Piedmont Parent February 2015

February 2015 • Free

Mount Tabor High School presents

Summer CAMP GUIDE

+ 7 ways to make it

MORE AFFORDABLE

+ Advice for better

sleep away from home

‘THE SCAR BOYS’

Teaching your child self-control

Y of NW North Carolina

Our Lady of Grace

Wendover

Guilford County Schools

February CONTENTS

FEATURES

13

Sweet Dreams at Overnight Camp

14

Help your child sleep well away from home

Making Camp Affordable

Find the money you need for summer fun

16

‘The Scar Boys’ Mount Tabor High School brings popular YA novel to the stage

IN EVERY ISSUE

4

Editor’s Note

7 Family Fyi 7 Community News 8 Ask the Teacher 9 Health

10 Is My Kid OK?

11 Growing Up

Self-control

17 Excursion

Harvey B. Gantt Center

26

for African-American Arts + Culture

Faces & Places

February 2015 • Free

CALENDAR Mount Tabor High School presents

Summer CAMP GUIDE

p. 14

+ 7 ways to make it

p. 13

+ Advice for better

MORE AFFORDABLE

sleep away from home

p. 16

‘THE SCAR BOYS’

Teaching your child self-control

p. 11

19

Our Picks

20

Daily Events

20

On Stage

23

Ongoing Events

piedmontparent.com | FEBRUARY 2015

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EDITOR’S NOTE

parent PI EDMONT

morrismedianetwork.com

Plan Now for Summer Adventures

L

ike most working parents, my office is adorned with snapshots, drawings

GROUP PUBLISHER Sharon Havranek

PUBLISHER/EDITOR Myra Wright

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Eleanor-Scott Davis

ART DIRECTORS

and other mementos from my kids. On my

Cheri Vigna, Melissa Stutts

bulletin board, which hangs right above my

Tammy Holoman

desk, is a letter my daughter wrote me four years ago during a weeklong stay at Camp Keyauwee in Randolph County. She was 7 years old at the time, and it was her first time being away from home.

“Hi mom,” she wrote. “I’m having sooooooo much fun. Well, I gotta go now. Peace, love and s’mores. Love, Morgan.”

That was it. There were no exciting details about swimming, hiking, arts and crafts, or canoeing. She was short and to the point, but she did take the time to draw a peace sign, a heart and of course, s’mores.

Her letter is a good reminder that sending kids to summer camp is often much harder on parents than kids. She was too busy and having fun to think about being homesick. She barely had enough time to write a letter home!

Summer might be four months away, but this month’s issue focuses on overnight camps and now is the best time to research and register for summer fun.

Think overnight camps are out of your budget? Think again. Writer Courtney McLaughlin shares ideas on how you can bring camp costs down to give your kids a fantastic summertime experience (Making Camp Affordable, page 14). And while there is a price tag, the camp experience is a worthwhile investment as your child will gain independence and confidence, learn new skills, and make new friends.

If you are worried about your child getting the rest he or she needs away from home, read Malia Jacobson’s article with expert tips for sleep success (Sweeter Dreams at Overnight Camp, page 13).

And finally, as you are looking for the perfect summer camp for your child, be sure to visit PiedmontParent.com to search our extensive directories of overnight camps and day camps.

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MEDIA CONSULTANT Michelle Nelson mnelson@piedmontparent.com

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DISTRIBUTION 336-983-4789

info@piedmontparent.com

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PRESIDENT

Donna Kessler

DIRECTOR OF MANUFACTURING Donald Horton

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR Shelonda West

PUBLICATION MANAGER Kris Miller

CONTACT US

Phone: 336-983-4789 | Fax: 336-983-2378 P.O. Box 530 | King, NC 27021 advertising@piedmontparent.com | info@piedmontparent.com piedmontparent.com Circulation 30,000. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. Piedmont Parent reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the publication’s standards. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

Whether you are looking for a family camp, traditional camp, sports, academic or something more unique, our website is packed with options to plan your summertime adventures.

As always, I’d love to hear from you. Don’t hesitate to contact me with story ideas, questions or comments at mwright@piedmontparent.com.

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FEBRUARY 2015 | piedmontparent.com

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

President Will S. Morris IV

WHAT’S NEW AT …

piedmontparent.com

New Garden Friends School

Triad Consignment Sales Saving money is easy with so many great consignment sales held throughout the Triad, and now is the time to map out your shopping plans with the help of Piedmont Parent. Visit our website for a comprehensive listing of consignment sales in Winston-Salem, Greensboro, High Point

Salem Smiles

and surrounding communities.

Craft Corner These little monsters are filled with love and make a fabulous candy-free Valentine’s Day treat.

They are adorable on microwave popcorn packets but could also be attached to other goodies or given as a standalone Valentine.

…/elementarykids/artscrafts Enter to Win Lovable frogs and new friends discover the joys of building words in “LeapFrog Letter Factory Adventures: Amazing Word Explorers,” coming to DVD on March 3.

Enter for your chance to win a copy!

