Sumner Parent magazine January 2022

JANUARY 2022

2021

EVERY. FAMILY. MATTERS.

Know Your Child (one easy question does the trick!)

+

BE A TAKECHARGE PARENT: START FAMILY MEETINGS & START THRIVING

INTERVIEW: On the Road With "The Lion King" FUN FITNESS ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

exercise lays the groundwork for your child's

BEST MENTAL HEALTH

A child’s smile matters.

Damian and Vicky know.

When her son Damian was born with a right sided cleft lip and palate, Vicky immediately fell in love with his smile.

When he needed surgeries to improve his ability to eat, breathe, speak and hear, Vicky turned to the trusted experts at the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt Cleft and Craniofacial Program.

This multidisciplinary team of medical professionals has been combining their expertise in research, quality care, innovation and passion for serving families for more than 30 years, giving thousands of parents chances to fall in love with their children’s smiles again and again.

With the Children’s Hospital team still by their side, Vicky now enjoys Damian’s new smile and celebrates his milestones.

As a thriving toddler, Damian enjoys playing with dinosaurs, watching Mickey Mouse and reading books with his mom.

Follow @vumcchildren on Instagram for more inspiring stories like Vicky and Damian’s.

Ranked nationally. Caring locally.

ChildrensHospitalVanderbilt.org

The Academy

WINTER SPECIAL

FREE Registration!

Bring this in for

Many convenient locations in Middle Tennessee!

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

www.academychilddevelopment.com

Ring in the New Year with a beautiful smile!

Voted #1 Orthodontist

by Rutherford Parent Readers!

2910 Old Fort Pkwy.

Murfreesboro 615.494.5437

www.ChildrensDentistryofMurfreesboro.com

Compassionate, personalized care for women As a woman, you have unique care needs, ones that will change over time. To you, healthcare is personal. So is the way Ascension Saint Thomas cares for you.

Appointments now available for: • Annual well-woman visits • Mammography and imaging • Pelvic floor surgery and hysterectomies • Cancer care, including breast surgery and gynecologic oncology • Heart care, including screenings, diagnostics and monitoring • OB care, including a birth designer to help create a personalized experience, maternal-fetal medicine, and NICUs where mom can be close while baby gets advanced care

Get the care you need at ascension.org/SaintThomasWomens

© Ascension 2022. All rights reserved.

THE AREA'S ONLY FULL-SERVICE SALON, DAY SPA & GIFT BOUTIQUE

www.amomentspeace.com 615.224.0770

9050 Carothers Pkwy Suite 108, Franklin, TN 37067

Jan.

VOLUME 30 | NUMBER 06

18

HOW TO REALLY KNOW EACH ONE OF YOUR KIDS

Learning what each one of your family members’ favorites are is one of the most important things you can do.

21

GETTING STARTED WITH FAMILY MEETINGS

Be the take-charge parents your kids long for by doing monthly meetings and improving your family’s communication.

25 GOOD MENTAL HEALTH FOR KIDS MEANS EXERCISE

The new year is about getting your children all of the physical activity their sweet hearts and minds need!

Things to Do!

31

Brrr! Brave the chill at the Polar Bear Plunge on Jan. 8 at SportsCom in Murfreesboro!

nashvilleparent.com

32

Daily Events

35

The Lion King Drummer Talks Touring With Family

38

Best Winter Indoor & Outdoor Activity Spots

44

Orlando Getaway

january 2022 7

JANUARY 11

COMPANY

E S TA B L I S H E D I N

nashvilleparent.com

“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”

12

Feedback

C.S. LEWIS British writer and lay theologian, Lewis wrote more than 30 books which have been translated into more than 30 languages and have sold millions of copies.

Stewart Day stewart@daycommedia.com

EDITORIAL & DESIGN DIRECTOR

Susan Swindell Day susan@daycommedia.com

MANAGING & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Michael W. Aldrich michael@daycommedia.com

•

Parents weigh-in on vaccinating children against COVID ... and many are still hesitant.

PUBLISHER

• • •

of the month

The struggle is real with kids struggling with speech delay.

615-475-5220

• • •

Editor’s Note

CALL US AT

•• • •

Quote

1993

Alexandra Day alex@daycommedia.com

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Tim Henard timhenard@daycommedia.com

ADVERTISING: ACCOUNT MANAGERS Alexandra Day, Noah Day, Jessie Gleason

MARKETPLACE

Noah Day noah@daycommedia.com

15

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Kevin Mutz distribution@daycommedia.com

Parent News

Win A Moment’s Peace Day Spa gift card to kick off the new year; private school open houses and quick bits.

Win family admission to the Nashville Zoo on #WINSdays.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING

E

50

AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMS

52

MARKETPLACE PARENT DIRECTORIES: NASHVILLEPARENT.COM

!

8 january 2022

win on #WINSdays! very Wednesday on our Facebook page we give away prizes for #WINSday. What to know:

HOW IT WORKS: Each Wednesday’s prior Thursday, our e-newsletter includes the upcoming #WINSday prize and the correct answer. On Wednesday (aka Winsday), we announce the #WINSday prize on Facebook asking, “What day is it?” You post the EXACT answer from the e-newsletter and get into our drawing!

Winners are announced the following day on Facebook.

WED., JAN. 5: Four tickets to Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition WED., JAN. 12: A family four-pack to the Nashville Zoo. WED., JAN. 19: Surprise!

WED., JAN. 26: A family four-pack to the Nashville Zoo.

nashvilleparent.com

MISSION STATEMENT Nashville, Rutherford, Sumner and Williamson Parent Magazines aim to provide the community connection parents long for. We help moms, dads and families navigate the uncharted waters of family life, and we weave bright threads of joy and opportunity into the daily lives of families.

Our magazines are published monthly by Day Communications, Inc. The mailing address is 1229 Lakeview Drive, Ste. A., Franklin, TN 37067. Phone number: 615-475-5220. E-mail to: npinfo@daycommedia.com. Every precaution has been taken to ensure the accuracy of published material, however, NASHVILLE/ RUTHERFORD/SUMNER/WILLIAMSON PARENT cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. NASHVILLE/RUTHERFORD/SUMNER/ WILLIAMSON PARENT is copyright © 2022 by Day Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction without written permission is prohibited.

© 2022 DAY COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

••

DIGITAL STRATEGIST

•• •••

•••••••

•••

••

••••

•• • •

WE ARE HERE FOR YOU WITH...

NEW TELEMEDICINE OPTIONS Please call ahead to see if your visit can be conducted via telemedicine.

EVENING AND WEEKEND HOURS Hours and availability vary by location, visit tnpeds.com for details.

SAME DAY APPOINTMENTS FOR SICK VISITS

www.TNPeds.com

••

•

GOT BIG GOALS FOR YOUR FAMILY’S HEALTH THIS NEW YEAR?

WE ARE PROUD TO BE A PARTNER IN YOUR FAMILY’S HEALTHCARE. Choose the Pediatric Office that was VOTED #1 in Tennessee!

Voted Best Pediatrician by the readers of Sumner and Williamson Parent magazines.

ALL LOCATIONS NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

4720 Trader’s Way, Ste. 600 Thompson’s Station, TN 37179

1370 Gateway Blvd., Ste. 110 Murfreesboro, TN 37129

410 North Parrish Place, #2000 Hendersonville, TN 37075

5505 Edmondson Pike, Ste. 104 Nashville, TN 37211

(615) 302-1279

(615) 890-9008

(615) 826-2080

(615) 331-5898

Advanced Women’s Care

proudly welcomes

Elizabeth Jackson, MD Dr. Jackson is now accepting new obstetric and gynecology patients.

To schedule your appointment, call us at 615.467.4644.

Get to know Dr. Jackson.

Is Dr. Jackson a good OBGYN fit for you? Learn about Dr. Jackson, her care philosophy, and more by scanning the QR code below or visit OurAWC.com/Jackson.

EVA LEINART, MD, PhD • KRISTIN SALTER, MD VALERIE PARKER, MD • ELIZABETH JACKSON, MD MOLLIE DUNCAN, FNP

1840 Medical Center Parkway • Seton Building, Suite 400 • Murfreesboro, TN 37129 OurAdvancedWomensCare.com • (p) 615.467.4644 • (f) 615.467.4645

DAD BEAT

By Michael W. Aldrich

Talk To Me!

“

A new sound! I heard it! It’s finally happening!” This is what I think to myself every time I hear anything that slightly resembles a word come out of my 3-year-old’s mouth.

Speech delay has slowly but surely crept up in our seemingly overflowing list of parental worries. I mean, nobody wants their kid to be behind. And when you see little baby Billy on your friend’s social media putting together multiple word phrases months before yours even says, “Dada,” it’s impossible not to compare. It’s impossible not to tear yourself down and wonder what you’ve done to contribute to their delay. You ask yourself, “Am I a bad father?” Then, you end up feeling guilty for letting it all bother you.

Communication barriers between toddlers and parents can really put your patience to the test. You see how frustrated they get when they can’t communicate what they’re thinking, and it’s equally frustrating for parents not being able to understand what they’re thinking.

“Ehhh,” My toddler say as he points up to the pantry.

“No snacks until after dinner, buddy,” I say to him.

“Ehhh!” My toddler repeats.

“You just had a peanut butter jelly sandwich so no more snacks,” I say, trying to hold my ground.

“EHHH!” he screams at this point, still pointing up to the pantry. And then, just like that — meltdown.

I try to console him, but it’s too late. The tantrum had begun. He falls to the ground and wails like someone has just taken everything he’s ever cared about and flushed it down the toilet.

Turns out, I forgot I hid his Play-Doh on the top shelf of the pantry. That’s what he wanted all along. I got it down and gave it to him and he immediately stopped crying and went to the other room to play. Interactions like this happen daily at our house these days.

It’s natural to want what’s best for your kids — including making sure that their social, physical, emotional and verbal development is right on track (or at least relatively close). At the same time, one of the learning curves of new parenthood is understanding that every child develops at their own pace, and that the average age associated with certain milestones is exactly that: a statistical average.

Though these averages can be a helpful tool in figuring out if your child is an outlier (on either end of the spectrum), raising kids isn’t a mathematical formula. (If only!) When it comes to child development, one of parents’ primary areas of focus is their kids’ speech and language abilities. And that sometimes leads a parent down the rabbit hole of looking into speech therapy for toddlers.

We recently met with a speech-language pathologist (SLP) to see if he’d qualify for speech therapy sessions. They did some simple testing and a brief interview with us. We’re waiting to hear back, but we’re assuming he’ll qualify.

The whole ordeal has been draining, but we remind ourselves how blessed we are. We remind ourselves that every kernel in the popcorn bag pops at different times — but they all end up tasting the same. So, if you’re a parent of a kid with a speech delay, try not to worry, try not to get down on yourself and remember they may just want their Play-Doh.

nashvilleparent.com

january 2022 11

FEED BACK QUESTION: “I am definitely feeling anxious about whether or not to vaccinate my child against COVID. Especially since I’ve been reading about multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children. Truly, we don’t have any idea what the longterm effects of these vaccines may be, and it’s all so forced. Please don’t hate me. Can you give me perspective?”

We received more than 100 comments to this post on Facebook.

VACCINATING KIDS AGAINST COVID “I think what you need to consider is this is not a vaccine like the ones your child probably got as a baby. Most of those provided life long or long lasting immunity. This shot can offer a less severe infection, not forever immunity. More like a flu shot than a polio vaccine. If your child is high risk (overweight, chronic health issues, heart or lung disorders, etc.) maybe the benefits outweigh the risk. If your child is otherwise healthy maybe the risk outweigh the benefits. It is your call. You will not find an answer to your specific questions because no one knows. All we can do is make an individualized health choice for on our child’s situation.”

Christie Sawyer “The unknown is concerning for sure. I’m pregnant, due in February. So having my 11 year old in school everyday and an infant at home is worrisome. I just don’t think we should risk the baby contracting Covid. So here to say I feel you, and don’t think it’s an easy decision for any parent.”

Ashley Steiner

12 january 2022

“I am a grandparent and I feel the same way. You want to protect the kids from this virus but what will the long term effects be? Do we wait a while to see how children react to it? It’s not an easy decision.”

Diane DiBacco Adams “The fact of the matter is, you’re putting things to chance regardless of which decision you make. There is a chance for long term side effects with all medications and vaccines, yes, but you also have a good chance of your child experiencing negative long term effects from having Covid. Your pediatrician has dedicated his life to the health and well-being of your child. Talk to them. Trust them.

They will know much more about the process by which vaccines are tested and the possible outcomes than the people spouting off pseudoscience on the internet.”

Melissa Smith “#1 No one is forcing you to vaccinate your child. #2 If your child goes to public school, you have already been forced to

vaccinate against several deadly pandemic diseases. #3 Do not listen to a single person or read a single article unless there’s an M.D. after their name.”

Dena Laney Ellee “Talk to your child’s doctor(s), do your own research (not just American studies and CDC), and go with your gut instinct. Between my oldest child’s pulmonologist, talking to someone that has worked pediatric Covid floor this entire time, my children having already had the virus, and the studies we can find about vaccinating after having had covid we are comfortable with our decision. I was spanked as a child. I’m happy to report that it had no negative impact on my growth and development.

On the contrary, I didn’t engage in behavior I knew I would be punished for. Intrinsically, one should be motivated to follow rules, but that wasn’t the case for me. Spanking extrinsically motivated me to follow rules until I eventually learned that I should follow them by choice.”

Amanda Cope Parks

nashvilleparent.com

“Totally agree with you! This vaccine has not been tested long enough and we do not know the long term effects. I’m not “testing” something on my kids. Both of mine are in the range of 5 - 11 years old and they will not be getting it.

I don’t feel like this is like the other vaccines they have to get to attend school. Those have been around for decades and they only get them a couple times, not every year or every time they think it has worn off.

Jackie Haynes Vandygriff “The science behind these mRNA vaccines has been around for many many years.

So the knowledge and research regarding their safety is not as rushed as many assume. But, it’s your child, and your right to research and make the best decision for your family. Just please make sure you research peer-reviewed research documents and not just personal opinion blogs.”

Amanda Newton

BOOK by ERNIE NOLAN MUSIC and LYRICS by DAVID WEINSTEIN BASED ON the NOVEL by J.M. BARRIE FEB 17 through MAR 27, 2022

NCT WORLD PREMIER

FOR SCHEDULE and TICKETS GO TO NASHVILLECT.ORG

An educational journey from the first steps through graduation.

–Maria Montessori

615-833-3610 www.montessoriacad.org

100 Montessori Drive, Brentwood, TN

14 january 2022

nashvilleparent.com

PARENT NEWS

NewYear, NewYOU After all of the holiday-ing, it’s time to think about your well-being!

M

ENTER TO WIN OUR CONTEST!

oms knock themselves out over the holidays and rarely get the time they need to care for themselves properly. That’s why we’re starting out the new year with a wonderful, rejuvenating prize giveaway just for moms!

Enter our 2022 New Year, New You contest for a chance to win a FULL DAY OF PEACE at A Moment’s Peace Salon & Day Spa located in Franklin at 9050 Carruther’s Parkway. A Full Day of Peace — a $380-$605 value — includes a European Facial and therapeutic Swedish massage to relax your body and mind. Also included are a spa manicure and pedicure in addition to a hair styling and professional make-up application. The

six-hour treat will provide a major pick me up for one lucky winner in addition to $100 gift certificates to two runner ups!

Since 2002, A Moment’s Peace Salon & Day Spa has served the Middle Tennessee community with expert hair and skin care in addition to massage and professional spa services. The spa consistently wins “Best of” within multiple media publications. In 2021, A Moment’s Peace underwent remodeling with chic transformations and even more relaxing ambiance.

Enter to win a FULL DAY OF PEACE at Nashvilleparent.com under the “Contest” tab. Learn more about A Moment’s Peace full menu of services at amomentspeace.com.

nashvilleparent.com

january 2022 15

NEWS Junior League of Nashville’s WOMEN’S SUMMIT Key-note Speaker is best-selling author Emily Chang.

W

omen across Middle Tennessee are invited to participate in the Rise!

Women’s Summit, a one-day virtual conference that supports the Junior League of Nashville’s mission to create stronger communities by helping women reach their full potential as leaders.

Get ready for a power-packed day of inspiring panels, breakouts and more to help you kick off 2022 with a renewed sense of purpose and direction. The event takes place January 29, 2022. For the full lineup of speakers and the agenda, visit JLNWomensSummit. com.

A recent McKinsey study confirmed that one in four women have seriously considered taking a step

back from their careers in the past 12 months, and 80 percent of those women have left the workforce since the pandemic. Their lineup of speakers will help you restore, refocus and refine how you can live a more intentional life.

Emily Chang, who has spoken at conferences around the world, including the FORTUNE Most Powerful Women’s Summit, C2 in Montréal and has delivered three TEDx talks is key-note speaker. She is the author of The Spare Room: Define Your Social Legacy to Live a More Intentional Life and Lead with Authentic Purpose.

Tickets cost $40 and are available at jlnashville. org.

___________ QUICK BITS ___________ • NASHVILLE PARENT’S 2022 BABY FAIR, Middle Tennessee’s longest running event for new and expecting parents is slated for Saturday, May 21. Mark your calendar to be sure to attend and stay tuned for more information!

• THE TENNESSEE TITANS’ DERRICK HENRY is nominated for the 2021 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award. The award is the NFL’s most prestigious honor representing the many players who do incredible things in their communities. One player is nominated from all of the NFL’s 32 teams.

