May 2019| Indy's Child by Midwest Parenting Publications

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How you can help a child in need

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Tony Kanaan INDY 500 WINNER AND LOCAL DAD

contents MAY 2019

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Beyond the Thrills

Unexpected surprise experiences at America’s Roller Coast® It’s a fact: Cedar Point is known for its roller coasters. But there’s another side to this amusement park beyond thrill rides. “Although we’re known around the world as a roller coaster innovator, Cedar Point isn’t just a coaster park,” says Tony Clark, director of communications for Cedar Point. “It’s the special signature events, live shows, the mile-long Cedar Point Beach, water activities like parasailing and paddle boarding, on-site beachside hotels and the Cedar Point Shores Waterpark that all combine to round out a fantastic family getaway. If you don’t like roller coasters, there’s still plenty to do at America’s Roller Coast.”

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Here are some unexpected surprises that await you at Cedar Point beyond roller coasters.

Stay Somewhere Unique For a fun way to stay and play, think tiny — tiny home, that is. Lighthouse Point is a unique space that offers waterfront cottages, inland cabins and 10-person deluxe cabins, all just a short walk from the park entrance. Each cottage and cabin comes with amenities that make your stay extra special, such as outdoor seating and a charcoal grill, as well as multiple televisions with cable and property-wide Wi-Fi. Plus, booking an overnight stay comes with additional perks, says Clark. “Staying at Cedar Point is ideal, with benefits including discounted tickets and early entry into the park one hour before the general public,” he says.

Relax and unwind at the Cedar Point Beach, which stretches out for a mile along Lake Erie. This sandy shoreline invites you to lay down a towel and soak in the sun (or build a sand castle: your choice!). When you’re ready to cool off, take the family to Cedar Point Shores Waterpark for 18 acres of water slides, geysers and splish-splashing fun for all ages. On special evenings during the summer, guests can grab a tube and watch a movie while f loating in the pool during the park’s Dive-In Movie series.

Savor the Sweet and Savory Side From pizza and burgers to sushi and steak, there is something for every taste at Cedar Point. Get cheesy at local favorite Melt Bar & Grilled, where you’ll find gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and craft beer. Foodies looking for a casual fine-dining experience can head to Bay Harbor at the Cedar Point Marina to dine al fresco while watching boats glide in and out of the marina. Or try Cedar Point’s newest restaurant, Hugo’s Italian Kitchen, serving up handmade pastas and brick-oven pizzas.

Celebrate at a Festival Cedar Point gives visitors a reason to celebrate each season with their lineup of festivals and special events. Immerse yourself in good old-fashioned fun during Frontier Festival from June 7-30, a street fest with live music, appearances by townsfolk and games for the whole family. From July 12 through August 18, the Cedar Point Beach comes alive nightly during Cedar Point Nights, which features themed zones of family-friendly activities like a silent disco, glow games and dancing with a live DJ. HalloWeekends — Cedar Point’s most popular fall festival — runs Friday nights, and Saturdays and Sundays September 13 through October 27, and features not-so-scary fun for little ones, including trick-or-treating, costume contests and kid-friendly mazes.

“Guests can stop by and take a selfie with mascot Curtis the Cow, or feed a few new friends — the photo opportunities here are endless,” Clark says.

Go Beyond the Everyday

Say Hello to Some Animals If you’re thinking, “All this entertainment at Cedar Point is great, but what I really want is to pet a baby animal,” then you’re in luck. Cedar Point has a barnyard filled with more than 60 furry creatures to pet, touch and feed, ranging from baby goats to llamas to donkeys, as well as Curtis the miniature cow.

Want to watch the sun rise atop the Valravn coaster? Or maybe take a mini cruise to the Lake Erie Islands from the Cedar Point Marina? You can do that at Cedar Point. From pedicab rides on the beach boardwalk to panning for gemstones at the park’s Fort Sandusky Mining Company, Cedar Point offers one-of-a-kind experiences that families will remember.

EVERYONE CAN EXPERIENCE SOMETHING UNIQUE HERE,” CLARK SAYS. “WHEN WE SAY THAT THERE ARE SO MANY THINGS TO DO AT CEDAR POINT, WE MEAN IT!

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CEDAR POINT

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WORDS BY RONNETTA S. SPALDING

Garfield Park Arts Center Perfectly situated on the southeast side of downtown Indy, the Garfield Park Arts Center (GPAC) strives to inspire and build a community of arts learners, leaders, and organizations.

Every Saturday from 12-5 pm, GPAC opens its art classroom for free monthly art activities for children and their families as part of our Arts for All program. Open studio art projects are also available during spring, fall, and winter breaks.

Standing as one of Indy Parks’ most vibrant, activity-packed spaces, the GPAC houses a multi-use performing arts space, an exhibition hall, visual and production arts classrooms, recording studio, a literary arts library, and a rehearsal room.

In the summer, GPAC’s popular day camps let kids get messy and creative in Clay Camp, Camp Create, Paint-a-Palooza, and Performing Arts Camp. These camps are run by local artists and include an exhibition or performance at the end of the week for parents.

The Main Gallery showcases monthly exhibitions of rotating artwork and focuses on local and regional artists of varying themes and mediums of artwork, multicultural backgrounds, and diverse voices of self-expression. Exhibitions open on the First Friday of each month with a reception, local musician/performer, appetizers, and a beer and wine bar hosted by the Garfield Brewery. GPAC’s programs feature visual arts, performing arts, film, yoga in the Gallery, Middle-Eastern dance, clay handbuilding, acrylic and oil painting classes, needle felting workshops, and our popular Vintage Movie Night series hosted by local film historian Eric Grayson, which offers guests an opportunity to view rare and unique films.

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Park enthusiasts can enjoy the sounds of the Garfield Park Art & Music Festival and free theatrical productions from the Garfield Shakespeare Company in the main gallery and at the Garfield Park MacAllister Amphitheater in the spring and summer. For more information on our exhibits and programs, visit gpacarts.org or check out our Facebook events. Stay in the know with us, follow us on Instagram at @garfield_park_arts_center, on Twitter at @GPACIndyParks, and Facebook, at Garfield Park Arts Center-Indy Parks and Recreation.

PARENTING IN THE KIDWEST

WORDS BY RIANE KONC

Mistakes Were Made I’ve made a lot of mistakes in the three years I’ve been a parent. I’ve let a bag of breast milk go bad, and cried; I’ve dropped my phone on my baby’s head more than once, and winced; and I’ve sent my child out into the world with two different shoes, and, well, honestly, just shrugged. I’ve installed the car seat incorrectly (DON’T WORRY, I FIXED IT); I’ve used soap instead of shampoo; and maybe I let my daughter try honey a day before she turned one. There have been mistakes that have been big, that have made me question how good of a mother I am. And there have been mistakes that have been small, the kind that a human makes when running on three hours of sleep. But no mistake — none — was worse than the one I made this week. My daughter is a delightful, funny, smart, kind person. I think she’s the most wonderful person in the world. That being said, she is also three. Which means that sometimes, she takes a break from being the most wonderful person in the world to temporarily transform into a raging, inconsolable, illogical, screaming, crying goblin. The world’s cutest goblin, to be sure. But a goblin nonetheless. There’s a name for this stage: threenager. A three-year-old who has the moodiness and temperament of a hormonal teenager. But it’s not the same, not really. Teenagers don’t still demand to still be carried through the mall. Teenagers don’t think that “biting” is an appropriate form of communication. And, perhaps most crucial, teenagers are asleep… basically most of the time they’re alive. Threenagers are awake, fighting sleep and ready to torment you.

So my daughter was having a day where she was behaving like a threenager. It was tantrum after tantrum after tantrum. I did what I could: I reasoned with her. I talked quietly with her. I gave her some space. I gave her some hugs. I gave her time to calm down. I tried to distract her. Nothing worked. So then I started threatening to take things away. The first thing that she lost was her after dinner dessert. She was desolate, and I thought that this would be enough to curb any future tantrums. Of course, all that it did instead was create an entirely new series of tantrums, each one louder and screamier than the last. And that’s when I did it. That’s when I made the mistake. I believe it was after she hit me that I decided that it was the last straw. “That’s it!” I said. “You do not get to watch any TV tomorrow.” As soon as I said it, I knew I had made a mistake. But it was too late. We both spent the remainder of the afternoon crying and holding each other, she because her TV had been taken away, and me, because I had forgotten that by taking TV away, the person I was really punishing was myself. We survived, but the moral of the story is this: Next time, I will ban puzzles instead.

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AROUND TOWN

WORDS BY ANGELINA MOORE, PUBLIC RELATIONS FELLOW, THE CHILDREN'S MUSEUM OF INDIANAPOLIS

When Your Kiddo Makes You Go, “Hmm?” Does your child constantly ask you “why” questions that catch you off guard, leaving you wracking your brain for a thoughtful response to satisfy their curiosity? Thanks to the ancient Greeks, some of those baffling questions can be answered when you travel back in time to visit Treasures of Ancient Greece, opening at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis on June 15, 2019. This exhibit will take you on a historical journey to ancient Greece, where your family will discover mythology, amazing antiquities and unique inventions that have been modified over time. Marvel at the advanced technology, art, architecture and sports from so many years ago that still have a strong inf luence on today’s world. A huge surprise for many will be the Antikythera Mechanism, an object that is believed to be the world’s first computer. An entertaining sound and light show unlocks the mysteries of how it worked centuries ago. Families can then experiment with the intricate gears of a model version of the Antikythera Mechanism, while learning more about the innovative science and math used to make it operational.

The Greeks developed systems of thinking that shaped the growth of western civilization. A simple way you can teach your child about democracy is through a fun interactive that compares your votes to actual Athenian citizens on an issue. You should know there will be some nudity in the art displayed. Families may choose to use this as a learning experience to talk about appreciating the human body and how inventive sculpting techniques create realistic life forms and stunning art. A beautiful marble statue of Artemis (the Olympian Goddess associated with nature) can serve as a conversation starter about art, mythology, outdoors and more. Be inspired by the ancient Greeks’ perception of beauty to shape your own architectural design and build your family’s ancient dream temple with basic building blocks. Compete in Olympic Games with a foot race on an ancient Greek race track. Then learn about mythical creatures and legendary heroes through stories painted on vases. This was a traditional practice used to convey morals, values and beliefs about the origin of the world and the afterlife. It is also a creative project to illustrate your family’s beliefs. This entertaining art form set the

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foundation for the popular book series and movies, Percy Jackson and the Olympians. Several of the movie props will be on display.

Now that you are armed with this knowledge, the next time your kiddo asks you a question that would ordinarily make you go, “Hmm?” you might have the answer, thanks to the Greeks.

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THE CHILDREN'S MUSEUM OF INDIANAPOLIS

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AROUND TOWN

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Fun for Little Fans: Colts Kids Club You’re never too young to be an Indianapolis Colts fan. And for fans between the ages of 4 and 14, there’s a club that was made just for them. Parents and caregivers can sign up their kids for the Colts Kids Club, which gives kids a unique, behind-the-scenes look at their favorite football team.

“It’s a quick 30-minute visit to the field, but the kids love the feeling of being down on the field just like our players,” says Alexa Strobridge, senior marketing manager for the Indianapolis Colts. The most popular Kids Club event takes place in October with the Halloween Party — and this year, the fun will be open to all kids, not just Kids Club members. Kids are encouraged to wear their favorite costume and join the Colts for a night of trick-or-treating, games, and meet-and-greets with Colts players and cheerleaders, right inside the stadium.

For a one-time membership fee of $30, Colts Kids Club members receive a personalized membership kit, newsletters and COLTS KIDS CLUB invitations to REGISTRATION FOR exclusive Kids INDY’S CHILD READERS Club events. The WHEN YOU USE THE Learn more CODE INDYSCHILD membership kit about Colts Kids Valid until includes fun Colts- Club and sign up 09/01/2019. related gear, including at colts.com/kids. a Colts jersey lunch cooler, a Colts water bottle, a banner flag of quarterback Andrew Luck, and Blue’s Road Trip Through Indiana, a book written by Colts mascot, Blue. When Blue isn’t on the field Once they become members, kids cheering on the Indianapolis Colts, receive access to events and he’s busy traveling around Indiana newsletters until they are 14 and writing about his adventures. years old. Blue’s Road Trip Through Indiana

$5 OFF

After two regular home games, Kids Club members are invited down to the Lucas Oil Stadium field for post-game visits, where they can run around, take photos, throw footballs and imagine what it would be like to play a game in the Colts’ home stadium.

— written by the man behind the mascot, Trey Mock — was inspired by Blue’s travels over the past 10 years. Blue has visited more than

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BLUE’S BOOK

1,500 Indiana schools to provide free educational programs, and his journey has taken him to some well-known places around the state, including Quilt Gardens in Elkhart County, Turkey Run State Park and Indiana Dunes. The illustrated children’s book encourages kids to seek out their

own traveling adventures, and includes a picture of Blue that kids can cut out and take with them on their next trip. Blue’s Road Trip Through Indiana is included with the Kids Club membership, and is also available online at Amazon and the Colts Pro Shop.

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THE INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

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Nurture a Love of Nature

Central Indiana offers multiple ways to enjoy the great outdoors with your family Getting outside and connecting with nature is essential to creating healthier minds and bodies. In Central Indiana, we are fortunate to be surrounded by many parks and nature centers where families can do just that. Helping your child develop a love of nature and a desire to preserve the land is easy, and starts in one of the most obvious ways. “The easiest thing to do is to take your kids outside and enjoy nature with them — simple as that!” says Melissa Moran, outreach coordinator for The Nature Conservancy. “Like most adults, kids are keenly interested in the electronic world — video games, smart phones and tablets. Parents can encourage kids to disconnect from devices and reconnect to the outside world.”

