Charlotte Parent Charlotte Aug 2018 by Morris Media Network

August 2018 â&#x20AC;¢ Free

Stepping up to Kindergarten! WHAT TO EXPECT

School tools for your SUPER KIDS TAKE A TRIP TO ST. SIMONS ISLAND

Secrets to Raising SELF-DRIVEN KIDS

Talking About a

SCHOOL LOCKDOWN charlotteparent.com | AUGUST 2018

CONTENT â&#x20AC;ş AUGUST 2018

Secrets to Raising a SelfDriven Child Expert advice to guide your child to the sweet spot of independence

Stepping up to Kindergarten Changes to anticipate from your child during the first year of school

Super School Supplies Back-to-school supplies for the marvelous super kids in your life

School Lockdowns Opening up the conversation about the purpose of school lockdown drills

IN EVERY ISSUE 5

FYI

10 Growing Up 11 Families Managing Media 22 Excursion 32 Daddy Derek Inside back cover: Faces and Places

CALENDAR 23 Our Picks 25 Daily Calendar 27 On Exhibit 28 On Stage

23 charlotteparent.com | AUGUST 2018

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Slow Down to Enjoy the Last Days of Summer

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t seems like the bell for the last

EDITOR

day of school just rang and here

Michele Huggins

it is just a few weeks away from

the start of a new school year. Store shelves have been filled with school supplies since July while I’m happily shopping for an extra pair of flipflops and more sunscreen because summer isn’t over yet! I feel like part of preparing for the school year is not being overly anxious about the beginning of a new year. Summer days are meant to be enjoyed to the fullest. Kids learn a lot outside the classroom during the summer, from creative ways to fill the day to how to negotiate in a new camp environment. Summer adventures take us to new places as well as familiar ones, and all those experiences are opportunities to learn new things about nature, navigation, relationships and flexibility. Summer is about life lessons that can become motivators for children to grow their independence and drive them to learn new things. Having unscheduled and unstructured time pushes children to make decisions without someone telling them where to be or what to do. These

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thinking skills are important to becoming an independent, confident person. In the story “Secrets to Raising Self-Driven Kids” on page 12, we give expert insight on how to help guide your child to the sweet spot of independence and away from the over-scheduled, perfection-driven society that can contribute to anxiety in children. Experts agree that giving children opportunities to make their own choices is crucial to become a happy, confident decision-maker later in life. With the new school year on the horizon, we also share our picks for school tools with a superhero theme. (If you haven’t seen “Incredibles 2” yet, don’t miss out!) And for first-time kindergarten parents, be sure to read the story “Stepping

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up to Kindergarten” on page 16 for some insight on the social and emotional skills you can expect to see develop in your child throughout the next year. Before the school bells ring, and we jump back into the routine schedules, enjoy these last days of summer — you can’t get them back!

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On Task School is back in session this month. Get your students back on schedule and ready for a smart start to the new school year with tips from executive functioning coach Lisa Podell in the blog On Task.

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Travel to three different islands from “Chicka Chicka Boom Boom” at the Storyland: A Trip Through Childhood Favorites”exhibition. Photo courtesy of Storyland

Take a Stroll Through Storyland: A Trip Through Childhood Favorites Explore seven beloved and award-winning picture books that have been transformed into three-dimensional bilingual learning environments at the Storyland: A Trip Through Childhood Favorites exhibition at ImaginOn uptown. Children can build vocabulary and narrative skills while searching for Peter’s lost belongings, harvesting vegetables and playing in Peter’s burrow like those found in the book “The Tale of Peter Rabbit.” Babies and young toddlers can experiment with busy wall interactives based on “Where’s Spot?” while adults can get tips about cultivating early-literacy skills. Other books included in the exhibit include “The Snowy Day,” “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie” and “Chicka Chicka Boom Boom.” Created with children ages 8 and younger in mind, the exhibition also highlights six early-reading skills: disposition to read, print awareness, letter knowledge, sound awareness, vocabulary and narrative skills and comprehension. After touring the exhibition, kids can create a drawing inspired by the books and write a caption, title or story to share in an electronic gallery via the digital drawing cam. Storyland: A Trip Though Childhood Favorites is free and runs through Sept. 9. See more deals online at imaginon.org/storyland.

Blumenthal Performing Arts and Discovery Place Science Partner for National Geographic Live! Blumenthal Performing Arts and Discovery Place Science have joined forces with National Geographic Live! to create a new experience for Charlotte-area explorers interested in discovering the natural world. National Geographic Live! is a speaker series that features thought-provoking presentations by leading explorers, scientists and photographers. Coral Kingdoms and Empires of Ice comes to Charlotte Oct. 23 with two additional programs slated in January and March 2019. In addition to the three public performances, the collaboration between Blumenthal Performing Arts and Discovery Place Science includes a dedicated performance by each of the National Geographic Live! speakers to area students via school shows. There also are special activities and experiences for the students at Discovery Place Science after each speaker presentation. Learn more at science.discoveryplace.org.

Shop Fall Consignment Sales Hot summer days aren’t over yet, but cooler days will soon have kids searching for jackets and long pants. Local fall consignment sales kick off this month. There are plenty of deals to find, but before you go, plan ahead with these tips. 1. Make a list. Know what you need, including clothing and shoe sizes for each child, as sales are final. 2. Bring your own tote bag. Most places do not provide shopping bags, so bring your own or bring a laundry basket with a handle to scoot around. 3. Plan to attend when you have ample time to shop. Rushing around a consignment sale can leave you frustrated and wishing you had more time. 4. Bring a friend. It’s more fun to shop with a friend and they can be your voice of reason when you question whether your kid really needs another pair of shoes. Find all the area consignment sale locations and dates on charlotteparent.com. charlotteparent.com | AUGUST 2018

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FYI

| education

READ Charlotte is one of four North Carolina organizations to receive national recognition for its literacy initiatives. Photo courtesy of READ Charlotte

Back on Task for the School Year Ahead Everyone deserves to take a break during the summer, but for a smoother transition back to school it is important to help children flex their learning muscles. Executive functioning coach Lisa Podell suggests the following to get back on task. Move morning tasks to the bedtime routine. Identify the tasks that increase morning stress and do them at night, such as choosing clothes to wear. Organize. Buy a basket or pick a location for phone charger, backpack and shoes. Use a calendar. Have your child write down appointments, chores and social activities on the calendar. Every Sunday, discuss how to plan for upcoming events. Regain focus. Attend a play, schedule game nights and reading sessions at home to help sustain focus before the school year starts. Increase independence. When out and about at events, agree on a time and place to reconvene. Set an alarm and discuss strategies to navigate back to the meeting point.

READ Charlotte Receives National Honors for Literacy Initiatives READ Charlotte is one of four North Carolina organizations recognized by the national Campaign for GradeLevel Reading for measurable progress on key indicators of early school success for its Data Collaborative project. Through partnerships with the YMCA, YWCA, Freedom School and other local nonprofits, literacy providers across the birth-through-third-grade continuum receive a comprehensive understanding of children’s language and literacy skills using a common assessment to develop a stronger understanding of areas for growth as it relates to students’ language and literacy development. READ Charlotte was also recognized for launching its Reading Success Dashboard, a community resource that makes it easy to track overall and school-by-school progress while empowering local community members to take action to improve early literacy outcomes in the schools they serve. Learn more at readcharlotte.org.

Books to Ease New-School Jitters A student expresses herself with poems when a substitute teacher comes to class in “Dear Substitute.” Disruptions can be hard for young ones just getting the hang of school. This story acknowledges the challenge of adapting to the unexpected while showing that not all bad days end that way. (Disney Publishing, $17.99).

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It’s the first day of kindergarten and a pirate captain and his squawking blue parrot are behind the wheel of the school bus, but even the fearless pirate gets frightened when encountering new situations in “Kindergarrrten Bus” (Sleeping Bear Press, $16.95). Pirate-speak and playful illustrations spotlight the mix of excitement and anxiety often felt on the first day of school, and how to deal with feelings in new situations.

of girls report an interest in STEM, but only 13 percent express an interest in STEM as their top career choice. Source:Girl Scouts Generation STEM report

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FYI | health

Back-to-School Mental Prep The beginning of a new school year is usually a time of great excitement … and some anxiety. A little preparation before the big day can go a long way in easing a child’s transition back to school, says Dr. Janelle White, pediatric regional medical director at University Pediatrics. The following tips can help kick-start a successful school year. 1. Sweet dreams. Ease back into a healthy bedtime routine at least two weeks before the start of school. 2. Prepare. If possible, talk to the teacher, the school nurse, and the guidance counselor ahead of time to inform them of any concerns you have in regard to your child’s learning or health. 3. Health matters. If your child has a food allergy or other health-care concern that requires special attention, speak with your child’s doctor and the school nurse to put a plan in place well in advance of the first day of school. 4. Safety first. Young children should know their name and how to spell it, their telephone number and their address. 5. Review school bus safety. If your child rides a bike or walks to school, know the “rules of the road” and rehearse the route to school in advance.

Let your child ask questions about the new school and assure them you will get through the transition together.

3 Tips to Navigate Transition to a Different School If your child (and you) are starting the year at a new school, the transition can be stressful, but there are ways to help ease into the new environment before the year begins, says Bea Moise, parenting coach and board-certified cognitive specialist at Southeast Psych. 1. Check to see if the school has a social media page. Read comments from parents and students to get a sense for the environment and school culture. 2. Let children ask questions. Listen to your child’s worries and assure them that you will get through the transition together. Be positive and talk about all the new and exciting experiences that the new school has to offer. 3. Get involved. Attend meet-the-teacher or popsicle playdates before school starts to give your child exposure to the physical environment, teachers and new friends. The more you know, the more information you can provide for your child. Check school websites or social media pages for dates of events.

Lice Happens: What to do to Stop the Spread Just a mention of lice can make us scratch our heads. Dr. Krista Lauer, medical director of Lice Clinics of America offers these tips to help you prepare in case your child comes home with more than homework. Don’t panic. Head lice are a medical nuisance, but they do not spread diseases or cause any long-term health problems. Head lice infestations have nothing to do with personal hygiene and can be found amongst all socioeconomic groups. Educate your child. Head lice do not fly or jump. They are transmitted through direct head-to-head contact. Pulling longer hair back in braids or a bun can decrease the likelihood that your child will become infested. Roughly half of people with a lice infestation exhibit no symptoms, and the others may not have any symptoms for weeks. Stay ahead of a situation, check your child’s head once a week by looking near the scalp for eggs, often referred to as nits, which look like tiny tan specks that are firmly glued to the shaft of a hair near the scalp. Be prepared to communicate with intimate contacts such as children who were at a sleepover, frequent play dates, caregivers and people who share a bed. These people should be checked, but there is no need to treat a person’s environment, such as car seats or stuffed toys. Do not be ashamed. Head lice infestations are common. An infestation indicates only that a child is engaged socially. In other words, it indicates that your child has friends. charlotteparent.com | AUGUST 2018

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FYI | people

Julianne McCollum with her husband Tim McCollum and their son Mateo. Photo by Saint Augustine Family Photographer

Get to Know: Julianne McCollum BY MICHELE HUGGINS

ulianne McCollum is the principal and “head quack” at Yellow Duck Marketing. She is married to Tim McCollum, and they have one adopted son, Mateo, who is 1.

