Nola family March 2022 by nola family magazine & nola boomers magazine

nola family Parent Fearlessly

March 2022

TikTok Tics 100+ Summer Camps Meet Mom About Town Kimberly Calongne Tara

NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2022

nola family CONTENTS

Founder ANN BOWER HERREN Publisher BRANDON FOREMAN Associate Publisher AMY L. FOREMAN

MARCH 2022

Business Operations LAURIE ACOSTA Director of Operations

SARAH MILLER

Administrative Coordinator

Editorial AMANDA MILLER Managing Editor

EMILY DREZ Assistant Editor

SARAH BATROUS ANTHONY BUI

ON THE COVER

Editorial Assistants

Maya R. is in the first grade at Metairie Academy of Advanced Studies.

Art/Production JENNY ZIGLIN Production Manager

MELODY TAUZIN

Photo by Twirl Photography

Senior Graphic Designer

ALEX HERRING Graphic Designer

TWIRL PHOTOGRAPHY Cover Photography

Advertising PATRICK PACHECO

Director of Business Development

A FEW WORDS

EDUCATION & GUIDANCE

IN EACH ISSUE

6 From the

10 Parenting

8 From the

Publisher

Corner

FEATURES

11 TikTok Tics in Tweens

16 Let’s Enjoy

Summer Camp

18 Summer Camp

Bookshelf

12 Dear Frankie

29 Spotlight

13 Hip Grannie

30 Mom About Town

14 Wiggle Room

31 Gear to Get

Listings

33 Out & About

CRYSTAL BARRETT JENNIFER HOFFMANN KRISTEN RENFROW RYN WHITESIDE Account Executives

Marketing EMILY MANCUSO Director of Marketing

MAGGIE SHARP Marketing Assistant

VICTORIA COTEJAR Social Media Coordinator

Community Development TERI HODGES

Director of Community Partnerships

ROXANE VOORHIES Community Outreach

For reprint information, contact

jenny@nolafamily.com Business Office:

One Galleria Blvd., Ste. 1900 Metairie, LA 70001

( 504 ) 866 - 0555 A publication of NOLA FAMILY is published monthly by FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. and distributed free of charge. Subscriptions accepted. Only authorized distributors may deliver and pick up the magazine. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all materials contributed. We cannot be responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. NOLA FAMILY Copyright © 2022. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission prohibited.

MARCH 2022 | NOLAFAMILY.COM

March 2022 Issue 130

NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2022

from the publisher

When Enough is Enough As adults, we have learned our boundaries, but it took many years for us to know just how far we can go without going over to the dark side. We teach our kids that they need to fight their own battles, but when is it time for us to step in as parents or step out? Stepping out is something I recently had to do. Being a teenager is rough. Your body is changing, your hormones are running like wildfire, friends come and go, girls are just plain mean, and the boys are in this awkward stage of life. These tweens/teens are learning who is in their corner and who is not. I think it is very important that our children have other adults they trust that can also be a shoulder to lean on or a sounding board, whether this is a teacher, friend’s mom, or coach. I made it a point a few years ago that if you are not going to be a role model for my children then I do not need you in my life. This was also how I chose my babysitters for years, and I still talk to these girls to this day, even though they do not babysit anymore and have started their own careers in life. Recently, I have watched my daughter struggle with something that she absolutely loves to do. She is my dancing queen. She dances around the house, and she always needs music to do her chores so she can dance to the beat. The past few months have been a struggle with her on what is best for her versus what is best for her dance team. I am 100 percent a mom who says that you sign up for something until the end. This time was different. She was sad, always crying, hating practice, and not like herself. Her school grades started to slip a little, and her smile was gone. I wanted to step in like a momma bear so badly and handle this, but this time, she needed to make the decision on what was best. She had finally had enough and decided to quit. Her father and I gave her our permission to quit because nobody should be able to take that joy away from her, nor make her feel worthless. Again, she didn’t want to leave her team hanging, which I understand is hard. You don’t want to do that to your friends, but sometimes, you have to put your needs at the top of the list. That night, after the decision was done and the email had been sent, she slept. She slept so well that the alarms didn’t even phase her the next morning. I am very proud of her for standing up for her rights as a human being, but also for putting her mental health above all other things. I also learned a lot about myself by stepping back to let her make this decision because I promise you, this was the hardest thing I have done in a while. I’m sure many other momma bears can relate: nobody messes with my cubs and gets away with it.

MARCH 2022 | NOLAFAMILY.COM

NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2022

from the bookshelf

MAKING SUMMER PLANS? DON’T FORGET THE LIBRARY With summer just around the corner, the New Orleans Public Library has families covered.

Every June and July, the Library puts on Summer Fun, a program aimed at encouraging reading as a lifelong habit, maintaining reading skills that children and teens have achieved throughout the school year, and increasing interest in libraries. With events for all ages and reading & BINGO challenges, this year is sure to be a hit. More Summer Fun information will be announced soon, so make sure you sign up for e-news on nolalibrary.org. In addition to Summer Fun, the Library has more ways to keep your family entertained this summer.

Going on vacation? Here’s what we recommend for long drives or flights.

Young Summer Camp Critter Jitters by John Jory & Liz Climo

Anxious animals are heading to summer camp, and get reassurances about heading to a new place.

Early Elementary The Best Friend Plan by Stephanie Calmenson, Joanna Cole, & James Burks

Best friends Allie and Amy do everything together, and they make a bunch of plans for their summer, but then Allie is told she’s going to a sleepaway camp.

Middle Grade Camp by Kayla Miller

Best friends Willow and Olive go to summer camp together, but their friendship is strained when Olive makes quick friends with other campers and Willow only wants to hang out with Olive. (This one is part of a very popular graphic novel series.)

Need something to do at home?

Get crafty with Creativebug workshops. Bake a cake with our cake pan collection. Watch a movie on Hoopla or Kanopy. Learn a new language with Pronunciator. Explore the world of early reading with Bookflix. All you need to get started is your Library card.

Want to visit a Library?

Come on in! The New Orleans Public Library has wifi, air conditioning, and plenty of materials for you to browse. Pass the day wandering through the stacks, talking with our staff, listening to storytime, or just hanging out. We even have teen-only spaces in several locations, including the Best Buy Teen Tech Center at the Main Library. The Best Buy Teen Tech Center is designed to be a safe, comfortable, and engaging space for teens to experiment and master various new technologies with help from their peers and adult mentors. The space has a music studio, a 3D printer, an Oculus Quest 2 VR system, and so much more. Heads up: Members must complete a membership application and get signed permission from a parent or legal guardian to participate. So, between travels, camps, and other summer plans, don’t forget the Library. We have everything you need to make this summer the best summer ever.

Jane LeGros is the director of marketing and communications for the New Orleans Public Library.

MARCH 2022 | NOLAFAMILY.COM

Kacy Helwick is the youth collection development librarian.

NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2022

parenting corner

Establishing Friendships One of the biggest concerns of parents and teachers during the pandemic has been the potential for a negative effect on children’s social-emotional development. While the true impact isn’t yet known, some children will definitely need extra support and guidance in developing the skills needed for establishing and maintaining friendships. As you read the camp issue this month, think about how you can help your child make and keep friends this summer. Here are some ideas:

Establish expectations of how you treat others.

Many people feel civility among adults has waned during the pandemic, and it’s unrealistic to expect our children to treat others better than we do. How do you model common courtesy, thoughtfulness, and good manners in social interactions, whether they occur in person or online? We are always role modeling for our children, whether we realize it or not, and our own ability to be kind, empathize, and appropriately assertive is a road map for them.

Practice social skills at home. Every day, parents have

the opportunity to enhance their child’s social skills through the following experiences: playing games so a child can learn to be a good sport, learning to take turns with toys with siblings, resolving conflicts through problem-solving, using humor to help a child look at the funny side of things, and learning to cope when frustration inevitably occurs. Role play with your child to help them think about how to approach a group or potential new friend. Talk to your child about using ice breakers such as “That’s a great drawing you did. Could you show me some of your other ones?” Roleplaying how to approach a group that’s playing by watching what’s happening for a minute before trying to join in, finding a way to offer something helpful to the group, and asking questions without breaking up the game, are all different strategies for integrating oneself. Does your child know how to lose without getting so frustrated they lash out? Playing board games as a family, and modeling and insisting on

good sportsmanship, can be skill builders to help your child become a playmate that other children enjoy interacting with.

Encourage empathy. Learning to effectively manage and regulate our emotions is an important aspect of social competence. We help our children manage feelings by helping them identify their own, and then, when they are feeling calm, encourage them to think about the feelings and motivations of others. When a teammate looks dejected after letting in a goal that lost a soccer game, point out to your child that he looks as if he could use a friend, and encourage your son or daughter to go check on him. Asking questions such as “What do you think that was like for her?” when you are discussing the social ups and downs of their classmates can help our children to consider others’ experiences that may be different from their own. Mind your manners. While elementary school-age children

don’t expect each other to follow formal etiquette, some basic manners help everyone feel comfortable. We’ve all been less socially active than usual these past two years, and some of these skills may not have gotten a lot of practice in the comfort of our home. Greetings and goodbyes, meal time behaviors such as not grabbing food off others’ plates or commenting on what others are eating, and asking to use someone else’s belongings or wait for a turn, rather than grabbing, are all examples of some behaviors that may need to be fine-tuned to make social situations go more smoothly.

Listen to and acknowledge your child’s feelings about friendships. When your child comes to you with a

concern about a friend, try to respond with empathy and support, rather than being dismissive or feeling like you must fix the situation. If a child truly seems unable to develop the skills needed to relate to other children, seek professional support and advice. Lisa Phillips, MSW, LMSW, has been a parent educator at The Parenting Center at Children’s Hospital since 2001 and is a regular contributor to the award-winning “Parenting Corner” column. She can be reached at (504) 896-9591; chnola.org/parentingcenter.

MARCH 2022 | NOLAFAMILY.COM

TikTok Tics in Tweens

By Emily Drez

If you did not know this already, the TikTok app has dominated the world of social media in the form of short videos that can make you laugh, dance, or even cry. Especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, TikTok has been the go-to app for when anyone needs distraction because it provides endless videos to scroll through on your “For You Page” as soon as you open the app, and the algorithm-based content really is “for you.” The app has its perks, like hilarious videos you can share with friends and heartfelt ones that bring tears to your eyes, but it also has several downsides. Like any other social media platform, TikTok can trigger mental issues among users, but, most notably, it can also trigger a new pandemic: the outbreak of Tourette’s-like symptoms in tween girls.

