Charlotte Parent March 2018 by Morris Media Network

March 2018 â&#x20AC;¢ Free

the

TRAVEL ISSUE

Disney World A dad's perspective on making it magical

MUSIC CITIES with the right beat for families

31 WAYS TO EXPLORE THE

Carolina Coasts

YOUR GUIDE TO Easter Egg Hunts + Bunny Sightings charlotteparent.com | MARCH 2018 1

NOW ENROLLING!

Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools

Schedule A Tour Today! St. Ann (PK, TK, K-5)

discovermacs

PK, TK, K-5 Programs Faith & Service iPads & Technology STEM & Robotics Broadcast Journalism Spanish Fine Arts Athletics

*Financial aid available

stanncatholic.org

St. Gabriel (K-5)

stgabrielcatholicschool.org

St. Mark (K-8)

stmarkcatholicschool.net

St. Matthew (TK-5) stmattwildcats.com

St. Patrick (K-5)

saintpatrickschool.org

Our Lady of the Assumption (PK-8) olacatholic.org

Visit discovermacs.org or call 704.370.3273 for admissions info on all nine schools PK-12

CONTENT › MARCH 2018

14 31 Ways to Experience the Carolina Coasts From the Outer Banks to Hilton Head Island, there’s more to explore than just sandy beaches

21 Single-Parent Travel First-hand advice for embracing the adventure when traveling solo with kids

22 Music-City Destinations Follow the beat in New York, Nashville and Austin

26 A Smooth(er) Family Vacation True-to-life advice on making family vacations less stressful

28 Kids Helping Kids Middle school students gain perspective through Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’ Extensions program

Making a Disney Trip Truly Magical Derek James shares his tips on getting the most for your time and money at Disney World

IN EVERY ISSUE 5 11 12 30 39 40

FYI Growing Up Tech Talk Excursion Daddy Derek Faces and Places

CALENDAR

31 32 35 36

Our Picks Easter Events On Stage Spring Consignment Sales

22 charlotteparent.com | MARCH 2018

›

EDITOR’S NOTE

Remember That Time on Vacation ... morrismedianetwork.com

hough travel with children may be more a change of scenery than a relaxing vacation, family travel adventures get

everyone out of the daily grind and put us in places where memories can be made. No kid remembers the days when a parent asks if their teeth are brushed and homework done, but vacations are different. I remember many funny and fascinating moments from a trip to the Grand Canyon with my family when I was 14. We traveled by train from Charlotte to New Orleans and then on to Phoenix. The journey there provided many

EDITOR

Michele Huggins

ART DIRECTOR Melissa Stutts

DIGITAL DIRECTOR

Allison Hollins • allison.hollins@morris.com

DIGITAL EDITOR

Myra Wright • mwright@carolinaparent.com

SALES TEAM LEADER • MEDIA CONSULTANT Leslie Hatheway • lhatheway@charlotteparent.com

MEDIA CONSULTANTS

Sue Graf • sgraf@charlotteparent.com Jesse Longshore • jesse.longshore@morris.com

ADVERTISING SALES COORDINATOR

memorable moments, not to mention the actual hike to the bottom of the Grand Canyon. Plus

Julianne Clune • julianne.clune@morris.com

the beach vacations to the South Carolina coast with my grandmother, aunt, uncle and cousins

MARKETING & EVENT COORDINATOR

are imprinted forever in my mind. Easily accessible coastal destinations are one of the pleasures of living in the Carolinas. My husband, two sons and I make the mecca to the Outer Banks a few times each year. We’ve aced the six-hour drive from Charlotte to Nags Head with one stop in Raleigh. The beach routine is set, but there’s more to explore than just the surf and sand. We’ve ventured to the N.C. Aquarium

Elizabeth Stacks

MORRIS MEDIA NETWORK PRESIDENT Donna Kessler

REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Kristen Standish

on Roanoke Island. My son and his cousins were in shock and awe watching “The Lost Colony”

DIRECTOR OF MANUFACTURING

in Manteo that includes fire and fireworks. We’ve hiked the dunes and watched hang gliders at

DIRECTOR OF PUBLISHING SERVICES

Jockey’s Ridge State Park, and earned a Junior Ranger Badge at the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk. When children are young, sand and shells are amazing, as are ocean waves that seemed to beckon my boys when they were barely walking. As kids get older, board surfing and building massive sand castles afford parents a little more time for relaxing on the beach. But when you tire of the sand and sun, the story “31 Ways to Explore the Carolina Coasts” (page 14) is chock-full of new discoveries at beach destinations from the Outer Banks of North Carolina to Hilton Head Island in South Carolina. If your family loves music and theater, be sure to check out the story “3 Music Cities for Families to Discover” on page 22. From the bright lights of Broadway to honky-tonk with kids, we spotlight toe-tapping fun in New York, Nashville and Austin. Easter comes early this year. Find all the Easter happenings on page 32, and where to shop

Donald Horton Karen Fralick

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Cher Wheeler

charlotteparent.com 214 W. Tremont Ave., Suite 302, Charlotte, NC 28203 phone: 704-344-1980 • fax: 704-344-1983 email: info@charlotteparent.com advertising@charlotteparent.com Circulation 35,000. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. Charlotte Parent reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the publication’s standards. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

spring consignments, on page 36. Also be sure to vote for your family’s favorite places to eat, play and explore in Charlotte in our annual Readers’ Favorites awards. Voting is open until March 12 at charlotteparent.com/favorites. Happy spring!

A Publication of the Visitor Publications Division of Morris Communications Company, L.L.C. 725 Broad St., Augusta, GA 30901 Chairman President & CEO William S. Morris III William S. Morris IV

HAVE IDEAS TO SHARE? Email editor@charlotteparent.com.

MARCH 2018 | charlotteparent.com

Summer Camps From day camps to sleep-away destination camps, our online summer camp directory is loaded with options for children of all ages and interests. Start your summer-camp planning here.

.../camps On Task Does your child stumble to get going in the mornings? Have a hard time prioritizing projects? In our newest blog On Task, Lisa Podell, an executive functioning coach, offers tips to guide parents and kids to get organized for success.

…/blogs

Win Tickets to Carowinds Carowinds opens for the season March 24 with a grand opening of the newly renovated kids area Camp Snoopy (formerly Planet Snoopy) that includes six new rides and attractions. Enter to win a family four-pack of tickets for a day of thrills at the theme park.

… /contests

Pig Pen’s Mud Buggies is one of the new rides at Carowinds’ Camp Snoopy. Photo courtesy of Carowinds

facebook.com/ cltparent

twitter.com/ charlotteparent

pinterest.com/ charlotteparent

instagram.com/ charlotteparent

charlotteparent.com | MARCH 2018

The #1 Summer STEM Camp for Ages 7–18 Empower your child to take their STEM skills to the next level. From coding and game development to robotics and design, your child will develop in-demand skills and ignite lifelong passions—all within a fun, inclusive environment. Get ready for the best summer ever!

CAMPS & ACADEMIES

MARCH 2018 | charlotteparent.com

Held at 150 Prestigious Universities Queens University | Davidson College MIT | Harvard | Princeton | Stanford

Get a brochure and ﬁnd a camp near you! iDTechCamps.com | 1-844-788-1858

The Kite Eating Tree is one of six new attractions at Carowinds’ Camp Snoopy. Photo courtesy of Carowinds

Each child attending the Teddy Bear Breakfast goes home with a one-of-a-kind teddy bear. Photo courtesy of Smart Start Mecklenburg County

Celebrate the Young Child at the Teddy Bear Breakfast Make a date with the youngest in your family for the seventh annual Teddy Bear Breakfast, hosted by Smart Start of Mecklenburg County, Saturday, March 10 from 9-11 a.m. at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral on East Boulevard. Kristi O’Connor of WBTV emcees the morning of fun, food and activities specifically created for babies, toddlers and children age 5 and younger. After a breakfast that includes plenty of kid-friendly food, enjoy a story time and music by a local children’s DJ. Other activities include a performance by the Charlotte School of Ballet, a craft table sponsored by Lakeshore Learning, a visit with Brandy the Marvelous Mini Horse, and a Teddy Bear Corner where each child can accessorize a stuffed bear to take home. There is also a silent auction and raffle with proceeds supporting Smart Start of Mecklenburg County. Smart Start of Mecklenburg County programs ensures families of young children are supported, and that children have access to high-quality, nurturing early-learning environments, live in safe and supportive communities, and are healthy and developmentally ready for kindergarten success. Tickets are $25 for adults, $12 for children. A table for up to eight people also can be purchased. Purchase tickets at smartstartofmeck.org/tbb2018.

Pro Arena Football Kicks Off at Bojangles’ Coliseum Carolina Energy, Charlotte’s new professional arena football team, kicks off its inaugural season at Bojangles’ Coliseum on Saturday, March 24 at 6 p.m. The 21-person team is part of the American Arena League that formed as the result of a merger between Arena Pro Football and the Can-Am Indoor Football League. Unlike the NFL, professional arena football is played indoors on a 50-yard turf field with only eight players on the field at a time. The smaller field results in a fast-paced, high-scoring game similar to basketball. Each sideline is composed of heavily padded walls that mark out of bounds. The family-friendly games include tailgating, food trucks, bouncy houses, face painting, and a DJ outside before the games. Fans can also meet players, cheerleaders, coaches at meetand-greets after the games. Tickets range in price from $12 to $27 (plus applicable service charges). Season tickets, group rates, birthday packages and VIP seating are also available. Follow the action on social at facebook.com/carolinaenergyfootball.

Carowinds’ Camp Snoopy Opens March 24 Carowinds opens March 24 for its first weekend of the season and the grand opening of Camp Snoopy, formerly Planet Snoopy. Camp Snoopy includes six new rides and attractions, including: • Camp Bus: A wacky bus that lifts guests up, down and all around. • PEANUTS™ Trailblazers: Jeep-themed vehicles that let young ones get behind the wheel and burn rubber on a small, round speedway. • Kite Eating Tree: A kite vehicle that takes riders 20 feet to the top of the tree and gently brings them back down. • Pig Pen’s Mud Buggies: Take a drive around the popular Pig Pen character while bouncing on a bumpy ride. • Woodstock Whirlybirds: Oversized birds’ nests that spin around like a classic teacup ride. • Beagle Scout Acres: An 8,000-squarefoot climb-and-play area. • A refreshed Character Carousel is in the new pavilion that anchors the renovated Carousel Park plaza. Children ages 3-5 get free entry to Carowinds and Carolina Harbor water park with a Pre-K Pass, available at carowinds.com through May 28, or in person at the park through June 17. Enter to win a family four-pack of tickets to Carowinds at charlotteparent.com/contests.

charlotteparent.com | MARCH 2018

›

FYI

| education

Don’t Leave Home Without “Superpowers!”

Activate the super minds of your youngest travelers on your next road trip with “Superpowers: A Great Big Collection of Awesome Activities, Quirky Questions, and Wonderful Ways to See Just How Super You Already Are” by M.H. Clark. Activities include coming up with a superhero name, a superhero tool kit, and a chance for readers to write their own superhero legend. The book asks questions, such as “What makes you so amazing?” and “What makes you really you?” The prompts help to instill self-confidence and get kids thinking about what makes them great and their greatest superpowers. By the time you reach your destination, be prepared for a new super kid ready to take on the world, and a great keepsake of your child’s unique personality. $16.95, hardcover, available on Amazon.

Attending an Active Reading Workshop is one way to join Read Charlotte’s Commit to 80 campaign. Photo courtesy of Read Charlotte

Read Charlotte Launches ‘Commit to 80’ Only 39 percent of third graders in Charlotte read at grade level according to research by Read Charlotte. Read Charlotte is working to bridge the gap with the help of the Charlotte community through its Commit to 80 campaign. Its mission is to raise awareness about the importance of children’s literacy with a campaign goal of increasing the percentage of third graders in Mecklenburg County reading at proficiency to 80 percent by 2025. The campaign is designed to activate community support and commitment by offering ideas and tools to increase children’s reading opportunities. Ways to help include adopting a classroom through Tutor Charlotte or organizing a community or corporate book drive. Reading at home at least three times a week with your child or signing up for a Read Charlotte reading workshop are other ways to commit to the campaign. Make your commitment official at committo80.org beginning March 7.

Charlotte Bilingual Preschool Adds Dual Language Innovation Class Charlotte Bilingual Preschool is adding a Dual Language Innovation Classroom in the 2018-19 school year. The preschool, located in the Hickory Grove Elementary School Annex in the University City area of Charlotte, is a licensed dual-language preschool that prepares Spanish-speaking students for kindergarten. The Dual Language Innovation Classroom allows for 36 additional children by combining children from traditional Charlotte Bilingual Preschool families with children from Englishspeaking families. The Innovation Classroom is an opportunity to go beyond traditional approaches to learning. The ultimate goal of the new program is to provide language skills and cultural connections that enables each student to reach his or her full potential. Any family that resides in Mecklenburg County that has an interest in cultural and language exchange may apply. Children must be age 3 by Aug. 31, 2018. Find more information at bilingualpreschool.org.

60%

MARCH 2018 | charlotteparent.com

of Americans believe that the public K-12 education system should have “a lot of ’ responsibility for making sure the U.S. workforce has the right skills to be successful. Source: Pew Research Center survey

2018

VOTE

for your favorites

February 12-March 12 Let Charlotte know your favorite parent-approved places to play, learn, eat and shop in our annual Charlotte Parent Readersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Favorites Awards! The winners will be featured in the May issue of Charlotte Parent.

CharlotteParent.com/favorites | #CLTReadersFavorites charlotteparent.com | MARCH 2018

›

FYI | health

Don’t Lose Sleep Over Springing Forward Daylight Savings Time begins March 11. Longer hours of daylight mean more time for play and outdoor activities, but don’t let it cut into children’s sleep time. “Stretching kids to stay up longer only increases cortisol, the main stress hormone associated with sleep, making it harder for children to fall asleep and stay asleep,” says Morgan Griffith, owner of Sleep Pea, a local infant and toddler sleep consultancy. To help navigate the time change, Griffith encourages parents to: • Move bedtimes, naps and mealtimes forward by 30 minutes for three days following the time change. A 7 p.m. asleep time now becomes a 7:30 p.m. asleep time. • On the fourth night, revert back to your child’s normal bedtime. The temporary 7:30 p.m. asleep time once again becomes a 7 p.m. asleep time. Give your child roughly one week to adjust. • Use a toddler sleep clock with night-time and daytime visuals to help preschoolers understand sleep parameters.

