July 2021 | Indy's Child

JULY 2021

(FREE)

SCHOOL IN THE FALL:

what can we expect? {INSIDE}

SUMMER FUN GUIDE

+

75 THINGS TO DO in July

contents

// JULY 2021

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28 features

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School After the Pandemic: What's Next?

Local education leaders weigh in on how their schools have adapted over the past year.

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WIth a rainbow baby on the way, you should be happy, right? It's okay to have mixed feelings during a pregnancy after loss, and here's how to cope.

Our top picks for hot-weather fun all around town.

In Every Issue

Travel

06 Letter from the Editor 07 Indy's Childen 08 News & Notes

34 Cool Caves in the

16 Frederick Douglass Park

Around Town

Centennial Celebration

09 Hidden Gems: Birdies

10 Celebrate a Trip Around the Sun with Your Little One

12 Run and Walk with the Colts

21 Local Spotlight: LiftOff Creamery

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Midwest

Sponsored Content

Pregnancy After Loss

Summer Fun Guide

departments

Resources & Calendars 18 Education Guide 40 Things to Do in July 47 Fun & Wacky Calendar

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Founding Publisher Barbara Wynne barbara@indyschild.com

Publisher + Sales Mary Wynne Cox mary@indyschild.com

Editor Nicole Sipe nicolesipe@indyschild.com Production Manager Karen Ring karen@indyschild..com

Creative Director Katie Clark katie@indyschild.com

The Summer of "Yes" What a difference a year makes.

This time last year, many of us were feeling like we were in a state of limbo and loss. We were all collectively missing the usual events and activities that make summer great: the outdoor concerts, the festivals and fairs, the casual visits to favorite restaurants and shops, the get-togethers with friends and family. But this year, there is a sense that things are returning to normal.

Last year was spent having to say no a lot when my kids asked to visit their favorite places and do their favorite summer activities. This year, I'm excited to turn that around and say yes to all the things I can for my family and my kids. This is our summer of “yes!” Yes, let’s explore new places and revisit old ones. Yes,

let’s eat junk food for dinner at the state fair.

Yes, let’s try to set the world record for visiting the pool every day. (We’re at nine days in a row, as of this writing. Wish us luck.)

We’re excited to help you make this season your “summer of yes” too! Just turn to our Summer Fun Guide, starting on page 28. It’s packed with lots of great ideas for ways to enjoy the summer with your family. From the best splash pads in Central Indiana to the coolest ice cream shops in Indy, summer fun is back, and it’s better than ever.

Enjoy your summer!

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@indyschild //

Administration + Digital Brooke Litherland brooke@indyschild.com Administration + Marketing Mary Mueller mmueller@indyschild.com

Billing billing@indyschild.com Contributing Writers Lindsay Conner, Rachael Dupree, Michelle Mastro, Steffy McCourt, Jennifer Thompson

Calendar of Events calendar@indyschild.com Indy's Child is published monthly. Copyright 2021 by Midwest Parenting Publications, LLC. All rights reserved.

Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited.

Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of products, commentary or services herein.

FOLLOW US ONLINE @IndysChildMagazine //

Digital Publisher + Events Wendy Hasser wendy@indyschild.com

@indyschild //

IndysChild.com

INDY'S children Summer is in full swing, and these Indy kids are enjoying it! Here are some of our favorite photos submitted by our readers.

Henry (17 mos)

Noah (4)

Samuel (9), Silas (5) and Eliana (7)

Maverick (4)

Oliver (7), Adam (10) and Nicholas (10)

Paxton (6), Avyana (4) and Aames (8)

Want to see your cute kids on this page?

We're looking for photos of kids and their pets! Submit your best shot of your kids with their furry or feathery (or slimy or scaly!) family companion to editor@indyschild.com with the kids first name and age, and pet's name, and your photo might be selected to appear here!

July 2021 I INDYSCHILD.COM

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NEWS & Notes

Our monthly roundup of news you can use

enjoy the smooth sounds of jazz One of the Indianapolis Zoo’s coolest and longestrunning traditions has returned! Animals and All That Jazz has launched its 34th concert season featuring everything from smooth soul to contemporary to blues and beyond. The season runs 5:30-8:30pm every Thursday through July 29 under the Bicentennial Pavilion.

Guests can enjoy a full day at the Zoo along with evening performances that are free for Zoo members and included with general admission. Plus, each concert will feature a rotating menu of special food options along regular Zoo fare.

1870 THAT’S THE YEAR JULY 4TH WAS DESIGNATED AS A FEDERAL HOLIDAY – ALMOST 100 YEARS AFTER THE NATION WAS FOUNDED. 08

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DID YOU KNOW? Architects of One World Trade Center in New York City designed it to be exactly 1,776 feet tall

See the complete line up at indianapoliszoo.com/ events/animals-all-that-jazz.

get in on the SUMMER FUN Summer fun is back, and we’ve got you covered with tons of fun ways to get back out there and enjoy these sunshine-filled months. From our favorite places to grab an ice-cold treat to splash pads perfect for cooling off on a hot day, our Summer Fun Guide, starting on pg. 28, will help you keep the kids entertained all summer long!

to mark the year the U.S. declared its independence from Britain.

Sources: hocking.edu

HIDDEN GEMS

WORDS BY STEFFY MCCOURT

Birdies Birdies Miniature Golf in Westfield is an incredibly fun way to spend a summer afternoon or evening with the whole family. It is the kind of place where parents can sit outside on a nice evening and finish their meal peacefully while the children play one of the many patio games or a round of miniature golf.

A bubbling creek flows through the 36-hole course. My boys loved exploring the rock cave and catching the spray from a cascading waterfall.

The course is fun and accessible for all ages, the snack bar has kidfriendly food (like sliders), and the staff was great.

My boys and I met some friends after school, and chose to golf 18 holes on the more scenic and easier side of the course. (Here’s a tip: A cloudy, cool weekday afternoon meant that we had the whole course to ourselves!)

The course was clean and picturesque. We felt like we were on vacation!

When the kids were finished golfing, we returned our clubs and picked out some beverages from the snack shack. There was plenty of porch seating, and we hung out to finish our drinks before departing.

The porch at Birdies is awesome — I’ve never been to a restaurant that has a space like it. I think it will become our go-to location when we have family or friends in town for a visit.

Birdies offers weekday specials, which might make a visit even more enticing. Bring the whole family on Wednesdays when kids eat for free!

632 E. IN-32, Westfield birdiesindy.com

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AROUND TOWN

WORDS BY LARK JONES, THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF INDIANAPOLIS

Celebrate a Trip Around the Sun with Your Little One Imagine the look on the faces of your child and nine of her closest friends as they pass a giant dinosaur that is peeking into the world’s largest children’s museum. Little ones will feel like they are on their own private movie set — complete with Bumblebee™ (Transformer™ from the original movie) and some of their favorite characters turned into exhibits like Barbie® and Dora and Diego.

The adventure begins as each guest picks up their museum tickets and is escorted to their private party room fit for royalty, complete with a special chair for the guest of honor.

“My favorite thing to see is when the child sees their birthday party room for the first time, and the excitement over the throne that is all theirs,” says Skylee Campbell, store manager at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. “It’s really special to see how excited they get over all the little details.”

The décor sets the scene with choices of grand princess chandeliers, unicorn centerpieces or blow-up astronauts. Another themed option includes cups with dinosaur handles and pictures of a T. rex trying to take a bite out of the

Continue the themed celebration at home. If your child is into dinosaurs, you can purchase Dino Bingo or monopoly in the Museum Store or create your own matching fossil game. Cook a menu of veggies for herbivores or meaty treats for carnivores, and talk about which meal their favorite dinos prefer.

Then, remember all of the fun you had on the carousel by using animal decor at home. Spin the wheel to land on an animal and talk about its traits. Barbie fans might enjoy flashcards of the iconic doll in one of her dozens of careers, and talk about the skill set needed for that career. Is it creativity, nurturing, adventurousness or the ability to solve problems? What about that career is appealing for your little one? To celebrate their trip around the sun, launch a space party with a moon rock hunt, spaceship pinata or a candy meteor shower, glow sticks and frisbees serve as fun flying saucers.

plate. Or, help your child discover their super powers with superhero bling. Who would have thought there would be a place to celebrate and capture your child’s dreams in such a fun and imaginative way?

Choose one of the three birthday party packages designed to make your celebration as easy and go as smoothly as possible. The build your own, all-inclusive, and signature birthday party packages each have unique offerings for your 90-minute celebration. Then, spend the rest of the day exploring the museum together.

For more information on the exclusive party room and unlimited play at the museum, visit childrensmuseum.org/ visit/birthdays.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY PHOTO CREDITS

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THE CHILDREN'S MUSEUM OF INDIANAPOLIS

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AROUND TOWN

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Run and Walk with the Colts The Colts 5K Run/Walk is back this year!

Experience the thrill of NFL football when you finish on the 50-yard line!

Join the Indianapolis Colts on August 21 at Lucas Oil Stadium, for the 9th annual Colts 5K Run/Walk and Kid's Fun Run, presented by Indiana University Health.