Bridge the Digital-to-Nature Divide Parents in Central Indiana can check out the Children of Indiana Nature Park website (ilovemyland. org) to find parks and nature centers near them. Moran says that in Indianapolis, for example, the Children of Indiana Nature Park has

hour west of Indianapolis is Big Walnut Nature Preserve, which is filled with native plants and in which the Tall Timbers Trail winds through a portion of the grounds. Moran suggests grabbing a wildflower guidebook before visiting for a day of fun nature learning. But families don’t have to travel far to enjoy scenic getaways, Moran says. In Indiana, it’s all around us.

four outstanding nature center partners in the city: Holliday Park, Eagle Creek Park, the Nina Mason Pulliam Ecolab at Marian University and the Indianapolis Zoo. All of these places have nature programs and events that are available to families.

Nature Play Days Another way to celebrate nature happens each year in early June, when the Indiana Children and Nature Network (ICAN) sponsors Nature Play Days. Visit indianachildrenandnature. org to find a Nature Play Days event near you.

“These nature centers are great places to connect with nature, with most offering opportunities for hands-on conservation activities, such as bird watching, pollinator counts, invasive species removal or native plant gardening,” Moran says.

Nature Near and Far Families can also learn which nature preserves — owned by The Nature Conservancy or the Indiana Department of Natural Resources — are near them. For example, an

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“Even yards, neighborhood parks and playgrounds are great places to inspire children’s love of nature and the outdoors,” Moran says.

Nature is everywhere and can look different for everyone, Moran says. “Spending time with your child outside taking a walk, observing ants or inspecting that rogue dandelion on the sidewalk sparks curiosity,” he says. “If you show your child that you are enthused and want to explore our natural world together, they will follow your lead.”

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Science for Little Learners IUPUI’s Center for Young Children offers a STEM program for preschoolers All children are natural scientists. They ask questions,

Fast Facts About IUPUI’s Center for Young Children

experiment and design through the course of everyday explorations. The teachers and staff at IUPUI’s Center for Young Children have encouraged this natural scientific curiosity with their STEM preschool program, which is geared toward kids ages 4 to 5. The CYC STEM program focuses on teaching science, technology, engineering and math to preschoolers in a way that young children learn best: through play. “We use a simplified formula for the scientific method and the engineering design process, which children naturally use in their play,” says Jennifer Bohannan, multiage lead teacher at IUPUI’s Center for Young Children. “The teachers build awareness of the process by using appropriate terms and guided support.” For instance, if a child is interested in building a tower or bridge, they naturally gravitate to building blocks. The teachers then support the child’s efforts by observing and asking about their ideas. What materials did they choose and why did they choose them? Does it “do” what they designed it to do? Would they build it differently next time? It’s these kinds of questions that encourage kids to take their play to the next level.

* The CYC STEM preschool program is for kids ages 4 and 5, but CYC offers full-day care for kids 6 weeks old through 5 years old. * Monthly field trips are offered year-round, including summer splash days, walks around the IUPUI campus and swim lessons at the IU Natatorium.

“It is our job to help them recognize that what they are doing is science, engineering and math by providing vocabulary, tools and processes for exploring,” says Vikki Tucher, multiage lead teacher at IUPUI’s Center for Young Children. The CYC STEM preschool program provides a setting in which children can wonder, solve, learn and grow. Children can explore many different scientific topics, including the human body, astronomy and simple machines. Kids learn in both small-group and large-group settings, and the curriculum follows Indiana Early Learning Foundations standards.

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To learn more about IUPUI’s Center for Young Children and the STEM preschool program, visit childcare. iupui.edu/pages/STEM. asp.

* Classes for ages 3 to 5 are multiage, which means that kids can spend more than one year with the same teacher. * Thirty-five percent of the CYC’s full-time teaching staff have a Master’s degree or are currently completing a Master’s degree.

Free-choice play and daily outdoor play are also built into the school day, giving preschoolers a well-rounded, holistic learning experience. “All scientists need to read,

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write, tinker and document learning,” Tucher says. “Therefore, art, reading, writing and play time is naturally included throughout the day.”

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IUPUI CENTER FOR YOUNG CHILDREN

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GEARING UP FOR THE

INDY 500

Start your engines and celebrate this racing tradition with your family

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

The month of May means a lot to Hoosiers, because it signals a whole month of exciting events that lead up to the Indianapolis 500. Here are some fun, familyfriendly things to do in Indy to get race ready.

500 Festival Kickoff to May

INDYCAR Grand Prix Practice, Qualifying & Race Day MAY 10-11 | 7:30 am-6 pm Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Here’s a chance to get up-close to the action before the big race. Races happen throughout the day during this two-day family-friendly event, and include driver autograph sessions and the chance to walk in the legendary Yard of Bricks during the post-race track invasion. Children under 15 years of age are free with paid adult admission.

MAY 1 | 11 am-1 pm Monument Circle

The south side of Monument Circle is shut down for the festivities, which include appearances by Mayor Hogsett and the 2018 Indianapolis 500 Pace Car. Watch bikers spin, jump and f lip during the Wonder Wheels BMX stunt show, enjoy food from some of Indy’s favorite food trucks, pick up prizes from exhibitors and more.

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Salesforce & JPMorgan Chase 500 Festival Kids’ Day MAY 11 | Noon-4 pm Monument Circle

Kids take over Monument Circle during this free, outdoor day of play. Families can enjoy stretching their minds and muscles by participating in drumming workshops, painting demonstrations, racing mini cars, conquering the 500 Festival’s obstacle course, dancing to folklorico and Bollywood-style music, and lots more.

Rookie Run

IPL 500 Festival Parade

MAY 11 | 12:30-3 pm Ohio & Meridian Streets, Downtown Indianapolis

MAY 25 | 11:45 am Downtown Indianapolis

Sign up your little runners for this non-competitive race, where everyone goes away a winner! Children ages 3 to 10 will run distances that are set based on their age. All runners receive a goodie bag, a participant bib and a finisher’s medal.

Hundreds of thousands of people will line the streets of downtown Indy for this yearly parade that includes larger-than-life f loats, giant helium balloons, celebrities and dignitaries, music from local bands and all 33 drivers who will be competing in the Indy 500.

Zoopolis 500 MAY 22 | 10:30 am-12:30 pm Indianapolis Zoo

Tortoises, start your engines! This race takes place at a slower pace at the Indianapolis Zoo: tortoises “race” (well, walk) toward the finish line, where a platter of fruit awaits the winner. Come for the reptilian races, and stay to meet 500 Festival princesses and snap a photo in front of a real pace car. Zoopolis 500 is free for members and included with regular zoo admission.

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Racing Experience

ONGOING | 10 am-Closing The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Get pumped for the Indy 500 by channeling your inner race-car driver! Families can pedal around an oval track, or take to the drag strip for a faster experience. After you’re done racing, head to the pagoda to learn about Indianapolis Motor Speedway history, or get your photo taken in the Winner’s Circle.

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TRAVEL

WORDS BY KAREN RING

Let's Go Camping

Five Indiana campgrounds perfect for reconnecting with your family Fresh air, wide-open spaces to run, marshmallows melting over a fire and freedom from those mindnumbing electronic devices — these are just a few things to love about camping. Camping puts us back in touch with nature and offers the perfect opportunity to reconnect as a family. Thankfully, there are plenty of family-friendly campgrounds right here in Indiana. Here are five of our favorites that offer a little something for everyone.

THE SCENIC GETAWAY: McCormick’s Creek State Park

250 McCormick Creek Park Rd., Spencer, IN Magnificent limestone canyons, a f lowing creek and scenic waterfalls are just a few of the highlights at McCormick’s Creek, Indiana’s first state park. Numerous hiking trails take visitors through diverse terrain, while Canyon Inn (open to all park visitors) offers a place to kick back, relax and watch birds from the dining room porch. Numerous on-site activities and a range of accommodations make this a great spot for both first-time and seasoned campers. Activities: Nature center, hiking trails, trail rides, tennis courts, recreation center, swimming pool (seasonal) Accommodations: Electric and primitive campsites, on-site inn, cabins

THE AQUATIC PLAYGROUND: Shakamak State Park 6265 W. State Rd. 48, Jasonville, IN Shakamak is home to three man-made lakes offering 400 acres of water perfect for fishing, boating and swimming. Kids will love the onsite aquatic center that features a large pool complete with water slide. Wooded campsites offer ample shade in the summer months and scenic beauty in the fall.

Activities: Nature center, boat launch, fishing, hiking trails, paddleboat and rowboat rental, tennis courts, basketball courts, swimming pool + water slide (seasonal) Accommodations: Full hook-up sites, electric and non-electric campsites, cabins

THE LAID-BACK NATURE LOVER’S DREAM: Shades State Park 7751 S 890 W., Waveland, IN Beautiful sandstone cliffs and shady ravines set the stage at this nature lover's dream. Shades overlooks Sugar Creek and is within easy reach of a number of local outfitters that offer canoeing, kayaking and tubing excursions. Pine Hills Nature Preserve located within the campground is perfect

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for longer hikes that cover a range of topography. Many campers f lock to nearby Turkey Run State Park; however, Shades offers a peaceful alternative perfect for a relaxing family weekend. Activities: Hiking trails, fishing, interpretive naturalist services Accommodations: Non-electric, backpack and canoe campsites

THE HIKER’S PARADISE: Charlestown State Park 12500 Indiana 62, Charlestown, IN Overlooking Fourteen Mile Creek Valley and the Ohio River, this relatively new state park boasts trails with rugged hills, deep ravines and elevation changes of

over 200 feet (a rarity in our relatively f lat state). Highlights include Devonian fossil outcrops and karst sinkholes. Bird watchers will enjoy the 72 species of birds, including an occasional bald eagle. Campers can also take a walk across the historic Portersville Bridge that was restored and relocated to Charlestown State Park in 2011. Activities: Hiking trails, fishing, playground equipment Accommodations: Full hook-up sites, electric campsites

THE ACTIVE FAMILY GETAWAY: Yogi Bear’s Jellystone™ Park

9396 S. Strain Ridge Rd., Bloomington, IN Those looking for a camping experience with modern-day amenities will find what they are after at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park in Bloomington. This campground runs the gamut from RV sites to luxury cabins to traditional tent campsites. Amenities range from a swimming pool complete with splashground to a Gaga Pit. Kids will love the variety of activities, including arts and crafts, foam parties, relay races and more. But oneof the best reasons to visit Jellystone Park™ is to hang out with Yogi Bear™, Boo Boo™ and all of their friends. Activities: Foam parties, daily character visits, pedal carts, gem mining, theme weekends, swimming pool with splashground, jumping pillow, wagon rides, Gaga Ball, basketball court and hiking trails Accommodations: Full hook-up RV sites, luxury cabins, tent campsites

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love

fostering

Is there room in your heart and family for a child in need?

WORDS BY ANDREA LIMKE

That timeless parenting phrase — “it takes a village” — is never more applicable than when discussing foster care. Indiana Department of Child Services defines foster care as “providing a safe, nurturing, stable and temporary environment for children who can no longer remain in their own homes due to the risk of abuse or neglect. This care is given with the intention of helping children safely reunify with their families.” If you have ever considered taking on the important role of fostering, then read on to learn where to begin. Are We Ready? As you can expect, the role of foster parent takes a great amount of mental and emotional strength, both of which should be considered before beginning the licensing process. “Becoming a foster parent is a calling in one's life,” says Kristi Cundiff, founder and CEO of Indiana Foster & Adoptive Parents Resources & Advocacy, a nonprofit that works passionately with foster and adoptive families throughout Indiana. “Not everyone is mentally and

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emotionally prepared to be called to work with children who come from hard places. However, many amazing people have made the decision to do so, and have opened their heart and home to Indiana's most vulnerable children.” As you prepare to make this decision, there are a few life situations to keep in mind before beginning the process. If you are planning for a big life change, such as moving or getting a new job, you may want to wait until things are settled before getting started.

While it’s important to evaluate your personal mental and emotional status, also consider the same of any children you already have in your family. If you’re concerned about the emotional aspect of fostering parenting, keep in mind that this will also be addressed in the extensive training, home studies and ongoing support available throughout the process.

Where Do We Start? When you are ready to begin the course to become a foster parent, your first step is to visit your county’s job and family services (or children’s services) website. Each county has its own process and requirements, and more details are available for you on the site. You can foster children in a county different from where you live, but you’ll want to be sure to check out that county’s procedures.

Due to the length of processing with the state’s Department of Child Services, Cundiff recommends working with a Licensed Planning Agency (LCPA), which can walk you through every step of becoming licensed. Once you’ve chosen an agency, or decided to work directly with the state, you can expect to complete a licensing packet issued by your county, and 10 hours of training that will cover topics such as effective discipline, policies and how to care for children who have been through trying situations. The home study and interview process then begins, as well as criminal and background checks. Once you become a licensed foster parent, you will be required to take 15 hours of in-service training each year to maintain your license.

What Else Should We Know? While becoming a foster parent is a lengthy and involved process, it is necessary to ensure it is right for both the potential parents and children. “Foster parenting is one of the hardest but most rewarding experiences a person will have,” says Cundiff, who is a foster and adoptive parent herself. “I always say to expect the unexpected. You need to have the mindset that you are a ‘temporary parent’ to a child who needs to feel loved, have structure, routine and feel safe.” If you’ve ever considered becoming a foster parent, remember that you do not have to be married, have your own children, or be wealthy. You only need to have a desire to help the children placed in your care and a passion for making a difference.

