My Child Has AUTISM — Now What?
Why Charter Schools? April 2010 * indyschild.com
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table of contents
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AUTISM
NEWS & SHOPPING * News You Can Use: Contests, Products, News and More
06
RAVE REVIEWS: Green is Good
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Health & Wellness * PEDIATRIC health: Far Too Many Babies are Dying in Indiana
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WHY CHARTER SCHOOLS
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PEDIATRIC health: Protecting Kids From More Than Just Sunburns
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FEATURE: Autism Support 101
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special needs awareness: The Importance of Special Needs Planning
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Around Town * MUSEUM NOTES: Learning Through Play Isn’t Just for Kids
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FAMILY FUN IN INDY: History in the Making
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ARTS & Enrichment: Finding the Right Niche
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Commentary & Parenting * Publisher’s Note: Community Service Builds Self Esteem
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FAMILY FITNESS
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MOMMY MAGIC : Drama Mamas
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Ask a teen: What We Really Mean When We Say...
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DEAR teacher: Your Questions of Teachers—Answered
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FEATURE: Finding the Right Camp
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* RESOURCES
SPECIAL NEEDS Guide
22
ARTS & ENrichment Guide
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CHILDCARE & EDUCATION DIRECTORY
35
CAMP GUIDE
40
SHOPPING CORNER
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Ask the Staff: April is National garden Month. (www.nationalgardenmonth.org)
What’s your favorite flower or plant?
COLLEGE 301 Daisies and Orchids
Tulips, Hyacinths, Peonys...
Tulips
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Tulips and Hydrangeas
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Publisher’s Note
Community Service Builds Self-Esteem
Local Students and Organizations—Champions of Giving “In giving, we receive.” “It’s better to give than FOUNDING PUBLISHER Barbara Wynne barbara@indyschild.com
to receive.” You’ve heard both before, but I would like to extol organizations that have programs that encourage children and families to give back to their communities.
Publisher & President of Sales & Business Development Mary Wynne Cox publisher@indyschild.com
Last weekend, I watched parishioners at St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church knit with love over 100 hand-made dolls. They were dressed with bright Caribbean fashions, blessed and the sent to children in Haiti and the Park Tudor Boys Tennis Team promoted a “Hit for Haiti” day at Five Seasons and sent $3,000 to the Red Cross to help.
Associate Publisher & Editor-in-Chief Lynette Rowland editor@indyschild.com sales and business development Jennica Zalewski jennica@indyschild.com Art Direction & Design Heather Lipe heather@indyschild.com Public Relations and Advertising Coordinator Erin Tulley erin@indyschild.com Controller / ACCOUNTANT Roxanne Burns roxanne@indyschild.com ON the cover Molly Price COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Lindy Christopher Photography
A new organization in Zionsville is organizing a weeklong camp to specif ically focus on community service. Camp Caring Hands will meet July 5-9 at both Lions Park and the Boys and Girls Club of Zionsville. Campers will be divided into three groups: Four and under with a parent attending from 9 a.m.-12 a.m. for $ 8.50 a day. Ages 5-9 and 10-14 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Cost is $ 85 per week and scholarships are available. Campers will bring their own lunch and healthy snacks are provided. The board of directors of Kids Care Club is busy identifying projects and learning opportunities that can benef it Caring Hands campers. Their objectives are to have children involved in Community Clean-up and Beautif ication, Animal Protection, Senior Giving, Hunger Relief and Kids Caring for Kids. Registration forms will be available at the Boys and Girls Club of Zionsville after April 5.
High Schools. This new program has a ten-year funding window to promote volunteerism and community service with our local teenage students. I commend Lilly Endowment for recognizing that our teenage students need to be encouraged to grow in public service within their schools and neighborhoods. And lastly, on April 17, over 40,000 Indianapolis men, women and children will participate and support the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure to f ight breast cancer. Participants are encouraged to do as much as they can f inancially to insure the success of the event. In fact, members of our family will be there as a part of the “Kathy’s Wynners” team. One of the great features of “Race for the Cure” is that, in addition to the run, there is a one-mile walk for participants who want to be part of the project at a level more appropriate for young children and seniors. There are many examples of community service by students and youth organizations and Indy’s Child would like to feature highlights about their accomplishments as champions of community service. Please send your letters and photos to letters@indyschild.com and tell us about the wonderful things that students and organizations in your area are doing for others.
Keep giving and have a wonderful April!
It was announced at the Celebrate Indianapolis luncheon that the Lilly Endowment would work with IPS and the Institute of Public Service to establish volunteer coordinators in all the IPS
“We visit 2 or 3 times a month” – ⁄⁄-Year Member, Noblesville
We Have a New Address! Indy’s Child 921 E. 86th Street, Suite 130 Indianapolis, IN 46240 317.722.8500 (p) 317.722.8510 (f ) indyschild@indyschild.com Copyright: Indy’s Child Parenting Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2009 by Indy’s Child Inc. and Midwest Parenting Publications, LLC.All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of products, commentary or services herein. For information on subscriptions, editorial guidelines, advertising rates and more visit www.indyschild.com.
Membership at The Children’s Museum –
It’s Worth MORE Than the Price of Admission.
Tues.–Sun., 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. • Free Garage Parking 3000 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis • (317) 334-4000
ChildrensMuseum.org
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news you can use
Add Colorful Privacy Without the Worries of Curtains or Blinds A new line of adhesive-free privacy window tints is a colorful and fun way to add privacy to any child or teen’s bedroom window. For bedroom windows facing a street, a neighbor’s window or the common area of an apartment complex, condominium or dorm, adding an adhesive-free privacy film from the Deco Tint Collection by Wallpaper for Windows is an easy and stylish way to protect your child or teenager from prying eyes. Curtains and blinds are all too often left open at night when the lights are on. Using these decorative films ensures privacy at night while illuminating the room with beautiful stained glass color during the day.
Indy’s Child
to Hold Several Contests in April/May
Want to send your son to a football camp—with an NFL player? Sign up for the Indy’s Child E-newsletter at www. IndysChild.com on the right-hand side of the screen and we will be running a contest where two entries will be selected to send one child to summer camp with Dwight Freeney.
Want to win tickets to Sesame Street Live—in the Gold Circle? We’ll be giving away several VIP tickets and standard tickets to our E-newsletter subscribers who register to win!
Just Between Friends Sale, an OnlyGreen Earth Day Celebration Package, Regal Cinema Movie Tickets and much more!
Each week our brand-new E-newsletter is packed full of useful information: Top 5-10 events every day of the weekend, weekly EXCLUSIVE contest available ONLY to E-newsletter subscribers, time-sensitive news and information, book and product reviews and much more. You can’t win if you don’t sign up, so get in the know and register for our once a week E-newsletter—your kids will thank you!
We also will be giving away tickets for Broad Ripple Art Fair, Whale of a Sale,3/12/2010 ESCforIndysChildApr2010.pdf
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The Deco Tint line is available in 10 child- and parent-pleasing colors that look like stained glass. Each color is available in a Privacy and a See-Thru version, which is used when privacy is not a concern, but the desire for a unique, colorful window is. The decision to cover just part or all of a window with privacy film depends on the proximity of surrounding buildings and homes, pedestrian and vehicle traffic nearby, window size and more. Made by Wallpaper for Windows of Cocoa, Fla., Deco Tint films are easy to apply, easy to clean, will look great for years and can be removed in seconds when it is time to redecorate. Deco Tints filter UV rays, save energy (glass is cooler in summer/warmer in winter) and are removable and reusable. Take a security-conscious look out of your child or teen’s bedroom window, because what you can see is what or who can look into your child’s room. If you feel more privacy is prudent or would like to decorate the glass with see-through color, Deco Tints are a stylish solution that provide great value for your decorating dollar. For more information visit www. wallpaperforwindows.com or call 800-320-8439.
Unique Web sites Help Save Money
Clipping coupons will not cut your debt. Instead, use Financial Literacy Month as a plan of action to focus on thinking outside traditional moneysaving solutions. These unique services offer a different avenue to lowering your financial savings: • BillShrink.com allows consumers to save thousands of dollars on credit card bills. You simply input information about your current credit card bills and BillShrink.com will respond immediately with a list of cards – in order of how much money they would save you each year by switching to them. • LeaseTrader.com helps you ditch an expensive car lease to save thousands of dollars on your financial expenses. If you’ve been unemployed for months and your safety net is quickly diminishing, use LeaseTrader.com to transfer your car lease to someone else and lower your second highest monthly expense. • Rentometer.com allows renters the advantage to discuss rental rates with their current landlord. For instance, if your current rental lease is expiring in several months you can use rentometer.com to compare prices with your neighbors and negotiate lowering your rent or decide to moving someplace new.
Eco-Friendly Birthday Parties that Celebrate the Joy of Giving ECHOage is a charity-driven, eco-friendly, online birthday party service where children learn the value of giving and receiving while celebrating. No matter what your child’s party theme or venue, you can easily ECHOage ANY party. Here’s how: Step #1. Choose an invitation, select a cause and invite your guests. Step #2. Guests RSVP and contribute online and you get to watch the giving grow on your ECHOage Tracker. Step #3. When your party is over, ECHOage will send half of the money collected to buy a dream gift for your child and the other half to the charity your child has chosen. Easy on guests, good for the environment and meaningful for kids. NOW THAT’S SOMETHING TO CELEBRATE! Visit www.echoage.com to sign up!
Whale of a Sale Kid’s Consignment Event Brings Families Together to Buy and Sell Popular Essentials at a Fraction of the Cost
The spring Whale of a Sale children’s consignment event is set for Friday, April 23 and Saturday, April 24 at Eagle Church in Zionsville, offering shoppers new and gently used children’s items at a fraction of retail cost.
The event will feature spring and summer clothing, toys, equipment, furniture, bedding, accessories, maternity and a variety of vendors from the Indianapolis area. Shoppers can expect to find popular brands such as Gymboree, Polo/Ralph Lauren, Baby Gap/ Gap Kids, Peg Perego, Graco, Fisher Price and more. Sale hours are Friday, April 23, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, April 24, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is free to the public. Eagle Church is located at 5801 South 650 East on the Zionsville/Whitestown, Ind. border. It is just off I-65 and 334. Individuals interested in selling items must register in advance at www.whale-sale.com. Consignors price their items, drop them off in advance at the event site and need not be present at the sale. They receive 60 percent of their total sales and
the opportunity to receive up to 75 percent by volunteering or referring additional sellers. Unsold clothing can be donated to local charity partner Good Samaritan Network. Butler University Alums and Carmel moms, Courtney O’Neil and Jennifer Hare, started Whale of a Sale last year with the intent to provide local families an opportunity to earn more value on their children’s items.
United States Tennis Association Joins Forces with Tennis Skillastics® On March 15, Nora Elementar y School hosted the of f icial launch of Tennis Sk il lastics® that is completely endorsed by the USTA. The initiative provides a combination of dynam ic tennis and f itness act iv it ies to int roduce basic sk i l ls to a large g roup of ch i ld ren w ithout the need for tenn is cour ts. Ch i ldren w i l l acquire sk i l ls quick ly, gain con f idence and a love of the game that can last a l i fet i me by ut i l izing Qu ickSt ar t Ten n is equ ipment, par t of an exciting new play for mat for lear ning tennis and br ing ing k ids into the game. For more infor mation on Skil lastics® visit http://w w w. skillastics.com/ or ask your school if they provide this innovative ser ies of f itness and conf idence-building games.
Whale of a Sale will feature various events throughout the duration of the sale. • Friday, April 23 is Fundraiser Friday. An easy and fun way for shoppers to raise money for the schools, churches and nonprofits in their community. To participate, shoppers must email info@whalesale.com before the event to register their organization. • Saturday, April 24 is Half Price Day. Shoppers will find deeply discounted bargains before the sale closes. • Sign up to the Indy’s Child E-newsletter at www.indyschild. com to win Mom’s Night Out Pre-Sale Passes!
T R A N S P O R TAT I O N
Orchard in Bloom: Children Find Their Inner Bloom April showers bring May flowers, and Holliday Park will flourish during Orchard in Bloom April 30-May 2. This garden show blossoms with works of art, outdoor entertaining from Indy’s premier party planners, the hottest trends in wedding flowers and outdoor nuptials, family fun, and the latest in gardening and landscaping trends. Children’s programming features activities that let children discover who they can be. Families can expect to see the Pacers, Fever and Colts well represented at the event, and kids of all ages can create pottery, plant flowers, run an
obstacle course, dance, and create a custom garden container for porch or patio. Guests also may enjoy a garden café and shopping with more than 100 exhibitors. The event benefits outdoor education, raising more than $1 million in its 21-year history. The real beauty of this event is how it offers a luscious landscape where gardens, art and community can grow together. Fri. and Sat. 9 a.m.5 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 p.m. $12 adults; free children 14 and under. Holliday Park, 64th and Spring Mill Road. 713-5720, orchardinbloom.org.
T R A I N S P O R TAT I O N
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INDYSCHILD.COM 7 3/16/10 5:13:26 PM
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mommy magic
Drama Mamas
Energy Vampires—Be Gone! would consist of having them help me stuck in this state, maybe even thrive on it. What I also fold laundry rather than doing an age realized is that I was so emotionally drained from it that I appropriate game. had little energy to put toward the things I actually wanted to accomplish at the end of my day. I was exhausted from field of motherhood. We have to be careful Clearly, my role has changed over their drama—how silly is that? I realize that we are all in the last decade. I have changed and the journey of motherhood together, but some us go about not to give what little energy we have motherhood as I knew it is completely it differently and want to accomplish various things from the different. All of this journey. For me, a peaceful home, laughter and honesty were left to them and their daily drama. is to be expected as key things I wanted from other mom friends—not gossiping, a family grows and picking other moms apart and bashing my husband all day I have been a mom for over ten evolves th rough long. With that, in the process of motherhood, I had to start years now. Like anything, once you raising a child. What being selective and careful who I gave my time and energy to have been doing something for a I didn’t expect was and I learned weeding out the “Drama Mamas� was a huge while, you f igure out tricks that that I would have part of regaining my energy back! help you to be more effective, happy to be selective, even and like the overall process. Let’s be careful at times, There is great news. As moms, we have a choice of how we spend honest, motherhood is a process, too! with other moms. our energy. Obviously, kids and family are first and foremost, Motherhood is not just a journey of What I didn’t know but even as we grow and evolve in this journey we must be raising our children, it is a process then that I have selective who we choose to hang around on a daily basis. I once of constantly evolving and growing figured out now— read that you are the sum of the 5 people you spend the most ourselves while enveloped in the chaos there are a lot of time with each day. That is a powerful statement and worth of what we call motherhood. “Drama Mamas� in taking a moment to ponder. If those who you spend the most In fact, I am not at all the same mom that I was when I had the field of motherhood. We have to be careful not to give time with are helping you grow, inspiring and encouraging you my first daughter ten years ago. Back then, my house was what little energy we have left to them and their daily drama. on a daily basis and trying to build you up rather than tear you down—chances are you are doing the same. quiet and manageable with just my husband and myself and our one sweet child. I was actually planning play dates to Unfortunately, I learned this the hard way. I was always trying Mary Susan Buhner is a Life Coach for Moms create some stimulation for her during her toddler years. Ten to help rescue moms who somehow managed to get themselves and author of Mommy Magic: Tricks for Staying years later, I have had two more daughters plus two dogs, into some silly drama in their neighborhood, school or even Sane in the Midst of Insanity. Visit her Web site at www.Mommy-Magic.com. a cat and a handful of fish, too. Rarely do I have enough with their own husband. What I figured out along the way is time to manage a play date for my third child and if I did it that some moms create this drama and actually enjoy staying
...there are a lot of “Drama Mamas� in the
Elmo is Coming!
April 27 – May 16
PRESENTS
April 22 – 25
murAt thEAtrE TM/Š2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. 46271 3/10
Tickets: Murat Theatre Box Office Downtown Indianapolis 877-598-8703
ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TIME FOR AN ADVENTURE! Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the stage adaptation of Jules Verneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s adveture tale, Around the World in 80 Days. Travel from continent to continent with Phileas Fogg as he faces danger and romance in this funny whirlwind of a tour the whole family can enjoy. For tickets, visit www.irtlive.com or call 317.635.5252 7<27/</ @3>3@B=@G B63/B@3
Join our nEW Favorite Friend community at sesamestreetlive.com! 8 INDYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CHILD * APRIL 2010
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ask a teen
What We Really Mean When We Say...
An Inside Look at Effective Parent-Teen Communication “The dead might as well try to speak to the living as a command if there is an ultimatum or explanation on the end: You must take out the trash "before you can go out tonight." Clean the old to the young.” -Willa Cather your room; "we’re having company over tonight." A teen’s mind is In today’s parent-teen relationships, there are plenty of pitfalls. always swimming with responsibilities. A basic request like “clean In particular, effective communication seems to be a problem. out the litter box” may be subconsciously shuffled behind “do Conveying a thought aloud becomes difficult when a teen says one history homework” and “call my best friend.” By giving a minor thing and a parent hears another. So how can parents and teens justification behind each chore, the urgency of its completion can stay afloat in a sea of ambiguity? Foremost, the answer is openness be better communicated. on both sides. “Me and parents have miscommunications about really dumb “I tell my parents everything I do,” says Blair, a junior in high stuff,” says Eddy, a high school freshman. “Like what time dinner school. “They’re honest with me about everything. They don’t is, or where they need to pick me up.” In a time when daily agendas hide stuff from me, and I don’t hide stuff from them.” We teens are packed full, it is easy for details to get lost in the shuffle. “I’ll say are constantly reminded of the fact we are still considered children ‘the normal time’ or ‘the normal place,’ and we’ll not be thinking and are given limitations on everything we do. To counteract this, of the same thing,” he continues. “Then we get frustrated with engage in a growing relationship that gives parent and teen equal each other.” In this type of situation, the remedy is a dose of clarity. importance. The type of communication where teens are treated Whenever plans are made, make sure you and your teen are specific as equals by parents is most effective. with each other. Write down the details, if possible. Both parents and teens lead busy lives with lots of particulars. A dose of directness Be home by eleven o’clock. Mow the lawn. Do the dishes. While can counteract miscommunications in stressful schedules. these seem to be clear, explicit statements, teens still have trouble doing them. When parents ask their teens to complete a task, they The Art of Listening do so with the expectation that the task will be done. However, Sometimes teens tr y to open up to parents and are when teens hear these commands, they sometimes interpret them misunderstood in their intentions. “I’ll try to talk to my in the wrong way. What can you do to state that what you mean mom about how stressed I am or how I’m feeling, but she’ll is more than just a parent telling their teen what to do? think I’m complaining or whining when I’m just trying to talk to her,” says Tahlia, a sophomore. “Or sometimes I end up getting a lecture when I just wanted a conversation.” Be Specific Often when demands are given with a tagline, the importance is As a parent, if you f ind yourself having less face time and better communicated. For instance, a teen is more likely to obey fewer interactions with your children as they grow older,
it can be hard to identify times when you can have open, honest conversations. Most of the time, when your teens share their feelings, it is not to elicit advice. Often we need an audience that can take us seriously to hear our thoughts. Teens don’t always want guidance or a sermon on the dangers of the world. The best listener is one who is not judgmental and offers advice when it is sought. That’s not to say parents have no right to lend their children guidance or instruction. These are years when young adults can benefit from some words of experience. However, not every issue should be treated as an opportunity to preach. While there are things to be gained from the wisdom a parent can give to a child, just know that the more a parent criticizes or admonishes, the less likely a child is going to open up. If teens are accustomed to their attempts at conversation being received negatively, chances are they won’t speak up any more. To build a bridge between parent and teen, try responding with questions asking more about the viewpoint of the teen. Finally, one thing all teens know deep down is that being a parent is hard. There are so many things we have to worry about, and we know you have to worry about even more. If you find yourself lost while trying to navigate the sea of ambiguity, clutch tightly to your raft. Most likely, you’ll be thrown a life preserver—that’s the reciprocity of healthy communication. Sydney Satchwill is 17 years old and goes
to North Central High School. Her favorite things include winter, the perfect cup of coffee, and tomfoolery. She aspires to one day fill over 50 diaries.
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Enrollment for the 2010-2011 school year is open! Discover what many parents throughout the state already know—that K12 gives kids an exceptional education. The K12 program is available through two statewide programs in Indiana: Hoosier Academies, a hybrid school authorized by Ball State University for grades K-12, and the Indiana Virtual Pilot School, a virtual program administered by the Indiana Department of Education for grades 1-5. Both programs offer state-certified teachers, a supportive school community, and a range of extracurricular activities.
Call or go online for details about this event: April 20, Indianapolis For enrollment information and a complete list of upcoming events in your area, including online information sessions you can attend from the convenience of your own home, visit us at K12.com/ha.
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rave reviews
The Dirt Cheap Green Thumb: 400 Thrifty Tips for Saving Money, Time and Resources as You Garden $10.95 – Rhonda Massingham Hart Going green is as much about saving, recycling, reusing, refusing and being thrifty as it is about doing your own gardening and composting. But gardening isn’t always cheap, so that’s why Master Gardener, Rhonda Massingham Hart, has put together 400 quick tips to help you grow beautiful and bountiful plants to keep the kids busy and your bellies full—without breaking the bank. Tips include everything from why you should join a garden club to how to take a leaf from a certain plant and grow a new plant or where the best deals are for plants, supplies and machines. Everyone has a green thumb, you just need to know how to use it correctly.
Girls Gone Green $11.99 – Lynn Hirshfield Being eco-conscious means something different for everyone, but even celebrities agree on one thing— it’s important. Girls Gone Green is a collection of tips, tricks and ideas from the likes of Alicia Silverstone, Mischa Barton, Ellen Page, Jessica Lowndes, Hayden Panettiere and dozens other non-celebrities who deserve just as much fame for their earth-conscious efforts. Beauty entrepreneurs, fashionistas, animal advocates, educators, artists, recyclers, growers, grocers, defenders of air, land and water and environmental scientists and green engineers—this book is full of important information for every girl to put her best foot forward—without making a print.
Sara Snow’s Fresh Living: The Essential Room-by-Room Guide to a Greener, Healthier Family and Home $16.00 – Sara Snow Sara Snow got her big break in Indianapolis with the FOX affiliate in Indianapolis and from there she has been on a road to teaching others what was always second nature to her—fresh living. She was taught by her parents to be stewards of the land; consuming less, eating fresh and home-grown foods, less processed foods and chemicals and learning to live off of and protect the land on which they lived. Sara shares with readers those very things she learned from her parents and how you can incorporate these things into your daily lives.
Let’s Go Outside: Outdoor Activities and Projects to Get You and Your Kids Closer to Nature $12.95 – Jennifer Ward We can all agree that kids these days have become far too involved with gaming, gadgets and all things sedentary. It’s spring and now is the time to set the changes of motion—in motion. This book teaches you to show your kids the natural art of outdoor play by introducing timeless outdoor games that you played as a kid, such as kick the can, capture the flag, scavenger hunts, buried treasure and the ever-popular game of tag. You’ll find a variety of outdoor adventure ideas and an entire chapter devoted to creating eco-minded experiences that include everything from making a rain catcher, taking part in the Great Backyard Bird Count, growing you own garden and turning trash into homes for birds and insects. Get the kids away from the TV and outside this spring, summer and fall. After all, you’re not just encouraging education and environmentalism, you’re keeping them fit, too.
The Eco-nomical Baby Guide $19.95 – Joy Hatch and Rebecca Kelley Let’s face it, having a baby can be costly and create a lot of excess: diapers, baby food, clothings, water, toys, wipes and more. But here’s another fact: It doesn’t have to be wasteful or costly! Hatch and Kelley show you how to bring your baby into a greener world by forcing you to take a look at your wants vs. needs. What does your baby really need? Can you forego the latest fad for used gear? Where do you go to support eco-friendly companies? Do you go cloth or disposable diaper? Is there a happy medium on the Great Diaper Debate and, if so, how do you care for cloth diapers? How do you feed your baby without sacrificing the planet with endless baby food jars and formula containers? They offer up ten simple steps you can take to help the planet now— and even four difficult steps. You’ll save money, sanity and waste while making the earth a little happier, too.
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pediatric health
Far Too Many Babies are Dying in Indiana
A Message for Parents and Caregivers on Unintentional Suffocation to end up in the trachea and choke them. The opposite is true for an infant on his stomach because, at that point, the trachea is located below the esophagus. Now, when your baby spits, gravity pulls it to the lowest opening—the trachea. Sleeping on the stomach makes it much easier for your baby to choke. (See Diagram)
Most recent data for Indiana, for a three-year period, ref lects 60.8 percent of infant deaths under one year of age were attributed to unintentional suffocation.
TOP 3 Messages for New and Expectant Parents, Grandparents and Those Caring for Infants 1. Babies need to sleep on their backs for EVERY sleep—at nighttime and naptime. Many people believe that babies will more easily choke if they are on their backs. It’s a myth: When infants are lying on their back the trachea (wind pipe) is located above the esophagus (food pipe). If your baby spits up, liquid has to go against gravity
2.
Create a safe sleep space. Babies should have their own, separate sleep surface—an approved crib, bassinette, or play yard placed near parent’s bed. An infant’s sleep area should have a firm mattress with only a tight, fitted sheet. Remember, adult beds are not made with infant safety in mind. Today, many adult mattresses have pillow tops or are made with memory foam. Infant’s sleep area should have a firm mattress with only a fitted sheet.
3. Nothing but Baby. Crib should be free of pillows, blankets, toys, positioners and bumper
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pads. Babies may roll into these items and suffocate. Use a sleep sack (wearable blanket) or a blanket sleeper in place of loose blankets or covers. Another option is to layer baby’s clothing with a t-shirt and socks under their sleeper.
TOP 3 Reasons Parents, Grandparents, and Caregivers Do Not Follow American Academy Pediatrics (AAP) Recommendations: 1. Not everyone understands the importance of the safe sleep message. It is not always stressed that back sleeping and avoiding soft bedding is important and we tend to parent the way our parents parented. If we are used to our families babies sleeping on their tummies with fluffy blankets, we are more likely to follow that practice.
2.
“It won’t happen to my baby.” There is a false sense of security when you bed-share once and everything is okay. This may establish a pattern with the belief that since nothing bad happened, that practice is safe. We
know that where a baby sleeps the first 24-48 hours after they come home is generally where the baby will continue to sleep.
3. “My baby doesn’t like sleeping on
his back.” We frequently hear new parents make this comment. Sleep position is a learned behavior. Babies will adjust to sleeping on their backs if you start placing them on their backs for EVERY sleep episode. Think of your own pregnancy and how you may have learned to adjust your sleep position.
Won’t you join our efforts and share these safe sleep practices with everyone you know? “Back to Sleep, Tummy to Play!” and “Room Sharing is Safer than Bed Sharing” For more information contact barb.himes@ firstcandle.org or 317-725-3754. Barb Himes, CLC is the National Crib Campaign Project Director for First Candle/ National SIDS Alliance and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and Infant Loss Coordinator for the Indiana Perinatal Network.
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pediatric health
Protecting Kids From More Than Just Sunburns Prevention Now Can Save Lives Later
One blistering sunburn does more than just hurt your young child in the short term. It more than doubles your child’s chances of developing melanoma skin cancer later in life.
While skin cancer is very rarely diagnosed during childhood, research has shown that skin cancer can be traced back to that time in a person’s life. Nonmelanoma cancer is associated with repetitive sun exposure, and melanoma skin cancer is often the result of intermittent sunburn—typically before age 18. “This is a clear example of how what you do as a child affects you later in life,” says Beth Brogan, M.D., a dermatologist who works with Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent. Because most kids have already absorbed between 50 and 80 percent of their lifetime sun exposure before age 18, it’s even more important that parents do all they can to protect their children while they’re young and reduce their chance of developing skin cancer. “Skin cancer is generally very preventable, unlike many forms of pediatric and even some adult cancers,” says Heather Escoto, MD, a pediatric oncologist with Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital
at St. Vincent. “Prevention is an exciting word for a pediatric oncologist. If you can take precautions for your child to prevent a form of cancer later in life, then you should take every measure to do so. “ Dr. Escoto cautions that, while very rare, melanoma skin cancer can occur in children and teenagers, making it important to have any suspicious skin lesions on your child evaluated by his or her pediatrician and dermatologist.
Common mistakes in guarding against skin cancer While most parents today seem to realize the importance of protecting skin from the sun’s rays, there are still some common mistakes many make. Common mistake #1: Infants and sunblock: Sunblock should not be used on children under 6 months of age. However, some misunderstand the why behind that rule. “Some parents have thought the issue was with the sunblock irritating the skin. But we don’t advocate sunblock at that age because we don’t want infants in the sun,” Dr. Brogan explains. “No amount of sun is safe at that age.” Common mistake #2: Tanning beds: The next common mistake is at the other end of the age spectrum: teenagers. “Many parents let their older
girls and boys use tanning beds, not realizing that tanning beds increase the risk of skin cancer,” Dr. Brogan says. “The ultraviolet rays used in tanning beds are more likely to be associated with melanoma.” Common mistake #3: Tanning in general: While tanning is certainly better than sunburns, it is not without its risk. What most people don’t realize is that tanning also is a sign of sun damage. “There’s no such thing as a safe tan,” says Dr. Brogan. “Tanning is the body’s response to sun damage— it’s just happening at a slower pace.”
