Gwinnett Daily Post Special Section - HealthSource-8-8-2010

Sunday, August 8, 2010 An Advertising Supplement for

Fall family resources ...

• Make it a Healthy Start to School • Get Ready for the Big Day in Kindergarten • Top 5 Baby Concerns in the Home • Get Organized for School Success • Teaching Children about 9-1-1 • Financing Your Child’s Future

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GUIDE

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GUIDE Providing Compassionate Care – The Gwinnett Breast Center Gwinnett Medical Center is committed to providing the best in patient care and clinical quality that is why they have developed the Gwinnett Breast Center. The Gwinnett Breast Center is a program that provides individualized care with a patient-centered approach.

The foundation of the program is a dynamic interdisciplinary team of dedicated breast imagers, pathologists, referring providers, surgeons, specially trained technologists, nurses and navigators.

This team comes together to provide women with the most timely, modern and compassionate care for breast health.

Services are available in Duluth, Lawrenceville and Hamilton Mill.

Program Overview • Optimal coordination of care • Same day surgical consults • On-site scheduling of follow up appointments • Follow up imaging from an abnormal screening mammogram within three to five business days • Diagnostic imaging appointments for new findings - same or next day appointments Gwinnett Breast Center’s patient-centered approach optimizes the process for mammogram call-back appointments. From abnormal mammogram through treatment and follow-up, the navigator program facilitates the patient’s coordination of care. Patients requiring additional imaging studies receive

a phone call from a call-back scheduler within three business days of their screening exam.

If a biopsy is recommended, patients have the benefit of working with an Access Navigator. The navigator is a member of the imaging team, who assists the patient with appointments and ensuring that services are obtained in a timely manner. This process eases the patient anxiety and reduces the confusion of negotiating through the multiple aspects of follow-up care.

The Access Navigator will assist the patient in scheduling appointments

with Gwinnett Medical Center’s network of participating sur-

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geons offering same-day appointments for biopsy. This reduces the cycle time from abnormal finding to a breast

specialist consult. For more information about Gwinnett Medical Center’s navigation program, call 678-312-2197.

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GUIDE Bright Lights of Broadway Descend on Atlanta in 2010-2011 Broadway Across America –Atlanta Announces NEW Season Filled with Favorite Smash Hits and Anticipated Atlanta Debuts Broadway Across America – Atlanta brings Atlanta arts fans a lineup of Broadway sensations as part of its newly announced 2010-2011 season at The Fabulous Fox Theatre.

Audiences will embark on a dramatic and diverse journey with the debuts of BURN THE FLOOR and SHREK THE MUSICAL paired with awardwinning fan favorites DREAMGIRLS, WEST SIDE STORY and HAIR. DREAMGIRLS October 12-17, 2010 The Fabulous Fox Theatre

the first note to the final breath, WEST SIDE STORY soars as the greatest love story of all time.

BURN THE FLOOR March 22-27, 2011 The Fabulous Fox Theatre

Years before Dancing with the Stars and So You Think You Can Dance turned ballroom dancing into mustsee TV, one sizzling show was setting stages ablaze around the globe.

BURN THE FLOOR, the electrifying Latin and Ballroom dance spectacular that has thrilled audiences in over 30 countries, brings the fire and passion of their live performance to the Fox Theatre stage in Atlanta, for one week only!

CATCH THE DREAM! Direct from SHREK THE MUSICAL Harlem’s world famous Apollo TheApril 26-May 1, 2011 ater in New York City, a sensational The Fabulous Fox Theatre new stage production of DREAMGIRLS comes to Atlanta! Full of onstage joy and backstage drama, DREAMGIRLS tells the story of an up-and-coming, 1960’s singing girl group, and the triumphs and tribulations that come with fame and for- SHREK THE MUSICAL is part tune. With music featuring unforget- romance, part twisted fairy tale and table hits like: And I Am Telling You all irreverent fun for everyone! In a I’m Not Going, One Night Only, and faraway kingdom turned upside Listen. Broadway director and chore- down, things get ugly when an ographer Robert Longbottom, along unseemly ogre – not a handsome with some of Broadway’s top design- prince – shows up to rescue a feisty ers, re-envision this Tony® and Acad- princess. Throw in a donkey who emy® Award winning musical so it won’t shut up, a bad guy with a sparkles like never before!

SHORT temper, a cookie with an attiWEST SIDE STORY tude and over a dozen other fairy tale January 25-30, 2011 misfits, and you’ve got the kind of The Fabulous Fox Theatre mess that calls for a real hero.Luckily, there’s one on hand… and his name is Shrek.

HAIR May 17-22, 2011 The Fabulous Fox Theatre WINNER! BEST MUSICAL The musical that changed theater 50 REVIVAL 2009 TONY AWARD! years ago is back on Broadway mes- The Public Theater’s new Tony®merizing audiences once again. From winning production of HAIR is

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the most electric celebration on Broadway! This exuberant musical about a group of young Americans searching for peace and love in a turbulent time has struck a resonant chord with audiences young and old. HAIR features an extraordinary cast and dozens of unforgettable songs, including Aquarius, Let the Sun Shine In, Good Morning, Starshine and Easy To Be Hard. (* While many find this show suitable for young adults (13 and older), parental discretion is advised. There is a dimly lit 20-second scene with nudity that is non-sexual in nature.)

Broadway Across America – Atlanta’s 2010-2011 season packages are on sale now with prices ranging from $80 – $340. Season ticket prices will vary depending on the number of shows chosen, the number of performances, show time, day of the week and seating location. New subscriptions may be ordered online at BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com, via phone by calling 1-800-278-4447 Monday through Friday,10:00 am-5:00 pm; or via fax at 1-800-329-8587. As part of an eco-friendly initiative, Broadway Across America – Atlanta will send renewal invoices to subscribers via email this year and encourages patrons to subscribe online for the new season.

Tickets to individual shows in the 2010-2011 Season are not available for purchase at this time.Single-show tickets typically go on sale to the general public 6-8 weeks prior to Opening Night. However, Season Ticket Holders have the unique opportunity to purchase additional tickets before they go on sale to the public.

Reservations for groups of 15 or more for individual shows can be made at this time by calling 404-881-2000.

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GUIDE Buford Dental Group Offers Many Benefits to Meet the Needs of Busy Families!

Dental care is an important part of your health, but with today’s bustling lifestyle, it can be difficult to keep up with the most

basic needs of a family. Buford Dental Group recognizes this and has developed their practice to make it easier for families to take

care of oral healthcare needs. Do you need more time in the day?

Do you need more financial options? Do you need less hassle?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, Buford Dental Group can help your family.

Extended Hours and Convenient Location: Need an appointment after traditional business hours? Need an appointment on Saturday?

Buford Dental Group offers both.

We do our best to offer convenient hours to meet our patient’s busy schedules.

Our office is located at 4271 South Lee Street, Suite 101 in Buford, just a half mile from the corner of Home Depot and IHOP (Buford Hwy). Whether you travel I-85 or I-985, we are close to you.

Extended Services and Staff: Do you need to replace space with an implant? Need root canal therapy, including molars or an extraction? Does your son need a sports mouth guard for football and your daughter need a cleaning and a cavity filled? Buford Dental Group can meet all of these needs at their office. No more making three different appointments with three different doctors in three different places. Have different needs?

Here is what Buford Dental Group offers in one location: • General Dentistry • Implants • Root Canals including Molars (Crowns, Bridges) • Periodontal (Deep Gum Cleanings) • Dentures / Partials • Teeth Whitening (Zoom 1hour

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and Custom Trays) • Sports Mouth Guards / Night Guards • Oral Cancer Screenings Buford Dental Group has four dentists and two hygienists on staff, each specializing in different aspects of oral care. This means that there are more services in one location. Schedules fill quickly; don’t put off your dental treatments any longer! Call our office and reserve a convenient time for you and your family!