The 5K course features a scenic run through downtown Indianapolis, including Bankers Life Fieldhouse and Monument Circle, with the exclusive opportunity to finish on the 50-yard line at Lucas Oil Stadium. Plus, enjoy the post-race celebration, featuring the opportunity to visit Colts In Motion, the team’s interactive mobile experience, the Colts Play60 Zone, live entertainment, appearances from Colts Cheerleaders and mascot Blue, and food and drink specials. Parents and caregivers with strollers are permitted to participate.

The Kids Play60 Fun Run (1K) gives your little one the chance to finish on the 50-yard line at Lucas Oil Stadium. Children, ages 4 through 12, are permitted to participate in the Fun Run.

For more information and to register, visit Colts5K. com.

All Colts 5K and Fun Run registrations completed prior to August 14 will include a ticket to the Colts vs. Carolina preseason game on August 15 at 1 p.m.

Take $5 OFF your Colts 5K, Fun Run or Virtual Event Registration by visiting Colts5K.com and using the discount code 2021INDYCHILD5K. HURRY! This discount expires Friday, August 6.

PHOTO CREDIT

THE INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

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SCHOOL AFTER THE PANDEMIC:

what's next?

Local education leaders weigh in on how their schools have adapted over the past year.

t

WORDS BY LINDSAY CONNER

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused people to pivot

and change the way they do everything — and this

is especially true for schools. Indianapolis-area

schools have adapted and grown in many ways, such as setting up quarantine areas in school clinics and hiring extra substitute teachers. Schools are already making plans to help the next year go as smoothly as possible, but what will 2021-22 look like for students and parents?

Some students who have been e-learning are eager to get back into the classroom. But as Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township learned, families want options. “We are offering instructional program choice of full in-person, hybrid or full virtual learning for the 2021-22 school year,” says Dr. Tim Harshbarger, Assistant Superintendent for Schools.

Dr. Dana Altemeyer, director of communications for MSD Lawrence Township, explains that 67 percent of students learned in-person last year, while the others learned via a virtual or hybrid method.

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Harshbarger adds: “We kept our focus on meeting the needs of the kids, both academically and social/emotionally, while keeping the learning environment as safe as possible. Honestly, kids were at home so much in the spring and summer [of 2020], they really were motivated to get back to school and see friends, even if that meant wearing a mask!”

The return of co-curricular events, like sports, music and theater, was a game changer for students attending school in-person. MSD Lawrence Township had to become creative, doing such things as staggered rehearsals, having the choir rehearse in an outdoor atrium or even the loading dock behind the high school.

With more research and science available on COVID-19, schools can improve their decision-making this school year, whether it’s in classroom layout, social distancing, or offering bottled water and personal protective equipment in schools.

“We have learned a great deal about contract tracing and quarantining,” Altemeyer says. “We quarantined a lot of staff and students throughout the year; however, we also believe that led to far fewer positive cases in our schools.”

MSD Lawrence Township developed a COVID Re-entry Task Force Team to help navigate the onslaught of information on school re-entry, according to national, state and county guidelines. Having this team already formed will undoubtedly help the district work with community partners to help with testing and vaccinations into the school year.

Given that the district now has access to student-issued Chromebooks and experience navigating connectivity issues, they will be even better prepared to educate students in a variety of ways when schools start in the fall.

Teachers will go into the year with virtual classroom experience, having offered classes “live” as well as asynchronous workplans. Schools have also adapted to connecting with parents

and prospective families virtually, hosting online meetings in lieu of conferences.

Keeping the public informed via regular parent and staff updates was always high priority, and that is one area where schools have thrived. In their decision to operate in-person as much as was safely possible last year, The Orchard School made significant modifications to schedules, events, and learning spaces. And this meant getting students, staff, and families on board.

“Establishing the physical distancing protocol was probably the single greatest

obstacle,” says Nick Eble,

Assistant Head of School

for Orchard. “Given our school's penchant for experiential, cooperative activities, we had to recalibrate our expectations. We modified many of our longstanding

traditions and grade-level highlights.”

That said, Eble is proud of the way the staff kept student experience at the center of the conversation during these challenging times. “Orchard students arrived each and every day as excited to be here as always, and we worked diligently to live up to our nearly 100-year history of engaging, hands-on learning,” Eble says.

In hindsight, Eble says the challenges presented last school year only strengthened the values they’ve always held dear at Orchard. “Learning is a social act, and being together is the best way to accomplish our collective goals,” he says. “Yes, we did learn about new ways to use technology to extend our classrooms into people's homes. But when it comes down to it, that will never replace

the impact and importance of working together, in person, in a diverse community of classmates.”

As schools open this year, administrators are already keen on finding ways to leave the frustration, grief and disappointments of the past school year behind. “Obviously, there were hard moments, but we all knew that we were working to create the best learning environments and experiences we could, given the public health constraints imposed by a global pandemic,” Eble says.

Looking forward, Eble hopes to keep students and staff motivated by celebrating learning through shared moments of joy and lots of laughter. “We frame our work through the goals of love, connection and learning, and that really helps guide us through the year,” he says.

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During the 2020-21 school year, educators across the city were faced with a seemingly impossible task: continue to deliver the highest-quality instruction on a daily basis while ensuring the safety of both students and staff. Many of the lessons learned in the past year are ones that area schools will carry with them into the coming year, and beyond. We asked leaders from several schools to share how their school has adapted and grown since the pandemic.

BELOW ARE THEIR RESPONSES.

Cathedral High School At the beginning of the pandemic, we needed technology to stay connected to our students in somewhat of an emergency mode. Through that process, we learned several pathways that also helped us during face-to-face instruction, allowing us to individualize instruction at an even higher level. In addition, while we saw what all is possible virtually, the biggest win was the resiliency of our students, families, and educators. – Julie Barthel, Principal

Sycamore School The environment required us to rethink everything we've done before. We learned that we can stay true to our mission by adapting to external conditions and learning new strategies and methodologies.

We continue to offer our kids the rigorous and robust educational experiences they need. There is immense satisfaction in the ultimate success of a uniquely challenging and stimulating year. – Diane Borgmann, Head of School

Brebeuf In our end of the year reflections, a theme that arose across the students, faculty and staff was immense gratitude for strong professional relationships. While the vocabulary of 2019-21 constantly included flexible, pivot, unprecedented, and change....we were grounded in faith, hope, and trust in each other. And when all else is uncertain, that knowledge made everything possible.

– Jen LaMaster, Assistant Principal

International School of Indiana Though we’ve always been an innovative school, the pandemic sped up change in tremendous ways and taught our entire community that there are benefits to embracing change. With global mobility halting, and fewer international students able to physically come to Indiana, we welcomed more local students and families to our school community while simultaneously serving international students remotely. – Kristen Kaiser, VP Development & External Affairs

Heritage Christian School To meet the expectations and best interests of its' community, Heritage provided in-person, in-class education throughout the past year while complying with health safety protocols. We avoided remote, distance-learning and hybrid instruction models, effectively leveraging our strategies for masking up, distancing, cohorts, enhanced health and safety services, re-designed classroom spaces, and creative activity management. Our goal for 2021-22 is to do all we can to guard our ability to continue providing in-person learning.

– Gary Roebbelen, Heritage Communications Director

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EDUCATION GUIDE CARMEL Carmel Montessori Schools Carmel Montessori School is located 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

The Little Lamb Christian School

The Little Lamb Christian School is a home away from home for children 6 weeks to pre-kindergarten. Since 1987, we have been the go-to private preschool for Carmel families who are interested in a Christian education. We are a place where children can learn, explore, create, grow and play! • 1609 Greyhound Pass, Carmel, IN 46032, Phone: 317-848-3580, Email: kayley@thelittlelamb. com, thelittlelamb.com/, 6 weeks to Pre-Kindergarten and after school care

Pathways Learning Academy - Northview Church Carmel Pathways Learning Academy inside Northview Church Carmel Campus is opening soon! Pathways Learning Academy is a 21st century preschool where STEAM curriculum brings the world into every classroom. Here, your child will discover integrated, hands-on learning experiences in Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Math. Programs are available for infant through school-age students. Plus, families get peace of mind, with livestreaming video and real-time mobile updates. Schedule a tour today at PathwaysLearningAcademy.com. • 12900 Hazel Dell Pkwy, Indianapolis, IN 46033; Phone: (844) 422-9533; PathwaysLearningAcademy.com

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Starting Line Preschool The Right Start for A Lifelong Love of Learning! Our strong academic-based curriculum prepares and encourages your child to succeed in school while 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 Kinder- garten. • 110 Third Ave NE, Carmel, IN 46032, Contact: Diane Atkins, Phone: 317-753-9397, Email: dkatkins22@msn.com, startinglinepreschool.com

DOWNTOWN Paramount Brookside Paramount Brookside is a top-ranked, free, public school that educates K-8 grade 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 a planetarium, and an operating farm.

Paramount Brookside is designated a 2018 Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education and an “A” school by the Indiana Department of Education. • 3020 Nowland Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46201 Contact: Toria Graham at 317-775-6660 or contact@ PSOEBrookside.org, paramountindy.org

Paramount Cottage Home Paramount Cottage Home serves K-4th grade students as a free public 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. The 2019 ILEARN results placed the school among the top-performers statewide.

