Nola Family December 2018 by nola family magazine & nola boomers magazine

nola family Parent Fearlessly

DECEMBER 2018

Our Winter Camp Guide P. 12

The Best New Year’s Resolutions FOR EVERY MEMBER OF THE FAMILY P. 16

A Cajun Tradition

CHRISTMAS EVE BONFIRES! GUIDING PAPA NÖEL P. 22

IF YOUR KID HAS A PHONE, CONSIDER A DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP CONTRACT P. 25

Great Stuff Around Nola OUR HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE HAS IT! P. 30

CELEBRATING OUR TRICENTENNIAL WITH SISTER FRANCIS XAVIER HEBERT P.10

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

nola family CONTENTS DECEMBER 2018

p. 43 p. 27

p. 22

A FEW WORDS 8 pub notes deadline focus, or lack thereof.

FEATURES 10 tricentennial

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

sister francis xavier, new orleans’ first female pharmacist.

16 resolutions starting the new year off on a positive note.

22 bonfires the history of the cajun christmas tradition.

25 digital contract designing your family digital citizenship contract.

27 book reviews scott campbell with river road press shares his picks.

p. 30

30 holiday gift guide the best gifts for your little ones this holiday season.

39 geaux girls contribution heavyset.

IN EACH ISSUE 28 ‘tis the season our pull-out calendar guide to winter fun.

43 spotlight

EDUCATION & GUIDANCE 12 holiday camps your complete resource to your child’s school break.

18 learning years

826 new orleans amplifies youth voices through creative writing.

44 mom about town suzanne perron st. paul designs for mardi gras royalty.

47 out and about where, when and what to do.

when your child’s childcare provider departs.

20 wiggle room w sitting. 26 parenting corner family connections for a holiday to remember.

46 in the know where to go to seek support.

ON THE COVER Cecilia McLellan, 12 years old, is a seventh grade student at Ursuline Academy. Her namesake, her great-grandmother, is an Ursuline graduate from 1939. Photo by Twirl Photography.

Contr ibutors Pat Blackwell, Ph.D. is a licensed developmental psychologist who writes our award-winning “Learning Years” column. Scott Campbell is publisher and founder of River Road Press, a local boutique publisher of local and regional authors.

Kimberly Bradley is a licensed pediatric occupational therapist who writes our column, “Wiggle Room.”

Jenni Evans is a parent educator at the Parenting Center at Children’s Hospital who writes our award-winning “Parenting Corner” column.

Sarah Herndon is a freelance writer, mom, and frequent contributor to Nola Family.

Mary Murphy is a seventeen-year-old senior at NOCCA, contributing through Geaux Girls! Magazine.

Erin Cohn and Chapelle Johnson are our amazing edit interns at nola family magazine.

nola family publisher/editor ann bower herren ann@nolafamily.com office manager jenny ziglin jenny@nolafamily.com advertising sales angela guillot angela@nolafamily.com durban zaunbrecher durban@nolababy.com designer cat landrum 2nd story creative copy editor emily berger edit intern erin cohn chapelle johnson ad production sara youngblood contributing photography twirl photography info@nolafamily.com or 504.866.0555 The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and/or contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher, editor or advertisers.

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

For reprint information, contact ann@nolafamily.com

Business office: 8131 Oak St., Ste. 100, New Orleans, La., 70118 504.866.0555

A publication of

december 2018 volume 12, issue 9

From the Publisher

“

When monster deadlines loom, the weak shut down. They simply can't handle the pressure. But not me. I’m hard-wired to make it happen. The minute my deadlines breathe down my neck, I jump into action and become nothing short of ‘Super-Busy’. Unfortunately, it’s not my actual deadline work that suddenly occupies my every moment. That would be ludicrous. No, I pour myself a giant cup of procrastination and do everything but what I should.

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

I bet you’re wondering what can suddenly be so urgent that all else falls to the wayside. It’s sweet you ask, but it’s not an easy answer because honestly, this other very important stuff didn’t even exist until the moment I realized I was cornered.

Today for instance, a full day behind my deadline for these pub notes, I bought a second-hand chair for $10 at that thrift store across from Helm Paint with the logo that looks like George Jetson’s wife. I retreaded the seat, sanded and painted (see pic of me, today, at work, still not actually working). This is my second ‘chair reboot’ at deadline, in fact. I glammed one a couple months ago with moss. That was to avoid writing something that I didn’t want to research, I think. I built a trumeau mirror from scratch once because taxes were looming. I’ve become so predictable that when John comes home to find me suddenly repainting the stairs and rearranging our tools after powerwashing the back of the house, he knows that I’m on deadline. The best way to get anything done that’s not what actually needs to be done is to present me with a deadline that I’ve had plenty of opportunity to meet. The thing is, I’ll still make it. So I keep up with this crazy pattern. I just rachet up the stress level for myself and everyone around me. I’m at my best when I have 50 things to do, not one. So please excuse me while I design a 17th century costume for my Merry Antoinettes Mardi Gras krewe before I put the magazine to bed. Happy Holidays, I’ll be Amazon Priming at 3 am on December 23rd. You can bet on it.

Ann Herren

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

nola family

celebrates the NEW O RLEANS L TRIC ENTENNIA

SISTER ST. FRANCIS XAVIER HEBERT, OSU C.1697- MAY 8, 1762

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

In 1732 at the age of 35, Sister Francis Xavier Hebert (born Charlotte Hebert), armed with a desire to help people in need, left her home of Bayeux, France along with several other nuns to come to New Orleans, Louisiana. Their trip was influenced through their recent employment by the Company of Indies to staff a military hospital. The nuns agreed to work at the hospital with the condition they could open a school and orphanage for girls of diverse backgrounds. The company accepted and arranged for the nuns to live in the French Quarter until the Ursuline Convent was built in 1745. Now known as the Old Ursuline Convent, it’s located in the heart of the French Quarter and is considered the oldest building in the Mississippi Valley. Today it serves as a museum, welcoming visitors and school field trips. It is there, at the Ursuline Convent, that Sister St. Francis became the first female pharmacist in North America.

Once the Sisters arrived at the Royal Military Hospital, they noticed it was in poor condition and in desperate need of repairs. Dismayed with the hospital’s condition, they demanded a new facility in which to nurse their patients. Sister St. Francis continued to be productive and work diligently to help the sick and injured during the hospital’s construction. Due to the scarcity of medicine in the United States, she planted an herb garden on the grounds of the Convent which she used

to compound into medicines and special teas. The importance of her distillates and infusions cannot be overstated– they became the greater part of the medicine available for the sick of New Orleans, and these medicines were commonly used by both the community and eventually the hospital until the beginning of the Civil War in 1861. Once the renovations to the Royal Military Hospital were finished in 1742, the hospital was officially opened and the Sisters could finally start working there. In another historical first, Sister St. Francis was appointed Chief Administrator of the Hospital and the first female hospital director in the United States, a position she held for 30 years. Medicine in the 18th century was a crucial part of a patient’s treatment, making Sister St. Francis’ work all the more vital. Her talents were not only appreciated during her time, but also in modern medicine today. In 2003, the World Health Organization and the National Association of Catholic Charities recognized her accomplishments in pharmaceuticals and philanthropy. Many thanks to The Ursuline Convent Collection, Archives and Museum, New Orleans for the use of their grounds and historical artifacts. The mortar and pestle held by our cover model, 12-year-old Cecelia McLellan, a 7th grader at Ursuline, are the original ones used by Sister St. Francis.

Thanks to our sponsor

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

Thanksgiving Holiday Camps Holiday Camps WE GOT YOUR BACK, OUR COMPLETE RESOURCE TO

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

THIS WINTER

Adventure Quest Laser Adventure Quest Laser Tag Christmas Eve Camp Tag Winter Break Camp

Audubon Zoo Camp

Ages: 5-13

Cost: $50/day, $40/additional sibling, 20% session discount

Cost: $40/day for members, $50/day for non-members

Dates/Times: Dec 24, 7:30 am-5:30 pm

Dates/Times: Dec 26-28, 7:30 am-5:30 pm

Contact: gm@lasertagnola.com

Last-minute Christmas shopping? Campers will enjoy unlimited laser tag, bumper cars, cosmic golf, and many other games and activities at Adventure Quest.

Ages: Pre-K4-4th grade

Dates/Times: Dec. 26-28, 9 am-3 pm Contact: audubonnatureinstitute.org/ camps/winter-camp Let your child (and yourself) enjoy their winter break from school with plenty of outdoor and informal learning time at Audubon Zoo. Campers will enjoy the Zoo as their playground and learn all about our animals!

Bricks 4 Kidz' Holiday Mini Camp at Palm Tree Playground Ages: Kindergarten and up Cost: $45/child

Contact: 504.889.9800, ivanovsgymnastics.com Gymnastics on bars, beam, vault, TumbleTrack, tumbling, games, free play time, arts and crafts, and lots of open gym to practice.

and food activities, group and cooperative games. Field trips to nearby parks and playgrounds included.

KidsSports Ages: 3-12

JCC Winter Mini Trip Camp

Cost: $40 per day. $45 per day walk-in. Before/Aftercare $6

Ages: K-5th grade

Contact: 504.733.1200

With specially designed Bricks 4 Kidz® models, LEGO® games galore, and plenty of time for free play, the kids are always having fun. With a S.T.E.M. based program, your child will have fun while learning. Please bring a bagged lunch.

Cost: Members only, $50/day, $240/any five days

Your children can enjoy crawling through the giant, two-story Adventure Challenge maze, discovering the ins and outs of our pirate ship playground, bouncing in our Spacewalk, and creating arts and crafts.

Cascade Stables Winter Camp

It’s time for the annual Winter Trip Camp. Campers will go on field trips every morning and spend lunch and the afternoon at the Center. It’s a great opportunity to hang out with friends from camp and meet some new buddies. No camp on December 25 or January 1.

Dates/Times: Dec. 27-28 and Jan. 2-4, 10 am-2 pm Contact: bricks4kidz.com/louisianacovington-mandeville/

Ages: 5 and older Cost: $80/day Dates/Times: Dec. 26-28, Jan. 2-4, 9 am-3 pm; before and aftercare available Contact: cascadestables.net/camps, 504.891.2246 Enjoy riding, crafts, games and learning about horse care.

Church's Karate Winter Break Camp Ages: 6-12 (4-and 5-year-old siblings and campers with previous experience welcome) Cost: $45/day or $200/5 days Dates/Times: Dec 17-21, Dec 26-28, Jan 2-4, 8:30 am-3:30 pm (Early Drop off and Late Pick up available by request at no extra charge - 7 am/6 pm) Contact: churchskarateacademy.com or call 504.309.6138

Ivanov's Gymnastics Winter Holiday Camp Ages: 3-14 Cost: $20/half day, $35/full day Dates/Times: Dec. 26-28 & Jan. 2-4; 9 am-12:30 pm for 3-4 ½ year old. Before care available 8-9 am (bring a snack and drink); 9 am-3 pm for 4 ½-14 year old, before care from 8-9 am, and aftercare from 3-5 pm (bring lunch, a snack and drink).

Contact: nojcc.org

KidCam Camp: Aurora United Methodist Holiday Camp Ages: PK4-13 Cost: $35/day, $126/4 day session rate Dates/Times: Nov. 19-23 (closed Thanksgiving Day), Dec. 21, 26-28, 31, and Jan. 2-4 (closed Christmas Eve, Christmas and New Year’s Day). 7:30 am-5:30 pm. Contact: Call 844-4KIDCAM or email algiers@kidcamcamps.com. Campers will enjoy indoor & outdoor games, gym play, holiday-themed arts & crafts, Young Rembrandt drawing lessons, Kids Yoga provided by Yoga Krewe, and much more.

KidCam Camp: Woodlake Swim & Tennis Club Holiday Camp Ages: 4-13 Cost: $160/session. Winter Session 1 (Dec. 21, 26-28); Winter Session 2 (Dec. 31-Jan 4). Dates/Times: Dec. 21, 26-28, 31 and Jan. 2-4, 7:30 am-5:30 pm. Contact: 844-KIDCAM1 or HolidayCamp@ KidcamCamps.com Campers will engage in indoor and outdoor activities (weather permitting). Woodlake Club offers ample green space, tennis courts, levee play, Jumping Pillow, and wading and full-size pool (weather permitting). Indoor activities include holiday-themed arts and crafts, science

LA-SPCA Animal Celebration Winter Camp Ages: 5-10 Cost: $75/day, $125/both days Dates/Times: Jan. 3-4, 9 am-3 pm. Aftercare available from 3-4 pm. Contact: la-spca.org/camp, Mimi Spahn Saattler, education@la-spca.org The camp is designed to teach young people about the Louisiana SPCA and general animal care topics. Kids can join for a single day of camp, or both. This camp is a great opportunity to raise animal awareness in little ones in a fun and creative way.