Where in Charlotte do you live? Where did you grow up? I moved here in 1997 from Purdue University, but grew up in Silicon Valley. Indiana was culture shock from San Francisco. Charlotte is a nice, happy medium. It’s been exciting to see the city grow up and become more cosmopolitan, and now live in a home Tim designed for us in Plaza Midwood. Tim’s a local and lived here just about his whole life. Tell us about your job. What do you like most about it? What are the challenges? Starting a creative agency is incredibly tough but gets easier each year as we grow and figure out how to balance working in the business and working on the business. I love that each day is a little different, and that one day we’re working on [public relations] for a trendy hotel, then we’re branding a new community in Austin, Texas, and the next we’re working on a website for an environmental nonprofit. What’s the hardest part of juggling family life and work life? There just aren’t enough hours in the day/week anymore to do the

AUGUST 2018 | charlotteparent.com

same amount of work. Being an entrepreneur means that the work is never really over. You have to get the work done regardless of what time of day it is. Tim’s business doesn’t have traditional work hours either, so we’ve had to communicate and collaborate together as a parenting team more than ever before. What is your favorite thing about raising a family in Charlotte? We love that Charlotte’s growing every day and getting better. We love that our neighborhood has diversity, and lots of activities we can walk and bike to. We also love that we see adoptive families around our neighborhood a lot, and that there are activities that make getting outside and meeting people from all kinds of backgrounds so much easier. Best advice ever received: Don’t listen to others’ parenting advice. Kidding (sort of). Get your kid on a schedule early and stick to it. Also, set time aside each day to connect with your spouse so you don’t forget why you both love and like your partner. And don’t lose your sense of humor.

Proudest parenting moment: We spent two-and-a-half years in the adoption process. We found out about our son three days before we met him. We spent a few days visiting him in the [neonatal intensive care unit]. It felt like someone else’s turf, but when we put him in his car seat on that beautiful day in Texas, we were awash with tears that he was part of our family. We previously had two failed adoptions, so leaving the hospital with our son was incredible. Saying goodbye to the NICU staff and birth mother, and realizing we were a family was a tidal wave of joy. The difference between being an adoptive parent and a biological parent is that many biological parents say when they leave the hospital they were freaked out because they didn’t know what to do. With the adoption process being so long and tumultuous, we were well prepared through many hours of online education, classes and reading over the years. We felt like old pros. Lowest parenting moment: After a couple of nights without sleep, I resorted to doing laps around the hotel parking lot in the middle of a summer night in Texas with a screaming five-pound newborn baby in a stroller, hoping — no, praying — that Bob Marley would sooth our brand-new “peanut” to sleep. What are three things you can’t live without? 1. Our nanny. 2. Two sound machines — one for him and one for us. 3. Baby Brezza Formula Pro. It was a savior for us, especially in the middle of the night. One click of a button and voila. What is your favorite Instagram account? Our son’s private account, of course. Last book read? “What to Expect the First Year” by Heidi Murkoff and “Big Magic: Create Living Beyond Fear” by Elizabeth Gilbert. What inspires you? Looking at inspirational posters (the original memes) and listening to Kenny G. We’re old-school.

charlotteparent.com | AUGUST 2018

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GROWING UP Provide a short list of activity options to help kids think through their choices and to keep a manageable family schedule.

Beyond Booksmart Choosing extracurricular pursuits that enrich your child’s mind BY MALIA JACOBSON

ant to raise a kid who excels at school and beyond? Think outside the classroom. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, extracurricular activities boost kids’ community connections and are linked to better grades and school attendance. Finding the right fit for your child, however, isn’t always easy. What’s the right age to begin after-school classes? How can families choose activities that enrich their children’s lives without adding pressure, conflict or unrealistic expectations? How and when should parents encourage children to persist, or decide it’s time for a graceful exit? Here is an age-by-age guidance on finding extracurricular pursuits that round out your child’s education without ramping up stress.

EARLY YEARS

Bright Beginnings Parents shouldn’t rush tots into classes and clubs, says parent educator Tara Egan, founder of Charlotte Parent Coaching. Young children enrolled in high-quality preschools are likely already participating in subjects like art, physical education and music. If you do want to try classes, Egan offers a few guidelines for caregivers. First, make sure your child can comfortably separate from you before you register him or her for childonly courses. Kids who aren’t quite ready can participate in parent-child gym or swim classes.

AUGUST 2018 | charlotteparent.com

Next, ensure that your child’s coach has experience working with very young children, and look for classes that don’t require your child to stay up late or miss naps or meals. Hungry and/or tired children don’t benefit much from any class, no matter how much they like the topic or teacher. ELEMENTARY YEARS

Decision Drama Grade-schoolers are often ready to play a larger role in choosing their own extracurricular activities, says Karen Petty, a professor of family studies at Texas Woman’s University. Parents

still need to guide their child’s selections with an eye toward managing the family’s overall schedule and bank account. “Choice-making builds self-efficacy and allows children to have a sense of control over their time outside of school, which is a good thing,” Petty says. “But parents should put financial and time parameters on their choices.” Allowing kids to select from a short list of activities — whittled down by parents based on the family’s schedule and budget — helps kids think through their choices and prevents them from jumping into a popular pastime simply because lots of their friends are doing the same. Using phrases like “You can choose soccer or ballet but not both” or “It looks like gymnastics, dance, piano and softball won’t all fit in our family schedule, so choose two of those,” and marking time commitments on a shared family calendar (color-coding with one color per child is helpful) helps children see how their activities fit into the family’s bigger picture. TEEN YEARS

Quitting Time At some point, most teens find themselves at a crossroads with a commitment they’ve made and consider quitting. When a once-enjoyed pursuit yields more stress than enjoyment, it’s time for a talk with your teen. “If a child is struggling with an activity they used to like, parents should attempt to find out why,” Egan says. “Is there a mismatch between the coach and your child? Is there a peer conflict? Most issues can be addressed, like asking a coach to speak with your child one-on-one, or bringing a bullying behavior to the attention of the coaching staff.” In general, parents should set an expectation that kids will finish out the sports season before quitting, because they’ve committed to teammates, but if your child is exhausted and overscheduled, needs more time to focus on school or simply wants to explore new horizons, help map an exit strategy that focuses on how and when to make the change that includes thanking the coach and letting key teammates know of the decision, Egan says. Malia Jacobson is a nationally published journalist and author.

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FAMILIES MANAGING MEDIA

Talk to your child’s teacher to discuss how technology is being used in the classroom.

available if a child is exhibiting symptoms of screen overuse, such as focus and attention problems, tics, anxiousness or vision problems. Request reducing screen use before suggesting medication for attention problems. 5. Are large classroom screens used to deliver content instead of smaller individual screens and smartphones when possible? 6. How can outdoor time and in-class exercise be increased? Nature is perfect for resetting an overstimulated brain. Regular exercise and movement activities during the day can increase brain function and focus. 7. Is screen time ever used as a reward or to fill downtime in your classroom? Ask if kids can bring in board games, magazines or personal books from home for these times instead.

Tips to keep a check on digital learning, distractions

But the school isn’t the only place where boundaries must be set. Like a coach, your job is to set your kids up for success by setting limits.

Screens in Schools BY MELANIE HEMPE

f you give your child a choice today to either go to a library and do research or get on a screen to watch YouTube videos, which would they choose? Mine would not choose the library. In

fact, most kids would not choose to trade their screen time for research time. But what happens when screens are used as a tool for learning? Research and common sense tells us that if we put technology on a child’s desk at school, we can’t expect them to always use it as intended. Even with the best teacher supervision and online security, there are always distractions and temptations for kids on school screens. “Kids are not great decision makers, and they are even worse with impulse control.” says Joe Clement and Matt Miles, high school teachers and authors of the book “Screen Schooled.” “The more we put them on screens in class, the more they are going to goof off.” Then there is the homework issue. Your child explains that he needs his tablet to do his homework (or play Fortnite), or that she needs her smartphone to text her friends (or SnapChat) about an assignment. Four hours later, your child is still in front of a screen, tired and stressed, and their homework is not done. Technology is going to be used in our schools, which by default means our kids are going to test the limits. So how can we help them stay on task? It takes a partnership between you and your child’s

teacher. Here are some topics to get the conversations started: 1. How much screen time will be allowed during the school day? The average child spends over seven hours a day on a screen. If you are not satisfied, ask how they can reduce the amount of screen time at school. 2. How will distractions and temptations be managed? Ask if online behavior is monitored by someone walking around the classroom to observe screen activity. 3. What are the online security efforts? Ask if security is still active on students’ screens away from school. 4. How do you recognize signs of screen addiction and does the school offer low-tech options? Ask if physical textbooks are

1. No screens before school or an hour before bed. 2. All screen homework must be done within your view, so you can keep them on track. 3. Screen homework will be done right after school or early evening to avoid late-night use. 4. No screen homework in the bedroom. 5. No smartphones during homework. 6. No screen time as a reward for getting homework done. 7. Pay attention to behavior and emotional changes that could be linked to screen time. It takes savvy teachers and a solid partnership between the school and the parent in order to best utilize educational technology. In the long run, balanced screen time can lead to smarter kids. Melanie Hempe is the founder of Families Managing Media, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping families reduce childhood screen overuse. For more information on local events and reconnecting your family, visit familiesmanagingmedia.com. charlotteparent.com | AUGUST 2018

Secrets to Raising

Self-Driven Kids

Guiding your child to the sweet spot of independence

BY CAITLIN WHEELER The idea of an independent, confident teenager is quintessentially American. But somewhere between the self-esteem movement of the 1990s and society’s apparent obsession with perfection, there’s a school of thought that today’s kids have gotten off track. The pressure to be perfect is inescapable. Kids absorb it from well-meaning parents, peers at school and social media. As a result, rising numbers of young people suffer from self-doubt and anxiety. The antidote? According to neuropsychologist William Stixrud and self-proclaimed test-prep geek Ned Johnson, the key to overcoming anxiety and becoming a confident adult is control. Stixrud, who has spent 30 years helping teens with learning and anxiety disorders, teamed up with Johnson, who has spent 30 years calming overachieving teens, to write “Raising the SelfDriven Child: The Science and Sense of Giving Your Kids More Control Over Their Lives” (Penguin, 2018). Whether you have a toddler or teenager, there are steps you can take to help your child take control of his or her life and move toward that confident, self-motivated American ideal. BE A CONSULTANT What kind of parent are you? If you are a “Tiger Mom” who pushes your child to hit tennis balls six hours a day and practice piano for six hours a night, it’s unlikely your child has much opportunity to be in control of his or her life. On the other extreme, if you are a permissive parent, it’s unlikely your child

