nashvilleparent.com December 2014
Introducing: Summer Camps 2015
Where Every Family Matters. A PUPPY FOR CHRISTMAS?! (tips and more in our online exclusive)
TOP TOYS, SANTA SIGHTINGS, HOLIDAY CRAFTS, LIGHTS GALORE & MORE!
THE YEAR’S BEST CHILDREN’S BOOKS
Bad cough. Sore throat. Thursday night.
Bring it. When you need a pediatrician and your pediatrician’s office is closed, bring your child to Vanderbilt Children’s After-Hours Clinics. A board-certified Vanderbilt pediatrician is on site nights and weekends, treating everything from flu and fevers to rashes and beans in ears. No appointment necessary — just walk right in. We’ll even send your child’s pediatrician a same-day report about your visit. For more information, visit VanderbiltChildrensAfterHours.com.
Vanderbilt Children’s After-Hours Clinics Open nights and weekends in Spring Hill, Mt. Juliet and Hendersonville No referral necessary, but please call your pediatrician first.
www.snodgrassking.com
DID YOU
KNOW?
Has your baby started to tee t
he?
Now is the tim e to make their fir st dental appoin tment!
Giving your child...
on! e r u t u f IR E H T d il A SmilE to bu Schedule Your Appointment Today!
Voted Best Orthodontist by Nashville and Williamson Parent Readers! COOL SPRINGS: 771-1111
125 Cool Springs Blvd., Ste 140
MT. JULIET: 754-4444
5000 Crossings Circle, Ste 301
HERMITAGE: 885-3525
4761 Andrew Jackson Pkwy.
MURFREESBORO: 225-0700
1747 Medical Center Pkwy., Ste 300
SPRING HILL: 302-4200 5073 Main St., Ste 240
Introducing the new Children’s Hospital at TriStar Centennial. Bigger isn’t always better. Fast and friendly can be better. That’s our approach at the new Children’s Hospital at TriStar Centennial. The wait times in our ER are short, with pediatric care available 24/7. Our highly experienced pediatric specialists put healing as their top priority. And our care is personal, delivered with a smile and in close coordination with your child’s pediatrician. We’re not the biggest in town, but for many children and their parents, that’s what makes us a better choice.
2014 EDITION - BRAND NEW SCENES!
The Magic of Christmas Comes to Life Now – January 3, 2015
Make it a Christmas to remember at Gaylord Opryland® Resort, where more than 2 million lights along with acres of stunning décor create a holiday atmosphere like no other. Delight in fine dining, eclectic shopping and festive entertainment including ICE! - 2 million pounds of colorful, hand-carved ice slides and sculptures featuring ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. And, don’t miss our NEW Arctic Plunge Snow Tubing and outdoor ice skating attractions! It’s a holiday celebration you’ll never forget.
Book your holiday getaway today! ChristmasAtGaylordOpryland.com | (888) 677-9872
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November 28 – December 31
Savor the sights and sounds of the season at Cheekwood and make lasting holiday memories with fun activities for all ages. The holidays are truly the most wonderful time of the year to visit Cheekwood! presented by:
live reindeer every day!
20-foot poinsettia tree!
Professionally decorated trees in the mansion including a stunning live tree made from over 500 individual poinsettias.
Two of Santa’s trusted companions will be visiting from the North Pole,
Tuesday – Sunday 9am – 5pm!
Holiday Weekends Saturday & Sunday 9:30 am – 2 pm | Through December 21
portraits with santa*
cookie decorating
holiday ‘ART’ivities
museum concerts 2:00 - 3:30 pm
*additional fees apply
Volume 22, No. 5
december
Features
33 EDITORS’ PICKS: TOP TOYS Find our favorite toys in ages 0 - 2, 3 - 5 and 6 & older.
42 SPECIALTY TOY SHOPS Find many of our Top Toys and learn the scoop for what’s hot this Xmas.
44 BEST CHILDREN’S BOOKS OF THE YEAR Great books make enthusiastic readers. What’cha waiting for?!
49 HOLIDAY CRAFTS Have fun with the kids by doing crafts together this month.
63
Things to Do • • • • • • • •
DAILY ACTIVITIES CHRISTMAS PARADES MALL SANTAS HOLIDAY LIGHT DISPLAYS ON STAGES ONGOING ACTIVITIES PARENT PLANNER CHADDERBOX
december 2014 7
december In Each Issue
10 Editor’s Note
No, I am NOT Santa!
13 nashvilleparent.com
Online exclusives, giveaways and more.
Local News
E S TA B L I S H E D I N 1 9 9 3
23
nashvilleparent.com
Holiday cards through the Friends of Children’s Hospital’s 2014 Holiday Project, Miracle on Broadway benefit concert, holiday classics on the big screen, plan for our annual Summer Camp Adventure Fair, ways to share the holidays with soldiers and more.
14
Editor-in-Chief
Susan Swindell Day, ext. 110 susan@daycommedia.com EDITORIAL
Feed Back
Managing Editor/ Entertainment Editor
Letters to the editor, posts and Favorite Doc nominations.
Chad Young, ext. 115 chad@daycommedia.com
17
Associate Editor
Kiera Ashford, ext. 114 kiera@daycommedia.com
Parent Talk
Art Direction
Why parents don’t wake napping babies and weighing in on buying extras for your child.
Ashford, Day & Young PRODUCTION
20
Production Director
Tim Henard, ext. 120 timhenard@daycommedia.com
Kids’ Health
Webmaster
Tips to winning the cold wars.
Diana Carpenter
94
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Snaps
Account Managers
Local kid pics and more.
Teresa Birdsong, Brittany Brandon, Amy Carter, Larry Prescott, Kristy Ripmaster, Loni Wilhelms
Marketplace
DIRECTORIES See our local parent resources online! Just click on “Directories” on the homepage of nashvilleparent.com.
Make a snowman out of an old fence post — see page 49.
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Stewart Day, ext. 130 stewart@daycommedia.com
Holiday Shopping Camps, Summer Programs & After-School Activity Guide The Party Pages Private School Open Houses Marketplace
Nashville Parent — nashvilleparent.com — understands that parents need to be up to date in order to navigate the most meaningful part of their lives — their children. We surround moms and dads with easy how-to’s and friendly support. We offer candid advice and fresh ideas, connecting parents together so they can share real-world lessons and inspiring stories. We aim to inspire involved parenting, connected to community, because we want all children to be safe, loved, healthy and supported. © 2014 Day Communications, Inc.
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Kenedy Egan, ext. 100 kenedy@daycommedia.com Tom Guardino, ext. 104 distribution@daycommedia.com NASHVILLE/RUTHERFORD/SUMNER/WILLIAMSON PARENT are published monthly by Day Communications, Inc. Offices are located at 2270 Rosa L. Parks Blvd., Nashville, TN 37228. Phone number: 256-2158; Fax: 2562114. E-mail to: npinfo@daycommedia.com. Although every precaution has been taken to ensure accuracy of published material, 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 © 2014 by Day Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Subscriptions are $36 a year. Editorial submissions welcome.
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Q&A
TWELVE YEARS IN A ROW!!! Nashville Parent
Tooth Talk David J. Snodgrass Pediatric Dentist
a paid advertisement
✽ Pediatric dentistry ✽ Free video arcade ✽ Kid-friendly atmosphere ✽ Nitrous oxide sedation ✽ TV’s above every dental chair ✽ Comprehensive braces ✽ Most insurances accepted ✽ Emergencies accepted ✽ Interceptive orthodontics ✽ Adult services available
Q:
A:
COOL SPRINGS: 771-1111 HERMITAGE: 885-3525
4761 Andrew Jackson Pkwy.
MT. JULIET: 754-4444
5000 Crossings Circle, Ste 301
MURFREESBORO: 225-0700 SPRING HILL: 302-4200
5073 Main St., Ste 240
ing.com k s s a r g snod chomp@ your
to get ered! w s n a ns questio
Miriam Habeeb Orthodontist
My daughter is about to turn 1 & she has an upper lift frenulum. I asked her pediatrician about it when I noticed her two front teeth coming in with a gap and she said it is not anything for me to be worried about, but that it might cause orthodontic problems later. I did a little research on this yesterday and heard it could be clipped while they are still young, but that it is considered a surgery and that it might have to be done by a pediatric dentist or an otolaryngology. Can you give me any info?
125 Cool Springs Blvd., Ste 140
1747 Medical Center Pkwy., Ste 300
John T. King Pediatric Dentist
Q: A:
It’s normal for children to have frenums that attach over the ridge as an infant. As the children age and the alveolar ridge forms, the attachment tends to recede down the ridge in most cases. It’s mainly a cosmetic problem. But, it can also make it difficult for parents, or the child, to lift the lip up when brushing properly, causing trauma, pain, and bleeding. The problems occur when the frenum is thick and doesn’t recede down the ridge as the infants teeth erupt. We do maxillary frenectomies on children when they’re around five, sooner in some cases, and when they’re not properly diagnosed, on children after the gap between their two front permanent teeth has been closed orthodontically, usually around 12-13 yr. of age. My recommendation would be to not be concerned about it now. It’s time to see a pediatric dentist and let them make the decision as when, how, etc. to treat your child.
Is sedation dentistry dangerous for children? Putting your child in your car and driving them to school has a certain element of danger. Mild sedation dentistry practiced by qualified dental specialists makes the dental experience for children much less traumatic and much more enjoyable. We often sedate children for difficult dental procedures. Our goal is to make dentistry as pleasurable an experience as possible for every child and every parent.
www.snodgrassking.com
editor’s note
I am NOT Santa!
O
ver the Christmases with my family, the subject of Santa always comes up. My kids have ALL tried to “snag” me at one point or another; goad me into admitting what they’re afraid to believe: that Santa, in fact, is not real. And that I am Santa. I repeatedly and whole heartedly confirm for them and for all who have ears that I AM NOT, IN FACT, SANTA. Some of you may say I am lying to my children, but do I LOOK like Santa? Do I have a red suit on, a white beard and a jolly round stomach? Well, by the end of this month perhaps ... ahem. During this wonderful time of year, magic and marvel are in order, and children can benefit by our willingness to extend our faith into the realm of true believers. “But Santa’s everywhere!” they argue, seeking explanation. And it’s true. He’s at every mall, he’s practically on every corner. He is skinny and tall, he is short and round, he is wearing a head covering hopelessly askew so you can see the black hair poking out from behind the fake white wig. All of these Santas are helpers, I say, the ones willing to
10 december 2014
do the work to get the messages where they need to go. Is that a lie? I don’t think so, but facing persistent, suspicious children’s a tough sale. A Facebook friend shared a post about the Santa question that I like a lot. I’ll share a bit of that post from thewhoot.com.au with you here: “Santa is lots and lots of people who keep the spirit of Christmas alive. Santa is the the magic and love and spirit of giving to others. What he does is teach children to believe in something they can’t see or touch. Throughout your life you will need this capacity to believe: in yourself, in your family, in your friends and in God. You’ll need to be able to believe in things you can’t measure or hold in your hands.” Yes! So now the secret for how Santa gets down all of those chimneys on Christmas Eve is no secret at all: He has help from all of the people whose hearts he has filled with joy. Mommies and Daddies help Santa do the job that would otherwise be impossible. So when your child is old enough to ask you if you’re Santa, don’t tell him the lie that “YES, I AM.” Tell him that Santa is love and magic and hope and happiness and that there are a gazillion believers on his team — including you. And THAT, as they say, should be THAT. Merry Christmas!
new location
maryland farms 2014 2013 Come check out our newest location in Maryland Farms!
203 Powell Place
Brentwood, TN 37027
(615) 512-6888 now pre-enrolling Spaces are limited!
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What if we could give Tennessee babies the best possible start in life? We can.
There may be nothing a new mother can do for her baby that is more healthful or critical to early development than breastfeeding. If you know a new or expecting mother, there’s nothing like a solid circle of support by family, friends, and health professionals to encourage breastfeeding. So get on board. Visit www.healthytennesseebabies.com. New mothers can find support and encouragement by calling the Tennessee Breastfeeding Hotline at 855-423-6667 (855-4BFMOMS).
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Every Wednesday each week we GIVE AWAY a great prize on our Facebook page! Keep checking our Facebook page at facebook.com/nashvilleparentmag. At a random time, we’ll ask in a post, “What day is it?” Those who post correctly: “It’s Nashville Parent WINSday!” (exactly like that), within one hour of our post, will have their names entered into our random drawing for the prize. Double your chance of winning by clicking “LIKE” and “SHARE” on the post. All prizes must be picked up at our office, and you must be a Middle Tennessee resident in order to win. To be eligible to win simply “Like” our Facebook page! You can only win once every 60 days, and the answer you post MUST be exact!
SCORE TICKETS TO MARVEL UNIVERSE LIVE!
T
he first-ever live touring Marvel event, Marvel Universe Live!, takes over Nashville Dec. 12 - 14 at Bridgestone Arena. It’s the largest assembly of Marvel superheroes and villains in one show with movie quality stunts and special effects as well as the use of state-of-the-art technology for projection mapping and flying.
FUN FACT: It takes more computer power to run the show’s projections than to power a space shuttle! Learn more about the show at marveluniverselive.com. Tickets cost $20 - $145. Get them at ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000. We’re giving away a family four-pack of tickets to see Marvel Universe Live! To enter, visit nashvilleparent.com and click on the “Freebies & Contests” tab. One entry per family, please. Deadline to enter is Sunday, Dec. 7. The winner will be contacted on Monday, Dec. 8.
December’s Online Exclusives Head to our website for additional content this month, including: Marvel Universe Live! Character Interview: Get to know Nashville native Chelsea Hough, who plays Storm. A Puppy for Christmas? Experts say don’t but lots of families do. Here’s what to know. Nutcracker Preview: Read our interview with Rhea Zaverchand (“Clara”) of Nashville Ballet’s Nutcracker. Rudolph Preview: We caught up with the star of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Mom & Dad Gifting When the kids ask you what you want ...
december 2014 13
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Common Core Awareness
of the Month: Hiding the Keys
Dear Editor, I recently picked up the November 2014 edition of Rutherford Parent. I am a “new” parent in area still adjusting to the environment. Thank you for the “Editor’s Note” on Common Core. Recently, teachers have been given federal funds for a program coined “Race to the Top.” A critical component of the educational “reform” is the introduction of new math and matrix frequency counts testing ... based on precision training described by Ogden Lindley ... Are you aware of this? More attention of our concerns, with rapid changes in the educational system, without any form of consultation ... with the “on-watch” parents ... needs to be addressed to Gov. Bill Haslam. Thanks again for the “Editor’s Note.” Keep talking. Thank you for bridging the “gaps” once again. BG
THE POST: Your keys are missing. Your toddler is snickering. You’re in no mood for a little joke, and it’s time to leave. How would you handle this situation? “Remember that ‘hurry up’ doesn’t help anything, neither does yelling. Know that your time with them wanting to make you laugh or have much to do with you is short. Treasure it, play along and then he’ll get you the keys.” Samantha Downing “Depends on the age of the toddler, but I’m one for showing and teaching not only sympathy but empathy. So, that would mean I would get his three favorite toys and talk to him about how it would make him feel if I hid them from him. Then, I would ask him to go get the keys by the count of three or his toys would go bye-bye for a long time.” Tobi Pruett
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14 december 2014
FAVORITE DOC NOMINATIONS! (If you have an outstanding doctor, nominate him at nashvilleparent.com/favoritedocs) Steve Goudy, M.D. Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital ENT Nashville childrenshospital. vanderbilt.org He has been an exceptional doctor for my daughter who has had to have multiple surgeries a year since she was 2. He has made her feel comfortable with her surgeries and her condition.
Amanda Stephens
Ronald A. Nelson, M.D. Stones River Dermatology Murfreesboro stonesriverdermatology.com
Our son has had eczema since he was 3 months old. We went to many doctors for this issue. Our family used to have restless nights as our baby couldn’t sleep all the night through because he was scratching and crying. Dr. Nelson understood our problem, checked my 2-year-old son thoroughly and prescribed medicine. Now, his eczema is in control. It doesn’t mean much to others, but we know the pain we’ve gone through for two years. Dr. Nelson is a caring person. Whenever we go to him, he listens to all of our problems and questions with a lot of patience and asks if we have any more queries. We are happy to have him here in Murfreesboro. Revathi
Don Brothers, M.D. Heritage Medical Associates, Nashville heritagemedical.com
Dr. Brothers is an allergist who deeply cares about providing his patients with the treatment that’s right for them. He spends time with his patients. He always shows that you, the patient, is his top priority. When he’s in the room with you, he isn’t typing on a computer and shaking his head while seeming to only be half listening. He’s making eye contact with you and asking you about how you’ve been feeling. He listens without being distracted. He’s always kind and upbeat. He loves what he does, and it’s truly rewarding to be his patient. Bethany Johnson
William H. Polk, M.D. The Surgical Clinic Nashville tsclinic.com
My husband was seriously sick four years ago and was in hospital for almost 10 months. Dr. Polk was his doctor and took very great care of him and never gave up on him. He operated on my husband at least nine
times and my husband is alive because of him. He has the best skills or will look until he finds the answer. We owe Dr. Polk our lives for this. Tamara Estes
Lavenia B. Carpenter, M.D. Vanderbilt Center for Women’s Health Franklin vanderbilthealth.com
Dr. Carpenter worked closely with me during my pregnancy to avoid any complications from my Type 2 diabetes. She was very attentive and reassuring throughout my pregnancy. I gave birth to a beautiful and very healthy boy in January. Jennifer Tate
Richelle Dyette Day, D.P.M. Nashville Family Foot Care, Nashville nashvillefamilyfootcare.com/
Dr. Day is a very knowledgeable and caring physician. She spends the time to make connections with her patients. The care and treatment of each patient is important to her! Andrea Hittle
GO ONLINE TODAY TO SEE MORE FAVORITE DOCS OR TO NOMINATE ONE.
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Opening Soon - Powell Place
203 Powell Place, Brentwood TN 37027
(615) 512-6888
www.academychilddevelopment.com december 2014 15
Timothy E. McNutt Sr., D.D.S.
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Dentistry for young people & those with special needs
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Waking Baby from Naps. The “experts” say to never wake a sleeping baby, but what about those all-day-long naps? Do you ever feel the need to wake your baby from a nap to make sure there will be some sleep time left for the night?
Limit daytime naps.
Limit daytime naps.
Limit daytime naps.
Limit daytime naps.
No long napping in the daytime ... unless you don’t mind being up all night. Three-hour limit on all daytime naps.
I do find that my child has a hard time going to sleep at night if I let the nap go too late into the afternoon. So, yes, I do wake him up if I feel like it’s been long enough. I aim to get at least two hours before I do so. That said, I have to wake up my son just about every school day from his nap to go get my daughter, but I try to have him down early enough so he can nap for two to twoand-a-half hours. That’s usually enough to keep the crankiness away.
We never wake a sleeping child. We make sure they don’t go down for naps too late, but if they do, we let them sleep. That’s when they do all their growing. If you were tired and tried to nap, you wouldn’t want someone to wake you from a deep sleep.
YES! If I let mine take a nap when she wanted to she’d go down at 4 p.m. and sleep until 7 p.m.! Instead, I wake the sleeping dragon around 5 p.m. and deal with the fall out.
Sherrie Goddard-Hammond
Limit daytime naps. Yes, yes and yes! I felt like that with both my boys, and I did wake mine a few times out of respect for myself and the fear of being awake all night with awake babies! It sometimes can happen. Anna Lindsay Sellers
Limit daytime naps. We spent too long sleep training to wake our little guy up when he’s napping. Nicole Smith
Katie Long
Dawn Garmon
Limit daytime naps. My baby has seizures and, yeah, I do wake her up to feed her. If she has one, she will sleep all day, but sometimes she wakes on her own. Cynthia Yates
Lisa Fite
Limit daytime naps. I don’t remember waking my babies, but my 2-year-old will sleep all day if I let him! I definitely wake him up from nap time! Lisa Shrull Richardson
(please turn the page for more “Parent Talk”)
17
parent talk
A Little Something Extra? How often do you buy your child something special at the store? Maybe a piece of candy or a $1 toy. Is there any reason for it? It’s a random thing. Every now and then. Sometimes, because she is good and sometimes because I want to. Jackie Losee
If they’ve got their own money, they can spend it. We’ve had to limit it because my 6-year-old would ask for something every time we went shopping. We finally put her on a chore system where she can earn money around the house. If we go shopping and she wants a toy, she needs to bring her money. No money, no toy. That’s not to say that we don’t allow for exceptions from time to time, but that’s the general rule. It’s helped her learn that money just doesn’t come out of nowhere to pay for these things she wants. Katie Long
That’s what special occasions and grandparents are for! Mine get the free cookie if they are good, otherwise, no. They have birthdays and Christmas and two sets of grandparents. They don’t need to think they can always have what they want if they’re good or want something. In life you have to work for what you want and know every time you go to the store it’s not for them. Katie Jackson
No, that’s what he gets his own money for. We don’t. He gets three gifts at Christmas and one for his birthday. He has to use his money for anything extra and to buy gifts for other family members and his friends. Lisa R. Brown
Have extra money ... buy something.
Do your chores, get a reward.
Oh, wow ... I can’t believe that some of y’all only get them toys for birthdays and Christmas. My kids are grown but if I had the extra money I got them something. It wasn’t often I had extra money since I was a single parent, but I was happy when I was able to tell them yes.
I’m a total sucker for both of my children, 15 and almost 4! They get little things rather frequently at the store. With that said, there are behaviors and chores done at home to keep these little tokens coming. I like little gifts of affection and so do they.
Pamela Lynch
Every time!
I only have one child at home so she’s with me all the time, and almost every time we go to the store I buy her something, unless she’s been acting up. Other than that, I see no reason not to. Conina Johnson
Christy Bullington
Loving on them isn’t bad ... right? Not every time, but a lot because they’re special, they’re only little once and it’s never much — the smile is priceless. Now I’m not paying more than $1 on something, but there are so many kids that never feel special, that are neglected and abused. Loving on my kids a little isn’t bad. Bexley Bumgardner
18 december 2014
NAEYC has developed 10 standards for high-quality early childhood education. Programs that meet these standards provide a safe and healthy environment for children, have teachers who are well-trained, have access to excellent teaching materials, and work with curriculum that is appropriately challenging and developmentally sound.
“I think one of the greatest advances to child care was the creation of the NAEYC Accreditation system, which has helped so much to raise the quality of programs.”
ZeDIA creative
The NAEYC Accreditation torch is a sign that your child will be safe, healthy, and learning each day.
T. Berry Brazelton, M.D. The Brazelton Institute Children’s Hospital Boston, Harvard Medical School
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december 2014 19
kids’ health Hats, extra sleep and clean hands need to be in your child’s arsenal so he can fight off the more than 200 viruses found in winter. By Susan Swindell Day
cold wars
K
ids running around in cold weather without a hat, or worse, going outside in the cold with a wet head. You know what they say: ‘Tis the season, only, there are some battles you should fight and win when it comes to your child’s good health.
Put a Lid On It It’s hard to monitor your child’s every move during cold season — you certainly don’t want your kids to catch a chill — so how important is it that you insist on a hat? “The actual act of going outside (with a wet head, for instance, or without a hat on) does not cause you to get a cold,” says Sara Patterson, M.D., of Goodlettsville Pediatrics, “only viruses can cause you to have a cold and feel sick.” But Patterson says hats are often the key to wellness. “There have been studies done in colder countries — in particular, Denmark — where they tested people’s immune systems (your ability to fight off infection),” says Patterson. “If a person was wearing a hat and his body temperature was warm, he could fight off the infection two times better than if a person did not have a hat on; his body was having to work hard to keep warm, not fight off infection!” It’s best, Patterson says, to top your child’s head with a hat on cold days since most of his body heat will be lost through his head.
Why Sleeping in is OK Adults know all too well that sleep is what’s needed when THEY get depleted. Often, children don’t know they’re tired and whine to stay up. Don’t let them if they’re a bit run down, says Patterson. “Just like you need to charge your phone, your iPad and your laptop, your body also needs to be recharged,” she says. “Sleep is the best way to do this as you need to rest not just your body but also your brain! It’s important to get at least 8 - 10 hours of sleep when you are not feeling well — especially children!” But lots of kids will fight you on this, claiming it’s enough to lie around on the sofa while watching TV, right?
“When a child’s immune system is fighting off a virus it is helpful for the body to rest,” says Susan Langone, M.D., of Nurture Pediatric Group in Smyrna. “It isn’t necessary to sleep, but it is important to avoid physical activity so the body can heal during the day. She should still maintain a regular bed time schedule and not stay up late while sick.”
Avoid Cold Germs At home or in public places, kids may see dirty tissues strewn about, abandoned halfdrunken water bottles, etc. There are also plenty of contagious kids walking school halls on any given day. What to do? “There are more than 200 viruses that can give you a cold during the winter and there are different times when they can survive on surfaces — some up to several hours,” says Patterson. Teach your kids to throw away their used tissues and not to use others’ water bottles. Also, at home, clean things that are often touched like keyboards, pens, desks, doorknobs, etc., especially if someone has an active cold with coughing and sneezing.
Wash Often & Thoroughly The main times to have kids wash is after using the bathroom and before meals. “They should always wash their hands before or after using the rest room,” says Langone. “When a child has a cold, it becomes even more important for them to wash their hands after blowing their nose so the virus doesn’t spread as they touch things,” she adds.
Build up Immunity • Get your kids vaccinated every year for both H1N1 and the seasonal flu. You can get the H1N1 shot at retail clinics in chains like Kroger and CVS for $10 - $20; the seasonal vaccine is in shorter supply, so call your doctor’s office and ask if any is available. • Make sure kids get enough rest, stay well hydrated and exercise moderately, all of which can help strengthen the immune system. • Teach kids to wash their hands frequently and thoroughly. Source: Vanderbilt University
20
Located in Franklin, TN Children’s and Adolescent Dentistry of Franklin offers specialized pediatric dental care to children of all ages, adolescents, and young adults in a fun and comfortable environment.
We welcome you and your child to our office with open arms. Come by today to take a tour of our new office!
AFFORDABLE MONTESSORI AND REGGIO EMILIA INSPIRED SCHOOL CALL TODAY AND TAKE A TOUR FOR MORE EXCITEMENT!
MANDARIN AND ENGLISH BILINGUAL PROGRAM
About Dr. Cheri I earned my dental degree from Harvard University School of Dental Medicine, and I am a board certified pediatric dentist by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. While I was in dental school, I developed my passion for children’s and adolescent dentistry. During dental school, I participated in many community service programs dedicated to supporting children’s education and dental health and seeing the kids’ smiling faces was all it took for me to realize I wanted to become a pediatric dental specialist. I look forward to helping children and teens in our community and surrounding areas feel good about their smiles. We hope the families of Williamson County will be excited to call Children’s and Adolescent Dentistry of Franklin their new pediatric dentist office!
New Enrollment Special
4 Weeks Free! Call for Details! FOR 2 - 5 YEARS 100 Westwind Court, Franklin, TN 37064 (615) 791-5710 | thesunshineacademy.com
Season’s Greetings! 3000 Stansberry Lane, Suite 105 Franklin, TN 37069 - 615.497.8626 www.drcheripediatricdentistry.com
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Does Your Child Struggle with Reading or Writing? • Does it take your child hours to do 30 minutes of homework? • Has it been suggested your child may have AD(H)D? • Does your child get headaches while reading? • Does your child complain of double vision or skip words while reading? • Are test scores or grades falling? FREE Informational Workshop - Dec. 10th at 6:30pm
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DR. RYAN CREGGER, D.D.S., M.S. 615.377.3080 BrentwoodPediatricDentistry.com 95 Seaboard Ln. Suite 102 Brentwood, TN 37027 See the video on our website about lasers for kids.
Parents Welcome Back in Treatment Areas!
22 december 2014
Laser Dentistry • Digital X-Rays • Conservative Treatment Plans
local news Holiday Greetings Support Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital
B
ring child-like awe to your holiday greetings this year by purchasing cards and other festive gifts through the Friends of Children’s Hospital’s 2014 Holiday Project. The fundraiser for Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt features cards, tags, wrapping paper and cookie tins, all boasting original artwork designed by patients at the hospital. Basic card sets with pre-printed interior greetings are $18 per 20 cards/envelopes. For an additional fee, you can have a personal greeting and signature added. Gifts that include children’s artwork include Willas Shortbread cookie tins ($15 - $25) and bags of Bongo Java coffee for $10. New this year is a Smiling Snowman ornament for $12. Wrapping paper is $5, and gift tags are $8. All online orders must be placed by Wednesday, Dec. 17. You can also purchase cards at local retailers, including The Friends Shop at Children’s Hospital (Nashville), Monkees (Green Hills), Learning Express (Franklin), Phillips Toy Mart (Belle Meade), The Willow Tree (Nashville), Hot Pink (Brentwood) and Shoppes on Main (Franklin). Call 3228660 or visit childrenshospital.vanderbilt. org/holidayproject.
