Indy's Child // 12.2010 by Midwest Parenting Publications

Exploring the World of Homeschooling Virtual Education

The Holiday Issue

Holiday

FUN

December 2010 * indyschild.com

4 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

INDYSCHILD.COM 5

HOliday fun in indy

Commentary & Parenting * Publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Note: "All Aboard" at the Eiteljorg Museum

dear teacher: Analyzing Importance

mommy magic: Enjoying the Countdown of Magic

NEWS & SHOPPING * News You Can Use: Contests, Special Events, Promises and More

12 FREE days of christmas in indy

holiday gift guide

home grown

child e xceptional

Health & Wellness * pediatric Health: Casting a New Light on Scoliosis

women's HEALTH: Help to Brighten a Child's Hospital Stay During the Holidays

Women's Health: Seven Essentials for Healthy Holidays

special needs awareness: Ten Ways to Prep Your Child with Autism for the Holidays

special needs awareness: Sibshops Support Siblings of Kids with Special Needs

special needs awareness: Top 10 Books for Siblings of Kids with Special Needs

Around Town * museum note: Have a Holly Jolly Time in Jolly Days

arts & enrichment: Fun on Wheels (and Blades)

indianapolis zoo: Christmas at the Zoo Brings Holiday Cheer

indy parks: Indoor and Outdoor Winter Activities to Keep Your Family Active

family fun in indy: Ho Ho Holiday Shopping

* RESOURCES

arts & enrichment directory

special needs guide

special needs calendar

childcare & education directory

fun & wacky calendar

calendar

classifieds

Ask the Staff:

Where will you be ringing in the New Year??? With good friends... looking forward to another great year!

With family and friends

I don't know yet, but hopefully not far from my own living room!

With my fantastic circle of friends!

a link between anxiety and autism

R O X A N NE

preschool power 6 INDYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

h e at her

sk i ew

e ip

At home with my family eating popcorn and watching movies!

We are elebrating with friends & ringing in the new year with all of our kids!!!

With my wonderful family.Hopefully I can stay awake until midnight!

j e nn i ca za

K A R E N R I NG

Indy’s Child

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 sales and business development Jennica Zalewski jennica@indyschild.com Art Direction & Design Heather Lipe heather@indyschild.com Controller / ACCOUNTANT Roxanne Burns roxanne@indyschild.com OFFICE MANAGER Karen Ring karen@indyschild.com

Co mm e n ta ry & PARENTING

Publisher’s Note

"All Aboard" at the Eiteljorg Museum New Holiday Train Adventure Through the West is a Must See

ndianapolis has a new treasure: The Great Jingle Rail Western Adventure. The Eiteljorg Museum staff gave Paul Busse and his Applied Imagination organization ideas for a railroad holiday display connecting Indianapolis to legendary sites in the American West. The exhibit is a magnificent holiday gift to all families and can be viewed through January 9, 2011. Who wouldn’t be thrilled to see five G-scale/ gauge model trains running at one time through tunnels, over trestles, and passing by legendary sites such as Mt. Rushmore, the Grand Canyon, Old Faithful and Yosemite Park’s magnificent waterfalls?

Park lodges and the scenes of Teepees on plains and the Pueblo Indians’ mountain-side dwellings. Indianapolis is so fortunate to have so many wonderful places to take the family in December. Christmas at the Zoo is always a special treat, as is The Children’s Museum Jolly Days, which has added a new Winter Wonderland with indoor snowball fights and sock skating on an indoor pond. The Indiana State Museum’s Holiday Train ride for kids and visits with Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus both give you an opportunity to visit the Titanic exhibit before it leaves on January 17th. And, of course, all museums have wonderful gift and Sailors Monument with Christmas lights than any other reproduction he has made. Also on the shops and food service. Monument Circle scene are replicas of Union Station, Chase Tower and the Indianapolis Power and Light Other must-see events include performances of building. The train also goes by the Eiteljorg Museum The Nutcracker, Indianapolis Symphony Yuletide Celebration Concerts, Charles Dickens’ A Christmas on the way to the American West. Carol at the Indiana Repertory Theatre and Beef The rail adventure goes to Mt. Rushmore,Yellowstone and Boards’ The Christmas Musical: A Wonderful Park with Old Faithful as a water-feature. Other sites Life all of which make live theatre a great option for visited are Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Northwest Coast December. As always, you can find details of all events this issue of Indy’s Child's calendar. Native Villages and Glacier Park.

I took my seven-year-old granddaughter, Lucy Wynne, to see her reaction to the new holiday exhibit. She appreciated the knowledgeable and enthusiastic volunteers who enjoyed telling her about the trains and the sites she has never seen. Train enthusiast brothers Mike and Kim Kensill and Tom Bromstrup were all part of the volunteers who the presenting sponsor, Indiana Rail Roads Company, had encouraged to join the Eiteljorg volunteers.They explained that there are What is most unique about this installation is that all We wish a Happy Holidays to all of our Indy’s Child four islands with two exhibits on each side. of the displays are made from natural materials. Many readers. The Great Rail Adventure starts right at Indy’s different woods, twigs, nuts and moss were used and own Monument Circle. Paul Busse states that he the carving of the faces on Mt. Rushmore are all done spent more time creating the replica of the Soldiers in wood. Other islands portray the different National

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Sara Morris Photography CORRECTION

In our November issue we failed to credit the appropriate writers for their work on two pieces. Nikki Keever was responsible for the Jonathan Lee Iverson interview and our Family Fun in Indy column was written by Kimberly Harms at the Indianapolis Convention and Visitors Association. The wrong ad for National Youth Advocacy Program ran in our November issue. The correct ad will run in January.

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 2010-2011 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.

INDYSCHILD.COM 7

NE WS & SHO PPING

events & news you can use

No Need for a Plane Ticket to Enjoy Holiday Fun at Indianapolis International Airport

Passengers, visitors, families, and local residents are invited to enjoy several holiday events, all of which will take place in Civic Plaza, the presecurity gathering area in the heart of the passenger terminal.

Hendricks County Holiday on Saturday, December 11 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m

We value our Hendricks County friends and neighbors! This free appreciation event for the whole family will include a visit from Santa, special children’s activities, and a variety of musical entertainment featuring local high school students. Other activities may include: A children’s area with storytellers from the Hendricks County Library. Register to win prizes—one of 100 gift cards ranging from $100 to $25 in value. Special promotions for holiday gifts and shopping. Discounts on meals. Parking is free for those who register to win.

8 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

Meridian Music Hosts the 3rd Annual Music Marathon Food Drive

Dora the Explorer & Santa on Saturday, December 18 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Characters from Nickelodeon’s popular, top-ranked preschool TV show Dora the Explorer will be on hand for a special holiday celebration. Dora, a seven-yearold Latina heroine whose adventures take place in an imaginative world filled with jungles, rainforests, and beaches, will join Santa and special guests in Civic Plaza. Take your child’s photo with Dora and Boots Visit with Santa. Special guests may include appearances by local celebrities, including the Indianapolis Colts. Admission is free; parking will be validated when attendees register to win prizes to be determined. Visit www.indianapolisairport.com for more information in the coming weeks about entertainment, shopping and dining promotions and more this holiday season. See you in Civic Plaza, where it’s always happening in our atmosphere!

On Saturday, December 11th from 8 a.m. – 9 p.m., Meridian Music will hold it’s 3rd annual Music Marathon in Munger Hall at Meridian Music in Carmel, IN. This performance event will kick off a 2-week food drive benefiting Gleaner’s Food Bank. Meridian Music teachers and students along with other area music teachers and students will sign-up for performance timeslots. Many instruments, genres, and skill levels will be represented. All performers and audience members will be asked to donate at least one non-perishable food item the day of the performance. Meridian Music will continue to accept non-perishable food items from the general public through December 27, 2010. Meridian Music welcomes the general public to attend this event at anytime on Saturday, December 11th! For more information, please contact Hillary Blake, Director of Education at 317-575-9588 ext. 105 or hblake@meridianmusic.com. Meridian Music located at 12725 Old Meridian St., Carmel IN, is one of the largest music education centers in Central Indiana with individual or group lessons for children and adults learning to play piano, guitar, brass, strings, and woodwinds as well as voice coaching. Meridian Music is the largest locally owned establishment of its kind – selling pianos, organs, portable keyboards and print music and is the only source for Yamaha and Steinway pianos in the Indianapolis area.

New Exhibit Cluster Fostering Creativity Now Open at WonderLab Museum A new hands-on learning opportunity, The RED Zone: Robotics, Engineering & Research indicates a strong positive correlation between childhood creativity and Design, opened at the WonderLab Museum of Science, Health and Technology on lifetime accomplishment. At the same time, scientific studies in the United States have November 9 and will be available through May 15, 2011. The RED Zone is a collection measured declining levels of creativity in American youth since 1990. Other studies show of open-ended building systems that encourages visitors to use their imaginations and that creativity is like any other skill and can be learned problem-solving skills to design structures and vehicles, fanciful creatures, joints that and practiced by engaging in interactive activities that mimic anatomy, abstract sculptures, and more. Some of the seven different stations provide multiple ways to solve a challenge feature motorized or moving parts. The RED Zone's seven stations offer Robotix, The RED Zone was developed in response to discussions with WonderLab member families Magna-Tiles, Magformers, K'NEX, Jawbones, Zoobs, who expressed the appeal of museum experiences that change as a child grows and develops and KEVA Planks. The museum's gift store has many new skills. The collection meets that criterion by providing materials that can be used in of these types of robotics and creative building systems different ways by people of differing ages, interests, and abilities. It also addresses STEM in stock so that visitors can continue the learning (science, technology, engineering, math) skills that are critical for developing creativity experience at home. WonderLab also plans to offer and fostering innovation. WonderLab has information for educators on the museum's additional enrichment through related weekend website regarding how The RED Zone supports Indiana academic standards in math programming over the next few months. For more and science. These include comparing and classifying patterns, geometric shapes and information visit www.wonderlab.org. designs; understanding the relationship between two- and three-dimensional shapes; building something complex from simple parts; using models to simulate complex systems; and solving During the week of October 20th, The Profiles Series produced an episode of been offering a full curriculum geared toward helping gifted children realize problems and communicating ideas. The Profiles at the Sycamore School at 1750 West 64th Street, which their potential for a quarter of a century. Once he found out, he broadened the

Sycamore School Featured on Discovery Channel

will air on the Discovery Channel. The school was selected from more than 150 educational facilities identified for their academic excellence nationwide. The program, hosted by actor Lou Gossett, Jr., profiles exceptional performance in a variety of areas. Episodes focus on today’s emerging advancements and innovative ideas through stories that avoid the negativity of the nightly news and offer positive solutions on the most pressing issues of the day. In addition to the Discovery Channel, The Profiles Series also airs on The Learning Channel and Bravo Network. “When Associate Producer Dan Munroe contacted us, he was only aware of our achievements in the areas of Science and Math, which were going to be the focus of this show,” says Dr. Susan Karpicke, Sycamore Director of Admissions and School Counselor. “He had no idea that we’ve

program’s focus a little.” Karpicke acknowledges that Sycamore School is probably a well kept secret even in its own home town. “Within the arena of education for the gifted, we’re better known nationally than we are locally,” she laughs. “That’s why it’s so great to have The Profile Series come for a visit.” Now celebrating its 25th anniversary, Sycamore School is the only private, independent, fully accredited school for the education of the academically gifted from pre-school through eighth grade in the state of Indiana. Its enriched and accelerated curriculum was developed for advanced learners and addresses their special educational, social and emotional needs. For more information, call Dr. Susan Karpicke at 317-202-2510 or visit www.sycamoreschool.org.

INDYSCHILD.COM 9

NE WS & SHO PPING

events & news you can use

Congratulations, Contest Winners!!!

Strides to Success to Help Create Memories and Give Back to Community Come join Strides to Success, a not-for-profit organization, providing Equine Assisted Learning and therapy as they help raise money for victims of abuse on December 10 and 11 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Come create a great memory for the family and give back to the community with Christmas with the Ponies and Santa . Visit with Santa, take a family photo with Santa and a Christmas Pony, make gifts for the family at Santa’s Workshop, play reindeer games, holiday refreshments, heated and decorated barn and more! The proceeds raised from this event ($20 donation) will contribute to the Strides scholarship fund that supports programs for victims of abuse. Strides to Success is located at 1350 Terry Drive Plainfield, IN 46168. For more information call (317) 838-7002 or visit www.stridestosuccess.org/.

Unique Cake Decorating Experiences for All Ages New and unique in central Indiana, Icing Academy offers custom cake decorating lessons and parties to students of all ages and abilities. Icing Academy conveniently travels to your home or location and provides all tools, supplies and materials. Lessons are available from basic through advanced techniques. Whatever your goal or objective, Icing Academy works with you to tailor the perfect experience for you. Icing Academy also specializes in children’s birthday parties, mom’s group activities and ladies’ night out events. Students learn basic techniques, decorate their own cupcakes or cakes and take home a personalized photo to remember their special day. Julie Nolting, Icing Academy owner and instructor, has over twenty-five years experience as an award-winning cake decorator. For more information, visit www.icingacademy.com.

10 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

Congratulations to Jashona, Joshua & Christy Nunley and Brilynn McConnell. They recently enjoyed the Disney Live! Mickey's Magic Show after winning tickets from Indy's Child!!! Be sure to sign up for our weekly e-newsletters at indyschild. com for your chance to enter our awesome contests!!!!

Indy's Child Prize Pack Winners!

Congratulations to Amy Ni (10 years old Detailed Illustration) and Hannah Arnold (8 years old - Child Swimming) who won the 2010 Healthy Kids Coloring Contest by the American Heart Association and received a prize pack from Indy's Child! Keep up the good work and stay healthy!

H e a lt h & W e lln e ss

pediatric health

Casting a New Light on Scoliosis

Breakthrough Treatment for Spine Curvature Offers Hope to Young Patients curvature – with the cast guiding the spine into normal alignment. The casts are changed ever y three to six months, gradually straightening the spine completely in many cases. Scoliosis casting results in a complete correction for a signif icant number of patients, making surgery unnecessary. Even in cases where the results are When scoliosis occurs in children under three years of less dramatic, the cast treatment works well in delaying age, it is called infantile, or early onset, scoliosis. Left surgery to a time when children are older, allowing their untreated, this condition can be debilitating and even lungs and bodies to develop. life-threatening, as the t w isting spine puts pressure on the growing heart and lungs. Fortunately, help is available – and one breakthrough technique is changing the way that doctors are treating their youngest patients. Scoliosis rarely registers on a parent’s list of worries before a child is born. But this abnormal, side-toside curvature of the spine does occur in infants and very young children – and early detection is key to achieving the best possible outcome.

Children are remarkably resilient, and they adapt surprisingly well to this treatment. They can sleep, bathe, run and play in their casts. In other words, they can be kids. For more information, please visit rileyhospital.org. Dr. Shyam Kishan is a pediatric orthopedic and scoliosis surgeon at Riley Hospital for Children.

Straight talk about a serious condition There is no known cause for early onset scoliosis. The condition is rare, but there are telltale signs for parents, pediatricians and primary care physicians to look for during the early months and years of a child’s life. These include asymmetry in the shoulders and back, or one side protruding as the child bends forward. If scoliosis is suspected, a child should immediately be referred to an orthopedic surgeon. Once a diagnosis is made, a treatment plan will be developed taking the patient’s un ique sit uation into consideration. For decades, parents of infants and young children diagnosed with early onset scoliosis have had two primary treatment options to consider. The f irst is the brace, which offers only limited success, in large part due to compliance issues. Because a brace can be taken on and off, parents often face huge challenges in keeping their children in them. The second is surgery, which is often a less-than-ideal option as most operations result in a shortened spine and poorly developed chest and lungs. Now, another alternative is offering patients new hope for treatment – and even a cure.

New option now available at Riley Riley Hospital for Children recently became the first hospital in Indiana to offer a breakthrough treatment known as scoliosis casting. In this technique, a child is placed under general anesthesia so that the body is completely relaxed. After manipulating the spine into a better position, physicians carefully apply a plaster body cast around the patient’s chest and abdomen. This method relies on the growth potential of the young spine to correct the abnormal INDYSCHILD.COM 11

H e a lt h & W e lln e ss

pediatric health

Help to Brighten a Child's Hospital Stay During the Holidays The Giving Tree and Child Life Program at the Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent

Giving Tree Locations You can find Giving Trees at the following locations:

* * * *

Castleton Square Mall

Clay Terrace Shopping Center

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra Indiana Repertory Theatre The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Handheld Games Infant Toys

Activity Books

Nintendo DSTM Games Game Boy® Games Character Items Princess Items Talking Books

Character Pillows Boxed Puzzles

Participating is simple! Just select a tag from a Giving Tree, purchase the item listed on the tag, and return the unwrapped gift to one of the partner locations or to Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent. Patient-friendly requests include:

* * *

Silly Bandz

Craft Items Stickers

12 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

Giving a gift that’s priceless When most of us think of our children on Christmas Day, we envision them running to the Christmas tree to see what Santa left for them.

Portable DVD players DVDs

Wooden Puzzles

But, unfortunately, not all children wake up at home on December 25 to gifts under their family’s Christmas tree. Some children wake up to the sights and sounds of the holidays in the hospital and Christmas just doesn’t feel the same. “We can’t change the fact that they’re in the hospital, but we can make it more enjoyable for kids,” explains Molly Giles, who coordinates the annual Giving Tree program at Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent.

Action Figures/Sets Board Games Journals

Stress Balls

For more information, call Molly Giles at 317-338-7193.

Through the program, every child in the hospital receives a gift on Christmas Day, bringing many smiles in the midst of difficult times. But the kids aren’t the only happy ones. Giles says the gifts are as much for the parents as they are for the children.

the year by the hospital’s child life specialists. The Giving Tree gifts are used for birthdays, end-of-treatment parties and sometimes as a reward or recognition for how well a child has handled a medical procedure. “We try to give something to every child while they’re here,” says Angie Shepler, CCLS, a child life specialist on the general pediatrics f loor. “Most of those gifts come from the donations we receive during the holidays.” Shepler is one of nine child life specialists who i nter act w it h i npat ient a nd outpatient pediatr ic patients. Because medical treatments and procedures can cause emotional stress and some pain for children, child life specialists have a variety of resources to help educate patients about unfamiliar terms or procedures. They help children (and their families) understand and manage their experiences in the hospital by encouraging expression of feelings through medical play, offering support and distractions during procedures, and providing techniques for coping, pain management and relaxation.

“A parent with a child in the hospital spends so much time at the bedside that there is little time or desire to shop,” she says. “Or bills and eating out also make it difficult to “It’s important to make the hospital a purchase gifts for the holidays.” positive experience for kids while they are here,” Shepler explains. The Giving Tree gifts – and how the child life specialists use A year-round gift While gifts are collected during the holidays, them with young patients – are a part of they are handed out to children throughout creating that positive experience.

H e a lt h & W e lln e ss

pediatric health

Seven Essentials for Healthy Holidays Avoiding Holiday Health Issues

Beware of handles on doors, shopping carts, hand shakes and other arenas in which you can contract germs. Limit touching your face until you’ve had a chance to wash your hands or use hand sanitizer.

Boost your vitamin D levels. Having adequate vitamin D levels helps to prevent infections. Have your doctor check your levels and consider taking a supplement. 800-1000 IU of Vitamin D3 is a starting dose for most adults, but many require higher doses if their blood levels are low.

Don’t overload your schedule. The holidays can be stressful, especially if you’re trying to be everywhere at once. Too many events and late nights can rob you of important rest and decrease your immune system. Limit yourself to a few special events and don’t be shy about saying no to nonessential responsibilities. By the way, no one will remember whether the treats you brought were bought or homemade—give yourself permission to cheat a little.

Watch your food and fluids. Too much coffee, too much alcohol and too much sugar are a recipe for fatigue and a depressed

The Holidays are rapidly approaching. But the fun and festivities can be a double-edged sword that can result in health issues if you’re not careful. So, how can you celebrate the holidays, keep it all together and stay healthy in the process? Here are some tips to help you survive the season in tiptop shape.

Wash your hands. The shopping season brings many opportunities to be exposed to the latest rounds of colds and flu.

immune system. Remember to drink an extra glass of water for each caffeinated or alcoholic beverage and to keep sugar to a minimum. Hint: try sparkling water with a dash of unsweetened cranberry juice and a lime twist for a fun holiday beverage.

Don’t skip your exercise. Life is busy this time of year, but dropping off on your exercise can work against you. Your body needs the right amount of activity to keep your energy levels up. Shopping may be a great sport, but it only counts if it gets your heart rate up.

Beware of perfectionism. Spending time with family and friends is what the holidays are all about, but keep your expectations realistic—no family is perfect. This time of year can bring out the best and worst in our family dynamics and can be a time of reflection and sadness for many people. Giving the individuals in your life understanding and space may be necessary to keep the holiday peace.

Don’t overextend yourself financially. Few things increase stress faster than debt.

Keep these tips in mind as you prepare for the holiday whirlwind. Remember—don’t forget to take some time for yourself and have a happy and healthy holiday season. Angela

LaSalle, MD is board certified in family medicine and practices integrative medicine with Indiana Health Group in Carmel, IN. 317-843-9922. www. angelalasallemd.com

INDYSCHILD.COM 13

Unique Festivals and Events Help Usher in the Holidays The holidays mean so many different things to different people. For one family, staying home to create memories together takes priority over all other events. For another, an annual trek to the big city tops the list of things that have to take place before the holiday has truly arrived.

Indianapolis does it right and thousands of people can't be wrong to attend shows, performances and fairs year after year. 25 years of Yuletide Celebration Duke Energy Yuletide Celebration is the largest orchestra-produced holiday production of its kind in North America. Highlighting this year’s show at the Hilbert Circle Theatre will be the world premiere of a new concert stage production of songs from the classic holiday movie White Christmas. Other favorite elements from past yuletide presentations (from over the last quarter century) will be incorporated into the 25th anniversary performance. The Orchestra will present 26 performances beginning Friday, December 3 through Thursday, December 23, with evening and matinee times available. Sandi Patty will host the Duke Energy Yuletide Celebration for the fifth time. Patty and the full cast will perform many of Irving Berlin’s classic hits from White Christmas, including “Happy Holiday”, “Snow” and “I Love a Piano.” As an added treat, families can pet live reindeer that will greet audiences on Monument Circle. Inside, photographers will take family photos in front of the beautiful Christmas tree in the lobby while costumed characters greet children. Cookies and hot wassail will be available for purchase.

A Beef & Boards Christmas

Tradition took a twist this holiday season when A Beef & Boards Christmas 2010 opened on November 26. Now in it’s 17th year, Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre is taking a fresh approach to its own original holiday extravaganza. Styled after the classic variety shows of Jackie Gleason, Ed Sullivan, Red Skelton, Dinah Shore and Bob Hope, A Beef & Boards Christmas 2010 presents the sights, 14 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

sounds and songs of the season in an all-new, fun and festive production. “A Beef and Boards Christmas is Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s holiday greeting to the city. It’s an original production, carefully crafted to appeal to all ages. Although the show offers a little something different each year, it’s important to us that we always make it an enjoyable experience for the entire family,” says Patricia Rettig, public relations and media relations coordinator with Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. Everyone, from grandparents to the grandkids will enjoy the show and get caught up in the holiday spirit. The show includes a salute to the military and live Nativity. “It’s no surprise that A Beef & Boards Christmas has become a holiday tradition for hundreds of local families. We look forward to seeing them return this year, as well as welcoming new families to this annual celebration,” Rettig said.

Circle of Lights

If at all possible, watch the lighting of the world’s largest Christmas tree at least once. Bear the crowds and take in the holiday atmosphere of downtown Indianapolis. Fall in love with the city all over again and watch the children’s faces as they reflect a rainbow reflection of downtown’s joy. “Downtown Indianapolis is a great destination for holiday fun and new memories. From the new Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure exhibit at the Eiteljorg Museum to the dazzling display of the Circle of Lights® presented by the Contractors of Quality Connection and Electrical Workers of IBEW 481, there’s something for everyone Downtown this holiday season,” said Jennifer Hanson, communications director with Indianapolis Downtown, Inc.

Don’t forget Indy’s great traditions including Jolly Days Winter Wonderland at The Children’s Museum, Celebration Crossing at the Indiana State Museum, Christmas at the Lilly House at the Indianapolis Museum of Art and It’s a Wonderful Life playing at the United Artists Circle Centre Theater. This marks the 48th year for the Circle of Lights® presented by the Contractors of Quality Connection and Electrical Workers of IBEW 481 on Monument Circle Friday, November 26. The free event features great local and national acts, including Sandi Patty, a visit from Santa and the beloved holiday décor: 52 garland strands with 4,784 color lights strung from the top of the Monument to its base, 26 largerthan-life toy soldiers and sailors along with 26 peppermint sticks surrounding the Soldiers and Sailors Monument. “It’s a wonderful tradition shared with hundreds of thousands each year,” said Hanson. The event begins at 6 p.m. the day after Thanksgiving with the televised show starting at 7 p.m.