AUGUST 2018 | charlotteparent.com

has a chance to develop the sense of discipline he or she needs to be independent and self-motivated. There is, Stixrud suggests, a parenting “sweet spot” — somewhere between authoritarian and laissez-faire, where a child is given just the right amount of independence and just the right amount of guidance. “Be a consultant, not a director,” he recommends. A consultant parent provides basic rules and structure, and as much advice as needed, but does not insist on definite goals. Also consider your definition of success. It’s fine if you picture your child as a wealthy banker in New York, but keep it to yourself. Your child is already facing a world in which success is narrowly defined, Stixrud says. “Kids believe that if they don’t have straight A’s they won’t get into an elite college, and that if they don’t go to an elite college, they are going to have a C-plus life,” Stixrud says. He laments that low-achieving kids often give up before they start, and highachieving kids lose sleep over an A-minus. Make sure you’re helping your child see the broader possibilities rather than further limiting the field. AVOID COMPARISONS Every child is different and requires responsive adjustments in parenting style. Avoid comparing your child to his or her peers or siblings. An older sister might thrive playing club soccer and easily get straight A’s, while her younger brother might need quiet

WANT TO SHOP SMARTER? afternoons perched in his treehouse and earn mostly B’s. Stixrud points out that there is a low correlation between high school grades and later success. Instead of casting about for ideals in the media or imposing your own expectations, take a close look at your child. Encourage her interests. Pursuing a passion — whether for modern dance or rock collecting — allows a child to experience the satisfaction of working hard at something she enjoys. Keep in mind that your child will change as he matures. “We see kids who are a disaster of motivation, but as their prefrontal cortex develops, they come out of it,” Johnson says. “A child might be killing it at age 10, but might not be at the head of the pack at age 30. Prodigies don’t typically end up being musicians. And kids who are a mess now, are not necessarily a mess forever.” ADDRESS ANXIETY A certain amount of stress can be good, Johnson says. He and Stixrud call this optimal stress, and explain that stress and competition actually increase motivation and productivity, up to a point. “Past that point,” Johnson says, “the fear of totally blowing it outweighs the motivation to excel.” If anxiety is affecting you or your child’s daily life, address it. “Stress is contagious,” Johnson says. “It can affect the whole family.” You can normalize stress by bringing it up at the dinner table. “Talking about a situation you are dealing with is a great way to introduce coping mechanisms,” suggests Abby Pressel, a licensed psychologist with Chapel Hill Pediatric Psychology. “You can mention practical ways you manage anxiety, such as focusing on relaxing your muscles and regulating your breathing.” When your child is worried about a specific problem, listen and acknowledge her concerns. At the same time, gently challenge her assumptions. “Often, anxiety can be irrational,” Pressel says. “Try to put data behind the fear.” David Graham, a counselor at Davidson College, says students who successfully navigate the stresses of college are those who have outlets for stress, like a sports team, exercise class, favorite club or religious group. Help your child find some activity that allows him or her to relax. LET YOUR CHILD TAKE OWNERSHIP Kids today have very little autonomy, Johnson says, spending most of their day at school where they have to raise their hand to speak or to go to the bathroom. Afternoons and weekends tend to be overscheduled, leaving kids few opportunities for creative play, getting bored or having to figure out how to spend their day. Then, suddenly, in college they are free to do anything they want. Before they go, help them feel internally motivated and confident enough to make decisions and advocate for themselves.

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charlotteparent.com | AUGUST 2018

“Autonomy research is dramatic,” Johnson says. “There have In addition to external role models, be a model yourself. been studies in retirement homes that show if you give people Teach self-encouragement by embracing your mistakes and choices, they live longer.” sharing your strategies for overcoming them. Lucy Dunning, a licensed professional counselor at Praise effort, not result. “It is helpful to frame experiences Thriveworks in Charlotte, suggests letting your child practice in terms of learning and growth rather than on an outcome or choice-making. “Kids are conditioned to wait and be directed,” a grade,” Pressel says. “Being comfortable with she says. “You can boost your child’s confidence — even very young children — by letting them “You can boost your imperfection makes you more confident, and more likely to try new experiences.” make choices, whether that is deciding on dinner or on what clothes to wear.” child’s confidence — PROVIDE STRUCTURE To keep things within the realm of reason, Dunning believes kids need rules to thrive, you can offer children a choice among a few even young children but that parents should be authoritative rather safe options, she suggests. than authoritarian. — by letting them Eric Lipp, a Duke Cancer Institute senior “Parents should be providing kids with a clinical research coordinator whose seventhmake choices” framework for behavior,” she says. “And then, as grade daughter recently kickstarted a recycling kids get older, parents should gradually back away.” program at her school, swears by the value She says children understand consequences, so parents can define of chores. Committed to raising self-sufficient and confident behavior in terms of choice. “If your child chooses to miss curfew, children, he and his wife Sharon, a psychiatric nurse, required then they have chosen to stay at home the following night,” she says. their two girls to take on responsibility for household tasks before Technology and social media are a wild-west for rules and they could read. structure. Stixrud recommends family-wide policies. “We made them a chart with pictures,” Lipp says. “Brushing “It’s easy enough to place limits on video games when a child teeth, getting dressed, tying shoes, putting away toys. They would is young, but much harder as they get older,” he says. “Make a put a check beside each picture once they’d finished.” family rule that everyone will charge phones in the kitchen at Stixrud and Johnson point out that while the decision-making night. Parents included.” It is vital to follow the rules yourself. part of the brain does not fully mature until a person’s mid-20s, this does not mean young people are bad at making decisions. ALLOW FOR “RADICAL DOWNTIME” Graham says many of the freshmen he counsels at Davidson College GIVE YOUR CHILD SPACE TO FAIL are troubled by the 24-hours, 7-days-a-week nature of college. “It’s As a parent, watching your child fail can be excruciating. It’s hard to find a safe place on campus with no onlookers,” he says. tempting to fix things — to talk a teacher out of a low grade, beg “There is nowhere to let down your guard.” As long as students a coach for a spot on the soccer team or step in to repair damaged feel they are “flying under the radar” they are OK, but if they get friendships. But a child will struggle in the adult world if she attention, “it’s like being under a microscope,” he says. never experiences failure growing up. Part of giving your child the For a high-schooler, home should be that safe place college freedom to choose is allowing her the freedom to make the wrong students are missing. Many of the parents Stixrud has talked choice and the freedom to fail. to say that evenings with their teens can be like World War III, Graham says a large number of Davidson College students — consisting of constant battles over homework. Instead of pestering about 45 percent — visit the school’s health center for counseling, your child about getting his homework done, simply let him know and that many of them have anxiety issues. you are there to help, he says. “These are high-achieving students, most of whom have “Tell them you love them too much to fight about homework. always excelled at academics,” he says. “For them, getting a B for The fighting makes them less motivated to do the work, and is the first time can be devastating. They have never had to build up stressful to you as well,” Stixrud says. the resiliency.” To escape what Johnson calls the “mind-numbing effects” of Graham advises parents of middle- and high-schoolers to social media, he and Stixrud recommend excluding technology revisit their toddler-parenting strategies. “When your baby is during downtime at home, and have introduced the concept of learning to walk, and she falls, you encourage her to get back up. “radical downtime,” which includes doing nothing at all and allows And she does. She gets back up and she walks,” he says. a child to daydream, meditate, sleep and relax. Introduce your child to role models who have struggled to “Have Sunday mornings just be for pancakes,” he says. achieve. Thomas Edison, who failed thousands of times before making a successful light bulb, is famously quoted as saying, “I’ve Caitlin Wheeler is a freelance writer in Durham, North Carolina. not failed, I successfully found 10,000 ways that won’t work.”

AUGUST 2018 | charlotteparent.com

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charlotteparent.com | AUGUST 2018

Stepping UP TO Stepping UP TO Kindergarten Kindergarten

It’s more than just ABCs

BY JULIA PELLY

s kindergarten approaches, it can be both exciting and scary for families. Open houses and meet-the-teacher events provide a lot of information about the school year but many parents leave without knowing exactly what their child will be learning in kindergarten. Most parents understand that their child will develop basic academic skills throughout the year, but what they may be less familiar with is how teachers help students to develop a whole new set of social and emotional skills. “Having strong social and emotional skills help your child develop a willingness to approach difficult tasks, get along well with others and develop a love of learning without fear,” says Lacy Kline Van Ever, a kindergarten teacher who has worked with CharlotteMecklenburg Schools to write lessons that explicitly teach social and emotional skills. If your child is heading to kindergarten soon, check out the list below for academic,

AUGUST 2018 | charlotteparent.com

social and emotional knowledge and skills you can expect to see develop throughout the year, and the ways that you can support this development at home. LANGUAGE AND LITERACY In preschool, many children learn to identify letters and the sounds that they make. In kindergarten, the goal is for children to begin to understand that letters go together to form sounds and that sounds combine to make words. By the end of the year many kindergartners are reading words and short sentences. Throughout the year, kindergarten teachers work hard to “create a culture of reading and a love for books” says Shekeria Barnes, school administrator at Socrates Academy Honor School of Excellence. At home: Barnes recommends that parents support early-literacy development by exploring books with their children

and exposing them to language in their everyday life. MATH SKILLS Once a child starts to recognize numbers — usually just before or sometime during kindergarten — their teachers begin to use physical materials like blocks or beads to help practice basic addition and subtraction. At home: Parents can encourage a love of math by helping their child see how numbers and math fit into everyday life. Let your child cook with you or ask for their help solving everyday problems that use math. MAKING FRIENDS By kindergarten, most kids have moved on from parallel play to more collaborative play and conversation. Amanda Zaidman, a licensed clinical social worker who owns Constructive Parenting, works with families every day. In kindergarten, most children enjoy playing

