Athens Oconee Parent May-June 2019

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A Resource for Families in Athens, Oconee County and the Surrounding Area

June 2019

Building Families...

Building Businesses

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1998!

GET OUT HELP OUT SPIN OUT CHILL OUT

Summer Camps

+50

things to do before summer kicks the bucket!

2 Athens-Oconee Parent

“Building Families...Building Businesses” May/June 2019 • Vol. 21 No. 4 LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1998

FOUNDER & PUBLISHER

Shannon H. Baker

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

A.W. Blalock

MANAGING EDITOR

Sarah Danis

ADVERTISING

Anniston Howell WEB MANAGER

Andrea Maria Holt WRITERS AND CONTRIBUTORS

Liz Conroy, Sarah Danis, Hailee Lyles, Mathnasium, Jonathan C. Robinson, Kasey Trenum, Jenny Wood Athens-Oconee Parent Magazine is published six times a year. Reader correspondence and editorial submission welcome.We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without express written consent of the publisher. Athens-Oconee Parent Magazine reserves the right to refuse any advertising for any reason. The opinions expressed by contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this magazine. Distribution of this product does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services herein.

Athens-Oconee Parent Magazine P.O. Box 465, Watkinsville, GA 30677 Advertising: ads@athensparent.com Editorial: editor@athensparent.com Office & Production: office@athensparent.com Calendar: calendar@athensparent.com Website: web@athensparent.com

www.athensparent.com PUBLISHED BY

on the cover Hayden Holt, age 5, at the Alice H. Richards Children’s Garden, State Botanical Garden of Georgia PHOTO BY ANDREA HOLT

www.athensparent.com 3

4 Athens-Oconee Parent

FIRST WORDS...

I

t’s baaaack! Summer vacation that is, and it’s just around the corner and time to start thinking about keeping our kids busy with camps, trips, and summertime fun! In this issue, we’ll share Part 2 of our Summer Camp Guide, so if you’re in the market to have your kids attend a camp, we have suggestions for you!

Liz Conroy shares ways for teens to start helpful routines for this summer and beyond. We have tips about how to keep you and your kids safe in the sun, and as always, Dr. Jonathan Robinson has great parenting advice for our readers. Brenda Rodgers reminds us that it’s okay to not be the “perfect mom” this summer and Hailee Lyles opens her heart about the importance of foster care in our community.

Jenny Wood offers tips for summer learning and also suggestions for that inevitable day that kids will go back to school. It will be here before we know it! We hope that, whether you stay near to home or travel far this summer, you’ll make amazing memories with your kids.

Have fun and stay safe!

contents FEATURES 8 50 Fun Things To Do Before Summer Kicks the Bucket!

9 5 Movies to Encourage a Love of Math 10 Why Routines Are More Than Just, Well ... Routine!

12 When Summer Comes, Can School Be Far Behind?

19 Don’t Let Summer Learning Take A Dive

21-29

Summer Camps

16

Sarah Danis

editor@athensparent.com

6 DEPARTMENTS Michael, Oliver, Trey, and Sarah celebrating Sarah turning the Big 40!

14

6 Show & Tell 14 On Your Mind: “Having fun yet?”

16 Get Out! 30 ’Til We Meet Again

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Read Athens-Oconee Parent Magazine anywhere, any time ... online! Visit athensparent.com and click “read online.” Also, check out our online calendar for up-to-date, family-friendly events.

Athens-Oconee Parent Magazine www.athensparent.com 5

c

show&tell

Compiled by Sarah Danis

STARLAB INFLATABLE PLANETARIUM

Come to the Oconee Civic Center for a real planetarium show on Friday, May 31st.

Four sessions are taking place – 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, and 1:30pm. Learn all about planets and outer space inside of an inflatable planetarium. Space is limited and registration is required. The planetarium is hosted by the Oconee County Library – please call or ask at the library front desk to sign up. It’s free for all ages and open to the public. Oconee County Civic Center is located at 2661 Hog Mountain Rd., Watkinsville. For more information, call 706-769-3950.

A

fter reading the book The Peculiar Pig, about pigs and a dog, here are some fun foods to make!

To make pig tail snacks: use pizza dough, biscuit dough, or crescent rolls and wrap hot dogs or sausages, then bake! Serve with yellow or spicy mustard.

To make a dog banana snack: slice a banana in half length-wise and then be creative, using banana for the tail, ears, and legs, or you could use other fruit like chocolate chips or raisins for the eyes! Images from chowhound.com and thebananapolice.com

Trythese!

Sidewalk ChalkPaint G

et the kids into some old clothes, then mix 1/4 cup of cornstarch into 1/4 cup of cold water, stirring well until there are no lumps. Use cheap paint brushes to draw images and words onto a sidewalk or driveway. The paint has a great chalky look to it when dry. You can add a very small amount of food coloring to give the paint a little bit of color. Too much may leave a light stain behind, so use food coloring sparingly and at your own risk. When you’re out of paint, just mix up some more! www.theidearoom.net

The Bug Bite Thing is an easy-to-use suction tool that painlessly and effectively extracts insect saliva/venom from under the skin to eliminate the itching, stinging and swelling that occurs with insect bites and stings. When you remove the irritant, the body stops producing the reaction that causes the itching and swelling. Unlike topical creams and ointments, the problem is eliminated, not masked. It’s clinically proven and kid friendly with unlimited use.

The Summer Camp Sleeping Buddy from Dodow is a small, battery-powered relaxation device is an easy item to send to camp with your child. It gradually slows down your breathing to put you in a state of rest and to re-balance your autonomic nervous system. Synchronizing one’s breathing with a slow and steady light pulse has a hypnotic effect, similar to watching a pendulum, that helps you let go quickly. Dodow helps you to slow down the flow of your thoughts by keeping your attention focused on an external point (the light signal), without your having to concentrate on your breathing which, paradoxically, can keep you awake. www.mydodow.com

Visit us on Facebook for a chance to win a Bug Bite Thing.

Send your ideas & photos to P.O. Box 465, Watkinsville, GA 30677 or e-mail editor@athensparent.com 6 Athens-Oconee Parent

‘‘

The summer night is like a perfection of thought.” Wallace Stevens

ON THE BOOKSHELF

Max & The Midknights

by Lincoln Peirce (author of the Big Nate series) is a story about empowerment, of never giving up on one’s dreams, and realizing that all of us can be anything we want to be.

And although the journey to our destinations may sometimes be met with resistance, or non-belief, if kids remain true to themselves, the possibilities are endless. It is a story that can be read for both entertainment and for the boost some readers may need to have the courage fulfill their own life goals.

The Peculiar Pig by Joy Steuerwald is the delightfully charming and sweet story of a wee dachshund puppy named Penny. Penny has been adopted into a family of pigs, and she is certainly a bit “different” from her piggy siblings. However, when danger strikes, Penny’s peculiarities and distinctions prove to be strengths! She is able to scare off the slithery snake from attacking her family with her ferocious oink bark!

Aleca Zamm Book Series

by Ginger Rue is a fun boxed set for your kids to read this summer that is geared towards grades 2-5. Meet the wonder-full Aleca Zamm, an ordinary ten-year-old with an extraordinary ability – she can stop time. These 4 books – Aleca Zamm Is a Wonder, Aleca Zamm Is Ahead of Her Time, Aleca Zamm Fools Them All, and Aleca Zamm Travels Through Time –follow Aleca’s adventures!

Troy Tastes...

Restaurant: Alumni Cookie Dough Troy’s Score: 3 1/2 to 5* napkins

I

Local Watkinsville writer Melia Keeton Digby’s new book, The Hero’s Heart, provides a road map for mothers and sons to remain connected, which enables boys to grow into men who are grounded and ethical. It’s a revolutionary twelve-month journey for mothers and sons, ages 9+, to explore the core values and themes our boys need most.

It is a groundbreaking new approach to raising healthy, compassionate, and emotionally intact young men.

