Indy's Child May 2014

Indy’sChild

MAY 2014 // FREE

a sea sona l buck e t l ist

MAKING MOMS M AT T E R A R E YOU L A ST ON T HE LIST ?

2014

CAMP

GUIDE

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building

BLOCKS O F E A R L Y L E A R NING W E IGHING PR E SCHOOL OP TIONS

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MAY 2014 // INDYSCHILD.COM

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contents

// MAY 2014

I NDYS C HI L D.C OM

A R O UND T O W N 16

TERRA COTTA WARRIORS COME TO INDY!

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COME SEE THE ORANGUTANS!

C O M M E N T A R Y & P A R E N T ING 24

RESEARCH TO REAL WORLD

60 ASK THE TEACHER 62

FOOTNOTES: THOUGHTS FROM THE MARGINS OF A MOM'S LIFE

63 TRUE CONFESSIONS OF A STAY-AT-HOME DAD

H E A LT H 14

CELEBRATE MOTHER'S DAY YOUR WAY

IN E V E R Y I S S U E 06 PUBLISHER’S NOTE 08 COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT 10

ONLINE BUZZ

F E AT U R E S

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MAY FUN IN DOWNTOWN INDY

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BUILDING BLOCKS OF EARLY LEARNING

Exciting events all over town!

The educational philosophies of different preschool approaches

30 EDUCATION & CHILDCARE GUIDE 44 SPECIAL NEEDS CALENDAR 46 SPECIAL NEEDS GUIDE 51

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STRESSED OUT KIDS

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MAKING MOMS MATTER

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SOAK UP THE SUMMER

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STUDENTS WHO SHINE

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WORKING THROUGH HOMESICKNESS AT CAMP

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R E S O U R C E S & C A L E ND A R S

Helping your child deal with life's demands

Women who place their own health as a priority have family's interests at heart

A seasonal bucket list of things to do!

A spotlight on local exceptional seniors

Being away from home builds self-esteem and independence

INDYSCHILD.COM // MAY 2014

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

65 DAILY EVENTS 69 ONGOING EVENTS 70 MARKETPALCE 71

FUN & WACKY CALENDAR

SPECIAL NEEDS 40 THE AUTISTIC BRAIN 42 NATURE KIDS

MAY 2014 // INDYSCHILD.COM

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P U B L I S H E R ' S NOT E

M eet the S taff FOUNDING PUBLISHER Barbara Wynne | barbara@indyschild.com

PUBLISHER Mary Wynne Cox | mary@indyschild.com

EDITOR Susan Bryant | susan@indyschild.com

SALES & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Jennica Zalewski | jennica@indyschild.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Katie Clark | katie@indyschild.com

WEB EDITOR

Indy's Gold Star Month

Wendy Cox | wendy@indyschild.com

BUSINESS MANAGER Roxanne Burns | roxanne@indyschild.com

t

he marvelous month of May has arrived! The “Greatest Spectacle in Racing”, the Indy 500, will be held May 25th and Jim Nabors will sing Back Home Again in Indiana for his last time. Indianapolis is host to more than 200,000 visitors and activities to guarantee attendees have a great visit are held throughout the city.

“The 500” is the world’s largest single-day spectator event and we are very proud of its rich heritage. Our readers may want to consider joining the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Kids Club. The list of opportunities kids get to experience is worth much more than the membership.

The day following the race is Memorial Day and marks the 146th year of a beautiful gold star Military Memorial Service held at Crown Hill Cemetery honoring our fallen heroes.

Prior to the band concert that begins at 1:30 p.m., there is a Civil War ceremony at 12:45 p.m. The concert will feature the Indiana Army National Guard's 38th Division Band at the National Cemetery (behind the Gothic

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Chapel). This is followed by a service honoring our military and concludes with a band member playing Taps followed by a loud cannon salute.

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Karen Ring | karen@indyschild.com

WEBSITE DESIGN & GRAPHICS ASSISTANT Maria Tancredi | maria@indyschild.com

Indy gets lots of gold stars for having Riley Hospital for Children. We are so proud of the great research being pursued there. In the past, Riley researchers won gold stars for advancement in treating childhood leukemia and now they are making remarkable inroads in the treatment of type 1 diabetes cases.

Lastly, gold stars go to Mary Wynne Cox and her staff for winning eight different awards for excellence at the recent Parenting Media Association Design and Editorial Awards competition. Mary was elected vice president of the organization as well. As her mom, I proudly give her a gold star for that!

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Wendy Schrepferman | s.wendy@indyschild.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Barbara Wynne, Carrie Bishop, Sarah McCosham, Michelle Shirk, Jennifer Garcia, Julie Costakis, Pete Gilbert, Deb Krupowicz, Kelly Blewett, Jessica Beer, Tonya Bergeson-Dana, Kimberly Harms of The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, Jack Meehan of Indianapolis Downtown Inc.

CONTACT US 921 E. 86th Street., Suite 130 | Indianapolis, IN 46240 PHONE: 317.722.8500 | FAX: 317.722.8510 EMAIL: info@indyschild.com

COPYRIGHT Indy’s Child Parenting Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2014 by 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.

on the cover A dler L itton AG E : 6 PHOTO BY: H an n a h H il l i a rd P h oto g ra p hy

// FAVO R I T E S . .. school subject: science color: purple movie: Teen Beach Movie food: tortellini restaurant: Qdoba tv show: Sponge Bob Squarepants sport: soccer i ce cream: chocolate book: Frog and Toad books candy bar: Reese's cups toy: iPod Touch super hero: Wonder Woman

// W H E N I G ROW UP...

I want to be a teacher!

// I NT E R E ST I NG FACT...

I once scored 12 goals in ONE soccer game!

MAY 2014 // INDYSCHILD.COM

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I N E VE RY I SS UE

COMMUNIT Y

spotlight

25 Y E AR S OF GROW ING G ARDE NS, ART & COM MUNI T Y The nationally recognized garden show and community event, Orchard in Bloom, celebrates its 25th anniversary this year! Find inspiration in the garden displays of top local landscapers. Stroll through the garden markets in search of the perfect accessory for home or garden. Bring the whole family to experience the fun of face painting and craft making.

Savor treats and sandwiches from the Garden Café while listening to gardening experts share their secrets for success.

May 1 - 4, 2014 | www.orchardinbloom.org

R IDE FOR HOPE The Memorial Day Give Hope Ride invites cyclists of all levels to enjoy a day of riding while benefitting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Adult riders can ride a 10, 21, 45 or 62 mile bike course charted through Fishers Heritage Park and the surrounding area. Families can participate in a one mile course within the park and are also invited to participate in interactive bike safety classes.

Monday, May 26, 2014, 7:00 a.m. - Noon Fishers Heritage Park www.GiveHopeRide.com

M ARCH FOR INDI A NA' S BABIE S Imagine if your first day on earth was also your hardest.

Join March of Dimes to walk for babies born too soon or too sick, and to work towards a day when all babies are born healthy! Families are invited to join the fun for the canal walk followed by live entertainment, booths, food and giveaways at the popular Indy’s Child Family Fair in Celebration Plaza.

Saturday, May 10, 2014, 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

White River State Park | Celebration Plaza www.marchforbabies.org

LE MONADE DAY IN M AY! Today fewer and fewer kids are engaging in entrepreneurial activities like mowing lawns or shoveling snowy driveways. And yet many successful entrepreneurs talk about their early childhood experiences starting their own small operations as the moment they knew they could control their own destinies and possibly even change the world with their ideas!

Lemonade Day teaches kids how to start, own and operate their own business: a lemonade stand! After planning and enjoying the many Lemonade Day Indianapolis resources, kids will set up their lemonade stands on May 17th. Then, they are encouraged to spend, save and share their profits. Be sure to “like” the Lemonade Day Indianapolis Facebook page to see the latest activities leading up to the big day!

Learn more and sign up with your child today at http://indianapolis.lemonadeday.org.

4 4T H BROAD R IPPLE ART FA IR Kickoff the summer festival season at The Indianapolis Art Center’s largest fundraiser!

The Broad Ripple Art Fair features booths from local cultural organizations, a children’s creative area, gourmet food courts, a beer and wine garden and live entertainment on five stages. The event attracts over 22,000 visitors and showcases more than 225 artists from the U.S. and Canada. All proceeds aid the Indianapolis Art Center in serving more than 300,000 people annually through its yearround, on-site studio art classes, exhibitions, community events and outreach programs for underserved youth.

Saturday, May 17, 2014 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Sunday, May 18, 2014 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. www.indplsartcenter.org/events/braf/

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HISTOR IC OPPORT UNI T Y TO HONOR V ET ER A NS BRUNCH BOU T IQUE BE NEF I TS PROJEC T HOME INDY Attendees will begin the morning admiring silent auction and raffle items and shopping at a variety of unique boutique booths filled with clothing, jewelry, accessories and treats while enjoying hors d’ouerves and beverages. A sit-down brunch with keynote speaker Kelly Krauskopf, President and General Manager of the Indiana Fever will follow. Event proceeds benefit Project Home Indy whose mission is to provide a nurturing residential environment for homeless teenage girls who are expecting or raising infants. Make plans to enjoy the day and support this truly inspiring organization!

Sunday, May 4, 2014, 11:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

The Crane Bay Event Center 551 West Merrill Street, Downtown Indy Visit www.wedoauctions.net/phi for event information and online bidding.

M AY IS NAT IONAL FOST ER C ARE MON T H Did you know there are more than 10,000 children in the foster care system in the state of Indiana? The month of May is a time set aside to acknowledge foster parents, family members, volunteers, mentors, policymakers, child welfare professionals and other community members who help children and youth in foster care find permanent homes and connections.

The Villages of Indiana hosts informational events throughout the state about becoming a foster or adoptive parent. Register to attend their upcoming meeting to see how you can make a difference in the life of a child.

Tuesday, May 20, 2014 | FREE The Villages Office, 3833 North Meridian St. Call (800) 874-6880 or visit www.villages.org.

As part of the National Honor Flight Network, Indy Honor Flight’s mission is to transport America's veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit the national memorials honoring their sacrifices. The men and women who fought in World War II are now in their 80s and 90s, and honoring these 20th century veterans’ sacrifice is a priority of the organization.

On Saturday, May 10, 2014 at 8:30 p.m., 70 hoosier World War II heroes will return to The Indianapolis International Airport from their visit to Washington, D.C. Indy Honor Flight invites families to participate in a heartfelt welcome with flags, banners, signs and most importantly, a large crowd! Guests are asked to arrive at the main food court at 8:00 p.m. If you are interested but unable to attend, please consider making a donation to this worthy cause. Visit www.indyhonorflight. org for more information about donations and volunteer opportunities.

YOG A FOR E X PEC T ING MOM S Franciscan St. Francis Health is pleased to offer free prenatal Yoga for Pregnancy classes. Yoga benefits expecting moms and develops physical and mental tools needed to assist in the work of labor. For this reason, the Yoga for Pregnancy class focuses on providing a well-rounded combination of strengthening, endurance and flexibility exercises. In addition, classes provide opportunities to focus on breathing exercises that increase body and mental awareness. The 40 minute class format includes a warm-up, work and stretching phases, and a final relaxation stage.

Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. | FREE Franciscan St. Francis Health - Swisher Conference Room 1201 Hadley Road, Mooresville Call 317-528-554 to register | www.franciscanalliance.org

PE ACE LE AR NING CE N T ER SUM MER OF F ER INGS The Indianapolis-based Peace Learning Center is pleased to offer three, enriching camp options this summer!

Peacebuilders Summer Camp Enrichment Program featuring problem solving and conflict resolution skills, Social Justice Leadership Camp for teens age 13 18 focusing on community service, team building and understanding local nonprofit organizations, and Climate Camp highlighting sustainability solutions and civic action opportunities in our community. As an educational institution, PLC’s teachings help build understanding and healthy communication for youth, parents, adults and professionals. To learn more, visit www.peacelearningcenter.org.

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I N E VE RY I SS UE

buzz ONLINE

// CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S

Symphony on the Prairie

facebook & weekly e-newsletter contests

// FACEBOOK TALK WE ASKED:

What do your kids take to bed with them every night?

Pinheads Passes

Y O U S A ID : For some odd reason an icepack... Has to have an icepack! – Jennifer S. A book. And not even the same one... She just has to have a book in her bed! – Lee Ann S. "Ninja baby" – Amber C. A stuffed penguin, stuffed rabbit, stuffed wolf, and occasionally a stuffed spider. – Danette W. A glass of water! – Michelle M. Fallon has her Teddy and Vera has her Froggy. – Emily S. A stuffed sting ray for my boy and pony for our girl. All toys phase out to something new. – Amanda P.

Indianapolis Indians Tickets

Tons of blankets and stuffed animals. – Erin H. Every.Thing. They both sleep in piles of pillows, blankets, and animals. My only rule is nothing with sharp edges! – Brandy B. Our dog! – Jenny B. “ L i ke ” u s o n

F ace b ook to J o i n the C o n versat i o n

Over 11,850 fans and counting..

F I ND U S ON L I NE

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INDYSCHILD.COM // MAY 2014

Sign up for your FREE Indy's Child Weekly E-newsletter, featuring upcoming news, weekend events & exciting contests!

Go to IndysChild.com

Holiday World & Splashin' Safari

INDY'S CHILD... a Gold Star publication!

Every year the Parenting Media Association (PMA), an organization dedicated to supporting quality parenting publications, recognizes its members for outstanding editorial and design contributions. This year our organization, Midwest Parenting Publications, won a total of eight awards in the PMA Design and Editorial Awards competition. Indy’s Child was honored to be recognized in the following categories:

CATEGORY: Special Series // Gold Award Our Autism and Special Needs Section, written by Carrie Bishop, provides a “go to” resource each month that addresses the specific concerns parents have for their children with different abilities.

CATEGORY: Child Development & Parenting Issues Column // Silver Award “Ask the Teacher” written by local educator Deb Krupowicz, gives concrete suggestions for the questions parents have about the academic, social and emotional aspects of a child’s school experience.

CATEGORY: Best Blog // Gold Award “Mom Blogger” by Katrina Willis gives readers a funny and poignant look into the daily life of one mother’s parenting experience.

We’re so proud of our talented writers and columnists who work hard to bring our readers informative, engaging content every month. Our staff was thrilled to be recognized in this way and is excited to continue to bring more quality parenting content to our fellow Indianapolis residents.

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may fun

in downtown indy Jack Meehan, Indianapolis Downtown, Inc.

// Exciting events all over town!

Runners: start your engines!

With the big race just around the corner, let your little ones have a race of their own. Children ages 3 – 12 are invited to participate in a non-competitive fun run where everyone is a winner: The Rookie Run. All little runners will receive a goodie bag, a real runner’s bib and a finisher’s medal – just like the Mini Marathon runners. The Rookie Run takes place during the Chase 500 Festival for Kids and costs $6 in advance and $10 day of. Lace up your running shoes and enjoy the endless prizes, arts and crafts, food and face painting waiting for your kids at the finish line.

Experience ancient China Give the whole family something to “ooh” and “ahh” about as the eighth wonder of the world comes to Indianapolis on May 10. Take a trip back in time to the days of emperors and ancient secrets with the Terra Cotta Warriors

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exhibit at The Children’s Museum. Surround yourself with life size ancient warriors and more than 100 artifacts from the time of China’s first emperor. Take Me There: China will also open May 10. Board a modern Chinese airplane and fly over the Great Wall, sell and buy food in a modern Chinese market, explore an urban and rural Chinese home and more.

booth, snack on a free cupcake and join in a special family scavenger hunt to discover the Zoo’s very own secret animal moms. Family fun in May continues with the annual Zoopolis 500, held the Wednesday before the Indianapolis 500. This event showcases radiated tortoises hustling to the finish line. Before the action begins, meet the 500 Festival Princesses and check out a 500 Festival Pace Car.

Celebrate spring at the Zoo Be sure to mark May 24 in your calendars and attend the grand opening of the International Orangutan Center at the Indianapolis Zoo. The International Orangutan Center will provide an unparalleled physical and social habitat where visitors will have a remarkable window into the orangutans’ world. Also at the Zoo, celebrate mom during Mother’s Day Weekend May 10 – 11. Snap a photo at a Mother’s Day photo

Art the entire family can enjoy Start your summer vacation with the Indianapolis Museum of Art’s “Spotlight on Africa” tour May 10 and 24. There’s no need to pack your bags for this 30 minute trip halfway across the world. This family tour is open to children of all ages and runs at 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Also enjoy the free Art in the Park event every Sunday

from noon – 4 p.m. From wildflowers to wildwoods, soak up the sun and nature while channeling your inner artist and creating a “wild” masterpiece of your own.

