nola family Parent Fearlessly
April 2022
The Art of Inclusion Spring Cleaning for Good Jayden’s Journey Living with Angelman Syndrome
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nola family CONTENTS
Founder ANN BOWER HERREN Publisher BRANDON FOREMAN Associate Publisher AMY L. FOREMAN
APRIL 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
Art/Production MELODY TAUZIN
Jayden Williams and his journey of living with Angelman Syndrome.
Senior Graphic Designer
ALEX HERRING SAMANTHA LITTEN
Photo by Twirl Photography
Graphic Designers
TWIRL PHOTOGRAPHY Cover Photography
Advertising PATRICK PACHECO
Director of Business Development
18 Jayden’s Journey
A FEW WORDS
20 Spring Cleaning
6 From the
for Good
Publisher
FEATURES
13 Spring Break
Camps
14 Gardening
with Children with Special Needs
EDUCATION & GUIDANCE
10 Parenting Corner 12 Dear Frankie
IN EACH ISSUE
8 From the
Bookshelf
22 Spotlight
24 Mom About
Town
25 Gear to Get 27 Out & About
CRYSTAL BARRETT JENNIFER HOFFMANN CAMILLE MILLER KRISTEN RENFROW JASON WALL 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
editorial@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.
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April 2022 Issue 131
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from the publisher
Making Time As a mom of three very active children and a wife to a husband who doesn’t know how to say, “no,” it’s hard to find the time to do anything that is out of the norm. Currently, we are in full swing of dance competitions and practices, getting ready for recital, and a lot of new transitions as my daughter wraps up middle school. The boys have begun soccer practice, and games will also be taking up our weekends. I love being a dance mom and a soccer mom despite the busy schedule. I get the best of both worlds. However, as busy as I am, I was determined to make a day trip happen recently. It is not often that one of my sisters comes down south. We often try to meet up midway for summer trips, but as the kids get older, the summers are now filled with travel ball and dance. My sister has her own four kids who have their own activities, her husband has the farm to attend to, and not to mention she is a nurse! Still, I was determined. I knew the upcoming dates, and had it in my calendar to somehow make it work. Well that week started filling up quickly. Literally every single day had something that couldn’t be missed. Again, I was determined. Although we had just gotten back home from Biloxi the day before (there was a dance competition), we were off to Biloxi to meet up with the family. My sister and her crew had booked a room at the same hotel we were just at, and then, my dad decided he would come down also. My other sister (who lives here) and I added two car seats to my car, loaded up the five kids, and we left for this quick little journey to meet them. Even though our trip was literally 24 hours from start to finish, getting to visit with my sister, her littles (well one is taller than me now), my dad, and step mom was just what I needed. I was exhausted the rest of the week because that was a lot of time in the car with kids in less than a week. However, thank goodness for my iPad hotspot. I often think about it now, and how it is nothing like the little road trips we would take. We would play the license plate game, cards, I spy, and who knows what else. Nowadays, they just need a little internet connection and they don’t make a peep. I guess my point is, make the time, even if it’s 24 hours. All of the kids had a blast visiting with their cousins, and I enjoyed the family time, so all of the exhaustion was well worth it!
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from the bookshelf
INCLUSIVITY FOR ALL
By celebrating inclusivity for all–regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or ability–we can help create a more equitable, accessible, and just world. Here are seven great books to share with your family to get kids of all ages thinking about the power of kindness, acceptance, and empathy, and how their actions and attitudes can help create positive change near and far. Children All the Way to the Top: How One Girl’s Fight for Americans with Disabilities Changed Everything by Annette Bay Pimentel & Nabi H. Ali tells the amazing true story of Jennifer Keelan, who has cerebral palsy and was just eight years old when she helped to fight for the 1990 passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act. All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold & Suzanne Kaufman is set at a school where diversity and inclusion are celebrated. All children have a space and are loved and appreciated, and students from many different backgrounds learn from and celebrate each other’s traditions. It’s a great way to show young children how they should treat people and define what inclusive spaces look and feel like. Intersection Allies: We Make Room for All by Chelsea Johnson, LaToya Council, Carolyn Choi, & Ashley Seil Smith is all about intersectionality, nuances of identity, and embracing differences. With the repeating phrase, “Where there’s room for some, we make room for all. Friends can be allies no matter how small,” this book is a fantastic introduction to allyship, an essential role in creating an equitable world. Middle Grade Aven Green, Sleuthing Machine by Dusti Bowling & Gina Perry is a fun and lighthearted series that follows the adventures of third grader Aven Green, who was born without arms. In their place, Aven believes her
“arm cells” went into giving her a super brain, which comes in handy when her classmate’s lunches start to mysteriously disappear and Aven has to solve the case. Dictionary for a Better World: Poems, Quotes, and Anecdotes from A to Z by Irene Latham, Charles Waters, & Amini Mehrdokht is organized like a dictionary, but instead of a traditional definition, each entry has a poem, an inspiring quote, personal anecdote, and a prompt for an activity. By defining words like “acceptance” and “empathy,” this dictionary lays out words you can embody in order to create a better world. Teen/YA The Disability Experience: Working Toward Belonging by Hannalora Leavitt & Belle Wuthrich is a good introduction for middle and high school-aged kids to learn how to talk about disability. It breaks down some of the barriers people with special needs face in everyday life to help non-disabled individuals to understand what it means to live with a disability and how their actions can help or harm. Channel Kindness: Stories of Kindness and Community by Born This Way Foundation Reporters & Lady Gaga is a collection of stories of young people who exhibited kindness, bravery, and resilience. Together, the stories help to show young adults that kindness, empathy, and understanding can change the world.
Marie Simoneaux is the marketing associate responsible for the New Orleans Public Library’s social media content and impact stories.
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Kacy Helwick is the youth collection development librarian.
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parenting corner
The Art of Inclusion Inclusion is defined as the action or state of including or being included within a group or structure. This means that children have a sense of belonging whether with their peers, family, school, or the larger community. Unfortunately, because of how children look, sound, or characteristics of an exceptionality, not all children experience the feeling of being included. Teaching your child to be more inclusive can help other children feel that. Parents are a child’s first teachers and can mold a child and encourage certain behaviors and beliefs that can impact how that child interacts with others. Modeling behaviors that support an inclusive belief system teaches children to be inclusive. It does not have to be big things. Ask yourself these questions: -Does my child play with children who look or act like him/her a majority of the time? -Do I use derogatory labels about other children, even subtle language such as “crazy” or “bad”? -Do I stare at a child who looks or behaves differently? If the answer to any of these questions is “yes,” your child may be learning to exclude people. Parents can learn respectful language to describe a child’s condition. For instance, instead of saying the “crazy child,” you could say the child may have an exceptionality.
