Managing Your Child's Mental Health During a Pandemic

Special Occasions and

Special Needs Kids Help your child manage the chaos of the holidays, while also making the most of this joyous season.

When you think of the holidays, what comes to mind? Maybe it’s decorating cookies, gathering around the table with loved ones, or singing your favorite songs. The holidays are filled with joy, but they can also bring on a lot of other emotions, including stress. Parents aren’t the only ones who feel the complicated emotions of the season. Children are susceptible to them, too. And this especially can be the case for children with special needs who rely on structure and consistency to feel secure.

So, what can parents can do to help their children with special needs to prepare for the holidays? Child/ adolescent therapists at Indy Child Therapist Aaron N. Hensley MSW, LCSW and Charity Rose MSW, LSW, have some tips to help parents make the season merry and bright for their children.

How can I help prepare my child for the excitement, and stress, of the holiday season?

Hensley: The best thing parents can do is to set schedules, communicate daily plans and set clear expectations. These three seemingly small suggestions will make a world of difference. Children do best when they know what to expect, what is expected of them, and how their day will go. Setting a schedule allows your child to have routine, which helps alleviate stress of “what's next?” Communication is crucial with children. Communicating with children about daily plans allows children to process changes to their schedule, and also makes them feel like they are part of the planning process. Lastly, let them know what you expect of them. Having clear expectations allows children to know what is expected, and how they can get help if they start feeling overwhelmed.

Rose: Do holiday activities that help remind your child what the holiday typically looks like. Have fun things to do around the holiday, and leading up to it, to make it a good experience for your child. Looking at pictures from past holidays may help them remember the fun of the season.

When my child is overwhelmed, what can I do to help alleviate that stress?

Hensley: First, reduce sensory input — extreme lighting, loud noises, large crowds — and engage them in calming activities. That could be coloring, listening to music, drawing or anything your child sees as calming. Second, process with them. Ask them what caused the stress. Lastly, review expectations, tell them you love them and return to desired activities.

Rose: Do something with them they like to do, and then talk to them about what is making them stressed. You may be able to alleviate some of that stress once you figure out what is causing it.

What can I do to make the holidays less stressful for my child?

Hensley: I frequently use the saying “dysregulated adults lead to dysregulated children.” We all know the holidays can be a very stressful time, and this year will be no exception. However, to keep kids calm and stress-free, parents need to be calm and stress-free. Children will mimic the behavior and emotions of their parents, so it's very important that we show them how to manage stress. Take time to enjoy your family this holiday season, and remember that nothing is more important than the well-being of your children.

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

The Little Lamb Christian School

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

The Primrose School at WestClay

An accredited early education and care school serving infants through kindergarten as well as before and after school services for elementary age students. We offer a Balanced Learning approach, which nurtures curiosity, confidence, creativity and compassion.Research also shows that 90% of Primrose Students perform twice the level of their peer group. Please call us today to learn more about our early education and preschool opportunities that will fit the need of your family Currently enrolling, space is limited. • 13096 Moultrie Street, Carmel, IN 46032. Contact: Kendra Dunagan, 317-873-0123.

primrosewestclay.com

The Primrose School at West Carmel

The Primrose School at West Carmel is an accredited early education and care school serving infants through kindergarten as well as before and after school services for elementary age students. We offer a Balanced Learning approach, which nurtures curiosity, confidence, creativity and compassion. 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

DOWNTOWN

IUPUI Center for Young Children

The IUPUI Center for Young Children offers childcare and early childhood education for children ages six weeks to six years old and believe children learn through play, experiences, and interaction with their environment and peers. • 321 Limestone St., Indianapolis, IN 46202, Phone: 317-274-3508, childcare.iupui.

edu/index.html

Paramount Brookside

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

Paramount Cottage Home

Paramount Cottage Home serves K-4th grade students as a free public school. Founded in 2010, Paramount Schools of Excellence accomplishes its mission and teaches the mastery of Indiana Academic Standards through an emphasis on rigorous academics and experiential learning activities. The 2019 ILEARN results placed the school among the top-performers statewide. Cottage Home’s new, state-of-the-art facility features bright, spacious classrooms with contemporary furnishings, advanced technology capabilities, and a farm STEM discovery center. • 1203 E. St. Clair Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202, Contact: Amie Smith at 463.231.2837 or contact@PSOE Community.org paramountindy.org

