September 2019| Indy's Child by Midwest Parenting Publications

SEPTEMBER 2019

(FREE)

fun

fall break ideas

find the perfect

PRIVATE SCHOOL

being

BLUE meet the man behind the mascot

contents SEPTEMBER 2019

22 departments In Every Issue

Around Town

Parenting

06 07 08 09 10

13 Parenting in the

Letter from the Editor Our Cover Kid News & Notes IC Online Indy's Children

Travel 20 Let's Go on Fall Break

Hidden Gems: Purpose Park

Kidwest

14 The Adventure of Collecting

34 Teens & Tweens: The Road to Graduation

16 8 Things Families Might Not Know About Game Day

43 Local Spotlight: A Kid Again

Special Needs

40 The Power of Music Therapy

42 Special Needs Guide

The Man Behind the Mascot

Happy Fall, Y'all!

Where There's a Will, There's a Way

Private School Primer

38 Education Guide 44 September Events 51 Fun & Wacky Calendar

Sponsored Content 17 Fall Programs at Indy Parks

18 Art for Everyone 28 Introducing Gateway Hancock Health

36 Fighting the Good Fight Against HPV and Cervical Cancer

features

Resources & Calendars

Get to know Trey Mock, also known as Blue, the Indianapolis Colts mascot.

10 fun ways to celebrate the season.

Do you know what will happen to your children if something happens to you?

What to consider when searching for the perfect private school for your child.

INDYSCHILD.COM I September 2019

20 30

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Founding Publisher Barbara Wynne barbara@indyschild.com Publisher Mary Wynne Cox mary@indyschild.com Marketing + Sales Development Trisha Brand trisha@indyschild.com Editor Nicole Sipe nicolesipe@indyschild.com Production Manager Karen Ring karen@indyschild..com Creative Director Katie Clark katie@indyschild.com

Hello, September! Do you feel that? It’s the ever-so-subtle signs that fall is a-comin’. The leaves are starting to change. The kids are back in school. I’m starting to eye the side of my closet where all my cardigans and sweaters are hanging. Hooray for autumn! This is my favorite season, and it’s partly because there are so many fun and festive things to do everywhere you look.

Speaking of fall: It’s football season! And what better way to welcome in another great season of football than with Blue, the mascot for the Indianapolis Colts. We had the pleasure of meeting the man behind the mask, Trey Mock, and we’re excited that he’s on this issue’s cover. Learn more about Trey in my interview on the next page.

Enjoy this great month!

Editorial + Audience Development Tessa Judge tessa@indyschild.com Billing billing@indyschild.com Contributing Writers Rachael Dupree, Rebecca Hill, Riane Konc, Sarah McCosham, Steffy McCourt, Taylor Newton, Jennifer Thompson

Indy's Child is published monthly. Copyright 2019 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.

EDITOR

NICOLESIPE@INDYSCHILD.COM

INDYSCHILD.COM I September 2019

Business Development Brooke Litherland brooke@indyschild.com

Calendar of Events calendar@indyschild.com

If you don’t believe me, then check out “Happy Fall, Y’all” on page 22. We’ve rounded up some really neat ways to celebrate the season with your family — everything from apple pickin’ to train ridin’ to pumpkin partyin’. (Yes, there are festivals happening in Indy that celebrate fall’s favorite orange squash!)

Digital Publisher + Events Wendy Hasser wendy@indyschild.com

AROUND TOWN

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

the man behind

the mascot

Get to know Trey Mock, also known as Blue, the Indianapolis Colts mascot. You’ve seen Blue out in the community or at Lucas Oil Stadium cheering on the Indianapolis Colts. But how much do you really know about the man behind the mascot? We talked with this month’s cover model, Trey Mock, about being an award-winning mascot for Indy’s favorite football team.

What does it feel like to be Blue in front of a stadium of thousands of people? It’s amazing to perform on game days in front of our fans. I can feel the love that people have for Blue everywhere we go. I’m so grateful for that love from Colts Nation and the state of Indiana.

How similar are you and Blue? Blue is basically my personality wrapped in fur and amplified. I’m pretty adventurous and I love to make people laugh. What other job allows you to drive an IndyCar around the city in a pretend horse costume while people giggle and take pictures? But as much fun as we have, I am motivated by making an impact in someone’s life. That’s why we perform school shows every year across Indiana.

Speaking of school shows, I read that you do more than 100 shows per year! How do you stay energized?

teach students important messages in a fun and engaging way. Kids will come up to Blue throughout the year and say, “Hey, Blue! Do you remember when you came to my school? It was awesome!” Having that big of an impact on the students of Indiana is such a blessing. Our newest show is geared toward high school students. I break the biggest mascot rule and “take off my mask” to encourage students to stop hiding behind their “masks” — social media, popularity, etc. Once we stop hiding behind our masks, we can be our truest selves and choose love over hate.

You were awarded the NFL Mascot of the Year in 2016 and 2019. What does it take to be an award-winning mascot? It takes an unbelievable team to be this successful. We have the greatest ownership in all of sports. It is the Irsay family’s love and dedication to the community that allows us to have this amazing platform. My family has also been a major factor in our success. I have all the support in the world from my parents, wife and kiddos. My favorite

quote is by Steve Prefontaine: “To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift.” That’s what I strive for every day.

What do your children think when they see you performing as Blue? Blue has become a family member in our home. He lives at our house and our kids have never known life without him. When our son was younger, he would ask his friends what costume their dad dresses up in for work. It took a while for him to understand that not everyone dresses up in a costume for work. They absolutely love what dad does for a living.

Blue doesn’t talk, but if you could say anything to your fans, what would that be? There are not words to adequately express the gratitude that I have for Indiana and the amazing people that make it a great state. I might have been born in Georgia, but believe me, I’m a Hoosier through and through. It has been such a blessing to create Blue and perform for our fans over the last 13 years. I’m not sure how many years I have left as Blue, but I promise that I will spend that time returning the love that our fans have showered upon us. I thank you, I love you and GO COLTS!

I get my energy from our fans. Performing school shows is my favorite thing that we do. We get to

September 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

NEWS & Notes

Our monthly roundup of news you can use

walk for a cause

2,500 THATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S THE NUMBER OF APPLE VARIETIES THAT ARE GROWN IN THE U.S. HOWEVER, ONLY ONE (THE CRABAPPLE) IS NATIVE TO NORTH AMERICA.

DID YOU KNOW? September 23 marks the first official day of fall. This day is also known as the autumnal equinox, when the sun crosses the celestial equator, making the length of day and night nearly equal.

The American Heart Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual Heart Walk on September 21 is your opportunity to have fun and help save lives. This family-friendly, pet-friendly event includes a Kids Zone and other activities, along with a 1-mile walk, 3-mile walk or timed 5K run. The Heart Walk is from 8-11 am at Michael A. Carroll Stadium on the campus of IUPUI. Registration is free at indyheartwalk.org, but donations are encouraged. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in Indiana and heart defects are the leading birth defect. When you contribute to the Heart Walk, you are contributing to groundbreaking science that fuels life-changing breakthroughs that could cure heart disease and stroke. At the Heart Walk, you will see your dollars at work when you meet survivors of congenital heart disease, heart attack, stroke and heart disease. We can't save lives without your help.

Visit a Museum for free Museum Day Live is an annual celebration of boundless curiosity hosted by Smithsonian magazine. On Saturday, September 21, participating museums and cultural institutions across the country provide free entry to anyone presenting a Museum Day ticket, which is good for free admission for two people. Local museums taking part in this annual event include Indiana State Museum, Conner Prairie, Rhythm! Discovery Center and Museum of Miniature Houses and Other Collections. Learn more and download your free ticket at smithsonianmag.com.

INDYSCHILD.COM I September 2019

Win a Family Membership to The Children's Museum of Indianapolis! Contest runs Sept. 1-15.

$5,000 toward the price of tuition* at Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School. Contest runs Sept. 16-30. (*new enrollments only)

To enter, visit INDYSCHILD.COM/CONTESTS.

follow us Facebook (@IndysChildMagazine) Twitter (@indyschild) // Instagram (@indyschild) September 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

INDY'S CHILDREN Grandma, papaw, bubbe, abuelo: Whatever you call them, grandparents are special people in our children’s lives. In honor of Grandparents Day this month, here are some Indy kids enjoying time with their grandparents!

JJ (1.5) with Lammy

Kejuanta (6) with Nana

Lainie (8) with Mamaw

Want to see your cute kids on this page?

Max (3), Reece (10), Mia (6) with Pops, Nana, Grandma Norie and Grandpa

Easton (7) with Nannie Pam

Kaiden (3) with Papa Mike

INDYSCHILD.COM I September 2019

KIDS IN COSTUMES: IS THERE ANYTHING CUTER?! Whether it’s last year’s Halloween costume, a cosplay getup or just dressing up for fun, we want to see those costume photos! Send in your best pics (with the child’s name and age) to editor@indyschild.com, and your picture may be selected to appear here!

HIDDEN GEMS

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Purpose Park Although Purpose Park is tucked into a quiet street in the Hawthorne neighborhood of Indianapolis, you really can’t miss it when you come upon it. Emerging from the ground at the entrance of the pocket park is a bright yellow 1964 Pontiac Bonneville car planted vertically in the ground. You’ve probably never seen anything like it — and especially nothing like it in the middle of an otherwise normal residential neighborhood.

At one time a vacant lot, this spot found a new life in 2014 when it was transformed into a space for neighbors to gather, kids to play and the community to flourish. Instead of an abandoned area, neighbors now have a beautiful place to call their own. Raised beds produce vegetables for the neighborhood. Fruit trees and vines decorate the park, as well as a casita that is used for community performances. Butterflies enjoy the native shrubs that line the park. Wooden stumps circle a fire pit that the community uses for campfires. And that big car planted in the ground? It’s not just a photo op. (Although, what a cool photo op it is.) The underside of the Bonneville has been smoothed, and serves as an ideal projection screen for neighborhood movie nights. If you want to see what happens when a community pulls together to create something great, make your way over to the west side of Indy and visit this this pocket park with a purpose.

58 N. Holmes Ave., Indianapolis

INDYSCHILD.COM I September 2019

PARENTING IN THE KIDWEST

WORDS BY RIANE KONC

Kid in the Kitchen My daughter loves to help me cook. Granted, just as when she wants to “help” clean the house, or work on the computer, or mow the lawn, her definition of what it means to “help” tends to net more destruction and danger than I think the dictionary definition of “help” implies. Still, I don’t really mind. In some ways, you could say that it’s because she’s my daughter and I love her, and so I love when we can participate in an activity we both enjoy. But in other ways, you could say that it’s actually because when we cook, she wears a mini chef’s hat and apron, and it’s so cute that I am scientifically unable to resist her. Her main tool is a pink, miniature whisk with an owl as the handle. It’s really, if you ask her, a multi-tool. She uses it for everything. “Okay, R,” I might say to her, studying a recipe. “It says that next, we need to peel the carrots, cut them in half length-wise, and then slice them julienne.” “Okay!” she says cheerfully, and then proceeds to do her version of julienne, which is to just hit the carrot with her whisk over and over. “Am I doing it?” she asks, whacking away. “Sure!” I say. “You’re definitely doing something!” “All done!” she says a minute later, sliding the carrot back to me. It looks virtually indistinguishable from before. The only difference is that now, it’s a little beat up, and a little bit covered in grubby fingerprints. “Did we wash your hands before starting?” I ask her, examining the carrot.