Another way to teach children about inclusion is to point out to your child the similarities between them and other children. For instance, a parent could point out that a child in a wheelchair seems to like apples just like their child. It is also important to recognize the uniqueness of each person without using exclusion language. Using the previous example, you may point out that a child in a wheelchair needs his/her wheelchair to move around. It is just a different way to get to the same place. Also, reading books about inclusion with children can help them to understand how to see the similarities and uniqueness in each person. Finally, parents can find teachable moments in everyday interactions. If your child asks a question about another person’s exceptionality or uniqueness, give them a truthful answer. It is ok if you don’t know. Learn about exceptionalities and how to support someone together by attending events that celebrate exceptionalities. Parents can also recognize holidays that bring awareness such as Developmental Disabilities Month in March. Each person is different, and that is not a bad thing. Each person’s uniqueness can be a learning opportunity and an enriching experience that can have a lifelong impact on a child. Teaching children to be more inclusive can increase a child’s ability to be empathetic and kind to everyone. The golden rule is to treat others as you would want to be treated, but the platinum rule is to treat others as they would like to be treated. So, take the opportunity to learn about exceptionalities and how people would like to be treated. Monet Somerville is a Parent Educator at The Parenting Center. She is currently pursuing her PhD in Developmental Psychology with a Concentration in Child and Adolescent Development. She is also a licensed Trust Based Relational Intervention Practitioner.
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dear frankie
A Park for All
Dear Frankie,
Rolling Rovers is a new doggie daycare in our town. It’s for dogs who can’t walk on their back legs. The Rolling Rovers get around in carts outfitted with a harness that holds up their back legs. They use their front legs (which are fine) to pull the cart. It’s incredible how fast they can go in those carts. Recently, the town dog park was closed. This was a real bummer for those of us who go to agility class and use the park on off days to exercise and practice. When the park reopened, the area where we practiced our moves had been made into a track for dog carts. I understand the Rolling Rovers need a place to run and exercise in their carts. It just seems there were a lot of other sites the town could have built a track than in our park. Don’t you agree? Sincerely,
Figaro
Dear Figaro,
No one likes to have something they value taken away from them. A town dog park, however, is a public facility. It was built for all the dogs in your town, whether old, young, blind, sighted, agile, or physically disabled. In sum, disabled dogs have as much right to go to a town dog park as nondisabled dogs. Likewise, nondisabled dogs have as much right to use a track built to accommodate dog carts for disabled dogs. Have you thought about setting up a schedule for specific times the track could be used for agility practice and cart runs? It seems that a smooth and paved track might be a terrific place for you and your pals to set up an agility course. You mentioned the Rolling Rovers have no trouble burning a little rubber when they need to get where they are going. How about challenging them to a race, provided they are given a fair handicap? They might surprise you and give you a run for your money. 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.
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Spring Break Camps Spring break is your child’s last big break before summer. Looking for a way to keep them busy and have fun? Check out these local spring break camps.
Culinary Kids: Spring Break Camp 915 Marigny Avenue, Mandeville Dates: April 11-15 Times: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Fees: $75/day Ages: 5-12 Children cook breakfast, lunch, and sweet snacks while enjoying a day of messy fun science experiments, arts, crafts, games, and outdoor activities in a fenced play yard and garden. (985) 727-5553
Franco’s Athletic Club Spring Break Camp 100 Bon Temps Roule, Mandeville Dates: April 11-15 and 18 Times: 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Fees: $50/day (members); $60/day (non-members) Ages: 5-14 Spring break campers can enjoy a day of messy and fun science experiments, arts, crafts, games, and outdoor activities in a privacy-fenced play yard and garden. If the weather is nice, they will swim in the heated pool, so please send a swimsuit with your camper. Inflatables, dancing, games, art, and friendship are a few of the fun things included in a day at camp. Send lunch daily, except for Friday, which is pizza party day. (985) 792-0210
Junction Play Sports Spring Break Camps
156 Bertucci Lane, St. Rose
Junction Place Sportsplex, 5620 Crawford Avenue, Harahan
Times: 9 a.m.-3 p.m..
Dates: April 14-22 Times: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Fees: $60/day or $250/five-day week Ages: 5-12 Focusing on the fundamentals involved in movement, rules, and game strategy of multiple sports, sportsmanship and the responsibilities required with being on a team are at the heart of all of their teachable moments. Their goal is to create an environment that is safe, fun, engaging, and educational. (504) 356-1812
Louisiana Children’s Museum Spring Break Camp 15 Henry Thomas Drive, New Orleans Dates: April 14-15, 18, and 19 Times: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Fees: $55/day (member); $65/day (non-member) Ages: 4-8 “Our Own Backyard” Spring Break Camp is designed for children ages four-eight. Campers will dig, plant, and investigate with soil, and learn about native plants and flowers of New Orleans. Featured activities include creating a landscape design and planting in their Edible Garden. You can register for individual days or all four days. Camps are filled on a first come, first served basis with limited availability. (504) 523-1357
MOVE! New Orleans’ Best Camp
JCC Uptown: Spring Break Mini Camp
4714 Paris Avenue, New Orleans
5342 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans
Times: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Dates: April 11-15 Times: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Fees: $70/day (members only) Grades: K-5 During the school year, and before and after JCC Summer Camp, the JCC offers Mini Camps for preschool-aged children and youth and teens to coincide with holidays and special days off. Staff will guide participants through an active day filled with group activities, creative arts, and athletic games. Bring a bagged lunch and wear closed-toe shoes, so you can take part in all of the fun. Do not bring money or electronics. gary@nojcc.org
Dates: April 11-22 Fees: $40/day Ages: 5-11 MOVE! New Orleans’ Best Summer Camp and After School Program offers a full-day camp experience for your child that is equally educational as it is exciting and fun. It is sure to be a safe, positive, and motivational camp adventure where your child is guaranteed to obtain physical and mental fitness. They also help your children develop strong communication and ethical problem solving skills. (504) 376-7009
Pony Tales Spring Break Camp
Dates: April 11-22 Fees: $55/day for 2-4 days and $50/day for 5 or more days Ages: 4 ½ -12 Hands-on pony and horse learning, riding basics, and fun with an emphasis on safety and understanding the horse. (504) 469-0148
Vamonos NOLA Spring Camp 600 Eleonore Street, New Orleans Dates: April 18-22 Times: 8 a.m. -3 p.m. Fees: $275/ week Ages: 5-10 Your camper will make friends and build memories while laying a foundation of multilingualism. (504) 495-2345
YMCA Belle Chasse Spring Break Camp 8101 Highway 23, Belle Chasse Dates: April 15, 18-22 Times: 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Fees: $30/day; $55/day for non-members Ages: 3-14 The YMCA is the place to be when kids are out of school. Kids have the opportunity to play sports, make arts and crafts, and make new friends. This camp offers a safe and engaging atmosphere for your kids so you can have peace of mind while you work. (504) 392-9622