“One person cannot change the world, but that one person can change the world of a child,” Cundiff says.

indiana foster parent resources Indiana Department of Child Services in.gov/dcs/2955.htm

Indiana Foster & Adoptive Parents fosterandadoptive parents.org

List of Indiana Licensed Planning Agencies in.gov/dcs/files/ LicensedChildPlacing Agencies.pdf

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KEEP CALM

WORDS BY WENDI WILLIAMS

AND PARENT ON Helping your child manage anxiety, worry-free

We think of childhood as a carefree time of play and fun, but in reality, anxiety can manifest in children at nearly any age. We’re taking a look at some of the causes and symptoms of childhood anxiety, along with tactics and techniques you can start using today to help your child stress less.

Causes of Anxiety Many studies have been done into what causes anxiety in children. Some have looked at genetics, while others explore environmental factors. Abbe Sechrist, a counselor at Northside Mental Health in Indianapolis, says that the root cause of anxiety is likely a combination of both.

“Our society pushes us past our biology,” Sechrist says. “We haven't evolved as quickly as our society has, and the demands it puts on children to get perfect grades, look or dress a certain way, have certain friends, play sports and master musical instruments, are extremely overwhelming.”

No Clue? No Worries! Unsure if your child is struggling with anxiety? Keep in mind that anxiety, even in young children, is totally normal. In fact, standard levels of anxiety are an indicator of healthy development. “Good anxiety forces us to work hard, prepare and problem solve,” Sechrist says. “But at times we think, ‘This feeling is so bad; I have to get rid of it.’ In actuality, it’s very normal.”

So, when does it become a problem? Jillian Wise, Ph.D., a pediatric neuropsychologist with Children’s Resource Group, says that parents need to look at the impact of their

INDYSCHILD.COM I May 2019

child’s anxiety. “If it means that they can't function at school, or they can't make it through a trip to the grocery store, we start to feel it’s affecting the child’s ability to get through their day.”

Worry Signs You know your child better than anyone, so you’re likely to be the first person to feel something may be off. However, the signs of childhood anxiety can often be mistaken for other issues. Here are some of the most common:

* Trouble with separation * Frequent tantrums or meltdowns * Changes in eating or sleeping habits * Regression in some behaviors, like toilet training * Anger, stubbornness or obstinacy

Don’t Worry, Be Happy There are many ways parents can be proactive in helping their children manage symptoms of anxiety and develop healthy coping skills.

1. Communicate Children often lack the ability or the vocabulary to explain to you what’s wrong. Talk to them on their level, using words they understand. Sechrist says that listening is just as important. “Listening and being available as a non-judgmental sounding board is so important,” she says. “Hear what they’re saying, and ask if they know how to solve it. If they don’t, that’s when you step in to support them.”

2. Model With children, it’s important to practice what you preach. You can’t expect them to feel calm and worry-free when you’re throwing off your own anxious vibes. Anna Merrill, a psychologist with Children’s Resource Group, says that modeling appropriate behavior is key.

“Parents can’t expect a child to go into stressful situations if they aren’t modeling for their kids how they manage their own anxiety,” Merrill says. “Just talking about it and modeling what your own coping skills look like can be really helpful for young kids.”

3. Calm When it comes to helping your kids stay calm, just remember “M&M” — mindfulness and meditation. Helping your children learn to be present and focused can give them the skills they need to reduce their stress and manage the anxiety they feel. It may be setting “phone-free” hours to keep them away from anxiety-inducing social media, it might be a family board game night, or a few moments of quiet meditation with a soothing sound machine.

4. Reach Out If you do feel that your child’s anxiety is impacting their ability to function on a daily basis, it’s time to seek help. Merrill says your pediatrician is your first line of defense. “Your primary care physician is where you can talk about what’s going on and how significant, frequent or extreme it is,” she says. “They might then refer you to a psychologist for testing or treatment.” Additionally, get to know your child’s school counselor, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

It can be frightening and painful to watch your child deal with the difficulties of anxiety. Remember that, at any age, there is no such thing as being completely carefree, and that some anxiety is normal and healthy. If it becomes a problem, there are many strategies you can employ to help them manage their feelings, and many skilled professionals ready and waiting to help.

It can be frightening and painful to watch your child deal with the difficulties of anxiety. Remember that, at any age, some anxiety is normal and healthy. If it becomes a problem, there are many strategies you can employ to help them manage their feelings, and many skilled professionals ready and waiting to help.

May 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

STUDENTS WHO SHINE Molly Fox –

Senior, Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School

What high school achievement are you most proud of? This year I am most proud about being chosen to be a Kairos Retreat leader. From my own experience with Kairos, I was made more aware of how simply being myself makes a positive impact on those around me. I am excited to help my peers realize the same. What are your future plans? Upon receiving my last admissions acceptance on April 1, I have yet to decide where I will be going to school next year. I plan to either study Fashion Business Management at The Fashion Institute of Technology, in New York City or Apparel Merchandising at Indiana University Bloomington. How has Brebeuf prepared you for your future? Brebeuf Jesuit has inspired me to further embrace my individuality. The Brebeuf environment encourages the student body to value differences and appreciate diversity with a broader sense of gratitude. The lens with which I view and understand life has and will continue to be positively influenced by my four years at Brebeuf.

Nandi Hawkins –

Senior, Cathedral High School

What high school achievement are you most proud of? I am most proud of receiving the President’s Volunteer Service Award. Volunteer service is one of my favorite things to do. I think that it is amazing that I am given the opportunity to do what I love, and be nationally recognized for the work that comes from serving others. What are your future plans? I plan on attending University of Dayton, majoring in Computer Engineering. While in college, I would like to continue serving others by going on a few mission trips. How has Cathedral prepared you for your future? Cathedral offers an extremely nurturing environment for the students. I have enjoyed my time there, been challenged academically, and grown spiritually. I’m extremely grateful that my parents invested in Cathedral.

Tamia Jackson –

Sophomore, Indianapolis Public Schools, Shortridge High School

What high school achievement are you most proud of? I am most proud of my "Duty, Honor, and Country” Essay that won the JROTC national contest. I was very excited yet shocked to find out that I had even made it to nationals. Not only did I win nationals, I won an all-expenses paid trip to Washington D.C. to see important historical museums and monuments. I am excited to see a new place I have never been before and meet all kinds of new people. What are your future plans? When I graduate high school I plan on attending two years of college at Ivy Tech or Indiana University, then travel to look for a college that specializes in auto mechanics and construction. How has Shortridge High School prepared you for your future? Shortridge High School offers a lot of different resources like Butler Writers and the Future Center, which gives all students a fair opportunity to succeed. I originally came from Broad Ripple, which closed due to a lack of students. However, in my short amount of time here I have already achieved a lot. I was honored at an IPS school board meeting and won an all-expenses paid trip to Washington D.C. for my winning essay. I want to specifically thank Mr. Speckman and his team of writers for helping me construct a winning essay. May 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

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Mirica R. –

6th Grader, K12 Hoosier Academies at Indianapolis

What school achievement are you most proud of? I am proud of all my achievements; I have improved academically. When I started the school, I was kind of behind but the school’s program helped me get up to speed. I received a Certificate of Achievement, 7 Mindsets Certificate, and National Junior Honor Society Certificate. What are your future plans? My short-term plans are to continue to keep up my grades, stay in afterschool activities, such as Robotics Club, become fluent in French, and graduate K12 with honors. My long-term plan is to become a missionary in a foreign land. How has Hoosier Academies at Indianapolis prepared you for your future? School was rough at first because I felt I was not smarter than the others. My teacher and staff are amazing. They gave me confidence, they wanted me to progress academically, and they were patient with me. My self-esteem boosted 100 percent when it comes to learning now and in the future.

Joel Greenfield –

Junior, Lawrence Central High School

What high school achievement are you most proud of? I am most proud of having performed in the Rose Bowl Parade and at Lucas Oil Stadium as a member of the Marching Pride of Lawrence Township marching band. What are your future plans? In the fall, I will begin applying to colleges; I plan to study math or physics while continuing to play trumpet after high school. How has Lawrence Central prepared you for your future? Lawrence Central has prepared me for the future by teaching me to manage my time between a demanding school schedule and extracurricular activities. The International Baccalaureate program and AP classes have prepared me well for the difficulty of college classes.

Kiley Shaw –

Senior, Lawrence North High School

What high school achievement are you most proud of? LN has allowed me to have many achievements. Our tennis team has won two sectional titles, I’ve held the top academic ranking of our class, and I presented my own art exhibit. So, I’m proud that I could succeed in all parts of my well-rounded high school experience. What are your plans after high school? My plans after high school are that I will be attending DePauw University and majoring in Biology. I am currently aiming my career path towards becoming a veterinarian, but I have some backup options I am considering as well, such as a physical therapist or a sports psychologist. How has Lawrence North prepared you for your future? Earlier this year I shadowed an IU chemistry course and realized I understood the entire syllabus, because I’d learned it all in the IB chemistry class I took at LN. This made me grateful for how well my teachers here at LN have prepared me for college.

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Grace Miller –

8th Grader, The Orchard School

What middle school achievement are you most proud of? At this point in my life, my greatest achievement is that I’ve started to define who I am as a person and what I want to pursue in life. My family, the Orchard community, my friends, and my teachers have all had a big impact on shaping who I am as a person, and I’m really thankful for all of them. What are your future plans? I’m going to go to North Central High School next year and I’m super excited. They have a really amazing performing arts program which I’m planning to be a part of. I want to be an actor, and it’s my dream to be on Broadway someday. How has Orchard prepared you for your future? Orchard has given me so many opportunities to try new things and to do things I never thought I could. There are so many different paths that you can take in life and Orchard allows you to get a taste of so many things. Every day I have music class, alternating between choir and orchestra. Also, Orchard allows students in middle school to take a two-week intensive class called ‘Winterm’. Students can choose what they do, which allows for even more exploration. We can perform in the school musical, write stories, create businesses, learn about new places, explore the city, cook food, make all sorts of art… the list goes on and on.

Sia Patel –

8th Grader, Sycamore School

What school achievement are you most proud of? The school achievement that I am extremely proud is my growth as a student. When I began Sycamore School I was a shy, young girl and as I continued my path, I have grown to be an outgoing, young woman that reaches out when needed. What are your future plans? I will be attending Park Tudor High School for the next four years. A school should challenge you while helping you through that challenge. Park Tudor High School makes me feel both comfortable and nervous. How has Sycamore prepared you for your future? Sycamore has challenged me as a student yet reached out if I could not work through the challenge. The academic and communication skills I have developed through my Sycamore career has prepared me well for high school.

Grace Rozembajgier –

Senior, University High School

What high school achievement are you most proud of? My junior year, I managed the transition of University’s online school newspaper into a print version. Since then, we’ve published three additional print editions highlighting our students’ writing, photography, graphic design, and ideas. I am especially proud that The UPost is creating and encouraging discussion in the University community. What are your future plans? I will attend the University of Notre Dame next year and pursue an American Studies major with minors in Business and Journalism. I was particularly drawn to Notre Dame because of their focus on giving back, and I can’t wait to pursue my passion for service while studying what I love. How has University High School prepared you for your future? I chose University because of its community and academics. University enabled me to explore my loves of writing, leadership, and service. From Year of Service activities to one-on-one mentoring, University’s programs taught me the importance and value of engaging with and learning from those in our immediate and broader communities.

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May 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

IC EDUCATION GUIDE CARMEL

Carmel Montessori Schools Carmel Montessori School is located on the NE corner of Main St. and Meridian in Carmel. Our directress is American Montessori Certified with 18 years head-teaching experience and we a a full member of the American Montessori Society. 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

Carmel United Methodist Preschool

Montessori, Piaget, Gesell, Vygotsky as well as information from the latest child development studies. Research shows that introducing a skill when the child is physically, emotionally and academically ready leads to mastery of the skill instead of causing frustration. Research also shows that 90% of Primrose Students perform twice the level of their peer group. Please call us today to learn more about our early education and preschool opportunities that will fit the need of your family Currently enrolling, space is limited. • 13096 Moultrie Street,

Carmel, IN 46032. Contact: Kendra Dunagan, 317-873-0123. primrosewestclay.com

The Primrose School at West Carmel

The Primrose School at West Carmel is an accredited early education and care school serving infants through kindergarten as well as before and after school services for elementary age students. We offer a Balanced Learning approach, which nurtures curiosity, confidence, creativity and compassion. Balanced Learning is a researchinformed approach which combines multiple learning philosophers like Montessori, Piaget, Gesell, Vygotsky as Carmel, IN, Contact: Tiffany Lehman, well as information from the latest child Phone: 317-844-1958, Email: tlehman@ development studies. Research shows carmelumc.org, carmelumc.org/ that introducing a skill when the child is preschool/ physically, emotionally and academically ready leads to mastery of the skill instead of causing frustration. The Little Lamb Christian Research also shows that 90% of School Primrose Students perform twice the level of their peer group. Please call us The Little Lamb Christian School is a today to learn more about our early home away from home for children 6 education and preschool opportunities weeks to pre-kindergarten. Since that will fit the need of your family. 1987, we have been the go-to private Currently enrolling, space is limited. • preschool for Carmel families who 3746 West 98th Street, Carmel, IN 46032. are interested in a Christian Contact: Lisa Housh, 317-876-0123, education. We are a place where primrosewestcarmel.com children can learn, explore, create, grow and play! • 1609 Greyhound Pass, Carmel United Methodist Preschool has provided high quality preschool experiences for the families of Carmel and the surrounding area for 45 years. We offer classes for children 18 months through 5 years old. Our students enjoy learning through inquiry based play, while interacting with their peers to create positive emotional and social learning experiences. • 621 S. Rangeline Road,

Carmel, IN 46032, Phone: 317-848-3580, Email: kayley@thelittlelamb.com, thelittlelamb.com/, 6 weeks to Pre-Kindergarten and after school care

