Parenthood IQ Summer 2019

SUMMER READS | TRAVEL TIPS | TIPS FOR PARENTS

Smart Parenting in the Lowcountry SUMMER 2019

SUMMER EVENTS Fireworks, concerts & more GETAWAY Family-friendly trips

for a day, weekend and longer

UNIFORMS SERVICES READING

BACK 2 SCHOOL

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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20 | PARENTING: CHRIS PROTZ Interview with the Boys & Girls Club director.

7 | ASK WHITNEY: Parenting advice from a local family therapist.

8 | EXPECTING: ADJUSTMENT FOR PREGNANT MOMS Chiropractic care while you are expecting.

12 | LITTLE: HOSPITAL HACKS Reduce the stress of time spent in the hospital.

15 | SUMMER AUTHOR FOR KIDS Local musician Jevon Daly pens second book.

16 | MIDDLE: SUMMER SLUMP Tips to help your child read over the summer.

22 | MIDDLE: OUTDOOR EDUCATION Know No Boundaries offers adventure.

24 | MIDDLE: GETTING READY FOR KINDERGARTEN Help your child be ready to learn.

26 | PARENTING: BACK TO SCHOOL Local resources for parents and kids.

30 | SUBSCRIPTION BOXES Local moms rate the subscription boxes.

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SUMMER TRAVEL: Chimney rock in Asheville, NC.

ON THE COVER

GET OUTDOORS Fishing and crabbing in the Lowcountry is a great way to spend a summer day. See inside for info on how and where kids can do this. Photo by Tanya Leshe.

- SUMMER 2019 -

58 | TRAVEL:

WORTH THE DRIVE

Take your summer vacation in cool Asheville.

60 | LET'S GET SOCIAL

Reader submitted photos of Lowcountry kids.

63 | COLOR

Fun page to color

54 34 | TEEN: SUMMER JOBS Why working this summer isn't so bad.

38 | PARENTING: VIRTUAL PURCHASING When kids spend real money on fake money.

40 | EVENTS: FOURTH OF JULY

Here's how to celebrate Independence Day. 43 | EVENTS: SUMMER FUN

The whole family will enjoy these activities.

48 | STELLAR KIDS

Local kids who are going places.

50 | PARENTING: 10 (AFFORDABLE) ACTIVITIES

Having fun with your kids doesn't have to break the bank.

52 | TRAVEL: ROAD TRIP TIPS

These life hacks make the car ride bearable.

54 | TRAVEL: DAY TRIP

Spend a day in Columbia, our state capital.

56 | TRAVEL:

WEEKEND TRIP

Amelia Island is the perfect two day getaway.

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SUMMER 2019 • ParenthoodIQ.com 5

WELCOME TO PIQ! KIDS ARE MESSY...PARENTING DOESN’T HAVE TO BE. FOUNDER

Marc Frey marc@mediamarketingteam.com

S

weet summertime!

Even in the Lowcountry where it’s warm 9+ months out of the year, we can’t get enough of the great Lowcountry outdoors.

From outdoor concerts and movies, festivals, exhilarating summer camps, and 4th of July Fireworks, we have local events to appeal to all age levels.

And while the days are long, we know that summer is not. August always sneaks up quickly, and we included a teaser to the Fall with a special pre-back to school section. We highlight important school-related services across Beaufort County as well as a comprehensive uniform guide for both Beaufort and Jasper County.

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Meredith DiMuzio meredith@mediamarketingteam.com

Creating memories is what summer is about. With longer days and the kids out of school, the next few months are perfect for a family vacation. PIQ helps you plan your adventure, highlighting familyfriendly things to do in Columbia, Amelia Island, FL, and Asheville, NC. Don’t worry, we provide some helpful travel tips along the way!

From our family to yours, we wish you a wonderful summer filled with fun and excitement.

Don’t forget to use #lowcountryfamilyfun to share your adventures with us!

CONTRIBUTORS: Elle Asheworth Kelly Barbrey Jessica Bender Karrie Comeau Danielle Dietrich Whitney Hughes Dawn Klausmeier Ashley Schilling Kate Vermilyea Carol Weir Tanya Leshe Photography

Love, Your PIQ Team

CONTENT CURATOR Kate Vermilyea kate@parenthoodiq.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Christine Cannon christine@hiltonheadmonthly.com BRAND AMBASSADORS Karrie Comeau Karrie@mediamarketingteam.com Heather Edge heather@mediamarketingteam.com

EMAIL US AT:

Karrie Comeau Bluffton Resident since 2009

Meredith DiMuzio HHI Resident since 2004

Kate Vermilyea

Beaufort Resident since 2005

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Heather Edge HHI Resident since 2013

parenting@parenthoodiq.com address 14 Westbury Park Way, Suite 200, Bluffton 29910 offices 843.384.4488 web parenthoodiq.com

Ask Whitney

Parenting Advice from a Local Family Therapist Q: What do I do with older children who won’t sleep alone? How do I retrain (encourage?) them (and us as parents) to be empowered and not scared?

and relaxed.

Reading, essential oils such as lavender, night lights, cozy blankets, stuffed animals and relaxation techniques such as meditation and breathwork are also a few ways to help your child feel safe and empowered in their own space.

Q: As a working parent, how can I establish a better balance between work and kids?

A: Dear Reader, you are not alone in this struggle. There is no magic age that a child reaches and is suddenly able and willing to put themselves to sleep, especially alone and in their own space. Bedtime and even sleeping are a critical time for a child to reconnect with a parent after a long day. Even very young children experience different types of stressors and fears throughout their day. Sometimes these don’t surface until it’s time for them to be completely alone.

It may seem obvious, but establishing an evening flow is extremely important. For example, having a child help with dinner or play a quiet game near you while dinner is being made can be an effective way for you both to reconnect. Younger children can use art supplies, play dough, cars, etc.-get creative in how you connect with your child and help them work through harder emotions such as fear and anxiety.

Stay calm and model your own emotions.

Everyone can be exhausted by bedtime, but getting frustrated, hurrying or yelling are not going to help your child feel safe

A: Whether a parent works inside or outside the home, balance isn’t just a buzzword, it can be a daily struggle.

Without knowing the details of your family’s schedule, I would suggest looking at the quality of time you are spending together versus the quantity. Put down and turn off the screens, be present, make eye contact, listen to each other, set aside the mundane household duties from time to time and tune into each other. PIQ

Please send parenting questions to editor@parenthoodiq.com Whitney Hughes, MA, LPC, NCC is a South Carolina licensed professional counselor and owner of Blue Mind Mental Health, LLC on Hilton Head Island. She holds a master’s degree in counseling education with a focus on clinical mental health counseling and is accredited by the National Board of Certified Counselors, South Carolina Association of Licensed Professional Counselors and American Counseling Association. She works with teens, adults and families, specializing in stress management, anxiety, depression and LGBTQ+ support. She can be reached at www.bluemindmentalhealth.com or 843-422-6157.

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– EXPECTING –

The Basics of Prenatal Chiropractic Care This may help in creating a safer, more comfortable labor and birth.

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By Danielle Dietrich

ave you ever wondered why an expecting mother would go see a chiropractor during her pregnancy? How would they accommodate her pregnant belly? Is it safe? And what exactly are they going to do?

Pregnant women are the reason I fell in love with the chiropractic profession. As a former office manager in a chiropractic office, it was impossible not to notice how pregnant women under chiropractic care drastically improved their quality of life. They were more comfortable, slept better and commonly reported faster and easier births.

It seemed like these women approached their pregnancies with greater ease and confidence as they continued under care.

I started to understand pregnancy and birth as a normal physiological process in which a woman’s body is designed to partake. Even if I had not gone on to become a chiropractor myself, I am certain my experience as an office manager would have led me to seek chiropractic care during my pregnancy with my daughter.

PREGNANT MOMS CAN GET ADJUSTED?

I encourage expecting mothers to work with a chiropractor who is certified in the Webster technique. The Webster technique is designed to look at the quality of movement and alignment of the mother’s sacrum (the bone at the bottom of the spine that looks like an upside-down

triangle) and sacroiliac (hip) joints. We are looking for something called a subluxation, or misalignment. The hormonal and biomechanical changes experienced by women during pregnancy make expecting moms especially susceptible to becoming subluxated or out of alignment.

Why does this matter? Sacral subluxation may contribute to feelings of low back discomfort or hip instability during pregnancy. It may also contribute to a difficult labor experience for the mother due to inadequate uterine function, pelvic contraction and baby mal-presentation.

This happens because of how subluxation affects the communication pathways of our nervous system, as well as the soft tissue structures connecting to the bones and uterus. Correction of sacral subluxation may have a positive effect on these common causes of dystocia and, in turn, improve the quality of the mother’s birthing experience.

Every chiropractor has his or her own preferred technique they use to adjust this area of the spine. The Webster technique has safely been used by chiropractors for decades. It’s important to find a chiropractor whose style of adjusting is comfortable for you.

BUT WHAT ABOUT THE BELLY?

There are several ways a chiropractic table may be modified to safely accommodate a pregnant belly. The most common method SUMMER 2019 • ParenthoodIQ.com 9

many pregnant moms in the office, I can assure you these pillows become highly coveted as they allow you to lie face down comfortably and safely once your belly has come in. Some chiropractic tables are designed to lift in the pelvic (hip) area, making room for the pregnant mother’s belly this way. Other chiropractic tables drop down in the abdomen (belly) area, making room for the pregnant mother’s belly in the opposite direction. I’ve found most expecting mothers prefer one way over another. In addition to lying face down, many tables are designed to slightly recline (versus being completely flat) while the mother is lying in the face up position. For many expecting mothers this reclined position may help to alleviate the feeling of nausea accompanied by lying completely flat on the back during the later weeks of pregnancy.