This “Winter Children Card” designed by 16-year-old Erin McKee features the inside greeting: May your holidays be merry and bright!
23
w iamsо news A Miracle on Broadway
B
ig stars take the stage at Bridgestone Arena on Saturday, Dec. 20 help raise money for local charities while entertaining families. Grammy winner Kelly Clarkson hosts “Miracle on Broadway,” with a star-studded lineup including Garth Brooks, Reba McEntire, Trisha Yearwood, Chip Esten, Kacey Musgraves and others. Proceeds from the evening will benefit Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Second Harvest Food Bank, Monroe Harding Children’s Home and Thistle Farms. “I love my adopted hometown of Nashville with all of my heart, and I am so honored to be able to give back to the community alongside some of my favorite artists and friends,” Clarkson says. The concert is at 7:30 p.m., and tickets are $29.75 - $49.75. Get seats at 770-2000 or bridgestonearena.com.
Holiday Classics on Big Screens
Marvel at the young Natalie Wood as she plays Maureen O’Hara’s Santa-doubting daughter in the 1939 classic film, Miracle on 34th Street, one of the numerous holiday films showing on the large screen at the Franklin Theatre this month. For the full line-up of film events, go to franklintheatre.com and click on “calendar.”
Free Frist Admission Child admission at the Frist Center is always free, and adult tickets are $10, but you can get in for free on Mondays this month by bringing nonperishable food items to donate to Second Harvest. Items most needed are peanut butter, canned pasta, cereal, chicken/ tuna, and canned fruit/veggies. Monday hours at the Frist are 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Call 2443340 or visit fristcenter.org.
24 december 2014
Hometown Pet Now Open at Two Williamson Locations Two Williamson County locations for Hometown Pet are now open — in Franklin at 1203 Murfreesboro Road (790-5038) and in Fairview at 7036 City Center Way (799-0042). Hometown Pet offers grooming, vet services, adoption services and inventory for dogs, cats, birds, small animals, fish, poultry and horses. The new stores will also offer regular events in partnership with local shelters and organizations in support of pet rescue. Learn more at hometownpet.com.
Parks and Rec Offers New Digital Newsletter Now you can find info on Williamson County classes, activities and more through Williamson County Parks and Rec’s new digital newsletter. Everything’s organized by rec center location so you can find what you’re looking for fast. Find athletics, aquatics, classes, programs, activities and more. Just go to wcparksandrec. com and click on the newsletter!
Holiday Pooch Portraits Relatively unknown actor Reginald Owen plays Scrooge, and Ann Rutherford is the Spirit of Christmas Past in the 1938 classic film version of A Christmas Carol. Fathom Entertainment double bills this film along with Christmas in Connecticut (1945) for two showings only at the Regal Green Hills Stadium 16 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on December 7.
Leila Grossman of Grannis Photography is once again shooting pet portraits with Santa for the holidays. The Farm at Natchez Trace (9479 Hwy. 96 W. in Franklin) hosts the event on Saturday, Dec. 2 and Sunday, Dec. 3 with packages starting at $60. Sign up by calling 662-6628.
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ADHD • Learning Disabilities • Asperger’s • Social Issues • Behavioral Issues • Processing Disorder
ADHD • Learning Disabilities • Asperger’s • Social Issues • Behavioral Issues • Processing Disorder
Learning Disabilities • Asperger’s • Social Issues • Behavioral Issues • Processing Disorder
Learning Disabilities • Asperger’s • Social Issues • Behavioral Issues • Processing Disorder
Ask the Expert... Q: A:
Q: rooinek ravis istCMe Dr.ectT dic or of Hospital Dir
iatrics
Capstone Ped
A:
What are your primary responsibilities as the Director of Hospitalist Medicine for Capstone Pediatrics? I provide individualized, specialized care for acutely and chronically ill patients during their hospital stays and care for newborn babies during their first few days of life. I also oversee our team of hospitalists and nurse practitioners to ensure our patients receive the highest quality of care. You’re proficient in Spanish. How has being multilingual enabled you to better serve patients? One of the most important roles of a hospitalist is to provide emotional support during a stressful time. By being able to directly communicate and develop a strong interpersonal bond with my patients and their families, I am better able to make their hospital stay a positive experience.
Q: What do you find most rewarding about working in pediatric medicine? is nothing more gratifying than healing a sick child. Seeing parents’ faces turn from worry to joy is its own reward. A: There The only thing that tops that is watching children leave the hospital healthy with huge smiles on their faces. 11 Convenient Locations Across Middle Tennessee
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williamson news
Planning on a Baby? Get Prepped
4-H: More Than You Know for Your Family
E
very woman planning a pregnancy wants a healthy experience for herself and her baby, and a new service in Middle Tennessee can help. Prep for Pregnancy — with service locations at medical centers in Nashville, Brentwood, Franklin and Smyrna — assists women in preparing for a healthy pregnancy before conception. “We are a consultant practice,” says Rosalyn Baxter-Jones, M.D., an OB/GYN with the program that also includes a nutritionist and health coach. “We are not here to replace a woman’s OB, we’re an extra arm to the OB,” she adds. Prep for Pregnancy offers an extensive evaluation process that includes vitamin and nutrition deficiencies as well as food sensitivities that can lead to infant allergies and digestive issues. Further evaluations for how your overall health will impact your pregnancy are also available. Baxter-Jones recommends a primary consultation between six months to one year prior to getting pregnant, although she adds that women who are newly pregnant can benefit as well. The program assists with proper diet modification and any necessary nutritional supplementation to boost a healthy pregnancy. Some insurance companies cover the cost of the services, and the program offers installment plans for patients who need them. Learn more at 888-341-5556 or visit prepforpregnancy.com.
Plan on good prenatal health when it comes time for growing a baby! Prep for Pregnancy can help.
Williamson County 4-H Club participants helped build their float for last year’s Christmas Parade in downtown Franklin. Learn about participating in 4-H by contacting the Williamson County 4-H extension at 790-5721.
Quick Bits: The GONECUPCAKING 25-city tour makes its way to Loews Vanderbilt Hotel in Nashville on Saturday, Dec. 6. Three workshops are available for $29 each that day (tickets ONLY available at gonecupcaking.com) including “Decorating 101,” from 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. and “Mommy and Me” for ages 6 - 12 with a parent, starting at 3:30 p.m. Learn more at the website ... NASHVILLE ZOO has a new, furry friend for kids to see. Phayara (pronounced fie-ARE-a) is a 4-month-old red panda cub that can now be seen exploring her outdoor environs with her mommy and daddy. The zoo is located at 3777 Nolensville Road, Nashville. Hours are daily 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Admission is $15 adults, $10 ages 2 - 12. Call 833-1534 or visit nashvillezoo.org ... The winter months bring colder weather, and kids need to be bundled up properly. Rutherford Parent is a proud sponsor of AUTO ART BODY SHOP’S COAT DRIVE for needy families. Donate new or gently used coats at Auto Art Body Shop now through Tuesday, Dec. 30. Donations are accepted Mon - Fri from 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. at any of the six locations — two in Murfreesboro and one in Smyrna, Franklin, Nashville and Mt. Juliet. Visit autoartbodyshop. com to learn more.
Did you know that young people who participate in 4-H — the nation’s largest youth club — are less likely to do drugs, drink alcohol and smoke cigarettes than kids who don’t participate in its programs? A study out of Tufts University shows as much. And if you think 4-H is only an agricultural organization, think again. Your family can participate in a wide variety of 26 programs that include things like communications and public speaking, design and leadership skills in addition to STEM programs and more. As the youth development program of the University of Tennessee Agricultural Extension Service, participants in 4-H (“I pledge my Head to clearer thinking, my Heart to greater loyalty, my Hands to larger service and my Health to better living, for my club, my community, my country and my world.”) are encouraged to do projects related to the programs in which they participate. While 4-H was originally an agricultural organization and it still focuses in those areas, it has changed with the times, so take another look! See the full description of various programs at 4htennessee.edu. If you are interested in learning about joining 4-H, call the Williamson County 4-H extension at 790-5721.
december 2014 27
loc news
2015 Summer Camp Fair PLAN NOW!
Share the Holidays with Our Soldiers Here are easy ways your family can share the spirit of the Christmas season with our troops:
M
adoptaplatoon.org/site/ Support an entire platoon through letters, care packages and more. give2thetroops.org Find a list of requested items troops need from home, or find out how to make a donation.
Kids and families can send Christmas cheer to soldiers through the Holiday Mail for Heroes program through the Red Cross.
hugsforsoldiers.org Volunteer program offering support and care packages to our soldiers every month. redcross.org Facilitates Holiday Mail for Heroes campaign through which families can send Christmas cards to our troops. Local help is needed to distribute cards. soldiersangels.com For a minimum donation of $50, you can help a military family in need for the holidays. Donations provide presents for military children along with a grocery gift card. ourmilitary.mil This U.S. Department of Defense site includes ways to send care packages, letters and cards. uso.org/oucp For $25, your personal message of support will accompany the package’s contents.
28 december 2014
A local child has fun on a tire swing at Deer Run Camp, which will be in attendance at the Summer Camp Adventure Fair on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2015. Plan now to attend.
Private School Open Houses THE COVENANT SCHOOL (33 Burton Hills Blvd., Nashville; 4672313; thecovenantschool.com) Thursday, Dec. 11 from 9:30 - 11 a.m.; RSVP to dapple@thecovenantschool.com ... EZELLHARING CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (574 Bell Road, Antioch; 3670532; ezellharding.com) Thursday, Dec. 11 from 9 - 11 a.m. ... HENDERSONVILLE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (355 Old Shackle Island Road, Hendersonville; 824-1550; hcacrusaders.com) Tuesday, Dec. 9 from 9 - 11 a.m. ... MONTGOMERY BELL ACADEMY (4001 Harding Road, Nashville; 369-5311; montgomerybell.edu) Campus tours are available every Thursday at 10 a.m. ... ST. EDWARD SCHOOL (190 Thompson Lane, Nashville; 833-5770; stedward.org) Wednesday, Nov. 10 from 9 - 11 a.m.
ark your calendar! Saturday, Feb. 7 is Nashville Parent’s annual Summer Camp Adventure Fair at CoolSprings Galleria in Franklin. Now’s the time to start planning your child’s summer fun. Reps from more than 80 residential camps, local day camps and summer programs for ages 4 - 18 will speak with families about what they have to offer, from arts and academics to sports and outdoor activities. Booths are still available, so if you have a summer program you’d like our readers to know about, call 256-2158, ext. 130. The fair takes place from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., and admission is free. Learn more at nashvilleparent.com.
Seasonal Sale at the State Museum Save some dough on Christmas gifts during the Tennessee State Museum’s Holiday Sale, running Dec. 2 - 23. Get 30 percent off jewelry and 20 percent off Christmas goods and local food products. On Tuesday, Dec. 2 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., you can sample food products, coffees and more. Located at 505 Deaderick St., Nashville, hours are Tue - Sat 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun 1 - 5 p.m. Call 741-2692 or visit tnmuseum.org.
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Dr. Daxx Dunn Dr. Marla P. Weldon
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33 TOP TOYS OF THE YEAR 42 SHOP THE SPECIALTY TOY STORES 44 TOP CHILDREN’S BOOKS OF THE YEAR 49 HOLIDAY CRAFTING december 2014 31
Holiday Shopping A Paid Advertising Section
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum 222 Fifth Ave. S, Nashville countrymusichalloffame.org
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Make the holiday memorable by giving a membership. Shop our museum store for unique gifts or buy them tickets to an upcoming event.
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420 Cool Springs Blvd • Franklin • (615) 771-3434 • www.learningexpress.com/store/franklin
SHOP LOCALLY THIS HOLIDAY!
TOY SHOP! editor’s picks
1.
TURN TO PAGE 42 FOR AREA SPECIALTY SHOPS.
What we like for all ages of kids — ‘cuz everybody’s on Santa’s list!
2.
5. 4.
6.
3.
AGES 0 - 2
1. Mirari Pop! Pop! Piano
3. Busy Bop
by Patch Products $26.99 | patchproducts.com
by Manhattan Toy Company $18 | manhattantoy.com
Your toddler will love pressing the keys of this piano. It reacts with sound, and a star pops up out of the tube from within the dome — watch to see where it lands. The dome is removable to allow the stars to bounce along the floor, too. Ages 12 months and older.
Little ones can have fun exploring cause and effect with this delightful toy. Every time Baby bops the mouse’s head with the plastic mallet, the multi-colored animal-face tower rises higher. Ages 12 months and older.
2. Play with Me Laptop
by B. Toys $34.95 | mybtoys.com
by B. Kids $30 | bkidsfun.com Your little tech baby will love exploring learning with this cute laptop. The touch panel and track ball allows learning about shapes, colors, objects and letters while listening to melodies. There are 40 learning activities in all. Ages 6 - 36 months.
4. Parum Pum Pum Drum Little music makers can march to the beat of their own colorful drum with this paradeready outfit including a drum with strap, centipede drumsticks, a jingle bell ant, bee maraca and clacker, a caterpillar tambourine and shaker egg. Ages 18 months - 3 years.
5. Micro Mini 3-in-1 Scooter by Micro Kickboard $114.99 | microkickboard.com This durable scooter changes as your child grows! It starts out with an “O-bar” and toddler seat then evolves into a “T-bar” once your child’s old enough to balance sans seat. This smooth glide comes in a variety of colors, including pink, blue, purple, green, aqua and red. Ages 1 - 5 years.
6. Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Chair by Fisher-Price $39.95 | fisher-price.com This sturdy little chair is loaded with songs, phrases, sounds and activities. It’s surprisingly lightweight and offers your little one three levels of play. Ages 1 - 3 years.
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33
SHOP LOCALLY THIS HOLIDAY!
12. 9.
TURN TO PAGE 42 FOR AREA SPECIALTY SHOPS.
8.
7.
10.
11.
AGES 0 - 2
7. Twinkling Firefly Frog Cloud B | cloudb.com $34.95 This adorable plush amphibian has twinkling fireflies in his tummy that illuminate the room, creating a magical glow for Baby’s transition to nighttime. With a 45-minute build-in sleep timer, the frog plays two soothing sounds to lull Baby to sleep — rain with chirping crickets or a lullaby medley. Ages 0 months and older.
8. Hedgehog Accordion by Skip Hop $15 | skiphop.com Baby can enjoy endless musical play with this easy-to-hold accordion toy. It creates a range of unique tunes as its pushed and pulled. It also features moveable beads and specialized teething areas. Ages 6 months and older.
9. Chiming Flamingo Activity Pal by Infantino $14.99 | infantino.com Baby can make all sorts of noises with this cute little flamingo. It features rattle, crinkle and chime sounds. It also has click-clack rings and a soothing teether for Baby to chew on — he’ll love to shake it up. Ages 0 months and older.
10. Mozart Magic Cube by Munchkin $22.99 | munchkin.com This colorful interactive toy lets little ones combine sounds to make pretty symphonies. Use the harp, French horn, piano, flute and violin sounds — what a wonderful way to introduce Baby to the wonders of music! Ages 1 and older.
11. Pull-Back Vehicles by Melissa & Doug $24.99 | melissaanddoug.com Four soft pull-back cars come in this cute item from the popular Melissa & Doug line. Pull’em back on their wheels and watch’em zoom across the floor. The cars have washable fabric surfaces and removable wipe-clean wheels. Ages 9 months and older.
12. Wee Workout Baby Gym by Land of Nod $99 | landofnod.com This lovely, all-natural wood activity center for your little one provides a nice reminder that not EVERYTHING needs to be electronic! Simply attach your five animal set pieces and Baby’s all set. Simple, classic, nice. Ages 6 months & older.
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34 december 2014
cUstom
&
Holiday Shopping A Paid Advertising Section
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B O O K S • TOYS ART • CRAFTS
114B South 11th St. East Nashville
(615) 915-1960
www.fairytalesbookstore.com
Happy Backyards
1113 Murfreesboro Road, #370, Franklin happybackyards.com
615-595-5565
Incredible deals during our Black Friday sale!
Learning Express Toys 420 Cool Springs Blvd., Franklin
615-771-3434
Offering the most unique products, games, educational items and specialty gifts available. We believe toys and games should encourage learning through play, enhance creativity and foster the developmental growth of children.
Celebrate FASHION,
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& FUN! Dec 6th, 10-2PM
Call to reserve your visit! Green Hills store location only!
2164 Bandywood Dr. Green Hills: 615-298-2323 330 Franklin Rd., Ste 272 Brentwood: 615-377-2333
spa parties in
murfreesboro!
Birthday Parties, Mothers’ Day Out, Girls’ Night Out, Bachelorette Parties Bring your balloons & cupcakes and pamper your guest of honor and friends. Manicure & Pedicure Parties are all the rage! ALL AGES!
615.896.0702
1233 Commerce Park Drive Murfreesboro All services performed by students under supervision of instructors.
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AGES 3 - 5
1. Kidizoom Smartwatch
3. Chatsters
by VTech $49.99 | vtechkids.com
by Spin Master $79.99 | chatsters.com
Your on-the-go child will enjoy playing with this splash-proof watch that provides endless fun with learning games plus photo taking and video making! Connect the Smartwatch to a computer to download more games or upload your photos and videos. Ages 4 and older.
Little girls will love this new digital friend, Gabby. She comes with six interactive accessories that unlock games and activities kids can play to their heart’s content. Gabby chats away with her eyes displaying different colors and images. She also says more than 300 unique words and phrases. There’s just so much going on with her. Ages 5 and older.
2. Zoomer Dino and Zoomer Zuppies by Spin Master $99.99 dino $39.99 zuppies (each) zoomerpup.com Share secrets, play interactive games and watch Zuppies (Candy, Roxy, Scarlet and Spot) share their secret tricks when they respond to your touch! The more you nurture, the more they share. Dino-loving boys will love the same engagement with Zoomer Dino as you get with the Zuppies. Ages 5 and older.
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4. Marvel Battle Masters Figures by Hasbro $14.99 each | hasbro.com If you loved the Rock’em Sock’em game growing up, then introduce your kids to that style of play with the new Marvel Battle Masters. They are controlled nearly the same way, and their heads pop up once they’re knocked, too! Available in Captain America, Hulk, Spider-Man, Thor and others. Ages 5 and older.
5. Lite-Brite Create With Light by Basic Fun $24.99 | basicfun.com Lite-Brite’s newest item comes with reusable templates and new peg shapes — dogs, fish, birds, the sun and more — plus four different light effects, including blinking. There are 200 pegs and six templates (or play old-school with black paper for freestyle creativity) and a handy storage tray for safe peg keeping. Ages 4 and older.
6. Super Sorting Pie by Learning Resources $30 | learningresources.com Children love play food, and this bright and cheery pie will inspire pretend play plus learning. Count and sort the assorted fruits while learning colors, too. Everything stores handily into the pie case — a lattice top pie crust fits on top to keep everything together and you’ve gotta love that! Ages 3 and older.
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7. ArchiQuest Master Building Blocks by T.S. Shure $59.99 | tssure.com Give your kid the gift of imagination and creativity with this awesome set of 136 precision-cut, solid wood blocks. The blocks come in 11 different colors and 15 various architectural shapes to encourage hours of building fun. The accompanying booklet presents ideas for creating different structures like skyscrapers, towers and castles. Ages 3 and older.
8. DigiBirds by Spin Master $35 | spinmaster.com Little girls will fall in love with Breeze, Daisy and Ruby, the DigiBirds. These animated, interactive chirpers are fun to play with as they sing 20 songs. Use the bird whistle in “solo” mode with each bird to get him to sing to you or have fun selecting the pecking order in “choir” mode and let the trio entertain you as they harmonize while tweeting a variety
of tunes, and kids can unlock additional songs at the digibirds.com website or through the app store. Ages 5 and older.
9. PlayTape
11. Power Wheels Girl Dune Race Ride On by Fisher-Price $280 | fisher-price.com
Here’s a brilliant idea for young car lovers everywhere! The PlayTape lets you put down road in any room of the house so your little one can drive his cars around no matter where he is. It doesn’t leave adhesive behind, so picking up after play is easy. Ages 3 and older.
Girls can rev up and roll along in this dune buggy that navigates smooth surfaces, wet grass and rough terrain. After a foot-pedal start, a 12-volt rechargeable battery kicks in and the vehicle stops when your child’s foot comes off the pedal. It can hold up to 130 pounds between two riders, and it has two forward speeds (two-and-a-half and five miles per hour) and one reverse. Ages 3 - 6.
10. Radio Flyer Cyclone
12. Barbie Endless Curls
by Radio Flyer $60 | radioflyer.com
by Mattel $24.99 | mattel.com
Childhood isn’t childhood without your first Radio Flyer! This sturdy, wheel-it-yourself in shiny apple red will have your child active and mobile, zooming and spinning and working those arms! Kids can roll in reverse, too, and the 16” wheels provide a smooth ride for the solid steel frame. Ages 3 - 7.
Pretty fascinating that little girls can curl Barbie’s hair without a heated curling iron but it’s true. This Barbie set comes with the doll, two small curling irons, curlers and a brush for styling the day away! Ages 3 and older.
by InRoad Toys $8 - $13 | inroadtoys.com
(please turn the page)
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Holiday Shopping A Paid Advertising Section
Phillips Toy Mart
5207 Harding Road, Nashville phillipstoymart.com
615-352-5363
A toy store for kids of all ages. Over 20,000 items. Expert, friendly sales staff to help you with your holiday shopping. Voted #1 toy store by Nashville Parent readers.
USA Baby and Kids
1113 Murfreesboro Road, #370, Franklin usababyfranklin.com
615-595-5565
From cribs to teens and everything in between, you’ll find great gift ideas throughout our store. Toys, accessories, furniture, bedding and much more.
A holiday tradition since 1916
Looking for a worthy cause to volunteer for over the holidays? Call 615.228.6745 or visit www.fanniebattle.org/caroling
38 december 2014
SHOP LOCALLY THIS HOLIDAY!
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AGES 6 & OLDER
1. Instax Mini 8 by FujiFilm $99.99 | fujifilm.com The world of instant cameras is taking young photographers on an adventure. Kids can capture the moment with this compact camera and instantly share the mini photos with friends. No more uploading to social media or waiting for development. It’s here. It’s now. It’s handson! Ages 8 and older.
2. Jungle Bridge Play Set by Lego Friends $29.99 | lego.com Your Lego lover can build all kinds of items to use together for imaginative play. This jungle set includes a helicopter, a tree house with a bridge, a safari jeep and small distinctive accessories that have made Lego popular with kids: it’s in the details! The Jungle Bridge Play Set is a great first set for kids ages 7 - 12.
3. Sky Viper Camera Drone Quadcopter
5. Marvel’s The Avengers Play Set
by Skyrocket Toys $79.99 | sky-viper.com
by Disney Infinity 2.0 $74.99 | infinity.disney.com
Kids who love to take pictures and videos will love getting action shots from above! Fly this indoor/outdoor remote-controlled copter drone overhead and capture the view that no one else gets — up to 25,000 pictures. As if flying it wasn’t enough! Ages 12 and older.
Stop Loki from freezing New York! Pick your character figure, set it on the base and watch him appear on the screen and play the levels as that character. Available on PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One and Wii U. Ages 10 and older.
4. Sew Cool Sewing Studio
6. Shark Mania
by Spin Master $34.99 | sewcoolworld.com Young fashionistas will love sewing their own creations … without thread! This threadless machine is great for a first time sewing experience. It comes with everything you need to create nine projects from start to finish including multiple patterns and pre-cut shapes for purses, pouches, characters and more. Ages 6 and older.
by Spin Master $19.99 | sharkmania. spinmastergames.com Kids race to the end and grab up the gold pieces as fast as they can along this three-foot long game. You want to reach the end before the shark’s fin knocks you off your game! It’s a very fast-paced game with high energy. You’ll be itching to take your turn. Ages 6 and older.
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AGES 6 & OLDER
7. GeoFlux
9. 3Doodler
11. My Monopoly
by Geospace $17.99 | geospaceplay.com
by WobbleWorks $99 | the3doodler.com
by Hasbro Gaming $19.99 | hasbrogames.com
You’ll be amazed at what this stainless steel set of rings can do. Turn it into a 3D sculpture by inserting your hand through the coils and watch it react to your body. It will rotate around your arm, but don’t worry, it’s harmless. Ages 6 and older.
If your child loves to draw, then he’ll love seeing his creations come right off the page in 3D! This unique pen is the world’s first 3D printing pen and comes with 50 strands of plastic that feed into the pen like hot glue. Work right onto a surface or into the air! Ages 10 and older.
The coolest reincarnation of one of the most popular board games in history allows players to create a personalized Monopoly experience. Download the free app (or go to mymonopoly.com) to customize property spaces, game tokens, Community Chest and Chance cards by choosing photos from your computer, smart device or social media sites. You can even add fun captions to the photos before printing them out on sticker sheets prior to playing the game. Ages 8 and older.
8. Y Fliker LIFT by Yvolution $149.99 | yvolution.com This three-wheeled, self-propelling scooter lets riders (up to 220 pounds) carve, drift and spin 360 degrees — plus, they can pop wheelies forward and sideways. The scooter uses the same motions as downhill skiing. The steel frame features internal brake cables, a spinning trick handle bar and angled steering column. Soft hand grips provide comfort, and the quick response hand brake assures safety. The scooter easily folds up for storage and transportation. Choose from black or red. Ages 7 and older.
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10. MiP by WoWWee $99.99 | wowwee.com The latest robot buddy features GestureSense technology allowing kids to communicate with it using hand motions. Powered by iOS or Android smartphones, the accompanying app lets users drive the two-wheeled robot and play games. Make MiP dance, perform tricks, explore and more. Comes in black or white. Ages 8 and older.
12. RollerCopter by Air Hogs $44.99 | airhogs.com This all-new copter allows the controller to roll it around on the ground if you go into a crash! The protective cage keeps the copter moving even when you bump into things. Ages 8 and older.
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LOCAL TOY SHOPS Many of our top toys of the year can be found locally at the following shops: DAVIDSON COUNTY Brilliant Sky Toys & Books 2002 Richard Jones Road Nashville | 800-7754 brilliantskytoys.com Toys and books, dress up, games and sets and more. Hobby Town USA 300 Pleasant Grove Road Ste. 340, Mt. Juliet 754-6229 • hobbytown. com Hobby items, games, train sets and educational toys. Parent-Teacher Store 4004 Hillsboro Road Nashville | 292-3533 parentteacherstore.com Educational toys, puzzles and special needs items. Phillips Toy Mart 5207 Harding Pike Nashville | 352-5363 phillipstoymart.com Collectible dolls, train sets, Playmobil, Ravensburger puzzles fun stocking stuffers and more.
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RUTHERFORD COUNTY Hobby Town USA 536 N. Thompson Lane Ste. J, Murfreesboro 890-6777 hobbytown.com Hobby items, radio control cars, board games, train sets and more. Parent-Teacher Store 131 John R. Rice Blvd. Murfreesboro | 895-6131 parentteacherstoreusa.com Educational games, toys, puzzles and gifts for children with special needs. Roll the Dice 211 Robert Rose Drive, Ste. A, Murfreesboro 818-4219 rollthedicegames.com Board games, role playing games, collectible card games, puzzles and more. Smyrna Toy and Hobby Center 133 Weakley Lane, Smyrna | 459-4050 smyrnatoyandhobby.com Model sets and traditional toys. The Learning Circle 2992A S. Church St., Murfreesboro | 904-1082 thelearningcircleonline.com Educational games as well as toys for children with special needs, dolls and more.
SUMNER COUNTY Parent-Teacher Store 780 RiverGate Pkwy. Goodlettsville | 859-3007 parentteacherstore.com Educational toys, puzzles and gifts for special needs children.
WILLIAMSON COUNTY Learning Express 420 Cool Springs Blvd. Franklin | 771-3434 learningexpress.com/ store/franklin Ride-on toys, boys’ and girls’ specialty items, games, Calico Critter, Lego, a preteen section and more.
The Madame Alexander Disney “Frozen” Dolls are a hot-ticket item this Christmas for little girls.
TOPS THIS XMAS! Local toy store owners told us what kids are swooning over at their shops.
PHILLIPS TOY MART
(owners Cynthia & Powell Phillips)
1) LIVING SAND by Playvision 2) KINETIC SAND by Spin Master 3) MADAME ALEXANDER’S “FROZEN” DOLLS ANNA & ELSA 4) ZOOMER DINO by Spin Master
Main Street Toy Shoppe 412 Main St., Franklin 790-4869 Collectible dolls, metal army soldiers, unique toys and more.
