August 2013

Indy’sChild indyschild.com

AUGUST 2013

FREE

NEW SCHOOL

ONLINE

transitions

SCHOOLS

VOLUNTEERING

INVESTING

AT SCHOOL

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in the

ARTS

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AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 3

contents features

10 | SUMMER SOUNDS AROUND DOWNTOWN

Local concerts provide music all season long

08.13

commentary + parenting

44 | MOMMY MAGIC

50 | ASK THE TEACHER

16 | NEW SCHOOL TRANSITIONS

54 | TRUE CONFESSIONS OF A STAY-AT-HOME DAD

Making a smooth jump to the next level

18 | VOLUNTEERING AT SCHOOL How to play an active role in your child's education

20 | STARTING PRESCHOOL Is your tot ready?

22 | MAMA DRAMA Dealing with mom cliques

24 | ONLINE SCHOOLS

Virtual learning offers students a range of educational options

28 | INVESTING IN THE ARTS The far-reaching benefits of arts education

32 | FALL ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Local happenings that celebrate the coming of fall

16

around town 26 | READY, SET, PLAY (AND LEARN!

health 12 | A TEAM PLAYER. A TRUE SURVIVOR.

24

14 | ROBOTIC THERAPY

special needs 36 | EASING KIDS WITH AUTISM INTO THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR Advance planning means smoother transitions

40 | TIME OUT Finding the road to respite

28

resources

calendars

30 | ARTS & ENRICHMENT GUIDE

38 | SPECIAL NEEDS EVENTS

in every issue

42 | Special Needs GUIDE

61 | AUGUST EVENTS

06 | PUBLISHER'S NOTE

46 | education GUIDE

65 | ONGOING EVENTS

08 | COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT 09 | ONLINE BUZZ

58 | FUN & FREE IDEAS IN INDY GUIDE 66 | MARKETPLACE

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67 | FUN + WACKY

AUGUST 2013

[ indy’s child ] 5

in every issue

Indy’s Child

[ publisher’s note ]

August is “Back to School”!

Time for the team approach

FOUNDING PUBLISHER Barbara Wynne | barbara@indyschild.com PUBLISHER Mary Wynne Cox | mary@indyschild.com EDITOR Susan Bryant | susan@indyschild.com

We are always resolved to make certain our children have an outstanding year at school – and realizing that a child’s teacher needs parent cooperation and support is a good first step. Classrooms are far more efficient when parents help on field trips, special programs and projects. Sending a note saying you want to be of assistance with a list of times you are available and your phone number conveys your interest in your child’s education and willingness to be on the “team.”

SALES & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Jennica Zalewski | jennica@indyschild.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Katie Clark | katie@indyschild.com EVENTS COORDINATOR & PUBLIC RELATIONS Wendy Cox | wendy@indyschild.com BUSINESS MANAGER Roxanne Burns | roxanne@indyschild.com

Building a team of special people to support your child is a great gift.

Grandparents, Godparents, favorite aunts and uncles, close family friends, coaches, a Sunday school teacher, a favorite neighbor, baby sitters and of course your family doctor are all good choices.

Just make certain that the experience your child has with their team is positive and helps them build confidence and a focus on the future. As you start a new school year, make sure that the team has time to spend with your child.

Of course, the most important member of your child’s team is you. If you’re a mom or dad, you know that even small gestures go a long way – starting each school day with a nourishing breakfast and a little pep talk means so much. And don’t forget to send your child out the door with a big “I Love You!”

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Karen Ring | karen@indyschild.com WEBSITE DESIGN & GRAPHICS ASSISTANT Maria Tancredi | maria@indyschild.com EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Wendy Schrepferman | s.wendy@indyschild.com SUMMER INTERN Ellen Werner | ellen@indyschild.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Barbara Wynne, Carrie Bishop, Sarah McCosham, Katrina Anne Willis, Michelle Shirk, Trisha Shepherd, Mary Susan Buhner, Pete Gilbert, Deb Krupowicz, Cathy Southerland of The Children’s Museum, Chelsea Tuttle of Indianapolis Downtown CONTACT US

Barbara Wynne Founding Publisher

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

COPYRIGHT Indy’s Child Parenting Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2013

by Midwest Parenting Publications, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of products, commentary or services herein. For information on subscriptions, editorial guidelines, advertising rates and more visit www.indyschild.com.

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on the cover oliver wild AGE: 3 years

favs school subject: Spanish color: Blue movie: Monsters, Inc. sport: Gymnastics tv show: Sanjay and Craig food: Egg drop soup and hot teas restaurant: King Chef ice cream flavor: Anything chocolate candy bar: Kit Kat Bar book: Coloring books! super hero: Mermaid Man and Barnacle Boy toy: Monster trucks pets: 2 frogs interesting fact: I'm allergic to peanuts and treenuts and am obsessed with sweatpants!

when i grow up... I want to be bigger than you!

Photo by: Hannah Hilliard www.hannahhilliard.com

AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 7

in every issue

[ community spotlight ]

community S POT L IGH T

safety festival and community day Pike Township Fire Department and Indianapolis Metro Police have joined forces to host a Safety Festival and Community Day on August 24th from 11:00 am - 2:00 pm. The free event will take place at The New Augusta Public Academy located at 6450 Rodebaugh Road on the northwest side. Come visit 30 different safety agencies, see rescue demonstrations and vehicles, meet the horse patrol animals and participate in bicycle safety activities. Visitors will enjoy bounce houses, dunk tanks and a free lunch cookout as well.

trader's point charity horse show and kids day Don’t miss The Trader’s Point Charity Horse Show and Country Fair Tuesday, August 6th through Sunday, August 11th. The event takes place at Wild Air Farm in Zionsville just two miles east of I-65.

Tickets are $10.00 - $15.00 for adults, and children 12 and under are free.

A special kids day is scheduled for Saturday, August 10th from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm. In addition to the equestrian shows, children will enjoy bounce houses, airbrush tattoos, face painting, balloon creations, caricature drawings and horse rides from the gentle Morning Dove therapeutic horses. The Pacer Fan Van will visit from 10:00 am - noon, and Disney Radio will be entertaining families from 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm.

All proceeds go to Riley Hospital for Children.

Visit www.traderspoint.org for event information and ticket prices.

riley ranked one of the nation's best – again!

For the third consecutive year, Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health has been ranked one of the nation's best in ten out of ten pediatric specialties. Urology and Diabetes and Endocrinology were ranked in the top ten, and six additional specialty areas were ranked in the top 25. These rankings highlight the top 50 U.S. hospitals with pediatric specialties.

For the complete U.S. News and World Report listing, visit http://health.usnews.com/ best-hospitals/pediatric-rankings.

women, wisdom and wellness With breakout sessions such as “How Do I Not Lose My Mind?”, “Don’t Be a Damsel in Financial Distress” and “Who Hijacked My Fairy Tale?”, WFYI will host the 2013 Women, Wisdom and Wellness conference at the J.W. Marriott. The conference, sponsored by St. Vincent Women’s Services and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield is scheduled for Friday, August 16th from 8:30 am - 2:00 pm.

Visit www.wfyi.org/womenshealth for ticket information.

franciscan st. francis health delivering on patient expectations By early 2015, Franciscan St. Francis Health – Indianapolis will be able to handle nearly 3,500 births annually as a result of a $36.5 million renovation and expansion project. On average, the Franciscan St. Francis Health Women and Children’s Center currently delivers 2,400 babies annually. The makeover is in response to increasing patient demand and expectations, hospital executives say. Once complete, the project will offer easy, centralized access to outpatient services and a nearly 75 percent increase in patient rooms including expansion of the neonatal intensive care unit — the only Level III neonatal intensive care unit on Indianapolis’ south side.

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online buzz check OUT AUGUST'S

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Beef & Boards Theatre Tickets

Children's Museum of Indianapolis Tickets AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 9

Summer SOUNDS

Around Downtown

Local concerts provide music all season long Chelsea Tuttle, Indianapolis Downtown, Inc.

G

ather the family to sing and dance the warm nights away at several concerts scheduled in August in downtown Indy! Before the kids get settled back to school, celebrate the last days of summer together as a family and enjoy a wide range of live music at outdoor and indoor venues. Most concerts are inexpensive, if not FREE, and include other activities for young and old alike.

Friday Block Parties on Georgia Street take place on Fridays from 5 – 8 p.m. through the end of August and are FREE to the public. Enjoy live tunes on the Boardwalk and stop by the Bud Light Boardwalk Beer Garden.

You’re welcome to bring your own snacks or grab a bite to eat at one of the outdoor cafes or restaurants along Georgia Street. For a calendar of events and performers, visit www.georgiastreetindy.com.

The Farm Bureau Insurance Lawn at White River State Park: Grab a blanket and enjoy downtown’s premiere waterfront stage!

Artists touring in August include 3 Doors Down and Daughtry (Aug. 2), The Black Crowes and Tedeschi Trucks Band and The London Souls (Aug. 13), Umphrey’s McGee and Sound Tribe Sector 9 (STS9) (Aug. 16) and Carly Rae Jepsen and Hot Chelle Rae (Aug. 30). Call 317.231.0000 or visit www. inwhiteriver.com for ticket information.

Bankers Life Fieldhouse: Some of the biggest names in the music industry make their way to downtown Indy during August. Make a night of it downtown and see The Package Tour: New Kids on the Block with 98º & Boyz II Men (Aug. 4) or Bruno Mars Moonshine Jungle World Tour (Aug. 19). Visit www.bankerslifefieldhouse.com for more information and ticket prices.

Indianapolis City Market – Live Performance Series: Enjoy lunch with the kids at the City Market, browse local produce and treats during the Original Farmers’ Market and listen to live, local entertainment on Wednesdays from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. on the Whistler Plaza Stage. This event is FREE to the public. Visit www.indycm.com for more information.

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Indiana Historical Society – Concerts on the Canal: Don’t miss out on The Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center Concerts on the Canal! Events are FREE to the public and August acts include C.W. and the Working Class Trio (Aug. 1), featuring rhythm, blues and smooth soul, and Orchestra Bravo! (Aug. 8), featuring lively salsa and Latin jazz. Tables are available for rent on the Terrace or bring your own chairs and blankets to sit on the hill across the Canal. Food and beverage options from the Cafe, outdoor grill and cash bar are available. Call 317.232.1882 to reserve a table or log on to www.indianahistory.org/feature-details/concerts-on-the-canal for more information.

Indiana State Museum – Summer Sounds Concert Series: Listen to the Born Again Floozies with family and friends on August 21 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Canal Café Terrace at the Indiana State Museum.

Tickets are $6 per person. Visit www.indianamuseum.org for more information.

Indianapolis Zoo – All That Jazz: Come to the zoo on Thursdays to hear some great jazz and see the animals (until 7 p.m.)! All performances begin at 5:30 p.m. at the Party Pavilion and include Monika Herzig Acoustic Project (Aug. 1), Kelleen Strutz Group (Aug. 8) and Orguesta Bravo! (Aug. 15). Price is included in zoo admission. Enjoy costumed mascots, the playground and Kroger Splash Park to keep the kids entertained too! Feel free to bring your own lawn chairs, although plenty of seating will be available. Call 317.630.2001 or visit www.indianapoliszoo.com/SitePages/SpecialEvents/ AnimalsAndAllThatJazz.aspx.

For more info about downtown family fun, plus information on where to park, where to eat and what to do, visit www.indydt.com.

AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 11

health

[ pediatric health ]

A Team Player. A True Survivor.

Aiden Spoor was diagnosed with leukemia just 5 days after his 7th birthday.

His response? To charge bravely ahead, helping others along the way.

In early 2012, Aiden Spoor was like any other 6-year-old boy. He loved sports, his family and had lots of friends. He always had a smile and was a great role model for his younger brother, Grady. Aiden was a healthy kid with a good life.

On Easter Day that year, Aiden’s parents noticed a change in him. He was sluggish, didn’t seem like himself and had a near-constant fever that he just couldn’t shake. When his condition didn’t improve after two weeks, Aiden’s parents took him to Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent. After a series of tests, Aiden’s family received devastating news: Aiden had acute lymphoblastic leukemia, also known as ALL. ALL is the most common type of childhood leukemia, accounting for about 75-80 percent of all pediatric cases. Treatment, which involves extensive bouts of chemotherapy, is a long-term process that can last two years or more. The good news is that most children with ALL can be cured.

A tough battle Even though ALL is treatable, the process is long and arduous, especially for young children like Aiden. Chemotherapy has a way of wearing kids down, making routine activities extremely difficult.

However, Aiden refuses to let treatment get the best of him. “Aiden never lost his positive attitude during the beginning rounds of chemotherapy,” said Jen, his mother. “He would insist on going to school and being as normal as he could.”

He’s also very active outside of school, enjoying activities like playing baseball, riding his bike, jumping on the trampoline and hunting with his dad and grandpa.

One would expect a boy Aiden’s age to need cheering up during hospital visits for treatment and infusions. Yet Aiden was usually the one doing the cheering, entertaining the nurses with his dance moves and shooting them with silly string.

“He never let cancer get in his way,” Jen said.

Paying it Forward While Aiden is still undergoing chemotherapy—he has more than two years of treatment remaining—his spirit is as strong as ever. Never one to worry 12 INDYSCHILD.COM

about just himself, Aiden has become an advocate for other children battling childhood cancers. “Aiden is always willing to raise awareness and help others in more difficult situations,” Jen said.