WHERE DO I FIND THE RIGHT CHIROPRACTOR?

I have observed and used in practice is by using pregnancy pillows. If you have ever experienced prenatal massage you may have used a similar pillow while lying face down on the table. Pregnancy pillows have an oval cutout in the middle. This allows the pillows to be stackable in thickness and surround the pregnant mother’s belly while simultaneously supporting her chest and outer belly area. Having been pregnant myself and having taken care of 10 ParenthoodIQ.com • SUMMER 2019

How do you find the right Lowcountry chiropractor near you trained in the Webster technique? I continue to recommend using the ‘Find a Chiropractor’ link on the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association’s (ICPA) website, www.icpa4kids.org. This tool allows you to search for a Webster technique-certified chiropractor near your specific zip code. These doctors demonstrate special interest and additional training in the chiropractic care of pregnant mothers, infants and children. I also encourage you to check in with other expecting mothers in your area. Having recommendations from like-minded moms may also be a great way to narrow your search for the right chiropractor for you. PIQ

Danielle Dietrich, DC, is a Webster-certified chiropractor offering mobile services to the Lowcountry. To find out more, go to www.risebluffton.com

– LITTLE –

HOSPITAL HACKS:

REDUCING THE STRESS OF HOSPITAL VISITS

By Dawn Klausmeier

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hen a child is in the hospital, life is disrupted. Inside those hospital walls, procedures, sounds of medical equipment, and more can impact sleep, play, and normal routines. As a child life specialist, I had the honor of making connections with countless families who have shared what their hospital stressors had been. Many are unique to their family or situation, but so many the same. Over the years, I’ve heard great tips and witnessed clever hacks that have helped ease the stress of hospitalization and made their stays more manageable. Often, it's the smallest of things that made their experience easier - one less straw on the camel’s back makes a dramatic impact on the child or family’s hospital experience.

I have been grateful for the opportunity to pay it forward sharing these tips and hospital hacks with families over time and now I'm excited to share them with you!

FOR SLEEP

Eye masks to block out: lights in the room turning on with nursing assessments and care treatments, lights seeping in from the hallway when staff enter and exit, siren lights from outside.

Ear plugs to sound out: machines beeping, chatter from hallways, babies crying, medical assessments and care.

Mattress pad: aside from concern for their 12 ParenthoodIQ.com • SUMMER 2019

child, the #1 complaint from parents to me about being hospitalized was the unsatisfactory sleeping situation. Either the hospital didn't have beds/couches for parents or the pull out couches were highly unsatisfactory. I saw a few savvy parents of children with chronic illnesses who had enough of the overnight discomfort and invested in mattress pads, extra blankets, and even some that brought air mattresses!

White noise machine. Not just for the littles!

I've used YouTube white noise videos in a

pinch, but unfortunately you can't really use your phone for anything else while that's in use.

Lavender essential oil. Place a couple of drops on a cotton ball and inhale with deep, slow breaths. Store in a closed container and do your research about which companies you can trust - ones that prove they test the purity of the oils. Please speak with nursing before attempting to bring in your personal oil diffuser, as children and staff may have sensitivities to particular scents and oil being diffused, in general. Some hospitals have policies prohibiting them. Another great idea is the scented plush.

Door sign. A whole lot of people come in and out of a child's room when hospitalized. Not only medical staff, but psychosocial support specialists and clinicians, food service, cleaning staff, volunteers, and visitors. Talk to your child's nurse. If it's disrupting sleep or coping, it might be appropriate for you to make a simple sign to ask visitors to check in with the nurse before knocking on the door/ entering at designated times.

Que up your favorite relaxation playlist or download some relaxation apps. I am most familiar with and like Relax Melodies.

When we really listen to a child or family, we can stay inspired daily to use our skills and experience to creatively foster coping for an individual child or family. Below are just a few of my favorite tips and hacks related to play from parents, medical professionals, and child life specialists.

FOR PLAY

Bring a pack and play for a change of scenery for babies or toddlers that are confined to their room due to infection control.

Secure iPad to the adjustable TVs (seen in ICU rooms) with opaque hospital tape. For critically ill children, calming imagery or music can be played, they can watch their favorite shows and movies (YouTube clips), or a person can "play for the child" using an app the child is known to love.

Use safe, non-critical medical items and other miscellaneous recycled items for dramatic play, games and art making to allow child control and to process their experience.

Tape board games like Candyland to the adjustable ICU TVs for children critically ill, but still able and desiring to play! Instead of using the board pieces, each player uses a different colored dry-erase marker to mark the spot on the board. One version has the spinner as an alternative to the deck of cards, which can give a child a greater sense of control and a bit of "hands on" play with as little as movement from a finger required. Offer assistance as needed.

Create your own medical themed card deck for the Headbandz game to familiarize children with medical equipment or health care professionals they meet in the hospital. PIQ Dawn Klausmeier is a mom of three under 5 years old, a Certified Child Life Specialist and creator of doseofplay.com. Dawn is passionate about empowering children and families to cope the best they can when facing medical experiences.

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– MIDDLE –

SUMMER AUTHOR FOR KIDS BOOKWORM

By Meredith DiMuzio

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ocal musician Jevon Daly has just completed his new book "She Crab and HE Cat", a collaboration with local artists Colin Noonan and Jessie Renew.

The book, which began as a song, tells the story of a friendship that began on the dock. Crab helps hungry Cat. Cat and Cab become buddies. This is the second book Jevon has produced, the first being "He Needs a Chihuahua" a story of Jevon's experience with asthma and a pup's ability to help him get well as a young boy. Jevon is emerging as a children's entertainer after performing on HHI since 1985 in his family's band. His new kids album "What is Your Superpower?" is out now on Itunes and all other platforms. PIQ

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– MIDDLE –

The Summer Slide that Isn’t Worth It!

By Elle Asheworth

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ou’ve heard it from your child’s teacher probably a hundred times: “Don’t forget to read over the summer!” and in your head, you go “Yeah, yeah, we’ll get right on that,” right?

We’ve all been there, I know, but here’s the real scoop…

The lower the grade, the greater the risk your kid has of their reading regressing. In first grade, I’ve seen a child fall back as many as 6 reading levels. SIX! Teachers dread beginning of the year reading assessments. It’s so disheartening to see kids move back levels after we worked so hard to get them where they end the year.

We need your help!

I always give compliments and sincere appreciation to parents who help their children maintain and even grow their reading over the summer. We can tell!

Whether you call it the Summer Slide, the Brain Drain, or any other silly name, it’s all the same. We have 72 calendar days before the 2019-20 school year starts (50 weekdays). All it takes is 20 minutes per day. Skipping the weekends, this amounts to 1,000 minutes this summer! Students who read 20 minutes a day are more likely to score in the 90th percentile! Students who read for 5 minutes or less score in the 50th.

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Visit the library. Read to them. Have meaningful conversations. All of these things contribute to your child’s wellbeing!

It doesn’t have to be as boring as making them sit down with a book. Make it fun!

I’ve done some investigating to help find the best ways to help your child this summer that your teacher will THANK you for! PIQ

1

Sign up for a library card at your local Beaufort County Library!

All libraries are participating in a ‘Summer @ Your Library’ challenge running from June 1-July 31.

Pick up your game mat and start earning prizes! Score gift cards, performance tickets, dance lessons, and sign books and merchandise.

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Barnes & Noble is hosting the #BookYourSummer program. Head over to their site, download the Summer Reading Journal in English (or Spanish), chose any 8 books, read at your leisure, and write a quick blurb about your favorite part! Easy as that!

Bring your completed journal into any B&N store between August 1-31 to choose your free book.

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Just type in “Summer Reading” into the search bar of Pinterest for a huge list of challenges, games, and ideas to help keep your kids engaged! Daily challenges, bingo, scavenger hunts are all things that can make summer reading fun for you and your kid.

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Scholastic is also hosting a digital Read-A-Palooza Summer Reading Challenge! Students will enter their summer reading minutes online to unlock digital rewards as they complete weekly reading challenges.

They are even promoting Kids Helping Kids! When the total minutes read reaches 25, then 50, and then 100 million minutes (collectively), Scholastic will donate a minimum of 200,000 books to kids in need across the US! They have a book list, reading pledge, minute tracker, and certificate of achievement being offered on their site.

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Scholastic also has some other summer printables offered on their site here! Check them out!

While most of these activities can be done independently, I really implore you to participate with your child! Showing your child they can have a healthy relationship with reading is so important! I often find that my reluctant readers are the ones who don’t have any support at home! If you know a child who may be in a situation like this, I urge you to help them! No child deserves to hate reading. It’s such a magical thing.

Elle Asheworth is a Beaufort County teacher and USCB graduate. She has been in the Lowcountry for 7 years. Follow her on instagram @Ellemichele_.

