nola family Parent Fearlessly
November 2020
COVID, Cold or Flu? HOW TO TELL
P. 13
HOLIDAY CAMPS P. 19
A DIFFERENT KIND OF SCHOOL P. 17
MOTIVATING YOUR CHILD P. 16
2
www.nolafamily.com
| november 2020
november 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
3
nola family CONTENTS NOVEMBER 2020
P.16
P.10
P.19
A FEW WORDS
EDUCATION & GUIDANCE
IN EACH ISSUE
6 From the Editor
7 Open House Calendar When to visit schools
17 Spotlight
13 Health Is it COVID or a cold?
20 Hip Grannie
FEATURES 9 Community Support During COVID Organizations meeting the needs of those affected
16 Parenting Corner Developing your child’s inner
www.nolafamily.com
| november 2020
Vista Verde Guest Ranch
4
15 Financial Lessons 529 Plans: Saving for your child’s college education
10 Travel 12 Kid Fitness and COVID Recognizing the impacts of less exercise on your child
19
How to spot the differences
Thanksgiving Camps
Holiday week options for the kids
motivation
18 Learning Years Building your child’s growth mindset
NOLA Micro Schools
Learning resilience
22 Mom About Town Jennifer Zdon
23 Gear to Get Developing empathy
24 From the Bookshelf Thanksgiving family reading
30 In the Know Classes and family support resources
27 Out & About
ON THE COVER Teena Whitmore and daughter Starla, 8, baking for Thanksgiving. Teena is the owner of an online bakery called the Moonshine Bake Shoppe that specializes in holiday pies, breads and cookies.
What, Where, When: Virtual, on-going, and special happenings
publisher/editor ANN BOWER HERREN
Contr ibutors
ann@nolafamily.com
managing editor TREVOR WISDOM
ROBERT BAER is a Vice President at Fidelity Bank. He coordinates Fidelity’s Financial Literacy initiative.
trevor@nolafamily.com
office manager JENNY ZIGLIN jenny@nolafamily.com
advertising sales KRISTEN RENFROW
DR. PAT BLACKWELL is a licensed psychologist who has worked with families for over 30 years. See her website for more information and her blog at patblackwellphd.com.
kristen@nolafamily.com
designer CAT LANDRUM 2ND STORY CREATIVE
ARIANNA BLAKELY is an editorial intern with Nola Family Magazine. The native Bostonian is a journalism student at Loyola University New Orleans, class of 2022.
edit intern ARIANNA BLAKELY ad production SARA YOUNGBLOOD contributing photography TWIRL PHOTOGRAPHY
For reprint information, contact
SCOTT CAMPBELL is publisher of Pelican Publishing, a nationally recognized, local publishing company established in 1926. He also is publisher & founder of River Road Press, a local boutique house of local and regional titles.
LAURA CLAVERIE is Nola Family’s Hip Grannie. She is a local mother, grandmother, and writer.
ann@nolafamily.com Business Office:
5500 Prytania Street, #617, New Orleans LA 70115
504.866.0555
LISA PHILLIPS, a licensed social worker and parent educator at The Parenting Center at Children’s Hospital, is a contributor to the award-winning “Parenting Corner” column. She can be reached at 504.896.9591; chnola.org/ourservices/the-parenting-center.
SUZANNE PFEFFERLE TAFUR is a native New A publication of
The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and/or contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the magazine or its advertisers.
november 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
november 2020 volume 14, issue 8
Orleanian and mother of two sons with her husband Jose. She is a frequent contributor to The Times Picayune | New Orleans Advocate, Gambit Weekly, New Orleans magazine, and Biz New Orleans.
5
FR OM THE ED ITO R
I don’t know if I have a favorite holiday; they’re all amazing in their own way, each with specific traditions associated with them, at least in my family. But through the years, Thanksgiving seems to edge out the others as my favorite. With family and friends cooking together for hours in the kitchen, the divine aromas wafting through the house, and then a shared leisurely meal followed by raucous football watching, it’s quite perfect in my mind. The love and camaraderie are what stand out when I recall my Thanksgivings gone by. And now there’s the coronavirus, and this year will be very different. We’ll only have five of us safely gathered together, and the afternoon will end early, with way more than enough leftovers to feed us all for days. But that’s okay. You wanna know why? Because my little family is blessed to have each other and be together this holiday. And while November is traditionally slated as the time for giving thanks, I don’t think this month should have a monopoly on thankfulness. Not just this year, or this November, or during this epidemic. I’m thankful every day, all year long, that we’re here with one another, making our way, and growing older together.
www.nolafamily.com
| november 2020
Other things that are traditional to November? Nola Family’s annual guide to Thanksgiving camps for working parents needing professionally-run fun spots for the kids out on break. We also have a slew of school open houses this month on the calendar for those families exploring new options in all age ranges. Too, our bookshelf selections are fun children’s books focusing on Thanksgiving, one in particular on being thankful.
6
And while community giving is always explored by our team in November, this year we looked at organizations that are helping those more directly affected by coronavirus. Timely in this issue are our two health articles. One explores the fitness of kids during COVID times, and the other delves into how to spot whether your child has a cold, allergies, flu or COVID. So, grab some place cards and construction paper for the kids to decorate and put on the table. Fire up the oven, fight over the TV remote, and make some wonderful memories together.
Wishing you and yours a special Thanksgiving,
Trevor Wisdom
nola family
SCHOOL OPEN HOUSES SUNDAY NOVEMBER
MONDAY 2
1
TUESDAY 3
WEDNESDAY 4
THURSDAY 5
6
9
St. Paul’s Episcopal School Virtual: Little Saints, Pre-K, K 10 AM or 6 PM
10
St. Pius X Catholic School 9-11 AM
16
7
11
12
St. Francis Xavier School 6:30-8 PM
Ursuline Academy High School 5-7 PM
Benjamin Franklin High School Virtual 5:30-6:30 PM
Louise S. McGehee Virtual: Grades PK-12 8:30-10 AM
17
18
St. George’s Episcopal School All grades 8:30-10 AM
14
St. Paul’s Episcopal School Tour: LIttle Saints, Pre-K, K 9 AM-12:15 PM
Arden Cahill Academy 9 AM St. Mary’s Dominican School Virtual: All grades In-person: Grades 6-8
19
St. Charles Catholic High School 5-7 PM
13
Archbishop Shaw 6-8 PM
20 St. Edward the Confessor School 9 AM and 7 PM
Metairie Park Country Day Grades 6-12 6:30 PM
Warren Easton Charter High School 5-7 PM
Archbishop Rummel High School 6:00:00 PM Isidore Newman School Virtual: Upper & Middle Schools 6 PM
21
november 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
15
SATURDAY
Mount Carmel Academy 2-7:30 PM
Cabrini High School Tentative in-person & virtual options 3:30-6:30 PM Holy Cross School Grades Pk4-12 6-8 PM
8
FRIDAY
7
ARDEN CAHILL ACADEMY EST. 1968
Babies Through High School Join us for our Virtual Open House
www.nolafamily.com
| november 2020
October 22
8
Community Support during the time of COVID-19
In our annual November issue, we normally highlight some of the great ways to give back to the community and focus on raising an altruistic child. So many worthy organizations have been covered by Nola Family through the years during this Thanksgiving month. This year we’re taking a different approach, focusing instead on how New Orleans community needs have changed due to COVID-19, and talking about several of the organizations meeting those needs and how we can support them.