The 2021 winner will be revealed during NFL Honors, which airs Thursday, Feb. 10 at 8 p.m. on ABC. Learn more and discover all of the nominees at nfl.com/manoftheyear.

• THE 25th ANNIVERSARY OF THE U.S. FIGURE SKATING CHAMPIONSHIPS TAKES PLACE AT BRIDGESTONE ARENA Jan. 7 - 9. The event hasn’t been in Nashville since 1997 when Tara Lipinski became the youngest Ladies Champion at the age of 14. The championship serves as

16 january 2022

the final qualifying event before the nomination of the U.S. Figure Skating Team for the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing. Learn more and get tickets at usfiguresaking.org.

• BELONG GAMING ARENAS has officially opened the doors to its latest esports and gaming center in Franklin. Located at the CoolSprings Galleria, visitors to the Arena will have the opportunity to play just for fun or train like esports professionals on top-of-theline gaming PCs, equipment and next-generation consoles. For more information, visit us.belong.gg or download the Belong app.

• WE ROCK THE SPECTRUM KID’S GYM is having its grand opening this February. Located at 113 Murfreesboro Road, Suite 203, at Williamson Square in Franklin, the gym will provide sensory-safe play for kids with autism, special needs, and neurotypical development. Each gym provides kids with the sensory-diet necessary for improved learning and neurological development. For more information, visit werockthespectrumfranklintn.com.

nashvilleparent.com

PRIVATE SCHOOL OPEN HOUSES • SAINT HENRY SCHOOL has an open house scheduled Tuesday, Jan. 11 from 9 - 11 a.m. sthenryschool.org.

• ST. CECILIA ACADEMY has a family interview day for Junior High Jan. 8 from 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. and a family intervie day for High School Feb. 5 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. stcecilia.edu.

• MENTESSORI EAST has an open house scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 18 from 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. monteastnash.com.

• DAVIDSON ACADEMY has an open house scheduled on Sunday, Jan. 9 from 1 - 3 p.m., in addition to virtual tours at davidsonacademy.com.

• BRENTWOOD ACADEMY is offering virtual tours at brentwoodacademy.com.

• FRANKLIN ROAD ACADEMY is offering virtual tours at franklinroadacademy.com.

• ENSWORTH has a parent Q&A for High School admission inquiries on Feb. 24 from 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. ensworth.com.

We are a local family-owned business with a mission to provide premium, efficient and consistent services that allow you to take back your time and get back to what’s important.

Call now to book your next cleaning!

(615) 596-7433 twosistersmaidtoclean.com

Welcome Dr. Vehec!

Prior to attending medical school, Dr. Vehec worked as a beside nurse for 9 years. This experience gave her invaluable insights into the needs of patients and families facing chronic illnesses which then led her to medical school. She graduated from Indiana University School of Medicine with honors in 2001. She completed her pediatrics residency at Vanderbilt where she served as chief resident 2004-2005.

Dr. Vehec has been in practice since 2005 with a special focus on the care of chronically ill children and their siblings. She was chosen as a Nashville Business Journal Healthcare Hero in 2015 and Pediatrician of the Year by the Tennessee chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics in 2017.

Now accepting most insurances Including Tenncare.

Jill Forbess, M.D. Patricia Williams, M.D. Lee Anne O’Brien, M.D. Amy Vehec, M.D.

Short Wait Period • Convenient Maryland Farms Location 5111 Maryland Way Brentwood

615-661-4256

www.BrentwoodPediatrics.com

PRESCHOOL REGISTRATION OPEN NOW!

THE GARDNER SCHOOL IS HERE. We offer year-round full and part-time early childhood programs for ages 6 weeks to 5 years.

When it’s the right time for you, we provide a caring environment for your child to safely learn and explore.

TWO OPTIONS FROM 9AM-2PM TO CHOOSE FROM

MONDAY & WEDNESDAY OR

TUESDAY & THURSDAY

SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY! thegardnerschool.com

Brentwood

615.613.0472

Franklin

615.656.2800

Midtown

615.630.7700

Nashville

615.882.0440

APPLY AT ROLLINGHILLSLEARNINGCENTER.COM

nashvilleparent.com

january 2022 17

PARENTING

BY LARA KRUPICKA

When was the last time you talked ‘favorites’ with your child?

Asking what kids prefer allows for interesting conversations and forges stronger bonds.

making connections

“WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE?”

L 18 january 2022

ooking for a way to get your kids into more meaningful conversations? Or just to get them to talk at all? Believe it or not, there’s one question that will help you with a variety of relational challenges that arise as your kids grow up and it’s asking, “What’s your favorite ...?”

If you have ever asked a child what their favorite is, you have seen how that simple question sparks intense interest. Kids love to talk

favorites — favorite color, favorite food, favorite activity. And when they discover how a favorite of yours matches a favorite of theirs? Instant connection!

But favorites don’t just work with kids. Think about the last time you met another fan of your team or someone who loved the same author you do. You probably hit it off with them right away. Tap into the power of favorites for building bonds within your family or for strengthening ties with friends. The topics about which you can talk favorites are nearly limitless.

nashvilleparent.com

What’s Your FAVORITE? Animal Pet Song Musician Type of music Quiet activity Loud activity Recess activity Season Month Holiday Vacation Alone time activity Gift you ever got Sport Sports team Athlete Meal of the day Breakfast food Dinner food Dessert Flavor of ice cream Candy Book Author Vehicle Means of transportation Place to visit Museum Movie Actor Character in a movie or book Thing to do with a friend Color Time of day Way to fall asleep Way to wake up Game Carnival attraction Musical instrument Person to visit Summer food Fall food Winter food Spring food Flower or plant Toy Playground equipment Teacher Number Letter Cold weather activity Warm weather activity Way to spend a lazy day Restaurant

Put Favorites to Use in FAMILY LIFE Favorites are great relationship builders beyond helping you to become more familiar with others: • Make someone their favorite meal • Draw on favorites when searching for gift ideas • Offer to engage in their favorite activity with someone • Create a playlist on your device of music by a loved one’s favorite artist(s) to play on your next road trip • Have everyone in your family create a bucket list based on their favorites. Then work on finding ways to complete an item on each person’s list.

• Know that favorites can change and that you have to keep up!

favorites let you build stronger relationships

A

ccording to Edward Hallowell, M.D., bestselling author of 18 various parenting books, by far, the most powerful force in life for the development of joy, confidence and health is the force of connection.

Hallowell says the connection between parent and child is the single strongest emotion in all of human existence.

When parents help their kids to connect to the world around them, Hallowell says, it is the single greatest gift a parent can give to a child.

There are a handful of things you don’t need to raise a happy, well-adjusted child, Hallowell says: wealth; straight A’s in school; a crammed schedule of extracurricular activities; or even a traditional family.

What DO kids need? In Hallowell’s book The Childhood Roots of Adult Happiness (Ballantine; 2003), we learn kids need to be deeply connected to at least one adult person.

When confronted with difficulties in childhood, a growing body of evidence shows that a strong, adult relationship is a key ingredient in resilience.

Knowing and caring about your child’s favorite things may seem trite, but it’s actually the essence of knowing who they really are and being known is all that each of us

Famous FAVORITES Every so often a celebrity or national figure becomes known for a favorite.

Here are a few you may recognize: President Ronald Reagan Jelly Belly jelly beans Prince the color purple President Dwight Eisenhower the movie High Noon Spike Lee the New York Knicks

really want.

WAYS TO CONNECT MORE AS A FAMILY • Ask about favorites often • Go to unique places • Go to favorite places • Do things together as a family • Invest in friendships • Open yourself up to connections • Invite your kids into your world • Turn off tech to interact more • Slow down and savor moments

Taylor Swift - cat Jay Leno - exotic cars Paris Hilton & Zsa Zsa Gabor - tiny dogs

nashvilleparent.com

Lara Krupicka is a freelance writer, the author of Family Bucket Lists and a mom.

january 2022 19

Experience Dance

Anyone Can Learn ADULT AND CHILDREN’S LESSONS AVAILABLE! THREE CONVENIENT LOCATIONS: FRANKLIN 209 South Royal Oaks Blvd.

Suite 124

SOCCER • TEE BALL • COACH PITCH • FLAG FOOTBALL One Goal Sports is a Christian-based competitive, youth sports organization SIGN UP where each player’s skills are encouraged and celebrated, NOW FOR and the love of Jesus Christ SOCCER & is shared and demonstrated.

CL

IMBING

714 S. Church Street, Murfreesboro

(615) 896-7309 www.onegoalsports.net KICKBALL • BASKETBALL • CHEERLEADING • ROCK CLIMBING

BRENTWOOD/NASHVILLE 5714 C Edmondson Pike MURFREESBORO 710 Memorial Blvd.

Suite 122

AY! D O T P SIGN U

Call today!

615-994-1800

NATIONALDANCECLUBS.COM

S E R V I N G FA M I L I E S F O R O V E R 8 0 Y E A R S

Voted #1 Pediatric Office 17 Years in a Row! We pledge to continue to earn that trust one family at a time.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEKNIGHT AND WEEKENDS. WE ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR CHILD YEAR AFTER YEAR.

Call

WE LOVE OUR DOCTORS...

Paul J. Heil, M.D. Linda D. Brady, M.D. Jon Betts, M.D. James Keffer, M.D. Jennifer Ragsdale, M.D.

John Long, M.D. Chris Smeltzer, M.D. Kylie Cormier, M.D. Vicky Phillips, M.D. Kristen Powell, M.D.

S T U O R P S Y T H G I S R M E L O O H C S ages 3-6 years E R P

Get 2 FREE weeks of trial classes with our PowerPass. Visit our website for more information.

615-352-2990 or visit www.ohpa.com.

Bellevue Office

Old Harding Road Office

7640 Hwy. 70S. Nashville, TN 37221

5819 Old Harding Pike Nashville, TN 37205

20 january 2022

313 Independence Square, Franklin

(615) 224-3851 www.harvestmartialarts.com

nashvilleparent.com

PARENTING

making connections

FAMILY MEETINGS The new year is ALL about taking charge of your family.

Prepare to switch from amateur psychologists to authority figures.

BY JANIE SNYDERMAN

J

ust so you know, your family is normal. All of that conflict you’re experiencing is typical. Nobody has a perfect family — they do not exist — so give yourself a break if you’re thinking why us?

Heading into 2022, COVID-19 uncertainty still lingers in the air, inflation is driving the prices of groceries sky high and family dynamics can easily go off the rails if you let them. You need a strategy.

To fortify your family, consider implementing family meetings. Family meetings are opportunities for parents and kids to talk

about important issues, strengthen communication, reinforce values and nurture positive relationships.

Many moms and dads are often hesitant to adopt family meetings because they don’t understand the purpose or structure, says Amy Morin, author of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do (William Morrow; 2017). When effectively organized and led, there are many benefits to holding family meetings.

“Family meetings strengthen relationships and foster core developmental abilities in kids of all ages,” Morin says. These abili-

ties prepare children for leadership positions in their schools and provide an intentional way for parents to raise genuinely successful kids with internal abilities that help them navigate through life. Meetings provide a regular opportunity to: • Learn about each other and the world • Practice communication skills • Overcome challenges together • Reflect on feelings • Live your family values • Set and achieve shared goals • Have fun and inspire one another • Appreciate your loved ones (please turn the page)

nashvilleparent.com

january 2022 21

FAMILY MEETINGS Dr. Jane Nelsen, founder of Positive Discipline and author/coauthor of the Positive Discipline Series, has been teaching parents to use family meetings for several decades. Here’s how to get going with them:

4. Week in Review In bestseller, The Secrets of Happy Families, Bruce Felier incorporates a weekly “review and retrospective” into his family meetings that include these questions:

INTRODUCING FAMILY MEETINGS

What worked well in our family this week?

What went wrong in our family this week?

What will we work on this coming week?

Family meetings work well with children from about 4 years old onward. If you’ve never had a family meeting, take time to introduce the concept to your children before you dive in. The best time to do this is when you have their full attention, either over dinner or at another time when you’ve asked them to gather.

You might start by saying that you’ve recently learned how weekly meetings can benefit families by helping them communicate and solve problems together as a team. Because family meetings work toward building consensus, everyone has a voice and a role in solving problems. Meeting time is also an opportunity to have fun, plan trips, organize family outings and service projects and appreciate each other.

An important point about family meetings is that solutions and consequences apply to all members. It is truly an opportunity for your kids to feel seen, heard and understood by you.

Next, propose a regular, weekly meeting time. Many families like to designate a specific evening during dinner. Let your children know that you will use the first meeting to discuss a typical family meeting structure and how everyone participates in decision-making.

DEVELOP A FAMILY MEETING AGENDA Your weekly meetings should revolve around a family meeting agenda to which all family members may contribute. There are printable forms online that may be useful. The simplest is to post a sheet of paper on the refrigerator or bulletin board where family members can jot down agenda items, like issues to be problem-solved or who will plan a fun activity. Consider the following agenda topics, which can be shortened or lengthened as you wish. Family meetings (not including a fun activity at the end) shouldn’t go on for more than an hour — less if your children are very young.

1. Open Meeting Create a short ritual to open your family meetings. Ways that some families open are with a poem, prayer, song, candle-lighting, etc.

2. Appreciations Take a few minutes for each family member to appreciate, say “thanks,” compliment, or acknowledge other members on positive things they noticed this week. This may include a thank you for baking cookies, congrats on a great test score or a kind word about something nice that a person did.

3. Discovery Time Devote 15-20 minutes to learning together as a family. This may include discussing 1) a quote, 2) a current event, 3) a topic like the pros and cons of technology, money management, budgeting, nutrition, exercise, citizenship, music, religion, community service or any other topic that may be of interest to you or your family. Share your opinions and values. Listen to your children’s opinions and values.

22 january 2022

The key point to this section is to focus on how you are doing as a family, not on individual grievances. That comes next.

5. Problem-Solving Dedicate this time to resolving problems or issues that individual family members have placed on the agenda. It is best to try to solve only one problem a week. If more than one issue has been placed on the agenda, find a fair way to address each one week by week.

Ask each person to state his/her perspective about the problem, without judgment. Ask each person to suggest solutions. Which solutions are the most feasible? What is the agreed-upon consensus?

If no consensus is reached, mull over the solutions and revisit the problem next week.

6. Weekly Planning What is your family planning together? Trips, concerts, sports events? What chores need to be completed next week? This is a time to fairly assign tasks to each family member, sync calendars and set goals for the future.

7. Fun Activity This might include playing a game, watching a movie or making pizza together. Consider rotating the responsibility for planning the fun activity each week among family members.

Janie Snyderman is a writer, entrepreneur and a mom of two.

3 Habits That Make Family Meetings Successful AGREE ON GROUND RULES. Such as: each person is free to speak without judgment or interruption; meetings are not a time to punish or scold; when issues can’t be solved, parents have the final word; meetings are tech-free time.

BE CONSISTENT; HOLD THEM MONTHLY. Family meetings won’t work if a family member doesn’t make the meeting. They need to be mandatory and scheduled so everyone knows when they are happening.

KEEP A RECORD. Make sure that notes are taken so you can revisit discussions and issues that may be ongoing.

nashvilleparent.com

The Finest

3D/4D

Ultrasound

Experience

SUMMER FUN, LIFETIME MEMORIES, ETERNAL VALUES Wilderness adventures for boys and girls ages 7-16, in a Strong Christian environment.

YMCA CAMP OCOEE

111 YMCA Drive • Ocoee, TN 37361 (423)338.5588

HD

ymcacampocoee.org

Studio

2D

Gender Determination Starting at 7 Weeks!

211 Louise Avenue, Suite B, Nashville (Next to Vanderbilt)

615-200-6001

Book Online! www.Nashville4DBaby.com

Half-Day Summer Camps

AG E S 4 – 8

Starting at $225!

Wonderland

Cinderella

Superheroes

May 31–June 3

June 6–10 and July 25–29

June 13–17

Add on a second week for $50 off your total price! Limited capacity available

nashvilleballet.com/summer-programs nashvilleparent.com

january 2022 23

OVERNIGHT CAMPS

Summer at

Sr. Teen • June 12-17, Grades 9-12 Junior 1 • June 19-24, Ages 8-11 Junior 2 • June 26-July 1, Ages 8-11 Early Teen 1 • July 3-8, Ages 12-14 Junior 3 • July 10-15, Ages 8-11 Junior 4 • July 17-22, Ages 8-11 Early Teen 2 • July 24-29, Ages 12-14 Junior 5 • July 31-Aug. 5, Ages 8-11

DAY CAMPS Ages 6-10 Camp Eagle • June 20-24 Camp Falcon • June 27-July 1 Camp Hawk • July 11-15 Camp Owl • July 18-22 Crafts Zipline Horses Archery Canoeing

usn.org/summer

Mountain Biking Climbing Walls Bible Lessons Swimming and more

Conveniently located 1 hour south of Nashville

931-364-7656 • hortonhaven.org

24 january 2022

USN Preview Camps January 3 Registration Opens January 10

nashvilleparent.com

University School of Nashville

wellness

By Susan Day

exercise

for Your Kids’ Good Mental Health New research says it all: even light physical activity for kids links up to better mental health as they grow. (please turn the page)

nashvilleparent.com

january 2022 25

wellness

“some exercise is better than

W

ith all of the current focus on childhood mental health, some recent research sheds new light on the psychological benefits of exercise for kids. All of us moms and dads know that when we get even a little exercise we feel better, so if this sounds like a no-brainer, maybe it is.

