Indy's Child // 12.2009 by Midwest Parenting Publications

DECEMBER 2009 * indyschild.com

INDYSCHILD.COM 1

presents

Additional support:

Nov. 27 to Jan. 10

2 INDYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CHILD * DECEMBER 2009

For hours, visit childrensmuseum.org.

INDYSCHILD.COM 3

CMY

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Final Trim Size: 10” x 13”

They focus on the moment Children are only little for a while. Enjoy this holiday season with the satisfaction of knowing that you’re saving for their futures. Give the gift of college savings with a CollegeChoice 529 account. It offers: • Tax advantages, including a special state income tax credit of up to $1,000 per year for Indiana taxpayers* • More ways to save with Ugift®: Invite family and friends to celebrate with gift contributions to your CollegeChoice 529 account

You focus on their future. Visit cc529.com to enroll today. Proud sponsor o f the Indianapo lis Colts

* Indiana taxpayers are eligible for a state income tax credit of 20% of contributions to their CollegeChoice 529 account, up to $1,000 credit per year. Please note that this credit may be subject to recapture from the account owner (not the contributor) in certain circumstances, such as a rollover to another state’s 529 plan or a non-qualified withdrawal. For more information about the CollegeChoice 529 Direct Savings Plan, call 1.866.485.9415 or visit www.collegechoicedirect.com to obtain a Disclosure Statement, which includes investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and other important information; read and consider it carefully before investing. Upromise Investments, Inc., Distributor and Underwriter. CollegeChoice 529 Direct Savings Plan (Plan) is administered by the Indiana Education Savings Authority. Upromise Investments, Inc. serves as the Program Manager and Upromise Investment Advisors, LLC, provides investment advisory services and recordkeeping and administrative services. Upromise Investments, Inc. and Upromise Investment Advisors, LLC have overall responsibility for the day-to-day operations, including marketing and distribution of the Plan. Dodge & Cox; Frontegra Asset Management, Inc.; The Vanguard Group, Inc.; and Western Asset serve as Investment Managers for the Plan. The Plan’s portfolios, although they invest in mutual funds are not mutual funds. Units of the Portfolios are municipal securities and the value of units will vary with market conditions. Investment returns are not guaranteed, and you could lose money by investing in the Plan. © 2009 Indiana Education Savings Authority and Upromise Investments, Inc. Upromise, the Upromise logo, and Ugift are registered service marks of Upromise, Inc. All other IN2137D 0909 marks are the property of their respective owners. INDYSCHILD.COM 5

DECEMber 2009 table of contents

NEWS & SHOPPING * News You Can Use: There’s a Whole Lot of FREE Going On in December One Chic Mama: Experiencing All Five Senses

Health & Wellness * SPECIAL NEEDS AWARENESS: Prepare Children for the Holidays

The 12 days of christmas

08 14

PEDIATRIC health: Family-Centered Health

pediatric HEALTH: Kids Helping Kids

Around Town * museum notes: Barbie

Comes to the Children’s Museum

PROFILE: Bloomington Family Winter Breakaway

25 29

THE INDIANAPOLIS ZOO: Celebrate a Spectacular Holiday Season at the Zoo 36 ARTS & ENRICHMENT: Ice Skating and Snow Sports

Commentary & Parenting * Publisher’s Note: Celebrating Family and Welcoming Change

virtual school

letters to the editor: Your Letters

teens & tweens: The Benefits of Pet Adoption

my parent, my mentor: Three Pluses and a Wish

dear teacher: Motivating Kids, Homeschooling & Improving Reading Fluency

* RESOURCES

Holiday gift guide

holiday gift guide

shopping corner

Childcare & Education Directory

enrichment directory

Fun & Wacky HOlidays calendar

calendar of events

party & entertainment directory

classifieds

Ask the Staff: What was the most memorable gift you ever received as a child?

Not as a child, but my engagement ring was the most memorable.

A Cabbage Patch Doll from my grandma—that I still have.

A play kitchen.

My most memorable gift is coming this year... I’m due with our first baby on Dec. 20th!

A Lite Brite

My first piggy bank from my dad.

6 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2009

E R I N TUL

An American Girl Doll

h e at her

n Brooke Va

Indy’s Child

Co mme n ta ry & PA R E NTIN G

Publisher’s Note

Celebrating Family and Welcoming Change Why Family and Community Are Our Greatest Gifts

FOUNDING PUBLISHER Barbara Wynne barbara@indyschild.com Publisher & President of Sales & Business Development Mary Wynne Cox publisher@indyschild.com Associate Publisher & Editor-in-Chief Lynette Rowland editor@indyschild.com Art Direction & Design Heather Lipe heather@indyschild.com Business Development and Marketing Coordinator Josie Fine josie@indyschild.com Public Relations and Advertising Coordinator Erin Tulley erin@indyschild.com

This is the month when families start to get stressed about giving and spending. Each of us wants to demonstrate our love and appreciation for special people in our lives by giving them a beautifully wrapped gift.

At Thanksgiving, our family has a secret drawing of names among grandchildren and children. Each gets a special gift from the secret name drawn. This helps everyone on all ends avoid a shopping (and spending) frenzy. I believe poems of love or humor are wonderful gifts. I treasure some of the artistic creations my grandchildren have given me and I put them in my curio-cabinet alongside old antiquities from our families. My son Greg and his wife Nancy have us over for brunch on Sundays and what a treasure it is to see them and enjoy a delicious brunch. This weekly gift is one that keeps giving throughout the year. Celebrating the holidays means celebrating

family and treasures not just a but a maturing experience I honestly few times a year, but every day needed. Material belongings ceased being priority and helped me gain a throughout the year. new perspective of life and what is We should also make time to celebrate most important in the grand scheme with those in the community who of things. truly need a helping hand. So many worthy community organizations The people who came to purchase in Indianapolis help to make the our trash and treasures took a sincere holidays a special time. A variety interest in the story behind the items of churches prepare turkey dinners, they were buying from us and seemed while many service groups give to genuinely care about our move, baskets to families in need—such as our family and the changes we are Toys for Tots. For more information making in our lives. We recently sold on the Toys for Tots program visit our Florida home and as impossible toysfortots.org. Show your children as it is to believe, the two families the gift of volunteerism by going to who purchased our furnishings came volunteermatch.org and finding one by with wine, shrimp and cheese to of dozens of organizations around join us with Irish songs and toasts to Indiana where you and your family help us celebrate our life changes and our final evening in our home. The can spend time volunteering. evening will long be remembered This year, my Christmas gifts to my and appreciated. family will be the treasures I found when moving from two houses into My 2009 Christmas presents will our new condo. In the awkward stage continue to be my many friends who of decision-making and downsizing helped us with packing, moving and (and discovering the benefits of encouraging us with reminders that Craig’s List), I found that this this chapter will close and a new moving process was not life altering passage in our lives would open. One

dear friend actually planned where every piece of furniture should go and exactly where and what should go in our drawers. That’s what I call a gift! I wish each and every reader of Indy’s Child a Happy Holidays, Happy Passages and a Happy New Year. May you be blessed with good health, happiness and hope for the future. And remember to discover your own paradise—it might be right under your nose. If you, your friends, family or acquaintances need assistance throughout the holidays, call Connect2Help at 211 or visit connect2help.org for a variety of assistance organizations. This wonderful organization provides a list of service organizations throughout Indiana, operators are kind and more than helpful in assisting with finding the aid organization that suits your needs.

Accountant Brooke Vance brooke@indyschild.com Cover Photography SB Childs Photography On the cover: Fiona

We Have a New Address! Indy’s Child 921 E. 86th Street, Suite 130 Indianapolis, IN 46240 317.722.8500 (p) 317.722.8510 (f ) indyschild@indyschild.com Copyright: Indy’s Child Parenting Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2009 by Indy’s Child Inc. and Midwest Parenting Publications, LLC.All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of products, commentary or services herein. For information on subscriptions, editorial guidelines, advertising rates and more visit www.indyschild.com.

Sean, age 13

What does our 96% success rate mean to Sean? It means being able to live with autism and overcome a variety of behavioral challenges. It means communicating with gestures, sign language, and words instead of physical and emotional outbursts. And it means enjoying activities that were once very challenging. For more than 40 years, Damar has served thousands of children and adults, with 96% achieving more independent lives. And Sean is just one shining, smiling example. For volunteer or donor opportunities, please visit damar.org

6067 Decatur Boulevard Indianapolis, IN 46241 317.856.5201 26176.DAM 2009 Print_INDCH_7.375X6.125 4C.indd 1

INDYSCHILD.COM 3/23/09 12:11:56 PM 7

news*you can *use N E WS & SHO PPIN G

news you can use

There’s a Whole Lot of FREE Going On in December!

Dozens of Free Events in Indianapolis this December

Each attraction will offer free admission

Tuesday, Dec. 15 Indy Wine Trail free

Friday, Dec. 18 NCAA Hall of

Tuesday, Dec. 22 Eiteljorg Museum

on the following dates as part of the 12

tastings & free dessert at participating

Champions free admission

of American Indians & Western Art

FREE Days of Christmas in Indy (see

downtown Restaurants

this month’s feature on page 18 for details.)

Saturday, Dec. 19 Conner Prairie

free admission

Wednesday, Dec. 16 History at

Interactive History Park, Indiana

Wednesday, Dec. 23 Indianapolis

Sunday, Dec. 13 Music & Lights in

home for the Holidays with visits

Medical History Museum, Tommy

Motor Speedway Hall of Fame

Indy with the Circle of Lights and

to the Morris-Butler House, James

Wills Orchestra at the Indianapolis

Museum free admission

several free concerts at the Scottish

Whitcomb Riley Museum Home

Artsgarden at 1pm free admission

Rite Cathedral and Indianapolis

& Meredith Nicholson Home - all

Artsgarden

offering free admission

Monday, Dec. 14 Rhythm!

Thursday, Dec. 17 Indianapolis

Discovery Center – hands on

Museum of Art, J.K. Lilly, Jr House

percussion museum free admission

& Winter Solstice free admission.

Sign up for IPL’s innovative CoolCents ® air conditioning management program today! You’ll save $20 off your bill next summer, and in your honor, we’ll make a contribution to Gleaners Food Bank. With every dollar we donate, Gleaners Food Bank can distribute eight pounds of food and critical grocery products to families in need. That’s the equivalent of six meals. It’s easy. They get a hot meal, and you save some cold hard cash. Here’s how it works:

8 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2009

Thursday, Dec. 24 The Children’s Sunday, Dec. 20 President Benjamin Harrison Home free admission

Museum

Indianapolis

free

admission Monday, Dec. 21 Indiana State Museum & Celebration Crossing

Check out www.visitindy.com for more

free admission

things to do in Indianapolis.

As a participating CoolCents customer, you’ll automatically get a $5 monthly rebate in June, July, August and September for allowing IPL to temporarily reduce the time your air conditioner runs (if needed) during periods of peak summer demand. Don’t worry, you might not even notice this efficiency mode since your fan will continue to circulate cooled air throughout your house. By reducing the demand for energy at peak times, you help us more efficiently use our existing power plants and delay the need to build new ones, which could drive up rates. Sign up now through January 15 so you can help neighbors in need and save money next summer! To enroll, visit IPLpower.com or call 1.800.305.0982.

N E WS & SHO PPIN G

C hildren’s Dental Center Holiday Season Food Drive Kicks-Off Children’s Dental Center, a friendly dental office in Fishers focused exclusively on pediatric dentistry, will sponsor a month-long food drive in an effort to stock the shelves of the new food pantry within the Fall Creek Township assessor’s office. Donations will be accepted Monday, Nov. 9 through Monday, Dec. 14, 2009. Each new patient donating five or more nonperishable food items will receive a Free Cleaning with Paid Exam and X-Rays. Existing patients donating five or more canned goods will receive a Complimentary Fluoride Treatment. “Food pantries take on an even greater importance during these tough economic times,” says Dr. Michelle H. Edwards. “With the ever increasing demand from families in need in our area, our goal is to do our part and give back while providing our patients with a value-added service.” The Children’s Dental Center opened in Fishers, Indiana in March of 2007. They are located minutes from I-69 and are easily accessible by residents of Central Indiana, including the areas of Indianapolis, Noblesville, and Carmel. For more information, please call 317.842.TIKE (8453).

news you can use

A Beef and Boards Christmas Marks 17th Year Holiday magic glitters at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre with every performance of A Beef & Boards Christmas 2009. Bring family and friends and join Santa himself for a extraordinary evening with this original production that opens Nov. 27 and continues until the special New Year’s Eve f inale on Dec. 31.

A production for all ages, A Beef & Boards Christmas 2009 features talented performers of all ages. They hail from the Indianapolis area, including 12-year-old Anna Lasbury of Carmel, to the North Pole — with Santa and even the famous red-nosed reindeer Rudolph making sure everyone has a great time! There are 41 performances of A Beef & Boards Christmas 2009 in the intimate atmosphere of Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre. Tickets range from $34 to $57, and include Chef Odell Ward’s holiday dinner buffet offering carved turkey and all the trimmings, a fruit and salad bar, unlimited coffee and tea. Parking is always free.

celebration, which includes the holiday dinner buffet, performance and party favors. The dance f loor is then open to guests with live music provided by the Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre Orchestra until the Times Square ball drops at midnight on the theatre’s two big screens. The party continues with a champagne toast, more dancing and then a scrumptious breakfast buffet provided by Chef Odell Ward. Tickets range from $72 to $92 for this exceptional evening. For reservations, call the Box Off ice at 317.872.9664 anytime between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays. For complete show schedule, visit www.beefandboards.com. Every year, more and more people discover A Beef & Boards Christmas is the perfect way to enjoy the season – dinner and a show in one place! Stop by the gift shop for unique gift ideas, or give food and fun to someone special with a gift certif icate available at www.beefandboards.com.

The f inal performance of A Beef & Boards Christmas 2009 is a special New Year’s Eve

December 4-30, 5-9pm Closed December 24 & 25 Zoo opens at 12 noon. Activities begin at 5pm. Experience Zoo animals, twinkling lights and carolers. Take family photographs in Woodland Wonderland presented by Community Health Network. Visit Santa and much more!

indianapoliszoo.com (317) 630-2001 • 1200 W. Washington St.

Visit indianapoliszoo.com for discount offers!

The Indianapolis Zoo

Positively Amazing! INDYSCHILD.COM 9

N E WS & SHO PPIN G

news you can use

Save Money Next summer with IPLs CoolCents Program By participating in IPL’s CoolCents program you can receive a $5 per month rebate on your electric bill during the summer months of June, July, August and September. When you sign up for CoolCents, a small device is installed on the outside of your home near your central air conditioner. This device allows IPL to safely cycle your air conditioner on and off for brief periods during hours of peak electricity usage. Your air conditioner will typically not be cycled on weekends or holidays. The fan on your air conditioner will continue to operate. In fact, you may not even be aware that your air conditioner is being cycled because your house should remain comfortable.

”Two Kids Eat Free” Program Expanded at Boston Market Free’ deal on weekends and providing delicious, nutritious meals Boston Market today announced that its widely at an excellent price point.” popular “Two Kids Eat Free” dining program will be extended If you’re 10–14 years old (grades 5-8), past October 31, offering customers the same great deal every Boston Market Kids’ whicha cost between $3.79 and $4.29, weekend (Saturday and Sunday) between November 1 through catch the excitement ofMeals, being Junior come with a choice of entrée, a small side, a kid’s size beverage and the end of January 2010. During the program’s initial launch, Broadcaster for the Indianapolis Colts! cornbread. Entrées include favorites such as chicken drumsticks, more than 550,000 free kids’ meals were enjoyed by Boston roasted turkey, meatloaf and Mac & Cheese. Market guests. One Lucky contestant may tour the

broadcast experience a pre-game The “Two Kids Eat Free” weekends offer is valid for up to two The company, known for providing nutritious home-style meals, booth, kids per $6 minimum purchase and is available at all 522 Boston was the first to launch a national program where two children, ages interview and receive four tickets to an Market locations for dine-in, carry-out or drive-thru orders on 14 and younger, could receive a free kids’ meal all day, every day Saturday and home Sunday from November 1 – January 30, 2010. The with only one adult purchase of $6 or more. The Indianapolis number of free Colts game. offer includes up to four free kids’ meals with the purchase of a kids’ meals doubles to four with the purchase of a Family Meal. Family Meal. The “Two Kids Eat Free” deal is not valid with any other discounts, coupons or offers. No coupon required, but “The overwhelmingly positive response from our customers tells us kids must be present to claim their meals – we want to see their we’ve struck a chord. Everyone wants greater value for their dollar smiling faces! and more time with their families,” said Lane Cardwell, CEO, Boston Market. “Coordinating schedules is always a challenge, but weekends are family time, and Boston Market wants to help make For more information or to find a Boston Market restaurant near family mealtime a reality by continuing to offer the ‘Two Kids Eat you, please visit www.bostonmarket.com.

Get all the info and sign up at: www.IndianaDairyCouncil.org.

Entry Deadline September 20, 2009

Your participation in CoolCents helps IPL use its power plants more efficiently, which also helps delay the need to build new power plants. This keeps electric rates low and As a participating CoolCents customer, you’ll automatically get a $5 monthly rebate in June, results in a cleaner environment for us all. mber for allowing IPL to temporarily reduce the time your air conditioner runs (if needed)

summer demand. Don’t worry, you might not even notice this efficiency mode since your rculate cooledCustomers air throughout who your house. are not homeowners but reside in a

separately metered single-family residence with central air By reducing the demand for energy at peak times, you help conditioning may participate with written landlord consent. e our existing power plants and delay the need to build new ones, which could drive up rates.

anuary 15 so you help Tocan enroll call save money next summer! 800-305-0982 or er.com or call 1.800.305.0982.

go to IPLpower. com.

Indiana’s Dairy Farmers. Delivering for You, Every Single Day.

Asante Children’s Theatre Announces the Inter-generational Kwanzaa Community Choir in Concert as Part of the “Feed the Hungry” Initiative On December 12, the Asante Children’s Theatre will be presenting a concert under the direction of Mr. Vincent Howard. The concert, held at the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center at 450 West Ohio Street, will educate, empower and enlighten audiences. ©2009 NFL Properties, LLC. Team names/logos are trademarks of the teams indicated. All other NFL-related trademarks are trademarks of the National Football League. Concert begins at 7 p.m. Admission: perPrizeperson canned or non-perishable food item. This Previous Grand Winners areone not eligible

co-sponsored by the Gleaners Food Bank.

– milk, cheese & yogurt – WinnersDrinkMilk.com

10 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2009

“Feed the Hungry” initiative is

co mme n ta ry & pa re n t i n g

let ters to the editor

Your Letters

We’re Listening...Here’s What You Had to Say hat ever yonu, w w o n k to u I just want eyobreast c ancer associat iobeen do for t his gre at ! T here h ave er in I t hink a se s of br e a st c an c d in gs sever a l c il y , som e h a ppy en r a l l m y f a m God bl e ss you fo il l be som e not. pan y doe s—t here w e aven. your com it in g on you in h win gs wa

copy of the October 20 09 on up ed en pp ha I y Libr ar y. e Ham ilton Cou nt Indy’s Chi ld at th ! ife and I are big fans w y M h! uc m so u Thank yo ives, ectr um of perspect sp d oa br e th r fo Bravo the next ea s on pa rent in g id d an ts gh ou th . I was g men and women generation of youn Note by the Publ isher’s ed ag ur co en ly ar part icul self. believi ng in your of ce an rt po im e on th my w ife very chaotic— and as w d oo yh bo y M n ra ising ou r ch ild re to ed itt m m co and I have a ent th at cu lt ivat es nm ro vi en ve ti si in a po ta lent s ren’s potent ia l and ild ch r ou r fo ” ld “wor ur you for m ak ing yo nk ha T . ve ri th to i n fo r m at iv e ht , ig br a n io pu bl ic at ! Earl Campbell and in spir ing read

Thank you for bringi ng back the month ly calend ar page with all the special days. Our family enjoys seeing what’s special about each day of the month. When we can, we try and make a portion of our day coincide with the special event. We have had special meals, learned

ullen R h on d a M

I just that you wan ted to let fan tastic r w e e k l y e-n e w y o u k n o w g e t b u s y. It’s so m e tim e s le t te r is that’s go a n d f o r g e t es easy to as a reming on, but this h v e r y t h i n g g o i n g o n i n d e r o f t h e g r e lps se r v e really ap o v e r t he w ee ke n eat t hin gs g r e e n i d p r e c i a t e t h e s a v d. I a l s o awesome e as an d, of c o ings tips, t h e g o o d w e e k l y c o n t e s t . u r s e, t h e work! L . R i Ke e p u p

more about an historical event, played games, and had special family times with our children and even their grandparents. We really hope you will continue to bring your reader s this one page highlig ht each month. In this month of Thank sgiving, we are deeply thankf ul for you and your wonderful magaz ine.

The David Routh family

c h.

COMPLIMENTS? SUGGESTIONS? CORRECTIONS? COMPLAINTS? We want to hear about it. Send your letters to editor@indyschild.com and we might post your letters next month. Tell us what’s on your mind!

November 21–December 27

It Just Wouldn’t Be The Holidays Without A Christmas Carol. Don’t miss Indy’s most beloved holiday tradition, IRT’s A Christmas Carol. The iconic and sparkling story of the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge, the three ghosts of Christmas and a little boy named Tiny Tim.

For tickets, visit www.irtlive.com or call 317.635.5252

Charles Goad as Ebenezer Scrooge in A Christmas Carol.

INDYSCHILD.COM 11

Co mme n ta ry & Pa re n t i n g

teens & tweens

The Benefits of Pet Adoption How a Pet Can Benefit Your Teen

If your young teen has been asking for a pet for the past several years, this might be the perfect time to relent. At last, your child is old enough to do a substantial amount of the work involved — though certainly not all of it — and to understand the importance of caring for another life. In the process, she will gain life skills and benef it from a relationship that offers her unconditional love.

when relationships with other people are increasingly complex. As their personalities become refined, children tend to have bouts of conflict with parents and peers. Sometimes they feel as though they don’t have a friend in the world. During times like these, the unconditional love of a pet can provide the solace and nurturing no human can offer. Young teens may find in a pet everything they are frustrated at being unable to find in people. A loved animal can be loyal, non-judgmental, and a good listener. A pet accepts anger and tears, secrets and dreams, and never betrays a confidence. It pays no mind to test scores or lost games, pimples or broken dates; it loves without question and never has anything more important to do than be with its owner. Whether the pet is a cat, dog or bunny, the relationship can offer a much-needed harbor during a preteen storm.