The Primrose School at WestClay An accredited early education and care school serving infants through kindergarten as well as before and after school services for elementary age students. We offer a Balanced Learning approach, which nurtures curiosity, confidence, creativity and compassion. Balanced Learning is a researchinformed approach which combines multiple learning philosophers like

INDYSCHILD.COM I May 2019

Starting Line Preschool The Right Start for A Lifelong Love of Learning! Our strong academicbased curriculum prepares and encourages your child to succeed in school while discovering learning is fun! 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.Develop Social Awareness & Friendships, Build Confidence and Master Academic Skills for Kindergarten. • 110 Third Ave NE, Carmel, IN 46032, Contact: Diane Atkins, Phone: 317-753-9397, Email: dkatkins22@msn. com, startinglinepreschool.com

DOWNTOWN

IUPUI Center for Young Children The IUPUI Center for Young Children offers childcare and early childhood education for children ages six weeks to six years old and believe children learn through play, experiences, and interaction with their environment and peers. • 321 Limestone St.,

Indianapolis, IN 46202, Phone: 317-2743508, childcare.iupui.edu/index.html

Paramount Brookside Paramount Brookside is a tuition-free K-8 charter school that educates students in an innovative environment that instills high expectations for success. Founded in 2010, Paramount Schools of Excellence accomplish its mission and teaches the mastery of Indiana Academic Standards through an emphasis on rigorous academics and experiential learning activities. Integral to the school’s approach to education are project-based investigations, community partnerships and three on-site Discovery Centers – an Eco Center, Space Center with planetarium and an operating farm. Paramount Brookside is designated a 2018 Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education and a Four-Star and an “A” school by the Indiana Department of Education. • 3020 Nowland Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46201 Contact: Connor Schultheis, contact@PSOEBrookside.org, 317.775.6660, paramountindy.org

EAST

Paramount Community Heights Paramount Community Heights serves K-4th grade students as a tuition-free charter school. Founded in 2010, Paramount Schools of Excellence accomplishes its mission and teaches the mastery of Indiana Academic Standards through an emphasis on rigorous academics and experiential learning activities. Paramount’s flagship Brookside campus is designated a 2018 Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education and a Four-Star and an “A” school by the Indiana Department of Education. • 1525 N. Ritter Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46219, 317.671.1229, Contact: Sarah Shaffer, contact@PSOECommunity.org, paramountindy.org

Paramount Englewood Paramount Englewood is now accepting enrollment of 5-8th students for the 2019-2020 school year. The new middle school campus is an extension of Paramount Schools of Excellence successful education model. The flagship Brookside campus is designated a 2018 Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education and a Four-Star and an “A” school by the Indiana Department of Education. Founded in 2010, Paramount accomplishes its mission and teaches the mastery of Indiana Academic Standards through an emphasis on rigorous academics and experiential learning activities. • 1849 Pleasant Run Parkway South Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46203, 317.741.9589, Contact Peggy Purvis, contact@PSO Eenglewood.org. paramountindy.org

INDIANAPOLIS – NORTH

Beth-El Zedeck Early Childhood Center

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 Cost/Tuition: Please call or email for full brochure Hours/Dates: Flexible Hours. Full Time/Part-Time available. Ages/Grades: 12 months old+, 18 months old+, 2s+, 3s+, 4s+, Pre-Kindergarten (Kindergarten Readiness Class) (3 day or 5 day option) Before/After School Care: Before and After School Care always available as needed. Early drop off as early as 7:30 am and late pick up anytime up until 6:00pm/5:30 pm on Fridays. • 600 W. 70th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Joanie Waldman, Phone: 317-259-6854, Fax: 317-259- 6849, Email: jwaldman@bez613.org, bez613.org

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 intellectually competent, open to growth, loving, religious and committed

* SPONSORED LISTINGS

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: 317-524-7090. Email: admissions@brebeuf.org, brebeuf.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, childrenscircle.org

Children’s Day In Nursery School and Traditional Preschool Children's Day In Nursery School and Traditional Preschool is a fully inclusive early childhood program with an emphasis on Christian values and learning through play. It is designed to offer children ages 9 months to 5 years a positive and developmentally appropriate first school experience in the care of experienced and loving caregivers. We play and learn! Classes are offered weekdays from 9 am to 2:30 pm. For the older kids, our program includes weekly Christian Life Skills, Music class taught by Indianapolis Children’s Choir instructors and Book Club. Please call, E-mail or visit for further information and registration forms. Tours are individually set up at your convenience! • 5500 N. Meridian

St., Indianapolis, IN 46208, Contact: Christy Whaley, Phone: 317-253-0472, cwhaley@meridianstreet.org, meridianstreet.org/cdi

Early Childhood Center, The Church at the Crossing Our Parents Day Out (16-35 mos) and Part Day Preschool (3 yrs-PreK5) provide relaxed, secure, playful environments that nurture creativity and the exploration of God’s world. A variety of learning materials & readiness skills are woven into each

unit. Various days, 9am-2pm. Some extended days. Need longer hours? Try our Neighborhood Child Care ministry designed for 16 mos – Pre K5 with class times 6:30am-6pm. • 9111 N. Haverstick

in social skills are developed through positive interaction with peers and our well-qualified and loving staff. Now enrolling for summer. • 2944 E. 56th

Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46240, Contact: John Drake, Phone: 317-575-6508, Email: jdrake @golove.org or wcarriger@golove.org

Street, Indianapolis, IN 46220, Contact: Gail Hacker and Tammy Clark, Phone: 317-257-9127, Email: thepanda@polly panda.com, pollypanda.com

Fall Creek Montessori

Primrose School of Geist

Fall Creek Montessori Academy is a culturally diverse environment where children grow and develop their unique talents and gifts. Through child-centered learning, children excel physically, emotionally, and academically. Conveniently located at Hague Rd. and 88th St., FCMA serves children at all levels, from infancy through kindergarten. Programs are available two to five days per week, with before and after care available. • 7770 E. 88th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46256; info@ fallcreekmontessori.com; fallcreekmontessori.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, NAEYC accredited. • 615 W. 64th St.,

Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Jennifer Bostrom, Director of Institutional Advancement, Phone: 317-713-5705, Fax: 317-254-8454, Email: jbostrom@orchard. org, orchard.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: 317-202-2501, skarpicke@sycamore school.org, sycamoreschool.org

INDIANAPOLIS – NORTHEAST

Polly Panda Preschool 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

Our Balanced Learning approach is designed to provide high-quality, educational experiences to support children’s social-emotional, cognitive, creative and physical development. It is made up of an exclusive standardsbased curriculum that enables teachers to help children gain the knowledge and skills that will enable them to move successfully from one level of development to the next as wellrounded individuals. Our school offers developmentally-appropriate materials and equipment for all classrooms; multiple forms of assessment; and extensive training for teachers. We believe the right foundation to build active minds, healthy bodies, and happy hearts® starts in the younger years. Call for more information or to schedule a tour! • 7615 Oaklandon Road, Indianapolis, IN 46236. Contact: Anita Boyd. Phone: 317-855-7808. Email: aboyd@primrosegeist.com, primrosegeist.com, 6 weeks old through Pre-K and before and after school up to age 12

The Sapling School The Sapling School offers a year round Reggio-inspired preschool for children ages 3 to 5 in conjunction with extended after care hours for working families. We empower children to discover themselves and the world around them as they become critical thinkers, creative problem-solvers, and collaborative community members. We value our students and their passions, curiosities, and joys. Their interests guide the holistic, emergent curriculum and our learning environment. Look for our teachers and students around the Broad Ripple area interacting with neighbors as they learn the unique ways they are capable of enriching their community. For more information or to explore our virtual tour please visit saplingschoolindy.com or facebook. com/saplingschoolindy. • To schedule a private tour please call (317) 319-8228, 838 East 65th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46220, Email: kelsey@ saplingschoolindy.com, sapling schoolindy.com

INDIANAPOLIS – SOUTH

Curtis Wilson Primary School and Academy

Curtis Wilson Primary School and Academy, a program of Beech Tree House Center for Child Development, Inc., promotes the emotional, physical,

intellectual, social, and spiritual development of each child. Our exceptional teaching staff is dedicated to presenting a challenging and enthusiastic learning environment that recognizes each unique learner. With a dedication to personal excellence, all members of our school family are challenged to practice and exhibit love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control in daily life. Stateaccredited with exemplary ratings. Preschool - Sixth Grade. • 7850 South

Emerson Ave., Indianapolis , 46237, 317-882-8636, jhaywood-rollins@ beechtreehouse.com, cwpsa.com

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: 317-867-0158, Fax: 317-896-5945, Email: montessori westfield@gmail.com, montessori schoolofwestfield.com

The Primrose School at Bridgewater An accredited early education and care school serving infants through kindergarten as well as before and after school services for elementary age students. We offer a Balanced Learning approach, which nurtures curiosity, confidence, creativity and compassion. Balanced Learning is a researchinformed approach which combines multiple learning philosophers like Montessori, Piaget, Gesell, Vygotsky as well as information from the latest child development studies. Research shows that introducing a skill when the child is physically, emotionally and academically ready leads to mastery of the skill instead of causing frustration.Research also shows that 90% of Primrose Students perform twice the level of their peer group. Please call us today to learn more about our early education and preschool opportunities that will fit the need of your family. Currently enrolling, space is limited. • 14711 North Gray

Road, Westfield, IN 46062, Contact: Nikki Knott, 317-848-0123. primrosebridgewater.com

BE PART OF OUR MONTHLY GUIDE CONTACT WENDY@INDYSCHILD.COM

May 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

SPONSORED CONTENT

A Healthy Dose of Nature By focusing on nature programming and advocacy, CCPR is not only helping to develop a healthier community, it is also creating a sustainable future by maintaining and improving the community’s resources through natural, cultural and land resource management.

Every year when the sun starts to peek its warm rays out from behind those milky gray clouds, there’s an almost tangible happiness. Families crowd to the trails, to the parks, to the sidewalks. It feels good to get that vitamin D! But too often, that drive to get outdoors wanes and we head back indoors to our computers, tablets and phones. It’s a cycle that most definitely needs to be broken!

Survey says: Spend more time outdoors! The most recent Kaiser Family Foundation Study on daily media use among children and teens found that the average 8 to 18 year old spends 7.5 hours using media daily. Studies also show that spending time outdoors with structured and unstructured play helps kids develop mentally and physically, including better sleep, increased attentiveness, boosted critical thinking skills and overall better health. Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) is working to overcome that dissonance and connect the community with the outdoors through nature programming and environmental advocacy.

Let’s take this party to the park!

Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation focuses on nature “Access to parks and nature programming is so important for all ages, but especially for our kids,” says Erica Foreman, program supervisor for Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation. “One of our largest areas of focus is to keep nature education and access to the outdoors at the forefront for our community.” CCPR offers hundreds of naturerelated programs every year. The organization’s natural resources coordinator, resident naturalist and programming supervisors work together to offer a variety of programs and field trips to the community for ages preschool to senior. Programs are designed to connect participants with nature through learning, activities and play. In the seasonal program

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guides, you will find an array of nature programs for all interests. Interested in birding? Tapping maple trees? Learning about the history of Carmel parks? You’ll find all this and more each season. CCPR manages and maintains more than 500 acres of park land. Throughout Carmel, you will find 13 parks and four greenways offering greenspace, playgrounds, access to natural resources, and education through interpretive signage.

CCPR is a resource for families to combat ever-increasing media consumption and an “indoor childhood.” Through seasonal programs, children (and parents, too!) can spend time learning about pollinators, fishing, butterflies and more out in CCPR’s many parks and facilities. By instilling the importance of nature and natural resources at a young age, kids will be equipped to carry that appreciation with them into adulthood. Dig into nature at CCPR by exploring their programs online at carmelclayparks.com/ programs/nature.

PHOTO CREDITS

CARMEL CLAY PARKS & RECREATION

PARENTING

WORDS BY THE AMERICAN CAMP ASSOCIATION

Preparing for Camp Help your child have a positive camp experience Summer camp season is quickly approaching. If you’ve already taken the first step and registered your child for camp, it’s now time to start preparing your child for what’s next. Here are some tips to help your camper navigate the summer successfully.

Dealing with Homesickness Psychologist and speaker Dr. Christopher Thurber studied homesickness in 329 boys between the ages of 8 and 16 at resident camp. According to his results, homesickness is the norm rather than the exception. A whopping 83 percent of the campers studied reported homesickness on at least one day of camp. Planning ahead and preparing your child for the camp experience will help combat homesickness.

Thurber and the American Camp Association recommend the following: * Discuss what camp will be like before your child leaves. Consider role-playing anticipated situations, such as using a f lashlight to find the bathroom. * Send a note or care package ahead of time to arrive the first day of camp. Acknowledge, in a positive way, that you will miss your child. For example, you can say, "I am going to miss you, but I know that you will have a good time at camp." * Don't bribe. Linking a successful stay at camp to a material object sends the wrong message. The reward should be your child's new-found confidence and independence.

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* Pack a personal item from home, such as a stuffed animal. * When a "rescue call" comes from the child, offer calm reassurance and put the time frame into perspective. Avoid the temptation to take the child home early. * Talk candidly with the camp director to get their perspective on your child's adjustment. * Don't feel guilty about encouraging your child to stay at camp. For many children, camp is a first step toward independence and plays an important role in their growth and development. * Trust your instincts. While most incidents of homesickness will pass in a day or two, Thurber's research shows that approximately 7 percent of the cases are severe. If your child is

not eating or sleeping because of anxiety or depression, it is time to go home. However, don't make your child feel like a failure if their stay at camp is cut short. Focus on the positive and encourage your child to try camp again next year.