A New Phenomenon

More and more tweens have been reporting an onset of tics in the past year, but what does TikTok have to do with it? Tourette’s syndrome is a neurological disorder that typically shows in early childhood, around the ages of five to seven, and primarily in boys. Those diagnosed with it have involuntary sounds or movements that persist for at least a year, and it is one of several tic disorders. It is a fairly uncommon condition, as the CDC reports 1 out of 162 children and adolescents, or 0.6 percent, has it. Those who do have Tourette’s often outgrow their tics by the time they reach early adulthood. However, there are 5.1 billion videos under “#tourettes” on TikTok. Most of these videos document the users’ tics, which range from uncontrollable actions to blurting out random words, phrases, and noises. Some videos show how someone copes with their tics when they go to school, do their makeup, or cook food. Most of these people that post about their tics are teenage girls and adult women. This new phenomenon of Tourette’s is unlike what medical professionals have been treating since they defined the condition. It is a sociogenic illness that shows up as a mimicking process of the brain and stems from stressors of today’s world.

The Root of Tics

Tics are commonly associated with Tourette’s syndrome, but not all tics are symptoms of Tourette’s. The onset of tics among “TikTok teenagers” is separate from Tourette’s due to their nature–they are mostly the same

among those who have them, whereas Tourette’s tics are unique to each individual. “Medical professionals believe these tics are not the same as classic Tourette’s syndrome,” says Cheryl Brodnax, a licensed professional counselor in Baton Rouge. “Although these types of tics are similar, Tourette’s is considered a neurological disorder that is genetically linked and shows up in younger males.” These tics are also specific to TikTok influencers that raise awareness for Tourette’s syndrome by posting videos of their tics that acquire thousands, if not millions, of views. They are tic-like behaviors instead of true tic disorders. This does not mean the tics are invalid. Researchers suggest they stem from depression and anxiety, as Tourette’s is linked to such mental illnesses. Brodnax has observed an increase in children requesting treatment for anxiety, “which has the potential to worsen tics.” Girls are also more prone to depression and anxiety. This suggests these spontaneous tics observed lately among older teenage girls are byproducts of outside factors. It is not that TikTok is causing these tics; rather, they are more like coping mechanisms based on learned behavior and involuntary repeating of behavior seen over and over. The blurting, slapping, and clapping are unintentional expressions of deeper disorders within TikTok users.

Mental Health Check

It goes without saying that the pandemic has taken an emotional toll on everyone, and in varying degrees of extremity. While it may have caused brief spells of depression for those who properly quarantined themselves, it also inflicted severe damage to those more susceptible to mental illness. Therefore, these tic spells are like manifestations of internal struggles that are running rampant in today’s youth. The TikTok tic pandemic-within-a-pandemic highlights how important it is to check on our children’s mental health and take it seriously. But, if your child develops tics, there is no reason to panic. “The most logical advice is to limit screen time, especially the sites that demonstrate tics,” Brodnax says. “Help your teen find ways to reduce mental stress for a while, and try not to overreact. They are already anxious and in need of reassurance. Behavioral therapy and counseling is available and can help your teen feel a sense of normalcy again.” NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2022

dear frankie

Getting Ready for Camp

Dear Frankie,

Last week when my dad said, “Squeaks, Mom and I would like to have a conversation with you.” I had an uneasy feeling about what they were about to say. Sure enough, when the three of us settled into our places in the den, my mom said, “We wanted you to be the first to know about the exciting family vacation your dad and I, and your brother and sister, will be taking this summer. The four of us will be traveling for a month and visiting the national parks. But the most exciting news of all is your application for overnight camp at The Camp for Doggie Champs has been accepted, and you, Mr. Squeaky, will be living at the camp for the entire time we are away.” I was stunned, but knowing my parents, I knew there wasn’t anything I could say to change their minds. I have never been to camp. So, if you have any information about what I might expect as an overnight camper, I would be very appreciative. I would also like to know why some dogs are so enamored of their camps and can’t wait to go back year after year. Signed a nervous camper,

Squeaks Dear Squeaks,

Understandably, you feel uneasy about being away from home and living with new dogs and people in an unfamiliar setting. Be assured that camp counselors have lots of experience smoothing the way for dogs new to camping. There will be both human and canine counselors waiting to greet you when you arrive. They will present an overview of the camp’s activities and schedules, answer your questions about camp life, and provide a tour of the campground. The human counselor assigned to you and your bunkmates is responsible for your care and safety. You can go to this counselor whenever you need to chat, discuss a problem, or ask a question. They will also provide information about morning and evening revelry and routines, and show you where you will go for showers, meals, and quiet time. The canine counselors are like big sisters and brothers; they will help you find your bed, settle in, and give you and your bunkmates time to meet and get acquainted. The canine counselors also provide one-on-one companionship for dogs who need extra support to adjust to camp life. The canine counselors will probably ask you and your bunkmates if you care to have a personal companion. Many new campers find it a relief to have a companion for a few days to help them get into the swing of camp life. So, don’t be shy about asking for one-on-one time. You asked me why some dogs love going to camp every summer. So, I asked Lily, a seasoned camper. She said, “Are you kidding? What dog in their right mind wouldn’t like, for starters, homemade breakfasts, lunches and dinners, tennis and sailing lessons, arts and crafts, free play, nap time on a hammock, swimming, square dancing, and evening bark and howl alongs by a campfire?” She also said she loved camp traditions, singing the old camp songs, roasting marshmallows on a stick, hiking familiar trails, and most of all, sharing these experiences with the good friends she had made over the years. “It was the fond memories of these wonderful times and friends that made it hard for me to wait for summer to come and to do it all over again.” I don’t know about you Squeaks, but after Lily’s testimonial, I’m ready to sign up. Best,

Frankie Frankie is a rescue and a service dog for Geneva Woodruff. Together, they have traveled far and wide. Along the way, Frankie befriended dogs from all walks of life. She thought it would be remiss not to share the many lessons of life she learned from them.

MARCH 2022 | NOLAFAMILY.COM

hip grannie

Always a Soccer Mom When our son was in middle school, he fell madly in love with soccer. It was a relatively new sport in New Orleans (yes, this was in prehistoric times). Few schools offered soccer, and there were no leagues or local camps available to help a budding soccer player advance his or her skills. But Philip Jr. loved the sport and we wanted to support his interest. I also figured that as long as a New Orleans kid pursues athletics, he might not frequent bars as much. It was a win-win. Papa and I sought out sleepaway camps over the summer that focused on soccer. In our enthusiasm, we once sent him to a camp at the University of Connecticut. It was perfect, except we accidentally sent him a day early, and our middle schooler arrived at an empty field, duffle bag in hand, clueless. It was not one of our finest parenting moments. Philip went on to become a fearless and accomplished goalie. I, on the other hand, found being a mother of a goalie stressful. I once offered to start a support group for mothers of goalies but that (and my other brilliant idea of inventing a helmet for goalies) got nowhere. We are now in our second generation of soccer jocks. Both Rylan and Amelia play for their school teams and leagues. Papa and I are back to loading up my SUV with lawn chairs, umbrellas, stadium seats, blankets, and bottled water for our weeknight and weekend schedule of soccer games. I’m back to screaming “Offsides!” when I have no idea what the heck that means and hearing my heart pound as the

clock ticks down. Our social life is once again arranged around soccer games and tournaments. We even watch hours of European soccer games on television. Anyone out there care about Manchester United? Rylan is obsessed and has two Man U tee shirts (thanks to generous friends) and now owns a few shares of stock in the team. Who knew I’d feel like the guys on Man U were part of our family? Since soccer first entered our family life decades ago, the sport has taken off in New Orleans. There are opportunities to play at every school and league. There are local summer camps where kids can develop skills. It’s a sport that is truly part of the landscape of the city. I’ve never been athletic and was never the darling of the gym teachers. I’m klutzy and obviously missed the session when gross motor skills were handed out. But I’m okay with that. I have a family of athletes to watch and support. I am in the stands or on the sidelines to cheer on the kids and their teams and generally make a fool of myself when they make a thrilling goal or assist. As the saying goes, “Soccer is life. The rest is details.” It’s that soccer mom thing I picked up a generation ago. It’s still there. It’s not going anywhere, and neither am I. P.S. Last night, Rylan’s school soccer team from Isidore Newman School in New Orleans, seeded 10th in Division 4, beat Pope John Paul of Slidell, seeded #1 in Division 4 for the state championship. Both teams fought hard and had plenty of grit and determination. Bravo to them all!

Laura Claverie is Nola Family’s Hip Grannie. She is a local mother, grandmother, and writer. NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2022

wiggle room

Therapeutic Benefits of Swimming

As the summer months approach and children’s camp plans are being made, it is important to inquire about the frequency of swimming opportunities at summer camp. Swimming is an all around great activity and exercise for children of all ages. It is also an excellent way for kids to exert extra energy and incorporate physical activity into the day. For children with ADHD, swimming can be highly beneficial and effective in decreasing unwanted behaviors and improving more desired outcomes, including social skills and attention. Many children with ADHD require extra physical movement throughout the day and will seek this out involuntarily. For example, children with ADHD are often fidgety, wiggly in a chair, and frequently in constant motion. Children with ADHD seek out physical activity in an effort to self regulate their body’s needs throughout the day. When swimming is provided as part of a child’s routine, it can often assist in the child seeking less inappropriate movement activities during their day.

For a child with ADHD, a summer camp that provides swimming every day is a huge perk. Not only is swimming one of the best physical outlets for some of these children, but swimming can also assist a child in improving attention. After considerable amounts of physical activity in a pool, children with ADHD are more likely to attend to conversation and activity in the moment because they will be seeking out less movement, and in turn, less disctractibility from the movement to engage more appropriately in the present moment. Swimming can also assist in creating connections with adults and peers as improved attention can also happen during swimming while physical and sensory needs are being met. Increased reciprocal language and social engagement are often observed due to the additional movement benefit from swimming in a pool. Swimming is also an excellent opportunity to improve gross motor skills and motor planning skills.

Swimming provides sensory and motor input into every part of the body, especially to the joints and muscle. Instead of children with ADHD trying to meet their body’s needs by literally bouncing around, swimming can achieve this need in a much more acceptable form.

From a socio-emotional perspective, children who may struggle in the classroom due to attentional difficulties can benefit from swimming because it can directly impact self confidence and self esteem. For a child who is always struggling academically, swimming can be an activity to give them a feeling of success. Enrolling in individual swimming lessons versus group lessons can aid in even bigger gains of confidence.

Swimming is also a whole body workout. In addition to the physical benefits of swimming, it taps into every single sensory system in the body. Many children with ADHD often seek out auditory, tactile, and visual stimulation, in addition to the movement in attempts to focus and regulate their attention throughout the day.