Holiday world tour at the Historical Society

At the Indiana Historical Society, patrons will enjoy many free events with the price of admission. A great gift idea meets history on Saturday, December 4. The Holiday Author Fair is the largest book signing for Indiana-related material, featuring 75 Indiana authors. Books include works of fiction, nonfiction, cookbooks, photography, history children’s books and more. “As Indiana’s Storyteller™, connecting people to the past, we strive to encourage family traditions and the celebration of the diverse cultures that make up our community. And with events like Winterfest and the Indiana Experience, we provide affordable entertainment that encourages families to interact and share their own stories,” says Jeanne Scheets, vice president of marketing with the Indiana Historical Society.

INDYSCHILD.COM 15

Las Posadas will take place on Sunday, December 12. In Mexico, Las Posadas is a beloved tradition that commemorates Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging in Bethlehem. Join the Indiana Historical Society, Eiteljorg Museum, Christ Church Cathedral, the Consulate of Mexico in Indianapolis and other community groups to celebrate and enjoy interactive programs and a sing-along with Mexican holiday tradition. Chase away the winter blues with free activities at Winterfest. Perfect for families, Winterfest takes over the History Center with winter-themed fun. Create a calendar with images from our collection,

make a bookmark, explore your family tree or participate in a scavenger hunt. This is free with admission to the Indiana Historical Society from December 27 through 30.

Closer to home

“The 21st Annual Old World Christmas Village and Market at Joy of All Who Sorrow Orthodox Church started with a sense of bringing Christmas to people who hardly remember what it is anymore,” said Mother Macaria, who’s been a part of the event for the last 15 years. The event embodies traditions from Scandinavian Santa Lucia. Santa Lucia is played by a young girl in the parish who carries buns and sings music, per Saint Lucy history. “People come and wait for this part of the festival. It gets busier leading up to her [Santa Lucia] arrival. We serve food, as well as craft vendors and some vendors want to come back even if they don’t sell a whole lot. We only have handmade crafts because people like to see homemade things,” Mother Macaria said. “There is always live caroling and musicians, including child performers. Last year we had a synopsis of Dickens’s Christmas Carole performed.” The event takes place at the Joy of All Who Sorrow Orthodox Church downtown on December 3 through 4. Visit Mother Macaria, book store manager. Winding Ridge Elementary School is hosting the second annual craft fair with a flare on December 4. “We will have the Colts Super Bowl trophy to take photos with from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. and they get a free souvenir. We will be collecting canned goods for Gleaners food bank and unwrapped toys for Riley’s Children’s Hospital. With each donations guests get a free raffle ticket,” said Antoinette Welch, Parent Family Organization member and event coordinator. Santa will be visiting 11 p.m. to 1 p.m. and Clifford will be there throughout the day. “The event is designed to benefit the community at-large, as well as the school, especially programs related to the arts,” Welch said.

Cookies for a Cause Funds raised at the Greenwood United Methodist Church annual Cookie Walk are used for the church’s charities in foreign countries. “We rent table space to those interested in being a part of fundraising efforts, but as a rule we encourage our women to make bread, cookies, noodles,” said Carol Hughes, event committee member. “We don’t charge for people to come to our Cookie Walk, but do encourage them to be a part of the season of giving, especially to those serving the church around the world and for others in our neighborhood. As a church, we don’t turn anyone away when they need food and raising funds through this event allows us to provide to those in need. We look forward to seeing new faces on December 4 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Last year we ran out of baked goods, so come early!” Nikki Keever is a freelance writer living in Noblesville, Indiana with her husband and three children.

16 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

t’s the holiday season and some of us are

feeling a bit frazzled with the stress of shopping, finding things for the kids to do over winter break and meeting end of the year deadlines. Take a deep breath and make plans to visit one of Indy’s attractions during the 12 FREE Days of Christmas. I hope you noticed the ‘caps lock’ on the word FREE. Besides not having to spend a dime, it’s a great way to spend some quality time with family and maybe even learn something new. You could even make an adventure out of it by telling the kids you have a surprise for them on each of the 12 days leading up to Christmas if they make good choices! All you have to do is mark your calendar for these events on the following day. No coupon is needed, just show up and enjoy!

Monday, December 13

Tuesday, December 14

Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians & Western Art (10 am-5 pm) New this year, travel west and experience the lives of four different families. Build a totem pole, climb aboard a stagecoach or shop in a Chinese emporium. Don’t miss the Eiteljorg’s brand-new holiday experience Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure. Immerse yourself as seven G gauge model trains wind past the great landmarks of Indianapolis taking you out to great places in the West—the Grand Canyon, Mt. Rushmore and Old Faithful. All of these landmarks are incredibly crafted out of natural materials (bark, twigs and nuts) in exquisite detail. The Eiteljorg is the only museum in the Midwest to offer an extensive collection of Western and Native American art and artifacts. Learn about the many indigenous tribes of North America and the diverse cultures of the West. www.eiteljorg.org

James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home (10 am-3:30 pm) Experience a Victorian Christmas in historic Lockerbie Square with festive Christmas greenery and wreathes. The Hoosier Poet, and author of Little Orphant Annie (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. www. rileykids.org/about/ riley_museum/

Circle of Lights® presented by the Contractors of Quality Connection and Electrical Workers of IBEW 481. The much-loved decor includes 26 larger-than-life toy soldiers and sailors surrounding the Circle, along with 26 peppermint sticks. Additionally, 52 garland strands with 4,784 colored lights are strung from the top of the Soldiers & 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 holiday display remains lit through early January 2011. www.indydt.com

Meredith Nicholson House (10 am-3 pm) T he I nd i a n a Humanities Council will open its doors to the public and invite guests to tour the house of Indiana author Meredith Nicholson. The Council, which

INDYSCHILD.COM 17

in the style of the 1930s and 1940s, when Christmas cheer often had to overcome Depression-era budgets or wartime shortages. And of course, it’s all topped off Mistletoe Music Festival at the Indianapolis Artsgarden (times tbd) with ice carving, musicians playing seasonal Indianapolis area high school and grade favorites, craft activities, hot beverages and fun school choirs will get you in the spirit of during the Winter Solstice celebration. www. the season as they sing a variety of holiday imamuseum.org tunes. www.indyarts.org/artsgarden 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. www.IndianaHumanities.org

Wednesday, December 15

Indy Wine Trail &/or restaurant discounts (this date is the only one that has any ‘major qualifiers’) There are two separate offerings on this date. One features wineries while the other revolves around restaurants. Free tasting at each of the seven wineries on Indy’s Wine Trail along with a free wine glass when mentioning the promotion www.indywinetrail.com . Or free dessert with the purchase of an entrée at select restaurants. A list of those restaurants will be posted on our Web site closer to the date www.visitindy.com/12free.

Thursday, December 16

Indianapolis Museum of Art (IMA), Oldfields-Lilly House & Gardens & WinterSolstice (11 am-9 pm) The IMA is one of the top ten general art museums in the USA and one of the ten oldest. Oldfields, the J. K. Lilly, Jr. residence, will be decorated

18 INDY’S CHILD * December 2010

Friday, December 17

President Benjamin Harrison Home (time 10 am-3 pm) 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, plus a replica of the first decorated White House Christmas tree – a tradition begun in 1889 by Harrison. "Model Trains Make Tracks" is a new special holiday exhibit of model trains, which highlights a working HO-scale model train and scenics representing the southwest portion of Benjamin Harrison's notable 10,000-mile cross-country train excursion in 1891. Also, “From Bustles to Ballots”. Women’s Suffrage Exhibit is featured in the reconstructed carriage house located behind the home. www.pbhh.org Morris-Butler House (10 am-3 pm) 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. www. indianalandmarks.org Skating at the Indiana Fairgrounds (12 noon – 2 pm & 2:30-4:30 pm) Enjoy a free skating session on Indy’s premiere ice surface at the historic Pepsi Coliseum, home of the United States Hockey League’s Indiana Ice. A great family outing before the chaos of the holidays, the free sessions are noon to 2 p.m. and 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. with skate rental available in the Pro Skate Shop. For more information, visit www.in.gov/ statefair/fairgrounds/skating/.

Saturday, December 18

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum (9 am-5 pm) The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum is located inside the famed 2.5-mile IMS oval made famous by the Indy 500, which celebrates its centennial in 2011. More than 75 automobiles and motorcycles, representing a variety of races, are on display at the Hall of Fame Museum at all times. Many are shocked to learn the track itself 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. Since 1911, the track has been the home of the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing," the Indianapolis 500. The Brickyard 400 has quickly become one of NASCAR's most coveted races since the inaugural event in 1994. And now,

fans are treated to a thrilling motorcycle race each year called the RedBull Indianapolis GP. www. indianapolismotorspeedway.com. Indiana Medical History Museum (10 am-3 pm) The nation’s oldest surviving pathology laboratory, this building originally provided physicians in the late 1800s 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, which made today’s advanced medical treatments possible. www.imhm.org Celebrities and Santa at the Indianapolis International Airport (1-4 pm) The Indianapolis International Airport will host “Celebrities and Santa” as part of the season’s 2010 Holiday Showcase. The celebration will include a special holiday program, photo ops, visits with Santa, and an abundance of activities. Visitors will be invited to register to win opportunities for merchandise and trips. Event parking will be free with proper validation. www.indianapolisairport.com

Sunday, December 19 NCAA Hall of Champions (10 am – 5 pm) The NCAA Hall of Champions will be offering special discounts for the holidays in addition to free admission on this date. Shop like a champion while experiencing the lives of 400,000 studentathletes, 23 sports and 88 championships. Spend $35 or more and get a free NCAA Vintage Final

Four poster. There will also be complimentary hot chocolate available. After your holiday lists are complete, come explore the 1930’s retro gymnasium, interactive sport simulators, competitive gear used by student-athletes and much more. The NCAA Hall of Champions is located in the White River State Park just north of the Indiana Convention Center. www.ncaahallofchampions.org Scottish Rite Cathedral tours (12 noon-3 pm) and concert (3 pm) The Scottish Rite Cathedral will offer free building tours of the beautiful architectural landmark at 12 noon, followed by a 3 pm 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. www.aasr-indy.org

Monday, December 20 Indiana State Museum’s Celebration Crossing (9 am-5 pm) Nosta lg ia reig ns supreme at holiday time and Celebration Crossing, the museum’s holiday exhibit, delivers on all fronts. The annual exhibit opens on November 26 with all of the much-loved traditional events, plus some new activities sure to please visitors of all ages. Santa and Mrs. Claus welcome children of all ages, while just outside their house the L.S. Ayres Santa Claus Express train is open for business throughout the exhibit from November 26 – December 31. Kids love to ride it and you’ll notice a few adults, too. Note: Timed Tickets to Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition are available for an additional fee, with advance reservations recommended.” www. indianamuseum.org

Tuesday, December 21 Conner Prairie Interactive History Park (10 am – 4 pm) 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 the Gingerbread Man and 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 ahead and take care of winter tasks the 19th century way, and tour the William Conner’s home. www. connerprairie.org

Wednesday, December 22 Rhythm! Discovery Center (10 am-8 pm) Indianapolis’ newest downtown attraction is a place for visitors of all ages to experience rhythm and percussion. Explore a wide variety of percussion instruments and artifacts from around the world through interactive exhibits and dynamic multimedia experiences. You will learn about rhythm,

its role in society and connections to daily life. Rhythm! Discovery Center is very hands on and invites visitors to play over 150 percussion instruments, including an 8-foot gong drum! www.RhythmDiscoveryCenter.org

Thursday, December 23 Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center (10 am – 5 pm) Step back in time by walking through—and into—scenes recreated from pictures the Indiana Historical Society’s vast collections, complete with costumed interpreters in You Are There. Settings include at a WWII-era store, an automobile repair and fuel station and a violinmaker’s shop with You Are There. Take a hi-tech walk through the past with Destination Indiana, which includes 188 time-travel “journeys” at touch-screen stations and several more facilitated journeys at its 22.5-by7.5-foot cinema screen. Get a taste of how to take care of your own family treasures with the Fortune History Lab, or enjoy the live music of Hoosier legend Cole Porter. Also on display will be several holiday-related covers of the Saturday Evening Post, and all things leg lamp (a la A Christmas Story) are available in the Basile History Market. Discover the IHS’s state-of-the-art research library, publications, educational programs, special events, gift shop and café, all situated along the historic Central Canal. www.indianahistory.org

Friday, December 24 The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis (10 am-2 pm) Visit Jolly Days Winter Wonderland at the world’s largest children’s museum and enjoy traditional holiday favorites such as the two-story 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. The museum is a hands-on world of discovery which is the largest of its kind in the world featuring a 4-story tall Chihuly blown glass sculpture, which towers above a suspended glass ceiling. Underneath, kids create their own sculpture with pre-formed acrylic orbs. The $25 million Dinosphere exhibit features real juvenile and family dinosaur fossils and children are even able to dig for faux fossils in the Dinosaur Dig. Other fun includes sailing a boat and exploring life under ground in ScienceWorks, or taking a ride on a real, working Carousel. www. childrensmuseum.org. The cost savings for some of these activities is $15 per person. So, it really is a good value and a great way to see what’s going on in Indy. Please note that some of the attractions may have different hours this month and some of the historic homes have crowd limits for safety purposes. Kimberly Harms has four children (5-24) along with a grandchild and is the Associate Director of Media Relations at the Indianapolis Convention & Visitors Association, www. visitindy.com. You can follow her on Twitter @kimberlyharms. INDYSCHILD.COM 19

AROUN D TOW N

museum note

Have A Holly Jolly Time in Jolly Days Feast Your Eyes on a Winter Wonderland Spring has sprung and fall has fallen, which means winter is almost here. Winter holidays are a time for families to celebrate the traditions together. There are so many fun activities to look for ward to at this time of year, including playing in the snow, ice skating and baking sweet treats. What better way to kick off your family’s holiday traditions than with a trip to The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis to see the annual holiday exhibit Jolly Days Winter Wonderland Nov. 26, 2010, through Jan. 9, 2011.

Jolly Days has become a tradition in itself for many families across Indiana. Whether it is your first visit or already in your holiday plans each year, the exhibit offers many activities that families can enjoy together. Families will find the museum transformed into a wintry playground with snowflakes falling from the ceiling and sparkling lights hung for holiday cheer. Children will recognize some familiar oversized toys inside and outside the exhibit. Santa will be at the North Pole in Jolly Days, waiting for children as they pass the reindeer stables, a holiday train and a sleigh filled with toys. Santa won’t be the only one to greet visitors to this magical holiday experience. Jingles the Jolly Bear and all his friends also will be on hand to play with young visitors. The museum has brought back the Jingles’ Baby Play area for little ones two and younger. This area features padded floors and walls, mirrors and peekaboo doors. Parents will be able to relax on the soft benches that line the area and watch their toddlers explore the activities. Enjoy the great outdoors inside the exhibit! Children can pretend to ice skate in their socks in the museum’s very own “ice skating rink.” Families also can take part in a museum staff– facilitated snowball fight with fluffy white pompoms used as snowballs. Children can practice ice fishing near the Ice Castle, and Santa’s reindeer will be waiting for families to feed, groom, and harness them for their big night. After frolicking in the snow and ice, visitors can enjoy playing games, completing jigsaw puzzles, and creating faux holiday treats. They can help decorate a house by lighting lights and hanging garlands across the walls and fireplace. After the holidays, families are invited to the museum to see the postcards Santa has written during his vacation. Jolly Days will be open through Jan. 9, 2011. Jaclyn Falkenstein is the Public Relations Coordinator for the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. 20 INDY’S CHILD * December 2010

Join us at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis for a Countdown to Noon! This exciting program lets your little ones enjoy the countdown to the New Year without staying up later than usual. Come Friday, December 31, for special activities, music and the Water Clock countdown to noon. It will be a great way to welcome the New Year with your family.

INDYSCHILD.COM 21

Mother Tucker Sews: Local Handmade Women’s & Children’s Accessories

Fay's Finest Cheesecakes Cookbook When local caterer and breast cancer survivor, Fay Stinson, sent us her book we knew that these cheesecakes would be mouth watering just reading through them, but when she arrived at our offices with two of these divine cheesecakes in hand—we were hooked! Everything from the icing to the crust are the finest we've found. Perfect for any foodies on your holiday list. For more information on catering, e-mail fayscatering@ yahoo.com or call 317-417-2911. www.amazon.com - $10.49

Little Capers: Super Hero Apparel Up, Up and Away! Boys and girls can blast off with this unique line of t-shirts in a variety of styles that are made with a detachable cape. The fronts of the 100% cotton shirts are adorned with simple and unbranded images that spur on imagination like a rocket, the earth or lightening bolt. The kids can choose how they will save the day or be the ultimate nemesis! There are short and long sleeve options and the capes are attached with Velcro tabs and are machine washable. Also available are wristbands, dresses and more. Popular among celebrity kiddos, Little Capers is a great gift for kids everywhere! www.littlecapers.com - $46.00

22 INDY’S CHILD * December 2010

This dynamic local artisan has merged her long time love of all things art with her vision for whimsical and functional fashions. Mother Tucker’s cornerstone creations are her fashion forward women's scarflettes. Each one is unique and is essentially a mini structured scarf that looks great with everything from a blazer to a T-shirt. She also has a line of fleece children's winter accessories of matching hats, scarves & booties. Her newest collection of belted hip bags have been very popular and are a great accessory for the sweater tunic and legging look. Check out her blog here: mamatucker.blogspot.com www.facebook.com/pages/ Indianapolis-IN/Mother-TuckerSews/290667498298 - $15+

Charming Couch Conversation Pieces by Pink Cheeks Studios Adored by adults as much as by children, these wonderful handmade works of art are crafted with the skill and care. Meant to be played with or as a conversation piece, the quirky characters of Pink Cheeks Studios come to life with an individual mini biography included with each. Pictured is Lucinda. Wonderful as gifts or to start your own collection. please see the artist’s blog pinkcheeksstudio. blogspot.com for more information www.etsy.com/shop/ PinkCheeksStudios - $40+

with a 5” diameter Pro Mini Hoop Basketball and additional balls are sold separately. Check out the website or youtube.com for the awesome SKLZ Pro Mini Hoop in action! www.sklz.com - $39.99

Adoption Pendant

Cake Crystals: Edible Jewels Bling you can eat? Yes! Cake Crystals are the only fully faceted edible pastry adornments. They look like large gemstones and taste great. Embellish your cakes, cupcakes, candies and more with the subtle colors and flavors of these edible jewels. Diamonds and sapphires in 5 colors to amuse your eyes and palate. Perfect for your little princess, bachelorette parties, landmark birthdays and more! www.cakecrystals.com - $15.00

Cake*ivore: Natural * Organic * Vegan * Baked Goods Cake*ivore boasts a wholesome approach to baking making traditionally sinful treats easier on your mind and body. You won't find preservatives, animal products or artificial colors & flavors. Many of the selections are organic and feature fresh fruit, herbs and other natural flavors. Cupcakes are the signature creation and come in regular and mini-sized. Flavors range from the simple: Chocolate/ Chocolate Mousse or Vanilla/Strawberry to the exotic: Caramelized D'Anjou Pear with Crystallized Ginger or the best selling Lemonade/French Lavender. Local caterers lean on Cake*ivore for events big and small, but anyone can procure these all natural delicacies by emailing Keri at cakeivore@gmail.com. $2.50 ea. (purchased by the dozen

Calafant Pirate Fortress: Quality Cardboard Toys

SKLZ Pro Mini Hoop SKLZ Pro Mini Hoop is a professional grade hoop with a 9” diameter break away steel rim. The backboard is made from shatter proof 18” x 12” clear polycarbonate and has protective foam on the back of the mounts to protect the wall or door. It comes

recycle! Check out the Creative Toy Shop online for this and other great toys!

How many parents have purchased a large doll house or other expensive toy that the kids have lost interest in yet take up space and resources. Consider a recyclable, affordable and quality toy from Calafant. The Pirate Fortress is a high quality cardboard castle of sorts that arrives flat to be built with the kids. It comes white and the kids are encouraged to decorate however they want! When no longer of use, simply

This is a great way to commemorate the adoption of a child. Each sterling silver pendant is double sided. A map of the town where your child was born is on one side and a photograph of your child is on the opposite side. Each pendant also comes with an 18” sterling silver venetian box chain. Perfect gift!! www.solstudios.etsy.com - $63.00

Tegu Magnetic Wooden Blocks Tegu are ingeniously crafted wooden blocks with powerful magnets hidden inside. Made in Honduras, the company provides a valuable seat in the community providing wholesome jobs and promoting an eco-friendly future by planting trees and sourcing hardwoods from sustainably harvested local hardwoods. Blocks have been a classic toy for children for hundreds of years but Tegu is an innovator with its non-toxic materials and modern shapes and concept. Expand your child’s sense of imagination and wonder with this gravity defying toy. It comes in several different wood finishes and the all new Tegu Tints... in non-toxic colors like pink, yellow, orange, turquoise and green. www.tegu.com - $55.00

The Family Box The creative spirit that “Mama May I” puts into her handcrafted playthings is shared with your child through the exploration as they engage in open ended play and learning. The Family Box is a simple yet complex concept in math, the natural world, family values, imaginative play and so much more. It consists of 6 simple and variably sized family members and 6 matching sleep sacks. The colors of the 100% cotton sacks match the colors on the bottoms of the natural wood figures. Possibilities for play are only limited by the hours in the day. “Mama May I” offers many wholesome games, toys and custom products too. www.mamamayishop.com - $21.00

Imagination Kids: handmade, eco-friendly wooden toys Imagination Kids is a locally owned Waldorf inspired high quality toy maker. The naturally colorful toys are created with open ended play in mind and boast that there is no wrong way to play! Rainbow stackers and wooden hedgehogs inspire imagination and are great for encouraging kids to explore their natural world! www.etsy.com/shop/ Imaginationkids - $6+

The Haba Toys Classic 42 Piece Wooden Ball Track System Check out this large marble track construction, made in Germany of natural hardwoods with 42 beech wood pieces, 6 glass marbles and a little bell. Use the bell to signal success at the end of the marble run! You'll find endless possibilities for construction and fun with this set. It's a great collaborative toy for kids AND parents. -Create a fantastic and fun marble run with the Haba ball track construction set. -Align the holes and ramps to create a different maze every time. -Set include 42 pieces of European beech wood, 6 glass marbles and a bell to ring when crossing the finish line. -Many accessory pieces available - so you can add on as the child matures. -Age: 3 years and up. -Easy to assemble in creative ways. www.massavetoys.com

Matoudematata (My Aunties Kitty Cats) From French Toy Maker DJECOExclusively available at Indy's Hit Toy Store, Mass Ave Toys!. A balancing game to play alone or with others. Who said that cats always fall back on their paws? Managing to pile up the 12 parts without making them fall represents a very amusing challenge! Matoudematata is for 1-4 players designed to am muse and inspire creativity, with whimsical and colored illustrations. This game includes: * 1 aunt * 4 cats * 7 presents www.massavetoys. com

INDYSCHILD.COM 23

AROUN D TOW N

arts & enrichment

Fun on Wheels (and Blades)

Skating Sports Equal Unique Fun and Fitness for All Ages The enjoyment of skating is often associated with one-time events like the Olympics, birthday parties or scenes from romantic movies. However, for thousands of Hoosiers skating is a way of life. With dozens of ice and roller rinks in Greater Indianapolis, the sport of skating (or anything on blades and wheels) is evolving to accommodate those who aspire to display beauty and grace on the ice, as well as those who are aggressively pursuing to score points.

Ice Sports According to Sue Wehrli-McLaughlin with the U.S. Figure Skating Association, skating is a great form of low-impact exercise that improves cardiovascular health, endurance, muscle tone, balance, agility and flexibility.

24 INDY’S CHILD * December 2010

Skating is also a great teacher of many important life lessons, such as building self-confidence, goal setting, hard work and determination. “Many people are turning to skating as a healthy activity for overall fitness and it is an activity that can be enjoyed by the whole family,” Wehrli-McLaughlin said. “There are many activities that compliment skating – those with a mixture of balance, coordination, agility and endurance like gymnastics, dance, diving, cross-country running, soccer and oddly enough equestrian.” Olympic sports, including speed skating and curling, have become available at the Indiana World Skating Academy, which makes it home at the Pan American Plaza downtown.

We offer all of the Olympic winter ice sports under one roof,” said Pam Robinson, executive director at the Indiana World Skating Academy, “We have learn to skate programs year-round. A family of four can skate for two hours for $25. That’s two hours of exercise and interaction; much better than going to the movies and plopping on the seats and not talking. We have people in their seventies who are active in their sport and it’s something anyone can do throughout life.” Youth hockey has experienced growth in the last decade. Teams are being formed that include players as young as four. Schools have started club sports to support students interested in playing ice hockey, as well.