LEARNING EXPRESS
Parent-Teacher Store 203 Williamson Square Franklin | 599-3477 parentteacherstore.com Educational toys and gifts.
3) FIREFLY FRIEND BRACELET by Firefly (Exclusive!
Brilliant Sky Toys & Books 1705 Mallory Lane Brentwood | 309-0557 franklintoystores.com Toys and books, dress up, games and sets, and more.
(owner Kim LaRocca)
(owner Connie Edmunds)
1) PLUSH KRAFT KIT by Orb Factory 2) NIGHT BALL by Tangle
State-of-the-art technology)
MAIN STREET TOYS 1) THINKING PUTTY by Crazy Aaron 2) CIVIL WAR TOYS & CHESS PIECES COMMEMORATING THE 150th ANNIVERSARY OF THE BATTLE OF FRANKLIN 3) OLD-FASHIONED TOY GUNS, BOWS & ARROWS
When it comes to a clean and healthy home, there are no more ifs, ands or s.
Love clean comedy but can’t afford Sinbad? Book Comedienne JOY The Queen of Clean
JOY can bring the funny for your next church holiday banquet, office party, New Years Eve party or Women’s Conference.
www.joythequeenofclean.com
205.482.6999 follow Comedienne JOY
Ask about our 12 month old check up
TRUSTED BY FAMILIES FOR OVER 65 YEARS. FOR AN INSTANT QUOTE VISIT WWW.STANLEYSTEEMER.COM USE PROMO CODE “PARENT” FOR AN EXCLUSIVE OFFER Mirna A. Caldwell, DMD 2016 BEECHWOOD AVE. 615-360-5155 or 1-800-STEEMER
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GREEN HILLS
(615)750-2713
HILLSBOROPEDIATRICDENTISTRY.COM
Celebrating 68 Years of bringing the magic of Christmas to Nashville Families!
Voted Best Toy Store 20 Years in a Row
Layaway NOW till Christmas Eve!
ARTS & CRAFTS, DRESS-UP, HOBBIES, SCIENCE, BOOKS HOT RETRO ITEMS! See-n-Say, Lite-Brite, Spirograph TOYS by Playmobil, Calico Critters, Thomas & Chuggington Trains & Tables, Kettler Ride-Ons, Scooters, Metal Earth Model Kits INFANT TOYS by Lamaze, Sassy, Tiny Love, Haba, Infantino DOLLS by Alexander, Adora, Corolle, Ty, Steiff, Nesting Dolls LIONEL TRAINS, starter sets, tracks, building accessories TOY TRUCKS by WOW, Bruder, Viking CHILDREN’S BOOKS GAMES & PUZZLES by Ravensburger, Melissa & Doug, Milton Bradley NEW! MADAME ALEXANDER 18” “FROZEN” ELSA AND ANNA
Park at the Front Door! Avoid the mall crowds!
5207 Harding Pike, Nashville HOLIDAY HOURS: Mon-Sat 9am-9pm Sun 12pm-5:30pm
615-352-5363
www.phillipstoymart.com december 2014 43
2014 TOP BOOKS for KIDS
Don’t let a good book and time together take the back seat this holiday. Set the toys aside and grab one of these great book finds.
By Julie Bookman
Happy 75th, Rudolph!
W
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hen we reached Nicole Greer, Brentwood parent of 6- and 8-year-old daughters and a son, 11, she was just minutes away from dashing out to read to her daughter’s third-grade classroom. She had a satchel of five picture books and was looking forward to sharing them with the students. Like most, the Greers have a very busy household. Nevertheless, reading for pleasure remains a priority. “I read to my children every night or just about,” Greer says. Every Sunday, there’s a chunk of time designated as “reading time” for every-
That’s right, the frisky lad has been lighting the way, gleeful and sure, since 1939. To boot, the beloved 1964 TV special turns 50 this year. Here are two new books to celebrate the milestone birthdays: one in the household. “I want my children to become lifelong readers,” says Greer, who herself was raised in a household where reading was strongly encouraged. Sometimes she and the kids will download books on their iPads, sometimes they’ll cuddle together around a “real” book. Enjoying The Night Before Christmas together on Dec. 24 has special meaning for the family, because son Connor was born on Christmas. If books have been taking a back seat lately, set a goal to find time over the holiday break. Head to your library branch, where kids
can enjoy storytime on a regular basis. Visit us online at nashvilleparent.com and click on “Middle Tennessee Library Storytimes” under the “Things to Do” tab for a list of library locations and times. Let your kids bring their very own tote, choose their own books and lug them home themselves. For busy parents still on the prowl for gifts for their kids and others, we’ve combed through the bountiful crop of 2014 children’s books. Here are some sure bets, organized by age appropriateness.
Happy Reading Together!
AGES 3 & UP Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: Special Edition Pop-Up Book (Silver Dolphin Books, $19.95) The actual images from the TV special were used to create the elaborate, large-scale pop-ups. Wonderful eye candy for the whole family.
AGES 4 & UP Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: 75th Anniversary Edition by Robert L. May, illustrated by Antonio Javier Caparo (Little Simon, $17.99) Experience May’s original story, when the Montgomery Ward department store wanted a Christmas story to give away to customers. May wrote in bouncy verse reminiscent of the familiar The Night Before Christmas.
Just for the Holidays
I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Dreidel
Board Books for Baby
AGES 0-3 Little Blue Truck’s Christmas
by Caryn Yacowitz, illustrated by David Slonim (Arthur A. Levine/ Scholastic, $17.99)
AGES 1 - 4 Touch and Feel Animal Library
by Alice Schertle, illustrated by Jill McElmurry (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, $14.99) Beep! Beep! Beep! December’s here! Little Blue Truck is full of cheer. As Little Blue delivers Christmas trees, there’s much merry activity for young eyes to gaze upon, and counting opportunities for those who are ready. The pages of smooth-and-sturdy cardstock will be hard to destroy. Bonus: real flashing holiday lights on the last page (batteries included).
AGES 4 - 8 Star Bright: A Christmas Story by Alison McGhee and Peter H. Reynolds (Atheneum, $16.99) There’s a reason you hear that simple is often best. A very special baby has been born and the newest and smallest angel is fretful (she’s all a-flutter), because she can’t think of just the right gift to present to the child. The dominant purple hues lend a strong feeling of love and warmth to masterful illustrations.
Bubbe swallowed a dreidel she thought was a bagel. Could that be fatal? She goes on to swallow oil, latkes, brisket, even a menorah. The cartoon-like illustrations take on more oomph with the addition of some playful takes on famous artworks (from da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa” to Warhol’s “Campbell’s Soup Cans”). A terrific Hanukkah title.
ALL AGES Everything I Need to Know About Christmas I Learned from a Little Golden Book by Diane Muldrow (Golden Books/Random House, $9.99) Dear to our hearts (since 1942) are the Little Golden Books with gold-foil spines, upbeat stories and happy, jewel-toned artwork. A fetching selection of images from favorite Golden Books are gathered into this generous (96 pages) gem. Comfycozy, enchanting, and many subtle lessons and reminders.
(DK Publishing, $19.99) Three popular “critter” board books from DK are together in a thick cardboard case. Kids are asked to “tickle” the orangutan’s reddish hair, “pet” the velvety fur of the jaguar, “feel” the snake’s scales, the “fluffy” yellow ducklings, and so on. The shiny covers will attract a wee one’s eyes. The construction of each is sturdy as can be.
AGES 2 - 5 Kids Look & Learn series: Dogs and Things That Go by National Geographic ($6.99 each) Tots learn basic things about vehicles from cars to fire engines to airplanes. For both, National Geographic employs real photographs and has a neat way of offering details that are basic, yet also more intriguing than obvious. Meant to teach a budding child in a gradual way, this series is built to last.
Color for Baby by Yana Peel (Big Picture Press, $21.99) Its low price for a boxed set makes it another winner in the Art for Baby series. Each of four books folds out accordian-style. Famous works by contemporary artists have been reproduced on both sides of each book. The 40 or so works, each one handily identified, are organized by dominant color, so there’s one book for green, red, yellow and blue. Among the artists represented: Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, Keith Haring, Henri Matisse, Roy Lichtenstein. Brilliant concept.
Picture Books AGES 2 - 6 The Nuts: Bedtime at the Nut House by Eric Litwin, illustrated by Scott Magoon (Little, Brown, $18) It’s time for nighty-night but Mama Nut’s having a heckuva bedtime tug-of-war with her sweet little Wally Nut and Hazel Nut. All of them are just ... nuts! From the best-selling author of Pete the Cat, this one’s a must for every playful family. Story ends with a Nutty Lullaby you can sing along with; free download at thenutfamily. com.
AGES 3 - 5 Mighty Dads by Joan Holub, illustrated by James Dean (Scholastic Press, $16.99) Mighty dads, strong and tall, help their children, young and small. Do you know a youngster who, at the moment, chiefly cares about cars, trucks, tanks and such? The vibrant art in primary colors bursts with action and personality. Main message: that strong dads (vehicle “characters” here) teach their tykes all sorts of things and also provide protection, hugs, cheers, love. In this rhyming romp, a child is introduced to the bulldozer, crane, cement mixer and more.
Flora and the Penguin by Molly Idle (Chronicle, $16.99) Wordless books are hot, and this one’s a standout on ice — with unusually clever lift-the-flaps architecture. In Idle’s Flora and the Flamingo (which received a Caldecott Honor last year), the wide-eyed little girl did ballet with the tall pink bird. This time, she glides o’er the ice with a jaunty little penguin. The pair swirl and soar in harmony, but also have their problems with one another — much like any friends do. The graceful animation of the artwork, in muted shades of periwinkle, enhance this quiet story’s sense of wonder.
Gus & Me by Keith Richards, art by Theodora Dupree Richards (Little Brown, $18) A quirky array of pen-and-ink plus collage art by Richards’ daughter creates a burst of love, nostalgia and energy as the iconic rocker relates The Story of My Granddad and My First Guitar, the book’s subtitle. Richards was heavily influenced by his Granddad Dupree, who “would hum whole symphonies.” Parents will adore this as much as their kids. Includes a CD featuring the Rolling Stones musician.
(“Top Books” continues on page 47)
december 2014 45
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For information on extended evening and weekend hours, visit www.TNPeds.com 46 december 2014
The Book With No Pictures by B.J. Novak (Dial Books for Young Readers, $17.99) Maybe you’ve heard of this one from the writer, director and actor (he played Ryan on The Office), because it’s been hanging out at the No. 1 spot on picture-book best-seller lists even though there are zero pictures. This giggles-galore achievement embraces the notion of just being goofy together. Get set for those in your household to go around reciting things such as “Glurr-Ga-Wocko ma-GRUMPH-a-doo!”
AGES 4 - 8 The Hug Machine by Scott Campbell (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, $16.99) Yikes and yippee, here comes the little Hug Machine — and no one or no thing (even if it’s spiky) is exempt from his stretched-out arms and sweet embrace. His hugs “make the biggest feel small” and “the smallest feel big.” Campbell’s expressive watercolor images are so full of love you might just start hugging this adorable book.
Baby Bear by Kadir Nelson (Balzer & Bray, $17.99) Nelson, one of the most gifted and lauded artists in the field, strikes again. His gorgeous dark paintings lend a soothing quality to this story of Baby Bear, who is lost in the forest and must rely on help from other animals and also learn to trust his instincts. “When I am lost, I sit very still and try to listen to my heart,” is advice from the gigantic Moose, who seems to stare smack into the eyes of any young listener. “It speaks as softly and as sweetly as a gentle breeze. And it is never wrong. It will lead you home.”
Pig and Small by Alex Latimer (Peachtree, $15.95) Sometimes it takes a little while for a friendship to find its footing — especially when two are so different. Such is the case with Pig and Bug. We adore Latimer’s playful pictures, which provide much to enjoy and ponder.
Stella’s Starliner by Rosemary Wells (Candlewick Press, $15.99) Tiny, portable homes are trending these days, yes? The incomparable Wells, author of some 120 picture books, delivers another bright charmer. Here, the little fox girl Stella lives in a small house on wheels that’s “as silver as a comet in the sky.” Weasels tease her about it, and hurt her feelings. But she comes to learn she has everything she needs in life. The things that matter, that is.
AGES 5 & OLDER Once Upon an Alphabet by Oliver Jeffers (Philomel Books, $26.99) From the talent behind The Day the Crayons Quit comes this tall and thick — 112 pages — ABC book like no other. Each of our 26 letters gets its own brief and outrageous tale, such as “The Terrible Typewriter” for “T.” We especially love the clever arrangement of the wacky (and top-drawer) contemporary art. The humor is absurd, sometimes even sick or morbid. So, yes, it takes a certain family to embrace this one, but we know such families are out there.
Young Readers AGES 6 - 8 Dory Fantasmagory by Abby Hanlon (Dial, 153 pages, $14.99) For the reader who has run out of Junie B. Jones titles to devour, the spirited and irresistible Dory is just the ticket. The author drew inspiration from first graders she used to teach. Dory is constantly tormented by older siblings, and her story is superbly enhanced by Hanlon’s own goofy, childlike drawings.
Leroy Nicker Saddles Up by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Chris Van Dusen (Candlewick Press, 96 pages, $12.99) Two top talents in children’s lit launch Tales from Decawoo Drive, a new series. The series features Leroy, who wants to be a cowboy, his most particular horse, Maybelline, and an entertaining cast of supporting characters.
AGES 7 - 9 The Diamond Mystery and The Hotel Mystery by Martin Widmark, illustrated by Helena Willis (Grosset & Dunlap, 80 pages, $5.99 each) Widmark is a “literary giant” in Sweden; his entertaining Whodunit Detective Agency series with delightful color illustrations has sold millions of copies there. This entertaining series starring two kid detectives, Jerry and Maya, is just hitting this country.
The Yeti Files: Meet the Bigfeet by Kevin Sherry (Scholastic Press, 122 pages, $8.99) A yeti, of course, is a cryptid, and a cryptid is a “hidden animal whose existence has never been proven.” Here’s the start to another new series, this one entirely for kids who want crazy pictures on every page, and laughs above all else.
Ken Jennings’ Junior Guides: Outer Space by Ken Jennings, illustrated by Mike Lowery (Little Simon, 160 pages, $19.99) Jennings, the all-time “Jeopardy!” champ (74-game winning streak), produces this fact-packed series for kids who love to know more than their parents. Wowza.
Lug, Dawn of the Ice Age by David Zeltser (Egmont USA, 182 pages, $15.99) Laughs worked for The Flintstones, and there’s plenty of fun in this startup to a new series set in the Stone Age. The title character is a cave boy who prefers to paint in his secret cave, rather than act like the wild savage others expect him to be.
top books
AGES 10 & OLDER Hello, I’m Johnny Cash
by G. Neri, illustrated by A.G. Ford (Candlewick Press, $16.99) It’s unusual to choose an extra-large picture-book format for a meaty biography aimed toward older kids. It might not seem cool, reading a book in the style typically for those still being read to. But please consider this a worthy exception. The Man in Black rose from harsh times in Arkansas to become a legend (and died in Nashville in 2003). His story can be hugely inspirational to any youngster with big dreams. Ford’s dark and expansive oil paintings lend an extra layer of richness to a life told here in free verse life. Gather the family around for this one, and enjoy it together over a period of time.
Try This: 50 Fun Experiments for the Mad Scientist in You by Karen Romano Young, photographs by Matthew Rakola (National Geographic Kids, 160 pages, $16.99) Toothbrush robots! Racing rocket balloons! Blue-glow your own hands! Cricket training (the bug not the sport)! Step-by-step instructions and loads of awesome facts.
The Fashion Book (DK, 169 pages, $15.99) Kids are into fashion like never before. Here’s a feast for that set, with everything from history and how-to’s to bios on fashion icons and detailed information on fabrics, materials, fashion terminology, you name it. Julie Bookman is a mom, award-winning journalist and a true-life book fairy.
december 2014 47
THE AREA'S BEST CHILDCARE
FAMILY CARE CONNECTION
Season's Smiles From Dr. Kendrick and Staff Jim Kendrick, D.D.S.
kendrickdentalgroup.com Dentistry for your entire family at two convenient locations
for a few hours or full time Member International Nanny Association
KENDRICK KENDRICK DENTAL DENTAL
371-0600
/ NOLENSVILLE BRENTWOOD / NOLENSVILLE AESTHETIC & RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY BRENTWOOD AESTHETIC & RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY 6438 Nolensville Rd. HermitageHermitage | 5518 Old Hickory | 5518Blvd. Old Hickory Blvd. 6438 Nolensville Rd. 615-941-1157 615-889-7363 615-941-1157
615-889-7363
5518 Old Hickory Blvd., Nashville
615-889-7363
www.FamilyCareConnection.net
6438 Nolensville Road, Nolensville
615-941-1157 Additional
Nashville's oldest, largest & most experienced nanny agency!
certifications offered * Nitrous Oxide Monitoring * Sealants * Coronal Polishing
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• Licensed by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission • Led by a team of working dental professionals in a premier office with modern digital radiology • Financial Assistance Available
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Graduates receive: • RDA Certification
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• Dental Radiology & Safety Certification • Job placement assistance
dentalstaffschooltn.com
dawn@dentalstaffschooltn.com 4085 Mallory Lane, Suite116 Franklin, TN 37067
615-707-2513 48 december 2014
10 LOCATIONS IN MIDDLE TN • ALL PHYSICIANS BOARD CERTIFIED
615-595-6673 • 866-231-0701 allergymidtn.com Dr. John Overholt • Dr. W. Travis Cain • Dr. Megan Stauffer Dr. Erin Rohman • Dr. Michael Norvell
By Kiera Ashford
Find more crafts on our Pinterest board. Visit pinterest.com/nashvilleparent.
HOLIDAY CRAFTS We may not get a lot of snow here in Middle Tennessee, but we sure do love our snowmen!
Strawberry Santas What You Need Strawberries, whipped cream, tube of icing
What You Do
Fence Post Snowman What You Need Old fence post cut into two different sizes (five inches and three inches), white paint, black and brown puff paint, any other color of paint for scarf, paint brush, sand paper
• Take a strawberry and cut the leaves off to make a flat surface for it to stand. Then cut off a small section near the point.
What You Do
• Add a little bit of whipped cream for Santa’s beard and face.
• Paint each white all over.
• Dot some eyes with the icing. • Set the small piece you cut off near the point atop the whipped cream for his hat. • Add a dab of whipped cream to the top for the puff at the end of his hat.
• Once you have your two pieces of wood, sand the edges and surface to make them as smooth as you can. • Once the white paint is dry, use the black puff paint to make the eyes, mouth and spots on belly. • Use the brown puff paint to draw on stick arms. • With your different colors of paint, give him a scarf (or you can tie a ribbon on). • You can add any other details you see fit. Once you’re done, stack them together to form your snowman.
Melted Hot Glue Snowman What You Need Hot glue, black puff paint, thin strip of ribbon, white paper, thin tip paintbrush, orange paint
What You Do • Set your hot glue gun to the lowest setting. • Drop hot glue onto the white paper in the form of three differently sized circles with them connecting together in a row. You an also drop the glue onto a smooth surface that you can you can easily peel the glue off of. • Once it has cooled, cut the excess white paper off. • Tie on your ribbon. • Use the black puff paint to add eyes, mouth and spots on belly. With a paintbrush, you can add a stroke of orange for the nose.
Snowman Ornament What You Need Mini terra-cotta flower pot, white paint, any other color paint for your scarf, black puff paint, strip of ribbon, glitter glue, paint brush
What You Do • Paint the entire flower pot white, except for the brim or lip of the pot. • Paint the brim the color you picked out for his scarf. • Once it’s dry, use the black puff paint to add eyes and a mouth. • Add little specs of glitter glue around the scarf for a little sparkle here and there. • After it has all completely dried, take your strip of ribbon end to end and tie a knot. Send the loop through the hole to give your snowman head something to hang with.
49
Don’t forget about our Christmas Break Camp!
OPEN HOUSE
DECEMBER 13 9 - 11 AM
1932 Almaville Rd. Smyrna 617-7644
1137 Haley Rd. Murfreesboro 867-6900
• Girls and Boys • Ages 2 and up • Birthday Parties • Cheerleading • Tumbling • Parents Night Out
find us on
WOW! 14 YEARS IN A ROW!
Excellent training for ages 2+ in:
Now Open in Cool Springs!
615-943-3690
nashvillepianoacademy.com High quality, flexible, and affordable piano lessons
TRY US FOR FREE!
w w w. e t c g y m n a s t i c s. c o m
Ballet | Tap | Jazz Hip-Hop |Contemporary | Modern Acro | Cheer
NEW Athletic Boys Dance
stpphotography.com
Voted one of
Nashville’s BEST!
615-662-4819
DanceinBloom.com
Bellevue Area Facebook.com/danceinbloom
NOW REGISTERING FOR 2015!
TALENTED TOTS PROGRAM AGES 3-5
tap • ballet • jazz hip hop • pointe • voice yoga • musical theatre violin • piano
STILL ACCEPTING NEW ENROLLMENTS t • Ann ren u Pa
aders Po Re ll al
Williamson
THROUGH JANUARY ADULT FITNESS CLASSES HIP HOP • BALLET • TAP Yoga & Adult Zumba 6 Days Per Week!
A UNIQUE CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL PROGRAM COMBINES THE TEACHING OF A PRE-K CURRICULUM WITH GYMNASTICS, BALLET, TAP, TUMBLING, HIP HOP AND MUSIC.
Elite Dance
www.EliteDanceAndFitness.com
7177 Nolensville Road Suite B-1 Nolensville • 615-776-4202 50 december 2014
P
— A Paid Advertising Directory —
Your 2015 Guide to
Camps, Summer Programs & After-School Activities Academics (p. 51) Arts (p. 53) Fitness/Sports (p. 56) Traditional Camps (p. 56)
ACADEMICS Brain Balance Achievement Centers 790 Jordan Road, Ste. 110, Franklin brainbalancecenters.com
615-224-6625
A cutting-edge, drug-free approach to help children improve their ability to learn academically, socially and emotionally. We don’t just work with your child’s strengths or compensate for a weakness. We tackle your child’s issue head on, by addressing the root cause at the most fundamental level. The Brain Balance Program® integrates three key pillars of brain development – sensory motor exercises, cognitive activities and nutritional guidance – to address the root cause of most learning and developmental issues.
LearningRx 5554 Franklin Pike, Ste. 200, Nashville 2044 Lascassas Pike, Murfreesboro learningrx.com/nashville-brentwood • learningrx.com/murfreesboro
615-953-8899 615-867-8717
LearningRx specializes in making kids measurably smarter through research-based programs that train the brain. Our unmatched results speak for themselves. In fact, students test higher in IQ – an average of 15 points higher – after completing our brain training programs.
Sylvan Learning Centers 1227 Lakeview Drive, Unit 4, Franklin sylvanfranklin@gmail.com 2000 Richard Jones Road, Ste. 178, Nashville (Green Hills) sylvangreenhills@gmail.com 110 Glancy St., Ste. 211, Nashville (Rivergate) northdavidsonsylvan@gmail.com 810 Medical Center Blvd., Ste. C, Murfreesboro sylvan1014@bellsouth.net
615-790-8775 615-292-3900 615-860-9111 615-893-3542
Sylvan Learning is the leading provider of tutoring and supplemental education services to students of all ages and skill levels. Our tutors tailor individualized learning plans that build the skills, habits and attitudes students need to succeed in school and in life. Affordable tutoring instruction in math, reading, writing, study skills, homework help and test prep. Visit one of our centers or call for a free consultation. continued on page 53 ...
december 2014 51
H!
C
EB 28T
P M CEXPAERIENCES
EARLY
RE
er e D . s p Cam
GRADES 3–5 Preteen Overnight GRADES 6–8 Adventure Day Camps OR Middle School Overnight (1 or 2 weeks)
GRADES 9–12 High School Overnight
8 1 9 2 . 4 9 • 615.7 • Ann rent u Pa
aders Po Re ll al
rg o . t a e r t RunRe
GRADES K–5 Day Camps
Williamson
Y L I M A F & T H G I N R E V O , DAY IS TION D GISTRA
NDS F OUNT E
BUILD > CHARACTER, CONFIDENCE, RELATIONSHIPS
PURCHASE GIFT CERTIFICATES IN TIME FOR
ETREATS CAMPS & R PSALM 42:1
CHRISTMAS!
35 MILES SOUTH OF NASHVILLE • 10 MILES FROM DOWNTOWN FRANKLIN
DEEPER FAITH. GREATER ADVENTURES.
Camps, Summer Programs and After-School Activity Guide A paid advertising directory.
Vanderbilt Programs for Talented Youth On the Vanderbilt Campus pty.vanderbilt.edu
615-322-8261
We believe that providing acceleration as well as challenging, inquiry-based educational opportunities, best serve the intellectual needs of gifted children; that being able to work alongside true academic peers provides a sense of community and belonging that helps to meet the social and emotional needs of gifted children; and that crafting authentic creative learning experiences best allows gifted students to develop their full capacities as thinkers, as problem-solvers and as compassionate people.
Affordable Rates
ARTS
www.angeliamuzic.com
615-294-0667
Each summer, Act Too Players offers a combination of week-long performance camps and our full production summer intensives taught by some the best in the Nashville theatre industry. Every student gets the opportunity to rehearse with the best directors, musical directors, and technical staff. Our goal is to instruct your child on the art of theatre while providing a fun, safe, environment.
Bellevue Dance Center 7097-J Old Harding Pike, Nashville bellevuedancecenter.com
615-662-8553
Offering tap, jazz, ballet, hip-hop, contemporary for ages 3 and up. Now enrolling for the 2014 - 2015 dance year. Offering birthday parties, too. Voted #1 dance studio in Nashville!
Dance in Bloom 7982 Coley Davis Road, Nashville danceinbloom.com • info@danceinbloom.com
615-662-4819
Located just of I-40W in Bellevue, Dance in Bloom offers classes for ages 2 and up in the disciplines of ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, acro, cheer and new athletic boys dance. Classes are up-beat and fun! Ask about our birthday parties!
The Dancer’s School 2159 N. Thompson Lane, C-5, Murfreesboro thedancersschool.com • thedancersschool@live.com
615-907-1155
Offering ballet, tap, contemporary, pointe, jazz, modern, hip-hop and Pre-K themed classes. Visit our website for registration information.
Gymboree Play & Music 4004 Hillsboro Pike, Ste. 180, Nashville nashvilletn@gymboreeclasses.com
615-221-9004
Inspire your child’s imagination and self-expression with a world of hands-on art activities. Through painting, sculpture, drawing, collage, dramatic play, and more, our art classes encourage confidence and support artistic potential. Enhance your child’s development with a love of music through song, dance, movement games and instruments. With an array of styles, our music classes help children explore the power of rhythm, melody, tonality and beat while nurturing key physical, social and intellectual skills.
Lana’s Piano 3540 Colony Point West, Nashville lanapiano.net
615.554.7568
201 Thompson Lane, Ste. 205 • Nashville, TN 37211
Act Too Players 1113 Murfreesboro Road, Ste. 119, Franklin acttooplayers.com • info@acttooplayers.com
Private Lessons • Instruction in Proper Vocal Technique Performance Coaching • Beginning Piano Lessons
615-426-0756
Russian school of formal music training with traditional methods helps your child to develop amazing skills in playing keyboard. Research has shown the benefits of listening to and playing music are numerous, from stress relief to better listening and multitasking skills. The piano, especially for children, can lead to improved self-esteem and school performance. An experienced pianist, offers classical piano lessons to students ages 5 and up.
Mobile Music Academy mobilemusicacademy.com • info@mobilemusicacademy.com 615-301-8589 We bring high-quality music instruction from fun, energetic, qualified teachers to you. Lessons for piano, guitar, bass, drums, voice, band and orchestral. Voted #1 for music instruction by Nashville Parent readers!
continued on page 54 ...
PIANO · VOICE · GUITAR · DRUMS · VIOLIN · SAXOPHONE · CELLO · BASS “My child loves her teacher, I love the convenience.”
MAKING
“I get to stay home at least one night each week and spend time with my family.”
MUSIC LESSONS
“The recitals are amazing, my kids are learning so much.”
FUN IN THE
CONVENIENCE
Give the Gift of
Music! Gift certificates now available!
OF YOUR
HOME
N6 TRUCTIO S N I C I S F U 1 FOR M ADERS O VOTED # ROW BY THE RE A NE YEARS IN PARENT MAGAZI E L NASHVIL ES AND R ALL AG O F S N O LESS VELS SKILL LE ED TO S MATCH R O T C U D INSTR TY TALENTE ILI ILD’S AB YOUR CH
IC.COM589 S U M A M M 615.301.8 december 2014 53
Camps, Summer Programs and After-School Activity Guide
Lana’s Piano
A paid advertising directory.