Louisiana Children's Museum Ages: 5-8 Cost: $40/day for members, $50/day for non-members. Dates/Times: Dec. 26-28 and Jan. 2-4; 8:45 am-3 pm; 8:45 am-3 pm. Drop-off from 8:459 am. Before and aftercare available for additional fees. Contact: lcm.org Winter Camp 1: Food & Fun Camp. During “Food & Fun” Camp, plan and shop for a pretend family meal in the Little Grocery Store. Design your own menu, then prepare and serve your food in Kids’ Café! Design your own habitat for winter animals, and create art using ice. Registration closes on Dec. 17 at noon. Winter Camp 2: Talk & Play Camp. During “Talk & Play” Camp, we are celebrating the Talk & Play Center, our exhibit focused on playful literacy and storytelling. Put on a puppet show, write your own whimsical poem, create a story collage, read and act out stories, and more! Registration closes on Dec. 28 at noon.

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

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. We also help students develop strong communication and ethical problem solving skills.

Dates/Times: Metairie & Uptown: Dec. 24, 26-28, 31; Jan. 2-4, 9 am-3 pm; before and aftercare available.

Dates/Times: Dec. 19-21, 9 am-3:30 pm

New Orleans Boulder Lounge Winter Climb Camp Ages: 6-12 Cost: $60/day or $150/3-day camp Dates/Times: Dec. 26-28, 9 am-2 pm Contact: amanda@climbnobl.com or climbnobl.com/camps/ Keep your kids busy, active, and out of your hair during the holidays! New Orleans Boulder Lounge is hosting a 3-day holiday climbing camp run by professional and experienced staff. Children will enjoy unlimited rock climbing, games, yoga provided by Wild Lotus studio, and a dance class led by an instructor from Dancing Grounds. Snacks provided, campers should pack a lunch.

Ogden Museum Winter Holiday Camp Ages: Students in 2nd-5th grades Cost: $45 member / $50 non-member. Advance registration required. Dates/Times: Jan. 2-4, 9 am-3 pm Contact: ogdenmuseum.org Hang out at the Ogden Museum over Winter Break! Spend the day looking at, talking about and making art with a team of creative teaching artists and educators.

Pony Tales Winter Holiday Camp Ages: 5-12

www.nolafamily.com

Speech-N-Motion Holiday Camp at Crane Rehab Center, Pediatrics Ages: 3-10 Cost: Full Day $95/class, AM $55/class; PM $45/class. A screening is required for children who have never attended Speech-N-Motion Summer Camp or attended over one year ago. To schedule a screening please contact Rachel Balfantz at rbalfantz@cranerehab.com or (504)8666990. The cost of the screening is $50.00 and is non-refundable. Dates/Times: Dec. 26-28, Dec. 31, Jan. 2-4, Full Day (9 am-2:45 pm), Morning (9-11:30 am) or PM (12:30-2:45 pm) Contact: 504.866.6990 or rbalfantz@ cranerehab.com Designed to create a fun and playful environment in which children are motivated to interact and engage with others. Our staff of pediatric specialists, including occupational, speech, physical, art, and music therapists, utilize a themebased curriculum filled with creative play, art, music, and games. Speech-NMotion promotes listening and following directions, communicating and negotiating with peers, sharing and turn taking, adjusting to transitions, and participation in group activities.

New Year’s Day), 9 am-3:30 pm. Before and aftercare available for additional fee. Contact: info@vamonosnola.com ¡Vamonos NOLA! is your Spanish Language Vacation Camp Destination. Your camper will make friends and build memories while laying a foundation of multilingualism.

Winter Film Camp Art Camp 504, Tigermen Den, 3113 Royal St. Ages: 8-14 Cost: $270 Dates/Times: Dec. 26-28, Jan. 2-4, 9 am-3 pm, aftercare 3-5 pm Contact: artcamp504.org Build your creative storytelling skills in this 6-day workshop. Campers work in small groups to write a script, build sets, props and costumes, rehearse and film their own short movie.

YMCA's East Jefferson Winter Holiday Camp Ages: 5-12 Cost: $25/day for members, $35/day for non-members, plus $10 registration fee. Dates/Times: Dec. 24-28, Dec. 31-Jan. 4; 7:30 am-3:30 pm. No camp on Christmas or New Year’s Day. Contact: 504.888.9622 Activities include festive stories, songs, crafts, active play, sports and seasonalthemed educational play. Bring a lunch.

West St. Tammany YMCA's Holiday Camp

Dates/Times: Dec. 21, Dec. 24, Dec. 26-28, Dec. 31, Jan. 2-4; 9 am-3 pm. Before and aftercare available. No aftercare available on Dec. 24 and Dec. 31.

Studio KIDS! Holiday Workshops at the NOMA

Contact: ponytalesnola@aol.com

Ages: 5-10

Dates/Times: Dec. 26-28, Jan. 2-4; 7 am-6 pm

Your kids will learn safety around the ponies and horses, how to walk, groom, and feed them. They learn basics of riding on a horse/pony each day and get daily individual attention from the instructor. They will get to ride in both Western and English riding styles, ride bareback and experience driving a pony cart.

Cost: $25/day for members, $30/day for non-members

Contact: 985.893.9622

Dates/Times: Dec. 27-28; 9:30 am-12:30 pm Contact: 504.658.4100 Students will explore works of art in the museum galleries and get creative in the studio.

Ages: 6 and up

Vamonos NOLA! Oasis Espanol Holiday Camp

Cost: $75/day

Ages: 3-10 (must be potty trained)

Dates/Times: Dec. 21 & 28, 9 am-3 pm

Cost: $50/day or $225/week (members); $70/day, $250/week (non-members).

The Shard Shop

Contact: Call 504.309.2581 or book online at shardshop.com.

| december 2018

Cost: $55/day, $50/day for 2-4 days, and $45/day for 5+ days

Join in making sparkly glass mosaic art for holiday gift giving! Learn how to shape glass and make mosaic art along with other advanced craft making. Lunch is provided. Reserve two weeks prior to camp date to get a $15 per day discount.

Dates/Times: Dec. 21, 24-28 (closed Christmas Day) and Dec. 31-Jan. 4 (closed

Ages: school-aged (PreK-4 thru 8th grades) Cost: $30/day for members, $40 + one-time registration fee/non-members.

Activities include festive stories, songs, crafts, active play, sports and seasonalthemed educational play. Bring a lunch, 2 snacks, and water bottle.

2019 Summer Camp Advertise in New Orleansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; most comprehensive summer camp guide.

2019 SUMMER CAMP PUBLICATION

Be in our guide and reach more parents than anyplace else!

504.866.0555 or info@nolafamily.com

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

March 2019 Digital and Print

y l i m a f a l o n

s r ’ a e Y New S N O I T U RES OL making! worth worth making! At the close of every year, many people make ambitious New Year’s resolutions, promising themselves that this is the year they will finally follow through. Others give a lackluster effort to resolution-making, knowing January won’t end before they’ve given up. And some people just can’t even. No worries, we’ve compiled a list of completely doable resolutions – for young kids, teens, and the young at heart – that might just make the difference!

KIDS

Their resolutions, of course, require your help as a parent; whether talking about the health of our planet, or about theirs. But the more they understand, the easier– and more rewarding– it will be.

No more straws.

Buy less, build more. Instead of buying yet another toy, encourage your child’s creativity by supplying recycled materials for crafting. Cardboard makes the best castles! (A great way to save money and recycle those Amazon Prime boxes!)

Good habits start young. Have an honest talk with your kids about why single-use plastic straws are bad for the environment. Have them think about all of the places they may encounter straws such as restaurants, movie theatres and school. (500 million straws are thrown away in the US. EACH day.)

Power down.

Two hours before bedtime, encourage kids to ditch their screens in exchange for books for maximum relaxation. In fact, make the kitchen the family docking station so there are no late-night electronic temptations. (Blue light is a potent suppressor of melatonin, a key hormone in falling asleep.)

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

TEENS

Maybe they fell out of the habit, or maybe they’re too cool for a resolution, but have everyone in the family share their resolutions so everyone can help each other along the way!

Sign a digital citizenship contract. We raise our kids to be polite and respectful in person, so why wouldn’t we stress those same values in the online environment? (Check out our contract on p 25)

Indulge your siblings When your little sister is begging you to look at her latest creation, look! Your approval means everything to younger siblings.

Call your grandparents A five-minute phone call from a grandkid just ‘to say hello’ can turn their whole day around. (Kids with close relationships with grandparents have fewer emotional and behavioral problems. Grandparents benefit as well, as bonding with grandkids helps with depression and lowers the chance of Alzheimers.)

PARENTS Practice warm hellos and goodbyes. Instead of shouting a quick “bye!” as you bolt out the door, take a little time to give hugs and a genuine “have a great day!” Same goes for reuniting at the end of the day. (This models the great habit of civility, and hugs are super endorphin boosters!)

Volunteer as a family. Create a meaningful memory by volunteering together and show kids that they can make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Stop body-shaming yourself; your kids hear it. And learn it. In fact, don’t do it at all. Not only will it help prevent body-image stigmas in your kids, you’re just not being good to yourself. Be good to you.

You know that saying...

Do what you love? If you love our magazine and have some ad sales experience, we’d love to talk.

interested? Call 504.866.0555 or email ann@nolababy.com

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

is seeking a representative to help with print and digital commission ad sales.

LEARNING YEARS

When a Child Care Provider Departs

By Pat Blackwell, Ph.D

GUIDELINES FOR HELPING TODDLERS AND YOUNG CHILDREN Young children bond with their childcare providers. So when a caregiver leaves, special care is needed so children understand where that cherished adult is going. Ideally it is best to prepare young children in advance of a care provider’s leaving. They can be told when and perhaps why he or she is departing. Use of a calendar to mark the countdown to a departure will help children understand about time, and this will better prepare them for the change. If a teacher is discharged from her duties, dies or leaves abruptly for another reason, the option of preparing children is not there. Children will have different reactions to this situation based on their personalities, past experiences with loss, and the nature of their relationship with the caregiver. Collateral changes that occur in the wake of a teacher’s departure may alleviate or exacerbate the stress experienced by children. If there is great sadness, anger or other strong feelings experienced by adults in the child care environment, the children will suffer more profoundly. In addition, if the day-today routine is disrupted as a result of this person being gone, the children will notice. The children who are less flexible and those who depend on routines for security are likely to experience anxiety. Likewise, children who had a very close relationship with the absent teacher can be expected to “grieve” a bit. Young children view things solely from their own perspective. Consequently they may assume that somehow they are responsible for things that happen (“Ms. Smith left because I was naughty”). Many child development experts believe that a toddler’s greatest source of anxiety is being left behind. So toddlers and young children need to hear that they will be well cared for in the caregiver’s absence. Children should be reassured that it is no one’s fault that their special friend had to go away. Adjustment challenges experienced by children and adults at the center will probably depend on the circumstances surrounding the caregiver’s departure. Young children grieve differently than adults. They show their feelings rather than discuss them. Consequently, children who are in distress may be defiant. Children may be deliberately provocative to be assured that there is still order. Provocative behavior may also be a means of getting extra attention, even if it is negative attention. Consistent limits and a predictable routine along with some extra closeness and attention for good behavior will be helpful. Children who are sensitive may express sadness by crying, whining or withdrawing. These children need just as much attention as the challenging ones. Sadness is an opportunity to teach about feelings and build a child’s emotional vocabulary. It is a good idea to validate a child’s feelings even if they express them negatively. They can be encouraged to talk about how sad it is that Ms So and So is gone. Children who are more emotionally, verbally and cognitively advanced may be able to articulate their feelings and may ask direct questions about why the care provider left. It is best to answer questions simply, without too much detail.

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

Regardless of whether or not the children were prepared for the care provider’s departure, the following may help the children cope:

• Compose a story about the caregiver. A homemade story book or a PowerPoint presentation that is printed will do. • Make a memory book or collage of things that represent the special person. • Designate a stuffed toy that represents the teacher. This way the child can give it a hug. • Art projects and songs can help children express feelings. • Have the teacher’s photo printed on a t-shirt that a child can put on. • Read published children’s books that are about feelings or about when friends go away (The Invisible String by Karst is a good one). Finally, children will want to be assured that they are safe. They should be told that just because one teacher left, this does not mean that others will leave. If their beloved teacher is not deceased, it would be ideal if they could hear that she is alright and “happy.” Unfortunately we all must learn to say goodbye to people we love. Sometimes this is a lesson learned at school. Pelts, Kirkhart & Associates 504.581.3933 pelts-kirkhart.com

Have an event our kids should attend? let us know about it at info@nolababy.com

Ages 5-12 p! am C ak re B l oo ch S

Need something for the kids to do during their school breaks?