At the Carmel Ice Skadium, Arctic Zone in Westfield and Elite Skating, stick and puck practice time is offered, as well as public skating. “The in-house Indianapolis Youth Hockey Association plays here [Carmel Ice Skadium] as well as the Racers travel teams. On either of these teams there are various ages and skill levels that play together. Brebeuf and Carmel play here. For ice hockey fans, there’s always something to watch,” said Floyd Johnson, manager Zotec Partners Carmel Ice Skadium and Arctic Zone in Westfield. “For figure skaters, we have group lessons and figure skaters practice here who are from the Ice Skating Club of Indianapolis. We have held figure skating competitions here and some of our students performed very well in last year’s competition.” The Ice Skadium and Arctic Zone have adult hockey leagues plus hockey and figure skating camps. They also offer learn to skate classes for those six years and older. “We enjoy working with the general public and exposing them to figure skating and hockey then we direct them to the team or coach for the sport they are interested,” Johnson said. Can anyone pick up this hobby? “In my opinion, skating is not as challenging as many perceive,” said Devan Heiber, owner and head coach of Elite Skating. “Coming into the sport with the awareness that it’s different and that falling is a likelihood, it often provides for a more successful and fun experience.”

Roller Derby—it’s the real deal The introduction of in-line skating in the 1990’s rejuvenated the skating sport. Sports like roller derby, broomball and in-line street hockey got people back on wheels. Roller Derby is a sport made mostly of female athletes, does not include a ball of any kind and includes more teamwork and determination than one might assume. Troy Twibell, president of the Junior Roller Derby Association in Austin, Texas, said the resurrection of Roller Derby took place just a few years ago. “Four years ago we had 20 leagues, now we have 100 leagues globally. It’s growing incredibly fast and our organization works to keep up with home-grown teams and leagues all over the world,” he said. A Roller Derby game is composed of two teams with up to 15 skaters on a team. The games are called a bout with two-minute jams; five skaters from each team are on the floor. From each team there are four blockers together forming a pack, eight girls in all. There are two jammers from each team. The jammer scores the points but use their blockers to get through the pack. All players are in full pads, mouth guards, wrist guards. The defending blockers are trying to knock the jammer out of the 12-foot wide oval. Once she makes it through the pack, she has to skate around and catch up to go a second time through. Only then, does she get a point. “Chicago Riots, Toronto and Cincinnati have leagues started by kids and managed

kids. There are a few boys’ leagues out there, but they are far behind the girls. Now, since it’s such a new thing, some boys are mixed in, but as boys and girls are well-matched at early ages it’s a fair game. It’s all very exciting to see these girls empowered playing a safe sport. We actually teach them how to fall and that’s reduces quite a bit of injury, just in case there are some mothers out there wondering,” Twibell said. In Indianapolis, the Naptown Roller Girls, which started in 2006, has Melissa Brooks (Mizz Understood), president/director of training, working hard to keep the sport relevant and for some, believable. “Junior Roller Derby is a sport that is important for young girls who have never had the opportunity to play a contact sport. Junior Derby is the first of its kind to offer this aggressive game to young girls. I have seen, over the years, that this physicality not only gives them confidence, but gives them self-awareness and the knowledge that they can defend themselves and have the right to say no and mean it.” As a former Naptown Roller girl, Brooks and two other former NRG skaters started the Junior League so they could pass along their passion for the sport to their children. “We are a bonified roller derby family. I view each of my skaters just like my child. I am interested in their school work and peer pressure,” Brooks said.

Just for fun Wheels of Wonder rink on the Southside of Indianapolis offers recreational quad skating (four-wheels), as well as birthday parties and club sports. “We have an artistic skate club that competes nationally at meets across the country. Our coach is a national champion,” said Wendy Shawhan, co-owner with her husband Terry. “The coach is still in this even though he’s in his eighties. They do on roller skates what Olympic skaters do on ice, including singles and doubles competitions.” Wheels of Wonder is home to a speed skating club, which is similar to Olympic ice speed skaters who also compete nationally. Wheels of Wonder rink packs the house during late night skates that go until 3 a.m. “We do a lot of private birthday parties and Christmas parties. We always have a New Year’s Eve skate. It’s a huge bash with games, dancing and giveaways. We have a lot on New Year’s Eve because it’s a safe place to bring the kids,” said Shawhan. For ice skaters looking for a similar taste of fun, Ice Skadium and Arctic Ice host weekly cosmic skate on Friday and Saturday. “We turn down the lights and have a laser light on the surface of the ice, with a disco ball and music playing. It’s taking something associated with bowling transferred onto the ice,” said Johnson. Nikki Keever is a freelance writer living in Noblesville, Indiana with her husband and three children.

INDYSCHILD.COM 25

Arts & Enrichment Guide Sports Team Witsken Tennis Address: 1130 Racquet Club North Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46260 Contact: Rick Witsken/Director Phone: 317-848-2023 Email: info@teamwitsken.com www.teamwitsken.com Team Witsken Tennis teaches classes and private lessons and offers tournament play to kids and adults of all ages. Players of all skill levels are welcome! No experience necessary to start developing the skills necessary for this life-long sport! Contact us for more information!

Music Kindermusik by Musical Beginnings 606 S. Union Street, Westfield, IN 46074 Kim Bemis 317-867-3077 kimusik@musicalbeginnings.com www.musicalbeginnings.com Music & Instrument Performance Locations in Hamilton, Boone & Northern Marion Counties

Kindermusik is a music and movement program for children, ages 0-7. You’ll play, listen and dance to music that will impact your child in profound ways. That’s because every song, story and two-step has a carefully chosen purpose in this creative curriculum - one that’s designed to stimulate and strengthen the vital neural wiring taking place in your child’s mind right now. A Kindermusik educator will guide you every step of the way so you know how each activity contributes to your child’s overall growth and development. You can learn more about Kindermusik classes by browsing our site or calling our office.

"Voices in Time" Guitar Lessons & Singalong Sessions Address: 6516 N. Cornell Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46230 Contact: Janet Gilray Phone: 317-919-6188 or 251-7363 Email: jgilray@sbcglobal.net Website: www. voicesintime.org Giving a Guitar as a Gift? Include an "I Can Play!" Lesson Certificate with (3) 1/2 hour sessions for only $65. Plan now to host your Holiday Party Sing-along with Ms. Melody, our Award Winning Songleader & Guitarist . Choose from American Girl, Cowboy Christmas, or Old-Fashioned Caroling

themes. As little as $2 each entertains your guests with all age fun. Kid parties, family, church, school and social club events. Call Janet today for more info and 10% off booking with mention of this ad!

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

classes, swim, enjoy family programs and so much more. The JCC – Good for life!

Nu Creation Fitness Personal Training Studio Address: 5501 E. 71st Street, Suite 9B, Indianapolis, IN 46220 Phone: 317-259-0138 Email: nucreationfitness@ yahoo.com www.NuCreationFitness.com Choose Your Activity Category: Fitness & Sports

Nu Creation Fitness, LLC is a private personal training studio that offers one-on-one and group training to men and women of all ages. $50 off of any one-on-one training package with the mention of this ad! Also seeking Certified Personal Trainers with clientele. FALL FITNESS CAMP!!! Going on now! Please call the studio for more information. DON'T MISS OUT!

YOUR LISTING HERE! Contact Jennica Jennica@IndysChild.com

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 fitness center, participate in leagues and exercise

Five Seasons Family Sports Clubs Bring this to your new club and enjoy yourself for a day! There will be no guest charge when you bring this in!

Five Seasons is an unparalleled experience that solves the athletics and fitness needs of an individual while providing country club service and social programming. Five Seasons is an exclusive club that has many things to offer you, your family and friends. These include:

Poolside Restaurant Café & Bar Volleyball/Sand Volleyball Racquetball & Squash Banquet Rooms Indoor & Outdoor Heated Pools Indoor & Outdoor Tennis (including clay courts) Trotter/Hammer Strength Free Weight Equipment Cardiovascular Equipment and Cardio Theater Massage Therapy Indoor & Outdoor Basketball Spinning Classes

Free Towels and Lockers Kids Zone Indoor Running Track Nursery/Day Camps Aerobics Zumba Classes Whirlpool/Steam/Sauna Beauty Salon/Spa Tanning Personal Training Yoga / Pilates Kickboxing

And much more… Five Seasons Family Sports Club 1300 East 96th Street Indianapolis, IN 46240 317-582-1550 Fiveseasonsfamilysportsclub. com

26 INDY’S CHILD * December 2010

AROUN D TOW N

indianapolis zoo

Christmas at the Zoo Brings Holiday Cheer

Lighting Up the Winter with Lots of Holiday Entertainment Advisors, takes over White River Gardens. Enjoy holiday music synchronized to a full light show that encompasses the entire Hilbert Conservatory. While enjoying the lights and music, find over twenty items with the decorations as part of a scavenger hunt.

The Zoo continues its efforts this year to replace standard light strands with the LED equivalent. This will help use less power,

while featuring strands of Christmas lights that are brighter and longer lasting.

* *

scratch-made and locally sourced baked goods and sweets including freshly dipped candied apples, giant holiday-decorated Rice Crispy Treats, warm beverages, brownies, and fudge. Mmm, mmm, delicious!

During Christmas at the Zoo, the Zoo will be collecting new hats, scarves, and gloves for adults and children. To support survivors of life crises, these items will be donated to organizations such as St. Mary’s Child Center. The Indianapolis Zoo looks forward to helping you make memories too big to fit in Santa’s Sweet Shop is one of the newest— a box this holiday season! and tastiest—Zoo holiday traditions featuring

enny for penny, no other food offers families as much calcium as milk.

You better watch out, you better not cry, you better not pout, we’re telling you why…Santa Claus is coming to the Indianapolis Zoo! Families throughout the community are invited to join the Zoo family for the annual holiday celebration as they transform it into a winter haven for heartwarming family fun. Christmas at the Zoo runs December 3-30, closed Christmas Eve and Day. The Zoo and Gardens open at 12 pm daily with the holiday activities beginning at 5 pm. This event is free for Zoo members and at the Zoo’s discounted off-season rate for non-members ($8.50 for adults, $6.50 for seniors 62+ and children 2-12, and free for children one and under). Discount tickets are also available at select Marsh Supermarkets.

We are currently in a calcium crisis in this nation. Nine out of ten girls and seven out of ten boys fail to meet daily calcium needs. I have two little girls and I do my part to make sure they get their 3-A-Day of Dairy, for strong bones and healthy bodies.”

Amy Kelsay

Visitors will be captivated by the thousands of lights and hundreds of displays arrayed across the Zoo along with the holiday themed activities. This year will feature several additional animated light shows, including the All Aglow Light Show presented by Macy’s in the middle of the Zoo next to Santa’s Sweet Shop. The North Pavilion transforms into Santa’s Village presented by Community Health Network, featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus. Kids can write a letter to Santa and drop it in the mailbox, and even see other children’s letters that have been written throughout the years in the scrapbook. Visitors can also place a wish or blessing on one of the many wishing trees in hopes that it might come true. Entertainment also awaits you, with high school choirs performing and carolers singing around the campfires. You also can’t miss out on the many themed shows, including the Holiday Dolphin Show, Train Ride, and 3-D Ride featuring Polar Express. Many animals at the Zoo love the cold temperatures, including the polar bear, seals, sea lions, brown bears and walrus. When visitors are ready to take a break from the chill, there are plenty of indoor exhibits to enjoy, too. Travel between Oceans, Dolphin Pavilion and underwater viewing dome, and Deserts. The Hilbert Conservatory also becomes illuminated during the season as the Woodland Wonderland, presented by Wells Fargo

Kelsay Family Dairy Farm

The Kelsay Family: (from Left to Right) Top: Joe, Amy & Russ Front : Jenna, Debbi, Merrill, Ruth, & Josie

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

IndianaDairyCouncil.org

Brought to you by the American Dairy Association of Indiana, your Hoosier dairy farm families. INDYSCHILD.COM 27

COMMENTARY & PARENTING

dear teacher

Analyzing Importance

Is Cursive Writing and Sustained Silent Reading Necessary? New Year Back to School * Resolutions * * Problems with Silent Reading * * Parents: Besides being holiday time, close to half of the school year is over. It's a great time to take stock of how things have been going this year. Then resolutions can be made to make the second half of the school year even better. Don't just make resolutions; bring your children in on this. Ask them what needs to be changed to improve how the year is going for them. We are not talking about major roadblocks like learning disabilities that require considerable attention from you and the school over a long period of time. Instead, we are talking about the glitches that cause your children to bring home occasional bad grades. Once they are identified, they often can be eliminated rather quickly. If your children fall into any of these pitfalls, think about making resolutions to turn them around.

* * *

Do your children appear to have a speech, hearing, or vision problem? Even minor problems can cause learning problems and lower grades. Are your children getting enough sleep? If not, they may be sleep-deprived and falling asleep in class. Are your children missing too many days because of health problems? If so, a checkup probably is a good idea.

Co mm e n ta ry & Pa r e n t i n g

Are your children eating right? Without breakfast, their energy level is likely to be down. Plus, an unhealthy diet can lower their attention span. Are your children spending excessive amounts of time watching TV or on the computer? Doing so can add up to a lot of wasted time. Is your home a disorganized madhouse every morning? Such daily confusion can result in important school tasks not being handled efficiently. Do your children need personal digital assistants to keep track of their activities? If so, their schoolwork may be taking second place to their activities. Do your children have good attendance records? Good attendance gives them the opportunity to learn everything that was taught in the classroom.

Cursive Writing Is Disappearing – Does It Matter?

more intensive training in sixth grade. Does it make any sense for computers to replace handwriting in schools? The Lost Skill

Answer: Your daughter definitely is not alone in her inability to write cursive. On the first SAT essay test given in 2006, only 15 percent of the students used cursive, the rest printed their essays. Whether it makes sense or not, cursive handwriting instruction has disappeared from many schools. And when it is taught, less and less time is devoted to this subject. Typically, cursive handwriting is introduced in second or third grade. If students do not master cursive by the end of third grade, they will usually receive little instruction in it in fourth grade and beyond. The students who do not master cursive will go back to printing as their form of written communication.

Question: My 11-year-old daughter cannot read a handwritten note unless it is printed. She struggles with all of the myriad notes of day-to-day living that are NOT done on the computer or through text messaging. She has no signature because she hasn't learned to write her name in cursive.

The attention to penmanship in the schools began to diminish almost 50 years ago when teachers began to question the need for all students to follow a set standard in their handwriting. Today, it continues to lose ground to other subjects that are being emphasized so students will do well on standardized tests. Plus, there is the simple fact that many teachers do not consider it an important subject.

Cursive handwriting is not taught at her school because it is believed that it would be a waste of time since all papers after sixth grade are done on the computer. She learned basic keyboarding in third grade and will have

In a practical vein, your daughter needs to do some things to overcome her inability to write or read cursive. Teach her to write her name in cursive, as this is still a requirement on many documents. Also, because there

are still situations in which fast handwriting is essential, have her learn to print without raising her pencil between each letter, whenever possible. We would also suggest that you read cursive lists and notes together until she begins to pick up this skill. Without it, she is going to have a gap in her communication skills.

Question: Twenty minutes of my son's third-grade reading time is spent having the students read silently. Even the teacher reads during this time. Wouldn't some instruction from the teacher during this time be a more appropriate way to improve his reading? – Unhappy Answer: What you have described is called Sustained Silent Reading (SSR). You are right about your son needing some input from the teacher. Much of the criticism of the effectiveness of SSR is the lack of teacherstudent interaction. Teachers should talk with students individually about what they are reading and make sure they can easily read the material. Plus, it's important that they listen to the students read passages and give them feedback on their reading skills. When teachers interact with the students, the students are far more likely to make better use of this silent-reading time. Parents should send questions and comments to

dearteacher@dearteacher.com or ask them on the columnists’ Web site at www.dearteacher.com.

mommy magic

Enjoying the Countdown of Magic Creating Traditions For All Ages

held on tight, a nd when my kids may not be what they define as “Christmas magic." we got home without incident, she said, overjoyed, It is the off icial countdown to the holidays and, like that she many moms, I am in charge of making all the holiday couldn’t wait magic this month. I do love all the family traditions to do it next baking cookies with my girls, trimming our Christmas year. And so, tree, all the special school Christmas programs — I love year after year, the “countdown of magic” in December! we have loaded up the car Knowing that they are growing up too fast, I try to embrace all the fun traditions like sprinkling reindeer “food” on our lawn and and headed to Lowe’s for our tree, and each year our daughter has sending their Christmas letters to the “North Pole.” What I have assumed this sacred responsibility, ultimately sharing it with her baby learned, however, is that what I think is making an impression on sisters. “Don’t worry,” she’d say with her big-sister authority. “Your my kids may not be what they define as “Christmas magic.” Case Christmas magic will make the tree stay on.” And year after year, my in point, every year that my husband and I have been married, we husband and I have chuckled to each other as their white knuckles have gone to Lowe’s for our Christmas tree. It’s not very Norman intently grasped the twine. Rockwell, I know, but we’ve always had good luck finding a decent Okay, so fast-forward to Christmas a few years ago. We have been tree that didn’t cost an arm and a leg. going to Lowe’s a long time now. And, nothing against Lowe’s, but I Every year, my husband hauls the tree to the top of the car and secures was ready to change it up a bit. I spent weeks researching Christmasit with twine and placing the excess twine inside the window so it tree farms. I called, I Googled. I looked into every tree farm in the doesn’t flap around. One year, he handed the excess twine to my area to find the one that would yield the perfect Christmas experience oldest daughter, who was three at the time, and jokingly instructed for our family. After all, we had three kids by then; it was time to her to hold onto it to make sure the tree stayed on the roof. When she start the perfect family tradition! When I was satisfied that I’d done expressed her concern that she wasn’t strong enough to hold onto it, enough legwork, I announced with some excitement that we were we told her that her Christmas magic would give her strength. So she going to start a new family tradition: picking out our Christmas tree

What I have learned is that what I think is making an impression on

28 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

at a tree farm. We would cut down our own tree, sip hot chocolate, and have our picture taken with Santa’s reindeer. It would be—you guessed it—the perfect Christmas tradition...the ultimate magical moment! In one second flat, my two oldest daughters dissolved into tears. “No, Mommy!” they begged, barely able to spit out their plea between their sobs. “We don’t want to go!” “What?” I said, shocked. I couldn’t make sense of the moment. Had they misheard me? Did they miss the bit about the hot cocoa and the reindeer? Did they not know about all my hard work, all my planning?? I asked, “Why?” “We want to go to Lowe’s and hold the twine!” wailed my sevenyear-old. My five-year-old seconded that: “Yeah! We want to use our Christmas magic to keep the tree on the roof!” I was floored. Lowe’s, with its bright, fluorescent lights, its metal shopping carts, and its vast parking lot, was perfect tradition to me— but total perfection to my children. So needless to say, we went back to Lowe’s to get our tree; unbeknownst to me, a perfect Christmas family tradition had been born! So with that, I encourage you to take notice of how your children view it through their eyes this holiday season. Most of the time, they could care less if the bow matches the wrapping paper or if the cookies are on the right Christmas plate. What they feel, that we need to remember, is the magic of being together and creating it in the first place! Mary Susan Buhner is a Life Coach for Moms and author of “Mommy Magic: Tricks for Staying Sane in the Midst of Insanity” Visit www.Mommy-Magic.com for more information. Become a Fan of Mommy Magic on FaceBook!

or many parents, a child’s first day of school is a rite of passage; a time to let go of their little one’s hand and watch him enter a whole new world separate from his home life and family. Many others, however, are opting to forego this rite and teach their children at home.

Is Homeschooling or Virtual Schooling Right For Your Family?

Homeschooling is a possible education alternative to public or private schools where children learn under the supervision of their parents. Parents have various reasons for choosing to homeschool including, to name just a few, flexibility, control over curriculum, catering to the special needs of their children and safety concerns. Michelle Miller Anthony is the mother of eleven and currently homeschools six of them (two have graduated and three are not yet school age). She cites many reasons for opting to homeschool. “I can tailor their education to fit them as individuals,” she says. “I have a couple of kids who are several grades ahead and right now I have one that is a grade behind. And that’s okay, because we can move along at their pace. It truly is ‘no child left behind.’ My kids are taught how to learn independently rather than to regurgitate answers for a standardized test. They spend a lot of time finding the answers to their own questions.” Michelle also feels her family has been strengthened by the process. “We all learn how to deal with each other. We spend most of the day together which allows for a lot of personal relating.” Homeschooling has often gotten a bad rap and the myths and misperceptions about homeschooled children have been perpetrated by both media and public opinion. Fortunately, support and respect for homeschooling is growing and the options are virtually limitless.

Indiana homeschool regulations and requirements Homeschooling is legal in all 50 states and most have few laws regulating the practice, so families are free to teach and learn in whatever manner best fits their individual needs. The law requires that Indiana children be in school from ages 7-17 years of age and that they attend school for at least 180 days each year. Required subjects for homeschoolers is equal to the curriculum required in public schools. According to the Indiana Association of Home Educators, The Indiana Appellate Court has held that the Indiana law allows the operation of homeschools, stating that a home school is essentially a private school. The court defined a school as “a place where instruction is imparted to the young. We do not think that the number of persons, whether one or many, make a place where instruction is imparted any less or more a school.”

Homeschool Methods Homeschool families have unlimited options when it comes to methodology. From traditional to virtual to specialized learning techniques, there are systems and practices that will meet every family’s unique needs and desires.

INDYSCHILD.COM 29

Homeschooling is a possible education alternative to public or

Traditional Homeschool The Traditional method of homeschooling follows the basic classroom model of education. Parents following this method can purchase a complete curriculum including textbooks, workbooks, teacher’s guides, dvd’s, tests and record keeping materials. Each child studies at his own grade level on an individual basis.

private schools where children learn under the supervision of their parents.

Classical Home School Method Classical homeschooling has its roots in classical Greece and Rome and was also used during the early American Colonial period. Though students follow subjects that are taught in public schools, the goal of classical homeschool is to “engage a child in important learning relating to God, life and its purpose.” It is based on a teaching model called the Trivium. The Trivium is broken into three parts for the three degrees of education. Grade school children concentrate on concrete thinking and memorizing of facts. Middle school students concentrate on more analytical thinking. In high school, students are challenged by more abstract thinking. In addition, the Trivium stresses logic, rhetoric and grammar.

Charlotte Mason Homeschooling Charlotte Mason was a British educator who lived in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Her educational method was based on the idea that education is three-pronged; it is an atmosphere, a discipline and a life. Atmosphere focused on educating the child on their environment, discipline is focused on building good habits and life applies to thoughts and ideas. The idea behind her philosophy is ways in which to educate the whole child and not just his mind. In other words, the object is to build his character as well as his mental capacity.

Virtual School Virtual school is a new option for homeschool families. Indiana has newly introduced virtual online public schools. Like traditional schools, public virtual schools use standards-aligned curriculum, employ teachers certif ied by the state of Indiana, and require students to take the state assessment. Students are provided with a computer (Internet connection is necessary) as well as all materials and texts. Hoosier Academies offered grades K-12 for the 2010-2011 school year and will only be enrolling new students in grades K-11. The Indiana Department of Education selected Hoosier Academies to operate a two-year virtual pilot charter school. Students communicate with teachers via computer and visit a learning center a couple of times per week where they interact with teachers and other virtual students for discussions, activities and f ield trips. Enrollment information is online at k12.com.

Literature Based Homeschooling Literature-based homeschooling recommends avoiding textbooks and instead focusing on literary works, both f iction and non-f iction instead. This includes classic literature, respected journals, ancient literature, biographies and historic accounts. These books are used to learn history, grammar, vocabulary, math, science, philosophy and culture.

Notebook Homeschooling In the notebook homeschooling method, children learn by creating notebooks on a variety of subjects. Children are able to focus more on their own areas of interest, then collect information and document their f indings. This type of learning is often used by families who are focused on pursuing a specif ic area of interest for their child as the focus is on specif ic subjects. Notebook homeschooling is usually used in tandem with other methods.

Unschooling Unschooling is perhaps the most unique form of homeschooling. The process involved is focused on independent, free-thinking and building self-confidence. There is not a specific agenda, but rather involves learning through 30 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

experiencing. Children learn through experiencing life. It is not totally undisciplined, however it does not involve structured classroom time. The theory is to expose children to as much as possible and they will learn through experience. Unschooling parents believe their children do not need to be coerced into learning as children are innately curious and will learn by exposure, experience and discussion.

Unit Study Method Unit studies are one of the most used methods for homeschoolers. The focus is on hands-on activities rather that textbook studies. Within each unit of study, students examine a subject from all angles, and may learn social studies, math, science and history from one subject. The subject is usually something genera, such as nature, and students will explore the subject from many angles and may read classic literature, paint landscapes or take field trips to fully cover the topic. This type of home study is popular with large families as each theme or unit can be approached from many ways at many different levels, therefore the unit can be studied as a family.