“Nope!” she says cheerfully, in the care-free way someone who has no concerns about health code violations might. Overall, our restaurant gets a “C” for cleanliness. “C” stands for “Could be honestly a lot worse, considering a toddler is the co-chef.” We grab a new carrot. Just in case there’s an inspection later. Hands newly washed, she moves on to dicing celery. “Dicing celery” is what it’s called when you take a piece of celery in one hand, a whisk in the other, gaze off into the distance, and, suddenly realizing that you are done with this actively, ask, “Are we done, mom?” We can make basically anything together, but if you ever dine at our restaurant, you’ll learn that as co-chefs, we have a few specialities: “Basically pancakes” “Pie that looks like someone sat on it but it tastes fine, I swear” “Smoothie that is now mostly on the counter” “This looks like a muffin, right? Like, if you squint?” “A strawberry with whisk marks in it” If you’re ever in town, we’d love to serve you. We’re open for from 5:30pm-6:30pm, and then also from 7:30pm-3am, which is when guests can attempt to whine their way into a snack if they refused to eat most of their dinner back when it was served.

FOLLOW RIANE

TWITTER @THEILLUSTRIOUS WEBSITE RIANEKONC.COM September 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

AROUND TOWN

WORDS BY TAYLOR NEWTON, INTERN, THE CHILDREN'S MUSEUM OF INDIANAPOLIS

The Adventure of Collecting A child’s fascination with all things is natural. Parents and guardians can capitalize on a child’s interests by helping them collect things that speak to them. Collecting coins, stamps, rocks and shells helps kids develop a potential lifelong passion for something that interests them, while also nurturing their curiosity and expanding the world around them.

director of school programs and educational resources at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis.

Collecting activates creativity. Your child gets to think independently about what to collect. Their collection is solely of their design. Allow them to brainstorm about interesting little things they want to find, giving them the opportunity to use their imagination. Also, your child could find a special place and way to store or display their collection. The creative process of making a display to show off what your new curator is proud of will boost their self-confidence.

“Building a collection encourages children to learn about the world around them by observation, and through comparing and sorting objects,” says Becky Wolfe,

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Collecting engages organizational thinking. As the collection grows, your child will notice how each object is different, yet similar. Encourage your child to label their collection. “Writing labels or creating a small museum uses reading and writing skills in a fun way,” Wolfe says. They can log dates, the location where the objects were found and other details. Logging helps your child think about how to categorize and organize objects.

Collecting builds focus and patience. Collections do not

can take time. This develops patience as they wait for an opportunity to find another object for the collection.

To get your child started on the adventure of discovery, look outside — nature can be very mysterious, with many objects to uncover. For more inspiration, visit The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, with its ever-growing collection of more than 130,000 artifacts with everything from cretaceous bones to comic books.

assemble overnight; they are a commitment. Your child’s search for items to add to their collection

PHOTO CREDITS

THE CHILDREN'S MUSEUM OF INDIANAPOLIS

INDYSCHILD.COM I September 2019

September 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

AROUND TOWN

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

8 Things Families Might Not Know About Game Day Including a biggie: Kids 24 months and younger no longer need a game ticket!

Football season is upon us, and the Indianapolis Colts want to make sure fans of every age have a good time on game day. “Our fans are our family, and each home Colts game is a family reunion,” says Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Colts vice chair, owner and mom of three. “That’s why we’re always focused on creating more activities and programming that will engage and entertain the whole family, including fans of all ages.”

Here are some of the benefits that families can look forward to when they attend a home game.

1. Infants attend home games for free. Beginning this

2. Kids can snag cool Coltsbranded gear for free. During

each game of the 2019 season, a special Colts-branded arm sleeve will be available to all kids ages 15 and under in attendance. The items will be available at any Guest Services kiosk in the stadium.

3. Families can have fun before the game at American Family Insurance Touchdown Town. Free and open to the public,

Touchdown Town features fun activities for kids and families, including the Colts Play 60 Zone, a 40-yard dash, face and hair painting, autographs and photo opportunities, live music and much more. Touchdown Town is located along South Street north of Lucas Oil Stadium on home game days.

4. Kids can eat for cheap at home games. Special Colts Kids’

season, children 24 months and younger no longer need a ticket to attend home Colts games when accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Club Meals — which include a hot dog, apple slices, string cheese and apple juice — are available on game days for $5. Kids’ Meals can be purchased at concession stands 148, 331, 513 and 540, as well as the East & West Club Street Grill.

5. Lactation stations are located throughout the stadium. For breastfeeding

mamas who are looking for some privacy, Lucas Oil Stadium offers three Mamava lactation pods. These self-contained pods include comfortable seating, a fold-down table, interior lighting, an electrical outlet, a USB port and a door that can be locked for privacy.

6. Guests can request child wristbands. During game days

and other events at Lucas Oil Stadium, parents and guardians can request a wristband for themselves and their child, which includes the guest’s name, seat location and a preferred phone number to be contacted if the child is lost. Visit any Guest Services kiosk in the stadium to request a wristband.

7. First-timers get their own pin. For those attending their first

Colts game, “My First Colts Game” pins are available at any Guest Services kiosk in the stadium. The team offers special birthday pins to fans celebrating a birthday at a home game.

8. Tickets are available to suit a variety of budgets. To

learn more about ticket prices, visit colts.com/tickets.

For more details on these 2019 game day offerings for families, visit colts.com/ gameday.

PHOTO CREDITS

THE INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

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INDYSCHILD.COM I September 2019

SPONSORED CONTENT

WORDS BY RONNETTA S. SPALDING

Fall Programs at Indy Parks Indy Parks is proud to offer more than 2,400 creative programs annually in dance, arts, nature, health and fitness, aquatics, and sports. Your sneak peek into our fall lineup features swim lessons, yoga, sewing, archery, martial arts, clay handbuilding, ballet, hip hop, sports leagues, fall break fun, Ghoulish Garfield, and so much more. Indy Parks has your fall activities covered. To get started, here is a sample of some of our favorite fall programs: Broad Ripple Park: Little Gardeners, Moonlight Egg Hunt, Tree Identification Hike Eagle Creek Park: Nature Discovery Classes, Meet a Raptor, Coffee & Canvas Frederick Douglass Park: Aerobics, Basketball, Afterschool Enrichment Garfield Park Arts Center: Arts for All, Brushes and Brews, Oktoberfest, Fall Break Open Studio Garfield Park Burrello Family Center: Pickleball, Fun Factory, Karate

Riverside Park: Adaptive Party Time Dance, 4-H Trailblazers, Chess Southeastway Park: Hayrides and Girl Scout Hayride Night, Environmental Adventure Days, Junior Habitats Badge Free Indy in Motion Classes: In partnership with the Marion County Health Department and the National Institute for Fitness and Sport (NIFS), Indy Parks offers free Indy in Motion Fitness Classes at Broad Ripple Park, Garfield Park, Indianapolis World Sports Park, Krannert Park, Riverside Park, and Washington Park. Join us for cardio, strength training with resistance bands, balancing, and core strength classes. Classes are taught by NIFS instructors. Throughout the school year, free Afterschool Meals for youth ages 18 and under are also available in park family centers across the city. Visit parks.indy.gov for a schedule and park locations. Now is the perfect time to #DiscoverIndyParks. Explore our offerings at indyparks.org. Our Customer Service Center is ready to help you find and register for programs.

Garfield Park Conservatory: Jungle Tales, Creepy Creatures, Tortoise Tuesday, Garfield Park Biergarten

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September 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

SPONSORED CONTENT

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Art for Everyone Indy Arts Education makes it easy to find art opportunities in Indianapolis. Indianapolis has a rich and growing art scene. Now educators, parents and the community at large can tap into it by way of IndyArtsEd.org, an online directory for arts education in Central Indiana.

Although IndyArtsEd.org serves all schools in Central Indiana, this resource isn’t just for teachers. Anyone can access the directory for free to find arts education opportunities, including homeschool families, community center programmers and anyone else interested in providing arts education programs for their community, Disney-Britton says.

IndyArtsEd.org began in 2018 as a way to connect teachers with organizations offering artseducation classes and workshops. Think everything from Bollywood dancing and pantomiming to drumming and pottery making. It’s a one-stop shop, of sorts, for educators looking to book field trips and classes for their students, and it has been referred to as the “Angie’s List” of arts education.

to leverage the directory in building deeper relationships with schools.” A 2016 survey of teachers at Indianapolis Public Schools revealed that the biggest barrier to expanding arts education was the research required to find all the many possible programs. “This [IndyArtsEd. org] is going to provide us with the ability to expand field trips and integration opportunities for our kids,” says principal for Center for Inquiry School 2 Andrea Hunley, regarding the launch of the website.

“Teachers requested the ability to find everything they need in one location,” says Ernest Disney-Britton, Director of Grant Services and Education Partnerships for the Arts Council of Indianapolis. The directory now has more than 200 offerings by local arts and cultural organizations. “And arts organizations are coming together monthly to learn more about how

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The directory is organized by artistic disciplines that include dance, music, theatre, visual arts, history and heritage, literary arts, media, multi-discipline and storytelling. Users can narrow their search even more by indicating the preferred program type (in-school workshop, out-of-school workshop, field trip, etc.), subject (math, social studies, history, etc.) and even program provider (Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, Indiana Repertory Theatre or Newfields, to name a few). Each entry provides information about what the students will learn, the cost and contact information.

The directory also has a familyfriendly events section (find it under the Resources tab) that lists educational and arts- and-culturefocused events for parents who are looking for some family-centered fun in Indy. It’s also a great way to find summer- and spring-break camps and afterschool activities.

For more information about Indy Arts Education and to search the database, visit IndyArtsEd.org.

PHOTO CREDITS

INDY ARTS EDUCATION

INDYSCHILD.COM I September 2019

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TRAVEL

WORDS BY KAREN RING

Let's Go on Fall Break Autumn can be the best time to explore the Midwest.

Fall break: It’s the time to do just that and take a break from work, school and the day-today grind. Whether it’s a daytrip or an overnight excursion you are after, here are a few ways to spend your time off as a family.