Aiden is a True Hero Ambassador for Team Peyton, a program that encourages students to support pediatric patients through fundraising efforts. Aiden was also the inspiration for his family to host a “Kid’s Prom for Cancer” this past February. The event raised more than $3,000 and provided a memorable evening for other families dealing with cancer.

It would have been easy for Aiden to simply keep to himself during this difficult time. But that’s just not his style, and his mother is thankful for that.

“We have been able to handle this difficult journey because of his attitude,” she said.

Today, Aiden is currently in remission. And though he has a long road ahead, everyone who knows Aiden believes that he has a very, very bright future.

To follow Aiden’s journey online, visit www.facebook.com/PrayforAiden.

To join Aiden and the rest of Team Peyton, visit www.TeamPeyton.com.

AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 13

health

[ pediatric health ]

Robotic Therapy Helping children gain independence Debbie Hamby, M.D. Debbie Hamby, M.D., is the Medical Director of Neurorehabilitation and Robotics at Indiana University Health Neuroscience Center and a Neurodevelopmental Pediatrician and Complex Care Hospitalist with Riley at IU Health.

My Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health colleagues and I consider ourselves fortunate—we are helping children with brain injuries develop skills that many of us take for granted—such as walking or moving an arm and picking up an object.

This work is being done with the use of robotic therapy in Neurorehabilitation and Robotics at the Indiana University Health Neuroscience Center. We use robots designed to help rehabilitate children with motor impairments—prompted by a brain injury and from conditions such as cerebral palsy. The robots are computers that our physical and occupational therapists use to encourage the brain to form new connections and help a child learn to move an arm or leg on his own.

For example, a child uses an arm robot that displays a video game where the child must move objects to different targets on a screen. If the child doesn’t move or moves his arm in the wrong direction, the robot gently nudges him in the right direction. As the child moves, the robotic arm moves with the child— allowing him to score points when he is successful. When this type of therapy is repeated, signals from the brain paired with assisted movement from the robot helps the brain form new connections. The children enjoy this therapy and are delighted when they make progress.

Our jobs allow us to help and see children improve and regain some control over their arms and legs. For example, we are seeing children learn to move their arms and hands in a more precise direction. Others are walking better and for longer distances. We are seeing firsthand that robotassisted therapy is improving the quality of life for some children.

IU Health is one of the few places in the country that offers robotic therapy for children. Our work with robotic therapy began about three years ago and we have developed a strong relationship with IU physical therapists and we are conducting research that will allow us to expand our program.

Unfortunately, robotic therapy is not for everyone. Children must be at least four years old to participate and they also must have sufficient strength to hold their head up as well as take direction and work with our rehabilitation therapists.

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Robotic therapy complements a child’s traditional physical or occupational therapy. In fact, many children are referred to us from their physical or occupational therapist.

IU Health has four robots. They include: • MIT-Manus shoulder elbow robot • MIT-Manus wrist robot • HOCOMA LOKOMAT (for walking) • Hocoma Armeo Spring Our therapists at Neurorehabilitation and Robotics evaluate each child’s needs thoroughly to determine which robot is best for the child. Therapy with each robot lasts nine weeks. Children use the robotic therapy twice a week for a total of 18 sessions.

Riley at IU Health is proud to be part of this work. As more research is completed, we hope to see more robots helping children gain the independence they deserve.

For more information, visit www.iuhealth.org/neuroscience/experience.

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NEW SCHOOL Sarah McCosham

transitions

Making a smooth jump to the next level

S

omehow, it’s already August, which ushers in the fifth season known as “back to school.” For kids, the return to school brings a mix of emotions: excitement at seeing their friends, anticipation for new teachers and curriculum and nervousness about what the new year will bring. On top of all this, if your child is moving up to a new school – say, preschool to kindergarten or junior high to high school, they’re likely feeling some anxiety about this change. Here are some ways to make this transition a little easier for them.

Back to school jitters All kids, regardless of age, will feel some apprehension about that first day of school. Dr. Nerissa Bauer, Assistant Professor at the Indiana University School of Medicine, says there are a few things parents can do to ensure first-day success.

“I encourage parents to do ‘mental prep’ with their kids,” she says. Visiting the school, seeing the classroom, meeting the teachers – all of these things can help a child feel more comfortable. “Involving the child in the buying of school supplies or clothes can also prepare them for the first day – and get them excited about it!” she adds.

“

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“

School can be a stressful experience for kids. The homework, the extracurricular activities, the politics – it’s a lot to manage.

Finally, back-to-school will bring a natural change to your child’s schedule, so it’s important to establish a new routine well

before the first day. “Children thrive on routine and structure, so parents should establish routines, mentally prep children about the upcoming transition and make sure children get enough sleep” says Dr. Bauer.

Starting pre-k, kindergarten or elementary school For young students, going to school is a completely new experience.

Childhood Education and Literacy Professor Dr. Cynthia Geer says it’s important for parents to talk about what happens at school, and to paint as positive a picture as possible about the experience. “[Parents should] speak positively about school, classmates and teachers – even if their own experience was not a good one. Children are very intuitive and will feel anxious if the parent is negative about school,” she says.

In addition, there are many books available about starting school; incorporating such books into your story time routine is a good way to open up a dialogue with your child about the topic.

Junior high and high school While your tween or teen knows the back-to-school drill by now, they may still have some nervousness about that first day. For older kids, the social aspects of school are most daunting. Explains Dr. Bauer, “As children grow older, expectations of independence and organization increase and some children can find this challenging. Bullying behavior often begins in this phase and can evolve from physical aggression to more covert actions – like shunning and social isolation. This can be a source of anxiety in junior high/high school.”

She adds that parents should monitor their older kids for signs of stress and anxiety.

Above all, it’s important to help your teen feel supported during this sensitive time. In addition to offering emotional support, Dr. Geer says parents should give their children freedom (within reason) to do things such as pick out their own clothes.

Tips for parents School can be a stressful experience for kids. The homework, the extracurricular activities, the politics – it’s a lot to manage. Dr. Geer says that parents should make sure their children know that education is a priority – and set their kids up for success at home. “Set aside a time and place for homework; make sure there’s a set routine on school days,” she says. Getting enough sleep, good nutrition, exercise and limited screen time all contribute to educational success.

Finally, avoid asking every kid’s most dreaded question: “How was your day?”

Instead, ask open-ended questions that encourage a conversation with your child. “What was your favorite part about the day? How can I help you? What are you working on in Math?” Not only will you get better answers from your kids, but they will see your interest in their daily successes and challenges at their new school.

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volunteering Katrina Anne Willis

AT SCHOOL

How to play an active role in your child’s education

W

e’ve all heard the old adage, “Education begins at home.” A parent or guardian is a child’s first teacher, but eventually, if you’ve opted to enroll your child in a formalized public or private school setting, he or she will have a classroom teacher as well.

In this educator Q & A, Cathy Dawson, a seasoned 4th grade teacher in the Zionsville Community School system, discusses how parents can continue to play an active role in their child’s education, both in and outside the classroom.

How often do you like to have parents volunteer in your classroom?

I love to have parents volunteer on a weekly basis. Sometimes, when there are extra classroom events going on, I enjoy having even more volunteers. I’m always eager to accept a helping hand.

What are some of your volunteers’ primary responsibilities?

There’s a wide range of volunteer opportunities in my classroom. Some of the most common are: • • • • • • •

Making copies Creating bulletin boards Leading small groups for math and reading stations Teaching math pentathlon games Responding kids’ journal entries Reading Scholastic News with small groups Leading gym class

What are some of the ways parents can be most helpful to you?

Parental support, both in and out of the classroom, is the most important contributor to student success. It’s critical for parents to support student work and to set expectations for how students should behave in the classroom. They then need to follow through to ensure students are learning – and behaving – as expected.

Are there instances in which you think parents should be less involved?

I think it’s important for parents to let their children “learn the hard way” so they understand the impact of their decisions. If a child forgets to bring his supplies to school, I’d rather the parent not jump in the car and make a delivery. By letting a child endure the natural consequences of his action, he is more apt to remember the lesson. It’s the natural course of growing up and learning to take responsibility.

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How can parents get involved in their children’s school outside the classroom?

Our school has an active PTO that supports many activities both inside and outside the classroom. Parents can assist with Field Day, shark dissection, STEM, Math and Literacy nights and other school-wide events.

Parents are also encouraged and welcome to chaperone field trips.

Any ideas for working parents who can’t commit to in-classroom time?

Parents who can’t be in the classroom during the day can volunteer for projects such as creating and cutting math games or responding to students’ journal entries. Sending something in for classroom parties is also a welcome gesture.

What do you look for in a parent volunteer?

Most importantly, I look for volunteers who are willing to do whatever tasks need to be done. Cutting shapes and making copies might not be the most exciting volunteer work, but it’s so beneficial for teachers who have limited time. I appreciate my volunteers who commit to a job, follow directions and complete tasks the way I like them to be completed.

To learn more about the volunteer opportunities within your school, contact your child’s classroom teacher when the school year begins. As educational resources continue to tighten, parent volunteers become even more important to classroom teachers. Every task a parent volunteer completes equals more instructional time for the teacher. And ultimately, all our kids benefit from that relationship.

AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 19

STARTING

preschool Is your tot ready?

As a parent, determining when (and where) to send your child to preschool is one of the first big decisions you’ll make. Naturally, parents have many questions when it comes to making this choice.

Preschool-aged children vary greatly in their physical, emotional and social development – so there isn’t a “one size fits all” approach when it comes to starting preschool. However, there are a few questions parents can ask to help guide them toward making the best decision for everyone.

Has your child spent much time away from their primary caregiver?

For children used to day care, the transition to preschool may be smooth sailing. They are already accustomed to being on a set schedule, outside of their own home and under the supervision of a teacher or other caregiver.

However, if you or your partner is home full time, the transition to preschool can be more difficult. Dr. Nerissa Bauer, Assistant Professor at the Indiana University School of Medicine, advises that parents prepare their children for this change well in advance. Visiting the classroom, talking to the teacher, meeting other classmates and even scheduling play dates beforehand, can help ease kids into a preschool setting.

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Has your child regularly interacted with other kids?

The purpose of preschool is to teach and nurture social skills – so don’t feel bad if your child hasn’t had regular classes or play dates prior to preschool.

For many children, preschool is the first opportunity for group interactions. However, Lara Sears, an educator in Indianapolis, says it’s helpful for preschoolers to have basic verbal communication, self-help skills and the ability to sit for short periods and take direction. “Being in a preschool setting should help develop their skills,” she says.

Do you have any developmental concerns about your child?

If you have concerns, talk to your pediatrician about the type of program best suited for your child’s situation. There are great programs in Indianapolis developed specifically for kids with special needs.

Is your child potty trained?

This isn’t a prerequisite for attending preschool, but parents should check into the policies of different centers. For example, Sears says that one preschool where she taught catered to younger

Sarah McCosham

children. “There was a lot of free play and focus on self-help skills, such as potty training.”

When does your child wake up? Nap? Go to bed?

There are a myriad of choices when it comes to preschool: half and full day, two or three days a week, morning or afternoon, etc. Work with your child’s schedule. Altering an established nap and/or wake-up time can adversely affect your child’s success with preschool.

Are you ready for your child to go to preschool?

Starting preschool is not only a major milestone for kids – it’s also a big deal for parents. The start of preschool signals the beginning of your child’s educational career. Don’t feel like you “have” to send your three-year-old to preschool just because all your friends’ kids are going.

Letting go is hard for any parent, and opting for another year at home, or starting with a two or three day-a-week program, could be a great choice for everyone. Remember: for your child to feel confident, you need to be confident. Take some time to consider your options and make the choice that’s right for everyone!

AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 21

M AMA DRAMA

Finding like-minded friends While it’s definitely helpful to follow Caitlin’s advice and associate with all types of moms, it’s also important to find a group of women with similar interests. For instance, if you enjoy taking yoga, see if your local studio offers a Mommy & Me class. This will let you get back into yoga while also meeting new moms. By choosing an activity in this way, you are able to meet women who already have a shared interest. And as a bonus: your son or daughter now has friends who are close in age!

Caitlin says that it’s important to branch out and actively seek new friends and relationships. It can be difficult to make friends as an adult – and especially as a mom. Your friends often don’t have babies at the same times you do, and if you’re working full-time versus staying home, you can be on completely different

Dealing with mom cliques Sarah McCosham

schedules from your friends.

“You just have to be brave,” says Caitlin. “The other day, I was sitting next to a mom in a lobby. Our sons were the same age. We chit-chatted for a while, and before I left, I asked her for her number so we could text each other and maybe

Most of us would agree that we are happy to be done with high school. The awkward first dates, the insecurities, the drama – you couldn’t pay most people enough to relive those years.

And yet, there are certain situations where we find ourselves reliving the worst of high school all over again. Even as adults, cliques form among moms that exclude other women. Maybe it’s your school’s PTA moms or perhaps the women in your Gymboree class – either way; it’s a terrible feeling being on the outside looking in.

hang out. You've got to take the initial meeting to the next level, or that potential friend will slip through your fingers!”

Setting a good example As you navigate through these tricky adult relationships, it’s important to remember to set a good example for your kids. If another mom said something upsetting to you, try to handle it as maturely as possible – and never talk badly about another parent in front of your children.

It helps to remember that the mother who purposely excludes other women, talks

“Odd mom out” You expect exclusive circles to form in high school, but not necessarily as an adult -- and certainly not as a mom. Andrea, a mom of two, says she first experienced mama drama at her school’s PTA. “We had just moved to a new school system, so I didn’t know about the ‘PTA politics’ at our school,” she says. “Because I work full time, I wasn’t able to volunteer much at school, and I definitely felt like that put a target on my back.”