Sun safety Neither Dr. Escoto nor Dr. Brogan would advocate keeping children out of the sun – it does provide Vitamin D – but simply to be smart about it.
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Use a physical sunblock with zinc oxide that protects against both UVA and UVB. “I use SPF 45 on my own children and recommend the same to my patients,” Dr. Brogan shares.
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Don’t forget the not-so-obvious places of the body: lips, ears, toes and scalp. (There are some sunblocks available in aerosol or gel that are made for the head and scalp.)
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Use generous portions of sunblock—about a half ounce per average size child. Apply sunblock 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or excessive sweating. (Consider waterproof sunscreen if your children will be around water or swimming. Waterproof sunscreens may last up to 80 minutes in the water.)
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Consider using UPH sun protected shirts— especially for boys. Put on hats, shirts, sunglasses and sunblock when outside, and seek the shade during the hottest times of the day, generally 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Take Note
The pediatric cancer program at Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent is dedicated to the treatment and cure of young patients with all types of pediatric cancer. As members of the Children’s Oncology Group, St. Vincent pediatric oncologists participate with this organization to utilize the most effective treatment plans for their patients. In addition, they work with in conjunction with a variety of pediatric specialists at St. Vincent to provide optimal care to their young patients.
hildhood depression C is often in hiding. Research is being done that may bring alternative treatment options into the open.
Whether you run, walk or stroll, discover with every step your power to change the world. Join the Susan G. Komen Indianapolis Race for the Cure® and the movement that started it all on April 17, 2010. Together, we promise to end breast cancer forever.
If your child is depressed, consider our research study.
Your child may be eligible to participate in this study if he/she: • Is between the ages of 7 and 17, and generally healthy • Has been diagnosed with, or shows signs of depression
SATURDAY, APRIL 17, 2010 | INDIANAPOLIS | 5K & 1 MILE RUN/WALK IUPUI CAMPUS | UNIVERSITY LIBRARY LAWN | MILITARY PARK LOCAL HONORARY CHAIRS Jeff & Karen Saturday
LOCAL HONORARY SURVIVOR Donna Minnick
• Is able to swallow study medications whole without opening the capsule, crushing, or dissolving All investigational medications, study-related evaluations and tests will be provided to qualified participants at no cost. Call today to learn more:
800-481-6530
www.kids with depression.com
INDYSCHILD.COM 13
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museum notes
Learning Through Play Isn’t Just for Kids 11 Galleries, Loads of Fun
As parents, we know that when our children are having fun learning they don’t even realize what they are doing is educational. At The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, we embrace this idea and extend it not only to children but also to the entire family.
Learning doesn’t stop after childhood; we continue the process throughout our lives. Learning can be even more exciting as we work together with our children to master new ideas and vocabulary. What fun it is to watch the delight on a child’s face as she puts the last piece in a puzzle she has worked so hard to put together, or the f irst time he proudly ties his own shoe or sings the ABCs song. At The Children’s Museum, it is our mission to create family learning experiences and we embrace this idea through our exhibits and events. Throughout the museum, families can learn together in exhibits such as Dinosphere®, where you discover what life was like 65 million years ago. Both parents and little ones alike have fun learning dinosaur facts and asking questions of the museum’s
14 INDY’S CHILD * APRIL 2010
paleontologist and paleo-preparators working in the Paleo Prep Lab. For an even greater learning experience, families can take part in actually digging dinosaur fossils from the earth as part of the museum’s Family Dinosaur Digs, held each summer in Faith, South Dakota. Families can book their summer travel plans around a trip to the Badlands to participate in a real dinosaur dig expedition with the museum’s own staff. These families take part in digging for fossils and preparing them for their trip back to The Children’s Museum.
Family programs are open to both members and nonmembers. Preregistration is required. Programs are offered for a variety of age groups, from preschool to young adult. To register and pay for family programs, visit www.childrensmuseum.org or call (317) 334-4000. Learning is a lifelong process. At The Children’s Museum we encourage families to take part in this by having fun, experimenting together, and exploring all that the museum has to offer. Jaclyn Falkenstein is public
With 11 major galleries, there is always something new at The Children’s Museum— and family programs are no exception! Offered year-round in the museum, these programs allow families an opportunity to experience the museum’s exhibits in a whole new way. This spring, your family can go Beyond the Paleo Prep Lab Window and explore the Paleo Prep Lab with the museum’s own paleontologist; learn Egyptian cooking skills and f ind out how to make a traditional Egyptian dessert in Egyptian Cooking 103; or explore the world of carpentry and construct a birdhouse to take home in Ready, Set, Build.
relations coordinator for The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
To learn more or register for family programs at The Children’s Museum, visit the museum online at www.childrensmuseum.org.
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family fun in indy
History in the Making
New Experiences Bring History to You at Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center annual
An
Let’s face it, sometimes getting k ids to share our appreciation of histor y can be a bit l ike persuad ing them to eat their veget ables—we k now each veg g ie is un ique, good for you and can be prett y tast y. It’s just getting through the f irst response of, “Eeew w w w w w w w w w! ”
pict ures, love let ter s and m ar r iage or bi r th cer t i f icates. They have specia l INvest ig at ion St at ions for v isitor s to t r y t hei r h a nd at a n a lyz i ng h istor ic d oc u ment s , r e s e a rch f a m i l y t r e e s , search for clues in h istor ic photog raphs and explore careers in h istor y.
Ind iana Histor ica l Societ y has created new ex per iences that a re much more ha nd s- on a nd shou ld go a long way i n t er m s of ch a n g i n g t h at bor i n g perception of h istor y and tak ing your young ster on a fun time travel jour ney.
If you have been to the Histor y Center before, you are probably fam i l iar The Cole Por ter Room. It is ded icated to Cole Por ter’s l i fe and work. There is a lways a cost u med i nter preter i n the space t h at w i l l i nter act w it h g ue st s a s wel l a s per for m Cole Por ter t unes alongside a Yamaha digital player piano. A nd per iod ica l ly, El i Li l ly Ha l l w i l l be transfor med into a 1940s era n ightclub for A ny t h i n g G oe s, a caba ret- st yle show that a l lows g uest s to enjoy the work of Cole Por ter.
The Ind iana Exper ience at the Eugene a nd M a r i ly n Gl ick I nd ia n a H i stor y Center is f i l led w ith brand new ways to look at our past. For example, v isitors will be able to step back in time through ex per iences they’re ca l l ing “You A re T h e r e .” T h e s e t h r e e - d i m e n s io n a l h istor ic photog raphs are projected on a m ist wa l l of sor ts. You get there by wa lk ing through the m ist y picture into an area that was h istor ica l ly recreated to look just l ike a cer tain place wou ld have looked in h istor y. A nd to fur ther help you u nder st a nd , t here w i l l be t ra i ned f i r st-per son i nter preter s who interact and tr y to get v isitors to share their persona l connections to the past. W h at k id doe sn’t love tech ie st u f f ? Now they can enjoy tech travel histor y. “Destination Ind iana” is an interactive chance for parents and young adu lts to look at h istor ic images and documents and then use touch screens to explore those setting s that are depicted in the pict u re a nd u nder st a nd the stor y of Ind iana as a place. S c r apbooker s c a n ab sor b a ton of in for m at ion dur ing a tour of The W. Brooks and Wanda Y. For tune Histor y Lab. Th is hands-on demonstration lab a l lows v isitors to lear n and par ticipate i n c on s e r v a t ion a nd pr e s e r v a t ion of photos a nd doc u ment s. You ca n get some g reat t ips for you r f a m i ly’s
If you really want to dig in and chat with some ex per ts, there are oppor t un it ies to do so at t he Ind ia n a Tow n Ha l l Ser ie s w it h k nowled geable pa nel i st s who ex plore a l l k inds of topics about histor y, preser vation and looking to the future. Make sure you check ahead for d ates a nd t i mes of A ny th ing Goes a s wel l as the Ind iana Town Ha l l Ser ies.
is Art l o p a n IndiaCenter Event
May 15 & 16
IndplsArtCenter.org
T he H i s t o r y C e n t e r h a s of fe r e d f ree ad m i s sion i n t he pa st a nd you shou ld k now t here is now a ch a rge for ad m ission to help pay for a l l the add it ion s. Vi sitor s w i l l now pay $ 7 per adu lt ; $ 6.50 per sen ior ( 60 +); $ 5 ch i ldren (ages 5 -17); ch i ldren younger than 5 are f ree. Histor ica l members are still free ( basic membership is affordable at $ 50 - 65 w ith d iscounts avai lable for st udent s a nd sen ior s). So a couple of v isits easi ly pay for membersh ip. KIMBERLY HARMS has four children (ages 5 – 24) along with a grandchild and is the associate director of media relations at the Indianapolis Convention & Visitors Association. www.visitindy.com
Come see
at the
Kids’ World near Kids’ Stage & Creativity Tent INDYSCHILD.COM 15
My Child Has AUTISM — Now What? Finding the Support and Resources for Your Child and Family
My child has autism. Now what? When you have met one child with autism, you have met one child with autism. The next one will be different. That’s how Jane Grimes, communit y development director for the Applied Behavior Center for Autism in Indianapolis, describes the disorder. To be fair, she is not the only one to say so either. Just about any expert on Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD)—therapist, parent or otherwise—will echo the very same words.
My child has autism. Now what?
New statistics by the CDC show that, on a national level, autism affects one out of 110 children. Grimes says the statistics for Indiana are even narrower, affecting one out of 101 kids and ranking the Hoosier state 7th highest for incidents of autism in the country.
Grimes applauds the organization and says it’s “the best place, in my opinion, to get good information and quick, helpful tips about autism.” For families new to autism, the Indiana Resource Center for Autism works to provide people and organizations with the knowledge and skills to support children and adults on the spectrum. Its website provides insight into a broad set of topics that range from how to introduce your child to his diagnosis to insurance to practical family matters.
“What many people don’t understand is that people with autism are all so unique, which is different than many of the other disabilities out there in the community. You can’t generalize autism because it’s so individualized,” says Grimes. For many, the jour ney toward a for ma l aut ism diagnosis is intense, emotional and diff icult. Yet once the diagnosis is made, families face the ver y real fact that they will be the ones determining their child’s treatment regimen, because with autism there is no clear path toward recover y. This responsibility leaves many parents feeling vulnerable. “So you have the diagnosis, then what? That’s a challenge for a lot of people,” says Grimes. 16 INDY’S CHILD * APRIL 2010
Many parents will, for better or worse, turn to the Internet to learn about autism. Rather than blindly Googling for facts about the disorder, consider f irst visiting highly regarded sites such as the website for the Indiana Resource Center for Autism (iidc.indiana.edu/irca/).
Depending on where a child falls on the spectrum, another good early step for many families is to connect with the child’s school and f ind out what special education services he should receive. These programs start for kids as young as 3. If he is younger than three, contact Indiana First Steps to take advantage of state-funded early intervention services.
Creating the game plan. At age 23, Mary Rosswurm says her son’s autism diagnosis felt like a dark cloud over her. Yet, she says, “Once you get over the grief, and it is okay to grieve, then you decide to move on and have a game plan.”
Rosswurm, who is the executive director of Little Star Center in Carmel, says once autism is diagnosed, families need to do their research to understand the basis of the disorder and then decide what to do for their child. “Waiting is not an option,” she says, noting that early intervention is crucial. She says it’s important to f ind out what is going to be the best use of the child’s time and then f ill the child’s days with meaningful activities that have an impact. And that, perhaps more than other priorities, weighs heavily on parents’ minds. As parents commence their journey to discover how exactly their child should spend his day, the term applied behavior analysis (A BA) wil l ver y likely enter the discussion as it is the only treatment currently approved by the Surgeon General. Carl Sundberg, clinical director for Behavior Analysis Center for Autism in Fishers, says he is “committed—very committed—to behavior analysis.” Sundberg has worked 25 years in the f ield of behavior analysis, working more specif ically with children with autism in the late ‘90s who now are his exclusive focus. “I think behavior analysis really has this f igured out, but it has to be good,” he says.
Grimes would agree. Her Applied Behavior Center for Autism, which she describes as full-service thanks to its willingness to manage insurance and funding issues on behalf of its clients, also employs ABA. “We use proven ABA research-based therapies and supports and are committed to quality service, which is evident with our children having positive outcomes in progress,” she says. In short, behavior analysis is the scientif ic study of behavior. ABA identif ies a child’s def icit areas and uses his strengths and proven ABA principles to increase language, social, behavioral and academic skills. Breanne Hartley, clinical director at the Verbal Behavior Center for Autism in Indianapolis, says for families new to the autism community that “it’s best for parents to look for ABA programs in the community and start visiting those programs to see what is the best f it for you and your child.” Of course, the Verbal Behavior Center for Autism and others in the area understand that families may want to try new treatments such as placing their child on a restrictive diet. She says therapists at her center will do their best to support the family, yet their focus will continue to be on behavioral therapy. One alternative therapy some families are trying in addition to their A BA or other ongoing treatment is sensor y integration. It is thought that this type of treatment will help with sensory processing issues that many kids with autism face. The Sensory Center in Indianapolis is one of a handful of Sensory Centers in the United States. Its program combines elements of three sensory interventions: vestibular stimulation, phototherapy and auditory training. The ultimate goal is to help the patient be able to go about everyday activities like shopping at Wal-Mart or participating in gym class. “What our system does is help to
integrate all that [sensor y input] so they go in and it feels normal to them,” says Leslie Greenwald, owner of The Sensor y Center in Indianapolis. Greenwald adds, “We ask [families] not to stop any other therapies, because once we knock down that sensor y wall we f ind that the things that people are tr ying to teach them come more easily. The focus and concentration comes in. Sleep becomes regulated. We really are a piece to the puzzle.” And early research provided by the center does show favorable results for a majority of patients. The sheer number of treatments from the well-researched to fad treatments makes it all the more diff icult for families to feel conf ident in their choice for therapy at f irst. “What it comes down to is you’re the parent and although new to the world of autism, you are not new to your child,” says Grimes. She believes parents should look for centers that are thorough, focus on the individual child and provide written goals with associated tasks. Notably, the National Autism Center has recently published its National Standards Project in an effort to help parents and others affected by autism better understand the effectiveness of ASD treatments. It details established, emerging, unestablished and ineffective/harmful treatments. It is a must-read for parents commencing their journey with a child diagnosed with autism and can be found online at nationalautismcenter.org. It will help parents understand which services they are looking into have been well researched and which have not.
New statistics by the CDC show that, on a national level, autism affects one out of 110 children. The statistics for Indiana are even narrower, affecting one out of 101 kids and ranking the Hoosier state 7th highest for incidents of autism in the country.
“The National Standards Project moves us closer to understanding what evidence-based practices are, and provides guidance on practices that are known to be effective,” says Cathy Pratt, director of the Indiana Resource Center for Autism, who was involved in the project.
INDYSCHILD.COM 17
Living with autism. A diagnosis of autism does not exempt anyone from experiencing the everyday tasks and joys of life. There are groceries to be bought, teeth to get cleaned, hair to be cut and movies to be watched. So how do you go about typical activities? The best scenario is to learn which businesses are friendly toward kids with ASD and learn to tell when your kid is up for whatever task you have on your to-do list.
Autism is a real disability. Getting your mind wrapped around an autism diagnosis will take time, emotion and energy, but keep treading.
Take haircuts, for instance. “We have a lot of families that come in specifically because we work well with kids, including kids with autism. Also the atmosphere is very kid friendly. Our stylists are very patient. Whether the child enjoys getting the haircut or doesn’t, we are willing to work with them to get it done as quickly as possible,” says Christie Fosset, vice president of operations for Cookie Cutters. While Cookie Cutters doesn’t require its stylists to undergo specific training on how to serve kids who fall on the spectrum, Fosset says the kiddie salon has been fortunate over the years to have stylists in each of its stores who connect well with these kids and their parents. Parents can always call their nearby salon and ask them to recommend a stylist who may be a good fit for their child, which is a good idea for any service in which the child will be participating. This is also a good strategy when choosing dentists. A step in the right direction may be to look for a pediatric dentist who, in addition to the required four years of dental school, will also have undergone an additional two or three years specialty training that includes learning how to work with special needs kids of all types. So when should a parent first take their child with autism to the dentist? As with every other treatment the answer is as early as possible. Erin Phillips, a dentist with Indianapolis Pediatric Dentistry on the northwest side, likes to see kids as soon as they turn one.
“We think of it like a well-baby check-up. Once you establish a dental home, you have your dentist. You know who to call if you have questions... You really want to start a lifetime of healthy habits,” she says. Phillips also recognizes that kids on the autism spectrum will likely have a more difficult time with their at-home brushing routine. This is another reason she recommends parents start dental visits at a very young age so the child can establish a relationship with a dentist and grow used to the environment. “I feel it takes patients on the autism spectrum a little while to build that relationship, so the earlier we can get them comfortable and familiar with the environment the better it is for them.” Some experts also recommend taking along objects that are reinforcing to the child to make whatever the experience is more pleasant. Bringing along a timer so the child knows when he will be leaving is another strategy. Many parents will act out a mock dental visit or haircut or create picture books of the event in advance of the real thing. Of course, everyday life is not just about getting a haircut or visiting the dentist, kids with autism also deserve some playtime and will benefit socially from getting involved in activities with their peers. “There is need for recreational programs for the autism population,” says Brian Jones, founder of Power Kids gymnastics, which operates within Deveaus Gymnastics in Fishers. He has taught hundreds of kids with autism over the years, some of whom he has had attend for over nine years. “I’ve got some kids that are 17 now and over the years have worked through many difficulties they’ve had.” Well aware that his Power Kids’ social skills are underdeveloped, he says, “cognitively, I pull these kids together in groups like typical kids and we work through the lesson plan and social interaction at the same time.” They talk about what’s appropriate to say to somebody and what’s not appropriate. “Many kids will come in and get right on task, but that’s not how the typical world works. You need to go around and say hi to friends and then get on task,” he says.
For students with high-functioning autism. Grades 5-12. • Academic achievement • Life skills • A community of peers • College or job counseling
IAindiana.org 317-926-0043 612 West 42nd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46208 Please call us about an individual consultation for your child. The Independence Academy admits students of any race, religion, color, and national or ethnic origin. 18 INDY’S CHILD * APRIL 2010
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New students and their caregivers are required to attend a 30-minute consultation in order to become acquainted with what could be considered an overwhelming environment. “So I bring them in when the gym is very quiet. We walk through the facility, go over the program and together decide if it’s a good fit. Nine out of 10 times it is,” he says. Power Kids provides kids with autism a place to have fun and try new things, a place to exercise verbal skills, improve muscle tone and balance and, of course, get involved in a social situation. Plus, as Jones says, physical activity just makes people feel good. It goes without saying that all kids on the spectrum may not be cut out for gymnastics. After all, each child is different. There are many recreational opportunities out there including yoga, martial arts, dance, music and more. Once you discover what peaks your child’s interest, make a few calls to see which area businesses are equipped to work with your child. It may surprise you that many already are. For activities that perhaps require less commitment than a gymnastics program, such as sensoryfriendly movies at AMC theaters or special needs playgroups, contact the Autism Society of Indiana, which has information on such opportunities.
Community matters. Support groups for mom and dad. Just as experts agree that early intervention is critical, they all also agree that families should seek support. “When you get that diagnosis, you are completely overwhelmed. You don’t know whom to call, what to do and what support you need for your child,” says Grimes, who is the founder and president of Hamilton County Autism Support Group, in addition to her role at the Applied Behavior Center for Autism. There are many support groups for families affected by autism beyond the Hamilton County Autism Support Group. The Autism Society of Indiana is a good place to start looking. Some companies also have support groups for employees. The most important thing is to find groups that will first listen to you, then respond to your needs because each child is so unique. “Support is out there,” says Jim Dalton, senior vice president and chief operating officer of Damar Services. And he should know. Damar is one of the state’s largest not-for-profits and is growing. Dalton says that over the last five to seven years the organization has tripled in size, mostly due to increased need for services for children and adults with autism. Damar works with about 1,100 clients on a daily basis, most of whom are on the autism spectrum. So among the things Dalton is aware of, in regards to ASD, is the need for support for families affected by the disorder. In response, the organization regularly hosts a series of workshops that are open to the public and explore a variety of topics related to ASD. Damar also has a parent support group that is open to the community and offers sibling workshops that assist the non-disabled child around issues and challenges that go with being a sibling of a child with autism. Susan Le Vay, director of The Independence Academy in Indianapolis and mother of two children with ASD, agrees that support is essential for families affected by autism and tells families to get involved in the autism community. “You will feel less alone and find so much support through the friends and families you meet.” The Independence Academy is a private non-profit school that offers life skills and academic study for students in grades 5-12 with high-functioning autism or Asperger Syndrome. Le Vay encourages parents to introduce themselves to other parents of kids with ASD while at various clinics or special classes targeting the population. “Those individual connections often turn out to be really important friendships.” She also believes parents should seek out counseling for themselves. “Counseling is also an instrumental part of facing the grief associated with parenting a child with ASD. Having that time with a trained therapist to focus on your own feelings is a valuable part of the healing process.”
This is just a start. Autism is a real disability. Getting your mind wrapped around an autism diagnosis will take time, emotion and energy, but keep treading. “It’s such a process. You talk to parents, you go through the whole process—you’re angry, then in denial and then you come to terms with it...If you give up hope on these kids, they will prove you wrong all of the time. I’ve put limitations on my son and he’s exceeded my expectations every time. Never put limitations on our kids, these kids will prove you wrong every time,” says The Sensory Center’s Greenwald. Carrie Bishop is a regular contributor to Indy’s Child and mother to two young sons who inspire her work and her life. INDYSCHILD.COM 19
Indiana ranks 7th in the US as having the highest incidences of autism in our local schools, with over 11,000 children with a diagnosis of autism and over 70,000 with a communication disorder or delay. Forty percent of children who receive an autism diagnosis are non-verbal (cannot speak), while another 41 percent have an intellectual disability. Does anyone know why?
SUPPORT 101
The honest answer-no one knows. Autism is the fastest growing disability in the U.S. Finding your child and family a good support system is imperative. Here are a few things to remember:
Don’t Give Up: If you have an individual
Tips I Wish I Had When My Child Was Diagnosed with Autism His answer:
“You.“
Who can help the many Indiana children in need of foster parents? Ask a kid what he needs from a parent, and his answer might surprise you. It’s not a big house filled with toys or video games. He just wants someone who cares. Make a difference in a child’s life. www.DamarFosterCare.org
Damar Foster Care Services 6067 Decatur Boulevard | Indianapolis, IN 46241 | 317.856.5201
20 INDY’S CHILD * APRIL 2010
FOSTER CARE
in your family with autism, let’s be realistic—its tough. Think positively and realize that you will have challenges with the disability and everyone will deal with it differently. It’s a family disability and you must not give up.
Listen First: Each person is in a different place when they reach out for support. Listen well and provide advice in simple steps. Overwhelming one another with a ton of recommendations and lists can be confusing. Support is a journey, not a sprint to obtain all of the information at once. Network:
When it comes to autism, there isn’t a one-sizef its-all system in place. A good support system will admit what they do and do not know. Remember to listen f irst, and give answers, recommendations or references last. If you do not know the answers, chances are that someone else will.
Be Humble:
Just when you thought the diagnosis was devastating, you’ll meet another person who has a child with more challenges than your own. There will be major bumps in the road along the way, so remember to call your support system or group to reconnect when needed.
Success is Possible: I have seen amazing progress in individuals with autism. Given the right support, environment and determination, success is inevitable. I have seen teachers collaborating and communicating and parents educating one another in order to make a difference in the lives of someone affected by autism. If you receive great support in your schools—let them know! Be an Advocate: No one knows your child better than you
do. If something doesn’t seem right or you’re not seeing progress—don’t be afraid to ask for help! Autism isn’t the end of the world. If you don’t educate yourself on autism, how can you expect others to understand it?
Focus on Siblings: Siblings get much less time with parents because their sibling with autism requires more time and attention. Give your child a journal and have them write about having a sibling with autism—you’ll be amazed at what they have to say. Spend one-on-one time with each child and don’t let the time slip away. Remember Teachers:
We have many teachers who can do their jobs and want to do more for children with autism. However, our teachers need more tools and support to help children with special needs. Thank those teachers who are doing their part and encourage your school systems to increase the number of teachers who work with children with special needs.
Pay Attention to Data: Don’t be afraid to ask for data from schools that work with your child—and ask often. Teachers can collect the data, but they may not always know what to do with the data once they have it. You must be able to show that your child is getting what he needs at each grade level, so data is a crucial part of progress.
THE TIME IS NOW: Make your Voice be Heard
Where is all of the funding for our children and adults who have autism? The state and local levels, with the massive numbers of children and adults with autism, have very little funding to support so many critical needs. If you can help answer this question and are willing to make the investment in our autism community, I want to sit down with you and discuss how we can make this happen— please call or e-mail me immediately. For the thousands of children in Indiana and each day that goes by, another opportunity is missed for our children, schools and communities. We must not give up! Jane Grimes is the Community Development Director of
the Applied Behavior Center for Autism (317-849-5437 Ext. 3 or 1-888-602-8847) and the President/Founder of Hamilton County Autism Support Group (317-403-6705). She can be reached at the previous numbers or by e-mail at grimesje@ sbcglobal.net.
Take a Break: It’s okay to have a bad day, so don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are plenty of people willing to assist when you need a break. The reality is that many parents aren’t good at taking a break when they have child with special needs because it tends to consume their lives. Be smart enough to know when you need your break. It doesn’t make you a bad parent—everyone needs a break once in a while!
INDYSCHILD.COM 21
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special needs guide
Behavior Analysis Center for Autism
training and other services to more than 1,000 children and adults facing the intellectual, developmental and 11902 Lakeside Dr., Fishers, IN 46038 behavioral challenges associated with Devon Sundberg mental retardation and autism. The 317-288-5232 organization also operates Damar Foster dsundberg@thebaca.com Care Services, a licensed, not-for-profit www.thebaca.com child placement agency serving central The Behavior Analysis Center (BACA) was Indiana children and families.
established by Dr. Carl Sundberg and a group of highly trained Behavior Analysts who have worked with Dr. Sundberg for years. BACA uses Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to teach language, social, academic, and life skills to children with autism and other related disabilities.
Cookie Cutters Haircuts for Kids
212 W. 10th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202 Christie Fosset 317-334-1680 christie@haircutsarefun.com www.haircutsarefun.com
A place where ALL kids can Discover How Much Fun A Haircut Can Be! We specialize in children’s haircuts and our salons offer a welcoming and comfortable environment for children with special needs. Call or visit our website to find a location nearest you. We have several locations around Indiana including Indianapolis, Zionsville, Greenwood, Avon, Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville and Lafayette.
Genetic Consultants of Indianapolis
9595 Whitley Dr Suite 205, Indianapolis, IN 46240 Melissa Troutman, BS, RT(R) (CT)(ARRT), Director (317)324-0149 asdofindiana@yahoo.com www.autismtreatmentclinics.com
Our highly trained medical staff can assist patients diagnosed on the autism spectrum in the areas of Genetics, Endocrinology, Neurology, Psychiatry, Internal Medicine, Nuclear Medicine, Radiology, and Reproductive Medicine. Medical Services and Testing are submitted for insurance coverage, and a significant portion of revenues are donated to autism-advocacy 501(c)3 corporations.
Hamilton County Autism Support Group 19215 Morrison Way, Noblesville, IN 46060 Jane Grimes 317-403-6705 janegrimes@hcasg.org http://www.hcasg.org
Autism and help support our families where every day lives are challenged with a child in their family with Autism. Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain, impacting development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Both children and adults with autism typically show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities as well as possible challenges academically.
Indy Kids Dentistry
1950 W. 86th Street, Suite 210, indianapolis, IN 46260 Erin Phillips 317-872-7272 erin@indykidsdentist.com www.indykidsdentist.com
We have a unique dental practice. As pediatric dentists, we are specially trained in the dental care of infants, children and teens, including those patients with special medical needs. At Indianapolis Pediatric Dentistry, we treat your kids like our own. We pay special attention to each patient’s needs and we take the time to make sure they’re comfortable. We go to great lengths to make sure that both the patient and parents understand what we’re doing, why we’re doing it and the long-term benefits.
Jameson Camp
2001 S. Bridgeport Rd., Damar Services, Inc. Indianapolis, IN 46231 6067 Decatur Blvd., Jessica Cooney, Community Liason Indianapolis, IN 46241 317-241-2661 317.856.5201 jessica@jamesoncamp.org info@damar.org www.jamesoncamp.org www.damar.org Sibling, Girls on the Spectrum, Young Adult Jameson Camp offers Youth Leadership, Damar Services provides residential and Social Group, Monthly Support Meetings. The Outdoor Education, Wellness programs, community-based treatment, education, mission of the Hamilton County Autism Support Challenge Courses and Summer Camp. No Group is to provide community awareness of
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matter what brings a child to Jameson Camp they all come with their own set of strengths. Through our character development based programs we work to help them discover, develop and build upon those strengths.