But we need reminding of what’s good for ourselves, because diet, exercise and consistency are so fleeting. But maybe we can help our children out by showing them how important it is to take care of themselves physically starting from an early age.

Recent research on the link between physical activity and depression risk in adults suggests that exercise may offset the genetic tendency toward depression. That’s huge. Further, the research shows that adults with genetic risks who exercised regularly were no more likely to develop depression than those without the genetic likelihood.

The even better good news is, this same association holds in adolescents, a group with a generally high risk of depression. So it goes to follow that starting kids off toward good mental health begins with sewing physical activity into the lives of little kids so it becomes a regular — and needed — part of day to day life.

and depression, compared with those who met exercise guidelines.

Even if children exercise only one to three days a week, there is a strong correlation with lower rates of anxiety and depression.

Good sleep duration and extracurricular activities are also associated with better mental health. In fact, physical activity may improve sleep quality, which is closely linked to mental health.

SPORTS HELP Studies show that being on a sports team is associated with an extra improvement in mental health — beyond what was associated with the physical activity — and it was particularly strong for girls.

A 2019 study out of the University of California at Los Angeles shows that engaging in team sports can actually help kids ward off depression. The study looked at data on 9,668 children. Researchers found that children who were exposed to adverse childhood experiences reported better mental health as adults if they had participated in team sports as children.

Through team sports, kids learn how to lead and negotiate with other kids to reach a common goal. If a child is struggling with emotional regulation or interacting with others, the structured setting of team sports helps create a safe environment for learning important social skills. And learning these skills in childhood can lead

RESEARCH BEARS IT OUT The World Health Organization recommends an hour of moderate to vigorous exercise every day for kids, in addition to whatever they do in school. But many kids don’t exercise anywhere near that much.

A study published in the March, 2020 issue of the journal The Lancet Psychiatry found that even light activity — along with a decrease in the amount of time that kids are sedentary — was linked to better mental health as they got older.

The researchers looked at the activity of kids at the ages of 12, 14 and 16, who were then assessed for depression at around 18.

The participants’ activity was measured during the day.

The study found that total physical activity dropped between ages 12 and 16, mostly because of decreases in light activity (walking, helping around the home, cutting the grass, etc.) and sedentary behavior increased. And the activity levels when kids were younger were linked to their mental health later on; the depression scores at 18 were lower for every additional 60 minutes per day of light activity at 12, 14 and 16, and higher for every additional sedentary hour.

In the study, by age 16, kids were spending an average of close to nine hours a day on sedentary activity making it tough to decrease that behavior through exercise, because it would require lots of exercise to reduce that amount of sedentary time.

If you want to reduce your child’s sedentary time, try encouraging more light activity. This is where you start with suggestions. “Hey, we’re going to all walk as a family after dinner,” or, “I need help picking up the branches from last night’s storm,” etc.

THREE DAYS A WEEK Research also shows that some exercise is going to be much better than no exercise at all. In a 2019 study of 35,000 children and adolescents from ages 6 to 17 in the United States, it was found that those who reported no exercise were twice as likely to have mental health problems, particularly related to anxiety

26 january 2022

Get your children started with physical activity as early as possible. It’s good for

nashvilleparent.com

STREAM KID FITNESS

no exercise.” to more positive experiences in the future.

Researchers — all of them medical doctors — concluded that having your kids in structured social activities where they can learn appropriately and be safe; activities that help build persistence and resilience, are very positive influences later on in life.

Both the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend kids get at least one hour of aerobic activity every day. For many parents, this seems like a tall order if the kids prefer video games. But maybe switch the video to a fitness workout for kids — with fair warning!

Activity that increases breathing and heart rate — including activity vigorous enough to get your child sweating and breathing hard at least three days a week — will do the trick. Since P.E. class isn’t going to meet that standard, it’s up to you to recognize the importance of physical play, encourage healthy habits and help your kids find activities they enjoy. Don’t worry, it’s easier than you might think. Exercise is good, activity is important and moderate activity of any kind — getting out and doing something — is associated with improvements, lower levels of depressive symptoms, lower levels of anxiety and better well-being.

That’s good news for the new year.

Susan Day is editor of this magazine and a mom of four.

YMCA360: Included with a YMCA membership, YMCA 360 let you access YMCA classes on any device so you can live stream on your smart TV. YMCA360 works on your phone, tablet or desktop too. Classes for kids include individual workouts, youth sport drills, nutrition classes and afterschool activities.

LITTLE KIDS COSMIC KIDS YOGA YouTube channel. Cute characters & themed adventures in 10- to-30-minute segments.

FITNESS BLENDER/fitnessblender.com Offers a 25-minute kids workout with games and crawls.

GET KIDS MOVING YouTube. Themed workouts for kids.

GO NOODLE/gonoodle.com Mixes movement with learning; hosted by tennis star Madison Keys.

MOVEMENT FOR KIDS WITH JAIME Family-friendly workouts posted daily to YouTube featuring bright patterns and fun themes.

PANCAKE MANOR YouTube videos to get preschoolers bopping.

PINKFONG’s BABY SHARK WORKOUT YouTube. Stream cute 10-minute workouts.

SPIDERFITKIDS FacebookLive PE classes at 9 a.m. CT for ages 5 and older.

OLDER KIDS ACTIVEKIDS.COM Cardio- and strength-building exercises.

JUST DANCE KIDS 2 YouTube. Fun dancing workouts for older kids.

KIDZBOP DANCE WORKOUT YouTube. Fun workouts for older kids.

P.E. WITH JOE The popular host of YouTube’s The Body Coach TV is currently streaming a new 30-minute workout for kids and parents every weekday.

“COOL MOVES” High-energy 25-minute videos with Shaun T through Vimeo.

Search “Cool Moves.”

LOCAL FITNESS FUN IDEAS

stronger mental health as life goes along.

Find more ways to build in physical activity for your kids by turning to “Things to Do” on page 38. nashvilleparent.com

january 2022 27

SUMMER’S COMING ER CA M M

MARCH 12

CoolSprings Galleria, Franklin

2022

parent nashville

SATURDAY

R E F AI

R

A D VEN

TU

MP

SU

Let’s talk camps!

Media Partner

More than 70

camps and summer programs!

Learn more at nashvilleparent.com/campfair22

JANUARY THINGS TO DO!

By Michael W. Aldrich

Daily Events 32 Day-to-day goings on.

Drumming with 35 Lion Cubs

The Lion King percussionist chats about being on the road with his wife and kids.

Fitness Fun 38 Family Indoor and outdoor spots to keep kids active this winter.

44

Orlando Getaway

Another spot to keep the kids happy that isn’t Disney.

Editor’s Picks: 31 Gaming at Local Libraries

33 U.S. Figure Skating Championships

34 Winter Hikes at Local Nature Centers

37 Nashville Predators 41 The Music of

The Beatles at Schermerhorn

44 Mr. Bond’s Science Guys

46 Orchids in the Mansion At Cheekwood

47 Monster Jam at

Bridgestone Arena

Disney’s The Lion King

A

fter an eight-year hiatus, the return of Disney’s The Lion King roars back to Nashville for three weeks of performances Jan. 6 - 23 at Tennessee Performing Arts Center’s Jackson Hall. *Photo: Gugwana Dlamini as Rafiki by Johan Persson

nashvilleparent.com

29

DAILY EVENTS SAT 1

HOLIDAY WONDERS AT BOWIE PARK

FREE FAIRVIEW TINSEL TRAIL fb.me/e/X65c1h14

The Inaugural Festive Fairview Tinsel Trail runs nightly from 2 - 9 p.m. through Jan. 2 at Fairview City Hall (7100 City Center Cir., Fairview). Food trucks available.

FREE FRANKLIN FARMERS’ MARKET factoryatfranklin.com

Supplying local produce and more every Saturday at The Factory at Franklin covered back lot (230 Franklin Road) from 8 a.m. - 12 noon.

GAYLORD OPRYLAND’S A COUNTRY CHRISTMAS

615-889-1000 christmasatgaylordopryland.com Explore acres of twinkling lights, more than 17 hours of exciting activities, shows and events including ice skating/tubing, horse-drawn carriage rides and more through Jan. 2.

CHEEKWOOD HOLIDAY LIGHTS 615-356-8000 cheekwood.org

Walk through an illuminated winter wonderland at Cheekwood (1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville) from 5 - 10 p.m. with one mile of lights, real reindeer, s’more pits, Nutcracker Marche in the Mansion, the Poinsettia Tree and more through Jan. 9. $22 adults, $17 ages 3 - 17 ($5 discount for members).

615-799-5544 elsnashville.com

Gather a carload for this drive-through holiday light show at Bowie Park (7211 Bowie Lake Road, Fairview) from 6 - 10 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, Jan. 9.

Tickets are $25.

NASHVILLE PREDATORS VS. CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS

TENNESSEE TITANS VS. MIAMI DOLPHINS

Come see the Nashville Predators play at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville) at 1 p.m.

The Titans take on the Miami Dolphins at Nissan Stadium (1 Titans Way, Nashville), with kickoff at noon.

nhl.com/predators

SUN 2 CREATIVE ZONE: EMBELLISHED INSTRUMENTS

MARTIN ARTQUEST 615-244-3340 fristartmuseum.org

Martin ArtQuest (MAQ) is open at The Frist Thursdays through Sundays, from 1 to 5 p.m. Request your free MAQ ticket when you arrive at the museum.

MICHELANGELO’S SISTINE CHAPEL: THE EXHIBITION

615-514-1000 chapelsistine.com/exhibits/nashville

countrymusichalloffame.org

Young designers can personalize paper instruments inspired by those on display in the galleries at Country Music Hall of Fame (222 Rep. John Lewis Way S., Nashville, TN 37203) from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Included with museum admission. Free to museum members.

The show-stopping exhibition featuring Diana, Princess of Wales’ evening gowns, as well as her replicated wedding gown, with its phenomenal 25-foot train, is on view at Monthaven Arts and Cultural Center (1017 Antebellum Circle, Hendersonville) through Jan. 9. Tickets are $20.

MON 3

GAYLORD OPRYLAND’S A COUNTRY CHRISTMAS

FREE ADVENTURE CLUB GOODLETTSVILLE

CHEEKWOOD HOLIDAY LIGHTS

Children in grades K - 3 can join Ms. Brittany for a fun afternoon of stories, crafts and games from 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. at Goodlettsville Library (205 Rivergate Pkwy., Goodlettsville).

LANE MOTOR VAULT TOURS

This family-friendly 5k takes place at 9:30 a.m. at Barfield Crescent Park (697 Veterans Pkwy., Murfreesboro).

The race will be electronically timed, and every finisher will receive a medal.

Cost is $25.

The museum has more than 580 cars, but only space to display 150 cars at a given time. Weekend tours at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. let you view all the cars in their vault. Located at 702 Murfreesboro Pike, the cost is $6 (in addition to museum admission, which is $3 for kids and $12 for adults).

See Saturday, Jan. 1.

See Saturday, Jan. 1.

615-742-7445 lanemotormuseum.org/events

FREE LEGO BUILDING FUN library.nashville.org

The LEGO League at Green Hills Library (3701 Benham Avenue, Nashville) from 2 - 4:45 p.m. on Sundays is designed for families to play around with provided LEGOs, Duplos and Mega Bloks. For ages 2 - 12.

LITTLE LEAPERS MURFREESBORO skyzone.com

Kids ages 7 & younger can enjoy the full trampoline park from 9 - 11 a.m. on Fridays and Sundays at Sky Zone (1220 NW Broad St., Murfreesboro). Cost is $14.99.

MARTIN ARTQUEST See Saturday, Jan. 1.

FREE FLEA MARKET SUNDAYS AT PLAZA MARIACHI

30 january 2022

monthavenartsandculturalcenter. com

See Saturday, Jan. 1.

MURFREESBORO NEW YEAR’S DAY 5K

Lace up those skates!

Scan the QR code to check out our 2022 winter ice skating roundup.

THE ELEGANCE OF ROYAL FASHION, FEATURING THE GOWNS OF PRINCESS DIANA

FREE FAIRVIEW TINSEL TRAIL

Michelangelo’s paintings carefully reproduced photographically and artfully displayed in their original size at Opry Mills Mall (433 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville) Thursdays - Sundays, 10 a.m.

- 6 p.m. through January 16, 2022. The visit takes around 90 minutes. Tickets are $17.50.

murfreesborotn.gov

tennesseetitans.com

615-373-9292 plazamariachi.com

Come to Flea Market Sundays at Plaza Mariachi (3955 Nolensville Pike) to find great deals on food, clothing, furniture and baby items from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

MICHELANGELO’S SISTINE CHAPEL: THE EXHIBITION See Saturday, Jan. 1.

nashvilleparent.com

615-862-5862 library.nashville.org

FREE BABIES & BOOKS 615-862-5800 /library.nashville.org

Every Monday from 10:30 - 11 a.m., babies ages 0 - 2 and their caregivers can join for tickle rhymes and wiggle songs in the Children’s Activity Room at Nashville Public Library (615 Church St, Nashville). They’ll share best practices to promote early literacy skills.

FREE DONELSON FAMILY STORY TIME

615-862-5859 rebecca.powers@nashville.gov

Little ones ages 0 - 5 can join for stories, singing and other fun activities every Monday from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. at Donelson Library (2315 Lebanon Pike, Nashville). Reservation required.

EARLY EXPLORERS 615-862-5160 adventuresci.org

Preschoolers and parents can enjoy exhibits, attend story time and participate in an activity at Adventure Science Center (800 Fort Negley Boulevard, Nashville) from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. $18 for non-member adults & $14 for nonmember youth; free for members.

FREE MUSIC AND MOVEMENT 615-862-5868 library.nashville.org

Shake those wiggles out and have some fun with music, movement, activities and a story at Edmondson Pike Library (5501 Edmondson Pike, Nashville) on Mondays and Thursdays from 10:30 - 11 a.m. For ages 2 - 5, but all are welcome.

THINGS TO DO FREE PRESCHOOL STORY TIME 615-862-5870 louanne.williams@nashville.gov

Children ages 2 - 6 can join Ms. Lou Anne for stories, songs and crafts Every Monday from 10:30 - 11:15 a.m. at Richland Park Library (4711 Charlotte Ave., Nashville). Registration required to avoid crowding.

FREE READING PAWS AT LINEBAUGH 615-893-4131 x 114 rclstn.org

Come read to friendly reading education assistance dogs Stevie or General at Linebaugh Library (105 West Vine Street, Murfreesboro) from 3:30 - 5 p.m. Registration is required.

TOY TECHNICIANS SCHOOL’S OUT PLAY DAY 615-890-2300 explorethedc.org

Look at classic toys work and build your own at Discovery Center (502 SE Broad St., Murfreesboro). Campers will experiment with yo-yos, racecars and more with engineering and science projects. Included with admission.

Game on at your local library! Game nights happen on Thursday afternoons at Nashville Public Library’s Edgehill and Bordeaux Branches, as well as Monday afternoons at Nashville Public Library East Branch.

U.S. FIGURE SKATING CHAMPIONSHIPS

CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF JUSTIN TOWNES EARLE

The 2022 U.S. Championships takes place Jan. 3 - 9 at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville). Champions will be crowned in ladies, men’s, pairs and ice dance at the championship and junior levels. Single tickets start at $25.

Steve Earle & The Dukes will be celebrating the life of Justin Townes Earle, Steve’s late son, on what would have been Justin’s 40th birthday at Ryman Auditorium (116 Fifth Avenue North, Nashville). Show starts at 7:30 p.m. and tickets start at $45.

bridgestonearena.com

FREE WEE WIGGLERS: INFANT STORY TIME 615-862-5866 library.nashville.org

Stories, songs, sign language, puppets and creative play every Monday from 11 - 11:30 a.m. at Inglewood Library (4312 Gallatin Pike, Nashville). Caregivers get the opportunity to share tips and stories with other folks in the neighborhood. Registration required.

FREE YOGA WITH NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY (ONLINE) megan.sheridan@nashville.gov

You can now take a live virtual yoga class right in your own home every Monday at 6:30 p.m. These classes are sponsored by Nashville Public Library and held through Zoom. Beginners to intermediates welcome. Those interested can email address above.

ryman.com

FREE EDGEHILL FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT 615-862-5861 library.nashville.org

Enjoy a family feature length movie at Edgehill Library (1409 12th Ave S., Nashville) every Tuesday from 3:30 5:30 p.m. For grades K - 8, but all are welcome.

CHEEKWOOD HOLIDAY LIGHTS See Saturday, Jan. 1.

FREE JACKSON’S LIBRARY CARD (ONLINE) thehermitage.com

FREE NASHVILLE FAMILY STORY TIMES 615-862-5800 library.nashville.org

Songs, rhymes, activities, books and lots of early literacy fun from 10:30 - 11 a.m. at multiple Nashville Public Library branches. Participating branches include Hermitage (for ages 0 - 2), Edmondson Pike (for ages 3 - 5), Bordeaux (for ages 0 - 5), Thompson Lane (for ages 0 - 5), Hadley Park (for ages 0 - 5) and Southeast Libraries. Call ahead to make sure there’s open spots.

FREE STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH 615-893-4131 x114 rclstn.org

An all-ages storytime every Tuesday and Wednesday at 10 am at Linebaugh Public Library (105 W. Vine St., Murfreesboro), complete with stories, songs and a puppet show. No advance registration is required.

FREE WIC MOBILE LAB

Grab a snack and join The Hermitage on Zoom for an hour-long meet-up with fellow readers on the first Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. January’s read is Odyssey by Homer.