Pet care can be a chore that teaches preteen children how to care for others. Unlike vacuuming a floor or hanging up clothes, feeding a living creature involves the heart. It can cultivate a child’s empathy and altruism, and help him demonstrate to himself and others that he is able to love and be loved. Now that he is old enough to realize that he is not the center of the universe, he can comprehend a pet not only as a plaything, but also as an individual being with feelings and needs A pet can also offer an acceptable family “apron string” for a young teen. During similar to his own. this stage, children are trying hard not to A pet also can provide a young teen act “babyish.” They resist hugs and kisses with a steady companion at a time in public, and are asserting that they can

do all kinds of things by themselves. But they’re still nowhere near ready to leave home, emotionally or physically. Interacting with the household pet, which is a part of the family, is a way to continue to give and receive love and open affection, and maintain the family bond without embarrassing themselves. In addition, building a relationship with an animal can extend and strengthen a young teen’s sense of identity. When your child says, “Look what my dog can do,” he may as well be saying, “Look what I can do.” The sense of pride that comes when a puppy learns a new trick, or when a kitten curls into his lap, helps him to feel good about himself, just as if he had kicked a winning goal. A loyal pet makes its owner feel important, and this becomes another building block in a child’s self-esteem. Finally, having a pet can offer the maturing child a sense of empowerment. Parents still rule the roost, and younger siblings don’t like being bossed around. A loved pet, however, will take direction without complaint. After being reprimanded for a messy room or poor grade, telling the dog

to “sit” or allowing the rabbit his exercise gain some insight by talking with local time can help a child to reclaim emotional veterinarians and other pet owners. balance and realign his ego. Make sure that you have agreed upon Before you decide to give your preteen some reasonable consequences in case an animal as a gift this holiday season, your child starts to get lazy about her pet be sure to give serious thought to the care chores. Be sure she understands that financial and emotional commitment it her commitment to an animal must take will require. Also, be realistic about the top priority. If she can’t find the time for ways in which you will inevitably become walking or feeding, it is the drama class involved, providing transportation to the or slumber party that will be forfeited, vet, vacuuming up dog hair, or pitching in not the pet. with routine care when necessary. If you can work through these issues Keep in mind that caring for a pet will with your preteen and arrive at a pet that require a young teen to learn some time- she can love and you can live with, the management strategies, and you may have benefits for your child can be great. to help her develop them. It may take a little while for her to figure out how to Note: Due to the overabundance of neglected work the walks, meals, and grooming into and abandoned animals, many pet stores are her already busy schedule, so be prepared encouraging families to adopt kittens and for a training period. For this reason it puppies and are no longer selling them. Check is important to choose a pet that will with your local pet shelter for more information. comfortably fit into your family’s lifestyle Lisa Schab is a licensed and your home’s space limitations. clinical social worker There are many books and websites in Libertyville, Illinois, and the stepmother of that can provide information about the two, ages 25 and 29. care requirements and temperaments She can be reached at of various types of pets. You can also 847-782-1722.

Hammon

d, Indian a

Free Admission! On Display Nov. 1 - J an. 10 at the Indiana Welcome Center I-80/94 & Kennedy Ave. south • Hammond, IN Open Daily 8am - 5pm • Extended hours after Thanksgiving 219-989-7979 • www.aChristmasStoryComesHome.com

mee t the acto rs!

dec. 5 - dec. 6

Photos with Santa

Hotel Packages available online

Nov. 27 - Dec. 20; Fridays 5-7:30pm; Weekends 11am-3pm Have your picture taken with Santa atop “Santa’s Mountain” and slide down into a pillow of snow.

TM & © Turner Entertainment Co. WB SHIELD: TM & © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s09)

12 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2009

FEST IVAL weekend

Special Events & Contests

ugliest lamp ◊ view the movie ◊ relay race ◊ eating contest ◊ view documentary visit www.achristmasstoryhouse.com for official merchandise

Co mme n ta ry & Pa re n t i n g

my parent. my mentor.

Three Pluses and a Wish New Idea for Conflict Resolution I was r e c e ntly introduced to this management strategy by a reader of mine. She uses this tool to ease tensions in meetings, particularly when disputes are being ironed out.

around us, we interact better with them and our communication is more successful. Finally, this is the kind of tool that sticks with you. Although it is a simple strategy, it is also a mindset, a mindset of conf lict resolution and cooperation, not just winning. Well, naturally, this brings me to parenting. What a gift to give our kids. What if we decide to practice “three pluses and a wish” at home? What if, as parents, we decide to teach our kids how to view disputes in a different light? We could teach them to see a bigger picture when they are tugging at a toy or arguing over who gets the bathroom f irst. I have decided to try this at home. And I have a couple of predictions to make. First, I know my kids will go for it, because we as a family are always up for new things. Second, I can see them rolling their eyes when we have our f irst actual conf lict. And I see the inevitable grin when they have to come up with their positives. I guess that is the f irst diffuser right there. I also see them solving their conf licts quicker when they see mom coming over to intervene with some “three pluses and a wish” directives. Hey, whatever works, right?

This is how the strateg y works : before sh a r i ng a g r ievance, a person must share th ree posit ives regarding the thing they are complaining about. At f irst I thought, “yeah, right.” But then I really started to think about the philosophy I wonder if this would work for your family? Give it a try. I was in a behind this tool. It made me wonder how much conf lict could be meeting recently that had a lot of conf lict in it. I found myself silently resolved using this approach. “three plussing” the people in the room. I felt calm and centered the whole time. Who knows, maybe what’s good for our kids is good for What does “three pluses” do anyway? Actually, it does lot. Three pluses us too? forces you to consider what you like about the situation or person. Or, at Maria Murphy is a mom, writer and therapist. You can the very least, what their strengths are. It gives you some cool off time. read more and get some cool free downloads at www. While you are busy thinking of the positives, that heat you are feeling simplyputtogether.com. GW_Bday_4.875X6.125.qxd:Layout 1 11/2/09 8:22 AM Page 1 inevitably will wane a bit. It also humanizes. When we humanize those

...Before

sharing

grievance, a person share

must

positives

three

regarding

the thing they are complaining What

does

about.... “three

pluses” do anyway? Actually, it does lot. Three pluses forces you to consider what you like about the situation or person. Or, at the very least, what their strengths are.

gives

you

some cool off time.

“We visit 2 or 3 times a month” – ⁄⁄-Year Member, Noblesville

Amazing interactive games & our all-inclusive packages make birthday parties easy, fun and affordable! Starting as low as $10.99 per guest! To learn more, visit

Membership at The Children’s Museum –

It’s Worth MORE Than the Price of Admission.

www.GameWorks.com/birthday Book your next event at GameWorks and get a

FREE EXTRA 30 minutes of Game Play for each game card purchased.

Must be booked in advance. Restrictions apply. See General Manager for details.

Circle Centre • Indianapolis • 317-226-9267

Tues.–Sun., 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. • Free Garage Parking 3000 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis • (317) 334-4000

ChildrensMuseum.org

INDYSCHILD.COM 13

N E Ws & sh o ppi n g

one chic mama

EXPERIENCING All Five

1 SPARK THE CONVERSATION December is a wonderful time to reconnect with friends and family, and dinner parties abound. Why not shake things up and make your next dinner party a little more interesting? TableTopics Cubes are wonderful conversation starters that bring thought-provoking and provocative topics to your dinner table. Each acrylic cube contains cards with 135 questions guaranteed to get your guests talking. Choose from the newest additions to the TableTopics family — Dinner Party and Not Your Mom’s Dinner Party — and have your guests talking, laughing and enjoying each other’s company in a completely new way. TableTopics Cubes make the perfect hostess gift or stocking stuffer for those who like to keep things spicy! $25 at www.TableTopics.com.

one chic mama

2 UPDATE YOUR LOOK WITH ACCESSORIES The holiday season brings many outings, events and parties, yet having a closet full of clothing to take you through all these festivities without wearing the same outfit twice can pose a challenge. One great way to get more mileage from the clothes you already own is to freshen up your look with accessories, which can be the icing on the cake. They finish of your look and make you feel pulled together. They’re also a fun way to express your personality and have a little fun! Here are a few tips for adding accessories to your look:

Feminine in

Fall Senses

Wear accessories that are proportional to your body type. If you’re petite, opt for delicate necklaces and small purses. If you’re goddess-sized, feel free to rock a big handbag or a chunky necklace. You want to complement your look while creating balance. Choose a theme, or creating groupings that repeat a color, texture or pattern. When you wear a red scarf, a red bracelet and red shoes, you can wear this grouping with anything from a little black dress to jeans and a sweater and you’ll have a cohesive look while making a statement. Create a signature look with your accessories. Wearing a scarf could become your signature, or you may be known for your funky watches. An armful of bangles, a chic hat, sexy boots—just make sure it’s something that really speaks to you. You can build a collection around those accessories you love, making it a pleasure to get dressed.

Let wearing accessories be a pleasure, and something that expresses your own personal style. You’ll look fabulous and feel great! Find a variety of artisan-crafted, fair trade accessories at www.tenthousandvillages.com.

3 a wardrobe of color for your face This season why not add a little sparkle to your face with the Laura Mercier Colour Wardrobe? This two-tiered makeup compact holds six Eye Colours, 3 Cheek Colours, six Lip Stains and two finishing Lip Glazes, along with expert tools, all for $98 — a bargain when you think what they would have cost individually. Plus, you’ll be tempted to try shades you’d never even thought about before. You’ll meet the holidays face on! Get it at the Laura Mercier counter in Nordstrom, Saks and Neiman Marcus department stores. 4 an aromatic escape for mom and baby Want to steal away for a few minutes and enjoy some quiet time with baby? Light a Harmony candle, gently scented with clove and cinnamon essential oils, and create an aromatic sanctuary to enjoy some time with your little bundle of joy. The Harmony Candle is part of beginning, a new line of bath and body care products created just for mom and baby by the folks at MacLaren. Made with only pure, natural and organic ingredients. Beginning was created to comfort, soothe, and nurture, and to inspire a connective bond between mother and baby. Find the Harmony candle and other beginning products at www.maclarenbaby.com.

5 fitness wear that doubles as jewlery Finding time to hit the gym may seem like a distant memory with your busy schedule. But that doesn’t mean you can’t keep your arms toned. Banglz Wrist Weights are half-pound weights disguised as bracelets. These clever bangles help to maximize muscle tone while burning calories, all while looking chic. Buy a set of Banglz for $24.95. Optional covers are available for $16 for two sets of print. Try them for yourself or buy them as a gift for your girlfriends. Find Banglz at www.fitnessuwear.com.

5 Mary Michele Little is a mother of two, wife, entrepreneur and blogger who lives in Raleigh, N.C. Read more of her tips at www. onechicmama.com. 14 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2009

January 23 & 24, 2010 11 aM - 6 PM

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Champions pavilion, indiana state Fairgrounds

HealtHy Fun FOr tHE wHOlE Family • Over 200 Exhibitors

Come see celebrity pediatrician Dr. JaMES SEarS from the hit television show tHE DOCtOrS

• Over 30 Speakers • Healthy Cooking Demonstrations • Special Guests • Free Onsite Childcare Provided by Primrose Schools • Children’s activities • Health Screenings anD MuCH MOrE!

TickeTs $10 Each • $2 DiscounT AvAilAble online, use coDe incHilD

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special needs awareness

Prepare Children for the Holidays Tips for Ensuring a Stress-Free Holiday Season Once again the holiday season is upon us. Christmas lights, holiday music and family get-togethers dominate our thinking and experiences.

All families want their holidays to be filled with joy — especially for children. Unfortunately, too often all of this activity and high hopes lead to stress and anxiety. With this year’s additional economic strain, the typical hustle and bustle of shopping, baking, decorating, hosting and traveling likely will be even more stressful than usual. Most adults are aware of these stresses and can work to overcome for them; however, we might forget that children are affected by stress as well, and that they can be especially vulnerable at this time of the year. Children can experience holiday stress in a number of ways. Following are common signs and symptoms to watch for.

* *

Physical complaints such stomachaches and fatigue

headaches,

Tearful and whiny behaviors with no obvious cause

* * * * *

in the family. A well-rested child will be able to tolerate stress more effectively.

Withdrawal from family and friends Increased oppositional or defiant behaviors Less interest in holiday traditions Problems with sleep Increased attachment behaviors (don’t want to leave your side)

As you make your way through this holiday season, watch for those signs, but also take measures to reduce stress on your children. The following tips will help. Manage Your Own Stress Effectively. If parents are stressed during the holidays, their children will pick up on those feelings. Set realistic expectations for yourself. Don’t overcommit to family and friends. Share holiday responsibilities and duties with your spouse or other family members. Maintain Routines. The holidays often disrupt our basic routines; it helps if we stick to the schedule as much as possible. Make sure children are in bed on time. Maintain typical daily activities. Make sure your behavioral expectations for children remain consistent.

Have Fun. Busy schedules and deadlines have the potential to drain the fun out of the holidays. Slow down and take time to laugh and joke with your children. Plan your busy schedule to allow for plenty of fun. Eat Well. Make sure your children are eating nutritious foods and that they are drinking plenty of water. During this busy time, we often rely too much on fast foods, processed foods, sweets and holiday treats to get us through the day and meet deadlines. Educate Your Children About Holiday Stress. Ask your children what they would like to do for fun and relaxation and emphasize the importance of relaxation during holiday breaks. Allow reasonable time for children to engage in activities they love to do. Increased stress visits virtually every household during the holidays. As parents, we need to make sure we do all we can to make holidays a time of joy for us and for our children. With a little awareness, preparation and planning, we can reduce inevitable stress and make sure everyone has a merry and memorable holiday season.

for Indy’s Child December 09 issue Jim Dalton, Psy.D., HSPP, is a licensed child 6.125w Dr. x 4.875h Schedule “Down Time.” During these busy times, it’s psychologist, and the Senior Vice President and Chief important to take “breaks” from the activities and preparations of the holidays. Schedule rest and relaxation times for everyone

Operating Officer at Damar Services, Inc. Visit Damar online at www.damar.org

The perfect gift for your child ... & you!

YMCA School’s Out Winter Camp

When school is out, the YMCA is in! Your child (K-8) is invited to join us for a world of opportunities: eld trips, arts & crafts, games, music, sports activities, guest entertainment and so much more ... Come for one day or all! Dec. 21, 22, 23, 24 and Dec. 28, 29, 30, 31 Log on to www.indymca.org or call your area’s YMCA Youth Enrichment Ofce: North: 577-2070 South: 887-8788 Central/IPS/East: 713-8552 West: 484-9622

16 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2009

A ROUN D TOW N

museum notes

Barbie® Comes To™The Children’s Museum Come see Barbie :The Fashion Experience

Ev e ry fa s h i on i s ta ’ s dream come true: the art of fashion design is coming to The Children’s Museum, and Barbie® is the inspiration! On December 19, the new exhibit, Barbie™: The Fashion Experience will debut at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. This unique exhibit, created by The Children’s Museum in collaboration with Mattel, will allow children and families to immerse themselves in the art of fashion design and try their hands at becoming designers. Visitors will have a chance to try everything from putting a design concept on paper, to draping a form and f itting a model, to designing and participating in a runway show.

As a fashion icon, Barbie® doll is always a reflection of the latest fashion trends. Some of the top designers in the world have created looks especially for her and inspired by her.

Through Barbie: The Fashion Experience, aspiring designers will be able to create their own fashions for Barbie® using inspiration from her wardrobe. All fashionistas will also enjoy seeing styles created especially for the Barbie™ 50th Anniversary Runway Show held during the February 2009 Fashion Week in New York City. Top designers Betsey Johnson, Nicole Miller, Rachel Roy and Koi Suwannagate created special looks inspired by Barbie®, these designs will be displayed in the exhibit to inspire young designers. Inside the exhibit’s Design Center future designers will put together their own iconic looks using drawing tables, fabric swatches, inspiration boards and sketches. This area will let children and families experience the process of designing fashions while exploring the questions of what inspires a designer and how does he or she move from inspiration through final design? Dozens of fabrics and trims will serve as inspiration for building real garments on large or small dress forms. Visitors will also be able to trace at light tables, create virtual fashions on monitors and draw their own fashions freehand. And of course, no exhibit on the world of fashion would be complete without a runway show! Children will be able to experience the unique process of planning and implementing their very own show including working as a lighting designer, DJ, fashion photographer or

commentator, and go Backstage with Barbie™ and explore the work of stylists, starters, dressers and checkers. Kids can even style their own outf it using looks inspired by Barbie® and walk the runway in their creation. Barbie® collectors will enjoy the Pink Vault where some of the rarest and most collectible Barbie® dolls, including the #1 1959 Barbie®, the 1961 brown-haired Ken® and the 1969 Talking Julia, will be displayed. Select dolls, outf its and accessories from all 50 years will be showcased. One of the most valuable items will be Andy Warhol’s 1985 portrait of Barbie®—the ultimate status symbol of a popculture icon! Before visitors leave the exhibit, they will have a chance to share favorite Barbie® memories. Grandparents, mothers, sons and daughters can share their own memories of Barbie® with others, or have fun seeing all the memories other Barbie® fans have to share. Jaclyn Falkenstein is Public Relations Coordinator for The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Barbie™: The Fashion Experience

Opens December 19, 2009 at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Child Centered Swim Lessons! Let us teach your child to enjoy the water and learn to swim. We offer a wide range of lessons for all skill levels. A proud member of the Starfish Aquatics Institute program, our instructors are lifeguard and swim instructor certified through the Starfish Aquatics Institute. Call today to enroll your child in the next session.

Call 317.871.5605 for more information.

A 50,000 Sq. Ft. Tropical Explosion of Water Fun! 317.872.9790 • CaribbeanCoveWaterPark.com Holiday Inn North at the Pyramids • 3850 DePauw Blvd. • Indianapolis, IN INDYSCHILD.COM 17

FREE

hile the season of giving can provide a wonderful sense of joy, sometimes it feels like there just isn’t enough money to do all of the things we would like to do—the stress can be overwhelming. Several attractions in the Indianapolis area understand and want to help ease the load and share some fun at the same time. In the 12 days leading up to Christmas, a variety of Indianapolis area attractions will offer free admission for your whole family. It is easy to do — no coupons needed — just stop by, explore and share some quality family time together. Here is a rundown of the attractions that are offering free admission:

Sunday, Dec. 13

colored lights will be strung from the top of the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument to its base. The scene is complete with 90,000 twinkle lights in trees that add shimmer to the area’s walkways. The display will be up until Jan. 8, 2010.

Monday, Dec. 14 Rhythm! Discovery Center

10am-8pm

Indianapolis’ newest downtown attraction will be hands-on and give visitors a chance to drum up some fun on a variety of instruments. Rhythm! invites you to discover the role of rhythm and percussion in music and culture through dynamic educational experiences, participatory opportunities and interactive exhibits. Put what you learn to the test in their hands-on area that features a variety of instruments. Visit www.pas.org for more information.

Music & Lights in Indy with the Circle of Lights and several free concerts

Tuesday, Dec. 15

• Scottish Rite Cathedral will offer free building tours of the architectural landmark at 12 noon, followed by a 3pm free concert featuring the Scottish Rite Chorus, Orchestra and Cathedral Organ, (one of the largest theater organs in the city of Indianapolis). Following the concert, free cookies, coffee and milk will be provided. Free parking is available in the lot west of the Cathedral, off North Street. Visit www.aasr-indy.org for more information.

Indy Wine Trail & Downtown Restaurants

• A concert of holiday music presented by over 100 members of the Logansport Children’s Choir from Logansport, Indiana at the Indianapolis Artsgarden at 2:30 p.m. Visit www.indyarts.org for more information. • The New World Youth Orchestra will perform at the Indianapolis Artsgarden at 7 p.m. It’s your chance to witness some rising talent. Visit www.indyarts.org for more information. • This is the 10th anniversary of Indy’s own winter wonderland with the enhanced holiday decor on Monument Circle. The much-loved décor includes 26 larger-than-life toy soldiers and sailors surrounding the Circle, along with 26 peppermint sticks. 52 garland strands of 4,784 18 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2009

If you’ve always wondered what our local wines taste like, here’s your chance to find out. There will be free tasting at each of the wineries on Indy’s Wine Trail. Make sure you check out their hours ahead of time www.indywinetrail.com. This day also features free dessert with the purchase of an entrée at select restaurants. Participating restaurants include: Basey’s Downtown Grill & Spirits, Chancellor’s at University Place, Eagle’s Nest Restaurant at Hyatt Regency, Greek Islands Restaurant, Hilton Hotel Indianapolis (120 West Market Fresh Grill), Ike & Jonesy’s, India Gardens, Marco’s Pizza, Our Den Sports Bar & Grille at University Place, Santorini Greek Kitchen, Scotty’s Brewhouse (north side and downtown), (SI) Scholar’s Inn downtown, Skyline Club, The Elbow Room, The Restaurant at the Canterbury, The Taste of Tango, and Weber Grill Restaurant.

Wednesday, Dec. 16 History at home for the Holidays w ith visits to histor ically signif icant homes in Indy • Morris-Butler House (10 a.m. - 3 p.m.)

This beautifully restored 1865 home showcases the architecture, history, culture and society of Indianapolis during the 19th century. A museum property of Historic Landmarks Foundation of Indiana and accredited by the American Association of Museums, it is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. For more information visit www.historiclandmarks.org. • James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.) Experience a Victorian Christmas in historic Lockerbie Square with festive Christmas greenery and wreathes. Riley spent the last 23 years of his life in the late Victorian preserved home that was built in 1872. The home itself features simple, elegant decorations and small gifts and party favors that would be typical of the period. The Christmas tree is special because it includes actual Christmas postcards that citizens from across the country sent to Riley after he was recovering from a stroke in 1911. For more information visit www.rileykids.org/about/ riley_museum/ • Meredith Nicholson Home (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.) The Indiana Humanities Council will open its doors to the public and invite guests to tour the house of Indiana author Meredith Nicholson. The Council, which encourages Hoosiers to think, read and talk, will also host a variety of humanities-inspired programs during the day. Mr. Nicholson’s home was built in 1904 and was one of the first Georgian Colonial Revival style homes in Indy. For more information visit www.indianahumanities.org.

Thursday, Dec. 17 Indianapolis Museum of Art (IMA), J.K. Lilly, Jr. House & Winter Solstice (11 a.m. – 9 p.m.) The IMA is one of the top ten general art museums and one of the ten oldest in the United States. While there, you can also visit J.K. Lilly Jr.’s home to see how yuletide evergreens, fruiting plants and lights were incorporated into 1930s and ‘40s home décor to minimize the feel of the Depression and wartime shortages. And of course, it’s all topped off with ice carving, hot beverages and fun during the

Winter Solstice celebration. For more information visit www.imamuseum.org

Friday, Dec. 18 NCA A

Hall

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Champions

Get your hands on 23 sports and experience the heart and dedication it takes to be an NCAA student-athlete at the newly renovated NCAA Hall of Champions. There are several new things to see and do, such as the kick-off theater video featuring prospective, current and former student-athletes. You can learn about all 23 of the NCAA sports through kiosks that give you up to the minute rankings, sport-specific trivia, past champions and much more. You will need to make time on your visit to play over a dozen interactive exhibits on the second floor including two simulators in which you will “virtually” experience five different sports. There is also an exhibit where a tennis ball shoots out at up to 100 m.p.h. demonstrating a collegiate tennis player’s serve. There are educational components such as an interactive exhibit that demonstrates how student-athletes must budget their time. The popular 1930s-style gymnasium remains, allowing visitors to shoot free throws. This college sports attraction offers something for everyone. For more information visit www.ncaahallofchampions.org.

Saturday, Dec. 19 Conner Prairie Interactive History Park

10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

The sights and sounds of holidays past come to life with family activities inside Conner Prairie’s cozy welcome center and throughout the outdoor 1836 Prairietown. In the welcome center, guests can stroll through a wonderland of icing, gumdrops and sprinkles atop remarkable gingerbread creations, visit with a Victorian era Santa Claus, craft a holiday decoration to take home, enjoy a theatrical presentation, play with 19th century

toys and explore Discovery Station. Guests can also bundle up and stroll through the outdoor 1836 village of Prairietown, where they can help residents prepare for the holidays and take care of winter tasks the 19th century way. For more information visit www.connerprairie.org.

Marketplace complete with live entertainment and food in the summer and a WestFest with singing cowboys, trick ropers and chuck-wagon in the fall. For more information visit www.eiteljorg.org

Indiana Medical History Museum

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum

10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Visit the nation’s oldest surviving pathology laboratory. The building originally provided physicians in the late 1800s to early 1900s with state-of-the-art facilities to study mental and nervous disorders. Today, the museum uses its more than 15,000 artifacts to educate visitors about the developments that made today’s advanced medical treatments possible. For more information visit www.imhm.org.