Discounts and Payments: Buford Dental Group is aware that making ends meet these days is harder than it has ever been before. The staff works closely with patients to create a financial plan that will work for them and their family. Offering a No Credit Check 90 day program or a No

Interest program (up to 24 months through Care Credit) allows an easy way to pay for treatments in a manageable time frame. The practice also accepts many insurance plans,DMO,dental discount plans and cash discounts. There is an in house discount plan available for people who do not have insurance.

Specials for Oral Care Educating parents and children on the importance of dental care for a healthy life is a top priority for the staff at Buford Dental Group. The practice regularly offers specials for all ages. Current specials include a $25 cleaning, exam and x-rays for children up to 15 years and a FREE exam and x-rays for adults, no strings attached!!! See our ad in the Parenting Guide for your coupon!

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GUIDE Keep Your Kids Healthy and Ready for Back to School Reading, writing and arithmetic aren’t the only things that children need to help them prepare for back to school in the fall.

There are several health and safety tips that will get their year off to a great start.

Immunization Immunization is important to help protect your child from common infections. If a child is not vaccinated and is exposed to a disease germ, the child’s body may not be strong enough to fight the disease. So be sure to make— and keep—those appointments during your child’s early years and even in the teen years. Check to see if your child or teen is upto-date on his vaccines at each visit. If he gets behind, ask your doctor to help him catch up. And, bring your child’s immunization

record with you and have it updated at each visit.

Sleep For many children and teens, summer vacation is synonymous with staying up late and sleeping in. Several weeks to a month before the start of school, set a limit for the latest bedtime and wake up time. Then gradually move these times earlier (about 15 minutes every other day, time permitting) as the school year starts to approach. Maintain a regular bedtime -- keeping the same sleep schedule makes it easier to fall asleep at night and wake up in the morning.

Germs Although they are small and tiny, exposure to germs can be a huge problem as children go back to school.Germs are found all over

the world, in all kinds of places.

There are four major types of germs: bacteria,viruses,fungi,and protozoa.Addressing the spread of germs in schools is essential to the health of our youth, our schools, and our nation. Nearly 22 million school days are lost annually due to the common cold alone. Tell your children to wash their hands for as long as it takes them to sing their ABCs, “Row, Row, Row Your Boat” or the “Happy Birthday” song." Use an antibacterial soap with warm water for best results.

There are several ways to get children prepared for back to school, for more information visit www.choa.org.

By Kimberly Parker, RN, MSN, CNL-C,Clinical Program Manager, Illness Prevention, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

Financing Your Child’s Future

Saving enough money for a child’s college education is a concern so great many parents began planning even before their first child was born.The escalating costs of a college education make such concerns wholly understandable.

According to the College Board, a nonprofit aiming to connect students to

college success and opportunity, a year of tuition and room and board at a private four-year college in 2010 increased by nearly five percent to $26,273. Public institutions, where room and board and tuition cost nearly $7,000 in 2010, increased by nearly six percent.

Those numbers figure to increase dramatically for children born in 2010.

While it’s impossible to predict exactly what a college education will cost for a child entering school in 2028, the College Board’s 2008 “Trends in College Pricing” report estimated the cost of tuition and room and board at a private four year university to be roughly $85,000 in 2028, a cost that escalates to nearly $100,000 by the time the student reaches his or her senior year.

Such statistics can be scary, particularly in the current economic climate in which many families find themselves struggling to get by. However, there are ways to save for college that can make the aforementioned figures and predictions far less daunting.

Start now. As previously mentioned, many expecting parents started saving for college even before their first child was born. Such savings don’t need to be too complex. For instance, assuming an eight percent annual return, parents who simply put $100 month into a savings account for 18 years will earn $48,000 by the time those 18 years are up.

Consider stocks when building a college savings portfolio. It might seem as though the cost of college is rising faster than inflation.This is actually true.

As a result, portfolios that rely on stocks can be an investor’s ideal way to build the most savings long term. As a child’s first day of college draws closer, shelter any returns with less risky propositions such as bonds.

Seek professional assistance. Television advertisements have increasingly noted the ease with which investors can handle their own portfolios. While portfolios might be more accessible than they once were, for many people the investment game is still as confusing as

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ever. A mutual fund is managed by a professional in accordance with the fund’s investment objective. This allows investors to choose a fund that matches their own goals and objectives while affording them the freedom from watching the markets daily and worrying with each and every dip in the market.

Open a 529 savings plan. A 529 plan is designed to encourage saving for the future higher education expenses of a designated beneficiary. Certain qualified withdrawals are now free of federal tax, and many plans allow account holders to save in excess of $200,000 per beneficiary. No income or age restrictions apply, so a 529 can start regardless of how much parents earn or how old their beneficiary is.

Don’t forget to save for retirement.

As daunting as the cost of a college education 18 years from now might seem, tomorrow’s college students will have far more resources for paying for that education than retirees will have for getting by in their golden years.

When saving for the future, parents must remember to save for their own future as well.

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GUIDE in the long run. Many When’s the Right Time for child countries in Europe start school later than Britain or the States. Finland, for Children to Start School? United example, begins formal trainMany parents feel early enrollment in school is a good first step for kids’ academic careers. But some experts warn that too much, too soon may not be the way to lay the ground work of a successful academic career. Some believe that waiting until a child is age 6 for formal education provides the best opportunity for learning advantages.

According to a British study published in The Cambridge Primary Review in October 2008, the concensus was that formal schooling should be delayed until children reach 6. The findings offered that trying to teach lit-

eracy and math at a young age is counterproductive. If children under 6 are in school programs, they should continue to learn through play-based initiatives.

An early start in school isn’t necessarily a good start.

Children may show the maturity and the social readiness to attend school, but they may not have the capacity to grasp concepts outside of their playbased way of learning. Forcing information on a child who is not ready could set him or her up for aversion to school.

What’s more, there’s no evidence that early schooling produces a more educated

ing at age 7. When studied, children who started school at the age of 6 or 7 often overtook English pupils in tests of reading before the start of secondary education.

Parents who have little choice but to enroll children in daycare/pre-school programs because they work should look for curriculums that feature the following: Emphasis on play-based learning, with more time geared to kids being kids than sitting behind a desk.

Access to a computer, since so much of students’ lives involve computer literacy.

Opportunities to go out-

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side and play when weather permits.

Interaction with books so parents can read with their children and spend time together.

Limited focus on grades and performance. Does a 3year-old child really need a report card?

Activities that involve the

family so Mom and Dad are participating in their child’s education.

Small class sizes, optimalizing the teacher-to-student ratio.

A relaxed atmosphere with the time and space to explore physical and social environments. Some children are naturally more advanced than

others and may benefit from earlier, more structured schooling. However, the vast majority will do fine during their academic career if they begin formal education at age 6. That doesn’t mean that children can’t attend school at 5.

The programs should just be be less structured and more play-based.

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GUIDE Circus magic comes to Duluth

Performance Schedule: Friday, September 10 7pm --Saturday, September 11 11:30am, 3:30pm & 7:30pm --Sunday, September 12 1:30pm & 5:30pm Tickets are $55 (VIP Floor Seats), $35 (VIP), $25 and $15.

All seats are reserved,and tickets are available by calling Ticketmaster at 800-745-3000, on line at Ringling.com or at The Arena at Gwinnett Center Box Office.

For more information on Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® visit www.ringling.com.