YMCA East Jefferson Spring Break Camp 6691 Riverside Drive, Metairie Dates: April 14-15, and 18 Times: 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Fees: $40/day for members or $50/day for nonmembers Ages: 5-12 Let’s spring into STEM, The East Jefferson YMCA provides a fun and engaging STEM camp for your child in a welcoming atmosphere. Healthy lunch and snacks are included. Here, they encourage character building and teamwork. (504) 888-9622 ext. 107 NOLAFAMILY.COM | APRIL 2022
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Gardening with Children with Special Needs By Anthony Bui Children with special needs require a bit more attention and care when it comes to their health and development. Without it, their social, physical, and cognitive development will suffer. It is a parent’s job to find activities that efficiently stimulate their minds and bodies in order for them to grow up and be as healthy and happy as they can be. Gardening is a fun and creative way that parents can encourage their children to get outside and do something that has benefits for both their physical and mental wellbeing. Social Development For children with special needs, social interactions can oftentimes be something that they dread and find much difficulty with. Sadly, some children are even purposefully left out of many social situations which can have a drastic negative impact on their social development. Involving everyone in a community gardening project or even starting an at home garden gives children with special needs a space to work on their verbal and nonverbal communication skills. They also develop a sense of situational awareness as they learn what to do and what not to do when gardening with specific plants. They learn to watch where they step. They learn how to nurture and care for a plant and the consequences of failing to do so. Having a safe space to practice all these things and learn all these skills helps them as they transfer the same skills to the real world. When it comes to interacting with their peers, they now have much more confidence and a better understanding of the actions and consequences they learned during their time gardening. As a result, the connections and friendships that they will form will have a much more solid foundation. Physical Development Gardening is a great form of exercise that is able to work out all parts of the body. It gets children outdoors, where they can dig in the dirt, stretch, and lift. For children with physical disabilities, traditional forms of exercise may be difficult. They can’t do the same things as other children like participating
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in sports and other activities that children enjoy. With gardening, children’s needs are able to be met where they are at. If they have a disability or special need that inhibits any form of movement or action, there are specialized equipment and tools that will be able to help meet that need. This inclusivity allows for everyone to be able to enjoy an activity that is able to help with their physical development. Cognitive Development Children with certain special needs that impair their cognitive function have a much more difficult time functioning independently in society. The world is stressful enough for people who don’t suffer from any sort of special need. It is hard to imagine how difficult it is for a child to go through the struggles of life while dealing with some sort of physical, cognitive, or social need. These disabilities can exasperate an already tense situation. It may be hard to believe this, but gardening can help lessen some of that tension and anxiety. It is relaxing; it helps to calm children down and refocus their minds. It hits that much needed refresh button in their brain that they can’t reach themselves. Getting Started When starting, make sure to consider any disabilities and gather the right equipment and tools. For example, for children who may have a more difficult time moving around and bending down, consider looking into raised garden beds. When it comes to plant selection, look into things that are easier to take care of. It can also be beneficial to look into plants that have distinct sensory or textural qualities. This can help to capture children’s attention and engage all of their senses. If there are any other questions or uncertainties, don’t be afraid to ask questions! Not only will this encourage children to seek out help when they need it, it also helps to ensure that you are doing things the most efficient way. Local gardening groups are a great source of information and would be happy to help out in any way they can.
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Summer Camps You Can’t Miss Still on the hunt for the perfect summer camp for your kiddos to attend? Check out these great options around town.
Arden Cahill Academy’s Camp Corral 3101 Wall Blvd., Gretna ardencahillacademy.com (504) 392-0902
There’s still time to join in Camp Corral’s 10-themed weeks of activities, including horseback riding, swimming, archery, STEM lab, and more on their beautiful 12-acre country campus on the Westbank in Gretna. Adventure week is always a hit, while events like blue & white days, rodeos, theatre productions, and the overnight camp”in” are not to be missed!
Every Day Away 7100 St Charles Ave., New Orleans everydayaway.camp 877-4KIDCAM (454-3226)
Every Day Away is a summer day camp concept, brought to you by 50year summer camp experts, Kidcam Camps. Campers aged 8-14 don’t stay put, but get off campus every day as they enjoy new destinations and surprising excursions, such as horseback riding, White Sands Lake, and science or cultural adventures. We don’t just hit the road - we get out of town!
Atonement Lutheran Summer Camp 6500 Riverside Dr., Metairie alcs.org (504) 887-0225
Summer Camp at Atonement is BACK for kids in PreK3- 8th grade! There are LOTS of AMAZING camp options for your children this summer: Soccer, flag football, cooking, art, technology, basketball, “Slime Camp,” and dance to name a few, plus a lot more. We also offer before- and after-care. All are welcome. Registration is now OPEN!
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Gates Preschool Summer Camp 4000 W. Esplanade Ave. S, Metairie gatesofprayer.org (504) 885-4339
We’re looking forward to a fantastic summer at Gates Preschool Summer Camp! Campers will enjoy water days, weekly themes, costume days, yoga, mad science, gymnastics, music, special events and more! Check out our fun-filled Camp Calendar and download the registration form at gatesofprayer.org.
JCC Summer Camps 5432 St Charles Ave., New Orleans / 3747 W Esplanade Ave., Metairie nojcc.org/camp U (504) 897-0143 / M (504) 887-5158
JCC camps pack summer days with fun! Campers enjoy a diverse mix of age-appropriate activities including pool time and swim instruction, sports, games, science, yoga and multiple creative arts. Metairie still has space for ages 3-12 years old. Uptown has openings for grades 3-5 in Sports Camp, which focuses on sportsmanship and teamwork, in addition the fundamentals, skills and rules for a variety of sports.
Kidcam Camps
Multiple locations kidcamcamp.com Kidcam Camp offers 10 weeks of summer day camp, action-packed with activities that promote fun, fitness, friendship, and creativity. This year, campers will RE-discover the Spirit of Summer with a different theme each week, while incorporating sports, creative arts, STEM, movement, specialty programs by camp, swimming and water play, and 50 years of memorable Kidcam traditions! Locations throughout greater New Orleans and Northshore.
MOVE! New Orleans’ Best Summer Camp 4716 Paris Ave., New Orleans neworleansbestsummercamp.com (504) 376-7009
MOVE! is the new name of our great summer camp program that’s a full day of activities for kids entering kindergarten through 6th. We offer classes in martial arts, parkour, dance, tumbling, and kickboxing as well as lots of sports, games, crafts, “Brain Games”, and our new “Kid Cave.” Free early drop-off and late pick-up included!
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“
Jayden’s Journey:
Angelman Syndrome and the Fight for a Well-Deserved Life By Sarah Batrous 18
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Williams family were never alone in their “Thefight to give Jayden the life he deserves. Enveloped in the love of their family, friends, and the community, they have enriched their lives and moved towards brighter days.