For a child who has ADHD, it is important to keep in mind the amount of physical activity and opportunities that can be provided throughout the day. A summer camp that provides swimming scheduled daily is an excellent option for a child with ADHD to aid in meeting the physical and sensory motor needs while also improving attention. Kimberly Bradley, MS, LOTR, a pediatric occupational therapist, writes the “Wiggle Room’’ column. She owns Kim4Kids in Metairie and can be reached at kim4kidsnola.com.

MARCH 2022 | NOLAFAMILY.COM

NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2022

Let’s Enjoy Summer Camp

By Anthony Bui

Summer camp registrations are in full swing, although many are still concerned about COVID-19 and the overall safety of our children–and rightfully so. With all of the uncertainties and what ifs, some parents may even consider avoiding any risks and not sending their children to summer camp at all.

Let’s Go to Summer Camp

Though these concerns are real and parents have every right to worry for their children, completely shutting down the idea could be detrimental to a child’s mental and physical well-being. At the end of the day, children need the camp experience more than ever after these rough couple of years.

There is wisdom in handling the situation and actively listening to children when they are expressing this great want to attend a summer camp. The pandemic has been around for two years now. Throughout the majority of it, children have had to change so much about the way they lived and even the way they learned. For two years, they have had to repeatedly shift between in person and remote learning as cases rose and fell and new variants of the virus formed. For two years, they had to carefully manage how they spent time with their friends and family. That is two Christmases, Thanksgivings, birthdays, and other holidays where some families were hesitant to even gather together. They were advised against it and told to be socially distant and even to avoid physical contact. Parents can understand how difficult and scary it can be for a child to be told that they can’t hug the people they love for fear of spreading a potentially deadly virus.

Pandemic Burnout

The pandemic has caused a mental health crisis among children. Inconsistent learning conditions, long periods of isolation and time away from close friends, loss of loved ones, and in general, a world that is constantly changing has ravaged the lives of young children who are oftentimes very vulnerable. This leads to a burnout that is characterized by both physical and mental exhaustion. Taking away something that they look forward to and find enjoyable will only exasperate this burnout. Children need the opportunity to be able to interact with one another and enjoy the things that they enjoy without having to worry. Adults understand how stressful life can be. They also understand that they can’t always afford to “not worry about it.” One key component of growing up is understanding when and how to effectively deal with the things life throws at you. Parents especially understand the extent that they would go to in order to make sure their children don’t have to deal with these things while they are still so young. They want to shoulder the burden as long as they can so that their children can enjoy their childhood because there will come a day when their children do grow up and reach an age where they are mature enough to effectively handle life’s complicated problems. It is the parent’s job to raise them until they get to that point, teaching them the healthy ways to handle life’s problems.

MARCH 2022 | NOLAFAMILY.COM

Children want to feel as if their ideas and feelings are respected. Summer camp may not seem like a big deal considering the current atmosphere of the world, but it can truly have a positive impact on children who do feel strongly about it.

While we should not cast off all worries and precautions in order to conquer this thing called pandemic burnout, we should still try to find the joy of summer camp this year. Summer camp is a place where kids can be kids. They can hang out with each other and get the much-needed social interactions that COVID has limited, and day camps and overnight camps are putting in the work to make sure everyone stays healthy and safe all summer long. Summer camp gives children stability. It gives them a time to hang out with friends that they possibly have not seen in a long time. It gives them time to form new friendships. It gives them time to make memories that they can look back upon years down the road.

NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2022

2022 Summer Camp Guide BY NOLA FAMILY Find a great camp for your child to attend this summer with our day camp and overnight camp listings.

DAY CAMPS Cheer and Gymnastics MOVE! New Orleans’ Best Summer Camp 4714 Paris Avenue (504) 376-7009 neworleansbestsummercamp.com Ages: 5-11 Dates: May 9-August 26

MARCH 2022 | NOLAFAMILY.COM

Rates: $197-247 Our camp offers a wide range of activities that campers will participate in throughout the day: karate, parkour, dance, tumbling, personal and team games and sports, and arts and craft activities

St. Joseph’s Academy Sizzling Summer 3015 Broussard Street (225) 388-2226

sizzlingsummer.org Grades: 4-8 Dates: May 31-June 3 Rates: $135 Campers will learn proper technique for basic jumps, tumbling, and stunting. Members of the SJA Cheerleading Squad will teach the girls a basic routine consisting of cheers and a dance.

Creative Arts Art Camp 504

3113 Royal Street (504) 913-2989 artcamp504.org Ages: 7-13

Camp Trinity

Trinity Episcopal School 1315 Jackson Avenue (504) 579-9664 trinitysummerprograms. campbrainregistration.com Ages: 1.5-14 Dates: May 31-August 12 Rates: TBA Camp Trinity offers specialty camps each June and August. Camps are led by Trinity faculty and staff and include a variety of options for students ranging 15 months through 14 years old.

Country Day Creative Arts Program

Code Ninjas Summer Camp 3501 Severn Avenue (504) 235-4100 codeninjas.com Ages: 8-14

Electric Girls Summer Camp

6363 St. Charles Avenue (504) 515-0471 electricgirls.org/summercamp.html Ages: 5-13

Enrichment Southern University Laboratory School 129 Swan Avenue (225) 771-3490 sulabschool.com Ages: 6-12

Holy Cross Robotic Camps 5500 Paris Avenue (504) 942-3100 holycrosstigers.com Ages: 4-12

Metairie Park Country Day 300 Park Road (504) 849-3188 countrydaycreativearts.com Ages: 7-14

Holy Cross STEM Camp

Hermann-Grima + Gallier Historic Houses Courtyard Camp

Ready, Set, Read!

820 Saint Louis Street (504) 274-0751 hgghh.org Ages: 7-12

St. George’s Episcopal School 923 Napoleon Avenue (504) 891-5509 stgnola.org/summer Grades: 1-5

Ogden Museum Fine Art Fundamentals

St. Paul’s High School STEM Camp

925 Camp Street (504) 539-9600 ogdenmuseum.org Grades: 2-5

Palacios House of Arts: Outside the Lines!

5775 Highland Road (225) 279-6666 palaciosarts.squarespace.com Ages: 5-16 Dates: June 6-July 1 Rates: $275 Outside the Lines! is a two-week art and music summer camp in Baton Rouge. Campers will have fun playing instruments, exploring musical theory, learning about famous artists, and creating original art.

Posh Paint Pub Summer Art Camp 3218 Taft Park (504) 835-4155 poshpaintpub.com Ages: 5-12

Education

5500 Paris Avenue (504) 942-3100 holycrosstigers.com Ages: 4-12

917 S. Jahncke Street (985) 892-3200 stpauls.com Grades: 4-6

St. Joseph’s Academy Sizzling Summer

3015 Broussard Street (225) 388-2226 sizzlingsummer.org Grades: 3-9 Dates: May 31-July 1 Rates: $135-150 Sharpen your skills and prepare for next school year. Join us for camps offered in Creative Writing, Study Skills, Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry.

The National WWII Museum’s Spy Camp 945 Magazine Street (504) 528-1944 nationalww2museum.org Grades: 3-6

The National WWII Museum’s STEM Innovation Camp 945 Magazine Street (504) 528-1944

NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2022

nationalww2museum.org Grades: 4-7

Tulane Pre-College Programs 200 Broadway Street, Suite 105A (504) 314-7619 summer.tulane.edu Grades: 6-12

Youth Summer Camp-City of New Orleans 5420 Franklin Avenue (504) 658-3052 nordc.org/camps Ages: 4-12

Performing Arts City Park Movement and Art

4300 Dumaine Street (504) 390-7482 cityparkmovementandart.com/summer Ages: 4-18

Dancer’s Pointe Dance Camp 6268 Vicksburg Street (504) 455-4975 dancers-pointe.com Ages: 3.5-8

Extreme Summer Music Camp Broadmoor Baptist Church 9755 Goodwood Boulevard (225) 927-5454 broadmoorbaptist.com Grades: Post K-5

Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong Virtual Summer Jazz Camp 124 Roselyn Park Place (504) 715-9295 louisarmstrongjazzcamp.com Ages: 10-21

New Orleans Ballet Association Center For Dance 935 Gravier Street (504) 522-0996 nobadance.com Ages: 4-18

Piano Pathways Piano Camps

9270 Siegen Lane (225) 767-0030 thepianopathway.com Ages: 6 and up Dates: TBA Rates: $248 Give your child the gift of music in our beginners’ piano summer camps. Students will have a fun and positive first experience at the piano, and you will be amazed at what they play by the end of camp week.

St. Joseph’s Academy Sizzling Summer 3015 Broussard Street

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(225) 388-2226 sizzlingsummer.org Grades: 3-8 Dates: May 31-June 3 Rates: $135-175 Join us on our beautiful campus for performing arts camps offered in dance and theater.

St. Martin’s Theatre Camp 225 Green Acres Road (504) 736-9913 stmsaints.com/camp Grades: 2-High School

St. Paul’s High School Theater Camps 917 S. Jahncke Street (985) 892-3200 stpauls.com Ages: 9-13

Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts

105 Campbell Avenue (985) 231-0875 laapa.com/camp Ages: 5-14 Dates: July 5-July 29 Rates: $325 Are you ready to have a blast this summer? Join the Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts for a summer of music, dance, and fun. Choose from over 40 instrumental, vocal, dance, and acting programs.

Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts

2020 Dickory Avenue (504) 208-2301 laapa.com/camp Ages: 5-14 Dates: July 5-July 29 Rates: $325.00 Are you ready to have a blast this summer? Join the Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts for a summer of music, dance, and fun. Choose from over 40 instrumental, vocal, dance, and acting programs.

Mandeville School of Music & Dance

105 Campbell Avenue (985) 674-2992 laapa.com/camp Ages: 5-14 Dates: July 5-29 Rates: $325 Summer Music & Dance Camp at the Mandeville School of Music and Dance provides students ages 5-14 with a choice of over 40 instrumental, vocal, and dance programs to explore.

River Ridge School of Music & Dance 2020 Dickory Avenue (504) 738-3050 laapa.com/camp Ages: 5-14 Dates: July 5-29

Rates: $325 Summer Music & Dance Camp at the River Ridge School of Music and Dance provides students ages 5-14 with a choice of over 40 instrumental, vocal, and dance programs to explore.

S.W.Ag.

Southern University Laboratory School 129 Swan Avenue (225) 771-3490 sulabschool.com Grades: K-5 Dates: June 1-July 1 Rates: $200 We will be hosting our summer enrichment program, S.W.Ag. for K-5 with academically enriched activities that are fun and engaging with hands-on activities rich in STEM and writing.