games with one another and collaborating on projects, Zaidman says. At school, teachers support students’ social skill development by “practicing how to share and take turns, and modeling empathy and respectful interactions,” Barnes says. At home: Support your child’s social-skill development by talking about who she likes to spend time with and what she likes to do, modeling healthy and happy relationships and providing opportunities for your child to spend time with other kids and practice the skills she’s learning. INCREASED INDEPENDENCE In kindergarten most students are expected to take care of their basic daily needs, such as using the bathroom on their own, putting on their shoes and jackets, and putting their books and backpacks in the appropriate place. Kindergarten teachers support students’ independence by providing clear instructions and lots of opportunities to practice. At home: Allow your child to make choices and discover consequences so that he can learn to be a problem solver and make good choices as he moves forward. “Allowing choice can be hard for parents but sometimes it’s the best thing you can do to help develop your child’s independence,” Smith says. CONFIDENCE BUILDING Boosting a child’s confidence in the classroom can have a powerful impact on his school experience. Teachers work to boost a student’s confidence by identifying areas in which he excels and allowing him to be a leader. At home: Offer specific praise that lets your child know what she is doing well and provide opportunities for growth by letting her practice skills that she’s less confident about in a safe, non-judgmental environment. FOLLOWING DIRECTIONS By kindergarten most children are expected to follow basic multistep instructions, such as “take your jacket off, hang it on your hook

and bring your assigned book to the reading circle.” While these sorts of instructions may have been tricky for to follow in preschool, by the end of kindergarten your child will likely be listening like a pro. Teachers help students develop these skills by providing lots of opportunities to follow directions and supporting them as they learn to do so. At home: Talk through difficult tasks and ask your child to repeat back instructions if he has difficulty following through. SELF-REGULATION SKILLS Throughout their kindergarten year, children begin to develop the ability to regulate their emotions on their own. Early on, this might mean “thinking of ways to let a friend or a teacher know they are sad or frustrated without making a choice that gets them into trouble,” Zaidman says. At home: Allow time for self-reflection in your family’s day. Ask your child to reflect on his day and talk about what he enjoyed, what he didn’t enjoy, and what he can do to make tomorrow better, which can lead to growth in how he regulates his emotions. POSITIVE PATH FORWARD Start talking about school in a positive way early and often. Talking about fun things to come helps a child get excited and helps you feel good about this big step forward. Even though the start of kindergarten is the closing of a chapter of your child’s life, often leading to some sadness along with excitement, Barnes recommends against expressing sad or negative feelings in front of your child. Viewing this big transition as a positive step forward can give you and your child the boost they need to start his kindergarten career off on the right foot. Julia Pelly has a master’s degree in public health and works full-time in the field of positive youth development. She lives in East Charlotte with her husband and two young sons. She enjoys Saturday story time at the library, family bike rides and getting ice cream as often as possible.

Note: This story also published in the Charlotte Parent Education Guide

MOM-TO-MOM: Advice for the First-Time Kindergarten Parent

If you are a first-time kindergarten parent, you likely have lots of questions about what to expect in the first school year. We asked readers to reflect back on that first school year with their child, and got some honest, been-there-done-that advice to help steer your along the kindergarten course.

When it comes to reading … “Do not panic if your child is not reading before kindergarten. Kids develop reading skills at different times. It’s easy to be intimidated by kids who are already reading chapter books in kindergarten — don’t freak out!” — Kim Dooley “Not only don’t freak out if your child isn’t reading at the beginning, but also in the middle or at the end! It is developmental, just like potty training. Furthermore, comprehension is far more important than word calling, so read to your child (biggest predictor of future literacy, and valuable even for independent readers), talk about books, and talk about everything. — Wendy Mays

About volunteering … “Yes, please volunteer! If your child won’t tolerate it in the classroom successfully, or if your work/parenting situation doesn’t permit it, ask for opportunities to volunteer from home or elsewhere in the school. This is invaluable to the teacher and school, and shows your child the partnership in which you are engaged on his or her behalf.” — Wendy Mays “Volunteer, but don’t over do it. Your child needs to have some away time to not be under their parent.” — Terri Williams “Ask the teacher how you can help, then do what the teacher requests. It gets you off on the right foot and builds connections to make the transition easier.” — Jessica Norman

How about expectations? “Don’t stress if your child isn’t reading, doing addition, etc. Relax and enjoy the year because it will go faster than you want it to go and they will learn more than you ever thought possible. — Angela Gilbert Source: facebook.com/cltparent charlotteparent.com | AUGUST 2018

a r r o e f p s u S l Supplie

Schoo

Back-to-school gear for the super kids in your life

BY MANDY HOWARD Calling all super kids and their “Marvelous” parents! The school year is lurking like Thanos searching for the last Infinity Stone, but fear not because we have everything you need to make this school year incredible. From themed gear to innovative designs featuring improved strength and performance, these supplies can help you earn Wonder Mom and BatDad status.

1 | JanSport Pixar-Themed Backpacks What’s the easiest way to ensure an incredible year for your student? With an “Incredibles 2” themed backpack, of course. JanSport, known for its lifetime backpack warranty, is offering a wide selection of Pixar-themed products this school year. The “My Way or the Runway” Incredibles Superbreak Backpack features the sharp and sassy Edna. (“No capes!”) jansport.com, $44. 2 | Emtec Superhero USB Drives Remember the first time you had a floppy disk as part of your school supply list? Today’s kids use USB, or flash, drives to store and back up digital files. Emtec’s Wonder Woman, Super Man, Batman and other superhero — or villain — USB drives feature sleek designs and 16 gigabytes of storage. staples.com, $29.99 for a two-pack.

AUGUST 2018 | charlotteparent.com

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3 | Nalgene Marvel Water Bottles Fly into the new school year with super-power hydration using a Nalgene Marvel-themed water bottle. A partnership between Nalgene and Marvel offers new bottles from 2018’s hottest Marvel films, “Black Panther” and “Avengers: Infinity War,” as well as classics like “Spider-Man” and “Captain America.” The water bottles are bisphenol A-free and dishwasher safe. nalgene.com; $12.99-$16. 4 | Spider-man Zip-up Stationary Kit Let the young ones sling themselves into the start of the school year with this zip-up stationary kit that includes a drawing pad, 10 markers, 10 colored pencils, a glue stick, an eraser, scissors, a retractable ink pen and six-inch ruler with traceable alphabet. shopdisney.com; $16.95.

5 | “Incredibles 2” Erasable Marker Set Supercharge your child’s creativity with this set of 10 erasable markers inspired by Mr. Incredible, Elastigirl, Violet, Dash and Jack-Jack from Pixar’s “Incredibles 2.” shopdisney.com, $14.95.

6 | Elmer’s Glow in the Dark Glue Glue remains an essential school supply for most kids. If you haven’t already bought it in bulk to get your child through six years of elementary school, pick up a bottle of Elmer’s Glow in the Dark Glue. It comes in liquid form that has a kryptonite-like affect, but in pink, blue or natural colors. elmers.com, $4.49. 7 | DC Comics Reusable Snack Bags Who’s going to save the planet from sheer destruction? Your child, that’s who! These reusable sandwich and snack bags encourage children to channel their inner Captain Planet (while displaying, on the outside, slightly more popular superheroes.) bumkins.com, $5.95-$7.95. Mandy Howard is a mother of three and freelance writer in Raleigh. charlotteparent.com | AUGUST 2018

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SCHOOL LOCKDOWN Lockdown drills are as common as fire drills now, but how do you explain the purpose of a lockdown drill to your child? BY MICHELE HUGGINS We can’t expect teachers to have all the answers, but as parents, it can be hard to know how to start the conversation and explain the purpose of lockdown drills. We reached out to Bea Moise, a parenting coach and board-certified cognitive specialist at Southeast Psych in Charlotte, for guidance on how to talk to a child, especially the youngest students, about school lockdowns and what they mean. 1. Keep the language simple and your message short. Use developmentally appropriate language when having a conversation. Remember that a small child does not have the developmental skills to handle large chunks of information and information that is not concrete, Moise says. “While a high-schooler might be able to conceptualize danger in a global capacity, younger children are not capable of making such inference. As a parent, you can still get your point across to a young child while not creating fear,” she says. For younger children, have them repeat back to you what they think you are saying to know how much of the information was received. With older children you can have a conversation to gauge their understanding and what are their current fears are regarding the issue. Middle-schoolers are capable of more and can understand more. Allow them to show you their level of maturity through conversation. It is entirely OK to allow children to lead the conversation. Sometimes this is the best way to determine how much is a concern, Moise says. “Allow your children to ask questions and be open to questions that you may not have the answers to, let them know you will research it and get back to them, but do not lie or make false statements. Lockdowns happen so that everyone can be prepared to handle it, and the only way to prepare is by practicing.”

AUGUST 2018 | charlotteparent.com

2. Safety first. Be sure children understand that safety is the one and only priority, and that a lockdown drill is not any different than any other drill with the outcome being keeping everyone safe. The conversation should primarily be about knowing what to do, in case something happens. Assure children that they are safe at school. Let them know that the teachers and staff are well prepared to handle these situations. Help children understand that the way we keep people safe is by being prepared and knowing what to do if a situation ever arises, Moise says. 3. Remain calm. When you are having a conversation with your child about safety, it is essential to remain calm and not insert your fears and bias into the conversation, Moise says. “Children can respond well to information that may be difficult to talk about if it is adequately presented. Your child can feel the stress that a parent might be experiencing and this can make the conversation harder, and the message not being received correctly,” she says. 4. Overcoming fear. When it comes to describing scary situations Moise recommends parents partner with the school and ask what language or words they are using to describe these drills. “If the school is calling it drill and you are saying an active shooter, this creates a discrepancy between home and school, and it will make the child feel uncertain and unsafe,” she says. “It is an unfortunate reality that we are currently facing. Being honest with kids and letting them know that you are also fearful and how you handle it is by getting information and becoming more knowledgeable.” Michele Huggins is the editor of Charlotte Parent magazine and mom to a rising fourth grader and soon-to-be 3-year-old.

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SCIENCE HAS NEVER BEEN SO MUCH FUN!

There’s a reason for all this sneezin.’ Carolina Asthma & Allergy Center has the only pollen counter in the Charlotte region. We post daily counts on our website as a public service from February to November. If you suffer from seasonal allergy symptoms year after year, our board-certified allergists can test you to discover exactly what you are allergic to, create a customized treatment plan that over time can lessen the severity of your allergies, and, in many cases, cure your allergies altogether!

Call 704.372.7900 to schedule an appointment at one of our area office locations.

Pollen and Mold Levels

Pollen counts updated daily from Feb 15 - Nov. 15. (Chart above is for illustrative purposes only.)

breathe » live » thrive | carolinaasthma.com

charlotteparent.com | AUGUST 2018

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EXCURSION

Explore the Differences of St. Simons and Cumberland Islands BY MICHAEL SCHUMAN

here are well over a dozen prominent barrier islands off the coast of Georgia, and they come in all shapes, sizes and personalities. But unlike hors d’oeuvres, these islands are best taken in full doses. To try to see more than one in a day could lead to burnout, information overload and visual indigestion. A two-day trip is a sufficient amount of time to visit two islands that are mirror opposites. Cumberland Island National Seashore looks about as it did in 1972, when the U.S. Congress designated it as a national seashore. St. Simons Island, which is just an hour’s drive north, has modernized over time but claims a rich colonial-American history.