…/community/contests

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piedmontparent.com | FEBRUARY 2015

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Nobel Academy

Smart Start of Forsyth County

Y of Greensboro NW Pediatrics

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FEBRUARY 2015 | piedmontparent.com

› FYI

Twin City Stage to present ‘Play to Win: The Jackie Robinson Story’ In celebration of Black History Month, Twin City Stage will present “Play to Win: The Jackie Robinson Story” on Saturday, Feb. 28 at the See Play to Win: The Jackie Arts Council Theatre, Robinson Story on Feb. 28.

610 Coliseum Drive in Winston-Salem. The show begins at 11 a.m. and runs about one hour. All tickets are $12 for general admission and may be purchased at the box office window one hour before showtime or online at childrenstheatrews.org. Recommended for students in grades two through eight, “Play to Win” will be performed by Birmingham Children’s Theatre (bct123. org).

In the musical, Branch Rickey, the general manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers, makes it very clear to a hopeful baseball player Jackie Robinson that to succeed in the major leagues, Robinson will have to endure racial hatred, insults and abuse in silence, while still playing to win. Through his determination, dignity and resolve, Robinson paved the way for ballplayers, athletes and countless other Americans to look past the color of their skin and to reach for their dreams. Although this musical is geared toward young audiences, all ages will enjoy this portrayal of Robinson’s determination to be the best despite seemingly insurmountable odds.

In partnership with Bookmarks, Twin City Stage will also welcome Sharon Robinson, Robinson’s daughter, to this performance. Robinson is an educational consultant for Major League Baseball. She manages Breaking Barriers: In Sports, In Life, a baseball-themed national character education curriculum that helps empower students to face obstacles in their lives.

Robinson is also the author of many works of fiction and nonfiction. She has written several books about her father, including “Jackie’s Nine: Jackie Robinson’s Values to Live By,” “Promises to Keep: How Jackie Robinson Changed America” and “Jackie Robinson: American Hero” (a children’s biography). Bookmarks will have these books available for purchase in the lobby, and Sharon Robinson will be signing books before and after the performance.

BY ELEANOR-SCOTT DAVIS

George Catlin’s American Buffalo coming to Reynolda House Museum of American Art From Feb. 13 through May 3, a collection of George Catlin’s American Buffalo paintings will be exhibited in the Mary and Charlie Babcock Wing Gallery of Reynolda House Museum of American Art. Americans’ fascination with the American West is heralded in the 40 paintings that comprise this Smithsonian exhibition.

Catlin was among the earliest artists of European descent to chronicle the massive herds of buffalo roaming the Great Plains and portray how truly embedded they were in the daily lives of American Indian tribes. His brilliant canvases showcase iconic scenes of the American West and show how the buffalo was used in multiple facets of daily life, from food and shelter to ceremony and naming.

On March 1, the museum will be offering a Family First Workshop focused on the exhibit. The

George Catlin, Buffalo Bull, Grazing on the Prairie, 1832-1833, oil on canvas, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mrs. Joseph Harrison Jr.

“Buffalo and Beads” workshop is for children in grades one through six, accompanied by an adult, and will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. The cost of the workshop is $8 for members and $10 for others.

All art materials will be provided.

Children’s Museum of Alamance County to give away books Thanks to a special grant from Target, the Children’s Museum of Alamance County will give a book to take home to each child who attends one of their Tidbits and Tales programs. Tidbits and Tales encompass a literacy element — such as a story time — into each session and an activity, which changes every month. It is a members-only program and runs from January through August. Members are also required to preregister for the events, which are held on the third Tuesday of each month from 9 to 10 a.m. For more information on the program and to register, visit childrensmuseumofalamance.org or call 228-7997. piedmontparent.com | FEBRUARY 2015

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›

FYI

| ask the teacher We asked. You answered.

Visit Facebook.com/ PiedmontParent to join the conversation.

What is the best thing about February?

Jason T Wilson: The end is the very best part of February.

Left Lane Productions: The Valentine Wine Mixer at The Gallery in Thomasville!

Peter Leroy: Seriously. The best thing about February is that it is cradled between January and March. February lies wrapped in a blanket making promises of warmer days to come.

Amanda Davis Gottfried: My oldest daughter’s birthday is on the 24th. She will be 14!

Are word searches a worthwhile educational activity?

Q

My fourth-grader has to do word searches frequently for homework. The searches tie in with his spelling words or vocabulary for social studies or science. He thinks they are a lot of fun. When he does them in class, he especially enjoys competing with his classmates to see who can finish a word search the fastest. I consider them a waste of time. What do you think?

We tend to side with you. However, you should be aware that there are teachers

who strongly support them. The true answer to whether word searches have value

may lie somewhere in the middle. Frankly, a number of teachers use word searches as time fillers — giving strength to your argument that they are a waste of time.

Supporters of using word searches say that they build vocabulary and thus contribute to children’s reading skills. It is hard to see how this can be true. Vocabulary is not built by matching and circling words — but by reading and using words in a variety of activities.

However, through word searches beginning readers may increase their knowledge of word patterns and readers may improve their scanning skills. There is simply no research that supports the use of word searches in subjects such as science, math and social studies. They do not help children learn the vocabulary of these subjects.