MARCH 2018 | charlotteparent.com

Children who try different sports may have better hand-eye coordination and problem-solving skills. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

Playing Multiple Sports Has Benefits Many children concentrate on mastering one sport versus playing a variety of sports, with the approval and sometimes even encouragement of parents. Tyler Brady, physical therapist with OrthoCarolina, who also works with UNC Charlotte athletes, says that while it can be tempting to want to mold your child into the next great single-sport superstar, it’s wise to let them play different sports while they’re physically developing. Here are some of his top reasons why: Playing multiple sports uses different muscle groups and joints. Young athletes are less likely to be injured if playing multiple sports rather than when a young body is exposed to one specific force or movement in a single sport. Kids that tend to play multiple sports have better gross motor skills. Children who try different games and sports may have better hand-eye coordination, and strength and power because they’re practicing a variety of skills. Change also encourages kids to think creatively in different situations and learn to problem solve. It’s not all physical. Different sports require different roles and embolden a child to put on his or her thinking cap. Just because a child excels in one sport doesn’t mean he or she will dominate every sport. Different experiences can teach kids to handle adversity and how to respond to successes and failures. Playing a variety of sports also encourages a child to be a team player in a group setting where he or she can develop critical communication and social skills.

Novant Health Available on Amazon’s Alexa Novant Health patients can now use Amazon’s electronic personal assistant, Alexa, to find the nearest physician clinic, urgent care or medical center. Users can ask Alexa to find local Novant Health locations and get details like wait times and office hours. Alexa can also outline services provided at varying locations, including walk-in appointments and X-rays. “Technology is changing the way we view the world and interact with one another. We have continued to invest in emerging technology for our patients and Amazon Alexa is another example of that,” says Dave Garrett, senior vice president and chief information officer, Novant Health. Users need to first enable the Novant Health skill on Alexa. From there, patients can say “Alexa, ask Novant Health …” for nearby care locations, which can be filtered by zip code, city and mileage; location type (urgent care, medical center, primary care clinic, specialty care clinic or pharmacy); and name of clinic or hospital location. For more information, visit novanthealth.org/alexa.

›

FYI | people

Proudest parenting moment: I was especially proud the first time I watched Lawson interact at school with other children and adults without her knowing I was watching. There was something really special about seeing her growing in her independence and the way she handled herself without mommy or daddy nearby. Dina Carey with her husband Tyler Carey, and their children Lawson Rose, 3, and Isla Adele, 1. Photo by Amy Ellis Photography

Get to Know: Dina Carey BY MICHELE HUGGINS

ina Carey is a culinary graduate and owner of Milkful, a company that produces snack bars that can help boost breast-milk production for new moms. She and her husband Tyler Carey have two daughters: Lawson Rose, 3, and Isla Adele, 1.

Where do you live in Charlotte and where did you grow up? I grew up in Alpharetta, Georgia. My husband and I have been Charlotte residents for 10 years. We live in Dilworth, and love our community and neighbors. Tell us about your job. What’s it like? What do you like most about it? What are the challenges? I started Milkful after experiencing unexpected challenges breastfeeding my first daughter. It was an emotional experience to not be able to provide for her the way I had hoped. In the short few years since starting Milkful, it is very apparent that there are many women going through similar struggles with breast-feeding. As for the challenges, it was pretty chaotic when we experienced such quick growth in the beginning, especially since it was all being managed out of my home. I am in an entirely different place now. I’ve been able to outsource fulfillment, get an office space outside of my home, and grow the team to include two employees that help to manage the workload and the brand’s growth.

What’s the hardest part of juggling family life and work life? Something always has to take the backseat. It’s impossible to do all of my roles — wife, mommy, business owner, daughter, sister, friend — and everything that I want to do in my life, and do it perfect. I constantly remind myself that it’s the chaos in life that keeps things fun and exciting. I do my very best to roll with the punches and try to give myself some grace from time to time. What is your favorite thing about raising a family in Charlotte? We love the parks and playgrounds that are within walking distance of our house. Charlotte is such a kid-friendly city. We go everywhere as a family, and love that so many other families do the same. Best advice ever received: “Time is our most precious asset. We should invest it wisely.” I try to remind myself this all the time. It’s so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, and overcommit with activities. In business: “Perfection is paralyzing.” A mentor told me this in the very early days of starting Milkful, and it has become a part of our company culture.

Lowest parenting moment: I struggled with a recent sleep transition with Lawson. For weeks, she was getting up many different times in the middle of the night. I had so much guilt about how I was handling these situations. I was tired, irritable and impatient. I did a lot of research about the perfect way to resolve the situation, and realize that there isn’t one. As parents, we are going to be thrown wild cards. It’s our job to give our kids strong love. It’s our job to teach them how to eventually live on their own in the world, and this starts with simple things like learning how to stay in bed at night. It’s not easy, but this situation really helped me to think about how I communicate with my kids when the going gets tough. Name three things you can’t live without: Cheese, yoga and Q-tips. Favorite Instagram account: @sarablakely Last book read: “Families Where Grace Is in Place,” by Jeff VanVonderon. What inspires you? My girls and my husband Tyler definitely inspire me to be a better person, wife and mother. Tyler has been the strongest supporter of Milkful since day one. I wouldn’t have been able to pursue this path and build this business without him. Lawson is at the age where she’s like a little sponge. I see her pick up on things from my behavior and it’s a huge motivator to be the most loving, patient, attentive, encouraging mom I can be. Lastly the NPR podcast series “How I Built This With Guy Raz” is a must for anyone needing a business morale boost. So inspiring to learn the start-up stories behind mega brands. charlotteparent.com | MARCH 2018

›

GROWING UP

interest and not by parental pressure. It’s important to find a coach or instructor who emphasizes the importance of practice over performance, injects a sense of playfulness and communicates well with parents. When an instructor or coach promises to turn your child into a concert pianist or competitive swimmer, steer clear. Lessons can carry an additional commitment to practice. Practice is all too often accompanied by whining, procrastination and parental frustration. Keep practice sessions brief and plan them for periods when your child’s focus is likely at its best: after breakfast on a weekend, not after a long day at school. When a child is truly resistant to practicing, consult with the instructor about ways to encourage progress without piling on pressure, and consider that your child might not be ready for lessons.

Is Your Child Naturally Gifted? Here’s how to nurture instinctive talents BY MALIA JACOBSON

hether you live with a young chess whiz, a budding baseball star, an aspiring actor or all three, you’ve probably pondered the best way to encourage your child’s natural gifts and abilities. When is the right time to begin lessons? How can parents encourage persistence without pushing? Is it even possible to balance the interests and pursuits of all the kids in your care? Turns out, how parents approach the development of passions and interests has a big influence on children’s long-term happiness. Read on for age-by-age guidance on helping kids find and enjoy their natural gifts.

Early Years

Adore it, Explore it Parents of toddlers and preschoolers are flooded with options for early classes and activities, from peewee soccer to music class and ballet. This stage in a child’s life, however, is not the time to focus on skill development, says Hillsborough-based parenting coach Whitney MacDonald, a former educator and athletic coach who founded creatingmen.com. Early childhood is a time to immerse your child in real-world experiences and observe what ignites his or her interest and excitement. Some parents fear that skipping out on toddler classes might hurt their child’s early academic development. In fact, the opposite may be true, says Maria Castelluccio,

head of the academically advanced Léman Manhattan Preparatory School. “Open-ended exploration of the arts forms the foundation of early literacy — reading, writing and language development,” she says. “Exposing your child to music and visual art at a young age develops unique opportunities for selfdiscovery and creativity.” Elementary Years

Lesson Learned In early elementary school, activity exploration should still focus on fun, MacDonald says. Around age 10, many kids are ready to begin formal lessons, provided that participation is fueled by their own

Teen Years

Equal Measure By the time kids reach high school, they’ve often hit their stride in their activity or activities of choice. When families have more than one child, parents juggle scheduling, transportation needs and financial commitments for a number of different pursuits. Because the time and money required for different activities can vary widely, one child’s talent might steal the spotlight most of the time. When it comes to investing time and money in kids’ activities, parents of siblings should think about equity, not equality, MacDonald says. While the time required for siblings’ different pursuits might not balance out, it’s important to make each child feel like they are equally valued in their parents’ eyes. “It’s about saying, ‘OK, your sister has this dance thing, but I’m going to make dedicated time just for you,’” MacDonald says. “The child has to feel that inner gesture, and to know that they’re just as important as their sibling. Because all children ultimately want connection with and recognition from their parents.” Malia Jacobson is a nationally published health journalist and mom. charlotteparent.com | MARCH 2018

›

TECH TALK

Don’t spread rumors. Teach kids not to repeat — or forward — unkind statements they hear about other people. This is especially important if, for some reason, they don’t like the other person.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

Respect privacy. A message or photo sent by a friend should be regarded as confidential. Online communication should not be forwarded or posted without permission from the person who sent it.

Teaching Kids to Be Kind Online BY CAROLYN JABS

o parent plans to raise an unkind child. Most of us put considerable effort into polishing our children’s manners and teaching them to respect others. Unfortunately,

many of those lessons are being undercut online. Recent research by the Pew Research Center’s Internet and American Life Project suggests that one in four adults has experienced online harassment and 66 percent have witnessed it. These numbers are higher for young people. The Pew Research Center also points out that there is widespread disagreement about what kinds of speech are unacceptable and what kinds of responses are appropriate. Some argue that in a free society, people should be able to say whatever is on their minds, no matter how vile. Others feel that our culture is being degraded when citizens mock, deride and attack each other. They favor more involvement by service providers and law enforcement. Civility isn’t likely to be restored unless individuals commit themselves to respectful communication. Parents can play a part by helping kids think through what they see and experience online. Sometimes that may mean encouraging kids to disengage from conversations and communities in which abusive language is the norm. Other times parents may choose to support children who want to take a stand on an issue on behalf of peers who are being mistreated. Before they can engage in that kind of advocacy, kids need to be grounded in fundamentals. These principles may seem old-fashioned, but they aren’t obsolete. They survive because they are the basis for healthy, respectful relationships at home, in school, and eventually in the workplace and larger community. No slurs of any kind — ever. Make it clear through your rules and habits that there will be zero tolerance for words that denigrate people because of their race, sex, ethnicity, disability or sexual orientation.

MARCH 2018 | charlotteparent.com

Someone else’s pain isn’t funny. Steer kids away from TV shows, movies and online videos that ask them to override their natural feelings of compassion and encourage them to laugh at someone else’s misfortune.

No tantrums. Offline, if your child doesn’t like something another person does or says, he or she can express an opinion, but shouldn’t be allowed to scream and curse. A dispute online is no different. No ranting. No offensive language. No personal attacks. Be careful about humor. Offline, sarcastic comments are often accompanied by a smile or laugh so the other person knows you’re not serious. Online, it’s harder to differentiate between a comment that is meant to be funny and one that should be taken seriously. Think twice about insults. Some people cast out insults as a way of being clever. The question we need to ask is, “Why is it amusing to undermine another person’s self-esteem?” Parents can help children visualize the person on the other end of the online communication. Ask them to imagine saying the same thing face-to-face. How would that make the other person feel? If the tables were turned, how would that comment make your child feel? These questions get kids to think about the universal moral — “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” This principle survives because it helps people recognize cruelty and practice kindness — two capabilities that are crucial in every human interaction, regardless of where they occur in the digital world. Carolyn Jabs is the author of “Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart,” available at Amazon and cooperativewisdom.org. carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2018

Enter to win a family getaway to

Fripp Island Resort, South Carolina

PRIZE INCLUDES: •

Two-night stay for up to four people at Fripp Island Golf & Beach Resort in a two-bedroom villa or cottage

•

Two rounds of golf at either Ocean Point or Ocean Creek

•

Two tickets for a Dolphin Cruise on the Fripper II (cruises offered seasonally) -OR- four tickets for a nature program (kayaking excluded)

•

Four-seat golf cart to cruise around the island

Enter to win March 1-30 at Charlotteparent.com/frippisland charlotteparent.com | MARCH 2018

f a m i ly t r av e l

31 Ways to Explore the Carolina Coasts BY BRANDY METZGER

Carolinians looking for a beach vacation donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to travel far. Between the beaches of North Carolina and South Carolina, there are about 500 miles of coastline to explore and enjoy. Here are 31 spots to check out â&#x20AC;&#x201D; from the north end of the Outer Banks in North Carolina, through the Grand Strand and on to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.

Catch a glimpse of free-roaming horses in Shackleford Banks on the 14 MARCH 2018 | charlotteparent.com Outer Banks of North Carolina. Photo courtesy of Clenda/Shutterstock

1. Tour Whalehead, a “mansion by the sea,” on the Currituck Sound in Corolla, North Carolina. Whalehead is a 1920s-era, art-nouveaustyle mansion open year-round for tours. Learn the history of this glamorous hunting retreat that was restored to its original glory in 1992. visitcurrituck.com/whalehead. 2. Make a splash at H2OBX Water Park in Powells Point, North Carolina. From thrilling water rides like Midnight Marauder and Riptide to low-key slides and lagoons, this water park offers something for everyone. h2obxwaterpark.com. 3. Stand where the Wright brothers tested their flying machines in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina. Hike to the top of Big Kill Devil Hill to see the Wright Brothers National Memorial. Through late summer 2018, the Wright Brothers Visitors Center is closed for renovations to make way for interactive exhibits, but a temporary facility is open. Be sure to save time for the kids to get their national park Junior Ranger badge. Inquire at the visitor information desk. nps.gov/wrbr. 4. See America’s greatest unsolved mystery by watching the “The Lost Colony” outdoor drama in Manteo, North Carolina. The performance about what may have happened to the first English settlers on Roanoke Island includes fire and fireworks that will have kids on the edge of their seats. The 81st anniversary season of “The Lost Colony” runs May 25Aug. 22, 2018. thelostcolony.org. 5. Explore lighthouses along the Outer Banks. Families can climb 257 steps to the top of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse in Buxton, North Carolina, the world’s tallest brick lighthouse. The Bodie Island Lighthouse in Nags Head and Currituck Beach Lighthouse in Corolla are also open for adventurous climbers. For nonclimbers, the Ocracoke Island Lighthouse is the perfect place to snap some pictures of North Carolina’s oldest operating lighthouse. visitnc.com/story/coastal-lighthouses. 6. Paddle through the Pamlico Tar River Estuary on the banks of Washington, North Carolina. Over 300 miles of trails have been mapped in this area, allowing families to explore its beauty and wildlife by kayak or canoe. littlewashingtonnc.com.