Eclectic Homeschooling Eclectic study is just as it sounds; an eclectic mix of many different methods. Families pick and choose and combine methods as they please and alter their methods as needed.

Support for Homeschoolers In Indiana there are more than two hundred support groups for homeschoolers. Some are co-op groups where homeschoolers combine efforts, some offer support and some offer organized sports, arts education or field trip opportunities. Many organizations exist on both the national and local level to provide education, workshops, legal advice, materials and supplies, as well.

Parents have various reasons for choosing to homeschool including, to name just a few, flexibility, control over curriculum, catering to the special needs of their children and safety concerns. The Indiana Association of Home Educators (IAHE) is a Christian non-profit organization founded in 1983 for the purpose of supporting and encouraging families interested in home education. It is made up of a volunteer board and 16 regional representatives. Each year they sponsor a convention for homeschoolers as well as publish a bi-monthly magazine. They also have a handbook on “Home Education in Indiana.” Visit their website at inhomeeducators.org. Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) is a nonprofit advocacy organization “established to defend and advance the constitutional right of parents to direct the education of their children and to protect family freedoms.” HSLDA advocates on the legal behalf of members in matters which include conflicts with state or local officials over homeschooling. HSLDA will also file actions to protect members against government intrusion. The Home School Foundation is a non-profit charity organization, founded by the Home School Legal Defense Association, that supports homeschool families with financial need. Scholarship funds, resources for special needs children and assistance for single parent families and families dealing with natural disasters and financial hardship

are all available. Visit homeschoolfoundation.org for more information. I nd i a n a Home E duc ator s’ Network (ihen. org) is the largest statewide network of homeschoolers. IHEN also manages the largest discussion e-list in the state: IndianaHomeschoolers. You can subscribe at IndianaHomeschoolers.com. As you can see, options abound if you are considering homeschool. There are some cons. Organizational skills are a must. However, according to Michelle, the pros far outgrow the cons. “I know my kids,” she says. “I mean really know them. We spend most of the day together which allows for a lot of personal relating. It’s fun to learn along side your children. We learn so much outside of text books.” Rebecca Todd is a freelance writer and author of the book "What's the Point? -- Looking for Logic in Modern America."

INDYSCHILD.COM 31

d l i h e xceptional c A Link Between

Anxiety and Autism

Tips on Alleviating Anxiety During the Holidays and At Home Does anxiety go hand in hand with autism? It can. Research is indicating what many in the medical community have thought for some time: children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) often have comorbid symptoms and disorders that can affect how their autism will manifest. Naomi Swiezy, Ph.D, H.S.P.P., program director at the Christian Sarkine Autism Treatment Center, says that while there is relatively limited research on the topic, anxiety symptoms among kids with autism can be common. Specifically, she points to a recently published study in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders which indicates that of 217 psychiatrically referred youth with ASD, 56 percent had two or more anxiety disorders. She also says research group White & Roberson-Nay has shown that anxiety difficulties are one of the most common sets of presenting problems for children and adolescents with ASD in the clinical setting. David J. Posey, M.D., a private practice psychiatrist in Indianapolis and expert in autism, likewise says a new study from Oslo University in Norway just out online suggests about 42 percent or more children with autism will also have a diagnosable anxiety disorder. Meanwhile, other research, including work done by Scott Bellini, Ph.D., assistant director of the Indiana Resource Center for Autism, suggests that individuals with autism exhibit a range of anxious symptoms, including physiological arousal, panic, separation anxiety and social anxiety. Anxiety itself, says Swiezy, is often postulated to result from brain chemistry to genetics; however, she says it can also result from the “stress and frustrations caused by the challenges imposed with daily interactions and expectations and the awareness of having these challenges.” Whatever the root, anxiety is very real and can be debilitating for individuals across the autism spectrum. It can also create significant hurdles for the individual’s family. Fortunately there are ways to cope. 34 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

Seek professional help.

Perhaps f irst and foremost, families should seek professional help. Psychiatrists and other experts in the f ield of autism can provide the therapeutic or medicinal interventions that can have a lasting impact on a child’s ability to cope with anxiety.

Make life predictable. Parents can help reduce anxiety by making life as predictable as possible for their child. “If the child with autism can predict or anticipate what’s going to happen, they can better deal with the situation they are in,” says Kristie Lof land, M.S., educational consultant with the Indiana Resource Center for Autism. To increase life’s predictability, Dana Renay, executive director of the Autism Society of Indiana, suggests creating social stories that describe the situation and tells the child what to do. For instance, if a child is showing anxiety about getting on the school bus, then a parent can go through a social stor y that outlines the school bus routine including the events that lead up to the bus ride, what will happen once the bus arrives, and what will happen once the bus stops at the school. This type of social story will help the child anticipate what is going to happen, which may alleviate some feelings of anxiety. In addition to advance warning of what a situation may be like, some families f ind success with visual supports. A visual support may be creating a homemade book of the social story, a reassuring thumbsup to let the child know he is doing well in a particular situation, a f lash card that says “We are waiting in line” that family members can use while at the post off ice or zoo, or a written or pictorial schedule of the day. “I had a student who, because of his anxiety, was concerned about whether or not he was going to pass or did good on every assignment,” recalls Lof land. While a bright

student, Lof land says his anxiety caused him to ask the teacher an average of 41 questions during a 90-minute class period. To help ease his anxiety, the teacher put together a chart that documented his work. This chart allowed him to visualize an upward or downward trend in his output and ultimately alleviated some of his anxiety since he could see for himself how he was performing. In the end Lof land says the visual support became a helpful self-management tool for the student. Visual supports can clearly come in many shapes and sizes.

Practice future events.

Kids with autism can get over whelmed quickly with anxiet y. The more information they have about an event or situation ahead of time, the better. Mary Rosswurm, executive director of Little Star Center, recommends parents practice specif ic known situations to help their child deal with feelings of anxiety. If, for example, the child eats hot lunches at school, then at home parents can practice walking through a mock cafeteria line, choosing the food and paying for it. Or if the child will be attending a family holiday gathering, get out photographs of the family members who will be there and practice greeting each person. “The more exposure you have to a situation and the more practice, the less nervous you are about it,” Rosswurm says. Certainly more research will be revealed that shows the prevalence of anxiety among kids with autism. In the meantime, parents can do well by their child by seeking professional help and making life as predictable as possible. Carrie Bishop is a freelance writer and mother of two young sons whose daily antics inspire her work and her life. Contact her at freelancewritercarrie@gmail.com.

INDYSCHILD.COM 35

Special Needs Guide Applied behavior center www.appliedbehaviorcenter.org

6060 Castleway West Drive Indianapolis, IN 46250-1970 (317) 849-5437 The mission of the Applied Behavior Center for Autism is to provide high quality ABA and Verbal Behavior therapy and consulting services to children and their families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders by using researched based ABA methodology delivered by highly qualif ied and certif ied professionals to increase language skills, social skills, academic skills, and reduce problematic behavior.

The Arc of Indiana

107 N. Pennsylvania St., Suite 800, Indianapolis, IN 46204 Phone: 317-977-2375 or 800-382-9100 Email: thearc@arcind.org www.arcind.org

The Arc of Indiana, established in 1956 by parents of children with developmental disabilities, works every day to empower families with information and resources, empower people with disabilities to be as independent as possible, and inspire positive change in public policy and public attitudes. Contact us. We’re here to help.

Autism Parent Care, LLC 395 S 9th St Noblesville, Indianapolis, IN 46020 Contact: Dr. Jane Yip Phone: 317-503-1296 Email: aileda88@hotmail.com

www.developmentalphysiopsychologydisorders.com

Offering one to one intervention to children and adults with autism. Academic subjects and ABA included. Insurance Billable.

Autism Society of Indiana 13295 Illinois Street, Suite 110, Carmel, IN 46032 Contact: Dana Renay 800-609-8449 Fax: 317-663-1047 Email: info@inautism.org www.inautism.org

We strive to improve the lives of everyone affected by autism in Indiana. We provide information and support, referral to resources, policy and educational advocacy, training, awareness, family programs, Spanish-speaking support group, summer camp programs, and oversight on the Indiana Comprehensive Plan of Lifetime Supports for Individuals with Autism.

Behavior Analysis Center for Autism

11902 Lakeside Dr., Fishers, IN 46038 Devon Sundberg 317-288-5232 dsundberg@thebaca.com www.thebaca.com

The Behavior Analysis Center (BACA) was established by Dr. Carl Sundberg and a group of highly trained Behavior Analysts who have worked with Dr. Sundberg for years. BACA uses Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to teach language, social, academic, and life skills to children with autism and other related disabilities.

Brain Balance Achievement Center Indianapolis 9302 N. Meridian Street Ste. 355, Indianapolis, IN 46260 Contact: Julie Peterson/

Clinic Director Phone: 317-843-9200 Email: julie.peterson@live.com www.brainbalancecenters.com

Brain Balance Achievement Centers work with children who suffer from Developmental Disorders such as Autism Spectrum, Asperger's, ADD/ADHD, Dyslexia, Tourette's and other neurological disorders. The Brain Balance Program is unique in that it utilizes a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach designed specif ically to address the various diff iculties exhibited or experienced by each child.

Cornerstone Autism Center

360 Polk Street, Greenwood, IN 46143 Contact: David Ide, Center Director Phone: (317) 888-1557 www.cornerstoneautismcenter.com

Cornerstone Autism Center is an intensive day treatment clinic dedicated to maximizing the potential of children with autism. Utilizing the science-based approach of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), trained therapists work 1:1 with the children to improve language skills, address their academic and social needs and reduce any maladaptive behavior.

Dr. Jennifer Satterfield-Siegel

Contact: Jennifer SatterfieldSiegel, D.D.S. Phone: 317 269-0025 Email: drsatterfieldsiegel@gmail.com

Dr. Satterf ield-Siegel is a Board Certif ied Pediatric Dentist specializing in providing dental care for infants, children and patients that have special needs. We provide routine dental care, f illings, in off ice sedations and hospital dentistr y for all of our patients.

We build long lasting relationships with our families through active listening and understanding. New patients are welcomed !

Eyes For Wellness

Address: 2920 E. 96th Street, Suite B, Indianapolis, IN 46240 Contact: Dr. Mary VanHoy, Developmental Optometrist Phone: (317) 818-0541 Fax: (317) 818-1756 Email: drvanhoy@ eyes4wellness.com www./eyes4wellness.com

Dr. VanHoy is a developmental optometrist who evaluates and treats with optometric vision therapy children with autistic spectrum disorder, physical and mental challenges, and infants and toddlers with delays in visual function that interfere with acts of daily living.

Homefront Learning Center

Address: 625 N. Union, Kokomo, IN 46901 Contact: Jamy Wisher, ABA supervisor Phone: 765-454-9748 Email: jnwisher@umail.iu.edu w w w.homefrontlearning.com

Homefront Learning Center is an Occupational, Speech, Physical, and Applied Behavior Analysis (A BA) therapy provider servicing Indianapolis and the surrounding areas. Homefront offers both in-clinic and in-home therapy for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other special needs.

Indianapolis Pediatric Dentistry

Address: 8433 Harcourt Road, Suite 307, Indianapolis, IN 46260 Contact: Dr. Erin Phillips Phone: 317-872-7272 Email: info@IndyKidsDentist.com www.IndyKidsDentist.com We have a unique dental practice. As pediatric dentists, we are specially trained in the dental care of infants, children and teens, including those patients with special medical needs. At Indianapolis Pediatric Dentistr y, we treat your kids like our own. We pay special attention to each patient’s needs and we take the time to make sure they’re comfortable. We go to great lengths to make sure that both the patient and parents understand what we’re doing, why we’re doing it and the long-term benef its.

Little Star Center

12726 Hamilton Crossing Blvd, Carmel, IN 46032 Mary Rosswurm, Executive Director 317-249-2242 maryr@littlestarcenter.org www.littlestarcenter.org

Little Star is a structured, sensor yfriendly place where children with autism receive intense, individualized one-onone therapeutic inter vention based on the principles of applied behavior analysis (A BA). Little Star has a “family f irst” philosophy and offers a supportive community of parents and professionals. Indiana’s original A BA center – providing ser vices since 2002.

YOUR LISTING HERE!!! Contact Jennica at Jennica@indyschild.com

36 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

SPECIAL NEE DS AWARENESS

exceptional child

Ten Ways to Prep Your Child with Autism for the Holidays ready or not the holidays are here. Make the most of this special time by easing your child with autism into the swing of all things holiday.

1. invite your child to decorate the house with you to help

reduce some of his or her anxiety about the changes occurring to the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s usual set up.

2. take time out during holiday chores to have fun with your child's favorite games or activities.

6. Look at photographs of past holiday seasons. 7. Look at pictures of family and friends your child will encounter during the holiday festivities.

8. Bring calming tools like a favorite toy or blanket to events to help your child cope with stressful feelings.

read entertaining books together that describe the holiday season.

4. Keep a detailed calendar of the monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s events so your child knows what to expect each day.

9. role play taking turns opening gifts and giving gifts to others to make the actual gift exchange as predictable as possible.

10. Have fun and enjoy one another!

5. use social stories to help prepare your child for upcoming events and happenings.

INDYSCHILD.COM 37

Support Siblings of Kids with Special Needs

No doubt raising a child with special needs is difficult. There are also unique challenges in raising that child’s siblings. The needs of a child with a diagnosis or special challenge is so acute that he or she won’t likely have the same level of needs as that of the other children in the family. Consider that a child with special needs may require several hours of therapy each week. Unless a regular babysitter is available or afforded for siblings, then the other child will likely spend just as much time as his brother or sister going to these appointments. And that’s just addressing one aspect of life as the sibling to a child with special needs. “It’s fair to say that when you’ve got a child with special needs, your life really revolves around that child’s special needs and meeting those needs,” says Lisa Kutschera, parent liaison for About Special Kids and mother of a child with autism. As a result, it’s unavoidable for the sibling’s life to revolve around those needs as well. “The balance of the family tips more toward the child with the diagnosis. That’s why parents like Lisa make time for the typical child to make sure they have attention to ensure that their needs - their emotional needs - are being met,” says Suzanne Aaron, also a parent liaison with About Special Kids. She says parents have a lot of worry and concern over this issue. Fortunately, there are supports throughout the community that can help parents give their typical children an outlet for sharing their experiences and learning from others who are walking in their shoes. Kutschera says her son has found support and camaraderie through Sibshops, which she describes as workshops that provide play-based social interaction for siblings of children with special needs. “They go and it’s a fun time for kids, but they also work to address issues about how 38 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

life is different for them. What are they frustrated about? What do they enjoy? ” she says. Specif ically, Sibshops is part of the national Sibling Support Project, a program designed for brothers and sisters who have a sibling with a special healthcare need. The programs are not designed to give parental advice but are focused on giving parents a way to connect their typical child or children with educational materials, support, and a way to make new friends. “My son loves them...The workshops boost the knowledge that they aren’t the only one with a sibling who has special needs. My son’s very f irst reaction to it was remarkable, really. We got in the car and he was nonstop talk about everything they did,” Kutschera says. She mentions he also made a friend at that f irst Sibshops with whom he has since met up with at two or three other workshops. “At Sibshops, children play fun, interactive games, eat tasty food, meet new friends, and talk about the good and not so good about having a brother or sister with a special health care need,” says Jacqueline Jones, coordinator for Central Indiana Sibshops at Riley Hospital for Children. Earlier this year Riley Hospital’s community education and child advocacy department hosted a two-day training by Sibling Support Project director Don Meyer, who is also an internationally recognized advocate and Sibshops trainer, with the hopes of building a statewide network of Sibshop facilitators. Jones says it is Riley Hospital’s goal to make it possible for parents to connect their children to Sibshops anywhere in the state.

Riley Hospital generally schedules six to eight Sibshops each year. The cost for each program varies by age group, but is quite affordable ranging between $5 and $10 with meals included. This month, area kids can be part of a Sibshops program on December 11 from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at Easter Seals Crossroads. The program is split into Young Sibshops and Sibshops groups that are held in different rooms and facilitated by different Sibshops leaders. Riley Hospital offers Sibshops for its patients and also partners with other community organizations to facilitate Central Indiana Sibshops for area children. These partners include Damar Services, Noble of Indiana, Easter Seals Crossroads and Northview Christian Church. At Sibshops, “children talk about their concerns, needs, challenges and experiences in a non-threatening and non-judgmental atmosphere,” Jones says. “Sibshops helps connect children with people around their same age group with the goal to build and develop a network of support among peers their own age.” Carrie Bishop is a freelance writer and mother of two young sons whose daily antics inspire her work and her life. Contact her at freelancewritercarrie@gmail.com.

INDYSCHILD.COM 39

spec i a l n e e ds awa r e n e ss

top ten books

Views from Our Shoes: Growing Up With a Brother or Sister With Special Needs Edited by Don Meyer

for Siblings of Kids with Special Needs The Sibling Support Project is a national effort dedicated to the life-long concerns of brothers and sisters of people who have special health, developmental or mental health concerns. Following are ten of many books they recommend for siblings of kids with special needs. Visit www.siblingsupport. org for more book recommendations.

Special Siblings: Growing Up With Someone with a Disability By Mary McHugh

Sixtyfive Roses: A The Sibling Slam Sister's Memoir Book: What It's Really By Heather Like To Have A Brother Or Sister With Summerhayes Cariou Special Needs By David Gallagher How to Be a Sister: A Love Story with a Twist of Autism Living With a Brother By Eileen Garvin or Sister With Special Needs: A Book for Sibs By Donald J. Meyer, Special Brothers and Patricia Vadasy Sisters: Stories and Tips for Siblings of Children with a Riding the Bus with Disability or Serious My Sister: A True Illness Life Journey By Rachel Simon From Jessica Kingsley

Being the Other One: The Ride Growing Up with a Together: A Brother or Sister Who Brother and Has Special Needs Sister's Memoir of By Kate Strohm Autism in the Family By Paul Karasik, Judy Karasik

His answer:

“You.“

Who can help the many Indiana children in need of foster parents? Ask a kid what he needs from a parent, and his answer might surprise you. It’s not a big house filled with toys or video games. He just wants someone who cares. Make a difference in a child’s life. www.DamarFosterCare.org

Damar Foster Care Services 6067 Decatur Boulevard | Indianapolis, IN 46241 | 317.856.5201

40 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

FOSTER CARE

RESOURCES

December 2010 Special Needs Calendar

special needs calendar

Check out what’s happening in Indianapolis this month for the special needs community...

Ziggurat and C.A.P.S. Model Workshop

Tues., Nov. 30 - Wed., Dec. 1, 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Indiana Institute on Disability and Community, Bloomington Cost: $200 Contact: Donna Beasley at 812855-6508 or dbeasley@indiana. edu for registration, Melissa Dubie at 812-855-6508 or mdubie@ indiana.edu for content inquiries

Easter Seals Spanish-Speaking Support Group Wed., Dec. 1, 5:30 - 7 p.m. Easter Seals Crossroads, Indianapolis Cost: Free Contact: Dana Renay at 317-658-2973

Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation Get Fit

Wednesdays, Dec. 1 - 22, 7:30-8:15 p.m. Monon Community Center Dance Studio B Cost: $20 Contact: Brooke Taflinger at 317-573-5245 or btaflinger@ carmelclayparks.com

Roadmap to Special Education: Laws and Process training Mon., Dec. 6, 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. First English Lutheran Church, Richmond Cost: $40 families, $75 professionals Contact: Visit www. aboutspecialkids.org

Pratt at 812-855-6508 or prattc@ indiana.edu for content inquiries

Contact: Brooke Taflinger at 317-5735245 or btaflinger@carmelclayparks.com

Applied Behavior Analysis: Practical Strategies For Home and For School Workshop

Hamilton County Autism Support Group Christmas Party

Thurs., Dec. 9, 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Southern Indiana Career and Technical Center, Evansville Cost: $90 Contact: Donna Beasley at 812Easter Seals Grandparents’ 855-6508 or dbeasley@indiana. Support Group Wed., Dec. 8, edu for registration or Cathy Pratt 5:30 - 7 p.m. 812-855-6508 or prattc@indiana. Easter Seals Crossroads, Indianapolis edu for content inquiries Cost: Free Contact: Linda Knoderer VIP Christmas Celebration at 317-816-1381 or Diane Fri., Dec. 10, 6-8 p.m. Quillico at 317-882-1914 Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library Cost: Free Applied Behavior Analysis: Practical Strategies For Home Contact: Leigh Ann Akard at leighann@ truevalue.net or 317-445-4417 and For School Workshop Wed., Dec. 8, 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation Greater Clark Administration Karaoke Night Building, Jeffersonville Fri., Dec. 10, 6-7:30 p.m. Cost: $90 Monon Community Center Program Contact: Donna Beasley at 812Room A 855-6508 or dbeasley@indiana. Cost: $6 edu for registration or Cathy

Sat., Dec. 11, 9 - 11 a.m. Conner Prairie Cost: Free Contact: Visit www.hcasg.org

Sibshops for ages 4-7 and 8-13

Sat., Dec. 11, 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Easter Seals Crossroads, Indianapolis Cost: $10 ages 4-7, $7 ages 8-13 Contact: Community Education and Child Advocacy at Riley Hospital at 317-944-2964 or 888-3652022. Registration is limited.

Easter Seals Parents’ Support Group

Wed., Dec. 15, 5:30 - 7 p.m. Easter Seals Crossroads, Indianapolis Cost: Free Contact: Erica O’Neil or Katy Messuri at 317-466-1000

Easter Seals Teen Night Out Fri, Dec. 17, 5-9 p.m.

The Monon Center, Carmel Cost: Free Contact: Joelle Ogle at 317-466-2001 x2420

Indianapolis Cost: Free Contact: Anna Marie at 317466-2006 for registration

Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation Holiday Dance

Easter Seals Parents’ Night Out (North Indianapolis)

Sat., Dec. 18, 5-7 p.m. Monon Community Center Program Rooms A and B Cost: $10 Contact: Brooke Taflinger at 317-573-5245 or btaflinger@ carmelclayparks.com

Easter Seals Parents’ Night Out (East Indianapolis) Ist, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Friday of every month Easter Seals Crossroads, Indianapolis Cost: Free Contact: Anna Marie at 317466-2006 for registration

Easter Seals Parents’ Night Out (South Indianapolis) 1st Friday of every month Indian Creek Christian Church,

3rd Friday of every month Trinity Wesleyan Church (Kids Kastle), Fishers Cost: Free Contact: Anna Marie at 317466-2006 for registration

Easter Seals Parents’ Night Out (West Indianapolis) 4th Friday of every month Speedway United Methodist Church, Speedway Cost: Free Contact: Anna Marie at 317466-2006 for registration

Know of an upcoming event benefitting Indianapolis’ special needs community? Email Carrie Bishop at freelancewritercarrie@ gmail.com.

INDYSCHILD.COM 41

Laying the Foundation for Educational Success Preschool used to be considered a play place. Today, however, there are many options and a growing emphasis on academics in preschool. In fact, educators and medical professionals agree that the ages from three to five are crucial periods in a child’s development and preschool can provide them with the foundation they need for educational success. In fact, many studies show that children who attend preschool are more likely to finish high school and continue on to college.

In the Indianapolis area, many types of preschools are available with varying philosophies on early education. When choosing a school for your child, it’s important to research schools carefully and find the one that best meets your needs and the needs of your child. Montessori based preschools are increasing in popularity. The Montessori Method was created in 1894 by Maria Montessori, the first woman physician in Italy. Dr. Montessori’s theory was that children have a natural tendency to learn and can achieve successful learning if placed in an environment for selfeducation and self-realization. Thousands of schools are using the Montessori Method throughout the world today, including an increasing number of public schools. There are several Montessori-based schools in the Indianapolis area. Community Montessori School, located in Fishers, offers education for toddler through elementary school. Michelle Porter-Ashley is administrator of the school, as well as the mother of two Montessori children, and Michelle is an adamant advocate for the Motessori method. “Montessori is designed to help children with their inner task of construction as they grow from childhood to maturity,” she says. “Montessori succeeds because it draws its principles from the natural development of 42 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

the child. The inherent flexibility allows the method to adapt to the needs of the individual child, regardless of the learning style, level of ability, or social maturity of that child.” Preschool children, ages 3 to 6, are enrolled in the Primary program at Community Montessori School and all ages work together in the same classroom. “This allows the younger children to observe and learn from the older children in the classroom. It allows the older children to learn vital leadership skills and builds confidence by helping the younger children,” says Michelle. Personalized tours of Community Montessori School are available by appointment. Call (317) 774-8551 to schedule a visit. The Maria Montessori International Academy has three locations locally and offers both full-day and half-day options, as well as extended care and summer camps. The basic aim of the school is, in the words of Dr. Montessori, “to help the child to help themselves.” Self-directed activities allow each child to progress at his/her own pace. Instruction is offered in practical life lessons, sensorial (development of the five senses), mathematics, language, social studies, science, art, music and Spanish. Detailed information is available at mariamontessori-intl.org.