Cumberland Island National Seashore No cars are allowed on Cumberland Island and visitors reach the destination by ferry (ferry reservations are strongly recommended at cumberlandislandferry.com). Once on the island, take a six-hour, guided van tour that reaches all corners of the island, or explore all or part of the 4.3-mile, self-guided Southend Loop trail. The Southend Loop hike can be tiresome for small kids and parents pushing strollers, especially where hikers must traverse soft sand. But there are rewards for those who choose the adventure. The diverse landscape ranges from sand dunes to palms and canopies of Spanish moss hanging from live oaks. Expect to see wild horses. While beautiful to photograph, keep in mind that they are feral, so touching or feeding is not permitted. The ghostly remains of a Gilded Age mansion once owned by an heir of steel magnate Andrew Carnegie provides another spot for taking memorable photos. And those

AUGUST 2018 | charlotteparent.com

Look for feral horses on Cumberland Island National Seashore’s beaches. Photo by Michael Schuman

who make it far enough will reach an expansive, smooth-sanded beach, ideal for beachcombing and sunbathing. St. Simons Island If Cumberland Island leans toward rustic experiences, St. Simons Island professes glamour. There are, however, plenty of options for budgets that don’t permit a second home or stay at a four- or five-star resort. The white-washed, 104-foot-high St. Simons Lighthouse, also referred to as the St. Simons Island Light, beckons those who enjoy a commanding view upon climbing the structure’s 129-step spiral staircase. Perhaps the best way to get an overview of St. Simons is by trolley. St. Simons Trolley Island Tours takes visitors past landmarks sharing tales of nearly 400 years of the island’s history that includes slavery and time spent on the island by Methodist Church founder John Wesley, who served at Christ Episcopal Church there. John Wesley and his brother, Charles Wesley, conducted the first service. The brothers were Church of England priests who volunteered as missionaries to the colony of Georgia, arriving in March 1736. Although their experiences on the island were difficult, they were able to establish a congregation that is known today as Christ Church. The

current church building dates to 1884, but the congregation was founded in 1736. In 1742, British troops stationed at Fort Frederica on St. Simons Island defeated the Spanish, ensuring Georgia’s future as a British colony. Exploring the remnants of the Fort Frederica National Monument is like walking through a ghost town. When you traverse the dirt paths, you’re strolling through the main thoroughfares of what was once a village of 1,000 colonists. Historic markers tell the stories of Fort Frederica’s citizens, including details of their personal lives. For example, tavern keeper Samuel Davison and his family left Fort Frederica in 1741 because they disliked living next to surgeon and apothecary Thomas Hawkins due to his erratic and sometimes violent wife Beatre who, according to the National Parks Service Historic Americans Building Survey, attacked John Wesley with a pistol and tried to kill him. St. Simons Island is approximately five hours from Charlotte. Cumberland Island is an hour south of St. Simons Island. Learn more about Cumberland Island at nps.gov/ cuis/index.htm and St. Simons Island at explorestsimonsisland.com. Award winning author Michael Schuman has written 46 books and hundreds of travel articles.

August 2018 OUR PICKS

COMPILED BY TIFFANY WOLFF

Lionesses Dance in “The Lion King” North American Tour. ©Disney. Photo credit: Deen van Meer.

Hummingbird Festival | Aug. 16 Enjoy family-friendly learning activities that include bird-banding, storytelling, hikes, “The Great Hummingbird Challenge,” face-painting and guest speakers. Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, 2900 Rocky River Road. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. FREE. apm.activecommunities.com/ mecklenburgparks.

Matthews Alive Labor Day Festival | Aug. 31-Sept. 3 Celebrate the last days of summer at the Matthews Alive Labor Day festival. Purchase a $15 all-you-can ride wristband on Friday to take a spin on the carnival rides. Watch the parade as it marches throughout downtown Matthews Saturday beginning at 10:30 a.m. Enjoy 150 arts and crafts vendors, festival food, games and four stages of live entertainment, plus an interactive area with crafts, art stations and a petting zoo. Fri., 6-10 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.9 p.m.; Sun., noon-9 p.m.; Mon., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Stumptown Park, 120 S. Trade St., Matthews. matthewsalive.org.

“The Lion King” | Aug. 22-Sept. 9 With its spectacular costumes, engaging stage scenes and music, the award-winning “The Lion King” returns to Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center. The Broadway score features Elton John and Tim Rice’s music from the animated film along with three new songs. See giraffes strut, birds swoop, gazelles leap and the entire Serengeti come to life as Pride Rock slowly emerges from the mist. See website for showtimes. Tickets start at $30. Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. blumenthalarts.org.

Bubble Day at James K. Polk State Historic Site | Aug. 11 It’s a day of bubble-themed activities, including arts and crafts, bubble-making areas, and a water play table for the youngest visitors. Refreshments and take-home treats will be available while supplies last. $5 per car. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. President James K. Polk State Historic Site, 12031 Lancaster Hwy., Pineville. jameskpolk.net.

Make a day of playing with bubbles at James K. Polk Historic Site. Photo courtesy of James K. Polk Historic Site

charlotteparent.com | AUGUST 2018

THERE IS POWER IN EVERY

Unleash your power at Girl Scouts! Girl Scouts provides a place where “Can I?” turns into “I will!” A chance for a G.I.R.L. to try new things, face their fears, transform her ideas into action and to grow her confidence.

Join us at a info session or check out opportunities online at

ww.hngirlscouts.org or (704)731-6500.

GIRL SCOUTS ARE PREPARED FOR A LIFETIME OF LEADERSHIP.

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AUGUST 2018 | charlotteparent.com

80% OF ALL FEMALE TECH LEADERS

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›

1 WEDNESDAY

Rookie Science: Fossil Dirt. ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. Ages 5-11. 1:30-2:30pm. FREE. 704416-4630. Explore stories and facts about ocean life and dig in dirt to find ocean life fossils. cmlibrary.org. Wonderful Wednesdays. The Museum of York County, 4621 Mount Gallant Road, Rock Hill. Ages 6 and older. 10am-noon. $5-$8, free for children 3 and younger. Includes museum admission. Explore natural history topics with new exhibits, guest speakers and staff-led activities. The Butterfly Porch is open from 11am-2pm chmuseums.org.

2 THURSDAY Board Game Night at Barnes and Noble. Barnes and Noble, 3327 PinevilleMatthews Road. 6pm. FREE. Bring your own games or play some provided at the store. barnesandnoble.com. CM Library Presents: Fiddlestix Rock-It Science. West Boulevard Library, 2157 West Blvd. Ages 5-11. 11am-noon. FREE. Learn about and explore the exciting world of science through age-appropriate, interactive and hands-on activities. cmlibrary.org. Touch-a-Truck Event. Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville. 1-2pm. FREE. See some of the trucks that the city of Mooresville operates.. mooresvillenc.evanced.info/signup/ calendar. Movies in the Park: “Wonder.”Veterans Park, corner of Main and Maxwell streets. FREE. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and cozy up for some outside entertainment. Drinks, popcorn, candy available for purchase. Movies start five to 15 minutes after sunset. huntersville.org.

3 FRIDAY Carolina Panthers Fan Fest. Bank of America Stadium, 800 S. Mint St. 7pm. $5. Watch practice and drills while the Panthers gear up for their next season. See performances by TopCats, Sir Purr, Purrcussion, and Black and Blue Crew. panthers.com Cotswold Trucks Food Truck Rally. Trinity Presbyterian Church, 3115 Providence Road. 5:30-9:30pm. FREE. A family and

dog-friendly food-truck rally that features 10-15 area food trucks, live music and a gated kids’ playground. trinitypreschurch. org/event/food-truck-fridays. Family Fishing. McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 York Road. 10:45-11:45am. FREE. 980-314-2267. Learn how to bait a hook, cast and reel, and safely remove a hooked fish. Fishing rods and bait provided. Preregistration required. Parent participation also required. apm.activecommunities.com/ mecklenburgparks. On Stage: The Addams Family: Teen Summer Production. See page 28.

4 SATURDAY Back-to-School Block Party. Rock Hill Galleria, 2301 Dave Lyle Blvd., Rock Hill. FREE. 803-524-5671. Get ready for the school year with backpack and select school supply giveaways, plus health screenings, identification cards for 200 students, a Get Fit Kid Zone and a York County Teen Zone. Register online. back2schoolblockparty.com. Full STEAM Ahead. Carolina’s Aviation Museum, 4672 1st Flight Drive. Grades 1-8. 11am-noon. Free for members, $3 for non-members. Join in an hour of hands-on learning. Sessions encourage artistic expression and creativity while incorporating aviation and STEM principles. carolinasaviation.org. Glass Slipper Storytime. SAS Cupcakes, 9941 Rea Road. 10:30-11:15am. $9. Join SAS Cupcakes with a princess for story time. Enjoy cupcake frosting, meet a princess, hear a princess story, play a princess game and take photos. sascupcakes.com. Hummingbird Journey Game. McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 S. York Road. Ages 8 and older. 10:30-11:30am. FREE. Travel the world like a hummingbird in this interactive game about migration. Learn how these tiny, energetic birds make the trip from Alaska and Mexico each year. Pre-registration required. apm.activecommunities.com/ mecklenburgparks. Insect Safari. Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, 2900 Rocky River Road. Ages 3-12. 10-11am. FREE. Explore the world of tiny creatures and

insects. apm.activecommunities.com/ mecklenburgparks. Lake Wylie Family Kayak Tour. McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 York Road. Ages 5 and older. 9:30-11:30am or 2-4pm. $15, single kayak; $20 for tandem kayak. Ages 10 and older for single kayak; 5 and older for tandem kayak. Paddle the edges of McDowell Nature Preserve with certified and experienced instructors while enjoying nature with your family. Register online. apm.activecommunities.com/ mecklenburgparks. Sensory Friendly Movie: “Christopher Robin.” Sun Valley 14, 6449 Old Monroe Road, Indian Trail. $5. Sensory Friendly Screenings are designed for a sensitive audience with lights brought up and the sound turned down. Audience members are welcome to get up, sing, walk and dance. stonetheatres.com. Solar System Saturdays. The Museum of York County, 4621 Mount Gallant Road, Rock Hill. Ages 6 and older. 10am-2pm. $5-$8, free for children 3 and younger. Includes museum admission.Explore and investigate the solar system. Topics include Mars, the Sun and Saturn with a planetarium show at noon. chmuseums. org/upcoming-events-myco. Tools of Stone. The Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 10am-4pm. $7, includes museum admission. 704-854-6676. Learn how stone tools are shaped, meet flint knappers and watch ancient craftsmanship in action. schielemuseum.org. On Stage: The Addams Family: Teen Summer Production. See page 28.