Indianapolis Artsgarden concert

Wednesday, Dec. 23 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum is located inside the famed 2.5-mile IMS oval, which celebrates its 100th year of existence in 2009. More than 75 automobiles and motorcycles, representing the Indianapolis 500, stock car racing, sports car racing, and vintage luxury passenger models, are on display at the Hall of Fame Museum at all times. A fascinating collection of motorcycles is on display at the Museum, along with numerous

examples of motor racing trophies, art and other attractions. Here’s a great factoid to share with family in town for the holidays - the track is so large that you could fit the Roman Coliseum, Vatican City, Wimbledon Campus, Rose Bowl, Yankee Stadium and Churchill Downs inside the 2 1/2-mile oval.

Thursday, Dec. 24 The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

10 a.m. - 2 p.m .

Visit Jolly Days Winter Wonderland at the world’s largest children’s museum and enjoy traditional holiday favorites such as the Yule Slide, Jingles the Jolly Bear and explore “outdoor” fun at the Snow Castle and Ice

Fishing holes. Warm up your imagination with lots of cookie fun in the kitchen, and help Santa’s reindeer prepare for their flight! Be sure to stop by and see Santa to get in those last minute holiday wishes. Make sure you allow time to dig for dinosaur fossils, learn about the Power of Children and more. For more information visit www.childrensmuseum.org. These are just a few of the FREE things to do this holiday season. For a full calendar of events, make sure you check out www. visitindy.com. Kimberly Harms is the mother of four (5, 21, 22 and 24 years old) and the grandmother of a brand new baby boy.

1 p.m.

Tommy Wills Orchestra performs at the Artsgarden (Christmas jazz, blues & classics)

Dress Up Your Holiday Party

Sunday, Dec. 20 President Benjamin Harrison Home

10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Holiday season at the authentically-restored 1875 Italianate home of President Benjamin Harrison, our 23rd President, features Victorian holiday adornment. The decor includes feather trees, Harrison family toys and ornaments. Most people don’t realize that Harrison was the first President to decorate a tree in the White House. A replica of it can be seen at Harrison’s Indianapolis home. The tradition began in 1889. This holiday season, the home will also feature a fun exhibit called Campaigns & Cartoons: the Role of Caricature in Political Persuasion, 1862-1912. It’s a great way to find out more about the people who came up with Uncle Sam, Miss Columbia, and the icons by which the two major parties are known today – the donkey and elephant. For more information visit www.presidentbenjaminharrison.org

Monday, Dec. 21 Indiana S t at e Celebration

9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

M u s e u m’s Crossing

Nostalgia reigns supreme at holiday time and Celebration Crossing, the museum’s holiday exhibit, delivers on all fronts. The annual exhibit opens on November 27 with all of the much-loved traditional events, plus some new activities sure to please visitors of all ages. Santa and Mrs. Claus welcome visits from children of all ages while just outside their house the Santa Claus Express train is open for business throughout the exhibit from November 27 – December 31. Details and reservations at www.indianamuseum.org.

Tuesday, Dec. 22 Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians & Western Art

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

The museum contains one of the best Native American and Western art collections in the world, including traditional and contemporary work by artists such as T.C. Cannon, N. C. Wyeth, Andy Warhol, Georgia O’Keeffe, Allan Houser, Frederic Remington, Charles Russell and Kay Walkingstick. They also host an Indian

This season, Try On Traminette at all of your holiday celebrations! It’s the perfect time to introduce family and friends to the delicious aroma and delectable spiciness of Indiana’s brand new signature wine. Grown in Indiana. Crafted in Indiana, by some of the finest winemakers in the world. Try On Traminette and impress your guests with this exceptional white wine. To find your nearest Indiana winery offering Traminette, log on at TryOnTraminette.org. INDYSCHILD.COM 19

During the last 50 years, technology has changed how we do everything from shopping to farming, how police cars patrol our neighborhoods and, more recently, how we educate our children. Computers are in every classroom and are being integrated into every subject. Taking it a step further are virtual charter schools.

What is a virtual charter school? Virtual charter or on-line schools take many forms. Fulltime virtual charter schools allow students to complete schoolwork from home by completing the state-approved curriculum both on-line and by traditional methods including science projects, text book work and field trips. Blended programs are conducted at home and at a central location for group study. All models include ample socialization and online certified teachers to support students and parents along the way. According to Evergreen Consulting, there are an estimated 320,000 course enrollments in state virtual charter schools and 175,000 students in full-time online schools in the United States. Sixty-nine percent of the public say that they would be willing to have a child go through high school taking some academic courses over the Internet. Not much has been known about virtual schools in Indiana — until this year. K12, the largest provider of online school programs in the United States, has partnered with school districts and charter schools, some state-wide or just within school districts. “We are most known for online public schooling for kindergarten through 12th grade offering full-time education with core and elective courses. Families get certified teacher support and college preparatory classes,” said Jeff Kwitowski, vice president of public relations with K12. K12 has partnered with Ball State University to create Hoosier Academies, composed of public charter school programs authorized by the Indiana Department of Education. Two separate centers exist in Indiana to operate a two-year virtual pilot charter school for 200 students in grades one through five. “Students go to a learning center two days a week for an extended school day and spend the rest of their time learning at home,” said Kwitowski. The Hoosier Academies, located in Muncie and Indianapolis, are a blended model of virtual schools. “Because of a law enacted in Indiana that requires that charter schools have at least 50 percent of time in class, we’ve established two learning centers to meet these requirements,” said Kwitowski.

Why they work? “Virtual schools like, Hoosier Academies, offer a highly individualized nature of programs for each student. The inflexibility of traditional 40-minute school periods doesn’t apply in the virtual model. Students who have difficulty with a particular concept get more time to comprehend it; while an engaged student can take more time to explore. They are not limited by the end of class time,” said Kwitowski. There are over 50,000 K12 students across the world studying nearly one million courses. “K12 international academy brings students together to interact, discuss, debate and participate in a mock United Nations. The “Big Think” is a closed online social forum that engages students internationally,” said Kwitowski “With so many courses available for all ages, students as young as third graders are being exposed to foreign language courses. Virtual charter schools allow students to earn a public state-approved education at their own pace with access to 20 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2009

Virtual Education 1.0 Popularity of Online Education Reaches New Heights

worldwide interaction with other students and an extensive list of elective courses.” Openings are still available for those interested in Hoosier Academies. Open to the public, virtual learning offers flexibility for students that are focused on other talents including athletics, music or the arts. Students with special needs will benefit from the one-onone attention and flexible schedule as would anyone else interested in participating in a virtual charter school program. “Virtual learning is best suited for kids that learn better outside the four walls of a classroom or students that need something more engaging. The only true measure of success in a virtual school program is the level of commitment of the parent and where the student comes from with their background and challenges and opportunities that exist there,” said Kathy Isenberg, marketing and community manager. She adds that the curriculum is not designed to do each piece as purchased or if enrolled in Hoosier Academy because there are different elements for each learning style. “K12 curriculum isn’t just computer-based. It’s designed to adapt to any child’s learning style. So kinesthetic learners learn with their hands and there are lessons for them as there are other styles. For example in a 15-minute lesson there are five activities that are all parts of learning, visual and textbook. The activity that best suits their learning style is the one that can be used to teach for the entire 15 minutes.”

How they work? While working with their learning coach, it is expected that students will spend no more than 20 to 25 percent of that time on the computer, especially in the early grades. Older students may spend more time online in certain subjects, but the majority of their time is spent working with a learning coach. In learning centers, a computer is the primary tool for the teacher to facilitate lessons with the whole class or small groups. There are a variety of virtual educational software programs available, but K12 uses www.illuminate.com to facilitate class connect sessions. “Parents are provided daily curriculum guides and links to every class their child is participating in and they are provided tracking software to know exactly how he or she is progressing and what areas need more attention,” said Shaw. At Hoosier Academies, Kindergarten through eighth grade students interact with one or more state-certified teachers (depending on the grade level) and communicate regularly with their teachers. Everything students need for in-classroom instruction is provided at each of the learning centers. For the off-site portion of the program, each family receives boxes of materials, including a wide array of textbooks, videos, and other hands-on tools and resources. These materials complement the interactive online elements of the program to ensure that students receive instruction using the best method for each subject.

“There is a common misconception that virtual learning is homeschooling, but it is actually funded by the Department of Education as a public school. Students are issued a computer and printer and other teaching materials at no charge,” said Shaw. Ball State University is authorized to approve — and then must monitor performance of —charter schools in Indiana, which are public schools run not by public school systems, but by independent nonprofit entities. In 2007, five charter schools were approved, two of them being the K12 public schools. According to Ron Packard, founder and CEO of K12, online schools are the most public of public schools. “K12 has broken down boundaries, made accessible excellent teachers and courses to anyone regardless of social, economic status or ability of students,” said Kwitowski. The manner in which your child learns varies as much as their demeanor. The approach parents and teachers take with each of their children and students must vary as well to maximize their success. It is imperative that parents think outside the box when considering their child’s education. Quality public or private schools, charter schools and homeschooling each in their own right allow educators to customize the approach to education. Nikki Keever is a freelance writer living in Noblesville, Indiana with her husband, three children.

Online information sessions: Thursday, December 3 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 16 3:00 p.m. Thursday, January 7 3:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 12 10:00 a.m. Thursday, February 4 10:00 a.m. Monday, February 8 3:00 p.m. Monday, March 8 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 24 10:00 a.m.

On-site information sessions: Muncie location 2801 E 16th Street, Muncie, IN 47302 Thursday, December 17 5:30 p.m. Thursday, January 21 5:30 p.m. Thursday, February 25 5:30 p.m. Thursday, March 18 6:30 p.m. Indianapolis location 5640 Caito Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46226 Held on Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. December 8, January 5, February 9, March 9

K12 gets kids thinking big. It’s what happens when they mash up math and physics to catch air. When they instinctively calculate a turning angle and know that friction is their friend. When they push force and energy to the mathematical limit. That’s thanks to K12 and our award-winning curriculum, individualized to bring learning alive, one child at a time. Every subject is delivered online, with hands-on activities, plus books and support from expert teachers.

when kids get into learning, learning gets into them.

Options include: • Full-time, tuition-free public schooling in many states • An accredited online private school available worldwide • Over 180 individual courses including foreign languages, AP, and electives available for direct purchase • A robust Advanced Learner Program that challenges talented children with unique enrichment opportunities We’re America’s largest online curriculum provider for grades K through 12. Because we give every student a chance to think big.

Learn more at

K12.com.

Interested in a full-time tuition-free public school option? The K¹² program is available through two statewide programs in Indiana: Hoosier Academies, a hybrid school authorized by Ball State University, for grades K-11, and the Indiana Virtual Pilot School, a virtual program administered by the Indiana Department of Education, for grades 1-5. Both programs offer state-certified teachers, a supportive school community, and a range of extracurricular activities.

The Indiana Virtual Pilot School is currently accepting enrollments for grades 1-5 for an immediate start, and Hoosier Academies is accepting enrollments for grades K-10 for second semester. Visit www.K12.com/in to learn more or to see a complete list of upcoming events near you, including our online information sessions available from the comfort of your home.

www.K12.com/in 866.912.3348

ACADEMIES

INDYSCHILD.COM 21

Blackberry Tour This season’s hot must-have for the unorg an ized professional on your list. The Blackberry Tour is the newest line of smartphone complete with full qwerty keyboard, trackball and hundreds of apps, calendar, tasks, 3 MP camera, speakerphone and more. Now syncs with Blackberry Desktop for both Mac and PC plus the accessories can do everything from desktop charging and connecting to any nearby stereo for automatic audio. Website: www.blackberry.com Cost: Varies based on contract with service provider. Band Hero The newest line of Band Hero comes stocked with old and new songs. Available on the Nintendo DS, this portable edition comes equipped with a plug in guitar buttons and a slip

22 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2009

on drum pad as well as a stylus in the shape of a guitar pick. Also available is the new Band Hero for the Wii. Jackson 5, Joss Stone, Maroon 5, No Doubt, Duran Duran and much more. Play the drums or guitar or sing along with your favorite songs. Includes a USB microphone, drum kit, guitar, drumsticks, guitar strap, kick pedal for drums and guitar faceplate. Website: www.nintendo.com Cost: $199.99 (Wii) or $49.99 (DS) BlackBerry VM605 Bluetooth Handsfree Visor Speakerphone This Blackberr yspecific hands-free visor includes a built-in FM tuner so you can play music through your car’s stereo. It automatically auto-stops music when a call rings through and is designed to work with voice-activated dialing, caller ID and verbal commands. It has up to 13 hours of talk time, includes four LED indicators to show battery status,

connection and call status and FM radio. Use it for last-number dialing, call-mute and ignoring calls. Cost: $99 Maisto Tech Offroad Jeep Rubicon This remotecontrol Jeep comes in a 1:16th scale and will fill any youngster’s (or older) need for some fast-paced fun. Website: www.maisto.com/ Cost: $34.99 Sasquatch Pet Bed Keeping warm and cozy this winter is just as important for your four legged family member as it is for the rest of the clan! An ultimate first-of-its kind pet bed has hit the market. Shaped like an oversized Croc and lined with fluffy faux fleece, The Sasquatch Pet Bed is as much a conversation piece for the whole family

as a comfy place for Fido or Fluffy to sleep. It’s available in six bold colors, including hot pink and electric blue. Easy to clean, too! Website: www.sasquatchpetbeds.com Cost: $99.95 Shark VX63 2 in 1 Cordless Vacuum Ultra-lightweight and convenient, the Shark VX63 2 in 1 cordless hand and stick vac is great. With its powerful suction it effectively picks up dirt, hair and food particles from hard floor surfaces and low pile carpet. Extremely versatile, this 2 in 1 vacuum becomes a powerful hand vac with a crevice feature that is perfect for corners and tight spaces. As a stick vac, with shark swivel steering, a motorized brush and powerful suction it is perfect for both bare floors and carpets. The removable battery charges anywhere and the telescopic handle adjusts to different heights. Website: www.sharkclean.com Cost: $99.00

Wii Sports Resort This sequel to the popular Wii Sports makes use of the Wii MotionPlus accessory, which gives players the most responsive and realistic experience possible. The Wii MotionPlus accessory, which is included with Wii Sports Resort, plugs into the base of the Wii Remote controller and, combined with the accelerometer and sensor bar, provides an experience that gives players an even greater sense of immersion. Website: www.nintendo.com Cost: $49.99 Scribblenauts In Scribblenauts, players use the Nintendo DS touch-screen to help their character Maxwell acquire the Starite in each level by solving a series of puzzles armed with their stylus, notepad and imagination. Players jot down the word for any object that comes

to mind in order to reach the goal. Every object behaves as it would in the real world, and players can combine countless objects to create completely new scenarios. Players advance through ten worlds, each with eleven puzzle and eleven action levels for a total of 220 challenges to complete. Website: www.nintendo.com Cost: $29.99 Hannah’s Kittens This absolutely adorable plush basket full of fuzzy and cuddly kittens is sure to make any little one squeal with joy. Comes in a marabou-lined reusable hat box and three precious kittens named Sweat Pea, Daisy and Violet. The first edition, there are only 1,000 boxes of Hannah’s Kittens available so you’re not only buying a fit-for-aprincess toy, but also a collector’s item! Winner of two “Toy of the Year” awards! Website: www.hannahskittens.com Cost: $129.99 World of Zoo Step into the World of Zoo–the only sim game that pushes you past the fences and into a world of your own zoo. Create and customize your zoo experience and develop hands-on relationships to earn the trust and love of your animals.

Website: www.worldofzoo.com Cost: $39.99

Website: www.mattel.com Cost: $49.99

Batman: The Brave and Bold Batmobile Get ready for the ultimate crime-fighting action! The Batmobile from Batman: The Brave and the Bold transforms from ultra-cool and ultra-stylized Batmobile to the awesome crime-fighting Bat Jet that fires two projectiles! It’s exciting transformative play and fun action-adventure all-in-one! Website: www.mattel.com Cost: $34.99

Leap Frog Tag Junior Touch the Book Pal to the Tag Junior book and bring the book to life with more than 130 playful audio responses. Includes a USB cable to connect to the internet so parents can track progress and other supplemental activities. Cost: $34.99

Polly Pocket Rollercoaster Resort Hop aboard Polly doll’s fab roller coaster for a luxury vacation adventure! The continuous car goes up the escalator, through the tunnel, to the exotic vista point with a waterfall slide and mountaintop pool. Next stop, the luxurious hotel suite where Polly stops to drop off her luggage and chillax. Then lookout below, it’s a wild ride through the tropical paradise with splash pool, a dining room buffet and disco dance room! Includes one doll and one pet. Other dolls shown sold as part of separate sets.

Zippity High Energy Learning System Kids will get up and move when they play with this over sized joystick and activity mat that connects to your TV. They will play and learn with their favorite Disney characters in 3-D animation. Cost: $79.99 Moby Wrap Baby Carrier Be uniquely close to your baby. Your baby can hear your heartbeat and keep cozy while you carry them safe and close hands free. This carrier uses a wide band of comfortable and slightly

stretchy material with no fasteners or narrow straps to dig in or wear you down. Distribute the weight and carry your baby comfortably in a variety of ways. Cost: $39.95 Blazer Butane Refillable Torch Lighter Touted as the world’s first torch lighter, the Blazer torch Model PB207 has set the standard for modern lighters. It features an electric crystal ignition system and powerful blue wind resistant 2500 F flame. Maintains an easy ignition system while providing a unique child resistant safety feature. Cost: $55.00 Colortunes by iHome The iH15W is a small, 5-1/2-inch cube with handy carrying handles and internal adjustable lighting. The cube features four color change settings for cycling through the colors, which is great for parties and other fun occasions. Cost: $59.99 Logitech Performance Mouse MX Leave it to the world’s leading maker of high-

performance mice to conquer the surface where no mouse has worked before. The culmination of a groundbreaking five-year engineering effort, Logitech Darkfield Laser Tracking shatters the glass barrier with the first track-on-glass technology. So now you can conquer any task on virtually any surface without a second thought. Cost: $99.99 Ivar Daypack Multiple organizing pockets, A ir f low back design, Wide & padded shoulder straps, Dual side pockets, Adjustable sternum strap, Headphone port, Ref lective details, YKK zippers, . The Urban 33 is the bigger brother to the original Urban daypack. Customers asked for a larger Urban option and the Urban 33 was the long anticipated answer. Simply a great all around backpack, popular as a school or recreational pack. Cost: $70.00 Candy Land Sweet Celebration Game Introducing new worlds, new characters, and a whole new way to play Candy Land! There’s a celebration at King Kandy’s castle.

CREATE MAGIC

Theatre Workshops for Youth starting in January Preschool – 9th Grade • Acting – Musical Theatre – Storytelling • Saturdays – Weekdays – After School • Adult classes also available

INDIANAPOLIS CIVIC THEATRE 3200 Cold Spring Road On the campus of Marian University www.civictheatre.org

Classes at Indianapolis Civic Theatre 317-924-6770 x217 or www.jrcivic.org INDYSCHILD.COM 23

Everyone’s inv ited, and each character wants to bring treats. Visit the locations and gather sweet surprises to take to the party. You build the path, and you decide how many treats you want to collect. It’s Candy Land your way! Cost: $25.99 Spy Ge ar Lazer Tripwire Secu re you r perimeter just like banks and museums do with this tripwire. Only you can spot the beams with secret spy mist. Use Lazer Tripwire to guard a favorite object or protect your room against sneaky siblings. Includes three sensors/emitters. Website: www.spygear.net Cost: $37.00 Battleship An updated version of the classic Hasbro board game: Battleship. The new double sided battle grid and hexagon placement option adds new elements to this time tested family game. Cost: $24.99

re so u rce s

Loud Enough Volume Limiting Headphones The Loud Enough earphone offers full, detailed sound in a small and lightweight form factor. It was developed especially for children ages 8+ who listen to their earphones while in the car, playing video games, watching movies, walking to school or just hanging out with their friends. The key feature of Loud Enough earphones is built-in sound pressure protection that reduces any music source by up to 40%. The volume control element is invisible to kids and to them look like the cool ear buds that they are. Due to the noise isolating design, children will not have a need to turn the volume up so loud. Website: www.loudenough.com Cost: $39.99 The Game of LIfe - Bikini Bottom SpongeBob SquarePants Edition The life choices you make in this classic board game may make you rich - or you may get soaked! Experience life SpongeBob style—become a fry cook at the

shopping corner

24 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2009

Krusty Krab, adopt a giant clam as a pet or get stung by a jellyfish! The one with the most clams at the end of the game, wins! Cost: $89.99 Mickey Hot Dog Dancer Mickey is at again! This updated classic says fun Mickey phrases, dances along to 2 songs: including the popular “Hot Dog” song from the show, and tells funny jokes. Cost: $39.99 Trio Bulding Set with Storage Easy building for kids ages 3-5, the Trio Building Set comes with with bricks, sticks and panels to provide more ways for kids to build their creativity. It features easy to attach parts that click and hold together for big building play and provides multiple ways to build. The set comes in fun, bright colors and include custom parts such as figures, wheels and chassis and durable tub for convenient storage and clean up. Cost: $29.99

Go Diego Go Extreme Launch & Rescue Pack New for 2009, this extreme back pack is just like Diego’s from the show! It features over 50 rescue missions, sounds and phrases. Spot an animal in trouble and launch the rescue flares which store inside the pack. Includes the pack with built in binoculars, five removable accessories and batteries. Cost: $54.99 Flippity Kickball Wubbzy Navigate Wubbz y on a wubtastic ride with the FlippityKickball Wubbzy RC. It comes with a blue polka-dot kicketykickball, just like on the show, and an attached plush Wubbzy dressed in his underwear. This remote controlled toy can be driven in two directions forward and reverse. All electronics and mechanism are in the ball and the remote is shaped like a “W”. When ball is driven forward Wubbzy follows behind the ball on his feet. If ball is driven forward and suddenly reversed wubbzy flips over the ball and is dragged on head. If ball is

driven forward and not suddenly reversed, Wubbzy will not flip over. If Wubbzy bonks into anything he makes a funny noise or phrase! Cost: $44.99 Super Wikki Stix Amazing three-foot lengths of Wikki Stix One-of-a-Kind Creatables are the perfect opportunity for super-creativity. Six different bright neon colors colors, 48 individual Wikki Stix, for a total of 144 feet of anytime, anywhere fun! Wikki Stix adhere to almost all smooth surfaces with just fingertip pressure press them down, peel them up again to make changes. Cut to your own desired length for flat or 3-D imaginative play. Perfect for class projects, rainy day fun, festive seasonal decor. Cost: $19.95 Hyper Blast Numbers Game Stimulate your child’s mind and body with this fast paced, exciting game. The Hyper Blast game starts when you stomp the blaster and the game sends the numbered balls flying while shouting out commands. Return the balls to solve the

problem and the fastest time wins. Choose from double digits, reverse order or math games to sharpen the mind and the body. Cost: $29.99 1-2-3 Stomp! This game is a great way to promote physical activity while helping develop number and math skills. Stomp the pad to send the numbers flying, follow the instruction to identify numbers and colors and then develop skills for simple addition and subtraction. Can be played solo or in teams, can be played indoors or out and doesn’t require electricity. Cost: $29.99 Yankee Candle MacIntosh Puzzle This 300 piece puzzle is sure to challenge your mind and stimulate your senses! The scent of MacIntosh apples will fill the room while you fit together the unique Yankee Candle Jar shaped pieces. Cost: $22.99

new best friend and hard-working buddy Rocky, the interactive dump truck! Interactive sensors and motorized movement bring Rocky to life - he speaks over 100 phrases talking and interacting with kids and even tells jokes! Rocky can also dance, his headlights light up and his rugged design and full-tilting bed are great for manipulative play. 36 months - 10 years. Website: www.matchbox.com Cost: $88.99 Fisher Price Little People Happy Sounds Home Allows little girls to discover their very first home and provides them with tons fun. Playset folds open to reveal plenty of rooms on 2 levels, plus activities & fun sounds to keep them busy. Features a open and close refrigerator, ringing telephone, washer/dryer unit with realistic machine SFX. The tub bubbles, lift the toilet seat to hear it flush. Playset comes with Mom, Dad and Baby figures, table, 2 chairs & high-chair. Folds closed for storage; all parts/pieces fit inside. Ages 12 months - 4 years. Website: www.fisherprice.com Cost: $44.99

MATCHBOX Rocky the Robot Truck Now boys can 08307 INFINITI INDYwith CHILD AD_F interact their

12/5/08

2:52 PM

Fisher Price Imaginext Dragon World Fortress The Imaginext Dragon Castle Playset is a vertical castle that features a world of accessories and activation points. Figures and helmets that activate feature points. Twist, lower, open, close, spin, turn and more to hear dozens of different sounds. Great fun for kids 36 months - 5 years. Website: www.fisherprice.com Cost: $54.99 Mobi Headphonies By far best little mini speakers you’ll ever get your hands on. Plug your cell phone, mp3 player., portable gaming station, etc. Just 3” tall this little guy boasts a built-in hi-fi amplifier that we promise will wow you. Try it for yourself! Website: www.getmobi.com Cost: $24.95 Orange Howell’s Snowflake Ornaments Paula Zanger has made products for

Page 1

2009 Infiniti QX56 AWD with DVD

Starting at

$60,715

DREYER & REINBOLD INFINITI DreyerReinboldInfiniti.com

9370 Whitley Dr. (West of Keystone on 96th St., 2 blocks, left on Whitley Dr.) 317-573-0222 • 1-800-837-0222

Logitech Squeezebox Radio Stop trying to find a place to plug in your mp3 player or phone! This one-of-a-kind radio lets you listen to your own personal music from everything from Pandora and Rhapsody to Slacker and Facebook. Access digital music stored on your PC or Mac, iPod and more. Plug your iPod directly into the built-in jack for immediate access or listen to internet or local radio. Finally, a radio that works with everything. Website: www.logitech.com Cost: $199.99 Elmo’s Tickle Hands A great spin off of the Tickle me Elmo toys, these gloves tickle, laugh and sing with just the shake of a hand.

