Charlotte Parent Dec 2018 by Morris Media Network

December 2018 â&#x20AC;¢ Free

The Nutcracker Experience Stepping into a holiday tradition

SITTER SITUATION Taking the hassle out of child care

2018

Gift Guide Toys and games that delight

12 Holiday

Celebrations Not to Miss

charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2018

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CONTENT › DECEMBER 2018

Make ‘The Nutcracker’ a Family Tradition Tips to make your family’s first or 15th “Nutcracker” experience magical

Holiday Gift Guide Favorite toys — tried and tested — for the children on your gift-giving list

Planning for a Sitter Take the hassle out of finding a sitter during the holidays

12 Must-Do Holiday Experiences Your guide to family-friendly festivities throughout the area

12 IN EVERY ISSUE 5

FYI

10 Growing Up 11 Families Managing Media 23 Excursion 32 Daddy Derek

CALENDAR

25 Our Picks 26 Daily Calendar 27 On Stage 29 Holiday Happenings 31 Parades and Tree Lightings

25 charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2018

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Peace and Solitude of Car Time ... Alone

morrismedianetwork.com

EDITOR

Michele Huggins

t’s Monday morning. I’ve just

ART DIRECTOR

said my goodbyes for the day

SENIOR DIGITAL DIRECTOR, PRODUCTS + MARKETING

to my youngest at daycare after

dropping my oldest at school. I’m back in my car and it’s quiet! No one is asking me for a snack, no one is asking about going to a friend’s house, no questions about deadlines or discussion about what to get the brother-in-laws for Christmas. My car is my quiet space without distractions or hassles other than a favorite playlist or a lane closure to navigate around (all too common in Charlotte these days) when I’m driving to and from work and on

Melissa Stutts

Allison Hollins • allison.hollins@morris.com

DIGITAL CONTENT DIRECTOR Andy Smith • andy.smith@morris.com

DIRECTOR, SALES + REVENUE DEVELOPMENT Lynn Zook • lynn.zook@morris.com

MEDIA CONSULTANTS

Fawn Anderson • fawn.anderson@morris.com Kathy Thompson • kathy.thompson@morris.com

ADVERTISING SALES COORDINATOR Julianne Clune • julianne.clune@morris.com

DIRECTOR, EVENTS + MARKETING Elizabeth Stacks

the occasional solo errand runs. It’s the place where I get to turn on a podcast I like, or crank up my music rather than kiddie tunes and Top 40 pop. My car is the space where I can collect my thoughts and mentally organize my day. I have come up with some really great ideas, headlines, story concepts, and gift ideas for the kids all while driving. Everybody needs their happy place. For the record, the car isn’t

MORRIS MEDIA NETWORK DIRECTOR OF MANUFACTURING Donald Horton

DIRECTOR OF PUBLISHING SERVICES Karen Fralick

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Cher Wheeler

my only happy place as I love time with my family, wine with friends and a good yoga class, but having a quiet reprieve, particularly during the holiday season, can be sanity saving ... even if it is only 20 minutes alone in the car. With the holidays in full swing, our December issue includes features to help take the hassle out of your holidays. From our picks for 12 not-to-miss holiday celebrations to the big list of holiday performances, gift picks, and tips on how to get the most out of seeing “The Nutcracker” whether it’s your first or fifth time attending, we

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hope your holiday is magical, and includes some peace and quiet.

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DECEMBER 2018 | charlotteparent.com

Give Education Guide Whether starting kindergarten, choosing a preschool or searching for a new school, the Charlotte Parent Education Guide is the go-to resource for getting information about area public, private and charter schools.

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STEP INTO A WORLD OF HOLIDAY FUN. Immerse yourself in a world of holiday spirit with the return of WinterFest at Carowinds. The park will be transformed into a glittering winter landscape with ice skating, festive characters, family rides, live shows and more. And don’t miss the brand-new New Year’s Eve Celebration. Visit carowinds.com to learn more.

SELECT NIGHTS NOV. 18–DEC. 31

Students participate in an art project through Arts+. A new Creative Lab space is in the works to open in Spring 2019 that offers drop-in studio hours for families and adults, as well as ongoing classes and onetime workshops. Photo courtesy of Arts+

Community School of the Arts is now Arts+ Community School of the Arts launched a new phase for the 50-year-old organization with a name change to Arts+. As new programs are being added, its mission remains true: to unleash creativity, build community, and transform lives through outstanding and accessible arts education. What started with founder Henry Bridges using 15 pianos in the First Presbyterian Church basement has evolved into an organization spanning decades, generations and socioeconomic classes. “Arts education can help students unleash creativity and tap into an inner well of self-expression, plus it helps them develop invaluable life-long skills including teamwork, critical thinking and an aptitude for problem solving,” says Arts+ Executive Director Devlin McNeil. “Arts training makes our people more vibrant, plus it makes our community more vibrant. Exposure to the arts makes us better people, plus it makes the world around us better, too.” From private lessons to summer camps and community outreach programs, Arts+ strives to make arts education available to students of all ages, skill levels and socioeconomic backgrounds. A new Creative Lab space is in the works to open in Spring 2019 that offers drop-in studio hours for families and adults, as well as ongoing classes and one-time workshops. Learn more about Arts+ opportunities, including its Holiday Make-and-Take family workshops happening Dec. 9 and 15, at artsplus.org.

America’s Got Talent Auditions Coming to Charlotte NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” is once again on the road in search for the most talented variety acts in the country. With its original premier in 2006, “America’s Got Talent” is the original modern-day talent show and has welcomed performers of all talents and ages to showcase their skills, including everything from dance performances and magic tricks to motorcycle stunts, trapeze acts and stand-up comedy. Season 14 auditions are underway and being held in Charlotte on Dec. 15 at the Charlotte Convention Center. Acts of any age and talent can audition at the open call. To register for an audition, go online to americasgottalentauditions.com and click on Charlotte to reserve an audition spot, or simply show up on Dec. 15 to audition. You may also submit a video audition on the website. To tide loyal viewers over until the new season, “America’s Got Talent: The Champions” debuts this winter. “Champions” showcases the most memorable and commendable acts from all around the world competing against one another on a global stage. The show premieres is Jan. 7 at 8 p.m. on NBC.

The Ultimate Kids’ Cookbook Tiffany Dahle, a Charlotte mom and founder of the blog Peanut Blossom, recently released her first cookbook titled “The Ultimate Kids’ Cookbook.” The cookbook is filled with simple one-pot meal recipes that kids can make with just a little help from their parents. With step-by-step instructions on chopping, flipping and how to make the perfect pot of rice, brown ground meat and safely use an oven, the cookbook teaches children how to cook from start to finish. Recipes like Orange-Blueberry Pancakes, School Night Chicken Fajitas, and Super Simple Spaghetti and Tomato Sauce, use simple ingredients and cook all in one pot or pan. Dahle also includes a few fun dinnertime conversation games to play, perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime. The cookbook is available on Dahle’s website, peanutblossom.com. Check charlotteparent.com for recipes from “The Ultimate Kids’ Cookbook” to try cooking with your kids.

charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2018

High-fives for great health Novant Health is here for your little ones Set your child up for success by scheduling a visit with a Novant Health pediatrician who can handle any of her needs — whether that’s a checkup, vaccinations or more specialized treatment. And, when you need a higher level of care, we offer pediatric urgent care, as well as a dedicated pediatric ER at Novant Health Hemby Children’s Hospital. Our pediatric specialties: • Cardiology • Developmental and behavioral care • Endocrinology

• Gastroenterology • Hemophilia treatment center • Neurology

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Neurosurgery Oncology and hematology Pulmonology Sleep medicine

• Infectious disease • Epilepsy • Sports medicine

Find a doctor or specialist near you at NovantHealth.org/Kids. © Novant Health, Inc. 2018 10/18 • GCM-358614

Holidays at the Garden is bigger and better than ever! You’ll discover new displays, more lights than ever before and fun for the whole family. Experience an all-new musically-orchestrated topiary display in the Four Seasons Garden, explore the extended lights of fire and ice in the perennial gardens and more. Enjoy annual family traditions at the Garden including the orchid tree, live music, crackling fires to warm cold hands or roast a marshmallow, warm beverages, model trains and plenty of holiday cheer. PRESENTING SPONSOR SUPPORTING SPONSORS

MAJOR IN-KIND SPONSOR

IN-KIND SPONSOR

MEDIA SPONSOR

DECEMBER 2018 | charlotteparent.com

Purchase Tickets in Advance at www.DSBG.org 6500 South New Hope Road Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-4490

Holiday Board Books for Little Ones Cozy up on the couch with a cup of hot cocoa and enjoy reading these holiday board books with your young ones.

All Aboard! The Christmas Train. Folding out car by car, this accordion-style book, written by Nichole Mara and illustrated by Andrew Kolb, takes readers on a tour of Santa’s Christmas train. Each car has lots to see — elves making toys, penguins playing, reindeer preparing for the big day — as Santa searches for his missing boot. With a running landscape dotted with objects for children to find and count on the back of the book, “All Aboard! The Christmas Train” is a fun, interactive ride from beginning to end. (Abrams Appleseed. $9.99).

CMS Students Elect Student School Board Representative

Kendall Sanders, a junior at Northwest School of the Arts, will serve a one-year term advising the CMS Board of Education. Photo courtesy of GenerationNation

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FYI | education

Students elected Northwest School of the Arts junior Kendall Sanders to serve a one-year term advising the CharlotteMecklenburg Schools Board of Education. Kendall is co-vice president of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Youth Council, the unified student advisory council for CMS, the City of Charlotte, Mecklenburg County and GenerationNation. She also is serving in her second year on the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Youth Council Superintendent Student Advisory Committee. As a school board representative, Kendall will inform students about CMS policy and issues, and actively seek and share student feedback with CMS leadership to increase student voice in CMS policy and decision-making. Myers Park High School sophomore Elias Altman, who is also a member of of the CharlotteMecklenburg Youth Council and Superintendent Student Advisory Board, came in second place. Elias serves as the student representative alternate and will work with Kendall and the CharlotteMecklenburg Youth Council to share student input with the CMS School Board. GenerationNation’s annual student election took place Oct. 25-Nov. 6. Through the election program, K-12 students analyze candidates and issues, build news and civic literacy, make informed decisions, engage in service-learning as student pollworkers, and experience democracy firsthand through the annual student election hosted by Charlotte’s GenerationNation. Learn more at generationnation.org.

First Lottery Application Period Opens for CMS School Choice

Decked Out for Christmas! The mice at the North Pole are getting ready to deck the halls with all the essentials. They’ve got ornaments and twinkle lights, candy canes and popcorn garlands. One by one, the mice unpack all the merriest decorations, but soon the items become a bit unexpected. Hot cocoa? Fuzzy dice? A map? In a festive twist, it’s revealed that it’s not a tree the mice are decorating, but Santa’s sleigh, all decked out for Christmas Eve. Written by Ethan Long. (Abrams Appleseed, $9.99).

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools first school choice lottery application period for the 2019-20 school year is open Nov. 30-Jan. 7, 2019. The school choice lottery gives families choices for specific curriculum programs that match student interests, including STEM, STEAM, International Baccalaureate, visual and performing arts, Montessori and world languages. A student must be enrolled in CMS by Dec. 10 to enter into the first round of the school choice lottery. A family may apply for up to three schools or programs that match a child’s interests. Lottery selections and applications are anonymous, though socioeconomic status and previous years spent at an underperforming school are considered. Students have priority for school options in their transportation zones. For a full list of CMS School Choice options, visit cmschoice.org, then make plans to visit the school before applying to your top three preferences. Need more guidance? Call the student assignment and school choice office at 980-343-5030 or email schoolchoice@cms.k12.nc.us.

$688M

The amount of funding the North Carolina Department of Instruction says it needs to hire enough nurses, psychologists, counselors and school resource officers to reach nationally recommended ratios in public schools. Source: N.C. Department of Public Instruction

charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2018

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FYI | health

Cook Without Worry This Holiday

Don’t let your holiday feast take an ugly turn with food that’s not safely cooked. To ensure food is safely cooked, the internal temperature must get high enough to kill bacteria that can make you sick. Use a food thermometer to ensure foods are cooked to a safe internal temperature. Below is a detailed list of foods and their proper cooked temperatures. • 145 degrees: The internal temperature for whole cuts of beef, pork, veal, and lamb (allow the meat to rest for three minutes before carving or eating). • 165 degrees: The internal cooked temperature for poultry, including ground chicken and turkey. • 145 degrees: The internal cooked temperature for fresh pork and ham. Precooked ham needs to reach an internal temperature of 140 degrees. The Two Hour Rule! Wondering if it’s OK to keep Aunt May’s casserole for leftovers? Throw away any perishable food left out for two hours or longer. Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

DECEMBER 2018 | charlotteparent.com

Why Children Remember Same Things Differently Children can have completely different memories of the same negative episode, depending on how they regulate their own emotions. That’s the finding of first-of-its-kind research by a UC Riverside team that looked at the emotion regulation, or ER, processes of children. In the study, children watched a scene from two films, one sad, one scary. The research team discovered that, after a scary experience, older children who are less able to manage negative emotions remembered central information about the scary event better than peripheral details. Children’s memories differed for sad and scary information based on their ability to regulate emotions. “Emotions can influence what we pay attention to, color our memories, and make them less accurate,” says Elizabeth Davis, a UC Riverside assistant professor of psychology who is the principal investigator on the study.