* Piano for all ages & skill levels * Russian school classically trained instructor * Individual & group lessons * Flexible schedule at location of your choice FREE INTRODUCTORY LESSON 615.360.8971
lanapiano.net
615.426.0756
The Intelligent Art of Classical Piano
NOW IS THE TIME
TO REGISTER YOUR DAUGHTER TO HAVE THE GREATEST SUMMER OF HER LIFE. Riding - English,Western, and Jumping Swimming • Heated Pool Ropes Course • Tennis • Canoeing Golf • Archery • Riflery • Gymnastics Cheerleading • Dance • Sports • Soccer Basketball Beach Volleyball Chorus • Drama Best of Arts & Crafts Parenting WINNER Outdoor Living Skills Aerobics CIT Program Campfires every night Optional trips And more! 9y
ear
s in a r o w !
The Music Class 5000 Thoroughbred Lane, Brentwood Satellite locations in West Meade and Franklin themusicclass.com/nashville • info@themusicclass.com
615-777-9314
Early childhood music program for parents and children ages birth - 5 yrs. Help your young child achieve his or her full musical potential with this innovative, developmental music and movement program. Parent and child classes are playful and creative and each family receives the acclaimed CDs and song books. Classes meet weekday and weekend mornings. Call or visit our website for current schedule and session pricing or to find out about our birthday parties and moms’ group events.
Music Together Now at Bolton Music Therapy musictogether.com 615-796-6162 Bolton Music Therapy is now offering Music Together®, an early childhood music program for children ages birth to five years. Our mixed-age, inclusive classes provide a rich, active music making experience. Each family receives a songbook and two recordings each semester. Contact us to attend a free demo class! Please call for locations or visit our website.
Nashville Children’s Theatre 25 Middleton St., Nashville nashvillechildrenstheatre.org
615-254-9103
Founded in 1931, NCT is the country’s oldest professional theater for youth and was ranked as one of the top five children’s theaters by Time magazine. NCT presents age-appropriate plays from the classics to contemporary. Saturday and Summer drama workshops are offered for children of various ages. For a complete listing of the 2015 season or for more information about drama workshops, visit our website or call the theater.
Nashville Piano Academy 330 Mayfield Drive, Franklin nashvillepianoacademy.com
615-943-3690
We specialize in providing students with fun, engaging and flexible piano lessons that result in a wellrounded and comprehensive music education. In addition to traditional music concepts such as reading, improvisation and music theory, we emphasize universally applicable skills such as collaboration, creative problem solving and presentation. It is our goal to impart a passion for learning and music.
School of Nashville Ballet 3630 Redmon St., Nashville 500 Wilson Pike Circle, Ste. 119, brentwood nashvilleballet.com
615-297-2966 ext. 20
School of Nashville Ballet offers the highest quality of training for children and adults of all ages. Artistic director Paul Vasterling leads an outstanding faculty comprised of highly respected professional teachers from around thew world, providing a complete dance experience that is challenging and fun for all students, whether they simply love to dance or aspire to a professional career. Students may have the opportunity to perform in Nashville Ballet productions.
Uptown Art 112 Saundersville Road, Hendersonville 103 International Drive, Franklin smarttstepsdance.com • alsmartt@gmail.com
615-495-4978 615-495-4977
Join the art experience at Uptown Art. Our artist will guide you in a step-by-step group setting to create your own masterpiece. Offering kid-friendly class options for younger artists ages 5 and up, as well as birthday parties and more. Check out our website for the monthly calendar and class schedule.
The Voice Studio of Angelia Williams 201 Thompson Lane, Ste. 205, Nashville angeliamuzic.com
615-554-7568
Vocal training by a professional voice coach, recording artist and recipient of Nashville’s Best award for 2013 and 2014. Private lessons include instruction in proper voice technique and performance coaching for all ages. Beginning piano also available. Reasonable rates.
Call 800-882-0722
for a FREE catalog and DVD • Susan & Larry Hooks, Owners and Directors • Donna Bares, Assistant Director
www.riverviewcamp.com 54 december 2014
continued on page 56 ...
NOW Accepting
New Enrollments!
Give Gif t of Dance
the
ates Availa ble!
Nashville
662.8553
www.bellevuedancecenter.com
• Annu ent a ar
ders Pol ea l lR
P
Gift Certifi c
tap • jazz • ballet • hip-hop • contemporary ages 3 and up • birthday parties
Voted #1 Dance Studio !
Lauri Gregoire, Director, BPA in Dance from Oklahoma City University
V A N D E R B I LT
P R O G R A M S
F O R
TA L E N T E D
Y O U T H
Now Accepting Applications for Fall 2014 & Spring 2015
Current K–6th grade students:
Current 7th–10th grade students:
Fall 2014: Saturdays, September 27– November 1
Fall 2014 October 25–26
Spring 2015: Saturdays, February 7– March 14
Professional Development Workshops for Educators Save the Dates: December 11–12, 2014 February 26–27, 2015
Spring 2015 February 21–22
Developing talent in gifted students and those who work with them pty.vanderbilt.edu (615) 322-8261
Horton Haven Christian Camp Boys and Girls ages 8-18
Horses Mtn Biking Archery Crafts Swimming Zipline Canoeing Bible Lessons Climbing Walls Conveniently located 1 hour south of Nashville
(931) 364-7656 hortonhaven.org
KEEP CALM we know
WHAT
THEY WANT Martial Arts • Gymnastics • Cheer Gift Certificates Available! Contact us TODAY! 615.377.3444 • info@mpactsports.com • www.mpactsports.com
1647 Mallory Lane Brentwood, TN 37027
december 2014 55
Camps, Summer Programs and After-School Activity Guide A paid advertising directory.
FITNESS/SPORTS
TRADITIONAL CAMPS
Bill Taylor’s Bushido School of Karate 1911 Business Campus Drive, Murfreesboro 1820 NW Broad St., Murfreesboro bskonline.com • bushido96@aol.com
Boy Scouts of America 615-890-6755 615-893-6003
Let martial arts take your kids to new heights! Bill Taylor’s Bushido School of Karate offers programs in traditional karate from age 3 - adult. Call now to find out how to get one month free with uniform.
Blooma Nashville 4107 Charlotte Ave., Nashville bloomanashville.com • hello@bloomanashville.com
615-797-8064
A new yoga, wellness, and education studio for moms-to-be, mamas and families. Weekly drop-in classes include Prenatal Yoga, Mama-Baby Yoga, Mama-Crawlers Yoga, Babywearing Barre, Postnatal Yoga for Mom, Vinyasa Yoga for Everyone and kids classes from tots to tweens. Blooma offers childbirth education, massage, new mama support groups and women’s circles. We invite you to be part of our nurturing community for mind, body and spirit! Visit our website for info about our Grand Opening in November!
David Deaton Karate Brentwood 615-377-1100 Hendersonville 615-824-9111 615-754-6878 Mt. Juliet daviddeaton.com
The free one-month summer camp gives children these five great life skills: (1) Easy-to-learn self-defense; (2) Vital safety tips; (3) How to handle bullies; (4) What to do when parents aren’t around; (5) What to do when confronted by strangers. Only three 4-week sessions will be held in June, July and August. Classes fill quickly so register now!
E.T.C. Gymnastics 1137 Haley Road, Murfreesboro 1932 Almaville Road, Smyrna etcgymnastics.com • coachken@etcgymnastics.com
615-867-6900 615-617-7644
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 years and older. 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.
Mpact Sports 1647 Mallory Lane, Ste. 102, Brentwood mpactgymnastics.com
615-377-3444
MPACT your child’s school year with the right balance of athletic training, character building and social/ team outlets. Gymnastics for 10 mos. - adult, cheer for 5 - 18 yrs. and martial arts for ages 4 - 104. Competitive teams and proper training. Low teacher/student ratios. Our goal is to help your child develop to their fullest within their sport of choice and encourage learning.
My Gym 330 Franklin Road, Brentwood 204 N. Anderson Lane, Hendersonville my-gym.com/brentwood • my-gym.com/hendersonville
371-5437 824-8002
We build strong, healthy bodies through tumbling, relays, music and gymnastics. High-energy, structured classes improve balance, agility and build self-confidence. Our immaculate facilities and low studentteacher ratios help children 3 mos. - 13 yrs. develop excellent fitness habits in a non-competitive way.
Stevens Family Taekwondo 440 Rice Street, Murfreesboro 805 Commercial Court, Murfreesboro stevensfamilytkd.com • stevensfamilytkd@yahoo.com
615-893-5304
Offering day and evening classes for children and adults. Classes include traditional taekwondo, yoga, cardio kickboxing, Krav Maga and tumbling. Home of the area’s only structured Martial Arts After School Program. Now registering for Fall 2014.
Wado Karate Centers 2444 Morris Gentry Blvd., Antioch 406 Two Mile Pike, Goodlettsville 550 Sam Ridley Pkwy. W, Smyrna wadokaratecenters.com • taylorhayden@msn.com
615-399-3992 615-859-9473 615-399-3992
For ages 3 - adult. Designed to instill self-control, self-confidence and boost self-esteem. Our classes are the product of more than 40 years of refinement and offer life skills along with karate skills. Call or email for more information or to register.
56 december 2014
3414 Hillsboro Pike, Nashville mtcbsa.org • boyscout@mtcbsa.org
615-383-9724
The Boy Scouts of America is one of the nation’s leading and most prominent values-based youth development organizations. The BSA’s goal is to train youth in responsibility, citizenship, character development and self-reliance through participation in outdoor activities, educational and career-oriented programs and community service. Locally the BSA operates four camps which specialize in summer camping programs, canoeing and high adventure activities along with 24 local summer day camps for younger Scouts.
Deer Run Camps & Retreats – Overnight Camps 3845 Perkins Road, Thompson’s Station camps.deerrunretreat.org • contact@deerrunretreat.org
615-794-2918
DEEPER FAITH. GREATER ADVENTURES. One- and two-week sessions build character, confidence, relationships. A well-planned, outdoor experience that creates positive lifetime memories. Preteens (grades 3 - 5), middle school (grades 6 - 8), high school (grades 9 - 12). Over 100 acres of wooded property. Excellent facilities and staff. Horseback riding, climbing tower, paintball, crazy games, lake activities, low or high ropes, cardboard boat regatta, archery, BB guns, wiffle ball, skits. Each day includes age-appropriate small group Bible study plus a nightly speaker and worship. Campers receive a camp themed shirt and DVD of their camp week. Discounts and monthly payments available.
Deer Run Camps & Retreats – Day Camps 3845 Perkins Road, Thompson’s Station camps.deerrunretreat.org • contact@deerrunretreat.org
615-794-2918
DEEPER FAITH. GREATER ADVENTURES. Voted best day camp. Building character, confidence, relationships. A well-planned, outdoor experience that creates positive lifetime memories. Day Camps (grades K - 5) and Adventure Day Camps (grades 6 - 8). Over 100 acres of wooded property. Excellent facilities and staff. Lake activities, skits, crazy games, wiffle ball, BB guns, archery, crafts, climbing tower, creek wading, worship, fun songs and interactive age-appropriate small group Bible study. Adventure camps also include outdoor education and survival skills, Leap of Faith, archery tournament. Campers receive a camp themed shirt and DVD of their camp week. Discounts and monthly payments plus extended care and bus transportation options.
Horton Haven Christian Camp 3711 Reed Harris Road, Chapel Hill hortonhaven.org
931-364-7656
Just one hour south of Nashville offering overnight and day camps. Overnight campers experience archery, air rifles, climbing, horseback riding, canoeing, crafts, mountain biking, swimming and more. Teens can try our 45 ft. high, 600 ft. long zip line. One-week sessions, ages 8 - 11, 12 - 14 and 15 - 18. Day campers enjoy games, crafts, bible lessons, swimming and more.
Riverview Camp for Girls 757 CR 614, Mentone, AL riverviewcamp.com • info@riverviewcamp.com
800-882-0722
Award-winning camp for girls is now accepting applications for 2015! Don’t miss our Mother-Daughter getaway, Apr. 25 - 26. The Riverview campus is also the site for the unique Nature’s Classroom Atop Lookout Mountain, an exciting experiential education program that has existed on a national level for 21 years and in Alabama since 1991. As a member of the Association for Experiential Education, the program provides an individually tailored format for each group’s needs.
The Wave Day Camp at First Baptist Hendersonville 106 Bluegrass Commons Blvd., Hendersonville fbchendersonville.com/wave • daycamp@fbchtn.org
615-447-1397
The Wave provides an exciting, safe, Christ-centered camping environment for kids grades K - 8, Mon. - Fri., 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Each week has a unique theme highlighted by action-packed events including inflatables, water games, our own Olympics and more! Daily activities include music, culinary arts, library, art and recreation.
Find these listings and many more online at
nashvilleparent.com
A DV
IR
MP
SU
ER CA M M
A F URE WHAT IS
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CHILD DOING THIS
SUMMER?
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FOR INFORMATION CALL
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the
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615-707-2832
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Nashville 212 21st Ave. S
RSVP: 615-342-0044 Party Booking info: nashville@mellowmushroominfo.com (corner of 21st & Grand, across from Vandy)
Franklin (on the square) RSVP:
317 Main St.
615-626-0181
Party Booking info: frankllin@mellowmushroominfo.com
Make your Holidays merry and bright with the perfect party and it all starts with the event specialists at Classic Party Rentals
a t n a S e e S e m o C mber 13th & 20th from 2-5pm!
on Dece
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aders Poll Re
Sumner P
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Middle Tennessee’s Indoor Amusement Parks!
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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 Dec 31, 2014.
HENDERSONVILLE & CIRCUS WORLD
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BO W LI N G Buy one game of bowling at regular price and get one game free. 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 Dec 31, 2014.
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CHECK US OUT AT www.strikeandsparebowling.com
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Noble Roman’s Pizza, Spaghetti & Sandwiches Full Arcade * Bowling * Spin Zone * 12,000 sq. ft. facility Lazer Frenzy & Wii Stations * Toddler Playset Obstacle Course Bouncer * Jungle Blaster Room 1113 Murfreesboro Road, #360, Franklin
861-3668 • LetsGetGoofy.com
Discount valid anytime off of a regular price admission. May not be combined with any other offers or used on under 3 pricing. Limit one coupon per group per visit. Valid only at Rivergate TN location. Expires 12/31/14.
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Valid on any party. May not be combined with other offers. Mention coupon at time of booking and present to redeem. Not to be used on previously booked parties. Valid at Rivergate location only. Party may be held at any time but must be booked by 12/31/14.
monkey joes nashville
december 2014 59
Owner & Reptile Guy!
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16 Players Wii, XBox 360, PS3 Enjoy cookies with Santa Surround Sound WINTER CAMPS Rumbling Seats Dec 22, 23 & 26 -- Santa Claus is Coming to Town! Climate Dec 29 - 31 --Controlled New Year Fun!
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ST. NICK COSMIC BOUNCE Fridays, Dec 12th & 19th HOLIDAY DROP & SHOPS Saturday, Dec 6th – Saurday, Dec 13th & Saturday, Dec 20th COOKIES WITH SANTA Friday, Dec 12 & Saturday, Dec 13 NEW YEAR'S BOUNCIN' EVE COSMIC BASH Wednesday, December 31st
The Glow in the Dark Party Extravaganza
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60 december 2014
Same
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• Annu ent a ar
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WHERE EVERY PLAYER IS IMPORTANT YMCA SPRING SPORTS REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN Registration ends Feb. 2; First game is on Mar. 14 Soccer and flag football Visit ymcamidtn.org/youth-sports to register online.
RUN TO A HEALTHIER YOU FROSTBITE 5K AND 10K Sumner County Family YMCA January 1
Register online today
GIVE.YMCAMIDTN.ORG/RACES Our Mission: A worldwide charitable fellowship united by a common loyalty to Jesus Christ for the purpose of helping people grow in spirit, mind and body.
AT ADVENTURE SCIENCE CENTER SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 26
Musical Wonderland
Winter Sports Science
Sing along with the Nashville Caroling Company, and visit the Musical Petting Zoo.
Come explore the science behind winter sports: hockey, curling, snowboarding and more!
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 27
It’s Electric
World Wide Winter
Try your hand at circuitry, learn about electricity, and make your own high-tech LED ornament!
Explore the science behind the four seasons and winter in other parts of the world.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 28
Extreme Cold
Without Winter: The Science of Heat
Discover what happens to everyday objects when cooled down to -321 degrees Fahrenheit.
Compare different degrees of heat, and discover an unseen universe using infrared light.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 22
MONDAY, DECEMBER 29
Birds of a Feather Meet some local rescue birds, explore owl appetites and other bird features.*
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23
Livin’ the Arctic Life: Surviving the Tundra Discover how organisms, including humans, survive and thrive in the coldest places on the planet!
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 30 Out of This World Winter
The Joys of Toys Look inside some of the newest high-tech toys to find out how they work.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 24
See what weather conditions and seasons are like in our solar system and beyond.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31
Polar Pointers
Happy Noon Year!
Learn about magnets, magnetic levitation, and why your compass doesn’t point to the real North Pole!
Celebrate the New Year without staying up until midnight!
Plus, holiday laser shows in the Sudekum Planetarium! *Lab fee applies. Programs subject to change. Check website for details.
800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville | (615) 862-5160
www.adventuresci.org
By Chad Young
things to do DECEMBER
64
DAILY ACTIVITIES Events in day-to-day order, including holiday specials like mall Santas, Christmas parades, light displays and more.
86
ONGOING ACTIVITIES Recurring opportunities for all ages.
89
PARENT PLANNER Events that require advance registration.
92 CHADDERBOX Fun facts about the Rockettes during their last year in Nashville, holiday films on the silver screen and Center for the Arts’ 2015 season.
Nashville’s Nutcracker
82 ON STAGES!
y e Symphon The Nashvill l and the ah presents Am s on Night Visitor 6. . ec D , ay rd Satu
Local dance, music and theater happenings this month.
Local kids take the stage with Nashville Ballet members for the annual holiday tradition, Nashville’s Nutcracker, running Dec. 6 - 23 at TPAC’s Jackson Hall. The current ballet concept, in its seventh season, ties into Nashville’s 1897 centennial exposition. Find show details in “On Stages,” page 82. Read our online interview with local girl Rhea Zaverchand (“Clara”) about the show.
63
daily activities Also see: ONGOING ACTIVITIES Page 86, for additional events taking place this month. PARENT PLANNER Page 89, to register your child for upcoming events requiring advance registration. For area LIBRARY STORYTIMES & EVENTS, go to nashvilleparent.com and click on the “Things To Do” tab.
Mon 1
Wed 3
FREE Brentwood Christmas Tree Lighting
Homeschool Creativity Class
Families can have fun watching the illumination of the city’s Christmas tree. All ages. Brentwood Library, 8109 Concord Road, Brentwood; 5:30 p.m.; 371-0090, ext. 8290, or brentwood-tn.org/library.
Learn the basics of art in a hands-on environment using a variety of mediums. Ages 8 - 11. McFadden Community Center, 221 Bridge Ave., Murfreesboro; 10 - 11 a.m.; $3; 867-7244 or murfreesborotn. gov/parks.
FREE Station Camp High School Performance
FREE J.E. Woodward Elementary School Perfomance
Students from Station Camp High School perform holiday music. All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 10 a.m.; 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
Tue 2 Tuesdays for Tots: Holiday at Cheekwood
View the trees in the Museum of Art, then stop by the studio to make a holiday craft. Ages 3 - 5. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.; free with gate admission ($14 adults, $7 ages 3 - 17); 356-8000 or cheekwood.org.
Fourth-grade students from Columbia present holiday music. All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 10 a.m.; 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
FREE Music Together Intro Class
In Harmony Music hosts this class for children ages birth - 5 years with a parent. Renee’s Groove Room, 3668 Central Pike, Nashville; 10 a.m.; admission is a non-perishable food donation for the Emmanuel Lutheran Church food pantry; 390-3207 or inharmonymusicmidtn.com.
Thu 4 FREE Christmas in the Village
This event takes place all over Hillsboro Village with live music, carolers, food sampling and more. Santa’s at Fido, and
64 december 2014
kids can get a free photo with him in exchange for a new, unwrapped toy for Eakin Elementary School. All ages. Fido, 1812 21st Ave. S., Nashville; 5 - 8 p.m.; 294-5441.
Cider Carols
Enjoy treats from Nashville bakeries, cider, wine, an auction and Christmas carols led by The Downtown Band. Proceeds benefit Hope Clinic for Women. All ages. Liberty Hall at The Factory, 230 Franklin Road, Franklin; 7 - 9 p.m.; $25 individuals, $50 families; 627-2795 or hopeclinicforwomen.org/cidercarols.
FREE Madison Christmas Tree Lighting
Bring the family out for the flip of the switch to illuminate Madison’s tree. All ages. Madison Branch Library, 610 Gallatin Pike N., Nashville; 5:30 p.m.; 865-5400 or madisonrivergatechamber.com.
Predators Hockey
Cheer for the Nashville Predators when they challenge the St. Louis Blues. All ages. Bridgestone Arena, 501 Broadway, Nashville; 7 p.m.; $35 - $220; 770-7800 or nashvillepredators.com.
FREE Sunshine Dance Class
This program focuses on choreography and the skills it takes to pick up dance routines. Ages 8 - 14. The Washington Theatre at Patterson Park, 521 Mercury Blvd., Murfreesboro; 6 - 7 p.m.; free with Sunshine Players membership ($25); 867-7244 or murfreesborotn.gov/parks.
Coffee, Cody, Country & Christmas 650 AM WSM’s Bill Cody hosts a live holiday broadcast with Restless Heart along with a buffet breakfast. All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 7 a.m.; $6.50; 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
FREE Fine Art in Brentwood Show and Sale
More than 60 local and regional artists show and sell their work, with proceeds benefiting Brentwood Academy. All ages. Brentwood Academy, 219 Granny White Pike, Brentwood; 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.; 373-0611 or fineartinbrentwood.com.
Friday Photos with Santa
Kids can visit Santa in his workshop and have a professional photo taken (photo package prices vary in addition to gate admission). All ages. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville; 3 - 5 p.m.; $14 adults, $7 children; 3568000 or cheekwood.org.
Home for the Holidays Estate Tour
The Literacy Council of Williamson County hosts this public tour of four Brentwood estate homes featuring holiday decor from top area designers. Located in three neighborhoods — Annandale, Belle Rive II and Princeton Hills — each stop features live music and refreshments. All ages. 5 - 8 p.m.; $20 online, $25 at the door; homes4holidays.org.
Martinis & Mistletoe
Fri 5 FREE Christmas on Madison Avenue
Holiday shop for handmade goods in a boutique-style setting. All ages. HYPE Events Studio, 306 W. Vine St., Murfreesboro; 3 - 6 p.m.; 855-500-4973 or christmasonmadisonavenue. blogspot.com/.
During this fundraiser for the Horticulture Society of Middle Tennessee, guests can enjoy holiday music, food and festive beverages. Adults. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville; 8 p.m. - 12 a.m.; $65 in advance, $80 at the door; 3568000 or cheekwood.org.
share their lists. All ages. Public Square, Murfreesboro; 6 - 8 p.m.; 895-1887 or downtownmurfreesboro.com.
FREE Nashville Christmas Tree Lighting
Enjoy the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree that begins prior to the parade. All ages. Public Square Park, Union Street, Nashville; 6:30 p.m.; nashvillechristmasparade.com.
Rudolph’s Red Nose Run
Participate in a 5K run/walk to benefit NeedLink Nashville. A Kid’s Fun Run takes place prior at 5:15 p.m. All ages. LP Field, 1 Titans Way, Nashville; 6 p.m.; $45 (kid’s run is $15); rudolphrednoserun.com.
Sat 6 Home Alone
See a high-definition screening of Home Alone while the Nashville Symphony performs the movie’s score live. All ages. Schermerhorn Symphony Center, 1 Symphony Place, Nashville; 7 p.m.; $34 - $66; 687-6400 or nashvillesymphony.org.
A Victorian Christmas
Look back in time as Davis family re-enactors prepare the Sam Davis Home for Christmas in 1861. Shop at the inaugural Holiday Craft Boutique featuring local vendors with handmade goods. All ages.1399 Sam Davis Road, Smyrna; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $5; 459-2341 or samdavishome.org.
FREE Bird Club
Join fellow bird enthusiasts to search for Tennessee’s winter resident feathered friends. All ages. Thompson Lane Trailhead, 2240 N. Thompson Lane, Murfreesboro; 9 a.m.; 217-3017 or murfreesborotn.gov/parks.
FREE Murfreesboro Christmas Tree Lighting
Celebrate the lighting of the ‘Boro’s tree, then kids can hop on Santa’s lap for photos (bring your own camera) and to
(Daily Activities continue on page 69)
See the Nashville Predators mascot, Gnash, during Nashville’s Christmas Parade on Friday, Dec. 5.
Christmas Parades ... COLUMBIA Monday, Dec. 1 at 7 p.m. “Underneath the Tree”
Downtown Columbia at Public Square 931-388-3647 or columbiamainstreet. com
DONELSON/HERMITAGE Saturday, Dec. 6 at 2 p.m. “30 Years ... An American Christmas Tradition”
Starts at the intersection of Elm Hill Pike and Donelson Pike continuing north on Donelson and ending at the entrance to the Music City Star. Hope Hines is Grand Marshal; 883-7896 or d-hchamber.com/ christmas-parade.htm
FAIRVIEW Saturday, Dec. 3 at 11 a.m. “The Music & Spirit of Christmas” Starts at France Manufacturing on Highway 100 and ends at Fairview Ballpark 799-9290 or fairviewchamber.org
FRANKLIN Saturday, Dec. 6 at 2 p.m. “Christmas Treasures”
Starts at Boyd Mill Avenue at Jim Warren Park and travels down New Highway 96 West to Third Avenue South then down Main Street ending at 11th Avenue North; franklin-tn.kiwanisone.org
GALLATIN Saturday, Dec. 13 at 12 p.m. “A Winter Wonderland Christmas” Starts on Steam Plant Road and ends at Gallatin High School; 452-4000 or gallatintn.org
GOODLETTSVILLE Saturday, Dec. 7 at 11 a.m. “Christmas on Main Street”
Starts at Goodlettsville Plaza on Main Street and ends at Peay Park; 859-7979 or goodlettsvillechamber.com
HENDERSONVILLE Sunday, Dec. 7 at 2:30 p.m. “’Twas the Night Before Christmas”
Starts at Memorial Park and ends at the Post Office. Martin Family Circus is the Grand Marshal; 822-8585, 517-5714 or hendersonvilleholidayfest.org
LA VERGNE Saturday, Dec. 6 at 6 p.m. “A Tennessee Christmas”
Begins at Veterans Memorial Park and ends at City Hall for the Christmas tree lighting complete with fireworks. Tonya and Ricky Cook serve as Grand Marshals; 793-3224 or lavergnetn.gov
LEBANON Sunday, Dec. 7 at 2 p.m. “A Country Christmas”
on ABC’s Nashville) serves as Grand Marshal; 872-2452 or nashvillechristmasparade.com
LEIPER’S FORK Saturday, Dec. 13 at 2 p.m.
PORTLAND Saturday, Dec. 6 at 5:30 p.m. “Winter Nights and Christmas Lights”
The parade is in downtown Lebanon through the square and Main Street; 4445503 or lebanonwilsonchamber.com
Southall Road to Joseph Road visitleipersfork.com
MT. JULIET Saturday, Dec. 6 at 11 a.m. “A Frozen Christmas”
Starts at First Baptist Church and heads up North Mt. Juliet Road to Charlie Daniels Parkway; 758-6522 or cityofmtjuliet. org/mtjulietchristmasparade.cfm
MURFREESBORO Sunday, Dec. 14 at 2 p.m. “All I Want for Christmas”
Starts at East Main Street and Middle Tennessee Boulevard and ends at West Main at Walnut; 893-5373 or wgnsradio.com
NASHVILLE Friday, Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. “Sharing the Warmth”
Starts at Public Square Plaza on Second Avenue North and goes up Broadway; the city’s tree lighting with fireworks takes place at 6:30 p.m. prior to the parade. Actor Eric Close (“Mayor Teddy Conrad”
Begins on Freedom Drive down Highway 109 South to Main Street and back to Freedom Drive; 325-9032 or portlandcoc.com
SMYRNA Sunday, Dec. 7 at 2 p.m. “A Storybook Christmas”
Starts on Lowry Street and ends on Nolan Drive; 267-5003 or townofsmyrna.org
SPRING HILL Saturday, Dec. 6 at 5 p.m.