Why not break out of the ordinary with some Adventure at one of our School Break Camps? There’s no better place than Adventure Quest for kids to have a day of fun. Campers will have access to the great attractions here at Adventure Quest – laser tag, bumper cars, cosmic golf and the adventure maze. Plus we’ll also provide many other activities allowing them to connect and grow.

a b le D a te s

Multi Child Discoun ts 20% discount wh en booking full se ssion (on Multiple day ses

sions)

Winter on 12/25) (no camp

, 2019 January 7 t Holiday den

JPPS Stu

1, 2019 January 2 er King artin Luth M

CALL to Enroll Today and Save!

BIRTHDAY PARTIES! Indoor & Outdoor Options Available!

Parties Startin g at

$199 00

Want Unlimited Play and Exclusive Use? Ask about our Sunday Morning Exclusives.

Laser Tag • Bumper Cars • Arcade • Cosmic Golf • Adventure Maze

504.207.4444

LaserTagNola.com

1200 S. Clearview Parkway • Suite 1106 In the Elmwood Shopping Center

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

Don’t see the date you need? Custom dates are available. Contact us for detai ls!

A v a il 1 - January 4 r2 Decembe Break

WIGGLE ROOM

SITTING By Kim Bradley

W sitting is when a child sits on their bottom with their knees bent and their feet positioned outside of their hips. It’s called W sitting because when you are standing in front of them, their legs make the shape of a W. When your child is playing, typically they will move in and out of various positions. This is normal to sit in various positions including W sitting. However, if your child prefers this position and sits in it for extended periods of time, there can be negative effects. First, W sitting promotes poor posture because it doesn’t require your child to activate their core muscles. W sitting does not challenge a child’s balance and more importantly does not allow them to ‘weight shift’ effectively. When your child is W sitting, they may be compensating for these weaknesses because it provides a wider, more stable base of support. Your child may be using this position because he does not have enough core strength to balance adequately in typical sitting positions. W sitting can also be very limiting to your child during play. Once they are sitting in that position, it’s much harder to change positions easily and turn their body, go from sitting to lying and kneeling, and move on and off the floor. More seriously, W sitting can cause the muscles in the hip joints to become very lax and in more severe cases, if those joint stabilizing muscles become too loose, it can lead to hip dislocation.

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

It should also be noted that W sitting is much more common when children have decreased muscle tone–when there is not normal muscle resistance at rest. Kids with low muscle tone may have muscles that feel ‘mushy’ or ‘floppy’ when you hold or move their arms and legs around, whereas normal muscle tone would provide some resistance.

If my child W sits, what can I do? • Come up with a word or a visual cue (such as a hand gesture) that you and your child establish together to cue them to move out of W sitting. • Have your child use a chair, stool, or riding toy during those times when you observe frequent W sitting. This might include playing, watching tv, or having a snack. If your child participates in these activities while on the ground, move them to a child-sized table and chair. • Balance cushions that are inflatable, pillows, or small exercise balls are fun seating options to offer your child. These types of options are fun and also great to work on sitting balance and core stability. • Promote and set examples for other sitting options, such as tailor sitting, ring sitting, long sitting, side sitting, sitting with legs criss crossed, or kneeling. If you have additional concerns regarding your child W sitting or are concerned that your child might have decreased muscle tone, consult your pediatrician or pediatric OT or PT.

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

The Light

Way By Sarah Herndon

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

BONFIRES ON THE LEVEE KEEP A CAJUN CHRISTMAS TRADITION GOING

There are many indelible rites of passage in childhood; losing that first tooth or a secret crush in first grade. However, if you grew up in St. James Parish, you never forget building your first bonfire. Jason Amato, a parish councilman from Lutcher, remembers when he was nine and he and his three brothers would walk through the woods, armed with cane knives and hatchets. They would cut willow trees for their bonfire and balance the logs on the handlebars of their bikes. Then, carefully walking them to their father’s waiting truck where the trees were hauled to the levee so that building could begin. And while most builders take pride in having their bonfire look symmetrically appealing to the eye, Jason admits that theirs was short and squat and most definitely the “ugliest bonfire on the levee.” He says that he is smarter over the years and now knows the exact number of logs needed to construct the massive 15-foot tepee structure. They are also using chainsaws and four wheelers which makes the work a little less arduous.

“It’s funny, in St. James Parish you have several seasonsyou’ve got Mardi Gras season, you’ve got hunting season, you’ve got football season and then you’ve got bonfire season,” Jason says. The bonfire tradition originated in the river parishes of Louisiana (St. James, St. John and St. Charles) where Old World French and German colonists settled in the 1700s. While some say they were lit for midnight mass, Jamie Vicknair, current president of the Festival of the Bonfires Association, says the colonists used them as signals to help guide ships along the Mississippi River. However, the most popular explanation of this Cajun tradition, especially to the young at heart, is that the bonfires light the way (over foggy bayous and rivers) for Papa Noel on Christmas Eve. With the highest concentration of bonfires being in St. James and thinning out downriver in St. John, the Festival of the Bonfires Association issues an average of 130 bonfire building permits each year. The permit process was put in place to pay for insurance as well as to keep everyone safe. Jason, who helps to approve permits, remembers a time when there were no restrictions and bonfires precariously towered at 40 feet, some even burning tires. The height limit is now set at around 15 feet. The bonfires are ignited at 7 pm sharp on Christmas Eve and all of the houses open their doors to family members and visitors who come from all over to experience this rural community’s tradition. Food covers everyone’s front porches and the smell of gumbo permeates the night air. “No one is a stranger. The residents of St. James Parish profoundly enjoy sharing their Christmas Eve tradition,” Jamie says.

HELPING HANDS Jared Deslatte, also from Lutcher, looks forward to this custom every year, hosting one of the bigger open houses with 200 to 300 people stopping in to visit or to eat a bowl of his red bean gumbo. He cannot imagine not living by the river and wants his three children to grow up with the same opportunities to be outdoors as he had as a kid. Even when they are not building bonfires, they are out on the levee throwing the football or sliding down the sides on cardboard. “It’s refreshing- kids being kids, riding their four wheelers. It’s good stuff,” Jared says. His two oldest- Kendall, 7 and Kash, 5- are now at an age where they can help with the preparation and building of the family bonfire. Just as his dad did for him, Jared cuts small pieces of wood for his son, Kash, so that he can build his own four-foot bonfire on the levee. They burn it during the week while the grown-ups are busy constructing the Christmas Eve bonfire. Kendall has her job too, dragging some of the smaller logs back to the truck. “She’s not helping much, but she is doing her part,” Jared says, adding that it is more about hanging out and being together as a family. Jason also remembers including his two daughters, Rayni and Randi, in the bonfire tradition when they were small. They would cut and haul logs right alongside their boy cousins. “We didn’t differentiate,” says Jason. “You were there to help build so put your gloves on, put your boots on and don’t wear any makeup because you don’t need it. We’re here to build bonfires.” His oldest daughter, Randi, now 26, was married last year but has still assisted every year with the bonfire build. When she started dating her future husband, she informed him that it would be best if he helped her father with the building to get in on his good side.

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

The Bourgeois family has had the same bonfire spot on the levee in Lutcher for 40 years- the first one- and before that, they were in Gramercy. They build their bonfire in one day, gathering up all available family and friends on a Saturday. “Bringing my whole family together, my whole Bourgeois family- we’ve got my aunts, uncles, cousins- that’s the only time that I see people throughout the year. They say it’s work but they love doing it and they get their kids involved also, that’s what I like,” says William “Bo” Bourgeois, who has two sons, Hunter, 26 and Chase, 29. Beforehand, Bo will find the willow trees needed for the base and sides of the bonfire while others will gather driftwood for the “gut” or the inside of the structure. His brother-in-law has back issues so he cooks lunch for them, leaving no one out of the work day. When Bo’s boys were young, they would carry the logs or drive the four wheeler, but now they are able to cut down the trees with their father. After the bonfire is built, everyone fries fish and sits around the fire eating and “talking old times,” says Bo.

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

Jason sees the bonfires as not only a vibrant tradition in their community but also as a time to disconnect from screens and visit with family that only comes around once a year. “It keeps you grounded to a time where family and friends were the central focus,” Jason says.

Sign on the dotted line: HOW TO DESIGN A FAMILY DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP CONTRACT by Christa Melnyk Hines

We raise our kids to be polite and respectful in person, so why wouldn't we stress those same values in the online environment? A digital citizenship contract can help you spell out your expectations of appropriate online behavior and send a clear message about how seriously you take your child's safety and online reputation. Involve your kids in the process of outlining the contract to start a family dialogue about issues that can come up. Here's a checklist of points to cover in your contract:

Treat others with dignity and respect. In other words, treat people the same way you wish to be treated, just like in person. Unacceptable behavior includes: posting/texting cruel remarks, gossiping, bullying, using profanity or impersonating others. Think before you post. Teenagers are all about instant gratification. They aren’t necessarily thinking about the long-term effects of what they post. Remind your kids to ask themselves questions like: ‘Would I want Mom or Dad to see this?’ or ‘Would I be embarrassed if everyone in school saw it?’ Show empathy. Explain that when they forward or share photos/ texts/video that are harmful to a peer, they inadvertently condone cyberbullying. Also, steer clear of mean-spirited chat rooms where anonymous members dish up snarky, cruel comments for entertainment. Ask permission. Before logging into someone’s personal device, ask first and then log back off of the device when finished. Before downloading an app, tell your child that he needs to discuss it with you first. Personal accountability matters. Errors of judgment happen and kids are still learning. Immediately address the situation together, whether they need to craft an apology or remove a comment or photo.

Guard personal information. Avoid posting personal information in response to unknown individuals in a chat room or a public forum like: Email address (don’t use your email as a user name), home address, social security number, school name, birthday with year, photos with geotags (switch off the camera’s location tag under privacy settings).

Ignore attacks. According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, one in three students has experienced cyberbullying. Tell your kids to let you or another trusted adult know if someone bullies them. Reacting or retaliating generally adds fuel to the fire. If the bullying continues, your child can politely ask the person to stop; report the behavior to the content provider; and/or block the individual. Preserve the evidence and contact law enforcement if your child feels scared or threatened. Establish boundaries. Declare certain times of the day, the car or areas of the house as no-phone/no-device zones. At the end of the day, power down and store electronic devices in a central location of your home. Disconnecting periodically allows for more opportunities to connect as a family, engage in creative pursuits, get adequate sleep and complete homework and chores. Stress that privacy is earned. Because you are ultimately responsible for your child’s behavior whether online or off, have access to all passwords, check their phones and visit the apps/ social media networks they frequent regularly. Pledge not to text and drive. Finally, if your child is of driving age, include a pledge on your contract that states a promise that he will not text and drive. Consider watching the 30-minute documentary by Werner Herzog together called “From One Second to the Next” on YouTube. Clearly state consequences. Consequences could include loss of devices, screen time (except for required school work) and driving privileges. Sign here. After your child signs the commitment, hang it up near your computer or on your refrigerator as a family reminder. Review and adjust as needed.

For a copy of a Digital Citizenship Contract, go to nolafamily.com/digitalcitizenshipcontract

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

Don’t talk to strangers. Some free texting and gaming apps permit members to connect with other members even if they aren’t “friends.” Emphasize that exchanging text messages with someone they don’t know is the same as talking with a stranger. Often kids don’t view texting and talking in the same light.

Assume everything posted is public. Texts, images and posts can be saved and shared. Mine the latest news, TV shows and other media for examples that can lead to conversation and empathy-building opportunities. Kids are generally more open to discussing mistakes made by people outside of their immediate circle of friends.

PARENTING CORNER

Family Connections HOLIDAYS TO REMEMBER

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

As the winter holidays approach, parents and families may feel awash in a sea of seasonal decorations, music, and events that demand a tremendous amount of time and energy – for better or for worse! Some of us embrace it and love the pace of this time of year; others may feel overwhelmed and wonder how (and even if) we should try and keep up with all the activity. As parents, we have the additional challenge of trying to find the balance between creating happy memories for our children, without going overboard with materialism and consumerism. Many are also striving to spend time with other family members and friends without exhausting ourselves to the point that it may be hard to enjoy those interactions.