Swing for the fences at Victory Field With the Indians season underway, visit Victory Field to learn the basics from your hometown heroes. The Tribe hosts their annual Youth Baseball Clinic Thursday, May 29 at 5 p.m. The clinic is open to all children 14 and younger and includes a chance to throw, pitch, field and hit right where the pros play. Admission to the clinic is included with purchase of a ticket to the Thursday, May 29 game against the Buffalo Bison.

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WOME N ' S H E A LT H // B RANDED CONTENT

Celebrate Mother’s Day Your Way // There’s no better time to make time for you As a mom, life is busy.

Very busy. And, because you

Here are five things that help me in my crazy life!”

have so many people to look after, care for and keep moving, sometimes you forget one of the most important people in your life: you.

1. Aromatherapy

Kathy Ryan, RN a Clinical Coordinator for Monogram Maternity at St.Vincent, offers insight on a few ways for you to relax this Mother’s Day, and relieve your stress.

“Stress. We all feel it! We need to just stop and take a breath.

Relaxation can be tough these days but everyone needs to find ways to feel calm and be present for meaningful moments in our lives. Our health depends on it.

Taking a deep breath and letting it out with an audible sigh. So much more enjoyable with aromatherapy! I only use 100% Pure Essential Oils from St.Vincent. Check out 3384her.com for more aromatherapy information!

2. Earth Therapeutics

Anti-Stress Microwaveable Neck Pillow

I use my Pillow to soften tense neck muscles and help me relax.

This u-shaped neck pillow is filled

with flax seeds, chamomile and lavender, which combine to cradle your neck and emit a soothing aroma. It can be warmed in your microwave to help relax tense muscles with soothing heat.

3. Massage from a Certified Massage Therapist This is the ultimate in thorough relaxation and I can hardly wait until my next appointment. Mandy Cook, an esthetician and massage therapist at St.Vincent Fishers Hospital, offers a full range of esthetic and massage therapies, including pre and post-natal massages.

4. Energize The best thing is to give yourself a wonderful morning, afternoon or day at your favorite places filled with those who energize you! I love walking the grounds of the IMA and having lunch at Taste or Café Patachou. My family energizes me…especially our adorable new granddaughter Molly. I just look at that face and can’t help but take a deep breath and smile!

5. Yoga and Stretching Learn a few poses and you can stretch anywhere, anytime. My family always strikes this pose (to the left) when we travel from Ireland to the Pacific Ocean.

There are a variety of yoga styles to choose from.

This Mother’s Day, we encourage you to celebrate you. Find your five ways to relax and relieve stress. Visit 3384HER.com/ SKINnovations to learn more about our aromatherapy options, or to schedule a FREE 15-minute consult with Mandy Cook, our new esthetician and massage therapist at St.Vincent Fishers Center for Women’s Health.

@3384HER 14

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A ROUND TOW N

Terra Cotta Warriors Come to Indy! // See these fascinating ancient figures direct from China Kimberly Harms, Director of Media and Public Relations, The Children's Museum of Indianapolis

A farmer’s shovel digging for water in China hit clay instead and an ancient treasure was revealed. Little did he know that warrior discovered in 1974 was one of thousands created 2,200 years ago to protect an emperor in the afterlife.

Now you can stand face to face with some of the real warriors from that ancient army in Terra Cotta Warriors: The Emperor's Painted Army at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis. It will be the only place in the entire United States your family will be able to see the warriors in 2014 and it is the first time ever they have been shared with a children’s museum.

Families will see rare artifacts up close (eight of the real warriors, a replica bronze chariot and dozens of other authentic artifacts) while being surrounded by the authentic environment in which they were found. One of the most fascinating aspects of the warriors is that despite the fact they’ve discovered 2,000 (and it’s believed there are 8,000 of them) – no two are alike! Each one has a different face. It is an interesting way to teach your children the

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difference between assembly lines and an artisan’s individual creation.

Encourage your kids to try their own clay sculpting skills to create a warrior face or mold a miniature Terra Cotta figure to be left behind as part of the exhibit. The whole family will walk away with a better understanding of how scientists, artists and historians are using the latest technology to determine how these figures were made and what is being done today to preserve and recreate their original paint patterns.

Terra Cotta Warriors: The Emperor’s Painted Army, directly from China’s Shaanxi Province.

Presented by Eli Lilly and Company Foundation opens May 10, 2014. Take Me There:® China will open simultaneously offering visitors an exploration of both ancient and modern China.

MAY 2014 // INDYSCHILD.COM

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A ROUND TOW N

Come see the orangutans! // Zoo’s new International Orangutan Center promises an epic adventure Carla Knapp

Imagine gazing into the thoughtful eyes of an orangutan just as curious about you as you are of him.

The International Orangutan Center opens to the public on May 24 and offers guests an opportunity come face to face with incredible animals. Innovative elements were designed to stimulate the apes’ physical, social and intellectual abilities. Orangutans will use technology in incredible ways, from learning new language skills to the world’s first orangutan vending machines. The innovation isn’t just for orangutans, though. In coming weeks, guests will be able to work with the apes to complete various tasks, make a digital finger painting and more!

The apes will spend much of their days inside the R.B. Annis Atrium. With an internal height of 50 feet, this four-season ecosystem allows orangutans to climb and move as orangutans. And Zoo visitors can get a

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remarkable view of their world inside the Efroymson Family Exploration Hub. The orangutans can also venture to other areas of the exhibit using the Myrta Pulliam Hutan Trail. This system of towers and cables allows the orangutans to move around high above the Zoo. The orangutans are right at home climbing and swinging upwards of 80 feet in the air. It really is the orangutans' sidewalk in the sky!

Guests will be able to get the orangutan's eye view using the Skyline, a dramatic aerial cable ride above the Zoo taking visitors close to the Hutan Trail for a unique perspective on the orangutans. The Center is being called one of the most significant zoo exhibits in the world and is sure to attract visitors from across the country! To save time and money, guests are encouraged to plan ahead, pick their day and pick their price by purchasing tickets online at IndianapolisZoo.com.

Photo Credit // Craig Banister

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BUILDING B LOCKS

Jennifer Garcia

of Early Learning The educational philosophies of different preschool approaches In recent years, many states have made a push toward regulating early childhood education programs to help children prepare to enter kindergarten. The Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) has issued the “Foundations to the Indiana Academic Standards,” which provides guidelines for educating children from birth to age five. The Foundations are based on national research that indicates the skills and concepts children need to master to excel in school.

i

t’s a big milestone – sending your little one off to preschool. Those first years of school are vital to forming a child’s life-long relationship with learning.

Every parent wants to make the best school or daycare decision for their child, and it can be helpful to understand the many educational philosophies and methods out there.

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According to the IDOE website, “Readiness includes ready children, ready families, ready communities, ready early care and education, and ready schools. It is the responsibility of schools to meet the needs of children as they enter school and to provide whatever services are needed to help each child reach his or her fullest potential.”

“The Foundations are the building blocks that lead to developmentally appropriate practices in early childhood classrooms,” says Mary Lowe, special education supervisor for Indianapolis Public Schools.

“Schools and teachers have the flexibility to develop their own methods and lesson plans aligned to the Foundations.”

Public preschools in Indiana are required to utilize the Foundations; however, private daycares and preschools may choose alternative methods. Cara Paul, director of the Children’s Circle Preschool of Second Presbyterian Church, says her school doesn’t adhere to the Foundations, but follows a developmentally appropriate, play-based Creative Curriculum.

This proposes that young children learn best by doing. It encourages active thinking and using one’s senses to discover how things work.

Embedded in the Foundations are lessons in language arts, math, science, social studies, physical education, health, art and music.

“We believe that learning comes through play – everything from reading to math,” says Paul.

“Children learn best by using all of

their senses. That means they might get messy in the sandbox or doing art, but they are learning.”

Lowe agrees that learning through play is essential for young children. “What children need most in order to thrive in school is the freedom to explore, to figure out how things work and the opportunity to build social skills such as negotiating, waiting, sharing and taking turns.”

Reggio Emilia and Montessori are traditional approaches that are widely regarded as excellent teaching methods, and can be used in conjunction with the Foundations. Both are based on the “constructivist theory,” which allows children to learn through exploration of their environment, as opposed to direct instruction by a teacher. “The teacher is a partner in learning, versus the purveyor of knowledge,” says Lowe.

Another technique that is often used in early education is known as Conscious Discipline. This is a

method of helping children learn to regulate their emotions and actions by recognizing and acknowledging how they feel. “It’s about being able to say, ‘I’m mad,’ and what made them mad, and that it’s okay to feel mad,” says Paul. “It’s about taking ownership of their feelings.”

Self-regulation is a powerful indicator of school readiness.

Social and emotional development is also one of the core components of the Foundations program. Lowe states, “Children need to be given opportunities to learn self-control and to learn that it’s okay to make mistakes. Children need to be surrounded by adults who love them unconditionally and allow them to be children, not little adults. Let them run, play, make noise and get dirty.”

This is why preschool is so important, say educators. Children learn best through experiencing the world around them. While they are playing, they’re learning how to share their toys and to work together to clean up. “Preschool is very important in terms of social skill building,” says Paul. “They have to learn how to navigate social situations and problem solve.”

The preschool experience can be a wonderful first learning environment for your child. By learning about the foundation and philosophy of the various schools available, you can choose the best option that aligns with your own priorities for your child and your family.

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STRESSED OUT KIDS Helping your child deal with life’s demands Michelle Shirk

In addition, “Social media and electronic device use is a new source of stress that parents and children have had to figure out,” says Austin P. Wade, B.A., practicum student at the University of Indianapolis Psychological Services Center. Stress can come from family disagreements about screen time, online “trolling” and bullying or ongoing pressure to present one’s “best self” at all times.

Our ideal image of childhood is one filled with bicycle rides, baseball games and sleepovers – not worry, stress and overcommitment. Unfortunately, today’s kids are often anxious about many aspects of their daily lives. As a parent, you can help your child live happier and healthier by understanding common childhood stressors and taking steps to address them.

What’s the problem?

Are today’s children more stressed out than past generations? “It would seem that way,” says Carrie Cadwell, PsyD., HSPP, Indiana Psychological Association Public Education Campaign Liaison. She reports that according to the American Psychological Association’s 2013 Stress in America survey, teens on average are reporting an increase in stress levels, with school ranking as the single biggest source of stress. In fact, during the school year teens reported higher stress levels than adults. School stress can relate to social relationships as well as academic performance, says Dr. Cadwell.

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Stress is not a negative word per se says Dr. Cadwell. Kids may experience positive stress, or “eustress,” for events such as getting ready for prom or moving up a grade. However, Cadwell says the consequences of excessive stress can include fatigue, loss of energy or engagement, reduced interest in social activities, difficulties eating and sleeping and a decline in school performance. “Stress is also linked to greater vulnerability to physical conditions, such as the common cold, other viruses and autoimmune diseases,” notes Wade.

What can parents do?

Dr. Cadwell offers parents five practical suggestions to help prevent or reduce stress in their children’s lives.

Lifestyle Parents should promote healthy eating patterns and ensure their children get plenty of exercise and sleep. These lifestyle factors play into the physical impacts of stress and how well kids and teens can manage it.

Communication Parents should create opportunities for children to talk to them in one-toone settings. Participating in an activity the child enjoys – such as a video game – creates a shared space that can make them more likely to open up.

Balance Adults must teach children behaviors that will help them balance work, school and self- care. Parents have to model these behaviors as well.

Rituals and routines Traditions such as family dinner or game night are important in creating a “safe harbor” for children. Kids are typically better able to manage stressors when home life is more predictable and stable.

Media downtime Specific rules for phones and social media should be established. By creating “unplugged” times in the evening, parents can help kids learn to limit the 24/7 barrage of stressors that come with technology.

What other resources are available?

For parents wishing to learn more about helping kids manage stress, there are many excellent resources online. Wade recommends the websites maintained by the National Institute of Mental Health (www.nimh. nih.gov) and the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (www.nichd.nih.gov).

Finally, parents shouldn’t feel like they have to go it alone. “When stress or anxiety starts to get in the way of the child’s ability to function at school, with family and/or with friends, it’s probably time to consult a mental health professional,” says Wade.

Primary care specialists should have referral information to assist parents searching for services.

Don’t stress about childhood stress, but do put these strategies in place within your family dynamic and don’t hesitate to access professional help if necessary. Handling the many demands and pressures that daily life can deliver is a skill – one that kids can learn early and employ the rest of their lives.

congratulations to the Indy’s Child

mother’s day essay Contest Winner!

In honor of Mother’s Day, we asked our readers to tell us about their amazing moms. Our question: “What’s the most important lesson you learned from your mother?” The responses we received showed just how much our moms teach us every day, but one answer in particular won us over.

Heidi Nordhoff wrote the following:

Strong, Like Me Mom’s first train trip from Indianapolis to Atlanta, Georgia was in the summer of 1943. Just five years old, she rode through the night, alone.

At seven, her daddy died of pneumonia. Thrust into single parenting, her mom worked hard. Days at Eli Lilly, evenings and weekends at McCrory and Kresge’s Five and Dime. Summers she was forced to send her children away to relatives or risk the foster care system.

Twice Mom’s east side childhood home burned to the ground. At times, the electricity was shut off. More than once, The Irvington Church of Christ paid the mortgage. Her oldest brother quit school to toil the railroad and help support his family.

At fifteen, Mom got her first job as a soda jerk at Robertson’s Drug Store.

She graduated Warren Central, worked for a doctor, then married and began having children of her own.

A homemaker for twenty-five years, Mom loved us, but she was tough. Her childhood demanded she be.

Grandma died of breast cancer just days before I was born. She was strong and fought hard. I can see that strength in her photo on Mom’s nightstand. Strong, like Mom. Strong, like me.

Congratulations to Heidi who will receive tickets to Holiday World & Splashin Safari. And thank you to all of our readers who sent in their wonderful stories!

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COMME NTA RY & PA R E NTING

Research to Real World:

What Grown-ups Should Know About Preschool Jessica Beer, Ph.D. and Tonya Bergeson-Dana, Ph.D.

Last month the state legislature passed Indiana’s first investment in preschool education. The bill will provide about $10 million in state funding for high-quality preschool programs for approximately 1,500 low-income children. Despite support for the bill in the state House, the state Senate’s approval was stalled until the last minute, and the bill in its final form is modest compared to Governor Pence’s original request for funding to serve 40,000 children.

The link between high-quality preschool and later adolescent and adult academic, health, and wealth outcomes is well supported by scientific evidence. But research is slow to inform public policy in Indiana. Indiana was only one of nine states to provide no state funding for preschool education even though over half of 4th and 8th grade children in Indiana public schools are unable to read or perform math at grade level according to the Children’s Defense Fund.

Why are the preschool years so important for later success?

Four key developmental shifts take place between the ages of 3 and 6 that respond especially well to high-quality preschool environments in unique and targeted ways.

Self-regulation Children with good self-regulation are skilled at controlling their emotions (e.g., avoiding angry outbursts), their thinking (e.g., sustaining attention to a difficult task) and their behavior 24

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(e.g., sitting still). Self-regulation skills begin to develop during preschool years and are scaffolded by preschool teachers (e.g., raise your hand before speaking during circle time).

Executive function Children draw upon their executive functioning skills to manage the multiple streams of information coming at them at once and to respond appropriately. Working memory allows children to remember multi-step instructions (e.g., put your artwork in your cubby, get your jacket and line up for recess). Inhibitory control allows them to resist temptation and think before they act (e.g., asking to see a friend’s toy rather than taking it). Flexibility allows children to switch gears in different situations (e.g., running on the playground is fine but running in the hall is not). These skills become more coordinated between the ages of 3 and 6 years and high-quality preschool curricula are designed to improve them.

Social understanding Between the ages of 3 and 6 children become 1) more skilled at perspective-taking (e.g., I know Ahmed is upset because he asked for the red crayon and Jason accidentally broke it), and 2) better able to predict how another person might feel (e.g., Sarah may get her feelings hurt if she isn’t included in playtime, so I will ask her to play with Katie and me). Qualified preschool teachers scaffold social understanding, which underlies

social-cognitive reasoning skills necessary for managing complex relationships with friends and adults.