7. Visit the seaside ghost town of Portsmouth Village, North Carolina. Families looking for adventure off the beaten path can take a boat from Ocracoke Island to explore this village of yesteryear that was deserted almost 50 years ago. In addition to the village’s cottages and community buildings, the island is known for its bountiful seashell supply and exceptional surf fishing opportunities. nps.gov/calo/planyourvisit/visit-portsmouth.htm. 8. Go on a bear hunt in New Bern, North Carolina. Steeped in history, this North Carolina town is home to Tryon Palace, the state’s first permanent capitol. You’ll also find more than 20 unique fiberglass bear sculptures. Grab a map at the New Bern Convention and Visitor’s Bureau and meander through the quaint downtown area to see them all. visitnewbern.com. 9. Examine marine life at one of four North Carolina aquariums. Located in Pine Knoll Shores, on Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head, Roanoke Island in Manteo, and Fort Fisher in Kure Beach, North Carolina’s aquariums offer a variety of experiences for families. From a simulation on how to care for a sick sea turtle to touching a bamboo shark, the aquatic exhibits entertain and educate. ncaquariums.com. 10. Gaze upon the wild horses of Shackleford Banks, North Carolina. A short ferry ride from Beaufort, North Carolina puts nature lovers smack in the middle of a natural habitat where wild banker ponies, believed to be the ancestors of shipwrecked Spanish mustangs, roam free. You may also see crabs, otters and gray foxes during your visit. outerbanks.com/shackleford-banks.html. 11. Visit the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Surf City, North Carolina. Get a rare glimpse of sea turtles and their hatchlings while you learn about treatment and recovery efforts for the species, as well as the history of the Topsail Turtle Project. (Note: the center opens for public tours in April.) seaturtlehospital.org. 12. Walk the decks and interior of the Battleship North Carolina in Wilmington. Visitors are allowed to explore all nine levels to get an idea of what life was like on this World War II battleship, which is rumored to be haunted. battleshipnc.com. charlotteparent.com | MARCH 2018

f a m i ly t r av e l

13. Surf the waves of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. Named one of the “World’s 20 Best Surf Towns” by National Geographic Magazine in 2014, laid back Wrightsville Beach is perfect for beginners to take lessons and superstars to “hang 10.” Young surfers can sign up for summer camp with WB Surf Camp (wbsurfcamp.com). townofwrightsvillebeach.com. 14. Explore Fort Fisher in Kure Beach, North Carolina. Families can view this Civil War historic site and its military-themed exhibits about fort construction, blockade runners and weapons before heading outside to see remnants of the fort and replicas of cannons used during the war. nchistoricsites. org/fisher. 15. Discover seaside family fun on the Carolina Beach Boardwalk in North Carolina. Noted by Food & Wine magazine as one of America’s top 10 boardwalks, visitors of all ages will find no shortage of shops, amusements, restaurants and nightlife. During summer, enjoy a spin on the Ferris wheel and watch fireworks. Groove to live summer concerts while munching on hamburgers, hot dogs

MARCH 2018 | charlotteparent.com

Left: Witness feeding time at Alligator Adventure in North Myrtle Beach. Photo by Charles Bryant Below: Enjoy a four-course meal while watching a two-hour jousting tournament at Medieval Times in Myrtle Beach. Photo courtesy of Medieval Times

or Britt’s Donuts. carolinabeach.com/ carolina-beach-boardwalk.html. 16. Take the pedestrian ferry to Bald Head Island, North Carolina, for a car-free day of fun in the sun. Explore the island by golf cart or bike before choosing a spot to settle among 14 miles of white, sandy beach. Enjoy the calm waters of South Beach or the more adventurous shores of East Beach, which are perfect for boogie boarding and surfing. baldheadisland.com. 17. Watch the sun rise over Oak Island, North Carolina. One of the state’s Brunswick Islands, Oak Island is one of only a few places on the East Coast where you can watch the sun set over the ocean. You’ll also find a lighthouse, fishing pier and more than 60 public beach access points. oakislandnc.com. 18. Explore a marsh without getting your feet wet in Southport, North Carolina. On the Marsh Walk boardwalk, nature lovers can get up close and personal with birds, crabs and minnows. Hop on a tram for a guided tour of the

waterfront area with Southport Fun Tours (southportfuntours.com) to learn about the area’s history. southport-nc.com. 19. Star gaze by day at the Museum of Coastal Carolina Ingram Planetarium in Sunset Beach, North Carolina. Watch a variety of space-themed movies throughout the day in the planetarium’s Star Theater followed by a live star show. Be sure to check the museum’s calendar to see if a laser light and music show is scheduled during your stay in the area. museumplanetarium.org. 20. Come face-to-face with 200-plus species at Alligator Adventure in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. In addition to a variety of alligator species and other reptiles, see birds, monkeys, lemurs and amphibians at the “reptile capital of the world” that is adjacent to Barefoot Landing. Daily live shows offer visitors opportunities to ask questions about the animals and, in many cases, touch them. alligatoradventure.com. 21. Enjoy a meal and a show at Medieval Times or Pirate’s Voyage in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Medieval Times offers a two-hour jousting tournament to

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

TWEETSIE RAILROAD All aboard for a one-of-a-kind Wild West adventure SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION at Tweetsie Railroad, North Carolina’s first theme park! Where you can hop aboard a train pulled by a historic steam locomotive, explore the theme park’s Want a authentic fun, wildlife adventure for the entire family? Visit the Western town, enjoy amusement rides, WNC Nature — home over 60 species pan of animals, take inCenter live shows andtoentertainment, for gold, including otters, black bear, and cougars. See why andriver visit the animals at red thewolves Deer Park Zoo. Opening more than year comeoperations visit us. From preschoolers day135,000 is Aprilpeople 6 witha daytime continuing to grandparents, always something for everyone through there’s October 28. Hours andexciting dates vary. Visit at the Nature Center! Call fortoday. more information. tweetsie.com to828-259-8080 plan your visit

WNC Nature Center

300 Tweetsie Railroad Blowing Rock, 75 Gashes CreekLane, Rd, Asheville, NC NC 28605 877-893-3874 • tweetsie.com 828-259-8080 • wildwnc.org

PLANNING A FAMILY GETAWAY? charlotteparent.com/daytrips

Fripp Island Golf and Beach Resort Experience Fripp Island, South Carolina’s most beautiful

barrier island. We offer golf, tennis, dining, fishing, nature

Visit CAMPINVENTION.ORG by MARCH 23 to secure your spot and

SAVE $25

N STEM

me Two RO

S-O

your home away from home as you explore the island,

2119 Sea Island Parkway, Harbor Island, S.C. 877-589-1475 • frippislandresort.com

ades K–6

something for everyone to do. Let our vacation rentals be reconnect and make a lifetime of family memories.

Promo Code: RegCamp25

programs, uncrowded beaches and more so there’s always

Hammock Coast South Carolina’s Hammock Coast is filled with pristine beaches,

fabulous seafood and laid-back luxury. Stroll through our gardens or take a step back in time at one of our rice plantations. Rent a

beach house and bring the whole family, fish our abundant waters

Led by local educators 1,500+ Summer Programs Nationwide

and make sure to visit the five museums in colonial Georgetown, a working seaport town.

SCʼs Hammock Coast

In Partnership with the United States Patent and Trademark Office

531 Front St., Georgetown, S.C. 843-546-8436 • hammockcoastsc.com

charlotteparent.com | MARCH 2018

TWEETSIE RAILROAD 2018 SPECIAL EVENTS David Holt and the Lightning Bolts May 26, Performances at Noon & 3 pm ™

Day Out With Thomas June 8–17

Fireworks Extravaganza Wednesday, July 4

Park open until 9 pm, Fireworks at 9:30 pm

Riders In The Sky August 11–12

Performances at Noon & 3 pm

Railroad Heritage Weekend August 25– 26

Ghost Train®

Park open until 9 pm

September 21–22, 28–29, October 5–6, 12–13, 19–20, 26– 27

Nickelodeon's SpongeBob SquarePants™ & Patrick Star ™

Tweetsie® Christmas

Cool Summer Nights July 7, 14, 21, 28

July 13–15, Appearances at 11 am, 1 pm & 3 pm

K-9s in Flight Frisbee Dogs ®

July 21– 29

Shows at 11 am, 1 pm & 3 pm; Saturday evening show at 7 pm

Open 7:30 pm–11:30 pm

November 23– 24, November 30 –December 1, December 7– 8, 14 –15, 21–22, 28 –29 Open 5 pm–10 pm Events subject to change

tweetsie.com 300 Tweetsie Railroad Lane, Blowing Rock, NC 28605 Visit tweetsie.com or call 877-TWEETSIE (877-893-3874) Ride behind an Authentic Narrow-Gauge Steam Locomotive • Enjoy Live Shows & Amusement Park Rides • Pan for Gold • Deer Park Zoo • Gift Shops

MARCH 2018 | charlotteparent.com

f a m i ly t r av e l complement a four-course meal. Pirate’s Voyage invites guests to join Blackbeard and his crew for spectacular acrobatic performances and aerial stunts during a four-course meal. medievaltimes.com, piratesvoyage.com. 22. Birdwatch at Huntington Beach State Park in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. View birds in protected habitats, including the maritime forest, salt marsh, freshwater wetlands and oak-pine forest. Camp and hike several nature trails at the state park during your visit, too. southcarolinaparks.com/ huntington-beach. 23. View the gardens and sculptures at Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. From enormous live oaks to delicate small roses, enjoy nature in bloom throughout the year at Brookgreen Gardens. Don’t forget to stop by Lowcountry Zoo, where children ages 12 and older can spend a day with the zoo staff and learn how to become a zookeeper. brookgreen.org. 24. Throw a line offshore with Georgetown Charters in Georgetown, South Carolina. Enjoy a full day of fishing while the experts take you to the right spots, provide the bait and even clean your catch. georgetowncharters.com. 25. Explore the majestic beauty of Bulls Island, South Carolina. If you prefer nature to the vacation hustle, ferry over to Bulls Island and be Robinson Crusoe for a day. Part of the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, this island boasts a scenic hike to Boneyard Beach, where you can view a forest of oaks, cedars and pines stranded in the surf. coastalexpeditions.com. 26. Wander around Fort Moultrie on Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina. This restored fort, originally constructed of palmetto logs and sand, was an important fortification in the American Revolution. Literature lovers may find it interesting that Edgar Allan Poe, who was stationed

Above: Brookgreen Gardens contains the largest collection of American figurative sculpture in the U.S. Photo courtesy of Brookgreen Gardens Right: Shell Island near Edisto Beach offers plentiful shelling opportunities. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

at Fort Moultrie for a year, made Sullivan’s Island the backdrop for his short story “The Gold Bug.” charlestoncvb.com/ beaches/sullivans-island. 27. Dine under the stars at Pier 101 Restaurant in Folly Beach, South Carolina. Pier 101 Restaurant, located on the Folly Beach Pier, offers customers oceanfront dining and live music on weekends. After dinner, take a stroll down the pier, which extends more than 1,045 feet out over the ocean. pier101folly.com. 28. Swim through the soft currents of Pelican Beach on Seabrook Island, South Carolina. For families with young children, Pelican Beach is perfect for relaxing and swimming safely in a mild current. At nearby Camp Seabrook, children can make crafts, explore wildlife and play sports. Daily or weekly sessions are available. discoverseabrook.com. 29. Search for dolphins and seashells at Edisto Beach, South Carolina. Book a dolphin boat ecotour and learn about bottlenose dolphins and other species that live in and around Edisto Beach’s salt marsh. Shell Island, a nickname for a sandbar island across from Jeremy’s Inlet, is known for plentiful year-round sea shelling opportunities where in-tact sand dollars,

starfish, sea glass and sharks’ teeth are often found. edistobeach.com. 30. Take a turtle walk on Fripp Island, South Carolina. The Fripp Island Resort offers summer programs to educate visitors about natural inhabitants, including loggerhead sea turtles, alligators, dolphins and crabs. During summer, sign up for a turtle walk to learn about sea turtles and related conservation efforts. You might even see a loggerhead nest. frippislandresort.com/nature-programs. 31. Play in The Sandbox in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Take a break from the sun to explore this fun, interactive children’s museum where kids can “fly a plane” on the Flight Deck, shop at an international bazaar, create art or climb through a discovery ship. thesandbox.org. Brandy Metzger is a freelance writer and educator who lives in Leland, North Carolina. She has a passion for travel and writing, and enjoys spending time with her husband and 9-year-old daughter. charlotteparent.com | MARCH 2018

“Every Chess master was once a beginner” (Chernew)

Your essential everyday resources. January 2018 • Free

FREE

2017-2018

SCHOOL CHOICES Is it time to make WHERE TO SKI AND SNOWBOARD

Digital Detox

Rethinking screen time

Junior Master Camps | Boy Scouts Merit Badge Ages 5 & up. Half & Full Day options are available. Conveniently located to Uptown (Southend/Dilworth)

1800 Camden Road Suite 108 Charlotte, NC 28203 980-265-1156 | www.charlottechesscenter.org

MARCH 2018 | charlotteparent.com

6 REASONS TO CONSIDER PRIVATE SCHOOL

GAINING STEAM

How arts are enhancing STEM programs

105 EDUCATION RESOURCES

Private, Public and Charter Schools

Talking About

Social Justice

5 Top Vitamins Kids Need

PUBERTY: A Survival Guide for

a change?

GPS GO PLAY SEE

KIDS IN THE CITY!

A Parent’s Guide to Living in the QC

7 of Charlotte’s Best ‘Burbs for Families

2017 Readers’ Favorites

Girls, Boys and Parents

THE PLACES LOCAL FAMILIES LOVE

CHA RLOT TEPA RENT.CO M Visit CharlotteParent.com for digital editions, exclusive online content, local events, directories, parenting blogs, crafts, contests and more!

FREE

f a m i ly t r av e l Always bring plenty of snacks, Anderson says, but “avoid sugary snacks or save them for the last leg of the trip to avoid candy-induced meltdowns.” Loflin suggests packing a “No Matter What Bag” containing snacks and entertainment essentials. If you’re flying, keep it stowed under the airplane seat so your child can access it at all times.

Fawn Anderson traveled solo to Disney World with her sons, ages 3 and 7 (pictured here). Her best advice: Plan ahead but be flexible with those plans. Photo by Fawn Anderson

Single-Parent Travel Made Easy BY SUZY FIELDERS

here is no better way to learn and gain real-world experience than by traveling. Trips to distant and unexplored destinations also help children grow up to be well-rounded individuals. Traveling with kids, however, can be especially challenging if you’re a single parent. As a teenager, I traveled a lot with my dad to amazing places. We often found ourselves in unexpected situations — from canceled flights to not having the right currency for a taxi ride — but it was during those instances that he taught me the most valuable life lesson I have ever learned: Each trip — and life, really — should be viewed as an adventure. Now as a single parent traveling with my daughter, I can personally relate to the challenges of traveling with a child. Here are some of the important lessons I and other single parents have learned to make single-parent traveling with kids less stressful and more enjoyable.