The National WWII Museum’s Bob & Dolores Hope Theater Camp 945 Magazine Street (504) 528-1944 nationalww2museum.org Grades: 5-8

Upturn Arts Camp 1719 Toledano Street (504) 427-1515 upturnarts.org Ages: 4-15

Special Needs Camp Tiger

533 Bolivar Street (251) 300-4447 lsuhsc.edu/orgs/camptiger Ages: 6-15

Kim4Kids Summer Programs 4317 El Dorado Street (504) 517-5437 kim4kidsnola.com Grade: PreK-8

Sports, Fitness and Nutrition Aspire Kids

8201 Kelwood Avenue (225) 272-5894 aspiremta.com Ages: 5-12

Brother Martin High School Specialty Camps 4401 Elysian Fields Avenue (504) 283-1561 brothermartin.com Ages: Vary

Holy Cross Basketball Camp

5500 Paris Avenue (504) 942-3100 holycrosstigers.com Ages: 4-12

Holy Cross Soccer Camp 5500 Paris Avenue (504) 942-3100 holycrosstigers.com Ages: 4-12

Love Swimming Swim School 5221 S. Front Street (504) 891-4662 loveswimming.com Ages: 6 months-adult

LSU Baseball Camp

Jay Johnson Baseball Academy, LLC Alex Box Stadium (225) 578-4831 lsubaseballcamps.com Ages: K-High School Dates: July 4-August 4 Rates: $249-799 LSU Baseball Summer Camp gives young baseball players the experience of a lifetime in a $50+ million stadium on LSU’s beautiful campus in a fun, safe, positive, and action-packed atmosphere. Develop skills in all aspects of the game through repetition, both through playing instructional games and by doing drills. Youth and High School camps available.

New Orleans JCC Sports Camp

5342 St. Charles Avenue (504) 897-0143 nojcc.org/camp Grades: 3-5 Dates: June 6-July 29 Rates: $285-295 Sports Camp focuses on game fundamentals, skills and rules, as well as sportsmanship and teamwork. Campers learn basketball, baseball, football, and soccer; play recreational games; and enjoy free swim.

St. Joseph’s Academy Sizzling Summer

3015 Broussard Street (225) 388-2226 sizzlingsummer.org Grades: 3-9 Dates: May 31-July 1 Rates: $135-175 Join us for camps offered in soccer, softball, basketball, and volleyball. Join these half-day camps with other camp offerings for a full day of fun.

St. Paul’s High School Sports Camps 917 S. Jahncke Street (985) 892-3200 stpauls.com Ages: Boys, 8-14

St. Paul’s High School Specialty Sports Camps 917 S. Jahncke Street (985) 892-3200 stpauls.com Ages: Boys, 8-14

St. Paul’s Episcopal School Little Saints Summer Camp 6249 Canal Boulevard (504) 488-1319 stpauls-lakeview.org Grades: PreK3 and PreK4

Mind + Body/Art Yoga Summer Camp Lolo’s Youth Studio 6107 Magazine Street (415) 786-3317 lolosstudio.com Ages: 5-13

Traditional Atonement Summer Camp

6500 Riverside Drive (504) 887-0225 alcs.org Grades: PreK-8t Dates: May 31-August 5 Rates: $75 Join us for a summer of fun. We have tons of camp options (cheer, art, basketball, slime, volleyball, cooking, and home ec). We also have a morning-care/after-care option.

Audubon Zoo Summer Camps 6500 Magazine Street (504) 913-0254 audubonnatureinstitute.org/camps Ages: 4-13

Brother Martin High School Crusader Camp 4401 Elysian Fields Avenue (504) 283-1561 brothermartin.com Ages: Boys, 6-12

Camp Cabrini

400 Moss Street (504) 482-1193 cabrinihigh.com Grades: 1-7

Camp Cedar Cliff 5 Porters Cove Road (828) 450-3331 campcedarcliff.org Grades: K-10

Camp Cricket

University Montessori School 7508 Burthe Street (504) 865-1659

umsnola.org/camp-cricket Ages: 2-3 Dates: June 13-August 19 Rates: $570-840 Camp Cricket is filled with summer fun. The children explore music, create weekly art projects., and play in our beautiful, shaded yard.

Camp Northlake

70104 Wolverine Drive (985) 635-0406 campnorthlake.org Grades: PreK-6

Chapelle High School Acorn & Summer Camp 8800 Veterans Memorial Boulevard (504) 467-3105 chapellesummercamp.com Grades: 1-7

Christian Brothers City Park Summer Camp #8 Friederichs Avenue (504) 486-6770 cbs-no.org Grades: 3-7

Culinary Kids Summer Camp 915 Marigny Avenue (985) 727-5553 culinarykidsns.com Ages: 5-12

Dragon Camp

St. George’s Episcopal School 923 Napoleon Avenue (504) 891-5509 stgnola.org/summer Grades: 1-3

Dunham Summer Camp The Dunham School 11111 Roy Emerson Drive (225) 767-7097 dunhamsummer.org Ages: 3 and up

Ecole Bilingue French Summer Camp–Le Camp D ‘Été 812 General Pershing Street (504) 896-4500 ebnola.net/history/summer-camp Ages: 2-12

Every Day Away by Kidcam

7100 St Charles Avenue (877) 454-3226 kidcamcamp.com Ages: 8-14 Dates: June 6-August 5 Rates: $300 At Every Day Away by Kidcam Camp, campers ages 8-14 don’t stay put, they get off campus every day as they enjoy new destinations and surprising NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2022

excursions. We don’t just hit the road, we get out of town.

Holy Cross Summer Camp 5500 Paris Avenue (504) 942-3100 holycrosstigers.com Ages: 4-12

Kehoe-France Camp 720 Elise Avenue (504) 733-0472 kehoe-france.com Ages: 8 weeks-14 years

Kehoe-France School Summer Camp Northshore 25 Patricia Drive (985) 892-4415 kehoe-francens.com Ages: 8 weeks–8th grade

Kidcam @ Bissonet Country Club

5400 Irving Street (877) 454-3226 kidcamcamp.com Ages: 5-13 Dates: May 31-August 5 Rates: $144-160 Summer day-camps, action-packed with activities that promote fun, fitness, friendship, and creativity. Weekly themes, sports, art, STEM, swimming, & 50 years of camp tradition.

Kidcam @ Chappapeela Sports Park

19325 Hipark Boulevard (877) 454-3226 kidcamcamp.com Ages: 5-13 Dates: May 25-July 29 Rates: $125-140 Summer day-camps, action-packed with activities that promote fun, fitness, friendship, and creativity. Weekly themes, sports, art, STEM, swimming, and 50 years of camp tradition.

Kidcam @ City Park

1 Stadium Drive (877) 454-3226 kidcamcamp.com Ages: 5-13 Dates: May 23-August 5 Rates: $185-205 Summer day-camps, action-packed with activities that promote fun, fitness, friendship, and creativity. Weekly themes, sports, art, STEM, swimming, and 50 years of camp tradition.

Kidcam @ Coquille Park 13505 Hwy 1085 (877) 454-3226 kidcamcamp.com Ages: 5-13

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Dates: May 25-July 29 Rates: $135-150 Summer day-camps, action-packed with activities that promote fun, fitness, friendship, and creativity. Weekly themes, sports, art, STEM, swimming, and 50 years of camp tradition.

Kidcam @ Faith Lutheran School

300 Colonial Club Drive (877) 454-3226 kidcamcamp.com Ages: 5-13 Dates: TBA Rates: $126-140 Summer day-camps, action-packed with activities that promote fun, fitness, friendship, and creativity. Weekly themes, sports, art, STEM, swimming, and 50 years of camp tradition.

Kidcam @ First Christian

102 Christian Lane (877) 454-3226 kidcamcamp.com Ages: 5-13 Dates: May 25-July 29 Rates: $113-125 Summer day-camps, action-packed with activities that promote fun, fitness, friendship, and creativity. Weekly themes, sports, art, STEM, swimming, and 50 years of camp tradition.

Kidcam @ Pelican Park

63350 Pelican Drive (877) 454-3226 kidcamcamp.com Ages: 5-13 Dates: May 25-July 29 Rates: $135-150 Summer day-camps, action-packed with activities that promote fun, fitness, friendship, and creativity. Weekly themes, sports, art, STEM, swimming, and 50 years of camp tradition.

Kidcam @ Shrine on Airline

6000 Airline Drive (877) 454-3226 kidcamcamp.com Ages: 5-13 Dates: June 1-August 5 Rates: $135-150 Summer day-camps, action-packed with activities that promote fun, fitness, friendship, and creativity. Weekly themes, sports, art, STEM, swimming, and 50 years of camp tradition.

Kidcam @ Uptown on Broadway 1100 Broadway Street (877) 454-3226 kidcamcamp.com Ages: 5-7 Dates: May 31-August 5 Rates: $189-210

Summer day-camps, action-packed with activities that promote fun, fitness, friendship, and creativity. Weekly themes, sports, art, STEM, swimming, and 50 years of camp tradition.

Kidcam @ Woodlake Tennis & Swim Club

82 Sequoia Street (877) 454-3226 kidcamcamp.com Ages: 5-13 Dates: TBA Rates: $144-160 Summer day-camps, action-packed with activities that promote fun, fitness, friendship, and creativity. Weekly themes, sports, art, STEM, swimming, and 50 years of camp tradition.

Kinder Haus Montessori “Love a Bug” Summer Camp 5201 W. Napoleon Avenue (504) 454-2424 kinderhausmontessori.com Ages: 3-6

Longue Vue House and Gardens 7 Bamboo Road (504) 293-4717 longuevue.com Ages: 5-10

Louisiana Children’s Museum Summer Camp

15 Henry Thomas Drive (504) 523-1357 lcm.org Ages: 4-8 Dates: May 31-August 5 Rates: $275-325 LCM Camp offers fun educational experiences for children ages four-eight all summer long. Designed by educators, our camps include structured and supervised exploration indoors and outdoors and themed weeks.

MCA Summer Camp 7027 Milne Boulevard (504) 288-7626 mcacubs.com/camp Grades: Girls, 2-8

Metairie JCC Summer Camp

3747 W Esplanade Avenue (504) 887-5158 nojcc.org/camp Ages: 3 years-6th grade Dates: June 6-July 29 Rates: $285-295 JCC camps pack summer days with fun. Our Metairie campers enjoy a diverse mix of ageappropriate activities, including pool time and swim instruction, plus sports, art, drama, music, science, and yoga.