HOSPITALITY WORKERS New Orleanians have a love-love relationship with the hospitality industry. But how many realize that this industry’s revenues most recently represented 43% of the city’s operating budget? Hospitality employees have experienced mass layoffs and loss of benefits since New Orleans’ initial shutdowns in mid-March.
Dine Out One key way to support hospitality workers and keep them employed during COVID-19 times is by dining out or picking up meals for enjoying at home. And industry leaders are making this easy for you through a tourism initiative called Coolinary Encore. This program includes 55 local restaurants featuring phenomenally priced brunch, lunch, and dinner safe-dining options. The program runs through November 22, after which time the annual (and similar) Holidays New Orleans-Style program begins. neworleans.com
Louisiana Hospitality Foundation Active and on the local scene since 2006 is the Louisiana Hospitality Foundation. The foundation’s mission is to strengthen Louisiana’s hospitality industry through workforce programs and worker access to education and providing financial assistance to hospitality workers during times of crisis.
The crises these grants cover are different for each person - from house fires and funeral expenses, to rent and utility payment shortages during times of illness. Their program has recently also helped Lake Charles hospitality workers affected by Hurricane Laura. louisianahospitalityfoundation.org
Our seniors, as we well know, have greater COVID-19 health risk factors, leading to a large proportion of them needing to safely social distance at home, unable to go to their regular senior programs or community centers. One non-profit organization pivoting to meet senior needs is NOLA Tree Project, which has been integral in restoring the tree canopy post-Katrina. Says Executive Director Connie Uddo, “We identified a need, identified our partners, put “a” and “b” together, and were off and running,” about how she came to organize volunteer delivery of well over 300,000 prepared meals to 17 local zip codes since March 15. (The group delivered 1,900 meals to over 300 seniors on October 19, the day we spoke with Ms. Uddo.) nolatreeproject.org
FIGHTING EDUCATIONAL INEQUITY It’s become apparent since the advent of COVID-19 that many tragic inequalities exist in our community - including healthcare support, access to nutritious meals, and educational inequalities. According to 2018 census data, 19% of households nationally do not have internet access at home. In New Orleans, almost a third of households do not, and for households with less than $20,000 in annual income, that rises to 55%.
New Orleans Technology Access Fund To address this, NOLA Public Schools purchased 10,000 Chromebooks to meet the needs of students without computers. They also procured 5,000 Wi-Fi hotspots and identified the need for 3,000 more, amounting to $700,000 in needed funding for connectivity. This fund was created to provide internet and technology access to students on an ongoing basis and so reduce the significant risk of their learning loss. Donations as small as $20 buy one month of internet connection for a child or family. newschoolsforneworleans.org
november 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
Earlier this year, the foundation partnered with the United Way of Southeast Louisiana to provide COVIDrelated assistance to 4,800 people in the region ($2.4 million). However, hospitality workers (traditionally paid minimum wage) are caught in the lurch regularly. And so, the foundation is focusing now - as they have since 2006 on helping this industry’s community with grants during personal times of emergency.
SENIOR CITIZENS
9
MOUNTAIN
ESCAPE
VISTA VERDE GUEST RANCH EVERY FAMILY’S DREAM CAMP EXPERIENCE
www.nolafamily.com
| november 2020
Tubing is serious – and fun!
10
View from our hot tub on deck of our private cabin
Sometimes you expect a lot out of a vacation, with activities, adventure, insta-worthy snaps. Other times, your only goal is to relax, rest, and return home feeling better than when you left. Somehow, Vista Verde magically accomplishes both. Imagine a warm, friendly, four-star dude ranch tucked into the Rockies, and you have Vista Verde. The combination of luxury and service coupled with a family-friendly, luxurious atmosphere makes this place so perfect for a complete get-away.
Romanced by the views Nestled on Colorado’s Routt National Forest on 540 acres, Vista Verde boasts 12 private log cabins (and three deluxe lodge rooms), each cabin has one-to-three bedrooms with its own private balcony and hot tub overlooking true ranch life. Easy to reach by plane or car, the ranch is not too far from Steamboat Springs and its airport, and yet it has a feeling of total seclusion and otherworldliness. From the moment the staff greeted us at the airport and brought us ‘home’ to our cabin, tensions from ‘life’ immediately fell away and we were excited for our long weekend.
Guided trail ride
The wranglers and staff are friendly and accommodating, perfecting the balance of helpfulness and inclusiveness but respectful of guest privacy. This is the sort of place that you leave your cabin or room unlocked - without a second thought.
Winter activities Before our trip began, they welcomed us electronically with ideas, activities to schedule, and the assurance that we needn’t worry - they are flexible. Don’t feel up to cross country skiing? How about a horseback ride, or tubing over the fresh snow? Every evening before dinner, guests and staff gathered in the stunning Main Lodge for happy hour and games by a roaring fire. Staff mingle and check in with each guest to accommodate changes and to make suggestions for the next day’s activities. With a staff:guest ratio of one-to-one (and a maximum of only 40 guests per night), it’s easy to feel a part of this culture. And especially enjoyable for us were the fabulous meals (being from New Orleans, we enjoy good food!) provided by their very talented chef and the family-style dining with the other guests. We visited in March, so all our activities were winter-focused. We packed riding, cross country skiing, sleighing, and tubing into two days. With a ski guide and one other guest, I trekked across lakes and through the snowy woods and experienced everything Colorado has to offer in winter sunshine - it was exhilarating! Helping the wranglers pitch hay from the wagon
Our riding started with a small group lesson in the enclosed arena, followed by a trail ride; crunching through the snow, past pastured horses and vistas. Tubing was nothing short of feeling spoiled - we barreled down the hill over and over, as the staff snowmobiled us back up the hill. Why wasn’t it like that when I was a kid? There also are snowshoeing, yoga, cooking classes, photography, and many more activities to enjoy.
Summer activities In the summer, time for the kids really shines, with their children (6-10) and tweens (1113) programs. They can fill their days with horseback riding, mountain biking, hayrides, camping, hiking, swimming, and much more. Parents, too, enjoy a full scope of activities - why send the kids to camp when the whole family can go? You deserve it.
Vista Verde Guest Ranch Steamboat Springs, CO 80477 Vistaverde.com 800-526-7433
y Ann Herren cross countr de gui a h wit skiing
Ann Bower Herren is Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Nola Family. An intrepid world traveler, Ann can pack her bags in 10-minutes flat.
november 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
Vista Verde is a luxurious, all-inclusive, camp experience, and not inexpensive, but the staff, amenities, activities, and ease of mind make it very worth the splurge. The memories your family makes will alone be worth it!
11
Kids' Wellness During During COVID COVID Times Times RECOGNIZING THE HE ALTH FALLOUT FROM QUAR ANTINE
Like most families, your child probably has not contracted Coronavirus. But, it’s very probable that you’ve seen changes in their overall health and fitness since March, when they were sent home from school to safely learn distantly and extra-curricular activities ceased. “From a health standpoint and a weight standpoint, I think COVID-19 definitely has made an impact,” Dr. Lauren Hernandez from Sprout Pediatrics said. “As I was checking kids for well visits, there were a good amount of kids who had gained more weight than usual over the last year since they had (last) been seen.” A survey of 5,000 families by health and fitness site Total Shape shows that children have gained an average of seven pounds since quarantine began, due mainly to lack of regular exercise like P.E. and intramural sports. Overall, quarantining made it hard for kids to be kids and they glued themselves to TVs, laptops, and phone screens for entertainment (and schooling) for months on end.
www.nolafamily.com
| november 2020
The “wow” moment for parents
12
“I had my ‘Wow’ moment recently. I had no idea fitness was a problem until my 12-yearold daughter started back in gymnastics this fall,” says Mary, a River Ridge mom. “She was always athletic and fit, but once we went virtual in March, she’s obviously been spending more and more time in front of a screen. This summer was not much better - no playdates, limited biking with friends, no camp as usual.” she explains. “So when she started back this fall, and complained about how tired she was from activities that previously wouldn’t be a problem, it was quickly apparent!”