Being the “new” mom – whether it’s at your child’s school, in your neighborhood or any other social setting – is never easy. Caitlin Boyle, author and healthy living blogger at healthytippingpoint.com, says it’s important for moms to follow the same advice they’d give their own kids: be nice and respect others. “I try to be really open and friendly with moms of all types because it's good for me – and for my son – to hang out with people who think differently.”

22 INDYSCHILD.COM

behind their backs or says nasty remarks, is probably insecure. Mollee, a local mom who commented on the Indy’s Child’s Facebook page, reasons, “Motherhood constantly makes us question ourselves and is a natural place of insecurity -- and some people cope with that by being cruel to others.”

“I think moms are just naturally nervous about their roles,” adds Caitlin. “When we form cliques and put down others, we feel (unfortunately) justified and more secure in our choices.”

It sounds simple, but choose to be nice (or at the very least, bite your tongue.)

Being a mother is challenging enough without making the job harder for each other. Dealing with mom cliques can be difficult, but responding to them by “taking the high road” shows your children what to do when they inevitably experience the same thing.

AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 23

Trisha Shepherd

ONLINE SCHOOLS Virtual learning offers students a range of educational options

S

arah Maksymovitch had no complaints about the quality of education her boys were receiving at their public elementary school in Noblesville. They had great teachers, a nice facility and a safe, loving environment. But one critical piece was missing: flexibility. Ultimately that’s what drove Sarah to seek out a radically different style of schooling for her children: virtual education. “I added up the hours Tyler was spending on school and homework, and it was more than a full time job!” Sarah recalls. “I was starting to realize the benefits of having kids at home in terms of a more flexible schedule, allowing them to move at their own pace.”

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A Fast-Growing Trend

Online school programs serve a small fraction of all Indiana K-12 students, but growth in the last several years has been explosive. One of the state’s largest free and public virtual schools, Indiana Connections Academy, opened three years ago with less than 300 students. This past school year, they served more than 2,800. Many parents are surprised to learn the program is free of charge. “We are a public school in the state of Indiana. We get our money through the state,” explains Principal Melissa Brown. The school operates through the Ball State University charter office and offers students individualized teaching with Indiana-certified teachers. Growth has been so rapid that Brown says Indiana Connections Academy is capping enrollment for the upcoming school year. “We anticipate another big jump in enrollment,” says Brown. “If people are interested, I would encourage them to apply early.”

Flexible Schedules

Flexibility of scheduling is a big draw for many families who enroll their children in online schools, like Maksymovitch, who decided to enroll her sons in a free, public virtual school program through Hoosier Academies last year. From afternoon bike rides, to family vacations on their own timeline, she loved the freedom this option offered. “We got to go down to Florida for a family vacation in October when everybody else was in school,” she recalls. Other families crave flexibility for more specific reasons. Indiana’s online schools have among their students a wide range of elite athletes and performers, as well as children whose families travel extensively.

Personalized Instruction

Many families who seek online programs are in search of more customized academic attention. “We have students who are high achievers and highly motivated, we also have students who struggle and need a lot of remediation,” explains Brown. Next year, the parent organization behind Indiana Connections Academy is opening a new hybrid high school called Nexus Academy, where students will attend a classroom in the Glendale Shopping Center complex in Indianapolis for four hours per day, four days a week, and do the rest of their school work online. “There are some kids who really benefit from the personal interaction you can have not only with peers but with adults,” explains Nexus Academy Principal Kyle Barrentine. “We’re the best of both worlds. We have the flexibility of an online school, but the structure and socialization of a traditional brick and mortar school.”

Finding What Works

Ultimately, Sarah, a former elementary teacher, decided that while she liked the virtual school option, she wants to take the leap into home schooling next year.

“Both of my boys, especially Tyler, had a hard time sitting still, paying attention – that was hard for them,” Sarah explains. “I think it depends on the kid.” Brown agrees that online school isn’t for every student. She says to know whether your child would be a good candidate for online learning, you should talk to other parents who have tried it and do lots of research. “You can watch how a live lesson works, see how our curriculum works,” says Brown. “At the end of the day, the student and family can decide if this is a viable option.”

Want to learn more?

Connections Academy: www.connectionsacademy.com Hoosier Academies/ K12: www.k12.com/ha Indiana Online Academy: https://indianaonlineacademy.org/default.aspx Indiana University High School: https://iuhighschool.iu.edu/ Indiana Virtual Academy: www.indva.com/ Indiana Virtual School: www.indianavirtual.com/ AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 25

around town

[ museum note ]

Ready, Set, Play (and Learn!)

Innovative experiences await at the newly redesigned Playscape Cathy Southerland, Preschool Program Manager at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

You gaze into your infant’s eyes . . . and you see the infinite possibilities behind those eyes. It is pretty awe-inspiring, isn’t it?

All infants are born ready to learn. The Children’s Museum partnered with Harvard, MIT and the Boston Museum of Science along with the National Science Foundation to conduct a study about early childhood learning. We discovered that infants and toddlers learn concepts and behaviors significantly earlier than what was once thought. Research showed that young children’s brains develop more rapidly between birth and age five than during any other subsequent period – cultivating 85% of their intellect, personality and skills by age five.

It’s clear that early experiences matter. From good prenatal health care and nutrition through developmentally appropriate experiences and an abundance of oral language, the young brain quickly forms as a learner. We see that young children have an incredible capacity to observe, explore, wonder, experiment and play. And we need to provide opportunities for them to do so.

At The Children’s Museum, we recognize how a well-planned stimulating environment can dramatically contribute to developing those foundations of learning. For young children, this is done primarily through play, which is one of the reasons we created Playscape, a newly redesigned early childhood gallery for children five and under. In this new exhibit, there are areas (or “worlds”) with elements of art, music, nature, cause and effect, construction and sensory play.

Through hands-on and engaging environments, our new research also shows that children retain information longer if they experience and learn together with a significant adult in their life - like a parent, caregiver or grandparent. While supporting a child’s natural curiosity and development, we are helping optimize his learning. It may look like play, but it is the important

26 INDYSCHILD.COM

work of young children. And you have the awesome responsibility of having fun with your child while they are doing their important work!

Playscape opens August 31, 2013 at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. In our redesign, we listened to what our visitors wanted and we are happy to report there will be two family restrooms inside the exhibit space, a diaper changing station and a Mothers’ Room with private nursing areas complete with comfortable chairs, a changing table and hot water for formula.

Come join us at the new Playscape later this month!

AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 27

investing in the arts

The far-reaching benefits of arts education

Thoughts of back to school often have parents also contemplating the best way to fill all of those after school hours. While our education system is hard at work preparing young minds for the intellectual demands of the world, there is so much more that goes into the education of the whole child. For those parents seeking a way to introduce fine arts into their child’s life, here are five reasons why that is a very good idea:

1.

Children learn positive habits, behaviors and attitudes through the arts.

Learning a musical instrument, creating a painting, learning to dance, or singing in a chorus teaches that taking small steps, practicing to get better at something, being persistent, and being patient, even in the face of adversity, are important for growth and improvement. In other words, the arts teach habits, behaviors and attitudes that are necessary for success in any field of endeavor.

2.

The arts enhance creativity

Imagine an art class in which students create an original canvas filled with color and creative use of space; a music class where they develop their own rhythms; a theater class where they create and produce their own plays. The arts are a wonderful arena for fostering creativity, an important skill to have in a rapidly changing world.

3.

The arts help students develop critical intellectual skills.

The arts foster critical higher levels of thinking that carry over to learning other subjects and in life. Through the arts, children learn to observe (What do you see in a painting?), interpret (How should we play this music?); see different perspectives (What is the artist’s perspective? What is your perspective?), analyze (Let’s take apart this play and study each part separately.) and synthesize (How do all the parts of the dance fit together to create a “whole”?).

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4.

The arts help students learn mathematics.

The arts require measurement, number manipulation, and proportional thinking, all of which foster mathematical thinking. Students also learn patterns (e.g. musical rhythms and dance patterns); spatial and geometric relationships (visual art patterns); and threedimensional skills (making models of clay).

5.

The arts teach teamwork! Children learn tolerance and understanding of others.

Through the arts, children learn how to work together to achieve great things. As they work together, they learn to understand differences and diversity. They learn how teamwork contributes to great performance. By teaching students how to live and work together, the arts contribute to making schools safer and more peaceful learning environments.

List adapted from: Seif (May 5, 2012). Teaching the Arts is Critical [Blog post]. Retrieved from http://www.era3learning.org/blogs/ten-reasons-why-teaching.html

AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 29

arts & enrichment

art

Indianapolis Art Center 820 E. 67th St., Indianapolis, IN 46220, Phone: 317-255-2464, Email: bshine@indplsartcenter.org www.indplsartcenter.org Creativity enriches every aspect of life and is integral to cognitive growth. The Art Center offers quality art classes for toddlers through teens in a variety of art mediums, including glass blowing (ages 10 and up), ceramics, sculpture, jewelry making, fiber arts, painting and drawing. Or take a class with your kids!

MYART Carmel, Fishers, Indianapolis, Noblesville and Zionsville, Contact: Sylvia Runningen, Carmel, Fishers and Noblesville, Phone: 317-443-6831, Email: sylvia@myartindy.com www.myartindy.com www.indydraws.com www.indydrawingschool.com Art and drawing classes for children, teens and adults, ages four and up, based on the internationally acclaimed Monart method of drawing. Students learn drawing and painting and work in a variety of medias including markers, oil and chalk pastels, watercolor, acrylics, colored pencil and charcoal. Classes are ongoing so you may start at anytime. In addition to weekly art classes, we also offer art camps and workshops, painting events for adults and families, private painting parties, birthday parties, and classes for scout troops.

Locations: 80 W. Pine St., Zionsville/1366 S. Rangeline, Carmel/884 Logan St., Noblesville/6311 Westfield Blvd., Indianapolis/12244 E. 116th St., Fishers

dance

A-List Dance Center 350 Gradle Dr., Suite C, Carmel, IN 46032, Contact: Michele Long and Andrea Hagan, Owners, Phone: 317-564-4644, Email: a_listdancecenter@yahoo.com www.alistdancecenter.com A-List Dance Center is a pre- professional dance center for ages 3-18. Teaching Tap/Jazz/ Ballet/Contemporary/Hip Hop and children's combination classes (Tap, Jazz and Ballet).

Nurturing environment, Skilled award winning teachers. National Competition offered for 8 years old and up. Call for details.

Fox Hill Dance Academy, Inc. 2255 Fox Hill Drive, Indianapolis, In 46228, Contact: Betty Wright, President, Phone: (317)251-3007, Fax: 317-731-4093, Email: Bjzwdancer@gmail.com www.foxhilldanceacademy.com Ballet, tap, hiphop. Adults and children. Walk in registration Mon, Weds, and Fri. 1- 5 pm 255-0173

Indianapolis School of Ballet 502 N. Capitol #B, Indianapolis, IN 46204, Phone: 317-955-7525, Email: school@indyballet.org www.indyballet.org A premier dance institution, the Indianapolis School of Ballet offers professional, year-round instruction for ages 4 to adult, great performances, legendary guest master teachers, and diverse repertoire in state-of-theart facilities in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. Experience the joy and artistry of dance, health and fitness benefits, and a nurturing atmosphere at ISB!

music

IUPUI Music Academy 535 W. Michigan Street, IT 378, Indianapolis, IN 46202, Phone: 317-278-4139, Fax: 317-278-2590, Email: musacad@iupui.edu

30 INDYSCHILD.COM

GUIDE

www.musicacademy.iupui.edu The IUPUI Music Academy is a non-profit, educational organization whose mission, purpose, and primary activity pertain to arts education. The Academy is committed to providing high quality, professional music instruction to area residents of all ages and levels of ability.

sports Spectrum Sports 138 W. Carmel Drive, Carmel, IN 46032, Contact: Sherry Wood, Phone: 317-587-1503, Email: Sherry@ spectrumgym.com www.spectrumgym.com Spectrum is a gymnastics based facility for 20 months-18 years of age. We feature Gymnastics, Tumbling, Dance, Cheerleading and Hip Hop/ Pom classes. Join the fun with our quality staff in any of our classes! Competitive programs available upon request.

AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 31

FALL arts and ENTERTAINMENT Michelle Shirk

Local happenings that celebrate the coming of fall As August rolls around, you may find yourself mourning the imminent end of swimming pool weather and grilling season. Help ease the pain of summer’s departure by looking ahead to crisp autumn days filled with exciting seasonal activities. Below you’ll find a list of quintessential fall experiences for your family to enjoy this year.

Attend an outdoor fair or festival.

The Indiana State Fair (www.in.gov/ statefair/fair) runs August 2nd through 18th at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. 2013 fair visitors will celebrate “The Year of Popcorn” and choose from a dizzying array of entertainment options including ice shows, a singing competition and high-divers along with the usual livestock exhibits and delicious fair food options. Next month, enjoy an extensive line-up of live music while sampling German cuisine at the Indianapolis Oktoberfest (www.indianapolisgak.com, www.germanparkindy.org).

This year’s festival will take place at German Park from September 4th through 8th.

Pay tribute to Indiana’s agricultural heritage by enjoying seasonal farm activities. Take a road trip to Tuttle Orchards in Greenfield (www.tuttleorchards.com) to pick apples and sunflowers, explore a 4½ acre corn maze or take a hayride around the farm. For a farm experience closer to downtown, head to Waterman’s Family Farm at Raymond Street. You can find a list of approximate U-Pick crop dates at www.watermansfamilyfarm.com, but it’s always best to call ahead to see which items will be available during your visit.

