are available to borrow. For ages 12 to adult. $10. 636-2224.

24 • MONDAY Zoo Stroll: G is for Giraffe. Memphis Zoo, 2000 Prentiss Place. 8-9 a.m. Take a guided tour stroll before the gates open. Fun and interactive program designed for a 1:1 ratio of 1 stroller + 1 caregiver. $15 members, $19 nonmembers. memphiszoo.org. 333-6500.

28 • FRIDAY

Chimes Square Movie Night: Dumb & Dumber. Overton Square, 2101 Madison. 8 p.m. Enjoy family-friendly movies on an outdoor screen with state-of-the-art surround sound. Tipsy Tumbler will be on-site selling adult beverages. Free. overtonsquare.com.

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JUNE

15 • SATURDAY Perimeter Hike with the Biologist. Pinecrest Camp, 21430 Highway 57, Moscow, TN. 10 a.m. Look for tracks, scat, and signs of spring with adjunct professor of biology at UT Martin, Richard Rucker. Meet at the Lodge, wear hiking shoes or boots, and bring water and snacks. $5. camppinecrest.org.

29 • SATURDAY

Firefly Drive-In. Pinecrest Camp, 21430 Highway 57, Moscow, TN. 7-9:30 p.m. Enjoy the lightning bug display in chemical-free fields and forest edges. Take a hayride and hop off out in the fields to frolic with thousands of fireflies and a variety of species, each with its own flash pattern. $10 per vehicle. 878-1247. Chimes Square Movie Night: Pride & Prejudice. Overton Square, 2101 Madison. 8 p.m. Enjoy family-friendly movies on an outdoor screen with state-of-the-art surround sound. Tipsy Tumbler will be onsite selling adult beverages. Free. overtonsquare.com.

Chimes Square Movie Night: How To Train Your Dragon. Overton Square, 2101 Madison. 8 p.m. Enjoy family-friendly movies on an outdoor screen with state-of-the-art surround sound. Tipsy Tumbler will be on-site selling adult beverages. Free. overtonsquare.com.

5 • SATURDAY River Series with Reigning Sound. Maria Montessori School Amphitheater, 740 Harbor Bend. 5-8 p.m. The ticket includes beer from Wiseacre and a goodie bag from Miss Cordelia’s with snacks, bug spray, hand sanitizer, and a meal coupon. $50. riverseries.org. Bird Talk & Walk Series: Purple Martins. Lichterman Nature Center, 5992 Quince. 9 a.m. Purple Martins, birds that winter in Brazil, are back at Lichterman Nature Center. Learn more about this species and help monitor their nests. Take a walk around the lake to see what other birds we can see and hear. Binoculars are available to borrow. For ages 12 to adult. $10. 636-2224.

17 • THURSDAY Motherhood: The Musical. Germantown Community Theatre, 3037 Forest Hill-Irene. Thursday-Saturday, 8 p.m., and Sunday, 2:30 p.m. Through June 27. A funny, yet loving look at being a mom at any age. It’s climbing the emotional mountain only to find that there’s laundry at the top. $28. 453-7447.

Summer Lecture Series: “Darkness 101, The Perils of Light Pollution.” Online from Wolf River Conservancy. 6:30 p.m. Charity Siebert, program director for Pinecrest Camp and International Dark Sky Advocate, will speak on the topic of light pollution and its impacts on natural heritage and ecology. Free. wolfriver.org.

18 • FRIDAY Songs for a New World. Live-streaming from Playhouse on the Square, playhouseonthesquare.org. June 18-27, FridaySaturday, 7 p.m., and Sunday, 2 p.m. A musical theater song cycle composed by Jason Robert Brown takes four singers through a journey of discovery. Posing the question — When your back is against a wall and you are faced with a decision: Do you take a stand? Or turn around? With a small, powerhouse cast and a driving, exquisitely crafted score that runs the gamut of today’s popular music. A great way to bring the next generation into the theater. $25. 726-4656. Bluff City Balloon Jamboree. Maynard Way and Byhalia, Collierville, TN. Through June 20. Bring the family out to enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts displays, and more. Balloon flights, glows, and tethered rides (weather permitting) add to the fun at dawn and dusk. Free. thebluffcityballoonjamboree.com.

JULY 13 • TUESDAY Summer Lecture Series: “Southeastern Bats.” Online from Wolf River Conservancy. 6:30 p.m. Becky Rosamond, wildlife biologist and chair of the Mississippi Bat Working Group, will discuss bats of the southeastern United States. Free. wolfriver.org.