They are bright and furry and the perfect size for little hands. The gloves also come with a DVD that teaches kids the “Tickle Hand Groove.” It’s a great toy for kids featuring one of their favorite Sesame Street characters. Website: www.ticklehands.com Cost: $30.00 Crayola Ultimate Art Supplies Kids and parents alike will love this all-in-one art studio with on-the-go portability, and storage for easy cleanup. Case comes filled with everything a budding artist needs: 8 washable watercolors and paint brush, 8 washable markers, 12 colored pencils, 24 crayons, scissors, glue and construction paper. Website: crayolastore.com Cost: $16.99 JengA Max A new twist on Jenga! This time around you can build it wide or build it tall, just don’t let it fall! Hang or hook the blocks onto one another but don’t upset the balance. The last one to hang a block without it collapsing wins! Cost: $21.99

Nannies

Model No. 86519

INDIANAPOLIS

everyone from Vera Want to Barneys NY, so her very own label, Orange HOWELL (named after her Hoosier grandfather) is a beautiful addition to her works. Each silver-plated ornament is unique with jewel-like crystals set within the intricately created piece. Great idea for the ornament collector! Website: www.orangehowell.com Cost: $45-$75

GREENWOOD

1301 US Highway 31 S (2 Miles South of the Greenwood Park Mall) 317-885-4800 • 1-800-315-2288

✴ Permanent full-time & part-time ✴ New Mother’s Helper ✴ Household Managers & Assistants

317-319-0027

www.SolutionsHomeStaffing.com

INDYSCHILD.COM 25

Sometimes the best gift is found over the tree, not under it. The Riley Safety Store at Riley Hospital for Children wants your holidays to be merry, but safe. Nationally each year, fires occurring during the holiday season claim the lives of more than 400 people, injure 1,650 more, and cause over $990 million in damage. For information on fire prevention and child safety products, call the Riley Safety Store at 317-274-6565 or visit rileyhospital.org.

26 INDYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CHILD * DECEMBER 2009

Clip and bring this voucher to receive

one free vocal smoke alarm per family* while supplies last at the Riley Safety Store located within the Riley Hospital for Children Outpatient Center, 575 West Dr. *For the first 100 families.

INDYSCHILD.COM 27

CO MM E NTA RY & PA R E NTIN G

dear teacher

Motivating Kids, Homeschooling & Improving Reading Fluency Teachers Answer Your Tough Questions

Motivating Your Children Parents: So many of you lament that your children are not motivated to do well in school. You may even brand your children as lazy. This usually is not true. However as children get older, their passion for learning often seems to shrink. It happens for some because they have failed repeatedly at school tasks and no longer see any sense in trying. And it happens for many young teens because of the distractions of biological changes, emotional concerns, and social and peer pressures. Plus, some unmotivated children may never have learned that school success takes time and effort. The loss of motivation can also be fueled by insufficient support in a new school or by an increased workload and expectations to which students haven’t yet adjusted. As children get older, it seems to become more difficult to motivate them to do well in school. Of course, part of this job belongs to your children’s teachers. Children are more motivated to learn in classes where the work is challenging, yet achievable and where they see how the skills that they are learning can be

applied outside of school. And many schools motivate their students by having an atmosphere that stresses learning. Parents also play an important role in developing, maintaining, and rekindling their children’s motivation to learn. Because of the importance of children valuing learning for its own sake, our New Year’s resolutions this year deal with ways you can help your children be motivated to learn. • Resolve to be a good role model. Let your children see that you put forth your best effort in completing work and meeting obligations. • Resolve to show your children that you are interested in their schoolwork. • Resolve to help your children succeed in school by contacting teachers whenever your children encounter any difficulties in learning to find out how they can be helped. • Resolve to offer sincere praise to your children based on their effort and improvement at school. • Resolve to find tasks in and out of school that your children can succeed in to build an “I can do it” attitude. • Resolve to use rewards infrequently to encourage your children’s motivation to do school tasks.

• Resolve to find your children’s strengths and to build upon them. • Resolve to teach your children how to set goals and to work hard to achieve them.

Is Homeschooling a Good Idea? Question: I think that my children might do better in school if I home school them. Is this a good idea? – For Change Answer: Home-schooled children usually do well academically. However, it’s not easy to home school. You must have the time and patience to work closely with your children and the organizational skills to develop and implement a solid curriculum. You can’t decide whether home schooling is right for your children until you learn all about it. Visit these Web sites: www.home-ed-magazine.com, www.teachinghome.com, and www. homeschool.com, find out what the legal requirements are for homeschooling in your state, and talk to as many

Ask me what I learned at Orchard today.

Orchard is committed to developing the hearts and minds of young people. Leadership, critical thinking, confidence, communication skills, integrity, character, social skills, as well as proven high school and college success are hallmarks of an Orchard education.

homeschoolers as you can before making daughter is currently in a reading class, your decision. she is not likely to get much help at school to increase her fluency. How to Improve Children’s Reading Fluency Fortunately, you can help your daughter Question:What is f luency? My improve her fluency. Read a short bit of daughter is in eighth grade and her whole class text material to her. This gives her a model was just tested. The results came home that for how the passage should sound. Then she was not a fluent reader. How can this be have her reread it aloud to you. Provide assistance, when necessary. Next, have her improved? – Needs Fluency reread the passage until she can do so quite Answer: Reading fluency is the ability fluently. Three or four times are usually to read material quickly and accurately. sufficient. Also, you can read a passage Children who are fluent readers can to your daughter. Then read it aloud focus their attention on understanding together three to five times. This doesn’t what they are reading because they do have to be done on the same day. Your not have to concentrate on recognizing daughter will not become a fluent reader individual words. The reverse is true for overnight. However, she definitely will less fluent readers. If your daughter is able become a more fluent reader if you and to improve her fluency, she will at the she frequently do repeated oral reading. same time improve her comprehension. These same techniques can be used to help beginning readers become more fluent Until recently, fluency was a neglected readers. There are more techniques to reading skill. Now, more and more help struggling readers on our Web site attention is being focused on it in the in Resources under “Skill Builders.” classroom. It has been discovered that Parents should send questions to the best way to improve fluency is for dearteacher@dearteacher.com or ask students to read aloud. It is not through them on the columnists’ Web site at www. more silent reading. Unless your dearteacher.com.

a ro u n d tow n

profile: wonderlab

Bloomington Family Winter Breakaway The Sound & Science of Music includes a complementary hot breakfast and other amenities to maximize guest comfort. Travelers rate the hotel among the top three accommodations in Bloomington. The Hampton Inn is located at 2100 N. Walnut St.

Make the season especially joyful with an affordable family holiday in Bloomington, Indiana! Bloomington Family Breakaway: The Sound & Science of Music includes discounts on accommodations at the Hampton Inn, tickets to the Cardinal Stage Company’s The Sound of Music, and admission at the WonderLab Museum of Science, Health and Technology. The travel package is available December 22, 2009 through January 4, 2010.

Special package rate: $69 per night. Hamption Inn is located just north of downtown near landmark Indiana University sports arenas, the Hampton Inn offers 129 recently renovated and exceptionally clean rooms. The package

The Cardinal Stage Company and The Sound of Music are offering a package discount: One half-price child or student ticket with the purchase of each adult ticket. Child is defined as age 12 and younger. Students are middle and high school or college students with ID. The final work by the renowned team of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein, The Sound of Music is one of the most beloved musicals ever produced. It will be offered by the Cardinal Stage Company at the restored Buskirk-Chumley Theater in downtown Bloomington as follows: Dec. 22 (7 p.m.), Dec. 23 (2 p.m. and 7 p.m.), Dec. 26 (2 p.m. and 7 p.m.), Dec. 27 (2 p.m. and 7 p.m.), Jan.1 (2 p.m. and 7 p.m.), Jan. 2 (2 p.m. and 7 p.m.), and Jan. 3 (2 p.m. and 7 p.m.). The Cardinal Stage Company is an acclaimed professional theater

company serving south-central Indiana. The company’s productions deftly combine the talents of local actors with visiting artists from major theater centers and with Indiana University faculty and staff.

The WonderLab Museum of Science, Health and Technology is also offering a package discount: One half-price child general admission with each paid adult general admission, plus a 20% coupon on museum gift store souvenir purchases. Child is defined as ages 1-17. Ranked a top 25 science museum by Parents magazine and named “a hidden treasure” by Indy’s Child, WonderLab provides opportunities for visitors of all ages to experience the wonder and excitement of science. The museum has two floors of exciting hands-on exhibits, including a collection devoted to the science of sound. WonderLab is open Tuesday through Sunday. The museum is closed on Mondays, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Located at 308 W. Fourth St. in the heart of the Bloomington Entertainment and Arts District (BEAD), WonderLab is a few blocks west of the Buskirk-Chumley Theater, located at 114 E. Kirkwood Avenue. Both destinations are within walking distance of the Indiana University campus.

Bloomington Family Breakaway: The Sound & Science of Music is available by making a reservation at the Hampton Inn. Call 812-334-2100. Other information at

available

cardinalstage.org

and

wonderlab.org. Information about dining, shopping and other local attractions is on the

Bloomington/Monroe

County Visitor Bureau Web site, visitbloomington.com.

INDYSCHILD.COM 29

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childcare & education directory

Childcare & Education Directory Child Care

Meridian Kessler Wee Folk Child Care Meridian Kessler Neighborhood Indianapolis 317-926-3640 Ages: 4 weeks+ Quality in-home child care serving caring families for 20 years. (CPR, 1st aid certified, and state licensed). Two meals and one snack provided daily along with baby food and regular formula. We provide quality learning through play in a non-smoking Christian environment. Preschool program providing Kindergarten prep is available. $130/week. 7:15-5:30 M-F.

Northwest Shining Stars Home Childcare 4851 Rocky Knob Lane, Indianapolis, IN 46254 Erin Bonnell 317-222-6156 ebonnell@shiningstarshomechildcare.com http://shiningstarshomechildcare.com NOW ENROLLING!! Shining Stars Home Child Care is now accepting applications for children, infants through school age. Licensed Home Child Care Provider with 10+ years of experience working with children: in child care settings and more recently as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am a part of Paths to Quality which assists child care centers in implementing educational requirements for young children. I am CPR/First aid certified, trained in Universal Precautions, as well as Safe Sleep Practices. Hours are 7 am to 5:30 pm, Monday through Friday. Full time, Part time, Hourly and Before/After School rates available. CCDF is accepted. Located on the near Northwest side of Indianapolis, only ten minutes from downtown on I-65, or minutes west off of Michigan by 56th/Kessler. Easy access from I-65 coming from Zionsville as well. Please contact me for more information, to answer any questions, and to request an application packet. Feel free to request a face-to-face meeting in order for us to get to know each other and to see where the children will be playing and learning. I look forward to helping your child shine!

Parenting Program

First Years Family Center P.O. Box 90315, Indianapolis, IN 46240 Peggy Meyer 317-201-6485 peg@firstyearsfamilycenter.org www.firstyearsfamilycenter.org First Years brings you together with other parents who are going through the same ages and stages that you are experiencing with your child. Our discussion groups are as supportive as they are informative. We incorporate children with special needs into our current programs. We also provide you and your child with an enriched play environment free of those distractions you have at home. 30 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2009

Preschools

creative art projects, music, literature, large and small muscle activities all in a “learn through play environment”. This is a parent run school. Tours available M&W 10-12.

Multiple Locations in Indianapolis Area For schools, see below. ICPC Line: 317-767-7596 Ages: Preschool classes for ages 2-5; other programs vary - Kindergarten, Stay & Play, Enrichment/Extended Days. Indianapolis Area Preschool and Kindergarten Cooperatives Cooperative Preschools: great for your child, great for you! Children and parents learn and grow together in the classroom with caring, experienced teachers. Indiana Council of Preschool Cooperatives (ICPC) member schools are: Apple House: 6121 E. County Rd 100 S, Avon, 797-5925 Butler: 2411 Indianapolis Ave, Indy, 226-4287 Downey: 111 S. Downey Rd, Indy, 359-5304 Edgewood: 4040 E. Thompson Rd, Indy, 767-7730 Fishers Point: 9959 E. 126th St, Fishers, 767-4312 Geist Orchard: 7879 N. 700 West, McCordsville, 336-7008 Meridian Hills Nursery School and Kindergarten: 7171 N. Pennsylvania, Indy, 255-0831 Meridian Street: 5500 N. Meridian St, Indy, 767-3003 Northeast Cooperative Preschool and Kindergarten: 5805 E. 56th St, Indy, 592-9790 Parkview: 4550 central Ave, Indy, 380-0628 Speedway: 3000 N. High School Rd, Indy, 356-2804 Willowcreek: 8170 Hague Rd, Indy, 578-5488

WEE Care Preschool and Kindergarten

Indiana Council of Preschool Cooperatives: ICPC

My Backyard Fine Arts Preschool at Geist Sports Academy 11960 East 62nd Street Indianapolis 317-823-7734 www.geistsportsacademy.com Ages: 2 year-Pre K (5 year) NOW ENROLLING FOR 2008-2009. Children will discover their unique selves and learn about the world around them through exploring the visual arts, creative movement and music appreciation. 9-11:45 a.m. M-Fri; MWF 9-1:30pm.

Parkview Cooperative Preschool 4550 Central Ave, indianapolis, in 46205 Kim Schmitt 317-380-0628 tsschmitt@aol.com www.parkviewpreschool.org Cooperative Meridian St. - Kessler $65 for 2 days for 2 to 3 yrs old, $85 for 3 days for 3 to 5 yrs old and $35 for extended day on Wed. M, W and F 9:30-12 and extended day W 12-2 for 3 to 5 yrs old. We offer a field trip for students aged 3 to 5 yrs about once a month. 2 to 5 years old. Call for a walk through during or after school hours Since 1965, Parkview has been educating children and parents in social skills, child development and ways to enjoy those short years before grade school. Children have hands on experiences in

8901 Fall Creek Road, Indianapolis, IN 46256 Sandi Carter 317-594-6968 weecare@fallcreekbaptist.com www.fallcreekbaptist.com Northeast Christian - Other Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: $145 per month for our 2 - 3 program; $205 for our PreKindergarten program; $215 for our Kindergarten program; $90 for Mom’s Day Out; $205 for 2 - 3 year olds with Mom’s Day Out Hours/Dates: 2 - 3 years meet Tues/Thurs from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.; PreK and Kindergarten meet Tues/ Thurs 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. AND Wed from 9 a.m. 2 p.m.; 6 months - 3 years can take advantage of Mom’s Day Out on Wed from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Field Trips: PreK and Kindergarten attend several field trips a year. In the past, they have visited Tuttles Apple Orchard, Traders Point Creamery and Stoney Creek Farms Ages/Grades: 6 months old (for Mom’ Day Out) through Kindergarten Before/After School Care: Early drop off is offered for an additional fee (ask for details) Open House Dates: OPEN HOUSE is February 9, 2010 12 p.m . - 2 p.m. We are a Christian Preschool located inside Fall Creek Baptist Church on Fall Creek Road. We provide structure and guided activities to develop language, reading, writing and math skills appropriate to your child’s stage of development. Music, Spanish and Motor Gym are also offered with the program. Call for your personal tour today! And...ask about our early registration discounts!

Carmel Carmel Montessori Schools, Inc. Emily & Scott Rudicel 1402 W. Main St. Carmel, IN 317-580-0699 info@carmelmontessori.com www.carmelmontessori.com Ages: Pre-school through Kindergarten. Carmel Montessori School is located on the beautiful campus at St. Christopher’s Church on the NE corner of Main St. and Meridian in Carmel. Our directress is American Montessori Certified with 10 years head-teaching experience. We offer a beautiful, peaceful and positive Montessori learning environment. Extended days available.

Clay Montessori Peggy White 463 East Main St. Carmel 317-849-9519 or 317-580-1850 Ages: 3-6 Call for more information. (Affiliated with Fisher’s Montessori). Morning, afternoon and full-day programs.

Gymboree Play & Music 12524 N. Gray Rd, Carmel, IN 46033 Phone: 317-574-9626 Email: carmelin@gymboreeclasses.com Gymboree offers unique Play & Learn, Music or Art events & parties. These events are lead by our professional teachers in our clean, creative and colorful environment. We can also bring the event to you with our mobile program. Ages birth - 5 years.

The Montessori Learning Center

Brownsburg

Elizabeth Williams 1402 W. Main St. Carmel 317-846-8182 elizabeth@ themontessorilearningcenter.com www.themontessorilearningcenter.com Ages: Grades 1-3 The Montessori Learning Center Elementary program focuses on developing the whole child through interaction with an interdisciplinary curriculum. Our program specifically meets the needs of each child and is aligned with Indiana State Standards.

Maria Montessori International Academy

Primrose School at WestClay

Schools

431 E. Northfield Dr., Brownsburg, IN 317-852-3900 www.mariamontessori-intl.org Ages: 12 months to 6 years Maria Montessori International Academy offers a child centered Montessori program allowing children to learn at their own pace and are treated with respect. Teachers encourage and inspire children to do not only the minimum, but also their best, where learning should be a happy, joyous experience! Children learn how to think for themselves and how to solve problems in original and creative ways and have a positive self-image. Children participate in math, language, music, art, practical life, science, geography, and foreign language. Discover the Difference at the Maria Montessori! Now accepting applications for all ages toddlers, Pre-K and Kindergarten.

13096 Moultrie Street Julie Gayes 317-873-0123 jgayes@primrosewestclay.com www.primrosewestclay.com Ages/Grades: Our programs are offered to students ages 6 weeks through 12 years of age. The Primrose School at WestClay is dedicated to providing outstanding educational care to students ages 6 weeks through 12 years of age. Our curriculum is NCA accredited and offers many extras such as Spanish, technology, sign language, character development, music appreciation, art appreciation, science, social studies, reading, English, and math. Please call today to learn how more than 90% of Primrose students out performed the national average.

re so u rce s

Carmel -Zionsville Maria Montessori International Academy 4370 Weston Point Dr. Zionsville 317-769-2220 www.mariamontessori-intl.org Ages: 3 months to 6 years old Maria Montessori International Academy offers a child centered Montessori program allowing children to learn at their own pace and are treated with respect. Teachers encourage and inspire children to do not only the minimum, but also their best, where learning should be a happy, joyous experience! Children learn how to think for themselves and how to solve problems in original and creative ways and have a positive self-image. Children participate in math, language, music, art, practical life, science, geography, and foreign language. The lead teachers possess bachelor degree and certification in Montessori Education. Discover the Difference at the Maria Montessori! Now accepting applications for all ages starting 3 months to 6 years located in Stonegate, Zionsville, IN.

Central Todd Academy, Inc. 302 N. East Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202 Sharon Todd 317-636-3100 director@toddacademy.com www.toddacademy.com Ages/Grades: Age 10 or 5th grade thru -grade 12

Todd Academy serves gifted middle and high school students who are seeking a learning challenge. Classes are designed to be fun while motivating the student to stretch academically. Working with the IUPUI SPAN program allows students to take college classes when they are ready for more challenging educational opportunities.

East Trinity Lutheran School 8540 East 16th Street Amanda Hoover 317-529-0138 eliwhit9799@yahoo.com www.trinityindy.org Ages/Grades: Pre-school for ages 3-5yrs & K-8th Our school is a loving environment. Our main goal is to teach and show our children and families the love of Jesus! Faith-Compassion-Achievement! Our students strive academically and spiritually in a faith enriched enviroment.

Primrose School at Gray Eagle Mindy Smith 12290 Olio Road (Olio Road between 116th street and 126th street) Fishers 317-577-9480 mindy@primrosegrayeagle.com www.PrimroseGrayEagle.com Ages: Infants thru full day kindergarten. Before/after care available. At Primrose School at Gray Eagle we offer much more than a daycare experience. Our exclusive Balanced Learning curriculum prepares your child for academic success while fully integrating character development - creating a well-rounded young individual. Our safe, secure environment will provide you with peace-of-mind, knowing that your child is safe, happy and growing everyday! Full Time: $220 - $320 per week depending on age. Visit www. PrimroseGrayEagle.com for more information.

Geist

Fishers Montessori

My Backyard Fine Arts Preschool at Geist Sports Academy

Peggy White 12806 Ford Rd and 131st and Allisonville Rd. Fishers 317-849-9519 or 317-580-1850 Ages: 3-9 A quality learning environment offering preschool, kindergarten and elementary. Certification through American Montessori Society. 9-12, 12:30-3, 9-3.

11960 East 62nd Street Indianapolis 317-823-7734 www.geistsportsacademy.com Ages: 2 year-Pre K (5 year) NOW ENROLLING FOR 2008-2009. Children will discover their unique selves and learn about the world around them through exploring the visual arts, creative movement and music appreciation. 9-11:45 a.m. M-Fri; MWF 9-1:30pm.