The early childhood program at St. Mary’s Child Center provides intensive early intervention for 185 children ages three, four, and five who are at risk for learning and emotional problems, or who have developmental delays. Risk may include: poverty, abuse, neglect, ineffective parenting, inadequate health and safety protection, violence, families with disabilities and addictions, prenatal drug exposure, and developmental delays. Both full- and half-day preschool are available. Social work services and family support, as well as mentoring and parent education, are also offered. St. Mary’s Child Center uses the Reggio Emilia Approach. The ‘Reggio’ approach was developed for child-care and education programs serving children below six. The approach requires children to be seen as competent, resourceful, curious, imaginative, inventive and possess a desire to interact and communicate with others. According to the St. Mary’s Child Center website, “The ‘Reggio’ vision of the child as a competent learner has produced a strong child-directed curriculum model. Teachers follow the children’s interests and do not provide focused instruction in reading and writing. Reggio approach has a strong belief that children learn through interaction with others, including

INDYSCHILD.COM 43

beginning their own cooperative preschool. Visit preschoolco-op.org for more information. Mer idian Hills Cooperative Nursery School and Kindergarten (MHCNS) is a familyfriendly environment with 50 years of cooperative success. “Both as board officers and as classroom assistants, we strive to learn from one another, maintain an exceptional education community, and share our love of learning with our children,” says John Barna of MHCNS.

parents, staff and peers in a friendly learning environment.” Visit stmaryschildcenter.org for more information. Cooperative preschool is preschool that is organized by a group of families. The school is maintained by these families on a non-profit basis. Parents, children and teachers work together and share in the functions and operations of the school. Indiana Council of Preschool Cooperatives was formed in 1959 when several local cooperative preschools joined together to share resources, ideas and education. Today, the organization offers support existing cooperatives and advice for families considering

44 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

“Ou r teachers consistently model positive interaction, respect, curiosity and enthusiasm. Our curriculum resonates with the fact that children learn best by doing, by exploring. Students benefit from activities that harness the power of play, and from both individual and group efforts.” Distinguishing features of Meridian Hills include high parent involvement, playinfluenced learning environment, enrichment programs, field trips and a shaded, spacious playground. Tours are available for interested families and can be scheduled at MHCoop.org. New this year, The Children’s Museum is now offering preschool. Children ages three through five can explore, discover, and create using the resources of the world’s largest children’s museum.

Specially designed classrooms are set apart from the museum galleries. Projects and activities are related to the museum’s galleries and exhibits. Children learn by handling real artifacts, talking with experts and exploring the exhibits. According to Barbara Wolf, the Museum’s Program Director, Research & Evaluation, “The program is child-centered and purposefully integrates principles of both Montessori and E. Reggio approaches as experiences and content in the arts, sciences and humanities are introduced. Thematic learning plans are based on directed experiences that children have each day in selected galleries. Children participate with museum actors, scientists, artists and storytellers. The program uses play as a vehicle for teaching and establishing socialization skills, gross and fine motor skills, as well as other developmentally appropriate concepts and skills.” Online enrollment for the preschool is available at childrensmuseum.org. The Jewish Community Center ( JCC) offers early education for children ages 2 ½ to 5. The philosophy of the program is that young children learn best by doing. “Our curriculum engages students in active and creative exploration so they feel confident in trying their own ideas and thinking their own thoughts,” says Mindi Epstein, Director of Marketing and Membership for JCC. “We identify goals in all areas of development: social, emotional, physical, and cognitive. An average day includes classroom learning with numeracy and literacy activities, large motor skill development with organized play in the JCC’s gymnasiums and outdoor playgrounds.” Daily activities may also include arts and crafts, dramatic play, housekeeping, blocks and building, library/writing, math and manipulatives, music and movement, computer, cooking and nutrition, table toys, and sand/water sensory exploration. “The JCC is able to offer many unique experiences to children at an early age, such as weekly swim lessons, gym classes, music classes, artist workshops and exposure to various cultures, because we make full use of the JCC facility and explore the diversity of our membership,” explains Mindi.

INDYSCHILD.COM 45

In addition, the JCC preschool recently implemented the “Baby Signs” program into their curriculum, making the JCC the first certified early childhood center in Indiana to teach baby sign language. The JCC’s baby sign class, “Sign, Say and Play” begins on January 13. Enrollment is open to the general public. More information on all programs can be found at JCCindy. org or by calling 317-251-9467.

Whatever the goals and philosophies of your family, there is undoubtedly a preschool in the area that meets your needs. It’s worth the time to research and pay a visit to schools before committing.

46 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

Learning Time Preschool is privately owned and operated and offers “guiding and teaching through positive discipline and redirection.” There are three locations around town and classes are offered for ages 2 through pre-K. Curriculum is designed by the owner, Dr. Jan Bisesi, who has many years of experience as an educator. Children rotate through theme-based classrooms throughout the day as well as enjoying a computer lab and dramatic play area. “Each classroom is designed to encourage unique opportunities in specific areas such as science, reading, language arts, music, dramatic play and creative arts,” explains Patti Car men of Learning Ti m e. Lesson plans include large and small group instruction, teacherdirected lessons, as well as many free-choice activities. Information is available on-line at learningtimepreschool. com

Sycamore School is a school for academically gifted children and offers accelerated learning for students in preschool through middle school. Instruction is differentiated, and students are able to work at their own ability level, no matter how high. Students participate in units of study and use a variety of manipulative and art materials. Preschool students read and write to the extent of their ability. Students receive instruction from specialists in Spanish, art appreciation, music, and physical education. Each classroom is equipped with two or more networked computers. More information is available at sycamoreschool.org. Whatever the goals and philosophies of your family, there is undoubtedly a preschool in the area that meets your needs. It’s worth the time to research and pay a visit to schools before committing. Rebecca Todd is a freelance writer and author of the book "What's the Point? -- Looking for Logic in Modern America."

AROUN D TOW N

indy parks

Indoor & Outdoor Winter Activities to Keep Your Family Active Frosty Fun at Indy Parks open skate time, but no need for expertise – beginners can still hold on to the railings! Want to try something new? Take a crack at Broomball! It’s played like hockey, but in soft-soled shoes. All equipment is available at the rink for no charge. What if you don’t want to see your breath when you breathe? Indy Parks has 16 family centers, four nature centers and The Garfield Park Arts Center and Conservatory to keep your family warm and active during the winter. Here are some fun activities where you won’t need to wear your coat.

Youth Futsal League at Bethel Park — It’s kind of like soccer, but the ball has a little less bounce and you play on a hard surface. Come by and check out a game – you are sure to be a futsal fan soon! Mommy & Me Exercise at Broad Ripple ParK — Do you need to exercise, but don’t have a baby sitter? Try something new and bring your infant or toddler as you exercise away those unwanted pounds! Class workouts incorporate your stroller, weights, bands and even your little tyke. Building Birdfeeders for Preschoolers at Eagle Creek Park — Teach your little one how they can do their part to help nature during the winter months by building a birdfeeder for your feathered friends. This hands-on class will help your child create a variety of simple, yet filling birdfeeders. The only time you have to brave the cold is when you step outside to hang your newly constructed birdfeeder! It may be cooling down outside, but things are heating up at Indy Parks! We often get asked, “Does Indy Parks hibernate during the winter?” No way! Indy Parks offers a variety of indoor and outdoor programs throughout the winter so you and your family can stay active all year long.

If you prefer to bundle up and brave the cold Indiana air, catch a ride down one of Indy Parks’ ten approved sledding hills just after the first snowflakes fall. Launch your own sledding races or make a snowman and build lasting memories with your family. Just be sure you follow the important sledding safety tips offered at www.indyparks.org. Cross-country skiing is also a great winter workout for the entire family. Explore the wintery paths criss-crossing through Eagle Creek, Northwestway and Southeastway Park trails. Don’t forget, all 59 miles of Indy Parks’ Greenways can be used for cross-country skiing if the trail conditions are just right. Still want that winter feeling without the blustery cold air turning your fingers blue? Head indoors to Perry Park Ice Rink for hockey and skating. Try out your triple lutz or double axle during

Arts for All at The Garfield Park Arts Center — Discover your creative side! Families can stretch their creative muscles through fun, hands-on art projects and activities. Themes change regularly, so come by and see what’s on deck for December. Indoor swimming — Leave the sunscreen at home when you swim at Krannert, Thatcher, LaShonna Bates, Indy Island and George Washington Community Center indoor pools. Sign your family up for swim lessons or just take a few laps during open swim time. Indy Parks’ indoor pools are a great way to give you a little reminder of summer! For more information visit www.aquatics.indyparks.org/

Indy Parks has many fun and exciting programs and activities during the winter months. Visit www.indyparks.org for more information about these activities and lots more. Also, check out the 2011 Winter/Spring Fun Guide – registration begins December 10.

INDYSCHILD.COM 47

Childcare & Education Directory Child Care East

Children of America 10830 Pendleton Pike Suite A, Indianapolis, IN 46236 Contact: Nicole Davis Phone: 317-826-0399 Email: coalawrencein@childrenofamerica.com www.childrenofamerica.com Type of School: Preschool/Kindergarten Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: See school Director for Fee Schedule Hours/Dates: 6:00 AM – 6:30 PM Monday - Friday Field Trips: Yes Ages/Grades: 6 wks thru 12 yrs Before/After School Care: Yes with Transportation provided to Lawrence schools Open House Dates: July 31, 2010

School Care is offered. Drop off for Before School Care starts as early as 5am.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Childcare 2421 Butterfield Dr., Indianapolis, IN 46220 Mrs. Hatcher 317-205-9211 peanut_jelly@att.net www.peanutbutterjelly.info Low flexible rates vary with age. CCDF accepted; monthly specials. $50.00 registration fee. Drop in services available, Parent’s Night Out. Please call for more information! 7 DAYS A WEEK 24 HOURS A DAY Home Childcare Field trips to the Children’s Museum, The Indianapolis Zoo, Chuck E. Cheese’s, Monkey Joe’s, Snapperz and more! Ages 4 weeks through 4 years old

The Children of America difference is our commitment to your child's future. Innovation and creativity are the hallmarks of our teaching and the foundation of our infrastructure. With our qualified teachers and proprietary curriculum we provide your child with an unsurpassed learning experience.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Childcare offers a “home away from home” within a learning enviornment, and our professional caregivers provide quality care that kids deserve while also being allowed to be kids. Licensed, CPR certified, first aid, universal precautions, drug and criminal checks. Daily hot home cooked meals. Daily progress reports, kindergarten prep.

Kidz Luv Bilingual Academy & Educational Childcare

SeekingSitters

4118 N Sheridan Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46226\ Tumikia Gilbert 317-547-7323 tumgilbert@aol.com www.kidzluv.daycarematch.com Home: East: Christian - Catholic Monday - Friday, 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. Kidz Luv has provided early childhood education to families for 10 years. Our Educational Childcare cares for children Infant-3 years and our Bilingual Academy implements Spanish and Sign Language into our preschool cirriculum, and is for children ages 3-5. We are NAFCC Accredited, State Licensed and CCDF is accepted.

M eridian K essler 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.

North

Jillian's Jellybeans 7955 Moore Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46278 Phone: 317-956-9854 Fax: 317-328-9306 Email: jaypeanutbutter@hotmail.com Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: Daily drop-off rates are $25.00 a day for 8+hrs. Call for FullTime rate and Parents' Friday Night Out. Hours/Dates: 5am-5pm or 6am-6pm Mon-Fri. Field Trips: Are assigned once or twice a month. Ages/Grades: 6weeks to 13years old. Before/After School Care: Before and After 48 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

1950 E. Greyhound Pass, Ste 18301, Carmel, IN 46033 Kristin Slade 317-985-9505 kristins@seekingsitters www.seekingsitters.com Agency SeekingSitters Indianapolis North is the solution for all of your childcare needs. We are an on-demand service for families seeking babysitters. Whether your need is last minute, one-time, part-time, or full-time, we can solve your childcare dilemma. Visit SeekingSitters.com for more information and to sign up!

Schools

Brownsburg

Maria Montessori International Academy 431 E. Northfield Dr., Brownsburg, IN 317-852-3900 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.

Carmel

Carmel Montessori Schools, Inc. Emily & Scott Rudicel

1402 W. Main St. Carmel, IN 317-580-0699 info@carmelmontessori.com 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 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.

Mi Escuelita Address: 3085 W 116th St, Carmel, 46032 Contact: Giovina Cecili Phone: 575-9379 Email: gcecili@miescuelitaindy.com www.miescuelitaindy.com Type of School: Early Childhood Hours/Dates: Monday-Friday 8:30 - 11:30 am (1st session) 12:00 - 3:00 pm (2nd session) After School 3:30 - 4:30 pm Ages/Grades: Preschool: 2 to 5 After School: 5 and up A unique Spanish Immersion Preschool in Carmel. Loving, nurturing environment. Small class sizes: 6:1 ratio. Native Spanish speakers. Personalized attention to every child. Daily activities: music, art, reading, writing. Give your child the opportunity to learn a second language at an early age. Registration open year-round. No registration fee if you mention this ad.

The Montessori Learning Center Elizabeth Williams 1402 W. Main St. Carmel 317-846-8182 elizabeth@ themontessorilearningcenter.com

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.

Primrose School of Carmel Address: 780 West Carmel Drive, Carmel, IN 46032 Contact: Nicole Alvarado Phone: 317-848-8771

Fax: 317-848-8773 Email: Nicole@PrimroseCarmel.com Type of School: Early Childhood Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: Please call to schedule a tour and to get tuition information. Hours/Dates: Monday to Friday, 6:30am - 6:00pm Field Trips: Ages 4 and up... check out our website! Ages/Grades: Infants through Private Kindergarten and After School Uniforms/Dress Code: Uniforms required for Pre-Kindergarten (4 years old) and Kindergarten Open House Dates: Call to schedule a tour anytime!

Primrose School at WestClay 13096 Moultrie Street 317-848-0123 Julie Bowman jbowman@primrosewestclay.com primrosewestclay.com Our programs are offered to students ages 6 weeks through 12 years of age. We offer before and after school programs, including transportation. 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.

Carmel -Zionsville

Maria Montessori International Academy 4370 Weston Point Dr. Zionsville 317-769-2220 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.

Downtown

St. Mary's Child Center-Thompson Building 901 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202 Contact: Joyce Kuntz Phone: 317-635-1491 Email: jkuntz@stmaryschildcenter.org www.stmaryschildcenter.org Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: CCDF Vouchers Hours/Dates: 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM Monday through Friday.

Ages/Grades: 3 to 5 year olds Restrictions: CCDF Vouchers Full Day Reggio Inspired Preschool program. St. Mary's is a state licensed, nationally accredited (NAEYC), year round preschool for 3-5 year old children featuring a Reggio Emilia inspired curriculum with a 5/1 child to adult ratio.

Fishers

Fishers Montessori 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.

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 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

geistsportsacademy.com Ages: 2 year-Pre K (5 year)

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 PrimroseGrayEagle.com for more information.

NOW ENROLLING! 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.

Woodlands Montessori

Sunrise Early Childhood Center

Address: 10305 Allisonville Road Suite 110, FIshers, IN 46038 Contact: Cynthia Thompson Phone: 317-845-9035 Email: woodlandsinfo@att.net woodlandsmontessori.org Type of School: Montessori Hours/Dates: Traditional Calendar - August thru May Ages/Grades: 3 months - Kindergarten Before/After School Care: Before and After Care available Open House Dates: Open House Saturday, December 6 & December 13, 11:00 - 4:00! Offering Montessori preschool education two to five days per week. Small class size and individualized instruction in a nurturing environment.

Geist

My Backyard Fine Arts Preschool at Geist Sports Academy 11960 East 62nd Street Indianapolis 317-823-7734

Address: 7551 Oaklandon Road, Indianapolis, IN 46236 Contact: Emily Hawthorne Phone: (317) 823-0123 Email: emily@castletonumc.org www.sunriseecc.org Type of School: Early Childhood Hours/Dates: 9am - 1pm, with optional afternoon activities Field Trips: Yes Ages/Grades: 2 years - Kindergarten Religious Affiliation: United Methodist The Sunrise Early Childhood Center offers preschool classes for 2 - 5 year olds, as well as Kindergarten. Classes meet from 9am - 1pm, with a variety of schedules and optional afternoon activities available. The Sunrise ECC offers reasonable rates, exceptional staff, and a caring Christian environment with low student to teacher ratios.

M eridian St. - Michigan R d.

Maria Montessori International Academy

7507 N. Michigan Road Indianapolis

317-291-5557 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 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. 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

INDYSCHILD.COM 49

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, 7673003 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, 5785488

Polly Panda Preschool and Bridgford Kindergarten 2944 E. 56th St.., Indianapolis Gail Hacker and Tammy Clark 317-257-9127 pollypandaindy@sbcglobal.net 17645 Oakmont Dr., Noblesville Mandy Galle 317-773-0387 Oakmontpollypanda@yahoo.com 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 self-worth, independence and growth in social skills are developed through positive interaction with peers and our well-qualified and loving staff.

Noblesville

Primrose School at Bridgewater 14711 N. Gray Road, Noblesville, IN 46062 317-848-0123 Julie Bowman jbowman@primrosebridgewater.com primrosebridgewater.com 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 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 Bridgewater 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.

Primrose School of Noblesville Address: 15707 North Point Blvd., Noblesville, IN 46060

Contact: Jackie Bell Phone: 317-773-4900 Fax: 317-773-4433 Email: jbell@primrosenoblesville.com Type of School: Early Childhood Hours/Dates: 6:30 am to 6:00 pm Ages/Grades: Infant through Kindergarten Before/After School Care: We transport to and from both Noblesville and Hamilton Southeastern Schools Primrose School of Noblesville distinguishes itself by creating a safe and nurturing environment where children will take their first steps toward a lifetime of achievement. You will find certified, professional staff and many programs such as spanish, technology, music and physical fitness that will consistently challenge your child.

North

Arthur M. Glick JCC 6701 Hoover Road, Indianapolis, IN 46260 317-251-9467 emills@JCCindy.org 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.

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 Kindergar-

50 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

ten (5 full-day program 8:50 am to 3:00 pm) OPTIONS FOR ALL: Flexible hours. Availibility 7:30am-6pm, until 5:30 on Fridays. 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 Address: 5500 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46208 Contact: Christy Whaley Phone: 317-253-0472 Fax: 317-253-5513 Email: cwhaley@meridianstreet.org Website: www.meridianstreet.org Type of School: Early Childhood Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: Cost varies. Financial aid not available. Hours/Dates: School year is from Labor Day to Memorial Day weekdays from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Summer Camp CDI from the first Tuesday in June through the second Thursday in July on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 am to 1 pm. Field Trips: Yes, preschool classes only. Religious Affiliation: Methodist Uniforms/Dress Code: No Before/After School Care: No Programs: Nursery School and Preschool Enrollment: Registration begins in February for summer and fall with open enrollment throughout the year based on availability. 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 ages 9 months to 3 years a positive and developmentally appropriate experience in the care of experienced caregivers. We play and learn! Classes are offered weekdays from 9 am to 2:30 pm. The Children's Day In Traditional Preschool program pro-

Co mm e n ta ry & Pa r e n t i n g

vides a quality developmentally appropriate education for 3, 4 and 5 year olds. Our program includes weekly Christian Life Skills, First Steps in Music (ICC) and Book Club. Our 3's Preschool meets on Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Our 4/5's Preschool meets on Monday, Wednesday and Friday or Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Summer Camp CDI is our 6-week summer program for children ages 9 months to age 5 years. Classes are offered on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Summer Camp CDI begins the first Tuesday in June and ends the second Thursday in July. Please call, E-mail or visit for further information and registration forms..

Children’s Circle Preschool at Second Presbyterian Church 7700 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46260 Regina Covey for Registration; Director Cara Paul for Curriculum 317-252-5517 rcovey@secondchurch.org Ages/Grades: 9 months to 5 years Now accepting applications. Children’s Circle Preschool 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 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 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 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!

The Independence Academy of Indiana, Inc. 612 West 42nd Street Susan Le Vay 317-926-0043 susanlevay@IAindiana.org www.IAindiana.org

Ages/Grades: Grades 5 - 12 Hours/Dates: 8am - 3:30pm M-F August - May Field Trips: Field trips average 1 per month (for curriculum and life skills enhancement) Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: $11,250. No financial aid currently available. We accept students with high-functioning autism, including Asperger’s Syndrome, who are able to work in a small group setting. Uniforms/Dress Code: Yes Before/After School Care: After school care available from 3:30 - 5:30pm. Open House Dates: Call us for a consultation and tour Created specifically for students with high-functioning autism and Asperger 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.

International School of Indiana Cathy Blitzer, Director 4330 N. Michigan Road Indianapolis 317-923-1951 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. $12,860 pre-k through 8th grade and $13.600 for High School. Financial aid available for qualifiers.

ment serving children at all levels from gifted to special needs. Pre/K: 8:30-11:30 or 8:30-3:15.

The Orchard School 615 W. 64th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260 Contact: Kristen Hein, Director of Admissions Phone: 317-713-5705 Fax: 317-254-8454 Email: khein@orchard.org Category of School: Private Independent Type of School: Preschool - Middle School Religious Affiliation: N/A Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: Applicants are selected without regard to their ability to pay tuition. Every effort is made to provide financial assistance where needed. Tuition is all-inclusive. Hours/Dates: School hours are 8:10 am to 3:20 pm. Before- and After-School Care available. Field Trips: Middle School: 5th Grade to Cherokee, NC, 6th Grade to St. Louis, 7th Grade to Chicago, 8th Grade to Washington, D.C./Williamsburg, Science Shadow Day. Elementary School: Various field trips throughout the year. Ages/Grades: Preschool 3/4 through Grade 8 Religious Affiliation: None Uniforms/Dress Code: Dress code described in Family Handbook. (No Uniforms) Before/After School Care: Before/after care available. 7-8 a.mm. and 3:30-6 p.m. Ranges from $5.25-$7.25 per day. Open House Dates: Call to schedule a personal tour, and check our Web site for the date and time of our annual Open House. 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.

Open House Guide

Meridian Hills Cooperative Nursery School

Address: 7171 N. Pennsylvania, Indianapolis, IN 46240 Phone: 317-255-0831 www.meridianhillscoop.org

Type of School: Cooperative Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: $48 - $233/month. Financial aid available on a limited basis. Field Trips: Ages three through Kindergarten go on field trips periodically. Ages/Grades: Ages 2, 3, 4 and Kindergarten. Open House Dates: 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 half-acre playground and with a caring, experienced staff.

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 time-management 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 selfpaced. Our well-rounded curriculum includes French and Spanish, art, and computer labs. True Montessori environ-

dear teacher

mainb@stlukesumc.com stlukesumc.com Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: Available upon request Labor Day-Memorial Day 9am-1pm with Summer Programs available Preschool 3 yrs (by Sept 1 of school year)-5 yrs, Parents’ Day Out 10 mos (by Sept 1 of school year)-3 yrs Tours available upon request. St Luke’s Community Preschool is a weekday, developmentally appropriate and experience based program. Two well-trained, degreed teachers are in each classroom. Parents’ Day Out is a structured play experience that provides parents some time for themselves on a regular basis on M, Th, F. We provide a warm and loving Christian environment in which children can learn and grow. Tours available upon request. Visitors welcome.

St. Richard’s School 33 E. 33rd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205 Melinda W. Fisher 317-926-0425 x134 mfisher@strichardsschool.org strichardsschool.org Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: PKGrade Four $13,115 Grades FiveEight $13,715 2009 FA: $450,000 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. 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.

Park Tudor 7200 N. College Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46240 David Amstutz 317-415-2777 nfo@parktudor.org www.parktudor.org Private Independent: Preschool - High School Jr. KG (full-day) $13,300; Sr. KG-Grade 5-$15,630; Grades 6-12-$16,570 Trips for all grade levels, ranging from local to national and international depending on age. Ages/Grades: Junior Kindergarten (ages 3-5) - Grade 12 Dress code varies by grade level. Before- and after-school care offered. Visit web site for a complete admissions calendar. Park Tudor School’s exceptional educators and extraordinary opportunities prepare students to become confident and resourceful lifelong learners. The school community creates an inspiring college-preparatory learning environment for highly motivated young people. Two-year Global Scholars program for juniors and seniors; 19 AP classes; full-day kindergarten; Spanish beginning at age 3.

St. Luke’s Early Childhood Programs 100 West 86th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260 Bobbi Main-Jackson, Dir. 317-844-3399

Sycamore School 1750 W. 64th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260 Dr. Susan Karpicke, Director of Admissions 317-202-2500 skarpicke@sycamoreschool.org sycamoreschool.org 1/2 day programs range from $5,030 to $8010; Full-day PreK through 8th grade is $13,495 for 2009-2010. Financial assistance is available. Please contact dridings@sycamoreschool.org. M -TH 8:15 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.; F 8:15 a.m.2:15 p.m. Parent Tours: Please call 317202-2519 to schedule a parent tour. 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.