Cottage Home’s new, state-of-the-art facility features bright, spacious classrooms with contemporary furnishings, advanced technology capabilities, and a farm STEM discovery center. • 1203 E. St. Clair Street,

Indianapolis, IN 46202, Contact: Amie Smith at 463-231-2837 or contact@PSOE Community.org, paramountindy.org

EAST Paramount Englewood Paramount Englewood, a free public school, serves 5-8th grade students.

The school shares the state-of-the-art P.R. Mallory campus with Purdue Polytechnic High School. Paramount Englewood is an extension of Paramount Schools of Excellence’s successful education model. The flagship campus is designated a 2018 Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education and an “A” school by the Indiana Department of Education for six consecutive years. • 3029 E. Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46201, Contact Peggy Purvis, at 463.231.2830 or contact@PSOE englewood. org, paramountindy.org

INDIANAPOLIS – NORTH ACE Prep Academy At ACE Prep, we believe college begins in Kindergarten. Our licensed teachers create joyful, structured classrooms inside a safe and supportive environment for all K-5 scholars to excel. Before/After school care available, plus a free ACE Prep backpack and school supplies provided! Partner with us in your scholars’ education! • 5326 Hillside Ave,

Indianapolis, IN 46220; Phone: (317) 744-9847; email: ashults@aceprepacadmy.org

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+, PreKindergarten (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: ECC Office, Phone: 317-259-6854, Fax: 317-259- 6849 or Email: spayne@bez613.org. * Depending on the COVID-19 situation, some options might have to be changed.

Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School seeks to prepare the next generation of leaders with the intellectual and technological competence, loving and open hearts, faith inspiration and social responsibility to bring about a more just, humane and loving world.

Students from all backgrounds, faiths, and ethnicities are welcome at Brebeuf Jesuit, where all are called to discover and cultivate the fullness of their God-given talents. Each student is therefore challenged and inspired to strive for academic excellence, to engage whole-heartedly in cocurricular activities, to develop confidence in leadership abilities, and to discover God’s presence in everyday life through serving others. • 2801 W 86th St, Indianapolis, IN 46268, Contact: Colleen Cannon, Director of Admissions, Phone: 317-524-7090, Email: admissions@ brebeuf.org, brebeuf.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

* SPONSORED LISTINGS

Early Childhood Center, The Church at the Crossing 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. Oldest classrooms utilize “Handwriting Without Tears” curriculum. Various days, 9am-2pm. Some extended days.

Need longer hours? Try our All Day Classes designed for 16 mos – Pre K5 with class times 6:30am-6pm • 9111 N. Haverstick Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46240, Contact: John Drake, Phone: 317-575-6508, Email: ecc@golove.org

Giving Tree Early Learning Open to the Public! Giving Tree Early

Learning is a Reggio inspired early education program serving children ages 12 months through Pre-K. At Giving Tree, your child's natural curiosity is nurtured through a child directed, play-based curriculum rooted in developmentally appropriate practice. Our unique creative play spaces, such as the Light Studio and Outdoor Classroom, allow your child the opportunity to explore, discover and innovate. The small class sizes and responsive classroom environment creates a world that ignites confidence and compassion within your child as they develop their mind, body and soul alongside our skilled educators. Visit our website- www.givingtreehhai.org to learn more. We accept CCDF and On My Way Pre-K vouchers and are rated Paths to QUALITY Level 3. Schedule your tour today! • 6602 Hoover Road, Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Ashley Flaumenhaft, Phone: 317-251-1261, Email: aflaumenhaft@hhai.org, givingtree hhai.org

Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation - Early Childhood Center The Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation-Early Childhood Center (IHC-ECC) is committed to giving toddlers through kindergartners varied and rich opportunities for growth and development. We believe in providing an atmosphere of love, learning and play, which is greatly enhanced by our Jewish values. • 6501 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46260, Phone: 317-2542186, ihcindy.org/ecc

International School of Sycamore School Indiana At Sycamore School, Indiana's only ISI is a non-profit independent school that offers all preschool through grade 12 students an International Baccalaureate curriculum. With language immersion programs in French, Mandarin, and Spanish, our challenging curriculum helps students excel academically while learning how to become responsible citizens and effective leaders. • 4330 N. Michigan Rd.; Phone: 317-923-1951, ext. 334; email: admissions@isind.org; isind.org

Maria Montessori International Academy Maria Montessori International Academy provides children with structure, but also the freedom to choose and explore in their own way.

We work on independence from an early age. Children are empowered in their surroundings and then are able to grasp concepts such as early literacy taught through the Montessori method. Infant-elementary • 7507 N Michigan Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46268, Phone: 317-769-2220, Email: hello@inmontessori. com, inmontessori.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: Jessica Aiyasami, Admissions Coordinator, Phone: 317-7135717, Fax: 317-254-8454, Email: jaiyasami@ orchard.org, orchard.org

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. • For more information or to explore our virtual tour please visit our website or facebook.com/ saplingschoolindy. To schedule a private tour please call 317-319-8228. Contact: Kelsey Livingston. Phone: 317-319-8228.

Email: kelsey@saplingschoolindy.com, saplingschoolindy.com

accredited, independent, private school for Preschool - 8th grade gifted students, teachers trained in gifted education deliver a curriculum designed to challenge and engage gifted learners. Art, music, Spanish, physical education, technology, extensive field trips, athletics, financial aid, and after school activities are offered. • 1750 W. 64th Street, Indianapolis,

IN 46260, Contact: Dr. Susan Karpicke, Director of Admissions, Phone: 317-202-2500, Email: karpicke.susan@sycamoreschool.org, sycamoreschool.org

INDIANAPOLIS –NORTHEAST MSD of Lawrence Township Located in the northeast corner of Indianapolis, Lawrence is a residential suburban community of 95,000+ and home to Fort Benjamin Harrison State Park and Geist Reservoir. With families from widely diverse cultural, racial, and socio-economic backgrounds, the Lawrence community values and embraces diversity as one of its greatest strengths. Lawrence Township strives to be the district of destination, a reputation built over the years based on the district's award-winning staff, accomplished administrators, high-achieving students, supportive community, and innovative educational programs. • 6501 Sunnyside Road, Indianapolis, IN 46236; Phone: (317) 423-8200; email: danaaltemeyer@msdlt.k12.in.us; LTschools.org

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 in social skills are developed through positive interaction with peers and our well-qualified and loving staff. • 2944 E.

56th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46220, Contact: Gail Hacker and Tammy Clark, Phone: 317-257-9127, Email: thepanda@pollypanda. com, pollypanda.com

development to the next as well rounded 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

INDIANAPOLIS – SOUTH Curtis Wilson Primary School and Academy Curtis Wilson Primary School and Academy, a division 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 - 6th Grade. • 7850 South Emerson Ave., Indianapolis , 46237, Phone: 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, montessorischoolofwestfield.com

Primrose School of Geist Provides high-quality, educational experiences to support children’s social-emotional, cognitive, creative and physical development. It is made up of an exclusive standards-based curriculum that enables teachers to help children gain the knowledge and skills that will enable them to move successfully from one level of

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SPECIAL NEEDS

Easterseals Crossroads

VIRTUAL

Autism Companion Services

Offering comprehensive disability services for people of all ages. Early Intervention, Autism Services, PT, OT, Speech Therapy, Feeding/ Swallowing issues, Augmentative Comm-unication, Assistive Technology, Multi-sensory Therapy Rooms, Summer Camps, Life/ Social Skills Groups, Deaf Community Services, Autism Family Resource Center. • 4740 Kingsway Drive,

Paramount Virtual Learning

Autism Companion Services offers comprehensive autism diagnostic testing and ABA therapy. We serve children from ages 2 through 10 in our traditional ABA program with focus on speech, language, behavior and independence. We also provide our Collaborative Connections Program for children ages 4-8 that will be transitioning to a public or private school. This program consists of social skills, group instruction, exploration themes and much more within the goals of your child's clinical program.

Teen center offerings devoted for children ages 11 and older with a focus on behavior, functional skills within the center and/or in home environment. We are well suited for options within center based, in home therapy, in preschool or school settings based on clinical recommendations. • 7208 Dobson St. Indianapolis, IN 46268, Phone 317-4036705 Email: Jane@autismcompanionservices. com, autismcompanionservices.com

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Indianapolis, IN 46205, Phone: 317-4661000, Email: info@ easterseals crossroads.org, eastersealscrossroads.org

Mindful & Modern ABA Therapies At Mindful & Modern ABA Therapies our behavior analyst, speech therapist and occupational therapist create a unique treatment plan for each child. In our AIMS Academy children experience a Montessori setting where they engage in daily living activities such as assembling lunch, clean up, communication and play with typical peers. • 7507 N Michigan Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46268, Phone: 317-8277777, Email: hello@montessoriaba.com, montessoriaba.com

Not sure about your K-8th grade students returning to school? Make the Change that makes Difference - choose virtual learning at Paramount Schools of Excellence. Whether on one of Paramount's three state-of-the-art campuses or virtual learning from home, you can expect top-ranked academics, experienced certified teachers, and support. • Call 317-519-4588 or check out paramountindy.org for more information.