Fishers

childcare & education directory

Meridian St. Michigan Rd. Maria Montessori International Academy 7507 N. Michigan Road Indianapolis 317-291-5557 www.mariamontessori-intl.org Ages: 3 months to 9 years old Maria Montessori International Academy offers a child centered Montessori program allowing children to learn at their own pace and are treated with respect. Teachers encourage and inspire children to do not only the minimum, but also their best, where learning should be a happy, joyous experience! Children learn how to think for themselves and how to solve problems in original and creative ways and have a positive self-image. Children participate in math, language, music, art, practical life, science, geography, and foreign language. The lead teachers possess bachelor degree and certification in Montessori Education. Discover the Difference at the Maria Montessori! Now accepting applications for all ages starting 3 months to 6 years located in Stonegate, Zionsville, IN.

Multiple Locations Indiana Council of Preschool Cooperatives: ICPC Multiple Locations in Indianapolis Area For schools, see below. ICPC Line: 317-767-7596 Ages: Preschool classes for ages 2-5; other programs vary - Kindergarten, Stay & Play, Enrichment/Extended Days.

LEARNING TIME PRESCHOOL • Full and Part-time Preschool • Full Day Kindergarten

Now enrolling for all age groups Learning Time West • 8750 Zionsville Rd. • 471-8750 Learning Time North • 91 West 91st St. • 575-9191 Learning Time Geist • 9910 Geist Crossing Dr. • 842-9910 INDYSCHILD.COM 31

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childcare & education directory

Indianapolis Area Preschool and Kindergarten Cooperatives Cooperative Preschools: great for your child, great for you! Children and parents learn and grow together in the classroom with caring, experienced teachers. Indiana Council of Preschool Cooperatives (ICPC) member schools are: Apple House: 6121 E. County Rd 100 S, Avon, 7975925 Butler: 2411 Indianapolis Ave, Indy, 2264287 Downey: 111 S. Downey Rd, Indy, 359-5304 Edgewood: 4040 E. Thompson Rd, Indy, 767-7730 Fishers Point: 9959 E. 126th St, Fishers, 767-4312 Geist Orchard: 7879 N. 700 West, McCordsville, 336-7008 Meridian Hills Nursery School and Kindergarten: 7171 N. Pennsylvania, Indy, 255-0831 Meridian Street: 5500 N. Meridian St, Indy, 767-3003 Northeast Cooperative Preschool and Kindergarten: 5805 E. 56th St, Indy, 592-9790 Parkview: 4550 central Ave, Indy, 380-0628 Speedway: 3000 N. High School Rd, Indy, 356-2804 Willowcreek: 8170 Hague Rd, Indy, 578-5488

Polly Panda Preschool and Bridgford Kindergarten 2944 E. 56th St. and 17645 Oakmont Dr., IndianapolisNoblesville Gail Hacker & Tammy Clark & Mandy Galle 317-257-9127 (Indy) 317-773-0387 (Noblesville) pollypandaindy@sbcglobal.net Ages/Grades: Six weeks through Kindergarten, summer program also available. 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 experiences that foster learning, creativity and problem solving in all areas. A child’s sense of selfworth, independence and growth in social skills are developed through positive interaction with peers and our well-qualified and loving staff.

Noblesville Legacy Christian School 1687 N. 10th Street, Noblesville, IN 46060 Lana Thompson 317-776-4186 lthompson@noblesvillechristianschool.org

www.LegacyChristianOnline.org Preschool - High School Christian - Protestant/Other Preschool - 9th Grade Before/After School Care: Available Formerly Noblesville Christian School, we have been providing affordable Christian education in Hamilton County for more than ten years. Our new name reflects our constant focus: inspiring and equipping students to forge a godly legacy in our world. State accredited, we combine excellence in academics with Christ-centered teaching. Our full-day Kindergarten is 25-66% less costly than other programs, with music, art, library, gym and music weekly. Join us in leaving a Legacy!!

Arthur M. Glick JCC 6701 Hoover Road, Indianapolis, IN 46260 317-251-9467 emills@JCCindy.org www.JCCindy.org Ages: 6 weeks - Grade K Our loving caregivers and teachers demonstrate by example and encourage children to behave according to these values as the children are learning, playing and socializing with one another. The JCC embraces a learning-through-play teaching method to engage children in activities that promote creativity, accelerate learning and stimulate social interaction, all at each child’s individual pace.

Primrose School at Bridgewater 14711 N. Gray Road, Noblesville, IN 46062 317-848-0123 mreed@primrosebridgewater.com www.primrosebridgewater.com Private Independent Preschool/Kindergarten Please call to schedule a tour and to get tuition information. We are open Monday through Friday 6:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. We take many exciting fieldtrips so please call to learn more specific details. Our programs are offered to students

To reach their potential, gifted kids need a special kind of education that offers them: • active involvement in learning • movement through subjects at a fast pace • a curriculum that is broad, deep, and complex • differentiation - grouping by skill level and readiness, acceleration, and enrichment • a learning environment of peers

For nearly 25 years, Sycamore has offered kids in Central Indiana excellence in gifted programming.

Look to Sycamore check e m – the leader in o C t! us ou gifted Apply now for 2010-2011! education. Call us at 317-202-2519 for more information or to schedule a parent tour.

Preschool (2 yrs. 8 mos.) through Eighth Grade 1750 West 64th Street, Indianapolis, IN 32 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2009

317-202-2500 www.sycamoreschool.org

ages 6 weeks through 12 years of age. Students in pre-kindergarten and kindergarten are required to wear school uniforms. Before/After School Care: We offer before and after school programs, including transportation, to students up to 12 years of age. The Primrose School at WestClay is dedicated to providing outstanding educational care to students ages 6 weeks through 12 years of age. Our curriculum is NCA accredited and offers many extras such as Spanish, technology, sign language, character development, music appreciation, art appreciation, science, social studies, reading, English, and math. Please call today to learn how more than 90% of Primrose students out performed the national average.

North Beth-El Zedeck Early Childhood Center 600 W. 70th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260 Joanie Waldman 317-259-6854 jwaldman@bez613.org Ages/Grades: 12 mos.+, 18 mos.+, 2’s+ (8:50 am to 12:30 pm or 3:00 pm and choice of days). 3’s+ (8:50 am to 3:00 pm and choice of days). 4’s+/PreK (3 or 5 day option)and Kindergarten (5 full-day program 8:50 am to 3:00 pm) OPTIONS FOR ALL: Flexible early drop off at 7:30. 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!

Children’s Day In Nursery School and Traditional Preschool Christy Whaley 5500 N. Meridian St. Indianapolis 317-253-0472 cwhaley@msumc.org

www.msumc.org Ages: Nursery School and Preschool The Children’s Day In Nursery School is a fully inclusive early childhood program with an emphasis on Christian values. It is designed to offer children 9 months to 3 years a positive and developmentally appropriate experience in the care of experienced caregivers. Classes are offered weekdays from 9 am to 2:30 pm. CDI Preschool program provides a quality developmentally appropriate education for 3, 4 and 5 year olds. Program includes weekly Christian Life Skills, First Steps in Music (ICC) and Book Club. 3’s: T & Th, 4/5’s MWF. 9-2:30 pm. Summer Camp available.

Children’s Circle of Second Presbyterian Church 7700 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46260 Regina Covey for Registration; Director Susan Stewart for Curriculum 317-252-5517 rcovey@secondchurch.org Ages/Grades: 7 months to 5 years Children’s Circle is a weekday, developmentally appropriate, activity-based Christian program. We meet the needs of the whole child in a fun, creative, nurturing environment. Here, children can develop the skills necessary to live in today’s world. Our experienced faculty leads children toward discovery of who they are and what they can do. We embrace excellence in education by nurturing the whole child -- physically, emotionally, spiritually and intellectually.

Early Childhood Center, The Church at the Crossing John Drake or Kelly Belt 9111 N. Haverstick Rd. Indianapolis 317-575-6508 jdrake@churchatthecrossing.org www.churchatthecrossing.org Ages: 12mos - Pre-K 5’s Our Mothers Day Out (12-35mos) 9:15-2:30 and Preschool (3yrs-PreK’s) programs provide relaxed, playful, secure environments that nurture creativity

re so u rce s 317-926-0043 ruthpadgett@ TheIndependenceAcademy.org www.TheIndependenceAcademy.org Ages/Grades: Grades 5 - 12 Created specifically for students with high-functioning autism and Asperger’s Syndrome, The Independence Academy helps students achieve their highest level of independence and academic success. Dedicated and trained staff teach math, sciences, language arts, global studies, social and life skills, and more. Very small classes. Beautiful campus. A place to belong.

and encourage the exploration of God’s world, a wide variety of learning materials, & friendships, with readiness activities woven through each study unit. Need longer hours? Try our childcare ministry, The Neighborhood designed for 2-PreK 6:30-6pm M-F. Call for information and to schedule tours.

Fairview Early Childhood Program Melissa Peterson 4609 N. Capital Ave. Indianapolis 317-253-4990 mpeterson@fairviewpresbyterian.org www.fairviewpresbyterian.org Ages: 12 mo-5 yrs. (or up to Kindergarten) Fairview ECP has a developmental, experienced based curriculum in a warm and inclusive environment. Curriculum is designed to promote positive social behavior, respect for diversity, positive self-concept, independence, creativity and critical thinking skills. Come and visit us!

International School of Indiana Denise Wagner, CFRE 4330 N. Michigan Road Indianapolis 317-923-1951 ext. 316 www.isind.org Ages: 3 years old-12th grade ISI is founded on the belief that an introduction to a second language, exposure to different nationalities and ethnic backgrounds and an International Baccalaureate-driven curriculum all work together to foster critical and independent thought. $12,250 pre-k through 8th grade and $12,960 for High School. Financial aid available for qualifiers.

The Hutson School 7245 E. 75th Street Janet George, Principal 317-377-0544 fellowjanetgeorge@gmail.com http://www.hutsonschool.org Ages/Grades: 1-12 The Hutson School, a pure Orton-Gillingham School serves children in 1st-12th grade with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD. Students may have difficulties with organization and time management. The program complies with Indiana academic standards. The High School offers two academic paths: College Preparatory & General Diploma. Faculty are OG Fellows, Certified, and Associate Leveled from the AOGPE. and licensed Educators. Hutson is a member of AOGPE & a provisional member of ISACS. Children travel from across the state to attend.

KinderCare-Woodfield Crossing Meagan Koeneman 8485 Woodfield Crossing Indianapolis 317-257-3911 070739@klcorp.com www.kindercare.com/070739 Ages: 6wks - 12 years Monday-Friday 6:30am - 6:00pm. Tuition varies with phonics and math programs.

Montessori Centres Lynne Boone, Director 563 Westfield Blvd. W. Dr. Indianapolis 317-257-2224 montessoricentres@sbcglobal.net Ages: 2 1/2-3rd grade Stressing peace and respect for all, we’ve worked with children to develop critical-thinking and timemanagement skills since 1966. Montessori-certified lead teachers serve children aged 2 1/2-3rd grade. Our classroom structure and materials allow children to be self-directed and self-paced. Our well-rounded curriculum includes French and Spanish, art, and computer labs. True Montessori environment serving children at all levels from gifted to special needs. Pre/K: 8:30-11:30 or 8:30-3:15.

Park Tudor School 7200 N. College Ave. David Amstutz 317-415-2777

childcare & education directory

info@parktudor.org www.parktudor.org Ages/Grades: Junior Kindergarten (ages 3-5) - Grade 12 Park Tudor School’s exceptional educators and extraordinary opportunities prepare students to become confident and resourceful lifelong learners. The school community creates an inspiring collegepreparatory learning environment for highly motivated young people. Two-year Global Scholars program for juniors and seniors; 19 AP classes; fullday kindergarten; Spanish beginning at age 3.

St. Richard’s School 33 E. 33rd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205 Melinda W. Fisher 317-926-0425 x134 mfisher@strichardsschool.org www.strichardsschool.org Private Independent Preschool - Middle School Religious Affiliation: Christian - Protestant/Other Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: PKGrade Four $13,115 Grades FiveEight $13,715 2009 FA: $450,000 Early Childhood Open House: January 16, 2010 4:30 until 6:00 p.m. Middle School Open House: January 21, 2010 6:00 until 7:30 p.m. Multiple field trips per grade level offered each year Age three (3) through Grade Eight Prefer student to be three years old prior to June 1st for Pre-Kindergarten. Christian - Protestant

Meridian Hills Cooperative Nursery School 7171 N. Pennsylvania, Indianapolis, IN 46240 317-255-0831 www.MeridianHillsCoop.org Private Independent Preschool/Kindergarten

The Independence Academy of Indiana, Inc. 612 West 42nd Street Ruth Padgett

Part time • Full time • Occasional • Frequent • Last M

North $48 - $233/month. Limited financial assistance available. Ages three through Kindergarten go on field trips periodically. Ages 2, 3, 4 and Kindergarten. Average class size: 14. Founded in 1960, Meridian Hills Cooperative School is dedicated to helping children, parents and teachers grow together. Classes provide a positive, nurturing environment for 2-year-olds through Kindergarten with a special emphasis on parent education. Parents help daily in the spacious classrooms, on a beautiful halfacre playground and with a caring, experienced staff.

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INDYSCHILD.COM 33

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childcare & education directory

Students wear uniforms beginning in Grade One. Before/After School Care: Before Care: 7:00 - 8:00 a.m. After Care: 3:30 - 6:00 p.m. Independent Episcopal day school offering a community filled with academic rigor, faith based ecumenism and long-standing traditions. Its mission is to instill knowledge and values for a lifetime through the implementation of five Pillars for Success: Faith, Classic Curriculum, Leadership, Civic Responsibility, and Global Readiness. Pre-Kindergarten (3) through Grade 8.

Sycamore School 1750 W. 64th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260 Dr. Susan Karpicke 317-202-2500 skarpicke@sycamoreschool.org http://sycamoreschool.org Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: 1/2 day programs range from $5,030 to $8010; Full-day PreK through 8th grade is $13,495. M -TH 8:15 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.; F 8:15 a.m.- 2:15 p.m. Parent Tours: Please call 317-2022519 to schedule a parent tour. Ages/Grades: 2 yrs. 8 mos. - 8th grade 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.

The orchard school Kristen Hein, Director of Admissions 615 W. 64th St. Indianapolis

34 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2009

317-713-5705 khein@orchard.org www.orchard.org Ages: Preschool 3/4 through Grade 8 The Orchard School, an independent, non-sectarian, progressive school, emphasized experiential learning. Orchard teachers engage the natural curiosity of children, develop academic excellence, and provide leadership experience through well-rounded education. Orchard’s diverse community and commitment to multicultural education inspires responsible, global citizenship. Founded in 1922. NAIS, ISACS, NAEYS accredited. Call to schedule a personal tour, and check our Web site for the date and time of our annual Open House. Applicants are selected without regard to their ability to pay tuition. Every effort is made to provide financial assistance where needed. Tuition is allinclusive. Before/after care available.

Northeast Indianapolis Jr. Academy Crystal Willis 2910 E. 62nd. St. Indianapolis 317-251-0560 ijacademy@comcast.net www.ijacademy.com Ages: Preschool - 8th Grade Founded in 1963, Indianapolis Jr. Academy provides a well-rounded educational program with emphasis on spiritual, mental, physical, and social development. Our teachers are dedicated Christians who desire to prepare children academically and socially in an accepting environment where Christian principles are modeled and taught. Offering grades Pre-K-8th and 3’s Pre-School program M-Th 8:15-3, Fri 8:15-2:30 with before/after care. Admission is subject to review

by School Board. We participate in the Educational CHOICE Charitable Trust Program, call for rates.

West The Children’s House 2404 W. 62nd St. (near Michigan

Rd.), Indianapolis, IN 46268 Susan Catania or Mary Sexson 317-253-3033 childrenshouse08@gmail.com www.thechildrenshouseindianapolis.com Ages/Grades: 2 1/2 years - 14 years of age The Children’s House offers a Montessori preschool. The four areas of our preschool are practical life, sensorial, math and language. The Montessori preschool is available on a nine or twelve month calendar. The elementary level is an ungraded, continuous-progress school where children discover and pursue their unique talents and needs. Each child is provided with an individual learning experience based on the assumption that children are naturally inquisitive and want to learn. The Children’s House has helped shape the lives of hundreds of Indianapolis Children since its founding under a Lilly Endowment grant in 1971.

Westfield Montessori School of Westfield, Inc. 800 E. Sycamore Street, Westfield Mary Lyman, Directress 317-867-0158 montessoriwestfield@gmail.com Ages/Grades: Toddler- 15 months to 3 years; Ages 3-Kindergarten; Elementary 1: Grade 1-3; Elementary 2: Grade 4-8 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.

INDYSCHILD.COM 35

a ro u n d tow n

the indianapolis zoo

Celebrate a Spectacular Holiday Season at the Indianapolis Zoo New Offerings for the Whole Family New this year, guests can see the holiday 4-D Ride “The Polar Express™.” The Polar Express™ 4-D Experience is based on the film from Warner Bros. Pictures and ShangriLa Entertainment, inspired by Chris Van Allsburg’s beloved Caldecott Medal children’s book, and includes 3-D and 4-D effects that will make a believer out of just about anyone. This experience lasts approximately 20 minutes. For this very special film, visitors should pick up timed tickets at the ticket booth, and admission requires three tickets. 4-D Rides at the Indianapolis Zoo are presented by AT&T Real Yellow Pages. Even the animals love the holidays. All other rides are weather-dependent. Don’t miss the Indianapolis Zoo’s spectacular Christmas at the Zoo, December 4-30, as Also new this year, Christmas at the Zoo the Zoo transforms into a magical holiday visitors can go on a scavenger hunt for mistletoe. Throughout the Zoo grounds and treasure for young and old alike. indoor exhibits, locate the “not-so-hidden” Enjoy a unique holiday experience with the mistletoe, then go to the Zoo Store to log entire family. Stroll through the Indianapolis where it is and register to win a Dolphin InZoo and enjoy the grounds covered in holiday Water Adventure. lights, catch the dolphin show as you tour the indoor exhibits, ride the holiday train, visit Leading up to Christmas, visit with Santa Critter Corner presented by ARAB to “Meet in Santa’s Village presented by Community a Keeper,” and participate in animal chats at Health Network and get your photo taken, various exhibits including meerkat, sea lion, enjoy area school choirs and traditional carolers singing holiday songs around the brown bear and more.

36 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2009

campfire, decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus and meet real reindeer. But be sure to take a break at Santa’s Sweet Shop, located in the Outpost, which features oversized gourmet caramel apples and homemade rice crispy treats, fresh-baked cookies and giant cinnamon rolls, as well as homemade fudge and brownies.

with the donation of a new hat, scarf or gloves for the Julian Center (which provides counseling, safe shelter and education for survivors of domestic violence and other life crises) and St. Mary’s Children Center (which helps young children who are at risk for social, emotional, economic and environmental problems).

When you think you have seen it all, head over to the Gardens. In the Rotunda stands a beautifully decorated two-story tree. Then explore the Hilbert Conservatory to see the new Conservatory show Woodland Wonderland presented by Community Health Network from noon until 9 p.m., while Christmas at the Zoo action begins at 5 p.m. Also in the Gardens, do a little shopping in “The Christmas Shoppe” to get those oneof-a-kind treasures.

For the latest information on activities at the Zoo’s holiday events, visitors can go to the Zoo’s web site at indianapoliszoo.com, and look under Special Events.

The Zoo will be closed on Christmas Eve and Day. Santa visits end on December 23. Christmas at the Zoo is free for Zoo members and included with regular admission for non-members: $8.50 for adults and $6.50 for seniors age 62+ and children ages 2-12. Children one and under are free, and parking is $5. Guests can receive $1.00 off admission

INDYSCHILD.COM 37

h e a lt h & we lln e ss

pediatric health

Family-Centered Health

Help Keep the Care of Your Child’s Health Family-Centered The month of December offers a chance for all families to reflect on and take stock of their knowledge, strengths, roles and responsibilities so that as a new year begins, families have a renewed sense of understanding about

how important their voices

At year’s end, be sure to take the time to assess your family’s progress toward achieving good health. The month of December offers a chance for all families to ref lect on and take stock of their knowledge, strengths, roles and responsibilities so that as a new year begins, families have a renewed sense of understanding about how important their voices are in the care of their children’s health.

care process. As the expert about your child, you have valuable information to contribute to your child’s plan of care and should be prepared to do so. Both medical professionals and family members are responsible for communicating with each other information about a child’s medical condition and care that is meaningful and understood.

One health care term all families should be familiar with is “family-centered care.” Family-centered care means that medical professionals and families work together as equal partners to respond to a child’s needs and to provide the best possible care. Family perceptions, questions and recommendations are valued by health care professionals and acted upon throughout the entire patient

ASK QUESTIONS Ask all kinds of questions to ensure you get the information you need about your child’s illness, disability or health care need. Always find out who you are talking with and what role that person plays in your child’s care. Write your questions in advance and also be sure to write down the answers you get so you can share the information with family members.

LEARN Find out as much as you can about your child’s medical condition, disability or health care need. Contact the Edward A. Block Family Library at Riley Hospital for Children at 317-274-1149 for help.

SHARE INFORMATION Always have your child’s most current medical records accessible so you can share with others, including health care providers, as appropriate. There are individual and family portable health prof ile kits available through the Riley Safety Store to help you store and update this information on portable disks or f lash drives. For more information about these products, call the Riley Safety Store at 317-274-6565.

have) with medical care professionals. Remember: You are a member of your child’s medical care team. As this year ends, give thanks for all you love. Keep your child’s health care family-centered next year and beyond – ask questions, learn, share information and speak up – through all of your interactions and communications with medical professionals in any health care setting. Every child’s health and care is a shared responsibility and the outcomes that are accomplished are done so by both family members and medical care professionals working closely together. Darla Cohen is Coordinator, Family Centered Care, Riley Hospital for Children.

Remember, families CAN: SPEAK UP No one knows your child better than you. Trust your understanding, experience and inner sense of what your child needs, wants or is trying to communicate. Share your feelings, recommendations and perspective (that only you

We must be doing something right...

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6701 Hoover Road | Indianapolis | 251-9467 | www.JCCindy.org 38 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2009

INDYSCHILD.COM 39

A ROUN D tOW N

arts & enrichment

Ice Skating and Snow Sports Teaching the Magic of Winter Sports The 2010 Winter Olympics is right around the corner — tell me you’re excited to see f igure skating! I can’t wait! Bobsleigh, snowboarding, skiing and the rest certainly have merit, but ice-skating has a magical quality unlike any other sport.

for a beginning group lesson with her organization to $300 per month on up for competitive skaters.

Equipment: You need skates and a helmet. Skates must f it properly and it’s a good idea for your child to practice walking in the skates before taking the ice. The skates should have a snug f it without pinching the toes. Lightweight socks or tights are recommended. Skates can be rented or purchased as previously worn; however, if your skater takes to the sport it is a good idea to buy a pair from a pro shop that will f it just his or her foot.

Blame the beauty of gliding across ice, the unbelievably fast spins or even the costumes, but millions of families tuning into the Olympics this winter will be taken by the sport and kids across the globe will wonder what it must be like to skate on ice. If your child is among those whose interest piqued, support his or her curiosity and hit the nearest rink. Susi Wehrli, senior director of membership at U.S. Figure Skating, recom mends that even before engaging in lessons, you should take your child to a public skate with the sole purpose of having a fun, safe and relaxing experience that everyone will want to do again. “If parents want to start a kid skating, the best thing to do is take them public skating a couple of times so they are comfortable wearing skates and walking around the lobby, getting used to the balance differences and playing on the ice.” She also mentions that if you aren’t a skater yourself, it’s a good idea to ask for help from an accomplished skater so your kid’s f irst steps are easy and fun. If your child wants to more formally learn how to skate, Wehrli recommends kids start skating at about age four, though acknowledges many programs start younger.