”
Amanda and Jared Williams were excited to welcome their firstborn, Jayden, on November 11, 2010. Weighing six pounds and three ounces, he seemed perfectly healthy. When he turned one month old, he was diagnosed with failure to thrive. He was unable to get back up to his birth weight even when more calories were added to his diet by mixing formula with breast milk. He was hospitalized overnight and continued to be less than 5 percent on his charts through infancy. Despite all his parents’ efforts, it seemed that Jayden had an uphill battle to fight. Amanda knew something wasn’t right, and she was more than willing to advocate for him and his health at every appointment. “He was not meeting any milestones as a baby. He didn’t roll over, crawl, sit up, babble, hold his own bottles, or so on. I brought my concerns up to the pediatrician multiple times and she just kept saying it was a global developmental delay. She did set us with Early Steps around 10 months old. There, the wonderful physical therapist and I were talking, and she suggested I get a second opinion,” says Williams. Frustrated with her original pediatrician’s lack of answers and concern, she sought out a second opinion from Dr. LeBlanc. His suggestion was to visit a neurologist and a geneticist, believing Jayden to either have Fragile X Syndrome, a genetic condition helmed by intellectual and cognitive impairment, or Angelman Syndrome, an answer to why Jayden was developmentally delayed. After genetic testing began, the family was on their way to get an MRI at Ochsner Medical Center when an unexpected call from the geneticist derailed the trip. “He said that my son has Angelman Syndrome, or Prader-Willi Syndrome. I had my husband pull over in the first parking lot we could find. I was sobbing, and the geneticist asked if he could call me back at a better time when I could pull myself together. I stopped sobbing and listened to what he was saying. He mentioned a deletion on his 15th chromosome and told me he was severely mentally delayed, and no amount of therapy would help. It was the worst moment of my life, and I will never forget the way I felt. I didn’t know what to expect or if my child would live or die. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone,” shares Williams. With additional testing, it was confirmed that Jayden had Angelman Syndrome (AS), a neurogenetic disorder that affects the nervous system causing significant developmental delay, speech impairment, and troubles with balance. People with this disorder are often smiling and giggling, possessing excitable personalities. Epilepsy and seizures are also common with this disorder, and Jayden’s experience was no exception, having suffered seizures since he was 15 months old, in addition to being diagnosed with Lennox Gastaut Syndrome, a type of epilepsy. With any diagnosis of a child, sadness and guilt is inevitable, and adjusting to life marred with these emotions was anything but easy. The Williams family found that they had to grieve the child they thought they would have and the life they envisioned Jayden would lead. It was a huge adjustment with so many emotions and feelings. Amanda herself suffered with an insurmountable guilt when she discovered that the type of gene deletion Jayden had was from a maternal deletion. When looking back, Amanda is thankful she and Jared didn’t get Jayden’s diagnosis until he was almost one. The couple were able to
love their child as he is and mostly enjoy his first year of life without worrying over the future. The Williams family were never alone in their fight to give Jayden the life he deserves. Enveloped in the love of their family, friends, and the community, they have enriched their lives and moved towards brighter days. To combat the effects of Angelman Syndrome, Jayden has been in therapy since he was 10 months old. He did speech, occupational, physical, and vision therapies through Early Steps until the age of three. He has also done outpatient therapies at the Children’s Hospital in New Orleans. He is currently receiving physical and occupational therapies at Innovative Suit Therapy and speech therapy through Parker Speech & Language. Today, Jayden is 11 years old and is joined by two brothers, 5-year-old Reid, and 23-month-old Parker. Now residing in Ponchatoula, Amanda works as a hairstylist, and her husband is a prime tech for AT&T. Their days are filled with entertaining the boys and playing with their two well-loved furry friends, a dachshund and a standard goldendoodle. Each day brings something new, especially for Jayden. His mother describes him as a loving and spirited child. He is able to walk short distances without assistance and is excelling in all of his therapies. Every day he works hard to improve and does it all with a smile on his face. Jayden is never lacking in things to do. He enjoys swimming, music, playing outside, jumping on his trampoline, swinging, and going places. He is very friendly and very much a people person, as even simply being around people makes him excited. Long-distance travel is also not out of the question. In addition to their day trips to parks, a recent vacation to Disney World and Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida brought a smile to each of the boys’ faces and a host of awesome, unforgettable memories for the whole family. “Jayden loves going on vacation. His favorite rides were Soarin’ Around the World in Epcot, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run in Hollywood Studios, Peter Pan’s Flight in Magic Kingdom, and E.T. Adventure at Universal Studios,” says Williams. Surrounded by the love and support of his community, Jayden’s opportunities are endless. He just received his first communication device through Tobii Dynavox, a software development company that specializes in speech generating devices. His family is so excited for him to finally have a voice and to be able to communicate his exact needs to them. Additionally, his wonderful community of supporters helped raise funds for Jayden’s therapy, and most recently, he received his very own adaptive bike, thanks to Riley’s Bikes, a nonprofit organization in Slidell that seeks to help kids like Jayden cruise the streets with bicycles built to meet their unique mobility needs. Nothing is more important than that sense of community, and to foster it and better document Jayden’s life, Amanda started an online blog and a Facebook page called Hope for Jayden where she would update family and friends on the ins and outs of the family’s budding new life. While her life is a little too busy for frequent updates, she recommends supporting organizations and foundations she is a member of like The Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics and The Angelman Syndrome Foundation that post information about the syndrome and put donations towards supporting families and finding a cure for Angelman Syndrome. With recent discoveries and advancements in technology that will help develop a cure, more permanent relief may be available for children like Jayden. Jayden and his family have overcome every obstacle that has stood in their way. From a baby who was struggling to maintain weight and thrive to a young boy who lives each day and eats up every new, exciting experience with gusto, Jayden has come a long way. NOLAFAMILY.COM | APRIL 2022
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Spring Cleaning for Good
By Sarah Batrous The second most wonderful time of the year: spring cleaning. Round up a pile of trash bags, sort through your closets, and maybe take a look in the attic to see what you kept but don’t really need. What do you do with all this gently-used stuff? The least sustainable option is to throw it out on garbage day. Instead, help out others and the environment by donating instead. Donating Clothes Everyone has their own way to sort through old clothes. Dig into the back of the dresser for those old bottom-of-the-drawer shirts you haven’t worn lately, then comb your way through hanger after hanger of unworn dresses and jackets in the closet. Now that everything’s sorted and you’ve said your goodbyes to old favorites, where do you take these clothes? Local thrift stores and nonprofits like Goodwill and The Salvation Army are great places to start, but you have plenty of other options. Dress for Success New Orleans is a nonprofit organization and an excellent choice for getting rid of professional attire, work-appropriate jewelry, and shoes. They hold donation days multiple times each month. Grace at the Green Light is a social services organization that focuses on housing, feeding, and clothing the homeless population of New Orleans. They run Grace’s Clothing Closet which provides people in need with clothing and hygienic supplies. Donating Furniture Everyone has that forsaken end table from your first apartment shoved in a corner, or worse yet, in the attic. Before it gets too hot, go through your attic or garage inventory for all those pieces of project furniture you never got around to fixing up. Luckily, plenty of organizations and charities accept furniture. Habitat for Humanity ReStores are reuse stores where all “sales of donated items help Habitat for Humanity partner with local families to build, rehabilitate and repair safe and affordable homes in your community and around the world.” Bridge House and Grace House run thrift stores that also accept donations like clothing, kitchen items, decorative and household miscellaneous items, and gently-used
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furniture. Pickup can be arranged on their website for a convenient way to donate. Donating Toys We’re all guilty of shoving the kids’ extra Christmas and birthday presents from relatives and friends at the top of the closet. It’s a smart idea to introduce new toys later to avoid overstimulation, however, consider donating unopened toys to children in need. One excellent donation option is the Children’s Hospital New Orleans that accepts new toys, craft supplies, games, and electronics. For the toys your kids enjoyed but don’t play with anymore, they can still have a spot in another child’s heart. Gather them up and donate them to Toys for Tots, who provide donation drop-off boxes at businesses across the city. However, they typically run from November to December. Baby Items Cribs, strollers, highchairs, carseats and so on take up a lot of space. If you’re ready to get rid of them, it may be tricky to find places to donate these items to. One of the incredibly few places that accept these items is Vietnam Veterans of America, a nonprofit corporation that was founded to support Vietnam War veterans, but supports all veterans in need today. Pickup can be arranged on their website. What About Pickup? What if you don’t have the time or the means to drop off your donations yourself? There are several companies that will handle pickup for you, including many of the businesses, charities, nonprofits, and organizations listed above. Through the ease of the Internet, consider donating through Pickup Please, an online service working in partnership with Vietnam Veterans of America that will schedule free pickup of your donations from the driveway. They accept all sorts of items from clothes to toys to electronics, and each item goes to an in-need veteran and their family. Overall, the world is your oyster when it comes to donating. Although the “season of giving” is over, that doesn’t mean we can’t help ourselves and others out by donating our clutter.