Visit us on Facebook for a chance to win a copy of The Hero’s Heart!

f you are looking for a someplace fun go to this summer, try Alumni Cookie Dough. This family-friendly joint is always hopping. If you are in the need for something sugary and sweet with variety, this is your place. When I went I got the Trifecta, which is 3 mini scoops of your choice. My three scoops were S’mores, Nutella Pretzel Crunch, and Brookie. I also suggest a bottle of water because it is so sweet. One cool thing about the cookie dough is if you don’t eat it all you can take it home, put it in the fridge and bake it into cookies the next day! Also, don’t worry about the ingredients as it’s made with a special batter that makes it OK to eat raw. I give it 3 1/2 napkins because I am not a huge sweets guy. Next time I will try a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a scoop of chocolate chip cookie dough or a cookie dough milkshake. *The reviewers I had with me loved the sweetness of the cookie dough and all gave it 5 napkins!

Troy Aldrich is a local 10-year-old who enjoys food and is over the kids menu at most restaurants – but not everywhere. His reviews started as a summer teaching tool on opinion writing and appear in each issue of Athens-Oconee Parent Magazine. Troy guides parents to great places to take their kids to eat – from a kid’s point of view. Each restaurant is given a rating on a scale of 5 napkins. For more kid’s reviews go to Troytastes.com.

www.athensparent.com 7

summerbythenumbers

50

By Shannon H. Baker

fun things to do before summer kicks the bucket!

In Athens & Oconee

1 Visit the Children’s Garden at State Botanical Garden 2 Try Disc Golf at Sandy Creek Park or Herman C. Park 3 Visit every library (Athens, Bogart, Oconee) 4 Visit Sandy Creek Nature Center 5 Make pottery at Spark or Good Dirt 6 Take a hike at UGA’s Lake Herrick 7 Find the Tree that Owns Itself 8 Tour the Georgia Museum of Art 9 Go to Bear Hollow Zoo 10 Explore the UGA Special Collections Library 11 Kayak down the Oconee River 12 Visit a Farmer’s Market 13 Go jump and play at Rush or Pump It Up 14 Visit the Butts-Mehr Sports Museum 15 Take your dog to one of the many dog parks 16 Go play at the World of Wonder Playground 17 Visit or volunteer at Sweet Olive Farm 18 Ride your bike on the Firefly Trail 19 Have a picnic on UGA’s North Campus 20 Visit the Treehouse toy store 21 Borrow or donate a book at one of the Little Free Libraries 22 Try one of the amazing camps listed on www.athensparent.com 23 Have a family fun day at Funopolis

8 Athens-Oconee Parent

0

5 t Provided by Mathnasium

MOVIES

to encourage a love of math

(even in baseball!)

... or anywhere you are this summer!

24 Catch lightning bugs 25 Play flashlight tag 26 Take a kiddie pool bubble bath 27 Make something from found items 28 Have a water balloon fight 29 Fly a kite 30 Make s’mores 31 Make a fort 32 Make a lemonade stand 33 Make slime 34 Pick wildflowers 35 Camp inside 36 Have a pillow sack race 37 Donate food or volunteer at an animal shelter 38 Plant something 39 Wash a car 40 Start a journal 41 Paint rocks 42 Go bowling 43 Go to a water park 44 Have a family game night 45 Make your own popsicles 46 Play four square 47 Have breakfast for dinner 48 Have a scavenger hunt 49 DIY sidewalk paint 50 Go see a play

The right story can inspire a lifelong passion in your kids – maybe even for math and STEM! Our favorite family-friendly movies are inspiring and based on true stories, with math and/or mathematicians as part of the story.Enjoying movies together is a favorite family activity, and if those movies incorporate math in an interesting and engaging way, all the better! To inspire a math student in your family, we recommend the following movies based on true stories and that feature math and/ or mathematicians. As an alternative to the movies, you may enjoy the associated books as a good family read aloud.

Hidden Figures (PG) Based on the book

by Margot Lee Shetterly, this movie tells the story of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson. They were African-American women working at NASA as “computers” in the South during the 1940’s. They worked hard to break glass ceilings to achieve positions in white, male-dominated math fields. We recommend this film to everyone, especially girls and minorities.

Stand and Deliver (PG) Based on the career of Jaime Escalante, this movie tells the story of a math teacher in a rough

part of East Los Angeles in the 1980s. Mr. Escalante changed the course of students’ perceptions about math and themselves. The students, many of whom were previously failing math, worked to beat all the odds. They studied hard, took the Advanced Placement calculus exam, and did so well that some people accused them of cheating. This movie exemplifies how much can be achieved with grit, a growth mindset and excellent instruction. We recommend this movie for middle school students and high school students who say they aren’t good at math or who dislike math.

A book based on the movie was written by Nicholas Edwards, Ramon Menendez, and Tom Musca.

October Sky (PG) Based on the story of Homer Hickman, a boy is inspired by the first satellite, Sputnik, to use math and science as his ticket to a better life. Thanks to a wonderful teacher and dogged determination, he and his friends qualified for the 1960 National Science Fair. We recommend this movie for children who don’t see math and science as cool or fun. A memoir written by Homer Hickman, titled Rocket Boys, inspired the movie.

Moneyball

(PG-13) Based on the book

by Michael Lewis, Moneyball shows the creative ways math solves real problems. It details how major league baseball general manager Billy Beane used statistical analysis and economics to bring his underdog (and underfunded) team to the playoffs, revolutionizing the baseball business. We recommend this movie for middle school students and high school students who don’t see math as useful.

The Theory of Everything

(PG-13) Stephen Hawking, the famous cosmologist, persisted with his life and with math-based, scientific research despite the debilitating disease, ALS. This movie tells the story of his personal and professional triumphs during his physical decline. He lived five decades beyond the typical life expectancy of someone with ALS. We recommend this movie for middle school students and high school students who love math and science. The film is based on a 2007 memoir

by Hawking’s first wife titled, Traveling to Infinity: My Life With Stephen.

For kids who already love math, these movies will become instant favorites.

For kids who are still on the fence, math movies can be just the inspiration they need to see how cool and useful math can be! n www.athensparent.com 9

summerhelpers

By Liz Conroy

Why routines are more than just ... well,

Routine!

o s

Our family struggled with establishing a regular, daily routine. My husband or I often had evening meetings making it difficult for all of us sit down together for dinner. We did, however, manage to end most evenings with bedtime stories or songs. While we’d never get an “A” for an awesome family routine, we achieved enough to give our kids the secure knowledge of what most evenings would be like.

New research shows that the predictability that comes from having routines in a family is one of the keys to future success for children. Adolescents from households with established family routines show greater ability to handle the tumultuous teen years and beyond.

10 Athens-Oconee Parent

Studies also show that teens with family routines in high school exhibited lower alcohol use in young adulthood and were more likely to be attending a four-year university at age 21.

Scholars at the University of Georgia (UGA) are conducting some of this pioneering research on the importance of developing regular household routines. The lead author of one study on this topic, Dr. Allen Barton, recently shared his findings in an interview with Athens-Oconee Parent Magazine.

Barton works at the Center for Family Research and the UGA College of Family and Consumer Sciences. As the father of three young kids, he knows that establishing regular routines is not always easy.

He also knows how consistency within a household strengthens kids’ abilities to handle challenges in life. Even if the child faces difficulties related to lower socioeconomic status or lack of supportive parenting, the predictability of daily family living patterns increases his or her chances for a brighter future.

Barton offers parents several tips. He advises establishing some regular mealtimes together in spite of busy schedules. “If families eat together just a few times a week, that still creates a positive impact for kids,” he says.

Establishing good patterns for morning routines helps everyone, too. Children know what is expected of them when

it comes to eating breakfast, getting ready for school, and heading out the door on time.

This leads to less stress for all.

After school, Barton recommends having general patterns and structures for such tasks as homework, chores, mealtime, and getting ready for bed.

P

arents still may feel overwhelmed by suddenly trying to create a regular household pattern when they haven’t done so in the past. Barton says that parents don’t need to create a lot of new routines right away. “It’s difficult to implement eight different things in a family all at once. Just pick something that’s simple and convenient for your family, such as when

to sit down together for a family meal. Just pick one and start it!”