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– PARENTING –

INTERVIEW WITH CHRIS PROTZ

By Meredith DiMuzio at level--the state ur staff was fortunate enough to sit mandates it--and down with the Executive Director our program of the Boys and Girls Club of the allows siblings Lowcountry, Mr. Chris Protz. He has worked for the Boys and Girls Club for over 44 years! to go to a school program so they can get the same PIQ: WE SEE THAT YOU HAVE 9 service. [This way] CLUBS* IN TOTAL NOW! WHAT the family doesn’t DETERMINES THE NEED FOR A have to decide NEW OR ADDITIONAL CLUB? what to do with CP: “What we do as an organization (and one child while another is going to school. nationally) is consider how we can serve our youth. Our programs are proven programs That’s one piece, but all of our clubs do that help kids succeed in life -- every area, summer programming. Not all are called whether it be urban community or urban/ “camp,” but it is a summer program that is rural (and I consider the Lowcountry to be open from 7am-6pm so parents know they rural) there are plenty of kids who need the have a safe place offering great programs services of the Boys & Girls Club. The Board where their children can receive services. We will look at areas that lack services, or in some get great support from school districts, and in cases if they have waiting lists at some of our Beaufort County, the school district provides clubs, that will determine potential areas to hot breakfast and lunch meals. Kids can come expand to. Or, if there is an interest from a all day and participate in some really great school district about expanding services, we’ll activities. We do that at all our clubs except consider that. Obviously there is a lot of need the two new ones, but our plan is for those to out there [and it] comes down to the ability have summer programs in the future.” to raise dollars in order to open a site--more Notes: Everyone pays $5 membership fee need than there is ability to open a site. (standard); Monthly program fees varying *Clubs are located in Bluffton, Hilton Head, from site to site, but no fees are meant to be a Jasper County (Ridgeland, Hardeeville), barrier. Scholarships are available to parents Beaufort (Bridges Prep, Broad River with multiple children, or anyone else, and Elementary School, Shanklin Elementary are need-based.”

School, Sheldon Club), St. Helena

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PIQ: WE NOTICED YOU OFFER SUMMER CAMP PROGRAMS. TELL US ABOUT THOSE. CP: “We will have three sites; four in schools

(one is a charter school). School districts are mandated to run a reading camp typically for four weeks. A few years ago, they reached out to ask if Boys & Girls Club would support that reading camp by running a summer program that runs alongside of it. The reading camp is for targeted kids who aren’t reading 20 ParenthoodIQ.com • SUMMER 2019

HOW CAN THE COMMUNITY-ATLARGE HELP?

Supporting resource-development-wise: attending events (fundraisers). Donation to particular program, club/organization. Be a club volunteer; enhance services that full-time and part-time staff provide, enabling club to support more kids. Special events: help to plan/participate in volunteer opportunities for age 14+: Visit a local club, apply to volunteer; the local club will check and see what they need/can do. PIQ

– MIDDLE –

OUTDOOR EDUCATION KNOWS NO BOUNDS

By Carol Weir

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hat does adventure have to do with success in academics and in life?

Everything—if you ask Nick Bearden, the owner of Know No Boundaries, a new educational consulting firm on Hilton Head Island. Bearden founded his company in 2013 in Euharlee, Georgia while he was operating a float shop on the Etowah River. He wanted to bring adventure to the educational system and provide meaningful outdoor learning experiences to students.

His company was licensed in the Town of Hilton Head Island in 2018.

Know No Boundaries’ mission is to create meaningful and sustainable experiential and adventure-based growth programs for the Lowcountry’s diverse community, while also advocating for and pursuing the means to make them affordable and accessible to all.

“Our programs are designed to be full of adventures and to be both culturally appropriate and historically accurate,” Bearden said.

The company ensures that all KNB programs align with and exceed South Carolina curriculum standards.

Locally, Bearden partners with Outside Brands, to offer schools and other groups adventure-based learning experiences that immerse participants in the Lowcountry’s nature, history, and culture.

KNB educational programs are developed specifically for each group and, where 22 ParenthoodIQ.com • SUMMER 2019

needed, include accommodations for students’ Individual Education Plans (IEP).

Bearden meets with teachers to discuss the educational needs of their students and create learning objectives for each program.

The primary focus is on supporting selfdiscovery via cooperative problem solving in unconventional situations outdoors. Program options include full-immersion on Page Island or with the Mitchelville Preservation Project.

At each location, participants learn and have fun through adventure initiatives, educational games, teambuilding, leadership activities, nature-based leisure and recreational time.

What do the Programs Look Like?

Each Know No Bounds educational program is individually crafted for a specific group of students. For the full-immersion program, the group boats to Page Island, where participants learn about the unique ecosystem found on Lowcountry hammock islands. Students also learn about environmental stewardship by “leaving no trace,” and review the island’s safety rules.

Students warm up with ice breakers, then confront a challenge: they are “stranded” on

one island and must work together to build a sustainable raft that will successfully traverse two of their group members to safety.

Some groups hike through the maritime marsh, others split into teams and compete in a kayak relay. Others play an original version of capture-the-flag that includes local history and cultural knowledge.

The Mitchelville Experience offers middle school and high school educational and adventure options including the Mitchelville History Hike. In the 1860s, Mitchelville became the first self-governed town for freed men in the U.S. Students break into groups and compete to gather the most accurate and detailed story of the developments of Mitchelville... in the fastest time. This program will include everything from learning about the Gullah maritime ways to seeing a fullHarriet Tubman Reenactment presented by the Mitchelville Preservation Project.

Executive Director Ahmad Ward often addresses student groups. After a break, the students head to the beach for team building

and leadership development activities, Lowcountry Living skill challenges, beach exploration and nature education, or rec and leisure options. These new programming and school field trip opportunities will be available through Mitchelville Preservation Project this fall and will officially launch as a community service in January.

KNB also offers programs that can be delivered at schools or other locations throughout a semester or academic year, to serve as electives or add-ons for local private, public and charter schools. Nicklas currently designs programs for several schools across Beaufort County. PIQ To learn more about opportunities with Know No Boundaries, email Nick Bearden knownoboundariesllc@outlook.com.

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– MIDDLE –

BUILDING BLOCKS FOR KINDERGARTEN

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By Ashley Schilling

eginning kindergarten can be an intimidating time for children and parents alike. As a parent of young children, I can relate to the fear of putting your child in a new situation or environment and wondering whether or not they will be happy and successful.

Being a kindergarten teacher, I can give you a few tips in preparing your child for kindergarten, so that they can be successful, and therefore, HAPPY, which is all that really matters!

Kindergarten readiness is so much more than learning ABCs and 123s. A child who enters kindergarten knowing letter sounds and recognizing numbers and quantities is great, but that alone is not what makes a child successful in school. First and foremost, your child needs to have formed a secure attachment to you, meaning they are confident in knowing that when you leave you will be coming back and that they are okay while you are gone. If kindergarten is the first time that your child will be away

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from you for long periods of time, you should prepare him/her for that by giving many opportunities beforehand to be away from you (in good hands of course).

Secondly, you should spend a lot of time over the summer teaching them how to “do it themselves”. We do too much for our young children, and this hinders their growth! With independence comes confidence, and with confidence comes success! Encourage your child to pour her own water in her cup, get himself dressed, handle bathroom business on her own, and clean up his own messes. They really are capable of doing so much more than we give them credit for!

Finally, guiding your child in developing the social skills they need in interacting with peers appropriately and efficiently is of utmost importance. Schedule play dates with other children, and encourage your child to play with other children at the park or pool. Expect there to be conflicts

when children are playing together and take those times to guide them in resolving the issues. Model positive communication skills to your child, and respect his feelings so that he learns to respect the feelings of others! Kindness is everything!

It is so important that your child’s first school experience is a good one, as it sets the stage for the rest of their schoolaged years. Spending the time and effort getting them ready for kindergarten will also help in getting you ready to send them off! Have fun! PIQ Ashley Schilling is a mom to two children, ages 5 and 3, and teaches ages 3-6 at Sea Pines Montessori. She holds a master of early childhood education from Presbyterian College.

GET READY THIS SUMMER Practice writing words and your name with sidewalk chalk Play Hopscotch to learn 1-10 Roll and count dice to practice number recognition and counting READ! all things; the newspaper, menus at restaurants and books all summer long

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– PARENTING –

BACK TO SCHOOL

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By Karrie Comeau

hile it is difficult to think about the upcoming school year in the heat of the summer, there is no doubt that early interventions and a little preplanning are important when it comes to helping children outside of the classroom. Beaufort County has numerous options for supporting families and fostering student success. Here is a full list (don’t worry, you can always save this for August).

BEAUFORT AND JASPER COUNTY UNIFORM GUIDE

Which are your school colors? PIQ tracked down the unique uniform colors for each public school in Beaufort and Jasper County. Head to parenthoodiq.com to check out the full guide!

TUTORING

Huntington Learning Center 1050 Fording Island Road, Suite 406 Bluffton, SC Description: A full-service center offering test prep (ACT & SAT) and tutoring, including reading, writing, math, phonics, comprehension, study skills and more.

MATHNASIUM

876 Fording Island Road, #5, Bluffton SC Description: Their unique approach effectively explains math concepts and lends a helping hand students in an individualized setting.

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BRAIN BALANCE ACHIEVEMENT CENTER

1009 Fording Island Rd Bluffton, SC Description: The Brain Balance Program is a non-medical and drug-free approach to overcoming the challenges of childhood learning and developmental issues, with a focus on combining physical and sensory-motor exercises with academic skill training, healthy nutrition, and confidence building.

TUTOR DOCTOR

Beaufort County South Description: Tutor Doctor provides quality in-home tutoring services you can trust.

They offer a vast range of programs that can be individually tailored to each student, including English as a Second Language (ESL) and test prep.

LOWCOUNTRY THERAPY

254 Red Cedar St, Bluffton, SC and 1873 North Paris Ave, Port Royal, SC Description: Lowcountry Therapy is a privately owned therapy group dedicated to providing personalized therapy & treatment. They currently provide pediatric speech, feeding, occupational, and physical therapy.

LIMITLESS PEDIATRIC SOLUTIONS

4 Oliver Ct # 105, Bluffton SC Description: Provides a supportive, educational and fun environment for special needs and typically developing children. Services include occupational, speech, and physical therapy, infant massage, handwriting help, and sensory processing and social skills development.