EAST

Paramount Englewood

Paramount Englewood, a free public school, serves 5-8th grade students. The school shares the state-of-theart P.R. Mallory campus with Purdue Polytechnic High School. Paramount Englewood is an extension of Paramount Schools of Excellence’s successful education model. The flagship campus is designated a 2018 Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education and an “A” school by the Indiana Department of Education for six consecutive years. • 3029 E. Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46201, Contact Peggy Purvis, at 463.231.2830 or contact@PSOE englewood.org, paramountindy.org

INDIANAPOLIS – NORTH

Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School

Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School seeks to prepare the next generation of leaders with the intellectual and technological competence, loving and open hearts, faith inspiration and social responsibility to bring about a more just, humane and loving world. Students from all backgrounds, faiths, and ethnicities are welcome at Brebeuf Jesuit, where all are called to discover and cultivate the fullness of their God-given talents. Each student is therefore challenged and inspired to strive for academic excellence, to engage whole-heartedly in co-curricular activities, to develop confidence in leadership abilities, and to discover God’s presence in everyday life through serving others. • 2801 W 86th St, Indianapolis, IN 46268, Contact: Colleen Cannon, Director of Admissions, Phone: 317-524-7090, Email: admissions@brebeuf.org, brebeuf.org

Children’s 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

Parents Day Out (16-35 mos) and Part Day Preschool (3 yrs-PreK5) provide relaxed, secure, playful environments that nurture creativity and the exploration of God’s world. A variety of learning materials & readiness skills are woven into each unit. Oldest classrooms utilize “Handwriting Without Tears” curriculum. Various days, 9am-2pm. Some extended days. Need longer hours? Try our All Day Classes designed for 16 mos – Pre K5 with class times 6:30am-6pm • 9111 N. Haverstick Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46240, Contact: John Drake, Phone: 317-5756508, Email: ecc@golove.org

Maria Montessori International Academy

Maria Montessori International Academy provides children with structure, but also the freedom to choose and explore in their own way. We work on independence from an early age. Children are empowered in their surroundings and then are able to grasp concepts such as early literacy taught through the Montessori method. Infantelementary • 7507 N Michigan Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46268. 317-769-2220, Email: hello@inmontessori.com,

inmontessori.com

The Orchard School

The Orchard School, an independent, non-sectarian, progressive school, emphasizing experiential learning. Orchard teachers engage the natural curiosity of children, develop academic excellence, and provide leadership experience through well-rounded education. Orchard’s diverse community and commitment to multicultural education inspires responsible, global citizenship. Founded in 1922. NAIS, ISACS, NAEYC accredited. • 615 W. 64th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Jessica Aiyasami, Admissions Coordinator, Phone: 317-713-5717, Fax: 317-254-8454, Email: jaiyasami@orchard.org,

orchard.org

Sycamore School

At Sycamore School, Indiana's only accredited, independent, private school for Preschool - 8th grade gifted students, teachers trained in gifted education deliver a curriculum designed to challenge and engage gifted learners. Art, music, Spanish, physical education, technology, extensive field trips, athletics, financial aid, and after school activities are offered. • 1750 W. 64th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Dr. Susan Karpicke, Director of Admissions, 317-202-2500, Email: karpicke.susan@sycamoreschool.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. Off site virtual option is available for families K-12. • 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. • 2944 E. 56th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46220, Contact: Gail Hacker and Tammy Clark, Phone: 317-257-9127, Email: thepanda@ pollypanda.com, pollypanda.com

Primrose School of Geist

Provides high-quality, educational experiences to support children’s social-emotional, cognitive, creative and physical development. It is made up of an exclusive 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 well rounded individuals. Our school offers developmentallyappropriate materials and equipment for all classrooms; multiple forms of assessment; and extensive training for teachers. We believe the right foundation to build active minds, healthy bodies, and happy hearts® starts in the younger years. Call for more information or to schedule a tour! • 7615 Oaklandon Road, Indianapolis, IN 46236. Contact: Anita Boyd. Phone: 317-855-7808. Email: aboyd@primrosegeist.com, primrosegeist.com, 6 weeks old through Pre-K and before and after school up to age 12