Sleep under the stars Fresh air, wide-open spaces to run, s’mores fixings melting over a fire and freedom from those mindnumbing electronic devices — these are just a few things to love about camping. And crisp temps and changing leaves make fall in Indiana the perfect time to get out and reconnect with nature and your family while sleeping under the stars. Whether you are looking for a rustic camping experience at McCormick’s Creek State Park or a luxury cabin plus all the modern amenities at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone™ Park on Lake Monroe, there’s a camping experience perfect for everyone. Learn more about our favorite campsites at indyschild.com/lets-go-camping.

Head underground Channel your inner explorer and tackle one of the many intricate cave networks in the Midwest. Fall break is the perfect time to either start or continue along the Indiana Cave Trail, which is comprised of four caves: Bluespring Caverns, Marengo Cave, Indiana Caverns and Squire Boone Caverns. Each features its own unique wonders of the underground world, from rock formations to waterfalls, blind cave fish to Ice Age bones. Or head to Mammoth Cave, the largest cave in the world, which is just a short drive away in Kentucky. The cave sprawls for over 400 miles and offers 16 different tours for all ages that cover different aspects of the natural wonder. If you are looking to make this more than a day trip, there are opportunities to camp and explore what lies above Mammoth Cave. Learn more about nearby caves at indyschild.com/ lets-go-explore-caves.

Discover or re-discover a Midwest city Our location in the Heartland of America puts us in close proximity to a number of amazing cities that are constantly evolving. St. Louis

INDYSCHILD.COM I September 2019

offers acres of urban green spaces, a one-of-a-kind shoe factory turned surreal playscape known as the City Museum and a budgetfriendly zoo. Get a view of it all from the top of the Gateway Arch. If the hustle and bustle of the big city is calling, make the short three-hour drive to Chicago, where you can explore worldfamous museums, get a unique perspective of the city’s architecture aboard a water taxi, shop ‘til you drop along the Magnificent Mile and dine on dim sum in Chinatown. Find more ideas for familyfriendly fun just a road trip away at indyschild.com/travel.

supervised entertainment for the kiddos while mom and dad hit the spa (or the casino!).

Tackle an amusement park Sure, amusement parks are usually associated with the summer months, but most are also open weekends in the fall, when the temps are cooler, the crowds are smaller and there is still plenty of fun to be had. At Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari in Santa Claus, IN, enjoy Kids World weekends through Sept. 7 plus Sept. 14. These weekends devoted to little ones include everything you love about the park plus magic shows, juggling, unicycling and balloon artistry. Or enjoy Halloween fun for the whole family during Happy Halloween Weekends, Sept. 21-Oct. 27.

Enjoy the lap of luxury Put the “break” in fall break by heading to a nearby resort that offers equal parts relaxation and entertainment. Nestled in the heart of the Hoosier National Forest, French Lick resort is home to two historic hotels, three golf courses, two spas, indoor and outdoor pools and a Vegas-style casino. Activities range from horseback riding to bowling to surrey bike rentals, and there are tons of hiking trails to explore the grounds. Best of all, KidsFest Lodge offers

Cedar Point, situated on the shores of Lake Erie in Sandusky, OH, remains open weekends through October. HalloWeekends run Sept. 13 through Oct. 27 and feature tons of family-friendly fun by day and hair-raising frights by night. Whether you are looking for a relaxing resort experience, the non-stop action of an amusement park or something in between, make the most of the school-free days with a family getaway.

September 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

Happy Fall,

Y’all!

10 fun ways to celebrate the season. WORDS BY SARAH MCCOSHAM AND NICOLE SIPE

HE LEAVES ARE CHANGING, THE AIR IS BRISK: IT’S FALL! FALL IS A BUSY TIME OF YEAR IN INDIANA, AND IT CAN BE EASY TO FEEL OVERWHELMED BY THE NUMBER OF OPTIONS FOR FAMILY FUN. WE’LL GIVE YOU THE LOWDOWN ON FUN FALL ACTIVITIES TO EXPLORE WITH YOUR FAMILY, SO YOU CAN MAKE THE MOST OF THIS WONDERFUL SEASON.

INDYSCHILD.COM I September 2019

Pick apples

Visit a pumpkin patch

There’s just something special about picking your own produce, and fall brings plenty of U-Pick opportunities at local apple orchards. Anderson Orchard in Mooresville is ripe for the picking in the fall, and their annual Apple Festival and Craft Fair on September 28-29 is an area favorite. Beasley’s Orchard in Danville opens their farm store and celebrates picking season with a festival the first two weekends of October. And if you’re up for a fall road trip, The Apple Works in Trafalgar is worth the drive.

Watching your kids trudge across an orange-speckled field of pumpkins is a parental rite of passage! No matter where you’re located in Indy, you’ll find a place to pick the perfect pumpkin, including Lark Ranch in Greenfield, Stuckey Farm in Sheridan, Spencer Farm in Noblesville and many others!

Go for a hike Take advantage of cooler temps by going on a family hike. Cool Creek Park on the north side, Eagle Creek Park on the west side and Fort Harrison State Park on the east side are just some of the parks that offer easy hiking that is perfect when traversing with young people in tow.

Do a fall festival It just isn’t fall without festivals. Bring your appetite to the Nappanee Apple Festival on September 19-22 to sample a slice of Indiana’s largest 7-foot baked apple pie. In its 73rd year, the Irvington Halloween Festival on Oct. 19-26 is a weeklong east side celebration of all-things Halloween.

Conquer a corn maze While you’re planning your fall festival circuit, be sure to include a couple corn mazes. Get lost in Fortville’s Piney Acres corn maze, which is 8 acres of corny fun. Once you make it out of Conner Prairie’s corn maze, you can hitch a ride on the 1859 Balloon Voyager and view the cornfield from above. And on the west side, Hogan Farms in Brownsburg offers a themed corn maze that exits at the pumpkin patch — the perfect spot to grab a pumpkin or two to take home!

Enjoy the local colors Indiana is at its most beautiful in the fall. Red, orange, yellow and gold — you’ll see all the colors of the autumn rainbow! And there’s no better way to take in fall foliage than on a train. Whitewater Valley Railroad’s Valley Flyer takes

patrons on a tour of Indiana’s Historic (and beautiful) canal town, Metamora. And if you’re up for a road trip into Ohio, LebanonMason Monroe Railroad’s Turtle Creek Flyer runs through October and will take you through the picturesque countryside of Southwest Ohio.

Take a hayride Speaking of rides, hayrides are a necessary part of fall. On select dates in October, take a haunted and historical ride on the Headless Horseman Hay Ride at Conner Prairie. On the north side, visit Stonycreek Farm in Noblesville for hay rides (or book a hayride party!) and stay for fall fun during their Pumpkin Harvest Festival.

Decorate for fall

Go trick-or-treating before Halloween

Pick up some autumn mums, find the most bizarre gourds or get a little fancy by making your own scarecrow! Sullivan Hardware & Garden, Rosie’s Gardens and Habig Garden Shop — all in various locations around Indy — sell lots of autumn decorations, f lowers and fall foliage to get your home spruced up for the season.

Carve a pumpkin Embrace the mess and get your kids involved in scooping out “pumpkin guts!” Whether you carve your pumpkins days before Halloween or the night of, be sure you “carve” out time for this festive tradition.

Indy kids have it pretty great — there are tons of opportunities to trick-or-treat before the big night. Visit the Indianapolis Zoo in October for ZooBoo, where little ones can dress up in their favorite costumes and find treats around the park. The same month, check into The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis’s Hotel of Spells, and make your way through a spooky (or not-so-spooky) haunted house to collect treats. You can also check the churches in your area for trunk-or-treat events that typically happen throughout the month of October.

We’re entering the best time of the year, Indy parents! Grab your family, friends and a Pumpkin Spice Latte and fall for fall.

September 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

WORDS BY RACHAEL DUPREE

Where There’s a Will, There’s a Way Do you know what will happen to your children if something happens to you? Make your end-of-life wishes known now. OF ALL THE CHALLENGES THAT COME WITH BEING A PARENT, PERHAPS ONE OF THE HARDEST TO THINK ABOUT IS WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO YOUR CHILDREN SHOULD SOMETHING HAPPEN TO YOU AND YOUR SPOUSE. WHILE CREATING AN END-OF-LIFE PLAN — ALSO CALLED AN ESTATE PLAN — FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY CAN SEEM MORBID TO MANY PEOPLE, IT'S AN IMPORTANT STEP TO TAKE, PARTICULARLY WHEN MINOR CHILDREN ARE INVOLVED. BY TALKING TO A LAWYER WHO FOCUSES ON ESTATE PLANNING AND GETTING THE PROPER DOCUMENTS IN PLACE EARLY, YOU CAN REST ASSURED YOUR KIDS WILL BE TAKEN CARE OF AND YOUR ASSETS WILL BE DISTRIBUTED AS YOU WISH.

Your lawyer can advise you on the details of your estate plan. At a minimum, this may include: • a will, which will outline what happens to your possessions upon death and name guardianship for your children • a trust, which holds the assets you wish to leave to your children and names a trustee to manage the assets (not necessarily the guardian) • a healthcare directive, aka living will, which names someone who can make healthcare decisions for you if you’re unable to • a HIPA A waiver, which names who has rights to your healthcare information

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• guardianship nomination documents, which outline how you want your children to be cared for if you pass • final instructions for disposition of your body

Your Most Precious Assets For parents, knowing that your children will be in a loving, caring home can seem like the most important decision of all. Many people assume that grandparents automatically assume guardianship if both parents pass and specific arrangements aren’t outlined in a will, but that isn’t always the case, says Katie Charleston, an Indianapolisbased attorney who focuses on estate planning. A judge will grant

guardianship to a person who steps forward to care for your children — whether or not it’s someone you would choose. Should more than one person come forward, this could mean time spent in court and your children in the hands of child protective services. In order to ensure your children continue to live a happy, healthy life, take some time to talk to your spouse about your options. “It's not so much about who has the most money, who is geographically closest or family,” Charleston says. “You should think about who will raise your children with the values you want and take care of them as close to how you would.” She also recommends discussing these wishes with the person you choose before you put it in writing, so that they are on board with the decision. Let them know of the expectations you have for their care and see if that’s something they are willing and able to follow through with. If they are agreeable, let them know who they should contact — most likely your lawyer — if something should happen to you. Your lawyer will help you think through all the details regarding guardianship in order to ensure your desires are followed as smoothly as possible. “My law firm makes sure kids are fully protected should something happen to the parents by including things like instructions to caregivers and temporary guardianship documents so there is no gap in care for minor children and they stay out of the system,” Charleston says, and you may want to talk to your lawyer about this, as well.

Unless official changes are made, the guardianship part of your will remains in effect until your children turn 18 and become legal adults.

Put It Into Action Once you make the hard decisions that go into your estate plan, including guardianship of your children, executing it is fairly easy. With your lawyer, you will sign the will and other documents in front of two witnesses who will also include their signatures. Charleston advises keeping the document in a place that will be safe from f lood or fire damage, such as a safe deposit box. Let the executor know where this is, because he or she will need the official document in hand in order to execute your plans.