615-905-1942

TUE 4

LEARN TO SKATE

FREE WISHING CHAIR PRODUCTIONS STORY TIME

FREE ADVENTURE CLUB BELLEVUE

Get out on the ice with Nashville Skating Academy at Centennial Sportsplex (222 25th Ave. N., Nashville)! Classes are for skaters ages 3 through adult and happen Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:45 - 6:45 p.m., or Saturdays from 9:45 - 10:45 a.m. The lessons last for seven weeks. Cost is $155 for one day per week or $300 for three.

615-862-5854 library.nashville.org

Children in grades K - 4 can join Ms. Leanna for crafts, activities, special guests, movies and more every Tuesday from 4 - 5 p.m. at Bellevue Library (720 Baugh Road, Nashville).

615-929-7797 nashvilleiceskate.com

The Mobile WIC team will be at the Edmondson Pike Library (5501 Edmondson Pike, Nashville) for scheduled appointments from 12 - 3 p.m.

615-862-5800 library.nashville.org/wishingchair

Kids ages 0 - 6 can see Wishing Chair Productions’ live puppet shows every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. Running time is 30 - 45 minutes and presented in Church Street Park (600 Church St., Nashville) or in the Children’s Theater at Nashville Public Library (615 Church Street, Nashville), weather permitting.

nashvilleparent.com

THE ELEGANCE OF ROYAL FASHION, FEATURING THE GOWNS OF PRINCESS DIANA See Sunday, Jan. 2.

U.S. FIGURE SKATING CHAMPIONSHIPS See Monday, Jan. 3.

FREE YARN LOVE MURFREESBORO 615-893-4131 rclstn.org

Come out to Linebaugh Library in Murfreesboro for this casual meetup for yarn enthusiasts who love to knit and crochet at 6 p.m. Just bring your own yarn and they’ll get you started.

WED 5 FREE CREATION STATION AT NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY 615-862-5800 library.nashville.org

Kids ages 3 and older can come to the Activity Room in Nashville Public Library (615 Church Street, Nashville) for an hour of creativity and fun every Wednesday from 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

There will be a new craft for kiddos to make each week.

FREE STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH See Tuesday, Jan. 4.

U.S. FIGURE SKATING CHAMPIONSHIPS See Monday, Jan. 3.

(Continued on page 33)

january 2022 31

1137 Haley Rd., Murfreesboro 1932 Almaville Rd., Smyrna

615-867-6900

615-617-7644

• ages 2 and up • girls and boys • tumbling • parents night out • school’s out camps • ninja program Home School PE Class at Murfreesboro location Thursdays at 10:40 am!

Thank you Rutherford families for voting us #1 for 20 years in a row!

w w w. e t c g y m n a s t i c s. c o m

find us on

MEN’S & WOMEN'S BASKETBALL JANUARY HOME GAMES 1/6 1/6 1/13 1/13 1/15 1/15 1/22 1/22 1/29 1/29

THU THU THU THU SAT SAT SAT SAT SAT SAT

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI SOUTHEAST MISSOURI AUSTIN PEAY AUSTIN PEAY MURRAY STATE MURRAY STATE TENNESSEE TECH TENNESSEE TECH UT MARTIN UT MARTIN

5 PM 7 PM 5 PM 7 PM 2 PM 4 PM 2 PM 4 PM 2 PM 4 PM

WATCH LIVE ON MEN'S

WOMEN'S

All Times CST • Dates & times are subject to change Visit BELMONTBRUINS.COM for the full schedules The Puckett's Flex Pack gives you the flexibility to attend Belmont Basketball games around your busy schedule, and includes the opportunity to enjoy the Official Barbecue of the Belmont Bruins.

A purchase of a Ten (10) or Twenty (20) game Flex Pack also earns you a $10 Puckett's Gift Card while supplies last!

Buy tickets at

BELMONTBRUINS.COM @belmontmbb | @belmontwbb

32 january 2022

nashvilleparent.com

@belmont_mbb | @belmontwbb

THINGS TO DO JUMPAROO TODDLER TIME urbanairtrampolinepark.com

Toddlers and preschoolers can jump, bounce and crawl around safely at Urban Air Adventure Park in Old Hickory (4331 Old Hickory Boulevard Old Hickory) on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. The Cool Springs location (1735 Galleria Boulevard, Franklin) also has the same event on Fridays from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Admission is $11.99 plus tax per child; parents play free.

FREE EDGEHILL GAME NIGHTS 615-862-5861 library.nashville.org

Kids in grades K - 12 can bring a friend every Thursday to Edgehill Library (1409 12th Ave. S., Nashville) from 3 - 5:30 p.m. to see who is the ultimate gaming champion, whether it is playing card games, board games or on the Xbox.

CHEEKWOOD HOLIDAY LIGHTS See Saturday, Jan. 1.

FREE FAMILY YOGA STORYBOOK ADVENTURE

FREE HOMESCHOOL FRIENDS

A fun yoga class incorporating books, movement, mindfulness and imagination Wednesdays from 10:30 - 11 a.m. in the Children’s Theatre at Nashville Public Library (615 Church St., Nashville)! For ages 3 and older (parents and caregivers are welcome to join).

Join homeschool families from around Nashville to learn, engage and create every Thursday from 2 - 3 p.m. Activities take place in the Children’s Activity Room at Nashville Public Library (615 Church Street, Nashville). New and relevant topics are explored every week through a variety of fun games, books and STEAM activities.

615-862-5800 library.nashville.org

FREE DYSTOPIAN MOVIE SERIES 615-862-5866 library.nashville.org

Every Wednesday in January, come by the Inglewood Library (4312 Gallatin Pike, Nashville) from 3:30 - 6 p.m. for this movie series. Jan 5 will show Divergent (PG-13, 140 min.), Jan 12 will show Hunger Games (PG-13, 142 min.), Jan 19 will show The Maze Runner (PG-13, 114 min.) and Jan 26 will show The Giver (PG-13, 100 min.).

CHEEKWOOD HOLIDAY LIGHTS See Saturday, Jan. 1.

FREE NEW BEGINNINGS HEALTH AND FITNESS CLASS FOR WOMEN

615-862-5800 librarychild@nashville.gov

FREE ITTY BITTY STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH 615-893-4131 x114 rclstn.org

A special storytime for ages 0 - 23 months every Thursday at Linebaugh Public Library (105 W. Vine St., Murfreesboro) from 10 - 10:30 am. Itty Bitty Storytimes include stories, fingerplays, lap bounces, tickles, scarves and songs.

MICHELANGELO’S SISTINE CHAPEL: THE EXHIBITION See Saturday, Jan. 1.

FREE READ WITH BISCUIT brentwood-tn.libcal.com

Children ages 5 - 12 can improve literacy skills by reading with Biscuit for 15 minutes between 4 and 5 p.m. at Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood). Sign up online.

FREE TEEN CRAFTERNOON 615-595-1243 wcpltn.org

Drop in for a random crafternoon from 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month in the Teen Room at Williamson County Public Library (1314 Columbia Avenue, Franklin). Various supplies will be available to create a new piece of art or to just relax and doodle after school.

TENNESSEE STATE TIGERS VS. UT-MARTIN MEN’S BASKETBALL

The Tennessee State Tigers take on the Ut-Martin Mens Basketball at TSU’s Gentry Center (3500 John A. Merritt Boulevard, Nashville). Game starts at 7:30 p.m. and cost is $15.

FREE THROWDOWN THURSDAYS AT BORDEAUX 615-862-5856 library.nashville.org.

Whether it’s playing Xbox or board games, bring your friends every Thursday at 3 p.m. to Bordeaux Library (4000 Clarksville Pike, Nashville) to see who will get bragging rights in all things gaming. For ages 12 - 18.

U.S. FIGURE SKATING CHAMPIONSHIPS See Monday, Jan. 3.

FRI 7 JUMPAROO TODDLER TIME See Wednesday, Jan. 5.

LITTLE LEAPERS MURFREESBORO See Sunday, Jan. 2.

FREE MADISON TODDLER TALES 615-862-5868 library.nashville.org

Walkers ages 18 months to 3 years are invited to Madison Library (610 Gallatin Pike S., Madison) for a moving and grooving story time Fridays at 10:30 a.m. They’ll share tips on how to promote early literacy.

BÉLA FLECK AT THE RYMAN ryman.com/event/bela-fleck

Banjo virtuoso Béla Fleck will perform live at Ryman Auditorium (116 Fifth Avenue North, Nashville) featuring Sam Bush, Michael Cleveland, Jerry Douglas, Stuart Duncan, Sierra Hull, Edgar Meyer, Justin Moses, Mark Schatz, Billy Strings, Bryan Sutton, Chris Thile, Molly Tuttle and more. Show is at 8 p.m.; tickets start at $39.50.

FREE FIRST FRIDAYS WITH CAT CHOREOGRAPHY AT PCC 615-893-7439

C.A.T. Choreography is offering two fun hip hop classes every first Friday of the month. Dancers ages 8 and older are welcome to bust a move at 4 or 5 p.m. at Patterson Park Community Center (521 Mercury Blvd., Murfreesboro).

(Please turn the page)

615-862-5871 thenewbeginningscenter.org

Learn tips for healthy eating and managing stress with 30 minutes of exercise and healthy lifestyles Wednesdays at Southeast Library (5260 Hickory Hollow Parkway, Antioch) from 6 - 7 p.m. Register online.

THU 6 FREE BALANCED YOGA (ONLINE) 615-862-5870 tina.reid@nashville.gov

Richland Park Library’s free community yoga program is held via Zoom on Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. Register online.

DISNEY’S THE LION KING 615-782-4040 tpac.org

Winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, this show brings together one of the most imaginative creative teams on Broadway and runs Jan. 6 - 23 at TPAC’s Jackson Hall (505 Deaderick Street, Nashville). Show times are Mondays - Saturdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets range from $30 - $115. Show dates subject to change.

The 2022 Toyota U.S. Figure Skating Championships will be held Jan. 3 - 9 at Bridgestone Arena. U.S. champions will be crowned in ladies, men’s, pairs and ice dance at the championship and junior levels of the U.S. Figure Skating competitive structure.

nashvilleparent.com

january 2022 33

THINGS TO DO FREE POLAR BEAR PLUNGE 615-895-5040

8:30 a.m. Arctic Adventure in the Sports*Com gym (2310 Memorial Blvd., Murfreesboro) starting at 8:30 a.m., including games, inflatables, snacks and a costume contest. Immediately after the jump, the indoor pool will be open until 11:30 a.m. Free for all ages with either a canned food donation or a donation to Special Olympics.

FREE HILL FOREST HIKE: THE SECRET FOREST 615-862-8555, wpnc.nashville.gov

Explore this secret forest and look for signs of mammals, birds and even insects at Warner Park Nature Center (7311 Highway 100 Nashville) from 1 3 p.m. This rugged, off-trail hike is only accessible with a naturalist and is great for kids 8 years and older.

CHEEKWOOD HOLIDAY LIGHTS See Saturday, Jan. 1.

FREE FAMILY MOVIE AT BRENTWOOD LIBRARY brentwood-tn.libcal.com

There are several opportunities to get the kids out in nature this winter: including the secret forest hike at Warner Park Nature Center on Jan. 7; Marshmallow Hikes at Owl’s Hill Nature Center on Jan. 8 and 15; and a moonlight hike at Shelby Bottoms Nature Center on Jan. 19.

FREE STORYTIME AT STONES RIVER TOWN CENTRE rclstn.org/calendar

An all-ages storytime presented by Linebaugh Library at Books-A-Million (1720 Old Fort Pkwy., Murfreesboro) on the first Friday of every month from 10 - 10:30 a.m.

FREE GOODLETTSVILLE ART GROUP: ACRYLIC PAINTING 615-862-5862

Adults can learn acrylic painting with whimsical realism utilizing simple-tolearn techniques in this acrylic painting class from 12 - 3 p.m. at Goodlettsville Library (205 Rivergate Pkwy., Goodlettsville). Drawing skills and experience not necessary. Beginners to intermediate level. Supplies provided.

Registration required.

MICHELANGELO’S SISTINE CHAPEL: THE EXHIBITION See Saturday, Jan. 1.

DISNEY’S THE LION KING See Thursday, Jan. 6.

DVORÁK & MOZART: FULL ORCHESTRA REUNITED 615-687-6400 nashvillesymphony.org

Come see Nashville Symphony with conductor Giancarlo Guerrero perform live at Schermerhorn Symphony Center (1 Symphony Place, Nashville). Shows are Jan. 7 - 8 at 8 p.m., as well as Jan. 9 at 2 p.m., and tickets start at $40.

34 january 2022

THE ELEGANCE OF ROYAL FASHION, FEATURING THE GOWNS OF PRINCESS DIANA See Sunday, Jan. 2.

U.S. FIGURE SKATING CHAMPIONSHIPS See Monday, Jan. 3.

SAT 8

615-370-4672 owlshill.org/events

How does a nice hike in the winter woods followed by hot chocolate and roasted marshmallows sound? Come

by Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary (545 Beech Creek Road South, Brentwood) starting at 9:30 a.m. Cost is $10.

FREE FRANKLIN FARMER’S MARKET

FREE EXPLORE WITH A NATURALIST 615-862-8555 wpnc.nashville.gov

Visit Warner Park Nature Center (7311 Highway 100, Nashville) to explore nature in winter with a Naturalist on Saturdays from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

FREE YOUTH MAGIC GROUP AT LINEBAUGH 615-893-4131 x114

Aspiring magicians can join in the magic at Linebaugh Public Library (105 W. Vine St., Murfreesboro) on the second Saturday of each month at 9:30 a.m.

FREE CHESS CLUB FRANKLIN 615-595-1244 wcpltn.org

MARSHMALLOW HIKES

Kids and teens ages 6 - 18 are invited to join for an afternoon of learning and play from 3 - 4:30 p.m. at Williamson County Public Library (1314 Columbia Avenue, Franklin). Attendance is limited and registration is required. Children under age 12 must have an adult.

See Saturday, Jan. 1.

DROP-IN KIDS ART CLASSES 615-933-9644 LittleArtHouseNashville.com

Kiddos can create original works of art on Saturday mornings at Little Art House Nashville (2106b Acklen Avenue, Nashville). Read a book, create a work of art and then have time for sensory play. The 9:30 - 10 a.m. class is for ages 1 - 4 and the 10:30 - 11 a.m. class is intended to be drop-off class for ages 4 - 10. Cost is $15.

FAMILY PROGRAM: VELVET ELVIS PAINTING countrymusichalloffame.org

Create your own black velvet painting using pastels and black light paint at Country Music Hall of Fame (222 Rep. John Lewis Way S., Nashville) at either 11 - 11:30 a.m. or 11:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Attendees will paint a portrait of Elvis or another icon and see the art glow under a black light. Recommended for ages 5 and older, but all are welcome.

nashvilleparent.com

All ages are invited to the Storytime Room at Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road Brentwood) for a showing of family-friendly movies at 3:30 p.m.

DVORÁK & MOZART: FULL ORCHESTRA REUNITED See Friday, Jan. 7.

MYSTERIES AND ILLUSIONS 888-212-2863 mysteriesandillusions.com

Experience sleight-of-hand mysteries, magic and illusions at The Filming Station (501 8th Avenue South, Nashville) from 7:30 - 8 p.m. Not a bad seat in the house. This show is for ages 13 and older only and tickets start at $40.

FREE READ WITH SADIE 615-595-1244 wcpltn.org

Kids ages 6 - 12 are invited to come read with a trained therapy dog from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. in the Children’s Story Theater at Franklin Main Library (1314 Columbia Avenue, Franklin).

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required.

FREE READING PAWS GREEN HILLS 615-862-5863 library.nashville.org

Visit the story room at Green Hills Library (3701 Benham Avenue, Nashville) from 1 - 2:30 p.m. for a chance to cuddle up with a canine friend who will listen while you read. Call 615-8625863 to reserve your spot! For children in kindergarten and older.

THE ELEGANCE OF ROYAL FASHION, FEATURING THE GOWNS OF PRINCESS DIANA See Sunday, Jan. 2.

FREE READING PAWS NASHVILLE 615-862-5800 library.nashville.org

Children ages 5 - 12 are welcome to come and read to a live, furry friend the first Saturday of each month at Nashville Public Main Library (615 Church Street, Nashville) from 1 - 2:30 p.m. Registration is required. Check in at the Children’s Dept. desk.

FREE SHAKESPEARE ALLOWED (ONLINE) 615-255-2273 nashvilleshakes.org/shakespeareallowed Nashville Shakespeare Festival invites you to read every play Shakespeare wrote, out loud together via Zoom on the first Saturday of each month at 12 p.m. This month’s selection is Titus Andronicus.

FREE TWEEN & TEEN PAINTING TUTORIAL 615-893-4131 x138 rclstn.org

A painting tutorial just for Tweens & Teens at Linebaugh Library (105 W. Vine St., Murfreesboro) from 2 - 3 p.m.

Canvas, acrylic paint and other tools will be supplied. Registration required.

U.S. FIGURE SKATING CHAMPIONSHIPS See Monday, Jan. 3.

WINTER SURVIVAL WITH SOAC mike.kraft@townofsmyrna.org townofsmyrna.org

Learn outdoor survival strategies for the winter time at Sharp Springs Natural Area (311 Jefferson Pike, Smyrna) from 1 - 3 p.m. They will also roast hotdogs and make s’mores for lunch. Fire pit located behind the Green Building.

Cost is $2 and registration required.

DISNEY’S THE LION KING See Thursday, Jan. 6.