There can be some justification for using word searches if children are given a list of words and have to find the synonyms or antonyms for them. Then the word search could possibly be described as a vocabulary builder.

A

Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@dearteacher.com or visit dearteacher.com.

— Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts

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FEBRUARY 2015 | piedmontparent.com

Dawn Phillips Gibson: Valentine’s Day, it usually snows this month, and it’s my birthday month!

Jan Sullivan Badger: My son and I share a birthday. He’ll be 10.

I’ll be none of your business.

Sheila Fowler Smith: Share the Love fundraising event on the 13th to benefit The Dragonfly House in Mocksville.

K’Lashelle Stanley: Black History Month.

Francie Portnoy: It is the shortest of the winter months.

Lynne Buchanan Allen: That March is right after it!

Megan Key: We are welcoming a new addition to our family, Maddox Boston Key! Carolyn Smith Driskill: My son was born.

Carol Black Edwards: Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey Circus!

› A Healthy Camp Experience Begins at Home

FYI

|

health

BY KATHERINE KOPP

As you consider summer camp options for your child this month, remember these recommendations from the American Camp Association: n Know your camp’s policy about illness and attendance. n Teach your child to wash his or her hands often. n If your child has mental, emotional or social health challenges, talk with a camp representative in advance. n Make sure your child has appropriate closed-toe shoes for activities like soccer or hiking. n Send enough clothes for your child to dress in layers if necessary. n Fatigue contributes to injuries and illnesses. Talk to your child about getting enough rest at night.

Pack sunscreen and teach your child how to apply it.

Send a reusable water bottle and instruct your child to refill it frequently. n Tell your child to talk with his or her counselor about problems or things that bother him or her while at camp. n Should an illness develop or your child share an upsetting story during camp, contact a camp administrator. Good communication is essential. n n

76%

The percentage of married men ages 18-64 who had a health care visit in the past year. This compares with 65.1 percent of unmarried men.

Source: U.S. Center for Health Statistics

UNC-Chapel Hill Center Aims to Prevent Obesity UNC-Chapel Hill has been chosen to house one of four new Regional Centers of Excellence in Nutrition Education and Obesity Prevention. The center, funded by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, will work with the federal supplemental nutrition assistance program education (SNAP-Ed) and the expanded food and nutrition education program to improve obesity prevention efforts for families receiving these subsidies. The center will develop and evaluate innovative strategies to help recipients of the subsidies make healthy choices within a limited budget.

The $856,250 project will rely on building strong collaborative relationships between state and county teams in 13 Southern states and two territories to extend the programs’ outreach and impacts.

Source: UNC News Service

Katherine Kopp is a freelance writer in Chapel Hill.

Tooth Decay The No. 1 dental problem among preschoolers is tooth decay. By age 2, approximately one in 10 children already has one or more cavities. By age 3, 28 percent do. By age 5, nearly 50 percent do. Dental decay in baby teeth can negatively affect permanent teeth and lead to future dental problems.

Source: American Academy of Pediatrics piedmontparent.com | FEBRUARY 2015

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›

IS MY KID OK? [ Promote healthy sleep patterns

by having regular bedtimes and wake-up times. Many times when a child has his or her schedule disrupted, sleep is the first area that becomes neglected. That can lead to irritability, nightmares and fatigue.

{ Avoid scary movies, TV programs,

stories and video games before bed. It is important to understand that most children confuse reality and fantasy. Scary movies and video games can “come alive” in the night, resulting in fear.

r Reassure the child that you are

there. Consistently showing a calm

How to understand children’s bedtime anxiety and fears

BY HANNAH NAIL COBLE

Q A

My 5-year-old daughter wakes crying during the night several times a month, telling me that she has had a scary dream. Is this normal?

Nightmares are fairly common in childhood, especially in kids younger than 10 years old. Given the active imagination of a child, bedtime fears typically show when lights are out and there is a “bump in the night.” It is not clear at what age kids begin to dream, but research tells us that nightmares seem to peak during preschool years.

Most of the time nightmares occur for no apparent reason, but other times they show meaning in a child’s way of processing feelings, emotions and thoughts. During sleep, people tend to recap worries and concerns that affect their daily lives. Some occur during stressful times when a child is experiencing something negative or when there is change happening in his or her life. Starting a new school, moving into a new home or joining a sports team might

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FEBRUARY 2015 | piedmontparent.com

stir feelings that are unsettling. When children repress feelings of anxiety caused by change or stress, this allows for poor emotional regulation, which can result in bad dreams.

Trauma such as a natural disaster, injury or abuse can also be a culprit. It is important to talk with children regularly when one starts to notice atypical behavior such as frequent nightmares or bedwetting. If this occurs, talk with your doctor to get more clarity on the behavior.

It is natural for parents to be protective and attempt to shield feelings of hurt and fear that come along as children grow.

However, this is impossible. Children need to be taught how to handle their anxieties on their own. It is an important part of growing up. Nonetheless, there are steps you can take to lessen the chance of nightmares. Here are few ideas:

presence after a nightmare allows the child to strengthen his or her sense of security and reassurance.