VIRTUAL + RESIDENTIAL P.A.C.E. at National Louis University P.A.C.E. at National Louis University (NLU) is a three-year post-secondary program designed for young adults with multiple intellectual, learning and developmental disabilities ready to thrive in the vibrant city of Chicago! We are one of the leading residential-based programs in the country that provides a unique real world arena for our students to put theory into practice every day.

Instruction integrates employment preparation, independent living skills

coaching, functional academic courses and social development into a curriculum that actively involves the student in the process and is directly linked to events and activities encountered in daily living. • Phone:

(312) 261-3245, Email: epotter3@nl.edu, nl.edu/paceatnlu; Virtual College Field Trip: ccalendly.com/paceatnlu collegefieldtrip

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

AROUND TOWN

WORDS BY MICHELLE MAESTRO

Local Spotlight: LiftOff Creamery This downtown aviation-themed ice cream shop is invested in showing students the ropes of owning a small business.

students come from all demographics, including underserved communities from the city’s east side.

At only 14 years of age, Ryan Lynch got his start flying airplanes. “A lot of people don’t realize that you can get your pilot’s license before your driver’s license. And I have been flying ever since,” Lynch laughs.

Perhaps it is this firsthand experience of having big responsibility at such a tender age that inspired Lynch to trust high school-aged students to help oversee the day-to-day operations of running his aviation-themed ice cream shop, LiftOff Creamery, in downtown Indianapolis.

The program, still in its infancy, started shortly after the store opened in September 2020. In fact, Lynch is actively searching for his next crop of young entrepreneurs. Having a love of ice cream and aviation helps, since those are Lynch’s passions, but all that is required for the students is a commitment of helping around the shop for 60 to 80 hours a semester (or year, depending on the student’s flexibility of schedule) and a determination to own their own business someday.

“I teach the students the business side of what I do, answering all their questions like, how did you get started? Where did you go to learn about business? How did you get the startup funds? After you

Lynch teaches the students all the requisite business skills, from the necessity of practicing time management to building great customer service. “If they think running your own business is going to be a 40 hour a week job, it’s not,” Lynch says.

But he is quick to point out the pros — like teaching others how to chart a pathway to success on their own terms with their own businesses. Lynch loves ice cream and aviation, and excitedly lists off each of his 120 ice cream flavors like Amelia Earhart, a strawberry ice cream named after the famous aviator, because strawberry was her favorite.

got started, how do you order your product? Who do you talk to for that? And how do you operate the location to make sure if it’s sustainable long-term? Being the owner, I am able to show them how I got my start and teach them the ins and outs of running a small business,” Lynch says. Thus, students receive a hands-on business education that they may not get in the classroom.

Lynch got into business the old-fashioned way: through hard work and a curiosity about what it takes to run a successful business.

He says he reads the Indianapolis Business Journal and attends meetings with local entrepreneurial groups.

Everything he has learned he wants to pass down to the next generation. “There are places you can go to pay for the sort of training I am giving the students, but not all these places are very reputable,” cautions Lynch, whose

“I was born and raised in Indianapolis,” Lynch says. “I love this community and want to give back in the form of mentorship to others and helping them get their start in business.”

Lynch is working with high schools in the area to craft a program through which students may receive course credit for their hard work at the store. If interested in participating in the mentorship program, students can reach out to Lynch through LiftOff Creamery’s website (liftoffcreamery.com) for more information.

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PREGNANCY AFTER LOSS With a rainbow baby on the way, you should be happy, right?

It’s OK to have mixed feelings during a pregnancy after loss, and here’s how to cope.

WORDS BY RACHAEL DUPREE

I

t was only three months after I my miscarriage when I became pregnant with my rainbow baby. While I wanted to be happy about another chance to bring life into the world, part of me was afraid to get excited or share the news. I often had flashbacks to the night of my loss and felt anxious about what this new pregnancy would bring. I worried with every little cramp in my body that I was losing the baby again, and I obsessively checked for signs of blood.

While each time I heard the baby’s heartbeat brought relief, I didn’t let myself get fully attached to the little being growing inside me until he reached the age of viability outside the womb.

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If you’re also experiencing intense emotions in a pregnancy after a miscarriage or stillbirth, know you’re not alone. It’s common after a loss for women to experience intrusive memories, flashbacks, hypervigilance, distrust of their bodies, and feelings of apprehension, fear or dread — making the joy that accompanies the news of conception very confusing as our brains try to make sense of our experiences and prevent them from happening again.

The truth is, a pregnancy loss is usually not the mother’s fault. As you navigate the emotionally complicated journey of a new pregnancy, give yourself permission to experience your full range of emotions and seek out support during this

vulnerable time. Here are some ways you can cope as you look toward the rainbow after the storm.

1. BE GENTLE WITH YOURSELF Your new pregnancy will not feel the same as the one before your loss, and it won’t make your grief go away. Acknowledge all the feelings you’re experiencing — the sadness, the hope, the fear, the joy — and know there’s no one correct way to move forward.

“You have the right to be just as you are right now, knowing that holding conflicting feelings does not invalidate them,” says Courtney Williams, a licensed

mental health therapist in Indianapolis who specializes in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, pregnancy and infant loss, and fertility. “You are allowed to be both sad about your loss and happy and scared about your current pregnancy.”

In fact, the feelings of grief may continue once your rainbow baby is born, she says. There is nothing wrong with this. You’ve endured a huge loss, so be kind to yourself

2. FIND PROVIDERS WHO SUPPORT YOU Mothers-to-be who have experienced a pregnancy loss often need extra support and

reassurance. Talk with your provider about your history. Do they show sensitivity when discussing your loss? Are they understanding of emergency appointments to check symptoms or hear the baby’s heartbeat? Can they connect you with other trauma-informed supports?

“Having a medical team who understands and supports you through this is crucial,” Williams says. “If you feel dismissed by your medical provider, it’s OK to find a provider who takes the time to listen to your concerns and validates your unique needs.”

3. SEEK MENTAL HEALTH THER APY Trauma-informed therapy is key during this time if you’re experiencing anxiety or depression surrounding your loss, particularly

if those feelings are interfering with day-to-day activities, you’re displaying obsessive-compulsive behaviors, or you’re having thoughts about harming yourself or someone else.

“It’s OK to not be OK,” Williams says. “If you find that you are struggling with your mood, seek support. Deciding to carry another baby after experiencing a loss is a vulnerable experience. You don’t have to do it alone.”

Trauma-informed therapists can use a variety of modalities to help explore and process your loss, including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, complicated grief therapy and emotionally focused therapy.

If you don’t connect with the first therapist you see, don’t hesitate to ask for a referral or seek another

provider. And remember, if therapy alone isn’t helpful, you can talk to your OB/GYN about exploring medications that can be used safely during pregnancy.

4. CONNECT WITH OTHERS There is something incredibly healing about sharing your story with others. Keeping in close communication with your partner who may also be struggling, as well as friends and family, is important not only for you but your baby, Williams says. Attending a pregnancy loss support group can also be helpful.

Often you can find the support you need in simply allowing others to help when they offer. Have a specific answer ready when people

ask “How can I help?” Keep a list at the ready of things like meals, laundry, stocking baby supplies or accompanying you to the doctor.

“Deciding to carry another baby after experiencing a loss is a vulnerable experience,” Williams says. “You don’t have to do it alone.”

Nearly a year after the birth of my healthy rainbow baby — and a lot of relational and professional support along the way — I still get a twinge of sadness when I think about the baby that didn’t make it full-term. Those feelings don’t go away — nor do I want them to — but the pain does get easier over time. By being kind with ourselves and sharing our journey with others, we can clear a path of healing and support for ourselves and other women going through this experience.

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INDY'S CHILD'S

FUN GUIDE 2021

[ contents ] 30

6 CENTRAL INDIANA SPLASH PADS WORTH THE DRIVE

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CAN'T-MISS ICE CREAM SHOPS IN INDY

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COOL CAVES IN THE MIDWEST

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SUMMER FUN LISTINGS SPONSORED BYYY

6 CENTRAL INDIANA

SPLASH PADS WORTH THE DRIVE LOOKI N G TO BE AT TH E H E AT TH IS SUMMER ?

COOL OFF AT ON E OF TH ESE SPR AY PARKS !

Indianapolis and Central Indiana are home to some of the best splash pads and spray parks anywhere. Splash pads are lots of fun for kids of all ages — everyone from babies to teens (and even adults!) will find lots of fun cooling off in the spray of a splash pad. And best of all: Unlike visiting a pool or water park, a splash pad is free!

We’ve rounded up the 6 best splash pads that are worth the drive this summer. All of these splash pads are located in parks with amazing playgrounds, too, so be sure to check them out!

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Billericay Park Splash Pad 12690 Promise Rd., Fishers

The splash pad at Billericay Park is popular, thanks in part to all of the other things going on at that park: the baseball diamond, the huge playground for all ages, the walking trails and picnic areas.