Optimum activity for health The World Health Organization advises that children be active for at least 60 minutes a day for optimum physical and mental health. And while we all realize that significant weight gain can be prevented through daily movement, it also helps
children’s immune systems grow stronger at fighting against infections.
School will help put kids back on the right track
Motor development and impulse control in children also improve through physical activity. The pandemic has been a stressful time for everyone, and kids experience it too. Daily exercise can minimize any stress or anxiety that they are experiencing and improve their mood. Exercise can be fun, and whether it’s outdoors or indoors, the whole family can get involved.
Notes Dr. Hernandez, “I think it’s improving now. What I’ve noticed is that with most kids back in school, they’re getting active again in P.E. and playing sports.”
Diet plays a role Helping your kid maintain a healthy lifestyle doesn’t stop at exercise. Don’t forget that the foods they eat matter, too! While children were home for extended hours this spring and summer, food was available to them 24/7. This may still be the case at your house. Keep an eye out for emotional eating and nervous snacking out of boredom or depression. Help your child realize the difference between physical and emotional hunger. Physical hunger comes on gradually, can be satisfied with many foods, and means a person can stop eating when they’re full. Emotional eating is sudden and urgent with specific cravings (potato chips), and leads to eating more than normal.
Her three tips for improving health: • Make sure your child is drinking mostly water • Get them outside, staying active • Limit non-school screen time to two hours max daily Taking these measures to diminish the risk of obesity and other health problems will serve your kids throughout their lives. “Let’s make sure we’re doing everything to live a healthy lifestyle and promote health and awareness.”
Arianna Blakely is an editorial intern with Nola Family Magazine. The native Bostonian is a journalism student at Loyola University New Orleans, class of 2022.
IS IT COVID OR A COLD?
HOW TO SPOT THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COVID, THE FLU, A COLD, AND ALLERGIES.
Whether it’s a runny nose or a cough, the first sign of a sick child fills parents with dread – especially when it’s flu season. But now caregivers have something new to fear: the novel Coronavirus. So how can you tell if your little one’s symptoms suggest allergies, a cold, or a more serious contagion? “This year it’s definitely a complicated picture,” said Leah Douglas, a pediatrician for Children’s Hospital New Orleans.
ALLERGIES
COMMON COLD FLU
COVID
• Congestion • Runny nose
• Same symptoms as allergies
• Same symptoms as flu
• Sneezing
• Low-grade fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Fever & chills • Cough
• Loss of smell & taste
• Difficulty breathing • Extreme fatigue • Muscle & body aches • Congestion • Vomiting & diarrhea
Allergies
Call your pediatrician
Allergy symptoms (see box on this page) are not the classic symptoms associated with COVID-19 or influenza, said Douglas. “In general, people who are having an allergy flare do not run fever, or have any significant fatigue or body aches.”
Douglas seconds calling a pediatrician to determine what type of testing (if any) should be done.
Flu and COVID Both the flu and COVID can cause the same symptoms (see box), Dr. Douglas explained. “But one thing that is way more common with COVID and you hear people talking about, is the loss of taste or smell,” she said. Flu symptoms emerge one to four days after being exposed to a sick person. With COVID-19, symptoms may not appear for up to 14 days after coming into contact with someone carrying the virus.
What to do
“Most schools are screening for symptoms and would actually turn your child back around to go home, and ask you to see a doctor or get a COVID test,” explains William Lennarz, an Ochsner Health pediatrician. “If we don’t know whether they do or do not have COVID-19 or influenza, anyone in the school who has had more than 15 minutes of contact with them, within six feet, whether they’re masked or not, will need to be quarantined for 14 days,” said Dr. Lennarz, citing the state’s mandate to schools. “If the test is negative, then everyone in that group, and the child too, can return to education.”
However, physicians recommend waiting for about four days from the known exposure to COVID before taking a test. Dr. Douglas notes, “If you test very early on, you can get a false negative.”
Flu vaccines In the meantime, getting the whole family vaccinated for the flu and practicing healthy habits is more important than ever, said Dr. Douglas. “Use good hygiene and social distancing practices to prevent the spread of any infection, and to keep our families and children safe,” she said.
Stay vigilant “Whether it’s influenza or COVID-19, a small percentage of children can still get quite ill from it,” said Dr. Lennarz. “While children are in the most protected age group, as far as the possibility of getting severe symptoms go, there are adults in our community at a very high risk of becoming seriously ill and even dying. It’s important that parents keep their children with symptoms isolated until they know that they don’t have COVID and don’t have the flu.” Suzanne Pfefferle Tafur is a native New Orleanian, mother of two sons, and frequent contributor to The Times Picayune | New Orleans Advocate, Gambit Weekly, New Orleans magazine, and Biz New Orleans.
november 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
“If your child is exhibiting any concerning symptoms, then you would want to keep them home from school or daycare to avoid spreading any infection – be it the flu, COVID, or the common cold,” Dr. Douglas said.
“If they are symptomatic and there’s not another identifiable source of infection, then testing is warranted,” she said. “The second reason to be tested is if you or your child has come in close contact with somebody who’s a known positive COVID patient.”
13
14
www.nolafamily.com
| november 2020
529
PLANS
FINANCIAL LESSONS
AND SAVING FOR YOUR CHILD’S COLLEGE EDUCATION
Basic information about tax-free educational savings Section 529 of the federal tax code makes it possible for you to save money for your child’s education, tax-free. Legally known as “qualified tuition plans,” a 529 plan is a taxadvantaged savings plan designed to encourage savings for future education costs.
There are two types of 529 plans: Prepaid tuition plans • units or credits at participating colleges / universities are paid for your child
• these are usually public and in-state colleges / universities
• units / credits are for future tuition & mandatory fees at current prices
• units / credits usually cannot be used to pay for future room & board
• a variety of stipulations apply and funds may or may not be guaranteed by the state
Education savings plans • an investment account is opened to save for your child’s qualified education expenses With both plans, if you use the withdrawals for qualified educational expenses, they are generally tax-free.
The information in this article is intended to be general in nature and not serve as financial advice. Fuller information can be found on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s website, SEC.gov.
Qualified expenses include:
For education savings plans, typically they’re talking about tuition, mandatory fees, as well as room and board. Plan withdrawals can generally be used at any college or university and, in some cases, even at non-US colleges and universities. Your savings can also cover up to $10,000 per year per beneficiary at any public, private or religious elementary or secondary school.
• On-campus housing
• Tuition • Required fees • Off-campus housing up to the college’s housing allowance
• On-campus meal plans • Books • Supplies • School-related special services • Computers
Make a plan for spending 529 funds. While you can make a withdrawal from the account for any reason, if you spend the funds on non-qualified expenses, you’ll have to pay federal income taxes. Also, you’ll incur a withdrawal penalty on the portion of the withdrawal that comes from the investment earnings in the account. If your child earns a scholarship, you can take a non-qualified withdrawal up to the amount of the scholarship. You won’t have to pay any penalties, but you will have to pay a penalty on the investment earnings.