[ Be a good listener. Don’t talk about

the nightmare in detail during the night, but rather have the child talk about it in the morning. Children who are embarrassed struggle with talking and may shut down, so one option would be to have the children draw the dream, expressing it through art. When not put on the spot, children begin disclosing information when anxiety and stress are decreased through play.

While drawing or coloring, children can talk about situations such as bullying or poor grades.

Usually nightmares don’t happen often and are not a major concern. The best tool is consistent reassurance during stressful situations promoting protection.

If nightmares are recurring, you may want to speak with your doctor to uncover any emotional or behavioral problems.

Otherwise, sleep tight and don’t let the bedbugs bite.

Hannah Nail Coble is a clinical social worker who works with children and adolescents at Cone Health Behavioral Health Hospital.

Send questions to Sherri McMillen at sherri.mcmillen@conehealth.com.

›

GROWING UP

is typically a passing phase. “Often you’ll see waves of impulsivity as kids grow up.

This might be worsened by kids trying to fit in with peers, or by what kids see in the media,” says John Sommers-Flanagan, associate professor at the University of Montana and a member of the American Counseling Association. Encourage better self-control with specific praise for progress: “I like how you ate all your vegetables at dinner, even though they’re not your favorite.” Foster self-control by establishing regular chores and setting up a consistent time to do homework. Making these “have-tos” part of everyday life helps kids power through tough tasks, even when they’d rather not.

Self-Control Strategies for Kids

BY MALIA JACOBSON

W

ant to ensure your child’s success in life? Start teaching self-control skills.

While there’s no sure-fire way to raise a future Olympian or Nobel Laureate,

research shows that children with better self-control fare better in school and relationships than their more impulsive peers. Tiffany Sands, a licensed therapist in Chapel Hill, says few skills matter more to emotional, social, financial and academic success. Parents can — and should — be intentional about helping kids master selfcontrol early in life, and continue emphasizing self-control through the teen years.

Here’s how to impart the skills that boost future success, starting now.

AGES 0-5

Self-Soothe Babies and toddlers are still working on sitting, walking and talking, but don’t underestimate your little one’s ability to learn self-control skills. “Self-control is about learning to control our impulses and behavior. It’s never too early to start helping children learn to manage these things,” Sands says. Learning to delay gratification is key to mastering selfcontrol, she says. Giving your child a chance to learn self-soothing skills, within reason, can help build the understanding that some needs and wants aren’t immediately met. When your child calls for you and you’re busy, respond in a calm voice to let him know you heard, and that

you’ll be with him in a few minutes, Sands says. Provide a toy or a visual distraction if needed, then step back and allow kids to play the waiting game for a minute or two.

(Of course, you should always respond to your baby’s intense cries or physical needs right away.)

AGES 6-12

Healthy Habbits Don’t be surprised if a usually well-behaved grade-schooler starts showing signs of impulsivity, like sneaking ice cream before dinner, or taking new risks like lacing up her roller skates but skipping protective gear. Brain changes make kids more susceptible to rash actions during the tween years, but (happily) this behavior

AGES 13-18

Model Behavior When teens show signs of flagging selfcontrol, like failing to study for an exam, don’t lose hope. An occasional slip-up isn’t a red flag, Sommers-Flanagan says.

“Adults sometimes have problems with self-control, and so do teens. It’s normal.”

But repeated missteps and loads of poor choices could signal the need for selfcontrol SOS. Initiate a conversation about how the outcome — like the poor grade — could have been prevented. Ask your teen to think about what steps he needs to take to resolve the problem, such as carving out more time to study or sleep, and how you can support his efforts. Don’t forget to model self-control in your own life. Teens are keen parental observers, so when you hit the gym when you don’t feel like it, scarf down a healthy meal when you’d rather have cake, or resist an impulse purchase in order to sock away savings, talk to your teen about your choice. He may act disinterested, but he’ll pick up your message: Self-control is within reach, and something we work at for a lifetime.

Malia Jacobson is an award-winning health and parenting journalist and mom of three. piedmontparent.com | FEBRUARY 2015

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camp section

Woodberry Forest

Child Museum of Winston-Salem

Y of Greater Charlotte Y of Greensboro

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FEBRUARY 2015 | piedmontparent.com

camp section

SWEETER DREAMS at Overnight Camp Help children sleep well away from home

T

BY MALIA JACOBSON

his year, 10 million children will tote their sleeping bags to camp, but they may not do much sleeping. For many children, overnight camp is the first time they’ve slept away

from their families for more than a night or two.

Add an unfamiliar bed, strange nighttime noises and the overall excitement, and it’s no wonder many kids come home from camp severely overtired. So while you’re helping them pack their bags, take a few extra steps to help kids sleep well. With the shut-eye they need, they’ll enjoy all camp has to offer — and return refreshed, happy and ready to fill you in on all of their adventures.

Pack Some Comfort Don’t forget to pack Teddy. According to leading pediatrician and “The Happiest Baby on the Block” author Dr. Harvey Karp, comfort items such as special stuffed animals and pillows become particularly important when kids sleep in an unfamiliar place, because they create a soothing sense of security. Older kids might appreciate a small framed photo of the family or a note from Mom and Dad.