Wisdom Teeth 101 Removing your child’s wisdom teeth is often viewed as a rite of passage. While it may seem like there is no urgency or reason to have these molars removed if they are not causing any immediate problems, it is best to take them out before they cause bigger issues in the future, says Dr. Priveer Sharma, a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon at Sharma Oral Surgery in Charlotte. Here are a few reasons wisdom teeth may need to be removed by an oral surgeon. Damage to other teeth: If your dentist sees your wisdom teeth growing in at the wrong angle or without enough room, these molars can push other teeth out of the way and cause mouth pain and bite problems. Impacted wisdom teeth: Wisdom teeth live embedded in your gums. If teeth are unable to emerge properly, they can eventually be impacted into the jaw. This could result in multiple issues like infection, affected bone support, or even the ability for a cyst to form, which is harmful to the roots of your other teeth. Partially erupted wisdom teeth: Partially erupted wisdom teeth make it more difficult to keep the tooth and surrounding teeth clean. This can allow bacteria to become trapped, which can cause an infection or gum disease.

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Catherine Wellington with her husband Greg Wellington and son Gregory and daughter Carlin. Photo courtesy of Catherine Wellington

FYI | people

our accessibility to amazing museums, libraries and entertainment for our kids. Best advice ever received: It’s a marathon not a race. Don’t focus on the obstacles, but instead, the big picture. Proudest parenting moment? As cheesy as it sounds, I really enjoy watching my kids grow and learn new things. It is crazy to me that my oldest is stringing together sentences and not just saying random words anymore. My youngest just learned to walk — I swear she was just born last month. Lowest parenting moment: Saying a few bad words when I’m driving and then have my toddler repeat them.

Get to Know: Catherine Wellington BY MICHELE HUGGINS

atherine Wellington is the owner of Blue Sage Baby + Kids, an online retail clothing store for children. She and her husband Greg Wellington are parents to Gregory, who is 2-1/2 years old and Carlin, who is 1 year old.

Where in Charlotte do you live? Where did you grow up? We have lived in Cotswold for the past three years. We love our neighborhood. I’ve lived in Charlotte for a little over 10 years. I grew up in Raleigh. It’s nice being a short drive from home because my family still lives there. Tell us about your job. What do you like most about it? What are the challenges? I have always loved being in retail and

buying. I love the styling aspect of it the most. It’s fun putting together outfits for babies and kids because their clothes can be so playful. My biggest challenge is finding a balance between being a mom and a business owner. I know so many women also face this challenge, and I don’t think there is such a thing as balance. Some days my kids require more of my attention and other days, my business does.

What’s the hardest part of juggling family life and work life? The hardest part for me has been learning how to ask for help when I need it. My kids obviously come first, so some days I have to rely more on others to help me keep Blue Sage Baby + Kids running. What is your favorite thing about raising a family in Charlotte? I love that Charlotte is so diverse and has so many resources available to us as parents. I also love

What are three things you can’t live without? Family, friends and coffee. Favorite Instagram account: @amberinteriors Last book read: “I’ve Been Thinking” by Maria Shriver. What inspires you? I am really inspired by all the moms in our community that are creating, following their passions, working hard toward their dreams and helping others in those aspects. I am fortunate to be surrounded by a great group of friends that continue to inspire me through those characteristics everyday.

charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2018

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GROWING UP

Beautiful Memories Capturing family milestones BY MALIA JACOBSON

TEEN YEARS

s the saying goes, the days of parenthood are long, but the years are short. These days, both seem shorter than ever. Families juggle so much that days — even years — can slip past in a blur of playdates, soccer games and school events, says family coach Susan Smith Kuczmarski, best-selling author of “Becoming a Happy Family.” With our brains in a near-constant state of information overload, sweet moments you want to remember, such as kids bouncing down the stairs on Christmas morning or a child’s pride after a stellar piano recital, can quickly become buried in a landslide of emails and busy schedules. Modern parents should be intentional about creating and preserving family memories, not only for themselves, but for their children, Kuczmarski says. Here’s how.

EARLY YEARS

Photo Finish Developing long-term memory of events and scenes happens later in childhood, age 7 or beyond, according to researchers from Emory University. While babes are building those brain cells, help build a stockpile of treasured memories. For major milestones or fleeting stages like the sweet, sleepy newborn weeks, consider giving your phone camera a break and hiring a pro. Unlike phone photos, professional photographs come to you edited, perfected and ready to save or share, no additional work required. Since newborn babies change so quickly, capturing the itty-bitty stage means

DECEMBER 2018 | charlotteparent.com

words, providing a treasured window into their developing personalities. Per Cute Buttons Gift and Paper Boutique in Morrisville, North Carolina, hand-written letters are trending as families rediscover written letters to stay connected. Pairing kids up with a far-flung relative as a pen pal encourages letter-writing and results in keepsake-worthy paper correspondence (no fancy stationary required). Asking kids to post letters to fabled characters like the Tooth Fairy or Santa captures kids’ earliest wishes and wonderings on paper, which caregivers can then spirit away for storage. Encourage a habit of regular journaling, whether in a spiral-bound sketchpad or a locked diary, to help kids learn to preserve their own memories for their own enjoyment and recollection. Setting aside around 15 minutes a few times each week for “reflections” lets kids preserve the small daily moments from their own unique perspective.

scheduling photos in the first two weeks of life. That means the best time to schedule a photo session is during pregnancy, says Becca Robinson, a newborn and family photographer in Raleigh, North Carolina. But if you never got around to scheduling, check around with local photographers for last-minute availability. Most newborn photographers love brand-new babies and often try to fit you in. ELEMENTARY YEARS

Pen Pals Photos aren’t the only meaningful mementos from childhood. Letters, cards and school assignments can help capture kids’ written

Artfully Yours Teens know their way around a camera, and their phones are likely bursting with photos, but what about beautiful keepsakes of a more artistic variety? Teens’ budding sense of self-expression can fuel a surge of creativity that begs to be captured in the form of tangible artwork. Spend an hour or two at a local pottery painting store creating colorful, useful pieces you can keep for years. Or pick up a large blank canvas along with inexpensive acrylic paint and brushes at a local art supply store and ask your teen to create some new artwork for the family room or dining room. For family fun with beautiful (or at least, amusing) results, give the popular “paint and sip” parties a familystyle makeover: appoint the most creative family member as the instructor, tasked with leading the rest of the family in creating individual masterpieces step-by-step while “sipping” hot chocolate or cider. Soak in the memories as the creativity flows. Malia Jacobson is a health and parenting journalist and mom of three.

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FAMILIES MANAGING MEDIA projector) and don’t forget the popcorn. ADD IN NEW TRADITIONS When everyone is home for the holidays, disconnect from digital devices by doing other activities together. • Start a puzzle. Every family member can pitch in. Set up a card table (reserve the dining room table for family meals) in the family room where everybody already is. Your kids will remember the important memory — not the clean house — when they are gone.

Holiday Goals: Reconnect With Your Family Ideas to enjoy the holidays that build family bonds

• Dust off your favorite board games or make a tradition to buy a new game every December. Here are a few of our family favorites: Telestrations, Bananagrams, Sequence, Scattergories, Personal Preference and Headbands. There are always the classics like Monopoly, Clue, chess, Trivial Pursuit and Life. Don’t forget card games or even charades. • Use your fire pit time for good oldfashioned family story telling. Pull out a Chat Pack or Life Stories cards to get the conversations going.

BY MELANIE HEMPE

hile December is a great month for creating memories, the power of a child’s entertainment screens can lure him or her further away from building healthy

family bonds. This holiday season, reclaim family time with some new traditions. (Spoiler alert: some suggestions include healthy screen time.) BETTER ATTACHMENT, BETTER BRAINS Bonding with family is a critical ingredient to avoid insecurity, stress and behavioral problems in childhood. While screen time is not all bad, it does not help build strong face-to-face human attachment that is necessary for balanced development and creating those important family memories. Simple changes, such as using screens when only viewing together, can help to ensure quality family time. Try this: Keep the TV remote out of sight, so it does not become the I’m-bored default activity, and trade the background TV noise for upbeat holiday music. Close the laptop lid when it’s not in use, and put away

the small-screen devices when family is gathered together. CONNECT USING BIG SCREENS There are many ways to enjoy screen time together. Consider playing games like Just Dance to get everyone off the couch, moving and laughing together. Other ideas: Watching holiday movies, sports or old family movies together is a great way to bond. Make a list of movies you’d like to watch together, plan a favorite meal or snacks, and make this an anticipated family bonding (no-phone) event. If the weather permits, plan an outdoor movie (throw a sheet up for a screen and a

• Teach your kids how to cook. Not only is it a bonding activity, but it builds memories and life skills. Be prepared for holiday baking. This means starting early with cookies and other treats. Put a holiday music soundtrack on in the background. Enlist grandparents or extended family to teach a new recipe each year to your kids. And before you begin, throw away your “perfection hat” and let the kids really do it. Who cares if the pie crust isn’t perfect or if the cookies aren’t cut just right? Focus on strengthening your kids’ family attachment this season. Make a plan to reconnect with your kids and stick to it. After all, the best gifts this season really aren’t under the tree. Melanie Hempe is the founder of Families Managing Media. For more information, visit familiesmanagingmedia.com. charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2018

Make ‘The Nutcracker’ a Family Tradition

Charlotte Ballet performs "The Nutcracker" at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, Dec. 7-23. Photo by Peter Zay

TIPS FOR SHARING A MAGICAL FAMILY EXPERIENCE BY COURTNEY MCLAUGHLIN

Dancing mice, a Christmas tree rising from the floor, beautiful Sugar Plum Fairies, toy soldiers battling it out, a price and princess dancing in the snow. These are just a few of the magical and memorable moments from “The Nutcracker.” The classic holiday ballet is based on E.T.A. Hoffmann’s 1816 fairy tale “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” with music composed by Peter Tchaikovsky. The ballet premiered in Russia in 1892. It was first performed in the United States in 1944 by the San Francisco Ballet. Since then, families and children of all ages have attended this ballet as part of the holiday tradition. Is it time to add this outing to your list? Being prepared, managing expectations and getting the little ones into the story ahead of time are just a few ways to make the day merry. “We find The Nutcracker is often a child’s

first introduction to ballet, so setting expectations up front is important,” says Sarah Wheat, communications manager for the Charlotte Ballet. Below are some tips and tricks to make your first or 50th “Nutcracker” outing a huge success.

Before you go

LEARN THE STORY Several weeks before the performance, start reading “The Nutcracker” as part of the bedtime routine. There are dozens of titles to choose from including the beautifully illustrated children’s book by Susan Jeffers. You can also find A Little Golden Book, picture books or the jazz-inspired “The Nutcracker in Harlem.” Read several versions of the story and compare and contrast how the tale is told. SET EXPECTATIONS “The Nutcracker” is a classic ballet about Clara and her nutcracker doll told through dance and music. This is a great opportunity to

DECEMBER 2018 | charlotteparent.com

discuss how ballet might differ from other live performances they’ve experienced. “Talk to [children] about the choreography, the costumes and the music and how the dancers rely on all of these things to tell the story versus speaking,“ Wheat says. INCORPORATE INTERACTIVE ACTIVITIES Now that you know the story, get into the action with “Nutcracker” coloring books, paper dolls, The Nutcracker Musical Storybook (an app for iPhone) and free downloadable games and activities online. LISTEN TO THE MUSIC “The Nutcracker” is filled with songs and melodies that make the season bright. Start playing the soundtrack in the car, while preparing dinner or have a winter afternoon dance off. Ask which songs they like best and talk about scenes from the ballet where they will get to hear their favorite tunes.

PICK THE RIGHT PERFORMANCE Timing is everything, especially when it comes to kids being seated and quiet. Allow a few hours for the show (most will have an intermission) and select a time when everyone is most likely to be at their best. Rushing home for a nap or waiting too long for lunch can turn a good day into a difficult one. Some performance companies offer family-friendly shows where the atmosphere is more relaxed. Also consider bringing a booster seat so the shorter set can see everything happening on stage.

ENJOY SPECIAL PERFORMANCE ACTIVITIES Some performances include special events like pictures with the stars of the show, interactive games and activities, or a question-and-answer session with the cast. Find out what is offered before or after the show and plan accordingly. The kids might not remember the entire performance, but they won’t forget having their picture taken with a prima ballerina.