This splash pad features a dump bucket and lots of spray features, and is one of two splash pads in Fishers.

City Center Park Splash Pad 415 Lincoln St., Greenwood

City Center Park offers a wide array of recreational amenities to visitors, including the only free splash pad in Johnson County. City Center Park Splash Pad features in-ground water sprinklers and dumping buckets, plus plenty of shaded areas to sit and relax. This south Indy splash pad is a fun way to cool down during the summer months!

Daleville Town Hall Splash Pad 8029 S. Walnut St., Daleville

One of the largest splash pads in the state of Indiana, the Daleville Town Hall Splash Pad opens for the season after Memorial Day. This huge splash pad features multiple spray jets, hoop

sprinklers and a giant bucket that dumps water when it becomes full.

previous structure. A fun addition to an already bright and colorful (and fun!) park, the Quaker Park Splash Pad is a great way to cool off on the northside.

Mulberry Fields Splash Pad

Watermill Splash Pad at Williams Park

9645 Whitestown Road, Zionsville

There’s not one but TWO splash pads at Mulberry Fields in Zionsville! One splash pad is a typical splash pad setup, with above-ground tunnels that mist water and multiple spray features. The other splash pad is a shallow area with rocks, puddles and trickling water — like a creek — so you feel like you’re creek stomping. Both of the splash pads at Mulberry Fields are perfect for kids of all ages. This is one of the more unique splash pads in the area!

940 S. Locust Ln., Brownsburg

Quaker Park Splash Pad 17501 Dartown Rd., Westfield

The splash pad at Quaker Park has been updated in 2021, and now includes 20 water features — almost double the number of the previous splash pad. The splash pad has also been outfitted with a new surface, which is safer than the concrete surface of the

The Watermill Splash Pad is located at the back of Williams Park, and boasts more than 2,500 square feet of aquatic play opportunities for the entire family through interactive spray and play features. The zerodepth splash pad offers several features with varying water sensations, including flowing, misting, and jetting – in addition to the Superwave that churns out 32 gallons of water per minute!

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Ice Cream SHOPs IN INDY

No matter where you are in Indy, you’re never too far away from great ice cream. Whether you like your ice cream in a cup or cone, made into a milkshake, sandwiched between cookies or plopped on pie, you’ll find the perfect place in Indianapolis to cool off with a creamy treat.

Here are 8 great ice cream places to visit this summer!

BRICS 901 E. 64th St., Indianapolis

You’ll find more than 40 flavors of ice cream at this Broad Ripple ice cream shop, including several that are vegan. BRICS is located along the Monon Trail, so it’s an easy biking or walking destination.

WORDS BY

NICOLE SIPE

Cone + Crumb

Lick Ice Cream

205 Park St., Westfield

906 Carrollton Ave., Suite 360, Indianapolis

This Hamilton County shop dishes out dozens of tasty flavors, as well as warm pie slices that pair perfectly with a cold scoop of ice cream.

Gordon’s Milkshake Bar 865 Massachusetts Ave., Indianapolis

Sure, you can get ice cream by the scoop at Gordon’s — but why stop there? This Mass Ave ice cream shop is known for their thick, rich, customizable milkshakes, which can also be made dairy-free or vegan.

Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream & Yogurt 2466 E. 146th St., Carmel 8760 E. 116th St., Fishers

You’ll almost always see people lined up at Handel’s, and there’s a good reason: They never skimp!

They make their creamy concoctions fresh and on-site daily.

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Located inside the Garage Food Hall at Bottleworks, Lick offers flavors both familiar and unique.

You’ll find the classic vanilla and chocolate, of course, but also creamy deliciousness for more sophisticated tastes, like cedar & whiskey and French violet.

Mrs. Curl Ice Cream Shop 259 S. Meridian St., Greenwood

This quaint ice cream stand with ample outdoor seating has been a Greenwood favorite for more than 40 years. Here, you’ll find everything from soft serve ice cream and hand-spun milkshakes to chili dogs and tater tots.

TeeJay’s Sweet Tooth 8660 Purdue Rd., Suite 600, Indianapolis

TeeJay’s is home to Indy’s only donut and Fruity Pebble Treat ice cream sandwich. Satisfy your sweet tooth with your choice of 16 rotating flavors in a unique ice cream sandwich, in a milkshake with an edible rim, or in a simple cone or cup.

Wyliepalooza Ice Cream Emporium 5535 E Washington St, Indianapolis 1049 E. 54th St., Indianapolis

With locations in both Irvington and SoBro, Wyliepalooza serves up a wide variety of superpremium flavors, gluten- and soy-free options, milkshakes, espresso and bubble tea.

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TRAVEL

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Cool Caves in the Midwest Venture underground and explore these 5 natural wonders.

Squire Boone Caverns

The Midwest is full of beauty and wonder — just step outside and look around! But you might be surprised to learn that there are also spectacular sights hidden beneath your feet, which you’ll find in the many caves that are located across the Midwest.

A world of stalactites and stalagmites, tunnels and waterfalls await you underground. The next time you’re looking for a cool and easy day trip, check out these five caves and caverns to explore with your family.

Indiana Caverns 1267 Green Acres Drive SW, Corydon, IN

indianacaverns.com At Indiana’s longest cave, families can enjoy a walking tour that takes visitors 110 feet underground, or a boat ride along the underground river (or both!). After the tour, kids can mine for gemstones, conquer the Cavern of The Sabertooth, fly on the zip-lining Bat Chaser coaster, and immerse themselves in an escape room adventure.

100 Squire Boone Road, Mauckport, IN

squireboonecaverns.com Walk in the footsteps of Squire Boone and his brother, Daniel, who discovered these underground caverns in the late 1700s. Families can view everything from stalactites to underground waterfalls, and learn about the living ecosystem that lies deep below Earth's surface.

When you’ve emerged from the depths, explore Squire’s Barnyard, where you’ll meet and feed the resident goats and pigs.

Ohio Caverns 2210 East State Route 245, West Liberty, OH

Louisville Mega Cavern

ohiocaverns.com

1841 Taylor Ave., Louisville, KY

INDYSCHILD.COM I July 2021

A former limestone mine, Louisville Mega Cavern features six underground zip lines and 17 miles of underground passageways beneath the City of Louisville, which stretches under parts of the Watterson Expressway and the Louisville Zoo. Visitors can also choose to explore the cave by foot or via a tram ride.

Mammoth Cave 1 Mammoth Cave Parkway, Mammoth Cave, KY

nps.gov/maca One of the most massive cave systems in the world, Mammoth Cave sprawls over 400 miles, and is home to thousands of years of human history. Families will find not only several different cave

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Ohio’s largest cavern is also its most beautiful. Known as “America’s Most Colorful Caverns,” families will find crystal and rock formations in multiple colors of the rainbow. Visitors to the Natural Wonder Tour will see The Crystal King, the largest freestanding stalactite in Ohio, that’s estimated to be more than 200,000 years old.

tours to choose from, but also opportunities for kayaking, hiking, bicycling, horseback riding and camping. Cave tours are very popular and sell out, so purchasing your tickets in advance is a must.

SPONSORED CONTENT

WORDS BY LINDA BROADFOOT, INDY PARKS DIRECTOR

Frederick Douglass Park Centennial Celebration July 7, 1921. One hundred years ago this summer, a park opened on East 25th Street, providing our city’s Black community with a place to gather freely to play, to learn and to spend time together. In a tense time of segregation, Frederick Douglass Park was a safe haven for Black families. In the past century, generations have found community and comfort in the park that is now considered a centerpiece of the Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood. In honor of the historic milestone, Indy Parks is inviting you to join us this July for the Frederick Douglass Park Centennial Celebration presented by Citizens Energy Group.

It all starts on Tuesday, July 6, with a day of volunteer clean-ups, with neighbors and community partners coming together to help spruce up the park. The next several days will be full of activities, including food service programs, a community pool party, aerobics and yoga classes, and an appreciation dinner, allowing volunteers to recognize community members who helped make Douglass Park what it is today.

There are also plans to celebrate the history of sports within the park’s community with a golf tournament and a basketball clinic.

The week leads up to the 5th annual Circle Up Indy Peace Festival on Saturday, July 10, which will be a day packed with live entertainment, activities and tasty food from local vendors. Several community organizations have been invited to share information on how they’re helping support the neighborhood through programs, resources, and employment and educational opportunities.

We are making sure that pieces of the park’s history are present throughout the celebration. Photos from a new Indianapolis Public Library collection will be on display showcasing some of the park’s earliest days, and a historian will join us to help reflect on the sense of family and belonging that the park has provided neighbors in the Martindale-Brightwood community since its founding. You can follow the full schedule of the Douglass Park 100th anniversary celebration at parks.indy.gov.

We hope to see you out celebrating the summer with us at Indy Parks!

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

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The Indianapolis Zoo 1200 West Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46222

(317) 630-2001 | indianapoliszoo.com Located along the scenic White River, the Indianapolis Zoo is the perfect stop for animal lovers.

Reach into the nation’s largest Shark Touch Pool, come face-to-face with orangutans, visit the world’s only underwater dolphin viewing dome and stroll the beautiful White River Gardens.