O N G O I N G

E V E N T S

Museums & Exhibits

The Dixon Gallery and Gardens. “America’s Impressionism: Echoes of a Revolution.” Through May 8. Exhibition of work by late nineteenth century to World War II American impressionism painters. dixon.org. 761-5250. The Dixon Gallery and Gardens. “The Charging Station.” Through May 9. An interactive exhibit that encourages pause and the search to reconnect with self and others through reflection, movement, music, laughter, and more. dixon.org. 761-5250. Metal Museum. “Measured Making: The 150mm Challenge.” Through July 2. Exhibition of a curated selection of 150 metal objects, chosen from over 400 pieces created by amateur and professional blacksmiths from around the world. metalmuseum.org. 774-3212. The Dixon Gallery and Gardens. “Signs & Wonders.” Through July 11. Exhibition of work that will include photo collage as well as large-scale work that incorporates assemblage and textile design by Memphis artist Brittney Boyd Bullock. dixon.org. 761-5250.

Other Programs Flower Tots. Memphis Botanic Garden, 750 Cherry. Tuesdays, 10 a.m., through May 25. Storytime at the garden with Kristen Zemaitis, Youth Education Program Director, for pre-K and kindergarten-aged children (with an adult), followed by a motion activity or show and tell. Free with garden admission. 636-4100. Family Learning at the Garden (FLAG). Memphis Botanic Garden, 750 Cherry. Fridays, 10 a.m., through May 28. Handson garden experience — garden discovery, exploration, family craft projects — will supplement distance learning and homeschool curriculum. $8 members, $10 nonmembers. 636-4100.

Virtual-ology. Dixon Gallery and Gardens, Saturdays, 1:30-2 p.m. Provides youngsters ages 10-13 a chance to discover new interests and build on social, critical thinking, artmaking, and community skills. Every month follows a new theme, from drawing to printmaking to gardening and more. Free with registration. dixon.org. 761-5250. Virtual Kaleidoscope Club. Dixon Gallery and Gardens, Wednesdays, 4 p.m. Children ages 5-9 participate in projects that spark interest in horticulture, art, or literature. Free with registration. dixon.org. 761-5250. 18Karat Tour. Metal Museum, 374 Metal Museum Drive. A one-of-a-kind museum experience for small groups of 3-6. Schedule a tour to listen to a 20-minute guided tour. Learn about the history of the museum, artwork in the Sculpture Garden, and special programs. Each tour concludes with a group activity, where you’ll create your own stamped copper cuff bracelet. $20 per person. metalmuseum.org. 774-6380.

Classes & Workshops Horseback Riding Lessons. Pony Dream Farms Riding School, 11241 Holly Springs, Hernando, MS. Private lessons are available for ages 6-adult, beginner to intermediate. English, Western, and pleasure/trail. facebook.com/ ponydreamfarms. 827-2429. Skate School. Society Memphis, 583 Scott. Every Saturday, 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. Let your child learn in a safe and encouraging environment. As kids advance in their ability, they will be taught to handle faster speeds, how to connect lines, fakie, frontside, backside, switch, and introduction to the ollie. $25. societymemphis.com. Distance Learning “Live” Dance Classes. Ballet On Wheels, online. Monday-Thursday and on Saturdays. Classes in various dance genres including ballet, jazz, hip-hop, and more. The online dance curriculum includes weekly bonus classes that are not normally offered as a part of MEM PH I SPA R ENT.COM

C A L E N DA R the regular schedule. Financial aid available. To enroll, visit balletonwheels.org. Dixon at Home Series. JT Willbanks, art instructor at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens, shows children how to create art projects without having to leave their house or backyard. Check out Visual Art Adventures via Facebook and Instagram live. dixon.org.

Homeschool Classes Play-Shop <Online>. Online from Playhouse on the Square, playhouseonthesquare.org. Each workshop is led by an industry professional currently working at Playhouse on the Square. Videos range from dance to puppetry, from stage management to theater history, and much more on-demand. 937-6415. Literacy Mid-South’s Families: Safer at Home Resources. Provides resources for families with elementary-aged students at home. Includes reading tips, guides, at-home interactive literacy activities, and ideas. literacymidsouth.org. National Civil Rights Museum E-Learning Activities. Educator resources provide tools to engage students by prompting them to reflect on big questions about the human experience and how the history relates to contemporary events and everyday life. civilrightsmuseum.org. Tennessee Aquarium’s Educational Series. Offers activities for families who are staying #SaferAtHome. Weekday Wonders is a series designed for parents interested in engaging children in science at home. Explore Mr. Bill’s Naturalist’s Notebook written by Bill Haley, the Tennessee Aquarium’s education outreach coordinator. Also, visit the Tennessee Aquarium Facebook page each morning to find out the topic and timing of the daily stream for #AquariumAtHome each weekday at 1 p.m. tnaqua.org. The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art Online Lessons. For teachers (and now parents) of children in grades K-12. Follow Brooks Museum on Facebook and Instagram for updates on virtual programs. brooksmuseum.org. 32