DRESS FOR COMFORT Being comfortable goes a long way in having a positive show experience, so dress the kids in something they won’t mind wearing for a few hours. Some children prefer play clothes while others are all for tutus, dance shoes or picking out a special outfit just for the event. A few days prior to the show, set out the chosen outfits.

PLAY I SPY Before the show, talk about things they should look for during the performance. See if they can find Clara’s doll, a sword, a clown, candy canes and other items. At intermission talk about what they found in the first act and what to look for in the second part of the show. Asking questions (using your theatre voice) can also help refocus a child’s attention back to the show, Wheat says. If you feel their attention waning, try asking, “How many dancers can you count?” “What kinds of sweets do you see on stage?” Or “What do you think will happen next?”

ARRIVE EARLY Give yourself plenty of time to find parking, the theatre, bathrooms and your seats. Take time to walk around the theatre to get some energy out and get settled.

BRING SNACKS Snacks can be the difference between another 30 minutes of happiness and a complete meltdown. Pack a few goodies and avoid foods that are loud and crumbly. If they can make it to intermission,

Day of the Performance

having a treat from the concession stand is another way to make the day special.

After the Performance

STRETCH YOUR LEGS Depending on the weather, plan for some outside time following the performance. Bring a change of clothes and bundle everyone up for a quick trip to the park or a walk around town. Sitting for a long period of time can be difficult for everybody and a brisk walk while you talk about the show could be just the thing to keep your special afternoon on track. REVIEW THE PERFORMANCE When the moment seems right, ask them about their favorite parts of “The Nutcracker.” Go back and read the story again and ask them questions about the characters and the story. Lastly, remember to have fun and if you or your little ones aren’t quite ready for the big day out, try again next year. Courtney McLaughlin is a freelance writer in Charlotte.

LOCAL NUTCRACKER PERFORMANCES From a hip-hop take to a classic Russian performance and aerial feats high above the crowd, there are many different “Nutcracker” performances to suit all personalities. Be sure to purchase tickets early so you can get the show time and date that works best for your family. Charlotte Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” A holiday classic performed by the Charlotte Ballet and set to music by the Charlotte Symphony. In 2016, the Charlotte Ballet premiered this show with all new sets and costumes. The Charlotte Ballet also offers performances for children with sensory issues, a senior dress rehearsal performance and educational opportunities. Check the website for dates and times. Dec. 7-23 charlotteballet.org Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St.

Clara’s Trip: A Cirque and Dance Nutcracker Story Enjoy a high-flying version of “The Nutcracker” with Caroline Calouche & Co., an aerial and contemporary dance company and school. Clara trips at a holiday party and is whisked off to the hospital where she discovers she has a broken ankle. That evening, friends and get-well gifts dance in her dreams. Dec. 7-9. carolinecalouche.org/clarastrip Booth Playhouse, 130 N. Tryon St.

The Hip Hop Nutcracker “The Hip Hop Nutcracker” is a fast-paced, upbeat production performed by a supercharged cast of dancers, a DJ and violinist. After the mysterious Drosselmeyer casts a magic spell, Maria-Clara and her prince travel back in time to when her parents first met in a nightclub. Dec. 26-29 hiphopnutcracker.com Knight Theatre at Levine Center for the Arts, 430 S. Tryon St.

The Nutcracker Charlotte Youth Ballet performs this annual holiday classic that features the choreography of Charlotte choreography legend Gay Porter and Bridget Young. Nov. 30-Dec. 2 charlotteyouthballet.org. Halton Theater, 1206 Elizabeth Ave. Great Russian Nutcracker This performance from the Moscow Ballet includes life-size dancing puppets, a 60-foot growing Christmas tree, huge Russian nesting dolls, and a

mesmerizing two-person Dove of Peace costume. Dec. 23 nutcracker.com. Ovens Auditorium, 2700 E. Independence Blvd Harris YMCA School of Dance Watch young talent in action as students from the Harris YMCA School of Dance perform “The Nutcracker.” Dec. 8-9. tix.cpcc.edu Halton Theater, 1206 Elizabeth Ave.

charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2018

2018 Holiday Gift Guide

Favorite toys — tried and tested — for the kids on your gift-giving list BY ELENA EPSTEIN

Each year, the National Parenting Product Awards unbox, test and play with lots of toys, including toys with a focus on creative play and robots that teach about circuits, creative games for family fun night, plus stocking stuffers. Below are some of the award winners to help round out your holiday gift shopping for the kids in your life.

FUN AND LEARNING Really Rad Robots MiBro

PJ Masks Super Catboy Learning Watch™ by VTech Put on the watch and save the day while playing four exciting games that explore shapes and early math skills. Includes nine different PJ Masks clock faces, an alarm clock with three alarm tones, timer, stopwatch and cuckoo clock. $14.99, ages: 3 to 6, vtechkids.com.

PJ Masks Super Catboy Learning Watch™

Kids First Coding and Robotics

LeapStart® 3D Learning System Magically bring activities and animations as you build math, reading and problemsolving skills. The LeapStart® library of 25+ books (each sold separately) covers a variety of preschool through first grade subjects. A total of 400+ activities across the LeapStart® library. $49.99, ages 2 to 7, leapfrog.com.

DECEMBER 2018 | charlotteparent.com

Kids First Coding and Robotics Meet Sammy, an adorable peanut butter and jelly sandwich that’s a robot. Teaches coding principles and skills without a tablet, smartphone or computer. Simply lay down a sequence of physical code cards. 129.95, ages 4+; thamesandkosmos.com Really Rad Robots MiBro Take control of this robo buddy through his Really Rad Remote and play, prank, spy and command. Plays music, dances, lights up and kids can speak through him or put him into stealth mode to be an undercover agent. $39.99, ages 5+, moosetoys.com

Crayola Color Chemistry Lab Set Equipped with STEAM-infused, playful experiments exploring color and packed with 50 colorful science activities. Enough Crayola supplies to do 15 experiments right out of the box. $24.99 ages: 7+, shop. crayola.com. Avengers Hero Inventor Kit With their favorite Marvel Avengers, kids become their own super heroes by building and customizing high-tech hero gear and unique identity. Comes with a companion app that walks you through the steps of creating circuits. $149.99, ages 8+, shop. littlebits.com. K’NEX THRILL RIDES: Bionic Blast™ Roller Coaster Building Set With over 800 parts, this roller coaster set includes rods and connectors, roller coaster track, coaster car, chain lift, cardboard VR viewer and the first Ferris wheel coaster car lift. Activate the K’NEX Ride It! app to ride this coaster in the virtual world. $99.99, ages 9+, knex.com.

Beasts of Balance

GAME TIME Chill Out Play a refreshing game of dice and ice with some fun on the rocks. $15.99, ages 5-8. gamewright.com. Beasts of Balance Thought of as Jenga for the 21st century, players work together to stack Beasts onto the augmented reality playbase, which connects to an app. $99, ages 8+. beastsofbalance.com.

IMAGINATIVE PLAY Disney Junior Doc McStuffins Pet Rescue Mobile Race to save pets with this on-the-go set, equipped with lights, music, phrases, play medical tools and accessories. Comes Doc’s pet friend Oliver. $49.99, ages 3+. justplayproducts.com. Jack-Jack Attacks Poke his tummy to see and hear fiery flames, laser eyes, electric sparks, teleport and more. Includes Raccoon sidekick. $39.95, ages 3+. shopdisney.com.

Hairdorables These new surprise dolls combine fun, fashion and colorful hair. Every package is a surprise — pull, peel, and reveal 11 accessories that unwrap the unique style of the of the Hairdorables girl hidden inside. $12.99, ages 3+, justplayproducts.com. Hidden Temple with T Rex Embark on a new adventure on Dino Island. Set includes the full team – Nick, Emma, and Will, their pet dog Sammy, T-Rex, laptop, camera, gold statue, microscope, backpacks, storage containers, hiking equipment, and lots more accessories. $59.99, ages 4+. playmobil.us.

Nighthawk Master the thrill of the ride with this 12-volt ride-on. Reaching forward speeds of up to 6 miles per hour, accelerator and brake pedals allow the rider to control the speed, maneuver around obstacles by leaning left and right to do quick turns. $149.99; ages 6+. rollplay.net. Elena Epstein is director of NAPPA awards.

Disney Junior Doc McStuffins Pet Rescue Mobile

Nighthawk

Cat Crimes A feline crime has been committed, and it’s your job to identify the culprit. A deductive reasoning game with a lovable cast of characters who may be up to no good. $12.99, ages 8+, thinkfun.com. Cahoots A cooperative hint and sync card game. $14.99; ages 8+. gamewright.com.

Hidden Temple with T Rex

charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2018

Don't Get Caught Without a Sitter this Holiday Season Tips to make the hunt just a little bit easier BY LIZ LOGAN

The holiday season is here and with that comes planning, preparing, parties and winter break.

The tried-and-true method of finding a sitter is word of mouth — hiring a sitter that a trusted friend or family member recommends. But what happens when you’re new to the area or don’t have any trusted resources for recommendations? Numerous nanny and sitter agencies can be a go-to source for finding a qualified and pre-screened sitter to take care of your children while you are away. We reached out to two Charlotte-area nanny and sitter agencies for advice on how to go about finding a qualified sitter without a hassle.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE MATTER When it comes to qualifications, Emily Miller, owner of Charlotte’s Best Nanny Agency, says experience is key. Sitters employed by Charlotte’s Best Nanny Agency must have three to five years’ experience, and each nanny has at least three references that are shared with the hiring family. Inquire if the agency requires sitters to be CPR and

first-aid certified, and request background and driving check information. Platinum Sitters, a Raleighbased babysitting service new to the Charlotte area, has a range of sitters with various levels of experience working with children to help meet different family needs. While all the sitters Platinum Sitters employs have previous experience with children, some may be teachers or social workers, former camp counselors or simply experienced sitters, says Allison Kohler, community manager for Platinum Sitters, but all are attentive, patient and engaging. “What’s most important for us,” she says, “is that the sitters can form a connection with the kids and get on their level. … The number one thing we want to make sure of is that it’s an engaging experience,” Kohler says. If your child attends preschool or daycare, reach out to teachers or childcare workers that your children know to see if they are available to babysit. In addition to already knowing their qualifications, your child is familiar with these people and it can help ease the tension of Mom and Dad being away.

DECEMBER 2018 | charlotteparent.com

PLAN AHEAD If you’re looking to use an agency when it comes to planning for holiday break, the sooner you book, the better, Miller says. Planning ahead makes all the difference in the world when booking a sitter. Take a look at school calendars and holiday schedules and begin booking as far in advance as possible. “We get a lot of requests on New Year’s Eve or Christmas Day,” she says, and last-minute fees increase during these peak times. When choosing a sitter service, each family is asked to fill out a questionnaire with basic information followed by more in-depth information about the children, like how to support them through any emotional outbursts and where snacks are kept. This information is used to help match sitters with children.

INTRODUCING A NEW SITTER Most agencies allow for and encourage you to meet your sitters beforehand at no additional charge. Miller suggests scheduling a new sitter at least 15-20 minutes early so children can become acquainted with the new person in their space while also allowing you time to go over emergency

contact information. “Telling the kids you have someone new for them to hang out with while you’re out is an easy way to transition them to a new person,” Kohler says.

SITTER RATES The million-dollar question: How much do you charge? Often it is up to the family and sitter to make an arrangement on a rate. Some sitters charge a flat fee for the evening, while others have an hourly rate. Sitters can average anywhere between $12-$18 per hour. Sitter services may charge per child per hour, with a discount for each additional child. Inquire about group rates. During the neighborhood holiday party, sharing a sitter for four children from two different families can save money for all, plus it lets the kids have their own holiday get together. Liz Logan writes about food and families while also finishing her master's degree and running a vintage business on the side. She lives with her partner and three children on the west side of Charlotte, and often treks into the city for coffee and yoga.

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Holiday Experiences

Enjoy a spin on the swings at Carowinds during WinterFest. Photo courtesy of Carowinds

Get into the spirit with the family at these holly-jolly events throughout the area. BY MICHELE HUGGINS Holiday merriment is around every corner throughout the month of December. From a whole-town light display to a winter ice rink under the uptown lights, singing bears and the classic “Nutcracker” ballet, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season. Pack up the cookies and hot chocolate and head out for one — or all 12 — of these merry holiday experiences.