INDIANAPOLIS – SOUTH Curtis Wilson Primary School and Academy

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

NOBLESVILLE

Guerin Catholic High School

St. Theodore Guerin High School is a Roman Catholic college preparatory school located on 72 acres one mile north of 146th Street in Hamilton County. Guerin Catholic has the largest number of students participating in the IB Programme in the State of Indiana. The school serves students from diverse backgrounds and prepares them to be servant leaders through authentic faith formation, academic excellence, and student life opportunities. • 15300 Gray Road Noblesville, IN 46062, Phone: 317-582-0120, Email: admissions@ guerincatholic.org, guerincatholic.org

WESTFIELD

Montessori School of Westfield, Inc.

Located on 3 wooded acres in Central Indiana, the Montessori School of Westfield adheres to the academic traditions of Montessori while serving the present day child. The Montessori School of Westfield serves children from Indianapolis, Fishers, Carmel, Zionsville, Westfield, Sheridan, Noblesville, Cicero and Tipton. We serve children ages 18 months to 15 years. • 800 E. Sycamore Street, Westfield, IN 46074, Contact: Mary Lyman, Directress, Phone: 317-867-0158, Fax: 317-896-5945, Email: montessori westfield@gmail.com,

montessorischoolofwestfield.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, 317-848-0123.

primrosebridgewater.com

SPECIAL NEEDS Mindful & Modern ABA Therapies

At Mindful & Modern ABA Therapies our behavior analyst, speech therapist and occupational therapist create a unique treatment plan for each child. In our AIMS Academy children experience a Montessori setting where they engage in daily living activities such as assembling lunch, clean up, communication and play with typical peers. • 7507 N Michigan Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46268, 317-827-7777, Email: hello@montessoriaba.com,

montessoriaba.com

Easterseals Crossroads

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

eastersealscrossroads.org

VIRTUAL Paramount Virtual Learning

Not sure about your K-8th grade students returning to school? Make the Change that makes Difference - choose virtual learning at Paramount Schools of Excellence. Whether on one of Paramount's three state-of-the-art campuses or virtual learning from home, you can expect top-ranked academics, experienced certified teachers, and support. • Call 317.519.4588 or check out paramountindy.org for more information.

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CONTACT WENDY@INDYSCHILD.COM

THINGS TO DO

DECEMBER

PLEASE NOTE DUE TO COVID-19, THESE EVENTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. PLEASE CHECK TO VERIFY EVENTS ARE STILL BEING HELD AS SCHEDULED BEFORE MAKING PLANS TO ATTEND BY CALLING OR VISITING THE BUSINESS OR EVENT WEBSITE.

tues 01 HOMESCHOOL TUESDAYS: IMPERFECT POINTILLISM

Explore how artists use pointillism to create masterpieces by using solid dots of colors spread across a canvas, then create your own masterpiece using this creative technique. Adults join their learners for an interactive family experience. • Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 10 am-Noon or 1:30-3:30, indianamuseum.org

thurs 03 $5 FIRST THURSDAY NIGHTS

Admission is just $5 per person for the entire museum. It’s the ONLY time the museum is open to the public in the evening, so it’s a perfect after-hours night for your family. • Location: The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, 4-8 pm,

childrensmusuem.org fri 04 GINGERBREAD HOUSE

Make from scratch your very own delicious gingerbread house to enjoy throughout the holiday season. Your house will be decorated with all kinds of sweets that will be provided for you. All houses will be made with graham crackers for easier handling and decorating. Children 5 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Classes fill up fast, so sign up as soon as possible! Pre-registration is required. • Location: Broad Ripple Park, Time: 10-11:15 am, indyparks.org

sat 05 MEMBER MORNING WEEKEND

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

org/member

MAGICAL MORNINGS

Bring your little one to experience holiday magic in Celebration Crossing during this special early opening event just for our youngest visitors. Visit with Santa, engage with two interactive story times with North Pole elves and explore the redesigned Santa’s Front Yard and Reindeer Barn where families can learn more about these amazing wintery animals by caring for them. • Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 9-10 am, indianamuseum.org