Language skills Children begin to use language as a tool for thinking rather than simply a tool for communicating with others.

They think aloud to help them stay on track (e.g., “get my jacket then line up”). They use private speech to work through a problem (e.g., “get the green and brown Legos to make a tree”) or a frustrating situation (e.g., “just ignore my friend who keeps talking to me while the teacher is reading a story”). Qualified teachers help preschoolers make the shift to using language to guide thinking and reasoning, a powerful tool to control their own behavior and emotions.

The importance of high-quality preschool education does not lie in teaching kids how to read, spell and calculate earlier, but in preparing them how to think, control themselves and get along with others so they can learn in a classroom setting. This kind of investment in early education for all Indiana children seems like a no-brainer.

Developmental psychologist Jessica Beer and cognitive psychologist Tonya Bergeson-Dana combine their real world experience as mothers with their professional training as researchers to provide parents with a practical way to apply the most current findings in childhood development research to their everyday life. Jessica and Tonya are also co-founders of The Urban Chalkboard playcafe, and welcome questions and feedback from readers at a experiencematters@ theurbanchalkboard.com.

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Making Moms

M A T T E R Women who place their own health as a priority have family’s interest at heart Julie Costakis

L

ynn considers spending quality time with her three children of utmost importance. Trips to

museums, parks, libraries, play group and music lessons, as well as kid-centered activities at home fill each day she is not at the office. At nap time she attacks cleaning, laundry and dinner preparations.

After tucking her children in bed at night, she handles emails, bills and volunteer commitments before addressing the workload she brought from the office.

Lynn leads a full life, but has no doubt that the pace she keeps is contributing to her health issues and a surprising sense of feeling unfulfilled.

Many moms make caring for others their primary concern – with their own health last on the list. A woman can mistakenly believe that setting aside “mom time” is selfish, when in actuality, it is crucial for her physical and psychological health.

Mary K. Beckwith, M.D., FAGOC has arrived at this conclusion from years of observing patients at Clearvista Women’s Care in Indianapolis. “The single most important decision a woman can make for her health is to engage in stress management activities, such as exercise and self-nurturing endeavors. These generally lead a woman to make better choices about nutrition and fitness, as well as mental and spiritual health, allowing her to model positive habits to kids.”

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Laurie Hartman, M.Ed., Director of Compassion Care at Grace Church in Noblesville agrees. “We obey the flight attendant’s instructions to don oxygen masks before helping children, so let’s do the same with our emotional health; if we take care of ourselves first we can best help our families.” Feeling drained from our everyday schedule doesn’t give the fuel required to be present as a mom. “Our interests prior to motherhood may require more time than currently available, but don’t cease them altogether,” says Hartman. “If a two-hour women’s study isn’t possible, find a devotional to take short breaks with.

If you can’t run seven days a week, run four.” She stresses the importance of human connections.

“It is easy to become isolated with the tasks of parenting. Schedule date night once a week and regular commitments with friends.” Moms who remember that being “good enough” is permissible can cast off the burdensome pursuit of perfection.

“Sadly the tendency is to immediately turn to mood stabilizers for stress relief,” says Dr. Beckwith.

“I advise first trying activities to blow off steam and find personal enjoyment. Doing so allows us to be better listeners and caregivers, as well as improves the coping skills we need to deal with the endless challenges life presents.”

Even taking in the enormous amount of helpful health information from the media can be stressful. Dr. Beckwith suggests turning to the guidelines established by medical governing boards. “These recommendations are based on sound clinical research, and are a valuable resource.” For example, the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force website (www. uspreventiveservicestaskforce. org/recommendations.htm) offers screening timelines for every health concern. “Know the conditions you are at a high-risk for due to family history and their warning signs,” says Dr. Beckwith. “Every young woman should be preventionminded, such as taking calcium for bone health and using sunscreen, as well as being mindful of optimal nutrition and weight. Breast and gynecological exams are a must.

Taking time for yourself every week will increase awareness of what your body is telling you.”

Everyone agrees that family caregiving should be high on a mother’s list of priorities. Yet when her own needs are rarely addressed, physical and psychological wellbeing suffers. Optimal health begins by establishing regular times to nurture your physical, emotional and spiritual self.

And now is the perfect time to begin!

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concerts, arts and crafts, activities for kids and car show. The event runs June 6-8 in historic Parke County.

It isn’t summer without a 4-H Fair, and the Hancock County 4-H Fair is one you can’t miss. The week of June 20-27, head over to the fairgrounds for the classic fair experience: livestock barns, horse and dog shows, parades and a full-scale carnival complete with a Ferris wheel.

The Indiana State Fair in August is also a quintessential part of any Hoosier summer. In addition to 4-H shows, musical performances and carnival rides, the Indiana State Fair features a special “Family Fun Park” complete with pony rides, go-karts and a petting zoo.

SOAK UP

the summer

Sarah McCosham

w

hat’s not to love about summer?

Longer days, loads of sunshine and an abundance of fun things to do! As the season approaches, here are some “must do” activities to include on the family calendar.

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Make a splash Mix up your pool time fun with a visit to one of Indianapolis’ outdoor splash parks.

Indy Parks is an amazing resource for local families, with 20 aquatic centers and 15 free public spray grounds conveniently located across the city.

Visit www.indy.gov for a complete listing of parks, hours and amenities.

Within Indy Parks, Sahm Park is a family favorite. Its aquatic center features waterpark-worthy slides and fountains, as well as 50- and 25-meter lap lanes for older swimmers. Once you’re finished swimming, there’s an

Have an adventure A seasonal bucket list of things to do!

18-hole disc golf course, tennis, sand volleyball and basketball courts to round out the day.

If rainy weather’s gotten you down, consider taking the kids on a “staycation” to Caribbean Cove Waterpark. This indoor facility has slides, a lazy river, activity pool and spa to keep both kids and adults occupied all day long.

<Festivals, festivals, festivals< Celebrate the first weekend of June at the Rosedale Strawberry Festival.

Boasting Indiana's “best home-baked shortcakes,” this festival offers free

While big summer vacations are certainly fun, sometimes they aren’t feasible for families. Here’s where the day trip comes in.

“Daytrips are a great way for families to create shared memories together,” says Laura Hoevener, co-author of the book Adventures Around You: A Plan to Create Unforgettable Family Memories While Exploring Locally. Hoevener says Indianapolis has many fun “adventures” to choose from. “The NCAA Hall of Champions is a great place to spend a few hours in Indy. The bottom floor covers every single NCAA sport and the student athletes, and the upstairs is packed with interactive displays including virtual football and a 1930's retro basketball gym.” Located in White River State Park, families can also take advantage of the canal and pedal boats, the Indiana History Center, the Indiana State Museum and the Indianapolis Zoo. As you’re planning activities this summer, be sure to include a few things off this bucket list. Indianapolis has so much to offer, there is no shortage of fun close to home!

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E D U CAT I ON R E S OUR C ES

e d u ca t i o n & C H I L D C A R E

GUIDE

school s & education carmel

fishers

Carmel Montessori Schools, Inc.

Fishers Montessori

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 16 years headteaching experience. We offer a beautiful, peaceful and positive Montessori learning environment. Extended days available. 1402 W. Main St., Carmel, IN 46032, Contact: Emily & Scott Rudicel, Phone: 317-580-0699, Email: info@carmelmontessori.com, carmelmontessori.com

Clay Montessori A Montessori school offering morning, afternoon, and full-day programs. Available for ages 3-6 years old. Call for more information. (Affiliated with Fisher’s Montessori) 463 East Main St., Carmel, IN 46032, Contact: Peggy White, 317-849-9519 or 317-580-1850

Education Station USA Whether your child needs to catch up, keep up, or be enriched, our tutors work to tailor sessions based on current curriculum. Our instructor engage students using interactive exercises that help them conquer homework assignments and class projects while boosting their confidence. Our instructors are selected for their expertise in study strategies and innovative approaches to learning. Our center provides Elementary, Middle School, High School, and College Test prep tutoring. 959 Keystone Way, Carmel, IN 46032, Contact: Allan Seif, Email: aiseif@ educationstationusa.com, www.educationstationusa. com, Type of School: Supplemental Education/ Tutoring, Ages/Grades: K-12 and College Test Prep

Starting Line Preschool The Right Start for A Lifelong Love of Learning! Our strong academic-based curriculum prepares and encourages your child to succeed in school while discoving learning is fun! * Develop Social Awareness & Friendships, Build Confidence and Master Academic Skills for Kindergarten. All of our classes focus on an introduction to colors, number and letters with exciting art and science projects. Math, social studies and sight words are taught in the older classes. 110 Third Ave NE, Carmel, IN 46032. Contact: Diane Atkins. Phone: 317-753-9397.

Email: dkatkins22@msn.com. www.startinglinepreschool.com

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A quality learning environment offering preschool, kindergarten and elementary. Certification through American Montessori Society. 12806 Ford Rd and 131st and Allisonville Rd., Fishers, IN 46038, Contact: Peggy White, 317-849-9519 or 317-580-1850

india napolis // north

intellectually competent, open to growth, loving, religious and committed to promoting justice. Fostering a culture of understanding and dialogue, Brebeuf Jesuit seeks and welcomes students from diverse religious, ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds. Students at Brebeuf Jesuit are called to discover and cultivate the fullness of their God-given talents as a responsibility and as an act of worship. CORE VALUES: Education of the Whole Person, A Caring and Diverse Community, The Greater Glory of God. 2801 W 86th St, Indianapolis, IN 46268. Contact: Liz Otteson, Director of Admissions. Phone: 317-5247090. Email: admissions@brebeuf.org, www.brebeuf.org

Arthur M. Glick JCC 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. 6701 Hoover Road, Indianapolis, IN 46260, 317-251-9467, emills@JCCindy.org, www.JCCindy.org

Beth-El Zedeck Early Childhood Center Fall School Year. 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! Type of School: Early Childhood, Full Time/Part-Time/Flexible Hours, Ages: 12 months old+, 18 months old+, 2’s+, 3’s+, 4’s/PreK (3 day or 5 day program) and Full Day Kindergarten (5 full-day program) (8:50 am to 3:00 pm) Before School/After School Care available daily as needed for all ages: Early drop off as early as 7:30 am and late pick up anytime up until 6:00 pm/5:30 pm on Fridays. Call or email for brochure. 600 W. 70th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Joanie Waldman, Phone: 317-259-6854, Fax: 317-259-6849, Email: jwaldman@bez613.org, www.bez613.org in.us

Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School You are invited to visit the only Catholic Jesuit school in the state of Indiana that has been educating students in the Jesuit tradition for more than 50 years. Brebeuf Jesuit’s Mission Statement: Brebeuf Jesuit, a Catholic and Jesuit school, provides an excellent college preparatory education for a lifetime of service by forming leaders who are

Bureau of Jewish Education The BJE challenges your child through a nurturing environment that stimulates creativity, community, learning through nature and outstanding academic programming. Highly trained teachers emphasize both group and individualized learning in the classroom with specialized area staff. Active learning and discovery are encouraged throughout. 6711 Hoover Road, Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Elaine Fairfield, Phone: 317-255-3124, Email: efairfield@bjeindy.org, www.bjeindy.org

Children’s Day In Nursery School and Traditional Preschool The Children’s Day In traditional preschool and nursery school program provides a fully inclusive early childhood program with an emphasis on Christian values in a play based setting. It is designed to offer children ages 9 months to 5 years a positive and developmentally appropriate experience in the care of experienced teachers and caregivers. We play and learn! Classes are offered weekdays from 9 am to 2:30 pm. Children attend up to 3 days a week. 5500 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46208, Contact: Christy Whaley, 317-253-0472, cwhaley@meridianstreet.org, www.meridianstreet.org

Children’s Circle Preschool at Second Presbyterian Church Children’s Circle Preschool is a developmentally appropriate, activity based, Christian preschool. We offer classes for children ages 9 months to 5 years old. We meet the needs of the whole child in a creative and loving environment. Our experienced staff embraces excellence in education by nurturing the whole child- physically, emotionally, spiritually, and intellectually. Please call for

more information or to set up a tour. 7700 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Cara Paul, Director, 317-252-5517, cpaul@secondchurch.org, www.childrenscircle.org

Early Childhood Center, The Church at the Crossing Our Mothers Day Out (12-35 mos) and Preschool (3 yrs-PreK’s) programs provide relaxed, playful, secure environments that nurture creativity and encourage the exploration of God’s world, with a wide variety of learning materials & readiness skills woven through each unit. Need longer hours? Try our child care ministry, The Neighborhood, designed for 16 mos-PreK. 9111 N. Haverstick Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46240, Contact: John Drake or Kelly Belt, Phone: 317-575-6508, Fax: 317-5756509, Email: jdrake@golove.org or kbelt@golove.org

Heritage Christian School Established in 1965, accredited through ACSI and NCA. HCS is the choice in college preparatory discipleship Christian education for 1,400 students each year grades Prep K – 12. Advanced, Honors and AP classes. Full Fine Arts and 2A IHSAA Athletics. HCS is training up the next generation of Christian leaders through challenging, Biblically taught curriculum including internships and service to others. Bus transportation available. Schedule a tour today! 6401 E. 75th Street, Indianapolis, In 46250, Contact: Rhyan Smith, Director of Admissions, 317-8493441, Admissions@heritagechristian.net, www.heritagechristian.net

Meridian Hills Cooperative Nursery School Share your love of learning with your children. Founded in 1960 by involved parents like you, Meridian Hills Cooperative provides a positive, nurturing environment wherein children explore and learn by doing. Spacious classrooms. Beautiful, wooded playground. Caring, experienced staff of trained and degreed lead teachers.

Adult/child ratios 1:4 - 1:6. Find us on Facebook. 7171 N. Pennsylvania, Indianapolis, IN 46240, Contact: See Admissions/Tours Info Online, Phone: 317-721-2322, www.meridianhillscoop.org

Montessori Centres Peace and respect for all is our main goal. Montessori Centres has worked with children to develop criticalthinking and time-management skills since 1966.

Montessori-certified lead teachers serve children aged 3-3rd grade. Classroom structure and materials allow children to be self-directed and self-paced. Our well-rounded curriculum includes French and Spanish, art, science, computer skilles, grace and courtesy, social studies, nature and outdoor gardening. 563 West Westfield Blvd., Indianapolis, IN 46208, Contact: Lynn Boone, Director, Phone:317-257-2224, Fax: 317-2573034, Email: montessoricentres@sbcglobal.net, www.montessoricentres.com/

The Orchard School The Orchard School, an independent, non-sectarian, progressive school, emphasizing 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. 615 W. 64th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Kristen Hein, Director of Admissions, Phone: 317-713-5705, Fax: 317-254-8454, Email: khein@orchard. org, www.orchard.org

Park Tudor School Financial Aid: $15,330 for Jr. Kindergarten; $17, 760 for Sr. Kindergarten-Grade; and $18,830 for Grades 6-12.

Ages/Grades: Junior Kindergarten (ages 3-5) - Grade 12.

Uniforms/Dress Code: Dress code varies by grade level.

Before/After School Care: Before- and after-school care offered. Open House Dates: Visit web site for a complete listing. 7200 N. College Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46240, Contact: Cathy Chapelle, Phone: 317-415-2700, Fax: 317-254-2714, info@parktudor.org, www.parktudor.org

St. Luke’s Early Childhood Programs 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, W, Th, F. We provide a warm and loving Christian environment in which children can learn and grow. Tours available upon request. Visitors welcome. 100 West 86th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Mollie Smith, Director, 317-844-3399, smithm@stlukesecp.com, www.stlukesumc.com

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St. Richard’s Episcopal School SRES strives for academic excellence through its classic curriculum with innovative teaching methods; it also provides preparation and knowledge in areas such as faith, leadership, civic responsibility, and global readiness. St. Richard’s offers a rigorous academic curriculum, three world languages, public speaking and leadership opportunities, a strong fine arts program and organized athletics for continued lifetime success. Our newly redesigned Early Childhood Program uses brain-based research and proven instructional practices that lay the foundation in math and literacy skills. The program features unique field experiences, community partnerships, year-round offerings, and a full-day curriculum along with part-time options. 33 E. 33rd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205, Contact: Abby Williams, Director of Admission and Communications, 317-926-0425 x134, Fax: 317-921-3367, awilliams@ strichardsschool.org, www.strichardsschool.org

Sycamore School 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. 1750 W. 64th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Dr. Susan Karpicke, Director of Admissions. 317-202-2500, Fax: 317-2022501, skarpicke@sycamoreschool.org, www.sycamoreschool.org

india napolis // northeast Polly Panda Preschool & Bridgford Kindergarten

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 of 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. 2944 E. 56th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46220, Contact: Gail Hacker and Tammy Clark, Phone: 317-257-9127, Email: pollypandaindy@sbcglobal.net, www.pollypanda.com

india napolis // sou th The Children's Cottage The Children's Cottage is a privately owned preschool, providing a loving and playful environment for toddlers thru school age children. Our compassionate and experienced staff offers a developmentally appropriate curriculum that stimulates creativity and promotes learning through play. Our small classrooms provide the individual attention your child needs and deserves. We are a paths to quality level three. Please call for more information or to set up a tour. 5935 S. Shelby St, Indianapolis, IN 46227, Contact Ann Derheimer or Echo Shepheard 317-787-2990

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Todd Academy, Inc.