PLAN AHEAD Fawn E. Anderson, a single mom in Charlotte, has traveled extensively with her 3- and 7-year-old sons. She says the key to a successful trip is planning ahead. From getting locked out of a hotel to encountering an unpredicted rainstorm, Anderson stresses the importance of anticipating and planning for everything that could possibly happen, while still including room for agenda changes and flexibility. “I live life as a single parent always hoping for the very best, while planning for disaster,” she says. “To reduce stress, the ultimate trick is to balance having a loose structure to your day without agonizing over every detail.” If your trip involves an airplane flight, arrive an hour before the recommended time to accommodate for baggage check-in processes and long lines. This is especially important during peak vacation times. Part of planning ahead leads right into our second tip.

DON’T OVERPACK There’s only one of you traveling with your children, so keep things simple when it comes to packing. Choose suitcases that roll and ask everyone going on the trip to pack a backpack for storing toys, books, entertainment devices, charging cables, snacks and other items they will need quick access to. “When traveling by airplane it’s crucial to not overpack, and prepare your children for going through TSA (Transportation Security Administration),” says Katherine Loflin, a single mom in Cary who runs a global consultancy. (Find the most current TSA packing guidelines at tsa.gov/travel.) BUSY = HAPPY Regardless of what transportation method you use, traveling is more enjoyable when everyone stays entertained. Beatrice Moise, a parenting coach in Charlotte, recommends playing games, such as Disney versus Pixar trivia, a travel scavenger hunt, restaurant bingo, the license plate game and Spot the Car.

STRENGTHEN BONDS It’s important to remember why your vacation is happening in the first place. “As a single, working parent, every moment counts and that’s the biggest blessing of having a family vacation, where you’re removed from the distractions of daily life,” Anderson says. Moise advises using vacations to strengthen bonds with your children instead of worrying about sticking to an itinerary. “Focus on the moment and on what is actually happening,” she says. “Traveling can create a wonderful bonding time so don’t get caught up with what should happen.” Regardless of where you are going, make the most of the time you have with your children and focus on teaching them the joys of exploring. “Embrace the trip as an adventure in the truest sense of the word,” Loflin says. “Unexpected things will happen, you will have new experiences, you will laugh, you will not laugh, you will question your choices, but you will be glad you did it.” Suzy Fielders is a single, working mom of a spirited 11-year-old daughter. See more of her writing at suzyfielders.wordpress.com.

charlotteparent.com carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2018

27 21

f a m i ly t r av e l

Follow the

beat in New York, Nashville and Austin

FOR FAMILIES TO DISCOVER NEW YORK From Broadway plays to kindie music, no other American city offers the variety of musical talent and performances like New York. Here are some must-experience destinations if your family travels to the Big Apple.

BY CHRISTA C. HOGAN

ids and music go together like peanut butter and jelly, and these three unique cities offer music and family fun for all ages. You just have to decide which one to visit first.

Broadway Broadway offers a variety of shows that appeal to kids. Those listed here are open to ages 5 and older. Learn more about what is currently showing at broadway.com. • Kids will gawk at the life-size puppets in “The Lion King” as the puppets parade down the aisles to the stage. • Bring your golden ticket and sweet tooth to see Roald Dahl’s

charlotteparent.com MARCH 2018 | carolinaparent.com

“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” Kids will enjoy the eye-popping sets that make up Willy Wonka’s world. • A “Wizard of Oz” retelling, “Wicked” is recommended for ages 8 and older due to some scary elements for younger kids, like flying monkeys. • “School of Rock” features a cast of real-life kid rock stars and all the fun of the original movie featuring Hollywood star Jack Black. This play is best for older kids since there are some curse words and authoritydefying themes. CirKiz Kids ages 7-13 will rave about this safe, daytime dance party in

a family-friendly redo of popular New York City nightclubs. Enjoy DJs, electronic music and live performances. Visit cirkiz.com for locations and dates. Carnegie Hall Beloved artists from Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky to Judy Garland have graced Carnegie Hall’s stages. Share the magic with your budding musician through free family days and an interactive concert series. Learn more at carnegiehall.org/ events/family-events. Radio City Music Hall If you plan to be in town during the Christmas season, don’t miss the high-stepping Rockettes as they perform their festive

Opposite page: Broadway. This page: Radio City Music Hall, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center. Photos courtesy of Andrey Bayda, Shutterstock and the Nashville Convention & Visitor's Corporation “Christmas Spectacular.” Take your family on the Stage Door Tour of this art-deco diamond and meet a Rockette in person. Learn more at rockettes.com and msg.com/venuetours/radio-city-music-hall.

the stage for an unrehearsed, live performance. Each act features two or three songs to keep things interesting for shorter attention spans. Enjoy concessions during the show. Learn more at opry.com.

Kindie Music Scene The Big Apple is home to kindie music greats like Laurie Berkner and Dan Zanes. Look for various family concert series across the city, including Madison Square Kids and SummerStage Family Workshops. Visit madisonsquarepark.org/kids and cityparksfoundation.org/summerstage to learn more.

Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center This resort — a destination within itself — accommodates almost 3,000 rooms, three large pools, a spa, 17 restaurants, an arcade, numerous atriums with gorgeous gardens and waterfalls, and an indoor river large enough for a boat tour. It’s the perfect place for your family to stay while exploring Nashville. Downtown destinations are just 15 minutes away. Learn more at marriott.com/ hotels/travel/bnago-gaylord-oprylandresort-and-convention-center.

NASHVILLE Nashville’s earliest settlers created the foundation for its “Music City” nickname by playing fiddle tunes and buck dancing after landing on the shores of the Cumberland River. Later, during the 1800s, the first around-theworld music tour by the Fisk Jubilee Singers put Nashville on the map for music publishing. Here are some ways to discover the country music capital of the world for yourself. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Videos, a giant guitar-shaped tunnel and slide, and interactive exhibits will entertain young ones at this Nashville must-see museum. View memorabilia including costumes, cars and instruments. Go deeper into country music history with the RCA Studio B Tour, and see where greats like Elvis Presley recorded. Learn more at countrymusichalloffame.org. Grand Ole Opry Shows at the Grand Ole Opry combine new artists with country greats like Montgomery Gentry and Ricky Skaggs, typically consisting of eight or more performers who take

Nashville’s Music Mile Nashville’s Music Mile starts at the Music City Walk of Fame on Demonbreun Street. Take a few selfies with permanent sidewalk markers honoring famous musicians from all genres. Then picnic in nearby Nashville Music Garden. This public green space features six dozen varieties of roses named for country music stars and songs. Take some time to stop and smell the Tennessee Waltz, the Elvis and the Coal Miner's Daughter. Learn more at visitmusiccity.com. Honky-Tonk With Kids It would be a shame to be surrounded by honky-tonks, live music and barbecue and not experience these Nashville staples. Lucky for families, a number of Music City restaurants and cafes welcome kids and feature live music. Check out Rippy’s, Station Inn, The Bluebird Cafe, Acme Feed & Seed, Robert’s Western World and the Wildhorse Saloon, just to name a charlotteparent.com carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2018

f a m i ly t r av e l

BEFORE YOU GO These music cities will have your family singing your praises, so check out all three. Contact each city’s convention and visitors bureau for more information. Visit Austin: NYC & Company: Nashville Convention austintexas.org nycgo.com and Visitor’s Center: visitmusiccity.com

Clockwise: Austin City Limits Live at the Moody Theatre, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Shady Grove Restaurant. Photos courtesy of AustinTexas.org

few. When in doubt, visit during lunch or join the early dinner crowd. Live music shows start as early as 11 a.m. Learn more at visitmusiccity.com/visitors/food.

AUSTIN Austin, Texas, claims to be the “Live Music Capital of the World.” Fortunately, much of this live music is also family-friendly and free. Check out these venues while you’re in town. Shady Grove restaurant's unplugged series is one of the longest-running music series in the city. On Thursday nights

from April through September, customers enjoy frosty beers on the shady patio and free live music performed by artists such as Rhett Miller and Flatland Calvary. There is also a kids’ menu. Learn more at theshadygrove.com. Texas Radio Live From Guero’s Oak Garden takes place every Wednesday night at Guero’s Taco Bar. Families can listen to a variety of Texas’ best musicians. Enjoy live music Thursday-Sunday as well. The tacos aren’t bad, either! The kids’ menu consists of low-priced, kid-pleasing fare. Learn more at gueros.com.

MARCH 2018 | carolinaparent.com charlotteparent.com

Central Market in Austin North Lamar is a local favorite place to grocery shop and grab something to eat on the shady deck while you listen to live music. A large, nearby playground keeps the kids entertained. Central Market also hosts the Texas Community Music Festival each April, which features an eclectic mix of performers. Learn more at centralmarket.com/austin-lamar and tcmfestival.com. The Midway Food Park combines green space with a playground, a live music stage and food trucks. Hear musicians perform Friday and Saturday nights throughout the year. Learn more at themidwayfoodpark.com. One of the best ways to take in a variety of new bands is by experiencing Austin City Limits Festival — perhaps the city’s most well-known live music event. Kids under age 10 get into the festival free with parents. There are plenty of bands to see before bedtime, and the kids will especially enjoy

Austin Kiddie Limits, where they can create crafts, attend music and dance workshops, and listen to live entertainment. This year’s festival takes place Oct. 5-7 and 12-14, 2018. Learn more at aclfestival.com. "Austin City Limits" appears weekly on PBS and is the longestrunning music program in TV history. Visitors can win tickets to a live taping of the show, which can last up to two hours, at The Moody Theatre. Fans can also take a backstage tour of theater for $12 per person. Rodeo Austin, held every March, combines live music, a fair and a rodeo all in one. Enjoy 100-plus live performances and fairgrounds featuring a carnival, shopping and special attractions. Learn more at rodeoaustin.com. Christa C. Hogan is a mom of three who takes advantage of Wake County’s year-round public school calendar to travel frequently with her kids.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Fripp Island Golf and Beach Resort TWEETSIE RAILROAD All aboard for a one-of-a-kind Wild West adventure Experience Fripp Island, South Carolina’s most beautiful Tweetsie Railroad, North dining, Carolina’s firstnature theme barrier at island. We offer golf, tennis, fishing,

programs, uncrowded beaches and aboard more so athere’s always by a park! Where you can hop train pulled something for everyone to do. Let our vacation historic steam locomotive, explore the rentals theme be park’s your home away from hometown, as you explore the island, authentic Western enjoy amusement rides,

reconnect makeshows a lifetime of family memories. takeand in live and entertainment, pan for gold,

and visit the animals at the Deer Park Zoo. Opening 2119 Sea Island Parkway, Harbor Island, S.C. day is April 6 with daytime operations continuing 877-589-1475 • frippislandresort.com through October 28. Hours and dates vary. Visit tweetsie.com to plan your visit today.

300 Tweetsie Railroad Lane, Blowing Rock, NC 28605 Hammock Coast 877-893-3874 • tweetsie.com

South Carolina’s Hammock Coast is filled with pristine beaches,

fabulous seafood and laid-back luxury. Stroll through our gardens or take a step back in time at one of our rice plantations. Rent a

beach house and bring the whole family, fish our abundant waters and make sure to visit the five museums in colonial Georgetown, a working seaport town.

SCʼs Hammock Coast

531 Front St., Georgetown, S.C. 843-546-8436 • hammockcoastsc.com

Your essential everyday resources. Fripp Island Golf and Beach Resort

Fripp Island, Carolina’s most beautiful Our award-winning monthly magazine and annualExperience guides feature the South region’s best family calendar, barrier island. We offer golf, tennis, dining, fishing, nature health and wellness information, educational features, camp and school listings, and more! programs, uncrowded beaches and more so there’s always

something for everyone to do. Let our vacation rentals be your home away from home as you explore the island,

October 2017 • Free

FREE

2017-18

reconnect and make a lifetime of family memories. F R E E

2017-18

2119 Sea Island Parkway, Harbor Island, S.C. 877-589-1475 • frippislandresort.com FACTORY

A PUBLICATION OF

parent CAROL INA

Mean Moms

FIELD TRIPS IN THE TRIANGLE

A SUMMER ADVENTURE THAT LASTS AN ETERNITY 11 SECRETS OF HAPPY MOMS How to react and respond

Scenic Family Drives

Colorful road trips across NC

PLUS

Hayrides, Pumpkin Patches and Spooky Spots

Hammock Coast Our Exceptional Child Special Section

1,000+

Resources for Families A The Triangle Go-To Guide 2017-18

2017

Readers’ Favorites

carolinaparent.com

Where to

660

Resources for Triangle Families

Gaining STEAM

Explore, Play and Learn South Carolina’s Hammock Coast is filled with pristine beaches, Schools enhance STEM programs with the arts

A PUBLICATION OF

fabulous seafood and laid-back luxury. Stroll through our gardens or take a step back in time at one of our rice plantations. Rent a

beach house and bring the whole family, fish our abundant waters

Visit CarolinaParent.com for digital editions, exclusive online content, local events, and make sure to visit the five museums in colonial Georgetown, directories, parenting blogs, crafts, contests and more! a working seaport town. K5-10TH

SCʼs Hammock Coast

531 Front St., Georgetown, S.C. 843-546-8436 • hammockcoastsc.com

carolinaparent.com 25

charlotteparent.com | MARCH 2018

f a m i ly t r av e l

Planning for a Smooth(er) Family Vacation Real-life advice from some Charlotte parents on traveling with kids BY VANESSA INFANZON

remember being so excited about our first family vacation, and then my best friend who has children a few years older than mine, gave me a more realistic view of what to expect: “It’s the same old, just in a different place.” She’s right — the diapers still need to be changed and kids are not suddenly well-behaved angels. With my friend’s advice, I changed my approach to the family vacation plan, and heed the wisdom of other parents who have traversed the family vacation at various ages and stages. With that in mind, we share some sage advice from local parents about how they plan a successful family vacation.