Packing for Camp Many camps have recommended packing lists, so reach out to the camp before your child attends to see what the camp suggests. Sometimes those packing lists are on the camp’s website. The American Camp Association has an example of a packing list online that includes recommended types of apparel, footwear, swimwear and more that will make sure your child’s experience is a well-prepared one. Visit ACAcamps.org to learn more.

IC SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 2019 A Children's Habitat Montessori Summer Camp 801 West 73rd Street, Indianapolis, IN; (317) 726-5584; email: info@childrenshabitat.org; childrens-habitat.org Dates: June 3-7, 10-14, 17-21 and July 8-12, 15-19 • Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 am–noon • Ages: 4-10 • Activities: June 3-7: Dinosaurs / June 10-14: Cooking / June 17-21: Harry Potter / July 8-12: Bees / July 15-19: STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Math)

A Children's Habitat Montessori School offers 5 weeks of themed camp fun for children ages 4-10 years old. These multi-age, Montessoribased experiences offer childcentered activities in our Outdoor Classroom, led by experienced Montessori guides. Restrooms are indoors and indoor classrooms will be used during inclement weather days.

Art Camps at the SullivanMunce Cultural Center 225 West Hawthorne, Zionsville; Contact: Cynthia Young, Phone: (317) 873-4900; email: cynthiayoung@sullivanmunce.org; sullivanmunce.org Dates: June-July • Hours: 9am-4pm • Ages: 7-17 • Activities: Art, including outdoor activities

Summer art camps for children ages 7-17. All-day and half-day art camps available. Indoor and outdoor activities. Campers will be introduced to a variety of art materials and techniques. Come ready to get dirty and have fun!

Beth-El Zedeck Early Childhood Center “It’s a “Zoo” in Here!” 600 West 70th St., Indianapolis, IN; (317) 259-6854; jwaldman@bez613.org; bez613.org Dates: Session 1: June 3 – June 28; Session 2: July 1 – July 26 • Hours: Flexible hours. Half Days/Full Days Early drop off as early as 7:30 am and late pickup anytime up until 6 pm/5:30 pm on Fridays • Ages: 12 months+ through 5 years+ • Activities: Weekly creative themes, arts and crafts, water fun at the Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Aquatic Complex for 3’s 4’s and 5’s. Water play for 12 months through 2’s. Music/ Creative Movement, Entertainment, Field Trip Fridays for 4’s and 5’s.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! Our Program recognizes that children learn through play. Play fosters total development and should be interwoven in everything children do. During camp, the children will experiment and explore by using all five senses. Our campers will thrive on creativity, exploration, discovery, spontaneity and lots of love!

Bishop Chatard Summer Camps 5885 Crittenden Ave., Indianapolis, Contact: Kelly Lucas, (317) 251-1451, email: klucas@bishopchatard.org, BishopChatard.org/camps/ Dates: June 10-13; June 17-20; and June 24-27 • Hours: 9am to Noon; 12:30 to 3:30pm; 8am to 3pm • Ages: 1st through 8th grade • Activities: Theatre; Community Service; Robotics; Coding; Art; Cooking; Improv Comedy; Creative Writing; Basketball, Baseball; Softball; Football; Lacrosse; Volleyball; Wrestling; Soccer; Cheerleading; Ceramics

Bishop Chatard High School offers a variety of camps that encourage 1st through 8th grade students to explore

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new interests, challenge their imaginations and hone current skills. Athletic and enrichment camps appeal to students interested in theatre, technology, music, sports, community service, art and more. Half and full-day camps are available, or your child may bring a lunch and experience different camps in our morning and afternoon sessions. Early-bird and multiple camp discounts are available.

Butler Youth Soccer Camps 5100 Lester Street, Indianapolis, IN 46208; (248) 709-0138; email: psnape@butler. edu, butleryouthsoccercamp.com Dates: June 10-14, June 24–28, July 8- 12 • Ages: 6 to 16 • Hours: Full day: 9am-3pm, half day: 9am-noon

The Butler Youth Soccer Camp Program is widely recognized as the best soccer camp in the metro Indianapolis area for soccer development. The camp curriculum has a great balance between teaching and having fun. We focus on improving the technical skills of every camper, and just importantly, we look to inspire each camper to succeed both on and off the field. The camp is open to players of all levels (beginner, intermediate and advanced). All camps are run by Paul Snape, Butler University Head Men’s Soccer Coach, and his staff. The camps take place on the campus of Butler University.

Camp AYS Locations: Decatur Township, IPS, Speedway, Washington Township; (317) 283-3817; email: info@ayskids.org; ayskids.org/camp Dates: Varies depending on school district • Hours: 6:30am-6pm • Ages: 5-12

Camp AYS offers fun adventures focused on science, art, health and

the environment. Lots of active games, new friends and new experiences make Camp AYS the place to be this summer. Camps are located in Marion County.

Camp Carson YMCA 2034 Outer Lake Rd., Princeton, IN; (812) 385-3597; email: campinfo@ ymcacampcarson.org; campcarson.org Dates: June 2-July 26 • Ages: 7-16 • Activities: Horseback riding, dirt bikes, robotics, nature, arts & crafts, archery, climbing tower, riflery, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, fishing, soccer, basketball, mountain bikes, mountain boards, woodworking, radio station and more.

Fly from the zipline, create a clay pot, ride horses or dirt bikes. Build your confidence and self-esteem as you join campers and staff from around the country and the world in a camp family where all kids are Accepted, Challenged and Empowered. ALL new cabins built in 2014.

Camp Delafield by the Dyslexia Institute of Indiana 8140 Union Chapel Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46240, Contact: Bill Herman, Phone: (317) 222-6635, e-mail: info@diin.org, diin.org/ camp-delafield Dates: Monday-Friday, June 10 - July 12, 2019 (no camp July 4 or 5) • Hours: Monday-Thursday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. / Fridays 8 a.m. - Noon • Ages: 7-12 • Special Needs Offered: Multisensory Instruction for Dyslexic Students • Activities: Daily morning academics in reading, writing, mathematics and STEM; Afternoons consist of fun, enrichment activities like swimming, art projects, games, special guests and field trips

Mornings at Camp Delafield focus on four academic rotations: one-on-one Orton-Gillingham, and small group instruction in written expression, math, and STEM. Afternoons focus on

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building confidence and making friends through summertime camp fun! Dyslexia diagnosis preferred but not required. Cost is $3500. Join us for our 30th year!

Camp Invention Multiple locations throughout Indianapolis, Phone: (800) 968-4332, email: campinvention@invent.org, invent.org/camp Dates: Varies by location • Ages: Entering grades K-6

Unmask your child’s creativity this summer in the all-new Camp Invention® program, Supercharged™, where children transform their wild imaginations into epic creations. Campers in grades K-6 will code robots and use collaboration and creative problem solving during hands-on, STEM activities. Use promo code INNOVATE25L to save $25 (expires 3/22) or PLAY15LISTING to save $15 (expires 5/10).

CampJCC 6701 Hoover Rd., Indianapolis, IN; (317) 251-9467; email: camp@jccindy.org; jccindy.org/ Dates: June 3-July 26 • Hours: 9 am-4 pm • Ages: K-Grade 9 • Activities: swimming, arts/crafts, cookouts, indoor/

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outdoor sports, singing/dancing, citizenship

CampJCC offers experiences geared to each child's stage of development: adventures and friendship-building through games, nature and science studies for K-1; exploration and development of special interests for grades 2-5; and more autonomy and responsibility for grades 6-9. Kids have the best time playing on our 40-acre campus and Eskenazi Water Park. Extended care, pre/post camp available.

Camp Riley at Bradford Woods 5040 State Rd 67 N, Martinsville, IN, (765) 342-2915 Dates: May-August • Ages: Varies • Serves a wide range of physical diagnoses & medical conditions) • Activities: Therapeutic Horseback Riding, Climbing Tower, Alpine Tower, Canoeing, Swimming, Adapted Recreations, Music, Art

We host Camp Riley, a camp for youth with physical disabilities and other medical conditions. Children can attend one of eight sessions over a nine-week span catered to their needs. We also offer an Environmental Explorers camp for those wishing to have an amazing time exploring the outdoors!

Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation Summer Camp Series 1235 Central Park Drive East, Carmel, IN, (317) 573-5240; bjohnson@carmelclay parks.com, carmelclayparks.com/ summer-camps/ Dates: June 3-August 2, 2019 • Hours: 7am-6pm (hours vary by specific camp) • Ages: 5-15 years (ages vary by specific camp) • Activities: Themes include: art, theatre, sports, nature and science

Ready for the best summer ever? We are your child’s summer camp destination. Our camp themes include art, theatre, sports, nature and science – so we’re sure to have something for everyone! Camps run 7am-6pm (Mon-Fri), but vary based on camp. We can’t wait for your child to join us in our Summer Camp Series for 2019. Let’s have some fun!

Children's Therapy Connection: Preschool Prep Summer Camp

readiness activities • Special Needs: All abilities welcome!

Children’s Therapy Connection’s Preschool Prep Summer Camp is a day camp program for children of all ability levels ages 2-5. Our summer camp provides a creative and enriching setting for your child to connect with their potential this summer! Our focus is geared towards preparing children for preschool across all domains of development (fine/gross motor, cognitive, social, self-help, and communication). Staffed with the same high-quality therapists who work with our First Steps program, our camp will allow your child to be immersed in a nurturing, educational, and therapeutic environment.

Chinese Culture Summer Camp at IUPUI (317) 278-7900; email: ncbuonan@iupui. edu; iupui.edu/~china/programs/ summer-camp/

7478 Shadeland Station Way, Indianapolis; Contact: Karen Berty; email: kberty@childrenstherapyconnection. com; (317) 523-5237

Dates: June 3 - July 26 • Hours: 7:30 am-6 pm • Ages: K-8 (at least 5 years old) • Activities: Chinese, Calligraphy, Crafts & Sports, Singing & Dancing as well as Reading & Math

Dates: June 17 - July 12 • Ages: 2-5 year old • Activities include: Preschool

For language learning, the younger the better. To better prepare our

children to learn about China, IUPUI offers a Chinese Culture summer day camp for K-8 students (at least 5 years old). The camp is held on the IUPUI campus, and last for one to eight weeks.

Cincinnati Reds Baseball/ Softball Camps Billericay Park: 12600-12883 Promise Rd., Fishers, IN 60555, Contact: Tim Rappe, (855) 846-7337, email: Trappe@reds.com, reds.com/camps Gender of Campers: Co-ed • Hours: 9am-3pm; M-F • Dates: Billericay Park in Fishers; 6/17-6/21, 2019 • 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

Official Camps of the Reds. 30 hrs. of World Class baseball/softball training and unforgettable Reds experience. Meet a current player at GABP. 30 hrs. of instruction. Bring a buddy and save $25. Maybe the best baseball camp in America. Camp sold out last year so register early.

Creative Writing Summer Camp at James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home 528 Lockerbie Street, Indianapolis, IN, Contact: Chris Mize, (317) 808-8565, email: CMize@RileyKids.org, RileyMuseumHome.org Dates: June 24 - 28, 2019 and July 29 - Aug 2, 2019 • Hours: Full Day: 9am-4pm; Morning Only: 9am-noon • Ages: Grades 2-8 • Activities: Creative writing, tours of Museum Home, tours of Historic Lockerbie Neighborhood, games

Young writers will discover their own creative muse in fun activities inspired by the poetry and life of Mr. James Whitcomb Riley. The Museum Home and grounds of this historic site will be the focus of fun activities led by popular children's educator Professor Watermelon. Your child will discover the joy of unleashing their own imagination through creative writing!

Freetown Village Summer Camp 2019 3980 Meadows Drive., Indianapolis, IN, (317) 631-1870, Email: summercamp@ freetownvillage.org, freetownvillage.org Dates: June 10-July 19, 2019 • Hours: 8:00am - 5:30pm • Ages: 5 -14 (k-9th) • Activities: Academic enrichment (math/ language arts/socialstudies), arts and crafts, theater, hands-on activities, manners and etiquette lessons, team building, games, weekly field trips.

Six weekly sessions of learning and fun! Our camp fosters discovery, appreciation of the arts, and personal growth. Highlighting Indiana and African American history and culture, campers will develop a stronger sense of purpose, while learning about themselves and their community. Each week ends with a performance showcase of the activities.

Indiana Montessori Academy 2925 W. 146th St., Carmel, IN; (317) 569-1290; email: info@ indianamontessoriacademy.org; indianamontessoriacademy.org Dates: June 3 - Aug 8; off the week of July 4 • Ages: 3-9

Come join us as we explore the Great Outdoors through construction, cooking, creating and more! Each week of camp will feature unique, exciting themes. Our days will be spent outdoors playing, learning and caring for our environment! Weekly sessions are available.

Indianapolis Art Center Summer Art Camps 820 E 67th St., Indianapolis, IN; (317) 255-2464, email: jnieto@indplsartcenter. org; indplsartcenter.org/camps Dates: June 10-July 27 • Ages: 4-18 • Activities: Painting, Drawing, Glassblowing, Woodworking, Ceramics, and more!

Join the Indianapolis Art Center for a summer of art making, fun, and new friendships! Campers work with professional artists to explore new media, improve their artistic skills, express themselves creatively, and gain a deeper appreciation for the visual arts in a nurturing artistic community. Painting, drawing, glassblowing, woodworking, ceramics, jewelry making, and more!

Indianapolis Children’s Choir Choral Fest Butler University, 4600 Sunset Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46208; (317) 940-9640; Contact: Lauren Southard, email: lsouthar@icchoir.org, icchoir.org Dates: June 3-6 and July 22-26 • Hours: 9 am-4 pm • Ages: 1st grade - 8th grade • Activities: Singing, playing instruments, movement, games.