A fun, creative, challenging environment for highly intelligent students age 8 or grade 3 thru grade 12.

High-ability, gifted and profoundly gifted education with early-college options and rolling enrollment offers mid-year transfers. Extra-curricular activities, community service involvement, financial aid and vouchers are all offered. State accredited. 2801 S. Pennsylvania Street, Indianapolis, IN 46225, Contact: Sharon Todd, Phone: 317-636-3100, Fax: 317-636-3103, Email: admissions@toddacademy.com, www.toddacademy.com

multiple locations Indiana Council of Preschool Cooperatives: ICPC Indianapolis Area Preschool and Kindergarten Cooperatives Preschools: great for your child, great for you! Children and parents learn and grow together in the classroom with caring, experienced teachers. Multiple Locations in Indianapolis Area, ICPC Line: 317-767-7596

Maria Montessori International Academy Maria Montessori International Academy offers a child centered Montessori program allowing children to learn at their own pace and to be treated with respect. 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. Offering programs for infants, pre-k, kindergarten and elementary. Indianapolis - 7507 N. Michigan Rd. - 317-291-5557, Zionsville - 4370 Weston Pointe - 317-769-2220, Carmel - 3500 106th St. & Shelborne - 317-733-9204, indymontessori@msn.com, www.mariamontessori-intl.org

westfield Montessori School of Westfield, Inc. 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. The Montessori School of Westfield serves children from Indianapolis, Fishers, Carmel, Zionsville, Westfield, Sheridan, Noblesville, Cicero and Tipton. We serve children ages 18 months to 15 years. 800 E. Sycamore Street, Westfield, IN 46074, Contact: Mary Lyman, Directress, Phone: 317-8670158, Fax: 317-896-5945, Email: montessoriwestfield@gmail.com, www.montessorischoolofwestfield.com

zionsville Advent Lutheran Preschool Advent offers a Christian learning environment for children ages 2 through 5. Our well-balanced program supports emotional, social, cognitive, physical and spiritual development. Children are allowed to develop at their own readiness with the needs of the "whole child" as the focus.

Advent uses the Creative Curriculum approach, which balances both teacher-directed and child-initiated learning, with an emphasis on responding to child's learning style and building on their strengths and interests. Our Preschool curriculum incorporates the Early Childhood Indiana State guidelines, and our Kindergarten uses the Indiana Core Kindergarten Curriculum. All children, regardless of faith or church affiliation, are welcome. Please call to schedule a tour. Registration is open. 11250 N. Michigan Rd., Zionsville, IN 46077, Contact: Deb Trewartha, Phone: (317) 873-6318, Email: dtrewartha@adventlutheran.org, www. adventlutheran.org/298544.ihtml, Hours/Dates: Mornings and afternoons Monday through Friday; See website for details, Ages/Grades: Ages 2-5; Mom’s Morning Out, Preschool, Pre-K and ½ day Kindergarten, Open House Dates: Call to schedule a tour.

Zionsville Community Schools Universal Preschool Universal Preschool provides a hands-on learning experience, focused on the whole child, in an inclusive and supportive environment that ensures maximum child growth, for life-long learning. We will provide a quality program through: Organizing the environment so it is conducive to success, providing specific directions and instructions, acknowledging and encouraging each child’s efforts, creating challenges and supporting children in extending their capabilities. The Indiana Foundations for Young Children will be a resource/framework for UP. Phone: 317-873-1251, Email: GROW@zcs.k12.in.us, http://cms.zcs.k12.in.us

childcare Peanut Butter and Jelly 24/7 Childcare PB&J is a childcare that is a safe, nurturing environment where your child will get the attention and care that he or she needs. We are licensed and always working to meet and exceed all health and safety guidelines. You can rest assured that your child will be cared for with the utmost kindness, love and respect . Open late for lots of flexiblity.

Stop in for more info. Follow us on twitter @ pbj247childcare. 5501 E. 71st Street #7B, Indianapolis, IN 46220, Contact: Anita Beck. Phone: 317-205-9211, Email: peanutbutter_jelly18@yahoo.com, www.peanutbutterjelly.info

CONTACT J ENNI C A @ INDY S C H I L D . C O M TO H A V E YOU R L I S TIN G IN C L UDED !

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Students Who A spotlight on local exceptional seniors

Kayla Giger

Senior, Class of 2014 Brebeuf Jesuit PrepaRAtory School

What high school achievement are you most proud of?

My proudest high school memory is no doubt playing with the Indianapolis Symphony as a part of their Side by Side program. This year's concert was especially bittersweet because it was the last. It was truly an honor to share the stage with so many remarkable musicians and people. Music has always been a source of wonder for me. I find that each individual's playing can be pleasing, but is far more magnificent when orchestrated together. A symphony is definitely more than the sum of its parts. It is this wondrous, eye popping "more" that I have brushed arms with frequently at Brebeuf Jesuit.

What are your future plans?

Next year I will be attending Georgetown University to study Healthcare Management and Policy. It was an immersion trip to Pine Ridge, South Dakota that ignited my passion for healthcare. The lack of essential healthcare on the reservation lingered in my mind because it struck me as inherently unjust. From this experience I became determined to change that and will be studying healthcare in America next fall.

How has Brebeuf prepared you for your future?

Brebeuf has been a very special place to me. Although I am unbelievably excited for my future at Georgetown I will never forget the passions, character, and individual shimmer that Brebeuf has brought out of me. The community at Brebeuf has shaped me into a great student and a whole person. From retreats, to immersion/service trips, to the faculty-student relationships this place has prepared me for much more than success in college, but for success in the pursuit of a life well lived. Brebeuf is not a place you come to, but one you leave from.

Brandon Fogel

Senior, Class of 2014 Cathedral High School

What high school achievement are you most proud of?

At Cathedral, I have accomplished more than I ever imagined, but I am most proud of my work with Student Council. Over my four years, I worked to plan most assemblies. When one event goes well, it gives me a feeling of great happiness.

What are your future plans?

I plan to major in Business and Political Science. With this degree, I hope to later be involved in a non-profit organization and eventually run for office.

How has Cathedral High School prepared you for your future?

Cathedral has taught me everything I need to know for my life. Through my four years here, I've developed my interests, my passions, and my life goals. I always say, "Make the most of your time here," and Cathedral has taught me that.

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SHINE The Indianapolis area is brimming with bright and talented high school students. We asked a few of them to reflect on their academic experience and future plans.

Laura Davis

Senior, Class of 2014 Heritage Christian School

What high school achievement are you most proud of?

I would say Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m most proud of my roles in the school musicals in the last two years. Both years I got lead roles, both fun and challenging, that stretched me as a vocalist, an actress, and as a leader in the theater department.

What are your future plans?

After graduation, I plan on attending Covenant College in Georgia. There I plan on studying English as a major and participate in their music program. Outside of the next 4 years, I am undecided on what direction I will go, hoping that God will give guidance for a future career.

How has Heritage prepared you for your future?

Heritage Christian has helped to mold me into a well-rounded and hard working student with strong study skills. The school has given me many opportunities and has made it possible for me to grow in diverse areas of academics and extracurricular activities, preparing me well for my future.

Hannah Thomason

Senior, Class of 2014 International School of Indiana

What high school achievement are you most proud of?

The high school achievement I am most proud of is my participation in the Tedx Youth Event that the International School helped to organize. In this event, I was able to give a talk of my own about balance as well as being afforded the opportunity to meet accomplished individuals and peers from around the world as well as from my home state.

What are your future plans?

I will be attending Indiana University â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bloomington with a major in Neuroscience.

How has the International School prepared you for your future?

The International School values preparing students for a global environment by focusing on the development of skills that require critical thinking, reflection, and an open mind towards the diverse, ever changing world in which we all live. The value of these skills and of creating an accepting and understanding environment towards all cultures and peoples is fundamental in any of my future endeavors.

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Cody Drattlo

Senior, Class of 2014 Lutheran High School

What high school achievement are you most proud of?

I am most proud of being able to start on the varsity men’s volleyball team as a freshman.

My coach took a chance with me and it worked out really well.

What are your future plans?

I plan to attend Indiana University in the fall majoring in Business. I hope to play on the IU men’s volleyball team.

How has Lutheran High School prepared you for your future?

Lutheran’s challenging academics have prepared me for what I will face in college. Lutheran’s Christ-centered environment has also prepared me as a child of God to put my faith in action in the future.

Ravi Shah

Senior, Class of 2014 Park Tudor

What high school achievement are you most proud of?

I am most proud of serving as Student Body President of Park Tudor because I feel it has been an excellent way to give back to an institution that has given me so much. I am grateful to represent my classmates and lend a voice on their behalf.

What are your future plans?

I am undecided on college, though I applied to a number of great schools like the University of Southern California, the University of Michigan, and Vanderbilt University. I hope to study business and communications, and hopefully incorporate the arts into my curriculum.

How has Park Tudor prepared you for your future?

Park Tudor has allowed me to forge unforgettable relationships and be a part of a community unlike anything else.

While the classroom experience was outstanding, I have been able to grow as an individual based simply upon the familial environment available to both my peers and myself at Park Tudor.

Tristan Broyles

Senior, Class of 2014 Traders Point Christian Academy

What high school achievement are you most proud of?

I'm most proud of being a captain on the first ever Traders Point Christian Academy high school football team.

It was a tough season but we were the foundation for the years to come.

What are your future plans?

Next year, I plan on studying Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University. It is a perfect fit for me because I have always enjoyed building and tinkering with my hands and Purdue has one of the best engineering programs in the country.

How has Traders Point prepared you for your future?

Traders Point Christian Academy has prepared me in two ways. They provided me with the quality education that is necessary in order to succeed in the future. On top of this, they taught me life skills like responsibility and integrity that have made me a better person.

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THE AUTISTIC BRAIN

Carrie Bishop

// Understanding how differences in brain structure may influence autism

K

ids with autism are different from their neurotypical peers.

That much is known. But what is it that makes autistic kids autistic? What is different about these kids’ brains versus other “typical” brains?

Dr. Thomas Lock, a developmental pediatrician with Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health, says there are several observations on how and why the autistic brain works the way it does, yet no definitive ideas. What has been seen is that brains in children with autism tend to be larger and the cell connectivity is often disorganized.

Scientists have used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to look at autistic brains and have found that there are aspects of the brain that do appear different in individuals with autism.

Yet, Lock says they are not so different that one could take a single scan of a single brain and say it’s the brain of a child with autism. On average, he says, there are frontal lobe differences that can affect executive functions, such as planning, organizing, strategizing and managing time.

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“The fact that you can see it’s different is important, but it may not be a good predictor of what the symptoms are going to be because so much else is going on in the brain...If you have one child with autism, the probability of having a second child with autism is elevated. But the probability of having a child with ADHD is also elevated,” said Lock. This is because many factors come into play with autism, like genes, that affect how its symptoms present.

In fact, Lock says there are many sites in the genome that are associated with autism, be it deletion or duplication of chromosomes that are associated with the disorder’s symptoms. “The problem is those same sites pop up in studies in ADHD or language disorders or bipolar or schizophrenia, so they are not as specific as we’d like them to be,” he said.

It’s easy to see the complexity of autism. So far, more than 800 genes are associated with it and scientists don’t understand yet what all these genes are doing. The disorder is essentially a collection of symptoms and individuals can come to these symptoms from any number of paths.

“It’s like, how do you get to Chicago from here?

Each one of those routes is a pathway that might lead to autism. Some are common and some are different,” said Dr. Martin Plawecki, child psychiatrist and medical director of the Riley Christian Sarkine Autism Treatment Center at Indiana University Health.

Plawecki says the architecture of autistic children’s brains tends to be disturbed, meaning its cells can be disorganized. A recent study by scientists at the Allen Institute for Brain Science in Seattle and the University of California at San Diego School of Medicine helps explain the disorganized structure.

They examined post-mortem brain tissue samples from individuals age 2 to 15, half of whom had autism. As part of the study, the lead author created the first 3D model showing brain locations where patches of cortex failed to develop normally, according to online reports. The researchers believe this disruption of cell development likely occurred in the second and third trimesters, a time in fetal life when the brain sets up neural cell types, neural connections and neural layers. What causes the disruption remains the question.

So how does this all translate to treatment and everyday life for kids with autism? It doesn’t. Not yet anyway. The best treatment, according to experts, remains behavioral therapy to teach kids with autism how to respond to their environment.

As families continue down this practical path, the scientific community will also continue its search for answers about the autistic brain.

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Most importantly, it’s just plain fun.

“I think it’s really important for all kids to get out and enjoy themselves, burn off some energy and experience the beauty that nature has to offer,” said Amy Miller, autism resource specialist with Easter Seals Crossroads. She points out that individuals with special needs are in and out of school and therapies all day long. It’s important they get the kind of respite that comes from outdoor recreation.

NATURE

KIDS // The benefits of being outdoors for special needs children Carrie Bishop

t

he sun is shining. Winter coats are hiding. Has spring ever felt sooo good? You know it’s warm outside.

Do your children know? They should because spending time in nature is great idea for all kids, perhaps even more so for kids with special needs.

“Our kids are so scheduled. There’s so much going on in their lives and it’s really important for kids to just be in nature and have free play and learn to build forts out of sticks. Those things are being lost in our society,” said Shay Dawson, director of Bradford Woods in Martinsville.

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About 7,000 kids of all abilities come through Dawson’s park each year and he sees time and again the benefit nature brings to them. “It’s just a really therapeutic and helpful environment to be in,” he said, noting that several studies show that ADHD symptoms in particular can improve when kids play in deep green or unstructured outdoor spaces.

Bradford Woods offers about 15 medically specific camps during the summer and hosts about 5,000 elementary children during spring and fall school retreats. After the school retreats, Dawson says teachers are consistently impressed with the gains children make during the trip. “They often say the kids that don’t do well in school, who may be shy or have some behavioral issue tend to thrive out there.

We see that response over and over,” he said.

Danesa Stolz, chief naturalist for Fishers Parks and Recreation, agrees. It has been her experience that spontaneous or unstructured outside play uses kids’ imaginations and stimulates learning. This, she says, can lead to greater creativity and foster language and collaboration skills, not to mention positively affect balance, coordination and agility.

Getting your kid outside According to the National Wildlife Federation website, children today spend half as much time outdoors as did children 20 years ago. In fact, the organization notes that only six percent of kids ages 9 – 13 play outside on their own. Parents who need to give their kids a little push to get outside are in the majority.

To combat an indoor lifestyle, Stolz recommends parents rediscover what they are passionate about in regards to nature. “If a parent is excited about wildflowers, then study wildflowers with the child.

Children are often inspired by and want to impress their parents,” she said.

She also says parents have to recognize their own fears about nature and acknowledge those fears. “If you are afraid of snakes, acknowledge this and do not freak out in front of your child.”

Dawson’s advice is to check out Indiana’s state parks. Consider nature-centered day trips to Brown County State Park, McCormick’s Creek State Park or Indiana Dunes State Park. Or with summer on the horizon, enroll your children in a day or overnight camp that includes time outdoors. The American Camp Association, www.acacamps.org, is a great resource for day and overnight camps and for camps for kids with special needs.

The goal is to simply get outdoors. Stolz says kids should spend at least an hour outside every day.

Help make this a habit for your kids. Schedule it. Set time limits on technology. Get kids outside and the benefits will come back in spades.

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MAY S P E C I A L NE E DS E VENTS

SPEC I A L

NEED S CALENDAR

1 2 MONDAY

30 F R IDAY

Times: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Cost: $40 family members / $75 professionals Where: East 91st Street Christian Church, Indianapolis This full day training provides parents and professionals with information about public health insurance programs that can be accessed by families caring for children with special needs.