“We shoot for a balance of relaxation and unstructured fun, but always plan one family activity each day. That could be a hike, game or other activity that we all participate in and have solid family time. The kids sometimes roll their eyes, but these activities are the lasting memories of our trips.” —Spencer Lueders, founder of 24 Foundation and its signature fundraiser 24 Hours of Booty. Dad to Nate, 16; Emma, 14; and Adam, 11 FAVORITE VACATION SPOT: Indian Lake, Michigan Left to right: Emma, Nate, Adam, Susan and Spencer Lueders. Chris Coleman and his wife Ashley Coleman with children Ellie and Luke. Photo by Amy Ellis Photography

“The beach is a perfect trip to take kids because they can run around and play. You can act like a kid with them and run around and play and build sand castles. We usually take a plastic jug and fill it up with sangria that we sip on all day while the kids play. It’s a good time.” —Chris Coleman, chef at Stoke. Dad to Luke, age 6, and Ellie, 2 FAVORITE VACATION SPOT: Charleston, South Carolina

“When we fly, our boys pack a backpack with an (empty) water bottle to fill after getting through security, favorite snacks, two books or magazines, notebook, pencil, crayons and a card game. Once we arrive, we visit a local hotel concierge to ask for ideas. Remember to give them a tip for their help.” —John Beatty, general manager for The Dunhill Hotel and The Asbury. Dad John Beatty with his to Mason, 9, and wife Anne Beaty and sons, Mason and Miles. Miles, 6 FAVORITE VACATION SPOT: Ocracoke to Sunset Beach, North Carolina

Tony Arreaza with his wife Ailen Arreaza, and sons Paulo and Lucas in Barcelona, Spain.

“Last summer my family traveled to Spain, and our 5-year-old whined and complained every time he had to walk anywhere. We came up with a trick that made all the difference. Before leaving our Airbnb, we downloaded a Google map to our destination, and then we gave the phone to him. My kid loved watching the little blue dot move, telling us when and where to turn and updating our estimated time of arrival. And the rest of us loved not having to hear him complain about how tired his legs were.” —Tony Arreaza, founder and CEO at Carlotan Talents. Dad to Lucas, 8, and Paulo, 5 FAVORITE VACATION SPOT: Río de Janeiro, Brazil All photos are courtesy of the families who provided them unless otherwise noted.

MARCH 2018 | charlotteparent.com

“No matter how good your young children are, if you force them to be in a car seat for eight-hour trips with minimal breaks, they are no longer themselves. Here are a few lessons I’ve learned: Goldfish crackers are as important as gas. Calories consumed on car trips don’t count. Sitting between two car seats in the backseat holding a bottle to the mouth of a baby in one and trying to play sticker book with the other, with a big dog in your lap, does not make the trip go faster. It makes you wish for wine.” —Molly Grantham, WBTV news anchor and reporter. Mom to Parker, 6, and Hutch, 3 FAVORITE VACATION SPOT: Kure Beach, North Carolina Hutch and Parker on their way to the beach.

Anna Collins, Janel, Banks and Mac Lackey in Copenhagen, Denmark.

“About four years ago we pulled our kids out of school to travel. We’ve visited 17 countries and learned two great strategies: We find an area of interest for the kids, such as art or photography, so the focus for them is on taking amazing pictures. The other is to allow everyone a voice in the planning of a day. If I planned a location I was excited about, maybe Banks got to choose the type of food we would eat, and Anna would choose the leisure activity for the day.” —Mac Lackey, chairman of ISL Futbol. Dad to Anna Collins, 17, and Banks, 14 FAVORITE VACATION SPOT: Santorini, Greece charlotteparent.com | MARCH 2018

Blythe Pressly (right), a seventh-grader, and Deandre Lewis, an eighth grader, are peer buddies in the Extensions program at Randolph Middle School. Photo by Lydia Martin, yearbook staff member at Randolph Middle School

KIDS HELPING KIDS

Middle school students gain perspective and learn to advocate through the CMS Extensions Program BY VANESSA INFANZON

hen Trent Lose, 15, saw his middle school friends at Randolph Middle School disappear from homeroom each morning, he was curious about where they were going. He learned they were peer buddies to students in the Extensions program, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’ program for children with significant cognitive disabilities and special needs. Randolph Middle is one CMS school that offers a peer-buddy program through the Extensions program. The program is designed for general-education students to help students in the Extensions program with adaptive physical education and health classes, and assist with training for Special Olympics sports,

including bocce ball, bowling or track-and-field events. Beyond the designated program tasks, students develop strong connections with one another, says Noelle Glass, a teacher in the Extensions program at Randolph Middle School. Glass gives students in her class the opportunity to ask peer buddies questions during their first meeting. From there, the students determine how they connect. More often than not, long-term friendships are made. At first glance, peer-buddy programs may seem like a one-way experience—generaleducation students helping students with special needs. Dig deeper, and you discover an explosion of life lessons that are coming from the program that

MARCH 2018 | charlotteparent.com

are changing the way tweens and teens think, feel and act. CHALLENGING CHOICES Trent’s curiosity about the peer-buddy program led him to tag along with his friends to the Extensions classrooms a couple of times a week. By the end of the school year, he was an honorary peer buddy helping students in the Extensions program every day. “It was very interesting and very different,” he says. “The classroom was lighter and less stressful. I was nervous because I had never interacted with any special-needs kids on that sort of level. I was actually talking and having conversations with them.” Blythe Pressly, 12, is not new to the world of special needs. Her sister, Chloe Pressly, 16, is a

student in the Extensions program at East Mecklenburg High School. Blythe, who is in seventh grade, has been a peer buddy since starting at Randolph Middle School in sixth grade. “I think this program helps not just the peer buddies and the people in the [Extensions program], but it helps everyone in the school learn about special needs,” she says. STANDING UP FOR FRIENDS During the 2016-17 school year, there were talks within CMS of the Extensions program being phased out. Peer buddies and past peer buddies from Randolph Middle School launched a campaign on social media, spoke at school board meetings and interviewed with a

Unified Champions Schools Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools, founded in 2008, brings youth together through sports and education to create school communities of acceptance and respect. Twenty-three schools throughout the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools system are Unified Champion Schools. The three pillars of the program are: unified sports, inclusive youth leadership and whole school engagement to create an inclusive school climate. Students with and without intellectual disabilities compete together, cheer one another on and learn the joys of being on a team. Learn more about the Unified Champion Schools programs at specialolympics.org/unified-champion-schools.

local television station. The campaign created such publicity that by the end of the 2016-17 school year, the Extensions classroom at Randolph Middle School was packed with students from the general-education population. “It really showed how making a stand for (students in the Extensions program) really impacted the population more than you think it would,” says Hannah Johnson, 15, a freshman at Hough High School, a past peer buddy and program advocate. BUILDING PERSPECTIVE AND COMMUNITY Middle and high school years are tough for teens, with social and emotional issues that can seem like the biggest of problems. No matter how hard parents try to help their student gain perspective on a disappointment or struggle, it can be an uphill battle. Mabry Sumner, a freshman at East Mecklenburg High School, says she learned quickly from her time as a peer buddy that not everything is about her. “It was really cool to watch how [Extensions students] did their thing every day and weren’t worried about what anyone else thought,” she says. Trent says he felt humbled by the experience. “When you think you have a problem and

you get really caught up in it, it’s hard to be mad or get upset when you know someone is going through something you can’t even imagine.” Jordan Stanton is a teacher at Randolph Middle School in CMS Horizons, a program for exceptionally gifted students. In 2014, students from Horizons and the Extensions programs began working together. They participated in monthly art meetings, science experiments and dissection labs. “When we do things together, the kids look at each other as kids that like to have fun and do fun school stuff,” Stanton says. “There is no judgement, sideways looks or pity. They see and treat each other as equals.” Nikhita Nanduri, 14, was in the Horizons program at Randolph Middle School. Now a freshman at Ardrey Kell High School, she joined the Friends Club to meet students in the high school’s Extensions program. “Spending time with all of the [Extensions] students taught me the importance of positivity and kindness, especially in the face of obstacles and challenges,” Nikhita says. Vanessa Infanzon is a freelance writer in Charlotte. Follow her on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @morethanVMI. charlotteparent.com | MARCH 2018

›

› EXCURSION

EXCURSION

The Georgia Aquarium Jump into the sea in the heart of Atlanta BY ADRIAN H. WOOD

he Georgia Aquarium, located in downtown Atlanta across from Centennial Olympic Park, covers 550,000 square feet in an expanse of sea wonders. The public aquarium, known to be the world’s second largest, boasts 60 animal habitats and 10 million gallons of water filled with 1,000 species of marine life. Here, your family can experience a rare view into the hidden treasures of the sea. Tunnel Through the Ocean The Ocean Voyager gallery contains 6.3 million gallons of saltwater and accommodates four whale sharks, four manta rays and many other varieties of fish. Make your way through the exhibit’s 100-foot tunnel, complete with a moving walkway, where you can gaze upon fascinating sea life through 4,754 square feet of acrylic viewing windows. There are also four touch tanks located throughout the aquarium where you can push up your sleeves and slip your hands into fresh and saltwater habitats to touch stingrays, sand sharks, starfish and hermit crabs. Watch the ‘Waddle Walk’ Not only can you climb into tunnels that run beneath the penguin habitat, located in the aquarium’s Cold Water Quest gallery, but you also can delight in the “Waddle Walk,” which happens every day at 11 a.m. That's when trainers lead the penguins through the main atrium and visitors learn about preservation of these amazing creatures. Swim With Whales, Dolphins and Sharks Take advantage of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with the aquarium’s beluga whales as part of the Beluga Interaction Program. Though there is no set

MARCH 2018 | charlotteparent.com

Gaze upon a whale shark at the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta. Photo courtesy of Adrian H. Wood age restriction, participants must be at least 60 inches tall, and anyone under age 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Take a bathing suit to wear under a provided wetsuit so you can brave the chilly waters. There is a $154.95 per-person fee (plus tax) for this activity. Ages 7 and older can enjoy a Dolphin Encounter for $69.95 per person, which allows participants to go backstage to meet, touch and feed one of the aquarium’s dolphins. For a true aquarium quest, ages 12 and older can go on a Journey With Gentle Giants, which allows participants to swim with whale sharks in the aquarium’s 10-million-gallon tank and is the only place in the world where this can be done. The cost is $235.95 per person (a scuba option is also available). Reservations for all of these encounters are limited. Call 404-581-4000 to reserve a spot, or purchase tickets via the georgiaaquarium.org. Be Dazzled During a Show Learn about dolphin behavior as trainers incorporate educational messages during the new “AT&T Dolphin Celebration,” included with general admission. Sit in one of the higher rows to avoid getting wet, and be prepared for loud music and a dazzling light show as dolphins show off for the crowd. California sea lions put on a show in SunTrust Pier 225’s live presentation, “Under the Boardwalk,” also included with general

admission. You won’t be disappointed in the sea lions’ antics and trainers’ creative educational lessons. Make sure you arrive early as seats fill up quickly. Round out your Georgia Aquarium experience by taking in a few movies in The 4D Funbelievable Theater — included with general admission — and by going on a scavenger hunt using your mobile app. Family-Friendly Perks Members of the North Carolina Aquarium or Zoological Society receive a discount on admission to the Georgia Aquarium. Order tickets online ahead of time to avoid waiting in line. Strollers are allowed and there is a room for breast-feeding moms to pump or nurse if they desire. Families can bring in their own snacks, but the aquarium’s Café Aquaria and Seaside Delights restaurants offer lunch and dinner options as well. Download the free Georgia Aquarium app, available via the App Store and Google Play, so you’ll know where to go first and when the aquarium’s many shows begin. Learn more about the Georgia Aquarium at georgiaaquarium.org. Adrian H. Wood, Ph.D., is a North Carolina writer who lives in Edenton with her husband and four children, the youngest of whom has extra-special needs. Read more of her writing at talesofaneducateddebutante.com. carolinaparent.com | MARCH 2018

March OUR PICKS

COMPILED BY ADDIE GOTTWALD

Spring Fling and Animal Babies | March 24 Kick off the beginning of spring visiting with baby barnyard animals, making seasonal crafts and panning for gemstones at Schiele Museum’s Spring Fling. Bring a camera to snap a picture with the Easter Bunny and take part in a golden-egg hunt. Tickets are $10 and do not include entry to the museum. Food, drinks, pony rides and face painting are available for an additional cost. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. schielemuseum.org.

Disney Junior Dance Party! On Tour | March 25

Children enjoy Dr. Seuss books at Main Street Children’s Museum. Photo courtesy of Main Street Children’s Museum

Seuss-a-thon | March 4 Celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday at Main Street Children’s Museum with special birthday treats and activities, including making silly hats, marching in parades, playing Dr. Seuss bingo, and fishing for one fish, two fish, red fish, blue fish. Designed for ages 6 and younger. 1-4:30 p.m. $6, free for children under age 1. Main Street Children’s Museum, 133 E. Main St., Rock Hill. chmuseums.org.

Sing, play games and dance with favorite Disney characters like Mickey Mouse, Sofia the First, Puppy Dog Pals and Doc McStuffins. Characters from Disney Junior’s new series “Muppet Babies” are also scheduled to make appearances. Tickets start at $25. Performances at 1 and 4 p.m. Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, 130 N. Tryon St. blumenthalarts.org.

Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day at the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade and Go Green Festival. Photo courtesy of Rich Taylor Photography

Charlotte Saint Patrick’s Day Parade and Go Green Festival | March 17 Show your Irish spirit at the Saint Patrick’s Day parade and Go Green Festival happening on Saint Patrick’s Day, March 17, in uptown Charlotte. The parade kicks off at 11 a.m. and marches south on Tryon Street. See drum bands, Irish dancers, costumed characters and beauty queens in the uptown parade. The Go Green Festival, located on Tryon Street between Third and Stonewall streets, takes place from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and includes a special Celtic Kid Zone with inflatables, Eurobungy, balloon twisters, food and music. charlottestpatsday.com.

charlotteparent.com | MARCH 2018

â&#x20AC;ş

The annual Hop to It Easter egg hunt happens at Chestnut Square Park in Indian Trail March 24. Photo courtesy of Indian Trail Parks and Recreation

CALENDAR

EASTER EGG HUNTS AND BUNNY SIGHTINGS MARCH 9 Easter Bunny Arrival at Concord Mills. Concord Mills, 8111 Concord Mills Blvd., Concord. 10-11:30am. FREE. 704-979-5000. Visit with the Easter Bunny, and enjoy an egg hunt, crafts and other Easter activities. concordmills.com.