ICC’s Summer Choral Fest! A summer camp for kids who love music. The highest quality choral music experience woven in between fun musical activities and camp friendships! Includes a performance at the conclusion of camps. Financial assistance is available.

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IRT Summer Youth Workshop 140 W Washington St., Indianapolis, IN, (317) 916-4842, email: rpease@irtlive. com, irtlive.com/summer Dates: June 17 - July 12, 2019 • Hours: 9 am-4 pm • Ages: 8-18

IRT brings theatre to life for your child! With four-week, two-week, and new one-week options, there's something for everyone. Summer Workshops allow young actors of all experience levels to immerse themselves in work alongside IRT artists. Some programs require auditions; see web for details. Scholarships are available.

MATHNASIUM Carmel / Zionsville / Brownsburg, mathnasium.com Dates: flexible • Hours: vary by location • Ages: grades 2-12 • Activities: Individualized learning plans that build confidence, establish fluency, and develop conceptual understanding in a fun and rewarding environment.

Our experienced math tutors utilize proprietary teaching materials and techniques, The Mathnasium MethodTM, to deliver a customized learning plan designed to address each student’s needs, whether they started out far behind or are already ahead in math. Our instruction approach goes beyond traditional math tutoring to develop understanding and build a love for math.

Park Tudor School 7200 North College Ave., Indianapolis, IN; (317) 415-2898; email: sgreiner@ parktudor.org; parktudor.org/summer Dates: June 3-July 26 • Hours: 7:30 am - 6 pm • Ages: 3-18

Park Tudor School invites all central Indiana students ages 3-18 to attend its Summer Experience. We have camps for preschool, kindergarten, elementary school, middle school and high school! In keeping with the mission of Park Tudor School, you will find our summer programs offer small class sizes and varied experiences that will foster creativity and a joy for learning. Whether it's academics, enrichment, STEM, performing arts, athletics, Spanish, or more, you'll find the perfect summer camps for your child at Park Tudor. Experience Summer @ Park Tudor and discover the magic that happens when summer fun meets great teaching!

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Primrose Summer Adventure Club 7615 Oaklandon Rd., Indianapolis, IN; (317) 855-7808; email: aboyd@ primrosegeist.com; primroseschools. com/schools/geist/? Dates: June 3 - July 26 • Hours: 6:30 am- 6 pm • Ages: 5-12 • Activities: Weekly field trips, Splash Pad, Robotics, STEM, Arts, Culinary

At Primrose School of Geist Summer Adventure Club, children become engineers, artist, explorers and more as they discover the joys of design thinking, a fun and innovative way to learn. We have weekly field trips that tie into the theme. Engineering design challenges, experiments and themed activities await as children unlock new ways of thinking - all while having a blast!

SpringHill Multiple locations around Indianapolis; (231) 734-2616; email: registerdc@ springhillcamps.com; springhillday camps.com Dates: Varies by location, MondayFriday • Hours: 9 am-4 pm MondayFriday; before and after care available • Ages: Completed Kindergarten – 5th Grade • Activities: Hi-Adventure and water activities, archery, paintball targets, friendship building, mentoring, crafts, camp songs, character development, and games.

SpringHill Day Camps makes it easy to find the right summer experience for kids that provides a variety of experiences all in one. We bring the perfect week-long experience to kids right in their community with lots of fun activities, friendships, mentoring, character development, and spiritual investment, keeping your kids engaged and energized all day to make it the best week of their summer.

Summer U at University High School 2825 W.116th St., Carmel, IN; (317) 733-4475; email: nnealy@university highschool.org; university highschool. com/summer Dates: June 3-28 & July 8-26 • Hours: 8:30 am-4 pm dependent on camp, with extended hours for before and after care. • Ages: Grades 1-12 • Activities: Academic enrichment, fine & visual arts, world languages, STEM, sports

Summer U offers camps and academic workshops for passionate learners in grades 1-12. Our programs include everything from study skills, robotics, rocketry, computer gaming and development to theatre, visual arts, creative writing, world

languages, and sports. Our mission is to expand the hearts and minds of students and to nurture excellence through academic, creative, and physical achievement.

Sycamore School Quest Summer Camps 1750 West 64th Street. Indianapolis, IN, Contact: Dusty Burwell, (317) 430-2541, email burwell.dusty@sycamoreschool. org, sycamoreschool.org/ summercamps Dates: May - July 2019 • Hours: 8am - 4pm • Ages: 5 - 13 • Activities: chess, Legos, coding, science, art, sports, robotics and more

More than 35 different summer camps arebeing offered for from Pre-Kindergarten through 8th Grade. All camps are open to all children whether or not they attend Sycamore during the school year.

The Children's House Summer Camp

The Rock Camp 1477 W Main St. Greenwood, IN 46142, Contact: Kristen Baynai, (317) 888-6024, email: therockcamp@ccgonline.org; rockcampgreenwood.com Dates: May 28 - July 26 (with an optional additional week) • Hours: 6:30 am 6:00 pm • Ages: Entering grades 1-5 in fall 2019 • Activities: water games, field trips, class and large group teaching, arts & crafts, sports, large group games

The Rock Camp is an all-summer, all-day camp for kids entering grades 1-5 that runs May 28 - July 26 run by Community Church of Greenwood. Between the hours of 6:30am and 6:00pm every day, your kid will experience endless fun activities, field trips, and a feeling of safety and love. The Rock Camp is not just another daycare alternative but a safe, creative, and dynamic summer experience.

Youth Programs at Herron School of Art & Design

2404 W. 62nd. St., Indianapolis, IN; (317) 253-3033; email: childrenshouse08@ gmail.com

735 W New York St, Rm 149, IndianapolisContact: Colton Pedro; email: ahendren@iupui.edu; (317) 278-9404, herroncommunity.org

Dates: June 10-August 16 • Hours: 9 am-4 pm plus extended day 7 am-5:45 pm • Ages: 3-12 • Activities: field trips, swimming, art, theater, picnics

Dates: June 10-28 • Ages: grades 1-12 • Hours: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm (extended hours available) • Gender: co-ed • Activities: art making

The Children's House Summer Camp provides weekly themed activities in a relaxing environment free of competition. Day Camp activities include art, drama, games, recreational swimming, field trips, and many outdoor activities.

The Orchard School’s Summer Camp 615 W. 64th Street, Indianapolis, Contact: Regan Reams; email: rreams@orchard. org; (317) 251-9253, orchard.org/page/ extracurricular/summer-camp Dates: June 3-July 26 • Hours: 9 am- 4 pm; with extended hours available • Ages: 3 years- 8th grade

The Orchard School offers adventurous, academic and fun summer camps for children from three years old through eighth grade. Half-day and full-day camps are offered for 8 weeks over the summer, beginning June 3rd and running through July 26th. Our camps connect children with the outdoors, explore new areas of interest and help them stay active.

Herron’s youth programs are designed to seed inspiration, foster curiosity, and channel enthusiasm. Youth Art Camp allows campers to explore drawing and illustration, design, object making. Summer Teen Intensives offer immersive half-day and full day courses. Herron Pre-College is an intensive two-week summer program designed for college bound high school juniors, seniors, and recent graduates.

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SPONSORED CONTENT

WORDS BY EMMALEIGH BADEAUX, MA, LMHCA, AND TRACY GALE, PSYD, HSPP, EASTERSEALS CROSSROADS

Social Skill Development through Play with Parents Parents can serve as ideal playmates to improve children’s social skills through play. Here are some things to keep in mind to increase your child’s social learning: • Provide specific praise during appropriate social behaviors, such as sharing, taking turns, and staying calm when things don't go their way. For example, you may say, "I love how you stayed calm when your tower fell down!" Using specific praise during play, and throughout the day, is an excellent way to teach pro-social skills and build your child's self-esteem at the same time. • Play with creative toys, such as blocks, trains, and crayons, to allow for increased engagement, collaborative play, and improved problem solving. This provides opportunities for practicing the skills they will use when playing with their peers. You can model play skills, saying things like, "I'd really like to play with the red train. Could you hand that to me, please?"

• If your child engages in inappropriate behavior that is not dangerous during play, ignore it for the moment. Later, when he or she is calm, you can brief ly discuss how their behavior made you feel to help build their understanding that others have thoughts about their behaviors. You may say things like, "When you took that train from me without asking, it made me feel sad and like you didn't want to play with me." Then, help your child come up with ideas about what they could do differently next time, such as, "When I want something from a friend, I ask them if I could take a turn.” After this short conversation, be sure to provide specific praise when they appropriately use the skill that you discussed. • When in doubt, do what they're doing! Be engaged in the play, even if you only have a few moments. Try to be enthusiastic and get animated! By being fun and silly, you are strengthening your bond with your child and increasing their understanding of social relationships and interaction.

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SPECIAL NEEDS

WORDS BY JENNIFER THOMPSON

When the Caregiver Needs TLC Tips for taking care of yourself as a parent of a child with special needs Carving out time for yourself will ultimately benefit your entire family. If it doesn’t seem possible, start small, even if it’s retreating to a quiet place for just 20 minutes a day.

As parents, we learn early on that self-care is important. We hear things like, “Sleep when they sleep” and “Rest — the laundry will still be there.” But the question is: how? How does a busy parent make time for self-care when being pulled in so many directions?

“You have to find time for you,” Hoffman says. “If it’s waking up at 5 a.m. just to have an hour to yourself with your warm cup of coffee in hand — and yes, drink it all while sitting — or time to get to the gym, read a book, write in your journal or whatever it may be, you need that time because once the day starts, mommin’ doesn’t stop for 12 hours, minimum.”

Westfield resident Jenna Hoffman discovered that her youngest daughter, Londyn, had special needs when she was not hitting milestones. At age one and a half, Londyn learned to army crawl and didn’t begin walking independently until her third birthday. Despite undergoing multiple genetic tests, Hoffman still has no answers. While the specialist is convinced that Londyn has a rare genetic condition, they are still unsure as to what it is. Because of this, Hoffman calls her their special unicorn. Over time, Hoffman has learned the importance of taking time to recharge her batteries. But it hasn’t always been easy. There is a reason why we are instructed by f light attendants to put on our own oxygen masks before assisting dependents with their own. We can’t take care of others unless we are properly taking care of ourselves. For parents who are overwhelmed with life’s many demands, this can be particularly challenging. Like many, it took Hoffman some time before she fully realized the necessity of self-care.

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“Prior to this realization, I was worn out with no energy or focus, my patience was low, and my back would get sore from carrying Londyn around,” Hoffman says. “With multiple weekly appointments and the other kids’ sporting activities, it seems like we're always on the go. During specialist appointments, you really need to be alert to ask all the questions you need, as well as be able to soak in everything they tell you.” Hoffman has learned that “having a sound mind, body and spirit helps keep me sane,” she says. “I’m certainly a work in progress, but I’m finally figuring it out.”

Make a list of things you love to do, and try to block off time in your schedule to do those things. As the saying goes, “If mama ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy.” The better you feel, the more you will be able to pour into your loved ones. It is important for your family to see what self-care looks like. Caring for yourself sets a good example for your family and teaches them the importance of self-care early on in life.

IC SPECIAL NEEDS GUIDE ABA Autism Services Bierman ABA Autism Center by Damar We work with children with autism 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: 317813-4690, Email: info@damar.org, DamarABA.org

Autism Learning Partners Autism Learning Partners is a leader in the field of autism services and specializes in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). ALP offers ABA, Social Skills Classes, Parent Training and serves Indianapolis and surrounding areas. Most major insurance plans, including Medicaid are accepted. • Phone: 855-295-3276,

autismlearningpartners.com

Behavior Analysis Center for Autism The Behavior Analysis Center for Autism uses the principles and procedures of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to teach language, social, self-help, academic, daily living and life skills to individuals with autism and other related disabilities in the greater Indianapolis and Elkhart areas. • BACA 1: 11902 Lakeside

Drive, Fishers, IN 46038, 317-288-5232 • BACA Prep: 9929 E. 126th St., Fishers, IN 46038, 317-436-8961 • BACA Z: 6704 Central Blvd., Zionsville, IN 46077, 317-769-4335 • BACA Hart: 30380 County Road 6, Elkhart, IN 46514, 574-343-2001, Email: cclayton@thebaca.com, thebaca.com

BehaviorWorks ABA We work with you! BehaviorWorks provides Early Intervention for Autism and Indiana Medicaid Waiver Behavior Support Services. BehaviorWorks is a team you can grow with. We use the evidencebased strategies of ABA to create effective behavioral solutions. Are you looking for a fresh perspective? Take action for positive change with BehaviorWorks. • 618 N. High School

Road Suite A, Indianapolis, IN 46214-3684, Contact: Ann Baloski, Executive Director, Phone: 317-731-7777, Email: info@ behaviorworksaba.com, behaviorworksaba.com

INDYSCHILD.COM I May 2019

spectrum disorders up to the age of 13. We specialize in providing early intervention, personalized and intensive Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Speech & OT programs. Our early intensive intervention programs (EIBI) are designed to help children learn skills across many different developmental domains in order to be happy and successful in any environment, whether that be in the home, community or the classroom. Whether your child was just recently diagnosed or has been in a traditional school setting but unable to make adequate progress, we deeply believe every child is capable of learning with the right programming in place. We are positive our dedicated and talented team can make a difference. Locations in Broad Ripple, Westfield and Avon. • 6060 N College Avenue, Indianapolis IN 46220, Phone: (317) 815-5501, Email: info@biermanaba.com; biermanaba.com

The Children's TherAplay Foundation One of the few clinics in the country providing physical and occupational therapies on horseback (hippotherapy) for children with special needs. Serving kiddos, ages 18 months to 13 years, with diagnoses including cerebral palsy, autism, Down syndrome, and developmental delay. In-network with most major health insurance carriers and Indiana Medicaid. • 9919 Towne Road, Carmel, Indiana. Phone: (317) 872-4166; Email: info@childrenstheraplay.org; childrenstheraplay.org/