sat 05 & sat 12 BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

Enjoy live music, eat a warm breakfast, create holiday-themed crafts, see Santa’s reindeer and have family time with the Jolly Old Elf himself in Santa’s Study. Members only event. • Location: Indianapolis Zoo, Time: 10 am-Noon,

indianapoliszoo.com

sat 05-sun 06

Also on December 12-13 & 19-20

THE POLAR EXPRESS POLAR PAJAMA PARTY

Keep your traditions alive this year with the return of our Polar Pajama Party! Wear your comfiest pajamas to see The Polar Express and get a free child’s ticket for every adult ticket purchased. Tickets this year are limited due to our reduced capacity, so get tickets now. • Location: IMAX Indy, Time: See website for showtimes, tickmarq.

com/sites/indyimax/films/ ST00000102 sun 06 FUN WITH SANTA & MRS. CLAUS

A 40-minute holiday concert perfect for the whole family! Enjoy holiday classics like "The Little Drummer Boy" and "T’was the Night Before Christmas," as well as modern favorites like "Let it Go" from Frozen. • Location: The Palladium, Time: 2 pm,

indianawindsymphony.org

tues 08 JUNGLE TALES

Try out our modified program for a fun, self-guided activity for little ones. Registered participants can pick up a packet that includes craft and activity materials to enjoy in the park or at home. Program will also include a digital recording of the month’s story emailed the day prior to the program. Packets will be distributed in a drive-up setting during program time. • Location: Garfield Conservatory, Time: 10-11 am, garfieldgardens

conservatory.org/programsevents

SNOWFLAKE PAJAMA PARTY

Enjoy hands-on activities with staff, meet and photo op with Daniel Tiger, ride on the Santa Express, and explore the Celebration Crossing experience

and the Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood exhibit with your family in the comfort of your jammies. • Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 6-8 pm,

indianamuseum.org

fri 11 FRIDAY CAMPFIRE OWLS

Join them for a fun Friday night around the campfire. Enjoy a sweet treat by the fire, learn something new and experience night hiking! Roasting sticks and s'mores provided. Registration required for each participant. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Masks Required. • Location: Holliday Park, Time: 6:30-8 pm, indyparks.org

fri 11-sun 13 & fri 18-sun 20 NUTCRACKER SWEETS

An Indianapolis holiday season tradition continues with a reimagined version of the Tchaikovsky classic. Join them at The Toby at Newfields to experience Nutcracker Sweets, a condensed version of The Nutcracker. While the holidays may not look the same this year, the Indianapolis Ballet is thrilled to bring our audiences joy, laughter and love through magical storytelling and dancing. • Location: The Toby at Newfields, See website for specific times, indyballet.org/

nutcracker-sweets-2020

sat 12 SANTA'S HOLIDAY DRIVE-THRU

Enjoy a holiday outing while staying socially distant, as all activities can be enjoyed inside your car. Wave to Santa, drop off a letter to Santa in his mailbox, hear some fun holiday tunes and receive a special surprise. Families are asked to remain in their vehicles for the entire experience and must wear a mask when interacting with staff. • Location: Kuntz Soccer Stadium, Time: 10:30-11 am, indyparks.org

HOLIDAY POPS PRESENTED BY IU HEALTH

Since many traditional holiday performances are canceled this year, make the CSO Holiday Pops Concert with Heather Bays a new holiday tradition for your family. • Location: Carmel Symphony, Time: 3 & 7:30 pm, carmelsymphony.com

sat 19 THIS WONDERFUL LIFE

Frank Capra’s iconic holiday movie It’s a Wonderful Life provides the springboard for a spirited and heartwarming performance as a man in love with the film enacts and reacts to its classic characters and content. • Location: Virtual/ Indiana Repertory Theatre, irtlive.