Little Star Center
12726 Hamilton Crossing Blvd, Carmel, IN 46032 Mary Rosswurm, Executive Director 317-249-2242 maryr@littlestarcenter.org www.littlestarcenter.org Little Star is a structured, sensoryfriendly place where children with autism receive intense, individualized one-onone therapeutic intervention based on the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA). Little Star has a “family first” philosophy and offers a supportive community of parents and professionals. Indiana’s original ABA center – providing services since 2002.
Special Olympics Indiana 6100 W. 96th Street, Suite 270, Indianapolis, IN 46278 Amanda Shelley (317) 328-2000 info@soindiana.org www.soindiana.org
With sports at the core, Special Olympics Indiana has a variety of programs, including health, youth and leadership initiatives, for people both with and without intellectual disabilities. Contact us today to find out more! Volunteer. Compete. Donate. Be a fan.
The Independence Academy 612 West 42nd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46208 Susan Le Vay, Director
317-926-0043 susanlevay@IAindiana.org http://www.IAindiana.org We are a private non-profit school located near Butler University, serving students with high-functioning autism (HFA) and Asperger Syndrome in grades 5-12. IA balances academic and life-skills development in a positive and nurturing environment provided by qualified and caring faculty. Students graduate with an accredited high school diploma.
The Sensory Center 8509 Westfield Blvd, Indianapolis, IN 46240 Leslie Greenwald 317-202-0860 leslie@indysensorycenter.com
www.indysensorycenter.com The Individual Sensory Program (ISP) addresses the vestibular, visual and auditory sensory systems using an oscillating motion bed, phototherapy and modulated music. In combing elements of these three well-established sensory interventions, the ISP addresses the foundational brain processing and intergration issues.
Verbal Behavior Center for Autism
9830 Bauer Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46280 Sabrina Shannon, Clinic Administrator 317-848-4774 sshannon@vbca.org www.vbca.org
The Verbal Behavior Center for Autism (VBCA) is an intensive treatment center that provides therapeutic services to children and families impacted by autism. The VBCA uses Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with emphasis on Verbal Behavior.
H E A LTH & W E LLN E SS
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special needs awareness
The Importance of Special Needs Planning Diligence Now Means Security Later
Guardian/Trustee Select a guardian and make sure you explain what is involved. You may want to consider having a guardian and trustee, each with different roles in managing your child, the money and the investments, but all being involved and contributing to their overall well being. Look at the options and decide what’s best for you and your family.
Caring for a child with special needs takes special planning. All too often, we put off the task of planning because it can be overwhelming. This article will outline some of the necessary steps you, with the assistance of a special needs f inancial planner and qualif ied attorney, need to take in order to plan appropriately and will identify some of the pitfalls in the planning process.
Letter of Intent One way to get started is to compose a Letter of Intent. While the Letter of Intent is not a legal document, it is designed to serve as a roadmap for anyone involved with your child’s situation to utilize in understanding your child’s needs and your wishes for your child’s future. This document is a working document for the future caregiver to follow.
Your Will Addressing legal issues is a crucial step in planning for the future. Prepare a will if you don’t already have one or update your existing will to reflect what you want for your child. How do you want your estate to be distributed; who will be the guardian of your children?It may be especially important if you want to limit
assets going directly to a child with special needs. Without a will, generally state law will distribute assets to the children.
Special Needs Trusts Under current federal law, any inheritance of more than $2,000 disqualif ies individuals with disabilities from most federal needs based assistance ($1,500 for Indiana Medicaid). A Special Needs Trust, however, offers a means of protecting your child’s eligibility for these benef its. Design a special needs trust or update your old one.
Financial Sometimes sufficient financial resources to meet needs may not be available. The death of one or both parents can jeopardize your child’s financial safety net. There are a variety of funding options for Special Needs Trusts. Discuss these options with a special needs financial planner. What type of life do you envision for your child with special needs? How much money will he/she need? Gordon F. Homes, Jr., CFP is a Special Needs Financial Planner with MetLife Center for Special Needs Planning. For more information visit www. gordonhomes.metlife.com, call 317-567-2005 or email ghomes@metlife.com.
INDYSCHILD.COM 23
A ROUND TOW N
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arts & enrichment
Finding the Right Niche
Unique Sports Expand Horizons for All Ages The opportunities available to our kids are amazing. When I was growing up, sports were pretty much limited to football, basketball, track, golf and swimming, along with a few others. Today, it seems, kids can get physical in just about any sport of choice.
Central Indiana offers great opportunities for kids to get active in recreational or competitive sports outside of the activities that traditionally come to mind. I’m talking lacrosse, fencing, curling, hockey, you name it, it is likely available. There are so many opportunities that your child can surely find the right niche sport for his or her personality or strengths. For instance, if your son or daughter would enjoy getting in on the ground floor of an emerging sport in the state there is a great opportunity with curling. That’s right. Curling. You may have caught it during the Olympics, which is how Jeff Heck, president of the threeyear-young Circle City Curling Club, first caught the curling bug. “I saw it on the Olympics and thought it was cool.” Heck says the sport is great for young teenagers on through the retirement years. The sport can be tough for young kids because the stones that are shot weigh a heavy 42 pounds.
24 INDY’S CHILD * APRIL 2010
He describes curling as a “gentlemanly sport with a lot of history and tradition to it. It’s a nice sport to learn. It’s not cut throat. If I’m playing someone and they throw a fantastic shot, I’m going to tell them. The students that come out and play will improve their social skills greatly. They’ll become fine young men and women.” While there is no formal league in the area yet, Heck, in no uncertain terms, intends to grow the Circle City Curling Club. “If anybody wants to come out they can and we’ll teach them on the spot,” he says. The club, which consists of people of all ages and walks of life, meets a couple times a week in downtown Indianapolis. He also recommends that families look online for upcoming curling clinics. Curling is also a sport that Heck says kids can catch onto rather quickly. “Once you’ve got it, you’ve got it.” Another sport that may catch kids’ eyes—often from watching the silver screen—is fencing—and it is worth a look. Described as physical chess, fencing develops agility, reaction speed, strength and respect for authority. “Fencing allows kids to enjoy the same mental work as any video game while working physically very hard. It’s a good combination,” says Val Kizik, head coach of Indysabre Fencing. “There’s a game happening. You are figuring the moves of your opponent and your own moves and then applying them.” While Kizik says no one type of kid is more successful at fencing than another, he does say, “The main requirement is to be intelligent.
We don’t have kids who are getting poor g r ade s at school. It requires a lot of thinking.”
was she is figure. It’s a
Other tha n that, he says, “We have kids who are 5’ tall and some who are 6’ 5”. We have a woman who came who 53 and never played any sport and now an alternate for the national team. Go and lifelong sport.”
Indysabre is one of several programs in central Indiana that offers fencing lessons. The organization offers programs around the greater Indianapolis area, though its main facility is at the Jewish Community Center. Kizik says he offers a beginners class that takes students from A to Z covering basic footwork, bladework, game strategy, tactics and protocol, sport history, safety issues and athletic conditioning. Lacrosse is another niche sport that is taking hold of our youth and has an active and supportive community eager to grow the game. Approximately 2,500 boys and 500 girls in Indiana are already playing. Surely that number will grow as siblings join the fun and as lacrosse gains visibility throughout the media. Apparently, North Central is now letting student athletes letter in the sport. “Lacrosse is still not like basketball or football or even soccer, but it is on its way,” says Tim Clark, president of the Indiana chapter of U.S. Lacrosse and head coach for Northside Lacrosse Club.
A lifelong player himself, Clark wonders what’s not to love. “You put a stick in a kid’s hand and a ball to throw around and you are going to hit people. Kids love it,” he says, adding that kids of all sizes, shapes and abilities can be successful at the game. “One of the beauties of the game is there is no iron clad kind of size for the sport. You see all different types of kids on the lacrosse field.” Eileen Mills, executive director of Indianapolis Youth Hockey Association, has a similar take on youth hockey. “We’ve got all kinds of kids. We’ve got kids that are very athletic. Kids that got the idea from watching ‘The Mighty Ducks’ movie and never played sports before.” Despite the varied entry-level talent of youth hockey players, Mills advises kids to be comfortable on ice skates when starting out.
and their parents. Children will build character by increased confidence and self-esteem, improve social skills, develop a healthy respect for active lifestyle habits and, of course, improve their soccer skills by providing a non-competitive environment with activities that include “individual and small-sided games to give lots of “touches” on the ball.”
The opportunities available to our kids are amazing. When I was growing up, sports were pretty much limited to football, basketball, track, golf and swimming, along with a few others. Today, it seems, kids can get physical in just about any sport of choice.
Once signed up for a program, kids can expect significant playtime too. “In our association, you don’t sit on the bench—you play,” says Mills. “We rotate our players. If everybody on the teams shows up on any given day, each kid is going to get about the same number of ice time minutes during the game.” Plus, teams average about 12 players, so athletes get individualized attention from the coaches.
Like curling, fencing, lacross and hockey, soccer may not be a headlining sport as every school, but is giving kids another opportunity to get involved in a sport. It’s that opportunity that gets our kids active and engaged. Carrie Bishop is a freelance writer and mother of two young sons, whose daily antics inspire her work and her life.
That specialized attention and character building can be found in soccer, too. Soccer Minikicks at Hamilton County Sports Complex (or on-site locations) was developed using 18 years of expertise and experience and is designed to provide a healthy introduction to physical and social development. Enrolling preschool-age children in a soccer program has tremendous rewards and benefits for young children
INDYSCHILD.COM 25
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arts & enrichment guide
Sports Soccer MiniKicks Hamilton County Sports Complex, 9625 E. 150th St., Noblesville, IN 46060 Contact: Stuart Brown Phone: 317-650-8227 Email: info@ soccerminikicks.com www.soccerminikicks.com Soccer MiniKicks introduces soccer activities to preschool age children. Our aim is to encourage a good foundation for fit and healthy lifestyles, as well as encourage teamwork, personal growth, self confidence and fun! Our commitment to excellence, quality and safety is a program that uses a variety of fun games to engage kids in fun physical activities, to develop motor skills, physical fitness and self confidence in younger children. A fun, noncompetitive environment, activities include individual and small-sided games to give lots of “touches” on the ball.
Dance/Gymnastics Dana Mannix Gymnastics Parties & Camps 9325 Uptown Drive, Suite 1000, Indianapolis, IN 46256 Dana Mannix 317-863-0491 mmannix@danamannixgymnastics.com www.danamannixgymnastics.com
We offer pre-school, recreational, and competitive gymnastics. We also provide birthday parties and open gym times. Our mission is to enhance children physically, mentally and spiritually!
Central Indiana Academy of Dance
4 through adult. Our professional faculty and nurturing atmosphere promotes the joy of dance with a curriculum built on the legacy of George Balanchine. New June 2010 – “Ballet & Degas” multi-arts day camp, ages 6-10.
Geist Sports Academy 11960 East 62nd Street, Indianapolis, IN Dana Osler 317-823-7734 dana@geistsportsacademy.com www.geistsportsacademy.com GSA is a childrens facility that offers gymnastics, tumbling, cheer, birthday parties, Summer Camps, Parent’s Night Out, Gym Jams, a Fine Arts Academic Preschool and much more!! You just have to check us out!!!
14950 Greyhound Court, Ste 4, Carmel, IN 46032 Suzann Delay 317-581-2423 suzannd@ciaodance.com www.ciaodance.com The goal of Central Indiana Academy of Dance is to offer a high quality of dance training in a professional atmosphere regardless of the student’s personal goals. The Children’s Program focuses on musicality, coordination, Tippy Toes School of Dance artistry and technique in the areas of ballet and 5110 Commerce Square Dr., tap. The Pre-Professional Program is designed Greenwood, IN 46237 to provide intense training in ballet and other Kathy Simpson forms of dance to motivate students in the 317-881-7425 pursuit of their desired goals. The dancers simpsontippytoes@sbcglobal.net attend multiple classes a week in ballet, pointe, www.tippytoesschoolofdance.com and pas de deux. Classes in Character, Modern, Jazz, Men’s Class, and Tap are offered to round NO REGISTRATION FEES! A darling little out their vocabulary of movement. studio that specializes in preschool dance! Ages 15 months to adult! Mommy and Me Classes, Special Needs Classes, Pointe Classes and Indianapolis School the opportunity to become a member of the of Ballet Indianapolis Youth Ballet Company. Over 30 502 N. Capitol #B, years in business. Voted Top 3 Dance Studio Indianapolis, IN 46204 in Indy! A family friendly studio where class Cathy Strauss observation is ALWAYS allowed. $40 monthly. 317-955-7525 Register online today! school@indyballet.org http://www.indyballet.org Right in the heart of downtown, Indianapolis School of Ballet offers year-round dance instruction and summer programming for girls and boys ages
Music
Kindermusik by Musical Beginnings 606 S. Union Street, Westfield, IN 46074 Kim Bemis 317-867-3077 kimusik@musicalbeginnings.com www.musicalbeginnings.com Music & Instrument Performance Locations in Hamilton, Boone & Northern Marion Counties Kindermusik is a music and movement program for children, ages 0-7. You’ll play, listen and dance to music that will impact your child in profound ways. That’s because every song, story and two-step has a carefully chosen purpose in this creative curriculum - one that’s designed to stimulate and strengthen the vital neural wiring taking place
26 INDY’S CHILD * APRIL 2010
in your child’s mind right now. A Kindermusik educator will guide you every step of the way so you know how each activity contributes to your child’s overall growth and development. You can learn more about Kindermusik classes by browsing our site or calling our office.
Enrichment Indianapolis Art Center 820 E. 67th St., Indianapolis, IN 46220 Kris Hurst 317-255-2464 info@indplsartcenter.org www.indplsartcenter.org Creativity enriches every aspect of life and is integral to cognitive growth. The Art Center offers quality art classes for toddlers through teens in a variety of art mediums, including glass blowing (ages 10 and up), ceramics, sculpture, jewelry making, fiber arts, painting and drawing. Or take a class with your kids! Register now for spring classes and spring break camp Mar. 29-Apr. 2.
JCC 6701 Hoover Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46260 317-251-9467 lbaier@JCCindy.org www.JCCindy.org The JCC welcomes families and individuals of all faiths and backgrounds. More than three generations have grown up in the JCC’s early childhood education and camp programs. Thousands walk through the JCC’s doors each week to work out in the modern fitness center, participate in leagues and exercise classes, swim, enjoy family programs and so much more. The JCC – Good for life!
Nu Creation Fitness Personal Training Studio 5501 E. 71st Street, Suite 9B, Indianapolis, IN 46220 317-259-0138 nucreationfitness@yahoo.com www.NuCreationFitness.com Adult Health & Wellness Nu Creation Fitness, LLC is a private personal training studio that offers one-on-one and group training to men and women of all ages. $50 off of any one-on-one training package with the mention of this ad! Also seeking Certified Personal Trainers with clientele.
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INDYSCHILD.COM 27
Why Charter Schools? Ten Years Later
The opening of charter schools in Greater Indianapolis began almost ten years ago. This was in conjunction with policies within the department of education created to improve educational opportunities for urban families. The city of Indianapolis has held strong on its initiatives to open only the best charter schools with the best teachers and strict systems in place to ensure the charter school movement is successful. 28 INDYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CHILD * APRIL 2010
“Charter schools provide an opportunity for talented people to design schools and meet kids' needs from day one and allow parents access to urban environments.” What is a charter school? According to the Department of Education, a charter school is a public school that is nonsectarian and nonreligious and operates under a contract or charter. Under Indiana Code, charter schools are established to serve the different learning styles and needs of public school students and provide an expanded opportunity for involvement in the public school system among others. “Charter schools provide an opportunity for talented people to design schools and meet kids' needs from day one and allow parents access to urban environments. The Mayor’s office focuses on Indianapolis, but charter schools are strongly supported by President Barack Obama, Department of Education Superintendent Dr. Tony Bennett and Governor Mitch Daniels,” said Karega Rausch, director of charter schools at the Mayor’s office. “Fifty three public charter schools are running in Indiana in urban, rural and other areas. The Indianapolis Mayor’s office of charter schools learned a lot from Ohio and Arizona’s charter schools. Those states took a different philosophy which allowed a lot of people to open schools with a free market philosophy. Our philosophy is quality not quantity. As an example, only 20 percent of applicants have received a charter since the initiative started in 2001.” Individuals interested in opening their own charter school have to apply, seek sponsorship and open themselves to scrutiny by the Mayor’s office and the everyday tax payer. Charter schools are overseen by a board often overseen by the Mayor’s office. The board and charter school sponsors, like the GEO Foundation, manage administrative duties including the hiring of staff and budget.
Indianapolis Charter High Schools The Mayor’s office sponsors several charter schools (including): Charles A. Tindley Accelerated School, Herron High School, Fall Creek Academy, Imagine Life Science schools and Stonegate Early College of Science and Technology.
Indianapolis Metropolitan High School
The Charles A. Tindley high school is a charter school characterized by accelerated instruction, gifted and talented teaching strategies that have been traditionally reserved for the top five percent of students. “At Fall Creek, twenty of our seniors are college bound with a number of college credits already earned, up to 30,” said Mark Bowell chairman of the board for Fall Creek and Fountain Square Academies, which between them have 550 students. “We are preparing young people that mostly come from challenged neighborhoods for college. Our program focuses on a commitment to standards that are measured the same as main stream public schools. However, because we are a charter we have greater flexibility but less money to work with.” Both Fall Creek and Fountain Square are managed through a Board agreement with the GEO Foundation. The impact these schools have on their students is remarkable. How many students do you know that are willing to sacrifice a Saturday to further their education. “We initiated a Saturday tutoring program and get 75 to 100 young people participating in an expanded curriculum enhancement program with help from teachers and volunteers. For many, coming to our school is the brightest part of their day,” said Bowell. At Herron High School students participate in a classical focused education. With 452 students, all take Latin and are offered opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities. “College preparatory is a big part of our curriculum. We have a strong and consistent professional development program, meeting every Friday to talk about reaching atrisk students, college prep and how we make sure students are engaged. We created a curriculum with the end in mind: What will they need when they walk on campus their freshman year?” said Janet McNeal, principal of Herron High School located in the Herron Morton neighborhood. “We offer cross country, soccer, basketball, tennis, lacrosse, track and field and cinema and international clubs. We are in the John Herron Building with the Herron Art School, though the arts are not a part of our mission we are engaged in educating by an art history timeline as opposed to knowing history by wars.” Keith Marsh, principal of Imagine Life Sciences Academy, has 375 students focusing on life sciences with trips to Ivy Tech where students are able to dissect and further explore biology. They put a lot of emphasis on community involvement including Girls Incorporated and work with the Gleaners Food Bank. Stonegate Science and Technology High School is an early college high school model which means students not only get a high school diploma, they also take Ivy Tech courses.
Where you fit learn at your own pace • small class sizes internships • dual-credit college courses Indianapolis Metropolitan high school
Relationships • Relevance • Rigor
Now enrolling
www.indianapolismet.org schedule a tour • apply online
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“The goal is for them to graduate with a diploma and an associate’s degree, for free. We are in Warren Township and feel once people know what we have to offer we’ll see an influx of students. With the economy the way it is, to have parents send their kids to our school to get college degree for free is a huge advantage,” said Scott Syverson, principal of Stonegate. “Our valedictorian last year started our school with a goal to be manager of a fast food INDYSCHILD.COM 29
No matter if you’re urban, suburban or rural, there are students that can benefit from the charter system. restaurant but was able to change her mindset, graduate with 41 college credits and is now at Ball State. We had an 85 percent graduation rate at Stonegate which put us at the top of the list. With 180 students, we’d like to grow that to 300 or more. Our charter said we can accept 400, and since we’re a charter school we accept students from surrounding districts including Pendleton, Indianapolis Public Schools, Shenandoah, Greenf ield schools, wherever,” said Syverson. “We were named an early college high school model site by the Department of Education. We’re tr ying to give f irst generation college kids the opportunity to go. We are the furthest thing from an alternative school, not all charters are alternative schools,” said Syverson. “Indianapolis Metropolitan High Schools is in its sixth year. Ninetysix percent of students go on to post-secondary school, a trade school or military. We have many f irst generation college students which is why we focus on doing something beyond high school and what we do at Met prepares them for it,” said Scott Bess, principal. “We call our school hightech and high-touch because we do use online academics with equal time with peers and teachers. Some picture kids sitting around computers all day long, but what we do is use the computer to learn the back content then teachers say, ‘Now that you know that, let’s go do something cool with it.’”
How are charter schools performing? Last year three of the Mayor-sponsored high schools were deemed to have made adequate yearly progress (AYP) in student performance.
30 INDY’S CHILD * APRIL 2010
“What is especially impressive about these three high schools is that they have met even higher performance expectations with signif icant percentages of students of low socioeconomic status,” Mayor Ballard said. “At the same time, I echo Superintendent Tony Bennett’s charge that we must continue to raise the bar and expect even more from all our students and schools.” Overall, 40 percent of Mayor-sponsored charter schools made AYP this year, a higher percentage than in Marion County (31 percent) and the urban core of the city (25 percent).
Being accountable to the city and tax payers “We don’t have a generation of kids from elementary on, so to compare test scores is comparing apples and oranges. No matter if you’re urban, suburban or rural, there are students that can benef it from the charter system. Even though charters are very embryonic, and it’s tough when you’re the pioneer, we’ve had to make sure we’re strong and viable because the tax payers are ultimately paying the bill. We are creating a paradigm shift within main stream schools, and it’s sometimes painful what the mayor’s off ice is asking us to do, but it’s for the ultimate good of our students,” said Bowell. Rausch adds when entities like the Mayor’s off ice, Ball State University and Evansville School Corporation issue a charter it is funded just like all other 293 school corps. No money comes to the city and the board ensures school purchases are monitored. Each school board has a great deal of autonomy to control budget and staff ing. The Mayor’s off ice oversees school boards as well making sure they are following the law and as public schools they are audited even though they have their own autonomy.
Over the past decade charters have been pushing main stream schools and invigorating innovation. How are charter schools holding up in this economy?
costs low, we can focus on the classroom. Everything is free. Seniors, when accepted to secondary, get to keep their Netbook,” said Bess.
“At Stonegate we have the wait and see mindset about educational cutbacks. With our enrollment numbers being strong and more students enrolling and only one school to manage it’s an easier pill to swallow for us. After being in the traditional public school system, it’s tough to imagine being as effective when you have to close schools, cut costs, making it diff icult to be competitive with the world when you have to cut junior high foreign language,” said Syverson. Bowell shares that he’s passionate about Indianapolis, even as fan of Franklin Township where his children attend, he feels the excitement that is being relayed through the community about Charters. “The past decade charters have been pushing main stream schools and invigorating innovation. The once seemed monopoly in regards to choice for parents who couldn’t afford to send their kids to private schools, now have an option to send their kids to a charter school if it f its their needs.” Indianapolis Metropolitan High School just opened a state-of-the-art science and wellness center with a science lab and f itness center. They maintain a 15 to 16 student class size. Divided by grade level, each grade has their own space and teachers stay with students all four years. Each grade has a principal creating a family atmosphere.
Status quo It’s important to mention that high schools have been providing innovative and quality education for generations, including Advanced Placement courses, college credit courses, internships and community service. Indiana colleges and universities have been providing opportunities for students to simultaneously earn both high school and postsecondary credit for over 30 years. Realizing the importance of ensuring all students have access to higher education, Indiana has enacted four major laws inf luencing college credit opportunities: Postsecondar y Enrollment Options Act, Double Up for College, College Preparation Curriculum Act, and High School Fast Track to College. As parents, you know what is best for your child. Depending on their interests, skill set and environment, charter schools can be the perfect f it. As the number of charter schools increases, they will compete with traditional public schools for students and the funding follows. It’s important to be informed about your community and the opportunities already present at traditional public schools as well. Nikki Keever is a freelance writer living in Noblesville, Indiana with
“In a time we’re announcing cuts, we are adding a music program. We are in a growth mode, where most schools are cutting. With our administrative
We’ve been educating the youngest children of Indianapolis for over 100 years.
her husband and three children.
On the job experience. Play is a child’s job.
At Day Nursery, we offer a play-based environment that is designed to provide learning experiences for young children which help develop the skills necessary for future success. Our program is nationally accredited and our curriculum is in line with the Indiana Department of Education Foundations to the Academic Standards.
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Early care and education for children from 6 weeks through 6 years
All locations are open to the public. Openings vary by location.
Save $30! Bring this coupon when you enroll and we’ll waive the enrollment fee. Offer expires May 31, 2010 This coupon has no cash value.
IC
INDYSCHILD.COM 31
Adolescent Medicine Margaret Blythe, MD J. Dennis Fortenberry, MD
Diagnostic Radiology Valerie P. Jackson, MD Susan Meyer, MD
Gynecologic Oncology Jeanne Schilder, MD Frederick Stehman, MD
Nephrology Wendy Kindig, MD Michael Kraus, MD
Allergy and Immunology Frederick Leickly, MD David Patterson, MD
Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Michael Econs, MD
Hand Surgery Alexander Mih, MD
Cardiovascular Disease Elisabeth von der Lohe, MD Eric Williams, MD
Family Medicine Deborah Allen, MD Robert Evard, MD Lisa Youngblood, MD
Neurological Surgery Paul Nelson, MD Scott Shapiro, MD Michael Turner, MD
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Christopher McDougle, MD Dermatology C. William Hanke, MD Keeter Sechrist, MD Patricia Treadwell, MD
Gastroenterology Paul Kwo, MD Douglas Rex, MD Stuart Sherman, MD Geriatric Medicine Greg Sachs, MD
Hematology Sherif Farag, MD Internal Medicine Gregory Spurgin, MD John Steenbergen, MD Freida Thompson, MD Belinda Watts, MD Medical Oncology Sumeet Bhatia, MD Lawrence Einhorn, MD George Sledge Jr., MD
Neurology Martin Farlow, MD Robert Pascuzzi, MD Karen Roos, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology Douglass Hale, MD Debra Kirkpatrick, MD Ivy Lee, MD Sara Murphy, MD Judith Robinson, MD
Ophthalmology John Abrams, MD Scott Hobson, MD David Plager, MD Michael Welsh, MD Robert Yee, MD
Orthopaedic Surgery Jeffrey Anglen, MD K. Donald Shelbourne, MD Otolaryngology Richard Miyamoto, MD Stephen Perkins, MD Edward Weisberger, MD Pediatric Cardiology Randall Caldwell, MD Anne Farrell, MD
Find 90 of 142 at Clarian.org 30 of Clarian Healthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 90 top doctors specialize in pediatric care, delivering advanced care to kids.
32 INDYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CHILD * APRIL 2010
D
Pediatric Endocrinology Erica Eugster, MD Pediatric Gastroenterology Jean Molleston, MD Pediatric Hematology/ Oncology Robert Fallon, MD Paul Haut, MD Terry Vik, MD Pediatric Infectious Disease John Christenson, MD
Pediatric Nephrology Sharon Andreoli, MD Jeffrey Leiser, MD
Pediatrics Marilyn Bull, MD Sarah Stelzner, MD
Pediatric Pulmonology Howard Eigen, MD Young-Jee Kim, MD
Plastic Surgery John Coleman, MD Robert Havlik, MD William Sando, MD Rajiv Sood, MD
Pediatric Rheumatology Suzanne Bowyer, MD Pediatric Surgery Frederick Rescorla, MD
Psychiatry John Nurnberger Jr., MD Pulmonary Disease Michael Niemeier, MD
Radiation Oncology Thomas Dugan, MD Reproductive Endocrinology William Gentry, MD Sports Medicine Daniel Kraft, MD Surgery Robert Goulet Jr., MD Keith Lillemoe, MD A. Joseph Tector, MD Eric Wiebke, MD
Thoracic Surgery John Brown, MD Mark Turrentine, MD Urology Richard Foster, MD Michael Koch, MD Richard Rink, MD Vascular and Interventional Radiology Matthew Johnson, MD Vascular Surgery Michael Dalsing, MD
Terry Vik, MD
, pediatric he
matology/on
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INDYSCHILD.COM 33
co mm e n ta ry & pa r e n t i n g
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dear teacher The special advantage of the high-school level IB program is that it exposes students to college work thus easing the transition between high school and college. Taking part in this program is a great big plus in the increasingly difficult challenge of being admitted to many colleges.
Tips on Avoiding Homework Battles Question: Can you give me some tips on avoiding the nightly homework battle with my second-grader? – Seeking Peace
Your Questions of Teachers—Answered The International Baccalaureate Program Question: My seventh-grader is very bright with an IQ of 148. Fortunately, he has been in a full-time gifted program in both elementary and middle school. He will get all A’s in a subject like math and then get an occasional D or even an F. When I ask him about this, his reply is always: “Don’t worry about it,” said with preadolescent overtones. I would like for him to go to a high school with an International Baccalaureate program as opposed to the regular high school that has been graded an “F” and is in a high crime area. The problem is that the occasional D or F really pulls down some of his grades. Any ideas? – Stumped Answer: The requirements for admission to IB programs at the high-school level are determined by the schools themselves. You can find out right away whether your son is on the right track with his current grades and classes to be admitted to the IB program in the high school. Just ask at the school.