Of course, teens may push back, he cautions. Parents can begin by saying, “Let’s see what works.” The new approach, such as specific bedtimes, may work for a while.

Start with a simple, realistic, and specific plan. Then as kids develop, parents can evaluate what needs to be adjusted.

This includes allowing a later bedtime for teens.

The idea is to avoid being controlling or punitive. “After all, routines create opportunities to connect with your child,” notes Barton. For example, a part of the bedtime routine may be a parent telling each child, “Good night, I love you.” Or during the regular car ride home from a school practice or program, a parent can ask the child, “What was the best part of your day today?”

This routine of asking how things are going on a regular basis may not seem useful, but it creates context for a more in-depth conversation later. He explains, “Four out of five days you ask your child a specific question, and it may not go anywhere. But maybe that fifth day was a really important day to ask it!”

When a routine is an everyday part of life for kids, they

Karlin Silvershield does one of her regular household chores.

PHOTO BY KURT SILVERSHIELD

don’t feel caught off guard by a question from the parent. They are then more comfortable in engaging in a serious discussion with the parent.

Healthy family routines help us connect with our child in ways that we’d like but often forget when schedules are hectic. The key is to develop a consistent, manageable routine to help everyone in the household thrive. Parents can say, “Let’s start for a week and see how it goes.” Then tweak the routine as necessary. After all, flexibility is important as schedules change.

W

hen school is out for summer, routines may suffer. Family life can become stressful without structure. After all, school provides a built-in routine with a start time and an end time. A conversation with your kids near the end of school might begin this way: “Summer vacation starts soon. Let’s try to work together on how our days will go.”

Barton cautions parents not to make the household routine more than it needs to be during the summer. Perhaps the children can have options of where to volunteer once or twice a week. Their waking up times and bedtimes might be adjusted for summer. Meanwhile, chores still need to be done – walking the dog or helping with yardwork before it gets too hot outside.

Barton compares a consistent family routine, like gardening, to providing a trellis for children. “A trellis is a firm structure to help plants grow well. The trellis, by itself, doesn’t cause the plant to grow, but it does provide an important structure to help it.

Establishing a regular routine is like providing a trellis to help children grow well.” n

Liz Conroy is an Athens-based freelance writer. www.athensparent.com 11

realitycheck

By Jenny Wood

i

When Summer Comes, Can School Be Far Behind?

In the words of John Travolta and Olivia Newton John, “Oh, oh those summer nights...”

Dark, starry skies. Fireflies.

Sparklers on the Fourth of July.

Kids wish those nights would last forever, but that doesn’t happen, even in the movies.

Summer greets us with warm, wide-open arms, but before we know it, it’s time for the start of yet another school year.

And, with that often comes some degree of the “back-toschool blues”.

The good news is that there are some simple “cures” that we can share with our children to help them ease back into it all when that time comes.

12 Athens-Oconee Parent

PREPARE

Come mid-July, it’s hard to ignore the store shelves and big bins beckoning us to start stockpiling school supplies.

Choosing brightly colored folders and finding a new favorite pencil box are preparations kids often welcome. And, we parents know the drill...get everything on the list. Check.

Label items. Check. Strategically pack all for delivery. Check.

Another equally important preparation we may not think as much about relates to our children’s bodies. While we want to enjoy the lazy days of summer down to the very last minute, this makes transition-

ing back to a school schedule challenging. Most kids have been later to bed, later to rise and leisurely lounging throughout the day.

What to do? The week before school starts, begin to gradually shift bedtime back nightly by 5-15 minutes (depending on how off-schedule it’s gotten). At the same time, set a morning alarm to coincide. If your child needs some help relaxing into sleep, try playing a guided body-scan or meditation geared toward kids.

(Visit www.commonsensemedia.org/ for numerous resource options.) Playing peaceful music or soothing sounds and a little lavender spray or essen-

tial oil can help, too. Creating nighttime “rituals” and sticking to a routine will support better sleep throughout the entire school year.

PROMOTE

We’ve all heard the old adage, “Attitude is everything.” Now is the perfect time to put it into practice. If you’re hearing or sensing a lot of, “I don’t want to go back to school,” help your child to reframe it by pointing out the positives: “You’ll see old friends and make new ones.

You’ll meet a new teacher who adores you. You’ll engage in fun learning activities. And, an obvious fall favorite...it’s football season -- Go Dawgs!”

Some of the most powerful learning we can offer children is to model and teach positive thinking and self-talk. “I will have a good school year. I can learn new things if I try. I am good at (fill-in-the-blank). I can count on my teacher, friends and family for help.” With mantras like these running through their minds, kids are more likely to develop growth mindset and greater resilience.

PAUSE

The start of the school year can bring a mix of emotions... excitement, anxiety, happiness, sadness. While scrambling to squeeze in last minute playdates, pool-dips and road trips, take time to pause and notice the feelings in the air. Then, discuss them with your child.

To help smooth the potential, emotional roller-coaster ride, try some of the following: • CHANGE THE CHANNEL: If your child’s mind is stuck on negative thoughts or feelings, share this. Imagine that your mind is a television screen, and you hold the power of the remote control. Picture a person, place, pet or any special memory that brings you positive feelings -- joy, peace, calm.

“Watch” that channel in your mind for a few moments. Then, change the channel to another of your choice. Continue until undesired feelings dissipate.

• TAKE 5: This breathing strategy can help your child calm

and focus. Put your hand up in a high-5. Get the pointer finger of your other hand ready to trace up and down your fingers. Start at the base of your thumb. Breathe in, and trace up. Breathe out, and trace down. Breathe in, and trace up your index finger. Breathe out, and trace down. Slowly continue until you’ve traced your entire palm. Switch hands and repeat if desired.

• MINDFUL MOVEMENT: Any kind of energy can be released through movement. A few minutes doing some simple yoga poses can make a world of difference. Any pose that is a “forward bend” is calming to the nervous system. Balancing poses can be good to get grounded and steady.

S

o, as the calendar days until Meet-the-Teacher become few, don’t allow your child to become too blue thinking about it. Use these strategies for a smooth goodbye to summer and hello to a new school year. n Jenny Wood is a certified GA educator with 18 years of teaching experience in Clarke and Oconee Counties. She is a certified Yoga Calm Youth Instructor and 200-hour yoga trained teacher who is passionate about bringing balance to children’s learning -- academic, social/ emotional, and overall life skills and well-being. She is also the mother of two boys, ages 9 and 11.

www.athensparent.com 13

onyourmind

By Jonathan C. Robinson, Ph.D.

“Having fun yet?”

d Dear Dr. Robinson,

Is it ever okay to just be selfish? You know, do stuff for me? Summer time seems to just be about what the kids want to do and managing the chaos of their not being in school for chunks of each day. Am I a bad parent?

Signed, Resigned Dear Resigned, Are we having a pity party here? Hey, no disrespect, but don’t beat yourself up. It may not be okay to be selfish, but being self-caring will work wonders both for you and your family. You pose an either/or question. I would like for you to consider the both/and of summer fun.

Selfish would be, I don’t care what you are doing. Take care of yourself. That’s what I’m gonna do. This is activity without consideration for the consequences of your choices. Since we are charged with “raising our kids in the ways of the Lord, so that He will not depart from them when they are old” (Proverbs 22:6), this kind of selfish hurts your kids.

Self-caring, however, is not activity-based. It’s need-based. You most certainly can tend to your needs without letting your children run wild. You need some metime to read, go to the bathroom privately, hang with a friend for a while, then make room for these things in your days. The key is that your kids are otherwise occupied, with supervision and accountability built into the system. Depending on the ages of your kids, getting self-caring time might include arranging play dates, participating in a babysitting co-op, signing your brood up for camps, classes, hobby groups, and 14 Athens-Oconee Parent

other short-term summer activities that don’t involve you.

When they are around and you need privacy, qualify it with, “I need some mommy time. Give me 20 minutes and I will be refreshed and more fun to be with.”