Head to parenthoodiq. com for more information PROGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR CONSULTING

254 Red Cedar St. #11, Bluffton, SC Description: Provides high quality ABA therapy services for individuals affected with autism and related disabilities. They also provide parent training and assistance with IEP/504 plans. PIQ

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– PARENTING –

PIQ’S GUIDE

To Kid-Tested and Approved Subscription Boxes

By Karrie Comeau

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ho doesn’t love the excitement of receiving a gift in the mail? Subscription boxes are just that: monthly boxes filled with goodies that are delivered right to your doorstep! There are boxes tailored to all different types of interests and age levels! With so many different options available, we had Lowcountry children put some of these subscription boxes to the test, giving us their feedback (don’t worry, Moms added their honest feedback too!).

Box: Green Kid Crafts

Tester: Liam, age 6 Ages offered: 2-4; 5-10, 10+ Price: Starts at $17.95/month Description: STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) activities used to spark the imagination! Their boxes are 100% recycled materials, and Green Kid plants 1 tree for every order!

What Liam thinks: “This kit is very cool!”

What Mom thinks: The Green Kid Crafts box was so exciting to receive! Liam was so excited to do all of the projects!

The instructions were easy to follow and everything you needed was right in the box. He was interested in all of the experiments!

30 ParenthoodIQ.com • SUMMER 2019

Box: Bookroo

Tester: Hudson, 11 months Ages offered: 0-2; 3-6; 7-10 Price: Starts at $16.95/month Description: Bookroo is a children’s book subscription box, carefully crafted to promote a child’s love for reading! Three options are provided with individually wrapped books; board books, picture books, and chapter books.

What Hudson thinks: (all smiles!)

What Mom thinks: All of the books were so cute! Hudson loves the robot book where you can put the book up to your face and look like a robot!

Box: Bitsbox

Tester: Owen, age 10 and Morgan, age 12 Ages offered: 6-10 years old Price: Starts at $16.95/month Description: Bitsbox is a subscription box that teaches kids how to code, with each level introducing a new computer science concept. Kids look through the materials, open a computer, and type the app on the Bitsbox website, and can then share their app on any mobile device. Note: A home computer with an internet connection is needed.

What Morgan thinks: I really enjoyed being able to design all kinds of creations, and had no idea coding could be that much fun!

What Mom thinks: The grown-up guide was very helpful! It took some time to figure out where on the website to begin, but once we started it was pretty easy to follow. They soon realized they could create their own changes. For example, if it said to type ‘pink’ to make the balloon pink, they could type ‘red’ to make the balloon red. This would make a great birthday present!

SPECIAL: USE CODE PARENTHOODIQ FOR $20 OFF ANY SUBSCRIPTION PURCHASE OF $50+ SUMMER 2019 • ParenthoodIQ.com 31

Box: Raddish Kids

Tester: Isabella, age 4 Ages offered: recommended for 4-14+, with parent assistance/supervision Price: $24/ month Description: Raddish is a cooking club and culinary lesson mixed together, with the goal of making family dinner a fun learning experience. Kids can learn new cooking techniques every month and earn a new patch for their apron. Note: No food is included with the boxes.

What Isabella thinks: Chicken doesn’t belong on pizza, but cooking is great! I love my apron!

What Mom thinks: Isabella loved it!

It may not have been done exactly as they would have expected. The box opens to find a very cute apron as well as a new kitchen tool with each box.

The kid-sized apron was, of course, a huge hit. The recipes are GREAT! The recipe cards come with options for those Picky Eaters and easy tips so that all kids, at any age, can help.

The Raddish Box was perfect for the family weekend dinner, our favorite was dessert!

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Box: Girls CAN! Crate

Tester: Ella Grace, age 6 Ages offered: recommended for girls 5-10 years Price: starts at $25.95/ month Description: Girls CAN! was developed to show girls how awesome they are by designing activities based on female role models. Every month, a new inspiring role model will be introduced, with lots of experiments, games, and fun!

What Ella Grace thinks: I liked it! I’d have to persevere to be a fashion designer!

What Mom thinks: The activities were great, especially the painting! She didn’t really stay engaged in the booklet, but she was on the low range of the spectrum. When talking about perseverance, I had to tell Ella Grace I wasn’t talking about Pennsylvania!

Girls CAN! Crate

Bookroo

Bitsbox SUMMER 2019 • ParenthoodIQ.com 33

8

– TEENS –

Reasons Why You Should Get a Job in the Summer…

By Jessica Bender

U

sually the mention of the words “job,” or “work,” make people roll their eyes and sigh loudly, but having a job in the summer has some benefits you might not have considered. ¥ 1 MAKE MONEY – Well, duh. The number one perk of having a job is a paycheck. With a paycheck, you have the freedom to buy what you want (as long as parents are okay with it, and it’s not illegal). You can earn money to upgrade your phone, buy a car, pay for car insurance, upgrade a sound system, go on a trip…the list goes on and on. Pro-tip – if saving for a big-ticket item, see if your parents will match funds earned. ¥ 2 MEET PEOPLE OUTSIDE YOUR USUAL CROWD – Expand your social network without using the Internet! Meeting new people opens your world up to any number of great possibilities. Granted, you might meet some real jerks, but more often than not, coworkers turn out to be great friends who can give you new ideas, new perspectives to consider, and maybe even some good advice about navigating life.

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¥ 3 BUILD INTERPERSONAL SKILLS – This is a tagalong to #2. It is a fact that employers today have a hard time finding employees who can actually communicate with another human by speaking real words and making eye contact. We can thank technology for that. Getting a job forces you to develop communication skills and interact with other people while learning good customer service. This is especially true for people who tend to be on the shy side and have trouble meeting new people. Get a job – half the problem of meeting new people is solved. ¥ 4 MANAGE TIME – Learning how to be a good steward of your time is major. Time management skills are a necessary part of life, especially in high school and, if it’s in your plan, college. College professors won’t give a flying rip if your mother didn’t wake you up on time – having a job requires you to be at a certain place at a certain time and if you continuously show up late, you’ll get fired.

Lesson learned. Learn how to plan ahead and create a schedule, both skills that a job will help sharpen. ¥ 5 SHOW YOUR PARENTS YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE (YEP, I SAID IT – THE “R” WORD) – Parents breathing down your neck telling you that you aren’t responsible?

Tired of hearing them say it? Then prove them wrong by doing what a responsible teenager would do – find and keep a job for the summer. Bonus points if you decide to continue when school is back in session.

Demonstrating that you can honor a

commitment to an outside entity is a huge marker of success for a parent…so help your parents feel successful. Be responsible for yourself!! ¥ 6 GET OUT OF THE HOUSE – This is a piggyback on #5…face it, by the end of July your room is boring. Having a job requires you to get up, get dressed, be on time and be out of your house! Get a change of scenery. ¥ 7 LEARN TO TAKE DIRECTION FROM ANOTHER ADULT – Sounds horrifying, I know, but in one way or another, the reality is that you will always have some sort of boss. Unless you are running the whole show (and if you are, congrats, but remember what you learned about bosses from jobs you’ve had) you will have someone designated as a boss.

By learning how to be a good employee at a younger age, you will have more job opportunities in the future – no one will hire a walking attitude problem. This is especially helpful for those who aren’t into team sports with encouraging/tough coaches; a good boss can be an invaluable source of encouragement and learning other than parents or teachers.

¥ 8 LEARN WHAT YOU DON’T LIKE – Trying out different jobs without the worry of supporting yourself financially is a golden opportunity. Before you get out in the real world, try out different jobs. You may realize you love customer service, but hate sales.

Food and Beverage is a rush, but retail puts you to sleep. Physical labor and building stuff makes you happy and but the thought of being stuck inside makes you panic. Try out different fields and see if you can uncover a hidden talent or passion.

Having a summer job is good practice for being an adult. Plus, it’s fun! Working in a movie theater one summer was one of my favorite jobs ever – I hate popcorn now, but hey, I always had gas money! The point, besides making money, is truly about building future job skills and making you into a responsible person. Be creative, be a go-getter, and learn how to be a great employee. A job is a ticket to freedom for a teenager, so get after it and have fun! PIQ Jessica Bender, MA, LPCa, is the owner of May River Counseling.

SUMMER 2019 • ParenthoodIQ.com 35

THE SCHOOL EVERY STUDENT DESERVES

Having a positive and transformational impact on young people’s lives

IAL SPEC NG PRICI

Heritage Academy is expanding to add 6th grade to our middle school program.

Come visit, tour, and discuss our exciting new plans!

You are invited to a parent meeting Monday, April 8, 2019 at 7:45 am.

Current 5th grade students are invited to visit us and experience campus life on Monday, April 15, 2019 from 8:45 am – 12 noon.

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WHAT PARENTS ARE SAYING…

WHAT STUDENTS ARE SAYING…

“Our child is the happiest I have seen him in the longest time. He loves school and learning again! He gets in the car after school with a smile on his face. He talks nonstop about what he is learning, his teachers, and his friends.”

— C. Ellis

“This school is so unique! I love the diversity of students as I have made friends from all over the world. Teachers connect with students, get to know each one, and help us to reach out goals. The school environment is positive, high-energy and impactful.” — V. Horup

“Heritage Academy’s creative approach to education has helped my daughter become more self-motivated and take responsibility for her schedule and commitments. She has learned the importance of time management and prioritizing her responsibilities to maintain a healthy balance in her life.”

— J. Brighton

“Heritage Academy gave me a more personal experience and allowed me to take in more information and do well on tests and quizzes.”

— J. Williams

“We could have never found a better school to take a twelve year old and make him into a Colgate University student.” — J. and S. Chin

“Teachers help you as an individual and the small class sizes help you learn more at a time.