© 2009 Feld Entertainment

All New Ringling Bros.® Production dive through hoops of razorWith a Magical Twist Captivates sharp sabers, blindfolded! Anton Children of All Ages and Alex, The Barons of Balance, reveal amazing agility as Duluth, GA July 2, 2010 -- Rin- they effortlessly leap from one gling Bros. and Barnum & Bai- thumb-thin low-wire to another. ley® Presents IlluscinationSM, a Flying high and flipping furiousfantasy-filled world where thrills, ly on the teeterboard and the wonderment and unbelievable Russian bar are no other than magic intersect with the out- the Salsations! landish fun of the circus.IlluscinaIluscination is packed full of tor David DaVinci along with per- mesmerizing animals acts, formers from all over the world including Brian McMillan who invite audiences across America to presents his pack of beautiful join them on a mystifying adven- golden lionesses and one rare ture where they will witness eye- white lion.Most impressive of all popping illusions and thrilling cir- is Ramon Esqueda and his cus acts all at The Greatest Show majestic Asian Elephants who On Earth® which runs Friday,Sep- groove just a few feet away from tember 10 thru Sunday,September audience members.

12 at The Arena at Gwinnett CenAnd the fun never ends at ter in Duluth.

Ringling Bros.® as The ClownDaVinci, who set a world- ing Caveagna Family creates record in 2007 with a free-diving instrumental mayhem with card trick, thrills audiences with interactive silliness and antics. eye-popping illusions and mindblowing transformations, all mysteriously interwoven throughout the show. Circus goers’ eyes will be transfixed on the center of the ring as they witness international acts that astonish and amaze Children Of All Ages. These unbelievable acts include, Viktoriya and Widny, the Empresses of the Air, who execute a never-before-seen extreme hair hang, the KungFu Kings who combine mixed martial arts with mind-boggling strength to twist solid metal poles around their bodies and

Who knew clowns could be so musical and funny all at once!?

The action at Illuscination begins an hour before show time at the All Access Pre-show – FREE to all ticket holders, where you can meet Ringling Bros. performers and animals, learn circus skills and start creating a lifetime memory for your family before the show even starts!

At this magical edition of The Greatest Show On Earth®, you’ll watch closely, and wonder endlessly. Satisfy your curiosity and get your ticket today.

Spectacular Family Affordable Prices Starting at Just $15!

SAVE $4 on Tickets to all Saturday and Sunday Shows!

(Offer valid on $15 & $25 price levels only. Excludes VIP and VIP Floor seats.

Service charges, facility and handling fees may apply. No double discounts.)

OFFER VALID: Sat. SEPT. 11 ★ 11:30 AM, 3:30 & 7:30 PM Sun. SEPT. 12 ★ 1:30 & 5:30 PM The Arena at Gwinnett Center

SEPT 10 - 12

4 EASY WAYS TO REDEEM: 1. In person at The Arena at Gwinnett Center Box Office with a copy of this ad.

2. Online at Ticketmaster.com and use savings code CLOWN2 3. Call 1-800-745-3000 and mention code CLOWN2 4. Visit a Retail Location and mention code CLOWN2

REGULAR TICKET PRICES: $15 - $25 - $35 VIP - $55 VIP Floor seats Come one hour early to meet our animals and performers at the All Access Pre-show – FREE with your ticket!

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Ringling.com

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GUIDE Local malls cater to kids with popular Simon Kidgits Club program Malls host fun-filled events throughout the year to entertain & educate local children

es ctiviti a n u f bers* m e m for odies o g e fre

Kidgits Back to School Party Saturday, August 14th 2:00-4:00 p.m.

Labor Day Super Sale • September 3-5th LEGO Race Back to School • September 11th Not a member? It’s just $5 to join!

Visit Mall Management located in Neighborhood 3 for details!

Mall of Georgia, Gwinnett Place Mall, Discover Mills and Town Center at Cobb take entertaining kids to new levels of fun while also educating them on relevant topics of today.Through the mall’s popular Simon Kidgits Club program, local children can participate in exciting events throughout the year, including Simon Kidgits Club Book Blast! and festive holiday events like Breakfast with Santa and the Easter Bunny. These events are designed to provide a safe atmosphere where kids can enjoy fun and unique opportunities,including the chance to meet and interact with local celebrities and beloved costumed characters.

Kids are welcome to join the

Simon Kidgits Club at anytime.

Families can visit the Simon Guest Services booth during regular mall hours to sign up for an annual membership fee of $5.

With their membership, kids receive a Kidgits Club membership card and T-shirt, scheduled entertainment and activities for families, a Birthday Club (including birthday card and gift redemption certificate), unique programs and offers, discounts, and a quarterly newsletter. For more information on the Simon Kidgits Club, families can call the shopper’s line at 770.476.5160 (Gwinnett Place), 678.482.8788 (Mall of Georgia), 678.847.5000 (Discover Mills) and 770.424.9486 (Town Center at

Cobb) or visit www.simonkidgitsclub.com Simon Kidgits Club is hosted exclusively by Simon Property Group at 88 malls across the country. Simon Kidgits Club offers entertaining programs focused on health and wellness, fitness, education and safety to children ages three through eight.

Don’t miss upcoming Simon Kidgits events at Discover Mills, including Kidgits Back to School party on Aug. 14th, mall-wide Trick-or-Treating on Oct. 30th, and holiday festivities when Santa arrives in November!

Check out DiscoverMills.com or each mall’s web site for an updated list of events!

*while supplies last

DISCOVER MILLS 5900 Sugarloaf Pkwy., • Lawrenceville, GA Shopping Line® 678-847-5000.

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GUIDE Avoid the Rush! Get Back-to-School Exams & Immunizations Now Every year, thousands of Gwinnett County’s children prepare to enter Kindergarten/ school with the familiar rush to purchase school supplies, tour new class rooms and be introduced to new teachers and friends.

One key component of preparing for back to school is ensuring your child is up to date with their medical and immunizations requirements.

Gwinnett County Health Departments provide children’s health exams which include lab tests, hearing, vision and dental screenings; nutritional and developmental assessments; and physical exams for infants and children up to age 21.

Screenings- Form 3300 All screenings done through our health centers will be documented on the required Georgia Form 3300.

• Hearing Screening- $15.00 • Vision Screening - $15.00 • Dental Screening - $10.00 • $40.00 Total Cost (Includes Hearing, Vision, and Dental screenings) With proper documentation, records from previous hearing, vision, and dental screening conducted within the last 12 months can be transferred and placed on the needed form for a fee of $4.00.

Certificate of Immunizations- Form 3231 All immunizations provided

through our health centers will be documented on the required Georgia Form 3231.

If your child does not meet Georgia requirements, we can vaccinate your child with the needed immunization. Call the location nearest you for hours of operation (locations are listed below). Fees start at $14.75 per shot.

With proper documentation, out of state immunizations records can be transferred onto the required Georgia form 3231, at a cost of $4.00 per child.

Through a little early prevention, your child can look forward to a fun, happy and healthy time at school.

Additional and confidential

services offered by our Health Centers include,but are not limited to: pregnancy testing, drug screenings, DNA testing, sexually transmitted disease testing and treatment, family planning, lab testing and International Travel Vaccinations.

To learn more about services available through our health departments, please visit our website at www.EastMetroHealth.com or contact one of the following Gwinnett County Health Departments: – Buford Center – 770-614-2401 – Norcross Center – 770-638-5700 – Lawrenceville Center – 770-339-4283

HEALTH CENTERS Buford Health Center

t s i l k c e h C l o ho c S o t k c a B 31) 2 3 m r o f ( ns o i t a z i n u m ✔ Im 00) 3 3 m r o f ( g n i n e e r c S l ✔ Denta ) 0 0 3 3 m r o f g( n i n e e r c S n ✔ Visio 00) 3 3 m r o f ( ing n e e r c S g n i ✔ Hear

2755 Sawnee Avenue Buford, GA 30518 770-614-2401

Lawrenceville Health Center 455 Grayson Highway, Suite 300 Lawrenceville, GA 30045 770-339-4283

Norcross Health Center 5030 Georgia Belle Court Norcross, GA 30093 770-638-5700

Newton Health Center 8203 Hazelbrand Road Covington, GA 30014 770-786-9086

Rockdale Health Center 985 Taylor Street, S.W. Conyers, GA 30012 770-785-4345

Affordable Healthcare for Everyone www.EastMetroHealth.com

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GUIDE

Teaching Children About 9-1-1 In January, 3-year-old Jaden Bolli, of Maple Shade, N.J. dialed 9-1-1 when his grandmother collapsed at home. The toddler had learned how to call emergency services just days before from his mother. The boy told the dispatcher that it was his grandmother’s blood sugar. However, she really had suffered a stroke. Paramedics arrived in time and were able to help the woman. Bolli saved his grandma’s life.