U.S. Figure Skating strongly recommends the use of helmets for beginners of all ages too. A hockey, skateboard or ski helmet will work well for beginners as these helmets can withstand more than one moderate impact. As with any safety equipment, protection is provided for only a limited number of impacts so replace the helmet if it shows signs of being damaged. Heiber adds that ice-skating is a sport for anybody. “We can accommodate so many different skill levels that it can be fun Attire: Indoors or outdoors, ice-skating is a chilly sport, for all ages. It really is a fun family activity, which is kind so dress in layers to keep warm. According to Wehrli, of hard to f ind in some sports.” most indoor arenas are between 50 and 60 degrees. It’s also important to dress in comfortable attire that allows you to If you’re considering introducing your child to ice skating, move freely. Don’t forget to wear gloves or mittens to help here are a few things to keep in mind before lacing up your ease the falls that are almost certain to happen. child’s skates. Like so much in life, ice-skating can be more than Age: While Wehrli recommends introducing kids no what f irst meets the eye, or ice in this case. “Personally younger than four to ice skating, others say three or younger I think skating is fantastic at building life lessons and can give it a go. The main thing is to make sure that your character,” says Wehrli. “It’s all about learning a new child is comfortable leaving you for the lesson and able to skill, accomplishing goals like short and long term goals. take direction from the teacher. Your child’s motor skills The best thing, and I teach a lot of parent education, is should also be developed enough so he or she can start accomplishment, learning how to fall down and get up, learning how to balance and glide. Of course kids don’t which is a huge life lesson for our kids. In order to be a have to be toddlers to learn to love the ice. Children, teens successful skater you have to be able to fall, learn how to and adults of any age can learn to skate—it’s never too late. do it and have the patience to try again.”

Elite Skating is a local organization that offers private and group skating lessons for recreational and competitive iceskating. The company’s owner, Devan Heiber, says that skating is for all ages and abilities and notes that, “It’s an all-around good sport for hand-eye coordination. It was Cost: Like most any sport, ice-skating is not free. It’s based off of ballet, so it’s ballet on ice. You will get some not necessarily expensive to get started either. According gracefulness on ice similar to what you get from dancing.” to Heiber, the cost can range anywhere from $11 to $15

Nutcracker D

with

Russian Tea Party

Saturday, December 12 at 11:30 a.m. Tickets: $10 - $20

December 11th at 7 p.m. December 12th at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

mother of two young sons, whose daily antics inspire her work and her life.

danceJCC

at the

SAVE 20%* when you register for one or

Madame Walker atre Center

Carrie Bishop is a freelance writer and

more dance classes before the end of 2009. Classes for adults & kids!

Box Office: 317-228-1917 (Open M-F 10-2 p.m.)

Hip-hop Zumba Belly Dance

Ballet Tap Broadway

All in our professional dance studio!

*Special Rates for

Nutcracker Patrons

Visit IndianaBalletCompany.com for tickets and information!

40 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2009

6701 Hoover Road, Indianapolis 251-9467 | www.JCCindy.org

re so u rce s

arts & enrichment guide

Arts & Enrichment Guide dana mannix Gymnastics Parties & Camps

Code: Indys Child-Dec.

Buy one general admission for any public skating session and get the second admission FREE! Does not include skate rental. Expires March 31, 2010 A: 2:30 - 4:30 pm B: 7:30 - 9:30 pm C: Noon - 2 pm D: 12:30 - 2:30 pm E: 1 - 3 pm F: 5 - 7 pm

Check out indianastatefair.com or call the hotline 317.927.7536 for a complete schedule Indiana State Fairgrounds • 1202 East 38th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205 • Pepsi Coliseum Pro Skate Shop 317.927.7622

9325 Uptown Dr. Ste. 1000, Indianapolis Dana Mannix 317-863-0491 mmannix@ danamannixgymnastics.com www.danamannixgymnastics.com We offer pre-school, recreational, and competitive gymnastics. We also provide birthday parties and open gym times. Our mission is to enhance children physically, mentally and spiritually!

Fox Hill Dance Academy, Inc. 2255 Fox Hill Drive, Indianapolis Betty Wright 317-251-3007 BJZWdance@att.net www.foxhilldanceacademy.com Category - Other: Ballet, tap,hiphop, jazz and liturgical dance Ballet, tap, hiphop, jazz, and liturgical dance. Professional staff, friendly atmosphere, competitive prices. Parents can observe classes from closed circuit TV. Ages 3 to adult welcome.

Indiana Ballet Company

*u-cut & pre-cut trees *hayrides to the fields *warm refreshments *Open mon - Fri 3 pm to 8pm

open weekends Nov. 21st - Dec 24th Sat. 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. sun 12 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Riley Hospital for Children Needs Your Help! Riley Hospital for Children needs healthy full-term infants between 2 and 36 months of age to evaluate how the lung grows. The evaluation takes approximately 2-3 hours. You will be compensated for your time participating in the evaluation. If interested in obtaining more information, please call (317)274-3604.

Spring lessons begin January 19, 2010

(317) 278-4139 musacad@iupui.edu www.musicacademy.iupui.edu

2432 Lake Circle Dr., Indianapolis Elizabeth Audet 317-228-1917 elizabeth@indianaballetcompany.co m www.indianaballetcompany.com The Indiana Ballet Company presents the closest surviving version of the original Nutcracker on December 11th at 7:00 p.m., and December 12th, at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. at the Madame Walker Theatre. Join the cast for a magical Russian Tea Party on December 12th at 11:30 a.m. before the performance. Visit IndianaBalletCompany. com for more information. Tickets $10- $20.

Indianapolis Art Center 820 E. 67th St., Indianapolis Kris Hurst 317-255-2464 info@indplsartcenter.org www.indplsartcenter.org Creativity enriches ever y aspect of life and is integral to cognitive growth. The Art Center offers quality art classes for toddlers through teens in a variety of art mediums, including glass blowing (ages 10 and up), ceramics, sculpture, jewelr y making, f iber arts, painting and drawing. Or take a class with your kids! Register now for spring classes and spring break camp Mar. 29-Apr. 2.

www.JCCindy.org The JCC welcomes families and individuals of all faiths and backgrounds. More than three generations have grown up in the JCC’s early childhood education and camp programs. Thousands walk through the JCC’s doors each week to work out in the modern f itness center, participate in leagues and exercise classes, swim, enjoy family programs and so much more. The JCC – Good for life!

Indianapolis School of Ballet 502 N. Capitol #B, Indianapolis, IN 46204 Cathy Strauss 317-955-7525 school@ indyballet.org www.indyballet.org The Indianapolis School of Ballet is located in the heart of downtown at the corner of Capitol and Michigan. Our professional faculty and nurturing atmosphere promotes the joy of dance for students of all ages. Building on the legacy of George Balanchine, the comprehensive curriculum encompasses classical and contemporary ballet, tap, and modern dance rooted in “American classicism”. Visit www. indyballet.org or call 317-955-7525.

Blue Square Sound 8481 Bash St., Indianapolis, IN 46256 Joanne Phillips 317-431-0134 jphillips@bluesquaresound.com www.bluesquaresound.com Blue Square Sound Recording Studios are located on the NE side of Indianapolis. We are a full-service recording studio where parents are welcome. We can guide you and your child through the steps necessary to create a music CD. Call to arrange a tour or to schedule a session.

Holiday Tree Farm Piney Acres

1115 E. 1000 North Fortville, IN 46040 Rex Zenor 317-326-1700 Pineyacresfarm@yahoo.com www.pineyacresfarm.com You’ll f ind your perfect Christmas tree, wreaths, stands ornaments, Christmas cards, honey, small furniture, cheese, etc. From Nov 21st thru Dec 24. Mon thru Fri 3pm8pm. Sat 10am-8pm. Sun 12pm-8pm (tree f ields open till dark & pre cut open till 8pm) Come & join the fun & excitement!

JCC 6701 Hoover Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46260 317-251-9467 lbaier@JCCindy.org

YOUR LISTING HERE! Contact Josie at Josie@ IndysChild.com INDYSCHILD.COM 41

h e a lt h & we lln e ss

pediatric health

Kids Helping Kids

Teaching the Value of Helping Others This time of year can be plagued with “I want” sentiments from kids as they have pictures of the latest “must haves” dancing in their heads.

One of the best ways to combat the “give me’s” is to give children opportunities to focus on others, particularly other children. It’s helpful for them to see that other children may not be as fortunate, or may be experiencing diff icult circumstances. “It’s so good to teach the value of philanthropy and giving at a young age,” says Molly Giles, annual giving coordinator with the St.Vincent Foundation. “When children take part in giving activities, they learn early on that one person reaching out and giving back can make a difference.” Over the past year, Giles has worked with many children’s groups to raise money or collect in-kind donations to benefit children who are being treated at Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent. Groups include Girl Scout troops, Cub Scout dens, sports teams, schools and more.

Using talents to raise funds This past summer, for example, the Westfield High School boys’ soccer team raised $9,000 when they hosted a charity tournament event with a few other high school teams. They aren’t the only student athletes getting in on the action, though.

At Heritage Christian School, the girls’ basketball team recently collected donations for the St.Vincent Foundation. “The sky’s the limit on the types of fundraisers that can be held,” Giles shares. “We encourage groups to use their passions and talents to engage people in their various communities. That may be a soccer team, your Girl Scout troop or your school community.” Dancers with Stage I Dance Academy engaged those in their dance community to raise funds for the St.Vincent Foundation. Proceeds from a special dance performance were donated to the foundation’s Children’s Fund to purchase equipment, toys or other specialty items for Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent. If groups are short on ideas, the foundation sponsors a few events for children’s groups of all sizes and ages. Every October, the foundation hosts Trick or Treat for Kids Off Their Feet—one of its most popular fundraising events. Kids collect coloring books, CDs, books and other items to give to young patients at Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent. This year, about 20 different groups participated in the “spook-tacular” event. Groups also can take part in Prayer Paths. Held inside or outside any time of the year and at a location convenient for your group, Prayer Paths give children the opportunity to pray

Birthday Parties

It’s your bir thday! Celebrate it in style at the museum. childrensmuseum.org/birthdays (317) 334-4000

Parties

Birthday 42 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2009

for a patient and collect pledges at the same time while they walk a designated path.

Making a difficult time easier Although there are opportunities year-round for kids to get involved with the foundation, Giles says the month of December provides a special opportunity to provide support. “The holiday season is often a hard time of the year to be in the hospital, particularly for children,” she explains. Giles says groups offer to do a variety of activities during the holidays, including collecting donations for gifts, bringing in arts and crafts projects, giving choir performances and holding holiday parties. Finally, while many children’s groups around the state support the St.Vincent Foundation, the power of one is often as meaningful and memorable. “We’ve received very generous donations spurred on by just one child wanting to help others. Some kids collect books, or donate their birthday gifts to the hospital. It’s inspiring for a child to see the tremendous impact just one person can make in the lives of others.” If you want to learn more about how your children’s group can benefit the foundation and, ultimately, the children being cared for at Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent, contact Molly Giles at 317.338.7193 or mmgiles@stvincent.org.

Wednesday 1

2 DA y

d ay, e m

h a ppy

Na ti o

17 On this day in 1903.

The Wright Brothers took their first flight at Kitty Hawk.

Celebration Idea: Drizzle, pour, or dip...just add some chocolate!

Celebration Idea: Gather up some friends and go caroling around your neighborhood!

On this day in 1882,

the first Christmas Lights went on sale!

28 e

Celebration Idea: Explore your genealogy Prepare a special meal or listen to music from another country in your family tree!

29 On this day in 1862

the bowling ball was invented.

Celebration Idea: Visit your local bowling alley and bowl a few games!

Sources: familycrafts.about.com, brownielocks.com, holidayinsights.com & the nibble.com

d ay, t i g w o o d s!

N at

c h o co l at

Celebrate Your Roots Day

l na

y! DA

Sneak-A-y! Peek Da

Celebration Idea: Watch your favorite Disney movie with your family.

Poinsettia Day 18

Wear a Plunger on Your Head Day!

19 al mu tm e ff i Oa

(We’re not sure why either, but hey, why not?)

25 Merry Christmas

nza a Begins a w K

Happy C hristmas Eve! 31

New Year’s Eve!

Like this calendar? Let us know! E-mail editor@ indyschild.com with your suggestions and comments!

INDYSCHILD.COM 43

Tod a y is the Firs t Day of Winter!

Go Caroling Day

y! DA

National Chocolate Covered Anything Day!

h a ppy

Time to send yours to family & friends if you haven’t already done so!

Hanukkaahy begins tod t. at sunse

ay, w a hd

On this day in 1929,

National Firefighters Day

Celebration Idea: Have ice cream sundaes as an after-dinner treat!

Celebration Idea: It’s a great day for a family trip to the Indianapolis Zoo! Be sure to bundle up!

C hristmas C ard Day!

dic kinso

the first miniature golf course opened.

National Visit the Zoo Day!

o w n ie DAy !

N at

n e y!

l c h o co l at

e cre am

y! DA

Celebration Idea: Celebration Idea: Send a handwritten letter Make a batch of your to a someone you haven’t favorite brownies and enjoy talked to in a while! them with a glass of milk!

Saint Nicholas Day ic al

Nationaol wn r Wear B Day! Shoes

Celebration Idea: Make a donation to a local homeless shelter.

W rite a L et ter Day!

Roof- 3 Over-YourHead Day

Saturday

d is

Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on the bus.

Friday

a l FRI T T ER S

On this day in 1955,

n io at

Thursday

h a ppy b i

Tuesday

Monday

Sunday

calendar events re so u rce s

calendar

Tuesday 1

Skate with Santa 1:30-3:30 p.m. $4 adults, $3.25 kids. Indiana/ World Skating Academy. 201 S. Capitol Ave. Ste. 001, Indianapolis. www.iwsa.org. 317-237-5555. Study Lounge Study Lounge, December 1 from 3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. School-age children and teens are invited for quiet study time in the story theater. 3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. College Avenue Library. 4180 N. College Ave, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4320. Special Needs Playgroup This playgroup is for kids with special needs and their caregivers. The playgroup leaders are moms of special needs children. We have toys that will meet your child’s developmental and sensory needs. They can play and develop social skills and their caregiver can meet other parents and share resources. There is no charge. 9:30-10:30 am. FREE. St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. 100 W. 86th St., Room 113 (please use entrance 16 at rear of building), Indianapolis. Laura (317)417-8444.

Wednesday 2

Games Hour Children and teens ages 6 - 18 are invited to play their favorite board games in the story theater. 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. College Avenue Library. 4180 N. College Ave, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317275-4320. Disney on Ice Celebrates 100 years of Magic Various Times. $12- $65. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www.consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500. International Motorsports Industry Tradeshow 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Indiana Convention Center. 100 South Capitol Avenue, Indianapolis. www.iccrd.com. 317-262-3400

T hursday 3

Christmas at Lilly House and Greenhouse Open House 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Indianapolis Museum of Art. 4000 Michigan Rd, Indianapolis. w w w.ima mu seu m.org. 317-920-2659. Holiday Hullabaloo Visitors can drop by the IMA for an evening of holiday shopping and festivities at the Museum Store and Design Center. Purchase books, children’s toys, apparel, jewelry, decor, gift items and more. 6–9 p.m. FREE. Indianapolis Museum of Art. 4000 Michigan Rd., Indianapolis. www. imamuseum.org. 317-923-1331. L.S. Ayres & Co. at Christmastime 12 p.m. & 5:30 p.m. Indiana State Library. 140 N. Senate Ave, Indianapolis. www.statelib.lib.in.us. 317-232-3675. Target Free Family Night 4 -8 p.m. The Children’s Museum. 3000 N. Meridian St, Indianapolis. www.childrensmuseum.org/. (317) 334-3322.

44 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2009

Disney on Ice Celebrates 100 years of Magic Various Times. $12- $65. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www.consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500.

International Motorsports Industry Tradeshow 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Indiana Convention Center. 100 South Capitol Avenue, Indianapolis. www.iccrd.com. 317-262-3400.

Central Indiana Dance Ensemble presents “The Nutcracker” The Central Indiana Dance Ensemble will present its 10th Anniversary production of The Nutcracker, a classical ballet in 2 acts, December 4th, 5th & 6th, 2009 at the Zionsville Performing Arts Center, Tickets to the Sugar Plum Fairy Tea are $10.00 per person. Purchase tickets by calling 317-844-7453 or online at www.cidedance.org. Dec. 4 at 7:30 pm, Dec. 5 at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm and Dec. 6 at 2:00 pm. $20-adults, $15 - children. Zionsville Performing Arts Center. 1000 Mulberry Street, Zionsville. www.cidedance.org. 317-844-7453.

Friday 4

Black and White Read All Over: Artist Reception and Open Studio Night 6 - 10 p.m. Harrison Center for the Arts. 1505 N. Delaware St, Indianapolis. www.harrisoncenter.org. 317-396-3886. Central Indiana Dance Ensemble presents “The Nutcracker” The Central Indiana Dance Ensemble will present its 10th Anniversary production of The Nutcracker, a classical ballet in 2 acts, December 4th, 5th & 6th, 2009 at the Zionsville Performing Arts Center, 1000 Mulberry Street, Zionsville, IN 46077. Show times are: Friday, December 4th at 7:30 pm, Saturday, December 5th at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm and Sunday, December 6th at 2:00 pm. Tickets are $20.00 for adults and $15.00 for children 18 and under. The Sugar Plum Fairy Tea will precede each matinee at 12:30 pm on Saturday, December 5th and Sunday, December 6th at the Zionsville Performing Arts Center. Tickets to the Sugar Plum Fairy Tea are $10.00 per person. Purchase tickets by calling 317-844-7453 or online at www.cidedance.org. Dec. 4 at 7:30 pm, Dec. 5 at 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm. Zionsville Performing Arts Center. 1000 Mulberry Street, Zionsville. Jamey Johnson with Randy Houser 8 pm. $28-$25. Murat Theatre. 502 N. New Jersey St., Indianapolis. www.livenation.com/ murat. 317-632-7469. Marion College Jazz Band 12 p.m. Indianapolis Artsgarden. 20 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis. www. indyarts.org. 317-631-3301. Mass Ave Holiday Hoopla 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. Massachusetts Av e n u e . Downtown’s NE Quad, Indianapolis. The King of Little Things featuring Bil Lepp Bil Lepp is a nationally renowned storyteller and five time champion of the West Virginia Liars’ Contest. His outrageous, humorous tall-tales and witty stories have earned the appreciation of listeners of all ages. The CD, The Teacher in the Patriotic Bathing Suit received the Parent’s Choice Approved Award. 7 - 8 p.m. $5 for children ages 5 - 12 and $10 for adults. Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center. 450 West St., Indianapolis www.storytellingarts.org. 317-576-9848.

The Nutcracker This full-length MODERN version of the holiday classic is proudly presented entirely by the students and dancers of G2, the highly talented preprofessional company of GHDT. $20 – Adults, $10 – Seniors & Students. Pike Performing Arts Center. 6701 Zionsville Rd, Indianapolis. www.pike.k12. in.us. 317-216-5450

Saturday 5

Harbour Shores Celebration Choir 11 a.m. Indianapolis Artsgarden. 20 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis. www.indyarts.org. 317-631-3301. Sankt Nikolaus 5K Lauf 9:30 a.m. $25. Athenaeum. 401 E. Michigan St, Indianapolis. www.athenaeumfoundation. com/. 317-630-4569. Santa in the Square Families are invited to get their pictures taken with Santa at National City Bank and enjoy a carriage ride from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Visit the Fountain Square Branch from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. to make a frame for your picture, decorate a cookie and ornament, sign up for a Bunny Book Bag Card, listen to stories and enjoy the old-fashioned seasonal window displays. Sponsores include Friends and FACT, Fountain Square Merchants Association, Indiana State Police Alliance, National City Bank, White Caste and IMCPL. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fountain Square Library. 1066 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4390. Seventh Annual Holiday Author Fair Noon- 4 p.m. Indiana History Center. 450 W. Ohio St, Indianapolis. www.indianahistory.org. 317232-1882. Winter Mart All Day. Eiteljorg Museum. 500 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. www.eiteljorg.org/. 317-636WEST. Disney on Ice Celebrates 100 years of Magic Various Times. $12- $65. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www.consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500. Central Indiana Dance Ensemble presents “The Nutcracker” The Central Indiana Dance Ensemble will present its 10th Anniversary production of The Nutcracker, a classical ballet in 2 acts, December 4th, 5th & 6th, 2009 at the Zionsville Performing Arts Center, Tickets to the Sugar Plum Fairy Tea are $10.00 per person. Purchase tickets by calling 317-844-7453 or online at www.cidedance.org. Dec. 4 at 7:30 pm, Dec. 5 at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm and Dec. 6 at 2:00 pm. $20-adults, $15 - children. Zionsville Performing Arts Center. 1000 Mulberry Street, Zionsville. www.cidedance.org. 317-844-7453.

The Nutcracker This full-length MODERN version of the holiday classic is proudly presented entirely by the students and dancers of G2, the highly talented pre-professional company of GHDT. $20 – Adults, $10 – Seniors & Students. Pike Performing Arts Center. 6701 Zionsville Rd, Indianapolis. www.pike.k12.in.us. 317-216-5450. Bill Hixson’s Holiday Designs Meet Bill Hixson, better known as “Mr. Christmas,” and be dazzled by his mouthblown, glass ornaments from Europe. Purchase your favorite from a wide selection and have him sign it. Hear his stories of decorating the While House annually for the holidays. Free; no admission required. Sat., 10am-5pm; Sun., 11am-4pm. Free; no admission required. Conner Prairie Interactive History Park. 13400 Allisonville Rd., Fishers. www.connerprairie.org. 317.776.6006 or 800.966.1836.