If your son needs better grades, he has next year to earn them. Your son might find it very motivating to learn more about the International Baccalaureate program. Have him visit its Web site at www. ibo.org. Find out also if it would be possible for him to observe an IB class in action. More than lectures or threats, seeing this stimulating program in action could make him want to do what is necessary to be part of it. We are extremely enthusiastic about the IB program, which actually consists of three programs. There is the primary years program (ages 3-12), the middle years program (ages 11-15) and the diploma program (ages 16-19). The IB program is a challenging international program used in 125 countries. It is designed to help students develop the intellectual, personal, emotional and social skills to live, learn and work in our rapidly globalizing world.
Middle School at Sycamore:
Experience beyond the textbook. Everyone expects an exceptional academic experience for gifted students at Sycamore School. What some may not know is that our Middle School program offers so much more - the finest art, band and choir programs, exciting field trips, drama and service clubs, and a wide variety of athletic and academic teams. Students and their families are welcome to learn more at our
Middle School (Grades 5-8)
Open House
Tuesday, April 13th 5:30 to 7:30 pm
Call us at 317-202-2519 to talk about your student or schedule a school visit. 1750 West 64th Street, Indianapolis, IN 34 INDY’S CHILD * APRIL 2010
317-202-2500
www.sycamoreschool.org
Answer: Most homework battles occur over the time it is to be started. This needs to be set in stone. A contract between parent and child can resolve most homework battles. We‘ll be happy to send you a contract. Or you can find one on our Web site under the “Skill Builders” section in Resources. If you decide to use a contract, have very few terms at first. Beyond using a homework contract, make it a point to give help only when it is requested. You don’t want to have homework battles harm the relationship between you and your child. Try to settle this issue now before it becomes a running battle over the years.
Necessary Social Skills for Kindergarten Question: How can I be sure that my rather shy preschooler has the social skills needed to enter kindergarten? – Need to Know Answer: Keep in mind that some children are simply shyer than others. Every child is not going to be a “social butterfly.” And it can be counterproductive to push such children into social situations that make them uncomfortable. Unless your child’s shyness is preventing him or her from enjoying being with other children, his or her shyness is not likely to be a problem in kindergarten.
Many skills are important in determining if your child is ready for kindergarten. The ability to get along with others is certainly one of them. Here is an ERIC digest checklist that will let you observe how well your child is doing in forming social skills. If your child exhibits most of the traits on this checklist, he or she is not likely to need any special help when the child encounters occasional difficulties. On the other hand, if your child demonstrates few of the traits on this checklist, he or she might need some strategies to build more satisfying relationships with other children. If your child has attended a preschool program, how well he or she has handled the social aspects should give you a good idea of how well the child will handle kindergarten.
Social Skills Checklist The child usually: 1. Approaches others positively. 2. Expresses wishes and preferences clearly. 3. Asserts own rights and needs appropriately; gives reasons for actions and positions. 4. Is not easily intimidated by bullies. 5. Expresses frustrations and anger effectively without escalating disagreements or harming others. 6. Gains access to ongoing groups at play and work. 7. Makes relevant contributions to ongoing activities. 8. Takes turns fairly easily. 9. Shows interest in others. 10. Negotiates and compromises with others appropriately. 11. Does not draw inappropriate attention to self. 12. Interacts nonverbally (smiles, waves, nods) with other children Parents should send questions to dearteacher@dearteacher.com or ask them on the columnists’ Web site at www. dearteacher.com.
r e so u rc e s
Chi ld Care East
Kidz Luv Bilingual Academy & Educational Childcare 4118 N Sheridan Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46226 Tumikia Gilbert 317-547-7323 tumgilbert@aol.com www.kidzluv.daycare.com Home: East: Christian - Catholic Monday - Friday, 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. Kidz Luv has provided early childhood education to families for 10 years. Our Educational Childcare cares for children Infant-3 years and our Bilingual Academy implements Spanish and Sign Language into our preschool cirriculum, and is for children ages 3-5. We are NAFCC Accredited, State Licensed and CCDF is accepted.
Meridian Kessler
Wee Folk Child Care Meridian Kessler Neighborhood Indianapolis 317-926-3640 Ages: 4 weeks+ Quality in-home child care serving caring families for 20 years. (CPR, 1st aid certified, and state licensed). Two meals and one snack provided daily along with baby food and regular formula. We provide quality learning through play in a non-smoking Christian environment. Preschool program providing Kindergarten prep is available. $130/week. 7:15-5:30 M-F.
North
Peanut Butter and Jelly Childcare
2421 Butterfield Dr., Indianapolis, IN 46220 Mrs. Hatcher 317-205-9211 peanut_jelly@att.net www.peanutbutterjelly.info Low flexible rates vary with age. CCDF accepted; monthly specials. $50.00 registration fee. Drop in services available, Parent’s Night Out. Please call for more information! 7 DAYS A WEEK 24 HOURS A DAY Home Childcare Field trips to the Children’s Museum, The Indianapolis Zoo, Chuck E. Cheese’s, Monkey Joe’s, Snapperz and more! Ages 4 weeks through 4 years old Peanut Butter and Jelly Childcare offers a “home away from home” within a learning enviornment, and our professional caregivers provide quality care that kids deserve while also being allowed to be kids. Licensed, CPR certified, first aid, universal precautions, drug and criminal checks. Daily hot home cooked meals. Daily progress reports, kindergarten prep.
SeekingSitters 1950 E. Greyhound Pass, Ste 18-301, Carmel, IN 46033 Kristin Slade 317-985-9505 kristins@seekingsitters www.seekingsitters.com SeekingSitters Indianapolis North is the solution for all of your childcare needs. We are an on-demand service for families seeking babysitters. Whether your need is last minute, one-time, part-time, or full-time, we can solve your childcare dilemma. Visit SeekingSitters. com for more information and to sign up!
Northwest
Shining Stars Home Childcare 4851 Rocky Knob Lane, Indianapolis, IN 46254 Erin Bonnell 317-222-6156 ebonnell@ shiningstarshomechildcare.c shiningstarshomechildcare.com NOW ENROLLING!! Shining Stars Home Child Care is now accepting applications for children, infants through school age. Licensed Home Child Care Provider with 10+ years of experience working with children: in child care settings and more recently as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am a part of Paths to Quality which assists child care centers in implementing educational requirements for young children. I am CPR/First aid certified, trained in Universal Precautions, as well as Safe Sleep Practices. Hours are 7 am to 5:30 pm, Monday through Friday. Full time, Part time, Hourly and Before/After School rates available. CCDF is accepted. Please contact me for more information, to answer any questions, and to request an application packet. Feel free to request a face-to-face meeting in order for us to get to know each other and to see where the children will be playing and learning.I look forward to helping your child shine!
Schools Brownsburg
allowing children to learn at their own pace and are treated with respect. Teachers encourage and inspire children to do not only the minimum, but also their best, where learning should be a happy, joyous experience! Children learn how to think for themselves and how to solve problems in original and creative ways and have a positive self-image. Children participate in math, language, music, art, practical life, science, geography, and foreign language. Discover the Difference at the Maria Montessori! Now accepting applications for all ages toddlers, Pre-K and Kindergarten.
Carmel
Carmel Montessori Schools, Inc. Emily & Scott Rudicel 1402 W. Main St. Carmel, IN 317-580-0699 info@carmelmontessori.com carmelmontessori.com Ages: Pre-school through Kindergarten. Carmel Montessori School is located on the beautiful campus at St. Christopher’s Church on the NE corner of Main St. and Meridian in Carmel. Our directress is American Montessori Certified with 10 years headteaching experience. We offer a beautiful, peaceful and positive Montessori learning environment. Extended days available.
Clay Montessori
Maria Montessori International Academy
Peggy White 463 East Main St. Carmel 317-849-9519 or 317-580-1850 Ages: 3-6 Call for more information. (Affiliated with Fisher’s Montessori). Morning, afternoon & full-day programs.
Maria Montessori International Academy offers a child centered Montessori program
Gymboree Play & Music
431 E. Northfield Dr., Brownsburg, IN 317-852-3900 mariamontessori-intl.org Ages: 12 months to 6 years
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childcare & education directory
12524 N. Gray Rd, Carmel, IN 46033 Phone: 317-574-9626 carmelin@gymboreeclasses.com Gymboree offers unique Play & Learn, Music or Art events & parties. These events are lead by our professional teachers in our clean, creative and colorful environment. We can also bring the event to you with our mobile program. Ages birth - 5 years.
The Montessori Learning Center Elizabeth Williams
1402 W. Main St. Carmel 317-846-8182 elizabeth@ themontessorilearningcenter.com themontessorilearningcenter.com Ages: Grades 1-3 The Montessori Learning Center Elementary program focuses on developing the whole child through interaction with an interdisciplinary curriculum. Our program specifically meets the needs of each child and is aligned with Indiana State Standards.
Primrose School at WestClay 13096 Moultrie Street 317-848-0123 Julie Bowman jbowman@primrosewestclay.com primrosewestclay.com Our programs are offered to students ages 6 weeks through 12 years of age. We offer before and after school programs, including transportation. The Primrose School at WestClay is dedicated to providing outstanding educational care to students ages 6 weeks through 12 years of age. Our curriculum is NCA accredited and offers many extras such as Spanish, technology, sign language, character development, music appreciation, art appreciation, science, social
studies, reading, English, and math. Please call today to learn how more than 90% of Primrose students out performed the national average.
Carmel -Zionsville
Maria Montessori International Academy 4370 Weston Point Dr. Zionsville 317-769-2220 mariamontessori-intl.org Ages: 3 months to 6 years old Maria Montessori International Academy offers a child centered Montessori program allowing children to learn at their own pace and are treated with respect. Teachers encourage and inspire children to do not only the minimum, but also their best, where learning should be a happy, joyous experience! Children learn how to think for themselves and how to solve problems in original and creative ways and have a positive self-image. Children participate in math, language, music, art, practical life, science, geography, and foreign language. The lead teachers possess bachelor degree and certification in Montessori Education. Discover the Difference at the Maria Montessori! Now accepting applications for all ages starting 3 months to 6 years located in Stonegate, Zionsville, IN.
Central
paramount School of Excellence 3020 Nowland Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46201 800.778.9334 info@paramountschool.org http://paramountschool.org Charter: Preschool - Middle School Cost: FREE Opens August 16 K-8 Grade
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r e so u rc e s
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childcare & education directory
Uniforms/Dress Code: Yes Before/After School Care: Yes Open House Dates: Back to School Night Thursday, September 2, 6:00 p.m. PSoE offers a unique vision for developing students as caring young adults that respect themselves, their environment and learn as independent thinkers. Through intuitive curricular design, robotics, wind turbines and green practices, students will receive a solid foundation for real world problem solving.
East
Stonegate Early College High School 2855 Franklin Road, Indianapolis, IN 46219 Dr. Scott Syverson, Executive Director 317-354-1100 ssyverson@sec-hs.net www.sec-hs.net Charter: High School Ages/Grades: 9-12 Public High School FREE COLLEGE TUITION Stonegate Early College High School is a unique school that allows students to complete a Core 40 or Academic Honors diploma and an Associate’s Degree while in high school – for FREE! Stonegate pays the college course tuition for any student enrolled in college level coursework while attending Stonegate.
Trinity Lutheran School 8540 East 16th Street Amanda Hoover 317-529-0138 eliwhit9799@yahoo.com trinityindy.org Ages/Grades: Pre-school for ages 3-5yrs & K-8th
36 INDY’S CHILD * APRIL 2010
Our school is a loving environment. Our main goal is to teach and show our children and families the love of Jesus! FaithCompassion-Achievement! Our students strive academically and spiritually in a faith enriched enviroment.
Fishers
Fishers Montessori Peggy White 12806 Ford Rd and 131st and Allisonville Rd. Fishers 317-849-9519 or 317-580-1850 Ages: 3-9 A quality learning environment offering preschool, kindergarten and elementary. Certification through American Montessori Society. 9-12, 12:30-3, 9-3.
Primrose School at Gray Eagle Mindy Smith 12290 Olio Road (Olio Road between 116th street and 126th street) Fishers 317-577-9480 mindy@primrosegrayeagle.com Ages: Infants thru full day kindergarten. Before/ after care available. At Primrose School at Gray Eagle we offer much more than a daycare experience. Our exclusive Balanced Learning curriculum prepares your child for academic success while fully integrating character development creating a well-rounded young individual. Our safe, secure environment will provide you with peace-of-mind, knowing that your child is safe, happy and growing everyday! Full Time: $220 - $320 per week depending on age. Visit PrimroseGrayEagle.com for more information.
Geist
Multiple Locations
My Backyard Fine Arts Preschool at Geist Sports Academy
Indiana Council of Preschool Cooperatives: ICPC
11960 East 62nd Street Indianapolis 317-823-7734 geistsportsacademy.com Ages: 2 year-Pre K (5 year) NOW ENROLLING! Children will discover their unique selves and learn about the world around them through exploring the visual arts, creative movement and music appreciation. 9-11:45 a.m. M-Fri; MWF 9-1:30pm.
Multiple Locations in Indianapolis Area For schools, see below. ICPC Line: 317-767-7596 Ages: Preschool classes for ages 2-5; other programs vary - Kindergarten, Stay & Play, Enrichment/Extended Days. Indianapolis Area Preschool and Kindergarten Cooperatives Cooperative Preschools: great for your child, great for you! Children and parents learn and grow together in the classroom with caring, experienced teachers. Indiana Council of Preschool Cooperatives (ICPC) member schools are: Apple House: 6121 E. County Rd 100 S, Avon, 797-5925 Butler: 2411 Indianapolis Ave, Indy, 2264287 Downey: 111 S. Downey Rd, Indy, 3595304 Edgewood: 4040 E. Thompson Rd, Indy, 767-7730 Fishers Point: 9959 E. 126th St, Fishers, 767-4312 Geist Orchard: 7879 N. 700 West, McCordsville, 336-7008 Meridian Hills Nursery School and Kindergarten: 7171 N. Pennsylvania, Indy, 255-0831 Meridian Street: 5500 N. Meridian St, Indy, 7673003 Northeast Cooperative Preschool and Kindergarten: 5805 E. 56th St, Indy, 5929790 Parkview: 4550 central Ave, Indy, 3800628 Speedway: 3000 N. High School Rd, Indy, 356-2804 Willowcreek: 8170 Hague Rd, Indy, 578-5488
Meridian St. Michigan Rd.
Maria Montessori International Academy 7507 N. Michigan Road Indianapolis 317-291-5557 mariamontessori-intl.org Ages: 3 months to 9 years old
Maria Montessori International Academy offers a child centered Montessori program allowing children to learn at their own pace and are treated with respect. Teachers encourage and inspire children to do not only the minimum, but also their best, where learning should be a happy, joyous experience! Children learn how to think for themselves and how to solve problems in original and creative ways and have a positive self-image. Children participate in math, language, music, art, practical life, science, geography, and foreign language. The lead teachers possess bachelor degree and certification in Montessori Education. Discover the Difference at the Maria Montessori! Now accepting applications for all ages starting 3 months to 6 years located in Zionsville, IN.
Polly Panda Preschool and Bridgford Kindergarten 2944 E. 56th St.., Indianapolis Gail Hacker and Tammy Clark 317-257-9127 pollypandaindy@sbcglobal.net 17645 Oakmont Dr., Noblesville
Mandy Galle 317-773-0387 Oakmontpollypanda@yahoo.com Six weeks through Kindergarten, summer program also available. Polly Panda provides a safe and healthy environment which enhances each child’s total growth. Our theme-based hands-on preschool program provides a wide-range experiences that foster learning, creativity and problem solving in all areas. A child’s sense of self-worth, independence and growth in social skills are developed through positive interaction with peers and our well-qualified and loving staff.
Noblesville
Legacy Christian School 1687 N. 10th Street, Noblesville, IN 46060 Lana Thompson 317-776-4186 lthompson@ noblesvillechristianschool. LegacyChristianOnline.org Preschool - High School Noblesville Christian - Protestant/Other Preschool - 9th Grade Before/After School Care: Available Formerly Noblesville Christian School, we have been providing affordable Christian education in Hamilton County for more than ten years. Our new name reflects our constant focus: inspiring and equipping students to forge a godly legacy in our world. State accredited, we combine excellence in academics with Christ-centered teaching. Our full-day Kindergarten is 25-66% less costly than other programs, with music, art, library, gym and music weekly. Join us in leaving a Legacy!!
Primrose School at Bridgewater 14711 N. Gray Road, Noblesville, IN 46062 317-848-0123 Julie Bowman jbowman@primrosebridgewater.com primrosebridgewater.com Please call to schedule a tour and to get tuition information. We are open Monday through Friday 6:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. We take many exciting fieldtrips so please call to learn more specific details. Our programs are offered to students ages 6 weeks through 12 years of age. Students in pre-kindergarten and kindergarten are required to wear school uniforms. Before/After School Care: We offer before and after school programs, including transportation, to students up to 12 years of age. The Primrose School at Bridgewater is dedicated to providing outstanding educational care to students ages 6 weeks through 12 years of age. Our curriculum is NCA accredited and offers many extras such as Spanish, technology, sign language, character development, music appreciation, art appreciation, science, social studies, reading, English, and math. Please call today to learn how more than 90% of Primrose students out performed the national average.
North
Arthur M. Glick JCC 6701 Hoover Road, Indianapolis, IN 46260 317-251-9467 emills@JCCindy.org JCCindy.org
r e so u rc e s Ages: 6 weeks - Grade K Our loving caregivers and teachers demonstrate by example and encourage children to behave according to these values as the children are learning, playing and socializing with one another. The JCC embraces a learning-through-play teaching method to engage children in activities that promote creativity, accelerate learning and stimulate social interaction, all at each child’s individual pace.
Children’s Circle is a weekday, developmentally appropriate, activity-based Christian program. We meet the needs of the whole child in a fun, creative, nurturing environment. Here, children can develop the skills necessary to live in today’s world. Our experienced faculty leads children toward discovery of who they are and what they can do. We embrace excellence in education by nurturing the whole child -- physically, emotionally, spiritually and intellectually.
Beth-El Zedeck Early Childhood Center
Early Childhood Center, The Church at the Crossing
600 W. 70th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260 Joanie Waldman 317-259-6854 jwaldman@bez613.org Ages/Grades: 12 mos.+, 18 mos.+, 2’s+ (8:50 am to 12:30 pm or 3:00 pm and choice of days). 3’s+ (8:50 am to 3:00 pm and choice of days). 4’s+/PreK (3 or 5 day option)and Kindergarten (5 full-day program 8:50 am to 3:00 pm) OPTIONS FOR ALL: Flexible early drop off at 7:30. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. Full Academic Curriculum and Innovative Arts’ Enrichment. Our Program recognizes that intellectual, social, emotional and physical development are interwoven. Our children will thrive on exploration, creativity, curiosity, discovery, spontaneity and more important, lots of love!
Children’s Day In Nursery School and Traditional Preschool Christy Whaley 5500 N. Meridian St. Indianapolis 317-253-0472 cwhaley@msumc.org msumc.org Ages: Nursery School and Preschool The Children’s Day In Nursery School is a fully inclusive early childhood program with an emphasis on Christian values. It is designed to offer children 9 months to 3 years a positive and developmentally appropriate experience in the care of experienced caregivers. Classes are offered weekdays from 9 am to 2:30 pm. CDI Preschool program provides a quality developmentally appropriate education for 3, 4 and 5 year olds. Program includes weekly Christian Life Skills, First Steps in Music (ICC) and Book Club. 3’s: T & Th, 4/5’s MWF. 9-2:30 pm. Summer Camp available.
Children’s Circle of Second Presbyterian Church 7700 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46260 Regina Covey for Registration; Director Cara Paul for Curriculum 317-252-5517 rcovey@secondchurch.org Ages/Grades: 7 months to 5 years
John Drake or Kelly Belt 9111 N. Haverstick Rd. Indianapolis 317-575-6508 jdrake@churchatthecrossing.org churchatthecrossing.org Ages: 12mos - Pre-K 5’s Our Mothers Day Out (12-35mos) 9:152:30 and Preschool (3yrs-PreK’s) programs provide relaxed, playful, secure environments that nurture creativity and encourage the exploration of God’s world, a wide variety of learning materials, & friendships, with readiness activities woven through each study unit. Need longer hours? Try our childcare ministry, The Neighborhood designed for 2-PreK 6:30-6pm M-F. Call for information and to schedule tours.
Fairview Early Childhood Program Melissa Peterson 4609 N. Capital Ave. Indianapolis 317-253-4990 mpeterson@fairviewpresbyterian.org fairviewpresbyterian.org Ages: 12 mo-5 yrs. (or up to Kindergarten) Fairview ECP has a developmental, experienced based curriculum in a warm and inclusive environment. Curriculum is designed to promote positive social behavior, respect for diversity, positive self-concept, independence, creativity and critical thinking skills. Come and visit us!
Herron High School 110 East 16th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202 Diantha Danielsl 317-231-0010 ddaniels@herronhighschool.org www.herronhighschool.org Charter: High School Cost: Free Public Charter 9:00am - 4:00pm daily during school year, also offering Summer Academe. 9th-12th grade Open to any student in the state. HHS is not affiliated with the Herron School of Art and Design at IUPUI. Uniforms/Dress Code: Yes Open House Dates:
October and March Herron High School provides a classical liberal arts education that integrates knowledge, inspires discipline, and values community service. Structured around an art history timeline, our curriculum integrates academic disciplines across a chronological timeframe and focuses on the classic art and literature of many cultures.
The Independence Academy of Indiana, Inc. 612 West 42nd Street Ruth Padgett 317-926-0043 ruthpadgett@ theIndependenceAcademy.org theIndependenceAcademy.org Ages/Grades: Grades 5 - 12 Created specifically for students with highfunctioning autism and Asperger’s Syndrome, The Independence Academy helps students achieve their highest level of independence and academic success. Dedicated and trained staff teach math, sciences, language arts, global studies, social and life skills, and more. Very small classes. Beautiful campus. A place to belong.
International School of Indiana Denise Wagner, CFRE 4330 N. Michigan Road Indianapolis 317-923-1951 ext. 316 isind.org Ages: 3 years old-12th grade ISI is founded on the belief that an introduction to a second language, exposure to different nationalities and ethnic backgrounds and an International Baccalaureate-driven curriculum all work together to foster critical and independent thought. $12,250 pre-k through 8th grade and $12,960 for High School. Financial aid available for qualifiers.
317-415-2777 info@parktudor.org parktudor.org Ages/Grades: Junior Kindergarten (ages 3-5) - Grade 12 Park Tudor School’s exceptional educators and extraordinary opportunities prepare students to become confident and resourceful lifelong learners. The school community creates an inspiring college-preparatory learning environment for highly motivated young people. Two-year Global Scholars program for juniors and seniors; 19 AP classes; full-day kindergarten; Spanish beginning at age 3.
St. Luke’s Early Childhood Programs 100 West 86th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260 Bobbi Main-Jackson, Dir. 317-844-3399 mainb@stlukesumc.com stlukesumc.com Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: Available upon request Labor Day-Memorial Day 9am-1pm with Summer Programs available Preschool 3 yrs (by Sept 1 of school year)-5 yrs, Parents’ Day Out 10 mos (by Sept 1 of school year)-3 yrs Tours available upon request. St Luke’s Community Preschool is a weekday, developmentally appropriate and experience based program. Two well-trained, degreed teachers are in each classroom. Parents’ Day Out is a structured play experience that provides parents some time for themselves on a regular basis on M, Th, F. We provide a warm and loving Christian environment in which children can learn and grow. Tours available upon request. Visitors welcome.
St. Richard’s School 33 E. 33rd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205
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Melinda W. Fisher 317-926-0425 x134 mfisher@strichardsschool.org strichardsschool.org Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: PK-Grade Four $13,115 Grades Five-Eight $13,715 2009 FA: $450,000 Multiple field trips per grade level offered each year Age three (3) through Grade Eight Prefer student to be three years old prior to June 1st for Pre-Kindergarten. Before/After School Care: Before Care: 7:00 - 8:00 a.m. After Care: 3:30 - 6:00 p.m. Independent Episcopal day school offering a community filled with academic rigor, faith based ecumenism and long-standing traditions. Its mission is to instill knowledge and values for a lifetime through the implementation of five Pillars for Success: Faith, Classic Curriculum, Leadership, Civic Responsibility, and Global Readiness. PreKindergarten (3) through Grade 8.
Sycamore School 1750 W. 64th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260 Dr. Susan Karpicke, Director of Admissions 317-202-2500 skarpicke@sycamoreschool.org sycamoreschool.org 1/2 day programs range from $5,030 to $8010; Full-day PreK through 8th grade is $13,495 for 2009-2010. Financial assistance is available. Please contact dridings@sycamoreschool.org. M -TH 8:15 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.; F 8:15 a.m.- 2:15 p.m. Parent Tours: Please call 317-202-2519 to schedule a parent tour.
2 yrs. 8 mos. - 8th grade
At Sycamore, teachers trained in gifted education deliver a curriculum designed to challenge and engage gifted learners. Art, music, Spanish, PE and technology are taught at all levels. Extensive field trips, athletics, child care, financial aid, and a wide variety of after school activities are offered.
The orchard school Kristen Hein, Director of Admissions 615 W. 64th St. Indianapolis 317-713-5705 khein@orchard.org orchard.org Ages: Preschool 3/4 through Grade 8 The Orchard School, an independent, nonsectarian, progressive school, emphasized experiential learning. Orchard teachers engage the natural curiosity of children, develop academic excellence, and provide leadership experience through well-rounded education. Orchard’s diverse community and commitment to multicultural education inspires responsible, global citizenship. Founded in 1922. NAIS, ISACS, NAEYS accredited. Call to schedule a personal tour, and check our Web site for the date and time of our annual Open House. Applicants are selected without regard to their ability to pay tuition. Every effort is made to provide financial assistance where needed. Tuition is all-inclusive. Before/after care available.
Northeast
WEE Care Preschool and Kindergarten 8901 Fall Creek Road, Indianapolis, IN 46256 Sandi Carter 317-594-6968 weecare@fallcreekbaptist.com fallcreekbaptist.com $145 per month for our 2 - 3 program; $205 for our PreKindergarten program; $215 for our Kindergarten program; $90 for Mom’s Day
montessori Centres Lynne Boone, Director 563 Westfield Blvd. W. Dr. Indianapolis 317-257-2224 montessoricentres@sbcglobal.net Ages: 2 1/2-3rd grade Stressing peace and respect for all, we’ve worked with children to develop criticalthinking and time-management skills since 1966. Montessori-certified lead teachers serve children aged 2 1/2-3rd grade. Our classroom structure and materials allow children to be self-directed and self-paced. Our well-rounded curriculum includes French and Spanish, art, and computer labs. True Montessori environment serving children at all levels from gifted to special needs. Pre/K: 8:30-11:30 or 8:30-3:15.
Where Gardens, Art and Community Grow Together corporate sponsor
April 29-May 2, 2010 • Holliday Park 317.251.9253 • www.orchardinbloom.org New! Containers In Bloom and Weddings In Bloom Honorary Chair: Lisa Hurst
Park Tudor School 7200 N. College Ave. David Amstutz
Gold Sponsors: Indy Parks, Print Resources, Marsh Supermarkets, Diamond Capitol Management, Aladdin Food Management Services, R & R Music, SEI, IU Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Silver Square, Lemonade Day Indianapolis, WFYI TV 20 / FM 90.1, B105.7, 97.1 HANK FM, 93.1 WIBC Support businesses that support Orchard In Bloom and our community. Check out ChaChaCoupons.com.
Thursday 6-8:30pm Preview Party Friday & Saturday 9am-5pm • Sunday Noon-5pm Garden show advance tickets are $10 at The Orchard School, Marsh Supermarkets, The National Bank of Indianapolis branches, IMA Greenhouse, and Holliday Park. New! Purchase tickets online at www.orchardinbloom.org. Gate admission $12. Three-day passes $15. Children 14 and under are free. Benefitting Indy Parks and The Orchard School INDYSCHILD.COM 37
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Out; $205 for 2 - 3 year olds with Mom’s Day Out 2 - 3 years meet Tues/Thurs from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.; PreK and Kindergarten meet Tues/Thurs 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. AND Wed from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.; 6 months - 3 years can take advantage of Mom’s Day Out on Wed from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. 6 months old (for Mom’ Day Out) through Kindergarten Early drop off is offered for an additional fee (ask for details) Open House Dates: OPEN HOUSE is February 9, 2010 12 p.m . - 2 p.m. We are a Christian Preschool located inside Fall Creek Baptist Church on Fall Creek Road. We provide structure and guided activities to develop language, reading, writing and math skills appropriate to your child’s stage of development. Music, Spanish and Motor Gym are also offered with the program. Call for your personal tour today! And...ask about our early registration discounts!