SUN 9 FREE LEGO BUILDING FUN See Sunday, Jan. 2.

LITTLE LEAPERS MURFREESBORO See Sunday, Jan. 2.

TENNESSEE TITANS VS. HOUSTON TEXANS tennesseetitans.com

The Titans will take on the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium in Houston, with kickoff scheduled for noon.

LANE MOTOR VAULT TOURS See Sunday, Jan. 2.

MARTIN ARTQUEST See Saturday, Jan. 1.

(Continued on page 37)

Witness the “Circle of Life” on stage at TPAC’s Jackson Hall with Disney’s The Lion King Jan 6 - 23.

The Lion King Drummer Feels Lucky While Touring the Country with Wife and Kids

BY MICHAEL W. ALDRICH

I

magine asking your pregnant wife, “Hey, want to move out of our apartment, move every few weeks and go from one city to the next all the time?”

That’s exactly the question Reuven Weizberg asked his wife 14 years ago when he first started as a percussionist for the national tour of The Lion King, which returns to Nashville after an eight-year hiatus Jan. 6 - 23 at TPAC. “It is a very different way of life than my wife and I thought our life would go,” Weizberg said.

“But here we are 14 years later, my oldest daughter (age 13) has been to all 50 states and my youngest daughter (age 9) has been to 49 states, only missing Alaska which we did before she was born.”

Touring with a wife and three kids obviously has its challenges.

“The challenging things are, we need to find a new place to live every few weeks that’s going to be safe and comfortable for the four of us. We have to pack up our stuff all the time, sometimes our moves are 1,800 miles and my kids are sitting in our car for hours and hours at a time while we drive across the country.”

But as Weizberg says, “the positives outweigh the negatives.”

“The flip side is they get to see and experience so many different parts of our country,” he says. “They’re traveling the world with artists, actors, musicians and dancers all from all different backgrounds and get to see

all these diverse perspectives.

That’s the most rewarding part of it. So as long as the positives outweigh the negatives, we’re going to keep going.”

once: I’m a part of the show, I get to watch the audience enjoying the show because I’m looking right at them and I get to watch the show happening because I’m watching the stage One of Four Percussionists for musical cues,” he says. “It’s Weizberg remembers the first very different from playing in a time he saw the show that would stage pit.” one day become such a big part Approaching 24 landmark years of his life. on Broadway, The Lion King won “I remember sitting and six 1998 Tony Awards: including watching it being in complete Best Musical, Best Scenic awe of what I was seeing,” Design, Best Costume Design Weizberg says. and more.

“I was looking at So, after nearly the percussionist, a quarter of a as I was playing century, what a lot of the same makes this show instruments at stand the test of the time, and time? According thinking, ‘wow to Weizberg, this is amazing there’s nothing that they get to else like it. do this as their “There are job.’ And then people in tears here I am all every night these years later because they’re getting to do it overwhelmed every night.” by everything Weizberg they’re seeing is one of four and feeling,” percussionists in Weizberg says. the show — one Reuven Weizberg, one of four per“You might get on drum set, one cussionists in The Lion King. great puppetry, on mallets and great music, accessories and Weizberg is great vocals and great acting, but one of two percussionists in the you don’t always get all of those house that perform on either side all together. That’s what The Lion of the stage.

King does.”

Being a part of the music, Single tickets for The Lion as well as being a part of King are on sale now at TPAC. the performance, is a very org, by phone at 615-782-4040 unique position in a Broadway and in person at the TPAC Box production, Weizberg explains.

Office, 505 Deaderick St., in “I get to do three things at downtown Nashville.

nashvilleparent.com

january 2022 35

SPARTAN SOCCER

FOLLOWING STRICT COVID-19 STATE’S REGULATIONS

Our schools have been successfully operating throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic. Please refer to the website for the COVID-19 policies.

ACADEMY

TEACHING WITH SUCCESS FOR 19 YEARS

YEAR ROUND ENROLLMENT MONTESSORI AND MORE FOR EVERY CHILD

• Certified Licensed Teaching Staff • On-site Montessori Teacher Training Center • Superior Academics and Care • Beautiful outdoor classroom • Community Gardens • Potty Training • Child Care Aware Compliant • AM Meals Provided • Kindergarten Readiness

SUMMER CAMP!

spartansoccer.org/tournaments

Come explore with US! Week long themed activities MONTHLY OR WEEKLY ENROLLMENT | AGES 2–6, 7:30 AM - 6 PM Open Enrollment starts January 10, 2021

SPARTAN DEVELOPMENT ACADEMY

REGISTRATION FOR FALL & WINTER SESSIONS NOW OPEN

SIGN UP TODAY at

spartansoccer.org/development-academy

SPARTAN ELITE ADVANCED TRAINING PROGRAM

www.southernstarsmontessori.net

SPARTANSOCCER.ORG/SPARTAN-ELITE spartansoccer.org/spartan-elite

southernstarsmontessori@gmail.com

To register or to schedule a tour

ADVANCED LEVEL OF TRAINING FOR AGES 11 AND OLDER

615-633-5967

615.509.9423

NASHVILLE 910 Wedgewood Avenue Nashville, TN 37203

info@spartansoccer.org

Bushido School of Karate Adult Sampler!

NOT SURE WHAT PROGRAM FITS YOU BEST? WHY NOT TRY ALL OF THEM! 3 Week Sampler Course!

• 1 Week of Cardio Kickboxing (unlimited) • 1 Week of Boxing (2-6 classes) • 1 Week of Karate (2 classes)

I N C LU D E S :

• Bag Gloves & T-shirt • Karate Uniform • Camo or Pink Belt earned @ end of program

NOW O FFERIN G YOGA CLASS ES! For info rmatio n visit lifewith marina .com

ENTIRE PROGRAM & SWAG

ONLY

$69

NORTH MURFREESBORO | 1820 NW Broad Street | 615-893-6003 SOUTH MURFREESBORO | 1911 Business Campus Drive | 615-890-6755

B S KO N L I N E . C O M 36 january 2022

nashvilleparent.com

THINGS TO DO MICHELANGELO’S SISTINE CHAPEL: THE EXHIBITION See Saturday, Jan. 1.

FREE PLAZA MARIACHI FLEA MARKET See Sunday, Jan. 2

DISNEY’S THE LION KING See Thursday, Jan. 6.

FRANKIE VALLI & THE FOUR SEASONS ryman.com/event/frankie-valli

Original Jersey boy Frankie Valli will perform live at the Grand Ole Opry House (2804 Opryland Drive, Nashville). Show starts at 7:30 p.m. and tickets range from $45 - $125.

DVORÁK & MOZART: FULL ORCHESTRA REUNITED See Friday, Jan. 7.

MON 10 FREE ADVENTURE CLUB GOODLETTSVILLE See Monday, Jan. 3.

FREE AFTER-SCHOOL MOVIE MONDAY 615-862-5854 library.nashville.org

Teens in grades 5 - 12 can drop by Bellevue Library (720 Baugh Road, Nashville) from 4 - 5:30 p.m. for a movie in the Teen Room.

FREE BABIES & BOOKS See Monday, Jan. 3.

FREE DONELSON FAMILY STORY TIME See Monday, Jan. 3.

EARLY EXPLORERS See Monday, Jan. 3.

FREE GAMING MONDAY 615-862-5860 library.nashville.org

Challenge your friends to a round of healthy competition with a variety of tabletop and video games every Monday from 3 - 5 p.m. at East Branch Library (206 Gallatin Avenue, Nashville). For ages 12 - 17.

FREE MUSIC AND MOVEMENT See Monday, Jan. 3.

FREE PRESCHOOL STORY TIME See Monday, Jan. 3.

FREE READING PAWS AT LINEBAUGH See Monday, Jan. 3.

FREE WEE WIGGLERS: INFANT STORY TIME See Monday, Jan. 3.

DISNEY’S THE LION KING See Thursday, Jan. 6.

The Nashville Predators have six home games at Bridgestone Arena this month, leading up to their first outdoor home game at Nissan Stadium next month on Feb. 26.

FREE YOGA WITH NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY (ONLINE) See Monday, Jan. 3.

TUE 11 FREE NATIONAL MILK DAY! FREE ADVENTURE CLUB BELLEVUE See Tuesday, Jan. 4.

FREE WISHING CHAIR PRODUCTIONS STORY TIME See Tuesday, Jan. 4.

FREE EDGEHILL FAMILY MOVIE See Tuesday, Jan. 4.

FREE NASHVILLE FAMILY STORY TIMES

FREE PRENDA CODE CLUB

FREE BELLEVUE ANIME CLUB

Grades 3 - 5 can create Minecraft worlds, build a website and control robots at this free coding club from 4:30 - 5 p.m. in Brentwood Library’s Learning Lab (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood). Registration required.

Watch favorite shows, discover new ones and talk about anime with other fans from 4 - 5 p.m. in the Teen Room at the Bellevue Library (720 Baugh Road, Nashville)! For grades 5 - 12.

brentwood-tn.libcal.com

VANDERBILT COMMODORES VS. KENTUCKY WILDCATS MEN’S BASKETBALL

FREE NEW BEGINNINGS HEALTH AND FITNESS CLASS FOR WOMEN

Come see the Vanderbilt Commodores men’s basketball team take on the Kentucky Wildcats at Vanderbilt University’s Memorial Gymnasium (210 25th Avenue South, Nashville). Tickets start at $45 and game starts at 6 p.m.

See Thursday, Jan. 6.

DISNEY’S THE LION KING

EARLY LEARNERS AT SOAC

vucommodores.com/sports

See Thursday, Jan. 6.

See Tuesday, Jan. 4.

WED 12

NASHVILLE PREDATORS VS. COLORADO AVALANCHE

FREE FAMILY YOGA STORYBOOK ADVENTURE

nhl.com/predators

Come see the Nashville Predators play at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville) at 7 p.m.

FREE PLAY MAHJONG WITH GAME KEEPER JOHN (ONLINE) Learn and play through classic and modern games of all varieties online with Nashville Public Library’s Game Keeper John every other Tuesday on NPL’s YouTube channel at 3 p.m.

FREE STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH See Tuesday, Jan. 4.

615-862-5854 library.nashville.org

See Wednesday, Jan. 5.

JUMPAROO TODDLER TIME See Wednesday, Jan. 5.

FREE CREATION STATION AT NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY See Wednesday, Jan. 5.

FREE STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH See Tuesday, Jan. 4.

FREE DYSTOPIAN MOVIES See Wednesday, Jan. 5.

nashvilleparent.com

See Wednesday, Jan. 5.

DISNEY’S THE LION KING

THU 13 shelly.denton@townofsmyrna.org Kids ages 2 - 6 can join the staff at Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Parkway East, Smyrna) and craft some cute and clever animals in this weekly program from 1 - 2 p.m. Cost is $2.

FREE HOMESCHOOL FRIENDS See Thursday, Jan. 6.

FREE ITTY BITTY STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH See Thursday, Jan. 6.

JUMPAROO TODDLER TIME See Wednesday, Jan. 5.

MARTIN ARTQUEST See Saturday, Jan. 1.

(Continued on page 40)

january 2022 37

Indoors

THINGS TO DO SPECIAL!

INDOOR PLAYGROUNDS

SKATING

Adventure Science Center

Skatecenter.com 402 Wilson Pike Cir., Brentwood 615-373-8611 Roller rink featuring a snack bar, a video arcade, DJs, LED light effects & various events.

adventuresci.com 800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville 615-862-5160 The museum features more than 175 hands-on interactive exhibits where kids can run around to their heart’s delights.

The Monkey’s Treehouse

themonkeystreehouse.com 91 Seaboard Lane, Brentwood 615-942-9711 Kids ages 0 - 8 can enjoy play passes, Mon - Fri from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. based on availability. Book a spot for $4 for 30 mins per child ($24 minimum).

Brentwood Skate Center

Rivergate Skate Center

rivergateskatecenter.com 119 Gleaves St., Madison 615-868-7655 Saturday skate for kids 8 and younger from 10 a.m. - 12 noon. Admission is $5 plus $3 skate rental. At noon the fee switches to $7, and kids can skate until 5 p.m. Family Night is Thursdays from 6 - 9 p.m. for $7 and skate rental is free.

Skate Center Smyrna

Sky Zone

Skatecentersmyrna.com 1505 Plaza Dr., Smyrna 615-459-7655 Thursday nights from 6 - 9 p.m. is Family Skate Night for $7 admission and free skate rental.

Check the website for additional “Beginner Skates” and “Family Fun Skates.”

Tennessee Toddles Indoor Playground

FOR ICE SKATING, GO TO Nashvilleparent.com/iceskating

urbanairnenashville.com 1220 NW Broad St., Murfreesboro 615-987-0102 Active play for all ages. You can purchase a “punch card” so your child can jump as much as he wants to on various days. tntoddles.com 1707 Fairview Blvd., STE 101, Fairview 615-209-0155 A playground for infants and toddlers with play day passes $6 a child.

Urban Air Adventure Park

urbanairnenashville.com 4331 Old Hickory Blvd., Old Hickory 615-894-7200 —and— 1735 Galleria Boulevard, STE 2 Franklin, TN Large-scale indoor trampoline center hosting open jumps & more.

CLIMBING

BOWLING Strike and Spare and Circus World 90 Volunteer Dr., Hendersonville 615-824-5685 hendersonville.strikeandspare.com — and —

Strike and Spare Family Fun Center

murfreesboro.strikeandspare.com 1720 Old Fort Pkwy. STE 2002, Murfreesboro 615-896-0945 Bowl with a state-of-the art scoring system, roller skating, bumper cars, laser tag. Get your child a wristband so he can do it all. Bowling prices range from $3.75 to $5.

The Crag (Two locations)

iloverockclimbing.com 15115 Old Hickory Blvd., STE C, Nashville 615-922-4649 121 Seaboard Lane, STE 10, Franklin 615-922-4649 The Crag offers numerous fitness opportunities, but climbing is the heart here. The youth program includes leagues for elementary, middle and high school kids.

Climb Nashville (Three locations)

theclimbgyms.com 3600 Charlotte Ave., Nashville (West) 615-463-7625 1900 Eastland Ave., #104, Nashville (East) 615-610-2220 1660 Memorial Blvd., Murfreesboro 615-280-8460 Climbers of all ages are welcome; kids under 13 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

38 january 2022

GYMNASTICS Boost Gymnastics

boostgymnastics.com 11 Vaughns Gap Road, Nashville 615-352-8533 Open Gym available Mondays at 11 a.m. and Wednesdays at 10 a.m. for ages 0 - 5 for $10 with an adult.

Impact Gymnastics

mpactsports.com 121 Seaboard Lane, Franklin 615-377-3444 Open playtime for ages 5 - 14 is Saturdays from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. $10 per person.

Let It Shine

lisgym.com 1886 General George Patton Drive, Franklin 615-369-3547 Open Play for ages 1 - 6 (parent required) is Fridays from 9:15 - 10:45 for $8 cash or $10 credit card.

nashvilleparent.com

fun fitn KID

ness for IDS

Outdoors NATURE CENTERS Beaman Park Nature Center

nashville.gov 5911 Old Hickory Blvd., Ashland City 615-862-8580 Open Tuesday thru Friday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary

owlshill.org 545 Beech Creek Road S., Brentwood 615-370-4672 The Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary is a 160-acre wildlife facility in Williamson County.

Shelby Bottoms Nature Center

nashville.gov 1900 Shelby Bottoms Greenway, Nashville 615-862-8539 Environmental education facility with natural history exhibits, gardens, trails & free bike rentals.

Timberland Park

wcparksandrec.com Mile Marker, 437.2 Natchez Trace Pkwy, Franklin | 615-232-4154 Feaatures hiking trails, picnic areas & a butterfly garden.

Warner Park Nature Center

nashville.gov 7311 TN-100, Nashville 615-862-8555 Open Tuesday thru Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Wilderness Station at Barfield Crescent murfreesborotn.gov Home to education animals and more.

HORSE RIDING Creekside Riding Academy & Stables

creeksideridingstables.com 2359 Lewisburg Pike, Franklin, TN 615-595-7547 Schedule a ride on a weekend between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. for up to 11 riders ages 6 years and older (and 220 pounds or less). An online scheduling system makes it easy.

Harris Riding Academy

facebook.com/harrisridingacademy 6331 Franklin Road, Murfreesboro 615-556-7370 30 minutes southeast of Nashville.

Juro Stables

jurostables.com 735 Carver Lane, Mt. Juliet 615-773-7433 30 minutes east of Nashville. .Triple A Ranch triplearanchllc.com 4408 N. Chapel Roa, Franklin 615-457-6345 40 minutes south of Nashville.

nashvilleparent.com

BEST PLACES FOR A WINTER STROLL Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

tnstateparks.com/parks/bicentennial-mall 600 James Robertson Pkwy., Nashville 615-741-5280 Located in the heart of downtown, this park is a great place to enjoy the beauty and history of Tennessee. There is a .9 mile paved trail around the park that takes visitors past monuments honoring aspects of Tennessee’s history.

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

cheekwood.org 1200 Forrest Park Dr., Nashville 615-356-8000 If you are looking for a beautiful escape from the city, Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is one of the best options Nashville has to offer. From the breathtaking floral displays to the ever changing exhibits, this place is a must if you love the outdoors and historic homes.

Long Hunter State Park

tnstateparks.com/parks/long-hunter 2910 Hobson Pike, Hermitage 615-885-2422 Located just south of Mt. Juliet, the Couchville Lake Trail at Long Hunter State Park is perfect for strollers. The two-mile paved route wraps around the 110-acre lake. It’s popular due to its accessibility, lakeshore scenery and abundant wildlife.