So how do we find the balance between too much holiday spirit and not enough? Are some activities more meaningful to our children while some are just draining? The busyness of December can make it easy to overlook what our children really need from us. In the broadest sense, there is ample evidence that having loving relationships with parents at an early age is a strong factor for mental and physical health and well-being into adulthood, and even old age. So slowing down enough to feel we have experienced a real connection with our children is key to keeping family relationships strong and experiences meaningful. Dr. Becky Bailey, creator of the Conscious Discipline approach for schools, identifies four elements of such interpersonal connection: eye contact and gentle touch, both of which create a kind of physiological reaction in the brain that helps establish a sense of empathy and security; our physical and emotional presence - too many activities may rob us of opportunities to really be “in the moment” with our family; and finally, playfulness, which helps strengthen the brain’s dopamine system and create a sense of shared pleasure in being together. Whether you are planning traditions for Christmas morning, thinking about ways to give back through Hanukkah mitzvahs, or just spending

By Jenni Watts Evans

time together between school and dinner, think about your interactions. How do you use eye contact and touch to connect with your child? What are ways that you miss these opportunities or even break contact? Are you careful to be present, NO PHONES; to listen when your child is talking to you without doing something else at the same time? Do you listen actively by nodding and responding? Add playfulness – a child-directed spirit – to any tradition to create lasting memories and support your family’s values. When we keep holiday activities simple and selective, we can focus on how holiday traditions build on connections with those we love. Don’t be afraid to discuss the current traditions you have and examine if they are still meaningful to family members, or if they need to be “tweaked” or even discarded, and new ones created. Ask your children what they look forward to each year at the holidays, and that will give you some idea of what is important to them. Now may be a good time to think about what kinds of gratitude and kindness rituals you’d like to incorporate as part of your holiday. Making ornaments and simple gifts for others is one way to keep the focus less on materialism. You may choose to participate as a family in a volunteer activity, such as a food or toy drive. New rituals established during this time can also incorporate the spirit of altruism and gratitude throughout the year. Dr. Christine Carter, author of Raising Happiness, suggests making a daily dinner time ritual of mentioning three good things that happened to you that day. When all family members participate, the shared sense of appreciation becomes contagious and helps cultivate a sense of optimism. Holiday time is a time to celebrate with friends and family. Spend it with people you love, celebrating values you believe in, and doing things that have meaning for you – at least mostly. The Parenting Center at Children’s Hospital 504.896.9591 chnola.org/ParentingCenter

KEEPING IT LOCAL Great Louisiana Holiday Books for Kids AUTHOR AND ILLUSTRATOR SPOTLIGHT

ALEXIS BRAUD Artist, illustrator, author, and mom. Alexis is a true Cajun who lives along Bayou Lafourche with her husband Paul and three little ones. She is a native of Cut Off, Louisiana, a graduate of Nicholls State University, and is also someone you would love to hang out with and pass a VERY good time.

BAYOU BALLET written and illustrated by Alexis Braud Take a feathered and furry leap to center stage in this bayou-based introduction to ballet. Join hands with the armadillo in the pas de deux or pirouette with the panther. Readers will find plenty of creatures to dance with, whether your preferred cavalier is the crawfish or the alligator. Budding ballerinas will love the humorous illustrations paired with accurate and friendly explanations of dance terms, making moves easy to understand and remember for young learners and anyone who loves dance.

CAJUN ABC by Rickey Pittman & illustrated by Alexis Braud The sights, sounds, and smells of ‘All things Cajun’ two-step off the page as readers are introduced to the unique customs of the Cajun people. From the alligators in the bayou to the stars of the zydeco stage, the food, music, literature, and language unique to the people of southern Louisiana are delightfully rhymed and beautifully illustrated. This lively yet educational jaunt showcases the famous Cajun joie de vivre and sets the stage for the reader’s own Acadian adventures.

THE UNHUGGABLES (Recommended by Autism Speaks) by Kena Sosa & illustrated by Alexis Braud

GUMBO-A MAGICAL BAYOU TALE written and illustrated by Alexis Braud The magic of history, family tradition, local customs, and bayou seasoning meld to create a swirling wonder of flavor that enchants the senses and reminds us of home. In this bayou tale, George follows his nose and meets the mystical Nanny who prepares a gumbo rich in music, stories, laughter, and Cajun secrets. A simple gumbo recipe completes George’s bayou adventure and allows young readers (and parents) to sample a delectable bite of Cajun heritage. Scott Campbell is founder and publisher of River Road Press, which focuses on a mission to publish local and regional authors, with a focus on history, children’s books, and Southern culture. riverroadpress.com.

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

Oliver is upset—very upset—and nothing his mother says makes him feel better. When she tries to give him a comforting hug, he rolls up into a tight ball like an armadillo and won’t let his mother near. She tries to coax him out of his huddle but then his claws come out. Oliver pretends to be one ferocious animal after another—none of them very good at giving hugs. But it is hard work saying no to a mother’s love. Through creativity, patience, and affection (as well as a healthy dose of humor), Oliver’s mother finds a way to get through his imaginative defenses and give him the best hug ever.

Audubon Park, 6500 Magazine St. Be a part of this holidaythemed 5K race series and fight to conquer arthritis. $35/person. 7:30-11 am.

Lafayette Square. The multiday celebration features illuminated installations, digital sculptures, videomapping projections and art animated by technology. Free. 6-10 pm. Continues through Dec. 9.

Kenner City Park, 3800 Loyola Ave. Featuring ice skating, Santa’s Workshop, food and shopping, a Christmas tree lot, performances, and a biergarten. Free. Continues Wednesday through Sunday through Dec. 30.

Jingle Bell Run

Luna Fête

Kenner Christmas Village

DEC 8

DEC 6

Riverwalk Spanish Plaza. A public menorah lighting and grand Chanukah celebration. Kosher food, Jewish music, children’s program and entertainment, Chanukah materials. 4:30-6:30 pm.

Chabad-Chanukah at The Riverwalk

DEC 2 - First Night of Chanukah

Deanie’s Seafood. Children are encouraged to be silly, have fun and share their holiday spirit with their friends and family during this playful morning holiday celebration. 9-11:30 am. Continues through Dec. 16.

Holiday Kids Sing-Along and Dance Party with Vince Vance

DEC 8

2250 Jones Park Dr., Gulfport, MS. Visit a Winter Wonderland with over 1,000,000 lights, the famous dancing Christmas trees, 13 nights of live entertainment, and more! Pictures with Santa are FREE with admission. Gates open at 5:30 pm and close at 9:30 pm. Continues through December 30.

Gulfport Harbor Lights

DEC 1

DEC 5

New Orleans City Park. Visit a stunning Christmas Wonderland and enjoy the sight of magnificent light displays strung across the oaks. 6-11 pm. Continues through Jan. 1..

Celebration in the Oaks

Krewe of Jingle

Downtown New Orleans. Features creative holiday floats, marching bands, stilt walkers, and many Christmas characters such as Mr. Bingle. 1 pm.

DEC 1

ces p. 51 n a m r fo r e p y a d See holi on p. 53 See holiday teas

! n o s a e S e h t s i ‘T

DECEMBER

Bonfires on the Levee

Lutcher. More than 100 bonfires are lit along the Mississippi River to show the Cajun Santa Claus, “Papa Noel,” where to fly and land as he soars across southern Louisiana. Dusk.

Grinch Party

Kenner Pavilion. This is a pizza party filled with games, arts and crafts, pictures with Mr. Grinch, and more! 6:30-8:30 pm.

Opera Guild Home. Join for the classic story of Hansel and Gretel, featuring a 45-minute performance from the MetroPelican Opera. 2-5 pm.

City of Mandeville. The Winter on the Water Santa Parade begins on Lakeshore and Jackson and travels to the Gazebo where we will be entertained with live music, face painting, bell chorus and lighting of the oaks. Don’t forget your cameras for pictures with Santa. 4-7 pm.

DEC 24 - Christmas Eve

Hansel & Gretel Children’s Opera

Winter on the Water Santa Parade

DEC 21

DEC 9

DEC 8

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

Merry Christmas!

DEC 25

Fever + Common illnesses Injuries + Xrays Allergic Reactions Lacerations Sports Physicals + Flu Shot Onsite Testing Strep Flu Mono St

The parade will begin at the intersection of Elysian Fields Avenue and Decatur Street. The United States Air Force Honor Guard will be marching and the Mardi Gras-style parade will feature floats, bands, and much more. 2:30 pm.

Allstate Sugar Bowl New Year’s Parade

Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Enjoy ice skating, ice slides, carnival rides, inflatables, life-size maze, a snowball fight area, holiday characters, and decorated Christmas trees. 11 am–9 pm. Continues through Dec. 31.

NOLA ChristmasFest

DEC 20

DEC 31 - New Year’s Eve

Fassbender Center. Join for a day of reindeerthemed painting and leave with a finished product! All supplies and snacks included. 10 am-noon.

Pintsize Paint Party: Reindeer Lights

DEC 15

It's better to give than receive…

Holiday G

Our

Bayou Ballet

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

This beautiful and fun book for young readers takes a feathered and furry leap to center stage in this bayou-based introduction to ballet. Ages 3-12, $17.99, River Road Press.

The Incomparable Magazine Street Tracing the history and culture of this beloved main street, this coffee table book – full of gorgeous color photography – highlights what Magazine Street was and has become: an enchanting combination of both elegance and the down-to-earth. Ages 13 and up, $45, River Road Press.

GiftGuide

2018

Soft Foam Emoji Cubes This set of dice-style cubes comes with two cubes adorned with 12 different faces meant to represent common feelings and emotions and two cubes filled with prompts and questions designed to get kids talking. Ages 3+, $9.99, learningresources.com.

Open these pods and find an animal friend hidden inside. Pop them apart and swap their body parts to create combination critters. Ages 5+, $3.99 (1-pack); $7.99 (2-pack); $21.99 (6pack); $47.99 (12-pack), Educationalinsights.com.

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

Educational Insights Playfoam Pals

The Field Toy Inspire real world, screen-free, and imaginative play with lush green grass, hedging, traditional wooden farm gates, farm animals, a tractor, and more. Ages 3+. Available in two sizes: the Original Field, 26” x 17” ($49.99), as well as a Half Acre Field, 12” x 17” ($29.99). Amazon.com/thefield.

I am Not a…

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

This adorable book series provides great crafts to encourage recycling. Each craft comes with photogenic step-by-step instructions. Ages 4-8, $6.81 each, target.com.

Blessed Mother Ornament

Cane River Tin

A beautiful gold leaf ornament perfect to put you in the holiday spirit. Made locally by Susan Lange Designs. $30, Lucy Rose, shoplucyrose.com. 3318 Magazine St., 534 Chartres St., 600 Metairie Rd., Suite A, Metairie.

To commemorate the birthplace of the Americanized French praline, Cane River Pecan Company has a special edition New Orleans Streetcar Pecan Praline Sampler gift tin. Each streetcar sampler comes with three Crescent City-inspired pecan varieties. $38, www.caneriverpecan.com.

Reversible Sequin Mardi Gras Leggings and Boots Give Mardi Gras for Christmas and let the good times roll! One leg gold/green. Other leg gold/purple. Girls sizes 2-12, $34 (leggings) $58 (boots), twosprouts.com. Two Sprouts, 103 Focis Street @ Metairie Rd.

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

Itzy & Risky Itzy My Fabulous Storyteller What looks like an old transistor radio is in fact a fantastic storytelling device. Kids pick a hero, a location, an object, and a second character, and the Lunii weaves a tale based on the child's choices. It comes with 48 stories, and hundreds more can be downloaded. A Magic Box Toys Exclusive. Ages 3+, $69.99, magicboxnola.com. Magic Box Toys, 5508 Magazine St.

ITZI is super-simple to learn, and super-fast to play! Be the first to match the right letter cards to the right clue cards. Plus, there are lots of ways to play with fun, colorful twists. And then thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Risky Itzy for Ages 17+. Why? Subjects are for adults only. $19.99, littlepnuts.com. Little Pnuts Toy Shoppe, 209 Harrison Ave., #C

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Play House! Play Set

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

This six-piece play set gives kids all the housekeeping tools they need to keep it clean. Sized just for kids and built to last, the broom, mop, duster, dust pan, and hand brush are comfortable to use and easy to store.

Christmas PJs We believe! Santa’s come early and dropped off the perfect Christmas pajamas for your little Who Dat! Super-soft Kickee Pants are made of bamboo and will keep your kool kid totally comfy during this holiday season! Available in baby sizes and kids up to size 8. Footie; $38, 2-piece set; $42. shopthekoolkids.com Kool Kids, 5519 Magazine St.

Atomic Dog Speaker The future of sound! Enjoy over 5-10 hours of continuous listening from this adorable bulldog speaker. Compatible with iPhone/iPod and Smartphones. Available in a matte black or shiny rose gold finish and in a small or large size. $46, Miss Muffin, 3307 Severn Ave.