com/plays-and-events/2020-2021season

sat 19 & sun 20 THE NUTCRACKER

Experience a magical Christmas tradition at the Ballet Theatre of Carmel Academy’s annual staging of The Nutcracker, Tchaikovsky’s classic story of a girl and her beloved nutcracker doll that comes to life. • Location: TBD, Time: 2 pm & 7:30 pm, ballettheatreofcarmel.org/

nutcracker WINTERLIGHTS

Through until January 3, 2021 Experience the wonder of over a million and a half lights glittering on one-hundred-year-old trees in the historic garden. Old favorites return, including Landscape of Light dancing to the Nutcracker with the historic Lilly House as the backdrop. New this year, Huckleberry Funk’s cover of Donny Hathaway’s “This Christmas” will be added to the Landscape of Light. • Location: Newfields,

discovernewfields.org

JINGLE RAILS: THE GREAT WESTERN ADVENTURE

Through January 18, 2021 The exhibit features miniature versions of local treasures of downtown Indianapolis, including the Eiteljorg Museum, Monument Circle, Union Station and Lucas Oil Stadium. The trains then head through the national parks of the American West, passing legendary sites, including grand railway lodges, Northwest Coast Native villages, and wonders both natural and human-made. • Location: Eiteljorg Museum, eiteljorg.org

CHRISTMAS NIGHTS OF LIGHTS

November 13, 2020-January 3, 2021 Christmas Nights of Lights is the biggest light show ever built in Indianapolis. Prepare to be dazzled as you drive through an over 2.5- mile route that’s full of colorful light displays set to holiday music, a 300-foot tunnel, 240-foot wall of lights and more, all from the comfort of your own vehicle. Open from dusk until 10 pm, with extended hours on weekends. • Location: Indiana State Fairgrounds,

christmasnightsoflights.com CELEBRATION CROSSING

Through January 3, 2021 Visit with Santa, ride the Santa Claus Express Train, dine in the L. S. Ayres Tea Room™ and experience the redesigned Santa’s Front Yard and brand-new Reindeer Barn when Celebration Crossing returns to the Indiana State Museum. • Location: Indiana State Museum, indianamuseum.org

JOLLY DAYS WINTER WONDERLAND

Through January 3, 2021 Celebrate family traditions and holidays with Jolly Days Winter Wonderland! Enjoy favorites like the 47-foot Yule Slide, Jingles the Jolly Bear and visits with Santa. • Location: The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, childrensmuseum.org

MERRY PRAIRIE HOLIDAY

November 27-29, December 4-6, 11-13, 18-20, 22, 23 A Merry Prairie Holiday is returning for its second season, where glittering lights, thoughtful storytellers, and warm fires transport you from your day-to-day into the stories of yesterday and the traditions of tomorrow. • Location: Conner Prairie, Time: 5:30-9:30 pm, connerprairie.org

CHRISTMAS AT THE ZOO

Through December 30 For their 52nd year, there will be even more lights to fill the Zoo with a warm glow. And the best part is, it’s all included with regular admission! Get ready to meet the Jolly Old Elf under the Bicentennial Pavilion, stop by Santa’s Barn, head through the tunnel of lights, get up close at the Penguin Encounter and much more! • Location: Indianapolis Zoo, indianapolis

zoo.com

fun andINDY'S CHILD WACKY

SUN

CALENDAR 12.2020

MON TUES WEDS THURS FRI

1 2 3 4

DICE DAY

GIVING TUESDAY FRITTERS DAY MAKE A GIFT DAY

SAT

BATHTUB PARTY DAY

6

ST. NICHOLAS DAY

7

COTTON CANDY DAY

8

LARD DAY

9

CHRISTMAS

CARD

DAY

10

FIRST DAY OF HANUKKAH 11

LOST & FOUND DAY GINGERBREAD

HOUSE

DAY

13

DAY OF THE HORSE

20

GAMES DAY

14

ROAST CHESTNUTS DAY

21

FIRST DAY OF WINTER

15

INTERNATIONAL TEA DAY

22

DATE NUT BREAD

DAY

27 28 29

VISIT THE ZOO DAY CARD PLAYING DAY

TICK TOCK DAY

16

CHOCOLATE COVERED ANYTHING DAY

17 18

RE-GIFTING DAY INTERNATIONAL

MIGRANTS

DAY OATMEAL MUFFIN

DAY

23

ROOTS DAY

24

30

BAKING SODA DAY EGGNOG DAY

31

NEW YEAR’S EVE

25

CHRISTMAS

KWANZAA