It’s also a good idea to let those close to you know about your plans, particularly if they are named as guardians. “This makes it easier when the time comes to follow your wishes,” Charleston says.

Although it may be difficult to think about, putting your guardianship wishes in writing is one of the best gifts you can give your children and loved ones, helping them to avoid potential conflict and assuring them your legacy will continue on in a way that would have made you happy.

September 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

INDYSCHILD.COM I September 2019

September 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

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WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Introducing Gateway Hancock Health High-value, affordable care comes to Indy’s east side Indy’s east side is about to gain access to more affordable and convenient health care. On September 9, Gateway Hancock Health officially opens its doors, and will begin offering first-class immediate care and affordable labs and imaging to the community.

“We work with our patients every step of the way to help them understand their diagnosis, the benefits and risks of treatment, and the costs of care and interventions that we believe will provide the most value in improving their health and their lives,” Long says. “We don’t take that role lightly.”

“We realize that people are busy, and that convenient, affordable health care can be hard to find,” says Jenn Cox, Business Director, Gateway Hancock Health. “With Gateway, we’ve tried to remove barriers that prevent people from seeking care when they need it.”

accessible to patients,” says Steve Long, President and CEO of Hancock Health. “As we brought Gateway to life, we kept coming back to that goal.”

At Gateway, tests are an average of 70 percent less expensive than hospital tests. A full array of lab tests are offered, as well as imaging services, such as CT scans, MRI scans, X-rays and ultrasounds, with a doctor’s referral. Gateway also offers pre-visit estimates, real-time status updates on wait times, a 36-hour turnaround time for labs and imaging, and simplified, global billing.

Part of the plan for making the facility convenient for patients was creating Save Your Spot scheduling, an online check-in feature. Save Your Spot allows patients to save their spot in line, so they can monitor their wait time without having to sit in a waiting room. The technology will provide real-time updates that alert patients when to leave to make it to their appointment on time.

“When we began thinking about what Gateway could be, we knew one thing: We wanted to build a healthcare facility that was approachable, convenient, and

“We hope this cuts down on the length of time patients are sitting in the waiting room before their healthcare provider is ready to see them,” Long says.

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Gateway also wanted to make the billing process simpler and more streamlined for its patients. After the appointment, a patient will receive one bill that includes all of the fees for services rendered. “Too often when patients visit a healthcare system, they receive multiple bills for services rendered. It can be confusing and frustrating to pay those bills as they arrive at different times, which is why we’ve opted for simplified, global billing,” Cox says. “We hope that makes it easier to understand the total cost and complete payment at one time.”

Gateway is available to anyone and is ideal for patients that are on high deductible health plans. The facility is conveniently located only 15 minutes or less from New Palestine, Greenfield, McCordsville, Lawrence, Irvington, and the east side of Indianapolis. “We hope that offering these services allows people to put their health first, whether for preventive care, treatment of illness, or the onset of a larger health issue,” Cox says. “Stop in, enjoy a cup of coffee, meet our people, and see what we’re all about.”

Providing value-conscious care is an important part of Gateway’s mission to provide high-value, affordable healthcare to its patients.

PHOTO CREDIT

CHRISTINA RECORD

INDYSCHILD.COM I September 2019

PRIVATE SCHOOL PRIMER WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN SEARCHING FOR THE PERFECT PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR YOUR CHILD.

WORDS BY JENNIFER THOMPSON

ublic, private, charter, magnet, faithbased, Montessori, homeschool and more. With so many wonderful education options available, choosing the type of school that is the best fit for your child can feel like a daunting task. You may wonder â&#x20AC;&#x201D; where do I begin? For parents who are considering private school, we have asked two experts to field some questions to help parents in their private school search. Christine Williams is the assistant principal and director of academics at Guerin Catholic High School in Noblesville. Jennifer Wiley is the director of admissions at Highlands Latin School in Carmel.

What are the differences between private and public schools? Williams: Every school has a mission and vision that is unique to them, based on the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history and the community that it serves. While I cannot speak for all non-public and private schools, as a Catholic school, we are blessed to serve in an environment in which the spiritual development of our students and faculty is at the heart of all we do. As Catholic educators, we recognize

INDYSCHILD.COM I September 2019

parents as the primary educators of the faith and we hope to create a learning environment that mirrors the love and growth our parents desire for their children within their homes.

What should parents consider when looking for a private school? Wiley: The process of finding a school for your child can be overwhelming. I recommend beginning by making a list of what is important in a school to your family. Some areas to consider as you make your list are academics, extracurricular activities, athletics, community and faith.

September 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

There are a number of steps you can take to get to know a school. I would recommend doing as many of the following as you are able: check out the schools’ websites to learn as much information as you can, attend open houses to learn more and possibly meet staff and students, schedule a private visit through the admissions office and come prepared with a list of questions, ask if your student can shadow to give them a feel for the school and also help them with the transition, and find out if you can speak with a current family to hear about their experience. I also recommend keeping notes from each of your visits, as it can be difficult to recall answers to questions and details after you have visited a few schools. Try to keep an open mind, and remember that you are not looking for a perfect school, but one that is a good fit for your family.

INDYSCHILD.COM I September 2019

Private schools often offer a unique focus and smaller school community that can be a good fit for many families, but many assume they cannot afford to send their student. Before deciding that private school isn't an option for your student, take a look at the actual costs per year and speak with the school to determine if there are scholarships or financial aid available.

What else should parents know about searching for a private school? Williams: Do not be afraid to ask questions that are specific to your children and the hopes you have as a family. Wiley: I recommend that families write down questions in advance, as it is easy to forget what you wanted to ask once you get there. It is hard to make an exhaustive list, as every parent has their own specific concerns, but some suggestions to ask about are academic philosophy

and curriculum choices, class sizes, teacher experience, parent involvement, fundraising expectations, other costs besides tuition, disciplinary procedures and what the school community is like. Admissions personnel should be well informed about the school and want to help you determine if the school is a fit for your family. Don't be afraid to ask detailed questions.

Whether public, private, Montessori, charter or one of the many other educational options available, when searching for the right school for your child, don’t be afraid to ask questions and trust your gut. And remember, you are your child’s advocate and know them best, and that knowledge goes a long way.

September 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

TEENS & TWEENS

WORDS BY REBECCA HILL

The Road to Graduation What’s the difference between AP, IB and dual enrollment?

Figuring out the path to graduation is complicated. With class options like AP, IB and dual enrollment, students need to choose which path prepares them the best for college. For parents, getting on the same page as your teen is vital. Here are some insights on these different kinds of classes.

Explaining the Acronyms AP, or Advanced Placement, classes prepare students for college because they are more difficult than typical courses. Once a student completes the course, they take an AP exam for a fee, and must score a 3 or higher on the exam to obtain college credit. According to the College Board, more than 4.22 million public high school students took AP exams, and as a result, they: * earned higher GPAs in college * were more likely to graduate in 4 years * had higher graduation rates IB, or International Baccalaureate, is an internationally recognized diploma program with collegelevel courses. Because of the increased cost of offering IB programs, IB diplomas are rarer. Students must take three

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standard or higher-level courses in the 11th and 12th grades. Additional components are required, such as: * an extended essay * a Theory of Knowledge course * participation in co-curricular activities that are graded upon completion The exam fee for IB standard and higher-level exams is more expensive than the one for AP exams. Students should check college requirements when it comes to IB degrees, because some colleges only give credit for higher-level exams. With dual enrollment classes, a student receives college credit when they take and pass college-level courses either at a local college or online. According to the 2013 National Center for Education Statistics, 1.3 million students took classes for college credit in the 2010-2011 school year. For dual enrollment classes, students should be aware that: * content and rigor of dual enrollment classes vary widely * colleges do not always award credit for DE classes * dual enrollment may have an impact on college athletic eligibility * dual enrollment eligibility varies by state and college

The Advantages So, why should students consider taking these types of advanced classes? According to Megan Dorton of Purdue University’s Office of Admissions, the significant advantage is that these courses prepare students for college-level work. Advanced courses also make a student more competitive during the college admission process. Plus, students may get a jump-start on completing their college degree at a lower cost, says Luann Brames, director of freshman admissions at Marian University in Indianapolis. “Bringing in college credit allows students an opportunity to pick up a minor or concentration, or compete for an internship that might not have been possible before,” Brames says.

The Disadvantages A critical concern about these programs is that students and families don’t always understand the nuances of them. “For example, while a dual enrollment course will likely ‘transfer’ to any college in Indiana, they are potentially less likely to be recognized by colleges and

universities outside of state lines,” Dorton says. Plus, just because a dual enrollment credit might transfer, that doesn’t mean that it will deduct a semester or year off a student’s college time. Research your options. “We encourage students and parents to review and understand the institutional policies for each school they are considering,” Brames says. Students need to know if the dual enrollment credit is accepted, the grade or score required to earn college credit, and where students will get course credit general education or intended major curriculums, Brames says. Students and parents should be sure to work closely with a school counselor before deciding on advanced courses. Parents should consider what courses will benefit the student, and not just what “looks best.”

on the go.

Family-friendly fun at your fingertips. indyschild.com

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WORDS BY TRISHA BRAND

Fighting the Good Fight Against HPV and Cervical Cancer Indianapolis family advocates for HPV vaccination after losing daughter to cervical cancer. Brenda and Kirk have had so much time to ref lect on their daughter’s abrupt departure. Over and over, they’ve thought about what they could have done differently. According to Brenda Forbes, they were unaware of the HPV vaccination for their three children, as the vaccination didn’t hit the market until 2006. They shared that Kristen had a Pap smear 18 months prior to her diagnosis and the results came back fine. You just don’t know sometimes.

On Father’s Day in 2017 — a year after the HPV vaccination hit the market — Indianapolis natives Brenda and Kirk Forbes received a call from their 22-year-old daughter, Kristen. She was experiencing swelling in her right leg and ankle area, and she was startled. Kristen was a recent IUPUI Kelley School of Business graduate and had always been healthy. Her life was filled with promise and her parents were suddenly worried, as well. After multiple medical visits, the doctors at St. Vincent Cancer Center confirmed it was stage 3C cervical cancer — an almost terminal stage. They all immediately started to cry. After the diagnosis, Brenda, Kirk and Kristen dedicated themselves to fighting the fight. “You’ll do anything you can to ensure your child will survive. Anything,” Kirk says. And they never gave up in the process. Despite months of medical interventions, including 14 surgeries, Brenda and Kirk buried Kristen 11 months after she was diagnosed. Because of their family’s positivity, Kristen’s left an amazing legacy behind.