You could try making a wish... or you could call us at nola family and reach everyone that matters! (not that we’re knockin’ fairies) to advertise with us, call 504.866.0555 or email us at info@nolababy.com

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

Trying to get you r message out?

Cat and Unicorn Headphones You know you want to rock these sparkly, magical, rainbow headphones! Transform into a cat or a unicorn while listening to your favorite tunes. Smartphone compatible with AUX cord. Cat; $34; Unicorn; $38, Miss Muffin, 3307 Severn Ave.

Love Swimming Gift Set

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

Give the Gift of Swim this year with Love Swimming! A great starter package for the soon-to-be tadpole in your life is their Swim Bucket - it comes with goggles, dive toys, a swim suit, and a gift card for awesome lessons with New Orleansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; swim instruction experts. All Ages, From $75, loveswimming.com. Love Swimming, 5221 S. Front St.

GloLens Selfie Light â&#x20AC;&#x153;Selfieâ&#x20AC;? photographers would appreciate the GloLens lighting gizmo from FashionIt. This accessory attaches to your smartphone on top of your selfie lens and will illuminate your face, particularly in backlight settings (sunsets and night shots). $22, Little Miss Muffin, 766 Harrison Ave.

U Speaker The sound of these miniature speakers will blow your mind! And it gets better with a selfie remote control so you can capture your best moments while listening to your favorite beat. $38, Little Miss Muffin, 766 Harrison Ave.

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

Check out the "Wiggle Room" article in this issue!

Contributed by Geaux Girl!, a nonprofit magazine developed for and with New Orleans teen girls to inform, inspire, engage, and empower.

HEAVYSET

There hasn’t been a point in my life where I haven’t been at least thirty pounds over the healthy limit. I definitely have more stomach than I’m comfortable admitting. It was most noticeable when I had to wear school uniforms, especially in elementary school. Girls could only wear white button-up blouses, blue plaid skirts, and all-white shoes. My blouses started in mediums instead of smalls. My skirts always found ways to dig into my stomach, and plaid has never been a good pattern on me. My shoe size was the only thing that mirrored other girls, but they don’t take pictures of your feet for the yearbook. They take it from the waist up, and from the waist up, I was a helium balloon.

Weight Watchers was my mom’s idea. It first came up when she proposed a girls’ day out. We drove down to Magazine Street and planned to stay there for two to three hours. We only went to two stores. One of the stores was Buffalo Exchange. The best way I could describe it is if Goodwill went grunge. Alternative songs dimly played over the loudspeakers. It smelled like someone threw musky cologne on all the clothes. My stomach automatically sucked in as we went inside.

“I like it,” she said. “Do you like it?” “Yeah, I like it.” I glanced back at the mirror in the corner of the dressing room. “It looks nice.” “That’s good.” She slightly tilted her head. “It’d be a really cute top. It would go great with your black leggings.” “But it’s a dress.” “It’s a little too short, though. I think it would last longer as a shirt than a dress.” I’m not sure what set me off, but I barely made it outside the store before I started crying. We got back into our car and began driving home. “I know it’s frustrating, baby.” Mom spoke when the crying momentarily stopped. “We can start a diet. We can do Weight Watchers, if you want.” I took a few deep breaths. Weight troubles weren’t a foreign concept to my family. Mom has always begrudged her pear figure and Dad’s stomach has been as puffed up as a pillow for as long as I’ve known him. We’ve tried exercising more regularly, cutting down salt in meals, getting rid of soda drinking altogether. Nothing stuck. We’ve always reverted back to old habits. A diet wouldn’t change much. Continued

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

There’s this one photo of my high school freshman Humanities class taken in secret while we were working on a project. I appear in the front corner, hunched over my desk to read the book that was assigned. My back is facing the camera, so you can’t see my face, but you can still point me out. The black jacket I wear highlights the fact that I’m the widest person in the room. It used to be a part of a photo montage that played on the TVs outside of school. I always stopped whatever I was doing when it popped up and stared at myself. I looked more like a stone column than a human being.

Buffalo Exchange generally caters towards people who like wearing tight-fitting, short clothing. Out of the eight items I found, only one thing fit: an “L” maroon cotton dress. I had to keep pulling it down so it could reach the midway point of my thigh. I could tell the dress wasn’t made for me. For a second opinion, I went outside the dressing room to where Mom was standing. She scanned me up and down.

“I’d like that, yeah,” I answered. I saw Mom look at me from out of the corner of my eye. “Yeah? You wanna do it? Dad can get on it, too.” “Yeah,” I turned on the radio, “let’s do Weight Watchers.” Walking inside Weight Watchers felt like going to an AA meeting. The air felt sterile, almost purposefully bland to help people work through their issues. Right next to the huge glass windows was an old brown wooden desk, run by two white women. A candy-colored assortment of pamphlets rested against the wall. In front of the desks sat the real reason any of us were there: two silver electronic scales. There are three books you get when you sign up for Weight Watchers: a paperback book with a tacky plastic cover welcoming you to the program and telling you in excruciating detail what you’ve just gotten yourself into; a smaller, but equally tacky, plastic-covered paperback that lists every “point” associated with every menu item at every fast food chain in America (it was supposed to help you keep on track for weight loss, but I found looking inside just made me depressed); and a pamphlet, barely larger than my hand, called “My Success Story.” At Weight Watchers, you need to set a specific goal for weight loss. It can be something as simple as five pounds or as drastic as fifty. The key to it all was “My Success Story,” where you learned how close you were to being skinny and fancy-free. At the beginning of every meeting, the ladies behind the desk take your weight on the electronic scales, print out the results on a sticker, and stick it into your booklet. At the first meeting you attend, they have to take a preliminary reading. I did mine first. “Y’know,” one of the women behind the counter, the curly brunette, said, “it’s a tradition among participants to take their shoes and socks off before stepping on the scale.” She flashed us a small, knowing smile. “They think it gives them the most accurate weight.” “Does it?” I asked. “No,” the other woman behind the counter, the silver-haired one, answered. “It might take off a gram, but nothing significant. These are the most accurate scales money can buy.” Weighing one gram less seemed good to me, though, so I took off my shoes and socks anyway. By the time I had stepped off and put my shoes back on my feet, my “Success Story” booklet was on the counter and Mom was getting her reading done. I picked up my book and opened it to see my results. Two hundred and fifteen pounds.

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

It stung. I figured I was around that weight, as I’d had a similar one recorded during a doctor’s physical, but it still stung to see I really was that fat. However, I figured everyone who did Weight Watchers had a lead ball sitting in their stomach when they did their first reading. I’d just have to wait until the number dropped.

Mom finished her reading and we walked to the back room. Only a handful of people showed up. Most of them were like Mom and I, sick of looking awkward in clothing and only mildly chubby. In the middle of a room with plastic rainbow-colored chairs, there was a woman with curly brown hair who had lost fifty-five pounds on Weight Watchers. Fifty-five! It was unheard of! She introduced herself as our mentor. “Raise your hand if you lost weight this week,” our mentor said. Five people raised their hands. “Now, raise your hand if you gained weight this week. Don’t worry, we won’t judge you.”

Three people raised their hands. Mom and I kept our hands down for the time being. “What did you do differently this week?” One of the latter hands, a tanned woman, spoke after a small silence. “It was my husband’s birthday. We ate lobster, and I just lost control.” “That’s okay,” our mentor reassured, “but you need to control your portions. Lobster is a very fatty meat, and it’s worth a lot of points, so eat carefully.” The tanned woman nodded her head. After fifteen minutes of inspirational quotes occasionally interspersed with fat-shaming comments, our mentor ended the meeting by creating a challenge. She turned to her large paper board and wrote down in large, scrawling handwriting, “LOSE 10 POUNDS” in the next two weeks. “Wouldn’t it be nice to be ten pounds lighter by next month?” Our mentor underlined what she wrote and held out the marker towards the crowd. “I want you to sign it!” Ten people signed on to the challenge, with two of them being my Mom and I. In Weight Watchers, each food has a certain number attached to it called a “point.” These points were created based off the fat content and overall health value of that food. We were only allowed so many points in the day, so we had to closely track and spend them. A sugary can of Coca-Cola takes away eight of your precious points. However, grapes -- fruit in general, really -- cost nothing because of their lack of fat content. We could eat as many grapes as we wanted without consequence. Imagine all the points we’d save. Imagine what we could use them for instead. We had to fill out a tiny green booklet each day known as our “Point Tracker.” There we wrote down everything we ate, added up all the points, and saw how we did. I was allotted thirty-eight points because I was still a minor and still growing. After a few weeks, I formulated a routine. I had two options for breakfast in the morning. One of them was a smoothie, provided by Weight Watchers as one of their many tie-in products. That was either two or five points, depending on whether or not I added milk. Despite using a blender, the powder didn’t always mix properly, and the chocolate flavoring I selected tasted chalky. It might have been better if I just ate the powder raw. The other option was eating nothing at all and pocketing the points. More often than not, I skipped breakfast. Lunch got a little more complicated. I could only use Arnold’s 100% Whole Grain Sandwich Thins (two points) for sandwiches. The middle part was filled with a handful of ham carefully measured out the night before (also two points), a single slice of low-fat American cheese (one point), and a teaspoon of Hellmann’s mayonnaise (three points). I also included generic, sometimes metallic-tasting, Weight Watchers chips, which were two points, and a fruit or vegetable, which had no points. I developed an addiction for Lipton Diet Green Tea, also zero points, and to this day I’m still attached to the semitangy taste. For dessert, I packed another Weight Watchers product: their candy. It was the only thing they produced that I actually liked. Bite-sized chocolate caramel bars and fluffy, pink bite-sized cupcakes with sprinkles dashed on top. It tasted like actual food. The best part? Only two to three points a pop. I never counted snacks I had in between classes. I’d usually get fruit gummies from a healthy snack cart provided by the school. It shouldn’t have mattered that the first ingredients were corn starch and sugar. Fruit was always free, right?

On the car ride home from school, I would brace myself and ask what was for dinner. It didn’t matter if we were having smooth Southern red beans and rice or oddly textured wheat pasta and meatballs, dinner was always a hard hitter.

lower. Within the first week I lost a pound. The week after that, two pounds. Seeing the ticket each week almost made all the suffering worth it. I lost seven pounds overall. I’ve gained it all back, but for a time, Weight Watchers worked. I just hated doing it.

A part of me really wanted to keep loyal to Weight Watchers and finally lose weight -- I hated how I looked then, and I still hate how I look now. The other part of me, though, loathed dieting and loathed Weight Watchers. I hated not being able to eat and drink things I really enjoyed. I hated those awful chocolate smoothies.

As it turns out, my parents hated it, too. Dad was the first one to drop the program. A week or so later, during a car ride home from school, Mom followed suit.

However, I decided not to bring up the topic with my parents until their three-month subscription ended. Weight Watchers thinned out our wallets much more effectively than our waistlines. Tiein snacks, licensed scales, weekly renewals of my “still a minor” subscription so I could attend meetings; all of it added up to a hefty fee. My parents told me from the start that money wasn’t an issue to them, but it was always an issue to me. I didn’t want them feeling like they got ripped off. Despite my feelings, the program did work. Every time I had to step on the electronic scales, the sticker that printed out was always a little

“Would you be okay with stopping Weight Watchers?” I wanted to cry in relief. “Yeah, I’d be okay with that.” I glanced at her. “Didn’t you sign up for three months though?” “Oh, no, that was only a month,” she explained. I didn’t believe her, but I think she was as fed up with Weight Watchers as the rest of us at that point. “We know the program by now, anyway. We’ll just buy a scale and watch our portions.” I nodded. Portions were always a problem. Within two days I started ignoring portion recommendations again.

Mary Murphy

is a seventeen-year-old senior at NOCCA. She now walks for weight loss instead of doing Weight Watchers -- it makes her feel a lot better.

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

nola family

& Presenting Sponsor

Our Big

Congratulations to our 2018 Costume Contest Winners! 1st Place

2nd Place

Emily the Lad Emily Gass,ybug 2 years old

uch Potato o C s a n a m Spider r, age 7 Kien Spille

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

3rd Place

Belle of the Sofia MonnerBall jahn, age 9

d Sulley y) Mike an ato photograph III and y Jen Am (photo b ) Dean Shelton both 2 (L-R rbaskovich, Liam V

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS!

3rd Place

When a student sees their ideas manifested in a physical publication, they learn that through hard work, determination, and opportunity, they are able to turn their ideas into a reality.”