Starts at Home Depot traveling on Main Street to Beechcroft Road into Evans Park 931-487-0027 or springhilltn.org
WHITE HOUSE Saturday, Dec. 6 at 1 p.m. “Cruisin’ Christmas”
Starts at White House City Park ending on West Drive; 672-4350, ext. 2114, or cityofwhitehouse.com
december 2014 65
OPEN HOUSE: Tuesday, December 9th 9:00-11:00am
OPEN HOUSE | DEC. 10
You will make a WORLD of Difference. From our acclaimed Pre-K program—now open to three-year-olds—through grade 8, St. Edward students are being their best and doing what’s right. It’s a Catholic education in a culturally diverse community where every voice is welcomed. For more information visit us online at StEdward.org.
Be your best. Do what’s right.
190 Thompson Lane • Nashville, TN 37211 • 615.833.5770
66 december 2014
Spring Open House Sunday, January 25 • 2 to 4 p.m.
www.lipscombacademy.org
Call for a tour today! Infant (3 months) - 8th Grade www.montessoriacad.org
Our mission is to promote academic excellence in a caring, nurturing environment.
6021 Cloverland Drive Brentwood, Tennessee 37027 p (615) 833-3610 f (615) 833-3680 Accredited by SACS & AMS
december 2014 67
FAMILY ACTIVITIES SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 13, 20 • 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7, 14, 21 • DROP IN 12:00 - 2:00 pm
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 13 • 12:30 pm
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13 • 10:00 am
PHOTOS WITH SANTA • FREE
COUNTRY COOKIE DECORATING
ORNAMENTAL INSTRUMENTS
FARMER JASON PERFORMS CHRISTMAS ON THE FARM
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7, 21 • 12:00, 1:00, AND 2:00 pm
MAKE LETTERPRESS HOLIDAY PRINTS WITH HATCH SHOW PRINT • FREE
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20 • 10:30 am
SONG AND STORY TIME
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20 • 12:30 pm
GUITAR 101
@countrymusichof Programs are supported by:
These programs are funded under an agreement with the State of Tennessee and supported by Bonnaroo Works Fund and the East Tennessee Foundation, and Nashville Parent
BECOME A MEMBER TO ENJOY THESE PROGRAMS AND MORE FOR FREE!
STEP INSIDE Holiday Fun 68 december 2014
222 5th Ave. South • Nashville, TN • 615.416.2001 Visit CountryMusicHallofFame.org/family for a full list of activities
daily activities
Also see ONGOING ACTIVITIES on page 86 and THE PARENT PLANNER on page 89 to register for future events
Holiday at Cheekwood
Visit live reindeer, drop in to the studio for Holiday ‘ART’ivities, decorate cookies, sit on Santa’s lap for a photo and enjoy live seasonal music. All ages. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville; 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.; free with gate admission ($14 adults, $7 ages 3 - 17); 356-8000 or cheekwood.org.
FREE Holiday Open House
Meet and take pictures with Santa, create a Christmas craft, eat holiday snacks and explore cultures from around the world through the Festival of Trees. All ages. Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; 890-2300 or explorethedc.org.
Kids can visit Santa’s workshop on Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 21 during Holiday at Cheekwood as well as select Friday afternoons this month.
Sat 6 (cont’d) Breakfast with Santa
Enjoy a pancake breakfast, face painting, crafts, a silent auction and photo with Santa. Proceeds benefit the Gallatin Shalom Zone. All ages. St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 449 N. Water Ave., Gallatin; 8 - 11 a.m.; $5; 442-7575 or gallatinshalomzone.org.
FREE Christmas at Cannonsburgh
Celebrate the season with a hayride through the village to view Christmas displays, take pictures with Santa (for a small fee) and more. All ages. Cannonsburgh Village, 312 S. Front St., Murfreesboro; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; 890-0355 or murfreesborotn.gov/parks.
Christmas Candlelight Tour of Homes
Sponsored by Oaklands Historic House Museum, view the mansion along with historic private homes along East Main Street. All ages. Oaklands Historic House Museum, 900 N. Maney Ave., Murfreesboro; 4 - 8 p.m.; $12.50 adults in advance/$15 day of tour, $5 ages 6 - 17, free ages 5 and younger; 8930022 or oaklandsmuseum.org.
FREE Christmas Character Saturday
Kids can enjoy stories and photos with a surprise holiday character. All ages. Williamson County Visitor Center, 400 Main St., Franklin; 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.; 550-7606.
FREE Christmas on Madison Avenue
Holiday shop for handmade goods in a boutique-style setting. All ages. HYPE Events Studio, 306 W. Vine St., Murfreesboro; 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; 855-5004973 or christmasonmadisonavenue.blogspot.com/.
FREE Christmas on Main Street
In conjunction with the city’s Christmas parade, your family can enjoy a festival that includes musical performances, vendor booths, children’s activities and more. All ages. North Main Street, Goodlettsville; 11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; 859-7979 or goodlettsvillechamber.com.
FREE CoolSprings Breakfast with Santa
Kids can enjoy a Chick-fil-A breakfast (while supplies last), holiday entertainment and visiting with St. Nick. All ages. CoolSprings Galleria, 1800 Galleria Blvd., Franklin; 8:30 -
10 a.m.; free breakfast for kids (regular prices apply for adults); 771-2128 or coolspringsgalleria.com.
FREE Fairview Tree Lighting
Bring the family to enjoy the lighting of Fairview’s Christmas tree. All ages. City Hall, 7100 City Center Cir., Fairview; 4 p.m.; 799-2484 or fairview-tn. org.
FREE Fine Art in Brentwood Show and Sale
More than 60 local and regional artists show and sell their work, with proceeds benefiting Brentwood Academy. All ages. Brentwood Academy, 219 Granny White Pike, Brentwood; 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; 373-0611 or fineartinbrentwood.com.
FREE First Saturday Art Crawl Visit a variety of art galleries in downtown Nashville to see new exhibits and enjoy refreshments. All ages. Art Galleries in Downtown Nashville; 6 - 9 p.m.; nashvilledowntown.com/play/ first-saturday-art-crawl.
Hollyday Marketplace
The Junior League of Murfreesboro hosts this holiday shopping event where more than 100 vendors have items for sale including gifts, art, home decor and more. Proceeds benefit local charities and community partners. All ages. Tennessee Miller Coliseum, 304 W. Thompson Lane, Murfreesboro; 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; $7 in advance, $10 at the gate; jlmonline.org.
Home for the Holidays Estate Tour The Literacy Council of Williamson County hosts this public tour of four Brentwood estate homes featuring holiday decor from top area designers. Located in three neighborhoods — Annandale,
Belle Rive II and Princeton Hills — each stop features live music and refreshments. All ages. 12 6 p.m.; $20 online, $25 at the door; homes4holidays.org.
Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis
Help raise money for the Tennessee chapter of the Arthritis Foundation by participating in a 5K race or 1K Family Fun Run/ Walk. Other activities include a Santa chase, holiday music, information booths and more. All ages. Downtown Franklin; 9 a.m.; $25 for the 5K, free for the fun run, plus pledges raised; arthritis.org.
FREE Miracle on Main Street Festival
Santa’s Marketplace features crafts, holiday vendors, food and gifts for purchase. Kids can get free pics with Santa after the 1 p.m. parade, and live entertainment starts at 3 p.m. All ages. White House City Hall, 105 College St., White House; 12 p.m.; 672-3937 or whitehousechamber.org.
FREE Morning with Santa
Magician Scott Humston performs at 9:30, 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. (you must have an advance ticket to attend the shows), and kids can also enjoy refreshments, face painting, music, giveaways and visiting with Santa. All ages. Brentwood Library, 8109 Concord Road, Brentwood; 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.; 371-0090, ext. 8380, or brentwood-tn.org/library. (please turn the page)
Holiday Parade of Homes Dec. 6 - 21 This benefit for Make-A-Wish Middle Tennessee features a daily home tour from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. (last ticket sold at 7 p.m.). Select days feature additional family activities for an extra fee, including the Reindeer Games Paint Party, Grinch Who Stole Christmas Brunch, Christmas Cookie Decorating, Santa’s Workshop and more. Located in Arrington’s Kings’ Chapel community, home tour tickets are $12 adults, free ages 12 and younger. Learn more and get the complete list of additional activity dates and fees at kingschapellife. com.
december 2014 69
daily activities North Pole Excursion Train
Embark on a 64-mile round trip train ride to Lebanon with Santa and his elves. All ages. Tennessee Central Railway Museum, 220 Willow St., Nashville; 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; $21 $75; 244-9001 or tcry.org.
Ornamental Instruments
Learn about special instruments in the collection and find out how they were personalized for the musicians who played them. Afterward, customize your own small wooden instrument or large paper cut-out for holiday ornaments. Ages 5 and older. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 12:30 p.m.; free with gate admission ($24.95 adults, $14.95 ages 6 - 12, free ages 5 and younger); 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
FREE Pancakes with Santa
Have breakfast with St. Nick and share your wish lists. All ages. Donelson Church of Christ, 2706 Old Lebanon Road, Nashville; 8 - 10 a.m.; admission is free, but there is a suggested $5 donation or bring a non-perishable food item for the local refugee community; 751-0958 or facebook.com/ events/305998519594393/.
FREE Photos with Santa
Children can share their Christmas lists with St. Nick and pose for a photo (timed passes are available in 15-minute increments, available for pick-up beginning at 9 a.m.). All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.; 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
FREE Porter Flea’s Holiday Market
More than 100 jury-picked vendors offer thousands of unique gifts for your holiday shopping. All ages. Track One Building, Fourth Avenue South and Chestnut Street, Nashville; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; porterflea.com.
70 december 2014
Also see ONGOING ACTIVITIES on page 86 and THE PARENT PLANNER on page 89 to register for future events
FREE Portland’s Christmas Festivities
Kids can visit Santa in the Strawberry Station then have fun decorating cookies and creating Christmas crafts before the city’s parade at 5:30 p.m. All ages. Portland Chamber of Commerce, 106 Main St., Portland; 3 - 5 p.m.; 325-9032 or portlandcofc.com.
Predators Hockey
Cheer for the Nashville Predators when they challenge the Chicago Blackhawks. All ages. Bridgestone Arena, 501 Broadway, Nashville; 6 p.m.; $35 - $220; 770-7800 or nashvillepredators.com.
Purple Way 5K
Participate in a 5K and Kids Fun Run to benefit the Epilepsy Foundation of Middle Tennessee. Registration is at 7 a.m., 5K starts at 8 a.m., Kids Fun Run is at 9 a.m. All ages. Shelby Park, 1900 Davidson St., Nashville; $35 single, $50 family, $10 Fun Run; epilepsytn.org.
FREE RiverGate Breakfast with Santa
Head to the Food Court for a morning nibble with St. Nick, face painting with Mrs. Claus and a Mr. Bond and the Science Guys Spectacular Science Show (breakfast is limited to the first 200 kids). All ages. RiverGate Mall, 1000 Rivergate Parkway, Goodlettsville; 8 - 10 a.m.; 859-3458 ext. 223 or rivergate-mall.com.
Santa at Plaid Rabbit
Kids can hop on Kris Kringle’s lap for a photo. All ages. Plaid Rabbit, 2104 Bandywood Drive, Nashville; 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.; photo packages start at $36; 298-2323 or plaidrabbitgifts.com.
FREE Santa in the Courthouse
Kids can visit St. Nick and share their wish lists and pose for photos (bring your own camera). All ages. Rutherford County Courthouse, 1 Public Square, Murfreesboro; 12 - 4 p.m.; 895-1887 or downtownmurfreesboro.com.
FREE Shakespeare Allowed
Participate in (or just listen to) a complete reading of Cymbeline. All ages. Nashville Public Library, 615 Church St., Nashville; 12 - 3 p.m.; nashvilleshakes.org.
St. Nicholas Ball
Enjoy live music, dancing and other festivities during this benefit for Sumner County CASA. All ages. Bluegrass Country Club, 550 Johnny Cash Pkwy., Hendersonville; 6 - 11 p.m.; $75; hendersonvilleholidayfest.org.
FREE Yulefest
Celebrate the season 1780s style with old-time festivities, refreshments and live music. All ages. Historic Mansker’s Station, 705 Caldwell Drive, Goodlettsville; 6 - 9 p.m.; 851-2231 or goodlettsvilleparks.com.
Sun 7 FREE Christmas on Madison Avenue
Tackle some holiday shopping for handmade goods in a boutique-style setting. All ages. HYPE Events Studio, 306 W. Vine Street, Murfreesboro; 12 - 4 p.m.; 855-500-4973 or christmasonmadisonavenue. blogspot.com/.
Citizen Science
Watch for birds in the wetlands, monitor the phenology plot and make bird feeders to take home. All ages. Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro; 2 - 4 p.m.; $6; 890-2300 or explorethedc. org.
Country Cookie Decorating
Frost and garnish cookies to represent your favorite artist, song or artifact. All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 12 - 2 p.m.; free with gate admission ($24.95 adults, $14.95 ages 6 - 12, free ages 5 and younger); 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
FREE Fine Art in Brentwood Show and Sale
More than 60 local and regional artists show and sell their work, with proceeds benefiting Brentwood Academy. All ages. Brentwood Academy, 219 Granny White Pike, Brentwood; 1 - 5 p.m.; 373-0611 or fineartinbrentwood.com.
Holiday at Cheekwood
Visit live reindeer, drop in to the studio for Holiday ‘ART’ivities, decorate cookies, sit on Santa’s lap for a photo and enjoy live seasonal music. All ages. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville; 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.; free with gate admission ($14 adults, $7 ages 3 - 17); 356-8000 or cheekwood.org.
Holiday Film Screening Watch A Crystal Christmas in Sweden from 1987, starring Crystal Gayle and guests Michael Damian, John Davidson and David Hasselhoff. All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 2 p.m.; free with gate admission ($24.95 adults, $14.95 ages 6 - 12, free ages 5 and younger); 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
Home for the Holidays Estate Tour The Literacy Council of Williamson County hosts this public tour of four Brentwood estate homes featuring holiday decor from top area designers. Located in three neighborhoods — Annandale, Belle Rive II and Princeton Hills — each stop features live music and refreshments. All ages. 12 6 p.m.; $20 online, $25 at the door; homes4holidays.org.
FREE Make Letterpress Art with Hatch Show Print
Kids of all ages can have fun making old-school holiday letterpress prints. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 12, 1 and 2 p.m.; 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
FREE Titans Football
Root for the Tennessee Titans when they challenge the New York Giants. All ages. LP Field, 1 Titans Way, Nashville; 12 p.m.; 565-4200 or titansonline.com.
Mon 8 FREE Barbecue Dinner & Holiday Marketplace
Watch a basketball game, tackle some of your holiday shopping and enjoy a barbecue dinner plate ($5 per person). All ages. Oakland Middle School, 853 DeJarnette Lane, Murfreesboro; 5 - 7:30 p.m.; 867-8264 or oms.rcs.k12.tn.us.
Tue 9 FREE Counting the Costs: Financing Private School Education
Parents interested in a private school education for their child at any school can participate in this workshop led by the vice president of School and Student Services at the National Association of Independent Schools. University School of Nashville, 2000 Edgehill Ave., Nashville; 6:45 - 8:30 p.m.; 327-3812 or lmosby@usn.org.
FREE La Leche League of Portland
Support for new and expectant moms interested in breastfeeding. Portland Public Library, 301 Portland Blvd., Portland; 10 a.m.; 323-7158 or facebook. com/lllofportland.
Merry Mercy Christmas Benefit
This benefit for Mercy Ministries includes live entertainment by Danny Gokey and Dana Glover, a silent auction and dinner. All ages. Omni Hotel, 250 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 6 - 9 p.m.; $125; 831-6987 or mercyministries.corg.
daily activities Tuesdays for Tots: Holiday Treats
Visit the studio to create nonedible holiday treats using art supplies. Ages 3 - 5. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.; free with gate admission ($14 adults, $7 ages 3 - 17); 3568000 or cheekwood.org.
Wed 10
Mall Santas ... THE AVENUE MURFREESBORO 2615 Medical Center Pkwy. Murfreesboro 893-4207 theavenuemurfreesboro.com Sundays, Dec. 14 and 21
PROVIDENCE MARKETPLACE 401 S. Mt. Juliet Road, Mt. Juliet 773-2298 shopprovidencemarketplace.com Saturday, Dec. 13
Meet Santa and participate in a variety of free activities at the Central Park area.
Kids can share their wish lists with the jolly elf and enjoy stories with Mrs. Claus, carolers and carriage rides from 1 - 5 p.m.
COOL SPRINGS GALLERIA 1800 Galleria Blvd., Franklin 771-2128 coolspringsgalleria.com Through Wednesday, Dec. 24
RIVERGATE MALL 1000 RiverGate Pkwy. Goodlettsville 859-3458 • rivergate-mall.com Through Wednesday, Dec. 24
Hours are Mon - Sat 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. (breaks from 1 - 2 p.m. and 5 - 6 p.m.), Sun 12 - 6 p.m. (break from 3 - 3:30 p.m.).
Hours are Mon - Sat 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. (breaks from 1 - 2 p.m. and 5 - 6 p.m.), Sun 12 - 6 p.m. (break from 3 - 4 p.m.).
The Mall at Green Hills 2126 Abbott Martin Road Nashville 298-5478 • shopgreenhills.com Through Wednesday, Dec. 24
STONES RIVER MALL 1720 Old Fort Pkwy. Murfreesboro 896-4486 • stonesrivermall.com Through Thursday, Dec. 11: Mon
Hours are Mon - Sat 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. (breaks from 1 - 2 p.m. and 5 - 6 p.m.), Sun 12 - 6 p.m. (break from 3 - 4 p.m.).
OPRY MILLS 433 Opry Mills Circle, Nashville 514-1000 simon.com/mall/opry-mills Through Wednesday, Dec. 24
Hours through Tuesday, Dec. 23: Mon - Sat 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. (breaks from 1 - 2 p.m. and 5:15 - 6 p.m.), Sun 12 - 6 p.m. (break from 2 - 3 p.m.). Wednesday, Dec. 24: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. (break from 1 - 1:45 p.m.)
- Sat 12 - 8 p.m. (break from 3 - 4 p.m.), Sun 12 – 6 p.m. (break from 2 - 2:30 p.m.). Dec. 12 - 23: Mon – Sun 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. (breaks from 12 - 12:45 p.m. and 3:45 - 4:30 p.m.). Wednesday, Dec. 24: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. (break from 1:15 - 2 p.m.).
STREETS OF INDIAN LAKE 300 Indian Lake Blvd. Hendersonville 822-7627 streetsofindianlake.com Through Sunday, Dec. 7: Fri - Sat 2 4 p.m. and 5 - 7 p.m., Sun 1 - 4 p.m.; Dec. 11 - 21: Fri - Sat 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., 2 - 4 p.m. and 5 - 7 p.m., Sun 1 - 4 p.m. Monday, Dec. 22: 1 - 4 p.m.; Tuesday, Dec. 23: 2 - 5 p.m.
Homeschool Creativity Class
Learn the basics of art in a hands-on environment and create in a variety of mediums. Ages 8 - 11. McFadden Community Center, 221 Bridge Ave., Murfreesboro; 10 - 11 a.m.; $3; 867-7244 or murfreesborotn.gov/parks.
Thu 11 1920s Soiree and Screening
Don’t wait until January to watch the first episode of Downton Abbey Season 5. Attend this event and see it on the big screen while enjoying a Roaring 20s style party (guests are encouraged to wear 1920s attire). Proceeds benefit Nashville Public Television. All ages. The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main St., Franklin; 7 p.m.; $75 - $100; 538-2076 or franklintheatre. com.
Appalachian Christmas Dinner
Enjoy a traditional Appalachian dinner, storytelling, music and more. All ages. Rose Mont Mansion, 810 S. Water Ave., Gallatin; 7 - 10 p.m.; $40; hendersonvilleholidayfest.org.
FREE Sunshine Dance Class
This program focuses on choreography and the skills it takes to pick up dance routines. Ages 8 - 14. The Washington Theatre at Patterson Park, 521 Mercury Blvd., Murfreesboro; 6 - 7 p.m.; free with Sunshine Players membership ($25); 867-7244 or murfreesborotn.gov/parks.
Fri 12 FREE Christmas on Madison Avenue
Holiday shop for handmade goods in a boutique-style setting. All ages. HYPE Events Studio, 306 W. Vine Street, Murfreesboro; 3 - 6 p.m.; 855-5004973 or christmasonmadisonavenue.blogspot.com/.
FREE Friday Night Christmas Movie
Enjoy a family-friendly Christmasthemed flick. Ages 5 and older. First Wesleyan Church, 611 Shelby Ave., Nashville; 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.; 686-4786 or fwc-nashville.org.
Friday Photos with Santa
Kids can visit Santa in his workshop and have a professional photo taken (photo package prices vary in addition to gate admission). All ages. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville; 3 - 5 p.m.; $14 adults, $7 children; 3568000 or cheekwood.org.
FREE La Leche League of Hermitage/Wilson County
Find breastfeeding support and resources. Donelson Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 2914 Old Lebanon Road, Nashville; 10 a.m.; 447-5182 or llleus. org/state/tennessee.html.
Marvel Universe Live!
Marvel superheroes like SpiderMan, Iron Man, Hulk and more present a live action arena show with special effects, pyrotechnics, aerial stunts and more. All ages. Bridgestone Arena, 501 Broadway, Nashville; 7 p.m.; $20 - $145; 770-2000 or bridgestonearena.com.
Photos with Santa
Shacklett’s Photography snaps photos of kids on St. Nick’s lap. All ages. Rutherford County Courthouse, 1 Public Square, Murfreesboro; 6 - 8 p.m.; photo package prices vary; 895-1887 or downtownmurfreesboro.com.
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december 2014 71
GIVE YOUR CHILD A GIFT
THAT WILL LAST A LIFETIME Life-long of learning, friendship & character building, all under one roof
Available Spots ďŹ lling up fast!
Music and Lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. Book by Timothy Allen McDonald. Based on the book by Roald Dahl.
216 Jamestown Park Road, Brentwood, TN 37027
Independently Owned and Operated
Maryland Farms, Brentwood
72 december 2014
Call today to schedule a tour. 615-373-3110 or visit CambridgeAcademyPreschool.com
Nov 6 - Dec 14
Check online schedule for times.
Tickets: nashvillect.org or 615-252-2675
daily activities
Also see ONGOING ACTIVITIES on page 86 and THE PARENT PLANNER on page 89 to register for future events
with special effects, pyrotechnics, aerial stunts and more. All ages. Bridgestone Arena, 501 Broadway, Nashville; 11 a.m., 3 and 7 p.m.; $20 - $145; 770-2000 or bridgestonearena. com.
FREE Movie Under the Winter Stars
Bundle up and watch a screening of a family-friendly movie. All ages. Cannonsburgh Village, 312 S. Front St., Murfreesboro; 6:30 p.m.; 893-2141 or murfreesborotn.gov/parks.
Music City Christmas Run See Spider-Man and a variety of other superheroes center stage during Marvel Universe Live! at Bridgestone Arena Dec. 12 - 14.
Sat 13 21st Annual Christmas Toy Train Show
See several operating toy train layouts of all sizes and manufacturers available for sale, and children can register to win a free train set. All ages. Tennessee State Fairgrounds, 625 Smith Ave., Nashville; 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $7 adults, free ages 12 and younger; 646-2232 or dixiedivisiontca.com/music-city/ index.html.
Battle of Nashville Anniversary Event
In commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Nashville, 10 Civil War sites in the Nashville area host living history demonstrations with re-enactors and cannon firings. Several spots have special exhibits and events. Participating sites include Belle Meade Plantation, Belmont Mansion, Bicentennial Mall State Park, Fort Negley, Glen Leven Farm, Redoubt No. 1, Shy’s Hill, Travellers Rest, Tennessee State Library and Archives, and Tennessee State Museum. Several sites are free. A $30 ticket includes admission to Belle Meade, Belmont, Glen Leven and Travellers Rest. All ages. 10 a.m.; bonps.org.
FREE Bethlehem Marketplace
This re-enactment of how the village of Bethlehem might have
appeared at the time of Jesus’ birth features Roman soldiers, live camels, weavers, merchants and more. All ages. Southeast Baptist Church, 708 Minerva Drive, Murfreesboro; 1 - 5 p.m.; 896-0940 or sebaptist.org.
partment. All ages. Shelby Park, 1900 Davidson St., Nashville; 8 a.m.; $30; active.com.
Kids can enjoy stories and photos with a surprise holiday character. All ages. Williamson County Visitor Center, 400 Main St., Franklin; 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.; 550-7606.
FREE Christmas on Madison Avenue
FREE Holiday Open House
Shop for handmade goods in a boutique-style setting. All ages. HYPE Events Studio, 306 W. Vine St., Murfreesboro; 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; 855-500-4973 or christmasonmadisonavenue. blogspot.com/.
FREE Dickens of a Christmas
Downtown Franklin is transformed into the time of Charles Dickens with characters telling his stories, dancers, street musicians, theatrical performers, a holiday bazaar and more. All ages. Downtown Franklin, Franklin; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; 5918500 or historicfranklin.com.
Frosty Fireman 5K
Participate in a 5K race benefiting the Widows and Children’s Fund of the Nashville Fire De-
Embark on a 64-mile round trip train ride to Lebanon with Santa and his elves. All ages. Tennessee Central Railway Museum, 220 Willow St., Nashville; 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; $21 $75; 244-9001 or tcry.org.
Ornamental Instruments
Learn about instruments in the museum’s collection and find out how they were personalized for the musicians who played them. Afterward, customize your own small wooden instrument or large paper cut-out for holiday ornaments. Ages 5 and older. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 12 - 2 p.m.; free with gate admission ($24.95 adults, $14.95 ages 6 - 12, free ages 5 and younger); 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
Holiday at Cheekwood
Visit live reindeer, drop in to the studio for Holiday ‘ART’ivities, decorate cookies, sit on Santa’s lap for a photo and enjoy live seasonal music. All ages. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville; 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.; free with gate admission ($14 adults, $7 ages 3 - 17); 356-8000 or cheekwood.org.
FREE Christmas Character Saturday
Participate in a 5K race to benefit Prevent Child Abuse Tennessee. All ages. Public Square Park, Union Street, Nashville; 8 a.m.; $35; pcat.org/events/ mccr-5k.
North Pole Excursion Train
Enjoy a candlelight tour of the home decorated for the holidays, listen to carols, enjoy hot cocoa and more. All ages. Historic Rock Castle, 139 Rock Castle Lane, Hendersonville; 6 - 8 p.m.; 824-0502 or historicrockcastle.com.
Hotcakes and Holly Breakfast
Enjoy a pancake breakfast with proceeds benefiting the Murfreesboro Rotary service projects. All ages. Middle Tennessee Christian School, 100 MTCS Road, Murfreesboro; 7 - 10:30 a.m.; $5; abozeman@ rutherfordchamber.org.
Marvel Universe Live!
Marvel superheroes like SpiderMan, Iron Man, Hulk and more present a live action arena show
Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shop Daily through Wednesday, Dec. 24
B
ass Pro Shop offers lots of holiday fun this season with the return of Santa’s Wonderland. Several free activities take place every day for all ages. Mingle with elves, write (and mail) letters to St. Nick, participate in holiday craft activities, take aim in the Red Ryder Laser Arcade and the soft gun range, drive slot cars, decorate cookies and have a free photo snapped on Santa’s lap. Most activities occur during the store’s operating hours (Mon - Sat 9 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sun 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.), while others — like craft activities — take place on specific days of the week throughout the season. Free photos with Santa take place Mon - Fri 3 - 8 p.m., Sat 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Sun 12 - 5 p.m. Visit the website for a complete schedule. Bass Pro Shop is located at 323 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville. Call 514-5200 or visit basspro.com/santa. (please turn the page)
december 2014 73
daily activities FREE Photos with Santa
Children can share their Christmas lists with St. Nick and pose for a photo (timed passes are available in 15-minute increments, available for pick-up beginning at 9 a.m.). All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.; 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
FREE Santa in the Courthouse
Kids can visit St. Nick and share their wish lists and pose for photos (bring your own camera). All ages. Rutherford County Courthouse, 1 Public Square, Murfreesboro; 12 - 4 p.m.; 895-1887 or downtownmurfreesboro.com.
Second Saturday
Catch three after-hours laser shows: Laser Holidays (8:30 p.m.), The Beatles (9:30 p.m.) and Queen (10:30 p.m.). All ages. Sudekum Planetarium, 800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville; $8 per show or all three for $20; 862-5160 or adventuresci.org.
The 12 Days of Science: Musical Wonderland
Musical activities includes a variety of live performances and an all-day musical instrument petting zoo from the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. All ages. Adventure Science Center, 800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; $13 adults, $11 ages 2 - 12; 862-5160 or adventuresci.org.