Since Kirk and Brenda lost their daughter on June 1, 2018, Kirk and Brenda have devoted countless hours sharing her story and talking about the importance of HPV vaccination to help eradicate cervical cancer. Kirk Forbes published a book, “Love, Kristen: One Young Woman's Courageous Battle Against Cancer,” and has been featured on several local and national TV shows (including the Dr. Oz). They are strong supporters of the American Cancer Society and started a foundation in honor of Kristen, all in hopes to eradicate cervical cancer.

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When Dr. Oz asks Kirk what he wants parents to know about the HPV vaccine, he suggests that parents need to learn as much as they can about HPV and the vaccine. He also suggested being proactive in your child’s health and future. “Make sure you do consider the vaccine. Very dearly. Because you’re playing Russian Roulette with your children’s life if you don’t,” Kirk says. The American Cancer Society recommends that girls and boys get vaccinated against HPV at age 11 or 12, to prevent six types of cancer. The vaccine can be started as early as age 9 and the series should be completed by age 13 because cancer protection decreases as age at vaccination increases.

During the same year Kristen died, 11,150 women in the US were diagnosed with the disease. 3,700 of them died. It doesn’t have to happen. Cervical cancer has one main cause: HPV. That makes it almost 100% preventable. That objective became Kirk and Brenda’s goal — to make sure every parent knows that HPV vaccination is cancer prevention. For more information on HPV and the HPV vaccines, visit indyschild.com/HPV.

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AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY

INDYSCHILD.COM I September 2019

IC EDUCATION GUIDE CARMEL

Carmel Montessori Schools Carmel Montessori School is located on the NE corner of Main St. and Meridian in Carmel. Our directress is American Montessori Certified with 18 years head-teaching experience and we a a full member of the American Montessori Society. We offer a beautiful, peaceful and positive Montessori learning environment. Extended days available. • 1402 W. Main St., Carmel, IN

46032, Contact: Emily & Scott Rudicel, Phone: 317-580-0699, Email: info@ carmelmontessori.com, carmelmontessori.com

Carmel United Methodist Preschool Carmel United Methodist Preschool has provided high quality preschool experiences for the families of Carmel and the surrounding area for 45 years. We offer classes for children 18 months through 5 years old. Our students enjoy learning through inquiry based play, while interacting with their peers to create positive emotional and social learning experiences. • 621 S. Rangeline Road,

Carmel, IN, Contact: Tiffany Lehman, Phone: 317-844-1958, Email: tlehman@ carmelumc.org, carmelumc.org/ preschool/

level of their peer group. Please call us today to learn more about our early education and preschool opportunities that will fit the need of your family Currently enrolling, space is limited. •

13096 Moultrie Street, Carmel, IN 46032. Contact: Kendra Dunagan, 317-873-0123. primrosewestclay.com

The Primrose School at West Carmel The Primrose School at West Carmel is an accredited early education and care school serving infants through kindergarten as well as before and after school services for elementary age students. We offer a Balanced Learning approach, which nurtures curiosity, confidence, creativity and compassion. Research also shows that 90% of Primrose Students perform twice the level of their peer group. Please call us today to learn more about our early education and preschool opportunities that will fit the need of your family. Currently enrolling, space is limited. • 3746 West 98th Street, Carmel, IN 46032. Contact: Lisa Housh, 317-876-0123, primrosewestcarmel.com

Starting Line Preschool

The Right Start for A Lifelong Love of Learning! Our strong academicbased curriculum prepares and encourages your child to succeed in school while discovering learning is The Little Lamb Christian fun! All of our classes focus on an School introduction to colors, number and letters with exciting art and science The Little Lamb Christian School is a projects. Math, social studies and home away from home for children 6 sight words are taught in the older weeks to pre-kindergarten. Since classes.Develop Social Awareness & 1987, we have been the go-to private Friendships, Build Confidence and preschool for Carmel families who Master Academic Skills for Kinderare interested in a Christian garten. • 110 Third Ave NE, Carmel, IN education. We are a place where 46032, Contact: Diane Atkins, Phone: children can learn, explore, create, 317-753-9397, Email: dkatkins22@msn. grow and play! • 1609 Greyhound Pass, Carmel, IN 46032, Phone: 317-848-3580, Email: kayley@thelittlelamb.com, thelittlelamb.com/, 6 weeks to Pre-Kindergarten and after school care

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

EAST

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

com, startinglinepreschool.com

Paramount Englewood DOWNTOWN

IUPUI Center for Young The Primrose School at Children WestClay The IUPUI Center for Young Children An accredited early education and care school serving infants through kindergarten as well as before and after school services for elementary age students. We offer a Balanced Learning approach, which nurtures curiosity, confidence, creativity and compassion. Research also shows that 90% of Primrose Students perform twice the

Paramount Brookside

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

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

INDYSCHILD.COM I September 2019

Paramount Englewood is now accepting enrollment of 5-8th students for the 2019-2020 school year. The new middle school campus is an extension of Paramount Schools of Excellence successful education model. The flagship Brookside campus is designated a 2018 Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education and a Four-Star and an “A” school by the Indiana Department of Education. Founded in 2010, Paramount accomplishes its mission and teaches the mastery of Indiana Academic Standards through an

emphasis on rigorous academics and experiential learning activities. • 1849 Pleasant Run Parkway South Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46203, 317.741.9589, Contact Peggy Purvis, contact@PSO Eenglewood.org. paramountindy.org

INDIANAPOLIS – NORTH

Beth-El Zedeck Early Childhood Center

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. Full Academic Curriculum and Innovative Arts Enrichment. Our Program recognizes that intellectual, social, emotional and physical development are interwoven. Our children will thrive on exploration, creativity, curiosity, discovery, spontaneity and more important, lots of love! Type of School: Early Childhood Cost/Tuition: Please call or email for full brochure Hours/Dates: Flexible Hours. Full Time/Part-Time available. Ages/Grades: 12 months old+, 18 months old+, 2s+, 3s+, 4s+, Pre-Kindergarten (Kindergarten Readiness Class) (3 day or 5 day option) Before/After School Care: Before and After School Care always available as needed. Early drop off as early as 7:30 am and late pick up anytime up until 6:00pm/5:30 pm on Fridays. • 600 W. 70th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Joanie Waldman, Phone: 317-259-6854, Fax: 317-259- 6849, Email: jwaldman@bez613.org, bez613.org

Bilingual Day Care LLC BDC is a family owned license home educational childcare with 19 years of experience. Spanish is the language we deliver all our lessons and the only language we speak to the children. We accept children ages 0-5. We are located in the Northside of Indianapolis 46260. Call to make an appointment to visit our facility & meet our teachers. We believe in quality, not quantity. “Enriching children’s mind for a brighter future”.

• 7839 Delbrook Drive, Indianapolis IN 46260, Phone: 317-249-7217, Email: bdcindianapolis@yahoo.com

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

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

Children’s Circle Preschool at Second Presbyterian Church Children’s Circle Preschool is a developmentally appropriate, activity based, Christian preschool. We offer classes for children ages 9 months to 5 years old. We meet the needs of the whole child in a creative and loving environment. Our experienced staff embraces excellence in education by nurturing the whole child- physically, emotionally, spiritually, and intellectually. Please call for more information or to set up a tour. • 7700 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Cara Paul, Director, 317-252-5517, cpaul@ secondchurch.org, childrenscircle.org

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

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

Early Childhood Center, The Church at the Crossing Our Parents Day Out (16-35 mos) and Part Day Preschool (3 yrs-PreK5) provide relaxed, secure, playful environments that nurture creativity and the exploration of God’s world. A variety of learning materials & readiness skills are woven into each unit. Various days, 9am-2pm. Some extended days. Need longer hours? Try our Neighborhood Child Care ministry designed for 16 mos – Pre K5 with class times 6:30am-6pm. • 9111 N. Haverstick

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

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

The Orchard School The Orchard School, an independent, non-sectarian, progressive school, emphasizing experiential learning. Orchard teachers engage the natural curiosity of children, develop academic excellence, and provide leadership experience through well-rounded education. Orchard’s diverse community and commitment to multicultural education inspires responsible, global citizenship. Founded in 1922. NAIS, ISACS, NAEYC accredited. • 615 W. 64th St.,

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

Sycamore School At Sycamore, teachers trained in gifted education deliver a curriculum designed to challenge and engage gifted learners. Art, music, Spanish, PE and technology are taught at all levels. Extensive field trips, athletics, child care, financial aid, and a wide variety of after school activities are offered. • 1750 W.

64th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Dr. Susan Karpicke, Director of Admissions. 317-202-2500, Fax: 317-202-2501, skarpicke@sycamore school.org, sycamoreschool.org

INDIANAPOLIS – NORTHEAST

MSD of Lawrence Township The ninth largest and one of the fastest growing school district in the state, the MSD of Lawrence Township serves approximately 16,000 students across four Early Learning Centers, eleven Elementary Schools, two Middle Schools, two High Schools and a Center for Innovation and Technology, and an alternative setting high school. Lawrence Township strives to be the district of destination, a reputation built over the years based on the district’s award-winning staff, accomplished administrators, high-achieving students, supportive community, and innovative educational programs. To learn more, please contact our Welcome Center at 317-423-8375. Pre-K through Grade 12. Tours available at all buildings by appointment. Please contact your building of interest directly. • 6501

Sunnyside Road, Indianapolis, IN 46236. Phone: 317-423-8200, LTschools.org

Polly Panda Preschool Polly Panda provides a safe and healthy environment which enhances each child’s total growth. Our theme-based hands-on preschool program provides a wide-range of experiences that foster learning, creativity and problem solving in all areas. A child’s sense of self-worth, independence and growth in social skills are developed through positive interaction with peers and our well-qualified and loving staff. Now enrolling for summer. • 2944 E. 56th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46220, Contact: Gail Hacker and Tammy Clark, Phone: 317-257-9127, Email: thepanda@polly panda.com, pollypanda.com

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

INDIANAPOLIS – SOUTH

Curtis Wilson Primary School and Academy

Curtis Wilson Primary School and Academy, a program of Beech Tree House Center for Child Development, Inc., promotes the emotional, physical, intellectual, social, and spiritual development of each child. Our exceptional teaching staff is dedicated to presenting a challenging and enthusiastic learning environment that recognizes each unique learner. With a dedication to personal excellence, all members of our school family are challenged to practice and exhibit love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control in daily life. Stateaccredited with exemplary ratings. Preschool - Sixth Grade. • 7850 South Emerson Ave., Indianapolis , 46237, 317-882-8636, jhaywood-rollins@ beechtreehouse.com, cwpsa.com

WESTFIELD

Montessori School of Westfield, Inc. Located on 3 wooded acres in Central Indiana, the Montessori School of Westfield adheres to the academic traditions of Montessori while serving the present day child. The Montessori School of Westfield serves children from Indianapolis, Fishers, Carmel, Zionsville, Westfield, Sheridan, Noblesville, Cicero and Tipton. We serve children ages 18 months to 15 years. • 800 E. Sycamore Street,

Westfield, IN 46074, Contact: Mary Lyman, Directress, Phone: 317-867-0158, Fax: 317-896-5945, Email: montessori westfield@gmail.com, montessori schoolofwestfield.com

The Primrose School at Bridgewater An accredited early education and care school serving infants through kindergarten as well as before and after school services for elementary age students. We offer a Balanced Learning approach, which nurtures curiosity, confidence, creativity and compassion. Research also shows that 90% of Primrose Students perform twice the level of their peer group. Please call us today to learn more about our early education and preschool opportunities that will fit the need of your family. Currently enrolling, space is limited. • 14711 North Gray Road, Westfield, IN 46062, Contact: Nikki Knott, 317-8480123. primrosebridgewater.com

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

September 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

SPECIAL NEEDS

WORDS BY JENNIFER THOMPSON

The Power of Music Therapy Music has the ability to help children with special needs. This way you will know you are getting access to a board-certified music therapist.