Let them eat pie.

Is there anything that says fall quite like a thick slice of apple or peach pie a la mode? Dig up an old family recipe and make one of your own, or leave the baking to Locally Grown Gardens farm market. Visit www.locallygrowngardens. com for a list of their current and upcoming pies, crisps and breads.

Schedule a fall foliage hike to take advantage of the season’s colorful scenery. Early fall might just be the best time of the year to enjoy 32 INDYSCHILD.COM

nature. Fort Harrison State Park offers many ways for families to get active, including the paved, bicycle-friendly Harrison Trace Trail as well as several more adventurous wooded paths. Moderately difficult Fall Creek Trail, with its creek views and boardwalk, offers a particularly nice variety of scenery. Plan your route and print out a trail map at www.in.gov/dnr/ parklake/2982.htm.

Cheer for the home team while attending an outdoor sporting event. Soccer, football, cross country and other fall sports will be kicking off soon at a high school near you. Visit www.ihsaa.org for a list of 2013-14 season dates. If you haven’t made it to a baseball game yet this year, the Indianapolis Indians (www.indyindians.com) still have regular season home games scheduled through August 31st. Finally, for those looking to splurge on a top tier sports experience, the Indianapolis Colts (www. colts.com) play their first preseason game against the Buffalo Bills on August 11th.

Use fall’s chillier days to scope out some great options for indoor fun. Opening August 31st, the brand new Playscape at the Indianapolis Children’s Museum (www.childrensmuseum.org) is a must-do for families with young children. This space will include a water table, an art studio, a dedicated area for infants/toddlers and more. Or, sign the kids up to learn a fun new skill this season. Eppert Piano in Fishers (www. eppertsite.com) offers group piano lessons for students in kindergarten through sixth grade, while the Indianapolis Art Center (http:// indplsartcenter.org) holds youth classes for future painters, glass blowers and digital artists.

With so much to do in the Indianapolis area, this month’s a great time get started on your family’s fall bucket list! Can’t you just taste the apple cider and hot buttermilk donuts already?

AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 33

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AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 35

Easing Kids with Autism INTO THE NEW School Year Advance planning means smoother transitions

Carrie Bishop

Volunteer.

Ball recommends parents spend time in their child’s classroom if possible. She volunteers in her son’s class each week and says it helps her see where her son struggles. Her presence also allows the teacher to ask her questions about her son’s behavior so his needs are better understood and met.

Partner with the school.

Cathy Pratt, director of the Indiana Resource Center for Autism, recommends parents talk with the school to see how they can support one another to help make the school year a success for the child. Find out how the student body and staff have been educated about autism and help prepare informational materials if a need exists.

Write a letter to teachers. Autism presents differently in each child, which makes it hard for teachers to know how children with the disorder are going to react or behave. “It’s trial and error,” says Claire Ball, an ally with the Autism Society of Indiana and mom to a son with autism.

Help by writing a letter in advance of the school year to each of the child’s teachers. Note his interests, likes and dislikes, and what helps him succeed. Consider focusing on the child as a whole person to convey he is more than his autism versus strictly honing in on his disability.

Identify a safe person.

Bullying is a real threat to kids with autism. They look like “typical” kids but act differently. This makes them easy targets for bullies. Teach kids with autism the difference between being teased and being bullied, and identify a person at school to whom they can turn if they feel unsafe.

Build social skills away from school. Parents can help their child navigate school’s social environment by creating social opportunities outside of school. These can be structured activities like adaptive sports or art programs or more informal settings like a playdate with family friends.

Know the special education laws.

Ball advises parents to learn all they can about Article 7 and individualized education programs.

Workshops are available throughout Indiana and online. A good understanding of children’s rights will equip parents to better advocate for their child.

Set expectations. All kids rise to the expectations parents and teachers have of them.

While parents may have to shift their expectations of acceptable behavior and support their child with autism more and differently, Pratt says expectations are important. “We always have to have expectations of kids. If we don’t, then they are never going to rise up,” she said.

Don’t accommodate negative behavior. Do not make excuses for socially inappropriate behavior. Pratt believes that excusing

36 INDYSCHILD.COM

socially unacceptable behaviors will ultimately hinder the child’s performance in school. Address these issues head on and the child will have an easier time getting along at school.

Start early.

Pratt says enhancing communication and social skills as a family when kids are young helps set them up for the future.

Seek therapeutic interventions as soon as a child receives a diagnosis of autism.

Raise kind kids. Attention parents of neurotypical kids: teach your children that kids with autism are kids too. They want friends. They want acceptance. They just have a hard time knowing how to make or keep friends. Encourage kids to buddy up with a child with autism and serve as a peer role model. Need help explaining autism?

Books for all levels are now available that help explain the disorder.

“

HELP BY WRITING A LETTER LETTER IN ADVANCE OF THE SCHOOL YEAR TO EACH OF THE CHILD'S TEACHERS. NOTE HIS INTERESTS, LIKES AND DISLIKES, AND WHAT HELPS HIM SUCCEED.

“

New teachers + new students + new schedules = renewed anxiety for kids with autism. It’s a tough equation for these kids to master. There are, however, ways parents can help ease the transition from summer to new school year. Read on.

AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 37

special needs calendar fri | 02

Night at the Center Friday and Saturday, August 2nd - 3rd 6 p.m. - 10 a.m. Time: 6 p.m. Price: $65 Phone: 317-573-5245 Location: Monon Community Center www.carmelclayparks.com Ages 15+

sat | 03

7th Annual Down Syndrome Indiana Fly-In / Open House Time: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Location: Indianapolis Executive Airport www.dsindiana.org Hosted by Montgomery Aviation and the Indianapolis Executive Airport. This awesome event is open to the community and includes a candy drop, face painting, pizza, helicopter rides and more.

sun | 04

Autism Family Resource Center Grandparents’ Support Group Time: 5:30-7 p.m.

Price: Free Phone: Diane Quillico at 317-882-1914 or Linda Knoderer at 765-438-4792 Location: Easter Seals Crossroads

mon | 05

Roadmap to Special Education: Laws and Process Time: 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

38 INDYSCHILD.COM

Price: $40/family member $75/professional Location: North Christian Church. www.aboutspecialkids.org This workshop, combining the Article 7 and IEP training, is all day training that offers basic information about special education laws and regulations for Indiana children ages 3-21. Also, this provides information on how to prepare for a case conference and write an IEP. A great opportunity for family members and professionals who advocate for children with a disability or serious chronic illness.

tues | 06 Parent Presentation: Processing Disorders/Learning Difficulties Time: 6:30 p.m.

Price: Free Phone: 317-843-9200 Location: Brain Balance Center of Indianapolis http://www.brainbalanceindy.com/

thurs | 08 Adaptive Dance

Thursdays, August 8th - 29th Time: 9 a.m.

Price: $40 Phone: 317-573-5245 Location: Monon Community Center www.carmelclayparks.com Ages 2-6.

fri | 09

Karaoke Night Time: 6-8 p.m.

Price: $10 Phone: 317-573-5245 Location: Monon Community Center www.carmelclayparks.com Ages 13+

weds | 14

Autism Family Resource Center Grandparents’ Support Group Time: 5:30-7 p.m.

Price: Free Phone: Diane Quillico at 317-882-1914 or Linda Knoderer at 765-438-4792 Location: Easter Seals Crossroads

weds | 21

Autism Family Resource Center Parents’ Support Group Time: 5:30-7 p.m.

Price: Free Phone: Amy Miller at 317466-1000 ext.2488 Location: Easter Seals Crossroads

Roadmap to Special Education: Laws and Process Time: 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

Price: $40/family member $75/professional Location: Wabash Center This workshop, combining the Article 7 and IEP training, is all day training that offers basic information about special education laws and regulations for Indiana children ages 3-21. Also, this provides information on how to prepare for a case conference and write an IEP. A great opportunity for

08.13

family members and professionals who advocate for children with a disability or serious chronic illness.

fri | 23

Teen Night Out Time: 6-9:30 p.m.

Price: Free Phone: 317-573-5245 Location: Monon Community Center www.carmelclayparks.com Ages 13-17

The Arc of Indiana’s Food Fest Time: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Price: Lunch (includes drink): $7, Dessert: $5 Phone: 317-9772375 or TheArc@arcind-org Location: South half of Monument Circle, Indianapolis This fundraising event consists of 9 food trucks and 2 dessert trucks selling lunch and dessert downtown during lunch amidst a festival-like atmosphere.

It will take place on the south half of Monument Circle. The south half will be shut down to vehicles for the event, and parking is available in garages or on the streets around Monument Circle.

We also have a live DJ and exhibitors.

tues | 27

DSI Baby Shower Time: 6-8 p.m.

Price: Free Location: 708 E. Michigan St, Indianapolis.

In honor of your baby with Down syndrome. For expectant moms and moms with babies under 2 years old.

AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 39

TIME OUT Finding a road to respite Carrie Bishop

t

ake a break. Relax. It’s the easiest thing in the world...only, it isn’t easy at all. Every parent needs a break from being a parent. A little time out to hit life’s reset button. It’s hard enough for parents of typical kids to do. It can be near impossible for parents of kids with special needs.

Yet respite is vital. “Parents of a child with a disability need time to rejuvenate. Taking care of themselves is as important as taking care of their child or loved one,” said Tami Wanninger, the director of the Center for Family Leadership at Noble of Indiana.

Suzanne Aaron agrees. As a parent liaison for About Special Kids, Aaron talks to almost 40 families each month. When it comes to parents’ me-time, she says families tend to fall into two categories. It’s either “I desperately need time off and I can’t figure out how to do it,” or “No one else is taking care of my kid and no one else can do it.” It’s never “Holy cow I feel so relaxed from all this respite I continue to get!”

Parents of kids with special needs have increased responsibilities as caregivers. They are keeping up with medications, behavior, therapies, supplements and more. “These things all affect our child’s outcome. If we don’t do it there is a negative effect. The stakes are a little higher,” said Aaron.

The stakes are undeniably high, but what are the stakes for never stopping to refuel?

How to get respite Respite is accessible for those who want it. Parents just need to know where to look.

First look into Medicaid waivers, which can help pay toward respite services. For families on a waiver wait list, they may be eligible for caregiver support services that will help provide some money for respite while they wait on the waiver to come through.

Parent support groups like those at Noble of Indiana often include childcare. So parents can connect with others in similar circumstances while the children are being cared for in another room in the building.

Then, of course, there are natural supports like enlisting grandma or trading babysitting nights with family friends.

Depending on the circumstance this is not always an option, which makes the previously mentioned services a godsend for some families.

Now go get it Finding respite providers is possible, though accepting the services is another issue. Will the caregiver give the right support? What about a parent’s own guilt about leaving the child?

Parents Night Out and Teen Night Out programs are an affordable, often free way to give parents an evening off. Easter Seals offers regular Parents Night Outs around Indianapolis. Noble of Indiana and several area churches offer similar programs, too.

Think baby steps. A respite provider can provide a break even if the parent is still in the house. Mom or dad can be on site, but can take a moment to nap or clean or use the phone in peace. If the caregiver has questions, the parent is right there to answer them. Over time it may become easier to make a quick run to the grocery store or even go to the movies.

Adaptive programs are another road to respite. The Monon Community Center in Carmel has a particularly strong program with classes that range from adaptive sports sessions to private music therapy, though other community centers also offer classes. It’s a meaningful time for the kids and a small break for their caregivers.

“We all come up with reasons why we can’t or we won’t, but it’s really important that we do. There are ways to access getting a break while assuring your child’s health and safety,” said Aaron.