This training is a great opportunity for family members and professionals who advocate for children with a disability or serious chronic illness.

Times: 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM Cost: Free Where: Monon Center, Carmel Phone: 317-573-5245 www.carmelclayparks.com Come hang out with friends and participate in various activities and programs such as swimming, gym games, and board/group games. Pizza and snacks will be provided. Contact Michelle at 317-573-5245 or myadon@carmelclayparks.com for registration details. Easter Seals Crossroad sponsors this program and will provide parents with a gift package to use while teens attend.

1 3 T U E SDAY

DSI D. A . D. S. Golf Outing

Public Health Insurance: What You Don't Know Can Cost You

Teen Night Out

S AT U RDAYS T HROUGH M AY 31 Dynamic Dolphins Swim Class

Times: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Cost: $32 Where: Monon Center Indoor Pool, Carmel Phone: 317-573-5245 carmelclayparks.com Must register first either online, in person, or over the phone.

Come join us for this socially enriching and dynamic swim time. We will be playing all sorts of water games while emphasizing social play, taking turns, teamwork, communication with peers, and so much more. Come get wet and have fun.

Parent Education Night – Language Activities to avoid the Sumer Slide Times: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Where: Fortune Academy, Indianapolis Phone: 317-377-0544

15 T H U R SDAY

Times: 10:30 AM - 7:00 PM Cost: $125.00 Where: Eagle Creek Golf Course, Indianapolis Phone: 317-925-7617 www.dsindiana.org Each spring, the DSI D.A.D.S. host an annual golf outing from which funds raised directly benefit the mission of DSI D.A.D.S. and help to help sponsor Riley Hospital for Children’s “Camp Hi-Lite”, a one-week, outdoor-living experience for school-aged and adolescent children who happen to have Down syndrome.

Assistive Technology 101

03 S AT U RDAY

Special Needs Open Enrollment Fair-Family Development Services – Head Start Cost: Free Where: 3637 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis Phone: Kristi Veal at 803-4654 ext.3209 or Tiffany Diext. 803-3810

Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Where: Easter Seals Crossroads, Indianapolis INDATA Project from Easter Seals Crossroads is offering a day of training on assistive technology (AT). Parents, educators, students, and professionals are invited to come learn how AT can benefit people with hearing loss, vision impairments, mobility and communication needs, learning difficulties, and more.

17 S AT U RDAY

Adaptive Prom Times: 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM Cost: $15 Where: Monon Community Center, Carmel Phone: 317-573-5245 carmelclayparks.com Come dance the night away at your very own Prom. The DJ will play the latest hits for you to have fun, socialize, and dance with all of your friends. A photographer will be able to capture this magical night for your with your sweetheart or friends. Pre-registration is required. 15+

Day of Riding with Morning Dove Therapeutic Riding Times: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Cost: Free Where: Morning Dove Therapeutic Riding, Inc. http://morningdovetrc.org/ Come for a free day of riding at Morning Dove Therapeutic Riding, Inc. for families that have a child with autism.

2 2 T H U R SDAY

Sensory Storytime

10 S AT U RDAY

Special Needs Masquerade Ball Times: 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM Where: White River Christian Church, Noblesville Phone: Brooke Taflinger, 317-773-2233 or btaflinger@wrcc.org A prom for individuals with special needs, ages 16+

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Times: 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM Cost: Free (registration required) Where: Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room, Carmel Phone: 317-844-3363 www.carmel.lib.in.us This storytime is designed for children with autism spectrum disorders, sensory integration issues, or other developmental disabilities, and their typically developing peers. For special needs children ages 2-6 & their caregivers.

30 F R IDAY

2014 About Special Kids Golf Tournament Times: 12:30 PM Where: Hickory Stick Golf Club, Greenwood

31 S AT U RDAY

Walk Now for Autism Speaks Times: 11:00 AM Cost: Donations appreciated Where: White River State Park, Indianapolis Walk Now for Autism Speaks is a fun-filled, family friendly event and is our single most powerful force to fund vital research that will lead us to the answers we need.

Pare n ts ' N ight Ou t Times: 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Price: Free Contact: Nicole at 317-466-2010 ( Locations below:) East location: Easter Seals Crossroads, Indianapolis 1st & 4th Friday of every month South location: Indian Creek Christian Church, Indianapolis 1st Friday of every month West location: Speedway United Methodist, Speedway 4th Friday of every month

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S P E C I A L NE E DS R E S OURCES

SPEC I A L

NEED S GUIDE

ABA Autism Services by Damar ABA provides proven research-based treatments and interventions for children with Autism and their families, ensuring that children learn, gain confidence and purpose, and engage in meaningful interactions in their everyday lives. 9905 Fall Creek Road, Indianapolis, IN 46256, Contact: Kristin Dovenmuehle, Director, Phone: 317-813-4690, Email: info@damar.org, www.DamarABA.org

Applied Behavior Center for Autism Carmel The mission of the Applied Behavior Center for Autism is to provide high quality ABA and Verbal Behavior therapy and consulting services to children and their families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders by using researched based ABA methodology delivered by highly qualified and certified professionals to increase language skills, social skills, academic skills, and reduce problematic behavior. 13431 Old Meridian St, Carmel, IN 46032, Contact: Jenny Lanham, Phone: 317-573-KIDS, Email: jennyL@appliedbehaviorcenter.org, www.appliedbehaviorcenter.org

Applied Behavior Center for Autism Early Childhood Center This center houses some of our clients ages 2 to 6. At the Early Childhood Center, typical peers are also present, and therapeutic opportunities for interaction are incorporated into many of the children's individualized treatment plans. A program designed to facilitate transition into an on-site behavior analytic preschool program with typical peers is also offered to appropriate candidates. 7857 E. 88th St, Indianapolis, IN 46256, Contact: Jenny Lanham, Phone: 317.849.KIDS ext 112, Email: jennyL@ appliedbehaviorcenter.org, www.appliedbehaviorcenter.org

Applied Behavior Center for Autism Greenwood The mission of the Applied Behavior Center for Autism is to provide high quality ABA and Verbal Behavior therapy and consulting services to children and their families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders by using researched based ABA methodology delivered by highly qualified and certified professionals to increase language skills, social skills, academic skills, and reduce problematic behavior. Address: 374 Meridian Parke Lane, Greenwood, IN 46142, Contact: Jenny Lanham, Phone: 317-889-KIDS, Email: jennyL@appliedbehaviorcenter.org, www.appliedbehaviorcenter.org

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Applied Behavior Center for Autism Indy North The mission of the Applied Behavior Center for Autism is to provide high quality ABA and Verbal Behavior therapy and consulting services to children and their families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders by using researched based ABA methodology delivered by highly qualified and certified professionals to increase language skills, social skills, academic skills, and reduce problematic behavior. 7901 E. 88th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46256, Contact: Jenny Lanham, Phone: 317-849-5437, ext 112, Email: jennyL@appliedbehaviorcenter.org, www.appliedbehaviorcenter.org

Applied Behavior Center for Autism Indy West The mission of the Applied Behavior Center for Autism is to provide high quality ABA and Verbal Behavior therapy and consulting services to children and their families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders by using researched based ABA methodology delivered by highly qualified and certified professionals to increase language skills, social skills, academic skills, and reduce problematic behavior. 6865 Parkdale Place, Indianapolis, IN 46254, Contact: Jenny Lanham, Phone: 317-849-5437 ext 112, Email: jennyL@appliedbehaviorcenter.org, www.appliedbehaviorcenter.org

disorders. BACA was established by Dr. Carl Sundberg and a group of highly trained Board Certified Behavior Analysts. 11902 Lakeside Drive, Fishers, IN 46038, Contact: Devon Sundberg, Phone: 317-288-5232, Email: dsundberg@ thebaca.com, www.thebaca.com

Children's Dentistry of Indianapolis Pediatric dentistry for children and special needs patients of all ages. Our main priority is to make every patient & parent/ guardian feel comfortable and deliver the highest quality of care based on individual needs. We treat you like family! 9240 N. Meridian ste 120, Indianapolis, IN, Contact: Tina, Practice Manager, Phone: 317-580-9199, Email: childrensdentistrystaff@yahoo.com, www.indychildrensdentist.com

Fast Track Autism Services LLC Individualized services based on your child's unique needs, motivation, and family goals using the principles of applied behavior analysis. We serve children 18 mo and up with a diagnosis of ASD (including PDD and Asperger's) and their families in their homes or community in Central and Eastern Indiana. 11650 Olio Rd STE 1000-248, Fishers, IN 46037, Contact: Misty Turner-Wade, MA, BCBA, Phone: (317) 537-0487, Email: misty@fasttrackautismservices.com, www.fasttrackautismservices.com

ASD Services of Indiana ASD Services is dedicated to serving children through adults with autism or other diagnosis in their homes and in the community. Our mission is to teach each individual the skills they need to lead their most independent life. Contact: Leah McKenzie, MS, BCBA Executive Director, Phone: 317-695-7876, Fax: 317-747-7786, Email: lmckenzie@asdservicesofindiana.org, www.asdservicesofindiana.org

Autism Consultation Individually designed behavior and academic support and intervention strategies for families and children dealing with Autism Spectrum Disorders. With 35+ years experience in special education in public schools I am comfortable attending IEP meetings to advocate for the family and child.

Introductory meeting at no charge. Providing service to central Indiana, Contact: Mika Adams, Phone: 866-968-3698, Email: mikaadams@sbcglobal.net, www.autismconsultation.net

Behavior Analysis Center for Autism BACA The Behavior Analysis Center for Autism (BACA) has four locations throughout Indiana. This includes BACA 1 and Prep in Fishers, BACA Z in Zionsville and BACA Hart in Elkhart. BACA uses the principles and procedures of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to teach language, social, self-help, academic, daily living and life skills to children ages 2-21 with autism and related

Jackson Center for Conductive Education The Jackson Center for Conductive Education offers a unique approach to helping children with cerebral palsy and other motor disorders achieve greater independence in daily living skills. Conductive education approaches problems of movement as challenges of learning and requires the child to use both cognitive and physical skills to build new skills. The group environment provides participants encouragement from their teacher/aide and their peers. The Jackson Center is a 501(c)(3) organization serving children from age 6 months through young adult. Enrollment in the program is based upon a free assessment. Located just 5 miles south of Indianapolis International Airport, the Jackson Center serves children from throughout central Indiana. 802 N. Samuel Moore Parkway, Mooresville, IN 46158, Contact: Lara DePoy, M.S., OTR, Program Director, Phone: 317-834-0200, Email: contact@thejacksoncenter.org, www.thejacksoncenter.org [ continued on page 48 ]

C O N TA C T J ENNI C A @ INDY S C H I L D . C O M TO H A V E YOU R L I S TIN G IN C L UDED !

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// S P E C I A L NE E DS R E S OURCES CONTINUED

Maria Montessori International Academy The Carmel Center for Montessori and ABA therapy provides ABA in combination with Montessori syllabus. We work on mainstreaming children from the beginning. Our individualized ABA-therapy emphasizes hands-on learning and social development. We offer 8 scholarships to the Montessori school for preschoolers diagnosed with autism for our Fall term 2014. 4370 Weston Pointe Dr #200, Carmel, IN, Phone: 317-503-1296, www.autismparentcare.com

Special Smiles Pediatric Dentistry Dr. Satterfield-Siegel is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist specializing in providing dental care for infants, children and patients that have special needs. We provide routine dental care, fillings, in office sedations and hospital dentistry for all of our patients. We build long-lasting relationships with our families through active listening and understanding. New patients are welcomed! 10801 N Michigan Rd Suite 210, Carmel, IN 46077, Contact: Jennifer SatterfieldSiegel, D.D.S., Phone: (317) 873 3448, Email: info@specialsmilesdentistry.com, www.specialsmilesdentistry.com

Unlocking the Spectrum Unlocking The Spectrum was created with the mission of making ABA Therapy accessible to ALL children with autism by providing high quality ABA Therapy services throughout Indiana.

Unlocking The Spectrum specializes in bringing the therapy to the client--in their home and in their community. Client's receive services in a wide variety of settings including their home, school, Unlocking The Spectrum's clinic, and the community to ensure that skills are generalized across all environments. Intensive parent training and collaboration with all members of a client's team are an essential part of every individualized program developed.

Contact us for a free initial consultation. 3901 W. 86th St. Suite 397, Indianapolis, IN 46268.

Contact: Ilana Hernandez, Director. Phone: 317-334-7331. Email: info@unlockingthespectrum. com. www.unlockingthespectrum.com

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WORK ING THR O UGH

HOMESICKNESS AT CAMP // Being away from home builds self-esteem and independence The American Camp Association

o

ne of the many joys of parenthood is helping children navigate new waters.

And, while often these situations are met with hesitation, slight anxiety – or in the case of some first-time campers, homesickness – it is these moments that develop the twenty-first century skills needed in adulthood. New situations, such as going away to camp, serve as teachers in life’s classroom – developing leadership, self-esteem, teamwork, independence and problem-solving.

It’s important, even critical, for parents to help children overcome any feelings of hesitation in order to help them grow. Take camp, for example.

From a child’s perspective, camp is fun, fun, fun!

Parents know that camp provides immeasurable growth opportunities, and is a vital part of childhood. As the day approaches, even the most excited campers sometimes get nervous about being away from home. “Homesickness is completely normal,” said Michael Thompson, consultant, author and psychologist in a recent PBS article. “If a child loves his or her parents and has a good home, why wouldn’t he or she feel some

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longing for mom, for dad, for the dog, or for home cooking?”

It is up to parents, then, to help ease the transition to camp, and help their children grow from the experience. The American Camp Association suggests the following advice to help alleviate anxiety and get a jump start on life’s lessons.

• Encourage independence throughout the year.

Practice separations, such as sleepovers at a friend's house, can simulate the camp environment.

• Involve children in the process of preparing for camp. The more they own the decision, the more comfortable they will feel being at camp.

• Make sure to understand the camp’s philosophy on how issues, such as homesickness, are addressed.

Talk candidly with the camp director to understand his/her perspective on the adjustment to camp life.

• Discuss what to expect at camp before leaving for camp. Consider role-playing anticipated situations, such as using a flashlight to find the bathroom.

• Reach an agreement ahead of time on calling each other, but make sure to honor the camp’s policy on phone calls.

• Send a note or care package ahead of time to arrive the first day of camp. Acknowledge missing the child, in a positive way. For example, saying "I am going to miss you, but I know that you will have a good time at camp," lets the camper know that families are thinking about them, but confident in their ability to adapt to camp.

• Pack a personal item or two from home, such as a stuffed animal.

• Avoid bribing behaviors. Families send the wrong message when they link a successful stay at camp to a material object. Families should focus on the real rewards – like new found confidence and independence.

• Don’t plan an exit strategy. If a "rescue call" comes from the child, offer calm reassurance and put the time frame into perspective.

While most incidents of homesickness pass quickly, parents know their child best. If parents have concerns (for example, the child is not eating or sleeping, or appears overly anxious), they should immediately talk to their camp director. Camp staff are trained to identify and ease homesickness, and are a valuable resource for parents as well as campers.

ABOUT ACA The American Camp Association® (ACA) works to preserve, promote, and enhance the camp experience for children and adults. ACA-Accredited® camp programs ensure that children are provided with a diversity of educational and developmentally challenging learning opportunities. There are over 2,400 ACA-accredited camps that meet up to 280 health and safety standards.

For more information, visit www.ACAcamps.org.

Reprinted by permission of the American Camp Association. ©2014 American Camping Association, Inc.

D AY C A M P Beth-El Zedeck Early Childhood Summer Camp 2014 600 W. 70th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260 Contact: Joanie Waldman, Phone: 317-259-6854, Email: jwaldman@bez613.org

http://www.bez613.org Basic Category: Traditional, OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Hours: Flexible hours. Half Days/Full Days. Other Options available: Early drop off as early as 7:30 am and late pick up anytime up until 6:00 pm/5:30 pm on Fridays.

Dates: Session 1: June 2 – June 27 Session 2: June 30 – July 25 Ages/Grades: 12 mos.+, 18 mos.+, 2 yrs.+, 3 yrs.+, 4/5 yrs+ Cost: Call or email for full brochure.

Our Summer Program "The Dog Days of Summer" is OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! 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 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.