Music has the power to transform, and this can be especially true for people with special needs. Catilin Krater, board certified music therapist at Riley Hospital for Children and Indiana University Health, and Dorothy BenzBuchanan, licensed Kindermusik educator, explain the benefits of music therapy, as well as suggestions for finding a great music therapist.

What is music therapy? Krater: Music therapy is an established health profession in which music is used within a therapeutic relationship to address physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs of individuals. After assessing the strengths and needs of each client, the therapist provides treatment that includes creating, singing, moving and listening to music. The clients' abilities are strengthened and transferred to other areas of their lives. Music therapy also provides avenues for communication that can be helpful to those who find it difficult to express themselves in words. I see music therapy as an important auxiliary to medical intervention. We often do not see music replacing medication or other forms of therapies, but enhancing their effectiveness. I often co-treat with other disciplines in the hospital such as physical therapy and speech therapy.

INDYSCHILD.COM I September 2019

Benz-Buchanan: It is important that the music therapist is compassionate, patient, creative and a good problem solver. Considering that children with special needs experience the world in different ways, it is important the music therapist you choose has patience in waiting and understanding how your child acts or reacts in certain situations.

How have you seen the benefits of music therapy first-hand?

and creative experimentation, while simultaneously strengthening their coordination.

Benz-Buchanan: As a former Kindermusik educator of 10 years, I have had various experiences with special needs children. When you use specific music for special needs children, it offers an effective way to develop verbal skills. In fact, there are many resources that supply custom music, which is designed to isolate speech sounds, or deliver memory and learning aids. Being able to effectively communicate and interact with others through music also gives children a healthy, positive outlet for their feelings.

By offering a multi-sensory experience, making music engages almost every neurological system. When you create any type of music, even if itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s simply banging a drum to a specific rhythm, both sides of your brain are stimulated. The tactile learning system is involved by touching the instrument and by feeling the sound impulse vibrations that are created.

Percussive instruments are particularly effective in changing the lives of special needs students. When a student uses an instrument like a maraca, there is an instant response to an action. This helps students who have sight limitations, allowing them to explore physical perceptions

What are your suggestions for parents who are searching for a music therapist? Krater: Ultimately, the relationship your child has with the therapist is very important, and often key to engagement in therapy, so donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to meet with a few to find the right fit. If you are looking for a music therapist, you can contact the Association for Indiana Music Therapists on their website (indianamusictherapists.com).

It's essential that the music therapist you choose can "think on their feet" and come up with a solution through a musical activity or therapeutic intervention. Ask your therapist in an interview, "What is the most challenging client you have worked with and how did you problem-solve to come up with a solution?" A great resource when searching for a qualified music therapist in your area is musictherapy.org/ about/find.

September 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

IC SPECIAL NEEDS GUIDE ABA Autism Services Bierman ABA Autism Center by Damar We work with children with autism ABA provides proven research-based treatments and interventions for children with Autism and their families, ensuring that children learn, gain confidence and purpose, and engage in meaningful interactions in their everyday lives. • 9905 Fall Creek

Road, Indianapolis, IN 46256, Contact: Kristin Dovenmuehle, Director, Phone: 317813-4690, Email: info@damar.org, DamarABA.org

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

autismlearningpartners.com

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

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

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

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

INDYSCHILD.COM I September 2019

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

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

Children's Therapy Connection Calling all Master Builders! Children’s Therapy Connection is now forming LEGO® Skill Builder Clubs for children with social anxiety conditions, Autism spectrum disorders, or communication difficulties. From Asperger’s Syndrome to speech delays, LEGO® building can be a valuable component to any therapy program. CTC takes it to the next level with our Skill BuilderTM Clubs, providing school-aged peer groups a platform to share their individual strengths while addressing social skill-building strategies such as using greetings, turn-taking, making eye contact, nonverbal communication, and following social rules. Our Skill BuilderTM Clubs are based on

evidence-based neuropsychological research involving analyzing patterns, predictability, and understanding how things work and utilizing those skills in a social context to make learning fun, playing to a child’s strengths, not their disabilities. For additional details please contact our office at (317) 288-7606. Enroll now at www.childrenstherapyconnection. com! • 7478 Shadeland Station Way, Indianapolis, IN 46256, Phone: 317-2887606, Email: info@ childrenstherapyconnection.com, childrenstherapyconnection.com

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

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

EasterSeals Crossroads Offering comprehensive disability services for people of all ages. Early Intervention, Autism Services, PT, OT, Speech Therapy, Feeding/Swallowing issues, Augmentative Communication, Assistive Technology, Multi-sensory Therapy Rooms, Summer Camps, Life/Social Skills Groups, Deaf Community Services, Autism Family Resource Center. • 4740 Kingsway Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46205, Phone: 317-466-1000, Email: info@ eastersealscrossroads.org, eastersealscrossroads.org

K1ds Count, LLC K1ds Count, LLC is a local pediatric therapy provider offering ABA therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy services to children on and off the autism spectrum in the Brownsburg, Avon, Danville,

Crawfordsville, and Indianapolis areas. • Phone: (317) 520-4748; Email:

frank@kidscounttherapy.com, kidscounttherapy.com

LittleStar ABA Therapy LittleStar ABA Therapy (formerly Little Star Center) was the first center-based ABA provider in the state and is a not-for-profit. We strive to be the best, not the biggest. Our clinical team is led by two PhDs, who make sure each person we serve is reaching their maximum potential and successful every place they go. We offer clean, bright, well maintained centers and excellent customer service. LittleStar is often imitated but never duplicated! Your loved one with autism deserves the best services and the best possible outcomes and that’s what they’ll get at LittleStar. Come see the LittleStar difference! • 12650 Hamilton Crossing Blvd. Carmel, IN 46032, Phone: 317-249-2242, E-mail: victoria@ littlestaraba.org, littlestaraba.org

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

* SPONSORED LISTINGS

AROUND TOWN

WORDS BY STEFFY MCCOURT

Local Spotlight: A Kid Again This organization gives children with life-threatening conditions — and their families — a chance to have some fun. provided the assurance that Adventures were a true need among families.

The Indiana Chapter of A Kid Again serves children who are facing life-threatening diagnoses and their families by hosting monthly, all-inclusive events, or “Adventures,” such as day trips to amusement parks or baseball games. The Adventures not only serve as debt-free diversions, but they also provide the opportunity for networking with other families who are going through similar medical trials. Indy’s Child had the opportunity to speak with the Kirk family, the first family to participate in A Kid Again’s Indiana Chapter. Carrie Kirk, mom to four children — her son, Cameron, has Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia — described how the monthly adventures provided her family with a break. She said that getting to know other families, especially other moms in similar situations, helped her feel less isolated. Kirk also loved that Cameron’s siblings were included and could enjoy a day of fun, even when Cameron was hospitalized and couldn’t participate in an Adventure.

Can you share a special memory that you have of working with the Kirk Family? I first met the Kirk family at our largest organization-wide Adventure to Kings Island. The Kirks were selected to help open the park that day, and they could not have been more excited. I distinctly remember Carrie telling me that this was the first fun thing they had done as a family since Cameron’s diagnosis. In that moment, I realized the true impact that this kind of diagnosis can have on the entire family. ®

How can we support your program? Since the Kirks joined in 2018, A Kid Again has served 115 families. We sat down with Katie Pappas, executive director for A Kid Again’s Indiana Chapter, to learn how this organization is trying to help as many Hoosier families as possible.

How did A Kid Again’s Indiana Chapter begin? A Kid Again began more than 20 years ago in Columbus, Ohio. Our founder, Jeffrey Damron, saw a need for not just one special opportunity for a family, but

something that provided an ongoing escape from the reality of never ending doctor’s appointments. The Indiana Chapter started in 2018. A few passionate volunteers knew that there were families in Indiana that could benefit from A Kid Again. Exploring expansion beyond Ohio, Indiana was the most logical place to start. After meetings with the Child Life Teams at Riley Children’s Hospital and Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital, the excitement among their staff

Volunteers are important to the success of our Adventures — they help plan, organize and implement these fun activities. We also need people to help spread the word! Because we do not charge families to participate in any Adventure, we rely on the generous support of individuals and companies in the community.

For more information about A Kid Again’s Indiana Chapter, visit akidagain.org/indiana.

PHOTO CREDIT

A KID AGAIN

September 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

THINGS TO DO

Sept embe r sun 01 BUTTERFLY KALEIDOSCOPE

Ending September 2, 2019. Immerse yourself in the beauty of butterflies as these wonderful winged insects return to The Hilbert Conservatory. As you walk through the warm, aromatic indoor garden, 40 species of butterflies will flit nearby — and one might even land on you! Each day, hundreds of new butterflies will be released from the chamber with about 13,000 released during the season. • Location: Indianapolis Zoo, indianapoliszoo.com

FAMILY CREEK STOMP

Holliday Park has ponds and creeks teeming with wildlife. Participants will have loads of fun getting wet and muddy exploring the creatures that live in these wet places. A naturalist will help you identify what you find! Wear old shoes and clothes that can get dirty. Nets and collecting tubs provided. $5 • Location: Holliday Park, Time: 1:30-2:30 pm, hollidaypark.org/calendar

Families are invited to try a variety of robotics technology and practice programming. With various robots and games available each week, families can try something new or dive deeper into a favorite. • Location: Central Library, Time: 1-3 pm, attend. indypl.org/event/1606494 FREE

tues 03 SMALL WONDERS: USING YOUR SENSES

Bring your little one to learn, play and discover in the museum. This month, your child will be inspired by a special story time that involves the senses, plus sensory play and a dramatic play time. Children ages 3-5, Price: $9/members, $12/ non-members. • Location: Indiana

State Museum, Time: 10-11 am, indianamuseum.org

TODDLER & PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT NORA

Children ages 2-5 and an adult are invited for stories, songs and rhymes. • Location: Nora Branch

Library, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, attend. indypl.org/event/2763582 FREE