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AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 41

resources

[ special needs listings ]

special needs Applied Behavior Center for Autism

To provide the highest quality ABA and Verbal Behavior therapy and consulting services to children and their families affected

by Autism Spectrum Disorders and Down Syndrome. We do this by providing proven researched based ABA methodologies delivered by highly qualified and certified professionals. Our programs focus on increasing language skills, social skills, academic skills, and reducing problematic behavior. 450 S. State Road 135, Greenwood, IN 46142, Contact: Jane Grimes, Phone: 317-889-KIDS, Email: jane@appliedbehaviorcenter.org, www.appliedbehaviorcenter.org

Applied Behavior Center for Autism

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

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

Autism Society of Indiana

We strive to improve the lives of everyone affected by autism in Indiana. We provide information and support, referral to resources, policy and educational advocacy, training, awareness, family programs, Spanish-speaking support group, summer camp programs, and oversight on the Indiana Comprehensive Plan of Lifetime Supports for Individuals with Autism. 13295 Illinois Street, Suite 110, Carmel, IN 46032, Contact: Dana Renay, Phone: 800-609-8449, Email: info@ inautism.org, www.inautism.org

Behavior Analysis Center for Autism BACA 1

The Behavior Analysis Center for Autism (BACA) was established by Dr. Carl Sundberg and a group of highly-trained Behavior Analysts who have worked with Dr. Sundberg for years. BACA uses Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to teach language, social, academic and life skills to children with autism and other related disabilities. 11902 Lakeside Drive, Fishers, IN 46038, Contact: Devon Sundberg, Phone: 317-2885232, Email: dsundberg@thebaca.com, www.thebaca.com

Applied Behavior Center for Autism

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

Applied Behavior Center for Autism Transition to L.I.F.E House

Recognizing the importance of developing real-world life skills in children and teens with autism, the Applied Behavior Center for Autism has launched a new program called Transition to Learning in Functional Environments (L.I.F.E.). The initiative aims to promote independence, quality of life and happiness through an intensive full-day program that takes place in an actual home, complete with kitchen, gym, pool and garden. The Transition to L.I.F.E. program is open to children ages 10-18, and uses the scientific principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA). It will emphasize community involvement through volunteer opportunities tailored to the clients’ interests and healthy living through nutritional meal preparation and daily exercise regimens. 7901 E. 88th St., Indianapolis, IN 46256, Contact: Jane Grimes, Enrollment Director, 317-849-5437, ext. 112, jane@appliedbehaviorcenter.org, www.appliedbehaviorcenter.org

Autism Consultation

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

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Behavior Analysis Center for Autism BACA Prep BACA Prep is a facility that utilizes the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to teach essential living skills to young adults with autism ages 8-20. BACA Prep helps strengthen each individual's life by addressing the areas of employment, leisure and living skills, hygiene, self-help and sexuality while decreasing and replacing maladaptive behavior. BACA Prep is under the direction of Dr. Carl Sundberg, Dr. John Esch, Dr. Pat McGreevy and Dr. Peter Gerhardt. 9929 E. 126th St., Fishers, IN 46038. Contact: Devon Sundberg. Phone: 317-436-8961. Email: dsundberg@thebaca.com. www.thebaca.com

Behavior Analysis Center for Autism BACA-Z

The Behavior Analysis Center for Autism (BACA) was established by Dr. Carl Sundberg and a group of highly-trained Behavior Analysts who have worked with Dr. Sundberg for years. BACA uses Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to teach language, social, academic and life skills to children with autism and other related disabilities. 6704 Central Blvd., Zionsville, IN 46077. Contact: Sheila Habarad. Phone: 317-7694335. Email: shabarad@thebaca.com. www.thebaca.com

Children's Dentistry of Indianapolis

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

Indiana Autism Scholarship Foundation

The Indiana Autism Scholarship Foundation’s mission is to provide scholarship funding to individuals in efforts to help

GUIDE

offset costs for employment or college assistance for those affected with autism. 7987 Oakbay Dr., Noblesvillle, IN 46062, Contact: Jane Grimes, 317-403-6705, jane.grimes@iasfoundation.org, www.iasfoundation.org

Indianapolis Pediatric Dentistry

Our goal at Indianapolis Pediatric Dentistry is to have a lasting, positive impact on our young patients. We pay special attention to each patient’s needs and we take the time to make sure they’re comfortable. We go to great lengths to make sure that both the patient and parents understand what we’re doing, why we’re doing it and the long-term benefits. 8433 Harcourt Road, Suite 307, Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Dr. Erin Phillips and Dr. Kira Stockton, Phone: 317-872-7272, Email: info@IndyKidsDentist. com, www.IndyKidsDentist.com

Little Star Center

Little Star provides intensive applied behavior analytic services to maximize each child’s potential and empower their family.

Children in the 5 to 10 age range present with a unique set of needs. These learners often come from other settings in which they were not successful. After careful assessment, individualized programs are developed to ensure progress and growth. 100% not-for-profit, 10 years of service. Serving children 5 – 10 years old. 12726 Hamilton Crossing Blvd, Carmel, IN 46032, Contact: Mary Rosswurm, Executive Director, Phone: 317-249-2242, Email: maryr@littlestarcenter.org, www. littlestarcenter.org

Little Star Center-Early Learner Program (ELP)

The Early Learner Program focuses on intensive intervention for very young children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.

The ELP applies the principles of behavior analysis in a warm, nurturing environment. The focus of the ELP is to develop a foundation of skills for the best possible outcome.

Individualized programming is geared toward developing language, social, and pre-academic skills for learners as they prepare for the classroom. 100% not-for-profit. Serving children 5 and younger. 12726 Hamilton Crossing Blvd, Carmel, IN 46032, Contact: Mary Rosswurm, Phone: 317-249-2242, Email: maryr@ littlestarscenter.org, www.littlestarcenter.org

Middle Star Center

Indiana’s original applied behavior analytic center based program that focuses on the distinctive needs of tweens, teens and young adults affected by autism spectrum disorder. Started in 2008, Middle Star is an age appropriate environment that allows each learner to practice and learn the skills essential to be as successful and independent as possible at home, in the community, at school and at work. 100% not-for-profit. Serving learners 10 and up. 12726 Hamilton Crossing Blvd, Carmel, IN 46032, Contact: Mary Rosswurm, Phone: 317-249-2242, Email: maryr@littlestarscenter.org, www.littlestarcenter.org

Special Smiles Pediatric Dentistry

Dr. Satterfield-Siegel is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist specializing in providing dental care for infants, children and patients that have special needs. We provide routine dental

care, fillings, in office sedations and hospital dentistry for all of our patients. We build longlasting relationships with our families through active listening and understanding. New patients are welcomed! 10801 N Michigan Rd Suite 210, Carmel, IN 46077, Contact: Jennifer SatterfieldSiegel, D.D.S., Phone: (317) 873 3448, Email: info@specialsmilesdentistry.com, www. specialsmilesdentistry.com

Unlocking the Spectrum

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

Unlocking The Spectrum specializes in bringing the therapy to the client--in their home and in their community. Client's receive services in a wide variety of settings including their home, school, Unlocking The Spectrum's clinic, and the community to ensure that skills are generalized across all environments. Intensive parent training and collaboration with all members of a client's team are an essential part of every individualized program developed. Contact us for a free initial consultation. 3901 W. 86th St. Suite 397, Indianapolis, IN 46268. Contact: Ilana Hernandez, Director.

Phone: 317-334-7331. Email: info@unlockingthespectrum.com. www.unlockingthespectrum.com AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 43

commentary and parenting

[ mommy magic ]

The Grandparent Connection Encouraging this special bond between generations Mary Susan Buhner

I was lucky enough to recently travel with my three daughters and my mom.

Three generations taking a summer trip together – sounds like the making of a good TV movie!

My mom lives half the year near us and half the year in a warmer climate during the winter months. Although we visit with her when she is home, traveling together is different. No texting, no phones, no chores, no outside influences – nothing but what we had decided to do at that very moment together. It was hard for me to settle into this space the first couple of days. Since I am used to managing routine and process for my family, it felt strange to let go. But when I did, I realized just how much we gained from each other’s company.

I watched my kids enjoy their grandmother and watched her enjoy them. I listened to my mom teach my kids small life lessons, reminisced about old times and recalled funny moments growing up. My kids giggled thinking of me being their age and doing silly kid stuff. Yes, I did ride my bike without sunscreen until it got dark through the woods by myself without a helmet.

Shocking for my kids to hear this about their mom – and from their grandma, no less. In my defense, I am a child of the 70‘s when we didn’t have the same kind of safety precautions. The way my mom used to protect us in the car during an abrupt stop was to hold out her arm to keep us from going through the windshield. Taking time to remember, I had forgotten so many things and it was fun to recall those times again with my children and my mom.

When I was growing up, it seems there were fewer distractions competing for my attention. When I was baking with my grandmother that is all I did – bake, talk and share stories. She had an apple tree outside her garden. I would climb the tree to pick the apples and help her make an apple pie. It was simple. It was happy. It felt easy. I felt that way again while traveling with my girls and my mom. Simple. Easy. Happy.

Having grandparents that want to invest time with our children is a huge gift.

Time is the one thing you cannot buy or replace. It has nothing to do with status, job title or stuff. It is an investment with a lasting influence. As a mom, I like to think that I am covering all the ground myself when trying to raise good kids to be good adults. The truth is, I can't do it alone. The influence and wisdom of grandparents is priceless – and an invaluable connection in our children’s lives. By truly “unplugging” and making time for this important relationship, all generations reap the benefits.

Join the Mommy Magic’s Fan Page on Facebook and visit www.Mommy-Magic.com to be a part of the mom community that supports and encourages moms in Indy with helpful tips for motherhood!

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AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 45

resources

[ school listings ]

education +childcare GUIDE schools & education carmel Carmel Montessori Schools, Inc. Carmel Montessori School is located on the beautiful campus at St. Christopher’s Church on the NE corner of Main St. and Meridian in Carmel. Our directress is American Montessori Certified with 13 years head-teaching experience. We offer a beautiful, peaceful and positive Montessori learning environment.

Extended days available. 1402 W. Main St., Carmel, IN 46032, Contact: Emily & Scott Rudicel, 317-580-0699, info@carmelmontessori.com, www.carmelmontessori.com

Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School Contact: Elizabeth Williams, 317-846-8182, elizabeth@themontessorilearningcenter.com, www.themontessorilearningcenter.com

fishers Fall Creek Montessori Academy

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, academically and emotionally.

Conveniently located one mile east of I-69 on 96th St. FCMA serves children at all levels.

Programs are available two to five days per week. 8888 Fitness Ln, Fishers, IN 46037, Contact: Diana Brugh, (317) 436-8606, diana@ fallcreekmontessori.com, www.fallcreekmontessori.com

Clay Montessori A Montessori school offering morning, afternoon, and full-day programs. Available for ages 3-6 years old. Call for more information.

(Affiliated with Fisher’s Montessori) 463 East Main St., Carmel, IN 46032, Contact: Peggy White, 317-849-9519 or 317-580-1850

Fishers Montessori

A quality learning environment offering preschool, kindergarten and elementary.

Certification through American Montessori Society. 12806 Ford Rd and 131st and Allisonville Rd., Fishers, IN 46038, Contact: Peggy White, 317-849-9519 or 317-580-1850

Starting Line Preschool The Right Start for A Lifelong Love of Learning!

Our strong academic-based curriculum prepares and encourages your child to succeed in school while discoving learning is fun! * Develop Social Awareness & Friendships, Build Confidence and Master Academic Skills for Kindergarten. All of our classes focus on an introduction to colors, number and letters with exciting art and science projects. Math, social studies and sight words are taught in the older classes. 110 Third Ave NE, Carmel, IN 46032. Contact: Diane Atkins. Phone: 317-753-9397. Email: dkatkins22@msn.com. www.startinglinepreschool. com

The Montessori Learning Center The Montessori Learning Center offers a Montessori elementary program for grades 1-5.

We focus on developing the whole child through interaction with an interdisciplinary curriculum.

Our program specifically meets the needs of each child and is aligned with Indiana State Standards. 1402 W. Main St., Carmel, IN 46032, 46 INDYSCHILD.COM

discovery, spontaneity and more important, lots of love! Type of School: Early Childhood, Full Time/Part-Time/Flexible Hours, Ages: 12 months old+, 18 months old+, 2’s+, 3’s+, 4’s/PreK (3 day or 5 day program) and Full Day Kindergarten (5 full-day program) (8:50 am to 3:00 pm) Before School/After School Care available daily as needed for all ages: Early drop off as early as 7:30 am and late pick up anytime up until 6:00 pm/5:30 pm on Fridays.

Call or email for brochure. 600 W. 70th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Joanie Waldman, Phone: 317-259-6854, Fax: 317-259-6849, Email: jwaldman@bez613.org, www.bez613.org in.us

indianapolis - north Arthur M. Glick JCC

Our loving caregivers and teachers demonstrate by example and encourage children to behave according to these values as the children are learning, playing and socializing with one another. The JCC embraces a learning-throughplay teaching method to engage children in activities that promote creativity, accelerate learning and stimulate social interaction, all at each child’s individual pace. 6701 Hoover Road, Indianapolis, IN 46260, 317-251-9467, emills@ JCCindy.org, www.JCCindy.org

Beth-El Zedeck Early Childhood Center 2013-2014 School Year. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. Full Academic Curriculum and Innovative Arts’ Enrichment. Our Program recognizes that intellectual, social, emotional and physical development are interwoven. Our children will thrive on exploration, creativity, curiosity,

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

Children’s Day In Nursery School and Traditional Preschool The Children’s Day In traditional preschool and nursery school program provides a fully inclusive early childhood program with an emphasis on Christian values in a play based setting. It is designed to offer children ages 9 months to 5 years a positive and developmentally appropriate experience in the care of experienced teachers and caregivers.

We play and learn! Classes are offered weekdays from 9 am to 2:30 pm. Children attend up to 3 days a week. 5500 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46208, Contact: Christy Whaley, 317-253-0472, cwhaley@meridianstreet.org, www.meridianstreet.org

Children’s Circle Preschool at Second Presbyterian Church Children’s Circle Preschool is a developmentally appropriate, activity based, Christian preschool.

We offer classes for children ages 9 months to 5 years old. We meet the needs of the whole child in a creative and loving environment. Our experienced staff embraces excellence in education by nurturing the whole childphysically, emotionally, spiritually, and intellectually. Please call for more information or to set up a tour. 7700 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Cara Paul, Director, 317-252-5517, cpaul@secondchurch.org, www.childrenscircle.org

Early Childhood Center, The Church at the Crossing Our Mothers Day Out (12-35 mos) and Preschool (3 yrs-PreK’s) programs provide relaxed, playful, secure environments that nurture creativity and encourage the exploration of God’s world, with a wide variety of learning materials & readiness skills woven through each unit. Need longer hours? Try our child care ministry, The Neighborhood, designed for 16 mos-PreK. 9111 N. Haverstick Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46240, Contact: John Drake or Kelly Belt, Phone: 317-575-6508, Fax: 317-575-6509, Email: jdrake@ golove.org or kbelt@golove.org

Heritage Christian School

Established in 1965, accredited through ACSI and NCA. HCS is the choice in college preparatory discipleship Christian education for 1,400 students each year grades Prep K – 12.