It’s personalized.” — F. van-Kleef

“Our daughter’s guidance counselor at Heritage is truly unbelievable. She has helped our daughter with every step of the admissions process. We just wish that she had transferred there sooner.” — C. and D. Alford

“I am surrounded by other students who understand me and have the same drive to do well in school. We have the same priorities.”

— M. Dillon

“The teachers are professionals that truly enjoy working with young people.” — D. Curtis

GE ACAD ITA E E R da valido in M i co al

“Coming to Heritage has helped my time management and has prepared me for college.”

— A. Van Marter

www.HeritageHHI.com tina.sprouse@heritagehhi.com

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“As a new student, I was nervous at first, but found that every student is friendly.” — R. Arai

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CLEARLY A COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE

(843) 842-8600

11 New Orleans Road | Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

Follow us on

– PARENTING –

SPENDING REAL MONEY ON FAKE MONEY: THE ART OF VIRTUAL PURCHASING

By Kate Vermilyea

W

hen the app is “so easy” a toddler could use it, parents may argue about that being a good or bad thing. With the click of a “Buy Now” button or a swipe on an “In app purchase,” those fake dollars can quickly deplete the real ones in your bank account. We’ve all seen it: the app is FREE, but offers “In-App Purchases.” Seems pretty harmless until $5 a week turns into $200 in a month. YIKES! Our very own editor Kate Vermilyea shares her own story on how she handles spending real money on “fake money” with her children (Zoe 8 & Rosie 6).

For a long time I never even considered it.

Then, my tween began to play Roblox. Now I am fielding questions fairly routinely, “Can I have some Robux?” or, most recently, “Can I have 400?” (Zoe-speak for $4.99). We now purchase Apple iTunes gift cards whenever there is a gift need.

I realized fairly quickly that the expense of in-app purchases could begin to cost me dearly! While I’m strict with my own paid apps (I generally don’t pay for any unless 38 ParenthoodIQ.com • SUMMER 2019

they are truly life-changing! I might be considered “cheap”--I have a strict $3/item budget at the grocery store), I began to give my child a few bucks every now and then to appease her. But I realize how quickly this could get out of hand! And I wonder how much substituting an “allowance” for Robux (or any other in-game money) is a healthy format for a young child.

Perhaps it isn’t so bad? According to Dr. Deborah Gilboa, something like Robux or purchases in, let’s say, Fortnite, are “just as valid a toy as the Hot Wheels track started line or the Barbie pet set.” And that’s how I had begun to view this sort of thing. Once a week I am happy to pay $5 for what I consider “entertainment,” not necessarily a toy or a gift. And interestingly, my 6-year-old still wants toys. She likes the thrill of the kill at the store and basically equates a shopping trip with receiving a “treat,” something that has become less of a treat and more of an expectation (but that’s another topic for another day). So I mentally set aside $10-20 for the cost of entertaining my children, may it be virtual

•My friend’s kid ordered a $200 dollhouse and 5 pounds of sugar cookies.

found it was eBay. So then I started looking at email and I’ve got PayPal notifications that I’ve paid 14k to some company in NJ. I went to my eBay account and sure enough, there was the purchase. So I was freaking out and called my son and said: “what did you do?” In my angriest bad dog voice. He fessed up to it. I called the company in NJ and explained what had happened and they said it was no problem and to just cancel the purchase. So we did that. Unfortunately, PayPal tried to take $14k out of my bank account which had like a hundred bucks in it. That resulted in a couple of NSF charges which I made my son pay.

•A coin on eBay for $14,250 - I got three phone calls in a row from an unknown number. I didn’t answer the first two because I don’t answer my cell unless I know the caller. The third time I went to answer but missed them. I googled the number and

•Our oldest ordered an “adult movie” through the On Demand channels back when we had cable. She was probably about 2 years old and home with the babysitter at the time, who was mortified! I called Hargray, and they took care of it. PIQ

or physical. We don’t often go to the movies or do anything that costs us dearly, so this works for us.

ParenthoodIQ asked for Online Ordering/ Virtual Purchasing horror stories and the responses were too funny not to share.

Here are some awesome stories from our village who fell victim to the child who had access to an electronic device (phone, tablet, Alexa or some other household assistant).

SUMMER 2019 • ParenthoodIQ.com 39

4TH

JULY

- CALENDAR OF EVENTS -

HILTON HEAD:

HILTON HEAD FIRECRACKER 5000 PRESENTED BY BEARFOOT SPORTS When: 8am Where: Jarvis Creek Park | Hilton Head Price: Adults- $30 | Kids (12 & Under)- $27 Register online at www.bearfootsports.com.

Add $5 late fee on all entries after 6/26/19 and $10 on July 4th Who: For the whole family What: The Hilton Head Firecracker Run is the largest and oldest road race in Beaufort County and one of the top ten races in the state of South Carolina. Over 1,700 runners and walkers from across the United States participate in this fun, healthy family event.

The festive post-race celebration features a Children’s Fun Run, music, fresh fruit, ice cold refreshments, door prizes and more! A percentage of proceeds from the event benefits local charities including The Hilton Head Rotary Club, Hilton Head Island High School Cross Country Team and other local charities.

Free parking is available in and around Hilton Head Island High School.

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SALUTE FROM THE SHORE When: 1pm Where: SC Coastal Beaches Price: FREE Who: For the whole family www.salutefromtheshore.org What: The Salute from the Shore is a unique opportunity for individuals, friends and families to salute our armed forces while celebrating Independence Day on South Carolina beaches.

FIREWORKS & SUMMER JAMS When: 5-9:30 pm Where: 39 Shelter Cove Lane | Hilton Head Price: FREE to attend Who: For the whole family What: The Island Recreation Association is proud to bring you a fun-filled, festive atmosphere with the highlight of the night fireworks which begin around 9pm. Kids of all ages can enjoy inflatable bounce houses and face painting for a minimal fee. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy the fireworks!

FIREWORKS AT HARBOUR TOWN When: 9-10pm Where: 149 Lighthouse Road | Hilton Head Price: FREE Who: For the whole family What: Join the festivities in Harbour Town for a fireworks extravaganza that will light up the sky over the famous Harbour Town Lighthouse and Calibogue Sound. There will be food, fun and live music!

FIREWORKS AT SKULL CREEK When: 9:15 pm Where: 405 Squire Pope Road | Hilton Head Price: FREE Who: For the whole family What: The fireworks will be launched from a barge in the Intracoastal Waterway/Skull Creek. Live, outside entertainment beginning at 6 p.m. Food and beverage will be available at the area's restaurants. No coolers.

BLUFFTON:

JULY 4-7 GULLAH REUNION FESTIVAL When: 11am-12pm Where: 139 Buck Island Road | Bluffton Price: FREE to attend Who: For the whole family What: The Gullah Reunion Festival is a four day, fun-filled festival of art, food, music, storytelling, cultural demonstrations and more.

An annual cultural heritage event celebrating an American cultural treasure, the Gullah Geechee Culture! A family friendly festival set in the picturesque town of Bluffton, South Carolina. www.gullahreunionfestival.com

BEAUFORT:

INDEPENDENCE DAY AT MCRD, PARRIS ISLAND, SC When: Gates open at 5pm Where: 283 Blvd De France | Parris Island, SC 29905 Price: FREE and open to the public Who: For the whole family What: Celebrate Independence Day at this family friend event that will feature a kid’s fun zone, music from the Parris Island Band and an incredible fireworks display!

SAVANNAH:

RIVER STREET FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION When: 4-10pm Where: River Street | Savannah Price: FREE to attend Who: For the whole family What: Come celebrate American patriotism at the River Street Fourth of July Festival & Fireworks Extravaganza! Savannah’s historic riverfront will be celebrating the Fourth of July all weekend long! 912-234-0295.

SUMMER 2019 • ParenthoodIQ.com 41

4TH

JULY

- CALENDAR OF EVENTS -

2019 FOURTH OF JULY DINNER CRUISE & FIREWORKS CRUISE When: Dinner Cruise- Board at 6pm Fireworks (only) Cruise- Board at 8pm Where: 9 E. River Street | Savannah Price: Dinner Cruise: Adult- $129.95 | Child (ages 5-12)- $69.95 Fireworks (only) Cruise: Adults- $55.95 | Child (ages 5-12)- $35.95 Children 4 and under are FREE Who: For the whole family What: Dinner Cruise - Join them for a one of a kind 3 hour celebration featuring a delicious 4th of July inspired dinner buffet, live enter-

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tainment, drink specials and a spectacular fireworks show presented by the Waterfront Association.

Savannah Fireworks Cruise: Celebrate the 4th of July on the 1 ½ hour cruise dancing to the music of their Riverboat DJ spinning your favorite tunes. There will also be a spectacular fireworks display! A cash and snack bar will be available during the cruise! Both riverboats have climate controlled decks for comfort and an outdoor deck for viewing. Must reserve online at www. savannahriverboat.com or call 912-232-6404 to make a reservation.

SUMMER - CALENDAR OF EVENTS -

SWEETGRASS CULTURAL ARTS FESTIVAL

HILTON HEAD ISLAND

JUNE 26 - AUGUST 4 “LEGALLY BLONDE: THE MUSICAL” When: June 26 - Aug 4 Where: Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island.

Price: Tickets for preview performances June 26-27 are $40 for adults and $27 for children ages 5-15; tickets for shows June 28-Aug. 4 are $50 for adults and $37 for children ages 5-15.

8 p.m., to order call 843-686-3945, ext. 206, or artshhi.com.

JUNE 13 - AUGUST 30 IMAGINATION HOUR AT THE SANDBOX CHILDREN’S MUSEUM When: 10:30am-11:30am every Thursday Where: 18 A Pope Ave | Hilton Head Who: It is geared for children 5 and under.