This is not selfish. It’s self-caring. You are not a bad parent. As long as your kids have accountability and supervision, meeting needs can be a both/and option, and everybody wins. Good luck.

Dear Dr. Robinson,

We just had our summer planning family meeting, as you have suggested, and we are at a loss. Where do we go from here? Our boys, ages 8, 12, and 14, loved the brainstorming part. Lots of ideas from them, all very expensive. My husband’s company downsized recently. He kept his job but had to take a pay cut. The recent government shutdown really hit us hard. Now, our kids expect the same from us, when we really need to cut back. Maybe next year?

Signed, Now What?

Dear Now What, Good for you for putting the family meeting in play. Hope you are using this tool weekly, along with a dry erase wall calendar to log individual and family events. It’s a great way to keep everybody connected and involved.

Sorry for the financial hit you folks are having to deal with. Kids tend to get into expectation mode that sometimes doesn’t mesh with reality. With your active listening to their feelings, especially the reality check and their disappointment, I think your kids are at the ages to rise to the occasion. I

have three ideas for you.

First, after addressing their emotional fever and prompting with, “I have some thoughts on what we can do, do you want to hear them?” (Remember, asking permission before launching in works wonders for their actually hearing you), suggest another summer vacation-themed family meeting.

This time, qualify that focusing only on what the family can afford will lower their expectations and get you over the hump.

Second, let me introduce you to the concept of a “staycation.” Potentially just as much fun and far less expensive. Staycations start every morning with the question, “So, what do you want to do today that will be fun and different?” Use a little humor to help them get into their creative spirit and, again, be conscious of cost.

Ideas that are outside the box, creative, innovative, can be great fun and not costly.

Try to avoid excessive video-gaming and other singular, withdrawing activities.

Finally, as time and circumstances permit, consider day trips to tourist sites in your area. I grew up near Philadelphia, PA, and never saw all the neat, tourist attractions until I became a tourist for a day as a senior in high school. Overnights are always more costly.

Hope these ideas are helpful. This summer will be different for all of you, but it can also be exquisite as you get creative. n Dr. Robinson is a licensed, clinical psychologist. His specialty is in school-clinical, child psychology, with emphasis on child development, parenting and family counseling. He is also author of Teachable Moments: Building Blocks of Christian Parenting, now available nationwide in bookstores and on-line as an e-book.

www.athensparent.com 15

getout!

ONGOING n Summer Reading

Programs

Be sure to check out the summer reading programs offered at area libraries. n Summer Kid Shows June - July: Enjoy your favorite movies Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 10am. $1.50 admission, $1.50 drinks, $1.50 popcorn, features begin at 10am. Doors open at 9:15am, GTC University 16 Cinemas 355-9122 n Brown Bag Movie

Mondays

Bring your lunch and watch a family movie on our big screen.

We’ll provide the popcorn! All ages. Oconee County Library.

Free. All ages. 12pm. 769-3950 5/20 – Ralph Wrecks the Internet; 6/10 – Mary Poppins Returns; 6/24 – Lego Movie 2; 7/1 – Incredibles 2; 7/15 – Tangled; 7/29 – Trolls

grown food, crafts, art and sometimes music and cooking demonstrations at these weekly events.

Athens: Saturdays at Bishop Park 8am-noon; Wednesdays at Creature Comforts Brewing Co. on Hancock 4-7pm, athensfarmersmarket.net Watkinsville: Saturdays at Oconee County Courthouse 8am-1pm, oconeefarmersmarket.org n Georgia Renaissance

Festival

Saturdays & Sundays plus Memorial Day through June 2nd, 10:30am-6pm, garenfest.com n Storytimes at the

Oconee County Library

Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10am and 11am in May and just Tuesdays at 10am and 11 in June and July. Storytime is for all preschool aged children and their caregivers. Come for stories, songs, movement, crafts, and fun! 769-3950 n Preschool Story Time at

the ACC Library

16 Athens-Oconee Parent

n Athens Mothers’ Center

Social Group

Come and meet other moms experiencing similar joys and challenges! Tuesday and Friday mornings from 9:30-11:30am year-round (except when Clarke County Schools are closed).

Dads are welcome on Fridays.

Covenant Presbyterian Church facebook.com/groups/athens. mothers.center.community/ n Lego Club at the Oconee

County Library

Let’s build! Join us in creating Lego art and playing Lego-based activities. Lego blocks provided! For children up to age 11. Free. 4pm. May 21, June 2, and July 7. 769-3950 n Martial Arts at the

Oconee County Library

Join AKF Karate at the library!

July 10 and 24 for ages 3 and up. July 17 and 31 for ages 5 and up. Registration requiredask at the desk or call the library to reserve your spot.

2pm. Free. 769-3950

Story program for children ages 18 months to 5 years old and their caregiver. Lively time of sharing books, songs, puppets, nursery rhymes, early literacy and preschool activities. Tues and Wed 9:30-10am and 10:30-11am. 613-3650 n Open Chess Play at the

Oconee County Library

All skill levels, come out for chess! Led by volunteer members of our local Chess and Community Conference who assist players and build skill levels. Open to ages 7-18 years. Athens-Clarke County Library. Mondays. 4-5:30pm.

613-3650. n Infant Story Time at the

11 Little Athens Pop-Up at Georgia Square Mall

ACC Library

n Crafternoon Every other Tuesday in June (June 4 and 18) and July (July 2, 16, and 30) from 2:304:30. Drop in for a fun, self-directed “Make it and Take it” craft. Check our Facebook page on Mondays to find out what we’re making - Oconee County Library Children’s Section. Free. All ages. Oconee County Library, 2:30-4:30pm 769-3950 n Farmers Markets Enjoy locally and naturally

Compiled by Sarah Danis

ACC Library

Babies love books, too! This is a special Storytime for the youngest readers-to-be, 0-18 months. Share fingerplays, songs and simple books with your babies as they sit in your lap. Mondays. Athens-Clarke County Library. 10:30am.

613-3650.

MAY 2019 11 Family Fun Day at the A petting zoo, moonwalk, crafts, music, games, and more! Fun for the whole family – and it’s free! Pick up your reading log and you can earn prizes for reading all summer long. All ages! Free. Oconee County Library. 10am-1pm.

769-3950 Little Athens Children’s Museum will bring their pop-up exhibit to Georgia Square Mall the second Saturday of each month during 2019.

10am-12pm littleathens.org/ about-little-athens

16 Baby Music Jam at the Oconee County Library

Preschool-aged children and caregivers play musical instruments, sing, and dance together. Oconee County Library.

10:30am. 769-3950

18 Snake Day 2019

Join local experts for a day of snakes! Meet local snakes and learn about their value in our habitat. Enjoy games and crafts, as well as food from local vendors. Sandy Creek Nature Center, 12-4pm, $4 Children younger than 3 are admitted free. Pre-register before May 19 for a $3 price or day of the event is $4 per person. accgov.com/leisure 613-3615

18 Family Fun Day at the ACC Library

Explore outer space and a Universe of Stories with the Library! The first 500 children to sign up will receive a free Universe of Stories tote bag.

Petting zoo, crafts, games, music, puppet show. Check out the schedule of times online.

All ages! Free. Athens-Clarke County Library. 10am-1pm.

613-3650.

20 Read to Rover

Come read with and meet our new doggie friend, Bandit!

Reading aloud to a dog creates a relaxed, non-judgmental environment that helps children develop their reading skills and builds confidence. And, it’s a lot of fun, too! All ages!

Free. Oconee County Library.

5:30pm. 769-3950

23 Infant Story Time

Babies love books, too! This is a special Storytime for the youngest readers-to-be,

athensparent.com 0-24 months. Stories, songs, nursery rhymes, bouncing, and cuddling, and then stay for some playtime with friends.

Oconee County Library.