Some financial planners suggest that the plan pay the school directly, while others recommend that you withdraw the funds and pay the school yourself. Regardless of which option you choose, strict record keeping is highly recommended. If you get audited, you want to be sure everything the IRS reviews is clean. No matter what you do, for investment advice concerning 529 plans, speak with your licensed investment advisor to choose the most appropriate plan for your child and your family’s unique situation.
Sponsored by Robert Baer is a Vice President at Fidelity Bank. He coordinates Fidelity’s Financial Literacy initiative.
november 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
And expect to pay enrollment/ applications fees, as well as some sort of administrative or management fees (and possibly more) for both types of plans.
What are considered as qualified education expenses?
15
Building MO T I VA T ION
PARENTING CORNER
Tips for developing your child’s inner motivation to succeed Parents often find themselves struggling with how to motivate their child and instill a drive to do well, which many view as essential to life success. Unfortunately, this dynamic can turn into a cycle of frequent nagging and strained parent-child relationships. In the book The Self-Driven Child, authors William Stixrud and Ned Johnson discuss how parents can help children develop internal motivation by supporting their child’s sense of control and autonomy as they grow. This approach does not mean being too permissive or uninvolved. Instead, it helps children assume much of the responsibility for their own learning and behavior.
Help children cultivate a “GROWTH MINDSET” Psychologist Carol Dweck’s work refers to a “growth mindset,” or the belief that basic qualities - such as intelligence and achievement - can be shaped. Her research found that children praised as smart for figuring out a puzzle were then less likely to try a harder one. This was because they feared no longer appearing smart if they failed. However, when adults commented on things such as a child’s effort or their strategies, the children worked harder on and enjoyed the task, even tackling a difficult puzzle. By praising a child’s progress when they have found some steps towards success, it helps build the all-important feelings of self-satisfaction and competency - cornerstones of motivation.
View mistakes as TEACHING OPPORTUNITIES When you must sign that disappointing spelling test, often the tendency is to lecture your child about their poor performance. It’s hard not to get frustrated when a child makes mistakes, especially if they seem to be making the same ones repeatedly. But a child who is struggling may anticipate criticism and simply give up or become defiant. Instead, get buy-in from your child and involve them in deciding what will be most helpful to succeed. Children need to feel that you both are on the same team, and you will help them figure out what has gone wrong and then come up with solutions together. Ask your child questions: What’s your plan for next time? How will you do better? What do you need to succeed?
Encourage your child’s SKILLS AND INTERESTS Motivation is fostered by curiosity and a desire to explore and know about the world. Encourage intellectual curiosity by being patient with your child’s questions and, in return, engage them by asking what they know about a topic. Teach them where to find information, such as helping your six-year-old pick out an interesting book about dinosaurs at the library.
www.nolafamily.com
| november 2020
You can also link their interests to emerging skills. For example, encourage them to calculate how long it takes to save for a new toy. Or regularly make dinner conversation about news stories and solicit their thoughts and opinions.
16
Establish structured ROUTINES
Lisa Phillips, MSW, LMSW, has been a parent educator at The Parenting Center at Children’s Hospital since 2001, and is a contributor to the award-winning “Parenting Corner” column. She can be reached at 504.896.9591; chnola.org/parentingcenter.
Establishing good habits helps sustain motivation, even when rewards are not immediate. Set the stage for success at home, ensuring basic needs are met, including sleep, time for free play, and physical activity. A study space that’s free of clutter and distraction helps, as does a schedule with built-in breaks. From a young age, make a calendar together so everyone knows what to expect. Also together, map out expectations for screen time: what is negotiable, non-negotiable, and realistic for your family? It’s tempting just to lay down the law but hearing children out and involving them in establishing rules makes them more likely to follow them. Setbacks can build resilience, but only if a child understands what they can do differently and feels capable of doing that. And don’t forget to examine your own anxiety about your child’s performance. It’s normal to worry about a child who is struggling, but our own fears may simply increase pressure and family conflict.
NOLA Micro teammates in learning studio
SPOT LIGHT
unique local learning model While various educational models have cropped up since the post-Katrina recovery, none is as unique as that of Broadmoor-based NOLA Micro Schools. At this school, bells don’t ring. There are no lectures. Students are self-driven, and in control of - and held accountable for - their own learning.
their commitment by signing their own living documents that clearly state their expectations for the year. By drafting and signing these documents, personal investment is high and the students take ownership of their work and their teammate relationships.
Studio Learning
NOLA Micro teammates signing “NOLA Micro” in ASL
Personal Investment Accountability is key to this school’s model and drives pupil success. Every year, the school updates its handbook in order to develop and share expectations and standards. They do this as a means of drawing clear boundaries and encouraging innovation - for parents, student teammates, and teaching guides. In turn, all renew
However, Redd notes, “If we were to expand next year beyond this one pod, for example to 35 kids, rather than separate them by age, we would separate them all into two pods, with all ages in each.” This works by pairing different aged students into duos, called teammates. “Language is a powerful thing,” Redd says. “We describe all students as teammates and teachers as guides in order to shift away from the standard teacher:student dynamic. Instead, we are working toward a common goal; therefore, we have teammates and teachers are their guides to facilitate the process.” The duo teammates are together for onemonth sessions (instead of semesters), and return to each other at some point in the year. There is a new project each session and an exhibition at the end of each session.
Assessment and Mastery The Iowa Assessment - a standardized test used nationally by private schools - provides a good benchmark measure for NOLA Micro Schools students. They are given both at the start and end of each year in order to compare the students’ progress nationally. Redd is pleased to report that “we find our students test significantly above average.” But, she frames, “The real measure (of progress) is in the portfolios they build every year. This year, they’re making their own websites, and all of their core skills are tracked on that website. For instance, for book reports, they’re recording podcasts to demonstrate what they’ve learned, and video projects of their science experiments. It’s a different way of tracking mastery.” Redd explains, “Since we don’t give grades, we look at it holistically, to determine where they are. They’re able to compete in the same way other kids their age would, they’re prepared in the same way, and yet their demonstration of mastery may look different.” For more information, see nolamicroschools.org.
Trevor Wisdom is a local New Orleanian and managing editor of Nola Family.
november 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
Teachers here are guides, who lead Socratic discussions rather than lecturing. Instead of rote learning, there is mastery learning, and instead of grades, there are student portfolios that focus on real-world group projects across age groups. However, there still is core course work (math, reading, writing) via online platforms, as well as daily, one-hour enrichment classes (P.E., art, music).
“The studio this year includes all 15 of our enrolled students in one pod, with one dedicated, full time teaching guide,” explains Ashley Redd, school director. “In the past, we separated (the students) by elementary, middle, and high school, but this (current) model seems to be best for us, for the type of learning that we’re trying to facilitate.”
Redd emphasizes, “The kids are really great communicators as a result of this and learn life skills. There is a lot of learning when they’re matched with different partners, each with their own style of communication and support. They must learn to navigate that, and learn how to communicate their needs with someone who is older and a different type of learner.”
17
LEARNING YEARS
HELPING YOUR CHILD BUILD A GROWTH MINDSET WITH THE “POWER OF YET” In the movie Talladega Nights, arrogant race car driver Ricky Bobby said, “If you ain’t first, you’re last.” This statement sums up the prevailing view of competition today. At the same time, educators and business leaders are turning away from this rigid view. Instead, the growth-oriented approach of Professor Carol Dweck is gaining steam.