Price: Adults - $7 | Seniors (65+) - $6 Active Military - $6 | Children 1+ -$7 0-12 Months- FREE | Members - FREE Groups of 10+ - $6 What: Our weekly Imagination Hour features storytime and a related arts and crafts project

uniquely designed for parents and caregivers to enjoy one-on-one time with their children.

Each week features a different book making it the perfect weekly outing for you and your family. www.thesandbox.org

BLUFFTON

JULY 10, 11, 12 MAY RIVER SHRIMP FEST SUNSET 5K When: July 10- Sunset 5K- 7:30pm | July 115:30- 9:30pm | July 12- 4:30-9:30pm Where: 55 Wharf Street | Bluffton Who: For the whole family Price: Register online for Sunset 5K- $30-$40 | Admission to Shrimp Fest- $5 per person What: The Sunset 5K is presented by the Bluffton Trading Post and will begin the festivities for the festival by starting and ending at the Oyster Factory Park. Walkers and runners will be going through the streets of Old Towne Bluffton. Participants will receive an organic cotton t-shirt and 2 Shrimp Fest tickets plus a beverage ticket to use on either night of the Shrimp Festival. Then, everyone is invited to enjoy a 2-day feast of local shrimp, SUMMER 2019 • ParenthoodIQ.com 43

SUMMER - CALENDAR OF EVENTS -

seafood, arts and music. Entertainers include the Pinckney Island Boys, Groove Town Assault, Bobby Magyarosi and The Horan Brothers. Register for the Sunset 5K online www.raceroster.org or call 843-757-8520.

Who: Entire Family Price: Per Event, check full schedule for all the details What: 10 incredible days of Lowcountry fun & memories that last a lifetime. www.bftwaterfestival.com

SAVANNAH

JULY 21 KIDS & PRO’S FOOTBALL CAMP When: 1-5 pm Where: Cross Schools, 495 Buckwalter Pkwy Who : Ages 7-13 Price: FREE What: Kids & Pros, Inc. is a non-profit organization founded by former Atlanta Falcons Buddy Curry and Bobby Butler.

Kids & Pros is designed to provide football inspiration to young athletes. Developing Character and Skills Through Athletics. www.kidsandpros.com/registration/

BEAUFORT

JULY 12 - 21 BEAUFORT WATER FESTIVAL When: Schedule changes daily visit website for details Where: Waterfront Park 44 ParenthoodIQ.com • SUMMER 2019

JULY 7 PRINCESS AND THE FROG When: 3:00- 4:30pm Where: Lucas Theatre Price: $8 per person What: Spend Sunday afternoons with your family and these animated classics. The Lucas Theater is giving you the opportunity to see some of your favorite Disney Classics on the big screen. Creating a family-friendly environment complete with concessions and sweets from the Vedette, the SCAD café located within. Finish out the summer with showings on July 21 Aristocrats and August 4 Frozen. Tickets are available online https:// tickets.savannahboxoffice.com JULY 18 ART START: THE PRINTS OF DAME LAURA KNIGHT When: 10:30-11:30 Where: Jepson Center @ The Telfair Museum Price: $5 per child | Adult members free / Adult non-members $12 What: This month’s featured exhibition is “The Prints of Dame Laura Knight.” Come play and learn with us! Start your day with art with our new and combined programs! Once a month, our youngest patrons are invited to the Jepson Center for story time, a special tour, and an art activity. Strollers, crying babies, toddlers, and older siblings are all welcome here. www.telfair.org

SUMMER - CALENDAR OF EVENTS -

CHARLESTON

JULY 13 SWEETGRASS CULTURAL ARTS FESTIVAL When: 10am-3pm Where: Mt. Pleasant Waterfront Park | 99 Harry M. Hallman Jr. Boulevard | Mt. Pleasant Price: FREE admission Who: For the whole family What: Celebrate this Annual festival of the Gullah Geechee Cultural heritage. Enjoy lots of good food, buy hand woven baskets and other pieces, enjoy storytelling, and performances by African drummers and dancers. www.visit-historic-charleston.com JULY 20 6TH ANNUAL LADYBUG RELEASE AT MAGNOLIA PLANTATION & GARDENS When 9am-2pm Where: 3550 Ashley River Rd | Charleston, SC Who: For the whole family Price: Garden Admission- Adults- $20 | Child ( 6-12)- $10 | Ages 5 & Under are FREE What: Enjoy a beautiful event for children including a ladybug costume contest, face painting, activities and more! Children will also have an opportunity to participate in the

release of over 200,000 ladybugs anywhere in the gardens and learn how we can help protect our environment. magnoliaplantation.com 843-571-1266

GREENVILLE

AUGUST 29 - SEPTEMBER 8 UPPER SOUTH CAROLINA STATE FAIR When: Monday - Thursday 4 - 10pm | Friday 4 11pm | Saturday & Sunday 12 - 11pm Where: Upper South Carolina State Fairgrounds/Greenville Pickens Speedway 3800 Calhoun Memorial Hwy Easley, SC 29640 - LOCATED 5 MINUTES FROM DOWNTOWN GREENVILLE Price : BUY your tickets online for special SAVINGS - GATE ADMISSION $8.00 PER PERSON (KIDS UNDER 2 FREE) - UNLIMITED RIDE WRISTBANDS $25.00 PER PERSON Parking $5.00 per vehicle What: The Upper SC State Fair welcomes back Amusements of America to the midway. Ride the Crazy Mouse Roller Coaster, Wave Swinger, Free Fall or one of the many rides. Listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the largest traveling amusement park in the world, Amusements of America will bring thrills to the Upper SC State Fair once again.

SUMMER 2019 • ParenthoodIQ.com 45

SUMMER - CALENDAR OF EVENTS -

ONGOING SUMMER JAMS: The Island Recreation Association presents a fun-filled, festive atmosphere with the highlight of the night being fireworks, which start around 9 p.m.

Kids can enjoy inflatable bounce houses and face painting for a minimal fee. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy the fireworks. 5-9 p.m.

Shelter Cove Community Park, 39 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island.

THE MARKET: The Village at Wexford Market once again offering local residents and visitors to the area fresh produce, tasty treats, handcrafted goods and other locally inspired items to area residents and visitors in a unique Lowcountry setting. Wednesdays through Sept.

4. For more information about The Market at the Village at Wexford and a complete listing of vendors this season, “like” The Village at Wexford on Facebook. Interested vendors can contact Michele at shoessox@aol.com.

GREGG RUSSELL: Over the years, Gregg Russell has become a Sea Pines classic. You’ll find him under the Liberty Oak in Harbour Town entertaining adults and children alike.

His concerts are not to be missed. Free. 8-9:30 p.m. Mondays to Fridays through Aug. 23. Sea Pines Resort, 32 Greenwood Dr, Hilton Head Island. seapines.com.

TIE DYE: Join us at the Sea Pines Beach Club and create tie-dye T-shirts with The Sea Pines Resort logo. A new T-shirt design premiers this summer, as well as a new size. Now you can create a matching tie-dye for your stuffed animal. (Sizes available: youth small through adults). $23 per item. Noon-4 p.m., Mondays and Tuesdays; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Sea Pines Resort, 32 Greenwood Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843842-1979 or seapines.com.

MOVIE NIGHTS: After the sun sets over Broad Creek, watch favorites under the stars on a 20' movie screen. Beach chairs, blankets and takeout food from Shelter Cove Towne Centre merchants recommended.

Thursdays from 9-11 p.m.

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SUMMER - CALENDAR OF EVENTS -

FISHING & CRABBING LESSONS: Ben Green with Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church on Squire Pope Road will offer a free missionary program that teaches children fishing and crabbing skills. 4 p.m.

Saturdays, Rowing & Sailing Center, 137 Squire Pope Road, Hilton Head Island.

843-816-0172.

CRABBY ENCOUNTERS: Spend your morning trying the art of cast netting and learn about the crabs of Hilton Head Island and other marine creatures that live along the shore. Supplies provided; catch and release. $19 for adults; $14 for children ages 12 and younger. Tuesdays to Thursdays, Sea Pines Resort, 32 Greenwood Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-1979 or seapines.com.

PALMETTO DUNES TURTLE TROT 5K: This family-friendly run/walk event consists of two courses: A beach course for low tide and a road course for high tide. Both routes feature some of the best Palmetto Dunes has to offer by leading participants over our sand, under our tree canopy, and along our lagoon and lakes. $25 for adults; kids 12 and younger run free. 8-9 a.m. Wednesdays through Aug. 21.

Palmetto Dunes, 14 Dunes House Lane, Hilton Head Island. 843-785-1109 or pdpoa.org.

SUMMER 2019 • ParenthoodIQ.com 47

STELLAR KIDS We had the chance to sit down with some Stellar Kids here in the Lowcountry. These are children, tweens, and teens who truly stand out amongst their peers.

Think you have a stellar kid?

Let us know by emailing editor@parenthoodiq.com

ELEANOR BEST 5th grade at Okatie Elementary School WHY: Ella is the Junior Beta Club President for Okatie Elementary School, is OES News Editor (school newspaper), and maintains straight A's in the Gifted & Talented Program Activities: Competitive Dance Team at Bluffton School of Dance, Assistant Teacher for 3-5-year-olds at Bluffton School of Dance ADVICE: "You are not someone else, you are yourself."

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FUN FACTS: I want to be a scientist for NASA when I grow up. I've been dancing since I was 3 years old (8 years, 3 years as a competitive dancer); I was named after Eleanor Roosevelt. I spent the night under a space shuttle at the Kennedy Space Center. My family owns an alpaca farm.