Check Nighttime Temps While you’re checking the daytime forecast for your child’s camp destination, make sure to check the nighttime forecast too.

Nighttime temperatures may be much lower — or higher —than what your child is used to, particularly if he’ll be sleeping in a cabin or tent. Pack several pairs of pajamas and thick socks for layering.

Head Off Embarrassing Moments Around 7-10 percent of kids wet the bed at age 8 — an age at which many kids are

considering their first sleepaway camp experience. If your child is anxious about the possibility of an accident and mortified at the thought of packing disposable training pants, talk to your pediatrician.

Avoid scolding your child about bedwetting or placing too much emphasis on the topic before camp, as this can create added anxiety. Pediatric urologist Dr. Steve Hodges of Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem says a shortterm prescription for a medication such as desmopressin, which slows nighttime urine production, can provide a temporary solution for camps and other circumstances that make bed-wetting especially embarrassing.

Send Moonlight Munchies After an action-packed day at camp, young campers may feel their stomachs growl just as the counselor announces “Lights out!” If camp rules allow it, pack a few pre-bedtime snacks so they don’t hit the sack hungry.

Whole-grain crackers, granola, cold cereal and protein bars travel well; tryptophan-rich foods like nuts, sunflower seeds or soybeans score added sleep points.

Say No to Noise A child who is particularly sensitive to noise may find camp’s group-sleeping arrangements disconcerting, and strange outdoor sounds can trigger nighttime fears in timid campers. Consider packing a white-

noise machine from home, earplugs (try the plugs out first to make sure they’re comfy) so your child can drift off to sleep in silence, or an iPod and earbuds, if music is the preferred sleep soundscape.

Home, Sleepy Home No matter what you do, kids probably won’t adhere to their regular sleep schedule at camp. “When they return, getting back to the normal routine is important,” says pediatric sleep specialist Dr. Krisztina Harsanyi of Children’s of Alabama hospital.

It may take a few days to a week to adjust to their regular schedule, so Harsanyi advises postponing sleepovers and trips until after kids have spent some quality time catching up on sleep.

Malia Jacobson is a nationally published health and parenting journalist and mom of three. Her latest book is “Sleep Tight, Every Night: Helping Toddlers and Preschoolers Sleep Well Without Tears, Tricks, or Tirades.” piedmontparent.com || FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 2015 2015 piedmontparent.com

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camp section

Making Camp

Affordable Finding funds to klsdf it work make klsdf

F

or many kids in the Carolinas, the best part of summer is spelled C-A-M-P! Some kids head to the mountains, others to adventure camps along the coast. Down the street or across the country, the camp experience allows kids to become more independent, learn new skills and make lifelong friends under the summer sun.

Peg Smith, CEO of the American Camp Association, says camp fosters unique experiences. “When you are at camp, it is a promotion of your assets,” she says. “The whole community is geared toward you having success.

There is nothing more powerful than being successful.”

Of course, all these wonderful experiences and lifelong memories do come with a price tag — one some parents may think they can’t afford.

But there are ways to bring costs down and give your little ones a fantastic camp experience.

The Value of Camp klsdf

BY COURTNEY MCLAUGHLIN

Smith says the No. 1 rule of planning for summer camp is to know there is a place for everyone. “There is a camp for every child and every budget,” she says. In fact, the ACA camp community annually provides nearly $216 million in

klsdf

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FEBRUARY2015 2015 | | piedmontparent.com piedmontparent.com FEBRUARY

camp section camp scholarships for children across the country. “If parents assume there is not a camp out there, it’s a matter of doing research.”

Gail Mashburn, administrative director for Camp Hollymont, a femaleonly camp in Asheville, says camp is a gift that lasts long after it’s time to go home. “Camp provides children with the time and place for personal growth — learning to think and act independently within a safe, nurturing community.” Mashburn says her camp offers many ways for parents to save on tuition. “We help camp families with a variety of early registration discounts, sibling discounts, camper-recruitment discounts and special drawings.”

Ways to Save Parents who send their kids to camp year after year know the value and monetary commitment well. “Camp is expensive no matter what strategy you employ, but the cost is worth it,” says Charlotte mom Wendy Foley. “My kids come home dirty and tired, but glowing and full of stories and songs.” Her two oldest children attend YMCA Camp Harrison at Herring Ridge in the Brushy Mountains of North Carolina each summer. The family belongs to the YMCA so they receive a membership discount.

Besides memberships, many camps offer early bird and sibling discounts, scholarships or internships. Other discounts could be available that aren’t published, so never be afraid to ask.

Kay Anderson, associate director and parent liaison of Skyland Camp for Girls in Clyde, which is nestled in North Carolina’s Great Smoky Mountains, says her camp offers referral discounts where the referring family receives 20 percent per referral off what the new camper would pay in tuition the first year.

“Families can receive up to full tuition in referrals,” she says. This referral can also be used for a sibling the first year; then the family receives 10 percent off with a sibling discount in subsequent years.