Nashville Zoo

nashvillezoo.org 3777 Nolensville Pike, Nashville 615-833-1534 The layout of Nashville Zoo is gorgeous, and it’s such a great place to explore as your little ones take in animals from all over the world. It’s a long walk if you hit every exhibit, but there are lots of shady spots to rest, as well as indoor buildings if you need a break from the outdoors.

Radnor Lake

tnstateparks.com/parks/radnor-lake 1160 Otter Creek Road, Nashville 615-373-3467 Radnor Lake State Natural Area, located in Brentwood, is a great place to take in some fresh air.

The 1.1 mile paved Otter Creek Road Trail is great for strollers. The path leads visitors past the lake and several observation decks.

The Park at Harlinsdale Farm

franklintn.gov/government/departments-k-z/ parks/park-locations/the-park-at-harlinsdalefarm 239 Franklin Road, Franklin 615-794-2103 This area is steeped in history, and you can take in some of Franklin’s past while enjoying a walk, a hike or even a few minutes at the dog park.

With a horse stable as its centerpiece, you may even get to see a few “neighing” friends in the pasture.

Tennessee State Parks

tnstateparks.com/activities/hiking The online portal for all of Tennessee’s state parks makes it easy to find trails for all ability levels.

january 2022 39

THINGS TO DO NASHVILLE PREDATORS VS. BUFFALO SABRES nhl.com/predators

Come see the Nashville Predators play at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville) at 7 p.m..

NATURE JOURNALING FOR KIDS AT WILDERNESS STATION 615-217-3017 murfreesborotn.gov

Nature lovers ages 7 and older can make a nature journal from 3 - 4 p.m. at the Wilderness Station at Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Road, Murfreesboro). You will then take a hike to explore and record your observations. Pre-registration required.

Cost is $3.

REVOLUTION: THE MUSIC OF THE BEATLES 615-687-6400 nashvillesymphony.org

The iconic Beatles songbook comes to life in Revolution, the new symphonic tribute to the Fab Four, at Schermerhorn Symphony Center (1 Symphony Place, Nashville). Tickets start at $47.

Show times are Jan. 13 at 7 p.m. and Jan. 14 - 15 at 8 p.m.

FREE THROWDOWN THURSDAYS AT BORDEAUX See Thursday, Jan. 6.

VANDERBILT COMMODORES VS. TENNESSEE VOLUNTEERS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

FREE WINTER BIRDS AT THE HILL FOREST’S EDGE

The Vanderbilt Commodores women’s basketball team take on the Tennessee Volunteers at Vanderbilt University’s Memorial Gymnasium (210 25th Avenue South, Nashville). Game starts at 8 p.m. and tickets start at $20.

FREE GOODLETTSVILLE ART GROUP: WATERCOLOR PAINTING

vucommodores.com/sports

615-862-8555 wpnc.nashville.gov

Explore the open fields and edge areas of the Warner Park Nature Center’s Hill Forest (7311 Highway 100, Nashville) for winter birds from 8:30 - 10 a.m.

What will you find? Fox Sparrows, Dark-eyed Juncos and Pine Siskins?

Registration required.

Learn basic techniques of watercolor painting and take home a finished painting in this class for adults from 12 - 3 p.m. at Goodlettsville Library (205 Rivergate Parkway, Goodlettsville).

Drawing skills not necessary. Beginners to intermediate level. Supplies provided. Registration required.

WINTER CRAFTING AT CANNONSBURGH: WOODEN SPOON SNOWMEN

FREE MADISON TODDLER TALES

ACT TOO PRESENTS: FROZEN KIDS

615-801-2606

Paint wooden spoon snowmen to take home or give as gifts from 1 - 2 p.m. at Cannonsburgh Village (312 S. Front Street, Murfreesboro). Admission is $15 and reservations are required by January 6. For ages 18 and older.

FREE EDGEHILL GAME NIGHTS See Thursday, Jan. 6.

FREE BALANCED YOGA (ONLINE) See Thursday, Jan. 6.

DISNEY’S THE LION KING See Thursday, Jan. 6.

LITTLE LEAPERS MURFREESBORO See Sunday, Jan. 2.

FREE AMERICAN RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE 615-880-3957 library.nashville.org

Drop in the Edmondson Pike Branch Library (5501 Edmondson Pike, Nashville) between 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and let a medical professional from the Red Cross take your life saving donation.

DISNEY’S THE LION KING See Thursday, Jan. 6.

FRI 14 JUMPAROO TODDLER TIME See Wednesday, Jan. 5.

See Friday, Jan. 7.

MICHELANGELO’S SISTINE CHAPEL: THE EXHIBITION See Saturday, Jan. 1.

franklintheatre.com

A 30-minute adaptation of the 2018 Broadway musical performed by the youth cast Act Too Players at Franklin Theatre (419 Main Street, Franklin).

Shows are Jan. 14 at 4 and 7:30 p.m., as well as Jan. 15 at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Tickets range from $15 - $25.

ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA: THE MUSICAL 615-904-2787 boroarts.org

Showing at Center For the Arts (110 W. College St., Murfreesboro) on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Jan. 30, this is the story of a girl with astonishing wit, intelligence and psychokinetic powers who tries to get rid of the evil headmistress Miss Trunchbull.

Adults are $18; children are $14.

REVOLUTION: THE MUSIC OF THE BEATLES See Thursday, Jan. 13.

SAT 15 30TH ANNUAL NASHVILLE AUTO FEST 502-893-6731 nashvilleautofest.com.

The annual Auto Fest, a combination car show and swap meet event, returns to The Fairgrounds Nashville (625 Smith Ave., Nashville) today from 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Jan. 16 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. More than $2,000 in cash and awards will be given out during the event. $12 for adults, free for children 10 and younger, parking is $5.

ACT TOO PRESENTS: FROZEN KIDS See Friday, Jan. 14.

ACT TOO PRESENTS: HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL 2 JR franklintheatre.com

See the summertime sequel to the smash hit Disney Channel musical performed by the youth cast Act Too Players at Franklin Theatre (419 Main Street, Franklin). Tickets are $15 - $25.

Shows are Jan.15 at 4 and 7 p.m., as well as Jan.16 at 12 and 3 p.m.

DROP-IN KIDS ART CLASSES See Saturday, Jan. 8.

Revolution at Schermerhorn Symphony Center will take you on a magical musical and visual journey of The Beatles, featuring rare photos, video and animation from the archives of The Beatles’ official fan magazine.

40 january 2022

nashvilleparent.com

(Continued on page 42)

t u o b a l l a It’s

ning, in w d r a w a n a n Don’t miss out o p for your m a c d e r te n e c tChris mmer! daughter this Su

• Riding - English, Western, and Jumping • Swimming • Heated Pool • Ropes Course • Climbing Tower • Outdoor Nature Skills • Sports • Soccer

Best of Parentin Parenting WINNE WINNER 9y

ear

s in a r o w !

On Top of Lookout Mountain in Historic Mentone, Alabama Susan & Larry Hooks, Owners & Directors Donna Bares, Assistant Director

800-882-0722 www.riverviewcamp.com

• Basketball • Beach Volleyball • Tennis • Canoeing • Golf • Archery • Gymnastics • Cheerleading • Dance • Chorus • Drama • Arts & Crafts • CIT Program

REGISTER ONLINE TODAY! Choose from 1- and 2-week Sessions and Mother-Daughter Weekends!

• Campfires every night • Optional trips & more!

THINGS TO DO FREE EXPLORE WITH A NATURALIST

SYMPHONY IN SPACE WITH THE NASHVILLE SYMPHONY

FREE WARM UP BY THE FIRE

Show up early for pre-concert activities, including the Instrument Petting Zoo, crafts and a book nook at Schermerhorn Symphony Center (1 Symphony Place, Nashville). The sensory-friendly concert starts at 10 a.m. and offers accommodations for people on the autism spectrum and with sensory sensitivities. Tickets range from $16 - $35.

See Saturday, Jan. 8.

615-862-858 beamanpark.nashville.gov

Stop by and warm yourself by the fire outside of the Beaman Park Nature Center (5911 Old Hickory Blvd., Ashland City) from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

FREE FRANKLIN FARMER’S MARKET See Saturday, Jan. 1.

MARSHMALLOW HIKES See Saturday, Jan. 8.

MYSTERIES AND ILLUSIONS See Saturday, Jan. 8.

REVOLUTION: THE MUSIC OF THE BEATLES See Thursday, Jan. 13.

ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA: THE MUSICAL See Friday Jan. 14.

RUN! JUMP! FLY! OPENS AT DISCOVERY CENTER 615-890-2300 explorethedc.org/run-jump-fly.

Jump into an action-packed family adventure with this new featured exhibit at Discovery Center (502 SE Broad St., Murfreesboro). Try out surfing, snowboarding and kung fu. Scramble your way through a climbing canyon. Make your flycycle flap its wings. Get moving in the Action Star Training Center and more. Exhibit included with general admission and free for members.

615-687-6400 nashvillesymphony.org

FREE TO “BEE”, OR NOT TO “BEE” 615-862-8539 nashville.gov

Join a panel of local beekeepers for a basic conversation on beginner’s beekeeping at Shelby Bottoms Nature Center (900 Shelby Bottoms Greenway, Nashville) at 10 a.m.

TPAC ARTS ADVENTURE WORKSHOPS 615-782-4040 tpac.org

Learn about the magic of theatre in workshops for three different age groups based on multiple popular children’s theater productions, including Disney’s The Lion King; Disney’s Frozen and Disney’s The Jungle Book.

The ages 5 - 8 workshop meets at 10:30 a.m. and the ages 9 - 12 workshop meets at 1 p.m. on Jan. 15 and 22. The ages 13 - 18 workshop meets at 3 p.m. on Jan. 22 and all take place in TPAC’s Johnson Theater (505 Deaderick Street, Nashville). Cost is $20 per student, $5 for observing chaperones.

DISNEY’S THE LION KING See Thursday, Jan. 6.

FREE UNPLUGGED GAMING AT THE SMYRNA LIBRARY

MARTIN ARTQUEST

Come out to Smyrna Public Library for this free program open to beginner and veteran gamers ages 18 and older. There will have a Dungeons & Dragons campaign with pre-made character sheets and dice, as well as space available to play your own tabletop and card games from 2 - 4 p.m.

MICHELANGELO’S SISTINE CHAPEL: THE EXHIBITION

rclstn.org

FAMILY PROGRAM: MUSICAL INSTRUMENT PETTING ZOO countrymusichalloffame.org

The Musical Instrument Petting Zoo offers budding musicians a chance to try new and familiar instruments.

Participants will bow a fiddle, pluck a banjo and strum a ukulele from 10:30 .m. - 12 p.m. at Country Music Hall of Fame (222 Rep. John Lewis Way S., Nashville).

YOGA FOR KIDS BRENTWOOD brentwood-tn.libcal.com.

Join Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road, Brentwood) for kid’s yoga, which includes books, games and more in the Storytime Room from 2 - 2:45 p.m.

Cost is $10.

SUN 16 30TH ANNUAL NASHVILLE AUTO FEST See Saturday, Jan.15.

ACT TOO PRESENTS: HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL 2 JR See Saturday, Jan.15.

FREE PLAZA MARIACHI FLEA MARKET See Sunday, Jan. 2.

ACT TOO PRESENTS: RAMONA QUIMBY franklintheatre.com

Unpredictable. Exasperating. Boisterous. That’s Ramona Quimby for you.

See this theatrical performance performed by the talented youth cast Act Too Players at Franklin Theatre (419 Main Street, Franklin). Show starts at 7 p.m. and tickets are $15-$25.

ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA: THE MUSICAL See Friday Jan. 14.

MON 17 FREE MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY FREE MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY CELEBRATION 615-890-2300 explorethedc.org/mlkday.

Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy and story through arts, culture and more at Discovery Center (502 SE Broad St., Murfreesboro) from 9 a.m.

FREE BABIES & BOOKS See Monday, Jan. 3.

Using hats on view throughout the museum as inspiration, aspiring young designers can make and decorate their own paper hats from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Country Music Hall of Fame (222 Rep. John Lewis Way S., Nashville).

Included with admission; free for members and kids 5 and younger.

DISNEY’S THE LION KING

countrymusichalloffame.org

See Thursday, Jan. 6.

FREE IN HARMONY STAR CHOIR OPEN HOUSE

615-390-3207 inharmonymusicmidtn.com.

A fun, music-making experience for youth with special needs from 2 - 4 p.m. This will kick off the first season to help build communication skills, relationships and make music. Event happens at In Harmony Music Therapy Clinic located at Blakemore United Methodist Church (3601 West End Avenue, Nashville). Free and open to parents and children ages 7 and older.

FREE LEGO BUILDING FUN See Sunday, Jan. 2.

42 january 2022

See Saturday, Jan. 1.

CREATIVE ZONE: HIP HATS

DISNEY’S THE LION KING

Run! Jump! Fly! opens Saturday, Jan. 15 at Discovery Center in Murfreesboro and features playful activities that kids can do to build strength, coordination, balance and endurance.

See Saturday, Jan. 1.

LITTLE LEAPERS MURFREESBORO See Sunday, Jan. 2.

nashvilleparent.com

See Thursday, Jan. 6.

FREE DONELSON FAMILY STORY TIME See Monday, Jan. 3.

EARLY EXPLORERS See Monday, Jan. 3.

FREE GAMING MONDAY 615-862-5860 library.nashville.org

Challenge your friends to a round of healthy competition with a variety of tabletop and video games every Monday from 3 - 5 p.m. at East Branch Library (206 Gallatin Avenue, Nashville). For ages 12 - 17.

FREE MUSIC AND MOVEMENT See Monday, Jan. 3.

FREE PRESCHOOL STORY TIME See Monday, Jan. 3.

FREE WEE WIGGLERS: INFANT STORY TIME See Monday, Jan. 3.

FREE YOGA WITH NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY (ONLINE) See Monday, Jan. 3.

TUE 18 FREE STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH See Tuesday, Jan. 4.

FREE CASUAL COOKING TEEN/ ADULT MESH UP 615-862-5856

Teens and adults can come learn their way around the kitchen with Ms. Glynis and Ms. Shelly on the third Tuesday of each month from 3 - 4 p.m. at the Bordeaux Library (4000 Clarksville Pike, Nashville).

FREE WISHING CHAIR PRODUCTIONS STORY TIME See Tuesday, Jan. 4.

FREE NASHVILLE FAMILY STORY TIMES See Tuesday, Jan. 4.

FREE MURFREESBORO GAME NIGHT rclstn.org

A come-and-go, all ages family game night between 5 and 6:30 p.m. every third Tuesday. Each month they will highlight four different games to rotate through with friends and family. MGL Library is located inside Patterson Park Community Center (521 Mercury Boulevard, Murfreesboro).

LANYARD KEYCHAIN CRAFT AT WILDERNESS STATION 615-217-3017 murfreesborotn.gov

Learn how to make a square knot and create your own lanyard keychain from 3 - 4 p.m. at the Wilderness Station at Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Road, Murfreesboro). Pre-Registration required. For ages 9 and older.

NASHVILLE PREDATORS VS. VANCOUVER CANUCKS nhl.com/predators

Come see the Nashville Predators play at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville) at 7 p.m.

FREE PREPARING FOR DISASTER: EMERGENCY FOOD KITS 615-801-2606 murfreesborotn.gov

Come out to Cannonsburgh Village (312 S. Front Street, Murfreesboro) from 10 - 11 a.m. and learn why having an emergency food kit along with a communication plan is a step in the right direction to ensure everyone’s safety during a disaster. Reservations are required by January 11.

VANDERBILT COMMODORES VS. TENNESSEE VOLUNTEERS MEN’S BASKETBALL vucommodores.com/sports

See the Vanderbilt Commodores men’s basketball team take on the Tennessee Volunteers at Vanderbilt University’s Memorial Gymnasium (210 25th Avenue South, Nashville). Game starts at 8 p.m. and tickets cost $45 - $60.

Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa features seven outdoor heated pools, a pirate-themed waterpark, lake activities, mini-golf, a playground, game room and more.

Something to Do in Orlando That Isn’t Disney

G

oing to Orlando can be scary for parents who count their pennies.

There’s just so much to do, and so many things to spend money on.

I recently had the opportunity to stay at Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa in Orlando. With seven pools, a 161,000-gallon pirate-themed waterpark and a spa, this massive lakeside resort might be what you and your family are looking for.

Mainly, it gives you the option to chill out and relax while the kids splash around.

This resort makes good use of its lakeside location, with activities that include fishing, boating and kayaking (rental

DISNEY’S THE LION KING See Thursday, Jan. 6.

FREE EDGEHILL FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT See Tuesday, Jan. 4.

FREE YARN LOVE MURFREESBORO See Tuesday, Jan. 4.

fees apply). For those guests who prefer to stay on land, the property offers mini-golf, tennis, basketball, volleyball and bicycle rentals. Other kid-friendly amenities include a playground and a game room, in addition to several dining options.

Studios are the most basic option. They can fit up to four and feature kitchenettes with mini-fridges, microwaves and pullout sofas. Upgrading to a one-bedroom villa means the addition of a full refrigerator, as well as a stovetop and cooking utensils, washer/dryers and separate dining areas.

At first glance, Westgate seems a bit secluded from Orlando’s major attractions. But the resort is actually less than a 10-minute drive from the

Orange County Convention Center, Sea World, Universal Orlando, Disney World and numerous restaurants and shops, thanks to its location just off of International Drive. The hotel provides a free shuttle to most of these spots, though reservations are required.