City of Westfield: Westfield Rocks the 4th 19000 Grand Park Blvd., Westfield, IN 46074

(317) 804-3182 | westfieldwelcome.com Celebrate Independence Day at the Grand Park Sports Campus! Our week-long event is packed with fun for all ages including city-wide adventures, professional sports games, concerts, Kids Zone, vendors and an amazing fireworks display on July 4! Visit westfieldwelcome.com for the full list of attractions and hours.

Culver & Lake Maxinkuckee Visitor Center 819 E Lakeshore Dr, Culver, IN 46511

(574) 635-0054 | findculver.com With a public beach, lakefront parks, kayak & SUP rentals, walking/biking trails, old-fashioned candy store, a drive-in root beer stand and kiln studio, Culver is the perfect day trip for kids.

Bring bikes & scooters or rent a golf cart for the day. Quaint downtown with coffee shop, cafes, and boutiques is perfect for parents too, and the entire town is walkable! Less than two hours from Indy. Plan your trip on our website and follow us IG @FindCulver and FB @Culver & Lake Maxinkuckee Visitor Center.

Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream Carmel: 2466 E. 146th St. / Fishers: 8760 E. 116th St. / Noblesville: 14165 Cabela Parkway Greenwood: 902 N State Rd. 135

handelsicecream.com Since 1945 Handel’s award-winning homemade ice cream is made fresh daily on the premises.

We use products, equipment, methods, and recipes exclusive only to Handel’s. Our philosophy is to use the best ingredients available and always in abundance.

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Visit Morgan County 466 S. Main Street, Martinsville, IN 46151

(765) 346-5611 | visitmorgancountyin.com Get out of the city and discover small town experiences you won’t expect! Create family memories you’ll never forget as you visit family farms, travel forest trails, experience living history and stroll along Main Street.

Indiana Historical Society 450 West Ohio Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202

(317) 514-8469 | IndianaHistory.org All advance admission tickets for the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center are only $5 in June, July and August! Bring history to life for your family through immersive time-travel experiences, hands-on activities and innovative technology. Visit IndianaHistory.org for all the details and to purchase your advance tickets!

Carmel Symphony Orchestra (317) 844-9717 | CarmelSymphony.org Carmel Symphony Orchestra’s exceptional 2021-22 season opens with a quartet of summer performances: July 4 at CarmelFest; “Classical Mystery Tour – the Music of The Beatles” September 5 at Coxhall Gardens, and “Symphony Uncorked” September 12 at Cedar Creek Winery and October 3 at Daniel’s Vineyard.

Conner Prairie 13400 Allisonville Rd., Fishers IN 46038

(317) 776-6000 | connerprairie.org Spanning more than 1,000 wooded acres in central Indiana, Conner Prairie welcomes nearly 400,000 visitors of all ages annually. As Indiana’s first Smithsonian Institute affiliate, Conner Prairie offers over 10 unique outdoor, historically themed experiences and indoor learning spaces that explore the connections between people, history, and land. With new programs and activities debuting daily, no two visits are the same! Book your tickets and step into the story today at Conner Prairie.

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Seize the Summer with Fishers Parks 8100 E. 106th Street, Fishers, IN 46038 (317) 595-3150 | playfishers.com At Fishers Parks, we nurture discovery. Seize the Summer with us this year as we welcome you back out for signature events like Mud Day and Monsoon Madness, for free live music at the NPD AMP, to farm life at the Fishers AgriPark, and so much more!

Indiana Caverns 1267 Green Acres Drive, Corydon, IN 47112

(812) 734-1200 | indianacaverns.com Discover family fun above and below at Indiana Caverns, near historic Corydon, IN. Part of Indiana’s longest cave system, tour includes heights, depths, ice age fossils, and a boat ride. Discount packages include gemstone mining, The Bat Chaser zip coaster, The Plunge and Escape Rooms, interpretive trails and more.

Hamilton County 4-H Fair 2003 Pleasant St, Noblesville, IN 46060

extension.purdue.edu/Hamilton/article/35108 The Hamilton County 4-H Fair returns, July 15-19, 2021 at the Hamilton County 4-H Fairgrounds in Noblesville. The 4-H Fair is free to the public and sponsored by the Hamilton County 4-H Council, Inc. Families can enjoy great food, interact with animals, and enjoy hands-on activities and events open for public participation. Admission and parking are free for this family-friendly event. Come join the fun!

Visit Fort Wayne 927 South Harrison Street, Fort Wayne, IN 46802

(260) 424-3700 | visitfortwayne.com Fort Wayne is a city that has it all, and it’s just two hours north of Indianapolis. It’s the place to visit where there’s something for everyone to do. From outdoorsy families and sports fans, to animal-obsessed kids and art aficionados, Fort Wayne is the perfect destination for your next family trip.

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis 3000 N. Meridian St. Indianapolis, IN 46208

(317) 334-4000 | childrensmuseum.org Since 1945 Handel’s award-winning homemade ice cream is made fresh daily on the premises.

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis features five floors of educational fun for all ages!

Outside, the 7.5-acre Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience encourages movement with interactive exhibits that let visitors play a variety of sports. Visit the museum’s website to learn more.

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THINGS TO DO //

THURS 01 Concerts on the

Canal: Cool City Band The summer tradition continues! Enjoy musical entertainment on the terrace or bring your own chair or blanket and sit on the grassy areas along the Central Canal.

• Location: Indiana Historical Society, Time: 6-8 p.m.,

JULY 2021

FRI 02 Movies at Garfield:

Moana Enjoy a movie under the stars! Bring a seat, your friends and family, and enjoy a screening of a family favorite. • Location: Garfield Park Arts

Story Castle Cinema: An American Tail Join the library for a free family-friendly movie in the Story Castle! • Location: Westfield

Center's west field, Time: 9-11 pm, GPACarts.org FREE

Washington Public Library, Time: 1-3 pm, wwpl. librarycalendar.com FREE

FRI 02 - SUN 04 Star-Spangled

SUN 04 Brownsburg July 4

indianahistory.org FREE

Newfields Community Day • Enjoy free admission to Newfields on the first Thursday of the month. Advance ticket is required. • Location: Newfields, Time: 11 am-8 pm, discovernewfields.org FREE

Rocket Ship Catapult Class for Kids Join Ripple Mobile Arts and blast off with your own rocket ship catapult! Learn the mechanics of rocket ships and transform your creation into a working catapult. • Location: Pike Branch Library, Time: 11 am-Noon, indypl.org FREE

THURS 01 - SUN 04 Lights Over Morse Lake A four-day festival with music, carnival, vendors and fireworks display. • Location: Community Park in Cicero, lightsovermorselake.org

Marion County Fair Get excited! The 91st annual Marion County Fair returns with some huge new events and the return of your favorites. • Location: Marion County Fairgrounds, marioncountyfair.org

Symphony Pack a picnic and wear your red, white and blue for the ISO’s annual celebration of America. Part of the Symphony on the Prairie lineup, this summertime tradition features favorites like Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, with fireworks at the end. • Location: Conner Prairie, Time: 8 pm, indianapolissymphony.org

Westfield Rocks the 4th More than 20 food and retail vendors, face painting, bounce houses, balloon artists, music, a hot dog eating competition, a car show, fireworks and so much more! • Location: Grand Park, Time: See website, westfieldwelcome.com/westfield-rocks-the-4th-2

SAT 03 All American Day in the

Park A fun evening of food, music and of course, fireworks! Let's make this twice the fun to make up for last year! • Location: Sarah T. Bolton Park in Beech Grove, Time: 5 pm, bgpromoters.org/ fireworks FREE

Stars & Stripes Party at the Parks At this family-friendly event, enjoy games for kids, food trucks, beverage stations, live music and a City of Lawrence fireworks show. • Location: Fort

Ben Cultural Campus, Time: 6-9 pm, lawrenceparksin. org FREE

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FREE / free for families!

*ONGOING /a recurring event

Concert & Fireworks Sing along to your patriotic favorites with Indy Jazz Orchestra! The concert is free and begins at 7:45 pm. Fireworks will be launched at approximately 10 pm. • Location: Arbuckle Acres Park, Time: 7:45 pm, brownsburgparks.com/brownsburg-july-4

Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza Enjoy bounce houses, a live band, food vendors and more. Stick around for a fireworks display beginning at 9:55 pm. • Location: Hummel Park in Plainfield, Time: 5-10 pm, hummelpark.net

Independence Day Social Try your hand at vintage yard games on the scenic south lawn of the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site, enjoy a free From the Front Porch Tour, and cool off with some ice cream while listening to music! • Location: Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site, Time 11 am-2 pm, bhpsite.org

Martinsville July 4th Celebration Features six bands on the free stage for your entertainment, followed by fireworks at 10 pm. As always, refreshments are available on site and admission is free. • Location: Jimmy Nash Park, Time: 4 pm, visitmorgancountyin.org FREE

*SN / special needs friendly

/ an Indy's Child favorite!

Noblesville July 4th Festival Festivities include live music and a fireworks display starting at 10 p.m. • Location: Forest Park, Time: 6-10 pm, cityofnoblesville.org FREE

Zionsville Lions 4th of July Celebration Music, kids corner, festival food, fireworks display at 10 p.m. and much more!