SPOT LIGHT

826

New Orleans By Erin Cohn, Edit Intern, NOLA Family

826 New Orleans, formerly called Big Class, is committed to facilitating and amplifying youth voices through the written word. In 2010, Doug Keller, co-founder and now executive director, was a first grade teacher to a class of 43 students who took on an incredible, creative book publishing project. Together, Doug and his students created the first Big Class publication. After seven years, Big Class caught the attention of the national 826 network and became its first southern chapter. Offering programs at their new Youth Writing Center located in the 7th Ward, as well as in schools across the city, has enabled 826 New Orleans to have a truly phenomenal impact. With the help of 826 leadership, the New Orleans chapter serves about 2,000 students annually. And, because every program ends in publication, the organization has published over 100 students’ works (with the aid of over 400 volunteers) since its founding. Students, parents, and teachers overwhelmingly report an increase in writing skills and academic performance as a result of their programs.

The organization’s main project space, the Youth Writing Center, functions as an open, collaborative space for all young writers. This includes members of the Young Writers’ Council; high school students who identify as “emerging writers, activists and changemakers” and take part in a rigorous publishing process. A notable publication of the Young Writers’ Council is There Is No School Without Us, a literary conversation between current teachers and students from first to twelfth grade around the conditions of education in New Orleans. While there are many debates surrounding the New Orleans school system, very infrequently do we hear from those who are impacted most—the students. This book exemplifies the mission at 826’s core; protect and uplift young voices. There Is No School Without Us is activism through writing. More than just a program, 826 New Orleans is a launching pad for change.

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

In addition to the improvements made in literacy outcomes, 826 New Orleans has made leaps and bounds in shifting the attitudes of countless students. For many students, writing can be an intimidating task. But more often than not after working with 826 New Orleans, either through one-on-one homework help during After School at the Center or a six-month in-school Young Authors Book Project, reluctance to write gradually turns to affinity, confidence, and pride.

MOM ABOUT TOWN

THINGS

I’M LOVING RIGHT NOW

Suzanne Perron St. Paul NOSH

“We love to walk as a family to dinner in the neighborhood. Reginelli’s, Taqueria Corona, or Frankie & Johnny’s are our regular spots. I love my boys have a unique sense of home only New Orleans has to offer.”

SHOP

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

Reginelli’s 5961 Magazine St., New Orleans Taqueria Corona 5932 Magazine St., New Orleans Frankie & Johnny’s 321 Arabella St., New Orleans

PAMPER

Suzanne Perron St. Paul of Suzanne St. Paul learned to sew at the age of five by watching her mother and grandmother. Now, she designs custom bridal gowns, debutante gowns, and gowns for Mardi Gras royalty. When not creating custom works of art, she is at home with her husband, William, and twin sons, David and Andrew (8). “Orangetheory Uptown. Taking one hour to focus on me alone is decadent when balancing family and business. I always leave feeling better than when I walked in.” Orangetheory Fitness Uptown 5300 Tchoupitoulas St., Suite A1-B, New Orleans

INSPIRATION

“My inspiration comes from the collaborative process with clients. I thread their concepts together drawing on my creativity, resources, and many years of fashion industry experience.”

“Promenade Fine Fabrics, of course! Hazelnut is the perfect stop for New Orleansthemed gifts and Langenstein’s is my go-to grocery store.”

Promenade Fine Fabrics 1520 St Charles Ave., New Orleans. Hazelnut 5525 Magazine St., New Orleans Langenstein’s 1330 Arabella St., New Orleans

CELEBRATE

“No matter where in the country I lived as a child or adult, New Orleans was always home for Christmas. My most cherished New Orleans Christmases are now at home with my husband and boys.”

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

In The Know

We have complete listings on our dedicated ‘classes’ calendarjust go to nolafamily.com and click on ‘Calendars’.

East Jefferson General Hospital

Parenting Center at Children’s Hospital

For more information or to register, call EJGH Health Finder at 504.456.5000.

For more information or to register, call 504.896.9591 or visit theparentingcenter.net.

Community CPR Ideal for anyone interested in learning how to save a life. Minimum age to attend is 9 years old. Dec. 1, 10 am-noon. FREE.

Snuggles & Struggles New Parent Group Discussion topics include crying, sleeping, and development. Uptown, Tuesdays, 10:30 am-noon. Free and open to the public.

Newborn Essentials Covers basics of bathing, diapering, swaddling, umbilical cord and circumcision care, and more. Dec. 3, 5:30-6:30 pm. FREE. Breastfeeding Class Helps families achieve a successful breastfeeding experience in hospital and home. Dec. 4, 6:30-9 pm. FREE. Infant CPR Non-certifying program teaches how to give CPR to an infant. Dec. 13, 1:30-2:30 pm. $15.

Louisiana State Police - Troop B Child Safety Seat Inspection Station 2101 I-10 Service Road, Kenner. Every Wednesday, 1-4 pm. Walk in or call 504.471.2780 for an appointment. FREE.

Louisiana State Police - Troop L Child Safety Seat Inspection Station 2600 N. Causeway, Mandeville. Every Tuesday, 3-6 pm. Walk in or call 504.893.6250 for an appointment. FREE.

Ochsner Medical Center – Baptist Registration is required for all classes. Visit ochsner.org/baptistclasses.

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

Breastfeeding Class Covers the basics of breastfeeding. Dec. 3, 7-8:30 pm. FREE.

Grandparents Class Learn the latest trends to help support your children. Dec. 13, 6:30-8:30 pm. FREE.

Ochsner Medical Center – West Bank Campus Registration is required for all classes. Email familyunitwb@ochsner.org or call 504.391.5529.

Breastfeeding Class Focus on basics of breastfeeding. Dec. 11, 6-8 pm. FREE.

Infant & Child CPR Learn how to perform CPR and obstructed airway management. Metairie, Dec. 20, 6:30-9 pm. $25 members/$35 non-members.

KIDS & TWEENS East Jefferson General Hospital See regular listing for registration information.

Sibling Class For 3-10 year olds and their parents. Activities are focused on preparing the sibling(s) for their new brother and/or sister. Dec. 8, 9-10 am. FREE.

Touro Family Birthing Center

Parenting Center at Children’s Hospital

For more information or to register, call 504.897.7319 or visit touro.com/events.

See regular listing for registration information.

Kohl’s Happiest Baby on the Block Learn to turn on a baby’s “calm reflex.” Dec. 8, 10 am-noon. FREE. Infant/Child CPR Training Learn the basic technique of CPR and relief of choking. Dec. 13, 6-7:30 pm. FREE.

Growing Up for Boys For ages 10-13, information including male and female anatomy, physical and emotional changes during puberty, and hygiene issues. Boys attend with their father or caregiver. Uptown. Dec. 11, 6:308:30 pm. $20/child.

Prenatal Breastfeeding Class For moms who already know they want to breastfeed and moms who want to know more. Dec. 13, 6-8 pm. FREE.

Focus on Children Divorce Program Helps divorcing parents lessen the impact of separation and divorce on their children. Uptown, Dec. 12, 8 pm. $25.

Tulane Lakeside Hospital for Women and Children

Growing Up for Girls For ages 9-12, information about female anatomy, what happens during puberty, body image, menstruation, and hygiene. Girls attend with their mother or caregiver. Metairie, Dec. 18, 6:30-8:30 pm. $20/child.

To register, visit tulanelakeside.com or call 504.780.4365.

What to Expect...for Dads Experienced dads will provide hands-on demonstrations. Dec. 6, 7-9 pm. Breastfeeding and the Working Mother Review pumps, milk storage, and managing this decision. Dec. 27, 7-9 pm.

West Jefferson Medical Center Most classes are free, unless otherwise noted. Registration is required. Call 504.349.6200.

ABC’s of Breastfeeding Discusses basics and concerns. Dec. 4, 7-9:30 pm. Caring For Your Newborn Registered nurse discusses newborn behavior and care. Dec. 8, 1-4:30 pm. FREE. Family and Friends CPR Basic introduction course. Dec. 11, 7-9:30 pm. $15/person, $25/couple.

West Jefferson Medical Center See regular listing for registration information.

Siblings T.L.C. Ages 3 and older. Activities focused on preparing the sibling(s) for their new brother and/or sister. Dec. 1, 2:30 pm. Mother-Daughter Rap Breakfast discussion for mothers and preteen girls. Dec. 8, 9-11 am. $25/couple. Babysitters Course Must be 11 years to attend this condensed Red Cross course. Dec. 28, 11 am-4:30 pm. $55/person.

Ou t & Abou t 1 SAT

Marketeers Event for Kids at the Crescent City Farmers Market 750 Carondelet St. Kids enjoy marketinspired activities for your future foodies to enjoy. Marketeer faves include market story time, scavenger hunts, and veggie stamps. Not a Marketeer? All shoppers under 12 are invited to become a Marketeer, registration located at Welcome Tent. 8 am-noon.

Grow ing Gardeners

New Orleans City Park, Botanical Garden. Introduce your child to the fun of gardening while learning about (and playing with!) plants and ecosystems. For children ages 6-9. For more information, call 504.483.9470. $17/class. 10 am-noon. Continues on Dec. 15.

Louisiana Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum, 420 Julia St. Don your coziest holiday pjs and start your day with a fun-filled, family-friendly jazz brunch. Mix and mingle with Mr. Bingle, delight in holiday crafts, and more. $20/members, $25/non-members. 10 am-1 pm.

Baby Artsplay! Kids in the Kitchen Holiday Edition Kenner Recreation Room, 1905 24th St., Kenner. A fun day of learning basic recipes and safe kitchen skills to make some delicious treats you can make at home with your family! All supplies included! $15/person. 10 am-noon.

New Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins C. Diboll Circle. Ideal for ages 0-3, instill a love of art at a young age through a guided, hands-on gallery experience. Express Yourself (Early Language) will teach your child to integrate music, movement, and drama into everyday playtime to foster childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s developmental growth. Register at yabp.eventbright.com. 10:30-11:30 am.

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

Home Depot Kids Workshop Various Locations. Dash through the snow in the hands-on workshop where you and your child can build a model sleigh pulled by a reindeer. Once your sleigh is complete, you and your musher can decorate it with paint and stickers and put imagination to work towing gifts around town. Visit homedepot.com to find a location near you. Free. 9 am-noon.

Festival of the Trees Pajama Party Brunch

Freret Market

that unfolds on one of the world’s most famous streets at the funniest, furriest party in the neighborhood. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com. Showtimes 10:30 am and 6 pm. Continues on Dec. 8.

Freret Street and Napoleon Avenue. The market is split up along three category lines: food, art, and flea. Besides all of the great shopping every week, the market also hosts local restaurants serving up their unique cuisine, live music, and a kids area. 11 am-4 pm.

Miracle on Fulton Street Fulton Street. Featuring daily “snow,” twinkling lights, a giant 30-foot tall tree and a magical gingerbread display in the Harrah’s Hotel Lobby. Enjoy live music and visits with Santa on Fridays and Saturdays. Free. Continues through Dec. 26. 11 am-10 pm.

Chr istmas in Rivertown Heritage Park, 2015 Fourth St., Kenner. Enjoy a Christmas craft fair with an outdoor movie. Entertainment provided by local school and dance groups, Victorian carolers, photos with Santa, and more. For more information, visit kenner.la.us/pages/section_5_27.asp. Noon-8 pm. Continues Dec. 6, 13, and 20.

Harlem Globetrotters Smoothie King Center, 1501 Dave Dixon Dr. Spreading joy around the world through the game of basketball, the Harlem Globetrotters don’t often lose. For more information, visit harlemglobtrotters.com. 2 pm.

Audubon Zoo Lights

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

Audubon Zoo, New Orleans. An enchanting nighttime winter dreamland in the heart of Uptown New Orleans. $15/General Admission, Free/Children under 2 years of age. 5:30-9:30 pm. Continues through Dec 30.

2 SUN

On You r Feet! The Musical Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St. A jukebox musical that played on Broadway at the Marquis Theatre, based on the lives and music of 26-time Grammy Award-winning husbandand-wife team Gloria and Emilio Estefan. Tickets starting at $49. 1 pm & 6:30 pm.

Johnette Downing in Concert Chr istmas in Lafreniere Park Lafreniere Park. The park sparkles for the holidays with thousands of twinkling lights and displays. Open daily Sunday-Thursday from dusk-9:45 pm and Friday-Saturday from dusk-11:45 pm. Continues through Dec. 31.

6 THURS

Toddler Time in the Garden Longue Vue House & Gardens, 7 Bamboo Rd. Scoot over to the Discovery Garden for songs and stories that promote early learning. Afterwards, explore the rest of the gardens at Longue Vue to see the camellias and smell the sweet olive trees in bloom. Free for members, $5/child for non-members. 9:30-10 am. Continues each Thursday in December.