10:30am. 769-3950

24 Pagemasters – Kids’

Book & Movie Club: How to Train Your Dragon by Cressida Cowell

Which was better, the book or the movie? We’ll talk about what we think and watch the movie, too! We’ll have copies of the book available at the Circulation desk for check-out all month long. For elementary school-ages. Oconee County Library. 4pm. 769-3950

24-27 Memorial Day at

Stone Mountain Park

Special salute to our troops with an extended fireworks finale and jaw-dropping fire effects during the Lasershow Spectacular. Live seasonal entertainment during Memorial Day weekend with the Extreme Chinese Acrobats. Fee applies. stonemountainpark.com

25 Dr. Snook’s Intergalactic Chemistry Magic at the ACC Library

Ever wonder what the sun is made of, why the planets are different colors, or how cold it is in outer space? Join Dr. Maurice Snook as he takes us on a tour of the galaxy, with space-chemistry-magic, right here on Earth! For children ages 5-11 and their caregiver.

Free. Athens-Clarke County Library. 10am-1pm. 613-3650

JUNE 2019

8 Little Athens Pop-Up at

1 Reducing, Recycling, and

Little Athens Children’s Museum will bring their pop-up exhibit to Georgia Square Mall the second Saturday of each month during 2019.

10am-12pm littleathens.org/ about-little-athens

Reusing Magic Show at the Oconee County Library

Join us at the library for fun and magic with magician Carey Huddlestun while learning how to reduce, recycle, and reuse all at the same time! All ages.

Free. 10:30am. 769-3950

3 The Day the Crayons

Quit at the ACC Library

When Duncan opens his box of crayons, he finds they have all written him letters with the same message, “I quit!” Come hear this colorful tale of crayon complaints, read by our special guest, the State Superintendent! Then, enjoy rhymes, songs, and crafts! For children ages 4-11 and their caregiver.

Free. Athens-Clarke County Library. 1:30pm. 613-3650

5 Parrots of the World hosted by the Oconee County Library

Parrot expert Brenda Bean brings 14 different species of incredible, performing parrots from around the world for this fun, educational event with live animals. Learn all about them and see them up close!

Hosted by the OC Library, but held at the OC Civic Center- 2661 Hog Mountain Rd, Watkinsville. All ages! Free.

10:30am. 769-3950

Georgia Square Mall

12 Keith Karnok

Magic Show hosted by the Oconee County Library

Enjoy a morning of interstellar magic, ventriloquism and science with everyone’s favorite magician, Keith Karnok! Just returned from the edge of the universe will all new amazing tricks. Hosted by the OC Library, but held at the OC Civic Center- 2661 Hog Mountain Rd, Watkinsville. All ages! Free.

10:30am. 769-3950

13 Bean & Bear hosted by the ACC Library

Come meet Bean and Bear, the silliest best friends ever! They’ll share stories, puppets, and wacky hijinks! All ages! Free.

Athens-Clarke County Library.

10:30am. 613-3650

17 Read to Rover

Come read with and meet our new doggie friend, Bandit!

Reading aloud to a dog creates a relaxed, non-judgmental environment that helps children develop their reading skills and builds confidence. And, it’s a lot of fun, too! All ages!

Free. Oconee County Library.

4:30pm. 769-3950

19 Yasu Ishida: Story Circus hosted by the Oconee County Library

31 Starlab Inflatable Planetarium

The Oconee County Library is hosting a real-life planetarium show at the Oconee Civic Center! Learn all about planets and outer space inside of an inflatable planetarium. Registration required; please call or ask at the library front desk to sign up for one of four session times. All ages! Free. Oconee County Civic Center- 2661 Hog Mountain Rd, Watkinsville.

10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm. 769-3950

Some events, dates and times are subject to change.

Please call individual event organizers to confirm schedules.

All area codes are 706 unless otherwise noted.

8 Trial Gardens at UGA Open House

Have an adventure in the garden! You’ll be able to explore beautiful varieties you’ve never seen before as well as classic types you know and love! All ages! Free. 8am-12pm. 1030 West Green St. at Sanford Dr. behind Snelling, Athens.

Origami expert and magician Yasu Ishida shares origami magic and wonderful stories that will astound and amaze!

Hosted by the OC Library, but held at the OC Civic Center- 2661 Hog Mountain Rd, Watkinsville. All ages! Free.

10:30am. 769-3950

20 Keith Karnok Magic Show hosted by the ACC Library

Enjoy a morning of interstellar magic, ventriloquism and science with everyone’s favorite

magician, Keith Karnok! Just returned from the edge of the universe will all new amazing tricks. All ages! Free. Athens-Clarke County Library.

10:30am. 613-3650

21-23 AthFest Music & Arts Festival

A 3-day Festival Supporting Music and Arts Education.

KidFest features live music and activities 6/21 6-9pm, 6/22 10:30am-5:30pm and 6/23 12:30pm-5pm, Downtown Athens, visit athfest.com/ kidsfest

26 Bean & Bear hosted by the Oconee County Library

Come meet Bean and Bear, the silliest best friends ever! They’ll share stories, puppets, and wacky hijinks! Hosted by the OC Library, but held at the OC Civic Center- 2661 Hog Mountain Rd, Watkinsville. All ages!

Free. 10:30am. 769-3950

27 Parrots of the World hosted by the ACC Library

Parrot expert Brenda Bean brings 14 different species of incredible, performing parrots from around the world for this fun, educational event with live animals. Learn all about them and see them up close! Ages 3-11. Free. Athens-Clarke County Library. 10:30am. 613-3650

28 Pagemasters – Kids’ Book & Movie Club: The Tale of Despereaux

Which was better, the book or the movie? We’ll talk about what we think and watch the movie, too! We’ll have copies of the book available at the Circulation desk for check-out all month long. For elementary school-ages. Oconee County Library. 4pm. 769-3950

29 Star Wars Saturday at the Oconee County Library Do you love Star Wars? Come to the library and meet Star Wars characters, practice your trivia, and make amazing Star Wars crafts! Bring your cameras! All ages. Oconee County Library. 11am-1pm. 769-3950

more!

www.athensparent.com 17

getout!

JULY 2019

12 Color Guard Workshop hosted by the Oconee County Library

3 Rebecca Sunshine Band hosted by the Oconee County Library

Join us for an awesome jam with the Rebecca Sunshine Band! We’ll have instruments for everyone to play along!

Hosted by the OC Library, but held at the OC Civic Center- 2661 Hog Mountain Rd, Watkinsville. All ages! Free.

10:30am. 769-3950

8 Read to Rover

Come read with and meet our new doggie friend, Bandit!

Reading aloud to a dog creates a relaxed, non-judgmental environment that helps children develop their reading skills and builds confidence. And, it’s a lot of fun, too! All ages!

Free. Oconee County Library.

4:30pm. 769-3950

Learn the “Sport of the Arts” with professional Color Guard instructors! We’ll dance, spin flags, and more! Registration required- ask at the desk or call the library to reserve your spot.

Hosted by the OC Library, but held at the OC Civic Center- 2661 Hog Mountain Rd, Watkinsville. All ages! Free.

10:30am. 769-3950

13 Little Athens Pop-Up at Georgia Square Mall

Little Athens Children’s Museum will bring their pop-up exhibit to Georgia Square Mall the second Saturday of each month during 2019.

10am-12pm littleathens.org/ about-little-athens

Planetarium hosted by the ACC Library

10 Claire Campbell hosted by the Oconee County Library

Claire Campbell is best known for her acclaimed folk band, Hope For Agoldensummer.

She brings an acoustic guitar, a singing saw, and great tunes 18 Athens-Oconee Parent

ACC Library

When Duncan opens his box of crayons, he finds they have all written him letters with Just when you thought it was safe to get back in the water… you learn that sharks actually rarely attack anyone.

Come learn more about these fascinating (and misunderstood) aquatic predators with a special storytime celebrating all things shark! With crafts to go. For children ages 4-11 and their caregiver. Free.

Athens-Clarke County Library.

1:30pm. 613-3650

25 Children’s Author & Illustrator Visit at Oconee County Library

Local children’s book author and illustrators Bart King and

9 Starlab Inflatable

Explore the universe and astronomy in a Starlab inflatable planetarium. Learn about the constellations with science educators from the Elachee Nature Science Center. Call to reserve a spot. Ages 5-11. Free.