Families who send their kids to Camp Chatuga near Mountain Rest, S.C., can earn money toward tuition by hosting house parties. Sherry Moxley, marketing coordinator for the camp, says families can earn a $100 discount for hosting camp-interest parties for at least four families. Additionally, a discount of no less than $50 can be earned for any enrollment resulting from the parties.

Camp Hollymont begins early registration promotions as soon as the last camper leaves. “We offer a system of graduated, early registration discounts

August through December, with the deepest discounts in August,” Mashburn says. Parents can also participate in drawings and giveaways — including a Valentine’s Day giveaway — for the chance to win a $150 credit toward the camper’s account.

Some families also encourage their kids to chip in. “My kids traditionally ask for money for camp for their birthdays from grandparents, aunts and uncles,” Foley says.

Elaine Brinkley, CEO of Camp Fire Georgia that oversees Camp Toccoa in Toccoa, Georgia, encourages parents to explore payment options and then speak with the camp director if there isn’t one that matches your budget. “We are in the youth-development business because we care about kids,” Brinkley says. “Most camp directors are willing to work with you.”

While the monetary commitment can be daunting, with some planning and research, camp can be a valuable experience any family can enjoy. “Camp is a gift that lasts longer than a day, doesn’t break, and enriches the camper’s life both in the short and long term,” Mashburn says.

Courtney McLaughlin is a Charlotte native, freelance writer and mom to a wonderful 9-year-old daughter who loves camp.

1. Register early. Many camps, including day and overnight camps, offer a discount if you register in advance.

7

Ways to Make Camp More

AFFORDABLE

2. Ask about a sibling discount if you are sending little brother or sister along.

3. Scholarships. You can find scholarship information on camp websites. Be sure to note application deadlines.

4. Payment plans, while not discounts, often make camp expenses easier.

5. Pitch in. Some camps offer tuition breaks if parents work there.

6. Ask your children to contribute birthday money or allowance for camp expenses.

7. Contact the camp director if none of these options pan out, ask the camp director if anything else can be done. piedmontparent.com || FEBRUARY 2015 piedmontparent.com

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PLAYING

Through the Pain Mount Tabor brings story of bullying to the stage

W

BY JUDY CALDWELL-MIDERO

hat happens when young adult literature and a high-school drama department join forces? Theater with a rock ’n’ roll twist. Mount Tabor High School in Winston-

Salem will present its winter play, “The Scar Boys,” on Feb. 19-21. High-school drama productions conjure up images of singing cowboys and farm girls, right? Not this time. This is not your everyday high-school production; think more Ramones, less Rodgers and Hammerstein.

an appearance at last year’s Bookmarks Festival of Books and Authors. Mount Tabor theater-arts teacher Chad Edwards attended Vlahos’ event and pitched the author an idea to turn “The Scar Boys” into a play. “I happened to read the novel shortly before Len came to Bookmarks,” Edwards tells Piedmont Parent. “It was a rare book that I could see things staging wise happening in my head and I just knew it would be the kind of novel that would adapt well to the stage.” Vlahos was game, and a long-distance musical collaboration was born.

Vlahos and Mount Tabor students used Skype during the creative process, and Vlahos was pleased with the results.

“I was blown away by their creativity and their enthusiasm,” says Vlahos. “This is honestly one of the coolest things that has happened to me in my year as a published author.”

He speaks from experience. Before authoring young adult literature, Vlahos was an on-air personality for an Atlantic City radio station and was a member The Woofing Cookies, a punk band who spent the 1980s as a darling of college radio stations across the nation.

“Music is and always has been the pulse of my life, and is kind of like magic to me,” says Vlahos. “It hits me in a visceral way, pulling me down into the belly of the earth and lifting me up to the stratosphere, all at the same time.”

Ticket Information “The Scar Boys” is the debut novel of author Len Vlahos. It is written as a college admission essay and tells the story of Harbinger “Harry” Jones, a survivor of childhood bullying. Harry’s bullies take it much further than taunts and name-calling. Their aggression toward him culminates in Harry being tied to a tree as a storm hits. There is a lightning strike and a flaming tree branch. Harry is horribly disfigured and his life takes a dark turn. He spends years trying to overcome the trauma of the accident, but the scars, both internal and external, haunt him. He

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finds an outlet through punk music and achieves popularity as the lead guitarist of a band named, you guessed it, The Scar Boys. The band heads out on tour, and Harry finds his calling.

Harry’s story resonated with readers and critics alike, earning “The Scar Boys” favorable reviews in The New York Times Sunday Book Review, School Library Journal and Kirkus Reviews, among others. The book is also a finalist for the 2015 William C. Morris YA Debut Award.

So, where does Mount Tabor come in?

It all started last year when Vlahos made

Visit Mount Tabor online at wsfcs.k12.nc.us or call 703-6700 for ticket information.

Performances are at 7 p.m. Feb. 19-21 at Mount Tabor, 342 Petree Road in WinstonSalem.