Pro tip: If you do decide to go to Disney, Universal or Sea World and your little one wants a stuffed animal or souvenir, save your money and buy it at a local Wal-Mart, where they have a whole section selling the same stuff for a quarter of the price.

Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa packages start at $159 per night. Visit westgateresorts.com.

—Michael Aldrich

WED 19

JUMPAROO TODDLER TIME

FREE CREATION STATION AT NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY

FREE NEW BEGINNINGS HEALTH AND FITNESS CLASS FOR WOMEN

See Wednesday, Jan. 5.

FREE DYSTOPIAN MOVIES See Wednesday, Jan. 5.

FREE FAMILY YOGA STORYBOOK ADVENTURE See Wednesday, Jan. 5.

nashvilleparent.com

See Wednesday, Jan. 5.

See Wednesday, Jan. 5.

FREE STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH See Tuesday, Jan. 4.

FREE MADISON KNIGHTS

january 2022 43

THINGS TO DO FREE EDGEHILL GAME NIGHTS See Thursday, Jan. 6.

NASHVILLE PREDATORS VS. WINNIPEG JETS nhl.com/predators

Come see the Nashville Predators play at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville) at 7 p.m.

FREE BALANCED YOGA (ONLINE) See Thursday, Jan. 6.

FRI 21 FREE MADISON TODDLER TALES

townofsmyrna.org.

Learn about the great game of chess on the third Wednesday of each month from 6 - 7:30 p.m. at the Madison Library (610 Gallatin Pike S., Madison).

All ages welcome.

FREE HOMESCHOOL FRIENDS

FREE MOONLIGHT MEANDER

MARTIN ARTQUEST

615-862-8539 nashville.gov

Come out to Shelby Bottoms Nature Center (900 Shelby Bottoms Greenway, Nashville) from 7 - 8 p.m. for a guided moonlight hike and learn as to why this full moon can be referred to as the full “wolf” moon.

FREE WILD WEDNESDAY AT SOAC

Meet an animal or enjoy a naturebased activity at Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Parkway East, Smyrna) to discover something WILD about the natural world each Wednesday from 4:30 5:30 p.m.

DISNEY’S THE LION KING See Thursday, Jan. 6.

THU 20 FREE ITTY BITTY STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH See Thursday, Jan. 6.

See Thursday, Jan. 13.

See Thursday, Jan. 6.

JUMPAROO TODDLER TIME See Wednesday, Jan. 5.

FREE THROWDOWN THURSDAYS AT BORDEAUX See Thursday, Jan. 6.

FREE CAREER EXPO AT PPCC 615-893-7439 x6121 murfreesborotn.gov

Network with more than 25 hiring companies from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Patterson Park Community Center (521 Mercury Blvd., Murfreesboro). There will also be opportunities to receive coaching in interviewing skills and resume writing.

FREE READING PAWS OLD HICKORY 615-862-5869 library.nashville.org.

Join a specially trained reading dog with the nonprofit Reading Paws between 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. for a reading session at Old Hickory Branch Library (1010 Jones Street, Old Hickory).

DISNEY’S THE LION KING See Thursday, Jan. 6.

44 january 2022

Kids ages 5 - 15 can bring the Northern Lights to life onto their own canvas at the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Parkway East, Smyrna) from 6 - 8 p.m. Cost is $10.

MARIACHI DIVAS

franklintheatre.com

See two-time Grammy-winning, allfemale mariachi ensemble Mariachi Divas perform live at The Franklin Theatre (9419 Main Street, Franklin).

Tickets start at $36.50 and shows start at 8 on Jan. 22, as well as 2 and 8 p.m. on Jan. 22.

DIARY OF ANNE FRANK 615-826-6037 hpactn.com

See Saturday, Jan. 1.

TPAC ARTS ADVENTURE WORKSHOPS See Saturday, Jan. 15.

FREE ZOOVENTURES WITH THE NASHVILLE ZOO (ONLINE) brentwood-tn.libcal.com

DROP-IN KIDS ART CLASSES

KIDS PAINT NIGHT AT SOAC

615-862-5868 library.nashville.org

Get your seeds now at Shelby Bottoms Nature Center (900 Shelby Bottoms Greenway, Nashville) from 1 - 3 p.m. so you will have them on hand when the planting season arrives.

MARTIN ARTQUEST See Saturday, Jan. 1.

EARLY LEARNERS AT SOAC

615-862-8539

See Wednesday, Jan. 5.

JUMPAROO TODDLER TIME

CHESS CLUB

FREE ANNUAL NPL SEED EXCHANGE

Families are invited to join a virtual ZOOventure with the Nashville Zoo, which can be accessed anytime during the day on the Brentwood Library’s website.

See Friday, Jan. 7.

Mr. Bond’s Science Guys will create spectacular experiments with snow, lightning, tornados and explosions during a free show on Saturday, Jan. 22 at the Goodlettsville Library.

SAT 22

See Saturday, Jan. 8.

FREE EXPLORE WITH A NATURALIST See Saturday, Jan. 8.

MYSTERIES AND ILLUSIONS See Saturday, Jan. 8.

FAMILY PROGRAM: COOL CARS AND DRIVABLE DESIGNS countrymusichalloffame.org

Kids can design their own car from everyday materials at Country Music Hall of Fame (222 Rep. John Lewis Way S., Nashville) at either 11 - 11:30 a.m. or 11:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Recommended for ages 5 and older, but all are welcome. Included with museum admission; free to members.

Performed by Hendersonville Performing Arts Company (260 W Main St., #204, Hendersonville) Jan. 21 - Feb. 6, witness the memoirs of this young Jewish girl forced to hide for nearly two years to escape Nazi persecution.

Shows are Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are $18 for adults and $15 for seniors/students.

OWL’S HILL GEOCACHING DAY

DISNEY’S THE LION KING

MARIACHI DIVAS

See Thursday, Jan. 6.

See Friday, Jan. 21.

FAVORITE SON BY NASHVILLE OPERA

FREE MR. BOND SCIENCE GUYS

615-832-5242 nashvilleopera.org/favoriteson

Drawing from experiences in the composer’s own life, the poignant opera journeys through one man’s memories to find the essence of truth. Shows are Jan. 21 - 22 at 8 p.m. and Jan. 23 at 3 p.m. at The Noah Liff Opera Center (3622 Redmon Street, Nashville).

Tickets start at $30.

ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA: THE MUSICAL See Friday Jan. 14.

nashvilleparent.com

owlshill.org/geocache-day

Come to Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary (545 Beech Creek Road S., Brentwood) from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. for a modern-day treasure hunt with geocaching! Geocaches are hidden in containers that can be found using a GPS or smartphone. For ages 8 and older. Cost is $10 or $36 for a group of four.

615-862-5862

Come one, come all for this winter wonderland extravaganza at the Goodlettsville Library (205 Rivergate Pkwy., Goodlettsville). Mr. Bond’s Science Guys will create spectacular experiments with snow, lightning, tornados and explosions from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

FAVORITE SON BY NASHVILLE OPERA

See Friday, Jan. 21.

(Continued on page 46)

For All Kids - Franklin

Coming February 2022 werockthespectrumfranklintn.com

Now taking registrations for

SUMMER 2022!

May 31-June 3 4 Day Chocolate Factory

July 6-8 3 Day Too Cool For School

June 6-10 All You Knead Is Love

July 11-15 American Road Trip Party in the USA

June 13-17 Cook Like A Rock Star

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF FUN!

June 20-24 Grandma’s Southern Kitchen June 27-July 1 Test Kitchen Confidential

July 18-22 Christmas in July July 25-29 Cake My Day: Culinary Boot camp

Reserve your chef’s seat today!

Space is limited.

www.flourpowerstudios.com/register/nashville/camps 615-961-3466 330 Franklin Road, Ste. 110 A, Brentwood nashvilleparent.com

THINGS TO DO NASHVILLE PREDATORS VS. DETROIT RED WINGS

THE SUMNER COUNTY BRIDAL SHOW

FREE MAKE & TAKE MONDAY AT LINEBAUGH

See Friday, Jan. 21.

Explore wedding options in Sumner County from 12 - 4 p.m. at Epic Event Centre (392 West Main Street, Gallatin). Admission is $5.

Kids ages 3 - 12 can head to Linebaugh Library (105 West Vine Street, Murfreesboro) for a make & take craft from 3 - 4:30 p.m.

DISNEY’S THE LION KING

DIARY OF ANNE FRANK See Friday, Jan. 21.

TUE 25

SUN 23

DISNEY’S THE LION KING

FREE OPPOSITE DAY!

FREE PLAZA MARIACHI FLEA MARKET

FAVORITE SON BY NASHVILLE OPERA

Come see the Nashville Predators play at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville) at 7 p.m.

DIARY OF ANNE FRANK

See Thursday, Jan. 6.

See Sunday, Jan. 2.

FREE CLASSICAL GUITAR CONCERT: GRANT FERRIS

Nashville-based guitarist Grant Ferris will perform at the Green Hills Library (3701 Benham ., Nashville) from 2:30 - 3:30 p.m.

FREE LEGO BUILDING FUN See Sunday, Jan. 2.

LITTLE LEAPERS MURFREESBORO

615-452-4000 sumnerbridalshow.com

See Thursday, Jan. 6.

See Friday, Jan. 21.

FREE WISHING CHAIR PRODUCTIONS STORY TIME See Tuesday, Jan. 4.

FREE NASHVILLE FAMILY STORY TIMES

MON 24

See Tuesday, Jan. 4.

FREE BABIES & BOOKS See Monday, Jan. 3.

EARLY EXPLORERS See Monday, Jan. 3.

FREE GAMING MONDAY See Monday, Jan. 17.

See Sunday, Jan. 2.

FREE PRESCHOOL STORY TIME

ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA: THE MUSICAL

FREE YOGA WITH NPL (ONLINE)

See Friday Jan. 14.

615-893-4131 x114 rclstn.org

See Monday, Jan. 3.

See Monday, Jan. 3m

FREE EDGEHILL FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT

Bring saved seeds to share or stop by to pick up new varieties for your 2022 garden at Warner Park Nature Center (7311 Highway 100, Nashville) Jan. 2729 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

TODDLER ADVENTURES AT CANNONSBURGH: WINTER WALK AND SNOWFLAKE CRAFT 615-801-2606

Kids will enjoy looking for ways to stay warm in several of the log cabins, a snowflake craft and story time from 10 to 11 a.m. at Cannonsburgh Village (312 S. Front Street, Murfreesboro).

Admission is $3. Reservations are required. Ages 5 and under.

FRI 28 FREE NATIONAL LEGO DAY!

WED 26

MARTIN ARTQUEST

FREE STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH

DIARY OF ANNE FRANK

FREE DYSTOPIAN MOVIES

ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA: THE MUSICAL

See Tuesday, Jan. 4.

See Wednesday, Jan. 5.

See Wednesday, Jan. 5.

FREE NEW BEGINNINGS HEALTH AND FITNESS CLASS FOR WOMEN See Wednesday, Jan. 5.

AN EVENING WITH BRUCE DICKINSON 615-782-4040 tpac.org

See Saturday, Jan. 1.

See Friday, Jan. 21.

See Friday Jan. 14.

FREE SEED SWAP OPEN HOUSE See Thursday, Jan. 27.

FREE STARRY, STARRY NIGHT AT PROCTOR BARN 615-862-8580 beamanpark.nashville.gov

Dress warmly to view the night sky through telescopes with astronomers at the Proctor Barn at Beaman Park Nature Center (5911 Old Hickory Blvd., Ashland City) from 6 - 8 p.m.

Best known as the front man for “Iron Maiden,” Bruce Dickinson brings his evening show to the U.S. for the first time at TPAC’s Polk Theater (505 Deaderick Street, Nashville), where he treats the audience to private insights, personal anecdotes and more. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Cost is $39.50.

WHITNEY CUMMINGS

THU 27

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE ORCHESTRA WITH THE NASHVILLE SYMPHONY

EARLY LEARNERS AT SOAC See Thursday, Jan. 13.

615-782-4040 tpac.org

Los Angeles-based comedian and actor Whitney Cummings brings her stand up comedy to TPAC’s Polk Theater (505 Deaderick Street, Nashville).

Show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are $35.

615-687-6400 nashvillesymphony.org

FREE ITTY BITTY STORYTIME AT LINEBAUGH

Experience symphonic arrangements with high-definition video scenes from the new game at Schermerhorn Symphony Center (1 Symphony Place, Nashville). Show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $40.

DIARY OF ANNE FRANK

SAT 29

FREE READ WITH BISCUIT

FREE NATIONAL PUZZLE DAY!

FREE HOMESCHOOL FRIENDS See Thursday, Jan. 6.

See Thursday, Jan. 6.

See Friday, Jan. 21.

46 january 2022

615-862-8555 wpnc.nashville.gov

See Tuesday, Jan. 4.

FREE FAMILY YOGA STORYBOOK ADVENTURE

Cheekwood’s Orchids in the Mansion celebrates orchids and other tropical foliage with colorful displays throughout the mansion’s historic rooms.

FREE SEED SWAP OPEN HOUSE

See Thursday, Jan. 6.

nashvilleparent.com

ACT TOO PRESENTS: LEGALLY BLONDE franklintheatre.com

Follow the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. Performed by the youth cast of the Act Too Players at Franklin Theatre (419 Main Street, Franklin) Jan. 29 at 1 and 4 p.m., as well as Jan. 30 at 4 and 7:30 p.m.

Tickets range from $16-$27.

FREE CREATIVE WRITING CLUB brentwood-tn.libcal.com.

Kids ages 8 - 12 will get a writing journal to take home and learn how to use their five senses to help them write winter stories at Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road Brentwood) from 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

FREE EXPLORE WITH A NATURALIST See Saturday, Jan. 8.

DIARY OF ANNE FRANK

VROOM VROOM! See 12,000-pound monster trucks duke it out with high-flying stunts and fierce head-to-head battles Jan. 29 - 30 during Monster Jam at Bridgestone Arena.

FREE FAMILY MOVIE AT BRENTWOOD LIBRARY

ACT TOO PRESENTS: CATCH ME IF YOU CAN

All ages are invited to the Storytime Room at Brentwood Library (8109 Concord Road Brentwood) for a showing of family-friendly movies at 3:30 p.m.

Based on the film and true story, this show follows the adventures of a con artist performed by the youth cast of the Act Too Players at Franklin Theatre (419 Main Street, Franklin). Shows are Jan. 29 at 7:30 p.m. and Jan. 30 at 12 p.m.

Tickets range from $16 - $27.

brentwood-tn.libcal.com

FAMILY PROGRAM: BEGINNER UKULELE WORKSHOP countrymusichalloffame.org

Learn ukulele basics at Country Music Hall of Fame (222 Rep. John Lewis Way S., Nashville) at either 10:30 - 11 a.m. or 11:15 - 11: 45 a.m. Ukuleles provided or you may bring your own. Recommended for ages 7 and older, but all are welcome. Included with museum admission; free to members.

MONSTER JAM

bridgestonearena.com

Witness heated rivalries, highflying stunts and fierce head-tohead battles from 12,000-pound monster trucks, including legendary Grave Digger®, at Bridgestone Arena (501 Broadway, Nashville).

Shows are Jan. 29 at 1 and 6:30 p.m., as well as Jan. 30 at 1 p.m.

Tickets range from $20 - $90.

ORCHIDS IN THE MANSION 615-356-8000 cheekwood.org

For its fourth year at Cheekwood (1200 Forrest Park Dr., Nashville), this exhibit brings the beauty of nature into the historic mansion & museum. Event starts Jan. 29 and continues through Feb. 27, 2022 on Tuesdays - Sundays from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Cost is $25 for adults, $18 for ages 3 - 17, members get in free.

franklintheatre.com

SUN 30

FREE GAMING MONDAY See Monday, Jan. 17.

ACT TOO PRESENTS: LEGALLY BLONDE

FREE YOGA WITH NPL (ONLINE)

See Saturday, Jan. 29.

See Monday, Jan. 3.

DIARY OF ANNE FRANK

FREE DONELSON FAMILY STORY TIME

See Friday, Jan. 21.

FREE LEGO BUILDING FUN See Sunday, Jan. 2.

See Monday, Jan. 3.

FREE MUSIC AND MOVEMENT

LITTLE LEAPERS MURFREESBORO

See Monday, Jan. 3.

See Sunday, Jan. 2.

FREE WEE WIGGLERS: INFANT STORY TIME

MONSTER JAM

See Monday, Jan. 3.

See Saturday, Jan. 29.

ORCHIDS IN THE MANSION

FREE NEW YEAR’S EVE!

Come out to Parnassus Books (3900 Hillsboro Pike Suite 14, Nashville) to celebrate the launch of local author Greg Howard’s latest middle grade novel, The Visitors. Join for a presentation followed by a signing line from 6:30 - 7:45 p.m.

See Monday, Jan. 3.

See Saturday, Jan. 29.

MON 31

parnassusbooks.net

EARLY EXPLORERS

ACT TOO PRESENTS: CATCH ME IF YOU CAN

See Saturday, Jan. 29.

FREE BOOK LAUNCH WITH GREG HOWARD, AUTHOR OF THE VISITORS

FREE NINTENDO CLUB BELLEVUE 615-862-5854 library.nashville.org

Come play games on various Nintendo consoles at the Bellevue Library (720 Baugh Road, Nashville) from 4 - 5:30 p.m. From Pokemon Stadium to Legend of Zelda, there’s something for everyone. For grades 5 - 12. Located in the Program Room.

nashvilleparent.com

ON YOUR RADAR

See Friday, Jan. 21.