Sun 14 FREE Bethlehem Marketplace
This re-enactment of how the village of Bethlehem might have appeared at the time of Jesus’ birth features Roman soldiers, live camels, weavers, merchants and more. All ages. Southeast Baptist Church, 708 Minerva Drive, Murfreesboro; 1 - 5 p.m.; 896-0940 or sebaptist.org.
74 december 2014
Also see ONGOING ACTIVITIES on page 86 and THE PARENT PLANNER on page 89 to register for future events
Big Bang Rockin’ Holiday Show
The Big Bang dueling piano players perform a holiday singalong, dance-along show along with children’s crafts, holiday refreshments and a visit from Santa. All ages. The Big Bang Dueling Piano Bar, 114 N. Church St., Murfreesboro; 3 - 5 p.m.; $5 adults or the donation of a new, unwrapped item for Toys for Tots, free ages 11 and younger; 900-1043 or thebigbangbar.com.
FREE Christmas on Madison Avenue
Tackle some holiday shopping for handmade goods in a boutique-style setting. All ages. HYPE Events Studio, 306 W. Vine St., Murfreesboro; 12 - 4 p.m.; 855-500-4973 or christmasonmadisonavenue.blogspot. com/.
Cookies with Santa and Elsa
During this benefit for Bethany Christian Services, kids can enjoy refreshments and one-on-one visits with Santa and Elsa from Frozen. All ages. Christ Community Church, 1215 Hillsboro Road, Franklin; 2 - 4 p.m.; $10; 468-2200 or christcommunity. org.
Country Cookie Decorating
Frost and garnish cookies to represent your favorite artist, song or artifact. All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 12 - 2 p.m.; free with gate admission ($24.95 adults, $14.95 ages 6 - 12, free ages 5 and younger); 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
FREE Dickens of a Christmas
Downtown Franklin is transformed into the time of Charles Dickens with characters telling his stories, dancers, street musicians, theatrical performers, a holiday bazaar and more. All ages. Downtown Franklin; 12 - 5 p.m.; 591-8500 or historicfranklin.com.
Local boys portray shepherds during Bethlehem Marketplace at Southeast Baptist Church in Murfreesboro Dec. 13 - 14. Holiday at Cheekwood
Visit live reindeer, drop in to the studio for Holiday ‘ART’ivities, decorate cookies, sit on Santa’s lap for a photo and enjoy live seasonal music. All ages. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville; 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.; free with gate admission ($14 adults, $7 ages 3 - 17); 356-8000 or cheekwood.org.
Holiday Film Screening Watch Kenny & Dolly: A Christmas to Remember, a 45-minute screening of Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton’s classic CBS Christmas special. All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 2 p.m.; free with gate admission ($24.95 adults, $14.95 ages 6 - 12, free ages 5 and younger); 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
Holiday Ice Show
Figure skaters and young students in the Learn-to-skate program perform holiday-themed routines on ice. All ages. Centennial Sportsplex, 222 Fifth Ave. N., Nashville; 2 - 4 p.m.; $10 general admission; 862-8480 or nashville.gov/ sportsplex.
FREE Latke Throwdown
Celebrate and learn about this Jewish holiday through carnival games, traditional food and more (food tickets are $5). All
ages. Gordon Jewish Community Center, 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Nashville; 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.; 356-7170 or nashvillejcc. org.
Marvel Universe Live!
Marvel superheroes like SpiderMan, Iron Man, Hulk and more present a live action arena show with special effects, pyrotechnics, aerial stunts and more. All ages. Bridgestone Arena, 501 Broadway, Nashville; 1 and 5 p.m.; $20 - $145; 770-2000 or bridgestonearena.com.
Sundaes with Santa
Santa stops by the Manor House to visit while kids enjoy chocolate fudge sundaes. All ages. Milky Way Farm, 520 Milky Way Road, Pulaski; 1 - 4 p.m.; $10; 931-808-2281 or milkywayfarm.org.
Mon 15 Christmas 4 Kids Tour Bus Show
Walk through the tour buses of country stars and get autographs during this benefit for Christmas 4 Kids which provides shopping spree money for kids in need. All ages. Walmart, 204 Anderson Lane N., Hendersonville; 5 - 9 p.m.; $5 adults, $2 ages 2 - 12, $20 family max; christmas4kids.org.
FREE Hull-Jackson Montessori School Performance
The lower school choir and string ensemble perform holiday music. All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 10 a.m.; 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
Titans Football
Root for the Tennessee Titans when they challenge the New York Jets. All ages. LP Field, 1 Titans Way, Nashville; 3:05 p.m.; $38 - $260; 565-4200 or titansonline.com.
FREE Walk Thru Bethlehem
Four hundred characters and live animals recreate the village of Bethlehem at the time of Christ’s birth. All ages. Woodmont Christian Church, 3601 Hillsboro Road, Nashville; 1 - 7 p.m.; 297-8563 or woodmontchristian.org.
Tue 16 42nd Annual Carter House Candlelight Tour
In commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Battle of Franklin, the theme of this year’s tour is “The Christmas That Never Was.” The houses will be as they were in December of 1864 just after the battle, and guests will hear stories of soldiers and civilians. All ages. The Carter House, 1140 Columbia Ave., Franklin and Carnton
daily activities Thu 18 42nd Annual Carter House Candlelight Tour
In commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Battle of Franklin, the theme of this year’s tour is “The Christmas That Never Was.” The houses will be arranged as they were in December of 1864 just after the battle, and guests will hear stories of soldiers and civilians. All ages. The Carter House, 1140 Columbia Ave., Franklin, and Carnton Plantation, 1345 Eastern Flank Cir., Franklin; 5 - 7 p.m.; $15; battleoffranklintrust. org.
Local kids play live music on the streets of downtown Franklin during the annual Dickens of a Christmas celebration Dec. 13 - 14. Plantation, 1345 Eastern Flank Cir., Franklin; 5 - 7 p.m.; $15; battleoffranklintrust.org.
Nashville Predators
Cheer for the Nashville Predators when they challenge the Boston Bruins. All ages. Bridgestone Arena, 501 Broadway, Nashville; 7 p.m.; $35 - $220; 770-7800 or nashvillepredators.com.
FREE Paragon Mills Elementary Performance
Enjoy a holiday concert by lower school students. All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 10:30 a.m.; 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
Tuesdays for Tots: Outstanding Ornaments View the ornaments hanging on trees in the museum then create your own to take home. Ages 3 - 5. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.; free with gate admission ($14 adults, $7 ages 3 - 17); 356-8000 or cheekwood.org.
Wed 17 42nd Annual Carter House Candlelight Tour
FREE Allen County Primary Center Performance
Third-grade students from Scottsville, Ky., perform holiday music. All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 11 a.m.; 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
The theme of this year’s tour is “The Christmas That Never Was.” The houses will be arranged as they were in December of 1864 just after the battle, and guests will hear stories of soldiers and civilians. All ages. The Carter House, 1140 Columbia Ave., Franklin, and Carnton Plantation, 1345 Eastern Flank Cir., Franklin; 5 - 7 p.m.; $15; battleoffranklintrust.org.
FREE Sunshine Dance Class
Homeschool Creativity Class
Fri 19
Learn the basics of art in a hands-on environment using a variety of mediums. Ages 8 - 11. McFadden Community Center, 221 Bridge Ave., Murfreesboro; 10 - 11 a.m.; $3; 867-7244 or murfreesborotn. gov/parks.
FREE La Leche League of Portland
Information and support for new and expectant moms. Portland Public Library, 301 Portland Blvd., Portland; 6:30 p.m.; 323-7158 or facebook.com/ lllofportland.
This program focuses on choreography and the skills it takes to pick up dance routines. Ages 8 - 14. The Washington Theatre at Patterson Park, 521 Mercury Blvd., Murfreesboro; 6 - 7 p.m.; free with Sunshine Players membership ($25); 867-7244 or murfreesborotn.gov/parks.
42nd Annual Carter House Candlelight Tour
In commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Battle of Franklin, the theme of this year’s tour is “The Christmas That Never Was.” The houses will be arranged as they were in December of 1864 just after the battle, and guests will hear stories of soldiers and civilians. All ages. The Carter House, 1140 Columbia Ave., Franklin, and Carnton Plantation, 1345 Eastern Flank Cir., Franklin; 5 - 7 p.m.; $15; battleoffranklintrust. org.
All Through the House
FREE Live Nativity
FREE Christmas on Madison Avenue
Photos with Santa
Experience what Christmas was like locally in the 1820s. All ages. Historic Travellers Rest, 636 Farrell Pkwy., Nashville; 6 - 10 p.m.; $12 adults, $6 children; 832-8197 or travellersrestplantation.org.
Holiday shop for handmade goods in a boutique-style setting. All ages. HYPE Events Studio, 306 W. Vine St., Murfreesboro; 3 - 6 p.m.; 855-500-4973 or christmasonmadisonavenue. blogspot.com/.
FREE East Cheatham Elementary Performance
Step back in time for a living history event depicting the time of Christ’s birth. All ages. Glen Leven Presbyterian Church, 3906 Franklin Pike, Nashville; 5 - 8 p.m.; 298-5549 or glenleven.org.
Shacklett’s Photography snaps photos of kids on St. Nick’s lap. All ages. Rutherford County Courthouse, 1 Public Square, Murfreesboro; 6 - 8 p.m.; photo package prices vary; 895-1887 or downtownmurfreesboro.com.
Santa’s Splash & Dash
Third-grade students present a holiday concert. All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 1 p.m.; 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
Enjoy water-based Christmas activities along with games, arts and crafts, pizza and more. Ages 7 - 13. Patterson Park Community Center, 521 Mercury Blvd., Murfreesboro; 6 - 10 p.m.; $5 in advance, $7 day of event; 893-7439 or murfreesborotn.gov/parks.
FREE Friday Night Christmas Movie
Sat 20
Enjoy a family-friendly Christmasthemed flick. Ages 5 and older. First Wesleyan Church, 611 Shelby Ave., Nashville; 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.; 686-4786 or fwc-nashville.org.
Friday Photos with Santa
Kids can visit Santa in his workshop and have a professional photo taken (photo package prices vary in addition to gate admission). All ages. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville; 3 - 5 p.m.; $14 adults, $7 children; 3568000 or cheekwood.org.
Holiday on Ice Classic and Carols Show
Enjoy a 90-minute ice-skating show, then hit the ice yourself for fun. All ages. A-Game Skate Academy, 215 Gothic Court, Franklin; 7:30 p.m.; $10 adults, $7 ages 4 - 12; 778-9825 or agameskateacademy.com.
42nd Annual Carter House Candlelight Tour
In commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Battle of Franklin, the theme of this year’s tour is “The Christmas That Never Was.” The houses will be arranged as they were in December of 1864 just after the battle, and guests will hear stories of soldiers and civilians. All ages. The Carter House, 1140 Columbia Ave., Franklin, and Carnton Plantation, 1345 Eastern Flank Cir., Franklin; 5 - 7 p.m.; $15; battleoffranklintrust. org.
FREE Christmas Character Saturday
Kids can enjoy stories and photos with Santa. All ages. Williamson County Visitor Center, 400 Main St., Franklin; 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.; 550-7606.
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december 2014 75
Stewart-Beavers Institute Cutting Edge Outpatient Treatment Facility Utilizing Neurofeedback Technology • ADHD Assessment & Treatment • Autism Disorders Assessment & Treatment • Brain Mapping • Neurofeedback • Parenting Support • Counseling & Psychotherapy • Education Plan & Development • School Consultation • Divorce Counseling • Behavior Management
WHAT IS NEUROFEEDBACK? Neurofeedback is a process that allows professionals to monitor and visualize brain activity and is used to treat a variety of conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD and migraines. Following the initial brain mapping assessment, Neurofeedback clinicians administer treatment using computer software and electrodes to translate brain wave data into images and sounds. The patient and clinician collaborate during the treatment process to view and listen to the brain activity.
HOW EFFECTIVE IS IT?
The American Academy of Pediatrics ranking of research support for psychological treatments awarded Neurofeedback the highest level of evidence-based support. By: 2012 American Academy of Pediatrics.
CONTACT US TODAY FOR INFORMATION OR AN APPOINTMENT
615.782.0504 708 18th Ave. South, Nashville
StewartBeaversInstitute.com
daily activities
Also see ONGOING ACTIVITIES on page 86 and THE PARENT PLANNER on page 89 to register for future events
Read our exclusive online interview with “Rudolph” (Lexy Baeza) at nashvilleparent.com
End Ave., Nashville; 11 a.m.; $35; theuglysweaterrun.com.
Toys for Tots Zumbathon
Local Zumba instructors host a Zumbathon while supporting Toys for Tots. All ages. RiverGate Mall, 1000 RiverGate Pkwy., Goodlettsville; 3 - 5 p.m.; admission is a donation of a toy valued at $10 or a $10 cash donation; 859-3458, ext. 223, or rivergate-mall.com.
Sun 21 FREE Biscuits with Santa Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer flies into TPAC Dec. 16 - 21. See “On Stages,” page 86, for show details. FREE Christmas on Madison Avenue
Holiday shop for handmade goods in a boutique-style setting. All ages. HYPE Events Studio, 306 W. Vine St., Murfreesboro; 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; 855-5004973 or christmasonmadisonavenue.blogspot.com/.
Family Program: Guitar 101
Learn a few guitar chords and simple songs that celebrate the season. Touring musician Todd Woolsey leads the workshop, and guitars are provided. Ages 7 - 18. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 12:30 p.m.; free with gate admission ($24.95 adults, $14.95 ages 6 - 12, free ages 5 and younger); 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
Family Program: Song and Story Time
Hear a story and create artinspired by the music, artists and objects featured in the museum’s galleries. Ages 3 - 5. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 10:30 a.m.; free with gate admission ($24.95 adults, $14.95 ages 6 - 12, free ages 5 and younger); 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
Holiday at Cheekwood
Visit live reindeer, drop in to the studio for Holiday ‘ART’ivities, decorate cookies, sit on Santa’s lap for a photo and enjoy live seasonal music. All ages. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville; 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.; free with gate admission ($14 adults, $7 ages 3 - 17); 356-8000 or cheekwood.org.
FREE Holiday Bike Giveaway
The mall is giving away 100 Huffy bikes today. For a chance to win, bring four cans of food for Second Harvest Food Bank. Other activities include face painting, balloon animals, arts and crafts, music, Mr. Bond and the Science Guys Spectacular Science Show and more. All ages. RiverGate Mall, 1000 RiverGate Pkwy., Goodlettsville; 12 - 3 p.m.; 859-3458, ext. 223, or rivergate-mall.com.
FREE Live Nativity
Step back in time for a living history event depicting the time of Christ’s birth. All ages. Glen Leven Presbyterian Church, 3906 Franklin Pike, Nashville; 5 - 8 p.m.; 298-5549 or glenleven.org.
FREE Photos with Santa
Children can share their Christmas lists with St. Nick and pose for a photo (timed passes are available in 15-minute increments, available for pick-up beginning at 9 a.m.). All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.; 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
FREE Santa in the Courthouse
Boys and girls can visit with St. Nick (bring your camera for photos) and enjoy concessions (including Loveless biscuits). All ages. The Loveless Barn, 8400 Hwy. 100, Nashville; 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.; 646-9700 or lovelesscafe.com.
FREE The Christmas Experience
Enjoy a live production of the nativity along with photos with Santa and the wise men and camels. Lane Agri-Park, 315 John R. Rice Blvd., Murfreesboro; 3 - 6 p.m.; northboulevard.com.
Citizen Science
Kids can visit St. Nick and share their wish lists and pose for photos (bring your own camera). All ages. Rutherford County Courthouse, 1 Public Square, Murfreesboro; 12 - 4 p.m.; 895-1887 or downtownmurfreesboro.com.
Celebrate the winter solstice by reporting on the phenology plot and exploring how animals stay warm during winter. All ages. Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro; 2 - 4 p.m.; $6; 890-2300 or explorethedc.org.
The 12 Days of Science: It’s Electric
Country Cookie Decorating
Try your hand at circuitry, learn about electricity and make an LED ornament. All ages. Adventure Science Center, 800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; $13 adults, $11 ages 2 - 12; 862-5160 or adventuresci.org.
The Ugly Sweater Run Don your ugliest sweater and participate in a 5K benefiting Save the Children, followed by post-run festivities. All ages. Centennial Park, 2500 West
Decorate cookies to represent your favorite artist or artifact. All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 12 - 2 p.m.; free with gate admission ($24.95 adults, $14.95 ages 6 - 12, free ages 5 and younger); 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
Holiday at Cheekwood
Visit live reindeer, drop in to the studio for Holiday ‘ART’ivities, decorate cookies, sit on Santa’s lap for a photo and enjoy live seasonal music. All ages. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville; 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.; free with gate admission ($14 adults, $7 ages 3 - 17); 356-8000 or cheekwood.org.
Holiday Film Screening
Watch a screening of Kenny Rogers Christmas Special: Keep Christmas with You from 1992 with guest stars Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood and Boyz II Men. All ages. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 2 p.m.; free with gate admission ($24.95 adults, $14.95 ages 6 - 12, free ages 5 and younger); 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
FREE Make Letterpress Art with Hatch Show Print
Kids of all ages can have fun making old-school holiday letterpress prints. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 12 1 and 2 p.m.; 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
The 12 Days of Science: Extreme Cold
Discover what happens to everyday items when they’re cooled down to -321 degrees Fahrenheit. All ages. Adventure Science Center, 800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; $13 adults, $11 ages 2 - 12; 862-5160 or adventuresci.org.
Mon 22 FREE La Leche League of Hendersonville
Find breastfeeding support and resources. Hendersonville Public Library, 140 Saundersville Road, Hendersonville; 10:15 a.m.; 447-5182, hendersonvillelll@ gmail.com or llleus.org/state/ tennessee.html.
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december 2014 77
daily activities The 12 Days of Science: Birds of a Feather
Observe local rescue birds, explore owl appetites and other bird features (an additional lab fee applies). All ages. Adventure Science Center, 800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; $13 adults, $11 ages 2 - 12; 862-5160 or adventuresci.org.
Tue 23 Christmas Treat Making
Make cookies for Santa and treats for his reindeer to enjoy on Christmas Eve. All ages. Hoppity Hop Inflatable Play Center, 143 New Shackle Island Road, Hendersonville; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; free for adults, $8 ages 4 and older, $6 ages 1 - 3; 2658020 or hoppityhopinflatables. com.
The 12 Days of Science: The Joys of Toys
Look inside some of the newest high-tech toys to find out how they work. All ages. Adventure Science Center, 800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; $13 adults, $11 ages 2 - 12; 862-5160 or adventuresci.org.
Tuesdays for Tots: Give a Gift!
Decorate a package for your gifts this year. Ages 3 - 5. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.; free with gate admission ($14 adults, $7 ages 3 - 17); 356-8000 or cheekwood.org.
Wed 24 FREE Christmas Eve Carillon Concert
Bring the family out for a unique musical experience as Belmont’s carillon rings out holiday tunes. All ages. Belmont University, 1900 Belmont Blvd., Nashville; 2 p.m.; 460-6408 or belmont. edu/music.
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Also see ONGOING ACTIVITIES on page 86 and THE PARENT PLANNER on page 89 to register for future events
light tours ...
Holiday Lights Carriage Tours
BRENTWOOD LUMINARIES Various Neighborhoods 371-0060 • brentwoodtn.org Saturday, Dec. 13 Visit several neighborhoods to view twinkling lights and other delights. Light tours begin at 6 p.m.
CHAD’S WINTER WONDERLAND 791 Old Laguardo Road Lebanon 449-0099 chadswinterwonderland.com Through Wednesday, Dec. 31
More than 2 million lights illuminate the drive-through trail plus more than 350 pieces of scenery including Frosty’s house and Santa’s barn. Sun - Thu 5 - 10 p.m., Fri - Sat 5 - 11 p.m.; $10 per vehicle Mon - Thu, $15 per vehicle Fri - Sun, limos and church buses/vans are $20 daily.
CHRISTMASLAND 1130 Trousdale Ferry Pike Lebanon 202-8451 Through Wednesday, Dec. 31
This free drive-through light display celebrates its 15th season featuring thousands of lights and holiday festivities. Hours are Sun - Thu 5 - 9 p.m., Fri - Sat 5 - 10 p.m.
THE DANCING LIGHTS OF CHRISTMAS Jellystone Park 2572 Music Valley Drive Nashville thedancinglightsofchristmas. com Through Saturday, Jan. 3
Hundreds of thousands of LED lights dance to holiday tunes you listen to on your car radio. This year features new displays, music and Santa’s Village. Jellystone Park, 2572 Music Valley Drive, Nashville; daily 5 - 10 p.m.; $25 per non-commercial vehicle.
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS Wilson County Fairgrounds 945 E. Baddour Pkwy. Lebanon 444-5503 visitwilsoncounty.com Dec. 4 - 7, Dec. 11 - 14, Dec. 18 - 31
Millions of lights illuminate several acres of
Fiddlers Grove, including nearly 50 village houses lit up in the spirit of Christmas. 5 9 p.m.; $5 per car.
FRANKLIN’S HOLLY TROLLEY Franklin Transit Authority 708 Columbia Ave., Franklin 920-4956 • tmagroup.org/ holly-trolley-2014/ Dec. 5 - 28
Board the trolley for a ride to view light displays in Franklin, Brentwood and other spots in Williamson County. A reception takes place 30 minutes prior to departure. Fri - Sun 6:30 and 8:30 p.m.; $16 (prepayment is required for seat reservations).
GRAYLINE’S NASHVILLE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS TOUR 2416 Music Valley Drive, Nashville 800-987-9852 vacationsmadeeasy.com Dec. 3 - 30
NASHVILLE HOLIDAY LIGHTS TOUR Departs from Music Valley Drive and select hotels viator.com Dec. 3 - 30
This bus tour leaves from Nashville and takes you to Franklin and Brentwood neighborhoods to see homes adorned in dazzling lights. The excursion includes a walking tour of the Lotz House where you can enjoy hot cider and cookies. Tours depart at 6:30 p.m. $29 adults, $14.50 children.
OPRYLAND’S CHRISTMAS LIGHTS 2800 Opryland Drive Nashville 889-1000 christmastatgaylordopryland. com Through Wednesday, Dec. 31
This bus tour takes you to upper-class neighborhoods to Nashville’s suburbs and estates of country legends to see twinkling lights. Tours depart at 6:30 p.m. (no tours Christmas Eve or Christmas Day). $29 ages 12 and older, $14.50 ages 6 - 11.
More than 2 million lights illuminate the grounds and inside of the Opryland Hotel during its “A Country Christmas” celebration. Admission is free. Sun - Thu 4 - 10 p.m., Fri - Sat 4 p.m. - 12 a.m., Dec. 22 - 23 and 28 - 30 4 p.m. - 12 a.m., Dec. 31 4 p.m. - 1 a.m.
HOLIDAY LIGHTS CARRIAGE TOURS Departing from Seventh Day Adventist Church 2800 Blair Blvd., Nashville hwen.org Dec. 6 - 7
TRINITY CHRISTMAS CITY USA 1 Music Village Blvd. Hendersonville 822-8333 trinitymusiccity.com Through Wednesday, Dec. 31
The Hillsboro-West End Neighborhood Association presents this horse-drawn carriage tour in which guests can view vintage homes sporting light displays. Enjoy hot cider, refreshments and music. Tours start every 30 minutes from 4:30 - 8 p.m. Admission is $22.50. Make reservations by Thursday, Dec. 4.
The grounds of the former home of country star Conway Twitty are aglow with more than 1 million lights strung across nearly 30 acres. Walk or drive through from 5 - 10 p.m. daily. On select Fridays and Saturdays, enjoy free horse and carriage rides from 5 - 8 p.m. (first come, first served). Admission is free.
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daily activities
Also see ONGOING ACTIVITIES on page 86 and THE PARENT PLANNER on page 89 to register for future events
The 12 Days of Science: Polar Pointers
Learn about magnets, magnetic levitation and more. All ages. Adventure Science Center, 800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; $13 adults, $11 ages 2 - 12; 862-5160 or adventuresci.org.
Thu 25 Merry Christmas!
Fri 26 FREE Friday Night Christmas Movie
Enjoy a family-friendly Christmasthemed flick. Ages 5 and older. First Wesleyan Church, 611 Shelby Ave., Nashville; 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.; 686-4786 or fwc-nashville.org.
The 12 Days of Science: Winter Sports Science
Explore the science behind winter sports All ages. Adventure Science Center, 800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; $13 adults, $11 ages 2 - 12; 862-5160 or adventuresci.org.
Sat 27 Predators Hockey
Cheer for the Nashville Predators when they challenge the Philadelphia Flyers. All ages. Bridgestone Arena, 501 Broadway, Nashville; 7 p.m.; $35 - $220; 770-7800 or nashvillepredators.com.
The 12 Days of Science: Worldwide Winter
Explore the science behind the four seasons and winter in other parts of the world. All ages. Adventure Science Center, 800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; $13 adults, $11 ages 2 - 12; 862-5160 or adventuresci.org.
Sun 28 Marshmallow and Hot Chocolate Hike
Embark on a hike, then warm up with hot chocolate and roasted marshmallows. All ages. Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary, 545 Beech Creek Road, Brentwood; 1 - 3 p.m.; $7; 370-4672 or owlshill.org.
The 12 Days of Science: The Science of Heat
woods, then warm up with hot chocolate and roasted marshmallows. All ages. Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary, 545 Beech Creek Road, Brentwood; 1 - 3 p.m.; $7; 370-4672 or owlshill.org.
tions and seasons are like in our solar system and beyond. All ages. Adventure Science Center, 800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; $13 adults, $11 ages 2 - 12; 862-5160 or adventuresci.org.
Music City Bowl
Tuesdays for Tots: Ring in the New Year
Enjoy an afternoon of football when the ACC takes on the SEC. All ages. LP Field, 1 Titans Way, Nashville; 2 p.m.; $30 $135; 743-3130 or musiccitybowl.com.
Compare different degrees of heat and discover an unseen universe using infrared light. All ages. Adventure Science Center, 800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; $13 adults, $11 ages 2 - 12; 862-5160 or adventuresci.org.
Predators Hockey
Titans Football
The 12 Days of Science: Out of This World Winter
Root for the Tennessee Titans when they challenge the Indianapolis Colts. All ages. LP Field, 1 Titans Way, Nashville; 12 p.m.; $38 - $260; 565-4200 or titansonline.com.
Mon 29 Marshmallow and Hot Chocolate Hike
Embark on a hike, then warm up with hot chocolate and roasted marshmallows. All ages. Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary, 545 Beech Creek Road, Brentwood; 1 - 3 p.m.; $7; 370-4672 or owlshill.org.
The 12 Days of Science: Livin’ the Arctic Life — Surviving the Tundra
Discover how organisms, including humans, survive and thrive in the coldest places on the planet. All ages. Adventure Science Center, 800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; $13 adults, $11 ages 2 - 12; 862-5160 or adventuresci.org.
Tue 30 Marshmallow and Hot Chocolate Hike
Cheer for the Nashville Predators when they take on the St. Louis Blues. All ages. Bridgestone Arena, 501 Broadway, Nashville; 7 p.m.; $35 - $220; 770-7800 or nashvillepredators.com.
Discover what weather condi-
Stop by the studio to make 2015 gear to wear when the ball drops. Ages 3 - 5. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.; free with gate admission ($14 adults, $7 ages 3 - 17); 356-8000 or cheekwood.org.
Wed 31 Countdown to Noon
Enjoy New Year’s party activities including crafts and a huge balloon drop at noon. All ages. Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, 502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro; 10 a.m. - 12
p.m.; $6; 890-2300 or explorethedc.org.
Noon Years Eve Bash
Kids can celebrate New Years with a glow-in-the-dark balloon drop and other festivities. All ages. Hoppity Hop Inflatable Play Center, 143 New Shackle Island Road, Hendersonville; 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.; free for adults, $8 ages 4 and older, $6 ages 1 - 3; 265-8020 or hoppityhopinflatables.com.
The 12 Days of Science: Happy Noon Year!
Celebrate the new year with streamers, noisemakers, dancing and more without staying up until midnight. All ages. Adventure Science Center, 800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; $13 adults, $11 ages 2 - 12; 862-5160 or adventuresci.org.