Peppa Pig Live ! Su rp r ise ! Saenger Theatre. In “Peppa Pig’s Surprise,” it’s a lovely day and Peppa is playing outside with her friends. Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig have a surprise for her and her younger brother George, but no matter how hard they try, Peppa and George cannot guess what it is. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com. 6 pm.

New Orleans Jazz Historical Park, 916 Decatur St., New Orleans. Award-winning children’s musician and author Johnette Downing will perform a concert and singalong especially suited for young people from preschool to 3rd grade, all with a Louisiana theme. 11 am-12 pm.

First Fr iday Food HOP + SHOP Canal Place. A collection of the city’s most popular food trucks will meet up at the Canal Place Plaza for a happening Friday lunch hour. For more information, call 504.522.9200. 11 am-2 pm.

Movies on the Mississipp i: The Santa Claus The Downtown Development District and the Outlet Collection at Riverwalk are proud to present special outdoor movie showings at 6:30 pm. Free.

White Chr istmas Jefferson Performing Arts Center, 6400 Airline Dr., Metairie. Based upon the Paramount Pictures film, Veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis have a successful song-and-dance act. Ticket prices starting at $20. Showtimes Friday and Saturday at 7:30 pm and Sunday at 2 pm. Continues Dec. 8-9, 14-16.

7 FRI

Baby Artsplay! New Orleans Jazz Museum, 400 Esplanade Ave. Young Audiences of Louisiana Baby Artsplay!™ presented by The Helis Foundation is the perfect opportunity for caregivers to integrate purposeful activities into their child’s playtime that support their cognitive, physical, and social development. 9:30-10 am. Continues Dec. 14 and 21.

Sesame Street Live ! Let's Party! UNO Lakefront Arena. Jump to the beat with your friends on Sesame Street! Introducing an all-new, interactive show

Let It Snow Rivertown Theater for the Performing Arts, 325 Minor St., Kenner. A delightful mix of holiday standards and classic hits that is sure to have you and yours “rockin’ around the Christmas tree.” Showtimes Friday and Saturday at 8 pm and Sunday at 2 pm. Continues Dec. 8-9, 14-16, and 20-23.

8 SAT

Canal Place Reindeer Run & Romp and Holiday Scavenger Hunt The DDD and Entergy are proud to present the annual Canal Place holiday fun run for kids. Rudolph, Santa and friends will jingle their bells to signal the start of the race. After the race, participants “romp” around … and enjoy healthy activities for kids and parents, music, games, crafts and more. Registration begins at 8 am and the race begins at 9. Free.

STEM Satu rdays w ith Dr . Calvin Mackie Joe W. Brown Rec Center, 5601 Read Blvd. The purpose of STEM NOLA is to expose, inspire and engage the community in the opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). Register at stemnola.com. 9 am-noon.

Paint Party: Mr . Gr inch Fassbender Center, 2508 20th St., Kenner. Each parent and child will paint their side of a Grinch-themed painting on an 11x14 canvas. The finished product is cute separately but looks perfect together side by side. $30/Parent & Child. 10 am-noon.

Stroller Satu rday at Newcomb Art Museum Woldenberg Art Center. NAM will opens its doors early and feature an age-appropriate tour of current exhibitions led by Teacher Tom, the museum’s Coordinator for Interpretation & Public Engagement. 10:30 am-noon.

Jingle Bugs Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium, 423 Canal St. Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium celebrates the holidays with activities and treats for the entire family. 10 am-4:30 pm.

Studio KIDS! New Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins C. Diboll Circle. Perfect for students ages 5-10 who want to get creative and learn artmaking techniques. In each class, Studio KIDS! explores art made by diverse cultures as inspiration for art projects. In Decorative Designs, create decorative cards for your family and friends inspired by your style and works of art at NOMA. $25/members, $30/nonmembers. 10 am-noon.

Allstate Sugar Bowl Celebration in the Oaks Run/Walk City Park Storyland. This relaxed 2-mile course takes participants through New Orleans City Park during their annual Celebration in the Oaks light display. After the race, participants can enjoy free refreshments and complimentary entry into the Botanical Garden, Storyland and Carousel Gardens, before the gates are open to the general public. $25/Person, $20/Children ages 10 and under. 3-5 pm.

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

Home of The Nutcracker at the Orpheum

inspired by pottery in NOMA’s galleries. $25/ members, $30/nonmembers. 10 am-noon.

9 SUN

Baby Artsplay! A Candy Cane Celebration Destrehan Plantation, 13034 River Rd., Destrehan. Enjoy an afternoon of Christmas cheer and visit Santa under the old oak tree, get creative with some holiday crafts, play reindeer games and so much more. Tickets available at destrehanplantation.org, $12/person, Free/children 2 and under. 1-3:30 pm.

Little Elves Workshop Fassbender Center, 2508 20th St., Kenner. Help Santa’s elves out in the North Pole by completing 3 small gift projects that you can give out to family or friends. Students complete wooden ornaments, a ceramic piece, and a craft that will be gift wrapped and ready to hand out for gifts. $20/Person. 6-8:30 pm.

Movies on the Mississipp i: Elf Chanukah Celebration New Orleans JCC, 5342 St. Charles Ave. Celebrate the last night of Chanukah at the JCC! Light the Menorah, nosh on latkes and enjoy the wonderful bluegrass music of Nefesh Mountain. For more information, visit nojcc.org. Free and open to the public. 4-6 pm.

13 THURS

LPO's Yuletide Celebration Pontchartrain Center, 4545 Williams Blvd., Kenner. The LPO’s annual holiday celebration returns with performances in Kenner, Hammond (Dec. 14, 7:30 pm), and Slidell (Dec. 16, 2:30 pm) featuring yuletide favorites perfect for the entire family! Bring your holiday spirit and caroling voice. For more information, visit lpomusic.com. Ticket prices starting at $20. 7:30 pm.

The Downtown Development District and the Outlet Collection at Riverwalk are proud to present special outdoor movie showings at 6:30 pm. Free.

Caroling at Chr istmas in the Park Lafreniere Park, 3000 Downs Blvd., Metairie. Come and enjoy the musical stylings of the Genesian Players singing at Lafreniere’s Christmas in the Park! $5/vehicle. 7-8 pm.

Home for the Holidays, A Musical Extravaganza! Westwego Performing Arts Theater, 177A Sala Ave., Westwego. The cast will perform in small and large groups, with the occasional feature performance. Join us as we “Deck the Halls” during this toetapping, feel good Holiday celebration! Ticket prices starting at $15. Showtimes Friday at 7:30 pm, Saturday and Sunday at 2 pm. Continues through Dec. 16.

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

14 FRI

15 SAT

Dashing through the Dome Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation Sports Series in partnership with the R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl will host the 5th annual fun run. This unique 2-mile race runs participants into the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, up and around the Dome’s Ground, Plaza and Terrace Levels, then down the ramps finishing on the field! Visit mbsuperdome.com for more information and to purchase tickets. 6 pm.

Studio KIDS! New Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins C. Diboll Circle. Perfect for students ages 5-10 who want to get creative and learn artmaking techniques. In each class, Studio KIDS! explores art made by diverse cultures as inspiration for art projects. In Painted Pottery, learn how to model and sculpt a clay bowl embellished with designs

New Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins C. Diboll Circle. Ideal for ages 0-3, instill a love of art at a young age through a guided, handson gallery experience. Baby Balancing Act (Bilateral Integration) will teach using music, movement, and drama in everyday playtime to foster children’s developmental growth. Register at yabp.eventbright.com. 10:30-11:30 am.

Papa Noel Party at the Lou isiana Children's Museum Louisiana Children’s Museum, 420 Julia St. Build a small wooden bonfire structure in honor of the Louisiana bonfire tradition along the Great River Road to “light the way” for Papa Noel, and say goodbye to the RiverWorks Discovery, LCM’s fall traveling exhibit. Take a NOLA-themed holiday photo with Papa Noel himself and dance to festive Creole and Zydeco music! 11 am-3 pm.

Lights on the Lake Holiday Bash New Canal Lighthouse, 8001 Lakeshore Dr. The sixth annual Christmas boat parade, all featuring holiday light displays, will glide down the New Basin Canal into Lake Pontchartrain. There will also be a raffle, music from local choirs, pictures with Santa, food and drinks from local restaurants, holiday cocktails, craft beer, book readings and more. 4-8 pm.

Cr itter Cinema Louisiana SPCA. Critter Cinema at the Louisiana SPCA is great fun for animalloving, pizza-eating and movie-watching kids! Kids can get cozy with kitties and canines, enjoy great G-rated critter movies and make friends with other young animal lovers while snacking on pizza and popcorn. Pre-registration required, $35/person. 6-9:30 pm.

Ninja Night Kidsports, 1200 S. Clearview Parkway, Harahan. Join for the holiday celebration and wear your favorite winter apparel. To register, visit ochsnerfitness.com/kidsports. 6-9 pm.

Youth Painting Workshop Longue Vue House & Gardens, 7 Bamboo Rd. This workshop is for middle and high school students who will be guided by J. Pierre. $35/ person and includes materials needed for the workshop. Registration required by Dec. 13 at noon. 11 am-noon and 2-4 pm.

Mannheim Steamroller Chr istmas by Chip Davis

Caroling at Palmer Park

Saenger Theatre. Experience the magic as the spirit of the season comes alive with the signature sound of Mannheim Steamroller. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com. 8 pm.

Palmer Park, S Claiborne Ave. Join in the fun at the Annual “Sing-A-Long” Holiday Caroling. Remember the less fortunate during the holiday season – non-perishable items or donations in cash or checks will be collected for Second Harvesters during the event. 6:30-7:30 pm.

16 SUN

is a joyful, fun experience that thousands of people participate in every year. 7-9 pm.

17 MON

Movies in Metair ie: Will You Be My Neighbor Metairie JCC, 3747 W. Esplanade Ave., Metairie. Free moving screening, drinks and snacks courtesy of the JCC. 12:30-2:30 pm.

18 TUES

Elf the Musical

Family Painting Workshop Longue Vue House & Gardens, 7 Bamboo Rd. Families will work together on a single piece as a group guided by J. Pierre. All levels welcome. Tickets are $20/adult and $10/kids (ages 4–17) with up to 6 individuals per canvas. Materials included in the price. Registration required by Dec. 13 at noon. 11 am-noon.

Caroling in Jackson Square Jackson Square, 700 Decatur St. A holiday tradition that has been going on since 1946, Christmas Caroling in Jackson Square

The Saenger Theatre. The hilarious tale of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. This modern-day Christmas classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner ELF. Ticket prices vary. 7:30-10 pm. Continues through Dec 23.

Nothing gets you ready for the Holidays like

The Nutcracker .

Here are you chances to see this beautiful production.

Ballet Lou isiane

Lelia Haller Ballet Classique will present their company, Ballet Louisiane, in their 12th annual production.

The Nutcracker Su ite

Delta Festival Ballet

St. Rita Catholic School. Dec. 15, 2 pm; Dec.16, 2 pm.

Mahalia Jackson Theater. Dec. 22, 7 pm; Dec. 23, 2 pm.

Join Clare Marie and her Nutcracker Prince as they fight off King Nutria, journey through a Tropical Storm, parade in a Mardi Gras strut and more.

With the LPO and internationally acclaimed guest artists, Joseph Phillips and Katherine Barkman of Ballet Manila, Delta Festival Ballet present their 37th season of The Nutcracker.

River Region Ballet Destrehan High School. Dec. 15, 7:30 pm; Dec.16, 2 pm. The River Region Ballet, Inc. has performed a full-length Nutcracker in the river region since 1995.

New Orleans Ballet Theatre

Tulane University, Dixon Hall. Dec. 2, 3 pm and 6 pm.

The Orpheum Theater. Dec. 15, 2 pm and 7 pm; Dec. 16, 2 pm; Dec. 22, 2 pm and 7 pm; Dec. 23, 2 pm.

This magical tale is brought to life by over 200 dancers ages 6-70+ of New Orleans Ballet Association.

With its biggest cast to date, over 150 local children and professional dancers will be sharing the stage.

Moscow Ballet's Great Russian Nutcracker The Saenger Theater. Dec. 26, 3 pm and 7 pm. Presenting world class Russian artists, Russian Snow Maidens, and jubilant Nesting Dolls, the Great Russian Nutcracker brings the Christmas spirit to life.

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

St. Martin’s Episcopal School, The Solomon Theater. Nov. 30, 7:30 pm; Dec. 1, 2 pm and 7:30 pm.