Children's Therapy Connection Children's Therapy Connection strives to be the provider of choice in central Indiana for quality, comprehensive, and family-centered pediatric therapy services for families of children with disabilities. Services include: First Steps, PT, OT, and Speech/Feeding Therapy, Social Work/Counseling, Social Skills/ Communication/Feeding Groups, Hanen Programs, and Therapeutic Yoga for Kids. Visit our website or follow us on Facebook! • 7478

Cornerstone Autism Center

K1ds Count, LLC

Children struggling with autism want to express themselves, interact with their world and enjoy life. Cornerstone goes the extra mile to see that they do. They provide one-on-one Applied Behavior Analysis therapy. Cornerstone's mission is to maximize those who struggle, embrace those who love and fulfill those who serve. • Phone:

K1ds Count, LLC is a local pediatric therapy provider offering ABA therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy services to children on and off the autism spectrum in the Brownsburg, Avon, Danville, Crawfordsville, and Indianapolis areas. • Phone: (317) 520-4748; Email:

317-888-1557, Email: info@ cornerstoneautismcenter.com, cornerstoneautismcenter.com

Disability & Autism Services of Indiana Our mission is to provide the highest quality ABA Therapy and supporting Speech Therapy to children, adolescents, and young adults with Autism in their natural environments. We utilize the most effective research-based behavior interventions and specialize in maximizing learning opportunities and outcomes. We work closely with parents, family members, educators, and behavioral staff to provide training and support in order to make the most significant impact for the individuals we serve. Locations in Fishers & Greensburg; we offer in home, school, clinic and communitybased ABA therapies. • 9780 Lantern

Rd., Ste. 130, Fishers, IN 46037, Phone: (317) 863-8110, Email: info@dasikids.com; dasikids.com

EasterSeals Crossroads Offering comprehensive disability services for people of all ages. Early Intervention, Autism Services, PT, OT, Speech Therapy, Feeding/Swallowing issues, Augmentative Communication, Assistive Technology, Multi-sensory Therapy Rooms, Summer Camps, Life/Social Skills Groups, Deaf Community Services, Autism Family Resource Center. •

frank@kidscounttherapy.com, kidscounttherapy.com

St. Joseph Institute for the Deaf St. Joseph Institute for the Deaf (SJI) is Indiana's only full-time school dedicated to helping young children (birth to age 8) who are deaf or hard of hearing develop spoken language and literacy skills with the focus of transitioning into their local, community school. Dramatic advances in technology, including sophisticated hearing aids and cochlear implants, give children with significant hearing loss access to sound. With appropriate speech therapy, auditory rehabilitation and language training, children are able to develop spoken language skills. St. Joseph Institute offers a variety of Listening and Spoken Language programs including: early intervention services, internet therapy, full-time preschool program, mainstream support, ongoing consultation, and comprehensive educational training opportunities for families and professionals. With over 175 years of experience, we are professional leaders in the field of Listening and Spoken Language education. Visit our website for more information. • 9192 Waldemar Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268, Phone: 317-4718560, sjid.org

4740 Kingsway Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46205, Phone: 317-466-1000, Email: info@ eastersealscrossroads.org, eastersealscrossroads.org

Shadeland Station Way, Indianapolis, IN 46256, Phone: 317-288-7606, Email: info@ childrenstherapyconnection.com, childrenstherapyconnection.com

* SPONSORED LISTINGS

May 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

THINGS TO DO

may wed 01 500 FESTIVAL KICK-OFF TO MAY

Join the 500 Festival on Monument Circle as they kick off the greatest month of the year: May! Dignitaries from the City of Indianapolis, the 500 Festival Board of Directors and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway will welcome attendees to the celebration. After the welcome, the month of May will officially KICK off with the assistance of a few special guests! • Location: Monument Circle, Time: 11 am

BABY STORYTIME AT LAWRENCE

Babies up to 24 months and an adult are invited for stories, songs and fingerplays. • Location: Lawrence

Branch Library, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, Phone: 317-275-4460 FREE

thurs 02 FIRST THURSDAY NIGHTS

It’s fun for everyone! Visit at a discount from 4-8 pm on the first Thursday of every month. Choose from Riley Children's Health Sports Legends Experience ($5), the museum ($5) or a combo ticket ($7).

TOT ART AT SOUTHPORT

Babies and toddlers up to age 3 and adult are invited for an art program. Then, stick around after the art activity for socialization and playtime. Come dressed for a mess!

• Location: Southport Branch Library, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, Phone: 317-2754510 FREE

fri 03 LITTLE LEARNERS STORYTIME

Little Learners up to age 5 and their families are invited for story time in the Green Screen Theater. They'll read stories, sing songs, and rhyme! Stay after to play! • Location: Central

Library, Time: 11 am-Noon, Phone: 317-275-4100 FREE

TINY SPROUTS CINCO DE MAYO: SPECIAL ADULT AND CHILD

Spend a Saturday with a special child at Sprouts getting ready for Cinco de Mayo. Registration required. • Location: Sprouts Cooking School, Time: 10 am-noon, Phone: 317-688-7499, sproutscooking school.com

FREE Free for families! *Ongoing A recurring event

sat 04 ISO TEDDY BEAR CONCERT: MONKEY'S JUNGLE JAM

Meet on the 2nd floor Nonfiction area for a special concert by the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, as they bring their Teddy Bear Concert series to the library. Monkey’s Jungle Jam is an adventure-filled tale of a spider monkey's search through the rainforest for musical friends. Children will be invited to hop like frogs and sway like trees while they listen to unusual instruments from the symphony orchestra. • Location: Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, Phone: 317-873-3149 FREE

BABY ANIMALS WITH SILLY SAFARIS!

Preschoolers are invited to learn about and visit with baby animals during a workshop presented by Silly Safaris. • Location: College

*SN Special needs friendly An Indy's Child favorite!

FAMILY FIESTA OPEN HOUSE @ ALP CENTER FOR AUTISM

A day of family fun with games, activities, food and a chance to get all your questions answered about autism and ABA therapy. This is the perfect time to get familiar with their center, attend Q & A sessions, and have the opportunity to meet the staff. • Location: Center for AutismIndianapolis, Time: 10 am-2 pm *SN

sun 05

PRINCESS DAY WITH THE INDIANAPOLIS INDIANS

Celebrate all things royalty when princesses from your favorite fairy tales take over Victory Field. Visit with the princesses in PNC Plaza near center field. The royals won't be signing autographs, but they will be taking pictures with fans before and during the game. • Location: Victory Field, Time: 1:35, milb.com/ indianapolis/tickets/princess

Avenue Branch, Time: 3-4 pm, Phone: 317-275-4320 FREE

• Location: The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, Time: 4-8 pm, Phone: 317-340-4000

May 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

TOUCH-A-TRUCK & PLANT SALE

Bring the whole family and get your veggie garden started. There will be trucks (snow plow, street sweeper and more), music (ShooBeeLoo from 2-3 pm), playground with activities and homegrown vegetable starters for sale. • Location: Carmel Cooperative

Preschool, Time: 1-4 pm, Phone: 317-804-4227 FREE

mon 06

LEGO LAND AT LAWRENCE

Families are invited to build with a theme. Use books to guide projects during this activity that's fun for the whole family. • Location: Lawrence Branch, Time: 4:00-5:00 pm, Phone: 317-275-4460 FREE

tues 07

LITTLE LEARNERS: ARTFUL PLAY

Little Learners offers different STEAM-based, hands-on experiences like station explorations, storytime and collaborative projects. The last 30 minutes is free-choice play, which allows the child to build creativity, decision-making skills and independence. • Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 9:45-11:30 am, Phone: 317-232-1637

ROBOTS AFTER NOON IN THE LEARNING CURVE

Families are invited to try a variety of robotics technology and practice programming. With various robots and games available each week, families can try something new or dive deeper into a favorite. • Location: Central Library, Time: 1-3 pm, Phone: 317-275-4100 FREE

wed 08

PRESCHOOL SPORTS EXPERIENCE: INTRODUCTION TO TRADITIONAL SPORTS

Preschoolers are invited to join JumpBunch for an introduction to sports of all sorts and games! • Location: Beech Grove Branch, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, Phone: 317-275-4560 FREE

SMALL WONDERS: PLANTS & SEEDS

Small Wonders is a monthly program that builds your child’s sense of wonder and playfulness as they engage in storytelling, hands-on activities, music, movement and art. This month, children will explore plants and seeds through an interactive storytelling time of “Tap the Magic Tree,” by Christie Matheson. • Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 10-11 am, Phone: 317-232-1637

thurs 09

PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT MICHIGAN ROAD

WED 08 SMALL WONDERS: PLANTS & SEEDS

Preschoolers and an adult are invited for stories, fingerplays and crafts. • Location: Michigan Road

Branch, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, Phone: 317-275-4370 FREE

PLAYTIME ON THE PRAIRIE: SHEEP AND WOOL

Visit Conner Prairie’s historic sheep and learn about the many ways they use wool. Playtime on the Prairie is a 1.5-hour-long program designed for preschool children ages 4 and 5. • Location: Conner

Prairie, Time: 9:30-10:30 am, Phone: 317-776-6000

INDYSCHILD.COM I May 2019

fri 10

NERF GLOW NIGHT AT THE FISHERS YMCA

Bring a Nerf gun to this Friday night showdown in the Fishers Y Family Gym! Participants build forts, create obstacle courses and incorporate fun games into their Nerf Wars, all under the glow of "stars in the sky!" For ages 5-8 from 6-7 pm and 9-14 from 7-8 pm. Bring your own Nerf gun; darts will be provided (standard size guns/darts only, please). • Location: Fishers YMC, Time: 6-8 pm, Phone: 317-595-9622

sat 11

WORDS AND OTHER WILD THINGS

Learn about Western animals through poetry with Brick Street Poetry and then meet live animals from the Joseph Moore Museum during Snakes Alive! Each child will receive a free book of poetry. • Location: Eiteljorg Museum, Time: 1-3 pm, Eiteljorg.org/BigRead

MOTHER’S DAY: SPECIAL ADULT AND CHILD

Being in the kitchen with your kids is a memory both you and your children will cherish. Bring your children and cook with them, bring your mom, your sister, her kids, but most importantly, just enjoy a special day with a child/ren you love. Registration required. • Location: Sprouts Cooking School, Time: 10 am-Noon, Phone: 317-6887499, sproutscookingschool.com

FAMILY DISCOVERY DAY: GARDENING

Gardening season is right around the corner! Meet local experts and get some tips from the pros on how to get the most out of your own garden. Discover key ingredients to great soil, and make seed bombs and paper pots to take home. • Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 10 am-5 pm, Phone: 317-232-1637

JP MORGAN CHASE 500 FESTIVAL ROOKIE RUN KIDS DAY

The JPMorgan Chase 500 Festival Rookie Run, which complements the OneAmerica 500 Festival MiniMarathon, is a great experience as your little rookie runs the streets of downtown Indy, just one block north of Monument Circle at Ohio and Meridian streets. All participants receive a goodie bag, a runner’s bib with the number 1, and a finisher’s medal, just like the Mini-Marathon participants. • Location: Downtown Indianapolis, Time: 12:30 pm, 500festival.com/youth/rookie-run

sat 11 ― sun 12

MOTHER'S DAY WEEKEND

During this fun, annual event, the Indianapolis Zoo puts the spotlight on all mothers, both human and animal. The recognition begins right as you enter the Zoo with a special "Proud Mom" sticker. The fun is just beginning as the whole family participates in the Zoo-wide scavenger hunt. Follow the clues to discover several Zoo mothers and interesting animal facts along the way. • Location: Indianapolis Zoo,

Phone: 317-630-2001

sun 12

FAMILY CREEK STOMP

Holliday Park has ponds and creeks teeming with wildlife. Participants will have loads of fun getting wet and muddy exploring the creatures that live in these wet places. A naturalist will help you identify what you find! Wear old shoes and clothes that can get dirty. Nets and collecting tubs provided. $5. •

Location: Holliday Park Nature Center, Time: 1:30-2:30 pm, Phone: 317-327-7180

JP MORGAN CHASE 500 FESTIVAL KIDS' DAY

The JPMorgan Chase 500 Festival Kids’ Day is Indiana’s largest free outdoor festival just for kids! With interactive, educational displays in a carnival-like atmosphere, Kids’ Day gives children the opportunity to stretch their minds and their muscles. • Location: Downtown

Indianapolis, Time: 12 pm, 500festival. com/youth/jpmorgan-chase-kidsday/kids-day

SAT 11 JP MORGAN CHASE 500 FESTIVAL KIDS' DAY

mon 13

thurs 16

MEET & PLAY AT WAYNE

MOTHER GOOSE ON THE LOOSE

Caregivers and children up to six years of age are invited to visit the Library's community room and play together! Caregivers can get to know other caregivers with young children. • Location: Wayne Branch

Library, Time: 10 am-Noon, Phone: 317-275-4530 FREE

tues 14 JUNGLE TALES

Bring your preschooler to this program with a focus on the natural world. Join them for a different nature-related story, activity and craft each month. Registration required. • Location: Garfield Conservatory, Time: 10-11 am, Phone: 317-327-7183

wed 15 BEASTLY BRUNCH

The animals at the nature center eat rather interesting food. Watch staff and volunteers feed the animals crickets, worms and even mice, and learn about their diets! Meet in the lobby. • Location: Holliday Park Nature Center, Time: 10:30-11 am, Phone: 317-327-7180

Babies, toddlers and preschoolers and an adult are invited for an early literacy program. • Location: College