New Orleans JCC Summer Camp

5342 St. Charles Avenue (504) 897-0143 nojcc.org/camp Ages: 21 months-5th grade Dates: June 6-July 29 Rates: $285-295 JCC camps pack summer days with fun. Campers enjoy a diverse mix of age-appropriate activities, including pool time and swim instruction, plus sports, art, drama, music, cooking, science, and yoga.

at Cathedral Montessori

9 Fortress Road (504) 252-4871 cathedralmontessori.org Ages: 3-6, only Cathedral Montessori students

The Children’s Summer House at University Montessori 7508 Burthe Street (504) 865-1659 umsnola.org Ages: 3-7

Twin Lakes Summer Camp

Sacred Heart Summer Camp

4301 St. Charles Avenue (504) 269-1230 ashrosary.org/summer Ages: 1-13 Dates: TBA Rates: $280-315 Let your fun shine at Sacred Heart. Campers will enjoy a variety of festive and fun summer activities and enrichment opportunities every day. Visual and performing arts, sports, water fun and more.

155 Milner Road

(601) 845-6858 twinlakescamp.org Ages: 5-15 Dates: June 20-24 Rates: $425-615 Twin Lakes Summer Camp provides a fun, safe, outdoor environment, grounded in Biblical teaching. Campers participate in exciting activities like horses, waterfront, ziplining and much more.

Ursuline Academy Camp U

2635 State Street (504) 861-9150 uanola.org/camp-u Grades: Girls, toddlers and 3rd-7th grade

SLKF Camp Crusader 1609 Carrollton Avenue (504) 267-9982 slkfschool.com Grades: PK4-7

St. Andrew’s Episcopal School Cardinal Camp 8012 Oak Street (504) 861-3743 saesnola.org Grades: K-5

St. Joseph’s Academy Sizzling Summer

3015 Broussard Street (225) 388-2226 sizzlingsummer.org Grade: 3-7 Dates: May 31-July 1 Rates: $85-185 Campers enjoy games, stories, crafts, recreation, computer time, and lots of fun. Sessions are themed to offer campers a different and fun experience each week.

St. Martin’s George Cottage Summer Camp 225 Green Acres Road (504) 736-9913 stmsaints.com/camp Ages: 18 months-3 years

St. Martin’s Summer Day Camp 225 Green Acres Road (504) 736-9913 stmsaints.com/camp Ages: 4-13

Summer On The Bayou Camp

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YMCA of Belle Chasse Summer Camp 8101 Highway 23 (504) 392-9622 ymcaneworleans.org Grades: K-8

YMCA of East Jefferson Summer Camp 691 Riverside Drive (504) 888-9622 ymcaneworleans.org Grades: K-6

YMCA of West St. Tammany 71256 Francis Road (985) 893-9622 ymcaneworleans.org Grades: K-8

355 Playhouse Drive (954) 668-6888 blueridgecamp.com Ages: 5-16 Dates: June 12-July 30 Rates: $900-8,450 Camp Blue Ridge is a family owned and operated award winning premier camp on 250 beautiful acres with air conditioned cabins. Campers choose from 55 activities. Special events and all field trips included.

Camp Eagle

6424 Hackberry Road (830) 683-3219 campeagle.org Grades: 1-12

Camp Hardtner

2393 Camp Hardtner Road (318) 765-3794 camphardtner.org Grades: 2-High School Graduate

Camp Istrouma

25975 Greenwell Springs Road (225) 261-2089 campistrouma.com Ages: 7-17 Dates: May 30-July 29 Rates: $420 Camp Istrouma is a Christian overnight summer camp. Our campers spend the week enjoying the outdoors and participating in a variety of activities, all while learning more about Jesus.

Camp Marydale

OVERNIGHT CAMPS Academic Recovery Camp 174 Ward Circle (256) 675-6260 southernprepacademy.org Ages: 10-18

Adidas Tennis Camps 118 College Drive (800) 944-7112 tenniscamper.com Ages: 8-17

Camp Abbey

77002 KC Camp Road (985) 327-7240 campabbey.org Grades: 2-8

Camp Blue Ridge 24

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Girl Scouts Louisiana East 10317 Cr-232 (225) 635-3112 gsle.org Grades: 1-12 Dates: June 5-July 22 Rates: $295-445 When you sign up for camp, you sign up for the adventure of a lifetime as you learn new skills, practice your favorite ones, and make new friends. You can choose “Sampler Camp” and get the chance to swim, ride a horse, boat in the lake, and cook over a campfire, or you can choose “Horse” Camp for a horse-focused session.

Camp NakaNawa

1084 Camp Nakanawa Road (931) 277-3711 campnakanawa.com Grades: Girls, 3-12

Camp Stanislaus

518 Esplanade Avenue (228) 467-9057 campstanislaus.com Ages: 8-15

Camp Stanislaus

304 S Beach Boulevard (228) 467-9057 Ext. 277 campstanislaus.com Ages: 8-15

Camp Timberlake

707 Dink Cannon Road (828) 666-9876 camptimberlake.com Ages: 6-16

Camp Woodmont

381 Moonlight Drive (423) 472-6070 campwoodmont.com Ages: 6-14

Cub Creek Science and Animal Camp 16795 State Route East (573) 458-2125 cubcreeksciencecamp.com Ages: 7-17

Ferncliff Camp

1720 Ferncliff Road (501) 821-3063 ferncliff.org Grades: 1-12

LSU Soccer Camps LSU Soccer Stadium (225) 578-2539 lsusports.ne Ages: 4-18

Rockbrook Camp for Girls 3460 Greenville Highway (828) 884-6151 rockbrookcamp.com Grades: 1-8

SAS Summer Camp 290 Quintard Road (931) 463-2119 sasweb.org/summer Ages: 11-14

Southern Survival Camp 174 Ward Circle (256) 675-6260 southernprepacademy.org Ages: 10-18

The Children’s Summer House

7508 Burthe Street (504) 865-1659 umsnola.org Ages: 3-7 Dates: June 13-August 19 Rates: $492-783 The Children’s Summer House is a fun-filled summer camp. The children play in our beautiful, shaded yard, create weekly art projects, explore music, and work in our Montessori classroom.

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NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2022

MARCH 2022 | NOLAFAMILY.COM

spotlight

Excite All Stars By Anthony Bui

Excite All Stars was created in order to fill a great community need following the destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina. Co-founders Gerald and Penny Marquez Williams wanted to provide a refuge for young people while their parents were rebuilding. There were a lot of blood, sweat, and tears shed in order to get this organization off the ground, but the great demand for what they were doing showed, as the number of children they were serving doubled every year for the first four years and continues to rise, even in 2022, with numbers predicted to be in the thousands. Excite All Stars looks to provide the community with a 360-degree support system. They do this by “providing a stable support system; one-of-a-kind All Star experiences in academics, the arts, and athletics, and trail blazing thinking so that kids recognize their own power to envision new possibilities and be the change.” Their year-round services are in place to ensure that children have the opportunity to learn throughout their lives with after-school and Saturday programs as well as summer camps. Besides a minimal cost for summer camp, these programs are of no cost to families. Both Gerald and Penny share an immense pride in this organization, especially over the Excite All Stars ambassadors. These are seven seniors who have gone through this organization as campers before going into the leadership academy in order to better prepare themselves to work for Excite in different capacities. These young adults understand first-hand the needs of the community and have made it a priority to fulfill these needs and give their time to the organization that has helped them so much growing up. It’s just

part of the culture there in order to help create leaders who are community service oriented, civic minded, and always looking for ways to give back. Penny expresses the great joy it brings as she has been with these kids since they were six. Now, they are college bound with full scholarships. They are driven and accomplished athletes. They are even entrepreneurs with their own businesses. Most importantly, they are leaders in their own communities, providing younger children with someone they can rely on and look up to. Excite All Stars turns 15 in 2022, and in those 15 years, they have done so much for the community. There are so many things that can be done in order to help sustain this organization, whether it be donations of time, money, or attention in order to ensure they are able to have an impact for more years to come. One unique and fun way the community can give to this organization is by renting out their 360-degree photo booth. This is run by the Excite ambassadors and is part of the ambassador entrepreneurship program which gives them experience running a business. They bring the machine to events and help work and manage it, and all of the proceeds of the sales go towards Excite All Stars’ mission of providing children with a 360-degree support system. For Gerald and Penny, they are really grateful and humbled to be able to be a part of this amazing journey, work with these families and children for the past 15 years, and to be there for them when they need it the most. They are looking forward to what the future has in store for their young people and the opportunities they will be able to provide for the next 15 years.

NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2022

mom about town

THINGS

I’M LOVING RIGHT NOW

KIMBERLY CALONGNE TARA Kimberly Calongne Tara (CPA/CTC) is the owner of The Tara CPA Firm, LLC based in Metairie. Kimberly loves her job and hopes to expand the practice further into the digital world (while remaining local, of course). Kimberly and her husband, Chance, are mom and dad to three sweet boys–Hunter, 5; Gage, 3; and Beckett, 18 months–with one on the way. Their son, Hunter, was diagnosed with Autism in 2020, and together, the duo has created their family blog, Messy Wonderful, where they share their journey and give advice for parents.

Photo credit: Jill Chaze Photography

DATE NIGHT

WORK/HOBBY

With three kids ages five and under, along with crazy work schedules, date nights are too infrequent these days. When we do get out, though, you will find us at Fausto’s–a hidden Metairie gem.

Photo credit: Jill Chaze Photography

SPRING ACTIVITY The boys look forward to both strawberry picking and blueberry picking each year. They love getting their own buckets and searching the rows for the perfect strawberry.

Visit Chattanooga, visitchattanooga.com

Messy Wonderful, messywonderful.com

FAMILY FUN TRAVEL

Chattanooga is our favorite place to travel that is within driving distance from the Nola area. We actually have two really great blog posts talking about all the fun things to do there with kids and great places to eat & hike. 30

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We started a family travel blog in 2020 because we had so many friends asking us how we continued to travel with little ones. Now our blog has evolved into a business where we talk about large family travel and traveling with little ones, and we’ve most recently started adding in more about our journey with our oldest son’s autism diagnosis.

Audubon Zoo and Sky Zone are favorites. We have a membership and love our trips to the zoo so the boys can be outside, get some energy out, and learn about animals all at the same time. Sky Zone is another great place for three little boys with tons of energy. You’ll find us there on super hot or super cold days, since it’s indoors.