Northwest
International Montessori School, Inc. 2150 West 96th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260 Ranee Dhadialla 317-575-8733 rkd1948@sbcglobal.net intlmontessori.com Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: Please call for more information 9 AM - 12 Noon or 9 AM - 3 PM with options for 7-9 AM, 3-6 PM Field Trips: Yes 3 - 9 years Before/After School Care: Yes Open House Dates: January 9, 2010, 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. A unique & warm place for children ages 3-9 years providing quality Montessori Education including exposure to diverse cultures, languages, art, music and more.. Now enrolling for Summer and Fall 2010!
West
Carousel Day Service Ministry/ Barnes United Methodist Church PO Box 781348, Indianapolis, IN 46278-1348 Victoria Keaton 317-946-5470 dvkeaton317@yahoo.com lilcarousel.com $25.00 Application Fee 6:am til 6:pm Field Trips: $7.50 thru $15.00/child Ages/Grades: 0 thru 13 Methodist Before/after school care available Carousel Day Service Ministry is a registered child development facility. Our care and development focus includes children with Down Syndrome, autism, developmentally disabled, and mentally challenged. Our curriculum includes Spanish.
Imagine Indiana Life Sciences Academy—West 4950 W. 34th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46224 Keith Marsh 317-297-9100 317-297-9460 keith.marsh@imagineschools.com Charter: Kindergarten - Middle School Free tuition Hours/Dates: 8 am - 3pm Ages/Grades: k-7 Before care 6:30 am- 7:30 After care 3 pm - 6pm Imagine having a choice to decide what is the best school option for your child, regardles of where you live. By choosing Imagine Life Sciences Academy West, you provide your child with a challenging education rich in math, arts, science and technology, with teachers who use innovative teaching techniques that prepare students for success.
Indianapolis Metropolitan High School 1635 West Michigan St, Indianapolis, IN 46222 Kerry Moore 317-524-4262 kerry.moore@indianapolismet.org www.indianapolismet.org :Charter: High School Cost/Tuition/Financial No cost to attend Grades: 9-12 Open to all students living in Indiana Open House Dates: June 10, 24 and July 8,22 Indianapolis Met is a public high school dedicated to educating one student at a time. Students learn at their own pace, class sizes are small, students learn through internships and take dual-credit college classes. The school’s goal is to improve the high school graduation and post-secondary participation rates.
The Children’s House 2404 W. 62nd St. (near Michigan Rd.), Indianapolis, IN 46268 Susan Catania or Mary Sexson 38 INDY’S CHILD * APRIL 2010
317-253-3033 childrenshouse08@gmail.com2404 W. 62nd St. (near Michigan Rd.), Indianapolis, IN 46268 Susan Catania or Mary Sexson 317-253-3033 childrenshouse08@gmail.com thechildrenshouseindianapolis.com Ages/Grades: 2 1/2 years - 14 years of age The Children’s House offers a Montessori preschool. The four areas of our preschool are practical life, sensorial, math and language. The Montessori preschool is available on a nine or twelve month calendar. The elementary level is an ungraded, continuous-progress school where children discover and pursue their unique talents and needs. Each child is provided with an individual learning experience based on the assumption that children are naturally inquisitive and want to learn. The Children’s House has helped shape the lives of hundreds of Indianapolis Children since its founding under a Lilly Endowment grant in 1971.
Westfield
Montessori School of Westfield, Inc. 800 E. Sycamore Street, Westfield Mary Lyman, Directress 317-867-0158 montessoriwestfield@gmail.com Ages/Grades: Toddler- 15 months to 3 years; Ages 3-Kindergarten; Elementary 1: Grade 1-3; Elementary 2: Grade 4-8 Located on 3 wooded acres in Central Indiana, the Montessori School of Westfield adheres to the academic traditions of Montessori while serving the present day child.
Parenting Program
First Years Family Center P.O. Box 90315, Indianapolis, IN 46240 Peggy Meyer 317-201-6485 peg@firstyearsfamilycenter.org
firstyearsfamilycenter.org First Years brings you together with other parents who are going through the same ages and stages that you are experiencing with your child. Our discussion groups are as supportive as they are informative. We incorporate children with special needs into our current programs. We also provide you and your child with an enriched play environment free of those distractions you have at home.
Regardless of Special Needs, Camp is for Every Child
Finding the right camp is easier than you think
As a parent, I constantly ask where do children have their mental, personal, emotional, and physical needs nurtured? Where will they learn to get along with others, to take safe risks, to deal with conf lict in a constructive way that encourages them to be creative, to explore and discover, to learn by actively doing, to try—to fail and try again? In the camp community, I f ind what I intuitively know as a parent—to be a positive, productive adult one needs the opportunity to truly experience childhood —that is how one grows.
engagement, not to mention the spiritual dimension of the camp experience.
Camps enjoy the opportunity of working their magic with all of our children: the gifted athlete, the budding musician, the curious naturalist, the first-time camper and the child with special needs. The idea that camp is for every child isn’t just a pipe dream — it’s a reality. And one that parents and children celebrate and one that the American Camp Association® (ACA) supports by promoting safe, fun, and developmentally-appropriate experiences in the camp setting.
Every child has different needs and there is a camp to meet every unique need. At inclusive camps, children have the opportunity to discover similarities in someone different from them, things that they may not have imagined, something which leads them gain a new perspective about others, as well as themselves. Likewise, camps that exclusively serve children with special needs allow these campers to discover that there are other children just like them. Not only himself— but others — could have special medical needs and still enjoy the carefree summer activities of children without their particular special needs. Camp allows these children the opportunity to view themselves as children, first.
Over 11 million children and adults will participate in camp this summer, 14 percent of whom have special or different needs. Overall, the numbers continue to grow, and this popular movement testifies so loudly to the extraordinary benefits that camp provides to our young people — responsibility, exploration,
Camp is about firsts — a first campfire outdoors, leading a pony, catching a frog, enjoying the evening stories, and being chosen — chosen to be part of a community that values each child and his or her special and unique gifts. Camps provide children the opportunity to take healthy risks while in a safe and nurturing environment. Regardless of different levels of physical and mental ability of needs, all children get the opportunity to get outside, play, and most importantly, to just be kids!
The independence the kids gain and the sheer happiness they get from
participating in the activities stays with them even after they leave camp. For a person with special needs, something as simple as paddling a canoe or riding a horse can be a life-changing experience. Providing this experience for children is what makes the camp experience unique, and the ACA family feels fortunate and honored to help children discover these special moments of life. ©2010 American Camp Association With nearly three decades of experience working with children, youth, and families, Peg L. Smith is the chief executive officer of the American Camp Association® (ACA). With up to 300 health, safety, and programming standards, ACA is the only national association that accredits camps and promotes a safe and fun camp experience with developmental benefits backed by independent research. To learn more about ACA, please visit www.CampParents.org or www.ACAcamps.org.
Take Note
A Camp Resource for Families www.CampParents.org CampParents.org, ACA’s family-dedicated Web site, provides expert advice from camp professionals on camp selection, readiness, and child and youth development—as well
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Day Camps
Beth-El Zedeck Presents: “The Dog Days of Summer”
600 W. 70th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260 Joanie Waldman 317-259-6854 jwaldman@bez613.org Co-ed: Day: Traditional Flexible hours/Call for brochure/Part-time available for all ages. Session 1: June 7 - July 2; Sesson 2: July 6 - July 30 12 mos.+, 18 mos.+, 2 yrs.+, 3 yrs.+, 4 and 5 years + Cost: Call for full brochure.
Weekly creative themes, arts and crafts, water fun at the Sidney & Lois Eskenazi Aquatic Complex for 3’s, 4’s and 5’s. Water play for 12 months +, 18 months + and 2+. Music/Creative Movement, Entertainment, Field Trip Fridays for 4’s and 5’s. Our Summer Program recognizes that children learn through play. Play fosters total development and should be interwoven in everything children do. During camp, children will experiment and explore by using all five senses. Our campers will thrive on creativity, exploration, discovery, spontaneity and lots of love. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.
BounceU Summer Day Camp!
715 Kincaid Drive, Suite
800, Fishers, IN 46037 Kendra Hood 317-578-7529 fishers.in@bounceu.com www.bounceu.com Co-ed: Sports All Day Session: 7 a.m. -6 p.m.; Morning Session: 7 a.m.- 1 p.m.; Afternoon Session: Noon-6 p.m. BounceU is open 7 days a week! All Summer Long! Morning & Afternoon Sessions for Age 4 to 7 (or enroll all day); All Day Session Flexible Hours for Ages 8 above Ages preschool through middle school. Daily $35-$40 ; Weekly (5 days) $150-$200 Parents are required to sign a Liability Release Waiver Form. Daily Structured Activities: Arts & Crafts, Discovery, Music & Dance, Science, Talent Shows & Other Fun Activities All kids enjoy the healthy aspects of bounce which are emphasized in this fun and active Summer Bounce Camp. Snacks Provided, but if children are participating in the full day camp, a prepared sack lunch is required.
Camp Cathedral
5225 East 56th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46226 Bryan Banschbach , Camp Coordinator
317-542-1481 bbanschbach@ cathedral-irish.org www.gocathedral.com Co-ed: Day: Sports and Enrichment 7 am - 6 pm with early and late pick-up available Ages K - 12 Campers have the option to take a number of sport and enrichment programs throughout the summer -- everything from football and volleyball to theatre, music and art. Children of all ages can advance their interest in a particular discipline with specialized coaching and instruction, or come out and learn something completely new!
Camp Delafield
Jenn Park, 10450 E. 63rd St., Indianapolis, IN 46236 Kristin Baxter 317-545-5451, ext. 225 kbaxter@ dyslexiaindiana.org www.dyslexiaindiana. org Co-ed: Day: Special Needs This is a specialty camp for children with language learning disabilities. . Financial aid is available. Mon. - Thu.: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Fri.: 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. session I: June 7 - July 2 Session II: July 5 - July 30 Ages 7 to 14 $2,400
One-on-one Orton-Gillingham Tutoring, Math, Written Expression, Art, Swimming, Ropes Course, Field Trips, Mystery Guests, and more! Established in 1990, Camp Delafield was the first program conducted by DII. Camp Delafield provides both a rigorous academic program and a diverse arts and recreational program with learning opportunities to strengthen organization, gross and fine motor skills. Scholarship opportunities are available!
Camp Primrose
12290 Olio Road, Fishers, IN 46037 Erin Wilson 317-577-9480 Erin@primrosegrayeagle. com www. PrimroseGrayEagle.com Co-ed: Day Monday through Friday; 6:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. May - August Ages 5 - 12 $225/wk
Soccer, Dance, Scrapbooking, Cooking, Field Trips, Entertainment/Shows, Sprinkler Days, Ice Cream Days. Camp Primrose will keep your child engaged with monthly themed activities, weekly activities such as soccer and dance, and a variety of special days that include sprinklers, field trips and shows. Our camp is engaging and fun and designed for children that love to
keep active. Call today for more information.
Summer Camp Series - Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation 1235 Central Park Drive East, Carmel, IN 46032 Ben Johnson, Manager 317-573-5240 bjohnson@ carmelclayparks.com www.carmelclayparks. com Co-ed: Day: Special Needs, Traditional: Autism Autism spectrum offered daily (Everyday and specialty) 7 am to 6 pm with some variations based upon camp type June 1 through July 30 ages 3-16 $45 - $160/wk Campers Must be restroom-trained.
Full-Day Variety, Sports, Art, Science, Theatre, Preschool, Nature, Autism From our ever-popular Vacation Station to specialty camps focusing on theater, art, science and sports ( just to name a few); our series is a great way for your child to select the type of camp that will have your child talking all summer long and beyond.
Chinese Culture
Summer Camp at IUPUI
Confucius Institute, IUPUI, 425 University Blvd., Indianapolis, IN 46202 Noah Buonanno 317-278-7900 ciindy@iupui.edu www.iupui.edu/~china/ summer-camp/ Co-ed: Day: Chinese Language and Culture Ages 5-13/ grades K-8 $125 per week for those enroll 5 weeks. $150 per week for those enroll on the weekly base. $25 per week for pre- and after-school care. $15 teaching materials and textbooks. $25 one-time discount for enrollment before March 15 Chinese language, calligraphy, song and dance, martial arts, games and crafts. For language learning, the younger the better. To better prepare our children to learn Chinese language, the Confucius Institute in Indianapolis offers a Chinese Language and Culture summer day-camp for K-8 students. The camp is held on the IUPUI campus, and last for five weeks. Students will have a full curriculum of Chinese language, Chinese games & crafts, singing
Chess Camp 14th Annual USA Chess National Summer Chess Camp Tour USA Chess is the largest and premier summer camp organizer for children in the U.S. with more than 100 schools nationwide. Our staff is comprised of the finest children’s chess instructors. Campers experience a fun filled week while learning the skills needed to play casual and/or competitive chess.
Tuition includes tee-shirt, trophy, chess board & pieces & much more.
• Beginners thru Advanced Welcome! • Co-ed, ages 5-16 • Group & Sibling Discounts • Morning, Afternoon & All-day Sessions Register Online:
www.chesscamp.com 888•65•CHESS
I just created a video game!
Intro Video Game Creation
At Game Builder Creation Camp your child will actually design, develop and create a one of a kind video game. We combine learning and fun and bring it to a whole new level. Enroll at
gamebuildercamp.com/video.htm 888.652.4377
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3D Animation Creation Camp
r e so u rc e s & dancing, calligraphy, martial arts, and more.
showcase, highlighting the week’s activities.
Freetown Village Summer Day Camp
Hippety-hop camp, princess dance camp, dance intensive
4601 N. Emerson Avenue at St. Alban’s Church, Indianapolis, IN 46226 Marriam A. Umar, Program Manager 317-631-1870 marriam@ freetownvillage.org www.freetownvillage. org Co-ed: Day: Academic/ Pre-college Special Needs Camps are Offered during everyday camps. 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. June 7 - August 6, 2010 Age 5 - 14/ grades K - 8th $70/wk + registration fee Campers Must bring own sack lunch
Structured learning environment highlighting history, manners/ etiquette, culture & the arts. Crafts, theater, math/reading, leadership development, hands on activities, field trips, team building, health & nutrition. Nine (9) weekly sessions designed to allow campers to make learning fun! Our Summer Camp fosters discovery and personal growth. Children will learn about themselves and their community while developing a stronger sense of purpose. Each week ends with a
9257 Castlegate Drive, Indianapolis, Indy 46256 Beverly Wohrle 317-579-0117 DanceCreations@ comcast.net www.DanceCreations.org Co-ed: Day: Arts Dance Camps: 9:00 AM-12:00 Noon (MonThurs) Dance Intensive: 5:30-8:30 PM (Mon-Fri): Camps: June 7-10 June 28-July 1 July 12-15 July 26-29 Dance Intensive: August 2-6: Camps: 3-7 years old, Dance Intensive: 7-20 years old: Camps: $85 Intensive: $125
Wear dancewear or comfortable clothing you can move well in. Princess Camp (Ballet and Creative Movement) Hippety-Hop Camp (Hip-hop & Jazz dance) Intensive - Ballet, Jazz, Lyrical, Musical Theater, Tap, Indian Bollywood, Hip-Hop.Our fun and lively dance camps introduce children to the joy of dance! Includes dance instruction, games, crafts and guest performers. No experience required. The Dance Intensive offers a variety of dance classes 3 hours
each evening. Levels available: Beg/Inter/Adv We also offer an 8-week dance class program. On-line registration!
iD Tech Camps
Purdue University and 60 Universities Nationwide & Canada 888-709-TECH (8324) info@internalDrive.com www.internalDrive.com Co-ed Day AND Residential June - August Ages 7 - 18 Cost varies
Video Game Design, Game Modding, 3D Modeling, Web & Graphic Design, Photography, Digital Photography, Filmmaking, Programming, Robotics, iPhone® and Facebook® apps, Guitar Hero®, Gaming Tournaments and more. Experience North America’s #1 summer technology program. Over 100,000 students age 7-18 have created video games, websites, movies, C++ and Java programs, iPhone® and Facebook® apps, robots and 3D animations. Enroll in these fun and challenging summer camps, located at 60 prestigious universities nationwide and Canada, including Purdue. Save w/code IN22.
indianapolis art center summer art camps 820 East 67th Street,
Indianapolis, IN 46220 317-255-2464 317-254-0486 Classes@ IndplsArtCenter.org www.IndplsArtCenter. org Co-ed: Day: Arts 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (first graders through age 7), 1:30-5:30 p.m. (ages 8-12) or 8:30 a.m.5:30 p.m. (ages 8-12) now through Aug. 7. Cost of camps vary. Clear your refrigerator door to make room for the art masterpieces your kids will create during this Spring Break Art Camp. In our half-day and full-day art camps, your kids will have the whole week to let their imaginations run wild. They’ll participate in a variety of activities like papermaking, fabric dyeing, sculpture, hand-built ceramics, painting and drawing. And our instructor-to-camper ratio is 1:10 (1:8 for the younger kids). So skip the trip to Florida and give your kids something more valuable—a connection to their own creativity!
Indianapolis Zoo Camp
1200 W. Washington Street, Indianapolis, In 46205 317-630-2000 edstaff@indyzoo.com www.indianapoliszoo.com Co-ed: Day: Animals
8 a.m. - 3 p.m. with after care available June 7 - July 30 Ages 5 - 14 years $145-$250 Camps are designed with age appropriate activities to encourage the discovery and appreciation of wildlife. Activities include games, stories, crafts, science, animal visits, shows, tours of the Zoo and more. Summer is fast approaching and we are making plans for another exciting camp season with new Zoo exhibits and traditional camp fun. Campers will have the opportunity to make new friends and explore the Zoo while learning about wildlife and wild places. Camps are well supervised with trained camp staff.
Indy music camp
Heritage Christian School, 6401 E 75th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46250 Santiago Jaramillo (954) 801-1595 director@ mymusiccamp.com www.MyMusicCamp. com Co-ed: Day: Arts 9:00 AM- 3:00 PM June 14th- June 18th June 21st- 25th (Twoweek session) 1st-4th Grade (6-9) & 5th-8th Grade (10-14) $210 per week Daily music lessons (small groups), outdoor
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sports & activities, arts & crafts, field trips, games & puzzles. We offer a balanced curriculum to ensure that our campers have a blast while learning an instrument!: Indy Music Camp is a twoweek program specifically crafted to inspire a love of music in kids. Most campers begin with little to no experience in music and leave being able to play a song that they pick! We offer lessons in drums, guitar, bass, piano, and vocals. Prior music experience is not required or expected.
Irvington IMC Summer Camp Series
5535 E. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46219 Sarah Pitney 317-603-3733 spitney@ IrvingtonMath.Com www.irvingtonmath.com Co-ed: Day: Academic/ Pre-college June 7th-July 30th. Ages 3 - 14
Arts n Crafts-daily make-it-takeit projects, Dr.G’s Mad Sciencehands-on experiments, the Art of Mathematics - creating art using geometry and patterns from nature, Math-o-MAPics - all about maps, Math of the Pharaohsancient Egypt and the pyramids, and Pre-K play ‘n learn.
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IMC operates in the heart of historic Irvington. All summer camps are designed to encourage creativity and learning through fun, meaningful hands-on activities.
IU Natatorium & Sports Complex Summer Day Camp & Sport Camps
901 West New York Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202 317-274-3364 msreiswe@iupui.edu www.sportcomplexcamp. iupui.edu 9am-4pm June 1 - July 30 Ages for Day Camp = 5-12; Sport Camps
Vary between 6-17 $184/week for Day Camp; Sport Camps vary Children ages 5-12 will learn, grow, and have FUN at Indianapolis’ leading day camp. Campers will enjoy a variety of sports, games and activities, as well as daily swim lessons in the world-famous IU Natatorium. Sport Camps also offered are: Soccer, Tennis, Lacrosse, Track, Swimming, Diving.
Knights and Princesses Camp and Ballet Camp
5144 Boulevard Place, Indianapolis, IN 46208 Larry Attaway 317-940-953 jhendri1@butler.edu
www.butler.edu/jcad Co-ed: Day Hours: 10-1 and 10-4 Dates: June 6 - July 6th Ages/Grades: 3-8 and 8-11 Cost: Knights and Princesses $200, Ballet Camp $500 Knights and Princesses Camp no requirements, for Ballet Camp they must have had at least 2 years of dance study Activities Include: Knights and Princesses, ballet, story time, crafts, performance. Ballet Camp, ballet, dance history, modern, jazz, tap, performance Knights and Princesses: one-week 1/2 day camp for dancers ages 3-8. Classes in ballet, arts and crafts, story-time and a performance at
the end. Ballet Camp: 2-week day camp. Classes in ballet, modern, jazz and tap. Performace at the end.
Little explorers summer safari
11740 Brooks School Road, Fishers, IN 46037 Lori Lorenz 317-288-7882 lori@lepreschool.com LEPreschool.com Both All-Boy and All-Girl Day Camp 8:30 am to 12:00 pm, Before/After care available upon request: June and July 2010 3 to 6 years $100 per week or $25 per day Requirements: Toilet trained Outside play, Creative learning cetners, Arts/ Crafts, Song and Dance, Story time: Exciting theme based adventures for early childhood learners! Led by individuals degreed in or seeking a degree in Earlly Childhood Education.
maria montessori international academy
Indianapolis, Brownsburg, Carmel, Zionsville, , Vivian Cain 317-291-5557
Fax: 317-291-5559 montessoriacademyofindy@ msn.com www.indymontessori.org Co-ed: Day: Arts half day, full day, extended care available. June 7 to August 6 June 7-11 -Living Green Horticulture and Terrarium June 14-18 Percussion Instruments and the Conductor Music: June 21-25 Japanese Pottery June 29- July 2 Public Artworks Exploration July 12-16 Culinary Japanese style tea ceremony and cuisine July 19-23 Dance, Choreography, and Theatre July 26-30 Fused Glass Making August 2-6 Integrated of Music, Painting, Movement/ Dance, and Story/Theatre.
Montessori Garden Academy
4141 S. East Street, Indianapolis, IN 46227 317-782-9990 jamie@ montessorigardenacademy.org www.montessorigardenacademy.org Special needs camps offered during everyday camps) CCDF Vouchers Accepted. 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. June 1 July 31 Ages 2-12 Cost varies per program Hands-on Learning Activities: Cooking, Music, Art, Yoga, Field Trips, Outdoor Water Activities Montessori Garden Academy’s Summer Programs offer the best of high quality Montessori Education and Summer Fun!
42 INDY’S CHILD * APRIL 2010
primrose school at west clay and primrose school at bridgewater
Primrose School at WestClay is located at 131st and Towne Rd., Carmel, IN 46032 Julie Bowman Bridgewater/317-848-0123/ WestClay 873-0123 jbowman@ primrosewestclay.com www.primrosewestclay. com Co-ed: Day 6:00 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. June 1st through August 5th. 6 weeks through 12 years old. of camp dependent on age. Our enrichment camp this year will be geared around 3 major themes. Some fieldtrips included in this will be Conner Prairie, IUPUI Fitness Program, Train Station, and many local parks. **Bridgewater is located on N. Gray Rd. and 146th Street. Our camp is designed to actively engage your child through many hands-on experiments and field trips. Your child will gain a wealth of knowledge promoting their overall academic success. Please contact us to learn how we can meet your child’s needs this summer! www.primrosebridgewater.com
rbai ballet summer camps for young dancers
2432 Lake Circle Dr., Indianapolis, IN 46268 Missy Rust 317-228-1917 or 317-379-1188 missy@ indianaballetcompany.com www.rbai.biz Co-ed: Day: Arts/ Sports/Ballet http://www.rbai.biz 10-2; Evenings: June 7 - July 2 Ages 3-5/6, 8/9-10 $185
r e so u rc e s Activities: Dancing, dressing up, crafts, games, snacks, reading Each week, different ballets provide the theme for stories, crafts, games, and learning about music, costumes and ballet technique. The week ends with a presentation and photos with a ballerina. Through interactive exploration of the world’s most enchanting ballets, children aged 3-8 will lay the foundation for a life-long love of music, dance and the arts. While having fun learning ballet basics from Indiana Ballet Company professionals, children will develop their creativity and imagination through movement and musical expression.
The Riviera Club Summer Camps
June 1 - August 13 ages 3 - 12+ prices start at $100 see website for details. We offer a traditional day camp experience and a variety of sports camps, arts camps, and many specialty camps. Daily swim lessons, games and tennis elective.Riviera Summer Day Camps are designed to keep kids moving, both physically and mentally, throughout the hot days of summer. We offer a wide range of camps to choose from every week, featuring flexible schedules, daily swim lessons, member discounts and joining specials and camps tailored to your child’s interests.
shortee’s golf camp
5640 N. Illinois St, Indianapolis, IN 46208 Therese Love 317-255-5471 info@rivi.org www.rivi.org Co-ed: Day Full Day Camps: 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Half day, morning or afternoon camp options. Extended care available from 8 - 9 a.m. and 5 - 6 p.m.
Kids discover new friends,
and confidence
at Sycamore Summer Quest Camps!
1775 E. 96th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46240 Don Turchan (317) 582-1850 (317) 582-0145 www.Shorteesgolf.net Weekday mornings - See website for start times. Week long camps beginning week of May 31 through week of August 2. See website for details. Little Linkers 4-6,
Junior Camp 7-14 Little Linkers $80, Junior Camp $125 Daily on course play combined with instruction on driving range, putting green and chipping green. Shortee’s 5 day Junior Golf Camps will offer a safe and fun way for kids to learn and practice the game of golf. Our instructional staff will help formulate a golf swing to meet the needs of each student. We will focus on the FUNdementals of golf including games and contests.
Sycamore School Summer Quest
1750 W. 64th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260 317-253-5288 x106 Dusty Burwell dburwell@sycamoreschool.org
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camp guide
www.sycamoreschool.org Co-ed; Day 8:30-11:30 am; 1:00 - 4:00 pm June 1 - June 23, 2010 4 yrs. old to kids entering 9th grade Cost varies for each camp;
Fun and exciting camps for 4 year-olds to kids entering 9th grade: fine arts & chess science & exploration sports & recreation
2010
Camp Sessions June 1 - July 23 Camps are 1-2 weeks long.
For more information call 317-202-2541 or visit www.sycamoreschool.org
Summer Quest Camp is open to the public! 1750 West 64th Street, Indianapolis, IN 317-202-2500 www.sycamoreschool.org INDYSCHILD.COM 43
r e so u rc e s
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camp guide
$110 and up Activities include arts & crafts, basketball, chess, creative writing, cooking, literature, math history, science, and volleyball. Nationally recognized Camp Invention and partnering up with YMCA of Greater Indianapolis. Sycamore School is thrilled tp provide a variety of exciting and enriching programs for your children. Sycamore camps help kids discover new friends, confidence and creativity. We offer preschool camp, sports and recreation and fine arts to science. Your child will have a fun-filled and rewarding experience.
The Children’s House Summer Day Camp
2404 W. 62nd St., Indianapolis, IN 46268 Susan Catania317-253-3033 www,thechildrenshou seindianapolis.com Co-ed: Day: Arts and crafts, traditional 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 14, 2010 to August 20, 2010. Ages 3 years to 14 years $120/wk + registration fee of $30. Campers must provide their own lunch and swim gear.
activities include field trips, reading club and outdoor games. Sign up for the whole summer or choose from a variety of special themed camp weeks! Sibling discount available.
Todd Academy Summer Camp Program
302 N. East Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202 Sharon Todd, Executive Director 317-636-3100 director@ toddacademy.com www.toddacademy.com Co-ed: Day
Swimming, bowling, hiking, arts and crafts. Limited spaces are available for summer day camp at The Children’s House. Weekly fun-filled camp
TECH CAMPS internalDrive.com
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Summer Junior Golf Camp 1775 East 96th Street - (317) 582-1850 Shortee’s week long golf camps offer a safe and fun way for kids to learn and practice the game of golf. Instruction will focus on long game, short game, and putting. Each student will learn proper golf etiquette, safety, rules and course maintenance. The first 60 minutes will focus on the FUNdamentals of golf including games and contests. The remainder of time will be spent playing the par three course. The size of each week long camp is limited.
44 INDY’S CHILD * APRIL 2010
Ages 7 –14
Little Linkers Golf Camp Ages 4 - 6 For additional information and camp enrollment forms go to www.shorteesgolf.net or call us at 582-1850
Please let us know if financial aid is needed. Limitied availability. 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. M-F Weekly from June 7, 2010 to August 20, 2010 Ages 10-17 $135 first week - $125 each additional camp Requirements of Campers: To come and be ready to have a great time! Bring lunch Monday-Thursday, friday lunch provided. Strategy, gaming, writing, computers, robotics, programming and much more. Each camp offers a variety of learning experiences. Todd Academy provides a series of camps designed to engage teens and tweens in learning while having fun gaming, learning strategy, writing,
robotics, programming and much more. Check out the individual weeks for the theme of the week.