Bricks 4 Kidz

Multiple locations in Marion and Hamilton County Contact: Bridget Beltrame, Phone: (317) 572-7357, Email: bbeltrame@bricks4kidz.com

www.bricks4kidz.com

Activities Included: Enrichment activities, swimming, field trips

Gender of Campers: Co-ed Specific Categories: LEGO®, enrichment, science Hours: full and half day Dates: week-long camps June, July, and August, see website for details Ages/Grades: ages 5 and up Cost: $150+ per week Activities Included: Hands-on, motorized LEGO® building and LEGO®-themed activities

Looking for a fun, safe place where your child can learn and explore this summer? Register for Camp AYS, where campers make new friends, try new activities, and learn while having fun. Each week features activities based on a different theme. Curricula focus on science, health, arts and the environment.

Let your imagination take you to new building heights this summer! Bricks 4 Kidz offers a variety of LEGO®themed camps that challenge, inspire, and entertain. Our camps offer fun and unique creative play, dynamic motorized builds, and LEGO-based activities. We Learn.

We Build. We Play- with LEGO Bricks!

Camp AYS Various Locations, Indianapolis, IN, Contact: Maureen Grey, Phone: 317-283-3817, Email: mgrey@ayskids.org

http://www.ayskids.org Gender of Campers: Co-ed Basic Category: Traditional / Specific Categories: Science, Art, Environment, Health / Special Needs Camps Offered: Inclusive Hours: 7am-6pm (times vary by site) Dates: May 26-August 1 (dates vary by site) Ages/Grades: 3-12 years old Cost: Varies by site Requirements of Campers: For school-based sites, campers must reside in the school district.

Camp Invention Various Locations in Indianapolis and Surrounding Areas, Contact: Camp Invention, Phone: 800-968-4332, Email: campinvention@invent.org

www.campinvention.org Gender of Campers: Co-ed / Basic Category: Traditional / Specific Categories: Science Enrichment Hours: 9:00 to 3:30 Times May Vary – Based on Location Dates: Visit website for details.

Ages/Grades: Entering Grades 1-6 Cost: $195 to $220

Camp Invention inspires creativity and inventive thinking during its weeklong summer program! Led by local educators, elementary school children are immersed into exciting, hands-on activities that reinvent summer fun.

Throughout the week, children work in teams to solve real-world challenges. Discounts are available – register today! Call 800.968.4332 or visit www.campinvention.org.

Camp JCC 6701 Hoover Road, Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Aaron Atlas, Phone: (317) 251-9467, Hours: 9AM-4PM, Email: aatlas@ jccindy.org Specific Categories: Theater, Musical Theatre, Performing Arts

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Don't miss the preview day on Sun, Feb 16 2014 from 12;30-2:30 pm in the Laikin Auditorium.

www.jccindy.org 3 yrsâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Grade 8. Join us for what is sure to be a fun-filled Sunday afternoon. While you sign up for camp, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll provide the refreshments, entertainment and prizes for the kids. All information and registration will be available online by Fri, Feb 1. Most camps and summer childcare will be discounted up to 15%!

Camp Mommawatchi (At-home camp curriculum) Contact: Amy Leckrone and Amber Tincher, Email: mommaowl@campmommawatchi.com

www.campmommawatchi.com Gender of Campers: Co-ed Ages/Grades: preschool and elementary age children Cost: $24.95 for each camp curriculum purchase

Camp Mommawatchi is an online retailer that specializes in at-home camp curriculum. Our curriculum allows moms to do camps at home with their preschool and grade school children. We currently have four themes - sports, the arts, secret agent and science. Each camp purchased comes with an instruction booklet and digital downloads - everything moms need to host their own camp. Moms and kids will love all of the activities, games, crafts, recipes and field trips. Start a new, fun tradition this summer and make lasting memories with your little ones.

Visit www.campmommawatchi.com. (Note: we are not a camp for kids to attend, but a camp for you to do yourself.)

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Chinese Language & Culture Summer Camp 425 University Blvd., Indianapolis, IN 46202, Contact: Noah Buonanno, Phone: 317-278-7900, Email: ciindy@iupui.edu

www.iupui.edu/~china/summer-camp/ Gender of Campers: Co-ed / Basic Category: Study Abroad/ International, Traditional Hours: 7:30am to 6:00pm Dates: June 23rd - July 25th, 2014 Ages/Grades: 5-13 years old Cost: $150 per week or $625 for all five weeks; $15 one time material fee; $25 per week for optional pre & after care Activities Included: Chinese Language, Arts&Crafts & Kung Fu

For language learning, the younger the better. To better prepare our children to learn Mandarin 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 one to five weeks.

Cincinnati Reds Baseball/Softball Camps Billericay Park: 12600-12883 Promise Rd, Fishers, IN 60555, Contact: Tim Rappe, Phone: 855-846-7337, Email: Trappe@ reds.com

www.reds.com/camps Gender of Campers: Co-ed Basic Category: Sports Hours: 9a-3p; M-F Dates: Billericay Park in Fishers; 6/16-6/20 Ages/Grades: Ages 6-14 Cost: $395

Activities Included: VIP trip to Great American Ball Park, full Reds uniform (hat, jersey, belt, MLB-style pants), 4 game tickets, digital swing analysis.

Official Camps of the Reds. 30 hrs. of World Class baseball/ softball training and unforgettable Reds experience. Meet a top player at GABP. 30 hrs. of instruction. Bring a buddy and save $25. Maybe the best baseball camp in America.

Camps sold out last year so register early.

Community Healthplex Summer Camp 3660 Guion Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46222, Contact: Kelly Wessling, Phone: 317-920-7416, Email: kwessling@ healthplexsportsclub.org

www.healthplexsportsclub.org Gender of Campers: Co-ed Basic Category: Traditional Hours: 8:00 a.m - 6:00 p.m. Before Care available from 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.

Dates: May 27 - August 15 Ages/Grades: Full Day camp for ages 6-15; Half Day camp for ages 3-5.

Cost: Full Day camp: $130-$150 depending on activities; Half Day camp: $65-$85 per week.

Activities Included: Campers will participate in sport and physical activities such as basketball, soccer, tennis, swimming and much more. Campers will also have the opportunity for enrichment through crafts, games and experiments.

Each week campers will choose between a sports themed or enrichment themed camp. Sports camps include Olympics, Cheer, Dance, Aquatics, Triathlon and Fitness while examples of Enrichment camps include Super Heros, Get Messy, Fashionitas, Art and Next Top Chefs. There is something for everyone! Visit our website for more information about all camp offerings.

CYT Indy Summer Camps 17437 Carey Rd Suite 116, Westfield, IN 46074, Phone: 317-661-1CYT (1298)

www.cytindy.org Gender of Campers: Co-ed / Basic Category: Arts / Specific Categories: Musical Theater / Special Needs Camps Offered: Inclusion in the regular camp day Hours: 9-3pm for age 7-14, 9-5 for teens, 9-12 for age 4-7 Dates: Mid June through end of July Ages/Grades: age 4-14, Teen camp 12-18 Cost: $125-175 Activities Included: drama, dance, voice, games, costumes, props, sets, improv, stunts

CYT Indy has camps for 8 weeks in the summer. Musical theater half day camps for younger kids (age 4-7), partial day for age 7-14 - 9am-3pm, and full day for teens age 12-18 - 9am5pm. Our camps include a showcase at the end of the week for parents and friends to attend.

The goal is to help students grow in their talents and theater knowledge and develop stronger self-esteem and confidence!

Freetown Village Summer Day Camp 4601 N. Emerson Avenue @ St. Alban's Church, Indianapolis, IN 46226, Contact: Marriam A. Umar, Phone: 317-631-1870, Fax: 317-631-0224, Email: marriam@freetownvillage.org

www.freetownvillage.org Gender of Campers: Co-ed Specific Categories: Enrichment Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Dates: June 9 - July 25, 2014 Ages/Grades: 5 - 14 / (K - 8th for 2014-15 school year) Cost: $75.00/week + registration Requirements of Campers: Must bring own sack lunch.

Activities Included: Academic enrichment (language arts/social skills/math), theater (with Asante Children's Theater), art & crafts, team building, manners & etiquette, weekly field trips.

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ICC Choral Festival 4600 Sunset Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46208, Contact: Leann Ashby, Phone: 317-940-9640, Email: lashby@icchoir.org Specific Categories: music, performing arts, choral performance Hours: 9am - noon, 1pm-4pm, 9am-4pm session options available Dates: June 10-15 or July 15-19 Ages/Grades: 3rd grade through 8th grade Cost: $85-$185; save $10 if you register by May 9

ICC's Choral Festival summer camp brings together kids who love to sing for a week of music-making and fun! Kids learn, laugh, and sing together in a vigorous, fast-paced environment. Activities include learning songs from a variety of cultures, vocal development in choral rehearsal, games designed to develop rhythm, music reading, and harmonic skills. At the end of the week, the campers perform in a public concert with the Indianapolis Children's Choir!

iD Tech Camps Held at Butler, Purdue, Stanford, Princeton,and 80+ universities in 28 states, Contact: 1-888-709-TECH (8324) Email: info@iDTech.com

create apps, video games, C++/Java programs, movies, robots, and more at weeklong, day and overnight summer programs.

International School of Indiana Summer Camps 4330 North Michigan Road, Indianapolis, IN 46208, Contact: Maria Vasey, Phone: 317-923-1951, Email: mvasey@isind.org

www.isind.org Gender of Campers: Co-ed Basic Category: Academic/Pre-college Hours: M-F (9am-12pm) M-F (1pm-4pm) All Day (9am-4pm)... before and after care available from 7 - 9 am and 4 - 6 pm Dates: June 16-20, June 23-27, July 7-11 Ages/Grades: Pre-K - 8th grade Cost: Please consult website for more information.

Activities Included: Cultural Enrichment, Arts and Crafts, Sports, Fun Language Learning Camps

"Fun with languages outside of the classroom" - a language learning experience by way of fun activities and conversation.

www.iDTech.com Gender: Co-ed Basic Category: Academic, Technology, Computers Hours: Weeklong, day and overnight options Dates: Please check website Ages/Grades: Ages 7-17 Cost: Varies by course

Activities: Take interests further and gain a competitive edge for school, college, and future careers! Ages 7-17

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IUPUI Summer Day Camp, Enrichment Camps & Sports Camps 901 West New York Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202, Contact: Beth Tharp, Phone: 317-278-3727, Email: tharpe@iupui.edu Hours: 7am - 5:30pm

www.camps.iupui.edu IUPUI Summer Day Camp, Enrichment Camps and Sports Camps run for ten weeks beginning June 2 through

August 8. With 28 yrs. of experience, Summer Day Camp offers children ages 5 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12 y.o. an opportunity to explore different sports and enrichment activities taught in a safe, non-competitive environment.

MYART Locations: 622 S. Rangeline, Carmel /12244 E. 116th St., Fishers /39 North 10th St., Noblesville/80 W. Pine St., Zionsville, Contact: Barb Hegeman, Zionsville, Phone: 317-7743729(DRAW), Email: barb@myartindy.com

www.myartindy.com Gender of Campers: Co-ed Basic Category: Arts Hours: Weekly camps: Mon-Thurs and Friday one day camps, 9:30am-12:00 noon or 1:00-3:30 pm, depending on location Cost: $140 and includes all art supples (Friday camps $35)

Myart offers weekly and one day summer art camps for ages 5 and up. Students learn a variety of drawing and painting techniques, all centered on a specific theme.

Weekly camps include Cartooning, Animals, Fantasy, Circus, Africa and Famous Artists. One day camps include Lego, Fairies, Owls and Cats & Dogs. Campers work in a variety of media, including markers, oil and chalk pastels, watercolor, acrylics, and colored pencil.

Every year we offer brand new projects so returning campers are always creating something new and fun!

Park Tudor Summer Programs 7200 N. College Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46240, Contact: Mary Rominger, Phone: (317) 415-2898, Email: summer@parktudor.org Gender of Campers: Co-ed / Basic Category: Arts, Sports, Traditional

Hours: 7:30 am - 6:00 pm Dates: June 9 - Aug. 1 Ages/Grades: 3yr - 12th grade Cost: varies Requirements of Campers: Potty-trained

www.parktudor.org We have a variety of offerings including athletics, Fine Arts, technology, enrichment and even credit courses for high-school aged students.

Stony Creek Summer Camp 10601 Cumberland Road, Fishers, IN 46037, Contact: Mandi Trott, Phone: (317) 773-7399, Email: geist@stonycreekswimcenter.com

www.stonycreekswimcenter.com Gender of Campers: Co-ed Basic Categories: Swimming, sports, arts Hours: 9:00am-4:00pm Dates: June 9th - August 1st Ages/Grades: 5 years and older Cost: $225 per child per week Requirements of Campers: Bring own lunch and drinks Activities Included: Daily swimming lesson, arts, crafts, sports

We offer one-week day camps for kids ages 5 years and older. Each camp has a unique theme and activities. All campers will have a daily swimming lesson. Before and after extended care is available. Camp is tax deductible and a great alternative to summer day care.

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Sullivan Munce Art Camps 2014 205-225 West Hawthorne Street, Zionsville, IN 46077, Contact: Cynthia Young, Phone: 317-873-4900, Email: cynthiayoung@ sullivanmunce.org

www.sullivanmunce.org Gender of Campers: Co-ed / Basic Category: Arts / Specific Categories: Art, Drama, Clay/Ceramics Hours: 9 AM - 5 PM, Half Day Camps Offered Dates: June, July & August Ages/Grades: Ages 4-17 Cost: $80-$325 Activities Included: Art, Outdoor Activities, Drama

Looking for a fun and unique experience for your kids during summer break? At the SullivanMunce Cultural Center children will gain experience working with a variety of art materials while learning about famous artists. Drawing, painting, sculpture, clay, mixed media, drama and more!

Summer Tennis Camp Barbara S. Wynne Tennis Center, 1805 E. 86th St., Indianapolis, IN 46240, Contact: Barbara Wynne, Phone: 317-259-5377 (May-Aug.), Email: bb@thewynnes.com

www.tennisprogram.com Gender of Campers: Co-ed Basic Category: Sports, Traditional / Specific Categories: Tennis, and quick start tennis / Special Needs Camps Offered: Yes Financial Aid Offered: Call for details.

Hours: M-TH 9-3 or M-F 8-5 Dates: May 27-August 8 Ages/Grades: 7-16 years

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Activities Included: Tennis, swimming, table tennis, basketball, soccer, board games and rainy day activities.

A staff of 60 will utilize 46 courts to teach over 100 classes for tots, beginners, intermediate and tournament level juniors. Adult classes are offered for all level of players in the early mornings and evenings.

The Children's House Summer Camp 2404 W. 62nd St., Indianapolis, IN 46268, Contact: Mary Sexson, Phone: 317-253-3033, Email: childrenshouse08@gmail.com

www.thechildrenshouseindianapolis.com Gender of Campers: Co-ed / Basic Category: Traditional Hours: Camp hours 9am - 4 pm. Extended hours 7am - 5:45pm Dates: 6/9/14 to 8/15/14 Ages/Grades: Preschool-8th grade Cost: $160/wk. Sibling discount available, or 5wk prepaid package discount available.

Requirements of Campers: bathing suits, sun block, pool shoes, towel, daily lunch, daily snack, shoes for walking and hiking in woods Activities Included: 10 themed weeks, including field trips, weekly swimming, library viisits plus IMCPL Summer Reading Program, theater, playwriting, puppetry

The Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House day camp provides weekly themed activities in a relaxing environment free of competition. Day camp activities include arts and crafts, drama, ceramics, recreational swimming, field trips, reading and outdoor games. Enrollment for day camp is limited to 20 children. Our summer preschool accepts 10 students.

The Orchard School 615 W. 64th St. jgailey@orchard.org, Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Jane Gailey /Summer Camp Manager, Phone: 317-7135702, Fax: 317-253-9707, Email: jgailey@orchard.org

www.orchard.org Gender of Campers: Co-ed Basic Category: Arts, Sports, Traditional Specific Categories: academics, sports, science, canoeing, cooking, drama, hiking, sewing, sports, great outdoors Hours: 7am-6pm Dates: June 2-July 25 Ages/Grades: grades Pre- K - 8th grade Cost: $140- $220

Orchard Summer camp is an opportunity to play, meet new friends and take part in camps that meet your interests. We offer before and after care as well as a special preschool program for 4-6 year olds. Orchard summer camps offer sports, cooking, drama, arts, hiking, camping, music and academics. Explore what we have to offer and find a passion of your own.