5 SUNDAY Bank of America 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, The Harvey B. Gantt Center, Levine Museum of the New South, Mint Museum Randolph and Mint Museum Uptown. bankofamerica.com. Naturalist Hike. Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, 2900 Rocky River Road. 2-3pm. FREE. Explore many aspects of nature on a hike along the trails at Reedy Creek. Bring questions and a curious mind. Participants

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younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult. apm.activecommunities. com/mecklenburgparks. Sensory Sensitive Sundays at Chuck E. Cheese. Chuck E. Cheese, 7701 PinevilleMatthews Road. 9-11am. Free admission. Families with children with special needs are invited to come early before the crowds, reduced lighting and noise for food and games with a specially trained staff. chuckecheese.com

6 MONDAY Preschool Community Program. Anne Springs Close Greenway, 291 Dairy Barn Lane, Fort Mill. Ages 2-5. 10am. $2 (plus $5 entry fee for nonmembers). Preschoolers join in nature-themed literature activities, crafts, hikes and use their imaginations. Children must have a parent or guardian present throughout the program. ascgreenway.org. Rookie Science: Fairy Tale STEM. ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. Ages 5-11. 11am-noon. FREE. 704-416-4630. Enjoy the storybook classic “The Three Little Pigs,” and then design and test a house that the Big Bad Wolf can’t blow down. No registration required. cmlibrary.org.

7 TUESDAY Dakota and Friends. ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. 11am-2pm. FREE. Meet and interact with Dakota, pet a baby T-Rex or maybe watch a dinosaur egg hatch. Participate in “Reading, Writing and Roaring” where kids can read aloud to dinosaurs, then take a ride on a dinosaur. cmlibrary.org. Get Set for Kindergarten.South County Regional Library, 5801 Rea Road. 2-3pm. FREE. Rising kindergartners participate in stories and activities that build prereading skills and help prepare children for success in school. Limited to 20 children. Register online the Friday before the event. cmlibrary.org. Terrific Tuesday: The Balloon Lady. ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. 1-2pm. FREE. 704973-2828. The Balloon Lady is back with an entertaining program that includes award-winning balloon creation, music,

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storytelling and engaging magic tricks. cmlibrary.org Time Travel Tuesday: School Days. Historic Brattonsville, 1444 Brattonsville Road, McConnells, S.C. 10am-4pm. $5-$8, ages 3 and younger admitted free. Learn what school was like for the Bratton girls at the Brattonsville Female Seminary through a presentation by costumed interpreters. chmuseums.org.

8 WEDNESDAY Pinkalicious Story Time and Craft. SAS Cupcakes, 9941 Rea Road. 10:3011:15am. $6 per child; parents free. Come listen to a reading of the book, “Pinkalicious” before frosting your own Pinkalicious cupcake. Also make a takehome craft. sascupcakes.com. Summer Break Finale. Matthews Library, 230 Matthews Station St. 3-4pm. FREE. Celebrate your reading this summer with ice cream and toppings to build your own sundae. cmlibrary.org. Summer Break Finale: The Amazing Mr. Archer. Morrison Regional Library, 7015 Morrison Blvd. 3-4pm. FREE. See a

unique storytelling experience through balloon entertainment with Mr. Archer. Attendance is limited to 75 children, and tickets are given out 30 minutes prior to the show. cmlibrary.org. Wonderful Wednesdays. The Museum of York County, 4621 Mount Gallant Road, Rock Hill. Ages 6 and older. 10am-noon. $5-$8, free for children 3 and younger. Includes museum admission. Explore and investigate natural history topics with new exhibits, guest speakers and staff-led activities. The Butterfly Porch is open from 11am-2pm chmuseums.org. On Stage: Cirque du Soleil Presents Corteo; and Chicken Little. See page 28.

9 THURSDAY Summer Break Finale. West Boulevard Library, 2157 West Blvd. 11am-noon. FREE. Join in a celebration of the summer reading program and readers. cmlibrary.org. Summer Break Finale. Independence Regional Library, 6000 Conference Drive.

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2-3pm. FREE. Join in a celebration of the summer reading program. cmlibrary.org. LaLaCaboosa Downtown Music Series. Veterans Park, 201 Huntersville-Concord Road, Huntersville. All ages. 6:30-9pm. FREE. 704-766-2253. Come out for live music, food trucks and fun. Everyone is encouraged to bring a blanket or chair. visitlakenorman.org. River Jam Concert Series. U.S. National Whitewater Center, 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy. 7pm. FREE; $6 parking fee. 704-391-3900. Enjoy food, beverages and live music at this weekly summer concert series. Arrive half an hour early for additional activities, such as yoga or organized runs. usnwc.org/riverjam. On Stage: Cirque du Soleil Presents Corteo. See page 28.

10 FRIDAY Food Truck Fridays and Concert Series. Stumptown Park, 120 S. Trade St., Matthews. 5-9pm. FREE. Favorite area food and dessert trucks offer varied menus, alongside local/region bands, inflatable interactives for kids and a craft

beer pavilion. Diners are encouraged to bring chairs. matthewsnc.gov. Lake Wylie Family Kayak Tour. McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 York Road. Ages 5 and older. 9:30-11:30am or 2-4pm. $15, single kayak; $20 for tandem kayak. Ages 10 and older for single kayak; 5 and older for tandem kayak. Paddle the edges of McDowell Nature Preserve with certified and experienced instructors while enjoying nature with your family. Register online. apm.activecommunities.com/ mecklenburgparks. Movie Night. The Green at Promenade on Providence, corner of Providence Road and Interstate 485. 7pm. FREE. Movie to be determined by fan vote. Vote for your favorite on the website. promenadeonprovidence.com. Music With Mindy. Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville. Rising second to seventh graders. 10-10:30am and 11-11:30am. FREE. Explore music with Mindy at the Mooresville Public Library. mooresvillenc.evanced.info/signup/ calendar.

› Old Town Cornelius 2nd Friday Street Festival. Oak Street Mill, 19725 Oak St., Cornelius. 6-10pm. FREE. Enjoy a jam-packed line-up of live music, food trucks, craft breweries, local artists and kids’ activities. The event is rain or shine. oldtowncornelius.com. On Stage: Cirque du Soleil Presents Corteo. See page 28.

11 SATURDAY Beamer’s Back to School Kick Off — Rock Hill. Main Library, 138 E. Black St., Rock Hill. Grades Pre-K-12. 9-11am. FREE. Learn about new library resources, and receive free school supplies, robotic demonstrations, face-painting and other fun activities. yclibrary.org. Beaver and Wildlife Hike. Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, 2900 Rocky River Road. Ages 8 and older. 2-3pm. FREE. 980-3141119. Make a special visit to the stream habitat to observe the beaver dams and other habitats. apm.activecommunities. com/mecklenburgparks. Bubble Day. President James K. Polk State Historic Site, 12031 Lancaster Hwy., Pineville. 10am-1pm. $5 per car. 704889-7145. Celebrate summer with arts and crafts, bubble-making areas and a water-play table for very little ones. Ice cream and food vendors will be on-site. jameskpolk.net. Callaloo Puppeteers. The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts and Culture at Levine Center for the Arts, 551 S. Tryon St. 11am-1pm. The authors of “Callaloo” children’s books stop in Charlotte for a live reading and presentation of their award-winning puppetry performance. ganttcenter.org. Circle K Back-to-School Monster Truck Bash. Charlotte Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Parkway S., Concord. 6pm. $10-$25. 800-455-FANS. Monster trucks with names like “Stone Crusher” and “Avenger” hit the dirt track for a night of high-flying action. Arrive early for photos with some of the machines, autographs with drivers and other pre-race festivities. charlottemotorspeedway.com. Family First Series: Writing for Stage and Screen. The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts and Culture at Levine Center for the Arts, 551 S. Tryon St.

Ages 13-18. 11am-1pm. $3-$5 adults, free for children 5 and younger and museum members. Teen writers can explore composition, inspiration and how to craft screenplays, teleplays and theatrical plays with playwright Stacey Rose. ganttcenter.org. Festival of India. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. Noon. $7 Admission at the door; Free for children younger than 10. 704- 3721000. Experience Indian dance, food, art and Bollywood entertainment. Audience members can enjoy yoga, henna tattoos and dancing. blumenthalarts.org. JAARS Day. JAARS Center, 7405 Jaars Road, Waxhaw. 9am-4pm. FREE. 704-8431630. Sample international food. Take an aircraft or four-wheel drive ride for an additional cost. jaars.org/events/ jaars-day. Learn to Make Cake Pops with SAS. SAS Cupcakes, 9941 Rea Road. Ages 4-12. 10:30-11:15am. $10 per child; parents free. 704-295-1777. Learn to dip and decorate cake pops, and take home your treats. Preregister by phone for this event. sascupcakes.com. Movies in the Park. Stowe Park, 24 S. Main St., Belmont. 8pm. FREE. Bring chairs and blankets to watch movies in the park. Concessions available for purchase at the gazebo. cityofbelmont.org. Puerto Rican Festival.Symphony Park at SouthPark Mall, 4400 Sharon Road. Noon-8pm. FREE. Celebrate Puerto Rican culture with live music, food, games, entertainment and a children’s area. prcsc.org/prfestival. #STEAMSaturdays: Programming and Robotics. Hygge Coworking West, 2128 Remount Road. Grades kindergarten-8. 9-10:30am. $25. Scholars are welcome to explore LEGO WeDo robotics at their own pace and level. Build and design, using sensors and collaborative creation are at the heart of each LEGO WeDo robotics course. digi-bridge.org/events. Solar System Saturdays. The Museum of York County, 4621 Mount Gallant Road, Rock Hill. Ages 6 and older. 10am-2pm. $5-$8, free for children 3 and younger. Includes museum admission.Explore and investigate the solar system. Topics include Mars, the Sun and Saturn with a

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See Tyrannosaurs: Meet the Family at Discovery Place Science through Sept. 3. Photo by Tiffany Wolff

ON EXHIBIT Pollinator’s Paradise (Through Sept. 3). Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont. $6.95-$12.95, children under 2 admitted free. 704-829-1286. Celebrate the importance, beauty and majesty of pollinators at the Bungalow of Butterflies and try your hand at Pollinator Putting. dsbg.org. Tyrannosaurs: Meet the Family (Through Sept. 3). Discovery Place Science, 301 N. Tryon St. $16-$20, free for children under age 2, includes museum admission. An innovative, multimedia experience that showcases never-before-seen dinosaurs in the Tyrannosaurs family tree. Dig in the Dino Pit, see the show Saurus! A Dino-mite Spectacular, and play a paleontological game show, Egg-Stinct. science. discoveryplace.org. Year of the Engineer (Through Sept. 3). Discovery Place Science, 301 N. Tryon St. $13-$17. 704-372-6261. Celebrate the creativity and imagination of engineers

exploring the new Thinker Space lab and exhibition Think it Up, along with the premiere of Dream Big: Engineering Our World in the IMAX Dome Theatre. science.discoveryplace.org. Storyland: A Trip through Childhood Favorites (Through Sept. 9). ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St., Charlotte. 9am-5pm. FREE. 704-416-4600. Seven award-winning children’s picture books, including “Chicka Boom Boom” and “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie,” come to life at this imaginative, hands-on experience. Recommended for ages 8 and younger. imaginon.org/storyland. Amazing Butterflies Maze (Through Sept. 15). Culture and Heritage Museums of York County, 4621 Mount Gallant Road, Rock Hill. 10am-5pm. $5-$8, free to members and children age 3 and younger. 803-329-2121. Wind through a maze that encompasses the life journey of a caterpillar and its metamorphosis into a butterfly. chmuseums.org/myco.