Traders Point Creamery Farm Camp
9101 Moore Road, Zionsville, IN 46077 Amy Rhodes 317-733-1700 tours@tpforganics.com www. traderspointcreamery. com Co-ed: Day Session 1: June 28 – July 1; Session 2: July 12 – July 15; Session 3: August 2 – August 5
Grades 1st through 6th grade. Your child will experience cow milking, working with animals, hiking through pastures, splashing through Eagle Creek, making crafts and food, learning about gardening and composting, and playing games. Traders Point Farm Camp is a unique experience unlike any other summer camp! Each day on the farm, your child will participate in activities that awaken the senses and encourage the understanding of the Traders Point Creamery organic mission.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 63
More than 50 programs available for students in Grades K-12!
Enrichment • Athletics • Academics
Camp Cathedral Space is limited, so don’t wait! Register now at www.gocathedral.com for your favorite camp! Or get your FREE guide to all the camps that will be offered by Cathedral High School by calling (317) 968-7413. Don’t miss the fun!
Family Fitness You Can Afford
Fitness Together Creates Bonds... and Saves Money
Finding that you’ve grown a regular crop of couch potatoes over the winter? Wondering why it’s so hard to motivate your family to get out of the house? Looking for a solution to a little extra flab yourself? It might be time to get fit. Studies have shown that regular exercise can improve heart health and curb excessive weight gain. People – of all ages – who are physically fit tend to be happier, more productive, and experience a better overall sense of well-being. So, what’s keeping you and your family from getting fit?
Motivation can be one problem; finances can be another. In today’s economy, a tight budget and braces to pay for can preclude expensive tennis lessons and club soccer fees. No doubt, family exercise is an important investment, but is there a way to be both physically and fiscally fit?
welcome home to A
world-class network. If quality of care is most people’s top health care priority, convenience runs a close second. at riverview Hospital, we deliver on both counts. our network of primary, specialty and immediate care physicians is second to none. It’s also conveniently located throughout Hamilton county. same day appointments are available, and new patients are always welcome. to find the world-class care provider near you, call Riverview Medical Group at (317) 565-0000 or visit riverviewmedicalgroup.org.
Noblesville INDYSCHILD.COM 45 RVH-069-IndChild-03.12-FNL.indd 1
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RESOURCES
of bicycle safety. When possible, stick to off icial bike paths and make sure to tote along water bottles and a cell phone or phone card in case of emergencies. Don’t have a bike? Check out Freecycle.org and other sites that help people get rid of used stuff without paying someone to haul it away. You’d be surprised the grabs you’ll f ind!
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Following is a list of books and websites for information on family fitness:
Web Resources: www.kidshealth.org www.gameskidsplay.net
Get a Wii bit of exercise.
www.thetrailmaster.com
Believe it or not, there are several Wii games that provide a fair workout. While you might think you need more than one balance board, many activities, like yoga, can be done without it. Don’t have one? Check out your local library or ask to start a WiiFit community program. Many now provide f itness activities and/or Wii game nights.
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Take a hike. Sunshine, fresh air, and some exercise are easy to come by if you explore local hiking and walking trails. Pack water bottles and some trail mix as well as a small f irst aid kit. Check with your local county parks and recreation department for more details on the paths that are available to you. You’ll be pleasantly surprised what the great outdoors has in store.
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Hit the road . Bicycling is a great family-friendly activity. Prepare your children with helmets and a review
Get ready to play. Craigslist, thrift stores and yard sales are great places to acquire gently used sporting equipment. Browse the selection of new and used items at stores like Play It Again Sports. Outf it your family with bats, balls and mitts and join another family for a game of softball. Install a basketball hoop in the driveway for easy pick up games. Keep a soccer ball and Frisbee in the car at all times so that no matter where you are, you can run around and get the heart pumping.
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Walk down memory lane. Remember the days of Capture the Flag and Freeze Tag? Parents today still remember what it was to play f ield games until dusk instead of texting or playing video games indoors. Think about the different outdoor games you once played and pass that
Our children are our future. Give them the foundation they need to be the best they can be. Call to schedule your child's Comprehensive Wellness Assessment today.
317-842-5100 www.adjust2wellness.com facebook.com/adjust2wellness
Lakeshore Chiropractic: A Creating Wellness Center 9745 Fall Creek Road Indianapolis, IN 46256 46 INDY’S CHILD * APRIL 2010
www.fitness.gov/funfit/kidsinaction.html
Books: The Kids Summer Games Book: Official Book of Games to Play by Jane Drake The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Camping and Hiking by Michael Mouland
Jump right in. Swimming
is an economical way to exercise as a family, particularly when you purchase a season’s pass to the pool, or if you live near a beach or lake. Review water safety with older children and obtain swimming lessons for those who aren’t yet water safe. Not only is swimming good exercise, but it’s also a valuable life skill. Can’t afford the pool? Check out local gyms and recreation centers to f ind out when they have “free swim” days.
You bet there is! The following are ways that your family can exercise and spend time together – all in a budgetfriendly way.
www.backpacking.net/kids.html
Parents’ Guide to Hiking and Camping by Alice Cary Babes in the Woods: Hiking, Camping & Boating with Babies and Young Children by Jennifer Aist Hiking with Kids: Taking Those First Steps with Young Hikers by Robin Tawney Nichols Let’s Go Outside: Outdoor Activities and Projects to Get You and Your Kids Closer to Nature by Jennifer Ward
legacy on to your children. In case you forgot some of them, check out a book on outdoor games, such as The Kids Summer Games Book, to refresh your memory and maybe learn some new ones. Pick up a copy of Let’s Go Outside: Outdoor Activities and Projects to Get You and Your Kids Closer to Nature by Jennifer Ward. With a little creative thinking, you and your family can break a sweat and have some family fun all at the same time. Jessica Fisher is a wife, mother, and freelance writer, making her home in San Diego. She regularly writes about family fun, frugality, and the pursuit of a clean house at www. lifeasmom.com and shares budget-friendly recipes at www. goodcheapeats.com
Riley Hospital for Children Needs Your Help! Riley Hospital for Children needs healthy full-term infants between 2 and 36 months of age to evaluate how the lung grows. The evaluation takes approximately 2-3 hours. You will be compensated for your time participating in the evaluation. If interested in obtaining more information, please call (317)274-3604.
R E SOURC E S
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shopping corner
Turn your Passion for Chocolate into a business! Contact 317.966.9222 darkchocolateindy.com Business kits for as low as $79 Having a Dove Chocolate Discoveries™ business is FUN, and I’d love to share what it can do for you and your family. Whether you’re looking for extra income, more flexibility, personal growth, or want to travel, Dove Chocolate Discoveries™ can be the answer for you!
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INDYSCHILD.COM 47
Preparing Tomorrow’s Leaders for a Changing World Gebisa Ejeta grew up in a one-room thatched hut in a rural Ethiopian village and walked 20 kilometers each way to school. His dedication proved fruitful — in 2009, the Distinguished Professor of Agronomy at Purdue was awarded the World Food Prize for his work on sorghum hybrids that have enhanced the food supply of hundreds of millions of people in sub-Saharan Africa.
Discover the possibilities at Purdue.
www.purdue.edu 48 INDY’S CHILD * APRIL 2010
EA/EOU
College 301 Part tHREE of Three:
What to Expect with the Move to College
“The parent’s role is to be one of a supporter,” says Dr. Levester Johnson, vice president for student affairs at Butler University. The role, he adds, is to “help students be very reflective in their decision making, to ask questions, challenge them and be supportive of them and encourage them to take on their own responsibility.” A move to college signals a major milestone for children and parents, and one that comes with opportunities, challenges, anxiety and excitement. However, the best advice college administrators can give parents is to begin treating the child as an adult—making his or her own decisions and mistakes. “First and foremost, parents need to remember they are both going through a transition process. Their communication patterns are going to be different and access to information is going to change,” says Dan Stoker, executive director for student services at the University of Indianapolis. As a student is usually a legal adult by the time he or she enters college, parents must remember that their relationship with their child—personally, emotionally, and legally—will change. College is a time for comingof-age, for intellectual and self discovery, for pursuing passions and learning life lessons. In this, says Stoker, “Parents need to be a part of the process, but they don’t need to be the process. We want students to start taking ownership and being accountable for themselves. That has to transition from parents being solely responsible to students starting to take some responsibility.” In playing the role of supporter, there are several key tools parents can use to help the first year of college run smoothly. These include excellent communication skills, knowledge of campus resources and unending support. First and foremost, clear and easy communication is crucial for productive and open parent-child relationships. “We’re coming through an age of parents and family members being everything from best friends to parents being very involved in scheduling students’ lives,” Johnson says. “It’s very important for parents and students to understand, with all this new-found freedom, how to stay in touch with one another.” Students tend to be very busy, attending class, studying, socializing and working, so finding time for meaningful conversations can be challenging. But, family members are not restricted to traditional phone calls for communication. Social media sites such as Facebook.com and MySpace. com, or portable electronics with features like text messaging or sending photos can make it easier to stay in touch and in ways more familiar to tech-savvy teens.
“They may not admit it, but they miss you,” says Paula Meyer, parent advisor at Indiana State University. “They love to get mail and hear about family. The ties to home are very, very Moving to college is often a tough process for parents and children. While this valuable.” You’d be surprised how much a card, a phone call, a care package or visit can mean to college student. transition involves many people, it should always emphasize the child’s development and decision-making skills, and They’ll be homesick—whether they admit it or not. thus should not include parents attending advising sessions, choosing a major, selecting courses or applying for an on-campus job, as several student service administrators have witnessed.
In addition, Meyer urges parents to trust their student from afar. “Know that you have brought them up well INDYSCHILD.COM 49
and, in most cases, they ref lect your values and what you have taught them. But trusting your student will save a lot of pain and heartache later,” she says.
He focuses on the moment They’re only young for a while. Enjoy this special time with the satisfaction of knowing you’ve created a college savings plan for their future. Indiana’s CollegeChoice 529 Direct Savings Plan offers a range of benefits, including: • Federal tax advantages and a special tax credit for Indiana taxpayers*
Visiting campus is another easy option to help strengthen those ties. Occasions such as parent’s weekend or a homecoming foot ba l l g a me provide organized activities for parents and children to enjoy together. But, parents must acknowledge the s t u d e n t ’s independence and keep visits short and friendly. W hen v i sit i n g campus, parents may be struck the myriad of choices available for their child regarding dating, partying, drinking, going Greek, or joining social clubs or intramural sport teams. Parents may be tempted to launch into a lecture about safety, but, Meyer suggests taking a softer approach.
• Easy enrollment and online account management • Programs to help you save even more
You focus on his future
Enroll today. Visit collegechoicedirect.com/child
“It can be brought up as easy as asking them what they do on campus, outside of going to class,” she says, “and just offering the reassuring comments of trusting their judgment, but wanting them to be safe.” While parents may have managed their child’s schedule in high school, college is a time for the student to make his or her own choices and learn time and opportunity management. Parents can still provide support by recommending opportunities or resources on campus, but should not dictate what the child does. For example, if the student needs social, physical, academic or career advice, most colleges or universities offer counseling, tutoring, or medical aid to students. In addition, academic advisors, resident assistants or even professors can provide a friendly ear or guidance during a student’s academic career. “If the student starts to struggle with a class, they can offer suggestions or recommendations of what do, how to deal with it and where to go,” says Stoker, “as long as they’re not the first one picking up the phone to solve the problem themselves.”
* Indiana taxpayers are eligible for a state income tax credit of 20% of contributions to their CollegeChoice 529 account, up to $1,000 credit per year. Please note that this credit may be subject to recapture from the account owner (not the contributor) in certain circumstances, such as a rollover to another state’s 529 plan or a non-qualified withdrawal. For more information about the CollegeChoice 529 Direct Savings Plan, call 1.866.485.9415 or visit www.collegechoicedirect.com to obtain a Disclosure Statement, which includes investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and other important information; read and consider it carefully before investing. Upromise Investments, Inc., Distributor and Underwriter.
CollegeChoice 529 Direct Savings Plan (Plan) is administered by the Indiana Education Savings Authority. Upromise Investments, Inc. serves as the Program Manager and Upromise Investment Advisors, LLC, provides investment advisory services and recordkeeping and administrative services. Upromise Investments, Inc. and Upromise Investment Advisors, LLC have overall responsibility for the day-to-day operations, including effecting transactions and marketing and distribution of the Plan. Dodge & Cox; Frontegra Asset Management, Inc.; The Vanguard Group, Inc.; and Western Asset serve as Investment Managers for the Plan. The Plan’s portfolios, although they invest in mutual funds are not mutual funds. Units of the Portfolios are municipal securities and the value of units will vary with market conditions. Investment returns are not guaranteed, and you could lose money by investing in the Plan.
Further, Johnson suggests a focus on student autonomy. “I think the rule is to get involved, but not too involved. Think about encouraging the student to be very intentional about where their interests and passions are and not overdue it,” Johnson says. “Beyond that, it is very important to find [their] niche.” Johnson also notes that parents can encourage the student to take advantage of faculty office hours and network for any professional contacts that may be helpful in starting a career. Another major change on the road to adulthood is a shift in parents’ access to information about their student. Not only is the student living a life parents cannot monitor at all times, but academic information is not always available to parents per the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). For institutions receiving federal money, this act mandates that student academic records are only released to parents with prior written consent from the student. For parents who pay tuition and, in exchange, want to receive grade reports each semester, this could pose a problem. “I get a lot of inquiries from parents who want to see grades and financial aid information,” says Meyer. “That’s a conversation they need to have with their student. All that goes back to keeping the lines of communication open, communicating early and often.” A final way for parents to be involved in campus life is to inquire about or join a parent program offered by the institution. For example, Butler University offers an e-mail newsletter to inform 50 INDY’S CHILD * APRIL 2010
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parents of campus events, or parents can sign up for an emergency notification listserv. In addition, mothers and fathers can join the parents association or serve on the parent council to assist with efforts to connect Butler University to student hometowns. Similarly, Indiana State University offers a newsletter, several parent and family weekend events, and gift baskets packaged and delivered by campus dining services. Also, no matter what university your child attends, parents are advised to check out the school Web site and take advantage of any services that might make their college experience easier, fulfilling or more fun. Finally, Meyer advises, college is about testing boundaries, broadening areas of interest and expertise, overcoming obstacles and taking a few falls along the way. “Your student is becoming more independent and there may be some bumps in the road with them gaining their independence,” Meyer says. “Know that your son or daughter is gaining the experience they need to use in adulthood.” Keri Schwab is a freelance writer and a doctoral student in the Dept. of Parks,
Recreation, & Tourism at the University of Utah. She has experience working with youth and adults in a variety of educational settings including home-based early intervention, community afterschool programs and undergraduate college courses.
GET OUT AND GO! It’s finally spring and if you’re itching to get out and about to enjoy spring, gather the family and step outside for one or many of these outdoor Indiana activities.
Easter act ivit ies French Lick Resort Easter Weekend Festivities: Meet-andgreet the Hare Extraordinaire on Saturday. Easter Egg Hunt on Sunday in the Formal Gardens for kids 13 and under. Easter Feast at the Grand Colonnade or West Baden Springs Hotel. When: April 3 and 4 Where: French Lick Resort, 8670 West State Road 56, French Lick Cost: Varied per event Info: (888) 936-9360 or www.frenchlick.com
Hip Hop Easter Egg Hunt: Hop your way out to Douglass Park for a Hip Hop nighttime Easter egg hunt for ages 3-12. When: April 1, 7-8 p.m. Where: Douglass Park 1616 E. 25th St. Cost: $5 Info: 327-7174 or www.indygov.org/
Eggs-Citing Adventures!: Hop on over to Holland Park to decorate eggs, compete in seasonal relay races and complete an “egg-stra” special craft! Third through sixth grade. When: April 1, 5:30–7 p.m. Where: Roy G. Holland Memorial Park, One Park Drive, Fishers Cost: Residents, $4; non-residents, $6 Info: (317) 595-3458 or www.fishers.in.us.gov/
Indy is Blooming with Family Fun This Spring
Shows , theater & sports Harlem Globetrotters: See the world famous Globetrotters with their comedy basketball show in their 84th season of funfilled family entertainment. When: April 14, 7 p.m. Where: Conseco Fieldhouse, 125 South Pennsylvania Street, Indianapolis Cost: $15 - $100 Info: (317) 917-2727 or www.consecofieldhouse.com
Sesame Street Live Elmo’s Green Thumb: Help Elmo find a new home for Sunny, his sunflower friend, in this all new Sesame Street Live stage show. When: April 22 and 23, 7 p.m.; April 23 and 24, 10:30 a.m.; April 24, 2 and 5:30 p.m.; and April 25, 1 and 4:30 p.m. Where: Murat Theater, 502 North New Jersey Street, Indianapolis Cost: $15 - $32 Info: 317-231-0000 or www.murat.com
Fest ivals 41st Annual Maple Syrup Festival: All you can eat pancakes and sausage, free popcorn, parade, entertainment, contests, vendors and more. When: April 16, 9 a.m. - 9 p.m., and 17, 7 a.m. - 8 p.m. Where: Downtown, Wakarusa, Elkhart County, Indiana Cost: Free Info: 574-862-4344 or www.wakarusachamber.com/festival_site/
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Purdue University Spring Fest 2010: Two days of activities at nearly 30 campus sites for all ages. Learn about animals, art, astronomy and a variety of other subjects. When: April 17 and 18, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: Purdue University, Campus Wide, West Lafayette Cost: Free admission Info: (888) 398-4636 or ces.purdue.edu/sfest/
Earth Day activities Earth Day Indiana Festival: At Celebration Plaza, featuring 130 environmental and conservation exhibits, plus live music from some of Indiana’s best new bands, special activities for kids and good food. When: April 24, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: White River State Park, 801 West Washington Street, Indianapolis Cost: Free Info: (317) 767-3672 or www.earthdayindiana.org/news.html
Go Green!: Be kind to the Earth by re-using items to make a craft, learning green habits through songs, games, and stories and having an environmentally friendly snack. Ages 3-6. When: April 28, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: Broad Ripple Park, 1550 Broad Ripple Ave., Indianapolis Cost: $14 Info: 327-7161 or www.indygov.org/
Green is Good Party: Play games you can make out of things you may be throwing away. Games, leftover crafts, roasting sticks and marshmallows supplied. When: April 24, 4-7 p.m. Where: Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve 10410 Hague Road, Fishers Cost: Residents, $4; non-residents, $6 Info: (317) 5953458 or www.fishers.in.us.gov/
Earth Day Extravaganza: Students learn about recycling, enjoy a nature walk around The Monon Center and complete an Earth-related craft. Age 3-5. When: April 22, 5-5:45 p.m. Where: The Monon Center, 1235 Central Park Drive East, Carmel Cost: $10 Info: (317) 848-7275 or www.carmelclayparks.com
Healthy Habits = Healthy Habitats: Festival will feature demonstrations, displays, entertainment and kid’s activities. When: April 17, noon-4 p.m. Where: Washington Township Community Park, 115 South CR 575 East, Avon Cost: Free Info: (317) 745-0785 or www.washingtontwpparks.org/events
Nature and the outdoors Naturalist on the Loose: Join a naturalist as we leave the nature center behind and embark on an exciting adventure! Meet guide under the gazebo at the playground. All ages. When: April 11, 2-3 p.m. Where: Holliday Park, 6363 Spring Mill Road, Indianapolis Cost: Free 52 INDY’S CHILD * APRIL 2010
Info: 327-7180 or www.hollidaypark.org
Eggstravaganza!: Springtime means lots of baby animals! We’ll crack the case on which animals come from eggs. Ages 3-5 with parent. When: April 14, 10-11:30 a.m. or 1-2:30 p.m. Where: Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve, 10410 Hague Road, Fishers Cost: Residents, $4; non-residents, $6 Info: (317) 595-3458 or www.fishers.in.us.gov/
Friday Night Frogwatch: Learn about frogs and frog calls, and visit a pond to search for the frogs themselves! Bring a flashlight and wear boots and a jacket. Ages 3 and up. When: April 16 and 30, 8:30-10 p.m. Where: Eagle Creek Park 7840 W. 56th St., Indianapolis Cost: $5 Info: 327-7110 or www.eaglecreekpark.org
What’s Up With the Weather?: The sky is our window to weather so how do you know what to look for? Visit us in the Nature Center and learn how to “read” the sky for what’s looming. When: April 17, 1-2 p.m. Where: McCloud Park Nature Center, 8 W Main St, Danville Cost: Free Info: (765) 676-5437 http://www. hendrickscountyparks. org/natureCenter.html
Spring Wildflower Hike: Walk the trails with a Naturalist in search of beautiful spring wildflowers at Cool Creek Park. Hikes begin in the Nature Center. When: April 17, 11 a.m. Where: Cool Creek Park, 2000 East 151st Street, Carmel Cost: Free Info: 317-774-2500 www.hamiltoncounty. in.gov/parks
Take Flight! Birds of Prey and People: Through the use of live animals, natural artifacts, and theatrical techniques, Take Flight! brings the importance of understanding the natural world to life. Ages 2 and up. When: April 18, 2-3 p.m. Where: Holliday Park, 6363 Spring Mill Road, Indianapolis Cost: $3 Info: 327-7180 or www.hollidaypark.org
Cloud 9: Learn how clouds form, look at different types of clouds and make your own clouds. Rainy days will never be boring again! Ages 5-11. When: April 20, 3:45-4:45 p.m.
OFFER EXPIRES: 4/30/10 PRESENT ORIGINAL AD FOR DISCOUNT.
Where: Eagle Creek Park 7840 W. 56th St, Indianapolis Cost: $4 Info: 327-7110 or www.eaglecreekpark.org
Tales and Trails: Dive into the pages of favorite children’s books then venture out to explore the natural world yourself. Dress for the weather and be ready to have fun! Ages 3-4 with parent. When: April 20, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Where: Holliday Park, 6363 Spring Mill Road, Indianapolis Cost: $3 Info: 327-7180 or www.hollidaypark .org
Nature’s Recyclers: Mother Nature is full of systems that clean and take care of themselves. Discover who (or what) is involved in the clean up crew for the environment. Family hike. When: April, 23 6:30–8:30 p.m. Where: Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve, 10410 Hague Road, Fishers Cost: Residents, $4; non-residents, $6 Info: (317) 595-3458 or www.fishers.in.us.gov/
Clip This Ad for One FREE Child Admission with Each Paid Adult in March-April 2010
BLOOMINGTON • 812-337-1337 • WONDERLAB.org
Creature Feature: Plants, animals and insects, oh my! Join a naturalist to look at one of Indiana’s most amazing creatures, the opossum. Ages 2 and up. When: April 25, 2-3 p.m. Where: Holliday Park, 6363 Spring Mill Road, Indianapolis Cost: $3 Info: 327-7180 or www.hollidaypark.org
Fishers Arbor Day Tree Planting: Join to plant a tree in celebration of Arbor Day then go on a hike through Ritchey Woods. When: April 30, 6 p.m. Where: Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve 10410 Hague Road, Fishers Cost: Free Info: (317) 595-3458 or www.fishers.in.us.gov/
Extra Voices of Youth Concert: Featuring the Indianapolis Children’s Choir as part of the Tapestry of Song 2009-2010 concert season. When: April 11, 3 and 7 p.m. Where: Hilbert Circle Theatre, Hilbert Circle Theatre, 45 Monument Circle, Indianapolis Cost: $12 in advance, $13 at the door Info: (317) 940-9640 or www.icchoir.org
Schoolhouse Rock: The pop-culture phenomenon comes to the Indianapolis Civic Theatre When: April 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 10 a.m. and noon; April 17, 2 and 5 p.m. Where: Indianapolis Civic Theatre, 3200 Cold Spring Rd, Indianapolis Cost: $10 youth, $15 adult Info: www.civictheatre.org/ 317-923-4597
Indianapolis Indians Baseball: 2010 home opener versus Toledo Mud Hens. Weather permitting. When: April 16, 7:15 p.m. Where: Victory Field, 501 West Maryland Street, Indianapolis Cost: $9 to $14 Info: (317) 269-3545 or www.indyindians.com
7th Annual Mutt Strut: A pet walk to benefit the Humane Society of Indianapolis. This year’s goal: 10,000 walkers. When: April 25, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Where: Indianapolis Motor Speedway, 4790 West 16th Street, Indianapolis Cost: Pre-registration: $25 ages 16 and over, $15 for ages 7-15, 7 and under free. Onsite registration: $35 for ages 16 and over, $25 for ages 7-15, 7 and under free. Info: (317) 872-5650 ext. 102 or www.indyhumane.org
Conservation Day at the Marian University EcoLab: Ecological restoration day including invasive species removal, native plant installation and basic trail maintenance. All experience levels welcome. When: April 17 9 a.m.-noon Where: Marian University, 3200 Cold Spring Road, Indianapolis Cost: Free Info: (317) 224-3383 or wetland.marian.edu Holly Wheeler is a freelance writer for Indy’s Child.
INDYSCHILD.COM 53
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fun & wacky calendar
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday Thursday
Friday
1
APRIL Fool’s Day!!!
LIKE this calendar? Let us know! E-mail editor@indyschild.com with your suggestions and comments!
M
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L P O P CO R N
6 D
AY
DEEP DISH PIZZA DAy!
RA
NATIONAL
5 CA
4
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8
9 On this day in 18 3 3,
Ponce de Leon Day
The Firs Libr aryt
was opened .
Celebration Idea: Draw a map of your neighborhood complete with all of your favorite spots!
Take this day to discuss safety measures and what to do if an earthquake were to take place.
25
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Tweed Day ...break out
er
Earth Day
23 ry
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esec a
ke
10
National
LOVE
Our Children Day 17
Ford Mustang Day
24
Sen se of
Smell Day
On this day in 1837,
Celebration Idea: Over dinner, share stories of the most humorous thing that has ever happened to you.
Nationalay P re t z e l D
22
CH
Day
The first kindergarten was founded. 27
Tell A Story Day! Celebration Idea: Ask mom or dad to tell you a story from when they were a child.
54 INDY’S CHILD * APRIL 2010
21
lu
e
y b e r r pi e d
28 a y
Telephone Day
20
Cuckoo Day Kindergarten H umo ro us Day
26
Wear your PAJAMAS to work (or school!) Day!
y da
the Great San Francisco earthquake occurred.
19
16
Celebration Idea: Draw or paint a portrait of yourself, family or friends.
b
18
15 o
V
Celebration Idea: Watch your favorite funny movie or share a silly joke with your friends!
i
d ay, L e
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First edition of the Webster dictionary was published
(Drop Everything And Read)
On this day in 1906,
b
On this day in 1828,
h rt
na
Barbershop D.E.A.R. Quartet Day Day
14
13
ci
12
in
11
3
the plaid!
7
NO ORK HOUSEW DAY!
io n at
Saturday
29
30
Dance Honesty Day! Day Celebration Idea: Make up a dance to your favorite song!
No fibbing!!!
Sources: familycrafts.about.com, brownielocks.com, holidayinsights.com & thenibble.com
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Thursday 1
Friday 2
Binky the Magic Clown
NBA Indiana Pacers host Miami Heat at Conseco Fieldhouse
Children and families are invited for magical comedic fun with Binky! This magic show with juggling will be followed by balloon animal games. 5 p.m. & 6 p.m. InfoZone Library Branch. 3000 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4430.
Captain Cash Says. . Reading Makes Sen$e Students in grades 3 and 4 are invited to join Captain Cash and First Mate Penny for games and activities that focus on earning, saving, planned spending and wise borrowing of money. Each session introduces vocabulary words and one or more money concepts. Also, children’s books are used to improve attitudes toward reading and literacy-related activities at home. Sponsored by the Hoover Family Foundation, Southeast Community Services and Purdue Extension Marion County. Call 275-4390 to register. 10 - 11 a.m. Fountain Square Library. 1066 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4390.
Fishers Parks & Recreation: Eggs-Citing Adventures! Hop on over to Holland Park to decorate eggs, compete in seasonal relay races, and complete an “egg-stra” special craft! For 3rd - 6th graders. Min 40/Max 60. Registration begins 12/8/09 and ends 3/25/10. Resident: $4; Non-Resident: $6. 5:30-7:00 p.m. Resident: $4; Non-Resident: $6. Roy G. Holland Memorial Park. 1 Park Drive, Fishers. www.fishers.in.us/parks. 317.595.3150.
Myth Mania: Creature Feature Gr. K-5 Learn about some well-known-and not so well-known--mythological creatures. Then try your hand at creating your own! Free to attend, registration required by calling 885-5035 or online www.greenwoodlibrary.us. 4:30 p.m. Greenwood Library. 310 S. Meridian St., Greenwood. www.greenwood.lib.in.us. 317-881-1953.
Target Free Family Night Reduce, Reuse and Recycle! Join The Children’s Museum and discover ways to reduce, reuse and recycle to lessen your impact on the environment. Sponsored generously by Target, the f irst Thursday of each month The Children’s Museum opens free of charge from 4 - 8 p.m. 4-8 p.m. Free. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. 3000 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis. www. childrensmuseum.org. (317) 334-3322.
7:00 pm. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www. consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500.