Sunday 6

A Christmas Celebration 4 p.m. $10. University of Indianapolis. 1400 E. Hanna Ave., Indianapolis. Bethlehem Boulevard Servants of Christ Lutheran Church invites you to time travel to the night Jesus was born. Walk among the villagers. Talk with Mary, Joseph, the Inn Keeper and many others. Hear the angels. Touch the sheep. Browse the marketplace and savor Middle Eastern food. Experience the night Christmas began. 5:00-9:00 PM. Free. Servants of Christ Lutheran Church. 7650 Oaklandon Road, Indianapolis. www.servantsofchrist.org/visit. html. (317) 823-9580. Capital City Chorus Presents Holiday Harmony 2:30 p.m. $18. University of Indianapolis. 1400 E. Hanna Ave., Indianapolis. In Conversation: Blasphemy: Art that Offends 2:30 p.m. Indianapolis Museum of Art. 4000 Michigan Rd, Indianapolis. www.imamuseum.org. 317-920-2659. Indiana Horn Ensemble 2 pm. Indianapolis Artsgarden. 110 W. Washington St., Indianapolis. www.indyarts.org. 317-6242563. Indianapolis Colts vs. Tennessee Titans 1 p.m. Lucas Oil Stadium. 500 S. Capitol Ave., Indianapolis. www.lucasoilstadium.com. 317262-3452. Jingle Bones 12:30 pm. Indianapolis Artsgarden. 110 W. Washington St., Indianapolis. www.indyarts.org. 317-624-2563. Moscow Ballet’s “Great Russian Nutcracker” 7 p.m. Various prices. Murat Theatre. 502 N. New Jersey St., Indianapolis. www.livenation.com/ murat. 317-632-7469. Portraits w/Santa Package includes a private session with Santa, two poses, and two sheets. Additional promotion on custom Christmas cards and linen collages. 12:00 - 5:30pm. $59. Portraiture Studio. 7050 E. 116th Street, Suite 150, Fishers. w w w.fishersphotography.com. 317-598-2677.

re so u rce s Skyline Club Colts Brunch 11 a.m. $28. Skyline Club. One American Square, Indianapolis. Soles 4 Souls Pre-game Show Collection 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Lucas Oil Stadium. 500 S. Capitol Ave., Indianapolis. www.lucasoilstadium.com. 317262-3452. St. Nikolaus Fest 6-9 p.m. $7 adults, $5 children. Athenaeum. 401 E. Michigan St, Indianapolis. w w w. a t h e n a e u m f o u n d a t i o n . com/. 317-630-4569. Disney on Ice Celebrates 100 years of Magic Various Times. $12- $65. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www. consecofieldhouse. com. 317-917-2500. Central Indiana Dance Ensemble presents “The Nutcracker” The Central Indiana Dance Ensemble will present its 10th Anniversary production of The Nutcracker, a classical ballet in 2 acts, December 4th, 5th & 6th, 2009 at the Zionsville Performing Arts Center, Tickets to the Sugar Plum Fairy Tea are $10.00 per person. Purchase tickets by calling 317-844-7453 or online at www.cidedance.org. Dec. 4 at 7:30 pm, Dec. 5 at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm and Dec. 6 at 2:00 pm. $20-adults, $15 - children. Zionsville Performing Arts Center. 1000 Mulberry Street, Zionsville. www.cidedance.org. 317-844-7453.

12/22. 7pm. FREE. Warren Library. 9701 E. 21st St, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4550.

Tuesday 8

Create a Gingerbread House Tuesday, December 8 @ 6:00pm. Make a beautiful gingerbread house using graham crackers, icing and candy. Bring the whole family and create a holiday masterpiece. Listen to holiday music and enjoy hot chocolate while you work. Everything needed to build a spectacular house will be provided. Please register at the Greenwood Community Center by Sunday, December 6th. This is for all ages. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Tuesday, December 8th @ 6:00pm. $10/Greenwood residents per house, $12/non-residents per house. Greenwood Community Center. 100 Surina Way, Greenwood. www.greenwood.in.gov/egov/ docs/1257966490_111755.pdf. 317-881-4545. Holiday Music with Strings 2 p.m. Clowes Memorial Hall. 4600 Sunset Ave, Indianapolis. www. cloweshall.org. 317-9406444. Special Needs Playgroup This playgroup is for kids with special needs and their caregivers. The playgroup leaders are moms of special needs children. We have toys that will meet your child’s developmental and sensory needs. They can play and develop social skills and their caregiver can meet other parents and share resources. There is no charge. 9:30-10:30 am. FREE. St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. 100 W. 86th St., Room 113 (please use entrance 16 at rear of bui, Indianapolis. Laura (317)417-8444.

Wednesday 9

Bill Hixson’s Holiday Designs Meet Bill Hixson, better known as “Mr. Christmas,” and be dazzled by his mouth-blown, glass ornaments from Europe. Purchase your favorite from a wide selection and have him sign it. Hear his stories of decorating the While House annually for the holidays. Free; no admission required. Sat., 10am5pm; Sun., 11am-4pm. Free; no admission required. Conner Prairie Interactive History Park. 13400 Allisonville Rd., Fishers. www.connerprairie. org. 317.776.6006 or 800.966.1836.

Greenwood La Leche League Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children are invited to the Greenwood La Leche League monthly meeting Wednesday, October 14, at 9:30 a.m., held at the Methodist Medical Plaza, 8830 South Meridian Street (use Community Room entrance on the south side of the building). Discussion topics include the advantages of breastfeeding, the family and the breastfed baby, the art of breastfeeding and avoiding difficulties, and nutrition and weaning. Pregnant or breastfeeding mothers with questions are encouraged to attend. La Leche League offers mother-to-mother support and information about breastfeeding. A lending library of books on childbirth, breastfeeding, parenting, and nutrition will be available. 9:30-11:00 a.m. Free. Methodist Medical Plaza, Community Room. 8830 South Meridian Street, Greenwood. www.llli.org. (317) 784-8286.

Monday 7

Winter Break Movie: Mickey’s Twice Upon a Christmas Children of all ages are invited for a showing of the movie, “Mickey’s Twice Upon a Christmas.”. 4:30 p.m. West Indianapolis Branch Library. 1216 S. Kappes St, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317275-4540. Paws and Read Young children who are reluctant readers are invited to practice their reading skills by reading to a trained and patient therapy dog provided by Therapy Dogs International. Excludes 12/8 and

Indiana Pacers vs. Portland Trailblazers 7 p.m. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www.consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500.

Moms and More Meeting at Center for Inquiry Snacks, conversation, light exercise, and reflection. Children are welcome with volunteers available to care for children while mothers converse. 1011:30am. Free. Center for Inquiry. 350 Canal Walk, Suite A, Indianapolis. www.mommymoon.org. 317-654-8684.

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ONgoing EVENTS A Beef & Boards Christmas 2010 Occurring Daily Beginning Thursday, November 26, 2009 Through Thursday, December 31, 2009. A Beef & Boards Christmas 2010 wraps up the season. An original production that marks its 18th year, the spectacular extravaganza includes glittering costumes, favorite yuletide songs and snappy dancing to celebrate the holidays in style. An Indianapolis tradition, A Beef & Boards Christmas 2010 is the holiday variety show that not even Santa will miss! . $34-57. Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre. 9301 N. Michigan Rd, Indianapolis. www.beefandboards.com. 317-872-9664. American Mensa Meeting (Central Indiana Chapter) Occurring on the second Friday of each Month Through Tuesday, November 30, 2010. Come have fun, participate in games and conversation with special guest speakers at each meeting. 7 pm to midnight. $7, $5 for members and $3 for kids under age 13. Bradfort Place Clubhouse. 5810 Bradston Way, Indianapolis. www.indymensa.org. 317876-7336. Broadway in Indianapolis presents the Color Purple Occurring Daily Beginning Tuesday, December 29, 2009 Through Sunday, January 03, 2010. Various Times. $25- $40. Clowes Memorial Hall. 4600 Sunset Ave, Indianapolis. www.cloweshall.org. 317-940-6444. Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” Occurring Every Sun, Fri & Sat Beginning Friday, December 11, 2009 Through Sunday, January 03, 2010. The show is produced by the Stage Actors’ Workshop and will be performed at The Freemason Hall Theater, 525 North Illinois Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46204. Performances are December 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 26, 27, January 2, & 3. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 7:30 pm, and Sunday matinees begin at 2 pm. The play will be followed by a Holiday Variety Show performed by the cast and including opportunities for audience participation. Tickets cost $10 for adults, $6 for seniors, students, and veterans, and $4 for children 12 years-old and younger. The show will be directed by Bob Rini. Reservations are not required. Call the Workshop at 201-3436 for information, and directions. Sat 7:30 pm, Sun 2 p.m. $10. Freemason Hall. 525 N. Illinois St, Indianapolis. www.indytemple.org/ Welcome.shtml. 317-635-1657. Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol Occurring Daily Beginning Saturday, November 21, 2009 Through Sunday, December 27, 2009. Various Times. $25. Indiana Repertory

Theatre. 140 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. www.indianarep.com. 317-635-5252. Christmas at the Mystery Café Occurring Daily Beginning Friday, November 27, 2009 Through Saturday, January 02, 2010. Christmas at the Mystery Café will feature New Year’s Evil which will run from Nov. 27 - Jan. 2 at the Milano Inn. Dress up to compliment the show and be prepared to participate! For show times and more information call 317.684.0668 or visit www.themysterycafeindy.com. The Mystery Cafe. 231 South College Avenue, Indianapolis. www.themysterycafeindy.com. (317) 684-0668. Christmas at the Zoo & Woodland Wonderland presented by Community Health Network Occurring Daily Beginning Friday, December 04, 2009 Through Wednesday, December 30, 2009. Noon - 9 p.m. Daily. & 6.50 - $ 8.50. Ind ianapol is Zoo. 1200 W. Wa sh i ng ton S t , Indianapolis. w w w . indyzoo. com. 317-6302001.

christmas at t he zoo

Community Tuesday at White River State Park Occurring on the first Tuesday of each Month Through Tuesday, November 30, 2010. The first Tuesday of every month means discounts at all of your favorite attractions: Eiteljorg, NCAA, Indianapolis Zoo, Indiana State Museum and White River Gardens. Visit Website for details. All Day. Discount Tuesday. See Website for details or call. White River State Park. 801 W. Washington St., Indianapolis. www.inwhiteriver.org. 800-665-9065. Conservatory Crossing Occurring Daily Beginning Friday, November 27, 2009 Through Sunday, December 27, 2009. Come enjoy our winter wonderland! See the Conservatory decked out in its holiday best with a brilliant display of poinsettias, running model trains, a train village and thousands of twinkling lights. 10AM-5PM, December 19-23 open till 8PM. $2 for adults, $1 for seniors and youth, or $5 per family. Garfield Park Conservatory.

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A Song for the Holidays Four Enchanting Broadway Voices, One Enchanted Holiday Evening. Various Times. $35- $40. American Cabaret Theatre. 401 E. Michigan St., Indianapolis. www.actindy.org/. 317-631-0334 Ext. 115.

T hursday 10 Community Service of Remembrance The community is invited to gather at First Baptist Church of Indianapolis on Thursday, December 10 at 7 p.m. for a Service of Remembrance, honoring family members who have died. This is intended to be a time of healing for those touched by the loss of a loved one whether recent or not. This nondenominational service will include music, prayer, meditation, and a homily. A reception for all will follow. For more information, please call the FBC office at 846-5821 or visit www.fbcindy.org. 7 pm. First Baptist Church of Indianapolis. 8600 N. College, Indianapolis. Josephine Meckseper 6 p.m. $5. Indianapolis Museum of Art. 4000 Michigan Rd, Indianapolis. www.imamuseum. org. 317-920-2659. Magic Is Marvelous For families with children ages 5 & older. Would you like to make the cold weather disappear? We can’t make that happen, but we can promise a night of warm laughter and family fun as Ryan Demler amazes and astounds both young and old with his many magical tricks and illusions. Bring the family. We guarantee it will be magic. Free tickets are required and will be available beginning on Tuesday, December 1, online, or at the Children’s Reference Desk. 5:00-6:00 p.m. or 7:00-8:00 p.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Program Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us/. Spanish Language Tours of Sacred Art of Spain 7 p.m. Indianapolis Museum of Art. 4000 Michigan Rd, Indianapolis. www.imamuseum.org. 317920-2659. A Song for the Holidays Four Enchanting Broadway Voices, One Enchanted Holiday Evening. Various Times. $35- $40. American Cabaret Theatre. 401 E. Michigan St., Indianapolis. www.actindy.org/. 317-631-0334 Ext. 115.

Friday 11 Christmas with the Ponies & Santa For a $15 donation per family, enjoy an OldFashioned Family Christmas and help support the mission at the Strides to Success Learning Center. Join us at the Strides Farm for a visit with Santa and his miniature horses. The heated barn will be decorated and the horses will be waiting to hear the children’s Christmas wishes! Family pictures with Santa, his Christmas ponies and even a Rose Parade donkey. Kids can make gifts for the family at Santa’s Workshop. Reindeer games. Holiday refreshements. 4-8 PM. $15/family. Strides to Success Learning Center. 1350 Terry Drive, Plainfield. www.stridestosuccess.org. 317-372-6983. Indiana Pacers vs. New Jersey Nets 7 p.m. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www.consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500. Indypendent Holiday Art Sale 10 a.m. - 9 pm. Indianapolis Artsgarden. 20 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis. www.indyarts.org. 317-631-3301. Rob Bell- Drops like Stars 8 p.m. $18. Murat Theatre. 502 N. New Jersey St., Indianapolis. www.livenation.com/murat. 317632-7469. A Song for the Holidays Four Enchanting Broadway Voices, One Enchanted Holiday Evening. Various Times. $35- $40. American Cabaret Theatre. 401 E. Michigan St., Indianapolis. www.actindy.org/. 317-631-0334 Ext. 115.

46 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2009

Rejoice! Join us for Rejoice! Butler’s annual holiday gift to the community. This year, the choirs are joined by musicians from the Butler Symphony Orchestra. Performances will include holiday favorites, exciting new works and Johann Sebastian Bach’s thrilling Christmas Oratorio for chorus, orchestra, and soloists. 7:30 p.m. Ticket Required. Clowes Memorial Hall. 4600 Sunset Ave, Indianapolis. www.cloweshall.org. 317-940-9246.

Saturday 12

Black Santa 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Madame Walker Theatre. 617 Indiana Ave., Indianapolis. www.walkertheatre.com. 317-236-2099. Breakfast with Santa Leave sugar plums dancing in their heads with our enchanting Breakfast with Santa holiday event. The whole family will enjoy our lavish pancake buffet, which includes tasty toppings like fresh blueberries, chocolate chips, decadent whipped cream, sprinkles and more. With arts and crafts, carolers and, of course, Santa, this will be a morning your kids will remember for a lifetime. Photographers will be present to capture the memories and Santa photo packages will be available for purchase. $22 per person; 5 and under FREE Special Valet Parking Price: $10 Reservations are required. Call 317 524 2574. 9:00am11:00am. $22, ages 5 and under FREE. Conrad Indianapolis. 50 W. Washington St., Indianapolis. www.conradindianapolisholidays.com. 317524-2574. Breakfast With Santa sponsored by Bloomfield State Bank Saturday, December 12 @ 9:00am. Santa Claus is coming to the Greenwood Community Center to have breakfast with you. B r e a k f a s t i n c l u d e s pancakes, sausage, eggs, fruit, coffee, juice and milk. A paid adult must accompany children. Take your own photo with Santa or buy one from P r o -Te k Photography for $5. Please register at the Greenwood Community Center by Wednesday, December 9th. Breakfast is served at 9am SHARP. Sat. December 12 @ 9:00am. $3 each Greenwood Resident and $5 each non-resident. Greenwood Community Center. 100 Surina Way, Greenwood. 317-881-4545. Broad Ripple Village “Lights Up!” 3-9 p.m. Broad Ripple Village. Classic Christmas: The Spirit of Saint Nick 8 p.m. $45. Scottish Rite Cathedral. 650 N. Meridian St, Indianapolis. www.aasr-indy.org/ Tour/. 1-800-489-3579. Culver Academies On Campus Open House Experience the Culver difference! You are invited to our On Campus Open House. You will have the opportunity to tour our campus, meet our students, faculty, staff and learn more about our academic and extracurricular opportunities. (Please RSVP one week before scheduled date.). noon-4 pm. FREE. Culver Academies. 1300 Academy Road, Culver. www.culver.org. 1-800-5CULVER or 1-574842-7000. Family Christmas Stories Families and children of all ages are invited for stories about Christmas. 10:15 a.m. Franklin Road Library. 5550 S. Franklin Rd, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4380. Family Tours at the IMA

1:30 p.m. & 2:30 p.m. $5. Indianapolis Museum of Art. 4000 Michigan Rd, Indianapolis. www.imamuseum.org. 317-920-2659. Christmas on the farm This FREE event features live music and caroling with Lathan’s Holly Duo, sleighhayrides around the farm, craftmaking opportunities for children and a visit from Old St. Nick. Holiday benefit for the United Way of Central Indiana’s Christmas Service is to help Indiana families in n e e d … Donations Welcome ! 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more i n for m at ion, visit the TPC Web site at traderspointcreamery. com. Harrison Family Christmas LIVE A unique Christmas tour of the President Benjamin Harrison Home. The year is 1888. President Harrison, some of the family from Ohio and the household staff will personally offer their good wishes to you and yours for the holidays. 10am-3pm. Adults $9; children (ages 5 to 17) $4. President Benjamin Harrison Home. 1230 N. Delaware St, Indianapolis. www.pbhh.org. 317-631-1888. Indianapolis Chamber Winds 11 a.m. Indianapolis Artsgarden. 110 W. Washington St., Indianapolis. www.indyarts.org. 317-624-2563. Indy Swing Dance Club Lessons 2-3 pm, Open dancing 3-6 pm. $15. Madame Walker Theatre. 617 Indiana Ave., Indianapolis. www.walkertheatre.com. 317236-2099. Kwanzaa Community Choir Concert 8 p.m. Indiana History Center. 450 W. Ohio St, Indianapolis. w w w.i n d i a n a h i s to r y.o r g . 317-232-1882. Lewis Black 8 p.m. $35-$65. Murat Theatre. 502 N. New Jersey St., Indianapolis. www. livenation.com/murat. 317-632-7469. LIVE Family Christmas at the President’s Home 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. $9. President Benjamin Harrison Home. 1230 N. Delaware St, Indianapolis. www.presidentbenjaminharrison.org/. 317-631-1888. Maple Glen Elementary PTO Holiday Bazaar Maple Glen Elementary PTO will be hosting it’s 1st Holiday Bazaar on Saturday, December 12th from 11am to 3pm. Each vendor will have items for sale that can satisfy even the hardest to buy for person on your list. We will also have tables containing Maple Glen apparel, gift cards (scrips program) and a yummy teachersponsored bake sale. There will be a Crafty Kids Corner for your school aged child to make hand-made gifts for everyone in the family. All gifts will be priced $4 and under. They will be wrapped and ready to be put under the tree. If the your child finishes their crafts before you have had time to get your manicure or pedicure, we will keep them busy writing letters to Santa and playing games. 11 am to 3pm. free. Maple Glen Elementary PTO. 17171 Ditch Road, Sheridan. 317-769-4623. Paint with Santa Join us for an unforgettable experience. Paint pottery, have fun, meet Santa. Call the studio for details and reservations. 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Color Me Mine. 14300 Clay Terrace Blvd, Carmel.

w w w. carmel. colormemine. com. 317-575-0077. Music for Little Folks Children ages 2 - 7 and an adult are invited for a wiggly, jiggly and giggly good time with Miss Bobbie. Call 275-4510 to register. 2 p.m. Southport Library. 2630 E. Stop 11 Rd, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4510. Russian Tea Party On December 12, 2009 the enchantment begins with our Russian Tea Party (11:30am - 1:30pm) enjoy an intimate setting, dine on traditional tea fare, learn the story of Masha, meet our dancers, and experience the culture behind the Nutcracker. Enjoy preferred seating at our Matinee performance (2:00pm) of the Nutcracker. 11:30am - 1:30pm. $15. Madame Walker Theatre. 617 Indiana Avenue, Indianapolis. www.indianaballetcompany. com. 317-228-1917. The Nutcracker Join us for our 3rd annual performance of The Nutcracker. Performances will be at the Mike McMorrow Auditorium at Beech Grove High School. Saturday, December 12th Doors open at 6:00 pm Show starts at 7:00 pm Sunday, December 13th Doors open at 1:15 pm Show starts at 2:00 pm Tickets are $6 in advance at The Dance Refinery Nov. 21st - Dec. 5th or $8 at the door. 7:00 pm. $6 in advance at The Dance Refinery, $8 at the door. Beech Grove High School Auditorium. 5330 Hornet Ave, Beech Grove. www.TheDanceRefinery. com. 317-881-1905. A Song for the Holidays Four Enchanting Broadway Voices, One Enchanted Holiday Evening. Various Times. $35- $40. American Cabaret Theatre. 401 E. Michigan St., Indianapolis. www.actindy.org/. 317-631-0334 Ext. 115. Rejoice! Join us for Rejoice! Butler’s annual holiday gift to the community. This year, the choirs are joined by musicians from the Butler Symphony Orchestra. Performances will include holiday favorites, exciting new works and Johann Sebastian Bach’s thrilling Christmas Oratorio for chorus, orchestra, and soloists. 7:30 p.m. Ticket Required. Clowes Memorial Hall. 4600 Sunset Ave, Indianapolis. www. cloweshall.org. 317-940-9246.

Sunday 13

Indianapolis Colts vs. Denver Broncos 1 p.m. Lucas Oil Stadium. 500 S. Capitol Ave., Indianapolis. www.lucasoilstadium.com. 317-262-3452.

re so u rce s Las Posadas 4-8 p.m. Indiana History Center. 450 W. Ohio St, Indianapolis. w w w.indianahistor y.org. 317-232-1882. Logansport Children’s Choir 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. Indianapolis Artsgarden. 110 W. Washington St., Indianapolis. www.indyarts.org. 317-624-2563. New World Youth Orchestra 7 p.m. Indianapolis Artsgarden. 110 W. Washington St., Indianapolis. www.indyarts.org. 317-624-2563. Orchestra, Chorus and Organ Concert 3 p.m. $15. Scottish Rite Cathedral. 650 N. Meridian St, Indianapolis. www. aasr-indy.org/Tour/. 1-800-4893579. Skyline Club Colts Brunch 11 a.m. $28. Skyline Club. One American Square, Indianapolis. The Nutcracker Join us for our 3rd annual performance of The Nutcracker. Performances will be at the Mike McMorrow Auditorium at Beech Grove High School. Saturday, December 12th Doors open at 6:00 pm Show starts at 7:00 pm Sunday, December 13th Doors open at 1:15 pm Show starts at 2:00 pm Tickets are $6 in advance at The Dance Refinery Nov. 21st - Dec. 5th or $8 at the door. 2:00 pm. $6 in advance at The Dance Refinery, $8 at the door. Beech Grove High School Auditorium. 5330 Hornet Ave, Beech Grove. www.TheDanceRefinery.com. 317881-1905. A Song for the Holidays Four Enchanting Broadway Voices, One Enchanted Holiday Evening. Various Times. $35$40. American Cabaret Theatre. 401 E. Michigan St., Indianapolis. www.actindy.org/. 317-6310334 Ext. 115.

Monday 14 Snowflake Break! Fishers Parks and Recreation will turn the Roy G. Holland Park Memorial Building into a winter wonderland as we create our own snow, make winter crafts and play games. The program is for ages 3-6 and is a child-only class. Preregistration is required and ends December 7. Session 1: 9:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. Session 2: 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. Resident $16, non-resident $24. Roy G. Holland Memorial Park. One Park Dr., Fishers. www.fishers.in.us/department/ division.asp?fDD=9-55&location=holland. 317-595-3155. Winter Break Movie: Christmas With the Simpsons Children of all ages are invited for a showing of the movie, “Christmas With the Simpsons.”. 4:30 p.m. West Indianapolis Branch Library. 1216 S. Kappes St, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4540.

Tuesday 15

Family Fun Night Families are invited for Wii games, board and card games, puzzles, crafts and more. 6 p.m. Decatur Library. 5301 Kentucky Ave, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4330. Holiday Family Fun Take a look at things that make this time of year special and unique. Join us for an evening of stories, crafts, refreshments and experiences the entire family can enjoy. 7 p.m. Free. Noblesville Library. One Library Plaza, Noblesville. www.hepl.lib.in.us. 317-773-1384.