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spotlight
New Orleans Ballet Association By Emily Drez Since 1992 the New Orleans Ballet Association (NOBA) has been dedicated to expanding the art of dance beyond the community it serves to the world stage. NOBA has continuously responded to the city’s increasing need for a meaningful dance outlet in its underserved areas, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, over 36,000 people have attended NOBA’s in-person and online dance programs since March 2020. Today, the New Orleans Ballet Association offers more than 100 tuition-free classes and activities every week, and it has proven itself to be a unique organization that demonstrates choreography as a true art. “We started in 1969 as a totally different organization until we became the unique model we are today–a dance program with free training that produces and performs work professionally and recreationally,” says executive director Jenny Hamilton. NOBA offers all-day summer camps, pre-professional youth programs, and wellness programs along with productions of their mainstage series, and it has trained 2,000 students ages four and up in the 2021-2022 season. Hamilton notes that their youth programs are particularly huge. Not only are they huge, but the classes are also free. In fact, 2022 marks the thirtieth year NOBA has offered completely tuition-free dance classes in partnership with the New Orleans Recreation Development Commission, which is a major factor in their programs’ success. Children as young as four years old can enroll and receive free training in ballet, modern jazz, and hip hop up to the age of 18. Students ages 8-18 can also audition for the pre-professional program, which involves 30 hours of intensive
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training per week and the Master Artist Series that allows the dancers to learn from an amazing faculty of world-renowned dancers. Young dancers can audition for the summer intensive programs, too, in which they will learn from amazing artists from the American Ballet Theater. “Outside of our programs, we ensure dancers have the skills they need to perform professionally or successfully audition for college programs,” Hamilton says. However, the lessons are not limited to children and young adults. Anybody ages 14 and up can register for drop-in classes on ballet techniques, and adults can join open community classes too–all completely free of charge. The New Orleans Ballet Association also offers two healing arts programs: the Senior Dance Fitness program and the Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Dance for Parkinson’s Program. The Parkinson’s Program has virtual and online classes that promote creative movement in those with Parkinson’s Disease, even those who struggle with mobility. So, no matter your age or skill level, NOBA has a program for all types of dancers and their abilities, and it won’t cost a dime. NOBA also has stunning mainstage performances every season that dancers and non-dancers alike will not want to miss. You can check out one of their mainstage performances–Don Quixote– on May 14th and 15th at the Mahalia Jackson Theater. Other performances later this year include The Nutcracker Suite and the Spring and Summer Concerts. Tickets are available at nobadance.com.
ADVERTORIAL
NOLAFAMILY.COM | APRIL 2022
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5
mom about town
THINGS
I’M LOVING RIGHT NOW
ERIN OLWELL
Erin Olwell is a single mom to two incredible boys–Ryan, 16, and Reed, 10. She has been a hairdresser for over 20 years, and when she was pregnant with her first son, she set up an in-home salon. Erin believes that God created this pathway for her because her son was born with autism, and this opportunity provided her with the flexibility she needed to attend his therapies. Being a single mom is hard work, and having two boys who are living with very different special needs has created even more obstacles. However, Erin maintains a positive attitude, continuously advocates for her sons, and enjoys celebrating their wins each day.
ADVOCACY
OUTING
The biggest accomplishment was working with an ABA therapist to get Ryan to sit through a meal. So, our outings revolve around eating out because we have finally mastered sitting through a meal without taking off when he is finished. Our go to place is Walk-Ons in Metairie because there is action going on and we fit right in.
Most days, I feel as though I’ve missed my calling because what brings me the most amount of joy, aside from making people feel pretty, is advocating for my children and the children of friends that are seeking advice and direction for their children with special needs.
FAMILY & FRIEND VISITS When we are not out to eat, we are enjoying our time with friends and family. Ryan loves to visit and take rides in the car, hoping to make it to Mimi’s house. He loves his Mimi.
TRAVEL WORK
I get to hear different peoples’ stories and learn and grow with each and every one of them. I have connected different people with resources they need for their own children with special needs, especially those that are part of my clientele in the healthcare industry. 24
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My son, Reed, has Tourettes, ADHD, an academic learning delay, and is hearing impaired. I am blessed to have been able to take him on vacations while Ryan stays with his Dad. It makes me sad that I am not able to travel with both of my boys, but Ryan is a homebody. Removing him from his familiar day-to-day routine can be very difficult, and in the end, he just wants to go home. Reed and I have gone to Disneyland, Margaritaville, and the beach. We have a trip planned to Disney this March and I cannot wait. It makes my heart happy to spend one-on-one time with him.