Subway Fun Run with Jared Subway’s Jared Fogle will join together with other celebrities and the local community in Indianapolis for a Fun Run to support Jared as he trains to complete the ING New York City Marathon. The Subway Fun Run will also benefit The Jared Foundation (www. jaredfoundation.org). To participate, please email your name and Zip Code to SubwayFunRun@yahoo.com. 8:30AM 10:30AM. Free. Subway. 901 Broad Ripple Ave., Indianapolis.
First Friday Evening at WonderLab Enjoy Indiana’s top 25 hands-on science museum at a discount price! General admission drops to just $3 per person after 5 pm, and WonderLab is open extended evening hours until 8:30 pm. Pizza and juice will be available on site to purchase. See WonderLab’s website or FaceBook page for information on possible special activities. 5:00 - 8:30 pm. Members: Free | Non-Members: $3 per person. WonderLab Museum of Science, Health and Technology. 308 West Fourth Street, Bloomington. www.wonderlab.org. 812-3371337 ext. 25.
Saturday 3 First Mennonite church Easter Egg Hunt Join the fun as we celebrate Jesus’ resurrection on Easter weekend. Egg hunts for children ages 2 years old through 5th grade. Egg hunts will begin promptly at 10:15 a.m. 10:00a.m. none. First Mennonite church. 4601 Knollton Road, Indianapolis. www.indymenno.org. 317251-1980.
Westside Garden Plaza Easter Egg Hunt & Bake Sale for Haiti An Easter Egg Hunt and Bake Sale for Haitian Relief will be held Saturday, April 3, 2010 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Westside Garden Plaza Senior Living Community, 8616 West 10th Street, Indianapolis, IN. The event will feature a tempting variety of homebaked Spring-themed cookies, cupcakes, and other confections created by residents and employees of Westside Garden Plaza. Peter Rabbit will entertain egg-hunters of all ages during the event, which will start in the front
lobby of the Independent Living manor. All bake sale proceeds will go to assist earthquake victims in Haiti. Admission is free and open to the public. For additional information, call 317-271-1020. Westside Garden Plaza, an independent and assisted living community since 1981, is privately owned and operated by Century Park Associates. This event is part of a year-round initiative to foster a strong, local and interconnected community. 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. $0.00 (free admission). Westside Garden Plaza Senior Living Community. 8616 West 10th Street, Indianapolis. 317-271-1020.
Westview Healthplex Easter Egg Hunt and Brunch Join us for an Easter Egg hunt and brunch with the Easter Bunny! There will be a brunch, arts and crafts, an Easter egg hunt and pictures with the Easter Bunny. Members: $10/child, $12/ adults, Guests:$12/children, $14/adults. www. westviewhealthplex.org. 317-920-7412.
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Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel.
Preschool Storytime Storytime for children ages 3-5 and their caregivers. 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel.
Seekers For kids (3-5 grade) who love learning, becoming their best, and making a difference where they live. first Monday of every month 6-7pm Seekers includes yoga, music, games, visual art, ecology, language, and art to stimulate curious minds. April 5 Theme: Honor Call 885-5035 or register online at www. greenwoodlibrary.us. 6 p.m. Greenwood Library. 310 S. Meridian St., Greenwood. www.greenwood.lib.in.us. 317-881-1953.
Tuesday 6 WANT MORE EVENTS? VISIT INDYSCHILD.COM AND CLICK ON “CALENDAR OF EVENTS.”
Sunday 4 Easter Brunch Enjoy a wonderful spring-inspired brunch buffet by Nourish Café in Deer Zink Events Pavilion with views of flowering bulbs followed by a stroll in our gardens and orchard. Feast on traditional brunch fare, with menu items focusing on the freshest and best available local ingredients. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. $35 Adults / $16 Children 4 - 10 years. Indianapolis Museum of Art. 4000 Michigan Rd., Indianapolis. www.imamuseum. org. 317-923-1331.
Easter Buffet 12:15 to 2:45 p.m. The Mansion at Oak Hill. 5801 E 116th St, Carmel. www. oakhillmansion.com. 317-843-9850.
NBA Indiana Pacers host Houston Rockets at Conseco Fieldhouse
Hip to Knit All ages and experience levels welcome. Experienced knitters: bring your current project and knit in the company of others. Beginners: bring a pair of needles & we’ll get started learning how to cast on and knit away! This free knitting club meets first Tuesday of every month. 5:30-7:30pm. Greenwood Library. 310 S. Meridian St., Greenwood. www.greenwood.lib.in.us. 317-881-1953.
History, Misteries 1 p.m. Strawtown Koteewi Park - Taylor Center of Natural History. 12308 W. Strawtown Ave., Noblesville. www.co.hamilton. i n . u s /p a r k s _ d e t a i l s . a s p? i d = 2 9 3 2 . 317-984-5556.
Library Kids Adventures: Backwards Day For children in grades 3-5. !tuo ssim t’nod os, tsalb a eb lliw sihT. 4:00-5:00 p.m. and 6:30-7:30 p.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel.
Spring Break Wii Afternoon Gaming
6:00 pm. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www. consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500.
Take a break during your Spring Break. Stop by the TeenZone and challenge the other Wii competitors. 3 - 5 p.m. Fishers Public Library. 5 Municipal Dr, Fishers. www.hepl.lib.in.us. 317-579-0300.
Monday 5
Tuesday Night at the Movies for Teens
Bookworms: Group Games! For children in grades 1 & 2. No Spring Break getaway? No problem! Get your game on with us. 4:00-4:45 p.m. and 6:30-7:15 p.m. Carmel
Join us for movies on the big screen and free munchies! No registration is required, but you must be between the ages of 12 and 19. 6-8 p.m. Free. Noblesville Library. One Library Plaza, Noblesville. www.hepl.lib.in.us. 317-773-1384. INDYSCHILD.COM 55
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Community Tuesday at White River State Park The first Tuesday of every month means discounts at all of your favorite attractions: Eiteljorg, NCAA, Indianapolis Zoo, Indiana State Museum and White River Gardens. Visit Website for details. All Day. Discount Tuesday. See Website for details or call. White River State Park. 801 W. Washington St., Indianapolis. www.inwhiteriver.org. 800-665-9065.
Mothers & More Chapter 92 Avon/Brownsburg/W Indy Mothers & More is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of mothers through support, education and advocacy. We address mothers’ needs as individuals and members of society, and promote the value of all the work mothers do. We meet on the first Tuesday of each month at the Messiah Lutheran Church, 801 S. Green St, Brownsburg, IN at 7 pm. This chapter serves the Plainfield, Avon, Brownsburg and W Indy areas. If you would like more information, you may contact Kim Baver @ info@mothersandmore92.org or 317-830-8004. 7-9 pm. Messiah Lutheran Church. 801 S. Green St, Brownsburg. www. mothersandmore92.org. 317-830-8004.
Wednesday 7 Creepy Critters 1 p.m. Cool Creek Park. 2000 E. 151st St., Carmel. www.co.hamilton.in.us/parks_ details.asp?id=2923. 317-848-0576.
Father Goose! Children and families are invited as singer and songwriter Paul Odenwelder performs as Father Goose with the songs and tales of the Mother Goose rhymes and stories. 6 p.m. Brightwood Library. 2435 N. Sherman Dr, Indianapolis. w w w . i m c p l . o r g /a b o u t / l o c a t i o n s / westindianapolis.html. 317-275-4310.
National Start Walking Day
deadline is April 15. Winners will be recognized on April 30 by the Mexican Consulate and IMCPL at Central Library. 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Haughville Library. 2121 W. Michigan St, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4420.
Hoosier Horse Fair & Expo Indiana’s largest equine event, the HHF&E has been a destination for horse lovers around the Midwest for more than 30 years and now requires all of the State Fairgrounds’ 250 acres to host all of its exhibits, demonstrations, seminars and competitions. Internationally known clinicians instruct guests on proper care and technique in a variety of different disciplines, including hunter/jumper, equestrian, dressage, trail riding, horsemanship and much more! There’s a rodeo, cutting competition, daily Parade of Stallions and even a Kids’ Corral with all kinds of horse-related games activities for little ones. Media contact: Danielle Tolan, Indiana Horse Council (317) 692-7141, inhorsecouncil@aol. com. Indiana State Fairgrounds. 1202 E. 38th St., Indianapolis. www.in.gov/statefair. 317927-7500.
Teen Talk: Smoothie Social Create your own smoothie concoction and enjoy a movie at Greenwood Public Library. Price is $1 per smoothie made. All proceeds will go toward the Young Adult collection and programs. Register online at www. greenwoodlibrary.us or call 885-5036. 4 p.m. Greenwood Library. 310 S. Meridian St., Greenwood. www.greenwood.lib.in.us. 317-881-1953.
Friday 9 Carrie Underwood Play on Tour 7:30 pm. $35-$55. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www. consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500.
Welcome to SpringPrairie Tykes
Castleton Square Theater. 6020 E. 82nd Street, Indianapolis. www.amctheatres.com. 317595-0985.
Tuesday 13
Free Family Tours at the IMA
Pictures With the Easter Bunny
The IMA offers free, 30-minute tours for families with children of all ages on the second and fourth Saturday of each month. 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. Free. Indianapolis Museum of Art. 4000 Michigan Rd., Indianapolis. www. imamuseum.org. 317-923-1331.
Families and children of all ages are invited to have their picture taken with the Easter Bunny. This event is sponsored by the Franklin Township Chamber of Commerce. 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Franklin Road Library. 5550 S. Franklin Rd, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4380.
Free Public Family Tours The IMA offers free, 30-minute tours for families with children of all ages on the second and fourth Saturday of each month. 1:30 and 2:30 pm. FREE. Indianapolis Museum of Art. 4000 Michigan Road, Indianapolis. imamuseum.org. 317-923-1331.
Join us each month for a fun garden lesson and activity. Come to one, or come to all, but please pre-register! Ages: 6-13. 1-2PM. Free. Garfield Park Conservatory. 2505 Conservatory Drive, Indianapolis. www. g a r f i e l d g a r d e n s c o n s e r v a t o r y.o r g . (317)327-7580.
Sunday 11 Celebrate National Library Week: Air Poets Artist and former Indiana Poet Laureate Joyce Brinkman, along with fellow poets Joseph Heithaus and Ruthelen Burns, will read selections of their works. Register your family to receive a “passport to enrichment.” Visit Westside IMCPL locations during the week to get your passport stamped for a chance for a grand prize drawing. This program is made possible with support from the IMCPL Foundation. 2 p.m. Wayne Library. 198 S. Girls School Rd, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4530.
Find signs of spring during a scavenger hunt. Take part in some spring games including playing with bubbles. For ages 2-5 Cost: $10/youth ($9/member youth) Enjoy a craft, story, snack, and, weather permitting, an outside experience at these fun kids’ classes. All participants must be accompanied by an adult (at no charge). Reservations are required. 9:30-11am or 12:30-2pm. $10/youth ($9/ member youth). Conner Prairie Interactive History Park. 13400 Allisonville Rd., Fishers. www.connerprairie.org/LearnAnd-Do/Programs/Prairie-Tykes.aspx. 317.776.6006 or 800.966.1836.
Holliday Park Naturalist on the Loose
Saturday 10
Boys Adventure Club: Survival 101
Meet Joel Silverman - Animal Planet’s Good Dog U
NBA Indiana Pacers host New York at Conseco Fieldhouse
Meet Author Joel Silverman from Animal Planet’s “Good Dog U”. He will speak and have a Q & A at Greenwood Public Library, as well as sell and sign his new book. Free to attend. 11 a.m. Greenwood Library. 310 S. Meridian St., Greenwood. www.greenwood.lib.in.us. 317-881-1953.
Would you have what it takes to survive on your own? Join us for a whirlwind tour of survival strategies for living off the earth, testing your knowledge on what you could eat, which herbs would help you heal a wound, how you could make your own shelter and other interesting strategies for staying alive if you were ever stranded alone in the wilderness. Free to attend. Register online www.greenwoodlibrary.us or call 885-5035. 6 p.m. Greenwood Library. 310 S. Meridian St., Greenwood. www.greenwood. lib.in.us. 317-881-1953.
Thursday 8
NBA Indiana Pacers host New Jersey at Conseco Fieldhouse
”…ste es mi México” “This Is My Mexico”
7:00 pm. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www. consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500.
Children ages 7 - 11 are invited to participate in this 14th annual children’s drawing contest presented by IMCPL and the Mexican Consulate. At this workshop children can create a work around the theme, “Celebrating 200 years of Mexican Independence & 100 years since the Mexican Revolution.” Contest 56 INDY’S CHILD * APRIL 2010
Sensory Friendly Showing The following film is currently scheduled to be “How to Train Your Dragon” on April 10th, also at 10am., at BOTH AMC GREENWOOD PARK 14 AND AMC CASTLETON SQUARE 14 THEATRES. 10 a.m. AMC
Make a fun shrinky dink keychain or charm. Refreshments provided. Free to attend. Call 885-5036 or register online www. greenwoodlibrary.us. 4 p.m. Greenwood Library. 310 S. Meridian St., Greenwood. www.greenwood.lib.in.us. 317-881-1953.
Junior Garden Club
Wear your sneakers to work and join the American Heart Association from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. on Monument Circle to kick off National Start! Walking Day. On National Start! Walking Day, adults nationwide pledge to walk more and become healthier. Walking has the lowest drop-out rate of any activity. You already know how and you can do it pretty much anywhere. Plus, fancy equipment is not required - just a good pair of sneakers or walking shoes. Just 30 minutes of walking a day puts you on the path to better health. And if you’re short on time you can divide that 30 minutes into two 15-minute segments or three 10-minute segments. It’s that simple. Regular physical activity can reduce your risk of heart disease by: helping to control your blood pressure and weight improve cholesterol levels reduce the risk of diabetes. 11:00am-1:00pm. free. Monument Circle. www.americanheart.org. 317 432-4700.
7:00 pm. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www. consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500.
Teen Craft Club: Shrinky Dinks
Join a naturalist as we leave the nature center behind and embark on an exciting adventure! No registration required, just meet your guide under the gazebo at the Holliday Park playground. 2:00-3:00 pm. Free. Holliday Park Nature Center. 6363 Spring Mill Road, Indianapolis. w w w. h o l l i d a y p a r k . org. 3173277180.
Monday 12
NBA Indiana Pacers host Orlando Magic at Conseco Fieldhouse 7:00 pm. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www. consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500.
Down Syndrome Indiana D.A.D.S. Meeting Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome, or D.A.D.S. is a Down Syndrome Indiana group of fathers with children who happen to have Down syndrome. We hesitate to call our self a “support group”, even though we do, in many ways, support each other. We prefer to think of D.A.D.S. as an “action group.” You won’t find us in a church basement drinking warm coffee and whining about having children with Down syndrome. Instead, you’ll find us out in the community coaching our kid’s sports teams, participating in our children’s IEPs, volunteering at local Down syndrome fund raising events, and even sponsoring fund raising events of our own. Join us for dinner on us, to discuss the unique challenges and joys of fathering an individual with Down syndrome. For more information about D.A.D.S contact Ray Glowner at: rayglowner@sbcglobal. net. The D.A.D.S. facebook group is located at: www.facebook.com/group. php?gid=110288739806. 6:30-8:30 P.M. Free. Loon Lake Lodge. 6880 E 82nd St, Indianapolis. www.dadsnational.org.
Jungle Tales Join us for nature-related stories, activities and crafts about a different topic each month. Registration required. Ages: 2-5 with adult. 10-11AM. $3. Garfield Park Conservatory. 2505 Conservatory Drive, Indianapolis. www. gar f ieldgardensconser vator y.org. (317)327-7580.
Wednesday 14 Sprouts: Homeschool Horticulture Class This lesson for K-12 grade at Greenwood Public Library will answer the questions: How much soil is on earth? Why is soil so important? Is all soil the same? How do I identify a type of soil? Program includes getting your hands dirty with “in the garden time” and an experiment. Free to attend. Register online www.greenwoodlibrary.us/sprouts.asp or call 885-5036. 1 p.m. Greenwood Library. 310 S. Meridian St., Greenwood. www. greenwood.lib.in.us. 317-881-1953.
Celebrate National Library Week: African Storytelling With Celestine Bloomfield Noted storyteller Celestine Bloomfield will present this special storytelling program. Register your family to receive a “passport to enrichment.” Visit Westside IMCPL locations during the week to get your passport stamped to become eligible for a grand prize drawing. This program is made possible with support from the IMCPL Foundation. 7 p.m. Pike Library. 6525
r e so u rc e s Zionsville Rd, Indianapolis. www.imcpl. org. 317-275-4480.
Eggstravaganza! at Ritchey Woods We will explore a nature related topic through books, a craft, a hike and hands on experiences. Please remember all activities are outside, so dress for the weather. Parents are required to stay. For ages 3-5. It’s springtime and that means lots of baby animals! Bring your little embryo and we’ll crack the case on which animals come from eggs. Pre-registration is required and ends one week prior to program. (fee per child, per session). 10-11:30am or 1-2:30pm. Resident: $4; Non-Resident $6. Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve. 10410 Hague Rd, Fishers. www.fishers.in.us/ rwnp. 317-595-3150.
Harlem Globetrotters at Conseco Fieldhouse TBD. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www.consecofieldhouse. com. 317-917-2500.
How To Wednesdays-How To Create Origami Animals Know any cool magic tricks? Are you an origami master? A champion knitter that no one knows about? The YA Department is looking for teens with talent. Receive three volunteer hours for demonstrating your skills to other teens. Sign up at the Young Adult desk to reserve your spot for this volunteer opportunity. Drop by any month to learn something new. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Young Adult Lounge. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib. in.us.
Indiana Daffodil Society Daffodil Exhibition Indiana Daffodil Society Flower Exhibition Wednesday, April 14, from Noon to 5 pm and Thursday, April 15, from 9:00 to noon at Holliday Park Nature Center, 6363 Spring Mill Road, Indianapolis. Admission is free. For more information, call 295-8849. Weds., Noon-5pm; Thurs. 9 am -Noon. free. Holliday Park Nature Center. 6363 Spring Mill Road, Indianapolis. 317-295-8849.
Moms and More Meeting at Center for Inquiry Snacks, conversation, light exercise, and reflection. Children are welcome with volunteers available to care for children while mothers converse. 10-11:30am. Free. Center for Inquiry. 350 Canal Walk, Suite A, Indianapolis. www.mommymoon.org. 317-654-8684.
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Teen Literature Day Vote for the Young Adults’ Fantastic Five! What are your five favorite books? Ballots will be available at the YA Desk April 1-14. When you vote, you will also be entered into a raffle for fabulous bookstore gift cards! Winners will be announced Thursday, April 15 - Teen Literature Day. Carmel Clay Public Library Young Adult Lounge. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us.
Teen Wii Game Night We’re bringing out the Wii. We’ve got Guitar Hero, Sports and more! Bring your friends and come for the fun. 6-8 p.m. Free. Noblesville Library. One Library Plaza, Noblesville. www.hepl.lib.in.us. 317-773-1384.
Friday 16 33rd Annual McFadden Memorial Lecture: Neil Gaiman ndividuals of all ages are invited as awardwinning fantasy novelist Neil Gaiman presents the 2010 McFadden Memorial Lecture sponsored by the IMCPL Foundation. His works draw on legends, myths and folk tales from around the world, as he blends them with modern sensibilities to create fables for today\’s audience. The author will not be signing copies of his works, but preautographed bookplates will be available. Book sales will be provided by Kids Ink children’s bookstore. 7 p.m. North Central High School Auditorium. 1801 E 86th St., Indianapolis. www.nchs.cc. 317-275-4099.
Holliday Park Family Friday Nights: You Are What You Eat Tired of spending your Friday night in front of the TV? Come out to Holliday Park to share in an adventure that is fun for the whole family. We will start with time around the campfire, then focus on the topic of the evening. We will provide the roasting sticks and s’mores, you are welcome to bring hotdogs and make a meal of it. 6:30-8:00 pm. $3/individual. Holliday Park Nature Center. 6363 Spring Mill Road, Indianapolis. www. hollidaypark.org. 3173277180.
Indianapolis Indians Baseball vs. Toledo Mud Hens at Victory Field Opening Night/Friday Night Fireworks. 7:15 p.m. Victory Field. 501 W. Maryland St, Indianapolis. www.indyindians.com. 317269-3545.
Nickel Carnival Booklovers Book Club Come join a lively group of ladies discussing a wide variety of great books! We meet on the third Thursday of each month at 10:00am at Greenwood Public Library. All are welcome. April’s Book: Any Staggerford Series book by John Hassler. 10 a.m. Greenwood Library. 310 S. Meridian St., Greenwood. www. greenwood.lib.in.us. 317-881-1953.
6 to 9 p.m. The Monon Center West. 1195 Central Park Dr. West, Carmel. www. carmelclayparks.com. 317-848-7275.
Out of the Attic Rummage Sale, Twice the Price Preview Party The JLI’s new fundraiser, Out of the Attic, will offer furniture, books, art, clothing, home accessories, electronics, formalwear, school uniforms, and more. This event is open to the public and benefits the community by
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ONgoing EVENTS Sesame Street Live “Elmo’s Green Thumb” Occurring Daily Beginning Thursday, April 22, 2010 Through Sunday, April 25, 2010. Elmo has raised his sunflower, Sunny, from a seed, but his floral friend has outgrown the flower pot. Elmo and friends find Big Bird’s garden the ideal place for Sunny to flourish and grow but they are too excited to wait. For more i n for m at ion , call 317-231-0000. To charge tickets by phone, please call Live Nation at 877598-8703. Tickets may also be purchased online at www. livenation.com. For information online, please visit www.sesamestreetlive.com. $13, $17 & $25. A limited number of $30 Gold Circle seats are al. Murat Theatre. 502 N. New Jersey St., Indianapolis. www.livenation. com/murat. 317-632-7469.
After-school Program at The Play Connection, Inc. Ongoing Mon-Fri. After-school care for Robey Elementary 2:30 - 6:30 p.m. lots of fun arts & creative play. We also offer Drop N’ Shop for other school districts during this time as wells as T-TH from 9-2. Check out our website for details. www.theplayconnection. com. 2:30 - 6:30 p.m. $55 week. The Play Connection, Inc. 9221 Crawfordsville Rd., Indianapolis. www.theplayconnection.com. 317-918-4359.
Aladdin Jr. Occurring Every Fri & Sat Beginning Friday, March 19, 2010 Through Saturday, April 24, 2010. Pyramid Players productions are one hour in length and presented without intermission. Performances are for all ages, but offered particularly for children in preschool through sixth grade. All tickets are $12.50 and include a snack. Performances take place at 10 a.m. on Fridays and at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Saturdays. For reservations, contact the box office at 317.872.9664. Box office hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays. For more information or show schedule, visit the theatre’s web site, www.beefandboards.com. 10 am Friday & 10 am and 1 pm Saturday. $12.50. Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre. 9301 N. Michigan Rd, Indianapolis. www.beefandboards. com. 317-872-9664.
Becky’s New Car Occurring Daily Beginning Wednesday, March 24, 2010 Through Sunday, April 11, 2010. Various Times. $34 - $39. Indiana Repertory Theatre. 140 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. www.indianarep.com. 317-635-5252.
Broadway Across America presents: A Chorus Line Occurring Daily Beginning Tuesday, April 20, 2010 Through Sunday, April 25, 2010. The new production features scenery by Robin Wagner, costumes by Theoni V. Aldredge, lighting by Tharon Musser adapted by Natasha Katz and sound by Acme Sound Partners. Musical supervision is by Patrick Vaccariello with musical direction by John C. O’Neill, orchestrations are by Jonathan Tunick, Billy Byers and Hershy Kay and vocal arrangements are by Don Pippin. The new 2006 Broadway cast recording of A CHORUS LINE was released by Masterworks Broadway and is available in stores nationwide. w w w. b r o a d w ay a c r o s s a m e r i c a .c o m / indianapolis. You can also call 317-940-9697 for additional information. Clowes Memorial Hall. 4600 Sunset Ave, Indianapolis. www. cloweshall.org. 317-940-6444.
Community Tuesday at White River State Park Occurring on the first Tuesday of each Month Through Tuesday, November 30, 2010. The first Tuesday of every month means discounts at all of your favorite attractions: Eiteljorg, NCAA, Indianapolis Zoo, Indiana State Museum and White River Gardens. Visit Website for details. All Day. Discount Tuesday. See Website for details or call. White River State Park. 801 W. Washington St., Indianapolis. www. inwhiteriver.org. 800-665-9065.
Hello, Dolly! Occurring Daily Beginning Thursday, March 25, 2010 Through Sunday, May 02, 2010. The Tony Award-winning classic Hello, Dolly! opens March 25. Based on Thornton Wilder’s “The Matchmaker,” it’s the story of turn-ofthe-century matchmaker Dolly Levi, who is filled with personality and plans of her own to marry the wealthy Horace Vandergelder - even if he doesn’t know it yet. Horace has his sights set on a pretty young widow, but Dolly doesn’t give up on getting her man. Book by Michael Stewart, music and lyrics by Jerry Herman This enduring classic is on stage through May 2. Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre. 9301 N. Michigan Rd, Indianapolis. www.beefandboards. com. 317-872-9664.
American Mensa Meeting (Central Indiana Chapter)
How You Could Get Free Money for College Using Scholarships
Occurring on the second Friday of each Month Through Tuesday, November 30, 2010. Come have fun, participate in games and conversation with special guest speakers at each meeting. 7 pm to midnight. $7, $5 for members and $3 for kids under age 13. Bradfort Place Clubhouse. 5810 Bradston Way, Indianapolis. www.indymensa.org. 317-876-7336.
Ongoing Daily. Presented by Indy College Funding. This free seminar for parents is sure to fill up quickly. Please register online at www. indycollegefunding.com/seminar.php or call 888-217-3190. 6:30-8pm. FREE. Carmel Clay Library. 55 Fourth Ave. Southeast, Program Room, Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us.
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inviting local nonprofit organizations to shop for goods using shopping certificates provided by donations from businesses and individuals. Out of the Attic proceeds will be invested in projects that improve the health and education of children and their families in the Indianapolis area. The evening prior to the sale, the public will have an opportunity at the Preview Party to get a first look at the items for sale and to have an early opportunity to purchase anything they want, for twice the price on the tags. 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Admission to the Preview Party is $35. Kipp Brother Toys & Novelties. 9760 Mayflower Drive, Carmel. www.jlindy.org/ content/rsale.cfm. 317-925-4600.
Victorian Theatre by Candlelight Presents “Murder and Mystery in the Mansion” A house possessed, a body that has disappeared, and a woman in fear for her life - these three stories will unfold at this spring’s Victorian Theatre by Candlelight production of “Murder
and Mystery in the Mansion.” There will also be a Sunday matinee on May 2, 2010 at 2 p.m. A President’s Theatre production at the Benjamin Harrison Home. Fridays/Saturdays at 8 p.m.; Sunday at 2 p.m. $18 per person; $15 members and seniors. President Benjamin Harrison Home. 1230 N. Delaware St., Indianapolis. www.pbhh.org. 317.631.1888.
Northwood Christian Church. 4550 Central Ave., Indy. www.parkviewpreschool.org.
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Celebrate National Library Week: Cesar Chavez Day
32nd Annual Bunny Hop FundraISEr and Carnival
Bring your family for special activities in honor of Cesar Chavez, including a presentation by noted children’s author, songwriter and performer José-Luis Orozco. Register your family to receive a “passport to enrichment.” Visit Westside IMCPL locations during the week to get your passport stamped for a chance for a grand prize drawing. This program is made possible with support from the IMCPL Foundation. 2 p.m. Haughville Library. 2121 W. Michigan St, Indianapolis. www.imcpl. org. 317-275-4420.
Parkview Cooperative Preschool will host its 32nd annual Bunny Hop fundraiser which will include enterainment for families like carnivalstyle games and music. Enjoy food, prizes and plenty of fun! A silent auction for adults will help raise funds for the preschool and play ground. The event will be held indoors at the school. Admission is a $1.00 and tickets are 25 cents. 10 to 2 pm. $1 to get in and 25 cents a ticket.
American Girl Club Children ages 7 - 13 are invited to bring their favorite dolls and tell stories, create projects and learn about their dolls. 11:00 a.m. Wayne Library. 198 S. Girls School Rd, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4530.
Celebrate National Library Week: Teen Mystery Program
Brought to you by:
Sunday April 25th White River State Park | 11am-4pm at this years
Teens are invited to bring their friends to help solve a murder mystery! Register your family to receive a “passport to enrichment.” Visit Westside IMCPL locations during the week to get your passport stamped for a chance for a grand prize drawing. This program is made possible with support from the IMCPL Foundation. 2 p.m. Wayne Library. 198 S. Girls School Rd, Indianapolis. www. imcpl.org. 317-275-4530.
Earth Week KickOff Celebration What does The Children’s Museum do to reduce its impact on the environment? Discover some things you can do to reduce your impact. One exciting example is the new Bright Automotive vehicle, the IDEA - an affordable, efficient, plugin hybrid electric that’s targeted for production in 2013. The IDEA will be on display from April 17 to 24. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Free with museum admission. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. 3000 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis. www.childrensmuseum. org. (317) 334-3322.