1. Go Ice Skating Finding a place to ice skate is easier than ever this holiday season with four outdoor ice-skating rinks open for the season. WBT and K107.9 The Link bring the annual Holiday on Ice skating rink to the heart of uptown again. Located at the NASCAR Hall of Fame Plaza, the rink is open through Jan. 6, 2019. Special events include Princess and Superhero Day on Dec. 9. Admission is $10 for all-day skating, and skate rentals are $4. Standard hours are Wednesday through Friday, 5-10 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays when Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools are out. holidayonicecharlotte.com. Winter Wonderland is located between Symphony Park and SouthPark Mall. The 5,000 square-foot ice-skating rink features holiday lights and décor, as well as attractions like Santa’s Pub and a coffee shop, live music, special guests and ongoing activities through Jan. 22, 2019. winterwonderlandsouthpark.com. Rock Hill also has its very own outdoor iceskating rink. The Founders Holiday Ice Rink, located just across from Fountain Park on Saluda

DECEMBER 2018 | charlotteparent.com

Street in Rock Hill, is open through Jan. 21, 2019. Admission is $10 and includes skate rentals for two hours on the ice. Every Wednesday is buy one, get one skate passes. onlyinoldtown.com/ icerink. 2. Take a Winter Garden Walk Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden’s winter wonderland Holiday Lights at the Garden includes more than 600,000 lights and illuminated displays of twinkling trees and sparkling fountains, plus the new illuminated prairie garden, and crackling fires for roasting marshmallows. The event is open daily Nov. 23-Jan. 6, 2019 from 5-9 p.m., but closed Christmas Day. Santa drops by Tuesday through Thursday from Nov. 27 to Dec. 20 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. for personal photos (no fee). Mrs. Claus visits Friday through Sunday, Nov. 23 through Dec. 23 for story times. Tickets are $7.95-$16.95, and free for members and children age 2 and younger. Save a few dollars by buying advance tickets online. dsbg.org.

3. Ride a Ferris Wheel Four days of holiday festivities await at ChristmasVille in Old Town Rock Hill, Nov. 29-Dec. 2. Come for the parade, carriage rides, carolers, kids’ crafts, festive foods, gingerbreadhouse workshops and visits with Santa. Then stick around for the Ferris wheel, Lego creation contest, carousel, a rock-climbing wall and ice-skating rink. ChristmasVille is free to enter, but some events do charge for participation. christmasvillerockhill.com. 4. See a Singing Christmas Tree A Charlotte classic for more than 60 years, the Singing Christmas Tree is a specially designed 32-foot “tree” filled with members of Carolina Voices. The Singing Christmas Tree for Kids is an hour-long version of The Singing Christmas Tree. Members of the Carolina Voices choir are joined by Grey Seal Puppets, dancers from Miller Street Dance Academy, Carolina Kids’ Voices Choir and Santa. Two performances are planned: Dec. 8 at 11 a.m. and Dec. 9 at 1:30 p.m. at Knight Theater uptown. Recommended for children ages 3-10. Tickets are $15-$23. carolinavoices.org/ christmastree.asp. 5. Talk a Walk on Gingerbread Lane A display of whimsical confectionary edifices created by local professional chefs, amateurs and kids are on display for the annual Gingerbread Lane gingerbread house competition at the Ballantyne Hotel Dec. 6-26. Admission is free, but for $1 attendees may vote on their favorite gingerbread house creation. All proceeds from the voting benefits Levine Children’s Hospital. theballantynehotel.com. 6. Drive the Track at Charlotte Motor Speedway Ease onto the Charlotte Motor Speedway for a 3.5-mile loop around the track to see more than 3 million lights synced to music. Speedway Christmas is open daily through Dec. 31 from 6 to 10 p.m. The Christmas Village, which includes a petting zoo, a Bethlehem village, photos with Santa and a 50-foot Ferris wheel, is open Thursday-Sunday from 6 to 10 p.m., and every evening Christmas week. Add in a drive-in movie experience Thursday through Sunday with the giant Speedway TV that casts

«««

favorite holiday movies. See the website for movie schedule. Tickets range in price from $20-$30 per car depending on day of week. charlottemotorspeedway.com. 7. Take a Carriage Ride Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through light displays at Billy Graham Library during Christmas at the Library, Nov 29-Dec. 22. There is also a live nativity that includes shepherds, a camel, donkey, lambs and other animals, and special Christmas story times on the Billy Graham Library patio. Carriage rides are available Monday-Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m., and Friday, 5-10 p.m. and Saturday from 2 to 10 p.m. Carriage rides are $8 for adults, $4 for kids. The nativity and story times are free of charge. Visit between noon and 2 p.m. for a chance to pet the nativity animals. Visiting the library is free and parking is free. billygrahamlibrary.org. 8. See the Singing Bears The display of well-dressed animatronic bears perform classic holiday songs at Founders Hall in the Bank of America Corporate Center Nov. 26 through Dec. 28. The 45-minute performances are free and include timehonored holiday classics, such as “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” and “We Wish You A Merry Christmas.” Check the Leonard Bearstein Bears Facebook page for updates on performance dates and times.

McAdenville, located in Gaston County, has glowed with holiday lights that attract national attention. The display has grown from a few trees around McAdenville Lake to more than 375 live trees, 200 wreaths and 500,000 lights. This year, the festivities kick off Nov. 30, with a tree-lighting ceremony Dec. 1, and continue until Dec. 26. The lights glow Monday through Friday from 5.30 to 9:30 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday from 5:30 to 11 p.m. The 2-mile route is drivable or you can walk. There’s no admission fee, but be prepared to wait in traffic, especially on weekend nights. mcadenvillechristmastown.com. 11. See 'The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical' This musical comedy, adapted from Barbara Robinson’s classic story, follows the Herdman kids —”the worst kids ever” — who decide they want to be in the Christmas pageant after hearing there are free snacks at Sunday School. Hilarity follows as the Herdmans put their twists on the traditional Christmas pageant plans. Performances are scheduled Friday through Sunday through Dec. 23 at Children's Theatre of Charlotte. Tickets start at $12. Recommended for ages 4 and older. ctcharlotte.org.

9. Ride a Rollercoaster Carowinds' Winterfest transforms the theme park into a magical winter wonderland with a 70-foot Christmas tree, lavish holiday displays and performances, wandering performers, and 5 million lights decorating the state line between North and South Carolina. New this year: New Year's Eve at Winterfest, a familyfriendly that starts at 10 p.m. and includes live bands, Snoopy’s Rockin’ New Year’s Eve Party and fireworks at midnight. Winterfest is open select nights Nov. 18-Dec. 31. Tickets start at $26 when you buy online. carowinds.com.

12. Have a Family Date at 'The Nutcracker' Charlotte Ballet presents the classic “Nutcracker” story of Clara and the battle between the Mouse and the Nutcracker at Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center’s Belk Theater Dec. 7-23. The Charlotte Ballet “Nutcracker” premiered with vibrant new sets and costumes in 2016, and includes a snowfall, jumping candy canes and the iconic Sugar Plum Fairy. charlotteballet.org. Other dance schools in the area also have “Nutcracker” performances scheduled, including Charlotte Youth Ballet that performs its “Nutcracker” Nov. 30-Dec. 2 at Halton Theater. And for a different twist on the traditional “Nutcracker,” check out “The Hip Hop Nutcracker” at Knight Theater, Dec. 26-29. charlotteyouthballet.org; hiphopnutcracker.com.

10. Drive Through Christmas Town USA For more than 60 years, the town of

Michele Huggins is the editor of Charlotte Parent magazine.

| DECEMBER 2018 S ee m ore ho lid ay happ ening s o n pagcharlotteparent.com e 29. « « «

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Christmas Candlelight Tours Light up your family’s holiday as costumed interpreters depict Christmas traditions of the 18th and 19th centuries with familyfriendly hands-on activities, theatrical scenarios and more. Historic Brattonsville 1444 Brattonsville Road, McConnells, South Carolina 803-684-2327 chmuseums.org

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Hip Hop Nutcracker A holiday mash-up for the entire family, The Hip Hop Nutcracker is a production performed by a supercharged cast of a dozen all-star dancers, DJ and violinist. Digital scenery transforms E.T.A. Hoffmann’s story of a palace of sugarplums into a romance set in 1980s Brooklyn. The dance work celebrates love, community and the magic of New Year’s Eve. Dec. 26 – 29 | Knight Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000 | blumenthalarts.org Photo by Tim Norris

Experience Asheville’s brightest holiday tradition at Winter Lights at The North Carolina Arboretum. Walk through an outdoor winter wonderland and see unique displays and landscapes composed of more than 500,000 holiday lights. Event includes live music, fire pits, games, crafts and more. Open nightly Nov. 16 – Dec. 31.

Beach Blast Off has been voted the No. 1 Florida Family New Year's Event! Have a blast with delicious food and beverages, live music, Kids’ Zone, and a spectacular fireworks show. And it’s FREE admission, parking and shuttles. Dec. 31, 5-10 p.m.

Tweetsie Christmas Celebrate a joyous holiday season with the family at Tweetsie Christmas featuring a night-time train ride through thousands of dazzling lights, Santa and his gingerbread house, a live Christmas show, giant snow globe, carousel, and s’mores by the fire. Friday and Saturday evening, Nov. 23-Dec. 29.

Holiday Ice Rink Tweetsie Railroad 300 Tweetsie Railroad Lane, Blowing Rock 877-898-3874 tweetsie.com

A real outdoor ice rink, right in the heart of downtown Rock Hill! Perfect for family outings, date nights, and weekend fun! $10 per person. Every Wednesday is Buy One, Get One FREE! For hours of operation and a list of special, visit onlyinoldtown.com/icerink. Fountain Park 205 Saluda St., Rock Hill, South Carolina

Discover your capable, confident Montessori child. Visit us online to RSVP for one of our upcoming events, or to book a tour. We’d love to show you around!

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TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN Bridging the gap between preschool and kindergarten

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PUBLIC SCHOOL CHOICES A guide to finding the program that suits your child

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Hit the Slopes

EXCURSION Sign the kids up for a private and group ski lesson. Photo courtesy of Beech Mountain Resort, by Kyle Beckmann

Where to ski in North Carolina BY MEGAN FINKE

n North Carolina, you never know if there will be flurries or enough snow to build a snowman, but lucky for those who love snow, there are several ski resorts within driving distance that offer lessons and something for all ages. Call ahead to ensure good conditions and bring an appetite for downhill fun.

APPALACHIAN SKI MOUNTAIN 940 Ski Mountain Road, Blowing Rock 828-295-7828 | appskimtn.com Lift rates: $18-$70. Ages 5 and younger ski free with ticketed adult. Number of slopes: Three easy, three more difficult, and three most difficult (all slopes lighted for night skiing); three freestyle terrain parks. Off the slopes: Fully lit outdoor ice rink. Children's programs: Ski Wee and Cruiser Camps instructional programs designed for skiers ages 4-10 and snowboarders ages 7-12. Ski Wee is open daily and Cruiser Camp only on weekends and holidays. Nursery care available for ages 1-4; advanced reservations are required. Approximate distance: Two hours. BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT 1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy., Beech Mountain 800-438-2093 | beechmountainresort.com Lift rates: $20-$80; ages 4 and younger ski free with ticketed adult. Number of slopes: Three easy, seven more difficult, and four most difficult; two freestyle terrain parks. This season, enjoy two new chairlifts and more slope lighting.

Off the slopes: Outdoor 7,000-squarefoot ice rink and a state-of-the art tubing park. Children's programs: Private or group lessons ages 4 and older. Snow Kamp provides all-day child care with an introduction to a winter wonderland of activities for kids ages 3-5. Traxx is an all-day ski program for ages 6-14. Burton Learn to Ride Center provides snowboarding lessons for ages 6-14. Nursery care available for ages 6 months to 3 years. Reservations are recommended. Approximate distance: Three hours. CATALOOCHEE SKI AREA 1080 Ski Lodge Road, Maggie Valley 800-768-0285 | cataloochee.com Lift rates: $21-$82; ages 4 and younger ski free with ticketed adult. Adults 65 and over ski free. Number of slopes: Eight easy, seven more difficult, and two most difficult; freestyle terrain park. All trails except one lighted for night skiing. Off the slopes: Snowtubing at Tube World in Maggie Valley located 4 miles from the ski area. Children's programs: Ski and snowboarding instruction available. Class lessons for ages 8 and older; private lessons for ages 3 and

older. Half- and full-day programs available for ages 4-12. Approximate distance: Three hours. SAPPHIRE VALLEY SKI AREA 127 Cherokee Trail, Sapphire 828-743-7663 | skisapphirevalley.com Lift rates: $21-$63 Number of slopes: Two slopes (one main intermediate run, one learning slope). Ideal for youth, beginners and families who like to ski together. Off the slopes: Snow tubing at Frozen Falls Tube Park at a 500-foot run with a 60-foot vertical drop. Winter zip line tours on the Vordach Zip Line Experience. Children's programs: Ski and snowboard group lessons for ages 5 and older. Private lessons and ski school also available for ages 4 and older. Approximate distance: Three hours. SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT 1009 Sugar Mountain Drive, Sugar Mountain 800-784-2768 | skisugar.com Lift rates: $24-$75; ages 4 and younger ski free with ticketed adult. Number of slopes: Seven easy, 10 more difficult, and four most difficult; freestyle terrain park.