Audubon Zoo, audubonnatureinstitute.org/zoo & Sky Zone, skyzone.com

gear to get

1 Butterfly Biome

Attract and provide for butterflies in all seasons with this feeding, roosting, and hibernation station. $35, uncommongoods.com

2 3

Dinosaur Kids Gardening Tool Set

Includes a watering can, planter, tote bag, apron, shovel, rake and trowel, gloves, and hat. $27.99, amazon.com

3 Vivere Double Hammock This hammock assembles without tools and is woven with cotton thread. $216.99, amazon.com

4 Rugg’s Leaf Scoops

Quickly and effortlessly pick up large amounts of leaves in your yard with Rugg’s original Leaf Scoops. $15.40, amazon.com

5 iDOO Indoor Hydroponics Growing System

Grow your own food without soil with the IDOO Indoor Hydroponics Growing System. $79.99, amazon.com

NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2022

MARCH 2022 | NOLAFAMILY.COM

out & about

March 1

TUESDAY

MARDI GRAS DAY

BARATARIA PRESERVE WETLANDS WALK

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Reserve Visitor Center at 10 a.m. Join a ranger for a guided walk on a boardwalk trail through the Louisiana swamps and marshes of the Barataria Preserve. Every week, Wednesday through Sunday. nps.gov

FRENCH QUARTER JAZZ PERFORMANCE

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve Visitor Center Courtyard at noon. Musical Park Rangers will lead a performance. nps.gov

PARENTS DAY OUT

INFANT FEEDING SUPPORT

East Jefferson YMCA at 8 a.m. Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Drop your child off with experienced, caring childcare staff and enjoy your morning off while they nurture your little one. Activities include crafts, stories, music and movement, active play, and games. ymcaneworleans.com

MAKING MARDI GRAS

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Reserve’s French Quarter Visitor Center at noon. Musical performances with insights into how “America’s Music” came to be. nps.gov

HISTORIC THIBODAUX WALKING TOUR

Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center at 10 a.m. Join a ranger at the Wetlands Acadian Cultural Centerfor a stroll through downtown Thibodaux and hear the stories of its past. Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. nps.gov Online at 9:30 a.m. Provides free infant feeding assessments and education by our Infant Feeding Counselors, for pregnant and parenting families. nolabreastfeedingcenter.org 520 Royal Street, Tricentennial Wing, 3rd Floor. Tuesday-Sunday. Times Vary. Visitors can explore the vibrant expression that only Carnival season can muster, as they meet up with 19th-century float artists, dawn-breaking skeleton gangs, and homebound house-float creators, all while stopping to admire costumes, “royal” finery, and specialty parade throws such as Zulu’s hand-painted coconuts. hnoc.org/exhibitions

SNUGGLES AND STRUGGLES

Online at 10:30 a.m. If you have recently had a baby, join other new parents to share your snuggles and struggles and learn from each other. chnola. org/parentingcenter

WEDNESDAY

ASH WEDNESDAY ART AND ZEN ONLINE MEDITATION SERIES

Ogden Museum at 12:30 p.m. Every Wednesday, join for a live seated mindfulness meditation inspired by a work of Southern art. This online meditation program is led by Ogden Museum Educator and yoga and meditation instructor, Mikhayla Harrell. All experience levels are welcome. Registration required. Free. ogdenmuseum.org

RANGER SESSIONS

TEEN ADVISORY BOARD

New Orleans Parish Library at 4:30 p.m. Teens, make your voice heard at the virtual Teen Advisory Board (TAB). Share your thoughts about how the Library can better serve you. nolalibrary.org

UNO PRIVATEER MEN AND WOMEN VS HOUSTON BAPTIST UNIVERSITY Lakefront Arena at 7 p.m. (men) and 5 p.m. (women). arena.uno.edu

THURSDAY CAMPING 101 FOR FAMILIES

New Orleans City Park at 9 a.m. Learn basic skills and tips for tent camping as a family with LOOP NOLA’s Camping 101 program. The program is for both children and their parents/guardians to have fun working together and learning the basics of camping. You’ll learn how to prepare for the trip, safely set up camp, build a fire, and cook. All ages and experience levels are welcome. neworleanscitypark.com

CHALMETTE BATTLEFIELD- BATTLE OF NEW ORLEANS TALK

Chalmette Battlefield at 2:45 p.m. Learn about the Battle of New Orleans at the place where it

happens. Thursdays through Mondays. nps.gov

CULINARY KIDS SPECIAL NEEDS CLASS

Culinary Kids at 5:30 p.m. every Thursday. Students cook, assemble, and enjoy a different recipe at each class, and dietary restrictions can be accommodated. Every Thursday for ages 10 through adult. culinarykidsns.com

DANCING WITH THE STARS: LIVE!

Saenger Theatre at 8 p.m. Your favorite dancers from this iconic television series hit the stage this winter with an all new show. saengernola.com

FRENCH QUARTER JAZZ PIANO HOUR

Online at 2 p.m. The New Orleans Jazz Museum presents a live-streamed performance featuring Jenna McSwain. nps.gov

IMPACT OF THE PARENT/ CHILD RELATIONSHIP

The Parenting Center at 6 p.m. Early experiences impact your child’s development. Consider your own attachment style and strategies to build a strong relationship with your child. Free, one session. Ages 0-18 years. chnola.org/ parentingcenter

MERCYME INHALE (EXHALE) TOUR

Smoothie King Center at 7 p.m. GRAMMY nominated, multiple American Music Award, Billboard Music Award and Dove Award-winning band MercyMe. smoothiekingcenter.com

TASTE OF LOUISIANA: HANDS-ON CAJUN CLASS AND LUNCH

Southern Food & Beverage Museum at 11 a.m. This class offers an in-depth look into how to create delicious, traditional dishes that can be found nowhere else in the world, while discussing their cultural and historical origins. Every Thursday. southernfood.org

TULANE MEN’S BASKETBALL

The Devlin Fieldhouse at 7 p.m. vs University of Central Florida. ticketmaster.com

FRIDAY HOUSE THAT WILL NOT STAND

Le Petit Theatre through March 20. Times vary. The House That Will Not Stand is a humorous and gripping family drama told in a rich and lyrical river of words. lepetittheatre.com NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2022

KIDS NIGHT OUT

East Jefferson at 6 p.m. An evening away while the kids play. The YMCA will keep your little ones busy with themed games, sports, arts & crafts, and movies. Enjoy your free time while your kids have fun in a safe environment overseen by certified and well-trained staff. ymcaneworleans.org

LAFAYETTE DULCIMER JAM

Acadian Cultural Center at 10 a.m. Join the Cajun Dulcimer Society and its core group, the Lagniappe Dulcimer Society from Baton Rouge, for dulcimer music: Cajun, country, Celtic, folk, and hymns. Bring an acoustic instrument and join in, or just enjoy. nps.gov

MUSIC AT THE MUSEUM

RIVERTOWN FARMERS MARKET

O FIRST FRIDAY

MAXWELL

Sydney & Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden at NOMA at 6 p.m. Carlos Miguel Prieto conducts the LPO Brass Section. lpomusic.com Ogden Museum at 10 a.m. On the first Friday of every month, college students can explore the world’s largest collection of Southern art free of charge. ogdenmuseum.org

LaSalle’s Landing at 8 a.m. Every Saturday. Shop fresh, local produce, get tips from experts, and see special demos. kenner.la.us

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT

Smoothie King Center at 8 p.m. Preparing to deliver one of the most-anticipated R&B events of next year, three-time GRAMMY Award-winning multi-platinum artist Maxwell is bringing his Night 2022 Tour. smoothiekingcenter.com

TASTE OF LOUISIANA: HANDS-ON CREOLE CLASS AND LUNCH

Saint Paul’s School at 7:30 p.m. Carlos Miguel Prieto conducts Fuller - It Moves Us Not and Mozart - Symphony No. 38 in D major, K. 504, “Prague”. lpomusic.com

Culinary Kids at 6 p.m. Drop off the kids for a three-hour, movie-themed dinner, dessert, and pajama party. Every Friday for ages 5-12. culinarykidsns.com

NORTHSHORE CLASSICS: MOZART’S PRAGUE SYMPHONY

Southern Food & Beverage Museum at 11 a.m. This demonstration class offers an in-depth look into how to create delicious, traditional dishes that can be found nowhere else in the world, while also discussing their cultural and historical origins. Every Monday and Friday. southernfood.org

TAI CHI IN THE SCULPTURE GARDEN

WETLANDS ACADIAN CULTURAL CENTER BOAT TOUR

“WHAT IF” SPECULATIVE FICTION SHORT STORY CLUB

Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center at 10 a.m. Cruise into Louisiana’s past on a boat tour of Bayou Lafourche with a National Park Service ranger. nps.gov

Besthoff Sculpture Garden at 9 a.m. Join East Jefferson Wellness Center instructor Terry Rappold, as he leads participants through relaxing tai chi exercises in the Besthoff Sculpture Garden. Every Saturday. noma.org New Orleans Parish Library at 11:30 a.m. Discuss two stories in the genres of fantasy, science fiction, horror, alternate history, and/or weird fiction. This virtual short story club meets monthly. nolalibrary.org

YOGA IN THE SCULPTURE GARDEN

Besthoff Sculpture Garden at 8 a.m. NOMA, in partnership with the East Jefferson Wellness ACADIAN CULTURAL CENTER Center, presents yoga classes every Saturday morning. noma.org FRONT PORCH MUSIC SERIES Acadian Cultural Center at noon. Performances by local musicians. Music includes Zydeco, Cajun, and Swamp Pop. Free Outdoor Kids’ activities for the whole family will be available. nps.gov

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

CANVAS AND KIDS

Mix It Up Art Studio at 11 a.m. Bring the kids in for a morning filled with fantastic fun creating their own painting and projects. All art supplies included. mixitupartstudio.com

GRETNA FARMERS MARKET

Historic downtown Gretna from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Enjoy fresh local produce and crafts. Rain or shine, under the covered Gretna Market Building. gretnala.com

KREWE DU POOCH

Mandeville Lakefront at noon. This year’s theme is “A Fairy Tail by Krewe du Pooch!” The event will also feature a free live concert with Four Unplugged, pet adoptions, vendors, food, drinks, and fun activities for the whole family. krewedupooch.org

MARCH 2022 | NOLAFAMILY.COM

A PAW-SITIVELY PATRIOTIC MARDI GRAS PARADE

Downtown Covington at 2 p.m. Every dog has its day, and today will be the one for a heroic K9 named Layka, who has been tapped to serve as the Celebrity Grand Marshal in this year’s Mardi Paws parade. mardipaws.com

KIDS CLASS: STUFFED CRUST PIZZA

Southern Food & Beverage Museum at 10 a.m. Kids will be making one pizza with their table group, but choosing their own ingredients for their part of the pizza. southernfood.org

WARTIME PIANO HAPPY HOUR

BB’s Stage Door Canteen at 4 p.m. Tap along to favorites like “Sentimental Journey” and “I’ll Be Seeing You,” and learn how these tunes coincided

with significant events of the war. Beverages can be purchased at the bar in the American Sector Restaurant. nationalww2museum.org

MONDAY BEGINNER COOKING CLASS

Culinary Kids at 5:30 p.m. Local chefs and cooking instructors take older kids through a detailed course of beginner culinary skills. Ages 7-10. Every Monday. culinarykidsns.com