A parent never knows when an emergency will strike. His or her only hope may be the fastthinking action of a young child who has called for help.

Many parents wonder when the right time is for teaching youngsters about 9-1-1 or calling for emergency services.It doesn’t

have to be based on age but rather maturity level. A mature 3-year-old may be able to grasp the concept and learn how to use the phone.However,parents may have to wait a little longer for a less mature child.

Some adults are apprehensive about teaching the 9-1-1 lesson because they fear a child may dial the number by accident or even on purpose when there is no emergency. Many a police officer has responded to a call only to find that a child has made the call. Some areas will give individuals a warning. Others may issue a fine if 9-1-1 is dialed too many times without an emergency. This can be a deterrent to teaching about calling the police. However, when done the right way, many children can

also teach the child his or her full name and address. This is somegrasp the difference between thing many kindergartners are using 9-1-1 in the wrong and urged to know.

5. Roll-play with the child. right way.

1. Explain the purpose of Go over instances that are emer9-1-1. It is a method of contacting the police, fire department or ambulance when there is an emergency only. An emergency is when Mom, Dad or someone else in the house is hurt and can’t get up; there is a fire; or the police are needed, like if there is a burglar or a bad fight.

2. Indicate that the adults in the house will dial the phone whenever possible if there is an emergency. The child is learning only in case Mom or Dad can’t get to the phone.

3. Discuss the buttons on the phone. Show the child how to push them in the right order.

4. Now may be the time to

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gencies and non-emergencies so he or she will understand the differences between both and when 9-1-1 may be needed.

Again, stress the importance that 9-1-1 should not be dialed

just for fun.Mommy is not sick if she simply has a headache! With time,children can grasp the concept of 9-1-1 and be a lifesaver at a time when an adult cannot reach the phone.

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GUIDE Library features online talking e-books The Gwinnett County Public Library is proud to offer Tumblebooks, an animated, online collection of talking e-books for children.

Tumblebooks is a free service provided by Gwinnett County Public Library.

The online TumbleBooks are created from existing picture books published by children’s book authors and converted into the TumbleBook format. Tumblebooks is being used by over 5000 schools and libraries across the United States and Canada, with unlimited access from the library and your home. Currently, there are over 130 TumbleBooks on the website and more books

being added every day! The collection includes animated books, language learning books in Spanish and French, audio books, and exciting educational games, quizzes, and book report outlines.

Our collection includes licensed titles from children’s book publishers such as Scholastic, Annick Press, Chronicle Books, Candlewick Press, Charlesbridge Press, Harcourt, Little Brown, and others. TumbleBooks has a wonderful selection of children’s favorite story books, such as The Paper Bag Princess by Robert Munsch brought to life in an educational and

interactive way. Other titles include, Diary of a Worm, Miss Malarkey Doesn’t Live in Room 10, One Duck Stuck and Tops and Bottoms. Older children can enjoy reading from the growing collection of children’s classics such as Black Beauty, Alice in Wonderland, Anne of Green Gables, and more. The Tumblebooks format, with its innovative text size slider, allows the reader to adjust to the text size which is right for them, making reading online fun and accessible.

Tumblebooks is a great way to encourage tech-savvy kids to enjoy reading and to develop a lifelong love of literacy. Happy Tumbling!

Gwinn nnettt County C ty Publi Pu licc Libra Li rary The Gwinnett County Public Library is pleased to offer TumbleBooks for Kids Animated, talking picture e-books which you or your child can read

Save Save the theDate!

Date!

Gwinnett Fall Into the Arts Reading Festival October with18 10am - 4pm Gwinnett Reads Gwinnett County September Fairgrounds16th

For more information: visit www.gwinnettpl.org or call 770-978-5154 Page 12 • FALL PARENTING GUIDE • Sunday, August 8, 2010 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

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GUIDE Disney On Ice presents Disney/Pixar’s Toy Story 3 is coming to Atlanta, Oct.13-17 Toy Story 3, the smash-hit box-office sensation, is so hot it’s cool as everyone’s favorite toys take to the ice in Disney On Ice presents Disney•Pixar’s Toy Story 3! An award-winning creative team and a cast of world-class skaters are bringing Woody, the pull-string cowboy; space ranger Buzz Lightyear; Jessie, the yodeling cowgirl; and the rest of the gang to fans and families around the country in this brand-new, live, ice spectacular.

Produced by Feld Entertainment, Disney On Ice presents Disney•Pixar’s Toy Story 3 is performing at PHILIPS ARENA, OCT. 13 @ 7:30PM, OCT. 14 @ 7:30PM, OCT. 15 @ 10:30AM, 7:30PM, OCT. 16 @ 11:00AM, 2:30PM, AND 6:30PM, OCT. 17 @ 12:00 NOON AND 4:00PM. The summer’s biggest hit movie, Toy Story 3, and memorable moments from Toy Story

The Magic Begins at $6+

OCT. 13 - 17

SAVE UP TO $8 ON SELECT PERFORMANCES! Thu.

Fri.

OCT. 14

OCT. 15 10:30 AM+

Sat.

Sun.

*SAVE $4: $10 - $18 - $26

OCT. 16 OCT. 17 11:00 AM* 12 NOON* +SAVE $8: $6 - $14 - $22 2:30 PM* 4:00 PM* *+(Excludes Rinkside and VIP seats. No double discounts) 6:30 PM* 7:30 PM+ 7:30 PM* Regular Ticket Prices: $14 - $22 - $30 - $35 Club - $50 VIP - $75 Rinkside (Service charges, facility and handling fees may apply)

3 WAYS TO REDEEM: 1. Online at Ticketmaster.com and use savings code BUZZ4 2. Call 1-800-745-3000 and mention code BUZZ4 3. Visit a Retail Location and mention code BUZZ4

For group tickets call (770) 578-5125

www.disneyonice.com gwinnettdailypost.com •

and Toy Story 2 are hitting the ice in this sensational live production coming to your hometown!

Catch all the heroic action when Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Jessie and the Toy Story gang escape from the rambunctious tots of

Sunnyside Daycare and race for home, in their most daring adventure ever. A few new faces join the fun, including Barbie’s groovy bachelor Ken and Lotso’-Huggin’ Bear. It’s the biggest Toy Story experience on ice, jampacked with fast-paced adventure such as Buzz’s galactic battle with Emperor Zurg and a hoedown on the set of “Woody’s Roundup.” Relive the humor, friendship and charm of Toy Story when Disney On Ice presents Disney•Pixar’s Toy Story 3 takes family fun to infinity and beyond!

Ticket Prices: $14, $22, $30, $35 Club Seats, $50 VIP, & $75 Rinkside Show Times: OCT. 13 @ 7:30PM, OCT. 14 @ 7:30PM, OCT. 15 @ 10:30AM, 7:30PM, OCT. 16 @ 11:00AM, 2:30PM, AND 6:30PM, OCT. 17 @ 12:00 NOON AND 4:00PM To discover more about Disney On Ice, go to www.disneyonice.com, or visit us on Facebook and YouTube.

Gwinnett Daily Post • Sunday, August 8, 2010 • FALL PARENTING GUIDE • Page 13

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GUIDE King and Prince Celebrates 75th The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort on St. Simons Island, Georgia, a tranquil island haven, is celebrating a Diamond Anniversary as one of America’s legendary gems of hospitality. With a rich southern heritage spanning 75 years, the oceanfront paradise combines pleasure and practicality in a setting heralded by guests since it opened in 1935.