Groovin On Ice Enjoy live music featuring the best fusion jazz musicians in the city in our Barrel Room. Splinter Group**** will Spring into action with their debut at Easley Winery. You may know them from regular appearances at the Chatterbox. Arrive early to get a seat the Barrel Room fills up fast. Wine specials includes Merlot $7 bottle. Ham and Bean soup with cornbread for $5 per bowl. 2-5 p.m. FREE Admission. Easley Winery. 205 N. College Ave., Indianapolis. www.easleywinery.com. 317-636-4516.
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Indianapolis Indians Baseball vs. Toledo Mud Hens at Victory Field “Zooper Zaturday” featuring Mascot Mania. 7:00 p.m. Victory Field. 501 W. Maryland St, Indianapolis. www.indyindians.com. 317269-3545.
Komen Indianapolis Race for the Cure 9 am. $25 registration fee. IUPUI. 815 W. Michigan St., Indianapolis. www.komenindy. org. 317-638-CURE.
Learn about Global Youth Service Day Do you want to be at the heart of youth service, be recognized for outstanding work and have the opportunity to share and collect ideas from hundreds of other youth? Then plan to attend a Service Symposium for youth, parents and educators April 17 at Duke Energy Center and learn about Global Youth Service Day. The symposium precedes a week of projects April 17-25 in conjunction with Global Youth Service Day (GYSD). United Way of Greater Cincinnati and Children Inc., a United Way agency partner, are teaming up to recruit area youth to sign up for projects. For questions or to sign up to host a table or present a topic, contact, Jordan Huizenga, Children Inc., 859-431-2075, ext. 128, e-mail JHuizenga@childreninc.org To sign up for projects for the week of April 1725, visit www.uwgc.org/gysd, call United Way’s The Volunteer Connection Center at 513-762-7235,or e-mail nickol.mora@uwgc. org. Duke Energy Center. 525 Elm Street, Cincinnati. www.duke-energycenter.com. 513-419-7300.
Out of the Attic Rummage Sale The Junior League of Indianapolis’ new fundraiser, Out of the Attic, will offer furniture, books, art, clothing, home accessories, electronics, formalwear, school uniforms, and more. This event is open to the public and benefits the community by inviting local nonprofit organizations to shop for goods using shopping certificates provided by donations from businesses and individuals. Out of the Attic proceeds will be invested in projects that improve the health and education of children and their families in the Indianapolis area. On the day of the sale, the JLI and onsite host Kipp Brothers Toys & Novelties will host a free Community Day. Both the Dental Bus and the Immunization Bus will be on location and children can play games and activities, jump in bounce houses, scale climbing walls and much more. The evening prior to the sale, the public will have an opportunity at the Preview Party to get a first look at the items for sale and to have an early opportunity to purchase anything they want, for twice the price on the tags. An example of some of the fabulous, inexpensive items that will be available for purchase are prom dresses/ “the little black dresses” for $15, school uniform shirts $5 and shorts/pants $5, books for $.50, strollers for $5, dressers for $10, and artificial Christmas trees for $6. 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission to Out of the Attic is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors a. Kipp Brothers Toys and Novelties. 9760 Mayflower Park Drive, Carmel. www.jlindy.org/content/rsale. cfm. 317-925-4600.
Spring Service Day at Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve Earth Day is a day when we learn about caring for our great planet. To celebrate Earth Day this year, come on out to make an instant impact and volunteer at Ritchey Woods for our sixth annual Spring Service Day! Garlic mustard and bush honeysuckle are some of the invasive exotic plants that have made their way to Indiana and currently reside at Ritchey Woods. These invasive plants shade out our native wildflowers and dominate the areas where they are found. Come ready to work and give our native plants a chance to
r e so u rc e s survive for future generations to enjoy. Free! Pre-registration is required and ends one week prior to program. Visit www.fishers.in.us/ parks for registration information. 9:00am4:00pm. Free. Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve. 10410 Hague Rd, Fishers. www.fishers.in.us/ rwnp. 317-595-3449.
Zion UCC Kids Stuff Sale Come shop multiple booths of gently used kids stuff! Clothing, Toys, Equipment- anything kid related will be offered at this indoor kid stuff garage sale! Zion UCC is located at 8916 E Troy Ave (Corner of Post Rd and Troy Ave-SE Indy). Sale open 9am-Noon- no early sales- cash only. Want to rent a booth- call 891-7713. 9amNoon. free. Zion UCC Kids Stuff Sale. 8916 E Troy Avenue, Indianapolis. 317-891-7713.
Sunday 18 Holliday Park Birds of Prey and People Through the use of live animals, natural artifacts and theatrical techniques, Take Flight! brings the importance of understanding the natural world to life. Join us for the exciting Birds of Prey and People program. All ages, registration required. 2:00-3:00 pm. $3/ person. Holliday Park Nature Center. 6363 Spring Mill Road, Indianapolis. www. hollidaypark.org. 3173277180.
Indianapolis Indians Baseball vs. Toledo Mud Hens at Victory Field Souvenir Sunday for first 2,500 fans. 2:00 p.m. Victory Field. 501 W. Maryland St, Indianapolis. www.indyindians.com. 317-269-3545.
Monday 19 DIY Mondays Button Bracelets. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Young Adult Lounge. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us.
Indianapolis Indians Baseball vs. Columbus Clippers at Victory Field 7:00 p.m. Victory Field. 501 W. Maryland St, Indianapolis. www.indyindians.com. 317-269-3545.
Indy Winter Farmers Market
Book club and party all rolled into one! Each event includes a book discussion, game, craft and snack. Call 885-5035 or register online at www. greenwoodlibrary.us. 4:30 p.m. Greenwood Library. 310 S. Meridian St., Greenwood. www. greenwood.lib.in.us. 317-881-1953.
Occurring Daily Through Saturday, April 24, 2010. 9-12:30pm. The Chatham Center. 901 North East Street, Indianapolis. www. indywinterfarmersmarket.org.
Families are invited for an interactive bilingual storytime celebrating the languages and cultures of the world through art, crafts, music, dance and games. It’s presented in partnership with IN-NELL, Indiana-Network for Early Language Learning. This program, presented in Chinese and English, will be held in the Learning Curve theater. 2 p.m. Central Library. 40 E. St. Clair St., Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4100.
Fishers Parks and Recreation: Go Green! In this class we will re-use items to make a craft, learn green habits through songs, games, and stories, plus have an environmentally friendly snack. Registration ends 4/14. For children ages 4-6. 12:30-2:00pm. Resident: $16; Non-Resident: $24. Billericay Park Building. 12690 Promise Road, Fishers. www. fishers.in.us/parks. (317) 595-3133.
Indianapolis Indians Baseball vs. Columbus Clippers at Victory Field
For children in grades 1 & 2. Monsters here, monsters there. Monsters, dear friends, are everywhere. 4:00-4:45 p.m. and 6:30-7:15 p.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www. carmel.lib.in.us.
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Tuesday 20 Holliday Park Tales and Trails Join the Holliday Park staff for an exciting morning as we dive into the pages of our favorite children’s books and then venture out to explore the natural world. We will be inside and out, so dress for the weather and be ready to have fun! This is a parent/child class geard for children ages 3-4. Registraion required. 9:30-10:30 am. $3/individual. 6363 Spring Mill Road, Indianapolis. www. hollidaypark.org. 3173277180.
Occurring on the second Saturday of each Month Through Sunday, May 30, 2010. Join us each month for a fun garden lesson and activity. Come to one, or come to all, but please pre-register! Ages: 6-13. 1-2PM. Free. Garfield Park Conservatory. 2505 Conservatory Drive, Indianapolis. www.garfieldgardensconservatory.org. (317)327-7580.
Books for Lunch
Monster Mash
WANT MORE EVENTS? VISIT INDYSCHILD.COM AND CLICK ON “CALENDAR OF EVENTS.”
Junior Garden Club
Wednesday 21 Bring your lunch and join other book lovers to chat about books. Noon - 1:00 p.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Book Talk Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us.
“Baseball In Education” Day. 11 a.m. Victory Field. 501 W. Maryland St, Indianapolis. www. indyindians.com. 317-269-3545.
Book Discussion Thursdays-Percy Jackson vs. Harry Potter Like to talk about books but don’t have a lot of time? Then drop by the YA lounge on Book Discussion Thursdays to let us know what you have been reading or what you want to read or what you should have already read. No facts, figures or page numbers required. All of the fun with none of the hassle. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Young Adult Lounge. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us.
Indianapolis Indians Baseball vs. Louisville Bats at Victory Field 7:00 p.m. Victory Field. 501 W. Maryland St, Indianapolis. www.indyindians.com. 317269-3545.
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ONgoing EVENTS
Library Kids Club
World of Families: Second Saturdays Bilingual Storytime
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Orchard In Bloom: Children Find Their Inner Bloom Occurring Daily Beginning Friday, April 30, 2010 Through Sunday, May 02, 2010. April showers bring May flowers, and Holliday Park will flourish during Orchard In Bloom April 30-May 2. This garden show blossoms with works of art, outdoor entertaining from Indy’s premier party planners, the hottest trends in wedding flowers and outdoor nuptials, family fun, and the latest in gardening and landscaping trends. Children’s programming features activities that let children discover who they can be. Families can expect to see the Pacers, Fever and Colts well represented at the event, and kids of all ages can create pottery, plant flowers, run an obstacle course, dance, and create a custom garden container for porch or patio. Guests also may enjoy a garden café and shopping with more than 100 exhibitors. The event benefits outdoor education, raising more than $1 million in its 21-year history. The real beauty of this event is how it offers a luscious landscape where gardens, art and community can grow together. Fri. and Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 p.m. $12 adults; free children 14 and under. Holliday Park, 64th and Spring Mill Road. 713-5720, orchardinbloom.org. Fri. and Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 p.m. $12 adults; free children 14 and under. Holliday Park. 6363 Spring Mill Rd., Indianapolis. www.hollidaypark.org. 317-327-7180.
Trader’s Point Creamery Green Market Occurring Each Friday Through Saturday, May 01, 2010. Producing fresh creamline whole milk, chocolate milk, plain and fruit yogurts. Fri. May-Oct 4-7pm, Nov-Apr 9-12noon on
Sat. Traders Point Creamery. 9101 Moore Rd., Zionsville. www.traderspointcreamery. com. 317-733-1700.
Whale of a Sale Kid’s Consignment Event Occurring Daily Beginning Friday, April 23, 2010 Through Saturday, April 24, 2010. The spring Whale of a Sale children’s consignment event is set for Friday, April 23 and Saturday, April 24 at Eagle Church in Zionsville, offering shoppers new and gently-used children’s items at a fraction of retail cost. The event will feature spring and summer clothing, toys, equipment, furniture, bedding, accessories, maternity and a variety of vendors from the Indianapolis area. Shoppers can expect to find popular brands such as Gymboree, Polo/Ralph Lauren, Baby Gap/ Gap Kids, Peg Perego, Graco, Fisher Price and more. Sale hours are Friday, April 23, from 9 a.m to 6 p.m. and Saturday, April 24, from 9 a.m to 2 p.m. The event is free to the public. Eagle Church is located at 5801 South 650 East on the Zionsville/Whitestown, Ind. border. It is just off I-65 and 334. * Friday, April 23 is Fundraiser Friday. An easy and fun way for shoppers to raise money for the schools, churches and nonprofits in their community. To participate, shoppers must email info@whale-sale.com prior to the event to register their organization. * Saturday, April 24 is Half Price Day. Shoppers will find deeply discounted bargains before the sale closes. Eagle Church. 5801 South 650 East, Zionsville.
Zoom! Sprints & Lap Races for kids pedal cars Ongoing Annually each March 18. FAMILY Special Event/Wheeled Racers. We’ll set up a track for pedal cars, big wheels, trikes, and kettle cars. Borrow ours or bring your own, the races will last all day. Make a race car craft to race too. All Play Spaces OPEN. Bounce House, Award Ceremony, and More. $3 per child. Adults Free. Rain or Shine. 11- 6. $3. The Play Connection. 10747 E US HWY 136, Indianapolis. www.theplayconnection. com. 3179184359 ages 11-19. Tournaments, guest speakers, basketball, ping-pong, games, music, fitness and nutrition workshops, swimming, other special events adn computers. Participants may enter using their YMCA membership cards; those who are not members of the YMCA must have a school identification card and all must complete a registration form. 7-10pm. Free to members; $5 for all others. Benjamin Harrison YMCA. 5736 Lee Rd, Indianapolis. http://www.indymca.org/ locations/branch.asp?id=18. 317-547-9622.
Zoom! Sprints & Lap Races for kids pedal cars Ongoing Annually each February 17. FAMILY Special Event/Wheeled Racers. We’ll set up a track for pedal cars, big wheels, trikes, and kettle cars. Borrow ours or bring your own, the races will last all day. Make a race car craft to race too. All Play Spaces OPEN. Bounce House, Award Ceremony, and More. $3 per child. Adults Free. Rain or Shine. 11- 6. $3.The Play Connection. 10747 E US HWY 136, Indianapolis.
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calendar f irst Earth Day Indiana Festival. We hope to see you Saturday, April 24 at White River State Park. White River State Park. 801 W. Washington St., Indianapolis.
COME SEE INDY’S CHILD AT EARTH DAY INDIANA FESTIVAL IN THE CHILDREN’S TENT! WE WILL HAVE FACE PAINTERS, PRIZES AND MORE!
Hamilton County Marketplace 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Hamilton County 4-H Center. 2003 Pleasant St., Noblesville. www. ce s .p u r d u e.e d u / h a m i l to n /g rou n d s / facilities.html. 317-776-0854.
Huge children’s clothing and equipment sale Toddler Tales: Colors Enjoy bonding time with your toddler while meeting new people! Each month we will read a story, sing songs, and have activities all focused on a theme. Sign up for one or all! Caregivers must attend and participate. For ages 18-30 months. Min 4/Max 10. 11:0011:45 a.m. $8 per child. Roy G. Holland Memorial Park. One Park Dr., Fishers. www. f i s h e r s . i n .u s /d e p a r t m e n t /d i v i s i o n . asp?fDD=9-55&location=holland. 317595-3155.
Friday 23 Indianapolis Indians Baseball vs. Louisville Bats at Victory Field Friday Night Fireworks. 7:15 p.m. Victory Field. 501 W. Maryland St, Indianapolis. w w w. i n d y i n d i a n s .c o m . 317-269-3545.
Nature’s Recyclers Night Hike at Ritchey Woods Join our nature staff for a night hike! Begin your evening at the f ire. Bring food (like hotdogs or s’more f ixin’s) and drinks for the campf ire. We supply marshmallows and roasting sticks. How can a tree be full of life, even after its dead? Why aren’t deer antlers and animal bones piled up at Ritchey Woods? Mother Nature is full of systems that clean and take care of themselves. Discover who (or what) is involved in the clean up crew for the environment. Pre-registration is required and ends one week prior to program. (fee per participant ages 3 years and up. No charge for children under 3.). 6:30pm-8:30pm. Resident: $4; Non-Resident: $6. Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve. 10410 Hague Rd, Fishers. www.fishers.in.us/rwnp. 317595-3150.
Saturday 24 Community Sale/FOOD DRIVE: Servants of Christ Join us for a FOOD DRIVE to benef it The Caring Center at Servants of Christ Lutheran Church on Oaklandon in Geist. We are also looking for vendors/independent consultants who want to promote their products for $25 for the COMMUNITY SALE on the same day. For more information, contact socmops@yahoo.com. 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. FREE ADMISSION. Servants of Christ Lutheran Church. 7650 Oaklandon Road, Indianapolis. 317-823-9580.
Don’t miss your chance to get garage sale prices from 25 sellers in one location! Also back by popular demand-large equipment in one location for ease of shopping. Free admission to this event Sponsored by Northside Twins and Multiples www. indymultiples.org. 8-12 noon. Free. Northside Knights of Columbus. 2100 East 71st Street, Indianapolis.
Indianapolis Indians Baseball vs. Louisville Bats at Victory Field “Zooper Zaturday” featuring the Zooperstars. 7:00 p.m. Victory Field. 501 W. Maryland St, Indianapolis. www.indyindians.com. 317269-3545.
MOPS Kid Stuff Sale 13th annual HUGE consignment sale of gentlyused children’s clothing, books, toys, and movies; baby gear; and maternity items. Shop from 8:00am until 12:00pm and stock up on some great bargains. All items are pre-screened for quality. The proceeds from this cash-only sale go to support the Mother’s of Preschoolers groups at The Church at the Crossing on the north side of Indianapolis near I-465 and Keystone at the Crossing. 8:00am - 12:00pm. FREE entry. The Church at the Crossing. 9111 Haverstick Rd., Indianapolis. www.kidstuffsale.org. (317) 844-9355.
SuperHero Saturday Come dressed as your favorite superhero to this “super” event. This special storytime will feature superhero stories, games, activities & snacks. For ages 2-8. RSVP by phone or email mudsockbooks@ att.net. 10:30. $5.00. Mudsock Books & Curiosity Shoppe. 116th & Allisonville, Fishers. 579-9822.
Moms and More Meeting at Center for Inquiry Snacks, conversation, light exercise, and ref lection. Children are welcome with volunteers available to care for children while mothers converse. 10-11:30am. Free. Center for Inquiry. 350 Canal Walk, Suite A, Indianapolis. www.mommymoon.org. 317-654-8684.
Sunday, 25 Best Buddies 5k 9 am. $20. Indiana State Museum. 650 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. www.tuxbro. com. 317-920-8623.
El DIa de los NiNos Earth Day Indiana Festival This is the 40th anniversary of the f irst Earth Day and the 20th anniversary of the 60 INDY’S CHILD * APRIL 2010
Celebrate the Day of the Children - on this free admission day at The Children’s Museum from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. The festivities
from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. will honor children and celebrate Latino culture. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. 3000 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis. www. childrensmuseum.org. (317) 334-3322.
informative event! For ages 5 through 12. Space is limited and registration required. 7-7:45 p.m. Free. Noblesville Library. One Library Plaza, Noblesville. www.hepl.lib. in.us. 317-773-1384.
Fancy Nancy Poet Extraordinaire Extravaganza
Mother-Daughter Book Club
Help us celebrate poetry month! Poetry is sensational and should be admired, Read one poem a day this month, even if you’re tired. Please come dressed in your most dramatic attire, An outf it adorned with bows, bells, and baubles will surely inspire! Free fancy pencils and poetry journals to all whom attend, Come help us celebrate, stay ‘til the end! This is a party that you shouldn’t miss, With cookies, juice and a pink Hershey’s Kiss. Sign up before it’s too late, Grab your calendar and write in the date. Please RSVP by April 21. 1 pm. free. Barnes & Noble. 17090 Mercantile Blvd, Noblesbville. bn.com. 317-773-7952.
Join our book club for girls in grades 4 and 5 and their mothers. We will be meeting to discuss The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo and enjoy some special treats. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, March 23, either online, in person, or by calling 844-3363. Space is limited, so register early. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us. 317844-3363.
Tuesday 27 Royalty Romp
March for Babies 8 am - 4 pm. Donations accepted. White River State Park. 801 W. Washington St., Indianapolis.
Monday 26 Letters From Home Join us for a special time as we learn more about how we can make a difference in war times. Come make cards to send to an Indiana National Guard unit stationed in Afghanistan, show your patriotism and help brighten a solder’s day through this fun and
For young children & their caregivers. Hear y e , hear ye, all princes, princesses, knights, and ladies! Thou art cordially invited to a Royalty Romp of stories, songs, and fun to help celebrate this year’s Hamilton County Reads children’s book, Blueberries for the Queen, by John and Katherine Paterson. Costumes, crowns, and tiaras are optional! Registration is required and begins Tuesday, April 20, either online, in person, or by calling 844-3363. 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime
r e so u rc e s Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www. carmel.lib.in.us. 317-844-3363.
Tuesday Night at the Movies for Teens Join us for movies on the big screen and free munchies! No registration is required, but you must be between the ages of 12 and 19. 6-8 p.m. Free. Noblesville Library. One Library Plaza, Noblesville. www.hepl.lib.in.us. 317-773-1384.
Wednesday 28 Stitch & Snack If you enjoy knitting and chatting about books, join us for our drop-in knitting program! This program is for children in grades 3-6. Please bring your own knitting or crocheting projects and supplies. Registration is not required. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us.
Teen Gaming Night - Wii We’re bringing out the Wii, bring your friends and come game. We’ve got Guitar Hero, Sports and more. 6-8 p.m. Fishers Public Library. 5 Municipal Dr, Fishers. www.hepl. lib.in.us. 317-579-0300.
Thursday 29 Read ‘N Feed TeenZone Book Club
characters from various cultures. Stop by the TeenZone for more info or to pick up a copy of the book. Registration is requested, and participants must be in grades 7-12...oh, and should probably have read the book! Register by calling the TeenZone at 770-3242 or online at www.hepl. lib.in.us. 7-8 p.m. Free. Noblesville Library. One Library Plaza, Noblesville. www.hepl.lib. in.us. 317-773-1384.
Arbor Day Celebration at the Indiana State Museum
Yack, Snack and React: Teen Book Club
Fishers Arbor Day Tree Planting
Teens are invited to share their opinions about teen f iction during this monthly book discussion. Visit the Information Desk to learn of each month’s selection and to obtain a copy of the book. 5 p.m. Pike Library. 6525 Zionsville Rd, Indianapolis. www.imcpl. org. 317-275-4480.
Arbor Day is a nationally-celebrated observance that encourages tree planting and care. Founded by J. Sterling Morgon in 1872, it’s celebrated on the last Friday of April in Indiana. Join us as we plant a tree in celebration of Arbor Day. We will meet at the shelter at Ritchey Woods, after the tree planting naturalists will lead forests hikes through Ritchey Woods. Rain or shine. Free! Pre-registration is required and ends one week prior to program. 6:00pm. Free. Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve. 10410 Hague Rd, Fishers. www. fishers.in.us/ rwnp. 317-5953449.
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Indiana State Museum. 650 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. www.in.gov/ism. 317232-1637.
WANT MORE EVENTS? VISIT INDYSCHILD. COM AND CLICK ON “CALENDAR OF EVENTS.”
Join us for an hour of discussion and snacking. This month we will be discussing novels with
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Residential Camps camp carson ymca
WANTED CHILDREN FOR LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT STUDY
Children who do and do not stutter between the ages of 3 years and 5 years 11 months are being recruited for a research study on speech-language development and stuttering at IU. PARTICIPANTS WILL RECEIVE $50 AS WELL AS FREE SPEECH-LANGUAGE TESTING.
To learn more, please visit our Web site www.indiana.edu/~spdislab or contact Dr. Julie Anderson at (812) 856-1240 or judander@indiana.edu
2034 E Lake Road, Princeton, IN 47670 Mark Scoular, Executive Director 812-385-3597 campinfo@ymca.evansville.net http://www.campcarson.org Co-ed: Residential: Traditional http://www.campcarson.org Dirt-Bikes and Horseback Specialty Camps 1pm Sunday - 7pm Friday weekly through June and July 7-16 years traditional week ranges $470$570 (ranges from $260 - $960) Horseback, motorized dirtbikes, archery, canoeing, sailing, swimming, kayaking, archery, marksmanship, climbing, pottery, woodworking, fishing, crafts, soccer, basketball, mountainboards “The Blob”, water zip-lines, Tom Sawyer Swing, drumming Only 2.5 hours southwest of Indianapolis. Join campers and staff from over 25 different states and 7 countries at southern Indiana’s premier summer resident camp. It’s easy to see why we were voted # 1 area resident camp by Kentuckiana Family Magazine. YMCA Camp Carson has it all! Truly “An Experience that lasts a Lifetime!”
Clearwater Camp for Girls 7490 Clearwater Rd., Minocqua, WI 54548
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Melinda Pearce, Office Manager 715-356-5030 clearwatercamp@newnorth.net www.clearwatercamp.com All-Girl: Residential 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. June 23, 2010 - August 12, 2010 8-16 years old; 2-10 grades $3500 - $6400 Archery, arts and crafts, canoing, kayaking, English riding, swimming, tennis, sailing, wind surf ing, water-skiing, wilderness tripping, drama, photography, ceramics, nature and ecology, f ishing, mountain biking, outdoor cooking, sketching and hiking.Since 1933, Clearwater Camp for Girls in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, has enriched girls’ lives through quality programs. Caring, wellchosen counselors are committed to young people. Most importantly, campers discover that they are special, worthwhile people in a non-competitive, traditional camp. ACA accredited.
Easter Seals Camp KYSOC
1902 Easterday Road, Carrollton, KY 41008 Jim Ebert 502-732-5333/866-357-4712 (Toll Free) fun@chhs-kysoc.org www.cardinalhill.org Coed; Residential Special needs camps are offered for: Developmental Adult, Physical Adult, One to One, Learning Behavior Disorder, Developmental Youth, SCL Respite. Financial aid is available. 8:00 - 5:00, Monday - Friday. May 30 - June 4, Developmental Adult and Physical Adult Age - 18 and up; June 13 - 18, One to One (Age 6 and up), Learning Behavior Disorder (Age 6 - 18); June 20 - 25 Developmental Youth (Age 6 and up), Physical Youth (Age 6 and up); Operation Purple Camp June 27- July 2; Free Camp For Children From Military Families Ages 6 - 14; Camp KYSOC Traditional Camp, July 5 - 9, Cost $150, Children Without Disabilities, Ages 6 - 13; Operation Purple Camp, July 11 - 16, Free Camp For Children From Military Families (Ages 6-14); Operation Purple Camp, July 18 - 23, Free Camp For Children From Military Families (Ages 6-14). Special Needs Camps $811; One to One $1,393; Traditional ($150); Operation Purple Camps (Free).
Nine Station High Challenge Course, 3-30 foot high climbing walls, 2-300 foot zip lines, 5-Station Low Elements Course, Fishing, Canoeing, Pontoon Boating, Indoor Heated Pool, Hay Rides.Easter Seals Camp KYSOC is celebrating it’s 50th Anniversary. It has a large Dining Hall and 27 sleeping cabins situated on 124 acres of wooded and 12 acre lake property, 60 trained staff, all with thorough backgound checks, 10-days of staff training, CPR and First-Aid Certif ied, professional school cooks, Nurse 24/7, 2 minutes from hospital, a Facility of the Cardinal Hill Healthcare System.
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are avialable to first-time guests. All children must be accompanied by an adult camper. Paddleboats, sailboats, canoes and kayaks; pontoon rides, lake hikes, crafts, campfires, group activities, and friendly competitions. Adults may be involved in as many activities as they wish. Children participate in supervised, ageappropriate activities. Counselors are college students representing a variety of universities and academic plans of study. Camp is owned and operated by Indiana University.
Purdue Gifted Education Resource Institute
Beering Hall, Room 4133, 100 N. University St., West Lafayette, IN 47907 Boyd Gilbert 765-494-7243 geri@purdue.edu www.purdue.edu/geri Academic/Pre-college Financial aid is available. June 14-18; June 21-25; June 27-July 10; July 11-24. Grades Pre-K through 12. Cost of camp varies between $195 - $1750.
Courses that stimulate imagination, expand abilities, and create lasting friendships. Get a taste of college life at Purdue University and enjoy recreational activities. GERI Super Summer is an enrichment program designed to meet the needs of academically, creatively, or artistically gifted students from grades preK-4 in a day camp setting. GERI Residential Summer Camps are designed for gifted students, grades 5–12, to experience college life while living in a Purdue residence hall .
YMCA Camp Flat Rock / Ruth Lilly YMCA Outdoor Ctr. 6981 W. Country Road 650 N., St. Paul, IN 47272 Steve Heiny 888-828-9622 Sheiny@indymca.org www.flatrockymca.org Co-ed: Residential Financial aid is available. June 13-August 7 Ages 7 - 16 $561
Our focus is helping campers make new friends, increase self-conf idence, and become better people. We work to instill caring, honesty, respect and responsibility and strive to meet the developmental needs of young people.Our staff come from across the country and around the world. They are carefully selected, screened and interviewed. All staff participate in an extensive training program to prepare them for the key role they will play in your camper’s experience at camp. Our leaders and medical staff are on-site 24 hours a day to help with any needs that may arise.
indiana university’s camp brosius
N8089 County Road P, Elkhart Lake, WI 53020 Wendy Iskander 317-274-0606 wiskande@iupui.edu www.campbrosius.com Co-ed: Family: Traditional Week-long reservations are available to families beginning June 13 through August 7, 2010. Housing and food are part of the weekly rate. June 13 - August 7, 2010 All ages Weekly rates: adults and teens, $475 and up; children ages 3-12, $400 and up; infants, $250; Introductory half-week reservations INDYSCHILD.COM 63
peytonmanning.stvincent.org
They get their kicks from competition. And sometimes from the other players. Fortunately, there’s the 24-hour Hilbert Pediatric Emergency Department at Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent. It’s the only dedicated ER for children on Indy’s north side. And if you have a question about your child’s health, call 317-338-KIDS. Talk with a kids’ health specialist, free, 24/7. When helping an injured child is your goal, we’re right here.