Advanced, Honors and AP classes. Full Fine Arts and 2A IHSAA Athletics. HCS is training up the next generation of Christian leaders through challenging, Biblically taught curriculum including internships and service to others. Bus transportation available. Schedule a tour today!

6401 E. 75th Street, Indianapolis, In 46250, Contact: Rhyan Smith, Director of Admissions, 317-849-3441, Admissions@heritagechristian.net, www.heritagechristian.net

Park Tudor School Park Tudor School’s exceptional educators and extraordinary opportunities prepare students to become confident and resourceful lifelong learners. The school community creates an inspiring college-preparatory learning environment for highly motivated young people.

Two-year Global Scholars program for juniors and seniors; 19 AP classes; full-day kindergarten; Spanish beginning at age 3. 7200 N. College Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46240, Contact: Shants Hart, 317-415-2777, info@parktudor.org, www.parktudor.org

St. Richard’s Episcopal School

Independent Episcopal day school offering a diverse community filled with academic rigor, faith based ecumenism and long-standing traditions. Its mission is to instill knowledge and values for a lifetime through the implementation of five Pillars for Success: Faith, Classic Curriculum, Leadership, Civic Responsibility, and Global Readiness. Pre-Kindergarten (3) through Grade 8. 33 E. 33rd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205, Contact: Melinda W. Fisher, 317-9260425 x134, Fax: 317-921-3367, mfisher@ strichardsschool.org, www.strichardsschool.org

Sycamore School Meridian Hills Cooperative Nursery School

Share your love of learning with your children.

Founded in 1960 by involved parents like you, Meridian Hills Cooperative provides a positive, nurturing environment wherein children explore and learn by doing. Spacious classrooms. Beautiful, wooded playground.

Caring, experienced staff. Adult/child ratios 1:4 - 1:6. Find us on Facebook. 7171 N. Pennsylvania, Indianapolis, IN 46240, Contact: See �Admissions/ Tours� Info Online, Phone: 317-255-0831, www.meridianhillscoop.org

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@sycamoreschool. org, www.sycamoreschool.org

indianapolis - northeast Montessori Centres

Stressing peace and respect for all, we’ve worked with children to develop criticalthinking and time-management skills since 1966. Montessori-certified lead teachers serve children aged 3-3rd grade. Our classroom structure and materials allow children to be self-directed and self-paced. Our well-rounded curriculum includes French and Spanish, art, and computer labs. 563 Westfield Blvd. W. Dr., Indianapolis, IN 46208, Contact: Lynn Boone, Director, Phone: 317-257-2224, Fax: 317-254-3034, Email: montessoricentres@sbcglobal.net

The Orchard School

The Orchard School, an independent, nonsectarian, progressive school, emphasizing experiential learning. Orchard teachers engage the natural curiosity of children, develop academic excellence, and provide leadership experience through well-rounded education.

Orchard’s diverse community and commitment to multicultural education inspires responsible, global citizenship. Founded in 1922. NAIS, ISACS, NAEYS accredited. 615 W. 64th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Kristen Hein, Director of Admissions, Phone: 317-713-5705, Fax: 317-2548454, Email: khein@orchard.org, www.orchard.org

Polly Panda Preschool & Bridgford Kindergarten Polly Panda provides a safe and healthy environment which enhances each child’s total growth. Our theme-based hands-on preschool program provides a wide-range of experiences that foster learning, creativity and problem solving in all areas. A child’s sense of self-worth, independence and growth in social skills are developed through positive interaction with peers and our well-qualified and loving staff.

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

indianapolis - northwest International School of Indiana At the International School of Indiana, we share your wish to prepare your children for the future we cannot imagine, and to give them the foundation and attitude to thrive in a changing world. An education that combines

internationally respected academic standards with a truly international outlook. 4330 N. Michigan Road, Indianapolis, IN 46208, Contact: Sarah Harrison or Kate Lock, 923-1951 Ext. 369, admissions@isind.org, www.isind.org

St. Luke’s Early Childhood Programs St Luke’s Community Preschool is a weekday, developmentally appropriate and experience based program. Two well-trained, degreed teachers are in each classroom. Parents’ Day Out is a structured play experience that provides parents some time for themselves on a regular basis on M, Th, F. We provide a warm and loving Christian environment in which children can learn and grow. Tours available upon request.

Visitors welcome. 100 West 86th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Bobbi MainJackson, Dir., 317-844-3399, mainb@stlukesumc. com, www.stlukesumc.com

Traders Point Christian Academy Fully accredited by ACSI and AdvancEd, Traders Point is a nondenominational Christian college prep school serving 600 students age 18 months to 12th grade. Offering Fine Arts, Spanish, Technology, Honors, AP and dual-credit options within a Biblical viewpoint. Interscholastic athletics in grade 2 - HS varsity. Preparing students for high school and college, for a world without borders, and for a life of significance. Located at I-65 North/SR 334, Zionsville exit. Visit us - for more information contact Mrs. Toni Kanzler, tkanzler@tpcs.org, at 317-769-2450. www.tpcs.org

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

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: montessoriwestfield@gmail.com, www. montessorischoolofwestfield.com

AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 47

zionsville

childcare

Advent Lutheran Preschool

Peanut Butter and Jelly 24/7 Childcare

Advent offers a Christian learning environment for children ages 2 through 5. Our wellbalanced program supports emotional, social, cognitive, physical and spiritual development.

All children, regardless of faith or church affiliation, are welcome. Call to schedule a tour.

Registration is open for the 2013-14 school year.

11250 N. Michigan Rd., Zionsville, IN 46077, Contact: Deb Trewartha, Phone: 317-873-6318, Email: dtrewartha@adventlutheran.org, http:// www.adventlutheran.org/298544.ihtml

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

Open late for lots of flexiblity. Stop in for more info. Follow us on twitter @pbj247childcare.

5501 E. 71st Street #7B, Indianapolis, IN 46220.

Contact: Anita Beck. Phone: 317-205-9211. Email: peanutbutter_jelly18@yahoo.com. www. peanutbutterjelly.info.

Zionsville Community Schools Universal Preschool Universal Preschool at Boone Meadow provides a hands-on learning experience, focused on the whole child, in an inclusive and supportive environment that ensures maximum child growth, for life-long learning. We will provide a quality program through: Organizing the environment so it is conducive to success, providing specific directions and instructions, acknowledging and encouraging each child’s efforts, creating challenges and supporting children in extending their capabilities. The Indiana Foundations for Young Children will be a resource/framework for UP. 5555 S. 650 E., Zionsville, IN 46075, Contact: Donna Hudson, Phone: 317-873-2226, Email: dhudson@zcs.k12. in.us, http://cms.zcs.k12.in.us/?q=node/123

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Wee Folk Childcare Quality in-home child care serving caring families for 20 years. (CPR, 1st aid certified, and state licensed). Two meals and one snack provided daily along with baby food and regular formula. We provide quality learning through play in a non-smoking Christian environment. Preschool program providing Kindergarten prep is available. Meridian Kessler Neighborhood, Phone: 317-926-3640, Hours/ Dates: 7:15 am -5:30 pm Monday - Friday, Ages/ Grades: 4 weeks+, Religious Affiliation: Christian, Specialties: Infants, toddlers and preschoolers

want your school's listing included?

CONTACT Jennica@IndysChild.com

AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 49

commentary and parenting

[ ask the teacher ]

Ask the Teacher Middle school anxiety, “mean” teachers, back to school routines and homework strategies Deb Krupowicz

Q:

When our school announced next year’s class assignments on the last day of school, I thought it would be a good thing. It did not turn out to be such a good thing for my son. Someone on the bus told him that his new teacher is mean and strict. He has been dreading the new year ever since. Should I request that he be switched to a different class?

A:

Whatever you do, do not request a different class. That will teach your child to give too much credence to how people judge one another. Take the opportunity to discuss why this student may have developed such a negative opinion of the teacher. Did that child have poor behavior? Had he just had a bad day and been in trouble? Does this child speak poorly of others also? Talk with your child about the complexity of each of us; we all have strengths and weaknesses.

Q:

I am not sure who is more afraid of my daughter starting middle school, her or me. I am trying not to let her see my fears, but I don’t know what to do to help her feel more comfortable. What can I possibly do?

A:

Middle school is a challenging time, but there are many things that you can do to help your daughter feel good about the start of the year. As soon as the building is open, visit the school.

Request a school map and walk through the halls to get the lay of the land.

Do this several times to remove her anxiety of getting lost trying to navigate the hallways. Once your daughter has her locker combination, have her practice opening the locker multiple times so she can do it effortlessly. To alleviate the awkwardness of reconnecting with friends after the summer, organize a couple of social events just before school starts to help reestablish social connections that will ease the first days back.

Keeping your daughter from seeing your own fears is crucial! It is nearly impossible to help someone feel comfortable and confident when feeling nervous ourselves. Venting those fears to your spouse or a good friend will help, but don’t dwell on what could go wrong. Focus instead on the great opportunities and possibilities that this new phase of maturity provides. You will all be happier!

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Hypothesize some positive outcomes of a strict teacher. Express your belief (and expectation) that your son will build a positive relationship with the teacher and discuss how he can do so.

If your son is not reassured, consider inviting the teacher to lunch or arranging an early introduction. Meeting the teacher will remove the monster image your child may be creating of her in his mind.

Q:

Our family loves summer. We are active and busy constantly. School starts earlier and earlier, and moving into the school routine gets harder and harder. What should I do to make the change go more smoothly?

A:

Summer routines typically involve late bed times and sleeping in.

That is one of the things we all love about summer! But that is also a routine that cannot be changed in one or two days before school starts for most kids.

Sufficient rest is one of the most necessary elements for school success. At least a week prior to school starting, ease back in to normal bed times and wake up times. If your child’s sleeping schedule has adjusted before school actually begins, he will be one step closer to a positive school start. A wellrested child pays better attention, performs better academically, makes better behavior decisions and reacts better to social challenges.

A:

Working on a homework plan with your daughter now is the beginning of effective homework time! Equip a school supply box with pencils, erasers, pencil sharpener, notebook paper, scratch paper, dictionary, tape, a stapler, a calculator and anything else your child routinely requires. This will keep your daughter from wasting time trying to find what she needs to complete her assignments. Establish an organized homework environment in the place where your daughter works best. For some kids that is close to your watchful eye; others can handle being in their room. Determine if she is more efficient by working for short concentrated time blocks of ten to fifteen minutes or by continuing for longer periods once the work is underway. Write down the plan the two of you discuss that details when and how she will do homework.

As with any plan, a key component is reflecting on how well it is working and revising it as necessary. This is important even if the plan is working well to positively reinforce her growth in responsibility.

Remember that your role is to provide support and encouragement. You should also be willing to provide rewards for motivation as well as consequences for irresponsible use of time.

Q:

Once school starts, it seems that there is a constant battle every night to get homework done. My daughter seems to spin her wheels as much as she works. What can I do besides nag her to get her to finish in a timely way?

Ask the Teacher is written by Deb Krupowicz, a mother of four and current teacher. Deb holds a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction and has over twenty years of experience teaching preschool, elementary and middle school students. Please send your questions to her at asktheteacher@indyschild.com.

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AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 53

commentary and parenting

[ pete gilbert...stay-at-home dad ]

Road Tripping with a Potty Trainer True confessions of stay-at-home dad Pete Gilbert There are few things more nerve-wracking than taking a newly potty trained child on a road trip.

I will never forget the time we took our oldest daughter, barely out of diapers, on a two-hour ride to grandma’s house. We decided it would be a good idea to take a potty ring with us. (For those of you who don’t know, a potty ring is like a smaller toilet seat lid that sits on top of a regular toilet seat – I guess so kids don’t fall in to an unexpected toilet bath.)

We were driving at dusk that night, on a stretch of desolate backroad, when our daughter said the words every traveling parent dreads, "I need to go potty, bad." What do we do now? There was no place to stop. I'd seen too many horror movies to pull into a random farmhouse and ask to use the bathroom. (I'd rather clean pee out of a car seat and take two steps back in the potty training department than get chopped up into little bits and buried in someone's back yard.)

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Since stopping was out of the question, we decided we could pull over to the side of the road and make our own potty. My wife and I were going to hold the seat up while my daughter sat on it. Good idea (maybe) in theory. Not a good idea in practice. Ever try to sit on a moving toilet seat? Me neither. As I held up potty ring, tall grass was poking my daughter's behiney (as she likes to call it) through the seat. It was equal parts stressful and hilarious.

Unfortunately, it didn't work either. So back into the car we went.

Luckily, the poking of the weeds on her bottom scared her enough to hold it in the rest of the way to grandma's house!