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Story Time Story Time with la Abuela Tomasa. Tuesdays on Facebook Live. Visit Cazateatro Bilingual Theatre Group’s Facebook to watch. For more information, visit cazateatro.org. International Storytime. Every other Thursday on Crosstown Concourse Facebook page. Kids are invited to watch videos and hear stories they may be familiar with in a language they have never heard before. crosstownconcourse.com. Literacy Mid-South’s Interactive ReadAloud Videos. Memphians read a book from the Read901 Libib Lending Library. This also includes links to a lesson plan and activities that families can use to follow along with the story. literacymidsouth.org. National Civil Rights Museum’s Small but Mighty Story Time Video Series. Read along with K-12 museum educator Dory Lerner on the NCRM Facebook page. civilrightsmuseum.org. Morton Museum presents Virtual Story Time with Miss Susan. Every Friday, 10 a.m. Miss Susan reads stories and shares craft ideas each week from her backyard on the Morton Museum of Collierville History Facebook page. colliervillemuseum.org.

Family-Friendly Get Growing this Spring Plant Sale. Lichterman Nature Center, 5992 Quince. Through May 29. Beautify your garden with hearty, healthy plants grown right here in Memphis by horticulture experts. Thousands of plants will be available for sale via online and onsite shopping by appointment. Email or call for an on-site appointment. 636-2211. memphismuseums.org. Crosstown Arts: Against the Grain. An online platform where viewers can watch new, madeat-home videos of performances by Memphis musicians and donate to the artists with virtual tickets. crosstownarts.org.

Family-Friendly Virtual and Remote Volunteer Opportunities. Search for opportunities like food box packing with CatholicCharities, T-shirt sales with WYXR, and garden days with Memphis Rox or Memphis Botanic Garden. Find an experience that fits your schedule and impacts your community. Online from Volunteer Odyssey, volunteerodyssey.com. Memphis Oral School for the Deaf SpeakEasy Auction. Online. May 1-22. Featuring prizes including trips, gift certificates, jewelry, art, and more. All proceeds benefit the students of MOSD. Free. mosdkids.org.

Sports & Fitness Hoop Fitness. Shelby Farms Park Visitor Center, 6903 Great View. Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. A low-impact, full-body cardio workout that can burn up to 700 calories per hour while increasing core strength, balance, coordination, posture, muscle tone, and selfconfidence, all while having fun. Free. 767-7275. Slow Your Roll Saturday Morning Meditation. Crosstown Concourse, 1350 Concourse. Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. Join mindfulness and meditation teacher Greg Graber’s meditation session in the Church Health Meditation Garden. No sign-up is required. Masks are a must. Free. crosstownconcourse.com. Tia Chi. Shelby Farms Park Visitor Center, 6903 Great View. Wednesdays, 3 p.m. Relieve stress and increase flexibility by participating in Tai Chi classes led by a certified instructor. Free. 767-7275. Yoga in the Gardens. Dixon Gallery and Gardens, 4339 Park. Saturdays, 10:30 a.m. Bring a mat and enjoy some zen with Peggy Reisser. All levels welcome. Free. 761-5250. Yoga on the River. Mississippi River Park off Riverside. Tuesdays, 5:30 p.m., through July 31. All levels are welcome, in-person or online via Instagram, with Yoga Kickback. Free. downtownmemphis.com.

memphis area master gardeners

“through our garden gates” — p r e s e n t —

Saturday, June 5 from 9 AM – 4 PM.

To be held rain or shine. • Free tour — open to the public, all ages welcome. • This is the “DYI” tour. All six wonderful gardens, differing in design, style, size and features, were designed by the home gardener who also did the majority of the installation themselves. You will not be intimidated but will be inspired to know you can create your own garden oasis.

• Plant lists, labeled plants, educational displays and garden docents will enhance your visit. • Garden experts on hand to answer any gardening question. • Plein Air artists creating original works of art in each garden. • For your safety Covid 19 protocols in place. Masks and social distancing required.

For more information, including directions, visit

MemphisAreaMasterGardeners.org 901-752-1207

The Best Place for Kids. Always. Le Bonheur is proud to be recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the nation’s best children’s hospitals for the 10th consecutive year. This national distinction is a symbol of our commitment to providing expert care to all children. When it comes to providing the best for your children, there is no substitute for the care, expertise and attention you’ll find at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. You can always rely on us.

lebonheur.org