• Location: Lions Park, Time: 5 pm, zionsvillelions. com/events/4th-of-july

SUN 04 - MON 05 CarmelFest

This two-day celebration includes the city’s biggest fireworks display on both nights, games and rides, festival food, entertainment, an outdoor marketplace, and a community parade. • Location: One Civic Square and Carter Green in Carmel, carmelfest.net

MON 05 Movies at Midtown:

Scooby Doo! Stage Fright Enjoy an outdoor movie shown on the big video screen in Midtown Plaza. • Midtown Plaza Carmel, Times:

Noon, 2:30, 5 and 7:30 pm, midtownplazacarmel.com

TUES 06 Totally Kid's Trivia Kids ages 6-14, grab your grownups and join us for an hour (or so) of trivial fun! We will play in a variety of formats for nothing but bragging rights. • Location: Virtual, Time: 6:30-7:30 pm, indypl.org FREE

WED 07 Junior Chef Class:

Snacks Around the World Join Nutrition Services of the Marion County Public Health Department and explore recipes from Italy, Puerto Rico and India. Kids 6 years old and up will make up to three different snacks using cooking techniques like slicing, chopping and mixing. • Location: Nora Branch Library, Time: 11 am-Noon, indypl.org FREE

Kids Academy @ IKEA Fishers Celebrate and enjoy the summer at IKEA Fishers.

Kids 12 and under can pick up a summer themed craft kit. • Location: IKEA Fishers, Time: 10 am-Noon, ikea.com/us/en/stores/fishers

THURS 08 Beautiful Butterflies

Learn about these wonderful creatures! Each child will create a butterfly craft to take home.

Registration required; ages 4-11. • Location: Garfield Park Conservatory, Time: 2-3 pm, garfieldgardensconservatory.org

Concerts on the Canal: MidTown Madmen The summer tradition continues!

Enjoy musical entertainment on the terrace or bring your own chair or blanket and sit on the grassy areas along the Central Canal. • Location: Indiana Historical Society, Time: 6-8 p.m., indianahistory.org FREE

SUN, JULY 04

INDEPENDENCE DAY SOCIAL AT BENJAMIN HARRISON PRESIDENTIAL SITE

FRI 09 92 County Walking Tour Learn about the 92 sculptures on the exterior of the Indiana State Museum — one representing every county in the state. This is an outdoor walking tour; guests should wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes. Ages 15+. • Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, indianamuseum.org

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Ice Cream Social Celebrate National Ice Cream Month during the 32nd annual drive-thru Ice Cream Social. The event will be drive-thru only this year and proceeds benefit the YMCA of Indianapolis. • Location: Victory Field, Time: 11 am-2 pm, winnersdrinkmilk.com/

TUES 13 Jungle Tales A fun indoor or outdoor program (weather dependent) where preschoolers and kindergarteners learn about the jungle or local nature! This program includes: stories, games, crafts and outdoor exploration.

Pre-registration required, ages 2-5, $4. • Location: Garfield Park Conservatory, Time: 10-11 am, garfieldgardensconservatory.org

FRI 09 - SAT 10 Artie Fest A

family-friendly celebration highlighting the positive attributes of the community. The festival strives to offer many activities and entertainment at no or very low cost to the community. Proceeds from the festival go to a need-based scholarship supporting a graduating senior in their endeavors at their chosen college or university. • Location: Morgan County 4-H

native bees and pollinators, as well as honeybees. The presentation will share insight on pollinators: what they are, what they need to survive and how we can help them thrive. • Location: Lawrence Branch Library,

Time: 2-3 pm, indypl.org FREE

Biz Kidz Day 2021 This event gives young entrepreneurs, ages 5-17, the opportunity to showcase their entrepreneurial skills by running their own business for a day! Kids may sell products that are handmade, hand-grown, hand-crafted or hand-produced. • Location: Fishers Farmers Market, Time: 8 am-Noon, playfishers.com/188/FishersFarmers-Market

SUN 11 Cereal Cinema: The

Emperor’s New Groove This event combines two of the best things about Saturday mornings: cereal and a great movie! Cereal is included with tickets, and coffee — for tired parents — is available for purchase at Coat Check Coffee. • Location: The Basile Theatre at the Athenaeum, Time: 10 am-Noon, athenaeumfoundation.org

MON 12 Movies at Midtown:

Secret Life of Pets 2 Enjoy an outdoor movie shown on the big video screen in Midtown Plaza. • Midtown Plaza Carmel, Times: Noon, 2:30, 5 and 7:30 pm, midtownplazacarmel.com

Read-In Picnic Celebrate nature, community and the love of books by joining Carmel Library for a summer picnic and read-in! All ages are welcome. • Location: Carey Grove Park, Time: 11:30

am-1 pm, carmelclaylibrary.org FREE

Small Wonders: Bugs and Butterflies Take a closer look at various specimens of bugs and butterflies. Children will be using science tools to conduct experiments and create a bug-inspired art project. Ages 3-5. • Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 10-11 am, indiana museum.org

WED 14 Canal Nights: Superhero

Night Discover your superpower, write your own comic book storyline and design your own super suit and super-secret hideout. These engaging activities will be led by museum staff and community partner Indy Fuel. • Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 6-8 pm, indianamuseum.org FREE

Cool Creek Campfires: Hoosier Hooter Owls Join around the campfire ring for songs, presentations and marshmallows. This week, Take Flight Wildlife Education’s Mark Booth will bring several of Indiana’s owls to the campfire to talk about their adaptations and role in our ecosystem. • Location: Cool Creek Nature Center, Time: 7-8 pm, hamiltoncounty.in.gov/296/Parks-andRecreation FREE

THURS 15 Concerts on the Canal:

Hopkins & Miller The summer tradition continues! Enjoy musical entertainment on the terrace or bring your own chair or blanket and sit on the grassy areas along the Central Canal. • Location: Indiana Historical Society, Time: 6-8 p.m., indianahistory.org FREE

Drawing 2 Conclusions Art Class for Kids Join teaching artist Gary Gee from Arts For Learning, Indiana Affiliate, in this free session for kids ages 6 & up. Using art,

scribbling, imagination and context clues,

participants will use sketching to draw

conclusions to real world problems. •

Location: Lawrence Branch Library, Time: 2-3 pm, indypl.org FREE

SAT, JULY 10 BEE THE CHANGE AT LAWRENCE BRANCH LIBRARY

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County 4-H Fair Families can enjoy great food, interact with animals, and enjoy hands-on activities and events open for public participation. • Location: Hamilton County 4-H Fairgrounds, extension. purdue.edu/Hamilton/article/35108

FRI 16 Cool Creek Summer

Fairgrounds, artiefest.org

SAT 10 Bee The Change Explore

THURS 15 - MON 19 Hamilton

Concert Enjoy the tunes of The Doo! Band at this outdoor concert for all ages. $5, adults; free, 12 and under. • Location: Cool Creek Park, Time: 7 pm, myhamiltoncountyparks.com

Fridays at the Fort: Queen Delphine and The Crown Jewels This free outdoor community concert series features food trucks, kid’s activities and a beer tent. • Location:

Theatre at the Fort, Time: 6-9 pm, artsforlawrence.com FREE

SAT 17 Family Play Day:

Cardboard Mini Regatta Bring your engineering skills and creative spirit as you and your family design, experiment and construct a mini cardboard boat. Create and test your boat in the morning, then race along the canal in the afternoon.

• Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 10 am-5 pm, indianamuseum.org

Free Teen Night at the Y The 3rd Saturday of every month is free Teen Night at the Hendricks Regional Health YMCA in Avon. The night is free for Town of Avon teens with a valid school ID and teen Y members. When the facility closes, the fun begins! • Location: Hendricks Regional Health YMCA, Time: 7 pm, indymca.org/hendricksregional-health

ISO Teddy Bear Series: The Giant's Violin Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra presents their Teddy Bear Series with Violinist Victoria Kintner Griswold. • Location: Arts for Lawrence, Time: 11-Noon, artsforlawrence.org FREE

Young Explorers: Fantastic Fireworks Join us for hands-on fireworksinspired projects, light-based experiments and a chance to create some messy art. Ages 4-6. • Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 1-2:30 pm, indianamuseum.org

SUN 18 Kids Eat Free Sunday @

Indianapolis Indians Children 14 and under receive a hot dog, bag of chips and bottle of water with the price of admission. • Location: Victory Field, Time: 12:30 pm, milb.com/indianapolis

Sensory-friendly Sundays @ Conner Prairie The third Sunday of every month, exhibit components that make noise will be turned off. All quiet spaces can be utilized and staff trained in Sensory Friendly Practices will be on hand in case anyone needs assistance. • Location: Conner Prairie, Time: 10 am-Noon, connerprairie.org FREE *SN

MON 19 Family Craft Time: Water

Cycle Create and decorate nature-based crafts and learn about Indiana nature topics! Ages 3-5 with their adult. $6; pre-registration required. • Location: Holliday Park Pavilion, Time: 2:30 pm, indyparks.org

Movies at Midtown: Doolittle Enjoy an outdoor movie shown on the big video screen in Midtown Plaza. • Midtown Plaza Carmel, Times: Noon, 2:30, 5 and 7:30 pm, midtownplazacarmel.com

TUES 20 Animal Meet and Greets

Meet up to 3 animals at these casual drop-in sessions presented by Silly Safaris. All ages, ask your question, take a picture while the critters are there. • Location: College Avenue Branch Library, Time: 2-3 pm, indypl.org FREE

WED 21 Canal Nights: Bike Night Take part in a short bike ride, learn about bike and helmet safety, discover the history of Indianapolis’ own cycling legend, Major Taylor, and meet local biking clubs and organizations from across the city and state. • Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 6-8 pm, indianamuseum.org FREE

Outdoor Lunchtime Children’s Performance: Kyle Bledsoe Bring your lunch to Central Green and enjoy children’s solo performer Kyle Bledsoe. • Location: Central Green in

THURS 22 - SAT 24 St.