Happy Parenting! www.facebook.com/petetheblogger

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FUN AND Pike Fire Department Safety Festival and IMPD Community Day Augusta Academy North: 6450 Roudebaugh Road Saturday, August 24th, 11:00 am - 2:00 pm This free event includes bike safety activities, rescue demonstrations, and a cookout

Culture Big Car Service Center for Culture and Community 3819 Lafayette Road 317.644.9250 www.bigcar.org Stop by the gallery and garden on Wednesdays 11:00 am - 7:00 pm and Saturdays 10:00 am - 2:00 pm. Experience the free Big Car Family Fun Day on August 24th and the Dig In Food Festival on August 25th

Bongo Boy Music

Adventure Children’s Museum of Indianapolis Target Family Free night 3000 North Meridian Street 317.344.3322 www.childrensmuseum.org Thursday August 1st and Thursday September 5th 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm

IU Health People Mover Experience this fun, free mode of transportation with your kids. http://iuhealth.org/methodist/for-patients/ people-mover/ The IU Health People Mover is free 24 hours/day and runs on a 1.4-mile track

Garfield Park Conservatory 317.327.7184 www.garfieldgardensconservatory.org Daily 9:00 am - 5:00 pm (Wednesdays until 8:00 pm) Free admission and many free family events

Indiana State Fair www.in.gov/statefair Indianapolis Star’s Monday August 5th issue will contain a free admission coupon to visit The Indiana State Fair on August 7th

Lego Store - free mini model build Castleton Square Mall: 6020 East 86th Street 317.845.9325 First Tuesday of each month at 5:00 pm

8481 Bash Street 317.595.9065 www.bongoboymusic.com Free community drum circle every Thursday night at 6:45 pm.

Indianapolis Art Center 820 East 67th St. 317.255.2464 www.indplsartcenter.org Monday - Sunday 9:00 am - 10:00 pm (until 6:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday), Free admission

Indianapolis Arts Garden 110 West Washington Street www.indyarts.org/artsgarden/monthly-calendar Monday - Saturday 9:00 am - 9:30 pm, Sunday 12:00 noon - 6:00pm; Free exhibits and performances every day

Indianapolis Culture Trail Visit www.indyculturaltrail.org for information on free family activities.

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FREE IDEAS

IN INDY

Indy Mural Hunt 46 murals were created in honor of Super Bowl 46.

These beautiful works of art are scattered throughout the city. Spend a day on a mural hunt! www.indyarts.org or http://www.indyarts.org/ public-art/projects/item/46-for-xlvi-amuralsprogram-for-the-city-of-indianapolis

Indianapolis Museum of Art and Virginia B. Fairbanks Art and Nature Park: 100 Acres 4000 Michigan Road 317.923.1331 www.imamuseum.org Tuesday - Sunday 11:00 am - 5:00 pm (9:00 pm on Thursdays and Fridays, Free admission

History Indy’s historic landmarks make history come alive for kids. Free tours are available daily during business hours.

Benjamin Harrison Home 1230 North Delaware Street 317.631.1888 www.presidentbenjaminharrison.org Celebrate President Harrison’s birthday with free admission and a piece of cake on August 20th.

Indiana Landmarks Center 1201 Central Avenue 317.639.4534 www.indianalandmarks.org Fridays and Saturdays 12:00 noon through October

Indiana War Memorial Plaza and Museum 421 North Meridian Street 317.233.4285 www.in.gov Wednesday - Sunday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Soldiers and Sailors Monument and Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War Museum Monument Circle www.in.gov Friday - Sunday 10:30 am - 5:30 pm

Simple Pleasures Stroll the downtown canal and enjoy a variety of public artworks (http://www.discovercanal.com).

Feed the Broad Ripple canal ducks and stroll the Rocky Ripple trails.

Visit the cows at Trader’s Point Creamery (www. tpforganics.com).

Wander through the Central Library Learning Curve kids area (www.imcpl.org).

Enrichment

Music

Barnes and Noble Reading program offers free books.

Visit www.barnesandnoble.com or call 1-800-THE-BOOK to find a store.

Indiana Historical Society

Free Story Times

450 West Ohio Street 317.232.1882 www.indianahistory.org Free Thursday night concerts and museum admission on August 1st and 8th.

Free story times are offered at Barnes and Noble stores (www.barnesnadnoble.com), Kids Ink (www.kidsinkbooks.com), Indy Reads Books (http://indyreadsbooks.org/) and all local libraries.

Listen Local Series

Creativity

Music in the Garden

Home Depot free kids workshops http://workshops.homedepot.com/workshops

Lowe’s Build and Grow free workshops Indiana State House

http://lowesbuildandgrow.com

200 West Washington 317.233.5293 www.in.gov During regular business hours

Michaels “Show IN Tell” free demos and workshops Visit www.michaels.com/Store-events/storeevents,default,pg.html or call your local store for details

Broad Ripple Park: 1550 Broad Ripple Avenue http://www.musicalfamilytree.net/ August 9th and 23rd at 7:00 pm

Garfield Park and Conservatory: 2505 Conservatory Drive 317.327.7184 www.garfieldgardensconservatory.org August 29th 7:00 pm

*Additional free music events are listed on page 10 in Summer Sounds Around Town

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calendar thurs | 01

Target Free Family Night Time: 4-8 p.m.

Price: Free Phone: (317) 334-3322 Location: The Children's Museum, Indianapolis www.childrensmuseum.org/ Enjoy free admission from 4-8 p.m. on this back-to-school themed evening!

fri | 02

Movies In the Park: Despicable Me Time: 9:30-11 p.m.

Price: Free Phone: 317-848-7275 Location: Carey Grove Park, Carmel www.carmelclayparks.com/beactive/events#movies-in-the-park Enjoy a movie under the stars! Pack up the munchkins, grab your snacks, and enjoy the fresh air while you watch a movie on the big screen at West Park.

sat | 03

Classroom to find new art-making projects inspired by works of art on view at the IMA. Projects are designed to be accessible and fun for museum visitors of all ages and all levels of art-making experience.

August's theme is Back to School! Choose your own adventure. Write and illustrate a new ending for the popular children’s book, If, by author Sarah Perry.

Watch your child bounce to the beat of his or her own drum and play outside. Join us throughout the summer as we sing and dance to classic sing-a-longs, kid favorites, and new tunes performed by Indiana artists.

sun | 04

Time: 6-8 p.m.

Price: Free Phone: 317-940-8069 Location: campus of Butler University, Indianapolis www.icchoir.org/site/ PageServer?pagename=Home Learn everything you wanted to know about the world's best children's choir Meet our directors, talk to current singers, ask questions There will be games, food and fun.

Cincinnati Reds VS St. Louis Cardinals Price: see website for ticket pricing Phone: (513) 765-7000 Location: Great American Ballpark, Cincinnati cincinnati.reds.mlb.com Come cheer on the Reds as they take on the Cardinals! Sundays are family days at the ballpark! One member of the family pays full price and may purchase up to three nonpremium tickets at half-price in advance of game day only. Excludes Outer View Level and Kroger Bleachers. As part of family day at the ballpark, free kids sweatshirt drawstring bag offered to the first 8,000 kids 14 and younger. Plus, line up after the game to run the bases. Open to fans of all ages.

IMA Make & Take

mon | 05

Time: 1-4 p.m.

Price: Free Phone: 317-920-2659 Location: Indianapolis Museum of Art, Indianapolis www.imamuseum.org Each month drop by the Star Studio

Time: 10-11 a.m.

Price: Free Phone: 317-848-7275 Location: River Heritage Park, Carmel www.carmelclayparks.com/be-active/ events#summer-kids-koncerts

Kids Koncert: Bobbie Lancaster

tues | 06

Back to ICC Night

weds | 07 Rhyme Time

Time: 10:30 a.m.

Price: Free Phone: 317-275-4410 Location: Glendale Library Branch, Indianapolis Babies and toddlers with an adult are invited to rhyme their way to reading. They'll join Miss Elaine and Express Kids for fun and rhyming through music and sign language.

Weather Wonders: Preschool Science Workshop Time: 10:30 a.m.

Price: Free (registration required)

08.13

Phone: 317-275-4430 Location: InfoZone Library Branch, Indianapolis http://www.imcpl.org Preschoolers ages 3 - 6 are invited to get swept away by taking a closer look at the weather. They'll learn about temperature, experiment with a Mad Science Pet Tornado, and see the different types of clouds. After attending this program, they just might be able to make some weather predictions of their own!.

thurs | 08

KinderMusik Demonstration Time: 6:30-7 p.m.

Price: Free Phone: 317-838-3801 Location: Plainfield-Guilford Township Public Library, Plainfield http://plainfieldlibrary.net/ Enjoy a 30-minute demonstration of animal fun and activities from Kindermusik, a music and movement based program that enhances the total development of your child.

fri | 09

Open House: Make Art It's easy, it's fun, and it's free for the night Time: 6-8 p.m.

Price: Free Phone: 317-255-2464 Location: Indianapolis Art Center, Indianapolis http://indplsartcenter.org/

AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 61

Come to the Indianapolis Art Center for an evening of food, fun and lots of art. The Art Center will be open from 6-8 p.m. for visitors to try activities in the studios, meet faculty and explore all the Art Center has to offer. You will not want to miss out.

Ronald McDonald House of Indiana 9th Annual Pop Tab Drop Time: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Price: Free Location: Monument Circle.

Street, Indianapolis. http://www.rmh-indiana.org/ events/9th-annual-pop-tab-drop/ There’s fun for all ages, including photo opportunities with the world’s largest pop tab, games, music by Pop and the Twisters Band and an appearance by Ronald McDonald. We continue to collect astonishing amount of pop tabs in such a few hours at this annual event because of supportive Hoosiers. Help us continue to provide a warm environment and place to stay for families by collecting the tabs off of aluminum can goods. Pull it. Twist it. Pop it.

sat | 10

PlayFit: Ready for SchoolReady for Fun! Price: Included with museum admission Phone: (317) 334-3322 Location: The Children's Museum, Indianapolis http://www.childrensmuseum.org/ Kick off a wonderful school year with games, interesting art, and school safety information.

pays full price and may purchase up to three non-premium tickets at half-price in advance of game day only. Excludes Outer View Level and Kroger Bleachers. Free Faith Day post-game concert on the field featuring MercyMe. As part of family day at the ballpark, free Kids Gapper Book offered to the first 8,000 kids 14 and younger.

National S'mores Day Time: 4-7 p.m.

Price: Free Phone: 317-595-3150 Location: Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve, Fishers http://www.fishers.in.us/egov/ docs/1366127928_570556.pdf Join us for our sixth annual celebration to honor the s’more. With crispy graham crackers, gooey marshmallows and melty chocolate, what is there not to love about a s’more?

The campfire is open for all. We provide roasting sticks, marshmallows, graham crackers, and chocolate. Participants are welcome to come any time between 4:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Rain or shine. Preregistration is appreciated

by August 8. This is not a drop off program. Children must have an adult register and stay for the duration of the program.

mon | 12

frozen fun with our ice cream social and grand prize giveaway! Games, treats and activities start at 5:00pm with our grand prize giveaway beginning at 6:00 p.m.

be ages 2-5, should be accompanied by an adult (at no charge). Two classes to choose from: 9:30am-11am and 12:30pm-2pm. Reservations required.

weds | 14

Trail Mix 'Round the Campfire

Cool Back-to-School Party Time: 5:30-7 p.m.

Price: Free Phone: 317-838-3801 Location: Plainfield-Guilford Township Public Library, Plainfield http://plainfieldlibrary.net/ Celebrate the beginning of school with fun games and activities. Everyone is welcome to attend this evening event.

Delicious pizza will be provided.

sat | 17

ArtSparkle: Emerald Extravaganza

IPL Carload Day at the Indiana State Fair

thurs | 15

Time: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Price: Kids 12 & under free, Adults $5.00 Location: Wild Air Farms, Zionsville http://www.traderspoint.org/ This fun-filled day of the Charity Horse show features pony rides, bounce houses, obstacle courses, face painting and more kid style fun. The Pacer Fan Van and Radio Disney will be on hand as well. All proceeds from this kid-friendly day benefit Riley Children's Hospital.

Price: $15 for up to 10 people Phone: 317-927-7500 Location: Indiana State Fairgrounds, Indianapolis http://www.iplpower.com/Our_ Company/Community/Community_ Events_and_Promotions/IPL_Carload_ Day_at_the_Indiana_State_Fair/ Visit the IPL website and print a Carload Day voucher. Then, present it at the gate on Monday, Aug. 12 to receive admission for up to 10 people for only $15. While you're at the fair, stop by the IPL booth located on State Fair Blvd., on the lawn of the Ellison Bakery Home and Family Arts building.

Time: 7-8 p.m.

Price: Free Phone: 317.595.9065 Location: Bongo Boy Music School, Indianapolis http://www.bongoboymusic.com This drum circle is specifically tailored and facilitated for families. No experience necessary. All ages are welcome. Drums will be provided by Bongo Boy Music School and REMO. Parents bring your kids. Kids bring your parents and friends! Pre-Jam begins at 6:45PM. This event repeats each Thursday.

sun | 11

tues | 13

Traders Point Charity Horse Show Kids Day

Cincinnati Reds VS San Diego Padres Price: see website for ticket pricing Phone: (513) 765-7000 Location: Great American Ballpark, Cincinnati cincinnati.reds.mlb.com Come cheer on the Reds as they take on the Padres! Sundays are family days at the ballpark! One member of the family 62 INDYSCHILD.COM

Frozen Finale - Summer Reading Wrap Up Party for Teens Time: 5-7 p.m.

Price: Free Phone: 317-770-3242 Location: Hamilton East Library, Noblesville http://www.hepl.lib.in.us/ Did you participate in the Summer Reading Program? Congrats! Bummed that summer is over? We understand! So join us for some

Time: 7-9 p.m.

Price: $4 for Fishers Residents, $6 for Non-residents Phone: 317-595-3150 Location: Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve, Fishers http://www.fishers.in.us/parks Build your own trail mix snack and take it with you on any of a variety of trail options.

Explore with tools, do scavenger hunts, learn with field guides, or choose other action packed adventures. Bring food (like hotdogs or s’more fixin’s) and drinks, and we supply marshmallows and roasting sticks.

Afterwards, we will explore the evening’s topic. Min. 18/Max. 30. Please register by the week before the event.