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“A Country Christmas” Continues! Through Saturday, Jan. 3
T
he spirit of the Christmas season is alive and well all month at Gaylord Opryland resort as its annual “A Country Christmas” extravaganza continues through the new year. The resort hosts lots of holiday events and activities, including the ever-popular ICE! exhibit that kids love. This year’s exhibit features ’Twas the Night Before Christmas, and little ones will love taking several zips down the ice slides! The Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring The Rockettes is another family favorite, and it comes with new scenes this year. If you haven’t seen The Rockettes’ show before, this is your last chance as it’s the final year that the high-kickin’ ladies will be here for “A Country Christmas.” Other highlights include photos with Santa, the Christmassy DreamWorks Experience, Gingy’s gingerbread decorating, arctic plunge snow tubing, glacier glide ice skating, carriage rides, millions of Christmas lights, the Treasures for the Holidays Craft Show and more. Enjoy live entertainment and down-home country food during the Season of Harmony Dinner Show with Restless Heart as well. Dates, times and admission for individual activities vary. The resort is located at 2800 Opryland Drive, Nashville. Get the full schedule, more info and tickets at 889-1000 or christmasatgaylordopryland.com.
Embark on a hike in the winter
december 2014 81
on stages ON STAGES Dance, music and theater this month!
dance Let it Go
Saturday, Dec. 20; All ages Students from the Rhythm and Spirit Dance Program of the Williamson County Park and Recreation Department perform a holiday show (Longview students at 1 p.m., Franklin students at 5 p.m.). Rolling Hills Community Church, 1810 Columbia Ave., Franklin; $5 in advance, $7 at the door, free ages 5 and younger; 377-6530, ext. 2117, or wcparksandrec.com.
The Mini-Nutcracker
Dec. 5 - 7; All ages The Centennial Youth Ballet brings to life a young girl’s Christmas dream. Harpeth Hall Auditorium, 3801 Hobbs Road, Nashville; Fri 7 p.m., Sat 2 and 7 p.m., Sun 1 p.m.; $12 adults, $8 ages 12 and younger ($15 on Sunday, includes reception); 862-8400 or nashville.gov/ parks.
Nashville’s Nutcracker
Dec. 6 - 23; All ages Nashville Ballet presents its holiday tradition about a young girl’s Christmas dream. TPAC’s Jackson Hall, 505 Deaderick Street, Nashville; Fri 7 p.m., Sat 2 and 7 p.m., Sun 2 p.m., Monday, Dec. 22 and Tuesday, Dec. 23 at 2 p.m.; $28 - $86; 782-4040 or nashvilleballet. com.
music Anthony Hamilton: Home for the Holidays Monday, Dec. 8; All ages Grammy winner Anthony Hamilton performs Christmas music with an R&B sound. Presented without orchestra. Schermerhorn Symphony Center, 1 Symphony Place, Nashville; 7:30 p.m.; $39 - $89; 687-6400 or nashvillesymphony.org.
82 december 2014
Also see ONGOING ACTIVITIES on page 86 and THE PARENT PLANNER on page 89 to register for future events
Behold the Lamb of God
Monday, Dec. 15; All ages Andrew Peterson and guests present a night of Christmas music. Ryman Auditorium, 116 Fifth Ave. N., Nashville; 7:30 p.m.; $39.50 - $45.50; 889-3060 or ryman.com.
The Blind Boys of Alabama Christmas Show
Friday, Dec. 5; All ages Enjoy gospel-infused holiday tunes. The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main St., Franklin; 8 p.m.; $57 - $67; 538-2076 or franklintheatre.com.
FREE A Camerata Christmas
Monday, Dec. 8; All ages The Belmont Camerata Musicale performs an evening of holiday music. Belmont Mansion, 1900 Belmont Blvd., Nashville; 7:30 p.m.; 460-6408 or belmont. edu/music.
Cheekwood Concert Series
Saturday, Dec. 6: Brentwood Suzuki Strings Sunday, Dec. 7: Nashville Flute Choir Saturday, Dec. 13: Blair Suzuki Strings Saturday, Dec. 20: First Baptist Church Sanctuary Ringers Sunday, Dec. 14: Nashville Philharmonic Flute Ensemble Sunday, Dec. 21: Craig Duncan All ages Enjoy an afternoon of holiday music. Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville; 2 - 3:30 p.m.; free with gate admission ($14 adults, $7 ages 3 - 17); 356-8000 or cheekwood.org.
Christmas at the Ryman
Dec. 4 - 5, 11 - 12, 18 - 19 All ages Amy Grant and Vince Gill share the stage for an evening of holiday music. Ryman Auditorium, 116 Fifth Ave. N., Nashville; 7:30 p.m.; $35 - $125; 8893060 or ryman.com.
FREE Christmas Concert
Saturday, Dec. 6; All ages Enjoy holiday tunes by the Nashville Chamber Singers featuring the McFadden School of Excellence Children’s Choir. First Presbyterian Church, 4815 Franklin Pike, Nashville; 7 p.m.; 383-1815 or fpcnashville.org.
Christmas, I Love Christmas
Saturday, Dec. 6; All ages Songwriter Justin Peters and special guests present an evening of original holiday music. The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main St., Franklin; 7 p.m.; $40 - $50; 538-2076 or franklintheatre. com.
Christmas Rocks! Extravaganza
Monday, Dec. 8; All ages Have a rockin’ night with holiday tunes featuring the Brian Setzer Orchestra. Ryman Auditorium, 116 Fifth Ave. N., Nashville; 7:30 p.m.; $39.50 - $59.50; 889-3060 or ryman. com.
Christmas Show
Friday, Dec. 19; All ages Gabe Dixon and friends perform an evening of holiday music. City Winery, 609 Lafayette St., Nashville; 8 p.m.; $15 - $25; 324-1010 or citywinery.com.
FREE Curb Youth Symphony
Monday, Dec. 8; All ages Enjoy an evening of music by young musicians. Blair School of Music’s Ingram Hall, 2400 Blakemore Ave., Nashville; 7:30 - 9:30 p.m.; 222-7651 or blair.vanderbilt.edu.
Dave Barnes
Sunday, Dec. 7; All ages Singer/songwriter Dave Barnes and special guests perform an evening of Christmas music (presented without orchestra). Schermerhorn Symphony Center, 1 Symphony Place, Nashville; 7:30 p.m.; $29 - $54; 6876400 or nashvillesymphony.org.
Deck the Halls Concert
Saturday, Dec. 6; All ages Country singer Gene Watson shares songs of the season. CMA Theater at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville; 8 p.m.; $30 - $40; 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
Deloitte Jazz Series: The Manhattan Transfer Swings Christmas
Friday, Dec. 5; All ages Enjoy the jazzy harmonies of Manhattan Transfer as they sing holiday classics. Presented without orchestra. Schermerhorn Symphony Center, 1 Symphony Place, Nashville; 8 p.m.; $49 $124; 687-6400 or nashvillesymphony.org.
FREE An Evening of Youth Music
Tuesday, Dec. 9; All ages Enjoy a night of music presented by the Nashville Youth Repertory Orchestra, Youth Strings Orchestra and Reading Orchestra. Blair School of Music’s Ingram Hall, 2400 Blakemore Ave., Nashville; 7:30 - 9:30 p.m.; 222-7651 or blair.vanderbilt. edu.
FREE Fancy Yancy Christmas
Sunday, Dec. 21; All ages Local children’s recording artist Yancy presents an evening of holiday music. World Outreach Church, 1921 New Salem Road, Murfreesboro; 6 p.m.; 896-4515 or wochurch.org.
FREE Gloria! A Concert of Christmas Favorites
Sunday, Dec. 7; All ages The church’s choirs and orchestra present an afternoon of holiday music. West End United Methodist Church, 2200 West End Ave., Nashville; 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.; 321-8500 or westendumc.org/.
FREE Glory to God in the Highest, a Christmas Concert
Sunday, Dec. 14; All ages Hear holiday music performed by the FPC Sanctuary Choir, Psalmody Youth Choir and special guest Schola Pacis. First Presbyterian Church, 4815 Franklin Pike, Nashville; 4 p.m.; 383-1815 or fpcnashville.org.
Handel’s Messiah
Dec. 18 - 20; All ages The Nashville Symphony, Nashville Symphony Chorus and special guest vocalists perform Handel’s holiday masterpiece. Schermerhorn Symphony Center, 1 Symphony Place, Nashville; Thu 7 p.m., Fri - Sat 8 p.m.; $22 - $100; 687-6400 or nashvillesymphony.org.
Handel’s Messiah
Monday, Dec. 1; All ages The MTSU Concert Chorale and Middle Tennessee Chorale Society present excerpts from Handel’s holiday classic. MTSU’s Hinton Music Hall, 1301 E. Main St., Murfreesboro; 7:30 p.m.; $10; 898-2493 or mtsu. edu/tuckertheatre.
The Head and The Heart
Sunday, Dec. 14; All ages Enjoy a night of rock music by The Head and The Heart with special guest PHOX. Ryman Auditorium, 116 Fifth Ave. N., Nashville; 7:30 p.m.; $35; 889-3060 or ryman.com.
FREE Holiday Concert: The Providence Consort
Saturday, Dec. 20; All ages Enjoy an afternoon of Christmas music performed by a recorder trio and keyboardist. Frist Center for the Visual Arts, 919 Broadway, Nashville; 2 p.m.; 244-3340 or fristcenter.org.
FREE Holiday Concert: Blair School of Music Suzuki Strings Saturday, Dec. 6; All ages Fifty students ages 5 - 13 present Christmas music. Frist Center for the Visual Arts, 919 Broadway, Nashville; 2 p.m.; 244-3340 or fristcenter.org.
on stages and Irish folk music. Presented without orchestra. Schermerhorn Symphony Center, 1 Symphony Place, Nashville; 7 p.m.; $41 - $60; 687-6400 or nashvillesymphony.org.
FREE Joy to the Boro
Dec. 6 - 7; All ages Enjoy a Christmas concert featuring Tim Parton and the FWC band and choirs. Family Worship Center, 3045 Memorial Blvd., Murfreesboro; 6 p.m.; 893-0968 or familywc.com.
Justin Timberlake’s 20/20 Experience World Tour
Amy Grant and Vince Gill perform Christmas at the Ryman Dec. 3 - 19. Holiday Family Concert
Saturday, Dec. 13; All ages Farmer Jason performs songs from his new CD, Christmas on the Farm. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. South, Nashville; 10 a.m.; free with gate admission ($24.95 adults, $14.95 ages 6 - 12, free ages 5 and younger); 416-2001 or countrymusichalloffame.org.
iHeart the Holidays
Saturday, Dec. 6; All ages The Nashville in Harmony choral group presents an evening of holiday classics. TPAC’s Polk Theater, 505 Deaderick St., Nashville; 7:30 p.m.; $27.50 - $47.50; 782-4040 or tpac. org.
FREE Jack Daniels Bash on Broadway
Wednesday, Dec. 31; All ages Music City’s New Year’s Eve celebration includes performances by Lady Antebellum, Gavin DeGraw, Kristen Capolino, The Apache Relay and DJ Du. Fireworks take place at midnight after the giant music note drops. Lady Antebellum and DeGraw’s performances will air live on “Dick Clark’s Rockin’ New Year’s
Eve with Ryan Seacrest” on ABC. Riverfront Park, 100 First Ave. N., Nashville; 7 p.m.; visitmusiccity.com/newyearseve.
Jackopierce
Friday, Dec. 5; All ages Experience a night of acoustic pop music. City Winery, 609 Lafayette St., Nashville; 8 p.m.; $15 - $22; 324-1010 or citywinery.com.
Jim Brickman: On a Winter’s Night
Tuesday, Dec. 9; All ages Pianist Jim Brickman and special guests perform holiday music. Presented without orchestra. Schermerhorn Symphony Center, 1 Symphony Place, Nashville; 7:30 p.m.; $34 - $99; 6876400 or nashvillesymphony.org.
John Hiatt
Wednesday, Dec. 10; All ages Experience a night of music starring a rock singer/songwriter legend. City Winery, 609 Lafayette St., Nashville; 8 p.m.; $45 - $55; 324-1010 or citywinery.com.
Joy: An Irish Christmas Monday, Dec. 22; All ages Keith and Kristyn Getty perform traditional carols, modern hymns
Friday, Dec. 19; All ages Experience a night of live pop/ rock music starring Justin Timberlake. Bridgestone Arena, 501 Broadway, Nashville; 8 p.m.; $49.50 - $179.50; 770-2000 or bridgestonearena.com.
K-LOVE Christmas Concert
Sunday, Dec. 7; All ages Christian artists including Plumb, Jeremy Camp and Chris August perform holiday music. Lifepoint Church, 506 Legacy Drive, Smyrna; 7 - 9:30 p.m.; $26 - $59; 538-0197 or eventbrite.com/e/klovechristmas-2014-nashville-tntickets-12435201021.
Legends of Music Series: Tony Bennett
Dec. 11 - 12; All ages Legendary vocalist Tony Bennett and his jazz quartet join the Nashville Symphony for an evening of music spanning his six-decade career. Schermerhorn Symphony Center, 1 Symphony Place, Nashville; Thu 7:30 p.m., Fri 8 p.m.; $44 - $130; 687-6400 or nashvillesymphony.org.
Living Colour
Tuesday, Dec. 9; All ages Living Colour presents a night of rock music with special guest John Wesley. City Winery, 609 Lafayette St., Nashville; 8 p.m.; $25 - $35; 324-1010 or citywinery.com.
FREE “Messiah” and Other Songs
Tuesday, Dec. 9; All ages The Hendersonville Chamber Singers present an evening of holiday music. First Presbyterian Church, 172 W. Main St., Hendersonville; 7 - 9 p.m.; hendersonvilleholidayfest.org.
Michael W. Smith
Thursday, Dec. 4; All ages Christian music star Michael W. Smith joins the Nashville Symphony for a night of holiday music with songs from his new CD, The Spirit of Christmas. Schermerhorn Symphony Center, 1 Symphony Place, Nashville; 7:30 p.m.; $22 - $99; 6876400 or nashvillesymphony.org.
Miracle on Broadway: A Benefit Concert Saturday, Dec. 20; All ages Grammy winner Kelly Clarkson performs an inaugural benefit show that features Reba, Trisha Yearwood, Garth Brooks, Chip Esten and more singing Christmas favorites. Proceeds benefit four local charities: Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Monroe Harding Children’s Home,
Second Harvest Food Bank and Thistle Farms. Bridgestone Arena, 501 Broadway, Nashville; 7:30 p.m.; $29.75 - $49.75; 770-2000 or bridgestonearena. com.
Moon Taxi
Wednesday, Dec. 31 Ages 18 and older Ring in the new year with a live concert by a Nashville-based rock group. War Memorial Auditorium, 301 Sixth Ave. N., Nashville; 9 p.m.; $30; 7824040 or tpac.org.
Music City Roots
Every Wednesday; All ages Jim Lauderdale hosts this evening of live music featuring bands of different genres. Liberty Hall at The Factory, 230 Franklin Road, Franklin; 7 p.m.; $15 adults, $10 students; musiccityroots. com.
FREE Music in the Vines
Every Fri - Sun; All ages Enjoy live music by local bands. Visit the website for the full lineup. Arrington Vineyards, 6211 Patton Road, Arrington; Fri - Sat 5 - 9 p.m., Sun 2 - 6 p.m.; 395-0102 or arringtonvineyards.com.
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Let it Ride Tour
Friday, Dec. 5; All ages Enjoy a night of country music starring Brantley Gilbert with special guests Tyler Farr and Chase Bryant. Bridgestone Arena, 501 Broadway, Nashville; 7 p.m.; $24.75 - $37; 770-2000 or bridgestonearena. com.
Kelly Clarkson headlines the “Miracle on Broadway” benefit concert at Bridgestone Arena on Saturday, Dec. 20.
december 2014 83
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on stages
Also see ONGOING ACTIVITIES on page 86 and THE PARENT PLANNER on page 89 to register for future events
W. Thompson Lane, Murfreesboro; 7:30 p.m.; $10 - $40; 898-1862 or murfreesborosymphony.com.
Suzy Bogguss’ Swingin’ Little Christmas
Friday, Dec. 12; All ages Country artist Suzy Bogguss presents traditional holiday music. The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main St., Franklin; 8 p.m.; $34 - $45; 538-2076 or franklintheatre.com.
Swanky Sweater Christmas Jam
Local kids present The Theater Bug Winter Concert Dec. 12 - 13. A Nashville Symphony New Year’s Eve
Opry at the Ryman
Wednesday, Dec. 31; All ages The Nashville Symphony and guest vocalists present an evening of music featuring the best of Gershwin, Strauss and others. Schermerhorn Symphony Center, 1 Symphony Place, Nashville; 6 p.m.; $49 - $154; 687-6400 or nashvillesymphony.org.
Tue, Fri & Sat; All ages Enjoy classic and contemporary country artists as they bring the Grand Ole Opry back to Nashville’s mother church for the fall/winter months. Ryman Auditorium, 116 Fifth Ave. N., Nashville; 7 p.m.; $46.50 $58.50; 800-733-6779 or opry.com.
New Year’s Eve with Marty Stuart
Phil Vassar Christmas Show
Wednesday, Dec. 31; All ages Ring in the new year with country music by Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives. City Winery, 609 Lafayette St., Nashville; 7 and 11 p.m.; $55 - $180; 324-1010 or citywinery.com.
A Night with Tony Joe White
Thursday, Dec. 4; All ages Tony Joe White and guest Phoenix Drive perform a night of music benefiting Saddle Up! The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main St., Franklin; 7 p.m.; $30 - $50; 538-2076 or franklintheatre. com.
Old Crow Medicine Show
Dec. 30 - 31; All ages Enjoy a night of country/Americana/bluegrass music. Ryman Auditorium, 116 Fifth Ave. N., Nashville; Tue 7:30 p.m., Wed 9 p.m.; $39.50 - $59.50; 889-3060 or ryman.com.
Saturday, Dec. 13; All ages Country artist Phil Vassar presents a night of holiday tunes. The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main St., Franklin; 8 p.m.; $46.50 - $66.50; 538-2076 or franklintheatre.com.
Pied Piper Series: Amahl and the Night Visitors
Saturday, Dec. 6; All ages The Nashville Symphony presents this children’s holiday concert featuring puppetry by Wishing Chair Productions depicting the classic story of a shepherd boy’s visit with three kings en route to Bethlehem. Arrive an hour early for hands-on activities throughout the building. Schermerhorn Symphony Center, 1 Symphony Place, Nashville; 11 a.m.; $15; 687-6400 or nashvillesymphony.org.
Rich Robinson
Friday, Dec. 12; All ages The founder/guitarist of the Black Crowes presents an
acoustic concert. City Winery, 609 Lafayette St., Nashville; 8 p.m.; $22 - $28; 324-1010 or citywinery.com.
Riders in the Sky: Christmas the Cowboy Way
Saturday, Dec. 20; All ages Enjoy cowboys yodeling their way through holiday tunes infused with comedy. The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main St., Franklin; 8 p.m.; $32 - $47; 538-2076 or franklintheatre.com.
Snow Globe Christmas Show
Sunday, Dec. 14; All ages Enjoy a night of holiday music starring Matt Wertz with special guests. City Winery, 609 Lafayette St., Nashville; 8 p.m.; $15 - $20; 324-1010 or citywinery. com.
Sonny Landreth & Cindy Cashdollar
Sunday, Dec. 7; All ages Experience an evening of music featuring slide guitarist Landreth and steel guitarist Cashdollar. City Winery, 609 Lafayette St., Nashville; 8 p.m.; $20 - $25; 324-1010 or citywinery.com.
Sounds of Christmas
Thursday, Dec. 18; All ages The Murfreesboro Symphony presents an evening of holiday music featuring the Murfreesboro Symphony Chorus and soprano Katherine Sandoval Taylor. First United Methodist Church, 265
Friday, Dec. 5 Ages 18 and older 102.9 The Buzz hosts this rock concert featuring Bush, Royal Blood and Meg Myers. War Memorial Auditorium, 301 Sixth Ave. N., Nashville; 8 p.m.; $29.50 - $34.50; 782-4040 or tpac.org.
Tab Benoit
Wednesday, Dec. 17; All ages Enjoy a night of blues music featuring guitarist/singer/ songwriter Tab Benoit with guest Samantha Fish. The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main St., Franklin; 8 p.m.; $35 - $45; 538-2076 or franklintheatre.com.
Theater Bug Winter Concert
Dec. 12 - 13; All ages Fifty kids ages 6 - 18 perform holiday music for families. The Theater Bug, 2618 Gallatin Pike, Nashville; Fri 7 p.m., Sat 5 and 7 p.m.; $5; 423-4626 or thetheaterbug.org.
Three Women & The Truth
Saturday, Dec. 6; All ages Enjoy a night of music by singer/songwriters Mary Gauthier, Gretchen Peters and Eliza Gilkyson. City Winery, 609 Lafayette St., Nashville; 8 p.m.; $20 - $25; 324-1010 or citywinery.com.
Tommy Dorsey Orchestra
Wednesday, Dec. 31; All ages “Swing in” the new year with live Big Band music. The Franklin Theatre, 419 Main St., Franklin; 6 and 9:30 p.m.; $75 - $85; 538-2076 or franklintheatre. com.
Trace Adkins, The Christmas Show
Dec. 11 - 12; All ages Enjoy a night of holiday music starring country star Trace Adkins. TPAC’s Polk Theater, 505 Deaderick St., Nashville; 8 p.m.; $63.50 - $225; 7824040 or tpac.org.
Turn Blue World Tour
Monday, Dec. 8; All ages The Black Keys headline a night of rock music with special guest St. Vincent. Bridgestone Arena, 501 Broadway, Nashville; 8 p.m.; $33.90 - $75; 7702000 or bridgestonearena.com.
Winter Nash Bash
Monday, Dec. 1; All ages Experience an evening of country music with Clint Black, Easton Corbin, Joe Diffee and more. Ryman Auditorium, 116 Fifth Ave. N., Nashville; 7:30 p.m.; $46.50 - $52.50; 889-3060 or ryman.com.
theater A Christmas Carol
Through Sunday, Dec. 28 All ages Chaffin’s Barn Dinner Theatre, 8204 Hwy. 100, Nashville; Thu - Sat 6 - 7:30 p.m. dinner, 8 p.m. show, Sun 12 - 1:30 p.m. lunch, 2 p.m. show; $60 adults, $40 ages 13 - 18, $30 ages 12 and younger; 6469977 or dinnertheatre.com.
A Christmas Carol
Through Sunday, Dec. 14 All ages The Larry Keeton Theatre, 108 Donelson Pike, Nashville; Thu - Sat 7 p.m., Sun 2 p.m.; $22 - $27 adults, $13 $18 children; 883-8375 or thelarrykeetontheatre.org.
A Christmas Carol
Through Sunday, Dec. 14 All ages Hendersonville Performing Arts Company, 260 W. Main St., Ste. 204, Hendersonville; Thu Fri 7:30 p.m., Sat 2 and 7:30 p.m., Sun 2 p.m.; 826-6037 or hpactn.com.
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Also see THE PARENT PLANNER on page 89 to register for future events
Juliet; Fri - Sat 7:30 p.m., Sun 2:30 p.m.; $10; 598-8950 or encore-theatre-company.org.
Greater Tuna
Through Saturday, Dec. 6 All ages Chaffin’s Barn Dinner Theatre, 8204 Hwy. 100, Nashville; Thu - Sat 6 - 7:30 p.m. dinner, 8 p.m. show, Sun 12 - 1:30 p.m. lunch, 2 p.m. show; $60 adults, $40 ages 13 - 18, $30 ages 12 and younger; 6469977 or dinnertheatre.com.
The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular
Dec. 5 - 14; All ages Arts Center of Cannon County, 1424 John Bragg Hwy., Woodbury; Fri - Sat 7:30 p.m., Sun 2 p.m.; $15; 563-2787 or artscenterofcc.com.
Brent Maddox and Shannon Hope star as George and Mary Bailey in Studio Tenn’s It’s a Wonderful Life, Dec. 4 - 21. Christmas Belles
Dec. 5 - 20; All ages Towne Centre Theatre, 136 Frierson St., Brentwood; Thu - Sat 8 p.m., Sun 2:30 p.m.; $20 adults, $16 students; 2211174 or townecentretheatre. com.
A Christmas Carol
Through Saturday, Dec. 13 All ages Olde Worlde Theatre at The Belcourt, 2102 Belcourt Ave., Nashville; 10 a.m.; $8; 3000734 or oldeworldetheatre. com.
Christmas Schooner
Dec. 5 - 21; All ages Center for the Arts, 110 W. College St., Murfreesboro; Fri - Sat 7:30 p.m., Sun 2 p.m.; $15.50 adults, $13.50 students, $11.50 children; 9042787 or boroarts.org.
A Christmas Story
Through Sunday, Dec. 21 All ages Nashville Rep at TPAC’s Johnson Theater, 505 Deaderick St., Nashville; Wed - Thu 6:30 p.m., Fri 7:30 p.m., Sat 2:30 and 7:30 p.m., Sun 2:30 p.m.; $45; 782-4040 or nashvillerep.org.
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A Christmas Story the Musical Dec. 4 - 7; All ages The Star Bright Players at Freedom Middle School, 750 Hwy 96 W., Franklin; Thu Sat 7 p.m., Sun 3 p.m.; $6; 790-5719, ext. 2030, or wcparksandrec.com.
Annie
Dec. 12 - 14; All ages The Sunshine Players at The Washington Theatre at Patterson Park, 521 Mercury Blvd., Murfreesboro; Fri - Sat 7 p.m., Sun 2 p.m.; $7.50 adults, $6 ages 4 - 17; 867-7244 or murfreesborotn.gov/parks.
Cindy’s Magic Snow Globe
Dec. 7 - 8; All ages Columbia State Community College, 104 Claude Yates Drive, Franklin; Fri 7:30 p.m., Sat 2 and 6:30 p.m.; $8 adults, $5 children (the Sat evening show is $12 adults, $8 children and comes with dessert); 790-4400 or columbiastate.edu/cen.
The Coal Camp Madonna
Dec. 5 - 20; Ages 8 and older Encore Theatre Company, 6978 Lebanon Road, Mt.
It’s a Wonderful Life
Dec. 4 - 21; All ages Studio Tenn at The Factory’s Jamison Hall, 230 Franklin Road, Franklin; Thu - Fri 7 p.m., Sat 2 and 7 p.m., Sun 2 p.m.; $47.50 - $57.50; 888-6646362 or studiotenn.com.
It’s a Wonderful Life
Dec. 5 - 14; Ages 4 and older Springhouse Theatre Company, 14119 Old Nashville Hwy., Smyrna; Fri - Sat 7:30 p.m., Sun 3:30 p.m.; $15 adults, $10 students, $8 ages 12 and younger; 852-8499 or springhousetheatre.com.
It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play
Dec. 5 - 20; All ages Pull-Tight Theatre, 112 Second Ave. S., Franklin; Fri - Sat 7:30 p.m., Sun 2:30 p.m.; $18 adults, $12 children; 7915007 or pull-tight.com.
It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play
Dec. 18 - 21; All ages Actors Point Theatre at God Why Church, 100 God Why Court, Hendersonville; Thu Sat 7:30 p.m., Sun 3 p.m.; $10 - $20; 431-9620 or actorspointtheatre.com.
Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol
Dec. 5 - 21; All ages Murfreesboro Little Theatre, 702 Ewing Blvd., Murfreesboro; Fri - Sat 7 p.m., Sun 2 p.m.; $10 adults, $7 students; 893-9825 or mltarts.com.
James and the Giant Peach
Through Sunday, Dec. 14 All ages Nashville Children’s Theatre, 25 Middleton St., Nashville; Sat - Sun 2 p.m.; $20 adults, $14 children; 252-4675 or nashvillect.org.
Romulus Hunt
Dec. 5 - 7; All ages Nashville Opera at Noah Liff Center, 3622 Redmon St., Nashville; Fri - Sat 8 p.m., Sun 2 p.m.; $41 - $78; 782-4040 or nashvilleopera.org.
Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer
Dec. 16 - 21; All ages TPAC’s Jackson Hall, 505 Deaderick St., Nashville; Tue Fri 7 p.m., Sat 11 a.m., 3 and 7 p.m., Sun 11 a.m., 2 and 5 p.m.; $40 - $70; 782-4040 or tpac.org.
White Christmas the Musical
Dec. 5 - 14; All ages Renaissance Players at The Renaissance Center at Freed Hardeman University, 855 Hwy. 46 S., Dickson; Fri - Sat 7 p.m., Sun 2 p.m.; $15 adults, !0 students, $5 ages 5 and younger; 740-5600 or renplayers.org.
ONGOING davidson county Adventure Science Center
Early Explorers for preschoolers every Mon includes breakfast, storytime and a planetarium show. 800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville; $10 per adult and children 6 and older, $5 kids 5 and younger; 862-5160 or advendturesci.org.
FREE Art Making in the Lobby
Families can create artwork related to current exhibits every Thu and Fri from 6 - 8 p.m. at The Frist Center, 919 Broadway, Nashville; 2443340 or fristcenter.org.