STITCH N’ BOOK, KNITTING, CROCHET, TATTING & CRAFTING CIRCLE

Children’s Resource Center Library at 6 p.m. Bring your own crafty project and enjoy conversation, snacks, and creativity. Tatting & crochet instruction available upon request. All ages are welcome. nolalibrary.org

TUESDAY COOKING CLASS FOR KIDS

Culinary Kids at 5:30 p.m. Local chefs and cooking instructors take older kids through a detailed course of culinary skills. Ages 10-16. Every Tuesday. culinarykidsns.com

EATING, SLEEPING AND OTHER ACTS OF INDEPENDENCE

Online at 8 p.m. As babies become toddlers and then preschoolers, they gain more control over their bodies. Encourage healthy eating and sleeping without winding up in a power struggle. Free, one session. Ages one-three. chnola.org/ parentingcenter

WEDNESDAY HELPING YOUR WORRIED CHILD

Children’s Hospital Conference Center at 6:30 p.m. All children have fears sometimes, but what can you do as a parent to help? Discuss ways to foster independence while providing support. Free. Ages 6-10. chnola.org/parentingcenter

THURSDAY ADVENTURE QUEST LASER TAG’S ST. RITA HARAHAN FUNDRAISER

Adventure Quest Laser Tag at 4 p.m. Support St. Rita Harahan and receive unlimited laser tag, bumper cars, & cosmic golf for only $20 plus tax per player. visitjeffersonparish.com

DOCENT-LED DROP-IN TOUR

Ogden Museum at 12:30 p.m. Join for a Docentled tour of Ogden Museum, home to the largest and most comprehensive collection of art from the Southern region of the United States. ogdenmuseum.org

PRIETO CONDUCTS SHOSTAKOVICH

The Orpheum Theater at 7:30 p.m. Celebrate the 80th birthday of Hailstork with his work celebrating MLK in Epitaph for a Man Who Dreamed, while Shostakovich 5 reflects upon an artist using his medium to strike blows against the oppressor. lpomusic.com

WYES SEASON OF GOOD TASTES: BROUSSARD’S

Broussard’s at 6:30 p.m. today, March 24, and March 31. This dinner is one of four donated by Broussard’s. The wine pairing dinner will be served in the Prohibition Room, which serves as an intimate, private dining room with an interactive wine and dining experience. wyes.org

SATURDAY

AMERICA’S LARGEST INTERACTIVE MYSTERY DINNER SHOW

DoubleTree at 6 p.m. The action happens all around you, and any person in the audience can end up being a part of the show, even YOU! Throughout the night, you’ll find yourself wondering if what just happened was scripted or real. visitjeffersonparish.com

BALLET HISPÁNICO

Mahalia Jackson Theater at 8 p.m. The Rise and Fall of a Diva, a brand new, full-length ballet celebrating one of the most captivating women of South American history. saengernola.com

CALMING YOUR NEW BABY

14TH ANNUAL BIG EASY BLUES FESTIVAL

The Parenting Center at 10 a.m. Learn what to expect from the first few months, also known as “the fourth trimester,” including techniques to quickly calm crying and boost infant sleep from the popular book, Happiest Baby on the Block, by Dr.Harvey Karp. Free, pre-registration required. Prenatal–4 months. touro.com

CULINARY KIDS CAMP DAY

CHICAGO LIVE IN CONCERT

FRIDAY Lakefront Arena at 8 p.m. Features Tucka, Pokey Bear, Roi Anthony, Ronnie Bell, Lebrado, Nellie Tiger Travis and Captain Charles. arena.uno.edu Culinary Kids at 9 a.m. Kids cook their own breakfast, lunch and snacks, desserts, make drinks, enjoy gardening, guest visitors with treats, science experiments, indoor/outdoor games, and have great fun with friends. Ages 5-12. cuilnarykidsns.com

KIDS NIGHT OUT

West St. Tammany at 5:45 p.m. and Belle Chasse YMCA at 6 p.m. An evening away while the kids play. The YMCA will keep your little ones busy with themed games, sports, arts & crafts, and movies. Enjoy your free time while your kids have fun in a safe environment overseen by certified and welltrained staff. ymcaneworleans.org

NATURE AT NIGHT

Audubon Zoo at 6 p.m. Every Saturday and Sunday in March. Audubon Zoo’s education series gives children the opportunity to explore the Zoo after hours. audubonnatureinstitute.org

NEW ORLEANS HOME & GARDEN SHOW

Caesars Superdome. Celebrating its 65th anniversary, the annual expo showcases hundreds of home and garden vendors participating in product demonstrations, seminars, and workshops. caesarssuperdome.com

SHREK THE MUSICAL

Jefferson Performing Arts Center through March 20. Times vary. The beloved ogre fairy tale comes to life in this colorful, Tony Award-winning production based on the hit movie. jpas.org

THE DROWSY CHAPERONE

Rivertown Theatres For The Performing Arts through March 27. Times vary. A song and dance for the whole family that will make you fall in love with musicals all over again. rivertowntheaters.com

Saenger Theatre at 8 p.m. Chicago continues to be true ambassadors for their beloved hometown, carrying the city’s name with pride and dignity around the world. saengernola.com

HISTORIC OPEN-HEARTH COOKING

Hermann-Grima House at 10 a.m. Authentic open-hearth cooking demonstrations. hgghh.org

IRISH CHANNEL ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE Enjoy “throws” which include flowers, beads, kisses, and cabbage. A traditional Mass is scheduled before the parade at St. Mary’s Assumption Church (923 Josephine St. New Orleans, La.) beginning at noon. facebook.com/ IrishChannelStPatricksDayParade

MUSICAL STORYTIME: A CELLO NAMED PABLO

Popp Bandstand in City Park at 10:30 a.m. A story to inspire children and adults alike. The journey of cellist Amit Peled with the cello and legacy of the great Pablo Casals. lpomusic.com

NICKELODEON’S JOJO SIWA

Smoothie King Center at 7 p.m. D.R.E.A.M Tour featuring Belles. smoothiekingcenter.com

NORD COMMISSION SUMMER CAMP EXPO NORD Rec Centers from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Register onsite. Ages 4-12. nordc.org

SUNDAY ADLOYADAH (PURIM CARNIVAL)

New Orleans JCC, 5342 St. Charles Ave. Save the date for the JCC’s annual carnival celebrating Jewish survival, similar to the celebrations held in Israel. nojcc.org/communityevents

FAMILY CONCERT:

WHEN INSTRUMENTS ROAMED THE EARTH! Roussel Hall, Louis J. Roussel Performance Hall at 2:30 p.m. Tickets can be reserved online. lpomusic.com

TUESDAY BASIC RIGHTS FOR STUDENT WITH DISABILITIES

Online at 10 a.m. Learn about the basic rights under Section 504. fhfnorthshore.org

FREE CAR SEAT FITTING

Parenting Center at 9 a.m. Join The Parenting Center at their Car Seat Fitting Station where nationally-certified technicians can have your child’s car seat installed correctly, free of charge. chnola.org/parentingcenter

GROWING UP FOR GIRLS

Practical information about female anatomy, what happens during puberty, body image, menstruation, and hygiene is presented in an informal, fun and hands-on manner. Girls participate with their mother or caregiver. $20 per child. One session. Ages 9-12. chnola.org/ parentingcenter

HOMESCHOOL WORKSHOPS

Culinary Kids at 10:30 a.m. Kids cook their own breakfast, lunch and snacks, desserts, make drinks, and enjoy gardening, guest visitors with treats, science experiments, indoor/outdoor games, and great fun with friends. Ages 6-16. culinarykidsns.com

LOUISIANA REHABILITATIVE SERVICES WEBINAR

Online at 1 p.m. Learn about Louisiana Rehab Services. fhfnorthshore.org

WYES SEASON OF GOOD TASTES: PALM&PINE

Palm&Pine at 6:30 p.m. WYES is pleased to have Palm&Pine as part of the 29th annual WYES Season of Good Tastes wine dinner series. wyes.org

WEDNESDAY GAME NIGHT ON TWITCH

Online on Twitch at 4 p.m. Hop on Twitch to watch and play along as librarians Maria and Raymie play games like Among Us, Minecraft, or Roblox. nolalibrary.org

INFANT AND CHILD CPR

Children’s Hospital Conference Center 6:30 a.m. American Heart Association’s “Family and Friends” non-certification class is back in person. chnola.org/ parentingcenter

PARENT’S HOUR

Online at 8 a.m. Join The Parenting Center to talk about what is going well and not so well. Share your ideas about parenting and learn from other parents. chnola.org/parentingcenter NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2022

TWILIGHT AT LONGUE VUE: CAST IRON CACTUS

Longue Vue at 5 p.m. The Spanish Court music series is back. Join for the season opener featuring Cast Iron Cactus, a Roots Americana band from New Orleans. Bring drinks, snacks, picnic seating, or just your walking shoes and face covering to enjoy the cool hours of the day in the Longue Vue Gardens. longuevue.com

THURSDAY ST. PATRICK’S DAY

BRUNO WALTER NATIONAL CONDUCTOR PREVIEW

The Orpheum Theater at 7:30 p.m. The League’s Bruno Walter National Conductor Preview is one of the field’s most prestigious events for conductors to showcase their talent nationally. This free concert will feature each conductor in a program of outstanding orchestral works and movements. lpomusic.com

PIANO HOUR: KEIKO KOMAKI

New Orleans Jazz Museum at 2 p.m. Keiko Komaki performs. nps.gov

WHO DUN IT? MYSTERY BOOK CLUB

Online at 4 p.m. Solve crimes together and discover “Who Dun It” on Zoom. Each month, a new selection will be unveiled. New members are always welcome. nolalibrary.org

FRIDAY JUNIOR HORSEBACK RIDER WORKSHOP

Camp Marydale at 6:30 p.m. through March 20. Members of the Wrangler/Spur program will share the basics of horseback riding, teach how to take care of a horse and about horse safety, prepare for a ride, practice riding, and go on a trail ride. Grades 4-5. gsle.org

KIDS NIGHT OUT

LARK IN THE PARK

New Orleans Botanical Garden at 7 p.m. Guests will enjoy a glamorous springtime gala experience, featuring fabulous entertainment and delectable food and drink curated by local restaurants to celebrate and support New Orleans City Park. neworleanscitypark.com

MARCH 2022 | NOLAFAMILY.COM

SENIOR/AMBASSADOR JOURNEY: MISSION SISTERHOOD

Camp Marydale at 6 p.m. through March 19. In this workshop, you will learn to expand friendship borders, boost your confidence, and fully utilize the leadership skills you’ve earned in Girl Scouting. Grades 9-12. gsle.org

SATURDAY

nolagoldrugby.com

SUNDAY SUITE SUNDAY SALON

Chalstrom House, St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, at 2:30 p.m. Join for the third Suite Sunday music salons. lpomusic.com

THE PRICE IS RIGHT: LIVE!