Free Family Drum Circle

fri | 16

Prairie Tykes - Teddy Bear Picnic Time: 9:30-11 a.m.

Price: $12/youth ($11/member) Phone: 317-776-6006 Location: Conner Prairie Interactive History Park, Fishers http://connerprairie.org/Learn-AndDo/Programs/Prairie-Tykes.aspx Connect with your little ones during these fun children’s classes that include crafts, snacks, stories and games. Children, must

Time: 7 p.m.

Price: Prices Vary. See event page for details.

Phone: 317-255-2464 Location: Indianapolis Art Center., Indianapolis http://indplsartcenter.org/ events/artsparkle/ ArtSparkle: Emerald Extravaganza will treat guests to delicious dinner items offered by more than 20 of Indy’s favorite restaurants, signature drinks, live art demos and activities and a fabulous silent auction. Music from The Impalas will have you dancing the night away ArtSparkle proceeds support the Indianapolis Art Center’s classes, exhibitions, outreach and scholarship programs.

Family Star Wars® Costume Party Time: 6-9 p.m.

Price: $15 per member; $27.50 per adult non-member; $20 per child non-member;under 2 free Phone: 317-232-1637 Location: Indiana State Museum, Indianapolis http://www.indianamuseum.org/ End the summer in style with a familyfriendly science fiction celebration! Come dressed as your favorite Star Wars character and join us for bounty hunts, training courses and music. Don’t have a costume?

Check out the face-painting stations that will help you get that special look.

sun | 18

Holliday Park Family Creek Stomping Time: 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Price: $5/individual Phone: 317-327-7180 Location: Holliday Park Nature Center, Indianapolis http://www.hollidaypark.org Holliday Park is home to wetlands, ponds, and seeps teeming with plants and wildlife. Have fun discovering all the unique creatures that love these wet places. Wear old shoes and clothes that you don’t mind getting muddy!.

mon | 19 Ninja Science

Time: 4 p.m.

Location: Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room, Carmel www.carmel.lib.in.us Do you have what it takes to be a ninja?

Test your ninja skills and knowledge in our various challenges.For children in grades 1-5. Also at 6:30 p.m.

tues | 20

For more fun events, visit www.indyschild.com today!

weds | 21

Crafts at the Carnegie Time: 3-7 p.m.

Price: Free Phone: 317-275-4520 Location: Spades Park Library, Indianapolis http://www.imcpl.org School-age children are invited for a dropin craft that they can take home. This event takes place each Wed. from 3-7 p.m.

thurs | 22

Holliday Park Homeschool Habitats Day Time: 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Price: $10/child Phone: 317-327-7180 Location: Holliday Park Nature Center, Indianapolis http://www.hollidaypark.org Bring your homeschooler for a day of outdoor learning. Students will explore the prairie, forest, and pond habitats, and the animals who call these areas home.

Hands-on activities will provide students the opportunity to learn though discovery.

Participants will be assigned to groups of twenty and rotate through four classes.

Ages 8-12, pre-registration required.

fri | 23

i Scream. You Scream Time: 6:30-8 p.m.

Price: $6 for Fishers Residents, $9 for Non-residents Phone: 317-595-3150 Location: Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve, Fishers http://www.fishers.in.us/parks Join in on an evening of games and a special treat. Children ages 6-9 will make their very own ice cream in a bag. Please register with Fishers Parks and Recreation by one week prior to the day of the program.

The Arc of Indiana’s Food Fest Time: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Price: Lunch (includes drink): $7, Dessert: $5 Phone: 317-977-2375 or TheArc@arcind-org Location: south half of Monument Circle, Indianapolis This fundraising event consists of 9 food trucks and 2 dessert trucks selling lunch and dessert downtown during lunch amidst a festival-like atmosphere. It will take place on the south half of Monument Circle. The south half will be shut down to vehicles for the event, and parking is available in garages or on the streets around Monument Circle.

We also have a live DJ and exhibitors.

sat | 24

Franciscan St. Francis Health presents Inspiring You Mommy, Baby & Beyond Fair Times: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Price: Free Location: Greenwood Park Mall (in front of Von Maur), Greenwood, IN

IMA Family Tours Times: 1:30 PM Phone: 317-920-2659 Price: Free Location: Indianapolis Museum of Art, Indianapolis http://www.imamuseum.org Discover more with your family as a docent guides you through the IMA’s collection.

Family tours are 30 minutes and for children of all ages. This week's theme is: Animals in African Art. A second tour starts at 2:30PM.

sun | 25

Cincinnati Reds VS Milwaukee Brewers Phone: (513) 765-7000 Location: Great American Ballpark, Cincinnati cincinnati.reds.mlb.com Come cheer on the Reds as they take on

the Brewers! Sundays are family days at the ballpark! One member of the family pays full price and may purchase up to three non-premium tickets at half-price in advance of game day only. Excludes Outer View Level and Kroger Bleachers.

As part of family day at the ballpark, free kids Joey Votto jersey pillow offered to the first 8,000 kids 14 and younger.

Museum, Indianapolis http://www.indianamuseum.org/ Join us for an evening celebrating the science with guest speakers from the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology.

Each Science Night offers a realworld look into futuristic technologies and the science action movies.

mon | 26

fri | 30

Time: 7 p.m.

Price: see website for ticket pricing Phone: 317-269-3545 Location: Victory Field, Indianapolis http://www.indyindians.com Come root for your Indians as they take on the Toledo Mud Hens and enjoy the Monday Dollar Menu. Hot Dogs, peanuts, Cracker Jacks, chips and popcorn all on sale for just $1 each.

Time: 8-10 p.m.

Price: Free Phone: 317-804-3182 Location: Asa Bales Park, Westfield. www.westfield.in.gov/parks Family Movies in the Park is brought to you by Westfield Parks and Recreation and CitySpring Church. The Odd Life of Timothy Green will be held Friday, August 30. Movies start at sunset. Parking is available at Westfield High School.

tues | 27

sat | 31

Time: 10 a.m.

Price: Fishers Residents $6/NR$9 Phone: 317-595-3155 Location: Roy G. Holland Memorial Park, Fishers http://www.fishers.in.us/department/ division.asp?fDD=9-55&location=holland It’s hot outside! Who wouldn’t want to spend the day dreaming about the beach? In this class you will play with sand, splash with water, and discover the sun. For 2 years olds and their parents. Registration required by 8/20.

Time: 6 p.m.

Price: see website for ticket pricing Phone: 317-269-3545 Location: Victory Field, Indianapolis http://www.indyindians.com Spend the evening cheering on the Indians as they take on the Louisville Bats. One lucky fan will win a jersey right off the back of an Indians player! A celebratory fireworks caps off the evening.

Indianapolis Indians vs.

Toledo Mud Hens

Two Times the Fun, Beach Babes

weds | 28

Behind the Indiana Experience Time: 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Phone: 317-232-1882 Location: Indiana Historical Society, Indianapolis http://www.indianahistory.org Without the William H. Smith Memorial Library, IHS wouldn’t have much to base its exhibitions, programs and other educational offerings on. Join in a discussion and “show and tell” of collection items that have allowed us to create the Indiana Experience.

thurs | 29

Science Nights: Where is My Rocket Car? Time: 7-8 p.m.

Price: $10 member; $15 non-member Phone: 317-232-1637 Location: Indiana State

Westfield Family Movies in the Park

Indianapolis Indians vs. Louisville Bats

New Playscape Opens!

Price: Included with museum admission Phone: (317) 334-3322 Location: The Children's Museum, Indianapolis http://www.childrensmuseum.org/ Children will connect to the outdoor environment in three hands-on spaces, including a water table (The Creek), a climber (The Pond), and a sand table (The Sandbox).

Each of the spaces will include opportunities for children to experiment, investigate, explore, and role play. The new gallery will also offer a nursing area, two family restrooms, and a diaper changing station.

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.

AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 63

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ongoing events Treehouses: Look Who's Living in the Trees!

Daily through Monday, September 2 Price: Included with general admission Phone: 317-776-6000 Location: Conner Prairie, Fishers www.connerprairie.org/ Clamber among the trees indoors this summer in this traveling exhibit! Investigate the habitats of trees using nature's clues and monthly hands-on activities.

2013 Indiana State Fair Friday, August 2nd through Sunday, August 18th Time: See website for schedule of events Price: See website for pricing Location: Indiana State Fairgrounds Phone: 317-927-7500 www.in.gov/statefair The Indiana State Fair continues to be the one event that brings families together to experience the very best of Indiana! With 17 days of entertainment, exhibits and delicious food spread out over 250 acres – there truly is FUN AT EVERY TURN! See website for complete schedule.

Art in the Park Sundays, August 4th through August 25th Times: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM Price: Free Phone: 317-920-2659 Location: Indianapolis Museum of Art www.imamuseum.org Mix a little art-making into your nature time with a different art activity each month in the 100 Acres. Projects are

designed to be accessible and fun for museum visitors of all ages and all levels of artmaking experience.

Animals and All That Jazz Thursdays through Thursday, August 15th Times: 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM Price: Included with general zoo admission Phone: 317-630-2001 Location: Indianapolis Zoo, Indianapolis www.indyzoo.com Cool down on a hot summer night with the smooth sounds of jazz. Animals and All That Jazz presented by Indiana Members Credit Union is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year with some amazing acts, including several favorites from previous years.

The Green Market Fridays through October 25th Times: 4:00PM-8:00 PM Price: Free admission Location: Trader’s Point Creamery, Zionsville www.tpforganics.com/ At The Green Market, you’ll find local vendors who are using sustainable practices to create the most healthful products for our bodies and our Earth. Dinner is served on the deck from 5PM until dusk.

Star Wars®: Where Science Meets Imagination Daily through Monday, September 2nd

Price: museum admission plus $10 per person Phone: 317-232-1637 Location: Indiana State Museum, Indianapolis www.indianamuseum.org/ This exhibit explores the Star Wars films, the real science behind them, and the research that may someday lead to real-life versions of the technologies seen in the films.

The exhibit also features props and costumes from all six Star Wars films.

AVATAR: The exhibition Daily through Sunday, September 22nd Price: Included with museum admission Phone: (317) 334-3322 Location: The Children’s Museum, Indianapolis www.childrensmuseum.org/ Journey deep into the breathtaking beauty of glowing rainforests and majestic mountains in this special exhibit about the highest-grossing film of all time, James Cameron’s AVATAR. Discover secrets about the technology used to make the movie and explore authentic props and costumes, interactive displays, concept models and sketches.

Smoke on the Mountain Select days through Sunday, August 18th Price: See website for ticket pricing Phone: 317-872-9664 Location: Beef & Boards, Indianapolis www.beefandboards.com One of the most unforgettably entertaining families to ever step foot on the Beef &

08.13

> find more

ON THE WEB

at IndysChild.com Boards stage returns this summer for more bluegrass Gospel fun. Back by unprecedented demand and opening July 5, the hilarious musical Smoke on the Mountain signals the return of the lovable Singing Sanders Family.

Butterfly Kaleidoscope Daily through Tuesday, September 3rd Price: see website for ticket pricing Phone: 317-630-2001 Location: Indianapolis Zoo www.indyzoo.com Immerse yourself in the beauty of butterflies as these wonderful winged insects return to The Hilbert Conservatory following a two-year hiatus. We've transformed the indoor gardens into a tropical paradise to bring you butterflies in a way that you've never experienced them before!

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.

AUGUST 2013 [ indy’s child ] 65

INDY'S CHILD

marketplace MUSIC LESSONS

FOOD

CHILDCARE

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ENTERTAINMENT

DEVELOPMENT STUDY

RESEARCH STUDY

FAMILY RECREATION

fun+wacky INDY'S CHILD

sun

mon

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thurs

08.13

fri

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ice cream girlfriend's day sandwich day

national watermelon day

how to celebrate: Head to dinner and a movie with your favorite gal pals

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chocolate chip day

5

waffle day

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how to celebrate: Parents, surprise your kid(s) with a day full of fun

sewing machine day

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cupcake day soft how to celebrate: ice Make some cream cupcakes for your friends day today!

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kiss and make up day!

dog day how to celebrate: Take your pup for a walk or go to the park

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on this day

how to celebrate: Sit down with your mom or grandma and sew a quilt together

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root lighthouse day beer float day

how to celebrate: Whip up some chocolate chip muffins or cookies

son or daughter day

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lemonade day

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creamsicle day

Annie Oakley was born in 1860

how to celebrate: Set up your own lemonade stand!

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just because day how to celebrate: Skip instead of walk, jump in puddles, or say hi to someone you don’t know

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on this day

MLK Jr. gave his famous “I Have a Dream” speech in 1963

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how to celebrate: Go bargain hunting at your local discount stores

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thrift shop day

the wind senior be an angel day ride day to celebrate: citizen’s day how Collect some canned how to celebrate:

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day

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tell a joke relaxation day day how to celebrate: Do nothing, take a bubble bath, or go fishing

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on this day banana split Betty Boop was created in 1930

how to celebrate: goods and take them Head to a nursing to your local shelter! home or make a card for your grandma or grandpa

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how to celebrate: Cook some fresh zucchinis for tonight's side dish

how to celebrate: Try your hand at some homemade creamcicles

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zucchini day

how to celebrate: Have a seed spitting contest at the park

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peach pie day

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Head outside with a kite

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on this day

the first Scout camp opened in 1934

trail mix day happy birthday Herry Monster

how to celebrate: Make your own mix of tasty treats for a late afternoon trail hike 2013 [ indy’s child ]

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