JAKE LOPKO A rising junior at Hilton Head Preparatory School

WHY: Jake’s Eagle Scout was awarded during his sophomore year of high school. His Eagle Scout Project was about raising awareness for Gullah Cemeteries that need cleaning and ongoing care. Jake cleaned four cemeteries that were affected by Hurricanes Matthew and Irma. He picked this project because he read that his friend Ben Green was trying to clean ten Gullah Cemeteries. Mr. Green also hosts a fishing program that Jake

helps with, so he asked Mr. Green if he could help with cleaning his church's cemeteries. He said yes, and after doing the paperwork and getting it approved, Jake made a GoFundMe page "with the help of my mother" and they raised $2,000 to pay for the identification signs that Jake put in.

ADVICE: "Just go find something you like to do and for me, it is playing sports and volunteering my time to my community.”

FUN FACTS: Jake’s favorite subject is math, his favorite food is pizza, and his all-time favorite sports player is Michael Jordan.

ISABELLA MILLER A rising sophomore at May River High School ADVICE: "Never apologize for being who you are, and don’t allow other people to change the way you live your life."

WHY: Isabella won a National Silver Medal for the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, the longest-running and most prestigious recognition program for creative teens in grades 7-12. This year, students submitted nearly 340,000 works of visual art and writing.

FUN FACTS: Isabella’s favorite food is chicken parmesan; her all-time favorite book is The Sun is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon, and her favorite singer is Alicia Keys. Isabella’s two favorite places she has traveled to are New York City and San Francisco. She’s looking forward to this summer, because she’ll be going to a twoweek camp in New York City and a three week-camp in Philadelphia. (She loves big cities!)

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10

– PARENTING –

THINGS TO DO WITH YOUR KIDS THAT WON'T BREAK THE BANK

By Meredith DiMuzio

#lowcountryfamilyfun

HWY 21 DRIVE-IN MOVIE

Located just 1.5 miles from the Marine Corps Air Station, this is the perfect addition to any summer night. With adults costing only $7, kids 4-12 $3, and kids 3 and under FREE, this night out definitely won’t break the bank. Always showing a double feature, the ticket window and concessions open at 6:30 with the first movie showing at 8:45.

Pack the car up and head north for a family night under the stars (Bonus: Take an air mattress in the back of a pickup truck for real entertainment!).

PORT ROYAL SOUND FOUNDATION

Experience, Discover, Explore and Connect to the Lowcountry with a visit to the center.

There is no admission fee for the Maritime Center, but they do suggest a donation.

Tours are self-guided with volunteer docents available to answer questions and assist as needed. From creature feedings to storytime, recycled art contests and eco boat excursions, a visit to the Maritime Center will show you the ins and outs from the Lowcountry by way of land, air, and water.

HUNTING ISLAND STATE PARK

Hunting Island boasts that they are one of the best places to watch a Lowcountry sunset, have eight miles of nature trails 50 ParenthoodIQ.com • SUMMER 2019

through the maritime forest, and beaches full of sharks teeth to collect and share.

For an admission of $2, visitors can climb the lighthouse 167 steps and walk around the observation deck for a lofty view of the barrier island and surrounding seascape.

CHILDREN MUST BE AT LEAST 44" TALL TO CLIMB THE LIGHTHOUSE. Admission to the Park - Adults $5, Kids 6-15 $3 and Kids under 5 are FREE. A visit with one of those treasures: priceless.

STATION 300

KIDS BOWL FREE! You heard it right! 2 FREE games every day all summer long, all you have to do is register online www. kidsbowlfree.com. Purchase a family pass so everyone can enjoy--perfect for the summer babysitters or when grandparents come to visit. Shoe rental fees still apply and lanes are subject to availability.

THE SANDBOX CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Need to beat the heat? We have just the place for you and your Little Locals--a space to let your imagination run wild. Hosting a weekly Imagination Hour, weekly themed summer camps, and even Parents Night Out, the Sandbox is just what your littles are looking for this summer. From a flight deck to a grocery store, arts and crafts tables galore, and even a Learners Loft for the little contractor to build his first skyscraper...

Photo by Lexi Lapointe

Pirate's Island Adventure Golf

Become a member and receive year-round benefits or just pop in for the day–you will have a blast!

MINIATURE GOLF

With courses built for both the novice and semi-pro, the game of mini golf takes you on a pirate adventure or through caves and along water hazards as the entire family can join in on the fun. Many locations offer deals for the family, some offering FREE play for children 3 and under with a paying adult. Having too much fun? Take advantage of the discount on additional rounds or the ALL DAY Play to keep the match from ending.

COLIGNY PLAZA KIDS SHOW Featuring Jevon Daly. Every Sunday night from 6:30 - 8:30 pm on the Main Stage join local legend Jevon Daly for the kids show that even the LOCALS can’t miss. From

stories to sing-alongs it is a fun-filled show for the entire family. Learn all of the words to the “Pelican Bomb Squad,” join in for a shaker solo, and sing along as you learn “What is Your Super Power.”

THE SPANISH MOSS TRAIL

A 10-mile greenway perfect for a family afternoon bike ride. The trail provides a paved, dedicated pedestrian bike path that connects neighborhoods, parks, and businesses. Parking is available at the trailhead and three other locations: Broome Lane, Westvine Drive, and Ribaut Road.

Crossing over waterways and marshes offers the perfect family picture op. Need a bike or can’t get yours all the way to Beaufort? Not a problem. Lowcountry Bicycles rents cruisers for just $6 an hour.

Buckle up that helmet and cruise through the Lowcountry. PIQ

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– TRAVEL –

ROAD TRIP I taught my 4yo how to read a map and she would follow the map and the road signs to tell me where we were. Also we did road signs shapes and car colors. - Mary G.

When I was little and we went on long car trips, my mom used to wrap small dollar store gifts or candy. Every 20 miles (or pick your own #) we got to choose a prize for not asking how much longer, fighting with each other, or crying about how long it was taking. We looked forward to the small surprises. - Izzy T.

Travel first thing in the morning, wake up around 4/5am and hit the road. Trust me, night travel is nice for the kids to sleep but bad on the parents since we get tired too and a quiet car is even harder to stay awake in. - Lyndsey D.

Having a portable potty is always great for late night potty breaks for the kids and not having to get out of the car. - Becky B.

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We will go to Redbox the day that we are leaving and rent movies that they have not seen before. This way it'll keep their attention. A little tip with Redbox you can rent in one location and return in another. It doesn't matter if it's a different state. - Nikki L.

We have a bag of new “prizes”. Usually things we get in a kids meal. I hide them so she doesn’t know they come with anything. - Summer D.

Reading makes my youngest car sick, so we would often have simple toys like tic tac toe, bring a favorite pillow and blanket, and music player. - Erin C.

Interview your kids. Ask them questions?

Favorite color, if they could go anywhere in the world, who they'd be if they had a super power, favorite xmas and why, fav vacation, if the won a million dollars what would they do with it. - Anne F.

amping?

Going yC o t g n i k o o u r trip with little one n n a l p LoHere are some quick tips on s!

By Mollie Kin a

rd

1. Be flexible, but do your best to stick with the general routine 2. Enjoy nap time: everyone can enjoy the downtime 3. Remember the kiddos - take time to slow down and not be in a hurry

4. Keep your driving distance to 2-4 hours 5. No need for lots of toys - nature provides that. A few good things, however, are outside push toys, coloring, and bubbles

6. It’s an adventure! Try backroads and don’t be afraid to stop and explore. Remember, also, that sometimes it’s just trial and error

Edisto Beach and Mistletoe State Park are great local options!

SUMMER 2019 • ParenthoodIQ.com 53

– TRAVEL –

WHAT ARE WE DOING THIS WEEKEND? 7 WAYS TO SPEND A DAY WITH KIDS IN COLUMBIA, SC

W

By Kelly Barbrey hether you’re heading to Columbia SC for a much-needed family escape or find yourself in town for a business trip or function with kids in tow, we’ve compiled 7 ways to spend a quality day with the family.

DAY TRIP: Columbia, SC 1. KAYAK + COOL DOWN Best for: Ages 10 and up. If you are intimidated by full-on camping with the family, start with a no-brainer like a guided tour with Palmetto Outdoors.

A 3-hour guided tour kayaking the Congaree Creek in Congaree National Park includes all the equipment you need to enjoy all the nature without all the hassle. Offered in spring and fall.

Pro tip: If you are looking for a guided tour experience but “free” is more in line with your budget, try Palmetto Outdoors 12,000 Year History Tour at Congaree Creek option. Afterwards, treat your crew 54 ParenthoodIQ.com • SUMMER 2019

to a shaved-ice sweet treat at Pelican’s SnoBalls (multiple locations).

2. PLANES AND PUPPETS Best for: Toddlers to Early Elementary Ages.

Watch as puppetry arts come alive at the Columbia Marionette Theatre. Catch a performance of The Frog Princess on Saturdays this spring and purchase a puppet to take home and practice. Tack on a trip to EdVenture Children’s Museum and explore their newest exhibit, Flight, where your mini aviator will learn about aeronautics and experience the sensation of flight from a Boeing 757 cockpit.

3. ESCAPE ROOM AND ICE CREAM Best for: Early Elementary and up. Spend the afternoon at Escapology and complete a mission against the clock. While your adrenaline may be pumping, the experience is not designed to be scary and is suitable for kids and teens. Children under 8 play free with adults. Afterwards, make your way to Sweet Cream on Main Street and try the “secret handshake” flavor.

4. JUMP AND SHAKE Best For: Early Elementary and Up. If your kids have energy to burn, head to Adrenaline Entertainment Center for Open Jump.

Afterwards, treat them to a burger and a milkshake at the legendary Rosewood Dairy Bar. Pro tip: We do not recommend reversing the order of these activities.