BounceU
Bounce on inflatables at 2990 Sidco Drive; 255-1422; bounceu.com. Open play times are Tue - Fri 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. or 3 - 6 p.m., Sat 8:30 - 10 a.m. Cost is $7.95 ($6.95 siblings); cosmic glow-in-the-dark bounces are Mon 3 - 6 p.m. and Fri 6:30 p.m. Cost is $8 ($7 siblings).
FREE Brilliant Sky Storytime
Stories and sing-alongs take place every Friday at 10:30 a.m. at Brilliant Sky Toys & Books, 2002 Richard Jones Road, Ste. B-100, Nashville; 800-7754 or nashvilletoystore. com.
Centennial Sportsplex Public skate sessions, classes, aquatics and more at 222 Fifth Ave. N., Nashville; times and prices vary; 862-8480 or nashville.org/sportsplex.
FREE Fairytales Storytime
Stories and crafts every Saturday at 11 a.m. at Fairytales Bookstore and More, 114-B S. 11th St., Nashville; 915-1960 or fairytalesbookstore.com.
Ford Ice Center
The Learn to Skate program is available to all ages. Eight-week sessions take place Tue or Thu at 5:30 p.m. or Sat at 10:30 a.m. Cost is $120. Located at 5264 Hickory Hollow Place, Antioch; 742-4399 or fordicecenter.com.
Gymboree Play & Music
A variety of classes for ages birth - 5 years include playtime, music, art, fitness and more at 4004 Hillsboro Pike, Ste. 180, Nashville; 221-9004 or gymboreeclasses.com.
ongoing Metro Parks Community Centers & Activity Schedules
Visit nashville.gov/Parks-andRecreation/Community-Centersand-Recreation for a list of recreational activities and arts classes.
Monkey Joe’s
This inflatable play center is located at 1580 Gallatin Pike N., Madison; Mon - Thu 10 a.m. - 7 p.m., Fri - Sat 10 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sun 10 a.m. 6 p.m.; $9 Mon - Thu, $10 Fri - Sun (ages 2 and younger are $5.50); 915-0561 or monkeyjoes.com.
FREE Parnassus Storytime
All ages can enjoy storytime activities every Thursday at 3:30 p.m. and Saturday at 10:30 a.m. Parnassus Books, 3900 Hillsboro Pike, Nashville; 953-2243 or parnassusbooks. net.
FREE Radnor Lake Natural Area
Nature programs at 1160 Otter Creek Road, Nashville. See complete schedule at radnorlake.org or call 3733467.
Sky High Sports
Family Night is every Thursday from 4 - 9 p.m. For $40, a family of four ($6 each additional person) can enjoy one hour of trampoline jumping, a large pizza and bottled water. Visit website for other daily specials. 5270 Harding Place, Nashville; 366-4252 or nas. jumpskyhigh.com.
rutherford county FREE Barnes & Noble Storytime
Stories and related activities for all ages every Mon and Sat at 11 a.m. at 2615 Medical Center Pkwy., Murfreesboro; 895-8580 or bn.com.
FREE Books-A-Million Preschool storytime is every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m.; members of the Linebaugh Library present a story and puppet shot on the first Friday
of each month at 10 a.m. at 1720 Old Fort Pkwy., Murfreesboro; 995-7112 or booksamillioni.com.
BounceU
Bounce on inflatables at 1222 Park Ave., Murfreesboro; 8938386 or bounceu.com. Call for open bounce and preschool play date times.
Discovery Center at Murfree Spring
502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro; Mon - Sat 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun 1 - 5 p.m.; $6; 890-2300 or explorethedc. org; Ongoing programs: • Animal Antics Every Wednesday at 4:15 p.m. All ages. Meet one of the center’s resident animals • Nature Nuts Every Thursday at 4 p.m. All ages. Enjoy nature activities • Science a la Carte Every Tuesday at 3:30 p.m. All ages. Conduct science experiments with the staff • Shake, Rattle & Roll Every Friday at 3:30 p.m. All ages. Explore percussion instruments • Snack Attack Every Monday at 4 p.m. All ages. Make treats in the kitchen
FREE Earth Lab
Kids ages 4 - 9 can explore winter animals Tue 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Wed - Fri 12 - 5 p.m. at The Wilderness Station, 697 Veterans Pkwy., Murfreesboro; 217-3017 or murfreesborotn. gov/parks.
Jumper’s Playhouse
Inflatable fun at 6600 New Nashville Hwy., Smyrna; 2207575 or jumpersplayhouse. com. Call for open bounce and toddler storytime information.
Patterson Park Community Center
521 Mercury Blvd. Murfreesboro; 893-7439 Ongoing programs: • Busy Bees: Ages 3 - 5 can learn to follow directions, improve coordination and practice good sportsmanship every Tue and Thu; 10:45 11:15 a.m.; $3 • Terrific Twos: Ages 24 - 36 months with a parent can enjoy songs, finger plays,
art projects and more every Wednesday; 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.; $3
Sports*Com
2310 Memorial Blvd. Murfreesboro; 895-5040 Ongoing programs: • Homeschool Boot Camp Ages 5 and older can do calisthenic exercises to develop motor skills every Friday; 10:30 - 11:15 a.m.; $3 • Toddler Time with Thomas Ages 5 and younger can participate in activities that develop cognitive skills every Friday; 10 a.m.; $3 • Youth Volleyball Ages 9 15 can learn volleyball skills every Thursday; 4:30 - 6 p.m.; $3
FREE Stones River National Battlefield
Rangers present 30-minute talks at 2 p.m. Mon - Fri (weekends features an 11 a.m. talk). Located at 1563 N. Thompson Lane, Murfreesboro; 893-9501 or nps.gov/stri.
sumner county FREE Barnes & Noble Storytime
Stories and related activities for all ages every Mon and Sat at 11 a.m. at 300 Indian Lakes Blvd., Hendersonville; 2640183 or bn.com.
Hoppity Hop Inflatable Play Center Bounce on inflatable structures at 143 New Shackle Island Road, Hendersonville; call or check website for open play times; $6 ages 1 - 3, $8 ages 4 and older; 265-8020 or hoppityhopinflatableplaycenter. com.
My Gym
Pay-to-play, open gym and Saturday morning classes take place at 206 N. Anderson Lane, Hendersonville; call 8248002 or visit my-gym.com/ hendersonville.
williamson county A-Game Sports Complex
Open skate lessons, laser chase, special events, fitness classes and sports for kids with two ice rinks, 12 volleyball courts, six basketball courts and outdoor fields. Located at 215 Gothic Court, Franklin, call 771-2444 or visit goagame. com.
FREE Barnes & Noble Storytime
Stories and related activities for all ages every Mon and Sat at 11 a.m. at 1701 Mallory Lane, Brentwood; 377-9979 or bn.com.
FREE Books-A-Million
Preschool storytime is every Tue and Sat at 10:30 a.m. at 1040 Crossings Blvd., Spring Hill; 931-486-0113 or booksamillioin.com.
FREE Family Trivia Night
Families can compete in trivia games for a chance to win a $25 gift card every Friday at 6 p.m. at Goofballs Family Fun, 1113 Murfreesboro Road, Ste. 360, Franklin; 861-3668 or letsgetgoofy.com.
Franklin on Foot Children’s Tours
The “I Spy Downtown Franklin” scavenger hunt takes place at Franklin’s Public Square by appointment; $11; 400-3808 or franklinonfoot.com.
FREE Franklin School of Rock
Kids of all ages can take a free 30-minute trial lesson in guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, fiddle or vocals. Located at 616 Bradley Court in Franklin, call 221-9700 to schedule a time. Visit franklinschoolofrock.com.
Glow Galaxy
Weekly open play times feature inflatables, mini-golf, air hockey, an interactive game floor, football toss, soccer kick and basketball in a glow-in-the-dark setting at 121 Seaboard Lane, Ste. 8, Franklin; open play
is Tue - Wed 1 - 3 p.m., Thu 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.; $12 per child (adults are free); 3704386 or glowgalaxy.com.
FREE Lifeway Christian Store Ages 2 - 8 can enjoy stories and songs every Friday at 10 a.m. at 1725 Galleria Blvd., Franklin; 771-9050.
Monkey Joe’s
This inflatable play center is located at 1648 Westgate Cir., Brentwood; Mon - Thu 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. ($9), Fri - Sat 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. ($10), Sun 12 - 6 p.m. ($10); ages 2 and younger are $6; 377-5900 or monkeyjoes. com.
Monkey’s Treehouse
An indoor play center located at 91 Seaboard Lane, Brentwood; open play times are Mon/Wed/Fri 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Thu 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; $8 ages 1 - 8; 942-7911 or themonkeystreehouse.com.
My Gym Brentwood
Pay-to-play, open gym and Saturday morning class times at 330 Franklin Road, call 3715437 or visit my-gym.com/ brentwood.
Pump It Up Play Time
Open jump times are Mon - Fri 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. for preschoolers, Thu 5 - 8 p.m. and Fri 1 - 4 p.m. ages 12 and younger, and all school holidays 1 - 4 p.m. ages 12 and younger. Pump It Up, 7104 Crossroads Blvd., Ste. 128, Brentwood; $8 per child; 3738340 or pumpitupparty.com.
wilson county FREE Rock Zone School of Music Ages 7 - 13 can take one free trial music lesson in voice, piano, guitar or drums (call for appointment) at 11902 Lebanon Road, Mt. Juliet; 5620070 or rockzonemusic.com.
december 2014 87
WHAT ARE YOUR KIDS
DOING THIS ER CA M M
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A DV
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NT
MP
SU
SUMMER? A F URE
FEBRUARY 7 • 10AM-3PM
COOL SPRINGS GALLERIA FOR INFORMATION CALL
615.256.2158 nashvilleparent.com
PRESENTED BY:
Parent Planner
These events require advance registration. Call ahead to reserve your child’s spot!
The Aquarium at Opry Mills 433 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville 514-3474 • aquariumrestaurants/ aquariumnashville
• Breakfast with Santa Dec. 14 - 15. Enjoy a breakfast buffet, visit Santa and watch him swim with the fish. All ages. 9 - 11 a.m. $12.99 adults, $8.99 ages 3 - 10
Bluegrass Yacht & Country Club 550 Johnny Cash Pkwy. Hendersonville hendersonvilleholidayfest.org
• Old Thyme Christmas Breakfast with Santa Saturday, Dec. 14. Kids can start off their morning by dining with St. Nick, sharing their wish lists and posing for photos. All ages. 8:30 and 11 a.m. $17.50 adults, $12.50 ages 4 - 10, $5 ages 3 and younger
Brentwood Library 8109 Concord Road, Brentwood 371-0090, ext. 8290 chappella@brentwood-tn.org
• FREE After-School Explorers Every Tuesday. Grades K - 2. Explore the world through books, games, activities and crafts. 4:15 - 5:15 p.m. • FREE Brentwood Bunch Book Club Every Third Friday of the month. Grades 3 - 5. Read books from the Tennessee Volunteer State Book Awards list. 4:30 5:30 p.m • FREE Lego Mania Every first Friday for ages 6 - 7 and every second Friday for ages 8 - 12. Unleash your creativity and have fun building with Legos. 4:30 - 6 p.m. • FREE The Polar Express Reading Monday, Dec. 1. Enjoy a reading of a holiday classic. All ages. 5 and 6 p.m. • FREE Read with Lily Every first and third Monday. Children can read aloud to Lily the ReadingPAWS dog. All ages. 4:15 - 5:15 p.m.
Cheekwood 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville 356-8000 • cheekwood.org
• Adult Gingerbread Workshop Thursday, Dec. 11. Enjoy a night out get-together and have fun creating a gingerbread house. Adults. 6 p.m. $50 members, $67 non-members • Family Gingerbread Workshop Saturdays, Dec. 6 and 13. Create a family memory by making an edible gingerbread house to take home. All ages. 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. $45 members, $60 non-members • Live Greenery Workshop: Mailbox & Door Decor Thursday, Dec. 4. This hands-on workshop teaches you how to create live seasonal decor to spruce up your mailbox and doors. All ages. 6 - 8:30 p.m. $30 members, $40 non-members • Live Greenery Workshop: Wreath Making Sunday, Dec. 7. Start the holiday season by creating a fresh wreath for your front door. All ages. 2 - 5 p.m. $30 members, $40 non-members
Register for the Family Gingerbread Workshop taking place at Cheekwood Saturdays, Dec. 6 and 13. Cofer’s Chapel Free Will Baptist Church 3915 Franklin Pike, Nashville — and — Woodmont Hills Church of Christ 3710 Franklin Pike, Nashville tn.gov/firstlady/residence/holidays/ shtml
• FREE Tennessee’s Home for the Holidays Dec. 5 17. Tour the Governor’s mansion decked out for the season. All ages. Tours take place every 30 minutes starting at 10 a.m. on select days. Parking is available at the church lots (the website tells you which one to park in on the day of your tour) and a shuttle takes you to the mansion
Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville 416-2001 countrymusichalloffame.org
• Tour and Concert: A Legendary Holiday at Historic RCA Studio B Dec. 12 - 14. Tour Nashville’s historic recording studio and enjoy a concert by guitarist Meagan Taylor (great-niece of Chet Atkins) and pianist Jason Coleman (grandson of Floyd Cramer). Tour departs from the Hall. All ages. 4 - 6 p.m. $15
Cumberland Presbyterian Church 226 S. Main St., Goodlettsville 859-5888 • goodlettsvillecpchurch.com • FREE Breakfast with Santa Saturday, Dec. 6. Enjoy pancakes, decorate a gingerbread house, take pictures with Santa and more. All ages. 8:30 - 10 a.m.
Dave and Busters at Opry Mills 433 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville 970-3807 • daveandbusters.com
• Breakfast with Santa Saturday, Dec. 6. Dine with the jolly elf, get a goodie bag and a card for unlimited video game playing during the event. All ages. 8:30 10:30 a.m. $12.99 adults, $10.99 kids
Delmas Long Community Center 105 S. Main St., Goodlettsville 851-2253 • goodlettsvilleparks.com
• Donuts with Santa Saturday, Dec. 6. Dine with St. Nick, then share wish lists and take pictures (bring your own camera), create crafts and listen to stories. All ages. 8 - 10 a.m. $5
Fairview Recreation Complex 2714 Fairview Blvd., Fairview 799-9331, ext. 2310 wcparksandrec.com
• Santa’s Polar Express Friday, Dec. 12. Wear your PJs for cookies and milk while listening to Santa read a holiday story. Ages 10 and younger. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. $6 per child
Ford Ice Center 5264 Hickory Hollow Place, Antioch 770-2152 predators.nhl.com/club/page. htm?id=37161
• FREE G.O.A.L. (Get Out and Learn) Fridays, Dec. 5, 12 and 19. Participate in a youth ice hockey program with the Nashville Predators. Ages 5 - 8. 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. (please turn the page)
december 2014 89
Parent Planner
These events require advance registration. Call ahead to reserve your child’s spot!
Franklin Recreation Complex 1120 Hillsboro Road, Franklin 790-5719, ext. 2010 wcparksandrec.com
• Breakfast with Santa Saturday, Dec. 13. Have a morning meal with St. Nick then sit in his lap and share your wish list. Participants get a picture and a goody. Ages 10 and younger. 8 - 10:30 a.m. $8
The Hermitage 4580 Rachel’s Lane, Nashville 889-2941 • thehermitage.com
• Hermitage Holiday Tours Dec. 12, 13, 18 and 19. See Andrew Jackson’s home in the evening light and learn how his family experienced the holidays and the origins of many of their Christmas traditions. All ages. 7 p.m. $28
Home Depot Locations homedepot.com
• FREE Home Depot Kids Workshop Saturday, Dec. 6. Build holiday yard stakes. Ages 5 - 12. 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Longview Recreation Center 2909 Commonwealth Drive, Spring Hill 302-0971, ext. 2210 wcparksandrec.com • Santa’s Polar Express Friday, Dec. 5. Wear your PJs for cookies and milk while listening to Santa read a holiday story. Ages 10 and younger. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. $6 per child
Loews Vanderbilt 2100 West End Ave., Nashville gonecupcaking.com/collections/25-citytour • Gone Cupcaking Workshop: Decorating 101 Saturday, Dec. 6. Learn the basics of cupcake decorating and leave with a home-decorating kit. Ages 12 and older. 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. $29 • Gone Cupcaking Workshop: Girls’ Night Out Saturday, Dec. 6. Learn to decorate cupcakes with your gal pals, and receive a tote bag and home-decorating kit. Ladies 21 and older. 6:30 p.m. $29 • Gone Cupcaking Workshop: Mommy and Me Saturday, Dec. 6. Learn the basics of cupcake decorating and leave with a home-decorating kit. Ages 6 - 12 with a parent. 3:30 p.m. $29
Lowe’s locations lowes.com
• FREE Kids Clinic Saturday, Dec. 13. Create a wooden holiday train engine. Ages 5 - 12. 10 - 11 a.m.
Magnitude Gymnastics 3622 Central Pike, Hermitage 883-5166 • magnitudegymnastics.com • Parents’ Night Out Saturday, Dec. 13. Kids can
90 december 2014
Williamson County Parks and Recreation hosts Santa events at its various centers this month: Fairview (Friday, Dec. 12), Franklin (Saturday, Dec. 13), Longview (Friday, Dec. 5) and Nolensville (Friday, Dec. 19). Call ahead to RSVP! have a fun night in the gym while Mom and Dad enjoy an evening to themselves. Ages 4 and older. 6:30 - 10 p.m. $15 members, $20 non-members
Music City Archery 5011 Walkup Road, Pegram 566-5187 • musiccityarchery.com
• Archery Homeschool Day Friday, Dec. 5. Homeschool students can learn archery with certified instructors in the indoor range. Ages 8 and older. 2 - 3 p.m. $8
My Gym of Brentwood 330 Franklin Road, Brentwood 371-5437 • mygym.com/brentwood
• Parents’ Night Out Saturday, Dec. 20. Mom and Dad can enjoy a night out to themselves while their kids enjoy games and activities. Ages 2-and-a-half to 9 years. 6 - 10 p.m. $30 (discounts for multiple children)
Oaklands Historic House Museum 900 N. Maney Ave., Murfreesboro 892-0022 • oaklandsmuseum.org • Christmas Party Friday, Dec. 5. Tour the mansion, listen to music by harpist Liana Alpino, enjoy dinner then a holiday concert by Almost Blue. All ages. 6 - 8 p.m. $75 • Holiday Tea in the Mansion Mondays, Dec. 8 and 15. Enjoy holiday tea blends, treats and a tour of the mansion. Ages 12 and older. 12 p.m. $30
Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary 545 Beech Creek Road, Brentwood 370-4672 • owlshill.org
• Knee-High Naturalist: Whooo’s Calling? Dec. 1 or 2. Learn about the resident owls, hear an owl story, create an owl puppet and explore the winter woods. Ages 3 - 5. 10 - 11:30 a.m. $10 per adult and one child, $7 each additional person • Owl Prowl Thursday, Dec. 18. Enjoy an evening of food and outdoor fun learning about owls while on a nature hike. Ages 9 and older. 5 - 8:30 p.m. $20
Patterson Park Community Center 521 Mercury Blvd., Murfreesboro 893-2141 murfreesborotn.gov/parks
• 1, 2, 3, Count with Me! Every Tuesday. Ages 2 - 5. Learn numbers through games, songs, crafts and more. 9 - 9:45 a.m. $3 • A, B, C, Come Learn with Me Every Tuesday and Thursday. Ages 2 - 5. Learn the alphabet through songs, crafts, stories and more. 10 - 10:45 a.m. $3 • Busy Bees Every Tuesday and Thursday. Ages 3 - 5. Learn how to follow directions, participate in a group environment, improve coordination and practice good sportsmanship. 10:45 - 11:15 a.m. • Kreative Kids Every Thursday. Ages 2 - 5. Participate in arts and crafts activities. 9 - 9:45 a.m. $3 • Pre-K Homeschool P.E. Thursdays through May. Ages 3 - 5. Participate in fitness activities. 1 - 1:45 p.m. $3
• FREE Nature Center Storytime Friday, Dec. 12. Enjoy seasonal nature stories under the giant beech tree. Ages 3 - 5. 10:30 - 11 a.m. • FREE Souper Supper Friday, Dec. 5. Bring a veggie to add to a pot of broth to make soup to enjoy after a nature hike. All ages. 5 - 7 p.m. • FREE Winter Celebration Saturday, Dec. 20. Celebrate the winter solstice by watching the sunset, then warming up around a campfire before walking through the woods along a luminary-lit pathway. All ages. 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. • FREE Winter Story Walk Saturday, Dec. 6. Meander along the Little Acorn Trail and enjoy a winter story revealed page by page at various stops. All ages. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
The Wilderness Station 697 Veterans Pkwy., Murfreesboro 217-3017 • mufreesborotn.gov/parks
• Rock Hop Every Monday. Try new instruments, learn silly songs, dance and more. Ages 2 - 4 with a parent. 9:30 a.m. $3
See a screening of the holiday classic, It’s a Wonderful Life, during the free benefit event for The Wonderful Life Foundation at War Memorial Auditorium on Saturday, Dec. 6. Rainforest Cafe at Opry Mills 433 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville 514-3000 • rainforestcafe.com
• Breakfast with Santa Dec. 20 - 21. Dine with St. Nick, pose for photos, win prize drawings and take home a goodie bag. Ages 3 - 10. 8 a.m. $12.99 adults, $8.99 ages 10 and younger
Scarritt Bennett Center 1008 19th Ave. S., Nashville 340-7500 • scarrittbennett.org
• Christmas Luncheons and Concerts Dec. 2 - 16. Enjoy lunch followed by a Christmas concert. All ages. 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. $24.99
Sports*Com 2310 Memorial Blvd., Murfreesboro 895-5040 murfreesborotn.gov/parks
• Holiday Lock-In Friday, Dec. 12. Spend the night with fun and games like swimming, sports and more. Ages 8 - 15. 7 p.m. - 7 a.m. $20 • Tiny Trainers Every Tuesday. Children can participate in this introduction to large motor movements, following directions and learning how fitness can be fun. Ages 9 months - 3 years with a parent. 10:30 11:15 a.m. $3 • Toddler Time with Thomas Every Friday. Enjoy playtime while learning to follow directions. Ages 5 and younger. 10 a.m. $3 • Tumbleweeds Mondays and Wednesdays. Learn basic tumbling techniques while improving balance and coordination. Ages 3 - 5. 10:30 - 11:15 a.m. $3
Stones River Mall 1720 Old Fort Pkwy., Murfreesboro 896-4486 • stonesrivermall.com
• Breakfast with Santa Enjoy a morning pajama party with St. Nick that includes breakfast, cookie decorating, balloon animals, stories, face painting and photos with the jolly elf. Proceeds benefit Beesley Animal Foundation. All ages. 8 a.m. $5
War Memorial Auditorium 301 Sixth Ave. N., Nashville 782-4040 • tpac.org
• FREE It’s a Wonderful Life Saturday, Dec. 6. The Wonderful Life Foundation — a nonprofit that eases the financial burdens of families who have children with serious illnesses — hosts this event featuring a screening of the holiday film, It’s a Wonderful Life, followed by a reception with holiday fare, drinks, live music, dancing and a silent auction. All ages. 5 p.m.
Warner Parks Nature Center 7311 Hwy. 100, Nashville 352-6299 • nashville.go/parks
• FREE Coast Into Winter with Roller Coaster Science! Saturday, Dec. 13. Design and build a small-scale roller coaster. Ages 6 and older. 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. • FREE Fall Star Party: Geminid Meteor Shower Saturday, Dec. 13. Local astronomers will be on site with telescopes for night sky viewing. All ages. 7 - 9 p.m. • FREE Hill Forest Hike Saturday, Dec. 6. Bundle up for a rugged hike through the Hill Forest. Ages 8 and older. 12:30 - 2:30 p.m. • FREE Homeschool Journeys: Habitats of Warner Park Participate in a science-based field experience comparing the varied habitats of the park. Ages 5 13. 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
• Tales and Trails Every Wednesday. Enjoy stories about Tennessee wildlife while hiking the trails. Ages 4 - 7 with a parent. 10:30 a.m. $3 • Wild Things Every Wednesday. An introduction to the wonders of nature through songs, hikes, crafts and more. Ages 1 - 4 with a parent. 9:30 a.m. $3
Williamson County Recreation Complex 7250 Nolensville Road, Nolensville 302-0971, ext. 2215 wcparksandrec.com • Santa’s Polar Express Friday, Dec. 19. Wear your PJs for cookies and milk while listening to Santa read a holiday story. Ages 10 and younger. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. $6 per child
(please turn the page)
Deadline for January’s THINGS TO DO is
Friday, Dec. 5.
All events must be submitted in writing. Submit event info to: chad@daycommedia.com Please include: Event Name • Date • Time Venue (with street address and ZIP code) • Ages • Event description • Admission fee • Is advance registration required? Contact info for publishing
december 2014 91
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arts and entertainment news in middle tennessee Read reviews online at nashvilleparent.com. Click on “Things to Do” in the top menu bar.
LAST CHANCE to See The Rockettes!
Coming in 2015 at Center for the Arts
F
or 14 years, The Rockettes’ Radio City Christmas Spectacular show has been a family favorite as part of Gaylord Opryland’s “A Country Christmas” celebration. This is the final year to see it in Nashville, and there are new scenes in the second act, so be sure to get tickets if you’ve yet to take your kids. Here are a few fun facts about the show: • The Rockettes perform 300 kicks per show.
Murfreesboro’s Center for the Arts celebrates classics for its recently announced 2015 season. Here’s what’s coming: The Wizard of Oz Jan. 9 - 25, 2015 A Raisin in the Sun The world-famous Rockettes perform as dancing Santas during their Radio City Christmas Spectacular show at the Grand Ole Opry House as part of Gaylord’s “A Country Christmas.”
• The cast of 44 includes 20 Rockettes, 14 singers and dancers, two children, four little people and Santa.
Feb. 13 - 22, 2015 The Music Man April 10 - 26, 2015 Bonnie & Clyde May 15 - 31, 2015 West Side Story
• Two of the most beloved scenes — “The Parade of Wooden Soldiers “ and “The Living Nativity” — have been part of the show since 1933.
July 17 - Aug. 2, 2015
• More than 350 pairs of shoes are worn per show.
Oct. 16 - Nov. 1, 2015
• Wardrobe uses more than 3,000 red dots per season to brighten the cheeks of The Rockettes during the “Rag Doll” and “Wooden Soldiers” numbers.
Harvey Sept. 11 - 20, 2015 The Addams Family
Irving Berlin’s Allison Williams and Christopher Walken star in Peter Pan Live, set to broadcast on NBC (Channel 4) on Thursday, Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. Tune in and enjoy this new version of the musical with your kids.
Holiday Hits on the Silver Screen
See both classic and contemporary Christmas movies on the big • More than 30 costumes and screen this month at the FRANKLIN THEATRE. Among the 200 hats are in the show, each holiday favorites are Home Alone, Christmas Vacation, The Polar one exclusively designed. Express, Miracle on 34th Street, Elf, White Christmas and It’s a Wonderful Life. Show times vary, and tickets are a steal at only The Radio City Christmas Spec$5! The Franklin Theatre is located at 419 Main St. For tickets tacular show continues through and show times, call 538-2076 or visit franklintheatre.com ... You Wednesday, Dec. 24. Days and can also catch Home Alone in high definition on Saturday, Dec. times vary. Tickets are $24.99 6 at the Schermerhorn in Nashville. The NASHVILLE SYM- $94.99. Get ‘em at christmasatPHONY performs the score live while you watch the movie. gaylordopryland.com. Show time is 7 p.m., and tickets are $30 - $66. Call 687-6400 or visit nashvillesymphony.org.
92 december 2014
White Christmas Dec. 4 - 20, 2015 Season passes are now on sale. Get all eight shows for $110 adults, $95 students, $80 children. A three-show Flex Pass is $43 adults, $37 students, $30 children. It makes a great gift for the theater lover on your list (hint, hint!). The Center for the Arts is located at 110 W. College St., Murfreesboro. Call 904-2787 or visit boroarts. org.
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94 december 2014
A huge turnout made Fall Kids Fest rock in Murfreesboro!
Lots of local families came to our annual Fall Kids Fest at The Avenue Murfreesboro.
Samuel Wikle
Emmye Brothers
Bay Martinez
Bella Pettigrew
Rob and Chase Sands
Ellen Duckworth, Jennifer and Carter Jackson
McKenzie and Brock Stevens with Jacob Follis
Yusuke
Colden and Arianna Cook
december 2014 95
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Nadia says, “Bring on the snow!� 96 december 2014
Marvin loves a silly smile! And he wants to see yours!
• Annu ent a r a
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age 8
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Emma
Send a picture of your silly smile to marvinsillysmiles@gmail.com and you may just be featured in our next ad!
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