The King and Prince is on the National Register of Historic Places and a member of Historic Hotels of America.

The resort has a reputation for casual resort elegance and warm southern hospitality, and has hosted dignitaries, vacationing families and business meetings.

Award-winning golf is offered at The King and Prince Golf Course, Home of the Hampton Club, and has been called the east coast’s best marsh front course. It recent-

ly re-opened after a $3.6 million restoration.

The Royal Treatment Cottage at the Resort offers traditional and customized massage therapies including Swedish, aromatherapy, reflexology, sport-specific and a Massage-for-Two suite.

Other amenities include miles of beautiful beaches; catamaran and kayak rentals, clay surface tennis courts; indoor and outdoor pools; fitness room; nature encounters and Island historic tours.

King and Prince has the Island’s only oceanfront dining, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

St. Simons Island offers an array of activities that enhance family vacations. There is dolphin tours, water sports, fishing, trolley tours, sea turtle walks, specialty shops, art galleries and antique shops, historic sites, museums and miles

of picturesque walking and biking paths.

The Resort offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from the historic main building to beachfront Villas and The Private Homes of The King and Prince, all on Resort grounds. Recently renovated rooms of the Oceanfront Building feature patios or balconies to enjoy the ocean breezes and beautiful views.

The 55 rooms feature customdesigned furniture, bedding, sliding glass doors, window treatments and flooring.

Of special note are the Cabana rooms, situated directly overlooking the Atlantic Ocean with parlors and private seaside patios. The Resort’s 198 guest rooms include twoand three-bedroom villas and six specialty suites.

For information call 866-834-3021 or visit www.kingandprince.com

Page 14 • FALL PARENTING GUIDE • Sunday, August 8, 2010 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

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GUIDE provide web-based learning, are a growing phenomenon in American education. Many states, including Georgia, offer virtual learning opportunities. While a motivated, independent learner may flourish in such an environment, some students may Homeschooling has become increas- have difficulty and require more real ingly popular, thus, reaching nearly time assistance than is provided.

Some virtual schools are accredited mainstream status.

Private schools offer many and state-funded. Though these advantages such as upgraded facili“Students are taught to ties, sophisticated technology, pass exams, not to think for involved parents and seemingly themselves. ” fewer discipline problems. Besides Simon Caulkin, author the obvious obstacle of cost, many parents feel the somewhat protected schools may be free,they are not withenvironment of a private school does out the attachment of governmental not adequately prepare their children regulations. For those seeking a more for the real world.And for others,pri- flexible and personalized education, vate school still upholds the tradition such schools may not be the answer.

Homeschooling is an increasingof teachers imparting knowledge to students as they sit in desks scrib- ly popular option for numerous fambling notes,a notion which is quickly ilies. Many people have discovered that children of all ages, pre-school becoming antiquated.

Virtual and cyber schools, which to senior high, make wonderful aca-

School Your Way

When Traditional School Doesn’t Make the Grade Never before have educational options for children been more varied.

Public schools.Private schools.Charter schools.Virtual schools.Virtual charter schools. Cyber schools. Home schools.

Private in-home teachers.

From pre-school onward, the choices parents have are numerous.

Gone are the days when parents send their youngsters off with a kiss to the nearest school alongside neighboring children. Advances in technology bring the latest information immediately into our homes, providing opportunities for virtual studies and computer-based learning.In an effort to meet the varying needs of students of a new generation, the public charter school movement is booming.

“ To m fast eet th -mo ed e v stru ing w mands orld ctur syst of t h e em o aro all as f tomo e vola und pec r row tile a ts t Kno he nee of ou , we m nd r ed wle ds o ust u dge Wo f t h e l c a t i o n e rks F o u a r n e r. ” nda tion

e cor y s ove l l ca s ab ed t ypi d t poin ardiz ts. e t a d s e c l e n tt du nti y, sta e - e e rc e s o n e m e n n R a m p t a o v ch i n h e r 0 r 3 B e hi de ea “ T h 1 5 t o l s t u i c a c D r. R e s o em ion ho cat -sc acad du lic E b pu me Ho l a n tio Na

demic progress in a home environment. An abundance of homeschooling curriculum provides the opportunity to address student learning styles, interests and academic skill levels. Concerns for socialization are easily addressed by involving homeschooled students in volunteer opportunities, learning co-ops, sports programs, small group instruction, and a wide variety of field trips. Of course, many parents have reservations about taking complete control of their child’s education; even veteran homeschoolers have lingering moments of doubt.

In Georgia, parents or guardians may employ teachers to provide educational instruction. Private tutors may provide daily instruction for all subjects, much like a traditional teacher, or they may simply augment the child’s own home-learning and provide specific educational instruction.For example,a tutor may be uti-

lized several hours a week to provide with lots of hands-on interaction and phonics and reading instruction to a little or no online work. The options very young child or to provide super- are numerous.And confusing.

School Your Way can help. An vision,assistance,and reassurance to educational consulting firm, we pro“We must transform today’s vide a range of services to help paroutdated system of schooling ents make the right choices for their into a world of learning. ” children’s education.We offer support KnowledgeWorks Foundation services such as homeschool consula high school student enrolled in a tation for first-time homeschoolers virtual school. Private tutors may be and personalized curriculum selecutilized as much or as little as neces- tion. For parents who desire cussary, giving parents significant con- tomized, academic excellence, we offer a complete program package trol of their child’s education.

In making their decision, parents that provides in-home teachers, prineed to be certain that their children’s vate instruction, coordination of learning styles, current achieve- required state and county documenments, social needs, interests, and tation, and on-going support.

Whatever your child’s educationpersonalities are well-suited for a particular learning environment. al needs, call us at 770 380-2693 or Parents may want their children email info@schoolyourway.com. You homeschooled utilizing a combina- will find genuine concern and skilled tion of online curricula and individ- professionals who can help you make ual instruction. Perhaps parents pre- some of the most important decifer for children to learn in small sions in your children’s lives. It’s groups taught by a certified teacher school ...your way.

School Your Way...

WHEN TRADITIONAL SCHOOL DOESN’T MAKE THE GRADE

Educational Consulting and Professional In-Home Teaching ❋ Detailed learning style assessments ❋ Comprehensive academic goal-setting ❋ Educational philosophy exploration ❋ Complete course of study design ❋ Innovative instructional methods ❋ Documentation and record-keeping support ❋ Professional tutors and small group instruction ❋ Superior teaching candidates who inspire all students to reach their academic potential Let us help you design a customized education for your child.

Vi s i t o u r w e b s i t e a t w w w. s c h o o l y o u r w a y. c o m gwinnettdailypost.com •

Gwinnett Daily Post • Sunday, August 8, 2010 • FALL PARENTING GUIDE • Page 15

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GUIDE 1-2-3 Imagine! with Elmo & Friends Elmo, Abby Cadabby & Friends arrive in Atlanta on Sept. 16 Sam, stops by to deliver special postcards from far-away places.

When Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Big Bird and friends wish to visit the exciting locations, Sam shares her secret on how they can – it’s as easy as counting “1-2-3 Imagine!” Ernie’s imagination takes him to the high seas to captain the ’Good Ship Rubber Duckie’, Elmo dances to the rhythm of the African rainforest and Bert meets an octopus who has the blues. It’s a story of adventure and fun that teaches children they can be anyone, do anything and go anywhere with the power

of imagination.

Like television’s Sesame Street, each Sesame Street Live production features timeless lessons for all ages. The universal appeal of each Broadwayquality musical production continues long after preschool.

Adults will appreciate the hightech stagecraft, cleverly written script, and music they’ll recognize and enjoy sharing with children, such as “I Don’t Want to Live on the Moon,” “She’ll Be Comin’ ’Round the Mountain” and “Surfin’ Safari.”

TM/©2010 Sesame Workshop.All Rights Reserved.