Hop into Easter 1
gear to get
2 1 Bunny Vase
This bunny vase will be your flowers’ new best friend. Fill ears with fresh florals for a whimsical centerpiece. $35, mamannyc.com
2 3
The Flying Carrot Bath Bomb
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Soar to new heights with this fruity high-flyer that will leave you feeling refreshed. $9.95, lushusa.com
3 Paddie Rider Bunny
This ride-on rabbit is a sturdy wooden trike with a comfy seat. $94.95, edresources.com
4 Easter Pop-It Fidget Toy
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This rabbit and carrot fidget set is perfect for celebrating Easter and for keeping little hands occupied. $7.99, amazon.com
5 Spring Magnolia Flower Eucalyptus Wreath
This magnolia floral wreath is handmade of eco-friendly plastic, which prevents fading for years. $39.99, amazon.com
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April 1 Friday 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. nps.gov
DARIUS RUCKER
Saenger Theatre at 8 p.m. Darius Rucker Live takes off in early 2022, visiting iconic venues across the country for intimate theater performances. saengernola.com
FIRST FRIDAY AT NOMA: QUEENS AND GODDESSES
New Orleans Museum of Art at 6 p.m. The museum is open late night for an evening packed with musical performances, gallery tours, special pop-ups, and a full bar. noma.org
HOGS FOR THE CAUSE FESTIVAL
The University Of New Orleans through April 2. Two-day music festival and barbecue competition. Combines over 20 bands and over 90 competing barbecue teams, allowing the organization to help thousands of families through direct grants and funding programming at children’s hospitals across the United States. arena.uno.edu
INFANT FEEDING SUPPORT
Online at 9:30 a.m. Provides free infant feeding assessments and education by Infant Feeding Counselors, for pregnant and parenting families. nolabreastfeedingcenter.org
MID-CITY JEWELRY & ART MARKET
Studio 414 at 6 p.m. every Friday. Visitors get to experience their exclusive, free Augmented Reality Interactive Art Trail where art comes to life. facebook.com/studio414nola
PARENTS DAY OUT
East Jefferson YMCA at 8 a.m. 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. ymcanewolreans.com
REESE’S FINAL FOUR FRIDAY
Caesars Superdome at 11 a.m. Reese’s Final Four Friday is loads of fun for the entire family, and admission is free. caesarssuperdome.com
SWEETARTS 2022
Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans at 6 p.m. CAC SweetArts Gala returns with Through the Astral Plane, a multi-sensory journey that bends time and imagines the future through fashion, music, and artistic experimentation while honoring artistic leaders in our community. cacno.org
TASTE OF LOUISIANA: HANDS-ON CREOLE CLASS AND LUNCH
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 discussing their cultural and historical origins. southernfood.org
WETLANDS ACADIAN CULTURAL CENTER BOAT TOUR
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
2 Saturday ACADIAN CULTURAL CENTER FRONT PORCH MUSIC SERIES
Acadian Cultural Center at noon. Performances by local musicians. Free outdoor kids’ activities for the whole family will be available. nps.gov
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. Every Saturday. mixitupartstudio.com
FRENCH QUARTER ARCHITECTURE & HISTORY TOUR WITH LICENSED GUIDE
New Orleans Spring Fiesta at 9 a.m. Take a guided walking tour through the historic Vieux Carre’ led by a licensed tour guide. springfiestanola.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
HYPNOBIRTHING CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION CLASS SERIES 2
Touro’s Coliseum Room at 9:30 a.m., and April 9 and April 16. Moms and their birth companions will learn how their mind and body can harmoniously communicate for a calmer, more confident and more comfortable birth. touro.com
KIDS CLASS: FANCY MAC AND CHEESE
Southern Food & Beverage Museum at 10 a.m. In this class, they will make the creamy cheese sauce from scratch, as well sautéing some tasty toppings to create a wild mac and cheese bar. southernfood.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. Bring an acoustic instrument and join in, or just enjoy. nps.gov
out & about LOVE, HUG AND GROOM
Camp Marydale at 1 p.m. In this session, you will have the opportunity to interact with the Camp Marydale Wranglers. Try your hand at grooming, take a barn tour, play horse games, and finish with a pony ride. gsle.org
NCAA MEN’S FINAL FOUR
Caesars Superdome at 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. New Orleans and Louisiana will proudly host the NCAA Men’s Final Four, one of the country’s largest sporting events, for the sixth time. caesarssuperdome.com
SPRING GARDEN SHOW
Botanical Garden at 9 a.m. through April 3. Visitors get to explore the beautiful Botanical Garden, more than 50 horticultural exhibits, and familyfriendly activities, and enjoy educational lectures. neworleanscitypark.com
SUPER SATURDAY
Pan American Stadium at 9 a.m. Individuals, friends, families, service groups, and college organizations come together on a day of service to contribute to the revitalization of City Park. neworleanscitypark.com
WETLANDS ACADIAN CULTURAL CENTER: MUSIC ON THE BAYOU
Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center every Saturday at 2 p.m. Discover the wide range of south Louisiana’s music: zydeco, gospel, blues, jazz, and Cajun. Free outdoor kids’ activities for the whole family will be offered. nps.gov
“WHAT IF” SPECULATIVE FICTION SHORT STORY CLUB
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. nolalibrary.org
3 Sunday ANTOINE’S LUNCHEON AND COURTYARD & HOME TOUR
New Orleans Spring Fiesta at 11 a.m. The history of the Vieux Carre comes alive when you walk through the homes and courtyards of the French Quarter. springfiestanola.com
HBCU ALL-STAR BASKETBALL GAME
UNO Lakefront Arena at 3 p.m. Representing the legendary coaches Team John McClendon and Team Clarence “Big House” Gaines along with Tennessee State, Hampton, and North Carolina A&T State Universities. arena.uno.edu
4 Monday BEGINNER COOKING CLASS
Culinary Kids at 5:30 p.m. Local chefs and cooking NOLAFAMILY.COM | APRIL 2022
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instructors take older kids through a detailed course of beginner culinary skills. Ages 7-10. culinarykidsns.com
Longue Vue through April 9. Naturalist Edwina von Gal and design icon Cathy Kincaid headline the event. longuevue.com
around you, and any person in the audience can end up being a part of the show, even you. visitjeffersonparish.com
FIND YOUR ZEN WITH TIPS FROM DR. DAN SIEGEL
FROM THE NEW WORLD
ART IN CITY PARK
GIRL TALK
ARTS MARKET PRESENTED BY ARTS COUNCIL OF NEW ORLEANS
Webinar with Nola Family Magazine at 3 p.m. Learn everyday exercises that will help you regain inner balance and reduce fear, anxiety, and stress. eventbrite.com
5 Tuesday ANASTASIA
Saenger Theatre through April 10. This dazzling show transports us from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. saengernola.com
CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION SERIES 3
Touro Family Birthing Center at 6 p.m. today and April 12, April 19, and April 26. The classes address the stages of labor, recognizing early labor signs, pain management, medical interventions, cesarean birth, post partum, and newborn care. touro.com
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. nps.gov