Northeast

Community Montessori School 9069 E. 141st St, Fishers, IN 46038 Contact: Michelle Ashely Phone: 317-774-8551 Fax: 317-774-8991 Email: admin@cmsindiana.org www.cmsindiana.net INDYSCHILD.COM 51

Type of School: Montessori Hours/Dates: 7:30am to 5:30pm Ages/Grades: 18 months to 12 years Religious Affiliation: NONE Before/After School Care: Yes CMS is Indy's only AMI accredited Montessori program. Currently enrolling children ages 18 months to 12 years. Offering half-day, full-day and extended day programs. Our directresses allow each child to progress at their own pace. Come tour our new building located just off of US 37 in Fishers.

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. The teachers enjoy enhancing the curriculum with thematic units, hands-on activities, and field trips to interesting places in our area. We currently offer grades Pre-K to 8th, along with a 3-year old PreSchool program.

CUMNS KIDS Address: 7101 N. Shadeland Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46250 Contact: Amy Myers Phone: (317) 841-7491 Email: cumnskids@castletonumc.org www.cumnskids.com

Type of School: Early Childhood Hours/Dates: 7:30am - 5:30pm Monday- Friday Ages/Grades: 6 weeks - Kindergarten Religious Affiliation: United Methodist Open House Dates: January 25, 2011 CUMNS KIDS is NAEYC accredited and provides education and care for children ages 6 weeks through Kindergarten. We are in our 43rd year of providing quality early childhood care as a weekday ministry of Castleton United Methodist Church.

Heritage Christian School 6401 E. 75th Street, Indianapolis, In 46250 Contact: Emily Iglendza, Director of Enrollment Management Phone: 317-849-3441 Email: Admissions@heritagechristian.net www.heritagechristian.net Open House Dates: Thursday, Nov 10 Prep K & Kindergarten Info Night: Thursday, Jan 13 Tuition: $3839 - $9130 Financial aid available for qualified families Biblical worldview learning Bus Transportation Available Before and After School Care High Ability Learners Program Honors and AP classes Fine Arts and IHSAA Atletics Accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) & NCA Prep K - 12th Grade college preparatory, Christian school. Non-denominational & independent. The mission of HCS is is to glorify God through the discipleship of students and the pursuit of excellence in education with the Bible as the foundation and Jesus Christ as our focus.

Indianapolis Jr. Academy 2910 East 62nd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46220 Phone: 317-251-0560 Email: ijacademy@comcast.net www.ijacademy.org Private Independent: Preschool - Middle School Religious Affiliation: Christian - Protestant/Other Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: egistration Fees - $250 Pre-school Registration - $125 Tuition: $3,515 Pre-School - $5,750 Hours/Dates: 8:00am - 3:30pm MonThurs 8:00am - 12:30pm Fridays Before/After School Care: 7:00am8:00am Mon-Friday, 3:30pm-6:00pm Mon-Thurs 12:30pm-5:30pm Fridays 52 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

St. Mary's Child Center, Gilliatte Building 9230 Hawkins Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46216 Contact: Joyce Kuntz Phone: 317-543-0782 Fax: 317-543-0788 Email: jkuntz@stmaryschildcenter.org /www.stmaryschildcenter.org Type of School: Early Childhood Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: CCDF Vouchers Hours/Dates: 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM Monday through Friday. Ages/Grades: 3 to 5 year olds Restrictions: CCDF Vouchers Full Day Reggio Inspired Preschool program. St. Mary's is a state licensed, nationally accredited (NAEYC), year round preschool for 3-5 year old children featuring a Reggio Emilia inspired curriculum with a 5/1 child to adult ratio.

Northwest

International Montessori School, Inc. 2150 West 96th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260 Ranee Dhadialla 317-575-8733 rkd1948@sbcglobal.net intlmontessori.com Please call for more information on tuition 9 AM - 12 Noon or 9 AM - 3 PM with options for 7-9 AM, 3-6 PM Field Trips: Yes 3 - 9 years Before/After School Care: Yes Call to schedule a tour A unique & warm place for children ages 3-9 years providing quality Montessori Education including exposure to diverse cultures, languages, art, music and more.. Now enrolling for Summer and Fall 2010!

The Children’s House 2404 W. 62nd St. (near Michigan Rd.), Indianapolis, IN 46268 Susan Catania or Mary Sexson 317-253-3033 childrenshouse08@gmail.com2404 W. 62nd St. (near Michigan Rd.), Indianapolis, IN 46268 Susan Catania or Mary Sexson 317-253-3033 childrenshouse08@gmail.com 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 indi-

vidual 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.

Traders Point Christian Academy 6600 S. Indianapolis Rd, Whitestown, IN 46075 Contact: Toni Kanzler Phone: 317-769-2450 Fax: 317-769-2456 Email: tkanzler@tpcs.org www.tpcs.org Type of School: Private Independent Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: Preschool: $1665 - $3525, Elementary: $4528 - $6917, Middle School: $8237, High School: $9790 Financial aid is available for qualified families Hours/Dates: Traditional calendar: Preschool: 2 - 4 days per week for 3 hours per day, morning and afternoon classes;extended hour options available. KG - 12th grade: M - F 8:10am - 3:30pm Field Trips: Preschool - 12th various during the year. In addition: 5th grade to Bradford Woods, 6th grade to Cincinnati, 7th grade to Chicago, 8th grade to Washington DC/New York/Gettysburg, PA, 9th-10th to Nicaragua/Mexico Ages/Grades: Two years old - 12th grade. Half-day, extended-day and full-day kindergarten options. Restrictions: Preschool - KG age cut-off is August 1. Academic performance must be at or above grade level. Biblical Worldview instruction. Fine Arts, Spanish KG - 12th, interscholastic athletics, AP classes, laptop computer program, college preparatory. Religious Affiliation: Christian - Protestant Before/After School Care: Before and After School Care available M - F at 7 am before school and to 6pm after school. Open House Dates: KG - 5th: December 6 and February 2. Middle School: December 13 and February 9. High School: December 27 and February 16. KG Round Up January 26. Fully accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), NCA and State of Indiana (Freeway); college preparatory, nondenominational Christian school. TPCA’s mission: to challenge/educate students within a Biblical worldview, leading them to a personal faith and transformed life in Jesus Christ.

South

Montessori Garden Academy 4141 S. East Street, Indianapolis, In 46227 Contact: Kelly Sikora, Director of Admissions Phone: 317-782-9990 Email: kelly@montessorigardenacademy.org www.montessorigardenacademy.org Type of School: Preschool - Secondary School Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: $425-$850 per Month Hours/Dates: Monday-Friday 6:30 am -6:00 pm Field Trips: Yes Ages/Grades: 18 Months- 4th Grade Uniforms/Dress Code: No Before/After School Care: Yes Serving toddlers, preschoolers, kindergartners and 1st4th graders, MGA builds children's selfconfidence and nurtures their natural curiosity. It's different from traditional child care and early education because children "learn by doing" to achieve a sense of pride and inde-

pendence. Early on, children learn to cooperate with each other and resolve their own conflicts respectfully. Rather than a "cookie cutter" approach, MGA’s caring teachers and individualized attention enable each child to reach his or her highest potential. Early childhood is a precious window of time when kids are most receptive to learning. Help build a strong foundation for your child or grandchild by investing in a rich learning environment now.

The Children's Cottage Address: 5935 S. Shelby, Indianapolis, IN 46227 Contact: Ann Derheimer Phone: 317-787-2990 Email: aderheimer@acsrestoration.com Type of School: Early Childhood Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: Tuition varies with age of child. CCDF accepted Hours/Dates: 7 am - 6 pm Field Trips: Weekly field trips Ages/Grades: Toddler thru 12 years old Before/After School Care: Before and After school care available. Transportation available to area Perry Township schools. Open House Dates: January 13, 2011 Discover the difference at The Children's Cottage. Our Learning thru Play teaching methods encourage creativity and problem solving as well as nutures their natural curiosity. Our weekly fiedtrips and dedicated teachers inspire responsibility and respect. Come visit our family owned preschool. Your children deserve this home away from home.

West

Imagine Indiana Life Sciences Academy—West 4950 W. 34th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46224 Keith Marsh 317-297-9100 keith.marsh@imagineschools.com Charter: Kindergarten - Middle School Free tuition Hours/Dates: 8 am - 3pm Ages/Grades: k-7 Before care 6:30 am- 7:30 After care 3 pm - 6pm Imagine having a choice to decide what is the best school option for your child, regardles of where you live. By choosing Imagine Life Sciences Academy West, you provide your child with a challenging education rich in math, arts, science and technology, with teachers who use innovative teaching techniques that prepare students for success.

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.

Your Listing H ere ! Contact Jennica

Jennica@IndysChild.com

December Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

l c h o c o l at

N at

al mu

tm e Oa

ice c r e a m

13 On this day in 1929,

the first miniature golf course opened.

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

y! DA

Bah Humbug Day

GAME S D a y!

Celebration Idea: Use this day to release Celebration Idea: the stress of the holiday Play each family members season. But, whatever favorite game, or try a you do, avoid becoming new game together! a real Scrooge.

National Visit the Zoo Day!

Celebration Idea: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great day for a family trip to the Indianapolis Zoo! Be sure to bundle up!

h o co l a te

22 On this day in 1882,

the first Christmas Lights went on sale!

Celebration Idea: Incorporate chocolate into every meal! Chocolate chip panckakes, chocolate milk...

Sources: familycrafts.about.com, brownielocks.com, holidayinsights.com, holidaysforeveryday.com & thenibble.com

h a ppy

L ATIONA INTERN

17 ma

pl e s y r

Celebrate Your Roots Day

C hristmas Ev e ! ! !

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

Cookie Day 11

Celebration Idea: Look up a few of Emily's poems online and read them together, or write your own poem!

Regifting Day

Tick Tock Day...

Time to tie up any loose ends for this year!

d ay, e m

29 y! DA

C a ndy C a ne Da y

27 N at

the first ball-bearing roller skates were patented.

B i l l of R i g ht s Day National Celebration Idea: Consider writing a Bill of Rights for your family!

On this day in 1884,

y da

Poinsettia Day

l na

y! DA

Celebration Idea: Make a batch of your favorite brownies and enjoy them with a glass of milk!

dic kinso

o w n ie DAy

Saint Nicholas Day

International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Na ti o

n e y!

Celebration Idea: Watch your favorite Disney movie with your family. Discuss your "dreams" over dinner.

Began in 1990 as a day for children with special needs & their families to visit Santa Claus without obstacles. specialkidsday.org

d is

h a ppy b i

ABOUT THIS HOLIDAY:

Cotton Candy Day!

2 DA y

n ati o

ay, w a l

a l FR IT T ER S

Saturday

n io at

Sp e c i a l Kids Day!

E-mail editor@indyschild.com images of your family participating in one of these fun days and/or send us your day of the month ideas and we will include them in an upcoming issue!

Friday

Monday

Sunday

ain mount day

Celebration Idea: Got a mountain of paperwork or laundry to tackle? Today is the day!

Wear a Plunger on Your Head Day!

Merry Christmas 31

New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve!

Baking Soda Day INDYSCHILD.COM 53

Wednesday 1

Frosty the Snowman The twinkling 36 ft. set, reminiscent of the old fashioned enchanting advent calendars, will come to life with marionettes, large rod puppets, a live Sugar Plum Ballerina and a Chinese New Year’s Dragon. Children, 3 - 9 years, will learn about the Chinese New Year, Christmas, Diwali, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa through puppet vignettes accompanied by traditional music. Teachers and youth leaders will receive educational guides with their paid reservations. Great for schools, families and scouts!!! 9:30am, 11am & 6:30pm (concessions will be open for the 6:30pm performance). $5 / 2 and under free. Artcraft Theatre. 57 N. Main Street, Franklin. Special Delivery to the North Pole! Ho! Ho! Ho! It’s time to get your letters to Santa written, so we’re inviting preschoolers to join us for an evening of letter writing fun. We’ll share some stories featuring Santa, look at some sample letters, and watch a special movie. Then, enjoy holiday refreshments as you write your own letter. We will send the letters special delivery to Santa, and you can come by the Clark Pleasant Branch between December 20-23 to pick up your response from the North Pole! Ages 3-5. Johnson County Public Library: Clark Pleasant Branch. 530 Tracy Rd., Ste. 250, New Whiteland. www. jcplin.org/. 317-535-6206. Indianapolis Area StepParents - Coffee Talk This is a group that hopes to provide a place for step-parents to support, give advice, ask questions, vent and get to know others that are in this unique, challenging and exciting position The first and third Wednesday of every month. Venues will change regularly and notification of location will be sent out the weekend before each meetup. A chance to just get together to meet, talk and vent with other step parents. Will change for each meeting. www.meetup.com/Indy-StepParents/calendar/14443121/, Indianapolis. w w w.meetup.com/Indy-Step-Parents/. 317-555-5555.

T hursday 2

Catholic High School Choral Festival Bishop Chartrand Memorial Chapel in Marian Hall Open to the public at no charge. Hosted by Marian University, the festival will feature Catholic high schools from around the area. The Marian University Chamber Singers as well as the Women’s Chorus will also be featured in this event. FREE. Marian College. 3200 Cold Spring Rd, Indianapolis. www.marian.edu. 317-9556000. 54 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

Target Free Family Night Polar Bears to Penguins Discover The Children’s Museum’s newest traveling exhibit and travel from pole to pole to investigate polar geography, polar wildlife, and polar exploration with hands-on activities and special science presentations. Sponsored generously by Target, the first Thursday of each month The Children’s Museum opens free of charge from 4-8 p.m. Free. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. 3000 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis. www.childrensmuseum.org. 317334-3322.

Friday 3

First Friday Evening Visit WonderLab, your top 25 hands-on science museum, at a discount price during extended evening hours! Pizza ($2 per slice) and juice will be available for purchase. WonderLab Museum of Science, Health and Technology. 308 W. Fourth St., Bloomington. www.wonderlab.org/. 812-337-1337. Indianapois Ice vs. Team USA U18 Pepsi Coliseum. 1202 E. 38th St., Indianapolis. www.indianastatefair.com. 317-927-7536. Prairie Tykes: Gingerbread Jamboree Find out how gingerbread is made, listen to the gingerbread man story, decorate a gingerbread man cookie and meet the gingerbread man. All participants must be accompanied by an adult (at no charge). Reservations are required. Call 317.776.6006 or 800.966.1836. For ages 2-5. 9:30-11 am and 12:30-2 pm. $10/youth ($9/member youth). Conner Prairie. 13400 Allisonville Rd., Fishers. www.connerprairie.org/. 317-776-6000. Tales for the Telling with Niall de Burca All the way from Dublin, Ireland, Niall de Burca will enthrall families with his interactive approach to storytelling and his zany sense of humor while telling the Irish tales. $5 for children ages 5 - 12 and $10 for adults. Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center. 450 W. Ohio St, INDIANAPOLIS. www.storytellingarts.org. 317-576-9848. ”A Year With Frog and Toad” A Year With Frog And Toad remains true to the spirit of the original stories as it follows two great friends, the cheerful and popular Frog and the rather grumpy Toad through four fun-filled seasons. For more information on performance dates / times and ticket prices, visit: www. pikepac.org/. $25 adults, $19 students, $15 Children 12 & under. The Pike Performing Arts Center. 6701 Zionsville Road, Indianapolis. www.actorstheatreofindiana.org. 317216-5455.

First Friday Family Movie Night For ages 5-12; must be accompanied by an adult. FREE. Washington Park. 3130 E. 30th St, Indianapolis. www.indyparks.org. 317327-PARK.

Saturday 4

Santa in the Square Families and children of all ages are invited to get their pictures taken with Santa at PNC Bank and enjoy a carriage ride from 10 a.m. - 12 noon. From 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. in the Fountain Square Branch, they can make a frame for their picture, decorate a cookie and ornament, sign up for a Bunny Book Bag Card, listen to stories and enjoy the seasonal window displays. The event is sponsored by Friends and Fact, Fountain Square Merchants Association, Indiana State Police Alliance, IMCPL, PNC Bank, and White Castle. Fountain Square Library. 1066 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4390. Breakfast with Santa at Greenwood Park Mall Breakfast with Santa will take place on Saturday, December 4th from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. in the food court at Greenwood Park Mall. Please contact Heather Lloyd at lloyd@simon. com or (317) 887-8601 with questions. Free. Greenwood Park Mall. 1251 Us Hwy. 31 n, Greenwood. 317-887-8601. Breakfast with Santa presented by the Indianapolis Chapter of Jack and Jill Join us for a morning of fun for a good cause, including Santa’s Workshop arts and crafts, Santa’s Fun Stop and Santa’s Sweet Shoppe. For more information, including payment options please visit our website: www.jackandjillindy.org. Adults $35; Ages 3 - 12 $20. The Westin Indianapolis. 50 South Capitol Avenue, Indianapolis. College Fair Representatives from several schools across the state of Indiana will share information about admissions, academic programs offered, financial aid and scholarships, campus life, and more. Among the schools confirmed to attend are: University of Indianapolis MBA Program, Anderson University, Western Governors University, Indiana Tech, IVY Tech, IUPUI, Martin University, DeVry University, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and many more. Hamilton East Library (Fishers). Five Municipal Dr., Fishers. www.hepl.lib. in.us/. 317-579-0300. Fortville Winter Festival To kick off this holiday season, residents may wish to check out the 1st Annual Fortville Winter Festival, 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Saturday, December 4, 2010, downtown Fortville, Indiana, presented by the Fortville Main Street Action Committee. Join the fun as the quaint town of Fortville becomes a magical place full of sparkling lights and decorated trees. You can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, costumed characters, holiday music,

choirs and carols, a European-style Christmas Market. Free. Main Street. 12 s Main St., Fortville. fortvillefestival.com/. 317-861-5948 ext.t 610.

Holiday Author Fair The Holiday Author Fair is the largest book signing gathering for Indiana-related material, featuring 75 Hoosier authors. Books include works of fiction, nonfiction, cookbooks, photography, history, children’s books and more. Visitors can converse with authors, have books signed, listen to special presentations and enjoy kids’ activities and refreshments. For more information, call (317) 232-1882. Free with admission to the Indiana Experience. Indiana History Center. 450 W. Ohio St, Indianapolis. www.indianahistory.org. 317-232-1882. Holiday Fun Foods These classes are sure to get you in the holiday mood! Each class will introduce kids to some holiday fun foods which are easy to make. Participants will learn how to make three snacks in each class. Ages 2yr-8yrs. Parents are welcome to participate. $10/residents, $12/non-residents. Greenwood Community Center. 100 Surina Way, Greenwood. www. greenwood.in.gov/. 317881-4545. Indianapolis Children’s Choir FREE. Indianapolis Artsgarden. 110 W. Washington St., Indianapolis. www. indyarts.org. 317-624-2563. Maple Glen pto Holiday Bazaar The Maple Glen PTO is sponsoring a Holiday Bazaar on Saturday, December 4th, 2010 from 8am to 2pm. It will be at Maple Glen Elementary school, which is located at 17171 Ditch Road in Westfield IN. There will be vendors to shop from, a teacher bake sale and even a kids craft corner to keep them busy while you shop. Admission is free. Free Admission. Maple Glen Elementary School. 17171 Ditch Road, Westfield. www.mgespto. org. 317-896-4700. Skate with Santa Dress in layered clothing, long pants, socks, and gloves. Coin-operated lockers are available. Call our public skating information line for more details, 317-237-5555. Indiana/World Skating Academy. 201 S. Capitol Ave. Ste. 001, Indianapolis. www. iwsa.org. 317-237-5555. The Great S’mores MakeOff at Ritchey Woods Many people are invited to cookie exchanges this time of year, but have you ever been to a s’mores make-off? The basic recipe is out and fun is in Bring your family’s favorite homemade cookies to try or share with other participants. We will provide marshmallows, store bought cookies, chocolate, and warm drinks and you get to be the chef Did you know there are different varieties of marshmallows? They don’t have to be white Special thanks to 240 Sweet and Endangered Species Chocolate. $6 per Fishers resident; $9 per non-resident. Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve. 10410 Hague Road, Fishers. www.fishers.in.us/parks. 317-5953458.

Twilight Saga: Eclipse Join us for the dvd release of Twilight: Eclipse. Watch Jacob and Edward battle it out for Bella’s love. Free. Hamilton North Public Library, Cicero Branch. 209 W. Brinton St., Cicero. www.hnpl. lib.in.us/. 317-984-5623. Winding Ridge Elementary Holiday Bazaar and Pancake Breakfast

Indianapolis. www.actorstheatreofindiana. org. 317-216-5455.

Indianapolis Colts vs. Dallas Cowboys

Sunday 5

Congregation Shaarey Tefilla’s 5th Annual Holiday Bazaar 5th Annual Holiday Bazaar FREE ADMISSION: Fun family entertainment all day Lunch 11:30am1:00pm 35+ of your favorite local artist, crafts and home party consultants. Community Home Health Services will offer flu and pneumonia shots. 11am-2pm Donations are being accepted for Ovar’Coming Together, Indiana’s Ovarian Cancer education and support resource agency For more info Contact: Rebecca Holloway billnbecca@ gmail.com Stacy Bunes cstpurim@yahoo.com. FREE. Congregation Shaarey Tefilla. 3085 W. 116th St., Carmel. www.freewebs.com/ cstholidaybazaar/. 317-840-6975. Gingerbread House Decorating

Winding Ridge Elementary Family School of Inquiry and Arts will be hosting a HOLIDAY BAZAAR Additionally, Scholastic Books will be at the bazaar for you to purchase books and other gift items for yourself or the children. Vendors featuring wonderful homemade crafts, beautiful home dÈcor items, hand-crafted jewelry, delicious baked goods, holiday treats and much more Santa will be available for pictures. The Indianapolis Colts Super Bowl Trophy will be on display from 12noon to 1pm for pictures. $3.00 6 and under FREE. 11825 E. 46th St., Indianapolis. www.ltschools.org. 317-332-3830.

"Rowdie Claus" visits Victory Field Free - a canned food or cash donation for Wheeler Mission is encouraged. Free photos with Rowdie, Free parking in Victory Field parking lot, Holiday crafts and activities, Opportunities to win Indians prizes, Indians merchandise sales. Call 317-2693545, or log on to www.IndyIndians.com. Victory Field. 501 W. Maryland St, Indianapolis. www.indyindians.com. 317-269-3545.

Families decorate a non-edible gingerbread house together. The house and icing are provided. Each family is required to bring two bags of candy to share with the group, and may bring additional items for their own house. Limit one house per family. An adult is required to attend. PlainfieldGuilford Township Library. 1120 Stafford Rd., Plainfield. www.plainfieldlibrary.net/. 317839-6602.

”A Year With Frog and Toad” A Year With Frog And Toad remains true to the spirit of the original stories as it follows two great friends, the cheerful and popular Frog and the rather grumpy Toad through four fun-filled seasons. For more information on performance dates / times and ticket prices, visit: www.pikepac.org/. $25 adults, $19 students, $15 Children 12 & under. The Pike Performing Arts Center. 6701 Zionsville Road,

Holliday Park: Meet the Nature Center Animals Get up close and personal with the animals who call the nature center home. We’ll learn about what makes each animal unique, as well as how our naturalists keep them happy and healthy. All ages, no registration required. Free. Holliday Park Nature Center. 6363 Spring Mill Road, Indianapolis. www.hollidaypark.org. 3173277180.

The WISHTree is a toy drive sponsored by WISHTV8 which benefits The Salvation Army. Each year, the Indianapolis Colts hold a gameday collection outside of Lucas Oil Stadium to help collect toys and monetary donations for the program. This year, WISHTree toy drive will take place prior to the Colts vs. Cowboy kickoff on Sunday, December 5th at Lucas Oil Stadium. Volunteers will be stationed around the gates of Lucas Oil Stadium accepting donations from 2:00 p.m. to 4 p.m. Those who donate a toy will receive a special edition Colts poster! For more information on how these donations will make a difference in the lives of Hoosier familes visit www.indywishtree.org. Lucas Oil Stadium. 500 S. Capitol Ave., Indianapolis. www.lucasoilstadium.com. 317-262-3452.

”A Year With Frog and Toad” A Year With Frog And Toad remains true to the spirit of the original stories as it follows two great friends, the cheerful and popular Frog and the rather grumpy Toad through four fun-filled seasons. For more information on performance dates / times and ticket prices, visit: www. pikepac.org/. $25 adults, $19 students, $15 Children 12 & under. The Pike Performing Arts Center. 6701 Zionsville Road, Indianapolis. www.actorstheatreofindiana.org. 317216-5455.

Monday 6

Indiana Pacers vs. Toronto Raptors $10 - $200. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www. consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500.