Athens-Clarke County Library.

2:30, 3:10, or 3:50pm. 6133650

23 Shark Week at the

18 Meet the Dragon from Dragons Love Tacos! at the ACC Library

Everyone knows that dragons love tacos, but they also love to get their picture taken with kids of all shapes and sizes.

Join us for our Dragons Love Tacos party full of zany music, dragon and taco crafts, and our special guest, the Dragon himself! For children ages 2-11 and their caregiver. Free.

Athens-Clarke County Library.

10:30am. 613-3650

Jacob Wenzka visit the library!

They will talk with kids about what an author and illustrator do, show us how they write books together, and answer your questions! All ages.

Oconee County Library. 4pm.

769-3950

26 Pagemasters – Kids’ Book & Movie Club: Matilda

Which was better, the book or the movie? We’ll talk about what we think and watch the movie, too! We’ll have copies of the book available at the Circulation desk for check-out all month long. For elementary school-ages. Oconee County Library. 4pm. 769-3950

31 Happy Birthday Harry Potter at the Oconee County Library

We’re celebrating Harry Potter’s birthday with crafts and a scavenger hunt in the children’s area! Oconee County Library.

4pm. 769-3950 n

s

for kids of all ages. Get ready to sing along! Hosted by the OC Library, but held at the OC Civic Center2661 Hog Mountain Rd, Watkinsville. All ages!

Free. 10:30am. 769-3950

p

Don’t Let Summer Learning Take a Dive

By Jenny Wood

Parents and teachers alike want kids to thoroughly enjoy the summer while, at the same time, avoiding the “summer slide” – the knowledge decline that occurs in the absence of school (not the fun, fast, slippery one at the pool!) You can keep your child’s learning alive in the following ways:

Find a cause: On a beach trip last summer, our family became aware of and distraught by the struggles of sea turtles. We were inspired to visit local libraries and read related books, view videos online, and review reusable straws on Amazon. We learned LOTS, and we and the planet are better for it!

Take advantage of teachable moments:

Don’t JUST journal:

There are lots of creative ways to journal that can be fun for the whole family. Here are just a few: • Write jokes and draw silly comics.

• Set up a page for each letter of the alphabet.

Then, search the house, neighborhood or vacation spot for items to add to each page. Include descriptions and pictures.

• There are plenty of truly unique and engaging, kid-centered journals for purchase. You’re guaranteed to find something that appeals to your little (or not-so-little) learner with a quick online search.

Take flight: “To infini-

ty...and beyond!” Have your child create various flying objects out of paper

or items from your recycling bin. Measure, cut, fold, discuss shapes and angles. And don’t forget to collect and record flight distance data when testing each projectile.

Kids don’t have to wait to “fall back into learning” with the start of school in August. Summer offers lots of fun learning in disguise.

Don’t let it slide by! n Jenny Wood is a certified GA educator with 18 years of teaching experience in Clarke and Oconee Counties. She is a certified Yoga Calm Youth Instructor and 200-hour yoga trained teacher who is passionate about bringing balance to children’s learning -academic, social/emotional, and overall life skills and well-being.

She is also the mother of two boys, ages 9 and 11.

Kids are curious. Embrace it! Take time to thoughtfully answer their sometimes seemingly endless questions (How do fireflies glow? Why do mosquitoes bite me more than you? How come we can hear the sound of the ocean in a seashell?). Jot down any that you aren’t sure of, and make time to find the answers together.

Revive reading: If your

child has a required or suggested summer reading list, start a book club.

Meet at someone’s house over snacks, or choose a local sweet treat spot. Or become your child’s own “book buddy” so that you can read and discuss together. Grandparents make great book buddies, too – kid tested and mother approved! www.athensparent.com 19

20 Athens-Oconee Parent

Summer

Camps!

Consider these great camps that Athens

and Oconee County – and throughout Georgia – have to offer children of all ages during the summer! We have tried to include the important information for each camp. However,due to changes that may have occured after press time, please call individual camps or visit their web sites for the most up-to-date details.

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ATHENS-OCONEE PARENT 2019 / PART 2

www.athensparent.com 23 21

SummerCamps AKF Oconee Summer Camps akfoconee.com 706-769-7770 • June 3rd - June 6th (Mon-Thurs) 8am-1pm • July 15th - July 18th (Mon-Thurs) 8am-1pm • Building confidence, developing respect,

and having fun through martial arts. Daily themed camps: Monday is Builder Camp (Legos, Magatiles, Lincoln Logs); Tuesday is Superhero Camp (Wear your favorite superhero outfit!); Wednesday is Turtle Power; and Thursday is Nerf Wars (Bring your Nerf blasters!). Daily themed activities from 8-11am. Pizza and a movie 11am1pm. Students can also bring nut-free snacks to eat. $35/day or $125/week.

• Located at 2061 Hog Mountain Rd., Watkinsville.

Athens-Clarke County Leisure Services www.accgov.com/1604/ Summer-Camps • Registration takes place online at www.athensclarke county.com/leisure • Registration begins Saturday, March 23 at 9:00 a.m. for ACC residents • Registration for non-residents begins Monday, March 25 at noon

Oconee County Parks and Recreation Department www.oconeecounty.com/ocprd/433/ Summer-Camps • Registration takes place online at www. oconeecounty.com/ocprd beginning Monday, April 15 at 8:oo a.m.

Alice DePass Studio of Dance 706-769-1177 www.depassstudioof dance.com TINKERBELL’S BALLET CAMP • For ages 2.5-3.5 • June 3rd – 5th (Monday- Wednesday) from 9:30-11:00am • $65 (includes snack and craft materials) • Calling all tiny dancers! Come join us for this special introduction to ballet, which includes dance instruction, movement games, dress-up, story time, and fun fairy crafts!

PRINCESS BALLET CAMPS All of the following princess ballet camps are for dancers ages 3-7 (will be divided into 2 groups) and will include ballet class, dress-up, story time, crafts, and snacks. Each camp is $65 (includes snack and craft materials) • Cinderella’s Ballet Camp: June 10th–12th (Mon-Wed) from 9:30-11:00am • Belle’s Ballet Camp: June 17th–19th (Mon-Wed) from 9:30-11:00am • Elsa and Anna’s Ballet Camp: June 24th26th (Mon-Wed) from 9:30-11:00am • Rapunzel’s Ballet Camp: July 8th–10th (Mon-Wed) from 9:30-11:00am • Moana’s Ballet Camp: July 15th –17th (Mon-Wed) from 9:30-11:00am

22 Athens-Oconee Parent

POP JAZZ DANCE CAMP • For ages 5-8 • July 22nd-25th (Monday -Thursday) from 9:30-11:30am • $80 (includes snack and craft materials) Come join us for pop jazz class, crafts, and a mini-performance on the last day!

ARTeenies Afternoon ARTcamp! artinisartlounge.com At ARTeeniess ARTcamp your child will not only get to explore their creative side, but they’ll learn terminology & technique, as well. Your children will have a great time and take away from ARTcamp artwork they created, fun memories & art knowledge. We’ll be doing canvas painting, wood crafts, ceramic painting, and polymer clay.

• Ages 7 & up.

• $175 per child per week.

• $150 for each additional child per week.

• $35 daily drop in • All supplies are provided.

• Seven weekly sessions to choose from starting the weeks of June 3-July 23 (no camp the week of July 4th) • Camps are held from 1pm to 4pm. Doors open at 12:45pm.

Please call or email us with any questions: 706.353.8530, kate@artinisartlounge.com

Summer at Athens Academy 706-549-9225 summer@athensacademy.org www.athensacademy.org

www.athenslittleplay house.net Weekly theater day camps for kids ages 5 and up. Choose any of the 8 weeks: May 20July 26. Each week will conclude with a unique performance for families and friends to enjoy. 9am-4:30pm MonThurs (drop off at 8:30am and pick-up at 5pm with extended hours for a small fee). Snacks provided, bring your own lunch. $175 per week (sibling discounts available). Each child gets a camp T-shirt.