Off the slopes: Snowtubing and outdoor ice skating rink. Children's programs: Ski and snowboard group lessons available for ages 8 and older. Private lessons available for ages 4 and older. Sugar Bear Ski School program also is available for children ages 5-10. Polar Bear Snowboard School is similar for ages 7-14. Child care is available for ages 6 months and older. Approximate distance: Two hours, 30 minutes. WOLF RIDGE SKI RESORT 578 Valley View Circle, Mars Hill 800-817-4111 | skiwolfridgenc.com Lift rates: $21-$78; ages 4 and younger ski free with ticketed adult. Adults 65 and over free. Number of slopes: Four easy, nine intermediate, and two advanced. Off the slopes: Snowtubing at Wolf Ridge Tube Run. Children's programs: One-on-one ski or snowboard lessons available for ages 5 and older. Group lessons available for ages 8 and older. Approximate distance : Three hours. Megan Finke is a Charlotte-based freelance writer.

SEE MORE SKI AND SNOWTUBING DESTINATIONS AT CHARLOTTEPARENT.COM/TRAVEL. charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2018

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December 2018 OUR PICKS

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Winter Wonder Bugs | Dec. 20-Jan. 2

Join Santa in a weekend of festivities at ChristmasVille Rock Hill, Nov. 30-Dec. 2. Photo by Mike Baker

Bug out when school’s out! Venture to Discovery Place Science to learn all about bugs and the special adaptations that enable them to survive. Meet live bugs in the Explore More Life lab, craft a bug-inspired ornament, stop by the genius bug bar to get your curious questions answered, and visit the bug bistro to taste of protein-packed insects. See the website for a detailed daily schedule of activities. $13-$17, children younger than age 2 admitted free, includes museum admission. Discovery Place Science, 301 N. Tryon St. 704372-6261. science.discoveryplace.org/explore.

Passport to the Queen City: Holidays at the Homesite | Dec. 15 Explore activities from a variety of holiday traditions, including Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. Activities include selfies with Santa Claus, holiday-themed tours of the 1774 Rock House, crafts and musical performances. $7$10, children younger than age 6 are admitted free. Noon-4pm. Charlotte Museum of History, 3500 Shamrock Drive. charlottemuseum.org.

ChristmasVille Rock Hill | Nov. 29-Dec. 2 Stroll Old Town Rock Hill as it comes alive as a charming, picturesque holiday village and outdoor art festival at the 13th annual ChristmasVille. More than 100 events, including horse-drawn carriage rides, historic tours, strolling Dickens carolers, art, theater, dance, music, a gingerbreadhouse contest, multiple Santa activities, and an ice-skating rink fill the weekend schedule. See the website for the full schedule of activities and locations throughout downtown Rock Hill. Cost varies by event, but many are free. christmasvillerockhill.com.

Ice skate into the new year on Snowflake Lake at Carowind’s New Year’s Eve at Winterfest. Photo courtesy of Carowinds

New Year's Eve at WinterFest | Dec. 31 New this year, Carowinds introduces New Year's Eve at WinterFest, a family-friendly celebration that starts at 10 p.m., after a full evening of WinterFest. Ride the Afterburn rollercoaster and four classic rides in the new County Fair, skate on Snowflake Lake, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, and enjoy live entertainment, including Tinker’s Toy Factory and Charlie Brown’s Christmas Spectacular. New Year’s Eve activities include live bands, Snoopy’s Rockin’ New Year’s Eve Party and fireworks at midnight. New Year’s Eve at WinterFest is included with WinterFest admission. 704-588-2600. 5pm-1am. Carowinds, 300 Carowinds Blvd. carowinds.com. charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2018

› CALENDAR 1 SATURDAY A Golden Christmas. Reed Gold Mine State Historic Site, 9621 Reed Mine Road, Midland. 10am-4pm. FREE; $2 for hay ride. 704-7214653. Enjoy holiday cheer with a little added history. Activities include a Christmas hay ride, holiday crafts, an exhibit on Christmas Traditions, a German Christmas Market and candlelit mine tours. nchistoricsites.org/reed. Breakfast With Santa at Dowd Y. Dowd YMCA, 400 E. Morehead St. 7:30 and 9am seatings. $5-$12. Enjoy breakfast, crafts, photos with Santa and a chance to talk with the big guy himself. ymcacharlotte.org. Breakfast with Santa at Harris YMCA. Harris YMCA, 5900 Quail Hollow Road. 9:30 and 10:30am seatings. $12-$15. Meet Santa, and enjoy performances by the Chalkettes gymnastics team and Nutcracker company dancers as well as a sing-a-long, story time and crafts. ymcacharlotte.org/events. Breakfast With Santa. Lake Norman YMCA, 21300 Davidson St., Cornelius. 8:3011am. $5. Come for breakfast, crafts and pictures with Santa. Register at the front desk. ymcacharlotte.org. Candy Cane Hunt and Paws with Claus. Anne Springs Close Greenway, 195 Adventure Road, Fort Mill. 10am-2pm. $10-$15. 803-547-4575. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, search the greenway for candy canes (10am and noon), and finish with s’mores over a campfire. There are two candy cane hunt sessions. Register online. ascgreenway.org. Christmas at Whispering Hope Farm. Whispering Hope Farm, 1405 Crowders Creek Road, Gastonia. 11am-2pm. $7 admission; $5 for horse rides. 704-674-8911. Visit the animals, ride a horse, enjoy hot cocoa and meet Santa. Ticket sales end 30 minutes after the start of the event. Cash only. facebook.com/whisperinghopefarm. Cookies and Cocoa with Santa and Market. Metropolitan, 1111 Metropolitan Ave. 1-4pm. FREE. Enjoy a train ride, face painters, balloon artists, live holiday music and free photos with Santa, plus Do cookies and hot cocoa. metropolitanclt.com. Enchanted Forest Bash. Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, 2900 Rocky River Road. 10 and 11:45am and 2pm sessions. Ages 1 and older. 10-11:30am. $6. Stroll through the forest before enjoying hot chocolate while creating an ornament, handmade soaps and

decorations. Parents are required to stay with children. parkandrec.com. Fairy Houses and Gnome Homes. UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens, 9090 Craver Road. Ages 6 and older. 10am-noon. $20-$25. Create a fairy or gnome house using provided materials, or bring your own materials (with the exception of store-bought plastic accessories). gardens.uncc.edu. Family First Presented by Novant Health: Paper Weaving Workshop. The Harvey B. Gantt Center for AfricanAmerican Art, 551 S. Tryon St. 11am-1pm. $5. Teaching artist Natalie Chanel leads an introductory class on the basic techniques of paper weaving. ganttcenter.org. Full STEAM Ahead. Carolina's Aviation Museum, 4672 1st Flight Drive. Grades PreK3. 11am-noon. $5. Learn about the Wright Brothers and the first flight at Kitty Hawk. carolinasaviation.org. Holiday Festival. Ballantyne Arts Center, 11318 North Community House Road. 10am-12:30pm. FREE. Enjoy face painting, a bounce house, crafts and activities. ymcacharlotte.org. PJs in North Pole City. Discovery Place Science, 301 N. Tryon St. $17. Wear your cozy pajamas for hot chocolate and holiday activities. Snap a photo with Santa before a special screening of "The Polar Express" in the IMAX Dome Theatre. Dec. 1, 8:30am and 5:30pm; Dec. 2, 11am. science. discoveryplace.org. Santa Mouse Story Time. SAS Cupcakes, 9941 Rea Road, Ste. C. 1pm. $9 per child; parents admitted free. Hear a story before frosting a cupcake with Santa Mouse. sascupcakes.com.

2 SUNDAY HANUKKAH BEGINS Get Crafty: Decorating Trees for Birds. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 3-4:30pm. FREE. 980-314-1128. String edible garland with popcorn, cranberries and cereal to adorn the trees and feed the birds. parkandrec.com.

3 MONDAY Baby Storytime: PlayPlay! ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. 9:30-10am. FREE. 704-416-4630. Enjoy an interactive storytime by PlayPlay! Theatre

DECEMBER 2018 | charlotteparent.com

that promotes brain stimulation through language and socialization. cmlibrary.org. Preschool Community Programs. Anne Springs Close Greenway, 194 Adventure Road, Fort Mill. Ages 2-5. 10-11am. $2, plus $5 entry fee. Enjoy nature-themed literature activities, crafts and hikes. ascgreenway.org.

4 TUESDAY Dakota and Friends. ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. Ages 3-11. 11am-2pm. FREE. Meet and interact with Dakota, pet a baby T-Rex or maybe watch an egg being hatched, and practice reading to a dinosaur. cmlibrary.org. Toddler Time at Sky Zone. Sky Zone, 10200 Centrum Pkwy., Pineville. Ages 5 and younger. 10-11am. $8. Let little ones bounce under the supervision of parents and without interference from bigger kids. skyzone.com/charlotte.

5 WEDNESDAY ASC Culture Blocks: Clayworks for Teens. Hickory Grove Library, 5935 Hickory Grove Road. Ages 10-18. 5-7pm. FREE. Clayworks offers hands on clay workshops. Projects created are fired and glazed at Clayworks and returned to the workshop location for pickup. cmlibrary.org. Free Wednesday Evenings at the Mint Museum. Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Road, Mint Museum Uptown, 500 S. Tryon St., Charlotte. 5-9pm. FREE. 704-337-2000. Explore the Mint Museum’s exhibitions free of charge. mintmuseum.org. Weaving With Nature. War Memorial Center, 220 N. Maple St., Mooresville. Grades 7-12. 1-2:30pm. $5. 704-799-4234. Employ natural resources to create a nature inspired dream catcher. Use twigs, leaves and imagination. Supplies will be provided. ci.mooresville.nc.us.

6 THURSDAY A Homeschool Christmas at Latta Plantation. Latta Plantation Nature Preserve, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. 10am-2pm. $6 per person, free for ages 4 and younger. 980-314-1129. Learn about early American Christmas traditions, visit the farm animals and make a Christmas craft to keep. lattaplantation.org. Toddler Time at Big Air. Big Air Trampoline Park, 2408 Sardis Road N. Ages 6 and

younger. 10am-1pm. $8. Little ones can jump at their own speed and comfort level without older kids around. bigairusa.com/ charlotte/toddler-time.

7 FRIDAY Celebrate the Holidays Downtown. Downtown Mooresville, Mooresville. 6-8pm. FREE. Enjoy music, Santa visits, a life-sized Snow Globe, Christmas Tree Lane, wagon rides and treats. downtownmooresville.com. Cocoa with Santa. Cornelius Art Center, 19725 Oak St., Cornelius. 10am-noon. FREE. 704-896-8823. Snap a picture with Santa, and make ornaments, paintings. cornelius.org. Crews Family Fun Night. Crews Recreation Center, 1201 Crews Road, Matthews. 6-9pm. FREE. 704-708-1289. Enjoy a movie night with Santa. matthewsfun.com. Music With Holly. ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. Ages 18 months-5 years. 11:30am-noon. FREE. 704-416-4630. A one-of-a-kind music and movement program that is a fusion of learning and listening with songs, instruments and expressive dancing. cmlibrary.org. Pajama Storytime: “The Polar Express.” Barnes and Noble, Birkdale Village, Morrison Place, Carolina Place, and Arboretum. 7pm. FREE. Wear your pajamas for a reading from "The Polar Express." Free hot chocolate and cookie from the cafe. barnesandnoble.com.

8 SATURDAY Charlotte Children's Business Fair. Spirit Square, 345 N. College St. 10am-10pm. FREE. Support child entrepreneurs at this pop-up market where participants are given a chance to promote their service or product. charlottescbf.com. Holiday Trees for Wildlife. Wing Haven, 260 Ridgewood Ave. Ages 10 and younger. 10am-noon. $15-$20 per family. Create edible ornaments for wildlife, craft take-home ornaments, complete a holiday scavenger hunt, hear seasonal stories and enjoy festive refreshments. winghavengardens.org. Super Saturday: Holiday Harps. ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. 2-2:45pm. FREE. Hear harpists from the Charlotte Symphony Guild play holiday music. Children are invited to play on the harps in between pieces. cmlibrary.org. Events with Santa

ON STAGE The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. (Through Dec. 16). Armour Street Theatre, 307 Armour St., Davidson. $12-$20, additional $3 per ticket if purchased at the door. Adapted from the best-selling book, this play features some favorite Christmas carols and lots of mayhem. See website for performance schedule. davidsoncommunityplayers.org. The Real Christmas Story. (Through Dec. 22). The NarroWay Theatre, 3327 Hwy. 51 N., Fort Mill. $9.50$37. 803-802-2300. See your favorite Christmas scenes, and hear your favorite songs during this holiday dinner theater experience. See website for performance schedules narroway.net. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical. (Through Dec. 23). McColl Family Theater, 300 E. 7th St. $19+. This hilarious and heartfelt holiday comedy, adapted from Barbara Robinson’s classic story, will have your family laughing and crying. In this production, Children’s Theatre of Charlotte casts age-appropriate roles, many of which are from its School of Theatre Training. Sensory-friendly show, Dec. 9, and an ASL interpreted performance on Dec. 15. See website for full performance schedule. ctcharlotte.org.