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
6 Wednesday 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
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
TWILIGHT AT LONGUE VUE: DA LOVEBIRDS Longue Vue at 5 p.m. 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
7 Thursday CULINARY KIDS SPECIAL NEEDS CLASS
Culinary Kids at 5:30 p.m. Students cook, assemble, and enjoy a different recipe at each class, and dietary restrictions can be accommodated. culinarykidsns.com
DESIGN SYMPOSIUM 2022 28
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The Orpheum Theater at 7:30 p.m. This Orpheum Session, conducted by Roger Kalia, features music by Montgomery, Milhaud, and Dvořák. lpomusic.com Touro Infirmary at noon. Gaining Insight into Real Living Talk is a support group for women who have been diagnosed with one of the gynecological cancers, are actively being treated, or have completed treatment. There will be a discussion about relevant topics concerning women dealing with cancer. touro.com
PIANO HOUR
New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park at 2 p.m. Leonardo Hernandez Mejia performs. nps.gov
TASTE OF LOUISIANA: HANDS-ON CAJUN CLASS AND LUNCH
City Park at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Spend the day creating a unique work of art, going on a scavenger hunt through the sculpture garden, and exploring the City Park Art Market. gsle.org
Goldring/Woldenberg Great Lawn at 10 a.m. Take a stroll and discover a variety of works from jewelry and ceramics to paintings and woodworks. artsneworleans.org
CALMING YOUR NEW BABY
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. Free, pre-registration required. Prenatal–4 months. touro.com
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. southernfood.org
EGG SCRAMBLE
TEEN TALK
ERIC CHURCH THE GATHER AGAIN TOUR
The Parenting Center at 6 p.m. A safe place for teens to have guided conversations with their peers about a specific topic that impacts them, and for parents to learn what they can do to support their teen. Free. Ages 12-15. chnola.org/parentingcenter
WYES SEASON OF GOOD TASTES: BROUSSARD’S
Broussard’s at 6:30 p.m. 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
8 Friday CINDERELLA
Jefferson Performing Arts Center through April 10. The new Broadway adaptation of the classic musical. jpas.org
JEFF DUNHAM
Smoothie King Center at 7 p.m. Jeff Dunham is bringing his delightfully irreverent cohorts. smoothiekingcenter.com
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. ymcaneworleans.org
9 Saturday AMERICA’S LARGEST INTERACTIVE MYSTERY DINNER SHOW
DoubleTree at 6 p.m. The action happens all
Carousel Gardens Amusement Park at 9 a.m. through April 10. Kids eight years and under will hunt for 36,000 eggs and enjoy a visit from the Easter Bunny. neworleanscitypark.com
The Smoothie King Center at 8 p.m. smoothiekingcenter.com
HISTORIC OPEN-HEARTH COOKING
Hermann-Grima House at 10 a.m. Watch and learn as docents use authentic recipes, tools, and methods of cooking on the open flame in the hearth, potager, and beehive oven. hgghh.org
MUSICAL STORYTIME: I KNOW A SHY FELLOW WHO SWALLOWED A CELLO
Popp Bandstand in City Park at 10:30 a.m. In this take on a classic children’s song, kids will laugh out loud and learn all about musical instruments with this story that’s a melodious mix of fun and frivolity. lpomusic.com
NOMA EGG HUNT AND FAMILY FESTIVAL
Besthoff Sculpture Garden at 10 a.m.Features arts & crafts, games, face painting, a petting zoo, food, drinks, sweets, and music. noma.org
PERFECT EARTH PROJECT COMMUNITY ROUNDTABLE
Longue Vue House and Gardens at 10 a.m. Members of the Longue Vue Board, staff, and New Orleans community will join in an informal discussion with Edwina von Gal to focus on how Perfect Earth Project principles can be incorporated into residential and public applications. This event is free and open to the public. longuevue.com
TAI CHI IN THE SCULPTURE GARDEN
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. noma.org
SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS & SENSORY FRIENDLY DRUM CIRCLE
New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park at noon. Featuring Baba Luther, Mama Jamilah, and Love’s Music Therapy. nps.gov
SPRING FEST
Longue Vue House and Gardens at 1 p.m. Flower-focused crafts and games, live musical entertainment, and a special appearance by the Easter Bunny make this a can’t-miss family event. longuevue.com
YOGA IN THE SCULPTURE GARDEN
Sculpture Garden at 8 a.m. NOMA, in partnership with the East Jefferson Wellness Center, presents yoga classes every Saturday morning. noma.org
10 Sunday KIDS CLASS: BROWNIES AND ICE CREAM
Southern Food & Beverage Museum at 10 a.m. In this class, they will be working as a group, but then each kid will get to mix in fun flavors into their personal brownie batter, like butterscotch chips or peanut butter. They will also have the ice cream attachment out to swirl up some ice cream to top their brownies. southernfood.org
THE MEDITERRANEAN CAMPAIGN
The National WWII Museum from April 10-21. Enjoy a cruise of the picturesque Mediterranean region to learn more about its importance in World War II. nationalww2museum.org
11 Monday BABY FOOD MAKING CLASS
Online at 6 p.m. Join Touro Nutritionist Julie Fortenberry and Guest Speaker Erin Reho Pelias for an interactive baby food making class. Introducing solid foods is a fun milestone during your baby’s first year of life. touro.com
CANCER SURVIVOR SUPPORT GROUP
Touro at noon. If you are nearing the end of your cancer treatment, recently completed treatment, or finished treatment some time ago, consider attending the cancer survivor support group at Touro. It’s an opportunity for you to receive the information, encouragement, and support you need to learn to live beyond cancer. touro.com
13 Wednesday FOCUS ON CHILDREN CO-PARENTING CLASS Children’s Hospital Conference Center at 6 p.m. Parents can limit the impact of separation and divorce on children. Fee $25. chnola.org/ parentingcenter
HEALTHY MOM, HEALTHY BABY CLASS
Online at 6 p.m. Join Touro dietitian Julie Fortenberry for an informative class on nutrition and wellness for expectant and new mothers. touro.com
TODDLER TOPICS
Online at 8 p.m. Understanding development, responding to challenging behavior, play ideas, toileting, sleeping, and eating. Three sessions. Fee $15. Ages 1-2. chnola.org/parentingcenter
MUSIC AT THE MUSEUM: BLOCK PARTY
Marigny Opera House at 6 p.m. The Music at the Museum series is a pay-what-you-can model and tickets can be purchased online. lpomusic.com
14 Thursday ADVENTURE QUESTS LASER TAG ELMWOOD SWIM TEAM FUNDRAISER
Adventure Quests Laser Tag at 4 p.m. Support Elmwood Swim Team at Adventure Quest Laser Tag. Receive unlimited laser tag, bumper cars, and cosmic golf for only $20 per player. visitjeffersonparish.com
DOCENT-LED DROP-IN TOUR
Ogden Museum at 12:30 p.m. Join for a Docent-led tour of Ogden Museum, home to the largest and most comprehensive collection of art from the Southern region of the United States. ogdenmuseum.org
THE WEDDING COLLECTIVE
Le Pavillon Hotel at 5:30 p.m. Make plans for your wedding, eat, drink, and get to know the premier wedding pros. eventbrite.com
15 Friday
GOOD FRIDAY 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. nationalww2museum.org
16 Saturday BUNNY HOPS
Carousel Gardens Amusement Park + Storyland at 7:30 p.m. Join them Easter weekend for an adults-only egg hunt complete with food, music, and unlimited Amusement Park rides. neworleanscitypark.com