Christopher Summer Festival You’ll find food, family and fun at one of the oldest festivals in the state of Indiana. Plus, carnival rides, games, raffles and more. • Location: St. Christopher Catholic Church, Time: See website, indyfestival.com

FRI 23 Mindfulness Minute for Kids & Families Kids of all ages and their caregivers are invited to tune in for a moment of calm and focus. Learning Curve staff and occasional guests will lead mindful breathing exercises, movement inspired by yoga, brief guided meditations, and uplifting conversation to take into the weekend. • Location: Virtual, Time: 12-12:30 pm, indypl.org FREE

Movies at Garfield: Aladdin Enjoy a movie under the stars! Bring a seat, your friends and family, and enjoy a screening of a family favorite. •

Location: Garfield Park Arts Center's west field, Time: 9-11 pm, GPACarts.org FREE

SAT 24 Blackberry Festival Come

out and enjoy summertime on the farm! The 1st Annual Blackberry Festival has something for the entire family, including U-pick blackberries, local wine, food trucks, a flower bar, lawn games, animals and more. • Location: Wild Blackberry Farms in Fortville, Time: 11 am, wildblackberryfarms.com FREE

SAT, JULY 24

BLACKBERRY FESTIVAL AT WILD BLACKBERRY FARMS IN FORTVILLE

Family Waterway Explorers Get wet and muddy exploring the wetlands of Holliday Park and work with a naturalist to identify your discoveries! Wear clothes and shoes you don't mind getting dirty. Ages 5+ with their adult(s). $5, pre-registration required. • Location: Holliday Park Nature Center, Time: 2 pm, indyparks.org

Party in the Park Celebrate the end of summer with live music, yard games, food trucks, and other free family activities! • Location: Williams

Park, Time: 11 am-1 pm, brownsburgparks.com FREE

Fishers, Time: Noon-1 pm, npdamp.com FREE

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SUN 25 Sensory-friendly Play @

Urban Air An event specifically designed for children with Autism and special needs to enjoy time at the park without loud music or flashing lights — and to have a lot of fun! • Location: Urban Air Noblesville, Time: 9-11 am, urbanairtrampolinepark. com *SN

MON 26 Movies at Midtown:

Tangled Enjoy an outdoor movie shown on the big video screen in Midtown Plaza. • Location:

Midtown Plaza Carmel, Times: Noon, 2:30, 5 and 7:30 pm, midtownplazacarmel.com

required. • Location: Garfield Park Arts Center, Time: 6:30-8 pm, gpacarts.org

SAT 31

Pennsy Trail Art Fair & Music Festival This annual fine arts, crafts fair and music festival was created to link the arts, the local community, and local social service needs. • Location: Courthouse Plaza in downtown Greenfield, Time: 9 am-5 pm, mentalhealthpartnershc.com

SetonFest Carnival rides, summer food and good times at this annual festival! • Location: St.

Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church of Carmel, Time: 8-11 pm, fb.me/e/1ndMLlamn

TUES 27 LEAP into Science Light

and Shadow Families are encouraged to register, then pick up materials from Eagle, East Washington, Lawrence and Pike library branches to learn STEM, paying attention to light and shadows.

This will be a virtual event held via Zoom. • Location:

Virtual, Time: 11 am-Noon, indypl.org FREE

WED 28 Creature Feature Get an

up-close look at one of Holliday Park’s animal ambassadors and experience a live feeding! Ages 2+. • Location: Holliday Park Pavilion, Time: 11-11:30 am, hollidaypark.org FREE

THURS 29 Concerts on the Canal: Brenda William The summer tradition continues! Enjoy musical entertainment on the terrace or bring your own chair or blanket and sit on the grassy areas along the Central Canal. • Location: Indiana Historical Society, Time: 6-8 p.m., indianahistory.org FREE

Toddler Time: Wacky Water Mix water with sensory play, art creation and science experiments! • Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 10-11 am, indianamuseum.org

FRI 30 Bad Art Night Join GPAC for an

evening of terrible art! Trophies will be awarded for the worst possible thing created. Skills are frowned upon. Come out for some fun, some music, and a time to socialize with other inept artists. Pre-registration

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ONGOING EVENTS Butterfly Kaleidoscope Through Sept.

6. The White River indoor gardens are transformed into a tropical paradise filled with more than 40 colorful species of butterflies and moths. • Location: Indianapolis Zoo White River Gardens, indianapoliszoo. com/white-river-gardens

Response: Images and Sounds of a Movement Through Sept. 6 . Indiana State Museum, Arts Council of Indianapolis and the Indianapolis Public Library are reflecting on the protests that occurred in our city in 2020 by presenting exhibitions of murals painted during the protests, and holding discussions to increase community understanding of what occurred and why. • Location: Indiana State Museum, indianamuseum.org

DC Super Heroes™: Discover Your Superpowers Through Sept. 26. Children and families join forces with Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman and other members of DC’s Justice League to explore this exhibit that’s returning to The Children’s Museum. Super heroes-in-training develop new skills and learn the importance of teamwork at the Hall of Justice as they work side-by-side with their favorite DC Super Heroes to solve problems and catch Super-Villains in a series of fast-paced challenges. • Location: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, childrensmuseum.org

Saxony Market Saturdays through Aug. 28. The Saxony Market, presented by IU Health Saxony Hospital features the best fresh produce from local vendors and farmers in the area. Spend your Saturday morning at the Saxony Market, where farm-fresh produce and community come together! •

Location: 131st St. & Olio Rd. Fishers, IN, Time: 9am-noon, saxony-indiana.com/market.html

Animals & All That Jazz Through July 29. Chill out with the smooth sounds of live jazz during the Zoo’s wildly popular Thursday night concert series, featuring music from several genres of jazz music and a variety of artists. • Location: Indianapolis Zoo, indianapoliszoo.com

The Sound of Music Through Aug. 15.

This beloved Rodgers & Hammerstein musical is based on the true story of Maria, a high-spirited novice nun, who is sent to be the governess for the seven children of Captain Georg Von Trapp. • Location: Beef

& Boards Dinner Theatre, beefandboards.com

Dora and Diego—Let's Explore!

Through July 25. Come on! ¡Vámanos!

Nickelodeon’s Dora and Diego—Let’s Explore! takes you on an active adventure in the enchanting world of Dora the Explorer, her animal-rescuing cousin Diego, and their friends. • Location: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, childrensmuseum.org

Kid Sherlock June 23-Aug. 1. Fantasy, comedy, colorful costumes and imaginative scenery come together at The Children’s Museum in a play designed for all ages. John is a young boy who is new at his school and hopes to have a normal, low-key year. That all changes when a fellow student with a major Sherlock Holmes obsession pulls John in to help solve a local mystery! Free with museum admission. • Location: Lilly Theatre at Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, childrensmuseum.org

PLEASE NOTE 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.

INDY'S CHILD

fun & SUN

WACKY calendar 07.2021

MON

TUES

WEDS

THURS

FRI

SAT

1 WORLD UFO DAY

ZIP CODE DAY

4

5

6

APPLE TURNOVER DAY

7

CEREAL DAY

EAT BEANS DAY

8

TELL THE TRUTH DAY

3

2

10

9 SUGAR COOKIE DAY

TEDDY BEAR PICNIC DAY

MATH DAY

11 BLUEBERRY MUFFIN DAY

12

13

ETCH A SKETCH DAY

18

INTERNATIONAL ROCK DAY

19

14

15

17

WORLD SNAKE DAY

PANDEMONIUM DAY

20

16

EMOJI DAY

GUMMI WORM DAY

21

22

24

23

LOLLIPOP DAY ICE CREAM DAY

JUNK FOOD DAY

MOTH DAY

HAMMOCK DAY

SPRINKLE DAY COUSINS DAY

25 CAROUSEL DAY

26

27

DISABILITY INDEPENDENCE DAY WALK ON STILTS DAY

29

28 MILK CHOCOLATE DAY

WALK ON STILTS DAY

SOURCE: daysoftheyear.com

31

30 INTERNATIONAL DAY OF FRIENDSHIP

RASPBERRY CAKE DAY

RAIN DAY

July 2021 I INDYSCHILD.COM

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