THE BEACH BOYS Feb. 6 Ryman Auditorium ryman.org

SCHOOL GIRLS; OR, THE AFRICAN MEAN GIRLS PLAY Feb. 10 - 20 TPAC’s Johnson Theater nashvillerep.org

ANTIQUES & GARDEN SHOW OF NASHVILLE Feb. 11 - 13 Music City Center

antiquesandgardenshow.com

PETER PAN: WENDY’S ADVENTURE TO NEVERLAND Feb. 17 - Mar. 27 Nashville Children’s Theatre

nashvillechildrenstheatre.org/peter-pan

THE PROM

February 22-27 TPAC’s Jackson Hall nashvilleopera.org

NHL STADIUM SERIES Feb. 26 Nissan Stadium

nhl.com/fans/stadium-series/2022

january 2022 47

The Party Pages

A Festive Advertising Section

PLAY INSIDE THE GAME!

Make Your Child’s Birthday

Magical!

A Little Princess

Birthday Party Entertainment A Little Princess is run by singer, songwriter, actress, and music teacher, Ellen Thweatt.

Ellen has a B.A. in Music and Vocal Performance, and has been teaching private music lessons to children for 10 years. She is passionate about bringing joy and wonderful memories to children.

Book “A Little Princess” for a magical party with your choice of princess! We provide face painting, sing-along, photo time, and even a “mini-makeover” as a requested addition for your little birthday girl.

Play the BEST VR experiences available anywhere!

TRY OUR 15 MINUTE DEMO

Book Now!

www.ALittlePrincess.info

PLAN THE BEST PARTY! Our Digital Party Guide is here to help.

NASHVILLE’S MOST EXCITING BIRTHDAYS Mallory Lane 615-538-7514 1945 Ste. 170, Franklin digitalworldsvr.com

nashvilleparent.com

25 OFF

$

YOUR NEXT PARTY Offer expires 01/31/2022

48 january 2022

nashvilleparent.com

BOOKING NOW! SCAN to book your party >

9 Years!

VOTED #1 PARTY DESTINATION

RELIX COASTER

LAZER FRENZY

LASER TAG

BUMPER CARS

ROLLER SKATING

TIME FREAK

BUNGIE JUMP TRAMPOLINE

CORPORATE PARTIES

& CIRCUS WORLD

HENDERSONVILLE

Hendersonville Strike & Spare 90 Volunteer Dr.

(Hendersonville)

BOWLING LEAGUES

OVER 40 BOWLING LANES

615-824-5685

BOGO

MURFREESBORO

BUY ONE GET ONE FREE ROLLER SKATING

Murfreesboro Strike & Spare 1720 Old Fort Pkwy

615-896-0945

SKATE RENTAL NOT INCLUDED

Visit our website

www.strikeandspare.com

Limit one discount per coupon. NOT valid on group or birthday parties. Expired coupons NOT accepted.

Original magazine print coupon valid only computer printouts and copies NOT accepted. Expires January 31, 2022.

B O O K YO U R N E X T PA R T Y T O D AY !

1/2 OFF

OF ONE WRIST BAND Limit one discount per coupon. NOT valid on group or birthday parties. Expired coupons NOT accepted.

Original magazine print coupon valid only computer printouts and copies NOT accepted.

Expires January 31, 2022.

A Kids Spa Room for Celebrating Our Little Divas

#1 ON YELP IN FRANKLIN & 5.0 RATING ON GOOGLE WITH OVER 2,000 REVIEWS!

Now Booking

Princessrties!

Pa

4916 Thoroughbred Lane, Brentwood

BESIDE THE COOL SPRINGS GALLERIA

615-730-7108 chicpetitebrentwood.com

GREAT FOR PARTIES!

Spectacular Birthday Parties QUARANTINE

The military holds secrets of a previous zombie apocalypse. Enter the quarantine and decipher its mysteries to save humanity.

MAD SCIENTIST

Something’s not right in this office.

Now the scientist Suspicion of a secret agent. Does he himself needs your work for us or someone else? The clues help. hold the answers.

THE UNITED ESCAPES OF AMERICA

for Over 25 Years!

DASH FOR CASH

l life Embark on a reaide this treasure hunt insrkshop wo ’s tor en inv e! before it’s too lat

DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO ESCAPE? www.ExtremeEscapeGames.net

615-332-5535 nashvilleparent.com

Thank you for voting us the Best Party Entertainer!

615-573-2702 MrBondScienceGuy.com january 2022 49

SUMMER CAMP PREVIEW

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING DIRECTORY

Planning for the

BEST SUMMER EVER

starts here!

BATTLE GROUND ACADEMY 336 Ernest Rice Lane, Franklin 615-567-8327 | battlegroundacademy.org/camps

Battle Ground Academy is Williamson County’s No. 1 private K - 12 school, and in the summers, it’s home to a robust camp program for children ages 4 and up. With half- and full-day options available, our on-campus programming includes more than 40 camps, ranging from art and cheerleading to coding and soccer. Students can hone their skills in an athletic camp, enjoy a breadth of activities in Cannon Ball Camp, or explore new passions in our arts and enrichment programs – or DO IT ALL by participating in multiple sessions throughout the summer.

MY GYM OF BRENTWOOD 330 Franklin Road, Brentwood 615-371-5437 | mygym.com/brentwood

Creating Moments That Matter! From first steps to handstands My Gym grows with your child.

My Gym was born out of our passion to teach children in a fun, physically engaging environment.

We delight in seeing children’s eyes light up for all those incredible milestones, from the tentative first steps to tumbling down soft mats. Sharing the parents’ excitement with their children’s accomplishments is the high point of our day.

RIVERVIEW CAMP FOR GIRLS

757 CR 614, Mentone, AL 800-882-0722 | riverviewcamp.com Voted best sleep-away camp more than six times in the Best of Parenting reader’s poll. Riverview is embraced by tall graceful pines and billowing hardwoods, nestled into a bend of Little River atop Lookout Mountain. One- and two-week sessions. Ages 6 - 16. Member of Christian Camping International and accredited by AEE and ACA. Traditional camp activities. Facilities include a heated pool, tennis courts, climbing tower, horseback riding, bathrooms and showers in all cabins. Campers select six activities daily.

5:1 camper-to-counselor ratio.

50 january 2022

nashvilleparent.com

SCHOOL OF NASHVILLE BALLET 3630 Redmon St., Nashville 615-297-2966 ext. 910 | nashvilleballet.com/snbclasses

Experience the joy of dance at School of Nashville Ballet! Our Children’s Classes help students ages 2 - 7 reach important developmental milestones while having fun. Open to ages 8 - 18, our Community Youth Classes guide students in building upon their dance education and provides flexible classes to accommodate busy schedules. So why wait? Spark a lifelong love of movement today! Enroll in our Spring semester classes now at nashvilleballet.com/snbclasses or 615-297-2966 x910.

HARVEST MARTIAL ARTS

ADVENTURE SCIENCE CENTER 800 Ft. Negley Blvd., Nashville 615-862-5160 | adventuresci.org

Opening minds to the wonders of science and technology for 75 years. Plan an adventure for the family including a show in the Sudekum Planetarium, an immersive experience of sound and music in soundBox, live science shows and more!

313 Independence Square, Franklin 615-224-3851 | harvestmartialarts.com

The Harvest Concept, formerly Harvest Martial Arts, opened in 2016, and is long known for its specialty in teaching Han Mu Do, the traditional Korean art of self defense, and is the only Han Mu Do school in the state of Tennessee. We offer classes for ages 3 through adult. We focus on optimism, balance and harmony, building mental and physical strength through movement and practices, such as martial arts, yoga, and traditional archery.

BELLEVUE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

HORTON HAVEN CHRISTIAN CAMP

7097 Old Harding Pike, Ste. J, Nashville 615-662-8553 | bellepac.com

3711 Reed Harris Road, Lewisburg 931-364-7656 | hortonhaven.org

Calling all performers! Bellevue Performing Arts Center offers dance, acting and music all under one roof! With our new triple threat class, you receive all those services in one class! Prefer one-on-one instruction? Our music teacher is holding private lessons on Monday and Tuesday after school. Just want to dance? BellePAC has a wide selection of ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, and musical theater.

If your dancer is passionate about performing through adulthood, our Performance Company is for you!

We are OPEN this summer! Overnight camps and day camps are running as scheduled. We will be operating with fewer campers and new procedures for cleaning and sanitizing. It’s time to get outside! Register on our website.

MR. BOND’S SCIENCE GUYS 615-573-2702 | mrbondscienceguy.com

BILL TAYLOR BUSHIDO SCHOOL OF KARATE

Our winter, spring and summer camps inspire a lifelong enthusiasm for science and learning, teaching creative problem-solving skills, teamwork and perseverance in an entertaining, kid-friendly setting. The camps are full- or half-day and are excellent for ages 5 - 12. Sibling discounts are available.

1911 Business Campus Drive, Murfreesboro 615-890-6755 1820 N.W. Broad St., Murfreesboro 615-893-6003

Let martial arts take your kids to new heights! Bill Taylor’s Bushido School of Karate offers programs in traditional karate for ages 3 - adult. Call now to get one month free plus a uniform.

ONE GOAL SPORTS Murfreesboro 615-896-7309 | onegoalsports.net

A non-profit, community-based sports league providing quality sports programming for families in a fun, Christian environment. Now registering for fall soccer, basketball, flag football and others.

BOOST GYMNASTICS 11 Vaughns Gap Road, Nashville 615-352-8533 | boostgymnastics.com

Offering theme-based co-ed kids camps throughout the year for ages 3 - 12. Summer, Fall Break, Holiday, and Spring Break. Outta School Spot camp is for school-age youth when school is out. Don’t see the date you need? We offer custom camps just for your needs. We need at least 10 campers to put on a custom camp for you. All of our camps have great instructors, small groups, games, crafts, swimming (ages 5 - 12), inflatable obstacle courses, field house play time, and of course great gymnastics/tumbling. Our camps are not gymnastics focused, but more of an active fun and fitness camp. Our campers have the opportunity to participate in many different activities and events.

SPARTAN SOCCER ACADEMY 615-633-5967 | spartansoccer.org

Spartan Development Academy is a skills based training league for children ages 5 - 13. The program is designed for players looking for more than recreational soccer but not ready to commit to travel soccer. Check out our sibling discount and referral program with Mini Spartans and Spartan Development Academy. Join us anytime!

Register for the fall league training today.

E.T.C. GYMNASTICS

1137 Haley Road, Murfreesboro | 615-867-6900 1932 Almaville Road, Smyrna | 615-617-7644 etcgymnastics.com

UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF NASHVILLE 2000 Edgehill Ave., Nashville 615-277-7377 | usn.org/summer

E.T.C. Gymnastics is dedicated to bringing a new standard of excellence in gymnastics through Him. We offer classes in gymnastics for boys and girls ages 2 - 18 years and all ability levels. We also offer cheerleading and tumbling, as well as competitive teams. Call and ask about our free trial class. We also do parties, field trips and parents’ nights out.

Led by faculty bringing their expertise and passion, camps offer diverse programming in sports, academics, arts and technology. Flexible morning and afternoon sessions allow either whole- or half-day experiences of fun and learning. After care until 5 p.m.

FLOUR POWER

YMCA CAMP OCOEE

330 Franklin Road, Ste. 110A, Brentwood 615-961-3466 | flourpowerstudios.com

Children love exploring creativity and the idea of learning new skills –– especially when there’s a lot of fun involved! At Flour Power, Lil’ Chefs and Twin Chels get to explore their love of food in a way that’s truly unique, fun, and memorable. Owner/camp director, Shannon Mock Miller is passionate about teaching children, and her Brentwood Flour Power Cooking studio is designed to help children find a passion for cooking as they bond and make incredible memories together at a Flour Power Summer Camp. To sign up for the Summer of 2022 visit our website or stop by our Brentwood location. Sign up in Janaury and get FREE before- and after-care.

111 YMCA Drive, Ocoee, TN 423-338-5588 | ymcacampocoee.org

Located in the mountains of Southeast Tennessee, YMCA Camp Ocoee has been providing children with wilderness adventures since 1923. One-week sessions for boys and girls ages 7 - 15. 4:1 camper to staff ratio. Strong Christian environment. Activities include horseback riding, white-water rafting, kayaking, climbing, mountain biking, camp-outs and many more.

nashvilleparent.com

january 2022 51

MARKETPLACE

MARKETPLACE

MARKETPLACE

MARKETPLACE

DRIVERS WANTED

✯✯✯ Top Tennessee Star Rating

We care for children ages 1 to 12 years.

Drop In Anytime Care Weekly Care Preschool

Birthday Parties 600A Frazer Dr., Ste. 130, Franklin 615-807-2183

KidsKingdomFranklin.com

OPENINGS 12 mos. - 51⁄2 yrs.

• Focus on Music, The Arts, Literature, Math & Science • Musical & hand drumming workshops • Great outdoor play area • Low Student/Teacher Ratio

MARKETPLACE

Sylvan Park, West End area Beautiful Victorian House

to deliver Nashville, Williamson, Sumner & Rutherford Parent (van or truck required)

PaisleyHallChildcare.com 615-269-4150

email Kevin at

distribution@daycommedia.com

GRANDMA'S

Robin’s Nest Academy for Academic Excellence

handmade baby afghans baby cocoons

Immediate openings for enrollment Dedicated qualified teachers open to apply

Call for a visit or tour today

615-431-2231

591-8717

Deadline for the Feb. 2022 issue is Jan. 17.

Ready to advertise?

Reach out to Noah Day to get started. noah@daycommedia.com 52 january 2022

MARKETPLACE RATES AND INFORMATION

in Hendersonville RATES AND SIZES

PRINT AND DELUXE ONLINE DIRECTORY LISTING PACKAGE Ad Size 1 mo.* 3 mo. 6 mo. 12 mo. $ $ $ $ Single 150 125 110 95 MARKETPLACE SPECIAL $ $ $ $ OPPORTUNITIES Double 230 190 160 150 Rates are per month. *1x ads for events only.

Ask about our...

Upgrade to a Featured listing for just $25 additional.

PRINT AD ONLY Ad Size 1 mo. $ 95 Single $ Double 175

• Online listings

3 mo. $ 85 $ 150

6 mo. 12 mo. $ $ 75 50 $ $ 125 110

Rates are per month

DIMENSIONS (width x height)

Single ad: 2.25” x 1.125”

• Social media sponsored posts • Business highlight on our enewsletter • Online and mobile ads

Double ad: 2.25” x 2.375”

If you are submitting your own ad, you must submit it as a PDF. No other file formats are accepted. We are happy to design your ad for you and provide a proof. Multiple revisions will incur additional artwork fee.

Marketplace ads are not regionalized.

PAYMENT AND CONTACT

PAYMENT: All ads must be prepaid prior to print and/or placement on website.

EMAIL: noah@daycommedia.com CALL: (615) 475-5220

TERMS AND CONDITIONS 1. Ads may be edited for length, content and language.

2. Publication of ad does not constitute endorsement by this publication.

3. Ad proofs are NOT guaranteed.

4. No Marketplace ads accepted for products or services offered for more than $50.

5. No refunds will be made after payment has been processed.

6. This publication reserves the right to refuse any ad at any time.

nashvilleparent.com

CARING FOR YOU DURING YOUR PREGNANCY

journey

Colleen Q. Bratsch, D.O.

Lauren J. Christman, D.O.

Jason Pollock, M.D.

April L. Whitfield, M.D.

Brad S. Chesney, M.D.

Yolando McGriff-Chatman, M.D.

Gregory M. Taylor, M.D.

Kelly G. Williams, M.D.

GYN Care Only

This is one of the most important times of your life. From pregnancy, through delivery, and during your post childbirth recovery, our trusted providers are here to provide personalized care. Let us help navigate your pregnancy journey. Your health is our mission.

MMC Obstetrics and Gynecology is proud to be the first Recognized NCQA Patient-Centered Specialty Practice (PCSP) in the entire state of Tennessee.

mmclinic.com

|

615-867-8030

|

1272 Garrison Drive, Murfreesboro, TN 37129

the

academy

So Much More

Than Just Child Care.

Come see The Academy for yourself!

Come see why parents have voted us Best of Parent Magazine for 15 years in a row!

2008

2014

2015

2009

2016

2010

2017

2011

2018

2012

2019

2013

2020

2021

Many Convenient Locations in Middle Tennessee Check out our website! Take a tour and bring this in for a FREE week!

www.academychilddevelopment.com/special

New Year!

New Smile!

Call today to schedule an Orthodontic evaluation!

Children & Adults!!

TISTRY IC DEN OW R T IA D R PE RS IN A 23 YEA

FINALIST IN ORTHODONTICS

24 YEAR WINNER

27

The

Daily News Journal

th Annual

2021

BEST PEDIATRI C DENTIST WINNE R

2021 Awards The Official Community

Choice Awards

FINALIST IN ORTHODONTICS FINALIST IN ORTHODONTIC S

Call Wild About Smiles to schedule your appointment

Murfreesboro 615-890-0885

wildaboutsmiles4kids.com

Tullahoma 931-841-3113

REGISTER TODAY! Creature Features MLK DAY CAMP Monday, January 17 Science of Candy PRESIDENTS DAY CAMP Monday, February 21 Scan to Register Today!

Blast Off! SPRING BREAK CAMP March 14 - 18 Adventure begins at AdventureSci.org