FREE Free for families! *Ongoing A recurring event

ROBOTS AFTER NOON IN THE LEARNING CURVE

INDYSCHILD.COM I September 2019

wed 04 STORYTIME AT COOL CREEK PARK

The plants and animals are getting ready to say hello to the fall with its beautiful leaves and cooler temperatures and last forest crop of the season. You will read a story, do a kid’s craft, have a snack and go on a short hike (weather permitting). Ages 3-5. • Location: Cool Creek

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

wed 04–sat 07 KIDZSTUFF INDY FALL SALE

Shop thousands of new and gently used items! Infant to teen, maternity, baby gear, toys and more! Consign to turn clutter into cash. Consignors also shop early! • Location: Marion

County Fairgrounds, Time: See website for times, kidzstuffsaleindy.com

Nature Center, Time: 10:30- 11:30 am, hamiltoncounty.in.gov/Calendar

thurs 05

LEARNING SYLLABLES THROUGH DRUMMING

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

FREE

Preschoolers ages 3-6 and an adult are invited to experiment with words, syllables and articulation to create their own patterns of sounds. They'll learn about rhythm, patterns and rhymes, and sing songs. • Location: Franklin Road Branch Library, Time: 10:15-11:15 am, attend.indypl.org/ event/2939347 FREE

FIRST THURSDAY NIGHTS

• Location: The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, Time: 4-8 pm, childrensmuseum.org

SUNSET CINEMA ON THE CANAL: GREASE

Indy Film Fest is proud to partner with Downtown Indy, Inc. for their Sunset Cinema on the Canal series! Everyone is invited to watch FREE outdoor movies on along the Canal in Downtown Indianapolis. A large movie screen will be located on the north end of the Canal near the Admiral Spruance Basin (11th Street). • Location: Downtown Canal,

Time: 9-11:30 pm, indyfilmfest. eventive.org/schedule FREE

thurs 05–sat 07 OKTOBERFEST 2019

The German American Klub brings you the most authentic Oktoberfest in Indianapolis. Enjoy carnival rides and 12 live bands over three days, including an Alpine horn demonstration. • Location: German

Park, Time: 5-11 pm, eventbrite.com/e/ oktoberfest-2019tickets-65245552203

fri 06 VIP CARNIVAL 2019

This free event is for kids of all ages who have special needs, their families and caregivers. Carnival rides, Silly Safari, music with Mr. Daniel, Pacers Fan Van and more! • Location: Zionsville Lions Park, Time: 5-8 pm, aboutspecialkids.org/ events/vip-carnival-2019 *SN FREE

LITTLE LEARNERS STORYTIME

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

sat 07 PARTY IN THE PARK

Featuring a performance by My Yellow Rickshaw, kids' activities, food trucks, beer and wine garden, and much more! All proceeds raised from this event will benefit the IPRF Scholarship Fund. • Location: Federal Hill Commons, Time: 5-9 pm, inpra.org/foundation/ save-the-date-fall-event

GLOW IN THE PARK

Black lights, fog machines, and lasers light up the night as kids and families enjoy free glow-in-the-dark fun with face painting, a graffiti wall, a live DJ and neon splash zone. • Location: Nickel Plate District Amphitheater, Time: 8:30-10:30 pm, playfishers.com/179/Glow-in-thePark FREE

DUO DIEZ CONCERT AT CENTRAL

Listen to the lively sounds of Duo Diez, featuring musicians Donna Lively Clark on viola and Espen Jensen on guitar. This engaging performance will showcase the music of Latin America. • Location:

Central Library, Time: 2-3 pm, attend. indypl.org/event/2910560

PENROD ARTS FAIR

Indiana's nicest day, Penrod Arts Fair includes more than 300 artists, six stages of entertainment, more than 50 arts-related non-profit organizations, an extensive children's area and the Indiana Craft Beer Garden. This is a family-friendly event where you can do a little dance, make a little art and have fun. • Location: Indianapolis

Library, Time: 11 am-Noon, attend. indypl.org/event/1608009 FREE

Museum of Art at Newfields, Time: 9 am, penrod.org

PAJAMA-RAMA

ST. JOAN OF ARC FRENCH MARKET

Put on your cutest pajamas, grab your favorite teddy bear, pack up an old blanket andenjoy PajamaRama! Families looking for a fun program to enjoy with their toddlers and preschoolers will love the music educator from Moriah Music, who will lead you in songs and stories about some of their favorite animals. • Location: Cool Creek Nature

One of Indy's major neighborhood festivals with live entertainment, artisan booths, a bake sale, raffles, mass in French (5:30 pm), children's games (until 5 pm) and an array of French and American cuisine. • Location: St. Joan of Arc, Time: Noon, sjoa.org/community-events

Center, Time: 7-7:45 pm, hamiltoncounty.in.gov/Calendar

FREE

September 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

sat 07–sun 08 MEMBER MORNING WEEKENDS

Beat the crowds and be the first to play! On these special mornings, members get an exclusive hour in the museum and the Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience on the first Saturday and Sunday of each month. • Location: The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, Time: 9-10 am, childrensmuseum.org

HARP MUSIC & STORIES

Babies and toddlers up to age 2 with an adult are invited for an introduction to the concert harp and to explore connections between language and music. They'll learn to identify contrasting sounds and understand that musical concepts bring stories to life by communicating feelings and emotions. • Location: Irvington Branch Library, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, attend.indypl.org/event/2939287

FREE

sun 08

wed 11

OPERA IN THE PARK

STEM PLAYGROUND FOR HOMESCHOOLING FAMILIES

Indianapolis Opera is excited to announce a newly revived “Opera in the Park” performance at Garfield Park as part of their summer/fall concert series. This is an official production of the nonprofit “Friends of Garfield Park”, in partnership with the city parks department. • Location: MacAllister Amphitheatre at Garfield Park, Time: 6-8 pm, garfieldparkindy.org FREE

mon 09 BABY ARTSPLAY

Babies up to age 2 with an adult are invited to engage in books, storytelling and songs with activities involving sensory motor skills, emergent language, spatial awareness, object permanence and body movement. This program will be led by Arts for Learning teaching artist Amauunet Ashe. • Location: East 38th Street Branch, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, attend.indypl. org/event/2938123 FREE

tues 10 SENSORY-FRIENDLY TIME AT THE MUSEUM

Sensory-friendly time allows children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and other sensory-processing differences to have a fun, enjoyable and interactive learning experience in a comfortable and accepting environment. During this special afternoon, museum lights will be at a lower level, extra sounds will be limited, distracting motions will be paused and sensory-friendly activities will be offered in the galleries. • Location: Indiana State

Museum, Time: 3-5 pm, indianamuseum.org

Children ages 5-13 and their families can practice STEM skills and have fun! Work together or individually to complete challenges for several different games that focus on logic, coding, circuitry, science and other STEM-related categories. • Location: Carmel Clay

Public Library Program Room, Time: 10-11:30 am, carmel.lib.in.us/child FREE

STORYTIME AT THE WEST SIDE

This fast-paced interactive mix of fun-filled stories, rhymes and songs paired with a simple craft is designed to introduce and practice early literacy skills. The fast pace makes it perfect for active children with short attention spans. Siblings are welcome. • Location: Pilgrim

Lutheran Church, Time: 10-10:30 am, carmel.lib.in.us/child FREE

BEASTLY BRUNCH

The animals at the nature center eat rather interesting food. Watch staff and volunteers feed the animals crickets, worms and even mice, and learn about their diets! Meets in the lobby. • Location:

Holliday Park, Time: 10:30-11 am, hollidaypark.org/calendar FREE

thurs 12 HOMESCHOOL: READY, SET, SCORE!

Suit up and be ready on the sidelines — the coach is calling you in! Practice some math strategies while learning about the history of American Football in Indianapolis and beyond, experience art through your favorite sport and use your own creativity to design your team.

• Location: The Children's Museum of

Indianapolis, Time: 10 am or 1 pm, childrensmuseum.org

PLAYTIME ON THE PRAIRIE: KEEP ON TRUCKIN'

Playtime on the Prairie is designed for preschool-aged children. Come and learn about things that go! You will discover many types of transportation on the Prairie. • Location: Conner Prairie, Time: 9:30-11 am, connerprairie.org

fri 13–sun 15 INDY IRISH FEST

Indy’s Irish Fest returns to Military Park for its 24th annual celebration of the state’s Irish heritage. The festival features live Irish music and step dancing on four stages, as well as shopping, food, cultural and children’s activities, sporting events and more. • Location: Military Park at

White River State Park, indyirishfest. com

INDYSCHILD.COM I September 2019

FIESTA Indianapolis celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month and the Latino community in Indiana. • Location: Georgia Street/

Downtown Indy, Time: Noon-6 pm, laplazaindy.org/events FREE

CEREAL CINEMA: WALL-E

Cereal Cinema combines two of the best things about Saturday mornings: cereal and a great movie. Travel the galaxy with Wall-E, short for Waste Allocation Load Lifter Earth-class, as he discovers a new purpose in life after meeting the perfect robot to share his dusty world. After the film, enjoy discounted general admission to stay and explore Newfields. $6. •

Location: Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, Time: 10 am, indyfilmfest.org/events/cerealcinema

KEEP FISHERS BEAUTIFUL FALL SERVICE DAY

Keep Fishers Beautiful Fall service day returns to beautify the city this fall, and the community is invited to help clean up littler along the city’s path, roads and waterways. • Location: Around Fishers, Time: 8 am-1 pm, Phone: 317-595-3150

sat 14–sun 15 THE FESTIVAL OF MACHINES

sat 14 HOMESCHOOL FAIR, HOMESCHOOLERS & LIBRARIES: PARTNERS IN LEARNING

Homeschooling parents, families, students and all those interested in learning more are invited to the first IndyPL homeschool family conference and information fair, a day filled with learning and fun! IndyPL, Indiana State Library, IAHE, WFYI, Kids Ink, and experienced homeschooling parents will present panels, resources, research and hands-on STEM activities. • Location: Central Library, Time: 10 am-4:15 pm, attend.indypl.org/ event/1965872

SAT 14

38TH ANNUAL FIESTA INDIANAPOLIS 46

38TH ANNUAL FIESTA INDIANAPOLIS

The Festival of Machines is a Celebration of Transportation, and this year will include the Indiana Invitational Showcase of the best vehicles in Indiana. Here, these award-winning vehicles from shows across Indiana will be displayed together for the first time.