Growth-Oriented Mindset Specifically, Dr. Dweck’s work focuses on a growth-oriented versus a fixed mindset. When the end product of a task is a trophy or an A+ grade, the potential is limited. Children may resist trying a new strategy or challenging endeavor because they fear failure (“what if I don’t win?”). However, failure teaches valuable lessons if we don’t surrender. From disappointment and defeat, we may be motivated to attempt new strategies.
www.nolafamily.com
| november 2020
Effortful problem solving and a level of frustration stimulate brain cell (neuron) activity and neural connections. These neural networks represent ideas and innovation. When we have to, we may discover that we are capable of more significant effort and courage.
18
If our goal is earning an A+ or trophy, we may stop short of more significant results. Staying in a safe zone prevents the full realization of our abilities or the power of what is possible. People who never fail are probably not living up to their full potential.
Building a Growth Mindset Dr. Dweck teaches failure is not an ending. She urges us to recognize what is possible if we keep trying, calling this the “power of yet.” When a child fails or comes in third place, congratulate her on the effort; ask her what she learned and how she will approach the challenge next time. Help her see that defeat is a gift of
self-discovery and learning. Asking these questions encourages a growth mindset that she can apply to other challenges. If your child says, “I can’t do it,” reframe this statement by replying, “Not yet.” Another way to build a growth mindset is to praise more effectively. Learn to praise children for the process of the task, not the end product. Remark on effort, strategy, and perseverance, not grades or winning. Focus less on ‘now’ and more on what is possible. Encourage your child to try new things and to lean in when challenged with a problem. When a toy or task frustrates your toddler, resist the urge to solve it for them. Bring him back to the job, encourage him to try again. Change the position of the toy, or suggest a new way to approach it. If he still doesn’t succeed, say, “Not yet; you’ll get it next time.”
Awards and Trophies Don’t get me wrong, awards, A’s, and trophies are undoubtedly great. But be aware of the limitations that external reinforcement imposes. Rewards are meant to encourage effort but should not be the ultimate end. When your child wins, ask what she learned from the experience, or what inspired her. Then praise her for this, not for the trophy itself. If she worked diligently but had a disappointing result, emphasize her effort and courage to try. Sometimes a grand failure﹘or two or three﹘is the sign of a growth-oriented path. A child should not be limited to winning; it is best for them to be inspired to shoot for possibilities. At the end of the day, we want to raise children who are in the process of advancing their grit and potential. It is this, rather than the immediate reward, we must focus on to accomplish this goal.
Pat Blackwell is a licensed psychologist who has worked with families for over 30 years. See her website for more information and her blog patblackwellphd.com
THANKSGIVING
Holiday Camps Believe it or not, the holidays are here! To help our working parents who may not have extended time off, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of local Thanksgiving week camps. Adventure Quest Laser Thanksgiving Camp
KidCam Camp: Aurora United Methodist Holiday Camp
¡Vamonos NOLA! Oasis Espanol Holiday Camp
Ages: 5–12 Cost: $160/week Location: 1001 Elmwood Park Blvd., New Orleans Dates/Times: Nov. 23–25 & 27, 7:30 am–5 pm, includes before/after care Contact: gm@lasertagnola.com, 504.207.4444
Ages: Pre-K 4–13 Cost: $40/day, $136/4–day session Location: 3300 Eton St., New Orleans Dates/Times: Nov. 23–25 & 27, 7:30 am–5:30 pm Contact: Call 844-4KIDCAM or email algiers@kidcamcamps.com
Ages: 5–11 Cost: $65/day or $180/week Location: 600 Eleonore St., New Orleans Dates/Times: Nov. 23–25 & 27, 8:30 am–3 pm, before/aftercare available Contact: info@vamonosnola.com
Campers will enjoy unlimited laser tag, bumper cars, cosmic golf, and many other games and activities.
INFINITY Science Center’s Thanksgiving STEM Camp Ages: 7–11 Cost: $70 Location:1 Discovery Circle, Pearlington, MS Dates/Times: Nov. 23 & 24, 9 am–noon Contact: 228.533.9025 As a part of these two half-days, campers can expect engaging hands-on learning, educational demonstrations, and guest presenters.
Location: New Orleans JCC Uptown Dates/Times: Nov. 23-25 & 27, 8:30 am–4:00 pm ($280) Location: New Orleans JCC Metairie Dates/Times: Nov. 23-25, 8:30 am–3:30 pm ($195) Contact: nojcc.org Staff will guide participants through an active day filled with group activities, creative arts, athletic games, and more.
Lolo’s Youth Yoga + Art Thanksgiving Camp Ages: 7–13 Cost: $70/day Location: 6117 Magazine St., New Orleans Dates/Times: Nov. 22–27, 10 am–3 pm Contact: 415.786.3317 or lolosstudio.com Campers will enjoy fun-filled days of art, super-fun fitness, tapping into gratitude and finding calm. Have fun painting, creating, moving, laughing and chilling at Lolo’s. Daily options available.
Upturn Arts Virtual UTurn Camp
¡Vamonos NOLA! is your Spanish Language Vacation Camp Destination. Your camper will make friends and build memories while laying a foundation of multilingualism.
YMCA East Jefferson Fall Holiday Camp Ages: 5–12 Cost: $32/day for members, $50/day for nonmembers Location: 6691 Riverside Drive, Metairie Dates/Times: Nov. 23–25 & 27, 7:30 am–3:30 pm Contact: 504.888.9622 Activities include festive stories, songs, crafts, active play, sports, and seasonalthemed educational play.
YMCA West St. Tammany Fall School’s Out Camp
Cost: Free Contact: upturnarts.org/u-turn; facebook.com/UpturnArts
Ages: 5–12 Cost: $30/day for members, $40/day for nonmembers Location: 71256 Francis Road, Covington Dates/Times: Nov. 25 & 27, 7 am–6 pm Contact: 985.893.9622
Tulane Freshman will produce lessons on how to make a centerpiece for Thanksgiving dinner with easy to find, at home objects and art supplies.
Activities include festive stories, songs, crafts, active play, sports and seasonallythemed educational play. Bring a lunch, two snacks, and a water bottle.
november 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
JCC Thanksgiving Mini Camp
Activities will include indoor and outdoor games, gym play in the full-size airconditioned gym, holiday-themed arts and crafts, science, and culinary crafts. Meals can be brought or purchased at camp; snacks will be provided.
19
HIP
GRANNIE
L ES SON S LEARNED TEACHING YOUR CHILDREN RESILIENCE AND TO BE GRATEFUL AND STRONG
I am the first to admit it: I think my grandchildren and most kids in this city are amazing. But I’ve never thought it more than I have over the last six months. Watching elementary and high school students navigate online learning while living at home with parents and siblings 24/7 has been an inspiration to those of us who are on the outside, looking in.
www.nolafamily.com
| november 2020
Yes, 2020 has been a crappy year. This statement comes to you from a born optimist, someone whose high school nickname was Pollyanna. In my heart of hearts, I believe that something good will come out of every experience.