MARCH 10 MallStars Eggstravaganza. Northlake Mall, 6801 Northlake Mall Drive. 10:30am-noon. FREE; cost for photos with Easter Bunny. 704-921-2000. Enjoy music, games, prizes and special offers, and visit Bunnyville for photos with the Easter Bunny. First 200 guests receive a free gift. shopnorthlake.com. Easter Bunny at StoneCrest at Piper Glen. StoneCrest at Piper Glen, 7800 Rea Road. 10am-1pm. FREE. 704-335-5455. Bring a camera to capture a special photo

with the Easter Bunny, plus crafts and balloon artistry. Enjoy pancakes and other breakfast items for a $1 each. Proceeds benefit Second Harvest Food Bank. shopstonecrest.com.

MARCH 10 AND 24 Easter Bunny Storytime at SAS Cupcakes. SAS Cupcakes, 9941 Rea Road, Suite C. 10:30am. $10. 704-295-1777. Kids can frost cupcakes, listen to a story and meet the Easter Bunny. sascupcakes.com.

MARCH 11 Caring Bunny at Concord Mills. Concord Mills, 8111 Concord Mills Blvd., Concord. 9-11am. FREE; additional cost for photos. 704-979-3000. Children with special needs can participate in the Bunny Photo Experience in a subdued environment. Register online. concordmills.com.

MARCH 2018 | charlotteparent.com

MARCH 23 A Morning With the Easter Bunny. Cornelius Arts Center, 19725 Oak St., Unit 1, Cornelius. 10am-noon. FREE. 704-8968823. Enjoy crafts and snacks. Bring a camera to snap a photo with the Easter Bunny. cornelius.org.

MARCH 23, 28 AND 30 Daylight Egg Hunts at Whispering Hope Farm. Whispering Hope Farm, 1405 Crowders Creek Road, Gastonia. Ages 12 and under. 10:30am-noon. $8 per person; cash only. Horse rides are $5. 704-6748911. Pet baby animals, play on the farm playground and ride a horse before going on an egg hunt. whisperinghopefarm.com.

other activities. Ages 3 and younger can attend the Little Bunny Hunt at 2pm at the historic Duncan McDonald House by the Waxhaw Water Tower. Ages 4-6 can enjoy the Big Bunny Hunt at 2:30pm at the David G. Barnes Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Park downtown, and ages 7-10 can attend the Rabbit Hunt at 3pm at the Waxhaw United Methodist Church. Register for a tea time with the Easter Bunny at 3 or 4pm, ride a trackless train, go to a petting zoo, ride a pony, gem mine, watch a magician and enjoy a balloon twister. waxhaw.com. Easter Egg Hunt in Stallings. Stallings Municipal Park, 340 Stallings Road, Stallings. 10am-noon. FREE. Bring baskets for an Easter-egg hunt and visit with the Easter Bunny. stallingsnc.net.

MARCH 24 Easter Eggstravaganza. Downtown Waxhaw. Ages 10 and younger. 2-5pm. Free for the egg hunt; additional costs for

Easter Egg Scramble. Stumptown Park, 120 S. Trade St., Matthews. Ages 10 and younger. 11am-1pm. FREE. 704-321-7275.

Enjoy crafts, music and an egg hunt. Bring a camera to snap a picture with the Easter Bunny. Hunt times at 11:30am for ages 1-4, noon for ages 5-8, and 12:30pm for ages 9-10. matthewsfun.com. Egg Stravaganza Family Storytime. York County Library, 138 E. Black St., Rock Hill. Ages 11 and younger. 11am. FREE. 803-981-5858. Go for an egg hunt, listen to a story and participate in Easter activities. Space is limited; register online. yclibrary.org. Historic Rosedale’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt. Historic Rosedale Plantation, 3427 N. Tryon St. 10am-2pm. $10 per child, two adults admitted free per family. 704-335-0325. Wander through the boxwood maze on a hunt for Easter eggs filled with treats and educational facts about the plantation. Four egg hunts are scheduled beginning each hour on the hour from 10am-1pm. Bring your own baskets. Reservations required. historicrosedale.org. Hop Into Spring. Robbins Park, 17738 W. Catawba Ave., Cornelius. Ages 3-12. 2-4pm. FREE. Enjoy egg-themed activities, arts and crafts, a DJ, face painting, inflatables and concessions. cornelius.org. Hop to It Easter Egg Hunt. Chestnut Square Park, 320 Chestnut Parkway, Indian Trail. Ages 12 and younger. 10am-1pm. FREE. Go on an Easteregg hunt and then enjoy crafts, activities, inflatables, games, music and refreshments. Bring a camera to get a picture with the Easter Bunny. Registration not required. indiantrail.org.

Peter Cottontail’s Garden Adventure. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont. 11am-3pm. $6.95-$12.95. 704-825-4490. Celebrate spring with Peter Rabbit and friends, including family activities, crafts and food. dsbg.org. Pritchard Memorial’s Easter Egg Hunt. Pritchard at South End, 1117 South Blvd. 10am-noon. FREE. A communitywide event that features games, an egg hunt and a visit with the Easter Bunny. pritchardmemorial.com.

MARCH 29 The Great Easter Egg Classic. Winthrop University Recreational Complex, 701 Oakland Ave., Rock Hill. Ages 2 to 11. 3:45-5:45pm. FREE. This egg hunt features more than 50,000 eggs and thousands of prizes. cityofrockhill.com.

MARCH 30-31

Spring Fling With Animal Babies. The Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 10am-4pm. $10, does not include museum admission. 704-8666908. Meet a variety of barnyard animal babies, explore the outdoors in the Catawba Indian Village and 18th-century Backcountry Farm, hunt for a golden egg, and get pictures with the Easter bunny. schielemuseum.org.

Spring Fling at Hodges Family Farm. Hodges Farm, 3900 Rocky River Road E. Ages 6 and younger. 9am-2pm. $5 per person for egg hunt. 704-608-8897. Go on an egg hunt, pet barn animals, visit with the Easter Bunny, play yard games, enter raffles and go on hay rides. Registration required. Children under the age of 2 can enjoy a toddler egg hunt that doesn’t require registration or payment. hodgesfarmnc.com.

MARCH 24, 30 AND 31

MARCH 31

Flashlight Egg Hunts. Whispering Hope Farm, 1405 Crowders Creek Road, Gastonia. Ages 12 and younger. 6:308pm. $8 per person; cash only. Horse rides are $5. 704-674-8911. Visit the animals at the petting farm, ride a horse, play on the playground, and then go on a flashlight egg hunt. whisperinghopefarm.com.

Belmont Egg Hunt. Linford Park, Caston St., Belmont; and Stowe Park, 24 S. Main St., Belmont. Ages 10 and younger. Noon at Linford Park; 2pm at Stowe Park. FREE. 704-825-8191. Bring your own basket to hunt for eggs. cityofbelmont.com.

MARCH 25 Pictures With the Easter Bunny. Holbrook Park, 100 Sherwood Drive, Huntersville. 1-3pm. FREE. Take photos with the Easter Bunny and then enjoy kids’ activities. huntersville.org.

MARCH 27 Naturalist Egg Hunt. Wing Haven Gardens and Bird Sanctuary, 248 Ridgewood Ave. Ages 10 and younger. 10am-noon. $15-$20. 704-331-0664. Make binoculars before venturing through the gardens on a naturalist egg hunt to spot songbirds, learning about each one along the way. winghavengardens.org.

and younger. 10am. FREE. 704-951-3006. Enjoy games, crafts, a visit from the Easter Bunny, and an Easter egg hunt. mtholly.us.

Egg Stravaganza Family Storytime. York County Library, 138 E. Black St., Rock Hill. Ages 11 and younger. 6pm. FREE. 803-981-5858. Go for an egg hunt, listen to a story and participate in Easter activities. Space is limited; register online. yclibrary.org.

MARCH 28 Toddler Easter Egg Hunt. Tuckaseegee Park, 165 Broome St., Mount Holly. Ages 5

Easter Egg Hunt With Uptown Church. Uptown Church, Independence Park, 300 Hawthorne Lane. Ages 9 and younger. 10am-noon. FREE. 705-3757355. Enjoy an egg hunt, face painting, giveaways, giftcard prizes, food and entertainment. No registration required. uptownchurch.org. Latta Plantation Easter Egg Hunt. Historic Latta Plantation, 5225 Sample Road, Huntersville. Ages 1-10. 10am-3pm. 704-875-2312. This reservation-only event includes an egg hunt, children’s activities, crafts and storytimes. Each hunt begins at the top of the hour, but has specified age restrictions. Check the website for details. lattaplantation.org.

ONGOING EASTER EVENTS MARCH 9-31 Bunnyville. Northlake Mall, 6801 Northlake Mall Drive. Mon.-Sat., 10am-1pm, 1:45-5pm, and 5:45-9pm; Sun., noon-3pm and 3:45-6pm. Free to visit; cost for photos. 704-921-2000. Stop by Bunnyville on the lower level in Grand Court and have your photo taken with the Easter Bunny. shopnorthlake.com.

MARCH 24-29 The Golden Egg Hunt. Various parks in Harrisburg: Stallings Park, Harrisburg Park, Pharr Mill Park, Harris Depot Park and Veteran’s Park. FREE. 704-455-0724. Hunt for plastic eggs filled with candy and small toys, and 100 golden eggs hidden throughout various parks in Harrisburg. Golden eggs can be redeemed for a prize at the Golden Egg Hunt event on March 29 from 6-8pm at Harrisburg Park. The event includes a visit with the Easter Bunny, family activities, inflatables and food. harrisburgnc.org.

MARCH 30-APRIL 8 Easter Eggstravaganza and Spring Break. Carowinds Amusement Park, 300 Carowinds Blvd. $40+; includes price to amusement park. Come to Carowinds to take part in the eggstra-special activities, crafts and entertainment, and get your photo with Eggward the Easter Bunny and Snoopy the Easter Beagle. carowinds.com.

charlotteparent.com | MARCH 2018

›

CALENDAR

1 THURSDAY Board Game Night at Barnes and Noble. Barnes and Noble, The Arboretum, 3327 Pineville-Matthews Road. 6pm. FREE. 704341-9365. Bring a favorite game or play some available at the store, including Ticket to Ride, Machi Koro, Superfight, Munchkin and Star Wars Chess. stores.barnesandnoble.com. On Stage: The Diary of Anne Frank. See page 35.

2 FRIDAY Dr. Seuss Birthday Party. Mount Holly Branch Library, 245 W. Catawba Ave., Mount Holly. 3:30-4:30pm. FREE. 704-827-3581. Celebrate the author’s birthday with books and crafts. gastonlibrary.org. Dr. Seuss Birthday Program. Cornelius Library, 21105 Catawba Ave. Ages 5 and younger. 1-1:45pm. FREE. 704-416-3800. Celebrate the life of Dr. Theodor “Seuss” Geisel through stories and songs. cmlibrary.org. Full Moon Hike. Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, 2900 Rocky River Road. Ages 8 and older. 7-8pm. FREE. 980-314-1119. Feel the energy of the full moon while navigating the trails at Reedy Creek Nature Preserve. parkandrec.com. PJs and Paintbrushes. Davidson Parks and Recreation, 865 South St., Davidson. Grades 1-5. 6pm. $25-$30. 704-892-3349. Young artists can come dressed in their pajamas for an evening of painting a winter wonderland landscape. Registration required. davidsoncommunitycalendar.org. On Stage: Caleb Sigmon Live! Nothing Up My Sleeve; Freedom Train; and The Diary of Anne Frank. See page 35.

3 SATURDAY Art and Music Workshops by Guerilla Poets. West Boulevard Library, 2157 West Blvd. Art workshop from 11am-noon. Music workshop from 12:30-1:30pm. FREE. 704416-7400. Learn about making vision boards and a DJ class. artsandscience.org. Bank of America’s Museums on Us Day. Locations vary. FREE. Bank of America and Merrill Lynch cardholders can gain free access to participating museums in the Charlotte area, including The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, Harvey B. Gantt Center for AfricanAmerican Arts + Culture, Levine Museum of the New South, Mint Museum Randolph,

and Mint Museum Uptown. museums. bankofamerica.com. Hello Kitty Café. Northlake Mall, Entry One near H&M, 6801 Northlake Mall Dr. 10am-8pm. The Hello Kitty Cafe Truck is making an appearance at Northlake Mall. Enjoy yummy macarons, mini cakes, cookies, bow-shaped water bottles and other goodies, each infused with unique Hello Kitty details. shopnorthlake.com. Run Jen Run 5K and Festival. Symphony Park, 4400 Sharon Road. 8am. $5-$40. Participate in the 5K or 1-mile Fun Run to benefit the GoJenGo Foundation, a nonprofit helping in the fight against breast cancer. Stay after for the kids’ zone with a bounce house and live music. runjenrun. racesonline.com. Saturday Children’s Yoga. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont. Ages 3 and younger. 11:30am-noon. $6 per class. 704-825-4490. This class focuses on movement and energy release. Parent participation required. dsbg.org. Track Trails: Hikin’ to Find Lichen. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. Ages 8 and older. 10-11am. FREE. 980-314-1128. Hike 1.2 miles while learning about lichen, moss, algae and other fungi. Registration is required. parkandrec.com. On Stage: Caleb Sigmon Live! Nothing Up My Sleeve; Classics for Kids Live; Freedom Train; and The Diary of Anne Frank. See page 35.

4 SUNDAY Bank of America’s Museums on Us Day. Locations vary. FREE. Bank of America and Merrill Lynch cardholders can gain free access to participating museums in the Charlotte area, including The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, Harvey B. Gantt Center for AfricanAmerican Arts + Culture, Levine Museum of the New South, Mint Museum Randolph, and Mint Museum Uptown. museums. bankofamerica.com. Seuss-a-thon. Main Street Children’s Museum, 133 E. Main St., Rock Hill. Ages 6 and younger. 1-4:30 pm. $6, free for children under age 1. 803-327-6400. Make silly hats, march in parades, play Dr. Seuss bingo, and fish for one fish, two fish, red fish, blue fish to celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday. chmuseums.org. On Stage: Caleb Sigmon Live! Nothing Up My Sleeve; Freedom Train; and The Diary of Anne Frank. See page 35.

MARCH 2018 | charlotteparent.com

5 MONDAY

9 FRIDAY

STEM 101 for Preteens. Beatties Ford Road Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. Ages 10-12. 4-5pm. FREE. 704-416-3000. Participate in a variety of hands-on science experiments, engineering projects or math puzzles. cmlibrary.org.