RUN, WALK, GIVE
Crescent City Classic. Each year, the Crescent City Fitness Foundation selects local charities to support and partner with for the 10k race. The goal of the “Run For It” Program is to raise $1 million annually and serve the Greater New Orleans area needs. jlno.org
17 Sunday EASTER
19 Tuesday DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP
Touro’s Diabetes Center at 10 a.m. Monthly diabetes support group meeting. Meetings are
held every third Tuesday of each month. touro.com
FREE CAR SEAT FITTING
Parenting Center at 9 a.m. Join The Parenting Center at their Car Seat Fitting Station where they will provide nationally-certified technicians to have your child’s car seat installed correctly, free of charge. chnola.org/parentingcenter
GROWING UP FOR GIRLS
Practical information about female anatomy, 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
INDEPENDENT LIVING SKILLS
The Parenting Center at 6 p.m. Parents and teens come and learn practical skills that teens need to be independent, while parents learn strategies to support the learning and practice of those skills. Free, one session. Ages 11-15. chnola.org/ parentingcenter
SKIP THE GUILT: YOU CAN WORK, PARENT, AND BE HAPPY Webinar with Nola Family Magazine at 3 p.m. Talk with Dr. Whitney Casares, aka Modern Mommy Doc. Learn how to shift focus to your own health and well-being, establish an equal parenting partnership, and delegate appropriately. eventbrite.com
20 Wednesday DANCE FOR SOCIAL CHANGE FESTIVAL 2022 Black Box Theater through April 23. Times vary. Dancing Grounds’ 2022 program is a follow up to last year’s festival and film. cacno.org
GAME NIGHT ON TWITCH
Online at 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
GRANDPARENTING 101
Online at 6 p.m. Learn how to best support your children as new parents and feel refreshed in newborn care skills that you will quickly put to use as doting grandparents. Free class, pre-registration required. touro.com
TWILIGHT AT LONGUE VUE: ELECTRIC YAT STRING QUARTET
Longue Vue at 5 p.m. 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
21 Thursday EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION WITH CHILDREN AND TEENS
The Parenting Center at 6 p.m. Consider your child’s development and your parenting style to develop communication strategies that encourage NOLAFAMILY.COM | APRIL 2022
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cooperation, avoid power struggles, and focus on strengths. Free, one session. Ages 4-18. chnola.org/ parentingcenter
FRENCH QUARTER FESTIVAL 2022
French Quarter Festival through April 24. Kids 12 and under are free with a paid adult. eventbrite.com
HEROES, DREAMERS AND TRAILBLAZERS: JAMES BALDWIN
The Orpheum Theater at 7:30 p.m. The LPO performs works by Joel Thompson inspired by James Baldwin’s /Notes of a Native Son/, a collection of essays tackling issues of race in America and Europe. lpomusic com
INFANT AND CHILD CPR
April 24. nps.gov
GABRIEL IGLESIAS
Smoothie King Center at 8 p.m. Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias is back on tour. smoothiekingcenter.com
6 p.m. This exciting program features music by Simon, Leon, Revueltas, and more conducted by Carlos Miguel Prieto and featuring Joel Dyson, voice & Courtney Bryan, piano. lpomusic.com
29 Friday
GARDEN THERAPY SERIES: NATURAL GARDENING WORKSHOP/ EARTH DAY
KIDS NIGHT OUT
HISTORIC OPEN-HEARTH COOKING
NEW ORLEANS JAZZ AND HERITAGE FESTIVAL
Longue Vue at 1 p.m. Lecture and garden tour led by Director of Gardens Amy Graham. longuevue.com Hermann-Grima House at 10 a.m. Watch and learn as docents use authentic recipes, tools, and methods of cooking on the open flame in the hearth, potager, and beehive oven. hgghh.org
Belle Chasse YMCA at 6 p.m. The YMCA will keep your little ones busy with themed games, sports, arts & crafts, and movies. ymcaneworleans.org
1001 S Peters Street at 10 a.m. The Festival features a variety of local food and craft vendors. There are more than 70 food booths that include local dishes. eventbrite.com
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
KIDS MASTERCLASS: POTATO AND FARMER’S CHEESE PIEROGI
ITALY: 1944
NORTHSHORE CLASSICS: SHOSTAKOVICH 9 Saint Paul’s School at 7:30 p.m. Nicholas Hersh conducts. lpomusic.com
St Matthew The Apostle School at 3 p.m. $30 at the Gate for Adults, $10 for children 6-12, and free for Children 5 and under. facebook.com
PRENATAL BREASTFEEDING CLASS
STUDIO KIDS!: TRASH TO TIME TRAVEL
SENSORY-FRIENDLY MORNING
TOUCH A TRUCK
Saenger Theatre at 8 p.m. Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue’s Treme Threauxdown 6. saengernola.com
The National WWII Museum from April 21-27. nationalww2museum.org Touro’s Presidents Room at 6 p.m. Touro’s Prenatal Breastfeeding Class is designed to teach mothers the basics of breastfeeding. Designed for moms who already know they want to breastfeed and for moms who want to know more about breastfeeding. touro.com
RAIN: A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES
Saenger Theatre at 8 p.m. Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles brings the best of Abbey Road. saengernola.com
WHO DUN IT? MYSTERY BOOK CLUB
Online at 4 p.m. Solve crimes together and discover “Who Dun It” on Zoom. nolalibrary.org
22 Friday EARTH DAY OF SERVICE
New Orleans City Park at 8 a.m. Support New Orleans City Park by lending a hand to improve our green spaces. neworleanscitypark.com
KIDS NIGHT OUT
West St. Tammany at 5:45 p.m. The YMCA will keep your little ones busy with themed games, sports, arts & crafts, and movies. ymcaneworleans.org
23 Saturday 17TH ANNUAL CRAWFISH COOK-OFF
Fritchie Park at 11 a.m. Crawfish are boiled by over 50 teams competing for the title of “Best Crawfish in St Tammany Parish.” eventbrite.com
ADULT DINNER NIGHT
Culinary Kids at 6 p.m. Enjoy dinner and walk through a detailed course of culinary skills and techniques. culinarykidsns.com
FRENCH QUARTER FEST-CHILDREN’S STAGE
New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park through
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APRIL 2022 | NOLAFAMILY.COM
Southern Food & Beverage Museum at 10 a.m. southernfood.org
New Orleans Arts Museum at 10:30 a.m. Take a look at artworks in the galleries, and practice your own art-making skills with a NOMA teaching artist. noma.org
Pontchartrain Center at 10 a.m. A unique experience that gives children and their families an up-close look at their favorite “big trucks.” jlno.org
24 Sunday BETH HART
Orpheum Theater at 6:30 p.m. Beth Hart performs live at the The Thankful Tour. orpheumnola.com
DISNEY ON ICE: LET’S CELEBRATE
UNO Lakefront Arena at 10:30 a.m. Tickets start at $79. arena.uno.edu
26 Tuesday GROWING UP FOR BOYS
Children’s Hospital Conference Center at 6:30 p.m. Practical information for boys and their fathers. $20 per child. chnola.org/parentingcenter
SWING IN THE OAKS: CITY PARK
The Peristyle at New Orleans City Park at 7 p.m. This event is free and open to the public. lpomusic.com
28 Thursday AUTHOR DEBORAH HOPKINSON
Online at noon. Deborah shares remarkable stories she discovered in her research. nationalww2museum.org
MUSIC AT THE MUSEUM: PORTRAIT OF A QUEEN
Ashé Cultural Arts Center Power House Theater at
30 Saturday 14TH ANNUAL ST. MATTHEW MEN’S CLUB CRAWFISH COOK-OFF
The National WWII Museum at 8 a.m. nationalww2museum.org
TROMBONE SHORTY AND ORLEANS AVENUE