20
Greek alphabet to name storms, for only the second time in my life. Beta? Gamma? Theta? Are these hurricanes or sorority rush? Then, the unthinkable happened in our family. Rylan and Amelia’s beloved New Jersey grandfather, Tamara’s father, died suddenly of a heart attack, one day after leaving the Emergency Room and being told he was fine. Louis Wejnert was a beloved son, father, husband, grandfather, and basketball coach. He was bigger than life – 6’5” tall – and when he entered a room his big, positive, booming energy could be felt. His message on and off the basketball court was, “Get better every day. Learn from wins and losses. Believe in your team.” His family, students. and colleagues adored him. We all did.
But look at what our kids have had to deal with: First, the pandemic, In Coach Lou’s honor, his team wears something none of us thought would royal blue wrist bands with his initials happen in a civilized country with one “LW” embroidered on the tops. He made of the best medical care systems in the Maryann Wejnert, Amelia and Rylan Claverie, an indelible difference in the lives of his world. At this writing, we’ve lost more Grandpa Lou Wejnert students who loved and respected him in than 200,000 Americans to COVID-19 his short 67 years of life on this earth. But mostly, he was Coach Lou and our economy has experienced untold damage. I’ve watched my and the Grandpa we’ll always remember. beautiful grandchildren deal with social isolation, when at ages 11 and 14 they are prime social animals. They’ve rocked virtual learning Before Rylan and Amelia were born, New Orleans had its worst while missing their school and its dedicated teachers. As if all that hurricane of the century when Katrina ripped through our city. From weren’t enough, they were stuck with their parents 24/7. From what that experience, we learned the meaning of the word “resilience.” I can tell, they’ve done this with grace and style, even though the For a few years, that word was a badge of honor we all wore proudly. months dragged on forever. It meant our city and its citizens were strong. We fought back. We rebuilt. We became more courageous and better than before. I grew Hurricane season has been packed with three hurricanes (Laura, weary of the word and the energy that it took to live it. And now, Marco, and Sally) threatening our city. Laura and Marco bore down I’m looking at my grandchildren and hoping the many hard lessons on the Gulf and threatened to arrive together, like unwanted guests of 2020 – a truly crappy year – will teach them resilience and to be at the prom. Blessedly, they didn’t achieve this meteorological grateful and strong. feat. But they scared the pants off our city’s residents and gave Jim Cantore some Maalox moments. Grandpa Lou would want this. “Believe in your team and in yourself,” I can hear him say. And he’s right. We’ve got his life lessons and one A second line of hurricanes formed in the Atlantic and threatened the another. You’ve got this, kids. Gulf again. With so much action, weather teams have gone into the
BOOKS TO BUILD RESILIENCE Reading recommendations from Nola Family’s “Hip Grannie,” Laura Claverie Building a resilient kid or family isn’t easy. Listed here are some books that may help you and your family move forward from this calamitous year. All of these books were recommended by local teachers, psychologists, or counselors. Most are available at local bookstores or can be ordered through those stores.
FOR CHILDREN AND TEENS: Verona Corona by Hailey Glynn
After the Fall (How Humpty Dumpty Got Back Up Again) by Dan Santat
Tomorrow I’ll Be Brave, by Jessica Hische
A Long Pitch Home by Natalie Dias Lorenzi
Dumplin’ by Julie Murphy
Big Life Journals Journals for all ages
FOR PARENTS: Building Resilience in Children and Teens: Giving Kids Roots and Wings by Kenneth R. Ginsburg
But I’m Almost 13! Raising a Responsible Adolescent by Kenneth R Ginsburg and Martha M. Jablow
by Robert Brooks, Ph.D and Sam Goldstein, Ph.D
Raising Resilient Children; Fostering Strength, Hope, and Optimism in your Child by Robert Brooks, Ph.D and Sam Goldstein, Ph.D
Laura Claverie is NOLA Family’s Hip Grannie. She is a local mother, grandmother, and writer.
november 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
The Power of Resilience: Achieving Balance, Confidence, and Personal Strength in your Life
21
5 Jennifer Zdon MOM ABOUT TOWN
THINGS
I’M LOVING RIGHT NOW
Our readers are familiar with Jennifer Zdon’s candid, on-location, portrait photography without realizing it. She is the creative force of Twirl Photography, Nola Family’s cover photographer for ten years. Her specialty is capturing a family’s connections in a genuine way. Jennifer and her husband Mark Waller live on Bayou St. John with their two children, Magnolia (12) and Beckett (6).
DAY TRIP
CITY PARK
Waveland’s public beach, near Garfield Ladner Pier, is our family get-away place. We pack a picnic lunch and it’s spacious enough to socially distance.
22
EATS
125 N. Beach Blvd, Waveland, MS
To support hospitality workers, we pick up great restaurant meals to eat at home. For our anniversary dinner, we ordered from Brigtsen’s - it was wonderful! Magnolia really likes their gumbo and their cornbread is fabulous! Brighten’s 723 Dante St.
NATURE A well-kept secret: Audubon Nature Center is open again with limited hours. We like to slip over there for a long walk through the swamp trails. Audubon Nature Center 11000 Lake Forest Blvd.
BOATING
www.nolafamily.com
| november 2020
With the kids distantly learning this fall, we walk to City Park a lot for our study breaks. And we really like to walk, bike, or scooter the wild, overgrown path on the old Wisner Tract near the Pan Am Stadium.
Living on Bayou St. John, we have a canoe and often go out on the water. There are several canoe and kayak rentals here; I highly recommend families get a rental for a fun time!
Develop ing Empathy
GEAR TO GET
Helping your child develop their sense of compassion and altruism can be easy and fun with these five items.
ANIMAL CHAT EMOTION ACTIVITY CARDS Help kids learn feelings, build empathy, and imagine together with this durable learning deck of 30 emotions. Especially helpful for children with diverse learning needs, autism, or ADHD.
MELISSA & DOUG PET VET PLAY SET
Ages 4 and up / Amazon.com / $15.99
Imaginative play helps children develop empathy. Make house calls anywhere with this complete 24-piece vet set with pets and a tote bag for easy storage. Ages 3 and up / Amazon.com / $29.99
YOURS KINDLY 15 activities, arts and craft kit with supplies, poster, two books and more. Ages 5 and up / Amazon.com / $36.00
THESE ARE MY PANTS: SAM'S GIVING ADVENTURE Sam teaches us that an act of goodwill and generosity is a win for everyone. 20% of book proceeds to the Goodwill of Central & Northern Arizona. Ages 0 - 6 / Amazon.com / $9.99
Mission-packed undersea animal rescue game for 2-4 players helps young children build a foundation of resolving conflicts and ultimately helping one another. Ages 5-8 / Meandmine.com / $29.99
november 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
CORAL-LABORATION
23
FROM THE nola family BOOKSHELF With so many things that seem to be going wrong these days, sometimes it’s hard to remember what is going right! And remembering to recognize what we have to be grateful for is what Thanksgiving is all about. This month we have three books that teach children about Thanksgiving and remind readers of all ages what Thanksgiving represents and how to have fun together.
THE PILGRIMS’ THANKSGIVING FROM A – Z Filled with vivid illustrations, The Pilgrims’ Thanksgiving from A to Z is an alphabetized telling of the Pilgrims’ story, tracing their arrival on the Mayflower to their first harvest festival in 1621. Juxtaposing American ideals of freedom and gratitude to God with the Pilgrims’ everyday hardships, the book teaches geographical, cultural, and historical facts in a friendly, accessible style. People, places, events, and items related to the first Thanksgiving are colorfully represented, teaching children that “A” is for the Atlantic Ocean, “N” is for November, “U” is for unity, and more. This book is a wonderful vocabulary builder and a fun way to pass the Pilgrims’ story on to another generation, while balancing classic Thanksgiving themes.