The Riviera Club Summer Camp 5640 N. Illinois St, Indianapolis, IN 46208, Contact: Therese Love Christine Bizzell, Phone: 317-255-5471, Fax: 317-259-6269, Email: Camps@rivi.org

http://www.rivi.org Gender of Campers: Co-ed Basic Category: Traditional / Specific Categories: Traditional Day Camp Special Needs Camps Offered: Yes (Everyday & Specialty camps)

Hours: 8am-6pm Dates: June 2 - August 15, One overnight option, July 25th Ages/Grades: Preschool (ages 3-4),Rivi Kids (ages 5-6), Rivi Kids (ages 7-9), Tweens (ages 10-12) Cost: $135 - $230/week (not including field trip and extended care) Activities Included: 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.

Campers explore Mad Science experiments, horseback riding, Super Hero skills tests, soaring on the zip line, and surviving an overnight adventure. We provide swim and tennis lessons, summer reading, and enriching Theatre, Fencing, Cooking, and Hip Hop & Groove specialty camps while ending each day relaxing in the pool.

Young Actors Theatre Athenaeum Theatre: 401 E. Michigan St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, Contact: Catherine Wade, Phone: 317-432-8352, Email: catherine@yatkids.org

http://www.yatskids.org

R esidential Camp Carson YMCA 2034 Outer Lake Road, Princeton, IN 47670, Contact: Mark Scoular, Phone: 812-385-3597, Email: campinfo& ymcacampcarson.org

www.campcarson.org Gender of Campers: Co-ed / Basic Category: Traditional / Specific Categories: Also offer Horseback and Motorized Dirtbikes / Special Needs Camps Offered: Type 1 Diabetes, Children of Deployed Military Hours: Week long (Sun-Fri) Dates: June and July Ages/Grades: 7-16 years Requirements of Campers: Plan on having a great week bring a big smile and a laugh Activities Included: Canoeing, kayaking, sailing, swimming, fishing, blob, water zipline, waterslides, riflery, archery, mountain-biking, mountain-boarding, climbing, gaga, fitness, woodworking, photography, radio-station, volleyball, soccer, basketball, pottery, crafts, nature

Gender of Campers: Co-ed Basic Category: Arts / Specific Categories: Arts & Enrichment Hours: Friday 9:00am - 4:00pm Dates: June 23-July 18 Monday Ages/Grades: 3rd - 12th grade Cost: $550 - $600

Just 2.5 hours SW of Indianapolis Airport, join campers and staff from over 25 different states and 7 countries at southern Indiana’s premier summer resident camp. YMCA Camp Carson has it all! Truly “An Experience That Lasts a Lifetime!” Specialty camps also offered for Children of deployed military and children with Type 1 Diabetes.

This workshop will take you through the entire page to stage process. All students will audition for Alice in Wonderland and be cast in a speaking role in the production! Activities will focus on enhancing confidence, creativity and discipline through theatre. Bring lunch and get ready to have a blast.

Camp Pillsbury 315 S Grove Ave, Owatonna, MN 55060, Contact: Nigel Watson, Phone: 1-844-800-CAMP, Email: Nigel@ CampPillsbury.com

CampPillsbury.com

Gender of Campers: Co-ed Basic Category: Arts, Sports, Traditional Ages/Grades: 6-17 Cost: $1100 per week Activities Included: Theatre, Dance, Circus, Rock Music, Visual Arts, Technology/Multimedia, Sports, Water Sports, Equestrian and so much more...

Camp Pillsbury a Premier Minnesota Summer Camp.

We offer 2 4 6 8 and 10 week sessions for boys and girls ages 6-17. Camp Pillsbury is fully elective with strong programs and activities offered in Performing Arts, Music, Circus, Visual Arts, Technology, Water Sports, Sports, Horseback, Magic, Cheer and Gymnastics and so much more.

Camp Tecumseh YMCA 12635 W. Tecumseh Bend Road, Brookston, IN 47923, Contact: Joel Sieplinga, Phone: 765-564-2898, Email: joels@ camptecumseh.org

www.camptecumseh.org Gender of Campers: Co-ed / Basic Category: Adventure/ Tripping, Sports, Traditional / Specific Categories: Traditional & Equestrian Day/Resident Camps, Trip Program Hours: overnight camp Dates: June 8-August 9 Ages/Grades: 8-15 years old Cost: $635/week Activities Included: Drama, Diving, Kayaking, Archery, Ceramics, Cricket, High Ropes, Swimming, Mountaineering, Basket Making, Skin Diving, Fishing, Horseback Riding, Guitar, Tennis, Volleyball, Canoeing, Riflery, Crafts, Soccer, Basketball

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Camp Tecumseh YMCA is a wonderful experience for boys and girls 8 through 15 years old. Our terrific counseling staff coupled with a huge variety of fun and educational activities, is why campers return each year Campers live in modern facilities, while still being exposed to the great outdoors!

D A Y & R esidential Girl Scouts of Central Indiana 2611 Waterfront Pkwy E Dr Ste 100, Indianapolis, IN 46214, Contact: Diana Keely, Phone: 317-924-6856, Fax: 317-931-3346, Email: dkeely@girlscoutsindiana.org

www.girlscoutsindiana.org

iD Tech Academies Held at Lake Forest, Stanford, Princeton, Yale, and select universities nationwide, Contact: 1-888-709-TECH (8324), Email: info@iDTech.com

www.iDTech.com Gender: Co-ed Basic Category: Academic, Technology, Computers Hours: 2-week, pre-college overnight programs Dates: Please check website Ages/Grades: Ages 13-18 Cost: Varies by course

Activities: Gain a competitive edge and learn how programming, app development, game design, filmmaking, or photography can become a college degree and even a rewarding career. 2-week, pre-college, intensive summer programs for ages 13-18: iD Programming Academy, iD Game Design & Development Academy, and iD Film Academy.

Gender of Campers: All-Girl Basic Category: Traditional / Specific Categories: Girl Scout Day and Resident Camp Hours: day camp is 9:00- 3:30, resident camp has 3, 5 and 12 day sessions Dates: June 2-July 25 Ages/Grades: resident camp is grades 2-12, day camp 1-7 Cost: resident camp starts at $180, day camp is $105 a week Activities Included: arts and crafts, archery, swimming, hiking, cooking out, etc.

Girl Scouts of Central Indiana has both day camp and resident camp available. Girls do not have to be scouts to come to camp. Contact us for camp information.

Wilson Collegiate Tennis Camps University of Notre Dame and Xavier University, Contact: David Schilling, Phone: 330-333-2267, Email: info@sportcamp101.com

www.wilsontenniscamps.com/

C O N TA C T J ENNI C A @ INDY S C H I L D . C O M TO H A V E YOU R C A M P IN C L UDED !

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Gender of Campers: Co-ed Basic Category: Sports Special Needs Camps Offered: Yes Dates: June and July 2014

Ages/Grades: 8-18 / Grades 2-12 Cost: $375 - $735

Beautiful college campuses set the background for the Wilson Collegiate Tennis Camps. It’s here where boys and girls, ages 8 – 18, experience a structured curriculum. Catering to all skill levels, our camps offer 5 1/2 – 6 hours of tennis everyday.

Each camper is exposed to personal instruction as well as various formats of match play.

YMCA of Greater Indianapolis 615 N. Alabama Street, Suite 400, Indianapolis, IN, Contact: Jennie Broady, Phone: 317-887-8788, Email: jbroady@indymca.org

www.indymca.org Gender of Campers: Co-ed Basic Category: Academic/Pre-college, Adventure/Tripping, Arts, Sports, Teen Tours/Travel, Traditional / Specific Categories: Enrichment, Traditional, Sports Hours: 6:30am-6pm Dates: May 27, 2014-August 15. 2014 Ages/Grades: ages 3-15 Cost: $83-$373 Requirements of Campers: Ages 3 and potty trained

The overall goal of YMCA Camp is to help children and teens grow in spirit, mind, and body. We're sure you will find a Y camp that is a perfect fit for your child! We strive to have something for everyone!

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Ask the Teacher // High ability testing and extended school days Deb Krupowicz

Q:

We received a letter from my son’s school telling us that he qualified to be considered for the high ability program at his school, but that he would be required to take an additional test. We don’t know if we should agree to the testing or why we would want him to be in the program. How should we decide if we should allow the testing?

A:

In recent years, many school corporations have expanded their offerings for students whose academic abilities are different enough from their peers that they are not easily met with the same curriculum offered for the majority of students.

Sometimes additional testing data is required to be sure that students are being placed appropriately. The school personnel take great care to understand each student’s needs so that they can provide academic challenge without imposing stress.

By agreeing to the testing, you will be allowing the school to collect the data needed to determine if your child might benefit from a different academic program.

Should you agree to the testing and then find that the school offers to place your son in the high ability program, you will have to determine if you believe this to be the best placement for him. This decision is one that should be made by you and your son’s teachers, not by your son. Together the adults should determine if your son’s 60

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education would be enhanced by participation in a more academically challenging program.

School corporations’ approaches to high ability education are varied, so knowing whether your corporation’s program focuses on faster pacing, enriching concepts in the regular classroom or compacting curriculum will be important in making a good decision for your son.

Q:

Our school corporation has opted to extend school days in order to make up all the lost time from the bad winter weather. For my elementary aged kids, this additional time each day seems to be a big challenge.

How can I help them keep a good attitude through the long days?

A:

Ensuring that your children get plenty of rest and eat well is always important, but it is even more critical when additional demands are being made on their time. When rest or nutrition is compromised, a child’s ability to cope with typical demands is strained. The problem is multiplied when even more is expected of them.

Extra effort to stay organized will likely also be necessary. If there are more things to juggle, your children may need your help keeping track of additional work and deadlines.

Some students will be able to handle this additional responsibility easily, but others may be overwhelmed by it. Recognize that this is an unusual situation and your help may be needed.

Maintaining a positive attitude yourself will go a long way in helping your children to stay upbeat. If your kids detect that you are bothered by the school’s decision to extend days, they may see that as justification for not putting in the required effort.

// ASK THE TEACHER is written by Deb Krupowicz, a mother of four and current teacher.

Deb holds a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction and has over twenty years of experience teaching preschool, elementary and middle school students. Please send your questions to her at asktheteacher@ indyschild.com.

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The Duck Farm // Footnotes: Thoughts from the margins of a mom’s life Kelly Blewett

Some parents are worried what will happen when their child discovers there is no Santa. Forget Santa. I’m worried what my son William will say when he finds out another truth: there is no duck farm that magically flies rubber ducks into his grandparent’s closet.

Let me explain.

My mother thought it would be fun to hide a little treat for William when he comes to visit. Actually her mother used to do the same thing for me with silver dollar coins, which I would scramble around hunting for when I was a very small child. I understand where my mom’s coming from, and I remember how excited I used to be as a little girl. So I get it. But my mom doesn’t hide dollar coins; she hides little rubber ducks. The kind one can order for under a quarter at Oriental Trading Company. We now have a lot of these rubber ducks – they seem to multiply.

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William quickly got into this game, but (unlike me when I was a little girl hunting for coins) he soon wanted to know where the ducks were coming from. “From the duck farm!” we said, not really thinking about it. Then, one day while driving home from my parents, William eyed a painted barn next to an elementary school. He exclaimed, “There’s the duck farm! That’s where they come from!” Once I finally figured out what he was talking about, I smothered my laughter and didn’t correct him. It’s been several months now.

I can only imagine how disappointed he’ll be when he realizes the barn is not the home of hundreds of rubber ducks waiting to wing their way to my mother’s closet. No, that “duck farm” is instead a storage space for sports equipment that belongs to the school. But for now, for at least a little while longer, I wave with my son as we pass “The Duck Farm.” And just smile as our duck collection keeps growing.

COMME NTA RY & PA R E NT I NG

Running Errands with Kids in Tow // True confessions of stay-at-home dad Pete Gilbert Errands. Ugh. I'm a stay at home dad, which means I have the advantage of getting errands done during the week, not on the weekends like all the Nine-to-Fivers out there. But, since I choose to do this during the week, not on the weekends when my wife could watch our kids, I also have to run these errands while my kids are with me.

Weekday errand running has its advantages. There are definitely smaller checkout lines at most stores. Sometimes errands with kids can be beneficial too. The other day I was out getting supplies for my daughter's school project when I happened upon a craft store. Apparently craft store customers (old "crafty" ladies) are on the same schedule we are. The place was BUSY, on a weekday morning! I was afraid we were going to have to wait in line, but luckily my screaming toddler helped move us up to the front of the line quickly. Traffic isn't as bad driving around on weekday mornings

either. Getting across town isn't much trouble and the people that are out seem to be moving at a pretty relaxed pace, like me.

But there are also many disadvantages of hauling around your kids on these trips. First there are all the problems associated with watching a DVD in my minivan. "The sun is too bright, I can't see the movie. Turn it up! The DVD is skipping." All before we've even pulled out of the driveway. There's also the unhappiness with the color of the lollipop from the bank. "But I wanted pink not purple." To which I calmly reply, "You get what you get and ..." she finishes my sentence, "you don't throw a fit."

Happy Parenting! www.facebook.com/petetheblogger

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DA I LY E VE NTS // MAY 2 01 4

// M A Y 2 0 1 4

01 T H U R SDAY

04 SUNDAY

07 W E DN E SDAY

Let's Make Music! Preschool Workshop With the ISO Learning Community Times: 10:00 AM Cost: Free Where: Pike Library, Indianapolis Phone: 317-275-4480 www.imcpl.org Preschoolers ages 3 - 6 and an adult are invited for music and movement activities led by Linda Noble from the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra's Learning Community. They'll cultivate singing and rhythm skills through the use of song tales, finger plays, rhymes and simple songs.

Project Home Indy's Boutiques and Brunch Where: The Crane Bay, Indianapolis Phone: 317-925-0980 www.projecthomeindy.org Shop to shape a home at Project Home Indy's annual Boutiques and Brunch. A variety of local boutiques will be set up for your pre- Mother's Day shopping pleasure - each boutique donates a portion of their sales back to PHI at the end of the day.

Enter raffles, bid on silent auction items while enjoying passed hors d'oeuvres and mimosas. A sit down brunch will also be served.

Jr. Jazzercise Fitness Parties for Preschoolers: Calling all Boogie Monsters Times: 9:30 PM - 11:00 AM Cost: $12 Where: Westfield Parks & Rec Programming Facility Phone: 317-804-3183 www.apm.activecommunities.com/ cityofwestfield Junior Jazzercise is a perfect program to get kids active and learn the importance of exercise and health. These classes for kids combine fun, easy-to-follow exercise moves to current, age appropriate music, fitness games, light strength training and stretching. The non-competitive atmosphere is the perfect setting to introduce your child to fitness. Includes class-themed craft, story and snack. For ages 3-5.

02 F R I – 04 SUN 25th annual Orchard In Bloom Cost: $10 Presale; $12 at the Gate; children 14 and under Free Where: Holliday Park, Indianapolis Phone: 317-327-7180 www.hollidaypark.org Guests this year can expect to see the latest: cocktail gardens, bees and pollen-rich plants, geometrical landscape design, enabled gardening, composting as the new recycling, and so much more! The children's tent will have LOTS of entertainment, demonstrations and activities this year, as The Orchard School Summer Camp is also celebrating its 25th anniversary!

03 S AT U RDAY Star Wars Day festival Times: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM Cost: Free Where: Fishers Library Phone: 317-579-0304 www.hepl.lib.in.us A short time in the future, in a galaxy very, very close there will be a celebration of all things Star Wars. Afternoon entertainment will be provided by the Il Troubadore Klingon music group, accompanied by the Wookie Cellist. We have activities and exhibits scheduled throughout the day at this fun, free family event that you don't want to miss.

05 MONDAY Musical Theater Fun Times: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Where: Carmel Clay Public Library Phone: 317-844-3363 www.carmel.lib.in.us For children in grades 1-5 This International Talent Academy workshop is perfect for kids who would like to combine their love of acting, dancing, and singing on stage!

During this fun, high-energy class, young students will work on voice development, acting exercises, and a simple improv skit.

Free registration is required.

08 T H U R S – 09 F R I Prairie Tykes – How does your Garden Grow?

Times: Thurs., 9:30 AM; Fri., 9:30AM and 12:30PM Cost: $12/youth ($11/member) Where: Conner Prairie Interactive History Park, Fishers

Phone: 317-776-6006 http://connerprairie.org/Learn-And-Do/ Programs/Prairie-Tykes.aspx Connect with your little ones, ages 2-5, during these fun children’s classes that include stories, games, snacks and crafts.