Adventure Seekers Kids Night Out. Anne Springs Close Greenway, 971 Tom Hall St., Fort Mill. Ages 7-14. 5:30-9pm. $25 per child. 803-547-4575. Children can enjoy pizza, games and activities while parents enjoy a night out. Weather permitting, there is a night hike, s’mores and archery. Register online. ascgreenway.org. Preschool Explorers: St. Patrick’s (Sham) Rocks. McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 South York Road. Ages 2-6. 10-10:45am and 11-11:45am. $4. 980-314-2267. Follow the clues to find secret leprechaun treasure, plus crafts, games, songs, animal encounters and outdoor exploration. Registration required. parkandrec.com. On Stage: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. See page 35.

6 TUESDAY American Girl Book Club. Charlotte Mecklenburg Library–Mint Hill, 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill. Ages 5-11. 4-5pm. FREE. 704-416-5200. Join the first Tuesday of each month to explore the lives and times of the American Girl Doll series with crafts, games, food and fun. cmlibrary.org. Drop In and STEM. Gaston Public Library, 1555 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. Grades K-5. 3:30-4:30pm. FREE. 704-868-2164. Drop in for a variety of STEM-related activities. gastonlibrary.org.

7 WEDNESDAY Free Wednesday Evenings at the Mint Museum. Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Road; Mint Museum Uptown, 500 S. Tryon St. 5-9pm. FREE. 704-337-2000. Explore the Mint Museum’s exhibitions at no cost. mintmuseum.org. Homeschool Rally Junior Edition: Digging for Treasure – Geodes and Fossil Dirt. ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. Ages 5-11. 11am-1pm. FREE. 704-416-4630. Homeschool children can explore STEM and arts activities themed around digging for treasure, including geodes and fossil dirt from the N.C. coast. No registration required. cmlibrary.org.

8 THURSDAY Preschool Explorers: St. Patrick’s (Sham) Rocks. McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 S. York Road. Ages 2-6. 10-10:45am and 11-11:45am. $4. 980-314-2267. Follow the clues to find secret leprechaun treasure, plus crafts, games, songs, animal encounters and outdoor exploration. Registration required. parkandrec.com. Tot Time. Perfect Balance, 8850 Monroe Road. Ages 5 and younger. 11:30am-12:30pm. $5-$6. 980-299-8445. Enjoy an hour of open play in the gym. There is no instructor, so parents are in charge of their children. Monday-Friday. perfectbalancecharlotte.com.

10 SATURDAY Animal Meet and Greet. Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, 2900 Rocky River Road. 10-11am. FREE. 980-314-1119. Discover the secrets of the animals at Reedy Creek. Register online. parkandrec.com. Children’s Art Weekend. Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont. 11am-3pm. $6.95-$12.95, includes garden admission. 704-825-4490. Engage in creative hands-on activities, paper-making demonstrations and crafts based on ancient Egyptian culture and weaving. dsbg.org. Harry Potter Science Saturday. Museum of York County, 4621 Mount Gallant Road, Rock Hill. 10am-4pm. $6-$10. A day of activities and information featuring real science based on the popular “Harry Potter” book series of books and movies. chmuseums.org. JAARS Day. JAARS Center, 7405 Jaars Road, Waxhaw. 9am-4pm. Free admission; cost for rides. 704-843-6130. Ride in a missionary aircraft, go off-roading in a 4WD vehicle, try out Bible translation, visit museums, and more. jaars.org. Jules and Verne’s Excellent Adventure by Madcap Puppets. York County Library, 138 E. Black St., Rock Hill. 11am-noon. FREE. 803-981-5858. Madcap Puppets presents Jules and Verne as they race around the world. No registration required. yclibrary.org. NASCAR Hall of Fame 2nd Saturday: Women in Racing. NASCAR Hall of Fame, 400 E. Martin Luther King Blvd. 10am-4pm.

› 12-$25, includes museum admission. 888-902-6463. Learn about female drivers, inventors, engineers, reporters officials and owners through through interactive games and trivia. nascarhall.com. Saint Patrick’s Day Parade in Downtown Mooresville. Main Street from Iredell to Center avenues, Mooresville. 3pm. FREE. A celebration of Saint Patrick’s Day, including two Irish Pipe Bands, Irish dancers, green cars and family fun. downtownmooresville.com. York County Kids Fest and Summer Camp Fair. The River Place, 8400 Regent Pkwy., Fort Mill. 10am-3pm. FREE. 813-463-2712. Enjoy bounce houses, face painting, a photo booth, balloon animals, fun activity zones and special guests throughout the day. Register ahead of time and earn a door prize at entry. yorkcountykidsfest.eventbrite.com. On Stage: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe; and The Most Incredible Thing. See page 35.

11 SUNDAY Children’s Art Weekend. Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont. 11am-3pm. $6.95-$12.95, includes garden admission. 704-825-4490. Engage in creative hands-on activities, paper-making demonstrations and crafts based on ancient Egyptian culture and weaving. dsbg.org. On Stage: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe; and The Most Incredible Thing. See page 35.

12 MONDAY Pajama Rama on the Plaza. Plaza Midwood Library, 1623 Central Ave. 7-7:30pm. FREE. 704-416-6200. Wear your pjs on the second Monday of each month for a family storytime that is perfect for bedtime. cmlibrary.org. Small Stalks. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont. Ages 2-5 years. 10-11am. $10 per parent/child; $6 for each additional participant. 704-829-1252. Preschool-age children can explore nature with songs, games and crafts, and play in Lost Hollow. dsbg.org. The Charlotte Museum of History Spring Homeschool Day. Charlotte Museum of History, 3500 Shamrock Drive. 1-4pm. $5-$10. 704-568-1774. Look at spring in the colonies through the eyes of the native populations and the colonists. Learn about technology,

CALENDAR

See a family matinee performance of Charlotte Ballet’s “The Most Incredible Thing,” March 10-11 and 17-18. Photo by Hugo Glendinning

ON STAGE Freedom Train. (Through March 4). Matthews Community Center, 100 McDowell St. E., Matthews. $11-$13. 704-8468343. Using traditional songs of the period, “Freedom Train” recounts the inspiring tale of Harriet Tubman’s courage, dedication, perseverance and the strength. Friday performances at 7:30pm. Saturday and Sunday performances at 2pm. matthewsplayhouse.com. The Diary of Anne Frank. (Through March 4). Armour Street Theatre, 307 Armour St., Davidson. Ages 12 and older. $12-$20. 704-892-7953. Learn about the life of young Anne Frank, set in the summer of 1942. Performances Thursday through Sunday, 8pm; and Sunday, 2pm. davidsoncommunityplayers.org. Caleb Sigmon Live! Nothing Up My Sleeve. (March 2-4). ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. Ages 5 and older. $12-$20. 704-416-4600. See magician Caleb Sigmon make a daring escape, play with the weather, predict the future and travel back in time. Arrive early to examine special props from the show. See website for showtimes. ctcharlotte.org. Classics for Kids Live. (March 3). Stage Door Theatre, 130 N. Tryon St. 11am. Free. 704-372-1000. Naomi Lewin, host of the nationally syndicated radio program “Classics for Kids,” guides classical music fans of on an exploration of Vivaldi’s masterpiece “The Four Seasons.” Reserve your seat in advance. blumenthalarts.org.

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. (March 9-April 15). ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. Ages 6 and older. $12-$28. 704-416-4600. Travel through the magical wardrobe to Narnia in this clever two-person adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ acclaimed tale. Performances Friday through Sunday. See website for showtimes. ctcharlotte.org. The Most Incredible Thing. (March 9-18). Knight Theater, 430 S. Tryon St. Performances Thursday-Sunday. See website for showtimes. $15-$85. 704-372-1000. Charlotte Ballet presents this fairytale pop ballet of Hans Christian Andersen’s fable about a king who holds a competition to determine who can make the “most incredible thing.” Saturday and Sunday family matinee performances include pre-show activities, including a crown-decorating station and musical instrument exploration. charlotteballet.org. The Princess and the Pea. (Mar. 23-25). Black Box Theatre at the Ballantyne Arts Center, 11318 N. Community House Road. Ages 2 and older. $11. 704-716-4670. The Youth Theatre Company performs this fairytale classic. Come see if the prince is able to find a princess to marry. Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 4pm; and Sunday, 2 and 4pm. ymcacharlotte.org. Disney Junior Dance Party! On Tour. (March 25). Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, 130 N. Tryon St. 1 and 4pm. Tickets start at $25. 704-372-1000. Sing along to Disney Junior’s greatest hits with your favorite characters. Join hosts Dee and Jay as they welcome Mickey, Minnie, and other Disney characters on-stage to perform popular songs and dance along. blumenthalarts.org. charlotteparent.com | MARCH 2018

CALENDAR | ›› CALENDAR

daily medicine, spring renewal, and join in a scavenger hunt. charlottemuseum.org. Wee Sprouts. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont. Ages 2 and younger. 11:15am-noon. $6-$10. 704829-1252. Explore colors, shapes, movement, texture and a host of other topics in a safe and nurturing environment. dsbg.org.

13 TUESDAY Saint Patrick’s Day Celebration. West Boulevard Library, 2157 West Blvd. Ages 5-18. 4-5pm. FREE. 704-416-7400. Tweens, teens, and school-age children are invited to participate in traditional Irish games and activities, and make recipes to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day. cmlibrary.org.

14 WEDNESDAY Shop for gently used toys, clothes and more at spring consignment sales. Photo courtesy of For Every Season Consignment Sale

SPRING CONSIGNMENT SALES Tarheel Kids Consignment Sale. (March 1-3) Cabarrus Arena and Events Center, 4751 US Hwy. 49 N., Concord. Thurs., 6-9pm; Fri., 9am-4pm; Sat., 9am-5pm and 5:30-9:30pm. Free admission. 704-644-3972. tarheelkidsconsignment.com. Covenant Community Preschool Children’s Consignment Sale. (March 2-3). Christ United Methodist Church Family Life Center, 3415 Union Road, Gastonia. Fri., 6-9pm; Sat., 8am-noon. Free admission. 704-864-5675. covenantcommunitypreschool.com. Harris YMCA Kids Consignment Sale. (March 3-4). Harris YMCA, 5900 Quail Hollow Road. Free admission. Sat., 8am-noon and 1:30-3:30pm; Sun. 2:30-4:30pm. 704-716-6843. Buy quality children’s clothing (infant through size 16), toys, books, bikes, baby gear, strollers and furniture. Sunday is $10 fill-a-bag sale day. No children under the age of 9 allowed in sales area. ymcacharlotte.org. Weddington Kids Consignment Sale. (March 9-10). Family Life Center of Weddington United Methodist Church, 13901 Providence Road, Weddington. Fri., 5-8pm; Sat., 8am-noon and 1-3pm. $10 Friday public presale, free admission on Saturday. weddingtonkidsconsignmentsale.com. Myers Park Presbyterian Church Children’s Consignment Sale. (March 10). Myers Park Presbyterian Church, 2501 Oxford Place. 8-11am and noon-2pm. Free admission. myersparkpres.org.

MARCH 2018 | charlotteparent.com

Green Jeans Consignment Sale. (March 13-18). Levine Senior Center, 1050 Devore Lane, Matthews. Free admission. Check website for operating hours. Shop for bargains at this spring consignment sale that carries designer-brand items for teens and adults. greenjeanssale.com. Assurance UMC Kid’s Consignment Sale. (March 16-17). Assurance United Methodist Church, 9700 Mount Holly-Huntersville Road. Fri., 9am-7pm; Sat., 8am-noon. Free admission. 704-391-9567. facebook.com/assurancekidssale. Matthews UMC Children/Teen Consignment Sale. (March 17). Matthews United Methodist Church, 801 S. Trade St., Matthews. 8am-noon and 1-3pm. Free admission. reducereuseconsign.com. For Every Season Consignment Sale. (March 18-19, 22-24). The River Place, 8400 Regent Pkwy., Fort Mill. See website for operating hours. Free admission. Shop for highquality, affordable children’s clothing, toys, furniture and accessories. foreveryseason.net. Kids Spring/Summer Consignment Sale. (March 23-24). First Baptist Church Indian Trail, 732 Indian Trail-Fairview Road, Indian Trail. Fri., 9am-1pm and 3-8pm; Sat., 8am-noon (halfprice sale). Shop for quality, gently used children’s clothing, toys, infant items, shoes, books, games and furniture. No bags, strollers or carts allowed. fbcit.org.

Code-a-Bot: Lego Edition. York Public Library, 21 E. Liberty St., York. Ages 7-11. 3:30-5pm. FREE. 803-684-3751. Explore the basics of coding with Lego Robotics. Register online. yclibrary.org. Free Wednesday Evenings at the Mint Museum. Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Road; Mint Museum Uptown, 500 S. Tryon St. 5-9pm. FREE. 704-337-2000. Explore the Mint Museum’s exhibitions at no cost. mintmuseum.org.

15 THURSDAY Code-a-Bot: Lego Edition. York Public Library, 21 E. Liberty St., York. Ages 7-11. 4:30-6pm. FREE. 803-684-3751. Explore the basics of coding with Lego Robotics. Register online. yclibrary.org.

16 FRIDAY Bechtler by Night: Game Night. The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, 420 S. Tryon St. 5-9pm. FREE. 704-353-9200. Older children and adults can join in a game of trivia, and younger children can play with the giant jenga set. There is also Bingo, scavenger hunts and gallery games. bechtler.org. Crafty Critters. Latta Plantation Nature Preserve, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. Ages 4-11. 10:30-11:30am. $3. 980-314-1129. Explore the natural world through arts and crafts. Registration required. parkandrec.com. On Stage: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. See page 35.