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CALENDAR planetarium show at noon. chmuseums. org/upcoming-events-myco. On Stage: Cirque du Soleil Presents Corteo. See page 28.

12 SUNDAY

Circque du Soleil brings “Corteo” to Spectrum Center Aug. 8-12. Photo by Lucas Saporiti

ON STAGE The Addams Family: Teen Summer Production. (Aug. 3-4). Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St., Aug. 3, 7:30 p.m. and Aug. 4, 2 p.m. Ages 12 and older. Gomez and Morticia Addams’ beloved daughter Wednesday is now an 18-year-old young woman ready for a life of her own and is in love with a sweet, “normal” boy. When she invites him to dinner to meet the family, secrets are disclosed, relationships tested and hilarity ensues. ctcharlotte.org. Chicken Little. (Aug. 8). Veterans Park, 119 N. Main St., Kannapolis. 10am. FREE. See a live performance of the classic “Chicken Little” in the park. kannapolisnc.gov. Cirque du Soleil Presents Corteo. (Aug. 8-12). Spectrum Center, 333 E. Trade St. Tickets start at $49. 704-688-9047. See the power of acrobatics in a theatrical world of high-flying fun, comedy and spontaneity in a mysterious space between heaven and earth in a festive

parade as imagined by a clown. The cast of Corteo includes 51 acrobats, musicians, singers and actors from all around the world. See website for performance schedule. cirquedusoleil. com/corteo. The Lion King. (Aug. 22-Sept. 9). Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. Tickets start at $30. 372-1000. Giraffes strut. Birds swoop. Gazelles leap. The entire Serengeti comes to life as never before. And as the music soars, Pride Rock slowly emerges from the mist in Disney’s “The Lion King.” See website for performance schedule. blumenthalarts.org. The Lion and the Little Red Bird. (Aug. 23-Sept. 2). Children’s Theater of Charlotte, ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. Tickets start at $10. 704-973-2828. This play tells the story of an unlikely friendship between an inquisitive bird and a compassionate lion. Told with a mix of actors and puppets, and designed with preschoolers in mind. Recommended for ages 2 to 5. ctcharlotte.org.

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Concerts on the Green. Davidson Village Green, Intersection of Main Street and Concord Road. 6-8pm. FREE. Bring comfy chairs, a blanket and picnic to enjoy music outdoors. concertsonthegreen.com. Festival of India. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. Noon. $7 Admission at the door; Free for children younger than 10. 704- 372-1000. Experience this educational and entertaining family event. The festival showcases diversity of Indian dance, food, art and Bollywood entertainment. Audience members will enjoy yoga, henna tattoos and dancing. blumenthalarts.org. Old Town Amphitheater Summer Concert Series. Old Town Amphitheater, 157 Johnston St., Rock Hill. 6:30-9:30pm. FREE. The final night of the Old Town Amphitheater Summer Concert Series is An Evening with Lyle Lovett and His Large Band. onlyinoldtown.com. Perseid Meteor Shower Party. McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 York Road. Ages 12 and older. 9-11pm. $3. Take a leisurely stroll through the McDowell Prairie on the peak viewing nights of the Perseid meteor shower. Preregistration required. apm.activecommunities.com/ mecklenburgparks. On Stage: Cirque du Soleil Presents Corteo. See page 28.

13 MONDAY Beatties Ford Library Culture Blocks. Beatties Ford Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. 11am-1pm. FREE. Explore genetic experiments and activities, and create a community artwork piece. artsandscience.org/programs. 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 story time that is perfect for bedtime. cmlibrary.org/event/69190pajama-rama-plaza.

14 TUESDAY

Get Set for Kindergarten.South County Regional Library, 5801 Rea Road. 1-2pm. FREE. Rising kindergartners participate in stories and activities that build prereading skills and help prepare children for success in school. Limited to 20 children. Register online the Friday before the event. cmlibrary.org. Homeschool Day at Discovery Place Science. Discovery Place Science, 301 N. Tryon St. 9am-4pm. $3-$15. Homeschool families can enjoy discounted museum admission and explore Tyrannosaurs: Meet the Family. science. discoveryplace.org. Where’s the Party Story Time. SAS Cupcakes, 9941 Rea Road, Ste. C. 10:30 am to 11:15 am. $6 per child; parents free. Come listen to a reading of the book, “Where’s the Party” before frosting your own party cupcake and making a takehome craft. sascupcakes.com.

15 WEDNESDAY Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse – Matthews. Cinemark Movies 10, 9508 Northeast Court, Matthews. 10am. $1. Cinemark Movies 10 in Matthews offers $1 movies on Wednesdays as part of the Summer Movie Clubhouse. To save even more money, buy the bundle of all 10 weeks worth of movies for just $5. Check the schedule to see which G and PG rated flicks are playing each week. cinemark. com/smc. Open Quarry Swim at Carrigan Farms. Carrigan Farms Quarry, West Entrance, 1213 Oak Ridge Farm Hwy., Mooresville. $15 per person. Cash or check only. Swim in the cool, deep water at Carrigan Farms Quarry. Ages 11 and younger must wear a life jacket at all times in the water. Anyone 12 and older is eligible to take the swim test. 10am-3pm. Check website for more dates and times. carriganfarms.com.

16 THURSDAY 3rd Thursday Concert. Crossing Paths Park, 120 Blythe Drive, Indian Trail. 6-9pm. FREE. Enjoy summer nights with outdoor music. Food and alcohol available to purchase.indiantrail.org. Summer Concert Series: Anne Springs Close Greenway. Anne Springs Close

› Greenway, 291 Dairy Barn Lane, Fort Mill. 5:30-8:30pm. $5 per person (free for members); $5 per car for parking. 803-547-4575. Enjoy live music at the Comporium Amphitheater. Visit the website to see scheduled performers. ascgreenway.org. Summer Movie Magic — Indian Land. Redstone 14, 9650 RedStone Drive, Indian Land. 10am. $1. See “Peter Rabbit” as part of the The Summer Movie Magic program. stonetheatres.com.

17 FRIDAY Cotswold Trucks Food Truck Rally. Trinity Presbyterian Church, 3115 Providence Road. 5:30-9:30pm. FREE. A family and dog-friendly food truck rally that features 10-15 area food trucks, live music and a gated kids’ playground. trinitypreschurch. org/event/food-truck-fridays. Food Truck Friday — Rock Hill. Old Town Rock Hill, 300 E. Main St., Rock Hill. 6-10pm. FREE. Come out for some the best local food trucks, live music and children’s activities. onlyinoldtown.com/ foodtruckfriday. Music on Main. Mooresville Town Hall Lawn, 413 N. Main St., Mooresville. 7pm. FREE. Come out to see the family movie “Good Burger.”

18 SATURDAY City of Immigrants 5K. Midwood International and Cultural Center, 1817 Central Ave. 6pm. See website for fee schedule. The 5K run/walk begins and finishes at Midwood International and Cultural Center and winds through the Plaza Midwood neighborhood, and is followed by a festival of music and fun for the whole family. cltcityofimmigrants.com. Hummingbird Festival. Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, 2900 Rocky River Road. 9am-3pm. FREE. Come out for family-friendly activities, which include, bird-banding, storytelling, birding hikes, “The Great Hummingbird Challenge,” face painting and guest speakers. apm.activecommunities.com/ mecklenburgparks. Learn to Ride. Wallace Pruitt Recreation Center, 440 Tuckaseegee Road. 11am-1pm. FREE. Kids of all ages and

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grown-ups, too, can learn to ride a bike using the tried-and-true “balance bike” method. learntorideclt.com. Open Sail Dates. Lake Norman YMCA, 21300 Davidson St., Cornelius. Ages 4 and older. 10:30am-1:30pm. $20$30. Participants can check out the sunfish and practice their sailing skills. Children ages 11 and younger must be accompanied by a competent sailor. A short test is given to the sailors to ensure they can safely maneuver the boat. ymcacharlotte.org/events. Saturday Children’s Yoga. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont. Ages 3 and younger. 11-11:30am. $6 per class. 704-8291294. Geared towards children ages 3 and younger, this class will focus on movement and energy release. Parent participation required. dsbg.org. Summer Food Truck Rally. Runde Park, 5116 Windward Drive, Tega Cay. 6-10pm. FREE. Some of the area’s best food trucks plus children’s inflatables and live music. tegacaysc.org.

19 SUNDAY Hummingbird Crafts and Facts. Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, 2900 Rocky River Road. 2-4pm. FREE. Enjoy activities around from the Hummingbird Festival. Drop-in, and have fun. apm.activecommunities.com/ mecklenburgparks.

20 MONDAY Preschool Community Program. Anne Springs Close Greenway, 291 Dairy Barn Lane, Fort Mill. Ages 2-5. 10am. $2 (plus $5 entry fee for non-members). Preschoolers can enjoy nature-themed literature activities, crafts, hikes and use their imaginations. Children must have a parent or guardian present throughout the program. ascgreenway.org. Small Stalks. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont. Ages 2-5. 10-11am. $10 per parent/child; $6 for each additional participant. 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. 2

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CALENDAR years and younger. 11:15am-noon. $10 per parent/child; $6 for each additional participant. 704-829-1252. Enjoy a morning of sensory exploration, singing and fun in a safe and nurturing environment. dsbg.org.

21 TUESDAY Gem Theatre’s Summer Movie Camp. Gem Theater, 111 West 1st St., Kannapolis. $1. See a $1 movie on Tuesdays at 10 a.m. or 12:30 p.m. Movie Camp features some of last year’s blockbusters, but if you’re interested in seeing some of this summer’s flicks, go to the theater before 6 p.m. when tickets for all ages are just $4. gem-theatre.com. Story Time and More. Children’s Garden at Wing Haven, 260 Ridgewood Ave. 10-11am. $10 per family. Hear a story and do a craft activity, water vegetable plants, dig for worms and explore the sensory and butterfly gardens. winghavengardens.org.