This week, Explore seeds, flowers and a garden, and then make a craft for Mother’s Day. For ages 2-5.

09 F R IDAY Mother's Day Heirloom Plant Sale Times: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM Cost: No admission fee; Costs vary per plant Where: Conner Prairie, Fishers Phone: 317-776-6006 http://connerprairie.org/ Bring Mom and join fellow gardeners and foodies to start your garden season out right with our popular heirloom plants. Choose from tomatoes, peppers, herbs and scented geraniums – all great Mother’s Day gifts.

Proceeds from this sale help Conner Prairie plant beautiful gardens, from which a portion of the produce is donated to help feed the hungry in Hamilton County.

0 6 T U E SDAY Live From Delaware Street – Reflections of the First Year Times: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Cost: $11 member adults; $14 adults; $6 students (ages 5 to 17) Where: Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site, Indianapolis www.presidentbenjaminharrison.org/ Learn firsthand how the Harrison ‘centennial’ administration is progressing.

Talk to President Harrison about adding six states and Mrs. Harrison about her plans to expand the White House. Get the inside scoop from the staff about life and politics in Washington from their perspective. Tours on the hour and half-hour.

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MOTHER'S DAY HEIRLOOM PLANT SALE

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www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com Join the Radio Disney Road Crew in the FREE Kids Zone at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for music, dancing, games, and prizes! Visit us during May to see all the fun and exciting things we have for the Grand Prix of Indianapolis and Indianapolis 500.

See website for other dates and times for this event!

1 2 MONDAY Indianapolis Indians vs.

Norfolk Times: 11:00 AM Cost: Ticket prices vary Where: Victory Field, Indianapolis Phone: 317-269-3545 www.indyindians.com There will be an educational workbook with baseball-related curriculum available.

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WALKING FOR DREAMS FAMILY AND PET 5K WALK

10 S AT U RDAY

10 S AT – 11 SUN

1 3 T U E SDAY

Indy's Child Family Fair Times: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Cost: Free Where: White River State Park, Indianapolis www.indyschild.com/SitePage18659.114134-Indys-Child-Family-FairMarch-for-Babies.html The Indy's Child Family Fair takes place during and after the March for Babies Walk.

The March for Babies walk is approximately 3.1 miles long. Registration opens at 9 a.m. along with the Indy's Child Family Fair. The walk will begin at 10 a.m. After the walk everyone will return to Celebration Plaza for the Indy's Child Family Fair, which will include booths, a kids' zone, entertainment, music, food, and much much more!

Mother's Day Weekend Times: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Where: Indianapolis Zoo Phone: 317-630-2001 www.indianapoliszoo.com/SitePages/ Home.aspx The Indianapolis Zoo will put the spotlight on all moms — both human and animal — Mother's Day weekend. We'll have lots of family-oriented activities sure to make moms smile. We'll hand out stickers to all mothers as a small token of our appreciation and to allow us to recognize these amazing women as they go through the Zoo with their families and friends.

Holliday Park Small Wonders Preschool Program: Wildflowers!

Times: 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM Cost: $5/individual Where: Holliday Park Nature Center, Indianapolis Phone: 317-327-7180 www.hollidaypark.org Explore the natural world through fun and creative activities and hikes. Hands-on experiences designed for children and their caregiver offer a chance to discover nature together. This is a parent/child class for children ages 3-4. Pre-registration required.

11 SUNDAY Chase 500 Festival Kids' Day and Rookie Run Times: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Cost: Free Where: Monument Circle www.500festival.com/KidsDay Don't miss the state’s largest outdoor free festival for children. There are activities and entertainment galore, including Mini car racing, games, face painting, clowns, and your favorite local mascots and so much more! Chase 500 Festival Rookie Run will take place at 11 a.m. All kids, ages 3-12, are invited to participate in the non-competitive race. The pre-registration fee is $6 until May 8. On-site registration will be $10.

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Parent and Preschooler Yoga Times: 2:00 PM Cost: Free Where: Nora Library, Indianapolis Phone: 317-275-4470 www.imcpl.org Preschoolers and their parents are invited to enjoy the health benefits that yoga can offer during this 45-minute program presented by certified yoga instructors from the Greater Indianapolis YMCA. See website for other dates and times for this event.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Kids Zone Times: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Cost: Free Where: Indianapolis Motor Speedway Phone: 317-481-8500

14 W E DNE SDAY Jr. Jazzercise Fitness Parties for Preschoolers: Jungle Drums Times: 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM Cost: $12 Where: Westfield Parks & Rec Programming Facility Phone: 317-804-3183 www.apm.activecommunities.com/ cityofwestfield These classes for kids combine fun, easy-to-follow exercise moves to current, age appropriate music, fitness games, light strength training and stretching. The non-competitive atmosphere is the perfect setting to introduce your child to fitness.

Includes class-themed craft, story and snack. For ages 3-5.

15 T H U R SDAY For more fun events, visit www.indyschild.com

16 F R IDAY Indianapolis Indians vs.

Pawtucket Red Sox Times: 7:00 PM Cost: Prices vary Where: Victory Field, Indianapolis Phone: 317-269-3545 www.indyindians.com Come watch the Indianapolis Indians take on the Pawtucket Red Sox and stay for a Spectacular fireworks show that follows the game.

17 S AT U RDAY Indiana Ballet Conservatory presents "La Fille mal Gardée" Cost: $23+ Where: Indianapolis Museum of Art, Indianapolis Phone: 317-202-1617 www.indianaballetconservatory.org/ performance.html This is truly the perfect ballet to celebrate our own springtime in Indiana Bring your entire family and enjoy a wonderful memory with all of us at IBC.

17 S AT – 18 SUN Broad Ripple Art Fair Times: 10:00 AM Cost: $13 adult; $3 age 3-12; Free 2 and under Where: Indianapolis Art Center Phone: 317-255-2464 www.indplsartcenter.org The Art Fair features booths from local cultural organizations, a children’s creative area, gourmet food courts, a beer and wine garden and live entertainment on four stages and the Frank M. Basile Auditorium.

Carnival of the Animals Times: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM Cost: $16-$26 Where: Scottish Rite Cathedral Theater, Indianapolis Phone: 317-955-7525 www.indyballet.org The animals are having a carnival and you are invited There’s a royal lion, dancing elephants, and fanciful fish. Hometown hero Travis DiNicola will provide animated narration to Camille Saint-Saens’ 1886 orchestral masterpiece, Carnival of the

Animals. Dress as your favorite wild animal and enjoy an afternoon of dance, music, and furry friends.

Civil War Days Times: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Cost: Included in general admission: $15/ adult; $10/youth ages 2-12; members free Where: Conner Prairie, Fishers Phone: 317-776-6006 http://connerprairie.org/ Make your way through Prairietown where the year is 1863 and immerse yourself in the Civil War homefront and battlefront as you learn about Union and Confederate camp life, battle tactics, weapons, medicine, embalming and technology used during wartime. Enjoy the sounds of Colonel Armstrong’s Rusty Musket band as well as soothing parlor music. Be enlisted to defend Indiana from Confederate raiders and march and train in military drills. And don’t miss the action at 2:30 pm when re-enactors from around the country come face-to-face in a battle.

18 SUNDAY Walking for Dreams Family and Pet 5k Walk Times: 2:00 PM Cost: Donations Where: Indianapolis Downtown Canal at Buggs Temple, Indianapolis Walking for Dreams is an approximately 5K Family and Pet Walk that was started in 2004 to help local Indianapolis non-profit organizations raise needed funds to enable them to do more of what they do so well – serve the youth and families of Indianapolis.

19 MONDAY For more fun events, visit www.indyschild.com

20 T U E SDAY Family Game Night at Fountain Square Times: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM Cost: Free Where: Fountain Square Library, Indianapolis Phone: 317-275-4390 www.imcpl.org Families are invited to play a variety of fun and educational games, including Wii Brain Academy, with their children.

21 W E DNE SDAY Zoopolis 500 presented by the American Dairy Association Times: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM Where: Indianapolis Zoo Phone: 317-630-2001 www.indianapoliszoo.com/SitePages/ Home.aspx This unique Zoo event and race fan favorite is held annually the Wednesday before the Indianapolis 500, the Zoopolis 500, presented by the American Dairy Association, includes lots of family-friendly activities and features our radiated tortoises hustling to the finish line.

22 T H U R SDAY Holliday Park Homeschool Nature Day Times: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Cost: $10/child Where: Holliday Park Nature Center, Indianapolis Phone: 317-327-7180 www.hollidaypark.org Bring your homeschooler to Holliday Park for a day of outdoor learning. Students will learn about mammal skulls, birds and amphibians. Hands-on activities will provide students the opportunity to learn through discovery. Participants will be assigned to groups and rotate through three classes. More information will be mailed prior to class. Ages 8-12, pre-registration required.

2 3 F R IDAY Dinner and Magic Show Times: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM Cost: $38/adult + tax & gratuity Where: Propylaeum, Indianapolis Phone: 317-638-7881 www.thepropylaeum.org Make your evening magical with dinner and a magic show with fabulous magicians at The Propylaeum. Your meal is a 3-course dinner followed by a great hour of magic performed by local magicians. Limited seating. Doors open one hour prior to start time.

2 4 S AT U RDAY International Orangutan Center Opening Times: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Where: Indianapolis Zoo Phone: 317-630-2001 www.indianapoliszoo.com/SitePages/ Home.aspx The International Orangutan Center is a game-changing exhibit designed specifically

to meet the physical, social and intellectual needs of orangutans. It is a unique home for one of the largest groups of orangutans in any American zoo. It is also one of the most visually stunning and ambitious zoo exhibits ever created, with incredible vistas, dozens of unique perspectives of the orangutans and mesmerizing interactive opportunities.

25 SUNDAY The Indianapolis 500 Times: Gates open at 7:00 AM Cost: see website for ticket pricing Where: Indianapolis Motor Speedway Phone: 317-481-8500 www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com The greatest spectacle in racing returns!

Don't miss out on the 98th running of the Indianapolis 500. Radio Disney will be on hand at the Kids Zone from 7 a.m.-2 p.m.

26 MONDAY Indianapolis Indians vs Buffalo Times: 6:00 PM Cost: Ticket prices vary Where: Victory Field, Indianapolis Phone: 317-269-3545 www.indyindians.com Memorial Day & Camo Jersey Auction.

Indians Players will wear camouflage jerseys to honor our nation's heroes, and a celebratory fireworks show will follow the game.

27 T U E SDAY It's My Art Times: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM Cost: Free Where: Indianapolis Museum of Art Phone: 317-920-2659 www.imamuseum.org Take a good long look at a few pieces to know them better and make your own.

Meet on Floor 2 at the top of the escalator.

28 W E DNE SDAY STEAM team Times: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Cost: Free Where: Hamilton East Library, Fishers Phone: 579-0304 www.hepl.lib.in.us/ Calling all inventors, scientists and creative types! Come by and check out this great new program. Let your creative juices flow as we explore aesthetics and make/copy our own inventions. Ages 13-18. Registration required.

29 T H U R SDAY Copycat Restaurant Snacks – Teens Times: 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Cost: Free Where: Hamilton County East Library, Noblesville Phone: 317-773-1384 www.hepl.lib.in.us Come learn how to make copycat restaurant recipes for a fraction of the cost. You'll get to taste test each snack as well as get copy of the recipe. We'll even show you how much money you can save by making it at home.

30 F R IDAY Indianapolis Indians vs.

Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders Times: 7:00 PM Cost: Ticket prices vary Where: Victory Field, Indianapolis Phone: 317-269-3545 www.indyindians.com Come watch the Indianapolis Indians take on Scranton and stay for a spectacular fireworks display after the game.

31 S AT U RDAY Wicket World of Croquet® Times: 1:00 PM Cost: $130 BHPS member team of two; $140 team of two Where: Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site, Indianapolis This event offers opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels to swing a mallet and shoot the wicket in one of two bracketed tournaments: Competitive Traditional Six Wicket Tournament to vie for the Virginia Z. Willkie Champion's Cup OR Leisure Tournament playing Golf Croquet.

At Indy's Child, we work hard to ensure our calendar and guide information is accurate Occasionally, event specifics change after we go to press.Therefore, we encourage our readers to call locations or visit them on the web to verify information.

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ONG OI NG E VE NTS // MAY 2 01 4

// O N G O I N G E V E N T S Whale of a Sale Monday, April 28th through Saturday, May 3rd Cost: Free admission; $5 parking Fri and Sat Where: Indiana State Fairgrounds, Indianapolis www.whale-sale.com/shop.html Indiana's largest upscale children’s consignment event featuring 47,000 square feet of clothing, toys, equipment, bedding, furniture, boutique, maternity, fabulous vendors and more... at a fraction of retail price!

Ice Age Giants: The Mystery of Mammoths and Mastodons Through Sunday, August 17th Cost: included with admission Where: Indiana State Museum, Indianapolis Phone: 317-232-1637 www.indianamuseum.org/ The exhibition explores Ice Age animals and their environments, what happens at a real dig site and the research that helps us to understand prehistoric mammals.

The exhibit also features real mounted skeletons and casts of Ice Age animals, as well as fossil tusks and skulls.

Free Community Drum Circle Thursdays through December 18th Cost: Free Where: Bongo Boy Music School, Indianapolis Phone: 317-771-0241 www.bongoboymusic.com

This drum circle is tailored and facilitated for families, couples and single dude and dudettes We encourage adults with drumming experience to keep the groove alive while providing opportunities for families to play together in a fun, safe and creative way. Experienced drummers are always welcome Drums will be provided by Bongo Boy Music School and REMO but feel free to bring your own.

Art in the Park Sundays in May Times: Noon - 4:00 PM Cost: Free Where: Indianapolis Museum of Art, Indianapolis Phone: 317-923-1331 www.imamusem.org From wildflowers to wildwoods, let your creative wild side roam free in 100 Acres!

Find inspiration in the wilderness to create some wild art–mixing natural things found in the park with man-made art supplies!

Style, Elegance and Wit: The Art of James Spencer Russell

Through Sunday, October 12th Cost: Included with museum admission Where: Indiana State Museum, Indianapolis Phone: 317-232-1637 www.indianamuseum.org/ This exhibition will reintroduce the public to this uniquely talented and inventive Hoosier artist with a major retrospective exhibition of 60+ paintings, drawings and mixed media wall constructions by Hoosier artist James Spencer Russell.

'Mary Poppins' The Broadway Musical Daily (except Mon) Beginning Thursday, May 15 through Sunday, June 29th Times: 8:00 PM Cost: Varies Where: Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre, Indianapolis Phone: 317-872-9664 www.beefandboards.com Bring the family and get swept up with Disney’s high-flying Mary Poppins, live on stage for the first time at Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre. Based on one of the most popular Disney films of all time, this musical is nothing short of supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.

Butterfly Kaleidoscope Daily Through Tuesday, September 2nd Cost: Included in general admission Where: Indianapolis Zoo Phone: 317-630-2001 www.indyzoo.com Immerse yourself in the beauty of butterflies as these wonderful winged insects are back in the Hilbert Conservatory. We've transformed the indoor gardens into a tropical paradise to bring you butterflies in a way that you've never experienced them before!

Terra Cotta Warriors Exhibit Saturday, May 10th through Sunday, November 2nd Cost: See website for ticket pricing Phone: (317) 334-3322 Where: The Children's Museum of Indianapolis

www.childrensmuseum.org/ An army of thousands, buried for centuries, protecting an emperor's tomb - come see the Terra Cotta Warriors in their only U.S. appearance in 2014!

Examine more than 100 ancient artifacts and enjoy hands-on interactives that will let families become part of the research team and explore the scientific research underway that helps us picture the army in its original vibrant colors. Timed entry exhibit; additional ticket purchase required.

Movies at the Nickel Plate District Fridays through May 30th Time: Dusk Price: Free Where: Nickel Plate District Amphitheater www.fishers.in.us Movies on the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater lawn are back for another season of free, family- friendly fun. Movies will begin at dusk, and families are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets and movie snacks to enjoy. Light concessions including, popcorn, cotton candy, candy and drinks will be available for purchase

For more fun ONGOING events, visit www.indyschild.com

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MONT H LY MA R K E T P L ACE

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CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE

FA M I LY R E C R E AT I O N

FUN &WACKY I N D Y ' S C H I L D // M A Y 2 0 1 4

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