Santa Visit Sign up for a visit with Santa! Each half hour, we will schedule 10 children to visit with Santa. Parents, don’t forget your cameras! Children younger than age 3 who will not sit and talk to Santa do not have to be registered. Those children may still come with the family and sit on Santa’s lap for a picture, but do not need to be counted in the total number who are visiting Santa. Anyone who wants to bring a child under age 3 with no older children just for a photo may drop by at anytime during the evening. We will fit those children in for a photo only as time permits. Avon-Washington Township Library. 498 N. State Road 267, Avon. www.avon.lib.in.us/. 317-272-4818 Ext. 222.

Tuesday 7

Storytime Express: Welcome Winter! For young children & their caregivers. 10:00-10:20 a.m. and 11:00-11:20 a.m. Join us for a book and craft - just what your family needs to kick-start a library visit!. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www. carmel.lib.in.us. Tuesday Night Book Club Kids: Miracle on 49th Street Why is 12-year-old Molly Parker stalking the NBA’s brightest star? Read this month’s fast paced book to find out! Miracle on 49th Street by bestselling author Mike Lupica is packed with basketball, adventure, and a little bit of mystery, as one girl tries to gain control of her life, while changing forever the life of the Boston Celtics star. We’ll talk about the book, enjoy activities based on the characters, and browse other great books that you’ll want to try. You may register for the book discussion and reserve your copy of the book online at www.jcplin.org, by calling 535-6206, or by visiting the library. Grades 4-7. Johnson County Public Library: Clark Pleasant Branch. 530 Tracy Rd., Ste. 250, New Whiteland. www.jcplin. org/. 317-535-6206. Mothers & More Chapter 92 Avon/Brownsburg/W Indy Mothers & More is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of mothers through support, education and advocacy. We address mothers’ needs as individuals and members of society, and promote the value of all the work mothers do. We meet on the first Tuesday of each month at the Messiah Lutheran Church, 801 S. Green St, Brownsburg, IN at 7 pm. This chapter serves the Plainfield, Avon, Brownsburg and W Indy areas. If you would like more information, you may contact

INDYSCHILD.COM 55

r e so u rc e s

calendar

Kim Baver @ info@mothersandmore92.org or 317830-8004. Messiah Lutheran Church. 801 S. Green St, Brownsburg. www.mothersandmore92. org. 317-830-8004.

childbirth, breastfeeding, parenting, and nutrition will be available. Free. Methodist Medical Plaza, Community Room. 8830 South Meridian Street, Greenwood. www.llli.org. (317) 784-8286.

Wednesday 8

Pictures with Santa Join the Fishers Parks and Recreation Department at the Fishers Town Hall Wednesday, December 8 and Thursday, December 9 from 6:00-7:30pm for Pictures with Santa! No registration required! You and your family can come be part of a beloved holiday tradition. Your children can have their pictures taken free with Santa Claus while they share their Christmas list for this year. A keepsake frame is included with photo at no charge (while supplies last). This is a free event. Fishers Parks and Recreation. 11565 Brooks School Rd, Fishers. www.fishers.in.us/parks/. 317-595-3153.

Delight in the Season Cooking Class

T hursday 9

Join the Optimal Wellness Center for our monthly cooking class with Nutritionist and Raw Foods Chef Sarah Stout and spice up your holiday cooking. Wish you could eat all the holiday desserts without gaining an ounce? Learn how to make healthy, yet delicious, sweets for the holidays that are allergy-friendly and free of guilt. $35. (Preregistration required). Optimal Wellness Center. 4545 Northwestern Dr, Ste. a, Zionsville. www. WeCreateWellness.com. 317-870-7220.

Fishers Parks & Recreation: Pictures with Santa Session 1 Your children can have their pictures taken free with Santa Claus while they share their Christmas list for this year. For all ages. No registration is required. Free. Fishers Town Hall. 1 Municipal Drive, Fishers. www.fishers.in.us/parks. (317)595-3150. Holidays Are for Giving: School-Age Drop-In Craft For children in grades 1-5. Ring in the holiday season by stopping in to make a jingle bell ornament! It would make a perfect gift for a special person, or you could even attach it to a gift package for some extra holiday cheer. Join us anytime between 4:005:00 p.m. in the Storytime Room. No registration is required. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www. carmel.lib.in.us. 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

56 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

Christmas at the Library Please join us for holiday fun, complete with entertainment. For information, please visit www. hnpl.lib.in.us, or call the library at 317-9845623. Hamilton North Public Library, Cicero Branch. 209 W. Brinton St., Cicero. www.hnpl. lib.in.us/. 317-984-5623. Estate and Financial Planning for Families with Dependents with Special Needs "Planning For Your Dependent with Special Needs Making Their Future More Secure" For more information or a complimentary Workshop for your Conference, Parent Support Group, School or Organization, Gordon can be reached at: 8520 Allison Pointe Blvd., Suite 300 9960 Corporate Campus Drive #1100 Indianapolis, IN 462504227 Louisville, KY 40223 (317) 567-2005 email: ghomes@metlife.com 800-903-6380 #2005 www.gordonhomes.metlife.com . free. Warren Township Special Education Council. 1401 N. Mitthoeffer, Indpls. www.gordonhomes. com. 317-567-2005. Fishers Parks & Recreation: Pictures with Santa Session 2 Your children can have their pictures taken free with Santa Claus while they share their Christmas list for this year. For all ages. No registration is required. Free. Fishers Town Hall. 1 Municipal Drive, Fishers. www.fishers.in.us/parks. (317)595-3150. Santa Visit in Avon Sign up for a visit with Santa! Each half hour, we will schedule 10 children to visit with Santa. Parents, don’t forget your cameras! Children younger than age 3 who will not sit and talk to Santa do not have to be registered. Those children may still come with the family and sit on Santa’s lap for a picture, but do not need to be counted in the total number who are visiting Santa. Anyone who wants to bring a child under age 3 with no older children just for a photo may drop by at anytime during the evening. We will fit those children in for a photo only as time permits. Avon-Washington Township Library. 498 N. State Road 267, Avon. www.avon.lib.in.us/. 317-272-4818 Ext. 222.

Troy Roark, Comedy Juggler For families with children. 5:00-5:45 p.m. and 7:00-7:45 p.m. Are you ready for a break from a busy, bustling month? Master entertainer Troy Roark will dazzle you with his special brand of juggling, magic, and comedy. This delightful show is guaranteed to tickle your funny bone, so don’t miss out! Free tickets are required and will be available online or at the Children’s Reference Desk beginning Thursday, December 2. Carmel Clay Public Library Program Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us. Christmas at Marian The Department of Music will present Christmas at Marian University Madrigal Dinner and Choral Concert in the Allison Mansion. The evening will consist of a madrigal dinner performed by the Marian University Chamber Singers as well as performances by the Women’s Chorus and Sacred Choir. Tickets are $28 ($24 for students and seniors) for Thursday and Friday performances; $30 ($24 for students and seniors) for Saturday performance. Contact Carol at 317.955.6110 for tickets and information. Marian University. 3200 Cold Spring Rd, Indianapolis. www.marian. edu. 317-955-6000.

and snack are served. $10 - $20. West District Branch YMCA. 7811 W. Morris St., Indianapolis. www.indymca.org. 317-484-9622.

Prairie Tykes: Happy Holiday Party Enjoy a holiday story and make a fun holiday decoration to take home. Dance with our special guest, Santa! All participants must be accompanied by an adult (at no charge). Reservations are required. Call 317.776.6006 or 800.966.1836. For ages 2-5. 9:30-11 am and12:30-2 pm. $10/ youth ($9/member youth). Conner Prairie. 13400 Allisonville Rd., Fishers. www.connerprairie. org/. 317-776-6000. The Nutcracker Ballet presented by Central Indiana Dance Ensemble

Friday 10

Chris Isaak $24.75 - $65. Old National Center (Formerly Murat). 502 N. New Jersey St., Indianapolis. www.livenation.com/murat. 317-632-7469. Indiana Pacers vs. Charlotte Bobcats

$10 - $200. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www.consecofieldhouse. com. 317-917-2500.

Indianapolis Art Center Basile Gift Shop Holiday Party A holiday party in conjunction with opening night for Art Center exhibitions. Indianapolis Art Center. 820 E. 67th St, Indianapolis. www. indplsartcenter.org. 317-255-2464. Indianapolis Ice vs. Chicago Steel Pepsi Coliseum. 1202 E. 38th St., Indianapolis. www.indianastatefair.com. 317-927-7536. Kids’ Night Out Enjoy an evening out while we entertain your kids at the West District YMCA. Crafts, games, physical activities and lots of fun (Ages 3 -12)Light dinner

The Central Indiana Dance Ensemble will present its 11th Annual production of The Nutcracker, a classical ballet in 2 acts, December 10th, 11th and 12th, 2010 at the Zionsville Performing Arts Center, 1000 Mulberry Street, Zionsville, IN 46077. Show times are: Friday, December 10th at 7:30 pm, Saturday, December 11th at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm and Sunday, December 12th at 2:00 pm. Tickets are $20.00 for adults and $15.00 for children 18 and under. $15.00 for children up to age 18; $20.00 for adults. Zionsville Performing Arts Center. 1000 Mulberry St., Zionsville. www.cidedance. org. 317-844-7453.

Christmas at Marian The Department of Music will present Christmas at Marian University Madrigal Dinner and Choral Concert in the Allison Mansion. The evening will consist of a madrigal dinner performed by the Marian University Chamber Singers as well as performances by the Women’s Chorus and Sacred Choir. Tickets are $28 ($24 for students and seniors) for Thursday and Friday performances; $30 ($24 for students and seniors) for Saturday performance. Contact Carol at 317.955.6110 for tickets and information. Marian University. 3200 Cold Spring Rd, Indianapolis. www.marian.edu. 317-955-6000. Christmas with the Ponies and Santa Strides To Success, a not-for-profit organization, provides Equine Assisted Learning and therapy. Create a great memory for the family and give back to the community. The proceeds raised

r e so u rc e s from this event ($20 donation) will contribute to the Strides scholarship fund that supports programs for victims of abuse.. Visit with Santa. Family Photo with Santa and a Christmas Pony. Make gifts for the family @ Santa’s Workshop. Reindeer Games. Holiday Refreshments. Heated and Decorated Barn. Strides to Success. 1350 Terry Dr., Plainfield. stridestosuccess.org. 317-838-7002.

Saturday 11

Holiday Magic Show with Don Miller Now you see it, now you don’t! Families will enjoy the antics of magician Don Miller with a holiday twist. Glendale Library. 6101 N. Keystone Ave., Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4410. 3rd Annual Music Marathon Food Drive Meridian Music teachers and students along with other area music teachers and students will sign-up for performance time-slots. Many instruments, genres, and skill levels will be represented. All performers and audience members will be asked to donate at least one nonperishable food item the day of the performance. Meridian Music will continue to accept nonperishable food items from the general public through December 27, 2010. Meridian Music welcomes the general public to attend this event at anytime on Saturday, December 11th! For more information, please contact Hillary Blake, Director of Education at 317-575-9588 ext. 105 or hblake@meridianmusic.com. MERIDIAN MUSIC. 12725 Old Meridian St.,, Carmel. www.meridianmusic.com. 5th Annual Winter Wonderland Stop by to make an ornament to take home and one to decorate our tree. Enjoy holiday music

and snacks too! School age children may also attend the American Girl Holiday Program at 11:00 a.m. All Ages. Johnson County Public Library: Trafalgar Branch. 424 Tower Street, Trafalgar. www.jcplin.org. 317-878-9560.

Bloomfield State Bank Breakfast with Santa Santa Claus is coming to the Greenwood Community Center to eat breakfast with you! Breakfast includes pancakes, sausage, eggs, fruit, juice, milk and coffee. A paid adult must accompany children. Pro-Tek photography will be taking pictures with Santa for $5. Register at the Greenwood Community Center Registration Deadline: December 9th. $3 residents and $5 non-residents. Greenwood Community Center. 100 Surina Way, Greenwood. www. greenwood.in.gov/. 317-881-4545. Breakfast With Santa Don’t wait in a long line this year to see Santa Join the Primrose School of Carmel for Breakfast with Santa. Now is the time to meet and have your picture taken with Santa. Admission and breakfast is free of charge. Your photo with Santa that day will be your only purchase. Open to the public as well as currently enrolled families. Hope to see you there. Primrose School of Carmel. 780 West Carmel Dr., Carmel. www. PrimroseCarmel.com. 317-848-8771. BROAD RIPPLE Lights Up! The Broad Ripple Village Association and Second Helpings are partnering to bring the 4th Annual BROAD RIPPLE Lights Up! to The Village. The festivities begin at the brightly

decorated firehouse in the heart of Broad Ripple, with free craft activities, face painting, balloon twisting, and refreshments. Kids can tour historic Indianapolis Fire Station #32 and receive free fire helmets and badges. Live reindeer, caroling, and musical entertainment will continue until the twilight parade begins at 5:30 p.m., bringing Santa and Mrs. Claus to the firehouse in a horse drawn carriage. Parade goers can then join in the fun at the firehouse, where prizes will be awarded for both residence and business decorating contests, and the 21-foot M&I Bank tree will be lit. Free cookies and cocoa, free carriage rides, and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus will follow. Broadripple Village.

Classical Christmas and the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra

Raymond Leppard, Conductor & Apollo’s Voice Chamber Chorus Arr. Leppard A Sequence of English Folksongs WAGNER Siegfried Idyll JS BACH "Christians Be Joyful" from the Christmas Oratorio www. indianapolissymphony.org. $45 (adults); $15 (children ages 4-12. Scottish Rite Cathedral. 650 N. Meridian St, Indianapolis. 1-800-489-3579.

calendar

Hendricks County Holiday We value our Hendricks County friends and neighbors! This free appreciation event for the whole family will include a visit from Santa, special children’s activities, and a variety of musical entertainment featuring local high school students. Other activities may include: A children’s area with storytellers from the Hendricks County Library Register to win prizes one of 100 gift cards ranging from $100 to $25 in value. Special promotions for holiday gifts and shopping. Discounts on meals Parking is free for those who register to win. Indianapolis Airport. 7800 Col. H. Weir Cook Memorial Drive, Indianapolis. www.indianapolisairport.com. Jingle Bell Run and Walk

$22 per entry. Visit www.indyjinglebellrun. com for more information. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www.consecofieldhouse. com. 317-917-2500.

Hamilton County Autism Support Group Christmas Party Join us for lots of FREE Christmas activities and get to see Santa. Activities include pictures with Santa, Christmas Card decorating, and cookie decorating. For more information visit www. hcasg.org. Conner Prairie. 13400 Allisonville Rd., Fishers.

INDYSCHILD.COM 57

r e so u rc e s

calendar

Indianapois Ice vs. Team USA U17 Pepsi Coliseum. 1202 E. 38th St., Indianapolis. www.indianastatefair.com. 317-927-7536. Christmas at Garfield Oh what fun it is to visit the Conservatory to meet Santa and see Conservatory Crossing, the holiday train and poinsettia show. Jingle all the way to the Arts Center to make toys with Santa’s elves. You can also dash through the snow to the Burrello Family Center where Mrs. Claus will have some tasty treats. You’ll be laughing all the way! All ages. No registration required. Photos with Santa are available for $3 each. Garfield Park Conservatory. 2505 Conservatory Dr., Indianapolis. www. garfieldgardensconservatory.org/. 317-327-7184. Pictures With Santa Families and children of all ages are invited to have their pictures taken with Santa during this event sponsored by the Franklin Township Chamber of Commerce. Franklin Road Library. 5550 S. Franklin Rd, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4380. The Nutcracker Join us for the 4th annual performance of The Nutcracker Sat. Dec. 11 at 7:00 p.m. and Sun. Dec. 12 at 2:00 p.m. Enjoy this timeless classic performed by The Dance Refinery students and Beech Grove Show Choirs. Tickets are $6 in advance 11/22 - 12/8 at The Dance Refinery or $8 at the door. Doors open one hour before show. Performance at Beech Grove High School, 5330 Hornet Ave., Indianapolis. Call

58 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

The Dance Refinery for details at 317-8811905 or www.TheDanceRefinery.com. $6 - $8. Beech Grove High School Auditorium. 5330 Hornet Ave., Indianapolis. www. thedancerefinery.com. 317-881-1905.

The Nutcracker presented by The Central Indiana Dance Ensemble The Central Indiana Dance Ensemble will present its 11th Annual production of The Nutcracker, a classical ballet in 2 acts, December 10th, 11th and 12th, 2010 at the Zionsville Performing Arts Center, 1000 Mulberry Street, Zionsville, IN 46077. Show times are: Friday, December 10th at 7:30 pm, Saturday, December 11th at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm and Sunday, December 12th at 2:00 pm. Tickets are $20.00 for adults and $15.00 for children 18 and under. $15 for children up to age 18; $20.00 for adults. Zionsville Performing Arts Center. 1000 Mulberry St., Zionsville. w w w.cidedance.org. 317-844-7453. Christmas with the Ponies and Santa Strides To Success, a not-for-prof it organization, provides Equine Assisted Learning and therapy. Create a great memory for the family and give back to the community. The proceeds raised from this event ($20 donation) will contribute to the Strides scholarship fund that supports

programs for victims of abuse.. Visit with Santa. Family Photo with Santa and a Christmas Pony. Make gifts for the family @ Santa’s Workshop. Reindeer Games. Holiday Refreshments. Heated and Decorated Barn. Strides to Success. 1350 Terry Dr., Plainf ield. stridestosuccess.org. 317-838-7002.

offering their good wishes to you and yours for the holidays. Adults $10; children (ages 5 to 17) $5. President Benjamin Harrison Home. 1230 N. Delaware St., Indianapolis. www.pbhh.org. 317.631.1888.

The President’s Theatre presents “LIVE: Family Christmas at the President’s Home”

Central Indiana Dance Ensemble presents The Sugar Plum Fairy Dessert Tea The Central Indiana Dance Ensemble will present The Sugar Plum Fairy Dessert Tea before each matinee performance of The Nutcracker at 12:30 pm on Saturday, December 11th and Sunday, December 12th at the Zionsville Performing Arts Center. Tickets to the Sugar Plum Fairy Dessert Tea are $10.00 per person. Tickets to the Nutcracker Ballet are $15.00 for children up to age 18 and $20.00 for adults. $10.00 per person. Zionsville Performing Arts Center. 1000 Mulberry St., Zionsville. www. cidedance.org. 317-844-7453.

Sunday 12

Bring the family for 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 be “home for the holidays” talking about the excitement of Christmas Day and personally

Breakfast with Santa The whole family will enjoy our lavish pancake buffet, which includes toppings like fresh blueberries, chocolate chips, 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. Special valet parking rate of $10. Patrons may enjoy a discounted guestroom rate of $119 on 12/10. $24 per person, 5 and under $15. Conrad Indianapolis. 50 West Washington St., Indianapollis. conradindianapolisholidays. com. 317-713-5000. The Nutcracker

r e so u rc e s Join us for the 4th annual performance of The Nutcracker Sat. Dec. 11 at 7:00 p.m. and Sun. Dec. 12 at 2:00 p.m. Enjoy this timeless classic performed by The Dance Refinery students and Beech Grove Show Choirs. Tickets are $6 in advance 11/22 - 12/8 at The Dance Refinery or $8 at the door. Performance at Beech Grove High School, 5330 Hornet Ave., Indianapolis. Doors open one hour before show. Call The Dance Refinery for details at 317-881-1905 or www.TheDanceRefinery.com. $6 $8. Beech Grove High School. 5330 Hornet Ave, Indianapolis. www.thedancerefinery. com. 317-881-1905.

Las Posadas In Mexico, Las Posadas is a beloved holiday tradition a celebration that commemorates Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging in Bethlehem. (Posada means inn or shelter in Spanish.) Family and friends gather and reenact Mary and Joseph's search for shelter by carrying lit candles, singing special songs and following f igures of Mary and Joseph that are carried aloft in a procession. Join the Indiana Historical Society, Eiteljorg Museum, Christ Church Cathedral, the Consulate of Mexico in Indianapolis and other community groups to celebrate this festive family tradition. The free evening starts at the History Center, where guests will enjoy an entertaining

(Located at Hamilton Town Center Mall, exit 10 off I-69). FREE. Paradise Bakery and Cafe. 13230 Harrell Parkway, Suite 400, Noblesville. www.tacanow.org. 949-6404401 Foundation Off ice-.

Tuesday 14

Santa’s Storytime Visit the Franklin Branch for a special Christmas storytime with a visit from Santa! Bring your camera to take your child’s picture with Santa if desired. Please note: This replaces Preschool Storytime on this date. Also at 1:30pm. All Ages. Johnson County Public Library: Franklin Branch. 401 State St., Franklin. www.jcplin.org. 317738-2833. Sweet Surprises For toddlers-preschoolers & their caregivers. 10:00-10:30 a.m., 11:00-11:30 a.m., and 1:00-1:30 p.m.Join us for some sweet stories and songs and to make a seasonal craft. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, December 7, either online, in person, or by calling 844-3363. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us. 317844-3363.

Wednesday 15

Friday 17

Indiana Pacers vs. Cleveland Cavaliers $10 - $200. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www. consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500. Indianapois Ice vs. Team USA U17 Pepsi Coliseum. 1202 E. 38th St., Indianapolis. www.indianastatefair.com. 317-927-7536. 12 FREE Days of Christmas

FREE tours of the President’s mansion. President Benjamin Harrison Home. 1230 N. Delaware St, Indianapolis. www. presidentbenjaminharrison.org/. 317631-1888.

Indiana Pacers vs. L.A. Lakers $10 - $200. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www. consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500.

and interactive program and sing-a-long on Mexican holiday traditions. At 7 p.m., the procession leaves from the History Center's Kruse Family Stardust Terrace and ends at the Eiteljorg, where there will be more music, ponche, snacks and piñata breaking. Indiana History Center. 450 W. Ohio St, Indianapolis. www.indianahistory.org. 317-232-1882.

The Nutcracker Ballet presented by The Central Indiana Dance Ensemble The Central Indiana Dance Ensemble will present its 11th Annual production of The Nutcracker, a classical ballet in 2 acts, December 10th, 11th and 12th, 2010 at the Zionsville Performing Arts Center, 1000 Mulberry Street, Zionsville, IN 46077. Show times are: Friday, December 10th at 7:30 pm, Saturday, December 11th at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm and Sunday, December 12th at 2:00 pm. Tickets are $20.00 for adults and $15.00 for children 18 and under. $15.00 for children up to age 18; $20.00 for adults. Zionsville Performing Arts Center. 1000 Mulberry St., Zionsville. www.cidedance.org. 317-8447453.

Monday 13

Teen Advisory Board Meeting Free. Hamilton North Public Library, Cicero Branch. 209 W. Brinton St., Cicero. www.hnpl.lib. in.us/. 317-984-5623. Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) Coffee Talk - North Come and receive some extra support or to chat all topics related to autism and meet other TACA families.

Indianapolis Area StepParents - Coffee Talk This is a group that hopes to provide a place for step-parents to support, give advice, ask questions, vent and get to know others that are in this unique, challenging and exciting position The f irst and third Wednesday of every month. Venues will change regularly and notif ication of location will be sent out the weekend before each meetup. A chance to just get together to meet, talk and vent with other step parents. Will change for each meeting. www.meetup.com/Indy-StepParents/, Indianapolis. www.meetup. com/Indy-Step-Parents/. 317-555-5555.

T hursday 16

Teen Book Club Teens are invited to discuss the book of the month over snacks. Sign up at the Reference Desk to receive a copy of each month’s book. Pike Library. 6525 Zionsville Rd, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-2754480. Thursday Night at the Movies for Teens Join us for movies on the BIG SCREEN!! Snacks will be provided. Registration is requested. Register by calling the TeenZone at 579-0315 or online at www.hepl.lib. in.us. Hamilton East Library (Fishers). Five Municipal Dr., Fishers. www.hepl.lib. in.us/. 317-579-0300. Winter Babies For children from birth-24 months & their caregivers. 10:00-10:20 a.m., 11:0011:20 a.m., and 12:00-12:20 p.m. Storytime for children from birth-24 months & their caregivers. No registration is required. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www. carmel.lib.in.us.

calendar

Dora the Explorer & Santa Characters from Nickelodeon’s popular, top-ranked preschool TV show Dora the Explorer will be on hand for a special holiday celebration. Dora, a seven-year-old Latina heroine whose adventures take place in an imaginative world f illed with jungles, rainforests, and beaches, will join Santa and special guests in Civic Plaza. * Take your child’s photo with Dora and Boots * Visit with Santa * Special guests may include appearances by local celebrities, including the Indianapolis Colts. * Admission is free; parking will be validated when attendees register to win prizes to be determined. Indianapolis Airport. 7800 Col. H. Weir Cook Memorial Drive, Indianapolis. www. indianapolisairport. com. Handel’s "Messiah" & Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra Eric Stark, Conductor. The ISO and Indianapolis Symphonic Choir will perform this popular holiday oratorio masterpiece. Tickets: $21- $56 (adults); $12$29 (children ages 4-12), and call www. indianapolissymphony.org for more information. Clowes Memorial Hall. 4600 Sunset Ave, Indianapolis. www.cloweshall. org. 317-940-6444. Holliday Park: Christmas Bird Count Whether you are a f irst-tme birdwatcher or an experienced pro, we can use your help at the Christmas Bird Count. Dress for the weather, bring your own binoculars or borrow from us. Ages 10+, no registration required. Free. Holliday Park Nature Center. 6363 Spring Mill Road, Indianapolis. www. hollidaypark.org. 3173277180.