• Location: Conner Prairie, Time: 10 am-5 pm, connerprairie.org

mon 16 MEET & PLAY AT WAYNE

Caregivers and children up to 6 years of age are invited to visit the library's community room and play together! Caregivers can get to know other caregivers with young children. • Location: Wayne Branch

Library, Time: 10 am-Noon, attend. indypl.org/event/2480913 FREE

sat 21 FISHERS FARMERS' MARKET: FALL HARVEST FESTIVAL

Kick off the fall season at your favorite Farmers Market! Enjoy boot-scootin' tunes, kids’ activities and other fall fun while you shop for pumpkins, apples, mums and many more seasonal products. • Location: Nickel Plate District Amphitheater, Time: 8 am-Noon, playfishers.com/361/Fall-HarvestFest

SATURDAY BABY STORYTIME

Babies up to 24 months and an adult are invited for songs, finger plays and fun, followed by playtime with special toys designed just for babies. • Location: Glendale Branch Library, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, attend. indypl.org/event/2994193 FREE

tues 17

FRI 20

SMALL WONDERS: LIZARDS

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

Center, Time: 9:30-10:30 am, hollidaypark.org/calendar

wed 18 MOTHER GOOSE ON THE LOOSE

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

Avenue Branch Library, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, attend.indypl.org/ event/1519011 FREE

thurs 19–sun 22 FALL 2019 WHALE OF A SALE

Don't miss Indiana's largest kids’ consignment sale featuring 700+ families, 100,000 items and 42,000 square feet of shopping! Baby to teen clothing, toys, shoes, strollers, bikes, books, nursery items, maternity, furniture and more at a fraction of retail price! • Location: Grand Park Westfield, Time: See website for times, whale-sale.com

OKTOBERFEST IN CARMEL

sun 22 INDIANAPOLIS COLTS VS ATLANTA FALCONS

Come cheer on the Colts as they take on the Falcons! • Time: 1:00pm,

Location: Lucas Oil Stadium, colts.com

fri 20 OKTOBERFEST

Oktoberfest has become an annual celebratory fall event for Carmel residents. The popular party band Polkaboy will be at Carmel City Center to celebrate. • Location: Carmel City Center, Time: 6 pm, carmel.in.gov/living/fun-things-todo/events-and-festivals/ oktoberfest FREE

fri 20–sun 22 BIG BOUNCE AMERICA 2019

Welcome to the biggest, craziest and most awesome inflatable theme park ever to exist! You are invited to spend some quality time with family and friends in their magical, candy-colored wonderland of inflatable adventure.

• Location: Waterman’s Farm Market, thebigbounceamerica.com ST. GEORGE FESTIVAL

Experience the Christian heritage of faith, hospitality, Middle Eastern cuisine, music and crafts from the roots in the Holy Land. More than a dozen countries are represented in their church’s ethnic heritage. Offsite parking $5. • Location: St.

George Orthodox Christian Church, stgfest.org FREE

SENSORY-FRIENDLY LIBRARY BROWSING HOUR

All families of children with special needs are welcome to experience the library all to themselves. •

Location: Brownsburg Public Library, Time: Noon-1:00 pm, bburglibrary.net *SN

BEYOND THE BADGE 5K RUN/WALK AT CROWN HILL

This event raises funds for the Jason Baker Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)3 not-for-profit foundation that offers college scholarships. Unlike other run/walks, this special event combines the reverence of the opening memorial ceremony with the excitement of the competitive 5K race and the fun of the non-competitive fitness walk. • Location: Crown Hill Funeral Home & Cemetery, Time: 7:30-11 am, heroesofpublicsafety.org

INDY FESTIVAL OF FAITHS

This festival is the Midwest’s biggest one-day celebration of the diversity of belief and unity of spirit. More than 100 congregations and community groups will display how they live the festival’s theme: “Embracing Diversity.” • Location:

Veteran's Memorial Plaza, Time: 1 pm, Phone: 317-232-7615 FREE

September 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

FRI 27– SAT 28

INDY MOMMY MARKET

mon 23 MOTHER-DAUGHTER BOOK CLUB

Mother-Daughter Book Club is an opportunity for mothers and daughters to connect over books and share a love of reading. Advance registration is required online, in person, or by calling 317-844-3363. A copy of the book will be available at the Children’s Desk to registered families. Space is limited, so register early! • Location: Carmel Clay Public Library Book Club Room, Time: 6:30-7:30 pm, carmel.lib. in.us/child

tues 24

TODDLER TIME: EXPLORING RAINBOWS

Bring your littlest learner to explore lights and colors during an interactive story time, sensory play and art creation. Children ages 18 to 36 months, Price: $8/members, $11/ non-members • Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 10-11 am, indianamuseum.org

fri 27 PLAYTIME ON THE PRAIRIE: APPLES

Playtime on the Prairie is designed for preschool-aged children. Join them for apple art, activities and an apple snack! • Location: Conner

PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT MICHIGAN ROAD

Prairie, Time: 9:30-11 am, connerprairie.org

Branch Library, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, attend.indypl.org/event/3059588

Grab a blanket, some popcorn and sit back and enjoy Avengers: Endgame with your family and friends! Movie-goers are encouraged to arrive early and secure their seats as all movies will begin at dusk. Movies are presented in closed captioning. •

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

wed 25 AWESOME AUTUMN

Now that it is officially autumn, preschoolers are invited for a fun morning learning all about fall with stories, crafts and an activity. Registration required. Ages 2-5, $5.

• Location: Garfield Park Conservatory, Time: 10-11 am, garfieldgardens conservatory.org

thurs 26 PAWS TO READ

Do you like dogs? Would you like to practice reading to a specially trained Paws & Think dog who loves listening to stories? Come to the library for a chance to read to one of these therapy dogs, on a first-come, first-served basis. No registration is required. • Location: Carmel Clay Public Library Children's Desk, Time: 10:30 & 11:30 am, carmel. lib.in.us/child FREE

INDYSCHILD.COM I September 2019

MOVIES IN THE PARK

Location: Nickel Plate District Amphitheater, Time: 8 pm, playfishers. com/352/Movies-in-the-Park FREE

fri 27–sat 28 INDY MOMMY MARKET

Find amazing handmade and curated items for your littles from 55+ local shops. Enjoy local shopping, food and music. Admission is $5 (cash only) at the door. The first 100 shoppers each day will receive a shopping bag full of great deals from participating vendors. • Location: Hamilton County

Fairgrounds, Time: Sept. 27, 6-9 pm, Sept. 28, 9 am-2 pm, indymommymarket.com

sat 28

the festival. There will be over 130 juried artists exhibiting in 2D, 3D, ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry, painting, photography and wood. •

INDY DONUT FESTIVAL

The Indy Donut Festival is back for a fourth year! Save the date so you “donut” miss out on the fun! This ticketed event allows guests to sample great coffee and creative donuts from around the Indianapolis area. Relax with your donut and listen to live music or participate in fun donut-themed activities! There is fun for the whole family! • Location:

Location: Carmel Arts & Design District, Time: Sat: 10 am-7 pm, Sun: 11 am-5 pm carmelartsfestival.org FREE

sun 29 WHITE RIVER CLEAN UP

Broad Ripple Park, Time: 10 am, facebook.com/events/ 411104672773659

ROCKY RIPPLE FESTIVAL

Celebrating 20 years of grassroots festival fun in the park! Six bands, over 80 booths of artists, local food and craft beer vendors, and an interactive kids zone. • Location: Hohlt

Park, Time: 11 am, rockyripple.org

Clean drinking water is a universal concern and demands a global effort. Indianapolis’ very own White River provides drinking water to more than half of its citizens. Take action and do your part to keep the White River clean and a vibrant feature of Indianapolis. Holliday Park will be hosting a river clean-up in collaboration with the Friends of the White River in celebration of National Public Lands Day. Come roll up your sleeves and join the cause! Wear old shoes and clothes. Ages 10+. • Location: Holliday Park, Time: 2-4

pm, Phone: 317-327-7180 FREE

TURN FESTIVAL

Enjoy free family-friendly fun on the Paramount School Farm. The day is packed with children’s activities, hands-on workshops and exhibits, food and live music. • Location:

Paramount School, Indianapolis, Time: noon-5 pm, Turnfestival.com

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS VS OAKLAND RAIDERS

Come cheer on the Colts as they take on the Raiders! • Time: 1:00pm,

Location: Lucas Oil Stadium, colts.com

sat 28–sun 29 CARMEL INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL

Pick up some food from one of the great restaurants on Main Street or make a selection from one of the many food and beverage trucks at

SAT 28

INDY DONUT FESTIVAL

September 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM

mon 30 MEET A CRITTER MONDAY

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

Time: 3-3:30 pm, hollidaypark.org/ calendar

TAKE ME THERE® GREECE Occurring until January 5, 2020

Discover the vibrant culture of contemporary Greece, where modern life goes on against the backdrop of the ancient Greek world. Visit the plateia (plaza) with its traditional taverna (restaurant), bakery and arts shops. Explore replica of urban and small-town Greek homes. Discover Greek folk dances, learn about the Greek alphabet and help save endangered sea turtles! • Location: The Children's

Museum of Indianapolis

ONGOING EVENTS HAIRSPRAY Occurring until October 6, 2019

It's 1962 Baltimore, and lovable teen Tracy Turnblad uses her new starpower as a Corney Collins Show dancer to win the affections of heartthrob Link, and integrate a TV network without denting her 'do! Songs include "Welcome to the Sixties" and "You Can't Stop the Beat." • Location: Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre

A*MAZE*D: THE PUZZLING WORLD OF DAVE PHILLIPS Occurring until January 5, 2020

Prepare to be challenged with a puzzling exhibit that gets you moving! Jump from dot-to-dot in Hop Dots and maneuver your way through the twists and turns of a giant walk-through cardboard maze. Discover the history of mazes and labyrinths and see original maze art. You may need to sharpen your logic and problem-solving skills to become a true mazemaster! • Location: Indiana State

Museum

INDYSCHILD.COM I September 2019

on the go. Family-friendly fun at your fingertips. indyschild.com

fun and WACKY INDY'S CHILD

CALENDAR 09.2019

SUN

MON

TUES

LETTER WRITING DAY

WEDS

9 WONDERFUL WEIRDOS DAY

15 BATMAN DAY

3 SKYSCRAPER DAY

THURS

WILDLIFE DAY

10 ALPACA DAY

NATIONAL DAY OF SERVICE & REMEMBRANCE

COLLECT ROCKS DAY

18 CHEESEBURGER DAY

FRI

BE LATE FOR SOMETHING DAY

VIDEO GAMES DAY

24 PUNCTUATION DAY

FIRST DAY OF FALL

25 COMIC BOOK DAY

6 READ A BOOK DAY

WORLD BEARD DAY

13 KIDS TAKE OVER THE KITCHEN DAY

CREAM FILLED DOUGHNUT DAY

TALK LIKE A PIRATE DAY PEPPERONI PIZZA DAY

INTERNATIONAL COUNTRY MUSIC DAY

SAT

26 FITNESS DAY

WORLD GRATITUDE DAY

27 CRUSH A CAN DAY

GOOD NEIGHBOR DAY

DOODLE DAY

29 WORLD HEART DAY

SOURCE: daysoftheyear.com

30 HOT MULLED CIDER DAY

September 2019 I INDYSCHILD.COM