22 WEDNESDAY Registering Now for Fall Classes

Open House Monday July 30, 2018, 6:00-8:00pm Saturday August 4, 2018, 12:00-2:00 Saturday August 25, 2018, 12:00-2:00

Raffle/prizes every hour!!

Party in the Park. Romare Bearden Park, 300 S. Church St. 6-9pm. FREE. Bring your lawn chairs, drinks and snacks, and hear music by North Tower Band. uptowncharlotteparks.com/romarebearden-park. On Stage: The Lion King. See page 28.

23 THURSDAY Teen Summer Break Finale. University City Regional Library, 301 East W.T. Harris Blvd. Ages 12-18. 2-3pm. FREE. Join us at University City Regional Library as we wrap up this year’s summer reading program and celebrate the readers. cmlibrary.org. On Stage: The Lion and the Little Red Bird. See page 28.

24 FRIDAY 2018 Summer Camp open until August 24 5323 East Independence Blvd. Suite A. Charlotte

704.563.8693 | bbdance.com 30

AUGUST 2018 | charlotteparent.com

4th Friday Movie Night. Crossing Paths Park, 120 Blythe Drive, Indian Trail. 6-10pm. FREE. Bring your blanket and chairs, and enjoy a movie in the park. Food available

for purchase. Movie begins at dusk. indiantrail.org. Food Truck Fridays and Concert Series. Stumptown Park, 120 S. Trade St., Matthews. 5-9pm. FREE. Favorite area food and dessert trucks, plus local/ region bands, inflatable interactives for kids and a craft beer pavilion. Diners are encouraged to bring chairs. matthewsnc.gov. Food Trucks and Music in the Garden. Wing Haven, 248 Ridgewood Ave. 5:308pm. $12-$15, free for children 10 and younger. Enjoy a family-friendly evening of fun with local food truck KO and live music from Hot Chocolate and Vanilla Soul Duo. winghavengardens.org. Movies in the Park. Harrisburg Park, 191 Sims Pkwy., Harrisburg. 6pm. FREE. Bring lawn chairs and blankets to relax, and arrive early to enjoy free popcorn and children’s activities before a showing of “Inside Out.” harrisburgnc.org. Native Snakes of NC. U.S. National Whitewater Center, 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy. 6:15pm. Free clinic, $6 parking fee. Learn about the native snakes of North Carolina, their adaptations and why snakes are essential to the food chain, plus a snake demonstration. usnwc.org/learn/clinics. York County Summerfest. 23 E. Liberty St., York. FREE. This annual event features a Frisbee dog show and an automobile show, live music, arts and crafts and food vendors, and a kids zone with a splash area. Friday, 5-10pm; Saturday, 8am-2pm. yorksummerfest.com. On Stage: The Lion King; and The Lion and the Little Red Bird. See page 28.

25 SATURDAY Bette Rae’s Back-to-School Bash. Bette Rae Thomas Recreation Center, 2921 Tuckaseegee Road. Ages 6 and older. 10am-3pm. FREE. Enjoy games, prizes, food and free school supplies (while supplies last). apm.activecommunities. com/mecklenburgparks/activity_search. Charlotte Area Kids Expo. Carolina Courts, 240 Chestnut Pkwy., Indian Trail.

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 1st of the month prior to the next month’s publication. Time, dates and details of events are subject to change. Call venue to confirm.

› 10am-3pm. FREE. 813-463-2712. Check out products and services from local businesses and resources focusing on education, health and wellness, child care and entertainment, plus bounce houses, face-painting, a video-game truck and character meet and greets. sunshinefamilyexpos.com. Lake Wylie Family Kayak Tour. McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 York Road. Ages 5 and older. 9:30-11:30am or 2-4pm. $15, single kayak; $20 for tandem kayak. Ages 10 and older for single kayak; 5 and older for tandem kayak. Paddle the edges of McDowell Nature Preserve with certified and experienced instructors while enjoying nature with your family. Register online. apm. activecommunities.com/mecklenburgparks. Movie Night in Midwood Park. Midwood Park Amphitheater, 2100 Wilhelmina Ave. 8pm. FREE. Watch “E.T.” under the stars and on the big screen. plazamidwood.org. Weather Proof. The Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 10am-4pm. $9-$10, includes admission. 704854-6676. See weather instruments up close, debunk weather myths, find out what the weather is like on other planets. schielemuseum.org. On Stage: The Lion King; and The Lion and the Little Red Bird. See page 28.

26 SUNDAY Natural Happenings: Disappearing Act. McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 York Road. Ages 4 and older. 2-4pm. FREE. Learn to hide like a turtle or blend into the forest like a deer in this interactive activity about camouflage. Bring hiking shoes for a short, 1-mile hike over uneven terrain. Preregistration required. parkandrec.com. Sunday Afternoon in the Park. Mint Hill Park on Wilgrove, 5233 Wilgrove-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill. 1-6pm. FREE. 704-545-2335. Enjoy locally made art, music and traditional festival foods. Bring blankets and chairs, and enjoy an afternoon in the shade. minthill.com. On Stage: The Lion King. See page 28.

27 MONDAY Celebrating Nature: International Bat Night. McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 York Road. 7-9pm. FREE. Celebrate International Bat Night by the campfire, and play educational bat games with the family. Once the sun goes down, venture along the trails in search of bats and other nocturnal wildlife. Pre-registration is required for all participants, adult and children. parkandrec.com. Nature Story Corner. Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, 2900 Rocky River Road. Ages 3-7. 10-11am. FREE. Unearth the untold narratives of nature through stories, and then walk about the forest exploring and engaging all of our senses. Parent participation required. apm.activecommunities. com/mecklenburgparks.

CALENDAR

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

28 TUESDAY Toddler Time at Sky Zone. Sky Zone, 10200 Centrum Pkwy., Pineville. Ages 5 and younger. 10-11am. $8. Let your little ones to discover the joy of being active while bouncing under the supervision of their parents and without interference from bigger kids. skyzone.com/charlotte. On Stage: The Lion King. See page 28.

29 WEDNESDAY Intro to Kayaking. Anne Springs Close Greenway, 2573 Lake Haigler Drive, Fort Mill. 6:30-8pm. $25. This class is designed to introduce those who have never kayaked to the sport of kayaking. Learn how to choose appropriate gear for kayaking, a safe kayaking location based on your ability, and how to safely and effectively get into and out of your boat. Register prior to the event. There is an additional $5 greenway entry fee for non-members. ascgreenway.org. Movie on Lawn End-of-Summer Celebration. Johnston YMCA, 3025 N. Davidson St. 5:30-8:30pm. FREE. Come out for food, games and music. All open to the public. ymcacharlotte.org/events. On Stage: The Lion King. See page 28.

30 THURSDAY River Jam Concert Series. U.S. National Whitewater Center, 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy. 7pm. FREE; $6 parking fee. 704-391-3900. Enjoy food, beverages and live music. usnwc.org/riverjam. Toddler Time at Big Air. Big Air Trampoline Park, 2408 Sardis Road N. Ages 6 and younger. 10am-1pm. $8. Big Air Trampoline Park opens its doors for little ones to jump at their own speed and comfort level. bigairusa.com/ charlotte/toddler-time. On Stage: The Lion King; and The Lion and the Little Red Bird. See page 28.

31 FRIDAY Labor Day Celebration. U.S. National Whitewater Center. 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy. $6 parking fee. Enjoy a day of outdoor adventure, yoga, live music and a Labor Day firework show after the sun goes down. usnwc.org. Matthews Alive. Stumptown Park, 120 S. Trade St., Matthews. FREE. 704-708-1261. Enjoy more than 150 arts and crafts vendors, games, rides, and interactive area art area and four stages entertainment. Fri., 6-10pm; Sat., 9am-9pm; Sun., noon-9pm; and Mon., 9am-5pm. matthewsalive.org. On Stage: The Lion King; and The Lion and the Little Red Bird. See page 28.

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charlotteparent.com | AUGUST 2018

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DADDY DEREK

Being the New Kid on the Block BY DEREK JAMES

A few months before entering the fourth grade, my mom and I moved to a new town in Wisconsin. Although it was only 30 miles from our previous home, everything about it seemed foreign. We relocated so that my mom could finish her college degree. I had to leave my friends and the only school I had ever known. We were both “new kids” on the block, so to speak. While I was great at making friends and had been pretty popular at my old school, I had no idea how it would go in a new environment. I was switching from a Catholic school to a public school, and other kids had warned me that public school wasn’t going to be as good (as if they knew anything about the differences between the two). In retrospect, I really got myself worked up about going to a new school. Would anyone like me? Would they think I was funny like my past classmates had? Would they make fun of my clothes or the fact that my mom and I lived in an apartment? That apartment was directly across the street from the new school, so I could easily walk there. Given its newness and my worried 10-year-old brain, the walk to my new school felt longer than the yellow brick road in “The Wizard of Oz.” I was beyond nervous. I made it to my new homeroom unscathed. My teacher, Mrs. Nimtz, did her very best to make me feel welcome. As the day began, students introduced themselves, and I did the same.

AUGUST 2018 | charlotteparent.com

Having a positive attitude can make all the difference when adjusting to a new school or environment.

Everything was turning out fine. As the hours ticked by, however, my worry and stress grew over the situation. I started to feel light-headed. It wasn’t long before I was making a mad dash to the boys’ restroom to throw up. Not only did I not physically feel any better, the thoughts in my mind just got worse. I then reasoned that surely everyone would know I got sick and from then on I’d be forever known as Barf Boy. All the kids would ask me, “What’s up, Chuck?” (Get it — upchuck.) What a first impression. My mom was called and I went home. She assured me that everything would be fine and let me know, in no uncertain terms, that I would be back in my classroom on the second day. I was not happy about that at the time, but now I’m glad she did. The next day, the same nervous feeling returned, but somehow via either miracle or an incredible threat from my teacher to my classmates, nothing happened. Nada. It was a great day. From then on, I quickly started getting used to my new school,

having fun with my classmates and began to ease into my new surroundings. As it turned out, my mom and I moved again the next year to where my mom had found a new job. Newness was becoming old hat. I stayed in that school system until I graduated from high school. Change of any kind can be difficult for kids — adults, too. Even though my mom adequately prepared me for the change, I was nervous and blew things out of proportion. Situations similar to mine are going to happen from time to time. As a parent, you can help to prepare your child, but sometimes children simply need to overcome their fears on their own … and sometimes they may just need to puke. Whether it’s a new school for kids or a new job for Mom or Dad, greeting the adventure with an open mind and a positive attitude can make all the difference. Derek James is a host of WCCB News Rising. He and his wife live in Charlotte with their two sons who are age 9 and 7.

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This was our first trip to a North Carolina beach and my son and I snuck out at sunrise to walk on the beach. It was peaceful and magical, and everything a secret beach should be. Photo and memory by Julia Ashbridge of Waxhaw.

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