Cirque Musica dazzles and excites, Dec. 12 at Ovens Auditorium.

Miracle on 34th Street. (Dec. 2-16). Matthews Playhouse, 100 McDowell Street E., Matthews. $14$16. 704-846-8343. In this Christmas classic, an old man going by the name of Kris Kringle fills in for an intoxicated Santa in Macy’s annual Thanksgiving Day parade. When Kringle claims that he really is Santa Claus, it leads to a court case to determine his mental health and, more importantly, his authenticity. FridaySunday performances. matthewsplayhouse.com. A Christmas Story: The Musical. (Dec. 4-9). Ovens Auditorium, 2900 E. Independence Blvd. $25-$95. 704-372-3600. An infamous leg lamp, outrageous pink bunny pajamas, a maniacal department store Santa, and a triple-dog-dare to lick a freezing flagpole are just a few of the distractions that stand between Ralphie and his Christmas wish. ovensauditorium.com. Clara’s Trip: A Cirque and Dance Nutcracker Story. (Dec. 7-9). Booth Playhouse, 130 N. Tryon St. $35+. Clara LeBlanc trips at a holiday party and is whisked off to the hospital to learn that her ankle is broken. That night her friends and get-well gifts swirl in her dreams. blumenthalarts.org.

Annie. (Dec. 7-9 and 13-16). Rock Hill Community Theatre, 546 S. Cherry Road, Rock Hill. $15. 803326-7428. Annie is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of an orphanage that is run by the cruel Miss Hannigan. rockhilltheatre.org. Spelling 2-5-5. (Dec. 7-9 and 14-16). ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. Ages 8 and older. $19+. Simon is a terrific speller, but Simon’s brother, Jake, who has autism, unwittingly reveals he is also a gifted speller in a way that’s uniquely his. Sibling rivalry takes center stage as Simon faces choices about his role as the protective big brother and his desire to win the televised spelling bee. An ASL interpreted performance on Dec. 8, and sensory-friendly show on Dec. 16. ctcharlotte.org. The Nutcracker. (Dec. 7-23). Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. $125-$25. 704-414-2766. Join Clara as she encounters an epic battle between the Mouse King and Nutcracker, breathtaking snowfall, jumping candy canes and the iconic Sugar Plum Fairy. Sensory-friendly performance Dec. 13. See website for full schedule. charlotteballet.org. Disney's The Little Mermaid. (Dec. 8-9 and 15-16). Levine Jewish Community Center, 5007 Providence Road. $12-$15. 704-366-5007. Based on the Hans Christian Anderson story and Disney film, and presented by JStage performers. charlottejcc.org. Tosco Music Holiday Party. (Dec. 8). McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square, 345 N. College St. 7:30 pm. $15.50-$34.50. 704-568-9685. Enjoy holiday classics, traditional Christmas carols, songs about Hanukkah and Kwanzaa and sing-alongs. toscomusic.org. The Harris YMCA Presents The Nutcracker. (Dec. 8-9). Dale F. Halton Theater, 1206 Elizabeth Ave. $15$20. The Harris YMCA Performing Company presents The Nutcracker. See website for performance schedule. tix.cpcc.edu. The Singing Christmas Tree for Kids. (Dec. 8-9). Knight Theater, 430 S. Tryon St. Ages 3 and older. 11am-noon. $15+. 704-372-1000. A one-hour performance that features Carolina Voices’ MainStage Choir, Grey Seal Puppets, Carolina Kids Voices, Miller Street dancers and other special guests. carolinavoices. org/christmastreekids.asp. Cirque Musica Holiday Presents Wonderland. (Dec. 12). Ovens Auditorium, 2700 E. Independence

Blvd. 7:30pm. $65-$100. 800-745-3000. See amazing acrobats, aerialists, hilarious hijinks accompanied by holiday songs performed live by a full symphony orchestra. ovensauditorium.com. Rocking Around The Christmas Tree With Darci Lynne And Friends. (Dec. 14). Ovens Auditorium, 2900 E. Independence Blvd. 7pm. $29+. 704372-3600. Ventriloquist, Darci Lynne, the youngest contestant to ever win “America’s Got Talent,” performs holiday favorites. ovensauditorium.com. Magic of Christmas. (Dec. 14-16 and 21-23). Knight Theater, 430 S. Tryon St. $22+. Sing along with Santa, hear favorite Christmas songs and enjoy an indoor snowfall. charlottesymphony.org. A Charlie Brown Christmas. (Dec. 16). Ovens Auditorium, 2900 E. Independence Blvd. $25+. 800-745-3000. A new touring production that features everyone’s favorite Peanuts gang as they discover the true meaning of Christmas. 2 and 7pm. ovensauditorium.com. The Wizard of OZ. (Dec. 18-20). Ovens Auditorium, 2700 E. Independence Blvd. 7pm. Tickets start at $34. A magical production that celebrates the 1939 MGM movie presented with breathtaking special effects. ovensauditorium.com. The Sleeping Beauty Ballet. (Dec. 19). Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts, 430 S. Tryon St. 7:30pm. $40-$60. 704-372-1000. The National Ballet Theatre of Odessa presents this classic tale of true love. blumenthalarts.org. Moscow Ballet's Great Russian Nutcracker. (Dec. 23). Ovens Auditorium, 2900 E. Independence Blvd. Tickets starting at $30. A fanciful presentation of Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker. 3 and 7pm. ovensauditorium.com. The Hip Hop Nutcracker. (Dec. 26-29). Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts, 430 S. Tryon St.. $20+. 704-372-1000. A contemporary re-imagination of "The Nutcracker" that includes breakdancing, an on-stage DJ and electric violinist. blumenthalarts.org. E.T.: Movie in Concert. (Dec. 28-29). Ovens Auditorium, 2700 E. Independence Blvd.. 7:3010pm. $32+. 704-972-2000. Experience "E.T." on a high-definition screen, complete with John Williams’ Academy Award-winning score performed live by the Charlotte Symphony. charlottesymphony.org.

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CALENDAR York County Holiday Expo. The River Place, 8400 Regent Pkwy., Fort Mill. 10am-3pm. FREE. Enjoy kids’ activities, including face painting, crafts, balloon animals, photo booth and visits with Santa Claus and the "Frozen" sisters. sunshinefamilyexpos.com.

9 SUNDAY Holiday Make-and-Take Family Workshop. Southminster Retirement Community, 8919 Park Road. Noon-4pm. $50 per family. Make Christmas tree ornaments out of recycled plastic, or design a snowflake mobile. Decorate a cardboard gingerbread man, or create a corsage of paper poinsettias. All materials and holiday treats provided. csarts.org/holiday-makeand-take. Magical Morning: A Sensory-friendly Santa Experience. NASCAR Hall of Fame, 400 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. 8am-noon. $15. Families living with autism or other special needs can meet Santa at a scheduled time in a calming and quiet atmosphere. Participants can also watch a Christmas movie in the theatre with the lights up and the sound down. holidaysatthehall.com Old Fashioned Christmas Tea. Historic Latta Plantation, 5225 Sample Road, Huntersville. 2-4pm. $10-$25. 704-8752312. Enjoy an old fashion Christmas tea party. Space is limited. lattaplantation.org. Repticon Charlotte Reptile and Exotic Animal Show. Cabarrus Arena and Events Center , 4751 Highway 49 N., Concord. 10am-4pm. $5-$15, children younger than 5 admitted free. See reptile pets, plus pet supplies and live animal seminars. cabarrusarenaevents.com.

10 MONDAY Candy Art. Town Hall, 315 Matthews-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail. Ages 5-10. 6:308pm. $10. Have fun turning wafers of chocolate and other sweet treats into beautiful candy art. indiantrail.org. Carnival Training Camp for Teens. Mount Holly Branch Library, 245 W. Catawba Ave., Mount Holly. 6-7pm. FREE. Practice fun carnival skills, including but not limited to juggling and plate spinning. gastonlibrary.org.

11 TUESDAY Victory Bounce Sessions at BounceU Matthews. BounceU of Matthews, 9129 Monroe Road, Suite 145-150, Matthews. Ages 2 and older. 2-4pm. FREE. 704-9218771. Children with special needs and siblings are welcome for Victory Bounce sessions at BounceU of Matthews every second Tuesday of the month. bounceu. com/matthews-nc. Story Explorers: STEAM. Matthews Library, 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews. Ages 5-7. 4-5pm. FREE. 704-416-5000. Explore books and stories in creative ways through interactive activities including math, science and games. Registration required. cmlibrary.org. Free Tuesday at the Schiele Museum. The Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 4-8pm. FREE. 704-8666900. Get free entry to The Schiele Museum every second Tuesday of the month. schielemuseum.org.

12 WEDNESDAY Young Explorers: Mammal Discovery. Latta Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. Ages 2-3. 10:15-11am; Ages 4-6, 1:30-3pm. $4-$5. 980-314-1129. Discover nature with your little one through stories, crafts and activities related to the topic. parkandrec.com.

13 THURSDAY Creating With Books. Hickory Grove Library, 5935 Hickory Grove Road. Ages 3-5. 11am-noon. FREE. Listen to stories and extend learning through a variety of handson activities. cmlibrary.org. Family Friendly Creative Clay Workshop. Wallace Pruitt Recreation Center, 440 Tuckaseegee Road. Ages 5 and older. 6pm. FREE. Learn how to roll, pinch, poke, slip and score clay into a ceramic project piece of art. charlottecultureguide.com. Preschool Storytime: Creating with Books. Davidson Library, 119 S. Main St., Davidson. Ages 3-5. 11-11:45 am. FREE. 704-416-4000. Listen to stories and extend learning through a variety of hands-on activities. Call to register. cmlibrary.org.

14 FRIDAY Hot Cocoa Story Time. SAS Cupcakes, 9941 Rea Road, Ste. C. 5pm. $9 per child; parents

DECEMBER 2018 | charlotteparent.com

free. Come listen to a story while enjoying hot cocoa. sascupcakes.com. Yoga Story Time. Barnes and Noble, Birkdale Village, 8725 Townley Road, Huntersville. 10:30am. FREE. Led by yoga instructor Stefanie Ezratty from Bellies and Blooms, children learn basic yoga positions that go along with a story. barnesandnoble.com.

15 SATURDAY ASC Culture Blocks: Visual Art and Music. West Boulevard Library, 2157 West Blvd. 1-3pm. FREE. 704-416-7400. Community School of the Arts provides a visual art workshop series with a different activity each month. Accompanying the art-making experience will be a live music performance throughout the workshop. cmlibrary.org. Alligator Meet and Greet. The Schiele Museum of Natural History, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 11am-3pm. $6-$7, Children 3 and younger admitted free. Includes museum admission. 704-8666900. Learn more about alligators and their adaptations. See a live alligator feeding at noon, and get a chance to meet and touch a live animal ambassador alligator. schielemuseum.org. Bilingual Stories and Music. Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Road. Recommended for ages 6 and younger. 11:15am-noon. FREE. Criss Cross Mangosauce presents a Spanish/English story time with music, plays and stories. mintmuseum.org. Breakfast with Santa in Indian Trail. Indian Trail Town Hall, 315 Matthews-Indian Trail Road, Indian Trail. Ages 10 and younger. 8:30-11am. $5. Enjoy breakfast with Santa. The first session is from 8:30-9:30am, and the second session is from 10-11am. Preregister for event. indiantrail.org. 3rd Annual Santa Run 8K and Snowman Dash. Romare Bearden Park, 300 S. Church St. 9am. $20-$50. This family-fun event encourages participants to dress up in costumes for the race. santaruncharlotte.com. Breakfast with Santa. Matthews Community Center, 100 E. W. McDowell St., Matthews. 9 and 10:45am Ages 2-8. $7. 704-321-7275. Bring a camera for a picture with Santa and Mrs. Claus, plus a