About the Author and Illustrator Author Laura Crawford and illustrator Judith Hierstein both were elementary school teachers, with a great love of kids, history, and storytelling.
THE THANKSGIVING BOWL I also recommend you take a look at The Thanksgiving Bowl, and consider adopting a new holiday tradition yourself. Grandma Grace’s Thanksgiving bowl﹘used for holding the annual “I Am Thankful For” lists of the family﹘topples off the table and becomes a useful found object for all who encounter it. From one season to the next, the bowl carries goodwill and inspiration while teaching the true meaning of Thanksgiving to animals and humans alike. This family’s tradition of everyone writing down on a piece of paper what they are thankful for provides an opportunity for kids to reflect on the positives in their lives. Filled with warm and whimsical illustrations, this story was inspired by the sight of a plastic yellow bowl blowing across the street one evening as the author drove home from church.
About the Author and Illustrator Virginia Kroll is a prolific writer, with over sixty books published since 1992. She has received a long list of awards, including the International Reading Association/Children’s Book Council 2004 Children’s Choice Award. Illustrator Philomena O’Neill has been illustrating books and magazines for children since the early 1990s, working primarily in watercolor and liquid acrylic.
THE GREAT THANKSGIVING FOOD FIGHT
www.nolafamily.com
| november 2020
This is a lighthearted tale of the Pilgrims’ Thanksgiving that never happened! It’s Thanksgiving Day, and Cap’n McNasty and his crew of roguish rapscallions don’t have any plans for dinner. Not to worry though, because from their ship the crew spies a huge feast being enjoyed at Plymouth Rock. Cap’n McNasty and his privateers may seem at first like the perfect dinner guests, but it isn’t long before their mischievous manners reveal their true identity.
24
Impish illustrations will keep young readers engaged and entertained. So whether ye be pirate or pilgrim, arm yourself for a Thanksgiving food fight the likes of which you’ve never seen!
About the Author and Illustrator Author Michael G. Lewis is a former playwright and the father of four boys. Illustrator Stan Jackie is a longtime professional cartoonist and illustrator. He also designs coloring books and work in other media, including t-shirts and magazines.
Scott Campbell is publisher of Pelican Publishing, a nationally recognized, local publishing company established in 1926. He also is publisher & founder of River Road Press, a local boutique house of local and regional titles.
Trying to get you r message out? You could try making a wish...
to advertise with us, call 504.866.0555 or email us at info@nolababy.com
november 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
or you could call us at nola family and reach everyone that matters! (not that we’re knockin’ fairies)
25
You know that saying...
| november 2020
If you love our magazine and have some sales experience, we’d love to talk.
www.nolafamily.com
Do what you love?
We’re looking for great talent to join our growing team of digital and print account executives.
26
nola family Interested?
Call 504.866.0555 or email ann@nolababy.com
Out & About NOVEMBER
1 SUN
DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME ENDS Day of the Dead Altar Exhibit
4 WED
Kid's Table Cooking Ser ies 15 Henry Thomas Dr., City Park. At Acorn, your child will learn to make a personal pizza. While the pizza is baking, there’ll be ice cream to enjoy! Must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets at acornnola.com. 5-6 pm.
3 TUES
ELECTION DAY
Celebrate New Orleans Masking Indian Cultu re Legacy Park, 730 Baronne St. This event will highlight the rich culture and history of New Orleans Masking Indians - featuring Chief Shaka Zulu, a leading figure in the New Orleans African American Carnival Traditions. 5:30-7:30 pm.
New Orleans Film Festival Watch more than 160 films virtually this year for the 31st New Orleans Film Festival. For tickets, go to neworleansfilmsociety. org/how-to-fest. Prices and times will vary. Continues through November 22.
Fall Camellia Festival Mizell’s Camellia Hill Nursery, 12497 Josephs Road, Folsom. This annual Fall Festival celebrates beautiful Camellias in bloom. Specials on plants each day. Refreshments, children's activities, and plenty of room to social distance. 9 am-3 pm. Continues on November 7.
november 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
5 THURS New Orleans Botanical Garden. On the Day of the Dead, visit Hugo Monteiro’s exhibit of artificial skulls, marigold flowers, and more. 10 am-4:30 pm.
6 FRI
27
7 SAT
Super Satu rday City Park Volunteer Center. City Park hosts a community volunteering event every first Saturday to keep the Park looking sharp. For more information, visit neworleanscitypark.com/super-saturday, or call Tony 504.483.9459. 9 am-12 pm.
Covington Art Market Lee Lane, Covington. Take the kids for a day trip across the lake, and find a variety of hand-made arts including pottery, jewelry, metal sculpture, Stained glass, mixed media, hand-made garments, wood carvings, photography, and more. For more information, visit sttammany.art. 10 am-2 pm.
Pump kin Smash 2020
www.nolafamily.com
| november 2020
Rosa F. Keller Library and Community Center. Bring your pumpkins to the 2nd annual Pumpkin SMASH event, which includes activities, crafts, and fun ways to smash your pumpkins. Pumpkins will be sent to Schmelly’s Dirt Farm for composting. 11 am-1 pm.
28
Precious Seeds Children's Fair Joe W. Brown Park Recreation Center. Kids will spend their own “money” at local vendors and enjoy complimentary snacks, face painting, and more at the first annual Precious Seeds Children’s Fair. For more information, call (504) 509-0031.
11 WED
Veterans Day at the Museum World War II Museum, 945 Magazine St. Honor our nation’s veterans with 11 amnoon commemoration ceremony and other programming. Free admission to veterans of all conflicts. 9 am-5pm.
12 THURS
Music at the Museum City Park Botanical Garden. The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra and the Woodwind Quintet perform for the Music at the Museum series. $35/person. Visit lpomusic. com/Online/seatSelect.asp for tickets. 6 pm.
Mid-City Pop -Up Market 4202 S. Carrollton Ave. Support local businesses at the Mid-City Pop-Up Market! 8 pm-12 am.
13 FRI
''Evenings w ith Enr ique''
Raphael Village's 6th Annual Tennis FUN-Raiser
New Orleans Botanical Garden. Free to Louisiana residents every Wednesday. “Evenings with Enrique” feature enhanced lighting and fire baskets hanging from the trees. 10 am -8 pm.
City Park/Pepsi Tennis Center, 5900 Marconi Drive. Enjoy two FUN-filled days of competitive tennis matches, silent auction, delicious food and beverages, including premium cocktails. For tickets, visit raphaelvillage.org.
14 SAT
Destrehan Plantation 48th Annual Fall Festival 13034 River Road, Destrehan, La. Dine on Cajun food and browse the different vendors that came from all over the country to showcase their handcrafted goods. Free for children 5 and under, $5 for ages 6-12, $8 for ages 13+. Continues through November 15. For more information, call (985) 764-9315. 9 am-4 pm.
Meow maste ! Kitten Yoga 1700 Mardi Gras Blvd. Join the Louisiana SPCA and NOLA Tribe Yoga for a special yoga class featuring kittens! Tickets are $20/person. Register at eventbrite.com/e/meowmaste-kitten-yogatickets-94152640081.
18 WED
Art & Zen Online Meditation Series (Wednesdays) Every Wednesday, take 30 minutes to join yoga instructor and Ogden Museum educator Mikhayla Harrell for a quick meditation session. Visit ogdenmuseum.org for more information. 12 pm-12:30 pm.