Where can your imagination take you? Anywhere you want to be! Audiences in Atlanta are invited to make a world of adventure come to life with Elmo,Abby Cadabby and friends as the stage lights come up on Sesame Street Live “1-2-3 Imagine! with Elmo & Friends”.

This imagination-inspired musical will make a stop at Philips Arena from Thursday, Sept. 16 through Sunday, Sept.

19. Tickets for all eight performances are on sale now.

The magical journey begins as Sesame Street’s mail carrier,

Imagine singing and dancing with Elmo,Abby Cadabby, Big Bird and all your favorite Sesame Street Live friends! It’s as easy as counting “12-3 … Imagine!” This high-energy musical will transport audiences to far away places as Ernie captains the high seas, Elmo dances to the rhythm of the African rainforest and Bert meets an octopus who has the blues. It’s a story of adventure and fun that teaches children they can be anyone, do anything and go anywhere with the power of imagination.

What: Sesame Street Live “1-2-3 Imagine! with Elmo & Friends” When: Thursday, Sept. 16 p.m. (*Opening Night Discount) Friday, Sept. 17, 10:30 a.m. & 7 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 18, 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m. & 5:30 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 19, 1 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.

Where: Philips Arena • 1 Philips Drive • Atlanta, GA 30303 Tickets: $17 and $21. A limited number of $32 Premium Seats, $45 Gold Circle Seats and $90 Sunny Seats** are also available. *Opening Night, all seats (excluding Premium, Gold Circle and Sunny Seats) are $14.

A facility fee of $4 is included in all ticket prices.

Additional fees and discounts may apply. **Special $90 Sunny Seat packages are available at all shows.

Sunny Seats feature front row seats and a pre-show Meet & Greet with two Sesame Street Live friends.

For more information, visit www.philipsarena.com or call the Philips Arena Box Office at 404-878-3100. To charge tickets by phone, please call Ticketmaster at 800-745-3000.

Tickets may also be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com. For information online, please visit www.sesamestreetlive.com. Become a fan of Sesame Street Live on Facebook - www.facebook.com/pages/Sesame-Street-Live/126939419084.

Page 16 • FALL PARENTING GUIDE • Sunday, August 8, 2010 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

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GUIDE Explore your parks today!

Gwinnett County Parks & Recreation offers a never-ending source of fun activities throughout the year! Amenities vary from park to park and include picnic areas, pavilions, multi-purpose trails, basketball and tennis courts, skate complexes, playgrounds, sports fields, mountain biking and equestrian trails, gyms, indoor and outdoor pools (most all with slides and water playground features), disc golf courses, horseshoe pits, dog parks, shuffleboard and bocce ball courts, fishing areas and more! GCPR also features several community recreation centers, activity buildings and senior recreation centers.You can rent pavilions,pools and indoor facilities for reunions, parties and other gatherings.For more information contact Gwinnett County Parks & Recreation at 770.822.8840 or visit www.gwinnettparks.com.

Alexander Park, 800 Old Snellville Hwy., Lawrenceville Bay Creek Park, 175 Ozora Road, Loganville Best Friend Park & Pool, 6224 Jimmy Carter Blvd., Norcross Bethesda Park & Aquatic Center, 225 Bethesda Church Road, Lawrenceville Bogan Park & Aquatic Center,2723 N.Bogan Road,Buford Cemetery Field, 211 Cemetery Street, Norcross Club Drive Park, 3330 Club Drive, Lawrenceville Collins Hill Park Aquatic Center, 2200 Collins Hill Road, Lawrenceville Collins Hill Park, 2225 Collins Hill Road, Lawrenceville Dacula Park & Pool, 205 Dacula Road, Dacula Dacula Activity Building, 2735 Old Auburn, Road, Dacula DeShong Park,2859 North DeShong Road,Stone Mountain Duncan Creek Park, 3700 Braselton Highway, Dacula Freeman’s Mill Park, 1480 Alcovy Road, Lawrenceville George Pierce Park, 55 Buford Highway, Suwanee Graves Park, 1540 Graves Road, Norcross Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center, 2020 Clean Water Drive, Buford Gwinnett Historic Courthouse, 185 Crogan Street, Lawrenceville Harbins Park, 2995 Luke Edwards Road, Dacula Harmony Grove Soccer Complex,9 Harmony Grove Road, Lilburn

gwinnettdailypost.com •

Holcomb Bridge Park, 4300 Holcomb Bridge Road, Norcross Jones Bridge Park, 4901 East Jones Bridge Road, Norcross Lawrenceville Female Seminary, 455 S. Perry Street, Lawrenceville Lenora Park & Pool, 4515 Lenora Church Road, Snellville Lions Club Park, 5500 Rockbridge Circle, Lilburn Little Mulberry Park, 3855 Fence Road,Auburn Lucky Shoals Park, 4651 Britt Road, Norcross McDaniel Farm Park, 3251 McDaniel Road, Duluth Mountain Park Aquatic Center & Activity Building, 1063 Rockbridge Road, Stone Mtn. Mountain Park Park, 5050 Five Forks-Trickum Road, Lilburn Peachtree Ridge Park,3117 Suwanee Creek Road,Suwanee Pinckneyville Community Center, 4650 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard Pinckneyville Park, 4758 S. Old Peachtree Road, Norcross Pinckneyville Park Soccer Complex, 4707 S. Old Peachtree Road, Norcross Rabbit Hill Park, 400 Rabbit Hill Road, Dacula Rhodes Jordan Park & Pool, 100 East Crogan St., Lawrenceville Rock Springs Park, 550 Rock Springs Road, Lawrenceville Ronald Reagan Park, 2777 Five Forks Trickum Road, Lawrenceville Settles Bridge Park, 380 Johnson Road, Suwanee Shorty Howell Park, 2750 Pleasant Hill Road, Duluth Singleton Road Activity Building, 5220 Singleton Road, Norcross South Gwinnett Park, 2015 McGee Road, Snellville Sweet Water Park, 800 Bethesda School Road, Lawrenceville Tribble Mill Park, 2125 Tribble Mill Parkway, Grayson Vines Gardens, 3500 Oak Grove Road, Loganville West Gwinnett Park & Aquatic Center, 4488 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Norcross Yellow River Park, 3232 Juhan Road, Stone Mountain Yellow River Post Office Park site,Lilburn Public tours by appointment only 770.822.5178

Gwinnett Daily Post • Sunday, August 8, 2010 • FALL PARENTING GUIDE • Page 17

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GUIDE Top 5 Baby Concerns in the Home One day an infant will transform from a relatively sedentary little person content to stare at the crib to an active adventurer satisfying his or her curiosity with just about everything in the home. Making sure the home is safe for baby’s travels becomes essential.

While every child develops at his or her own pace, most parents can expect the day will soon come when their son or daughter will be exploring the home. While that notion can be exciting, it can also be a bit scary. That’s because studies indicate more than 2,000 children die every year due to home-related injuries. Many of these children are under the age of 1.

Taking safety precautions around the house first requires knowledge of the top dangers. Here is a list of known safety hazards around the home.

1. Choking hazards: Infants and toddlers are often enamored with their older sibling’s toys. These toys may have small parts or magnets, and can be choking hazards for little ones. Be sure that small toys are not left strewn around.

Choking can also occur when babies try to eat foods that are too sophisticated for undeveloped teeth. Pieces of food should be no larger than a dime to help prevent against choking. Children under 10 months old should only be

(and 3,000 injuries) resulting from furniture and other given pureed food, or soft household items, like TVs, tipfoods until molars for chew- ping over and crushing children. Don’t place tempting ing and mashing develop.

2. Stairs: Falls account for items atop furniture. If furnimany childhood injuries. Falls down stairs can be especially dangerous. Be sure to block stairs with sturdy gates from investigative children. There are gates that are designed for the top and bottom of stairs to make it easier to open and navigate for adults.