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performance in the theater and take-home craft. matthewsnc.gov. Charlotte Checkers Family Night and Teddy Bear Toss. Bojangles' Coliseum, 2700 E. Independence Blvd. 6-8:30pm. $18.50. Bring a stuffed animal to toss on the ice after the first Checkers goal, which will be donated to charity. gocheckers.com. Christmas Brunch with Santa. Tom Sykes Recreation Center, 1501 Euclid Ave. Ages 1-11. 10am-noon. $6. 980-314-1113. Meet Santa while making some fun holiday crafts. Continental brunch provided. Limited spots available. parkandrec.com. Creative Card Making. Latta Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. Ages 4 and older. 10:30-11:30am. FREE. 980-314-1129. Drop in to create cards to share with the world. parkandrec.com. Create Your Own Nature Ornaments. Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, 2900 Rocky River Road. Ages 1 and older. 1-4pm. FREE. Drop in to create ornaments that celebrate nature’s beauty. parkandrec.com. Family Friendly Clay Workshops at Hickory Grove Library. Hickory Grove Library, 5935 Hickory Grove Road. Ages 5 and older. 1pm. FREE. 704-416-4400. Join Clayworks’ teaching artist and learn how to roll, pinch, poke, slip and score clay into a ceramic project. Preregistration required. charlottecultureguide.com. Holiday Make-and-Take Family Workshop. Birdsong Brewery, 1016 N. Davidson St. Noon-4pm. $50 per family. Make Christmas tree ornaments out of recycled plastic, or design a snowflake mobile. Decorate a cardboard gingerbread man, or create a corsage of paper poinsettias. All materials and holiday treats provided. csarts.org/holiday-make-and-take. The Lego Challenge: Jingle Bell Builders. Myers Park Library, 1361 Queens Road. Ages 6-12. 2-3pm. FREE. Learn mathematical concepts of sorting, building and geometry while developing problem-solving and innovative thinking skills. Register online. cmlibrary.org. NexGen Design Lab: Contemporary Collage. Mint Museum Uptown, 500 S. Tryon St. 1-3pm. FREE. Teens are invited to try their hand at making a multimedia collage from an experienced local artist/ teacher. Space is limited, so register online. mintmuseum.org. Events with Santa

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Santa Mouse Story Time. SAS Cupcakes, 9941 Rea Road, Suite C. 1pm. $9 per child; parents admitted free. Hear a story before frosting your own cupcake with Santa Mouse. sascupcakes.com. Wild Wonder Saturdays: African Safari Day. The Museum of York County, 4621 Mount Gallant Road, Rock Hill. Noon-2pm. $5-$8, free for children 3 and younger. Includes museum admission. Experience migration by playing the Wildebeest Game, and take a Guided Safari down the Elephant Hall. Hear a story about amazing animals from Africa, and create African animal art. chmuseums.org.

16 SUNDAY Hike for Your Health. Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, 2900 Rocky River Road. Ages 1 and older. 2-3pm. FREE. Enjoy a family hike on the trails at Reedy Creek. parkandrec.com. Wild Art. Latta Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. Ages 4 and older. 2-3pm. $5. 980-314-1129. Through family oriented hands-on projects, discover the many ways nature can provide inspiration for art. parkandrec.com.

17 MONDAY Family Movie Night at Mount Holly Branch Library. Mount Holly Branch Library, 245 W. Catawba Ave., Mount Holly. 6-8pm. FREE. All aboard! Come out for a "Polar Express Party" and Monday night movie. gastonlibrary.org. Lego Club. Plaza Midwood Library, 1623 Central Ave. Ages 5-11. 6-7pm. FREE. 704-416-6200. Join Lego Club on the third Monday of each month. The library brings the Legos; participants bring the imagination. Lego idea books are on hand and available for checkout. cmlibrary.org. Nature Story Corner. Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, 2900 Rocky River Road. Ages 3-6. 10-11am. FREE. Unearth the untold narratives of nature through stories and then walk about the forest exploring and engaging all of our senses. parkandrec.com. Preschool Community Programs. Anne Springs Close Greenway, 194 Adventure Road, Fort Mill. Ages 2-5. 10-11am. $2-$5. Preschoolers complete nature themed literature activities, crafts and hikes while using their imaginations. Meet at the Adventure Center. This session’s theme is “Oh deer!” ascgreenway.org. School Break Special: Book Walk. South County Regional Library, 5801 Rea Road. Toddler and Preschool. 9am-noon. FREE. Drop in for an interactive Book Walk on the patio with special activities to follow. This month’s featured book is “The Mitten” by Jan Brett. cmlibrary.org. Totally Cool Kick Off: Holiday PJ Party. York Public Library, 21 E.Liberty St., York. 4:30-5:30pm. FREE. Hear a story, make a craft and enjoy a snack. Don’t forget to bring a stuffed animal and wear pajamas. yclibrary.org. Yoga Storytime. Cornelius Library, 21105 Catawba Ave., Cornelius. 6-6:30pm. FREE. Enjoy stories coupled with fun and easy yoga moves. cmlibrary.org.

18 TUESDAY Family Storytime: Cookies. ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. 10:30-11:00am. FREE. 704-416-4630. ImaginOn is celebrating Holiday Cookie Day, so come out for this special cookie-themed story time! Stick around after the songs and stories for make-and-take activities and dramatic play themed around baking. cmlibrary.org. School Break Special: Reindeer Games. South County Regional Library, 5801 Rea Road. Ages 3-5. 10:15-11am. FREE. Join Rudolph and all the

See a live nativity complete with camels, donkeys and lambs at Christmas at the Library at Billy Graham Library, through Dec. 22. Photo courtesy of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association

MORE HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS Charlotte Christmas Village. (Through Dec. 24). Romare Bearden Park, 300 S. Church St. Free admission. A German-inspired Christmas Market that includes foods and treats, homemade crafts and gifts, and local musical performances. Closed Mondays. Tues.-Wed., 11am-7pm; Thurs.-Sat., 11am-9pm; Sun., 11am-6pm. Santa will make appearances on select dates. See website for Santa’s schedule. cltchristmasvillage.com. Holidays at the Garden. (Through Jan. 6). Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont. 5-9pm. $8-$17, children younger than 2 admitted free. Stroll the garden as its lit up for the holiday, including the new illuminated prairie garden,, plus live music, warm beverages, activities and model train displays. Check website for Santa’s scheduled appearances. Event closed Christmas Day. dsbg.org. Christmas at the Library. (Nov. 29-Dec. 22). The Billy Graham Library, 4330 Westmont Drive. FREE; additional cost for carriage rides. 704-4013200. Enjoy light displays, a live nativity display, horse-drawn carriage rides, Christmas carolers and story time. Mon.-Thurs., 5-9pm; Fri-Sat., 5-10pm. billygrahamlibrary.org. Christmas in Davidson. (Nov. 29-Dec. 1). Main Street, Davidson. 6-9pm. FREE. Enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, a live nativity, an ugly-sweater contest and live entertainment. christmasindavidson.com. Downtown Mooresville’s Holiday Light Spectacular. (Dec. 1-31). Town Hall Lawn, 413 N. Main St., Mooresville. FREE. 6:30-9:30pm. The

orchestrated 50-minute light show includes more than 150,000 lights and begins at dusk and repeats throughout the evening. downtownmooresville.com Christmas Tours by Candelight. (Dec. 1-8). Historic Latta Plantation, 5225 Sample Road, Huntersville. 6-8pm. $15. 704-875-2312. Enjoy a Christmas themed tour of the plantation house by candlelight. Tours are at 6, 7 and 8 p.m. Preregistration required. lattaplantation.org. Christmas Candlelight Tours. (Dec. 1-8). Historic Brattonsville, 1444 Brattonsville Road, McConnells. Saturdays, 3-9pm. $6-$10, 3 and younger and members admitted free. Celebrate the origins of the Carolina Piedmont holiday traditions, including visits from Father Christmas, live music of the era and hands-on activities. chmuseums.org. Winter Wonderland Holiday Light Show at Phillips Place in South Park. (Dec. 6 and 13). Phillips Place, 6800 Phillips Place Court. FREE. The Hampton Inn and Suites at Phillips Place transforms into a six-story canvas with dramatic digital 3-D holiday effects. Also enjoy a special visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, stilt walkers and a snowfall. Bring an unwrapped toy to donate to Toys for Tots Charlotte. Show times at 6:30 and 7:30pm. paschalevents. com/events. Christmas Enchantment in the Garden. (Dec. 8). Mount Holly Community Garden, 126 N. Main St., Mount Holly. 5-9pm. Free. See more than 50 decorated garden beds, hundreds of luminaries, plus live music and food trucks,. Topping off the evening is a visit by Santa. mounthollycommunitygarden.com.

SEE MORE HOLIDAY EVENTS AT CHARLOTTEPARENT.COM.

charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2018

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CALENDAR

other reindeer in some active games and activities. cmlibrary.org. Story Time and More.Wing Haven Garden, 260 Ridgewood Ave. Ages 10 and younger. 10-11am. Free for members; $10 per family for non-members. Join Rutherford Rabbit to enjoy a seasonally themed story and craft activity in the Children’s Garden. Children can water plants, dig for worms and explore the sensory and butterfly gardens. winghavengardens.org.

19 WEDNESDAY Art Lab. The Galleries of the Cabarrus Arts Council, 65 Union St. S., Concord. Ages 7 and older. 10-11:30am. $5. Experience a guided tour of current exhibitions followed by a hands-on art activity. cabarrusartscouncil.org. Cookies with Santa and Carolina Portrait Designs. Cabarrus Arts Council, 65 Union St. S., Concord. 2-4pm. FREE. Carolina Portrait Designs will be providing free photos with Santa for families to take home as a keepsake. cabarrusartscouncil.org. Creating With Books: The Nutcracker. University City Regional Library, 301 E. W.T. Harris Blvd. Ages 3-5. 10:15-11:15am. FREE. Listen to and celebrate "The Nutcracker" and extend learning through a variety of hands-on activities. cmlibrary.org. McDowell Campfire. McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 York Road. 6-7:30pm. FREE. Enjoy fire, s’mores and friends at the McDowell Nature Preserve campfire. Preregistration required. parkandrec.com. Nature Detectives: Trees for Wildlife/ Edible Ornaments. Latta Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. Ages 4-6. 1:30-3pm. $5. 980-314-1129. Become a nature detective and explore through stories, crafts and activities related to trees for wildlife and make edible ornaments for wildlife. parkandrec.com. Now Showing. Beatties Ford Road Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. Teen. 3:305:30 pm. FREE. Join the library for a special showing of a popular teen movie. Light refreshments served. cmlibrary.org. Polar Express Wee Wednesday. Main Street Children’s Museum, 133 E. Main St., Rock Hill. Ages 3 and younger. 10:30am. $6, children younger than 1 free, included with admission. Children are invited to wear their pajamas and join us for a special morning of Polar Express fun. Read and discuss the classic story, and enjoy a special craft. chmuseums.org.

School Break Special: Puppet Show. South County Regional Library, 5801 Rea Road. 10:15-11am. FREE. Enjoy wonderfully wintry puppet show. cmlibrary.org. That's a Wrap at Lake Wylie Public Library. Lake Wylie Public Library, 185 Blucher Cir., Lake Wylie. Ages 11-17. 6-7:30 pm. FREE. Learn how to wrap your own presents. All wrapping materials included. Please bring one medium or two small gifts to wrap. Wear an ugly sweater for a chance to win a prize. Registration required. yclibrary.org. Winter Break Expedition: Rocky Face Mount Recreation Area. Latta Plantation Nature Preserve, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. Ages 10-16. 9am-4pm. $25. Take a hike and explore the craggy landscape and views of Lake Norman from the summit. Cress for the weather, pack a lunch and wear hiking shoes. Register online. parkandrec.com.

20 THURSDAY CM Library Presents: Puppet Show. ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. 11:30am-noon. FREE. Bring the whole family for puppet shows, songs and movement activities that support early literacy skill development and help foster a love of books and reading. cmlibrary.org. Christmas Spectacular. Mooresville Golf Club, 800 Golf Course Drive, Mooresville. 5-9pm. Free admission. The skating rink and laser light show return with many new surprises. Santa will be on-site for the evening. Watch the tree lighting, and sing carols. Good Old Fashioned Christmas. Lake Wylie Public Library, 185 Blucher Circle, Lake Wylie. 6-7pm. FREE. Enjoy caroling, crafts and hot chocolate. yclibrary.org. School Break Special: Gingerbread Fun. South County Regional Library, 5801 Rea Road. Ages 5-11. 10am-noon. FREE. Listen to stories and extend learning through a variety of hands-on activities, and decorate a gingerbread house. cmlibrary.org. Teen Ugly Sweater Trivia. Mount Holly Branch Library, 245 W. Catawba Ave., Mount Holly. 3:30-4:30pm. FREE. Come decorate an “ugly sweater” shirt, and finger-knit a scarf while trying to win at wacky trivia. Registration is required. gastonlibrary.org. Winter Break Expedition. Latta Plantation Nature Preserve, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. Ages 10-16. 9am-4pm. $25.

DECEMBER 2018 | charlotteparent.com

Zoom through a round of disc golf, and take aim at an archery range. Dress for the weather, pack a lunch and wear closed toe shoes. Register online. parkandrec.com.