Vlahos will be on hand for the Saturday, Feb. 21 performance to sign books, and representatives from Bookmarks will be at all three performances selling copies of “The Scar Boys.” Signed copies of the book are also available for purchase through Bookmarks by calling 747-1471 or emailing info@bookmarksnc.org.

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EXCURSION

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EXCURSION

Harvey B. Gantt Center

FOR AFRICAN-AMERICAN ARTS + CULTURE

BY LISA HASSELL

A

family outing to the Harvey B. Gantt Center for AfricanAmerican Arts + Culture at the Levine Center for the Arts

is a perfect way for your family to celebrate Black History Month.

Named for Charlotte’s first African-American mayor, the museum upholds a mission to present, preserve and celebrate excellence in the art, history and culture of African-Americans and those of African descent. The 46,500-square-foot Gantt Center is located in an area of uptown Charlotte once occupied by the historic Brooklyn neighborhood, a thriving center of the black community that was

Photos courtesy of the Harvey B. Gantt Center and Lisa Hassell

razed in the 1960s.

Family Learning Experiences

If you go, enter from the street level and purchase tickets inside the gift shop, which sells a collection of artwork, magnets, home décor and T-shirts. The museum offers three galleries: one on the second level and two on the third level. Each is well lit, quiet and calming.

Benches and chairs encourage visitors to take time to study a piece.

Photography of the artwork is not allowed, but you can take a picture in the lobby of the Afro-American Cultural Center replica built entirely of Lego blocks!

The Gantt Center hosts its Family First series the first Saturday of each month for families with children ages 5-10. Activities may include a children’s book reading, an art project that ties to an exhibit, dancing, drumming or singing.

Beginning in March, the museum will host a Junior Studio workshop on weekends for children ages 8-12 to encourage creativity and an interest in contemporary art. Parents and children get the opportunity to discuss works on display and explore processes and techniques in making art. Contact the museum for dates and times.

A Kindergartener’s Perspective

Plan Your Visit

My 5-year-old son and I spent a winter afternoon at the museum and had a wonderful time. I knew this experience would be different than the hands-on, play-based museums my little one is accustomed to, so I prepped him by telling him we were visiting an art museum.

I told him we would be special reporters looking at everything with our eyes and trying to imagine what the artist was thinking when he or she made a piece. His job was to look at every piece in a room and report back to me about which was his favorite and why.

I spoke freely to my son about each painting, photograph or sculpture, discussing how beautiful a painter made a subject’s eyes or how different colors made me feel. We talked about what we thought was happening in each picture and looked at the individual brush strokes on a canvas. I also showed him how to identify when a work was created and what the artist had named it. He declared his favorite to be “Waiting,” a black-and-white sketch of a forlornlooking girl standing behind a barbed-wire fence. I was surprised, but enjoyed his explanation as to why he liked that piece. We truly spent quality time together as we shared our thoughts about some great works of art.

Beginning in February, galleries at the museum will be filled with a new exhibit titled “Venturing Out of the Heart of Darkness,” which includes works by national and international artists. The exhibit examines how colonialism has impacted prevailing attitudes that define black culture in America today. The community opening is Feb. 7, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., and includes the Family First open studio dropin workshop: Assemblage. Exhibit artists Renee Stout, Willie Cole and Sean Johnson will be there to inspire participants as they create a work of art out of found objects. Museum admission is $5 during this special event.

The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture is located at 551 S. Tryon St. in Charlotte and is open Tuesday through Sunday. Tickets range in price from $6-$9, and children under age 6 are admitted for free. Find more information, including a calendar of events, at ganttcenter.org.

Lisa Hassell is a local elementary school teacher and mom to a busy and curious kindergartener. She resides in Union County. piedmontparent.com | FEBRUARY 2015

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Looking for the perfect summer camp?

Visit our Online Camp Fair to plan your child’s summer fun at PiedmontParent.com/Camps.

February OUR PICKS

Photo courtesy of Feld Entertainment

S

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus: Circus Extreme Feb. 4-8

Reynolda House Family First Valentine’s Workshop Feb. 1

Children of all ages can let their imaginations go wild in an adventure

Bring the kids to historic Reynolda House Museum of American Art

with circus artists and exotic animals. Ringmaster David Shipman

for Family First Valentine’s Workshop. Make valentines for friends

guides audiences on a quest around the world with the help of

and family while learning about American and British history. This

hilarious adventure-seekers Alex and Irina Emelin. See website for show times. $15 and up. Greensboro Coliseum, 1921 W. Lee St., GSO. 373-7400. ringling.com.

S

two-hour workshop is for children in grades 1-6 accompanied by an adult. 2 p.m. $8-$10. Art materials are provided. Registration required. Reynolda House Museum of American Art, 2250 Reynolda Road, W-S. 758-5599. reynoldahouse.org.

Alice Walker’s “The Color Purple” Feb. 21

“The Color Purple” is an inspiring saga that tells the unforgettable story of a woman who, through love, finds the strength to triumph over adversity and discover her voice in the world. This musical adaptation of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel (and the popular 1985 Steven Spielberg film) spotlights Celie, a downtrodden young woman whose personal awakening over the course of 40 years forms the arc of this epic story. 2 and 7:30 p.m.