›

17 SATURDAY

SAINT PATRICK’S DAY Charlotte Goes Green Festival. S. Tryon St. between Third and Stonewall streets 10am-6pm. FREE. This festival features Irish music, Irish dancers, bagpipers, vendors, children’s amusements and plenty of food and beverages. charlottestpatsday.com. Charlotte Saint Patrick’s Day Parade. Uptown Charlotte. 11am. FREE. Pipe and drum bands, musical groups, schools, alumni groups, cheerleading, drill teams, international organizations march through uptown charlotte along Tryon St., beginning at Ninth Street, turning at Third Street where it takes a left and marches down Third Street to Caldwell Street. charlottestpatsday.com. Latta Celtic Festival. Historic Latta Plantation, 5225 Sample Road, Huntersville. 10am-4pm. $8-$9; free for children 5 and under. 704875-2312. Celebrate all things Celtic with live music, food, arts and crafts, Celtic heritage demonstrations, plus storytimes, dancing and farm animals. lattaplantation.org. Leaping Leprechauns. Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, 2900 Rocky River Road. Ages 6 and older. 1-3pm. FREE. 980-314-1119. Be on the look out for a leprechaun while also learning about wildlife. Drop in anytime. parkandrec.com. Learn to Ride. Winget Park Rec Center, 12235 Winget Road. 11am-1pm. FREE. Children (and adults) can learn to ride a bike using the tried-and-true balance bike method. learntorideclt.com. Leprechaun Trek. The Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. Ages 7 and younger. 1, 2 and 3pm. $4-$10, includes museum admission. 704-854-6676. Look for clues left behind by a mischievous leprechaun to find his pot of treasure while learning the stories behind Saint Patrick’s Day. Space is limited; call for tickets. schielemuseum.org. Magical Habitats. Latta Plantation Nature Preserve, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. Ages 6-10. 2-3pm. $3. 980-314-1129. Discover the enchantment of the woods as you learn about real animal habitats and build your own enchanted fairy homes. parkandrec.com. Saturday Children’s Yoga. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont. Ages 3 and younger. 11:30am-noon. $6 per class. 704-825-4490. This class focuses

on movement and energy release. Parent participation required. dsbg.org. Saint Patrick’s Day on Main Festival. Old Town Rock Hill, E. Main St., Rock Hill. 4-10pm. FREE. Enjoy games, music, a photo booth, and a kids zone of activities. rockhillevent.com. Saint Patrick’s Day Storytime and Craft at SAS Cupcakes. SAS Cupcakes, 9941 Rea Road, Suite C. 10:30am. $6. 704-2951777. Kids can frost cupcakes, listen to a story and make Saint Patrick’s Day crafts. sascupcakes.com. Saint Patrick’s Day Treasure Hunt. McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 S. York Road. 10am-4pm. FREE. 980-314-2267. Follow the leprechauns’ clues through the woods to find the hidden treasure on this self-guided treasure hunt. Wear a sturdy pair of shoes. Drop-ins welcome; registration is not required. parkandrec.com. On Stage: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe; and The Most Incredible Thing. See page 35.

18 SUNDAY Frog Fables and Turtle Tails. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. Ages 2 and older. 3-3:45pm. FREE. 980-314-1128. Step inside the world of turtles, frogs and snakes through a literary adventure and animal meet and greet. Walk-ins welcome. parkandrec.com. Latta Celtic Festival. Historic Latta Plantation, 5225 Sample Road, Huntersville. 10am-4pm. $8-$9; free for children age 5 and under. 704-875-2312. Celebrate all things Celtic with live music, food, arts and crafts, Celtic heritage demonstrations, plus storytimes, dancing and farm animals. lattaplantation.org. Sunday Fun Day: Fresh Start With Modern Art. Mint Museum Uptown, 500 S. Tryon St. 1-4pm. Children admitted free; $6 adult admission. 704-337-2000. Visit the newly reinstalled modern and contemporary galleries, create a Warhol-style print, explore abstract painting and enjoy a performance by the Charlotte Children’s Choir. mintmuseum.org. On Stage: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe; and The Most Incredible Thing. See page 35.

19 MONDAY

Kids’ Day at Dish It Out. Dish It Out, 7828 Rea Road. Ages 16 and younger. 10am-8pm. $3 per hour. 704-544-4848. Paint pottery for just $3 per hour each Monday through May. dishitout.net.

20 TUESDAY FIRST DAY OF SPRING Acts of Kindness Club. Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville. Grades K-7. 4:30-5pm. FREE. 704-6642927. Work together to make a difference creating simple projects for the community. mooresvillelibrary.org. Storytime and More. Wing Haven Children’s Garden, 260 Ridgewood Ave. Ages 10 and younger. 10-11am. $10 per family. 704-3310664. Join Rutherford Rabbit in the Children’s Garden for a story and activity. Water the vegetable plants, explore the sensory and butterfly gardens and enjoy the Wing Haven chickens. winghavengardens.org. The Very Hungry Caterpillar Day. Gaston Public Library, 1555 E. Garrison Blvd. 10am-9pm. FREE. 704-868-2164. Drop in for Eric Carle-inspired crafts and activities. gastonlibrary.org. Youth Workshops in Clay by Clayworks. Independence Regional Library, 6000 Conference Drive. 2:30-3:30pm. FREE. 704-416-4800. This ceramic art series engages youth in hands-on visual art projects that integrate science, nature, and multicultural heritage. Topics include Face Jugs in North Carolina and the science of clay. artsandscience.org.

21 WEDNESDAY Family Storytime: Puppet Show. Mint Hill Library, 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill. Ages 18 months-age 5. 6:30-7pm. FREE. 704-416-5200. Enjoy stories, songs and movement activities that support early literacy skill development and help foster a love of books and reading in your child. cmlibrary.org. Free Wednesday Evenings at the Mint Museum. Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Road; Mint Museum Uptown, 500 S. Tryon St. 5-9pm. FREE. 704-337-2000. Explore the Mint Museum’s exhibitions at no cost. mintmuseum.org. Mini-Masters Workshop: Chinese Blossoms. Mint Museum Randolph, 2730

CALENDAR

Randolph Road. Ages 3-5. 1:30-2:45pm. $16 per child. 704-337-2000. Children, accompanied by an adult, can look for nature in the Chinese ceramic collection, and blow paint and stamp a plum-blossom picture. Register online. mintmuseum.org. Wee Wednesday. Main Street Children’s Museum, 133 E. Main St., Rock Hill. Ages 3 and younger. 10:30am. FREE. 803327-6400. Enjoy stories, movement with music, and a seasonal craft. chmuseums. org.

22 THURSDAY Adaptive Experience for Children: Sensory Storytime. ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. Ages 3-5. 6-6:30pm. FREE. 704-416-4630. Join us for this library program filled with literacy-related activities specifically designed for youth with autism spectrum disorders, sensory integration issues or other developmental disabilities. cmlibrary.org. Family Game Night. Gaston Public Library, 1555 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 6-8pm. FREE. 704-868-2164. Play classic, familyfriendly board games and enjoy light refreshments. gastonlibrary.org.

23 FRIDAY Museum Camp In: Fur, Feathers and Ferns. The Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 7pm-9am. $35. 704-8691033. Spend the night at the museum and become a museum naturalist as you learn about animals and plants. Explore the natural world through hands-on activities and crafts. Event includes an evening snack and breakfast. Advanced registration required. schielemuseum.org. On Stage: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe; and The Princess and the Pea. See page 35.

24 SATURDAY The Big Spring Clean 2018. Locations vary. 9am-1pm. FREE. 704-336-7600. Help clean up streams and learn about local waterways. Register for one of the locations sponsored across Mecklenburg County. All supplies provided. facebook.com/stormwaterCM. Creative Clay Workshop Series by Clayworks. Hickory Grove Library, 5935 Hickory Grove Road. 1-3pm. FREE. 704-

charlotteparent.com | MARCH 2018

›

CALENDAR

416-4400. It’s Creative Clay Family Day. Learn about the history and cultural influences of clay and the ceramic arts. artsandscience.org. Family First Presented by Novant Health: Children’s Film Festival. Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture, 551 S. Tryon St. Begins at 1pm. $7-$9, free for children under age 5. See 15-20 minute animated shorts followed by art workshops and other activities, plus a question-and-answer session with Karyn Parsons, best known for her role as Hilary Banks on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” and founder of the nonprofit Sweet Blackberry. ganttcenter.org. On Stage: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe; and The Princess and the Pea. See page 35.

25 SUNDAY Natural Happenings: Wildflowers. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 2-4pm. FREE. 980-314-1128. Celebrate the return of spring with a McDowell naturalist on a hike for wildflowers. Registration is required. parkandrec.com. On Stage: Disney Junior Dance Party! On Tour; The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe; and The Princess and the Pea. See page 35.

26 MONDAY Chicago White Sox Versus Charlotte Knights Exhibition Game. BB&T Ballpark, 324 S. Mint St. 6pm. The 2018 season marks Charlotte’s 20th year as the top affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. This is the fourth exhibition game between the two clubs and the first since 2015. milb.com. Small Stalks. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont. Ages 2-5 years. 10-11am. $6-$10. 704-8291252. Preschool-age children can explore nature with songs, games, crafts, and play in Lost Hollow. dsbg.org. Wee Sprouts. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont. Ages 2 and younger. 11:15am-noon. $6-$10. 704-829-1252. Explore colors, shapes, movement, texture and a host of other topics in a safe and nurturing environment. dsbg.org.

27 TUESDAY Magic Tree House Book Club. Belmont Branch Library, 125 North Central Ave., Belmont. Ages 7 and older. 3:30-4:30pm. FREE. 704-825-5426. Take a closer look at the history, cultures, places, and things encountered by Jack and Annie on the “Magic Tree House” book series. Reading the books is not required for attendance. gastonlibrary.org. Read With Baron the Dog. Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville. 3:30-4:30pm. FREE. 704-664-2927. Children can practice reading skills by reading a book to Baron, the lovable German Shepherd, a certified therapy dog. mooresvillelibrary.org.

28 WEDNESDAY Free Wednesday Evenings at the Mint Museum. Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Road; Mint Museum Uptown, 500 S. Tryon St. 5-9pm. FREE. 704-337-2000. Explore the Mint Museum’s exhibitions at no cost. mintmuseum.org.

29 THURSDAY Puppet Show. ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. Ages 3-5. 11:30am-noon. FREE. 704-416-4630. Explore stories and songs through a puppet show created and presented by the Spangler Library storytellers. cmlibrary.org. Super Secret Spy School. York County Library, 138 E. Black St., Rock Hill. Ages 7-11. 4-5:15pm. FREE. 803-981-5858. Learn what it takes to become a spymaster by participating in spyrelated activities. Register online. yclibrary.org.

30 FRIDAY Crafty Critters. Latta Plantation Nature Preserve, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. Ages 4-11. 10:30-11:30am. $3. 980-3141129. Explore the natural world through arts and crafts with different themes for each session. Registration required. parkandrec.com. Music With Holly. ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. Ages 18 months-5 years. 11:30am-noon. FREE. 704-416-4630. Join in a one-of-a-kind music-and-movement program created by Holly Johnson that fuses learning and listening with songs, musical instruments and movement. cmlibrary.org. On Stage: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. See page 35.

31 SATURDAY A Bird’s-Eye View. Latta Plantation Nature Preserve, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. Ages 6-10. 1-2pm. FREE. 980-314-1129. Explore what it’s like to be a bird, practice your identification skills, and make a bird-themed craft. Registration required. parkandrec.com. Parents’ Night Out. Bounce U, Charlotte and Matthews locations. Ages 4-11. 6:45-10pm. $20 per child. 704-921-8771. Children can enjoy a night of non-stop bouncing and games while parents have a night out. bounceu.com. What Comes From Eggs? McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 S.York Road. Ages 3-12. 2:30-4:30pm. $5. 980314-2267. Search the trails with a McDowell Naturalist and compare eggs from amphibians, reptiles, birds and insects. Afterwards, make a craft to take home. Registration required. parkandrec.com. On Stage: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. See page 35.

CALENDAR POLICY :: The Charlotte Parent calendar lists free and low-cost local and regional events for children and families. To submit an event for consideration, go to charlotteparent.com/ calendar, then click on Submit an Event. Submission deadline for print is the 5th of the month prior to the next month’s publication. Time, dates and details of events are subject to change. Call venue to confirm.

MARCH 2018 | charlotteparent.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

YOUR AD. THIS SPACE. NEXT MONTH. advertising@charlotteparent.com

›

Making a Disney Trip Truly Magical

DADDY DEREK Derek James with his wife and two boys at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. Photo courtesy of Derek James

BY DEREK JAMES

amily trips can be as stressful as they are fun. It’s a good idea to do a bit of planning beforehand, thereby allowing for more frivolity when you finally arrive. In January, my wife Kristen and I took our boys, ages 6 and 9, on our first-ever family trip to Disney World. We were there for three days. Here are our five tips for getting the most out of your time and money. Stay at a Disney-operated hotel. There are two big reasons to do this. First, it’s easy to get transportation to and from your hotel. You don’t need to spend a ton of money either. We stayed at one of the “value” resorts because the only time spent in our room was sleeping and showering. It’s no frills but had everything we needed and the staff was phenomenal. The bigger reason, however, to stay on property is the earlier access to FastPass, which allows you to skip the lines on the most popular rides. Speaking of FastPasses ... Book your FastPasses early. If staying at a Disney hotel, you can book three FastPasses per day, starting 60 days before your trip. Everyone else who has paid for park tickets can book FastPasses starting 30 days out. We booked as soon as allowed through our MyDisney account. We used the FastPasses for the rides with the longest wait times, including Space Mountain, the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Avatar Flight of Passage, Expedition Everest, and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster. Some of these rides had wait times of three to four hours at peak times without a FastPass. Waiting five to seven minutes for the most popular rides is a much better way to take advantage of your time at the parks.

Get a Disney meal plan. We chose a meal plan that covered two quick-service meals and two snacks per day, per person. You don’t receive table service, but if you’re OK with ordering in a cafeteriastyle line, it’s worth it. Kid staples like pizza, cheeseburgers and chicken nuggets are available at quick-service restaurants throughout the park, while adults can enjoy flank steak, roasted chicken and salads. We did purchase one table-service meal: the Fantasmic! Dining Package. We received an entrée, drink and dessert, along with VIP seating for Fantasmic!, a water and fireworks show at Hollywood Studios that stars all the major Disney characters. Be sure to use all of your snacks. Looking back, we didn’t use enough of them on the first two days, so we ended up going a little crazy on our last day and still had leftover credits, which we used to buy snacks for the drive home. Sign up for Star Wars Jedi Training. This was one of the most incredible

experiences for our boys. Children between 4 and 12 years old can take part in the free Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple show at Hollywood Studios. It is first-come, firstserved, so get to the park before it opens and run to the Indiana Jones Outpost to sign up. Your kids get to wield lightsabers against Darth Vader or Kylo Ren in front of a live audience. We got some of the most epic pictures from this experience. Speaking of that … Purchase a Disney Memory Maker PhotoPass Package. If you are on your first visit or if you have younger kids who want pictures with characters, get the package. We have more than 200 professional photographs in front of iconic park locations, character interactions, as well as pictures and video from some of the most popular rides. Derek James is a host of WCCB News Rising. He and his wife live in Charlotte with their two sons who are ages 9 and 6.

charlotteparent.com | MARCH 2018

â&#x20AC;ş

FACES & PLACES

This was Scarlettâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first experience with snow and, boy, was she excited. Mommy and Daddy had a difficult time getting her back indoors. Photo and memory by Shanay Dockins of Charlotte.

Share your real-life moment at charlotteparent.com/contests.

MARCH 2018 | charlotteparent.com