19 THURS
Music at the Museum: New Orleans Jazz Museum New Orleans Jazz Museum. Enjoy the Horn Quintet of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra at its latest stop in their Music at the Museum series. $35/person. For tickets, visit lpomusic.com/Online/seatSelect. 6 pm.
21 SAT
4828 Utica St., Metairie. Support local businesses and get some handmade crafts, home decor, baked goods and more at this year’s Craft Fair! 9 am.
Coquille Parks & Recreation, 13505 Highway 1085, Covington. Coquille Park will host their first pet-friendly outing, with a K9 Unit demonstration, vendors, and adoptable furry friends. Percentage of donations to the Northshore Humane Society. For information, call 985.892.9829. 9 am-noon.
St. Matthew The Apostle Holiday Market 10021 Jefferson Hwy, River Ridge. Get a jump start on your holiday shopping this year while enjoying pastries and seasonal drinks. $5/person. 10 am - 4 pm. Visit facebook.com/ StMatthewTheApostleHolidayMarket for more information.
24 TUES
Kahoot Tr ivia Do you know children’s literature? Play Kahoot Trivia on book quotes from your favorite children’s books, and the winning family will receive a prize! To sign up, visit eventbrite.com/e/kahoot-triviatickets-122632209239?. 6:30 pm.
Kid's Yoga 3116 N. Arnoult Rd. Suite N, Metairie. Children will learn alignment based strengthening techniques, stretching, and breathing exercises at Kid’s Yoga. Personal yoga mat and appropriate attire is required. Ages 6-11. Prices may vary. Visit thestudionola.com/ kids-yoga to register. 6 - 7 pm.
26 THURS
THANKSGIVING Ou r Lady of the Lake Tammany Tu rkey Trot 701 N. Columbia St., Covington, La. Lace up your running shoes for a Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot through Covington! To register, visit tammanyturkeytrot.com/Race/Info/ LA/Covington/TammanyTurkeyTrot. Ticket prices vary. 7 am - 12 pm.
27 FRI
Season of Celebration in the Oaks City Park. Peruse the holiday lights and ride the carousel and other amusement park rides at the 34th Celebration in the Oaks! Ticket prices may vary. Continues through January 1, 2021. Sunday-Thursday, 6-10 pm. Friday-Saturday, 5-11 pm. Visit neworleanscitypark.com/celebration-inthe-oaks for more information.
28 SAT
INFINITY Science Center & Whisper of Hope INFINITY Science Center, 1 Discovery Circle, Perlington, MS. INFINITY Science Center will host Whisper of Hope with special educational animal meet and greet presentations at 11 am and 1 pm. For more information, visit visitinfinity.com. 10 am-2 pm.
Mask Up New Orleans Street Concert 500 Port of New Orleans Pl. Bring your masks and enjoy the live musical entertainment provided by Angelica Matthews and D’Wolfe. 3-6 pm.
30 MON
Homeschool Monday: Ou r Oceans INFINITY Science Center, 1 Discovery Circle, Pearlington, MS. Dive deep into the depths of the watery world to explore the animals that thrive in the vastness of the blue. There will be engaging hands-on activities, visits with water living friends, and special presentations by those who know the oceans and the animals that live there. For more information, visit visitinfinity. com. $9/ child ages 4 and up, children under 3 get in free. Attendance is prepaid registration only - no walk-ins. 9 am.
november 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
Crescent City Chr istian School Craft Fair
Coqu ille Barks
29
In The Know
We have complete listings on our dedicated ‘classes’ calendar just go to nolafamily.com and click on ‘Calendars.’
Child Safety Seat Inspection Station Louisiana State Police – Troop B 2101 I-10 Service Rd., Kenner. Wednesdays, 1–4 pm. Walk-in or call 504.471.2780 for an appointment. Free.
Ochsner Baptist Happiest Baby on the Block Learn techniques to calm and soothe a crying baby. Nov. 4, 6-7:30 pm. $25/couple.
For information or to register, call 504.897.7319 or visit touro.com/events.
To register, call 504.896.9591 or see chnola. org/our-services/the-parenting-center.
Car Seat Fitting Station Installation by a nationally certified technician. Outside of The Parenting Center, 938 Calhoun: Tuesday, Nov. 17, between 9 and 11 am. Free, drop-ins welcome, appointments preferred. Snuggles & Struggles New Parent Group (Virtual) For parents of children 0–12 months. This weekly group provides learning opportunities and socialization with new parents and babies. A staff member facilitates the group. Tuesdays, 10:30-11:30 am. Free and open to the public. | november 2020
Yoga For Children Fly on by to yoga this month, discover your inner superhero, and nourish our thankful hearts for our SUPER blessings! Nov. 14, 8-8:40 am. $15/child.
Touro Family Birthing Center
Parenting Center at Children’s Hospital
www.nolafamily.com
To register, call 504.264.1070 or visit bewellnola.com/yoga-at-sprout-pediatrics.
To register, see ochsnerstore.org/collections/ events-and-classes
Grandparents Class (Virtual) Learn about the new definition of active labor, pain relief options, skin to skin care, rooming in, breastfeeding, safe sleep, and more. Nov. 12, 6:30-8:30 pm.
30
Sprout Pediatrics
Parents’ Hour (Virtual) Talk with other parents about what is going well – and not so well. Share ideas about parenting during the pandemic. A staff member facilitates the group. Wednesdays, mornings and evenings alternate: Nov. 4, 18, 10-11 am and 8-9 pm. Free and open to the public.
Happiest Baby on The Block (Prenatal-4 months) (Virtual) Learn techniques proven to quickly calm crying and boost infant sleep, based on the ideas in the popular book by Dr. Harvey Karp. Nov. 14, 10 am-noon. Free, preregistration required. Diapers to Desk Webinar This class equips new moms with the confidence and support needed to return to work from maternity leave. Nov. 19, 9:30-11 am. Free. Understanding Your Newborn Class Designed for first-time expecting parents to provide the information and skills you need to care for your newborn at home. Nov. 23, 6-8 pm. Free, pre-registration required.
West Jefferson Medical Center For additional information, please call 504.349.6200. Pre-registration is required.
Caring for Your Newborn Registered nurse discusses newborn behavior and care. Nov. 21, 1-4:30 pm. Free.
KIDS & TWEENS Ochsner Baptist For more information, email jazzinari@ochsner.org.
Sibling Class This class is geared for children ages 3 to 10, and is split into two classes (ages 3-5 and 6-10). It includes activities preparing the sibling(s) for their new brother or sister. Nov. 2 (ages 3-5), Nov. 16 (ages 6-10), 5:30-6:30 pm. Free.
Parenting Center at Children’s Hospital See listing above for registration information.
Growing Up for Boys (10-13 years) (Virtual) Practical information for boys and their fathers including male and female anatomy, physical and emotional changes during puberty, and hygiene issues. Boys participate with their father or caregiver. Nov. 10, 6:30-8 pm. $20/child. Growing Up for Girls (9-12 years) (Virtual) Practical information about female anatomy, what happens during puberty, body image, menstruation and hygiene is presented in an informal, fun and hands-on manner. Girls participate with their mother or caregiver. Nov. 17, 6:30-8 pm. $20/child.
Touro Family Birthing Center Visit touro.com/events for registration information.
Sibling Class Children (ages 4-11) learn what to expect when a new baby enters the family. Nov. 21, 9-10:30 am. Free.
november 2020 | www.nolafamily.com
31