Avenue Branch, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, Phone: 317-275-4320 FREE

fri 17 FRIDAY NIGHT FROGWATCH

Learn about frogs and frog calls, and visit a pond to search for the frogs themselves! Bring bright flashlights, wear old shoes/boots and a rain jacket if raining. Adults and all children age 3 and up must be registered. You will be around water at night, so be sure to register enough adults to supervise any children attending. Program meets at the Earth Discovery Center. $5 •

Location: Eagle Creek Park, Time: 9-10:30 pm, Phone: 317-327-7110

sat 18 FAMILY FUN FAIR

Fun for all ages with everything from knocker ball to archery, bounce houses to fire trucks, and so much more. The complex and tenants are open to all visitors for introductions, trial events and open gym fun! Make sure to visit all the local vendor booths and enjoy fair foods. There will be giveaways, free games and activities for all ages. • Location: Hamilton County Sports Complex, Time: 11 am- 3 pm, Phone: 317-773-4150 FREE

FREE FAMILY FISHING

Join Greenwood Parks, along with DNR and National Park Trust, to celebrate Kids to Parks Day with free catch-and-release family fishing at Freedom Park Pond. It's free to fish all day. Supplies are limited, so feel free to bring your own! • Location: Freedom Park Greenwood, Time: 2-5 pm FREE

May 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

LEMONADE DAY

This nationwide event teaches kids the skills they will need to be successful in business and in life. Purchase a glass of lemonade from a stand created by the students in the museum’s After-School Explorers program! • Location: The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, Time: 10 am-3 pm, Phone: 317-3404000

HOT WHEELS: RACE TO WIN

Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines and hold on tight as they open the Hot Wheels: Race to Win exhibit celebrating speed, safety, design, and power. Get revved up for the special performances, activities and the occasional pit stop. • Location: The Children's

Museum of Indianapolis, Time: 10 am-5 pm, Phone: 317-340-4000

INDY MOMMY MARKET

Bring your #momsquad and enjoy a day of local shopping, food trucks and live music. Admission is $5 (cash only) at the door. The first 150 shoppers will receive a shopping bag full of great deals from participating vendors. Parking is free. Children under 12 are free. •

Location: Hamilton County Fairgrounds, Time: 9 am-2 pm, indymommymarket. com

INDIANAPOLIS CHILDREN'S CHOIR: HEAR OUR SONG

This fantastic concert showcases and celebrates the ICC’s highschool level choirs in a grand performance of Gabriel Faure’s “Requiem” with the New World Youth Orchestra. $11. • Location: Indiana Landmarks, Time 4-6 pm, icchoir.org/2018-2019-season

SAT 18SUN 19 49TH ANNUAL BROAD RIPPLE ART FAIR

sat 18 ― sun 19 49TH ANNUAL BROAD RIPPLE ART FAIR

Kick off the summer festival season with the OneAmerica Broad Ripple Art Fair! Presenting art by more than 220 artists and artisans, and one-of-a-kind experiences, this is a nationally ranked, highly selective, juried art fair. • Location: Indianapolis

WED 22 ZOOPOLIS 500

Art Center, Time: May 18, 10 am-6 pm/ May 19, 10 am-5 pm, indplsartcenter. org/braf

sun 19 MAY WE DANCE

Celebrate the culmination of the Indianapolis School of Ballet’s 13th year of instruction when ISB proudly presents its annual May We Dance showcases. This end-of-theschool-year tradition returns to The Toby at Newfields (inside the Indianapolis Museum of Art) and features two performances. • Location: Toby Theatre at Newfields, Time: 5 pm, Phone: 317-923-1331

PEPPA PIG WITH THE INDIANAPOLIS INDIANS

Everyone's favorite cheeky little piggy stops by Victory Field when Peppa Pig greets fans in the PNC Plaza before and during the game. The Sunday game is a Kids Eat Free Sunday for children 14 years old and younger. • Location: Victory Field, Time: 1:35, milb.com/indianapolis/ tickets/peppa-pig

SENSORY-FRIENDLY BROWSING HOUR

Families can enjoy a quieter atmosphere, smaller crowds, some sensory play experiences and extra confidence in knowing that their children are welcome to use their resources in a manner that best suits them. • Location: Brownsburg

Public Library, Time: Noon-1 pm, Phone: 317-852-3167 FREE *SN

BUTTERFLY PLANTERS

Everyone is welcome to this workshop to create a beautiful planter that butterflies will love. Learn what plants butterflies and caterpillars love and help attract them to your yard. All materials will be provided. Registration is required by May 15th. • Location:

Garfield Conservatory, Time: 2-3 pm, Phone: 317-327-7183

mon 20 MEET A CRITTER MONDAY

Get a close-up experience with the nature center animals. Each month, staff and volunteers will get out a different animal for participants to meet. Learn all about the animals and how they keep them happy and healthy. • Location: Holliday Park

Nature Center, Time: 3-3:30 pm, Phone: 317-327-7180 FREE ($2 donation suggested)

tues 21 SMALL WONDERS PRESCHOOL PROGRAM: FROGS & TOADS

Learn easy ways to engage your preschooler in nature and scientific exploration. Each class introduces a new topic through hands-on activities, hikes and crafts, and provides ideas for exploring at home. Classes are designed for children and their caregiver. Ages 3-5. • Location: Holliday Park Nature

Center, Time: 9:30-10 am, Phone: 317-327-7180

wed 22 TOUCH-A-TRUCK

In honor of National Public Works Week, kids can climb up in a fire truck, honk the horn of a snow plow, and turn on the siren of a police car as they explore Fishers’ fleet of big rigs at this interactive and hands-on event. • Location:

Central Green-Fishers, Time: 3-7 pm, Phone: 317-595-3150

ZOOPOLIS 500

Tortoises, start your engines! Zoopolis 500, presented by American Dairy Association Indiana, is held annually the Wednesday before Memorial Day weekend. This unique Zoo event and race-fan favorite includes a morning of family-friendly pre-race festivities leading up to the “Greatest Spectacle in Tortoise Racing.” • Location: Indianapolis Zoo, Time: 10:30 am, Phone: 317-630-2001

LITTLE BEACH BABES

Bring your Little Beach Babes in for seasonal themed fun! Celebrate the holiday season with crafts, games and activities. Ages 2-5. • Location:

Forest Park Lodge Basement, Time: 10-11 am, Phone: 317-776-6350

thurs 23 PLAYTIME ON THE PRAIRIE: PETAL POTIONS

April showers bring May flowers. So, let’s discover flower power and create magic dye! Playtime on the Prairie is a 1.5-hour-long program designed for preschool children ages 4 and 5. • Location: Conner

Prairie, Time: 9:30-11 am, Phone: 317-776-6000

INDYSCHILD.COM I May 2019

THE LITTLE MERMAID

Join the adventurous mermaid Ariel and her friends for the fun family musical version of the beloved Disney film. See Sebastian, Scuttle, the handsome Prince Eric and the evil sea witch, Ursula, live on stage, singing all your favorite songs from the movie, including “Under the Sea,” “Kiss the Girl” and “Part of Your World.” • Location: Beef & Boards, Time: See website for showtimes, Phone: 317-872-9664

*Ongoing

Spend a fun Friday night around the campfire. Enjoy a sweet treat by the fire, learn something new, and experience night hiking! Roasting sticks and s’mores provided. Bring your own hot dog dinner and make a meal of it! $5/person, preregistration required. • Location: Holliday Park Nature Center, Time: 9:30-10 am, Phone: 317-327-7180

sat 25

fri 24

IPL 500 FESTIVAL PARADE

GRAND SUMMER KICKOFF

This one-day event includes a dodgeball competition, vendor area, kite-flying, health fair and a family adventure course that stretches over 1.3 miles of their 400-acre campus. This event is FREE to the public, with the exception of registration for the dodgeball competition and family adventure course. • Location: Grand Park, Time: 3:30-8:30 pm, Phone: 317-804-3000 FREE

FAMILY FRIDAY NIGHT CAMP FIRES

Witness the pageantry and larger-than-life floats light up the streets of downtown Indianapolis. Well-known celebrities, costumed characters, marching bands, patriotic units, specialty units, spectacular floats and giant helium balloons will fill the streets to celebrate the world's largest single-day sporting event, the Indianapolis 500. • Location:

Downtown Indianapolis, Time: 11:45 am, 500festival.com/parade

on the go.

Family-friendly fun at your fingertips. indyschild.com

May 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

MISTERY PARK OPENING

In this simulation of a South American rainforest, guests follow foggy paths to see colorful flowers, mosses, plenty of misters, actual sounds recorded in the rainforest and Hoffman's two-toed sloths. •

wed 29 PRESCHOOLERS STORYTIME TRAIN @ GLENDALE

Location: Indianapolis Zoo, Time: 9 am-5 pm, Phone: 317-630-2001

Two and 3 years old an adult are invited for stories, songs movement, crafts and STEAM activities. • Location: Glendale Branch

THE WATERPARK OPENING DAY AT THE MONON COMMUNITY CENTER

thurs 30

Splash around, catch a real wave on the FlowRider, relax in a cabana or drift along in the Lazy River. Whatever your adventure, mark your calendars for summer fun at Carmel's The Waterpark. Included with MCC membership or day pass: $11 adult, $8 Youth, $8 Senior.

Library, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, Phone: 317-275-4410 FREE

TODDLER SPORTS EXPERIENCE: NONTRADITIONAL SPORTS

Toddlers ages 24-36 months are invited to join JumpBunch for an introduction to non-traditional sports and games. • Location:

• Location: Monon Community Center, Time: 11 am-7 pm, Phone: 317-848-7275

Decatur Branch, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, Phone: 317-275-4330 FREE

sun 26

fri 31

GREAT CHALK OUT

Get creative on the sidewalks around the museum! Create works of art and compete for prizes in the following categories: Best Family Art, Best Child Art (age 7 and younger), Best Youth Art (ages 8-15) and Best Adult Art (ages 16+).

• Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 10 am-2 pm, Phone: 317-232-1637

tues 28 LITTLE GARDENERS: DANDELIONS, TIGER LILLIES AND BERRIES

Animals and plants: How are they alike/different? You will make worm farms and talk about how different animals help in the garden. Weeding day! • Location: Broad Ripple Park, Time: 10-11 am, Phone: 317-327-7161

ANIMAL ADVENTURES: JUMPING ANIMALS

Naturalists from the Zion Nature Center will join librarians as they share their knowledge about jumping animals. Meet at the library for storytime fun, then walk to the Nature Center to meet and learn about the real animals that live there. Dress for the weather; there is no parking at the Nature Center. Ages 3 and up. • Location: Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, Phone: 317-873-3149

ONGOING EVENTS

PAW PATROL EXHIBIT Occurring until July 28, 2019

THE LITTLE MERMAID Occurring until June 30, 2019

Based on Nickelodeon’s top-rated animated preschool series PAW Patrol — which is produced by Spin Master Entertainment — the new exhibit will give families and children the opportunity to travel alongside Marshall, Chase, Skye, Rocky, Rubble, Everest, Zuma and Tracker as the PAW Patrol overcomes obstacles to helps others. • Location: The Children’s

Museum of Indianapolis

Boards

COLOR OF STYLE Occurring until July 28, 2019

This experience will immerse visitors in color. Wind your way through a color tunnel on the way into the exhibit, then take a quiz to discover which color best represents you. Inside, nine fashion pods will feature outfits from different decades and centuries, divided by their colors: red, yellow, blue, green, orange, purple, pink, white and black. • Location: Indiana

State Museum

BUTTERFLY KALEIDOSCOPE INDIANAPOLIS COLTS – THE EXHIBIT Occurring until August 10, 2019

Discover how American football grew out of the rugby fields of Ivy League academies into the modern game loved by millions through sweeping changes brought about by the Industrial Revolution. Witness the Hoosier Dome and Lucas Oil Stadium’s rise into the Indianapolis skyline to redefine the city’s image as a championship town. Snap a picture with your favorite virtual Colts player and learn about their views on football, leadership and the NFL. • Location:

Indiana Historical Society

Occurring until September 3, 2019

Immerse yourself in the beauty of butterflies as these wonderful winged insects return to The Hilbert Conservatory. As you walk through the warm, aromatic indoor garden, 40 species of butterflies will flit nearby – and one might even land on you! Each day, hundreds of new butterflies will be released from the chamber with about 13,000 released during the season. • Location: Indianapolis Zoo

PLEASE NOTE 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.

SUN 26 GREAT CHALK OUT AT THE INDIANA STATE MUSEUM

INDYSCHILD.COM I May 2019

fun and WACKY INDY'S CHILD

CALENDAR 05.2019

SUN

MON

TUES

WEDS

THURS

FRI

1 LEI DAY

6 BEVERAGE DAY

WORLD LAUGHTER DAY

NO SOCKS DAY

15 CHOCOLATE CHIP DAY

21 NOTEBOOK DAY

MAY RAY DAY

14 CHICKEN DANCE DAY

FROG JUMPING DAY

POEM ON YOUR PILLOW DAY

PAPER AIRPLANE DAY

NO PANTS DAY

10 PUBLIC GARDENS DAY

16 DRAWING DAY

STAR WARS DAY

11 EAT WHAT YOU WANT DAY

17 WORLD BAKING DAY

18 VISIT YOUR RELATIVES DAY

25 TAP DANCE DAY

TIARA DAY TURTLE DAY

28 HAMBURGER DAY

MEMORIAL DAY

INDYSCHILD.COM I May 2019

TEACHER APPRECIATION DAY

SHERLOCK HOLMES DAY

WORLD BEE DAY

2 SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS DAY

SAT

29 PAPER CLIP DAY

30 FLOWER DAY

31 ENDANGERED SPECIES DAY

WATER A

SOURCE: daysoftheyear.com