Culinary Kids at 6 p.m. Enjoy dinner and walk through a detailed course of culinary skills and techniques that are sure to empower you in the kitchen. culinarykidsns.com

Saenger Theatre at 7 p.m. The Price Is Right Live is the hit interactive stage show that gives eligible individuals the chance to hear their names called and “Come On Down” to win. Prizes may include appliances, vacations, and possibly a new car. saengernola.com

AMERICA’S LARGEST INTERACTIVE MYSTERY DINNER SHOW

WYES SEASON OF GOOD TASTES: THE PELICAN CLUB

ADULT DINNER NIGHT

The Pelican Club at 6:30 p.m. WYES is pleased to have The Pelican Club Restaurant & Bar as part of the 29th annual WYES Season of Good Tastes wine dinner series. wyes.org

ARCHERY CHALLENGE BADGE WORKSHOP Camp Covington at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Girl Scout Cadettes will complete the requirements for the Archery badge. Includes Archery badge and supplies. Grades 6-8. gsle.org

BASIC CAMP TRAINING

TUESDAY CAR SEAT FITTING STATION

Children’s Hospital Parking Garage 9 a.m. Installation by a nationally-certified technician. Free. chnola.org/parentingcenter

Camp Marydale at 9 a.m. through March 20. Course topics include health and safety considerations for camping with groups, group dynamics in the outdoors, progression, program and environmental activities, outdoor skills, and minimal impact camping. All ages. Pre-Registration required. gsle.org

PARENTED TALKS: PEACEFUL PARENTING: SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR TOUGHEST BEHAVIOR CHALLENGES

CAMPHOR ERADICATION PROJECT

Children’s Hospital Conference Center at 6:30 p.m. Understanding development, encouraging cooperation and redirecting the behavior of preschoolers. Three sessions. $15. Ages three-five. chnola.org/parentingcenter

New Orleans City Park at 9 a.m. Master Naturalists and associated volunteers participate in the City Park Camphor Eradication Project. neworleanscitypark.com

Virtual with Nola Family Magazine at noon. Enlightening parenting talk with Aha! Parenting founder, Laura Markham, Ph.D. eventbrite.com

POSITIVE DISCIPLINE

CITY PARK CHALLENGE COURSE

New Orleans City Park at 10 a.m. The City Park Challenge Course features nine physical and mental challenges at 25 feet in the air and above. The General Public Day is designed for individuals and families who want to push their limits for a fun, active day in City Park. This event is open to the public however, tickets must be purchased beforehand to reserve the limited spots. neworleanscitypark.com

KIDS CLASS: BLACKENED TILAPIA TACOS

Southern Food & Beverage Museum at 10 a.m. For this class, participants will cook fish with Cajun high heat and lots of spices, and will eat it Baja style, with a cabbage slaw and corn tortillas. southernfood.org

NOLA GOLD VS RUGBY UNITED NEW YORK

The Gold Mine at The Shrine at 7 p.m. Get ready for the nonstop action-packed excitement, big hits, and open play speed of Major League Rugby.

WEDNESDAY BEAST FEST

Archbishop Rummel High School at 5 p.m. From nutria tacos and wild boar to grilled redfish, the Beast Feast satisfies everyone’s sense of adventure in dining. partyfixx.co

TALKING IS TEACHING

Online at 6 p.m. This class is designed to increase awareness and spark positive change in parents to boost early brain and language development in children. Learn more about how talking, singing, and reading to your child everyday can impact their success in school. Free. Registration required. Ages birth-five years. chnola.org/parentingcenter

24 THURSDAY

ART IN BLOOM

New Orleans Museum of Art through March 27. Times vary. Art in Bloom showcases spectacular floral designs created by garden clubs, floral designers, and creative talents from New Orleans and beyond. noma.org

MANGA BOOK CLUB

Online at 4:30 p.m. Celebrate the manga series available at the New Orleans Public Library. nolalibrary.org

MEMORY WARS: WORLD WAR II AT 75 AND BEYOND

Online through March 26. A first-of-its-kind international conference to discuss the shifting landscapes of popular memories of this worldaltering conflict, Memory Wars will explore World War II’s place in public memory through a global prism, examining how museums, filmmakers, media, memorials, and historians help shape memories of the conflict. nationalww2museum.org

OPERATION HOME FRONT

The National WWII Museum. Through March 27. Travel to The National WWII Museum in New Orleans to explore, remember, and reflect on World War II through exclusive access to the Museum’s campus. nationalww2museum.org

STRAVINSKY’S THE FIREBIRD

The Orpheum Theater at 7:30 p.m. Enjoy a musical tapestry that will reflect the heroes, dreamers and trailblazers of NOLA music with Jay Weigel’s Water’s Gravity, a celebration of the musicians and culture bearers of New Orleans, along with Stravinsky’s The Firebird. lpomusic.com

FRIDAY FABULOUSLY FUNNY COMEDY FESTIVAL

Lakefront Arena at 8 p.m. The Fabulously Funny Comedy Festival featuring Mike Epps, Sommore, Gary Owen, Lavell Crawford, and Tony Rock is here. arena.uno.edu

KIDS NIGHT OUT

Belle Chasse YMCA at 6 p.m. An evening away while the kids play. The YMCA will keep your little ones busy with themed games, sports, arts & crafts, and movies. Enjoy your free time while your kids have fun in a safe environment overseen by certified and well-trained staff. ymcaneworleans.org

LITTLE FEAT

Saenger Theatre at 8 p.m. Little Feat is the classic example of a fusion of many styles and musical genres made into something utterly distinctive. Their brilliant musicianship transcends boundaries, uniting California rock, funk, folk, jazz, country, rockabilly, and New Orleans swamp boogie into a rich gumbo that has been leading people in joyful dance ever since. saengernola.com

THE COMEDY ZONE

Westwego Performing Arts Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Enjoy an evening of stand-up comedy from the

nation’s largest comedy network. jpas.org

SATURDAY AMERICA’S LARGEST INTERACTIVE MYSTERY DINNER SHOW

DoubleTree at 6 p.m. The action happens all around you, and any person in the audience can end up being a part of the show, even you. Throughout the night, you’ll find yourself wondering if what just happened was scripted or real. visitjeffersonparish.com

BIG BASS RODEO

New Orleans City Park at 6:30 a.m. Enjoy exhibits, activities, raffles, and fishing tackle Mardi Gras toss. newolreanscitypark.com

EXHIBIT OPENING: SPRING SWINGS

Longue Vue at 9:30 a.m. An interactive outdoor exhibit is going to Longue Vue. Created by local artists, Louisiana artisans, and students in the Junior Curators program, Spring Swings will feature colorful mobile seating throughout the site. longuevue.com

GARDEN THERAPY SERIES: BUTTERFLY GARDENING BASICS

Longue Vue at 1 p.m. Turn your garden into a home for butterflies. Learn how to attract, support, and retain butterfly and moth populations. Participants will go home with three native plants, a plant care guide, and a local butterfly species and corresponding food plant reference list. longuevue.com

HISTORIC OPEN-HEARTH COOKING

Hermann-Grima House at 10 a.m. Authentic openhearth cooking demonstrations. hgghh.org

PONTCHARTRAIN HOME SHOW AND LOUISIANA FOOD FEST

Pontchartrain Centerat 10 a.m. The Pontchartrain Home Show showcases all of the latest in kitchens, bathrooms, siding, and solar products. Louisiana Food Fest will also have free samples, tastings, and recipes from over 20 brands that will be sure to satisfy everyone’s hunger and tastes. jaaspro.com

SENSORY FRIENDLY MORNING

The National WWII Museum at 8 a.m. Last Saturday of each month, Sensory Friendly Mornings are for individuals of all ages with special needs and their families to enjoy early access to the Museum with modifications to make the experience more sensory friendly. nationalww2museum.org

SUNDAY EXPLORE CITY PARK

Historic Girl Scout McFadden Cabin at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. The City Park/McFadden Cabin Trail Patch Program is a self-guided tour through New Orleans City Park. Grades K-5. gsle.org

GATESFEST ARTS & MUSIC FESTIVAL

Congregation Gates of Prayer at 10:30 a.m. Showcases renowned artists across four stages. gatesofprayer.org/event/gatesfest.html

KIDS MASTERCLASS: DOUGHNUTS

Southern Food & Beverage Museum at 10 a.m. Participants will start by making the dough, and then working on icing. After, participants roll the doughnuts out, fry them, cool, and decorate with icing and candies. southernfood.org

TUESDAY IRIS DAY AT LONGUE VUE

Longue Vue at 9:30 a.m. All-day complimentary garden admission for the first 250 guests is generously sponsored by the Greater New Orleans Iris Society. Join and celebrate the captivating iris collection. Iris experts will be onsite and refreshments served from 4-7 p.m. longuevue.com

POSITIVE DISCIPLINE

Children’s Hospital Conference Center at 6:30 p.m. Understanding development, encouraging cooperation, and redirecting the behavior of preschoolers. Three sessions. $15. Ages three-five. chnola.org/parentingcenter

WEDNESDAY TODDLER TOPICS

Online at 8 p.m. Understanding development, responding to challenging behavior, play ideas, toileting, sleeping, and eating. Three sessions. Fee $15. Ages one-two. chnola.org/parentingcenter

THURSDAY IMPACT OF THE PARENT/ CHILD RELATIONSHIP

Online at noon. Early experiences impact your child’s development. Consider your own attachment style and strategies to build a strong relationship with your child. Free, one session. Ages 0-18 years. chnola.org/ parentingcenter

THE WOMAN BEHIND THE CAMERA IN WORLD WAR II

Online at noon. The National World War II Museum in collaboration with the Lee Miller Archives, as Co-Director and Granddaughter of Lee Miller, Ami Bouhassane, leads this webinar in an overview of Miller’s work. This webinar is appropriate for grades K-12. nationalww2museum.org

VIRTUAL BOOK CLUB DISCUSSION: WHEN WOMEN RULED THE WORLD

Online at noon. The NOMA Book Club meets monthly to discuss fiction and nonfiction books related to art in NOMA’s collection and exhibitions. noma.org Submit your events to calendar@nolafamily.com. NOLAFAMILY.COM | MARCH 2022

MARCH 2022 | NOLAFAMILY.COM

Nola family March 2022

Articles inside

Mom About Town

Spotlight

From the Publisher

Let’s Enjoy Summer Camp

Hip Grannie

Dear Frankie

TikTok Tics in Tweens

Parenting Corner

Wiggle Room

From the Bookshelf