Candlelight Crossing Enjoy the holiday train and poinsettia show during an evening reception with holiday treats. Take time from the hustle and bustle to relax with a cup of cocoa and enjoy the warmth and beauty of our tropical Conservatory alive with the twinkle of lights! All ages. $5/person or $15/family. Garf ield Park Conservatory. 2505 Conservatory Dr., Indianapolis. www. garfieldgardensconservatory.org/. 317327-7184.

Saturday 18

Pictures With Santa

Families and children of all ages are invited to have their pictures taken with Santa during this event sponsored by the Franklin Township Chamber of Commerce. Franklin Road Library. 5550 S. Franklin Rd, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4380.

Indianapolis Ice vs. Green Bay Gamblers Pepsi Coliseum. 1202 E. 38th St., Indianapolis. www.indianastatefair.com. 317-927-7536. Silly Safaris Live Animal Show Children and families are invited to meet some not-so-scary critters during this fun show presented by Amazon John & Silly Safaris. This program will be held in the Learning Curve. Central Library. 40 E. St. Clair St., Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4100. The Nutcracker and Russian Tea Party with Cast The Indiana Ballet Conservatory presents the story of a young girl and an ugly, unwanted nutcracker doll. Can one little girl’s steadfast devotion transform her nightmares into the sweetest, most wonderful dream? This recreation of Vainonen’s original version brings to life the Nutcracker that Nureyev and Baryshnikov grew up on. At its heart are important messages about love, kindness, courage and compassion, wrapped up in the splendor of the season and beautiful choreography. $13 - $20. Madame Walker Theatre. 617 Indiana Ave, Indianapolis. w w w.indianaballetconser vator y.org. 317-379-1188. Nutcracker: Performances Presented by the Indianapolis School of Ballet. Scottish Rite Cathedral. 650 N. Meridian St, Indianapolis. 1-800-489-3579. INDYSCHILD.COM 59

r e so u rc e s

calendar

The Nutcracker The Indiana Ballet Conservatory presents the story of a young girl and an ugly, unwanted nutcracker doll. Can one little girl’s steadfast devotion transform her nightmares into the sweetest, most wonderful dream? This recreation of Vainonen’s original version brings to life the Nutcracker that Nureyev and Baryshnikov grew up on. At its heart are important messages about love, kindness, courage and compassion, wrapped up in the splendor of the season and beautiful choreography. $13 - $20. Madame Walker Theatre. 617 Indiana Ave., Indianapolis. w w w.indianaballetconser vator y.org. 317-379-1188.

Sunday 19

Indianapolis Colts vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

will be and then get creative brainstorming and building our designs before the timer goes off. Once f inished, we’ll share our designs and then have time for some relaxed free building. So bring your imagination, grab a friend, and get ready to have some fun. No registration is required. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us.

Indiana Pacers vs. New Orleans Hornets $10 - $200. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www. consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500. Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) Coffee Talk - South Come and receive some extra support or to chat all topics related to autism and meet other TACA families. FREE. Panera Bread. 5335 e Southport Road, Indianapolis. www. tacanow.org. 949-640-4401 Foundation Off ice-.

Tuesday 21

Winter Picnic! For children in grades K-2. Children entering grades K-2 are invited to join us for a winter picnic! Bring a sack lunch and a beverage and enjoy stories, movies, and a craft. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, December 14, either online, in person, or by calling 844-3363. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel. lib.in.us. 317-844-3363.

Prior to the Colts vs. Jaguars game on December 19, FinishLine will be collecting shoes to benef it Soles4Souls. Soles4Souls facilitates the donations of shoes, which are used to aid the hurting worldwide. Volunteers will be stationed around Lucas Oil Stadium from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. collecting shoes. Please help this cause and make this collection a success!. Lucas Oil Stadium. 500 S. Capitol Ave., Indianapolis. www.lucasoilstadium. com. 317-262-3452.

Moms Club Fishers Southeast Free. 10401 East 116th St., Fishers. momsclubfse@yahoo.com. 572-5056. A Christmas Carol

Monday 20

DIY Monday Make Your Own Paper Airplanes. Drop by the Young Adult Department Lounge to learn how to turn ordinary items into artwork. All materials will be provided at no cost by the Friends of the Carmel Clay Public Library. For more information, call the Young Adult desk at 814-3983. Carmel Clay Public Library Young Adult Lounge. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us. 317-8143983. Lego Challenge

Occurring Daily Beginning Saturday, December 04, 2010 Through Tuesday, December 21, 2010. Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre presents the timeless Charles Dickens story, A Christmas Carol, in a special one-hour music-filled production of this classic on stage from Dec. 4-21. There are 11 performances scheduled in the intimate atmosphere of Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre. Tickets range from $19 to $32, including Chef Odell Ward’s tasty holiday buffet - complete with carved turkey and all the trimmings - and the show. Parking is always free. For reservations, call the box office at 317.872.9664 between 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Discounts are available for groups and children ages 3-15. For more information or show schedule, visit www.beefandboards.com. $19 to $32. Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre. 9301 N. Michigan Rd, www.beefandboards.com. Indianapolis. 317-872-9664.

Wednesday 22 For children in grades K-5. 4:00-4:45 p.m. Ready for some building fun? Then join us for the Lego Challenge. We’ll have a blast as we draw from a bowl of themed categories to determine what the next building challenge 60 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

Holiday Treats for the Animals While you are on your holidaybreak, why not join the naturalist staff at Ritchey Woods to make some holiday decorations that will also serve as treats for the animals? Make treats for the birds and squirrels that stay active all winter long in Indiana. Pre-registered

participants can stop by any time between 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. This program is not recommended for people with severe peanut allergies. Peanuts and/or peanut butter will be used in many treats. $6 per Fishers resident; $9 per non-resident. Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve. 10410 Hague Rd, Fishers. www. fishers.in.us/parks. 317-595-3150.

Silly Safaris Live Animal Show Children and families are invited to meet some not-so-scary critters during this fun show presented by Amazon John & Silly Safaris. This program will feature a special visit with reindeer!. East 38th Street Library. 5420 E. 38th St, Indianapolis. www.imcpl. org. 317-275-4350.

T hursday 23 Teen Book Club at Brightwood Young people ages 12 - 17 are invited to be a part of this monthly book discussion club. The book to be discussed is “16 Going On 21” by Darrien Lee. Brightwood Library. 2435 N. Sherman Dr, Indianapolis. www.imcpl. org/about/locations/westindianapolis. html. 317-275-4310.

Friday 24

Ladies’ Night Out Ladies, take an evening away from the stresses of life and enjoy some time for yourself at the OWC Our Ladies’ Night features a variety of wellness services from the best natural wellness businesses in our community. This month, we’re pleased to offer the following services: massage therapy, facials, all-natural nail care, reiki, foot bath detoxif ication, ear candling, waxing (eyebrows), complimentary skin consultations, and complimentary stress analysis. Please call OWC at (317) 870-7220. Services begin at $10 - please call for pricing details. Optimal Wellness Center. 4545 Northwestern Dr, Ste. a, Zionsville. www. WeCreateWellness.com. 317-870-7220.

Merry C hristmas! Saturday 25

Free Public 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. FREE. Indianapolis Museum of Art. 4000 Michigan Road, Indianapolis. imamuseum. org. 317-923-1331. 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. Choose 3 services for $30. Eden’s Pathway. 5496 Emerson Way, Indianapolis. www.edenspathway.com. 317.205.9377.

Sunday 26

Indiana Pacers vs. Memphis Grizzlies $10 - $200. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www. consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500.

Monday 27

Magic Show with Don Miller Now you see it, now you don’t! Families are invited to enjoy the antics of magician Don Miller. Decatur Library. 5301 Kentucky Ave, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-2754330. Kids in the Kitchen, Special Edition: Let It Snow For children in grades 1-3. 4:00-5:00 p.m. and 6:30-7:30 p.m. Join us for a special winter edition of a summer favorite, Kids in the Kitchen! We’ll be reading snowy tales, having a mini snowball f ight, and making a delicious snowman snack. You won’t want to miss it. Registration is required and begins Monday, December 20, either online, in person, or by calling 844-3363. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib. in.us. 317-844-3363.

Tuesday 28

Family Films For young children & their caregivers. 10:00-10:30 a.m. and 11:00-11:30 a.m. How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight?; The Napping House; Owl Moon. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us. Indiana Pacers vs. Boston Celtics $10 - $200. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www. consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500. Paws to Read at Eagle School-age children are invited to improve their reading skills and boost their conf idence by reading to a trained therapy dog. Though not required, registration is recommended for a 15-minute session with Annie, a golden retriever. Eagle Library. 3325 Lowry Rd, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-2754340. Pop-Up Card Workshop Children ages 8 and up are invited as artist Sof iya Inger leads them in a workshop on paper engineering and making a one-ofa-kind pop-up card for home. Younger children may need an adult or older sibling to help them with their craft. Lawrence Library. 7898 N. Hague Rd, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4460.

Wednesday 29

”A Candlelight Evening on Delaware St.” Eleventh annual elegant pre-New Year’s evening of historic home tours and dining. Event is hosted by the Harrison Home in cooperation with other vintage mansions on the Old Northside. Please call for reservations. $75 per person; $70 for members. President Benjamin Harrison Home. 1230 N. Delaware St., Indianapolis. www.pbhh.org. 317.631.1888. Winter Break 2 Day Safe Sitter Class Safe Sitter is a medically accurate program that teaches boys and girls ages 11 and up how to handle emergencies when caring for children. This class teaches safe and nurturing child care techniques, behavior management skills, and appropriate responses to medical emergencies along with child and infant CPR. Upon completion of this 2 day class the participant will receive a Safe Sitter manual and completion card. Please bring your lunch, drink and any snacks that you

r e so u rc e s will want for the day. Members: $65 Guests: $90. Westview Healthplex Sports Club. 3660 Guion Road, Indianapolis. www. westviewhealthplex.org. 317-920-7412.

T hursday 30 Read N’ Feed TeenZone Book Club Registration is requested, and participants must be in grades 7-12. Register by calling the TeenZone at 7703242 or online at www.hepl.lib. in.us. Hamilton East Library (Noblesville). One Library Plaza, Noblesville. www. hepl.lib.in.us/. 317770-3242.

Winter Break 2 Day Safe Sitter Class Safe Sitter is a medically accurate program that teaches boys and girls ages 11 and up how to handle emergencies when caring for children. This class teaches safe and nurturing child care techniques, behavior management skills, and appropriate responses to medical emergencies along with child and infant CPR. Upon completion of this 2 day class the participant will receive a Safe Sitter manual and completion card. Please bring your lunch, drink and any snacks that you will want for the day. Members: $65 Guests: $90. Westview Healthplex Sports Club. 3660 Guion Road, Indianapolis. www. westviewhealthplex.org. 317-920-7412.

calendar

waltzes, polkas and works from operas in a light and elegant concert to ring in the New Year as the Hilbert Circle Theatre is transformed into MusikvereinóVienna’s famous concert hall. Tickets: $35- $60; Champagne Boxes - $150 per couple, visit www.indianapolissymphony.org for more information. Hilbert Circle Theatre. 45 Monument Circle, Indianapolis.

New Year’s Silliness! It is time to giggle your way into the New Year at our annual New Year’s celebration. Enjoy silly s t or ie s , r id d le s , a nd activities, and tr y out a few inter nat iona l t rad it ions that are sure to br ing you good luck in the coming year. A ll ages. Johnson Count y Publ ic Library: Clark Pleasant Branch. 530 Tracy Rd., Ste. 250, New Whiteland. www.jcplin.org/. 317535-6206.

Family New Year’s Eve at the Indiana State Museum

Friday 31

Countdown to Noon at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

The Children’s Museum. 3000 N. Meridian St, Indianapolis. www.childrensmuseum. org/. (317) 334-3322.

Indiana Pacers vs. Washington Wizards $10 - $200. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www. consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500. Indianapolis Ice vs. Youngstown Phantoms Pepsi Coliseum. 1202 E. 38th St., Indianapolis. www.indianastatefair.com. 317-927-7536. New Year’s Eve in Vienna with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra & Dance Kaleidoscope In the New Year’s Eve tradition of Vienna, The ISO will collaborate with Dance Kaleidoscope to perform Strauss family

End the year with a bang with a familyfriendly, alcohol-free celebration in the Governor Frank O’Bannon Great Hall. Children and adults will enjoy games, crafts, magicians, face painting, stilt walkers, clowns and live music by Indianapolis band The Tides highlight the evening. The party even includes a balloon drop for the little ones at 8 p.m allowing the little ones to celebrate the New Year in style. Reservations recommended; call 317.232.1637. $11 per person / $6 museum members. www.indianamuseum.org. Indiana State Museum. 650 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. www.in.gov/ism. 317-2321637.

NEED EVEN MORE GREAT IDEAS ON FUN THINGS TO DO??? If so, visit www.indyschild.com and sign up for our weekly e-newsletter!!! Each week, you'll have the top events delivered right to your inbox...and many of them are FREE!!! Plus, you'll gain access to exclusive e-newsletter subscriber contests, prizes and much more! This month, you can win prizes including: Disney on Ice Tickets, Madagascar Live Tickets and tickets to Winterfest at the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center!

????? INFINITI INDY CHILD AD

1/18/10

1:50 PM

Page 1

2010 Infiniti QX56 4WD Starting at

$59,150 Progressive full-size luxury SUV for up to 8 passengers.

DREYER & REINBOLD INFINITI INDIANAPOLIS

DreyerReinboldInfiniti.com

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

GREENWOOD

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

INDYSCHILD.COM 61

A Beef & Boards Christmas 2010

Occurring Daily Beginning Friday, November 26, 2010 Through Thursday, December 23, 2010. 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! Tickets: $35-$58. Includes a dinner buffet, full fruit and salad bar and unlimited coffee, tea and lemonade. Tickets: $35-$58. Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre. 9301 N. Michigan Rd, Indianapolis. www. beefandboards.com. 317-872-9664.

Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol at the IRT Occurring Daily Beginning Friday, November 26, 2010 Through Sunday, December 26, 2010. Phone: 317-635-5252 Location: 140 W. Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204 Website: http://www.indianarep.com Magic happens on a snow-covered stage. The family’s favorite holiday tradition comes gift-wrapped with fresh IRT surprises! The classic story of greed and redemption comes to life with Scrooge, Cratchit and, of course, Tiny Tim. Come and be visited by the spirits of holiday joy. Barnum’s Funundrum Occurring Daily Beginning Wednesday, December 01, 2010 Through Sunday, December 05, 2010. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey ® is roaring into town with Barnum’s FUNundrum!SM a celebration of P.T. Barnum so big, it is an event 200 years in the making! From the moment that you arrive, the momentum explodes as the Greatest Show on Earth® comes to life in a way that can only be inspired by the greatest showman who ever lived. Coming to Conseco Fieldhouse during all an all new month, Dec 1-Dec 5, 2010. Ticket Link: www. ticketmaster.com/search?tm_link=tm_ header_search&q=conseco+fieldhouse+ ringling. $75.00 (Circus Celebrity), $47 (front row), $34 (VIP), $20, $16,. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www. consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500. Celebration Crossing Occurring Daily Beginning Friday, November 26, 2010 Through Friday, December 31, 2010. Santa and Mrs. Claus will visit with children in their cozy home through Dec. 24. Children will enjoy riding on the Santa Claus Express train and making crafts to take home, while adults gaze into the recreated L.S. Ayres store windows and 62 INDY’S CHILD * DECEMBER 2010

reminisce about days gone by. The original Santa Claus E x pr e s s train will be on display for photos. The entire museum comes alive with holiday merriment including bands and choirs in the Governor Frank O’Bannon Great Hall. Presented by ProLiance Energy. Indiana State Museum. 650 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. www.in.gov/ ism. 317-232-1637.

Christmas at the Lilly House Occurring Daily Beginning Saturday, November 20, 2010 Through Sunday, January 02, 2011. On the grounds of the Indianapolis Museum of Art, will display ribbons, wreaths, garland and other fine holiday decorations reminiscent of the 30s and 40s Nov. 20 - Jan. 2. Indianapolis Museum of Art. 4000 Michigan Rd, Indianapolis. www. imamuseum.org. 317-920-2659. Christmas at the Puppet Studio Occurring Daily Beginning Friday, December 10, 2010 Through Monday, December 27, 2010. A wonderful music filled Christmas production for the whole family. Mozart and Ludmilla, the ritzy rodents who live in the piano, host a variety of holiday characters...Rag Dolls, Frosty, Rufus the Magic Elf, a live ballerina, audience participation and much, much more!. $10; FREE ages 2 & under. Peewinkle’s Puppet Studio. 25 E. Henry St., Indianapolis. www.peewinklespuppets. com. 317-917-9454. Christmas at the Zoo Occurring Daily Beginning Friday, December 03, 2010 Through Thursday, December 30, 2010. Call (317) 630-2001 for more information or log on to www.indianapoliszoo.com. Indianapolis Zoo. 1200 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. www.indyzoo.com. 317-6302001. Country Christmas at Stonycreek Farm Occurring Daily Beginning Saturday, November 20, 2010 Through Monday, December 20, 2010. Christmas is celebrated each year on Stonycreek Farm in Noblesville, Indiana. Owner Loren Schmierer welcomes the community to celebrate the holidays on his Christmas tree farm and it remains an anticipated family event. Country Christmas at Stonycreek Farm Nursery and Landscaping runs Saturday, November 20 through Monday, December 20, 2010, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Sunday; closed Thanksgiving Day. There is no fee for parking or for the hayride to cut your tree. 11366 St. Rd 38 East, Nob. 317-773-3344. Duke Energy Yuletide Celebration - 25th Anniversary! Occurring Daily Beginning Friday, December 03, 2010 Through Thursday, December 23, 2010. Five-time Grammy winner Sandi Patty reunites with ISO Principal Pops Conductor Jack Everly and hosts Indiana’s finest holiday extravaganza, Duke Energy Yuletide Celebration. For 25 years, families have enjoyed this musical program featuring Broadway actors, flying reindeer, tap dancing Santas and the most treasured music in the holiday songbook. This year, Ms. Patty and the orchestra will be joined by the comedy magic team of Les Arnold and Dazzle. Tickets: Regular - $39-$65 (adults); $24-$49 (children ages 4-12) Super Saver - $33-$49 (adults); $18-$34 (children

ages 4-12), visit www.indianapolissymphony. org for more information. Hilbert Circle Theatre. 45 Monument Circle, Indianapolis.

Holidays on the Prairie Occurring Daily Beginning Wednesday, December 01, 2010 Through Friday, December 31, 2010. The sights and sounds of holidays past come to life with family activities indoors and out! Stroll through a wonderland of icing, gumdrops and sprinkles atop gingerbread creations; visit the Gingerbread Man and Victorian-era Santa Claus. Craft a holiday decoration to take home, enjoy a theatrical presentation, play with 19th century toys and explore Discovery Station. Head outdoors to 1836 Prairietown where costumed residents need your help preparing for the holidays. For more information call 317.776.6006 or visit connerprairie.org. This event is part of Indianapolis Convention & Visitors Association’s 12 Free Days of Indy Christmas program on Tuesday, Dec. 21. Conner Prairie. 13400 Allisonville Rd., Fishers. www.connerprairie. org/. 317-776-6000. Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure at the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art Occurring Daily Through Sunday, January 09, 2011. The museum’s Clowes Sculpture Court will be transformed into a locomotive wonderland, a network of trestles, bridges and tunnels with chugging trains and detailed replicas of national treasures, all wrapped up in holiday trimming. JingleRails will be a journey to the Great American West - the real West and the West of the imagination. Eiteljorg Museum. 500 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. www.eiteljorg. org/. 317-636-WEST. Jolly Days at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis Occurring Daily Beginning Friday, November 26, 2010 Through Sunday, January 09, 2011. Enjoy traditional holiday favorites such as the Yule Slide (two story slide from second floor down to the first), 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 holes. Warm up your imagination with lots of cookie fun in the kitchen, and help Santa’s reindeer prepare for their flight! www. childrensmuseum.org. The Children’s Museum. 3000 N. Meridian St, Indianapolis. www.childrensmuseum.org/. (317) 3343322. Joseph Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Occurring Daily Beginning Friday, December 10, 2010 Through Saturday, January 01, 2011. Andrew Lloyd Webber & Tim Rice’s musical adaptation of the well-known Biblical tale returns for the holidays! The trials and triumphs of Jacob’s favorite son is told entirely in song, blending 50s rock-n-roll, country-western, calypso, pop and French chanson. This musical spectacular is the perfect holiday treat!. Civic Theatre. 3200 Cold Spring Road, Indianapolis. www.civictheatre. org. 317-923-4597. Piney Acres Christmas Tree Farm Occurring Daily Beginning Saturday, November 20, 2010 Through Friday, December 24, 2010. At Piney Acres Farm, we strive to create a holiday tradition for the whole family to enjoy. Leave all

the hustle & bustle behind... Come to a place where country charm and smiles abound. Take a wagon ride out to the field, where you can pick out that perfect tree. Start your own family holiday tradition with us. We look forward to being a special part of your celebration for years to come!. Piney Acres. 1115 E. 1000 N., Fortville.

Snowflake Sam and the Best Christmas Gift Ever Occurring Mon-Sat Beginning Monday, November 29, 2010 Through Saturday, December 04, 2010. As part of Pre-School Week at Celebration Crossing, this original musical features Snowflake Sam as he journeys through Celebration Crossing at the North Pole in search of the "best Christmas gift ever." Children from the audience will help in his search as he meets Bruce the Blue Spruce, Rocky the Reindeer and Elbert the Elf. After the show, guests are invited to make the "best Christmas gift ever" (a foldable, no-glue, no-tape card stock box) as part of their visit to Celebration Crossing. Reservations recommended, call 317.232.1637. Indiana State Museum. 650 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. www.in.gov/ism. 317-232-1637. Tea with Mrs Claus Occurring Each Sunday Beginning Sunday, November 28, 2010 Through Sunday, December 26, 2010. Guests of all ages will enjoy this timehonored tradition of high tea in the historic L.S. Ayres Tea Room. Mrs. Claus and Raggedy Ann greet guests as they enjoy dainty sandwiches, scones, pastries and their choice of tea to the joyful strains of live holiday music. 3:30 pm; 4 & 4:30 pm. $16 adults; $6.95 ages 3 - 10; FREE ages 2 & under. Reservations required, call 317.232.1637. Indiana State Museum. 650 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. www.in.gov/ism. 317-232-1637. Wicked Occurring Daily Beginning Wednesday, December 15, 2010 Through Saturday, January 01, 2011. Based on the best-selling 1995 novel by Gregory Maguire, WICKED, winner of 35 major awards, including a GrammyÆ and three TonyÆ Awards, is the untold story of the witches of Oz. It is produced by Marc Platt, Universal Pictures, The Araca Group, Jon B. Platt and David Stone. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com/wicked and broadwayacrossamerica.com or for sale in person at the Murat Box Office, Clowes Hall Box Office and Broadway Across America office (342 Massachusetts Ave) and by phone at 800-9822787. Old National Center (Formerly Murat). 502 N. New Jersey St., Indianapolis. www. livenation.com/murat. 317-632-7469. Winterfest 2010 Occurring Daily Beginning Monday, December 27, 2010 Through Thursday, December 30, 2010. Chase away the winter blues with free activities at Winterfest. Perfect for families, Winterfest takes over the History Center with winter-themed fun. Create a calendar with images from our collection, make a bookmark try winning in our prize grab booth, explore your family tree or participate in a scavenger hunt. The Stardust Terrace Caf È will offer special kid-friendly lunch and snack options all week long. Free with admission to the Indiana Experience. Indiana History Center. 450 W. Ohio St, Indianapolis. www.indianahistory. org. 317-232-1882.

CLASSIFIE D S

WANTED CHILDREN FOR LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT STUDY

Children who do and do not stutter between the ages of 3 years and 5 years 11 months are being recruited for a research study on speech-language development and stuttering at IU. PARTICIPANTS WILL RECEIVE $50 AS WELL AS FREE SPEECH-LANGUAGE TESTING.

To learn more, please visit our Web site www.indiana.edu/~spdislab or contact Dr. Julie Anderson at (812) 856-1240 or judander@indiana.edu

Advertise With Us!

Contact Jennica at Jennica@indyschild.com INDYSCHILD.COM 63