New Moon Summer Adventure Camp 706-310-0013 Travel to different locations throughout Georgia and South Carolina. Activities include hiking, swimming, boating, ropes course, trips to museums, farms, zoos and much more! Ages 6-12. $175 per week covers all activity and travel expenses. Operating weeks of June 3rd-7th, and 10th-14th; and July 8th-12th and 15th-19th.; from 8:30am5pm. Contact Cindy Jones at 706-310-0013 to register.

Summer Camp at Double Helix! doublehelixschool.com • What: Each week has a different theme with rotating, expert instructors who are professionals in their fields.

• When: All summer, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.- 2 p.m.

No camp on July 4. Aftercare is available until 5 pm for an additional cost.

• Where: Double Helix STEAM School, 580 Tallassee Road, Athens, GA, (706) 521-5477 • Ages: Rising 3rd-6th graders, but campers outside of that age range may be considered by parental request • Cost: $175/week; aftercare until 5 pm is

s

Athens Academy offers a wide range of camps, from six weeks of day camp to robotics, fine arts, sports camps, coding camps, enrichment classes, and much, much more! Anyone can participate in Summer at Athens Academy--no matter what school you go to! New this year are offerings like Dungeons & Dragons, Games Galore!, Art Camp for Middle Schoolers, plus several others. Check the website often because new camps are added every week!

Athens Little Playhouse

www.athensparent.com 23

SummerCamps $10/day. Some camps require supply fees.

• For detailed information about each camp, supply fees or to register visit https://doublehelixsummer camp.wordpress.com/ • JUNE 3-7: Art Journaling: A Doorway to Creative Exploration and Self-Reflection with Robin Nunan.

The instructor will teach a wide variety of techniques and skills, equipping them with a “creative toolbox” to utilize as they fill the pages of their sketchbooks. Topics

of art theory and art history will also be introduced. We will explore: Painting and printing techniques; collage and altered paper ideas; sewing and weaving on paper; writing with pens, pencils and typewriter • JUNE 10-14 and JULY 15-19: Harry Potter Camp with Heather Hogan We’ll be teaching muggles how to be wizards! House sorting ceremony on the first day, along with Defense Against the Dark Arts, Potions, Herbology, and Care of Magical Creatures classes. Come dressed

s

as your favorite character everyday or wear your Harry Potter inspired clothing.

• June 17-21: Ukulele-based songwriting with Erica Strout Local musician and Girls Rock Athens veteran Erica Strout teaches ukulele at Double Helix. In this camp, she’ll be guiding students in creating their own compositions through ukulele-based songwriting.

• JUNE 24-28 Games! With Tiffanie Reid Campers will spend the morning playing outdoor games before it gets too hot. Then, we’ll head indoors for some board games, card games and reading. The last part of the day, campers will spend time developing their own games! Kids can develop a new board game, outdoor game, carnival game or party game. Whatever campers think would be fun to develop, we will help them do it! And, of course, they can take their game home at the end of the week!

• JULY 1-5 (no camp July 4): Chocolate-making with Amanda Crouse We will learn to hand temper and make chocolates by working with various couverture chocolates. We will sample chocolates from various regions and learn about farming practices and climates in these regions.

We will experiment with various techniques such as molding, dipping, making centers, ganache, fondant, cookies, and creams.

We will learn to steep creams and make essence and extracts as well.

• JULY 8-12: Music and Movement Camp with Natalie Smith Music and Movement Camp will be an exciting week of learning and playing music, moving creatively and practicing yoga.

Campers will learn through instruction and through experience the basics of rhythm, musical notation, music theory and harmony, using all that they’ve learned to create their very own pieces of music by the end of the week. There will be a recital of their pieces at the end of the day on Friday.

• JULY 22-26: Pastry and Needlecraft with Ashley Dunn Ashley combines her experience as a pastry chef and working in a Montessori classroom to lead children in a multitude of crafty and baking endeavors.

• JULY 29-AUG. 1: KPop & art with Nara Kim & Ellen Klinger Nara Kim leads Double Helix’s afterschool art club while pursuing her doctorate in UGA’s School of Art. Ellen Klinger a Masters in Art Education. This camp highlights the cultural and artistic context of highly popular KPop bands while engaging campers’ artistic interests!

24 Athens-Oconee Parent

www.athensparent.com 25

SummerCamps Camp Southern Ground 678-561-9600 scott@campsouthernground.org southerngroundsummercamp.org At Camp Southern Ground we believe in helping to grow more good into the world.

We also know that families all across America want their kids to grow into good people.

Yet today with our kids stuck behind screens, being bullied in schools, or just struggling to

fit in and be themselves – goodness can seem hard to find! Camp Southern Ground wants to be the place where your child can have good fun, eat good food, connect with good friends, and learn the confidence to go put more good into the world. During summer, Camp Southern Ground hosts campers for week-long residential camps. As an inclusive camp, we serve children ages 7-17, from all socioeconomic backgrounds, races and religions, with programs that challenge, educate, and inspire.

Canopy Studio canopystudio.org/classes/camps/ Unique trapeze and art camp at Canopy Studio in Athens.

• Weekly starting May 20th - July 26th. (No camp week of 7/4.)

• No experience necessary.

• Ages: entering Kindergarten through teens, 9am-12pm daily. $175 per week, $149 per week for additional child from family or multiple weeks. Aftercare from noon-3pm also available some weeks for additional $100. Registration form at canopystudio.org/classes/camps/ 706-549-8501 info@canopystudio.org

Full Moon School of Music Summer Camp www.thefullmoonstudio.com Each summer students can learn to Come Together and play as a band. They will pick the songs, collaborate on ideas, and conclude the week with an amazing live showcase. With all of the world class talent in the Athens area, you never know who is going to stop in just to say hello! Some musical experience required for a band setting. June 24-30 and July 22-28 from 9am4pm. Contact us for more information at 706-769-4100 or thefullmoon studio@gmail.com.

A Fun Fine Motor and Handwriting Camp playsatOT@gmail.com • Camp location: the Oconee County Chamber of Commerce Through play, art, and cooperative motor games, the camp will develop the skills necessary to provide foundations for good handwriting, such as upper body strength and stability, postural control, fine motor skills, visual perceptual skills, and eye-hand coordination. The entire camp is designed and taught by a pediatric occupational therapist and mother who is dedicated to supporting children’s development and confidence.

• BEAR WALKERS (prek-k skill level/ages 4-6) Best for children experiencing fine motor and visual motor difficulties in relation to drawing, coloring, and holding crayons and writing utensils appropriately. Max 4-5 children.

26 Athens-Oconee Parent

• 8 sessions Tuesday-Friday, June 11-21, 2019 • 9:30am-12:00pm • CRAB WALKERS (1st grade Skill level/ages 5-7) This camp will focus on correct letter formation, sizing of letters, spacing, alignment of letters, and eliminating letter reversals. Additional activities targeting your child’s fine motor skills, strength, grasp, and motor coordination are included. Max 5 children.

• 8 sessions Tuesday-Friday, June 11-21, 2019 • 1:00pm-3:30pm Both camps are $400.

Included in each camp Tuition: Handwriting Without Tears workbook; Mini Fine Motor Box with select individual activities for at-home practice; Assessment results from screening performed on the first and last days. For additional information or to register, please contact Sara Shue, OTD, OTR/L, at playsatOT@ gmail.com.

Graystone Church Oconee Sports Camp graystonechurch.com June 3-6 6-8:30pm Don’t miss out on The Greatest Show! Choose from activities including numerous sports, art, cooking, science, or dance! In addition, campers will explore the Bible through skits, video, games and other activities. Free to all kids who have completed kindergarten -5th grade. Located at 1275 Lenru Road, Bogart.