21 FRIDAY FIRST DAY OF WINTER ASC Culture Blocks and CM Library Presents: Community School of the Arts. Scaleybark Library, 101 Scaleybark Road. 2:30-4:30pm. FREE. Community School of the Arts provides a visual art workshop series, with a different project activity each workshop. Live music accompanies the artmaking experience. cmlibrary.org. Hot Cocoa Story Time. SAS Cupcakes, 9941 Rea Road, Ste. C. 5pm. $9 per child; parents admitted at not charge. Hear a story while enjoying hot cocoa. sascupcakes.com. Where Do All the Animals Go? McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. Ages 7 and older. 11am-noon. FREE. Join a McDowell Nature educator in uncovering the mystery of the missing animals, and join in a short hike. PRegistration required. parkandrec,com. Winter Solstice Hike and Fire Celebration. Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, 2900 Rocky River Road. Ages 6 and older. 6-7:30pm. FREE. Celebrate the shortest day of the year and the longest night of the year with a 1-mile hike followed by a campfire complete with roasting marshmallows. parkandrec.com.

22 SATURDAY Breakfast with Santa at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. NASCAR Hall of Fame, 400 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Sessions at 8:30 and 10:30am. $22-$25, children younger than 2 free. This all-inclusive magical experience includes breakfast along with a visit and photo with Santa, crafts, and reindeer games. Each child ticket to Breakfast with Santa includes same-day complimentary admission to the ice rink on the NASCAR Hall of Fame Plaza. holidaysatthehall.com. Nature Walk. Discovery Place Nature, 1658 Sterling Road. 10:15am. $8; free for members and children under age Include musuem admission. Join a naturalist on the fourth Saturday of each month for a nature stroll. nature.discoveryplace.org.

23 SUNDAY All Ages at Abari Game Bar. Abari Game Bar, 1721 N. Davidson St. Noon-5pm. 980-

430-4587. This bar and arcade hybrid has more than 20 pinball machines, 30 arcade games and other games rotating monthly. On Saturdays and Sundays from noon-5pm the bar opens up for all ages with a parent or guardian present. abarigamebar.com. Intro to Trails Guided Hike. Anne Springs Close Greenway Dog Park, 148 Adventure Road, Fort Mill. 2pm. Free for members, $5 entry fee for nonmembers. Intro to Trails Hikes are designed to show different trails, teach hikers how to read the trail signs and maps and give more information about the greenway. ascgreenway.org.

24 MONDAY CHRISTMAS EVE

25 TUESDAY CHRISTMAS DAY

26 WEDNESDAY FIRST DAY OF KWANZAA Little Aviators. Carolina's Aviation Museum, 4672 1st Flight Drive. Preschool. 9-10am. $5. Join the Carolina’s Aviation Museum on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month for an engaging hour of exploring aviation through stories, crafts and handson experiences that are STEM-focused and aligned with NC Pre-K curriculum standards. carolinasaviation.org. Undeck the Hall. NASCAR Hall of Fame, 400 E. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. 10am. $12-$25, included with general admission. Fans are each permitted to select a gift off one of the many trees decorated with NASCAR-themed items like autographed souvenirs, die-cast cars, race tickets and sheet metal. Event continues until all of the gifts are gone. holidaysatthehall.com.

27 THURSDAY Rookie Science. Beatties Ford Road Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. Ages 5-11. 5-5:30pm. FREE. Discover a world of science through books, hands-on educational activities and experiments. cmlibrary.org

28 FRIDAY Belk Bowl Fan Central. Epicentre, E. Trade St. 7pm. FREE. Cheerleaders, marching bands, mascots, entertainers and fans converge in the courtyard for an epic pep rally the night before the game. belkbowl.com. Events with Santa

Crafty Critters. Latta Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. Ages 4-11. 10:30-11:30am. $1. 980-314-1129. Explore the natural world through arts and crafts. Each session features a different theme and includes a takehome craft. Registration and parent attendance required. parkandrec.com. Family Movie Day. Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville. 10:30am-12:30pm. FREE. Watch “The Incredibles 2” movie with friends and family members. ci.mooresville. nc.us/225/Library. MallStars Noon Year’s Eve. Northlake Mall, 6801 Northlake Mall Drive. 10:30am-noon. FREE. Ring in the New Year at this family-friendly New Year celebration. The morning includes games, arts and crafts, live music, and balloon twisters. shopnorthlake.com.

29 SATURDAY Belk Bowl FanFest. Bank of America Stadium, S. Mint St. 8am-noon. FREE. Get ready for the game at the Belk Bowl FanFest, located outside of Bank of America Stadium. This event features live music, food, games and fun for the whole family, including a Kid Zone. belkbowl.com. Winter Reptiles. Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, 2900 Rocky River Road. Ages 1 and older. 10-11am. FREE. Join an educator on a winter hike to discuss where reptiles might be hiding. parkandrec.com. Winter Wonderland Family Campfire. Latta Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. 1-3:30pm. FREE. 980-314-1129. Enjoy a toasty campfire at the nature center. Kids can roll in the leaves, roast marshmallows and play games while parents relax fireside. parkandrec.com.

30 SUNDAY Behind the Scenes at Reedy Creek. Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, 2900 Rocky River Road. Ages 6-12. 2-3:30pm. FREE. Go behind the scenes to find out how to maintain the animal exhibits. parkandrec.com. Holiday Tea With American Girl. American Girl Southpark Mall, 4400

Sharon Road. 2-4:30pm. $22. Ages 8 and older. Enjoy a selection of delectable treats and delicious drinks for both kids and adults. Reservations required. americangirl.com/retail/ charlotte.php. Winter Nature Scavenger Hunt. Latta Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. 1-4:30pm. FREE. 980-314-1129. Families work together to discover many hidden treasures found in the nature preserve. Pick up a scavenger hunt form at the nature center. parkandrec.com.

31 MONDAY Harlem Globetrotters: Fan Powered World Tour. Halton Arena at UNC Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd. $21-$42. 704-687-4949. Witness the ball handling wizardry, basketball artistry and one-of-a-kind family entertainment that thrills fans of all ages. Magic Passes to attend a preshow event also available. Shows at 1 and 6pm. harlemglobetrotters.com. New Years at Noon. Discovery Place Kids, 105 Gilead Road, Huntersville. 9am-noon. $10, includes museum admission. 704-372-6261. Create a noise maker and festive party favor. Then stick around for the balloon drop. discoveryplacekids.org. Sparkle and Glow New Year's Eve. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 South New Hope Road, Belmont. 5-9pm. $7-$13, children younger than 2 free, included with admission. Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a familyfriendly event featuring New Year’s Eve traditions from around the world and live music. dsbg.org.

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.

› TREE LIGHTINGS AND PARADES

CALENDAR

DEC. 1

DEC. 6

Fort Mill Christmas Parade. 11am. Tom Hall Street, Fort Mill. fortmillsc.gov. Holiday Festival of Lights. Downtown Waxhaw is transformed into a winter wonderland and decorated with 500,000 lights. Enjoy the live Christmas concert, carnival games and rides, live nativity, carriage rides, and the arrival of Santa. 4-8pm. Downtown Waxhaw, Waxhaw. waxhaw.com. North Mecklenburg Christmas Parade. See high school bands, horses, tractors, school groups, dance and tumbling groups. Starts at 1pm. FREE. Parade starts in Davidson at the intersection of Griffith Street and Highway 115 and goes into Cornelius at the intersection of Highway 115 and Catawba Avenue. davidsoncommunitycalendar.org. Town of Matthews Hometown Holiday and Tree Lighting Celebration. Enjoy holiday crafts, activities, entertainment and tree-lighting. 3-6pm. Town Green Park, 232 Matthews Station St., Matthews. matthewsnc.gov.

Christmas in Cramerton. Enjoy the parade on 8th Avenue, then stay for the tree-lighting, pictures with Santa and carriage rides. Begins at 4pm. Market Street and 8th Avenue, Cramerton. cramerton.org.

DEC. 2 It's a Wonderful Life Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting. See floats, groups, horses and fire trucks. Downtown Indian Trail near Crossing Paths Park, Indian Trail. 4-7:30pm. 704-821-5401. indiantrail.org. Jaycees Gastonia Christmas Parade. 4-5pm. Main Avenue, Gastonia. gastoncojaycees.org. NODA Christmas Tree Lighting. Enjoy community ornament making, hot chocolate, cookies and games and more. The tree is at 7:45 p.m. 5:30-8pm. Johnston YMCA, 3025 N. Davidson St.

DEC. 3 Belmont Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Enjoy the annual tree-lighting in front of City Hall. 5:30pm. 115 N. Main Street, Belmont. cityofbelmont.org.

DEC. 4 Belmont Christmas Parade. Marching bands, professional floats, decorated vehicles of all descriptions. 3pm. Downtown Belmont. cityofbelmont.org.

DEC. 8 Indian Land Christmas Parade. Expect special characters, plus food trucks and vendors. 3pm. Indian Land High School, 8063 River Road, Indian Land. ilcpo.org. Light Up MillBridge. Lights, wreaths and greenery decorate the community house, streets and Christmas tree. Visit with Santa, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, assemble crafts and savor delicious treats. 5:30-8:30pm. MillBridge, 1401 MillBridge Pkwy., Waxhaw. millbridge-nc.com. Kannapolis Christmas Parade. The Kannapolis Christmas Parade celebrates 80 years and returns to South Main Street and Dale Earnhardt Boulevard. Thousands of lights decorate the parade. 6pm. Main St. and Dale Earnhardt Blvd., Kannapolis. kannapolisnc.gov/ christmasparade.

DEC. 9 Waxhaw Christmas Parade. Local school marching bands and floats by hundreds of businesses and members of the community parade through downtown. 3pm. Downtown Waxhaw. waxhaw.com.

DEC. 13 Yule Log Parade and Ceremony. Watch as the yule log is pulled through McAdenville to Legacy Park where it is ignited, followed by caroling and a visit from Santa. 5:30-8:45pm. Pharr Yarns Main Office, 100 Main St., McAdenville. mcadenvillechristmastown.com.

DEC. 15 Light up Lowell Festival and Christmas Parade. Enjoy, music, food and children’s activities. Parade begins at 3pm at Harold Rankin Park and ends at Popular Street. 2-5:30pm. FREE. E. 1st St., Lowell. lowellnc.com.

charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2018

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DADDY DEREK

Advice From a Fatherly Elf BY DEREK JAMES

he holiday season is upon us. While we’re all super busy bustling and jollying, let’s take a moment to recognize that there will always be those “little extras” that they don’t necessarily write carols about. 1. Someone Will Get Sick It’s almost guaranteed that one or more of the kids will get sick this time of year — at school, at home or, in our case, even in the car on the way to Grandma’s house in the back of your dad’s immaculate Cadillac. Baby wipes, disinfectant wipes and paper towels aren’t just for traveling with the under 3-year-old set. If your child has any history of getting carsick, Dramamine must be taken before you go. I don’t want to say how many times we forgot to give our boys some until we were already moving. That never works. 2. Your Children Will Eat Very Little of Christmas Dinner Here’s the scenario: You, your mother or grandma spend a day or more preparing a wonderful feast. Your kids, meanwhile, have been eating gingerbread cookies, candy canes and sugarplums all day (OK, maybe not the last one). There is always one kid who eats nothing but the inside of a dinner roll and a couple pats of butter. Just make sure the roll isn’t burned or they’ll just eat butter. 3. Don’t Buy Anything That Requires Assembly This includes bikes, dollhouses and

especially basketball goals. The last thing you or your spouse wants to do is attempt to put together anything at 11:30 p.m. on Christmas Eve after too many hot toddies. Pay for the assembly. It’s worth it. Kids have little to no patience when they get a gift that needs batteries or set-up. Even with less complicated gifts, make sure someone is ready to put in batteries or hook up that video game system. 4. Loosen Up Before You Want to Cancel Christmas Anticipate a squabble or something said that is ridiculously ungrateful that makes you wonder what happened to your sweet little cherub. The holidays are a good time to loosen up on the level of punishment you dish out. The last thing you want is for your child’s Christmas memories to be tainted by a punishment that didn’t fit the crime. You’ll also save them on future therapy bills.

DECEMBER 2018 | charlotteparent.com

5. R-E-L-A-X If you’re too filled with Christmas anxiety and stress, your kids will feel it. Relax, loosen up and laugh. It’s OK to be a little more Clark Griswold than your usual self. Young kids love anything silly, so have fun with the holidays. The drill sergeant thing doesn’t work this time of year and isn’t a good look, anyway. It’s amazing how a little caffeine or a peppermint chocolate chip milkshake from Chick-fil-A can flip your mood. The latter may also work on your kids. Who doesn’t love a holiday treat? The holidays are more about traditions than rules. Here’s wishing you and yours an amazing time filled with love and laughter. Remember, today’s stories make tomorrow’s memories. Derek James is host of WCCB News Rising. He and his wife live in Charlotte with their sons who are ages 7 and 10.

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