3. Water: It takes only a few inches of water to drown a young child. Never leave a baby unattended when water is around. Secure toilet seats and be sure to keep within arm’s reach of the child when he or she is bathing.

4. Tipped-over furniture: There were 31 deaths in 2006

Now Enrolling for Fall Classes!

Offering Classes for ages 1-Pre-K Programs include: Music, Art Time, Chapel, Outdoor Play, Bible Stories, Science, Language, Cooking and Math Visit our website, call or email us for more information and an application form!

770-963-7051

www.chestnutgrove.org • glgpreschool@bellsouth.net A Ministry of Chestnut Grove Baptist Church • 2299 Rosebud Road, Grayson, GA 30017

• Five State Pre-K Classes • Full & Part Time Programs • Before & After School Care • Family Owned & Operated • Serving 9 Elementary Schools 405 Dacula Rd. Dacula, GA 30019 770.995.7660

LL ENRO Y! TODA

Page 18 • FALL PARENTING GUIDE • Sunday, August 8, 2010 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

ture seems unsteady, always use anchors to bolt it to the wall.

5. Electricity: Keep all outlet covers plugged with plastic protectors. Secure cords so

that they are not a tripping hazard or easily pulled out by curious kids. Also, don’t leave cords dangling over the edge of counters. Little fingers are sure to pull at them.

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GUIDE Chopper’s Clubhouse ... official fun for G-Braves fans 12 and under With the Gwinnett Braves in full swing, Chopper, the team’s official mascot, is staying busy not only at all the G-Braves game, but also with his friends in the Chopper’s Clubhouse.

Chopper’s Clubhouse is the Official Kids Club for G-Braves fans 12 and under.

The club prides itself on a “get active” message, encouraging children to have fun while staying fit and healthy. As such, every Chopper’s Clubhouse Member will be enrolled in the Gwinnett Braves Adventure Club featuring field trips that involve fishing, hiking, bowling, swimming, and more!

Each Chopper’s Clubhouse member will receive a Chopper’s Clubhouse t-shirt and membership card, a half-price

ticket to Sunday games and discounts at Coolray Field concession stands. Also, every Sunday Coolray Field, kids are able to race around the bases after the game.The line to get on the field can get pretty long, but Chopper’s Clubhouse members are VIP,Very Important People, and are allowed to go on the field FIRST! Each membership runs through December 31, 2011, so even when Gwinnett’s season is over, the fun doesn’t stop for Chopper’s Clubhouse members!

Upcoming member only events include: • August 14th – Back to School Bash at Monkey Joes • August 19th – Chopper’s Clubhouse Night at Stevi B’s Pizza • August 29th – Autograph Signing with the entire Gwin-

nett Braves Team • September 4th – Laser Tag at Stars and Strikes In addition to the exclusive Chopper’s Clubhouse events, the Gwinnett Braves still have plenty of family fun scheduled for the remainder of the 2010 season. On Friday, August 13th the ZOOperstars! will perform at Coolray Field. With characters like Harry Canary,Alex Frogriguez and Clammy Sosa, the ZOOperstars! are a group of inflatable mascots that rock the house with routines that fans of all ages will love. Other promotions include a bulldog Webkinz giveaway on August 25th, postgame Fireworks on August 28th and Fan Appreciation 27th, a baseball card set give- Weekend August 28th and 29th.

The Gwinnett Braves tradiaway presented by Coolray Heating and Cooling on August tion begins NOW, so don’t miss

gwinnettdailypost.com •

the fun this season! To sign up for Chopper’s Clubhouse, visit the Kids section on gwinnettbraves.com. For more infor-

mation on the team’s schedule or to purchase tickets, visit gwinnettbraves.com or call (678) 277-0340.

Gwinnett Daily Post • Sunday, August 8, 2010 • FALL PARENTING GUIDE • Page 19

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GUIDE Get Organized for School Success Students’ success in school is based on a number of factors.

One of which is how organized they are with assignments, including homework.

Students with torn- or crumpled-up papers in their backpacks, desks or lockers, unruly notebooks and more could find it’s harder to make the grade. A little time spent getting organized can go a long way toward improving grades and performance at school.

Use color. Color-coordinate binders, notebooks, folders, and textbooks so that you can easily grab the items you need for specific classes.

Purchase a three-hole punch.

Punch holes into hand-outs from teachers and file accordingly in your three-ring binder.

Create to-do lists. Use an assignment pad, day planner or simply a piece of paper to keep track of assignments and things that are complete.Use one side of a folder for items that aren’t yet completed and the other for completed work.

Take notes. Pay attention in class and take dated notes. This way you know what date range to study for a specific test.

Organize books to your schedule. Do you have Language Arts, then Math, then Science?

Stack your books in your desk or locker in order so that you can easily grab what you need.

Follow teacher-recommended supplies. Use the list that the teacher supplies as a guideline for what needs to be purchased.

Package pens, staplers, pencils,

etc., in one case so that they’re easily accessed in a book bag.

Keep a spare set at home so you have the same tools both in and out of the classroom.

Prioritize tasks. Complete the short-notice tasks first while continuing to complete parts of long-term tasks. Also, work on homework assignments that are a struggle to you first so that you can breeze through easier assignments at the end of a homework session.

Leave enough time. Rushing around in the morning to catch a ride or school bus to school may cause you to forget important items at home. Leaving yourself enough time to get ready to head out to school is a major organizational step.

Keep on top of clutter. Go

through compiled papers weekly to see what you can toss. Save only necessary items for studying.

Get enough rest.A well-rested body and mind is much better equipped to handle the daily

stresses of school life. Trying to be organized while scatterbrained is no way to start out.

Schedule consistent study times. Plan to study or do homework at the same time each day so you don’t feel overwhelmed.

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Page 20 • FALL PARENTING GUIDE • Sunday, August 8, 2010 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

Reward yourself for a job well done. It’s much easier to stay on track if you have a goal.Work toward that goal, then reward yourself when you achieve it. A good grade -- plus a day out with friends -- is a nice treat.

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GUIDE Suwanee Academy of Arts ... setting the standard in arts education The value of an education in the arts is evident; not only on the Broadway stage, but also in boardrooms across the globe. Experts have found that children who study the arts at an early age show a significant improvement on test scores across the board. Classes like Kindermusik and Tiny TuTu’s Ballet may appear to be all fun and games but the expert educators at Suwanee Academy of the Arts know the inroads they are making with each young artist. While other dance/arts schools make claims of a direct ticket to stardom; Suwanee Academy of the Arts refuses to confuse art with the stars. By inspiring a passion for excellence in an art discipline, SAA is giving

each artist the tools, the skills necessary to succeed in anything they do.

Mission: We opened our doors at Suwanee Academy of the Arts in 2003 with a mission to inspire excellence and enrich the lives of young artists, their families, and the community at large through the disciplines of dance, music, and theatre arts.

Founders Berneta Bock Davis and Patty Weyen Etherton poured their hearts into creating a beautiful, loving School for the Arts. Suwanee Academy of the Arts has quickly become known through out Atlanta for providing the highest quality of arts education for students, newborn through Adult. In

support of this mission, the founders helped spearhead a non-profit company, Suwanee Performing Arts, which offers Gwinnett County quality performance opportunities in which to participate, appreciate, and support!

Educational Philosophy: Our goal at Suwanee Academy of the Arts is to provide a professional and disciplined, yet fun and supportive atmosphere where students of all levels can succeed. At the Academy, the aim is not only to teach “how” but to cultivate the “why,” forming a deep appreciation for art which minimizes the need to compete. Every student builds self-confidence as they learn to appreciate what each indi-

vidual brings to the art form.

Exceptional Instruction: Through the educational integrity of its founders, the Academy has attracted professional educators with years of professional experience, who love what they do and share a common goal—to nurture and inspire excellence in each and every artist. Students enrolled at the Academy not only learn from teachers that have “studied the arts” but from mentors who have “lived the arts.”