Holiday Hullabaloo For children in grades 1-5. Share some holiday cheer! Listen to stories to inspire the spirit of the season while enjoying a holiday treat, join in some fun activities, and make a craft to take home with you! Registration is required and begins December 8, either online, in person, or by calling 844-3363. 4:00-5:00 p.m. or 6:30-7:30 p.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us/. 317-844-3363. Kids Christmas Cookie Class Tuesday, December 15 @ 6:00pm. Come cut-out, bake and decorate your own Christmas cookies. You will also hear a Holiday story while you wait for your cookies to bake. Ages 3-6. Parents: We will have a room set up with light refreshments for you to enjoy while your kids are baking. Bring your favorite book and relax. Please register at the Greenwood Community Center by Sunday, December 13th. Tuesday, December 15th @ 6pm. $8/Greenwood Residents, $10/non-residents per child. Greenwood Community Center. 100 Surina Way, Greenwood. www.greenwood.in.gov/ egov/docs/1257966415_42053.pdf. 317-8814545. Preschool Holiday Drop-in Craft For young children & their caregivers. This is an opportunity for young children and their caregivers to choose from a variety of crafts to make together, and then take the crafts home. No registration is required. 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us/. Special Needs Playgroup This playgroup is for kids with special needs and their caregivers. The playgroup leaders are moms of special needs children. We have toys that will meet your child’s developmental and sensory needs. They can play and develop social skills and their caregiver can meet other parents and share resources. There is no charge. 9:30-10:30 am. FREE. St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. 100 W. 86th St., Room 113 (please use entrance 16 at rear of bui, Indianapolis. Laura (317)417-8444.

Wednesday 16

Indiana Pacers vs. Charlotte Bobcats 7 p.m. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www.consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500. MOMS Club of Southport, IN Business Meeting The MOMS Club of Southport, IN is a non-profit based support group for stay at home moms. Our chapter services moms in the Franklin and Perry Twps. The business meeting is held monthly to go over any pending business and present the next month’s calendar of events. Children are welcome to attend with their moms and sometimes there is a scheduled speaker. 10:00am. free. Southport Baptist Church.

T hursday 17

Christmas at Lilly House and Greenhouse Open House 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Indianapolis Museum of Art. 4000 Michigan Rd, Indianapolis. www.imamuseum.org. 317-920-2659. Holiday Magic with Don Miller Nationally known magician and comedian, “Magic Don” Miller, will amaze you with his holidaythemed magic, snow-covered comedy and colorful illusions. Warm-hearted stories throughout the show weave the magic together with the spirit of the holiday season. This free interactive program is appropriate for all ages. Registration is required. 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Fishers Public Library. 5 Municipal Dr, Fishers. www.hepl.lib.in.us. 317-579-0300. Winter Solstice at the IMA 6 to 8:30 p.m. Indianapolis Museum of Art. 4000 Michigan Rd, Indianapolis. www.imamuseum.org. 317-920-2659.

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ONgoing EVENTS 2505 Conservatory Drive, Indianapolis. w w w.gar f ieldgardensconser vator y.org. (317) 327-7184. First Friday Evening at WonderLab Occurring on the first Friday of each Month Through Thursday, December 31, 2009. The museum will be open from 9:30 am, with reduced admission of just $3 per person after 5pm. Pizza and juice available to purchase in the evening. 5-8:30pm. Reduced admission: $3/person after 5:00 pm. WonderLab Museum of Science, Health and Technology. 308 West Fourth Street, Bloomington. www.wonderlab.org. 812-337-1337 ext. 25.

holes. Warm up your imagination with lots of cookie fun in the kitchen, and help Santa’s reindeer prepare for their flight! . 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free with museum a d m i s s i o n . The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. 3000 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis. www.childrensmuseum.org. (317) 334-4000.

Game Space: Dance Dance Revolution

Julie Dash: Smuggling Daydreams into Reality

Ongoing Daily. For more information, call the Young Adult desk at 814-3983. 2-4pm. FREE. Carmel Clay Library. 55 Fourth Ave. Southeast, Program Room, Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us/.

Occurring Daily Through Monday, January 18, 2010. Tue., Wed. & Sat. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Thu. & Fri. 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Sun. noon - 5 p.m. FREE. Indianapolis Museum of Art. 4000 Michigan Rd, Indianapolis. www.imamuseum.org. 317-9202659.

Girls Night Out Ongoing on the fourth Saturday of each Month. Massage, Hand Treatments, Foot Treatments, Chair Massage, Facial Massage, Brow Wax, Food & Fun. Bring a friend and come hang with the girls . 6-9PM. Choose 3 services for $30. Eden’s Pathway. 5496 Emerson Way, Indianapolis. www.edenspathway.com. 317.205.9377. Holiday Sounds Occurring Daily Beginning Saturday, December 05, 2009 Through Sunday, December 20, 2009. Mon. – Fri., 9:15 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.; Sun., noon – 3:30 p.m. Indiana State Museum. 650 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. www.in.gov/ism. 317-232-1637. Home for Christmas Occurring Every Sun, Fri & Sat Beginning Friday, December 04, 2009 Through Sunday, December 20, 2009. 8 p.m., Sun 2:30 p.m. $14, $12 for students & seniors. Buck Creek Playhouse. 11150 Southeastern Ave., Indianapolis. www.buckcreekplayers. com/wherearewe.htm. 317-862-2270. Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra: Duke Energy Yuletide Celebration Occurring Daily Beginning Friday, December 04, 2009 Through Tuesday, December 29, 2009. Various Times. $32. $17 kids. Hilbert Circle Theatre. 45 Monument Circle, Indianapolis. Indy Winter Farmers Market Occurring Daily Beginning Saturday, November 14, 2009 Through Saturday, April 24, 2010. 9-12:30pm. The Chatham Center. 901 North East Street, Indianapolis. www.indywinterfarmersmarket.org. Jolly Days Winter Wonderland Occurring Daily (except Mon) Beginning Friday, November 27, 2009 Through Sunday, January 10, 2010. Enjoy traditional holiday favorites such as the Yule Slide, Jingles the Jolly Bear and visits with Santa. Have fun with Jingles and his friends! Explore “outdoor” fun at the Snow Castle and Ice Fishing

Live Irish Music Occurring Daily Through Tuesday, November 30, 2010. Visit the Golden Ace Inn for traditional Irish music. 8-10pm. Free. Golden Ace Inn. 2533 East Washington Street, Indianapolis. www.goldenaceinn.com. 317-632-0696. Love Letters Occurring Daily Beginning Tuesday, December 15, 2009 Through Sunday, January 17, 2010. Indiana Repertory Theatre. 140 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. www.indianarep.com. 317-635-5252. Marsh Christmas at the Zoo and Indiana Rail Road’s Holiday Trainland Occurring Daily Beginning Friday, December 04, 2009 Through Wednesday, December 30, 2009. This event is free for Zoo members, and costs for non-members are $8.50 for adults and $6.50 for seniors 62+ and youth 2-12. Children one and under are free. Parking is $5.00. This event is free for Zoo members, and costs for non-members ar. Indianapolis Zoo. 1200 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. www.indyzoo.com. 317-630-2001. Mistletoe Music Festival Occurring Every Tue, Wed & Thu Beginning Tuesday, December 01, 2009 Through Thursday, December 17, 2009. Various Times. Indianapolis Artsgarden. 20 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis. www.indyarts.org. 317-631-3301. Moms and More Meeting at Center for Inquiry Occurring on the second Wednesday and fourth Saturday of each Month Through Sunday, October 31, 2010. Snacks, conversation, light exercise, and reflection. Children are welcome with volunteers available to care for children while mothers converse. 10-11:30am. Free. Center for Inquiry. 350 Canal Walk, Suite A, Indianapolis. www.mommymoon.org. 317-654-8684. INDYSCHILD.COM 47

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calendar

Friday 18

Drop-In Craft: Penguins Children of all ages are invited to celebrate the first day of winter by making a penguin. During Library Hours. West Indianapolis Branch Library. 1216 S. Kappes St, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4540. The Nutcracker Presented by the Indianapolis School of Ballet. Scottish Rite Cathedral. 650 N. Meridian St, Indianapolis. www.aasr-indy.org/Tour/. 1-800-489-3579.

Saturday 19

A Visit With Mrs. Claus Children of all ages and families are invited to enjoy making holiday crafts, songs and stories, along with visit from Mrs. Claus. 2 p.m. Haughville Library. 2121 W. Michigan St, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4420. American Girl Club Children ages 7 - 13 are invited to bring their favorite dolls and tell stories, create projects and learn about their dolls. 11 a.m. Wayne Library. 198 S. Girls School Rd, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4530. Barbie: The Fashion Experience 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Children’s Museum. 3000 N. Meridian St, Indianapolis. w w w. c h i l d r e n s m u s e u m . o r g /. (317) 334-3322. Family Christmas Stories Families and children of all ages are invited for stories about Christmas. 10:15 a.m. Franklin Road Library. 5550 S. Franklin Rd, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4380. Handel’s Messiah 8 p.m. Various prices. Clowes Memorial Hall. 4600 Sunset Ave, Indianapolis. www.cloweshall.org. 317-940-6444. Holiday on the Prairie at Conner Prairie Interactive History Park The sights and sounds of holidays past come to life with family activities inside Conner Prairie’s cozy welcome center and throughout the outdoor 1836 Prairietown. In the welcome center, guests can stroll through a wonderland of icing, gumdrops and sprinkles atop remarkable gingerbread creations, visit with a Victorian era Santa Claus, craft a holiday decoration to take home, enjoy a theatrical presentation, play with 1 9 t h century toys and e x p l o r e Discovery S t a t i o n . Guests can also bundle up and stroll t h r o u g h the outdoor 1836 village of Prairietown, where they can help residents prepare for the holidays ahead and take care of winter tasks the 19th century way. For your convenience, lunch will be available for purchase in the welcome center, along with festive hot cocoa, warm apple cider and other holiday sweets at the outdoor Café. 10am-4pm. FREE and open to the public. Conner Prairie Interactive History Park. 13400 Allisonville Rd., Fishers. www. connerprairie.org. 317.776.6006. Christmas on the farm This FREE event features live music and caroling with Lathan’s Holly Duo, sleigh-hayrides around the farm, craft-making opportunities for children and a visit from Old St. Nick. Holiday benefit for 48 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2009

the United Way of Central Indiana’s Christmas Service is to help Indiana families in need. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, visit the TPC at traderspointcreamery.com.

Life Laughs With Words Book Club Tweens ages 10 - 13 are invited to discuss the book, “Listen” by Stephanie S. Tolan. Food will be provided. Visit the branch to pick up a copy of the book. 2 p.m. Fountain Square Library. 1066 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis. www. imcpl.org. 317-275-4390. Reindeer Stomp Special Christmas Children’s Event celebrating the Christmas season & reindeer. Cindy Baney, of Moriah Musicals, will be entertaining with stories, music & puppets. 10:30. FREE Event. Mudsock Books & Curiosity Shoppe. 11631 Fishers Station Drive, Fishers. 317-579-9822. Tommy Wills Orchestra 1 p.m. Indianapolis Artsgarden. 110 W. Washington St., Indianapolis. www.indyarts.org. 317-624-2563. Family Tours The IMA offers free, 30-minute tours for families with children of all ages on the second and fourth Saturday of each month. 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. FREE. Indianapolis Museum of Art. 4000 Michigan Rd., Indianapolis. www.imamuseum.org. 317-923-1331. The Nutcracker Presented by the Indianapolis School of Ballet. Scottish Rite Cathedral. 650 N. Meridian St, Indianapolis. www.aasr-indy.org/Tour/. 1-800-489-3579. Pizza with the Dude Saturday, Dec. 19, 12:00 - 2:00 p.m. Reservations Required. Santa’s stopping by for Pizza & Pop. He’ll gladly take last minute gift requests, pose for photos, and let you mingle with the elves. Your visit includes playtime in ‘Gingerbread Land’. All ages welcome. Adults 13 & up, $ 8.00 Kids 2 –12, $6..50. 12:00 - 2:00 p.m. $6.50 - 8.00. The Play Connection, Inc. 9221 Crawfordsville Rd., Indianapolis. www.theplayconnection.com. 317-918-4359.

Sunday 20

Twelve FREE Days of Christmas As a participant in the Indianapolis Convention and Visitors Association’s annual “Twelve FREE Days of Christmas” event, the Harrison home will celebrate this day with free tours. 12 noon to 3:30 p.m. President Benjamin Harrison Home. 1230 N. Delaware St, Indianapolis. w w w. p r e s i d e n t b e n j a m i n h a r r i s o n .o r g /. 317-631-1888.

Winter Movie Break: A Chipmunk Christmas Children of all ages are invited for a showing of the movie, “Alvin and the Chipmunks: A Chipmunk Christmas.”. 4:30 p.m. West Indianapolis Branch Library. 1216 S. Kappes St, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4540.

Tuesday 22

Feature Film: Winnie-thePooh and the Blustery Day We’ll be showing this classic storytime favorite in the Storytime Room. No registration is required. 10:00-10:30 a.m., 11:00-11:30 a.m., or 1:00-1:30 p.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us/. Play Legos! For children in grades K-5. Stop by the library and join us for an hour of free Lego play! No registration is required. 3:00-4:00 p.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us/.

Wednesday 23

Bedtime Stories Toddlers and preschoolers with an adult are invited to bring their favorite stuffed animal, blanket or pillow for special bedtime stories in the Story Theater. 6:30 p.m. East 38th Street Library. 5420 E. 38th St, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317275-4350.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra 3 p.m. & 8 p.m. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. consecof ieldhouse.com 317-917-2500.

T hursday 24

Holiday Paper Chains Drop-In Craft Children of all ages and families are invited to celebrate the holidays with festive paper chains. During Library Hours. InfoZone Library Branch. 3000 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4430.

Friday 25

Family Tours at the IMA 1:30 p.m. & 2:30 p.m. $5. Indianapolis Museum of Art. 4000 Michigan Rd, Indianapolis. www.imamuseum.org. 317-920-2659. Indiana Pacers vs. Atlanta Hawks 7 p.m. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www.consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500. Girls Night Out Massage, Hand Treatments, Foot Treatments, Chair Massage, Facial Massage, Brow Wax, Food & Fun. Bring a friend and come hang with the girls. 6-9PM. Choose 3 services for $30. Eden’s Pathway. 5496 Emerson Way, Indianapolis. www.edenspathway.com. 317.205.9377. Moms and More Meeting at Center for Inquiry Snacks, conversation, light exercise, and ref lection. Children are welcome with volunteers available to care for children while mothers converse. 1011:30am. Free. Center for Inquiry. 350 Canal Walk, Suite A, Indianapolis. www.mommymoon.org. 317-654-8684.

Sunday 27

Indianapolis Colts vs. New York Jets 1 p.m. Lucas Oil Stadium. 500 S. Capitol Ave., Indianapolis. www. lucasoilstadium.com. 317-262-3452. Indy Swing Dance Club Lessons 2-3 pm, Open dancing 3-6 pm. $15. Madame Walker Theatre. 617 Indiana Ave., Indianapolis. www.walkertheatre.com. 317-236-2099. Skyline Club Colts Brunch 2 p.m. $28. Skyline Club. One American Square, Indianapolis.

Monday 28

Baby Social Time Babies 8 - 23 months are invited for an informal play gathering managed by attending parents. 10:30 a.m. Irvington Library. 5625 E. Washington St, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4450. Captain Underpants Party Falafel Chucklefanny and Pinky Pizzachunks invite Captain Underpants fans to celebrate our intrepid Pooper-Heroes. Learn your secret name, play games and enjoy snacks. 2 p.m. Decatur Library. 5301 Kentucky Ave, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4330.

The Nutcracker Presented by the Indianapolis School of Ballet. Scottish Rite Cathedral. 650 N. Meridian St, Indianapolis. www.aasr-indy.org/Tour/. 1-800-489-3579.

Paws and Read Young children who are reluctant readers are invited to practice their reading skills by reading to a trained and patient therapy dog provided by Therapy Dogs International. Excludes 12/8 and 12/22. 7pm. FREE. Warren Library. 9701 E. 21st St, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4550.

Monday 21

Indiana Pacers vs. Milwaukee Bucks 7 p.m. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www.consecofieldhouse. com. 317-917-2500.

Tuesday 29

Manga and Anime Club: Candi Sushi! Teens are invited to learn about the popular Japanese food, sushi, while making their own sushi out of candy. Call 275-4350 to register. 3 p.m. East 38th Street Library. 5420 E. 38th St, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4350. Reindeer Drop-in Craft All ages welcome. Stop by the Storytime Room and make a reindeer out of a candy cane! There will be plenty of supplies to go around. No registration is required. 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us/.

11:00-11:30 a.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us/.

Feature Film: The Tale of Despereaux

Saturday 26

Family Films For young children & their caregivers. How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight? The Napping House Owl Moon. 10:00-10:30 a.m. or

Join us for a feature f ilm adaptation of an award-winning book, The Tale of Despereaux! The f ilm is rated G and no registration is required. 2:00-3:45 p.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us/. ”A Candlelight Evening on Delaware St.” Annual elegant pre-New Year’s evening of historic home tours and dining. 5.30-9.30pm. $75 per person; $70 for members. President Benjamin

re so u rce s Harrison Home. 1230 N. Delaware St, Indianapolis. www.pbhh.org. 317-631-1888. Children’s Tea “The World of Marionettes” 2 p.m. $22 adults, $16 kids. Indianapolis Propylaeum. 1410 N. Delaware St. #2, Indianapolis. www.thepropylaeum.org. 317-638-7881.

Wednesday 30

Indiana Pacers vs. Memphis Grizzlies 7 p.m. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www.consecofieldhouse.com. 317917-2500.

T hursday 31

Countdown to Fun! Children of all ages and families are invited to the techZone to create an animated ball drop in Frames(tm). In the InfoZone, craft a Countdown Clock to continue the New Year’s celebration at home. During Library Hours. 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. InfoZone Library Branch. 3000 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4430. Countdown to Noon Five, four, three, two, one…Happy Noon Year! Join The Children’s Museum as they Countdown to Noon on New Year’s Eve Day. This hour-long event will let children and families participate in the excitement of a countdown to the New Year in anticipation of the evening’s countdown. Enjoy activities including face painting, noisemakers, music and dancing. 11 a.m. 12 p.m. Free with museum admission. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. 3000 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis. www.childrensmuseum.org. (317) 334-4000. Kid’s New Year’s Eve Bash New Year’s Eve Bash Dec. 31, 2009, 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Count Down to 9 p.m., $5 per person. Reservations Required. 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. $5.00. The Play Connection, Inc. 9221 Crawfordsville Rd., Indianapolis. www.theplayconnection.com. 317918-4359. New Year’s Eve in Vienna 9 p.m. $35- $60. Hilbert Circle Monument Circle, Indianapolis.

Theatre.

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ONgoing EVENTS MOMS Club of Center Grove West Ongoing Each Friday Beginning Friday, November 20, 2009. MOMS Club of Center Grove West is a non-profit based support group for stay at home moms. Our chapter services moms West of 135 in Center Grove. The business meeting is held monthly to go over any pending business and present the next month’s calendar of events. Children are welcome to attend with their moms. Contact momsclubCG@ live.com for more information. 10 a.m. Free. White River Library. 1664 Library Boulevard, Greenwood. momsclubCG@live.com. 317-300-1293. Peewinkle’s Christmas Puppet Show Occurring Daily Beginning Tuesday, December 15, 2009 Through Tuesday, December 22, 2009. Various Times. $9. Indiana State Museum. 650 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. www.in.gov/ism. 317-232-1637. PUblic Ice Skating Occurring Daily Through Friday, April 30, 2010. Stop by the Pepsi Coliseum for two hours of skating fun. 2:30 - 4:30. $4; Under 13 $3; $2 figure skate rental or $3 hockey skate renta. Indiana State Fairgrounds. 1202 E. 38th St., Indianapolis. www. in.gov/statefair. 317-927-7500. Special Needs Playgroup Occurring Each Tuesday Beginning Tuesday, November 17, 2009 Through Tuesday, December 15, 2009. This playgroup is for kids with special needs and their caregivers. The playgroup leaders are moms of special needs children. We have toys that will meet your child’s developmental and sensory needs. They can play and develop social skills and their caregiver can meet other parents and share resources. There is no charge. 9:30-10:30 am. FREE. St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. 100 W. 86th St., Room 113 (please use entrance 16 at rear of bui, Indianapolis. Laura (317)417-8444. The Color Purple Occurring Daily Beginning Tuesday, December 29, 2009 Through Sunday, January 03, 2010. Clowes Memorial Hall. 4600 Sunset Ave, Indianapolis. www. cloweshall.org. 317940-6444. The Marvelous Land of Oz

restore peace. A wonderful continuing adventure of the characters you fell in love with in The Wizard of Oz. Based on the story by L. Frank Baum; adapted for the stage by Tessa Bridal. Ideal for families with children 5 and up. Show dates: November 27 & 28, 11:30 a.m., 1 & 3 p.m. / November 29, December 18-20, 22-23, 26-27, 29-31 & January 1-3, 1 & 3 p.m. / December 24, 11:30 a.m. / ASL Interpreted performances, December 9, 10 a.m. and December 12, 1 p.m. various, visit www.childrensmuseum. org for a list of show times. Free with museum admission. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. 3000 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis. www. childrensmuseum.org. (317) 334-4000. Winter at the Propylaeum Occurring Daily Beginning Tuesday, December 01, 2009 Through Thursday, December 31, 2009. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Various prices. Indianapolis Propylaeum. 1410 N. Delaware St. #2, Indianapolis. www.thepropylaeum.org. 317-638-7881. WonderLab’s Discovery Time Occurring Each Wednesday Beginning Wednesday, November 18, 2009 Through Thursday, December 31, 2009. Stop by for a special story, animal demonstration or hands-on science activity! Call 812-337-1337 ext. 2 to learn the topic of the week. This program is intended for children, age 6 and younger, with their caregivers. Older siblings are welcome. 10:30 am - 11:00 am (dropin format). Included with museum admission. WonderLab Museum of Science, Health and Technology. 308 West Fourth Street, Bloomington. www.wonderlab.org. 812-337-1337 ext. 25. Zoom! Sprints & Lap Races for kids pedal cars Ongoing Annually each November 13. FAMILY Special Event/Wheeled Racers. We’ll set up a track for pedal cars, big wheels, trikes, and kettle cars. Borrow ours or bring your own, the races will last all day. Make a race car craft to race too. All Play Spaces OPEN. Bounce House, Award Ceremony, and More. $3 per child. Adults Free. Rain or Shine. 11- 6. $3. The Play Connection. 10747 E US HWY 136, Indianapolis. w w w.t h e p l ayc o n n e c t i o n .c o m . 3179184359. “A Very Phoenix Xmas” Occurring Daily Beginning Friday, November 27, 2009 Through Sunday, December 20, 2009. Deepsix the sugar plums, kick Dickens to the curb and don’t even think of putting on toe shoes: The Phoenix Theatre continues its alternative holiday tradition with “A Very Phoenix Xmas.” The show captures the spirit of the season with sketches, audience participation and music celebrating all of the winter holidays, including Christmas, Hanukah, Winter Solstice, New Year’s and more. Visit www. phoenixtheatre.org for more information or call 317.635.PLAY. The Phoenix Theatre. 749 N. Park Ave, Indianapolis. www.phoenixtheatre.org/. 317-635-7529.

t he marvelous land of oz

Occurring Daily Beginning Friday, November 27, 2009 Through Sunday, January 03, 2010. Join us in Lilly Theater as we bring you the sequel to The Wonderful Wizard of Oz! Set two years after the events of the first book, The Marvelous Land of Oz features familiar characters, such as the Scarecrow, the Tin Woodman and the Good Witch Glinda, along with a host of new characters – the Woggle Bug, Jack Pumpkinhead, his creator, Tip, and Princess Ozma. When the Scarecrow, now ruler of the Emerald City, is driven out by General Jinjur and her all-girl army, his friends – The Tin Woodman, Tip and Jack Pumpkinhead – try to

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