Joni Taylor Basketball Camps Future Lady Dogs Camp

Mathnasium www.mathnasium.com/ Athens 706-523-8353 Ages: 1st through 12th grades Mathnasium of Athens can help stop the summer slide! Using a unique assessment process to determine exactly what each child knows and what they

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June 2nd-4th Ages: 7-15 Cost: Overnight $290/Commuter $240 (Under 12 will be a Commuter) • This camp is for girls ages 7-15 who want to improve their basketball skills and be taught drills that will develop their game for the next lev-

el. There will be intense drills and stations each day along with 5 on 5 games to put those new skills to practice!

Our Lady Dawgs will be camp counselors and will personally teach drills and lead group stations. Campers will receive lunch and dinner on Sunday, breakfast lunch and dinner on Monday and breakfast and lunch on Tuesday. Campers will also receive a camp t-shirt and have the opportunity participate in our annual talent show!

In addition to being instructed in our state-of-the-art facilities, campers will also be able to enjoy meals in our nationally recognized dining halls.

June 7th-9th Bulldog Team Camp AAU, Freshmen, JV & Varsity High School Teams • For costs, please contact Bryce Dillard at ugawbbteamcamp@gmail.com or by phone at 706-982-3289.

• This competitive team camp gives high school and AAU teams the opportunity to play against some of the best teams in the southeast. Teams have the option of participating in one or multiple days and are guaranteed 3 games each day.

The Georgia Women’s Basketball staff will be in attendance throughout the entire weekend to watch the games taking place. This is a great option for teams to be able to prepare for their upcoming season by facing off against some of the best squads the south has to offer.

Each participant will receive a camp t-shirt.

• Please contact Bryce Dillard by phone at 706-982-3289 or by email at ugawbbteam camp@gmail.com.

www.athensparent.com 27

SummerCamps need to learn, we design a customized learning plan for teaching the math concepts the student needs to master. Located at 1260 Mars Hill Rd. in Watkinsville.

Milledge Ave Baptist Church VBS www.milledge.org Children who have completed pre-K-5th grades are invited to join us for a free week

of fun as we “Power Up” June 23-27! We will begin each day at 5:30 pm with a light supper followed by a time of Bible story, games, crafts, and more! Pick up is at 8 pm Sunday to Wednesday June 23-26.

Thursday, June 27 is a family night where parents are invited to stay at 5:30 for pizza followed by presentations from the children of what they have learned this week through songs and skits as we “Raise our Game”. Go to www.milledge.org for more information and to register.

OYSP Musical Theater Camp www.oconeeyouth.com Show: JUNIE B. JONES the musical!

Camp Dates: 2 WEEKS TO CHOOSE FROM; Week 1: June 10-14 Week 2: June 24-28 NEW THIS YEAR for 3rd and up! Sign up for our fun-filled DANCE CAMP portion in the morning for an ALL-DAY camp!

• Our popular camp gives participants a chance to be part of a musical theater show complete with singing, acting and choreography! Camp sessions start on Monday and meet daily, with a special performance in our NEW THEATER for parents/family members on Friday. Also included in camp are drama games and other creative activities.

• Week 1: (rising 1st-2nd grade) 12:30-2:30 PM daily Cost: $120 • Week 2: (rising 3rd grade & up) Costs: Musical Theater Camp only 12:304:30 PM daily - $185; Musical Theater Camp PLUS Dance Camp 10:00-4:30 PM daily - $250; Dance Camp ONLY 10:0012:00 PM daily - $100 TINY TALENTS: (rising Pre-K and K, must be 4) 12:30-1:30 PM daily Cost: $65 To register for any prograrms, fill out the registration form online at https:// www.oconeeyouth.com/camps * Tickets to the show are $5 per person.

Prince Avenue Christian School princeave.org Join the fun this summer at Prince Avenue Christian School where we learn to work and play The Wolverine Way... by honoring God, pursuing excellence and discipling students! We offer various sports and fine arts camps for rising Kindergarteners through 12th grade and adult.

• Visit http://www.princeave.org/ campus-life/summer atprince for more details and to register.

Pump It Up Camp 706-613-5675 pumpitupparty.com Discover, explore, invent and imagine!

Pump It Up camps are high-energy, fastpaced and just fun for kids. Themed camps

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run by local teachers. Call the store for our summer schedule.

Check our website for Open Jump times for ages 11 and under or 5 and under. www. pumpitupparty.com/ bogart-ga/

RUSH! Trampoline Park Spend your summer at Rush!

We have camps the weeks of: • May 20-May 24 • June 10-June 14 • July 8- July 12 • July 29-August 2 These camps are for rising 1st - 6th graders. Camp will be from 9AM - 3PM each day with drop off beginning at 8:30AM for $199/week. After care will be offered from 3 - 4PM each day for $50/week.

• Each camper will receive a Rush t-shirt, snack, lunch, Rush socks and water. Children in after care will receive an additional snack and extra jump time.

• Only 40 spots are available for each week, so register today!

• Register on our website or in store. If you have any additional questions, please email us at info@rushathens.com.

Spark @ Ann Peden Summer Camp www.sparkatannpeden.com Children ages 6 and up. Each session is 2 fun-filled days of making art, painting, jewelry, ceramics and arts and crafts!

Taught by Valerie Johnson, Lisa Backs and Ann Peden. 9:30am3:30pm. Two Sessions a week to choose from: Monday/Tuesday and Wednesday/Thursday. Included: all instruction, art supplies, free camp T-shirt, snacks & drinks (bring your own lunch) $150/session. Regis-

tration requires a $50 deposit to reserve your child’s spot.

Register online www.spark atannpeden.com.

Athens YMCA Camp Kelley 706-543-6596 office@athensymca.org athensymca.org Is your child ready for the best summer ever? Camp Kelley is the longest running day camp in our area and we are proud to say that camp has served many generations over the past 83 years. We are excited to offer your child an unforgettable summer experience. We have carefully designed our camp to provide age appropriate activities that are sure to help your child(ren) develop both mentally and physically. Join us for an amazing summer!

Wild Intelligence 706-614-7818 info@wildintelligence.org www.wildintelligence.org Camps are held at Earthsong on Big Bear Road.

FOREST CATERPILLARS CAMP • Ages 4-6 years old.

• Two sessions to choose from: May 28-31st Or June 4-7th from 9am-2pm WILD PLAY! CAMP • Each session is 2 weeks long, Mon-Fri, 9am-2pm.

BASIC CAMP • Ages 7-11, two weeks for a total of $415 ADVANCED CAMP • Ages 10-13 (attended our camp previously or a similar program) Kids will camp out on the first Thursday of the session, running weeks days June 1728th or July 8th-19th n

Have a happy and safe summer! www.athensparent.com 29

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Kids love to see their picture, and you’ll love the keepsake!

Send your photos and info to facebook at Athens-Oconee Parent Magazine.

Grant, 3

Charlotte, 12, Payton, 5, and Claire, 7

Aaliyah, 1

Trey, 12, and Jacob, 12

Pedro, 5

Cooper, 3, Parker, 1, and Tucker, 4

Avery, 2

Asher, 4, Knox, 5, and Madden. 1 month Liza, 3, and Wyatt, 8

Claire, 9, Caroline, 9, and Carter, 10

Owen, 7

Colt, 3, Ripley, 5, and Brooklyn, 2

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ACC Leisure 22

Camp Southern Ground 20

Joni Taylor Basketball Camps 26

Oconee Youth School of Performance 29

AKF Oconee Family Martial Arts 25

Canopy 25

Linder & Linder Family Dentistry 3

Prince Avenue Christian School 27

Alice DePass Studio of Dance 27

Clarke County School District 19

Manning Brothers 11

Pump It Up 31

Athens Academy 23

Children First 15

Mathnasium 4

Quality Care for Children 3

Athens Family Vision/Dr. Springer 11

Full Moon School of Music 29

Milledge Ave. Baptist Church 23

Rush Trampoline Park 2

Athens Little Playhouse 25

Funopolis 32

Newell Orthodontics 13

Women’s Center of Athens 13

Athens YMCA / Camp Kelley 25

Graystone Church Oconee 28

Oconee Co. Parks & Recreation 24

30 Athens-Oconee Parent