Our “Little Yellow House” next to the Suwanee Public Library is anything but little.

Our 6000 square feet holds not only 2 dance studios with 9 foot mirrors, top of the line sprung floors and double

hung barres; but also a black box mini theater, complete with lighting and sound system, where drama classes are held; a Kindermusik studio that sports it’s very own “tree” as well as 6 private lesson studios,with sound barrier for the optimal learning experience.

Family Plan at Suwanee Academy of the Arts: For only $25 per month for the year, you and members of your family (living in one household) can participate in Adult Classes, such as yoga and ballroom dance, Parenting Seminars and Special Events and Workshops (includes teas and teen dances). And we promise to keep adding new and wonder-

ful things throughout the year.

College Objective Magnet Performing Arts Studies Series: COMPASS is a pre collegiate, preprofessional studies program. The COMPASS program is for the middle or high school Artist who is passionate about the performing arts and has auditioned or been invited into the program. is the goal of the academy and the COMPASS faculty to provide the best possible training ground for these young artists to create a successful future.

Therefore, we are growing the classes to match the growing wants and needs of the COMPASS student.

For information, to arrange for an audition, please contact patty@suwaneeacademy.com.

FALL SEASON 2010-2011

Experience the Difference.

• Tiny Tutu Ballet • Pre-ballet • Ballet • Cecchetti • Jazz • Tap • Ballet/Tap or • Ballet/Jazz Combos • Ballroom • Modern • Yoga • Musical Theater

• Improvisation for Theater • Script Acting • Acting for Film and Television • Stage Combat • Auditioning • Musical Theater

Full Term Classes run August 16th - May 23rd

• Kindermusik® • Private study: piano, guitar, percussion, brass, woodwinds, voice • Vocal Jazz Ensemble

FAMILY PLAN $ 25/month

For more details call 678.482.6333 or visit SuwaneeAcademy.com 341 Main Street • Suwanee, GA gwinnettdailypost.com •

• Adult Classes - such as yoga and ballroom dance • Parenting Seminars • Special Events and Workshops includes teas and teen dances

Gwinnett Daily Post • Sunday, August 8, 2010 • FALL PARENTING GUIDE • Page 21

Fall l Parenting Pare renting ng

GUIDE On the Road to Kindergarten: Getting Kids Ready for the Big Day Kindergarten will be many children’s first foray into school.

Their experiences in kindergarten can set the scene for a lifetime of learning. To start laying the foundation for your child’s entrance into formal education, consider the following tips.

Identify the school your child will attend.You can call your county school board or simply ask other parents in the area.Some communities assign schools, while others allow parents to choose their child’s school. When determining which case applies to your community, inquire about bus service as well.

Some schools have full-day kindergarten programs, while others offer half-day. This may be district-specified or the choice of the parent.

Visit the school to find out about registration requirements.

You’ll likely have to fill out forms and provide proof of residence.

The school also will inform you of any rules they have, including copies of health records, screenings or placement testing.

A routine physical exam and a copy of immunization records will most likely be required. Visit your child’s pediatrician to ensure that he or she is up-to-date with shots and receives a health check-up. Proof of dental visits may be required.

If your child will be attending a private school, the school may have registration fees, supply fees, uniform requirements, and other expenses. It’s important to find out about these costs ahead of time.

Visit the school with your child

ahead of time. Attend a kindergarten open house or school tour.

This way kids can become familiar with the premises and won’t be caught off guard the first day of school. A tour will provide an example of the school’s layout and overall atmosphere.

Make friends with parents whose children attend the school.

Set up a play date so your child will see some familiar faces on the first day of school.

Talk about attending school and make it seem like a positive experience. Let kids know school is something to look forward to. Some children get excited about kindergarten just because they get to ride the bus.

Shop for a backpack and a lunch box early on so that your child will be excited for school. Enable him or

her to choose supplies in the theme of choice.

Find out which types of lessons your child will be learning and begin to practice some of them at home, including the alphabet, preliminary math and writing.

Always use positive reinforcement and talk about school in an upbeat way.This increases the likelihood that kids will look at school in a positive light.

Discuss fears and concerns about kindergarten with your child. This way you can work out situations before the first day of school starts.

Kindergarten brings with it new experiences for children,such as riding a school bus. Be sure new students are ready by preparing them for the adventures that lay ahead.

EDUCATING STUDENTS SINCE 1998

PREPARING STUDENTS Academically, Spiritually and Socially

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Page 22 • FALL PARENTING GUIDE • Sunday, August 8, 2010 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

Fall l Parenting Pare renting ng

GUIDE Treating Broken Bones—One of the Most Common Childhood Injuries Most broken bones in children occur in the fall, when school and community sports are in full swing. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, nearly 3.5 million sports-related injuries occur each year in the United States to children younger than age 14, with fractures among the most common. Fractures are the most common sports-related injury seen in the Emergency Departments at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

The bones of children are different than those of adults and benefit from specialized pediatric care to promote proper healing and future growth.

Because children’s bones heal quickly, a cast or splint may be all that is needed for a minor

fracture. For a more serious injury, a pediatric orthopedic surgeon may have to realign the bones. This is a procedure in which the surgeon uses local or general anesthesia, manipulates the bones until they are straight and then either applies a cast or uses internal fixation with rods, plates and screws.

A cast or splint is used to immobilize broken bones until they start to heal. Once there is enough healing to prevent the bones from moving without the cast or splint it can be removed.

Fortunately, the younger the patient the more quickly the fractures heal. Your pediatric orthopaedic surgeon may order periodic X-rays while the bone is healing to make sure they are aligning properly.

Fun, Family Event At-home entertaining can be fun and easy when you pick a theme everyone will love. Movies transcend many generations, and can prove the ideal backdrop for a special night under the stars with friends and family.

Host a movie night in the backyard. All that’s needed is some equipment (which may be rented or borrowed from someone with access to AV equipment), a movie of choice and some tasty refreshments.

A movie can be streamed from a laptop computer with the help of a projector and displayed on a garage wall or even a sheet serving as a screen. Encourage guests to bring their own lawn chairs or set up blankets right on the grass.

Popcorn and movies are the perfect pairing. Rent a popcorn machine that can be plugged in right in the backyard, so guests can serve themselves piping-hot popcorn. Or pop plenty of microwave popcorn indoors and package it in paper bags that guests can hold individually. Keep cans or bottles of soft drinks in a cooler filled with ice.Schedule

To streamline fracture care, Children’s has a fast-track Fracture Program in the Emergency Departments at Children’s at Egleston, Children’s at Scottish Rite and four Immediate Care locations in the metro area— including Children’s at Satellite Boulevard in Duluth. This program provides dedicated pediatric orthopaedic oversight, faster care, same site casting services (Children’s at Scottish Rite) and easier access to follow-up care with pediatric orthopaedic specialists.

The Fracture Program ensures that a team of pediatric-trained specialists work together to provide the best care possible for children who incur dren’s focuses on the need of the it treated at a pediatric hospital luck, the only memory a child a fracture. From the initial visit child. Though experiencing a can make it a little easier. With will have of his fracture will be a to the last therapy session, Chil- fracture can be painful, having skilled physicians and a little cast covered with signatures.

an intermission during the movie so that filmgoers can get up and help themselves to a drink or visit the restroom.

And make sure to have snacks on hand like nachos and cheese, boxed candies, such as “Snow Caps”or “Ike & Mike”brands, licorice, cotton candy, etc.

Make sure the movie is rated for all in the viewing audience and in case neighbors with young children are also able to get a peek of the display. External speakers hooked up to the computer can help amplify the sound.

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Gwinnett Daily Post • Sunday, August 8, 2010 • FALL PARENTING GUIDE • Page 23

Page 24 • FALL PARENTING GUIDE • Sunday, August 8, 2010 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com