5. TRAIL WALK & CRAFT BREW (FOR YOU) Best for: The Stroller Set. If you are rolling into town with jogging stroller in tow, check out Congaree National Park’s 2.4 mile Wilderness Loop or the Dreher Island State Park 2.1 mile Little Gap Trail. Refuel with some yummy bites and craft beer on the patio at River Rat Brewery (no kidshaming here).

6. SODA CITY + CINEMA SATURDAY Best for: All Ages at the market; As for the movie, only you know your kid’s “sit-still ability.” Make a day of it on Main Street

with a trip to Soda City Market in the morning (starring coffee and food vendors, cool art + lots of people watching) followed by a kid-friendly film at the Nickelodeon Theatre. The Nick kicks off their Saturday Stories this spring with $5 kids tickets and a family-friendly matinee.

7. BRUNCH AND ART WALK (OR DRIVE) Best For: All Ages. Fuel up at one of Columbia’s many kid-friendly brunch spots like Za’s, The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli or BLD Diner. While there, visit One Columbia’s recently-launched public art directory and plan to take in some amazing murals, sculptures and experiential art pieces (and grab a few great shots for Instagram in the process).

HAVE MORE TIME? Riverbanks Zoo has baby lions, gorillas and a giraffe born in 2018, so stop by for a cuteness fix or to enjoy Waterfall Junction as the weather warms up. Check out their new behind the scenes experiences (book ahead for select times on weekends) for a chance to be on stage with the sea lions, feed an elephant or get up close with the zoo’s penguin colony.

For more family-friendly options, visit our Things To Do page or chat with an Experience Columbia SC Visitor Information Specialist at our Visitors Center to help plan your trip. PIQ

Kelly Barbrey is the VP of Marketing & Communications for experiencecolumbiasc.com. Borrowed with permission.

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– TRAVEL –

WEEKEND GETAWAY 10 IDEAS FOR FAMILY FUN ON AMELIA ISLAND

DAY TRIP: Amelia Island, FL 1. TAKE A DIP. There's nothing quite like a child's first aquatic experience with Mom and Dad. From the 13 miles of beaches to lesser-known swimming pools, these are the TOP SPOTS for first dips and first doggy-paddles. The splash park at the Atlantic Recreation Center is the ideal place for wee ones to get acquainted with the water, while older children can swim in the adjacent pool.

2. GO PLAY WITH THE PIRATES. Located not far from Main Beach and adjoining Egan's Creek, check out the PIRATE PLAYGROUND. The securely fenced in playground integrates art, nature, music and imagination to stimulate all ages and physical abilities.

The park has restrooms and picnic tables, as well as access to the Greenway.

Next door to the park is the Atlantic Rec Center. This community building features a large pool where older children can 56 ParenthoodIQ.com • SUMMER 2019

take a dip, as well as a smaller splash pool for the little ones.

3. LEARN ABOUT THE CREATURES OF THE SEA. Children can come to understand how that delicious local shrimp is caught while learning about local ecology, all while taking in views of the Intracoastal Waterway on a familyfriendly AMELIA RIVER CRUISE. Some may even see dolphins.

4. TAKE IN THE NATURAL ATTRACTIONS. You’ll find THE NATURE CENTER open to the public and located at the OMNI AMELIA ISLAND PLANTATION. Operated by staff with backgrounds in biology and environmental studies, this educating experience offers children a fun and captivating way to learn about the environment around them. Stop by for a Critter Talk and meet Buddy the Parrot.

5. CURL UP WITH A GOOD READ. On a rainy day, children can cuddle up with a lovingly selected book while Mom and Dad sip caffe lattes, browsing a highly curated collection at the new STORY & SONG BOOKSTORE BISTRO. With two levels, an open-air courtyard, and a lively event calendar replete with visiting authors, there's always something happening at this neighborhood bookstore, located within the quaint Amelia Park district.

While downtown, the charming BOOK LOFT beckons with its award-winning window display. Inside, find rare editions, a children's nook, and even French conversation classes -- all in addition to best-sellers that are perfect for the beach.

6. DISCOVER YOUR INNER PIPPI. Who knows family fun better than the pigtailed adventuress Pippi Longstocking?

Inspired by the story and by the presence of the Captain's House or the "Pippi Longstocking House," the historic residence in Old Town that was used in the 1988 movie filmed on Amelia Island.

Theresa Duncan opened VILLA VILLEKULA TOYS, a neighborhood toy store in Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach that features room to play and an array of hand-picked, fun, educational, open-minded, outdoor, and eco-friendly toys. The colorful store is a great place to stock up on games and puzzles for car rides, too. For more games, beach toys, and adorable southern fare (think smocked motifs with monograms), MONKEY BARREL offers a classic yet innovative selections of gifts at THE SHOPS OF AMELIA ISLAND PLANTATION. 7. SKATE, SEASIDE. If your children have an adventurous spirit, they are sure to be enthralled by the SKATE PARK located at Main Beach. This busy park is a favorite amongst the locals for skateboards, scooters and rollerblades. Whilst the older kids are enjoying the halfpipe, the younger

children can enjoy the adjacent play park or swing some golf clubs on the PUTTPUTT COURSE. 8. ESCAPE INDOORS. A great option to keep your older teenagers entertained, AMELIA ISLAND ESCAPE ROOMS is an exciting puzzle room that will have their brains turning in no time. With 3 options to choose from, this is the perfect group rainy day activity. Once you enter the room, you must solve a variety of tasks and riddles to “escape”. Try to complete the task within the set time frame or ask for some clues to help you along.

9. GO BACK IN TIME. Pack up the entire family for a wholesome experience at Florida's first spoken museum: AMELIA ISLAND MUSEUM OF HISTORY. Explore through their exhibits, choose from tours for all ages, and navigate to their interactive children's area. You'll feel as if you lived through Amelia Island’s legendary history from their fascinating storytelling. FORT CLINCH offers a "secret", well-shaded playground across from the fort entrance, and everyone can enjoy the reenactors that animate the historic experience. (Bet you can't get them out of character! ) 10. SEE REAL TREASURE. Aspiring treasure hunters can learn from the pros at THE AMELIA ISLAND MARITIME MUSEUM, which brings the maritime history of Amelia Island to life with stories, artifacts and photographs. Pirates and treasure abound! Take a look at AMELIAISLAND. COM/TREASURE for a short family-friendly film to whet your appetite for exploration.

No matter your age and the number of generations in your group, the possibilities for bonding on Amelia Island are endless.

The great outdoors and unique character of this Florida gem await all ages. PIQ

Article used with permission from www.ameliaisland.com.

SUMMER 2019 • ParenthoodIQ.com 57

– TRAVEL –

WORTH THE DRIVE SUMMER TRIP TO ASHEVILLE

E

xploring the mountains surrounding Asheville is an immersion of millions of years of natural history. For families that appreciate the natural world, the possibilities are endless. The Asheville area has seen a surge in kid-friendly offerings and businesses over the last year- perfect for downtown exploration or days when it’s too rainy to hit the trails.

DAY TRIP: Asheville, NC OUTSIDE ADVENTURES Adventure Center of Asheville - Located just minutes from downtown Asheville, this park just added Kidzip, one of America’s first zipline adventures designed for kids 4-10 years old. The center also offers mountain bike courses and a treetop adventure park.

DOWNTOWN ADVENTURES Conundrum’s Kidnundrum - Features an escape room specifically designed for kids ages 8-14 and their parents.

Little River - Take a dip below one of the dozens of waterfalls at Dupont State Forest that are so impressive you’ll hardly notice the chill.

Splashville - Cool off in this interactive water fountain in Pack Square Park. Fountains are open from 9am-8pm through September.

Smoky Mountain Adventure Center and Climbmax Climbing - offer kids climbing and a special rate for kids 5 years and under.

Sliding Rock - Take a ride down a 60 foot natural waterslide in the Pisgah National Forest.

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Asheville Pinball Museum - Play all day with over 75 different pinball machines and classic video games.

Well Played Board Game Cafe - This cafe features hundreds of board games to play, plenty of snacks, and a wonderful kids menu.

Pizza Mind - Kids can make their own pizza! Server brings them dough, sauce, cheese, and toppings and kids create their own masterpiece.

BILTMORE Kids 16 and under are free all summer until September 2!

Asheville Brewing Co. - Part brewery, part pizza restaurant, they regularly show children’s movies and have a game room.

Visit the Pisgah playground! Includes logs for climbing, a lookout with rock formations, and a sand area and water pump.

Whistle Hop - A newer brewery with a disc golf course.

Stop by the Biltmore Dairy Bar for hand scooped ice cream and the Toymaker’s for old fashioned toys and games.

The Farm in Antler Hill Village includes barnyard animals, tractors and wagons to climb, old fashioned games to play, and demonstrations from blacksmith, woodworkers.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY BREWERIES Many Asheville Breweries incorporate family friendly elements!

Archetype - Has toys and a story time for kids.

Zillicoah and Turgua - Both breweries have ample space to run!

PLACES TO STAY Most Asheville properties make a great fit for families!

Crowne Plaza is a standout with a close proximity to the Adventure Center of Asheville Carolina Mornings and Yonder Luxury Vacation Rentals are also great with working with families. PIQ

Information used with permission from exploreasheville.com.

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LET’S GET SOCIAL

HOW DOES YOUR FAMILY HAVE FUN IN THE LOWCOUNTRY?

Be sure to use the hashtag, #lowcountryfamilyfun for a chance to be featured on ParenthoodIQ’s Instagram!

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#LOWCOUNTRYFAMILYFUN SUMMER 2019 • ParenthoodIQ.com 61

– COLORING –

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