New Orleans School of Ballet

19 WED

24 MON

Little Acorns at City Park

Parents Night Out

Botanical Gardens at City Park. Head to City Park for storytime, activities, and a healthy snack. Kids won’t want to miss this! Bring a blanket to sit on. Ages 18 months-4 years old. Adult chaperone required. $3/Child. 10-11 am.

New Orleans Boulder Lounge, 2360 St. Claude Ave. Parents Night Out is an opportunity for you to enjoy a night out on your own while your kids have a fun, active evening at the climbing gym. The kids will play games, learn about climbing and climb to their heart’s content. For ages 6-14. Members: $25/1st child, $20/additional children. Non-members: $30/1st child, $25/additional children. 7-9 pm.

Trans-Siber ian Orchestra Smoothie King Center. TSO’s annual multisensory extravaganza, which sells out venues year after year, has cemented the group’s status as a must-attend, multigenerational holiday tradition. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com. 7:30 pm.

22 SAT

Baby Artsplay! New Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins C. Diboll Circle. Ideal for ages 0-3, instill a love of art at a young age through a guided, hands-on gallery experience. Tiny Household Helpers (Incorporated Development) will teach using music, movement, and drama in everyday playtime to foster children’s developmental growth. Register at yabp.eventbright.com. 10:30-11:30 am.

CHRISTMAS EVE Chr istmas in Lafreniere Park: Free Entry Night 3000 Downs Blvd., Metairie. Special free entry to the sparkling light display at Lafreniere Park in celebration of Christmas Eve. Dusk-11:45 pm. Continues on Dec 25.

Bonfires on the Levee Various locations along River Road between New Orleans and Baton Rouge, particularly in St. James Parish. More than 100 bonfires are lit along the Mississippi River to show the Cajun Santa Claus, “Papa Noel,” where to fly and land as he soars across southern Louisiana. Dusk.

25 TUES

23 SUN

CHRISTMAS DAY

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

New Orleans Saints vs. Pittsbu rgh Steelers

29 SAT

Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Be in that number as the Saints take on the Steelers. Tickets available at mbsuperdome.com. 3:25 pm.

Chr istmas Caroling Mandeville Trailhead, 675 Lafitte St., Mandeville. Christmas caroling with classic seasonal songs! Candles and song sheets provided. Bring the family and blankets or lawn chairs. 5-6:30 pm.

26 WED

Shen Yun Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts. The world’s premiere classical Chinese dance company, Shen Yun brings to life a lost culture through profoundly beautiful art. For more information, visit shenyunperformingarts.org. $85-$155/Person. 2 & 7 pm.

30 SUN

New Orleans Saints vs. Carolina Panthers Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Be in that number as the Saints take on the Panthers. Tickets available at mbsuperdome.com. Noon.

31 MON

New Year's Eve Kid's Countdown to Noon Louisiana Children’s Museum, 420 Julia St. This New Year’s Eve is a very special one since it is the LAST the Children’s Museum will be celebrating on Julia Street! You don’t want to miss the fun! LCM’s countdown to NOON culminates with a colorful confetti toss and a balloon release. Make a noisemaker and festive paper bag party hat! Special event ticketing applies. Admission is $8/person for LCM Members and $12/person for Non-Members. Preregistration is strongly recommended. To register, visit lcm.org. 9:30 am-3 pm.

Zoo Year's Eve Audubon Zoo, 5600 Magazine St. Audubon Zoo invites families and kids of all ages to celebrate the new year in style with music, games and prizes. Pick up a party hat and noisemaker, grab a Pepsi drink for toasting, and countdown to Noon to ring in the New Year with “The Pop Princesses”! 10:30 am12:30 pm.

Holiday Teas and Dining w ith Santa in New Orleans!

Teddy Bear Tea The Roosevelt New Orleans, 123 Baronne St. Delicious food, specialty teas, and tasty pastries, as well as sparkling wine and mimosas for the grown-ups. Children receive a Roosevelt Teddy Bear after their visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. therooseveltneworleans.com. Nov. 25, Dec. 1-9, Dec. 15-24.

Bu ild you r own Gingerbread House The Ritz-Carlton, 921 Canal St. Children of all ages are invited to build a festive gingerbread house. Price includes one gingerbread house with all the decorating essentials and holiday refreshments. Adult supervision and reservations required. $155/table for up to 4 guests. 504.262.5048. Dec. 2, 8, 9, 1523, Noon or 3 pm.

Deanie's Candyland Chr istmas Show

Winter Wonderland Teddy Bear Workshop

Deanie’s Seafood Restaurant, 841 Iberville St. Rockin’ holiday fun for the kids with Vince Vance and the Valianettes! Enjoy a full buffet breakfast, photos with Santa, face painting and arts & crafts. $45/person. 504.421.2252. Dec. 8-9 and 15-16, 9 am.

La Petite Tea Room, 5928 W. Metairie Ave. Suite 3, Metairie. Each child will stuff a Christmas friend of their choosing, play dress-up, visit their nail polish and tattoo stations and enjoy a magical tea party! $40/ child. Reservations are required. lapetitetearoom.com for tickets. Dec. 15, 10-11:30 am.

Brunch w ith Santa Bourbon Orleans Hotel, 717 Orleans St. Enjoy brunch with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and other holiday characters. Music, singing, dancing, and arts and crafts plus holiday drinks for the adults. $65/ ages 13 and older, $30/ages 4-12, free for kids 3 and under. 504.571.4672. Dec. 8-9, 15-16, 22-23; 10 am and 1:30 pm.

Cooking w ith Mrs. Claus New Orleans School of Cooking, 524 St. Louis St. You’ll have a ball with Mrs. Claus listening to stories, watching a praline demonstration, and decorating Christmas sugar cookies! Kids get to bring home their cookies and apron. $35/person. Dec. 9, 2-4 pm.

Beauregard-Keyes House, 1113 Chartres St. Kids can bring their favorite dolls to enjoy a Victorian Christmas. Activities include a sing-along, storytime, displays of the house’s antique doll collection and a visit from Santa. $10/person. 504.523.7257 or visit bkhouse.org. Dec. 8, 1-4 pm.

Breakfast w ith Santa Dave & Buster’s, 1200 Poydras St. Join for the annual Breakfast with Santa. Includes breakfast buffet, $10 or $20 Power Card with Unlimited video game play, holiday themed arts and crafts, and the opportunity to take a photo with Santa. 504.226.3300. Dec. 15, 9 amnoon.

The Court of Two Sisters, 613 Royal St. A jazz brunch buffet, visit with Santa and a gift for each child. $45/adults, $30/ children ages 5-12, $12.50/children ages 4 and younger. 504.522-7261 or email court2si@courtoftwosisters.com. Dec. 20 and 21, 10 am and 12:30 pm.

Cajun Holiday Tea w ith Papa Noel Creole Queen, Riverwalk/Canal Street dock. Join Papa Noel, Mrs. Noel, Gaston the Gator and other jolly Cajun characters for tea, storytelling, face painting, children’s activities, and more while cruising the Mississippi. $59/ adults, $39/children, $10/ages 2 and younger. Dec. 22 and 23, 10 am-noon and 1:30-3:30 pm.

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com

Tea Party for the Dolls

Longue Vue House and Gardens, 7 Bamboo Road. Join Santa in celebrating the holidays with an afternoon tea, a festive holiday craft, and good cheer. $50/adults and children (members), $60/ adults and children (NM). Reservations required. 504.293.4722 or visit longuevue.com. Dec.18, 1-3 pm.

Jazz Brunch w ith Santa

Teddy Bear Tea BB’s Stage Door Canteen, 945 Magazine St. Enjoy delicious food, lively music from the Victory Belles, a visit from Santa Claus and a special teddy bear gift for all children in attendance. $59/person. 504.528.1943 or visit stagedoorcanteen.org. Dec. 8, 15, 20-22, 10 am-noon.

Family Holiday Tea

Ongoing Free for Teens New Orleans Museum of Art. Children ages 13-19 receive free admission through the end of 2018, courtesy of The Helis Foundation. You may pick up your Teen Pass at NOMA’s front desk, or visit noma.org.

Toddler Time Louisiana Children’s Museum. The museum hosts activities for children ages 3 and under and their parents or caregivers every Monday-Friday. $10 admission, free for members. 10 am.

Free for children and students through 12th grade Contemporary Arts Center. Free admission at all times, courtesy of The Helis Foundation. 11 am-5 pm.

Museum Highlights Tour New Orleans Museum of Art. Take an engaging and informative tour every Tuesday of the museum’s permanent collection and

special exhibitions. Included with museum admission. For more information, call 504.658.4100. 1-2 pm.

Free Wednesdays New Orleans Botanical Garden. Free admission for Louisiana residents, courtesy of The Helis Foundation. 10 am-5 pm.

Free Wednesdays New Orleans Museum of Art. Free admission for Louisiana residents, courtesy of The Helis Foundation. 10 am-6 pm.

Drop In & Play

BYO(B)aby The Broad Theater, 636 N. Broad St. Weekly Thursday matinees for young infants and their parents. The theater partners with Asuka to offer sushi rolls for sale. 11 am.

Ogden After Hours Ogden Museum of Southern Art. The weekly music series is held every Thursday night for all ages and includes a children’s art activity. For more information, call 504.539.9650. 5-8 pm.

Drop In & Play

Rosa F. Keller Library. Meet new friends and share Lego Duplo, Play-Doh, and puzzles with your child. Ages 1-5. Thursdays, 10 am-noon.

Milton H. Latter Memorial Library. Meet new friends and share Lego Duplo, Play-Doh, and puzzles with your child. Ages 1-5. Fridays, 10 am-noon.

Free Thursdays

Free Sundays

Ogden Museum of Southern Art. Free admission for Louisiana residents, courtesy of The Helis Foundation. 10 am-5 pm.

Contemporary Arts Center. Free admission to all Louisiana residents, courtesy of The Helis Foundation. 11 am-5 pm.

Storytimes & Other Activities New Orleans Public Library For more information and a complete listing of activities, visit nolalibrary.org/events Algiers Regional Tuesdays at 10:30 am & Saturdays at 2:30 pm (ages 5 and up), first & third Tuesday of the month at 4 pm (Teen Game Day), and second & fourth Monday of the month at 4 pm (Lego Club, ages 8-14).

www.nolafamily.com

| december 2018

Alvar Tuesdays at 11 am (Toddlers).

Central City Tuesdays at 10 am (ages 3-5); and first & third Monday of the month at 5:30 pm (ages 10 & under with craft).

Cita Dennis Hubbell Tuesdays & Thursdays at 10:30 am, Saturdays at 10:30 am & 2 pm (Family Movies), and Mondays through Thursdays at 4:30 pm (Drop-in Homework Help). Rosa F. Keller Mondays at 11 am (ages 2 and under), Saturdays at 11 am (ages 3-5) and second Thursday of the month at 6 pm (Reading with Rover). Martin Luther King Tuesday at 3:30 pm (After-school Family) and Thursdays at 3:30 pm (Mixin’ It Up). Milton H. Latter Tuesdays & Saturdays at 10:30 am.

Children’s Resource Center Wednesdays at 10:30 am, first and third Monday of the month at 4:30 pm (with craft), second Monday of the month at 4:30 pm and fourth Saturday of the month at noon (English & Spanish, with craft). Second Saturday of the month at 11 am (Lego club) and fourth Monday of the month at 4:30 pm (French, with craft).

Main Library Thursdays at 1:30 pm & Saturdays at 1 pm (with craft for ages 7 and under).

East New Orleans Regional Tuesdays at 5 pm.

Norman Mayer (Gentilly) Wednesdays at 10:30 am (baby & toddler);

and first and third Saturday of the month at 10 am (Sewing Class, girls ages 13-17). Robert E. Smith (Lakeview) Thursdays at 11 am and Saturdays at 3 pm (Lego Club).

Storytime Louisiana Children’s Museum. Included with general admission, $10; free for members and children younger than 12 months. Weekdays through Saturdays at 10:30 am.

Mornings with Mommy Barnes & Noble, Metairie. Free. Tuesdays at 11 am.

Storytime Pottery Barn Kids, Lakeside Shopping Center, Metairie. Free. Tuesdays at 11 am.

Storytime

Mid-City Thursdays at 11 am and third Monday of the month at 6 pm (Family Story).

Barnes & Noble, Metairie, Westbank & Mandeville. Free. Saturdays at 11 am.

Nix Library Wednesday at 5:30 pm (ages 2-7).

Little Bookworm, 115 Metairie Road, Suite E, Metairie. Free. Saturdays at 11 am. Small craft or art project to follow.

Storytime

december 2018 | www.nolafamily.com