The High Point Theatre, 220 E. Commerce Ave., HP. 887-3001. $30-$35. highpointtheatre.com.

piedmontparent.com | FEBRUARY 2015

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Photo courtesy of Matt Hayward/Shutterstock

SALEM BAND WINTER CONCERT Feb. 3. The program features popular favorites, including music

by Shostakovich, Vaughan Williams, Chabrier, Dello Joio, a Broadway medley and more. FREE. 7:30 p.m. Hanes Auditorium, Elberson Fine Arts Center, Salem College, 500 E. Salem Ave., W-S. 721-7300. oldsalem.org.

FIRST FRIDAY MUSIC AT GREENHILL: WILL RIDENOUR Feb. 6. Ridenour is a musician from Greensboro, specializing in world percussion and the kora, a 21-stringed harp-lute from West Africa. FREE. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Greenhill, 200 N. Davie St., GSO. greenhillnc.org.

DISCOVERY CONCERTS FOR KIDS Feb.15. Enjoy an afternoon concert with the Winston-Salem Symphony and the Magic Circle Mime Company. $7-$18. Pre-concert activities: 2 p.m.

Concert: 3 p.m. R.J. Reynolds Memorial Auditorium. 301 Hawthorne Road North. W-S. wssymphony.org.

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1 SUNDAY

3rd Annual Hooper Bowl. Join us for hula-hooping, a mini Hoopdio class, music and fun with Monkey Hooper. 1-2 p.m. Admission is FREE. Canned food donations accepted.

Maple Springs United Methodist Church, 2569 Reynolda Road, W-S. maplesprings.org.

Disney’s “Sleeping Beauty” Kids. This classic fairy tale comes to life with fun new songs like “Maleficent!” and “A Little Magic Now” to bring a fresh telling of the story to a new generation of kids and families. $5-$9. 2 p.m.

Community Theatre of Greensboro.

520 S. Elm St., GSO. 333-7470. ctgso. org.

Half-Price Sundays at GCM. The Greensboro Children’s Museum offers $4 admission every Sunday. 1-5 p.m.

220 N. Church St., GSO. 574-2898. gcmuseum.com.

2 MONDAY

Burlington Youth Council Meeting.

This active group of teens in grades 6-12 volunteer for various events and assists with programs in the Alamance County area as well as offering activities for themselves. To become a member of BYC, students must be enrolled in an Alamance County school and maintain satisfactory grades.

FREE. 6-7 p.m. Thataways Youth Center, 1334 Overbrook Road, Burlington.

222-5134. burlingtonnc.gov.

Busy Bees. For Greensboro Children’s Museum members only. This program is best suited for preschool-aged children and their caregivers. Dance, sing, create, explore and discover the world. 10-11 a.m. Included with admission. Greensboro Children’s Museum, 220 N. Church St., GSO. 5742898. gcmuseum.com.

Maker Space: Beats. Make your own original beats and music in the recording studio! There will be a surprise ingredient revealed on the

FEBRUARY 2015 | piedmontparent.com

day of the event to use in your musicmaking. For ages 12-18. FREE. 5:30-7 p.m. McGirt-Horton Library, 2501 Phillips Ave., GSO. greensboro-nc.gov.

Teen to Teen Theatre. Teens perform original and scripted works including plays, musicals and videos. Ages 13-19. FREE. 7-8:45 p.m. Thataways Youth Center, 1334 Overbrook Road, Burlington. 570-6516. burlingtonNC. gov/teen2teen.

Zaxby’s Kids’ Night. Meet at Zaxby’s every Monday for kids’ night with a special event or guest. 5-8 p.m. Zaxby’s, 5337 US Highway 158, Bermuda Run. 941-9051. zaxbys.com.

3 TUESDAY

Children’s Story Time (Walkertown).

Enjoy stories, rhymes, songs and finger plays every Tuesday morning.

FREE. 10:30-11 a.m. Walkertown Branch Library, 2969 Main St., Walkertown. 703-2990. forsyth.cc/library/ Walkertown.

Homeschool Day at SciWorks. Special programs for home-educated children and other small groups. Group admission rates apply and preregistration is required. Visit sciworks.org for more info. Grades K-9. Registration required. 10 a.m. SciWorks, 400 W. Hanes Mill Road, W-S. 767.6730. sciworks.org.

Meet Children’s Book Author and Illustrator Jim Young. Meet the published author and illustrator and learn how a book is made, then make a mini-book. FREE. 4-4:45 p.m. Benjamin Branch Road, 1530 Benjamin Branch Library, GSO. greensboro-nc. gov.

Preschool Discovery. An action-packed program for young children includes stories, music, movement and more.

Included in museum admission. 11 a.m. Children’s Museum of WinstonSalem, 390 S. Liberty St., W-S. 7239111. childrensmuseumofws.org.

Special Populations Dance. Designed to offer those with developmental

disabilities an opportunity to dance and socialize. Ages 16 and older.

6:30-8:30 p.m. Thataways Youth Center, 1334 Overbrook Road, Burlington. 222-5134. BurlingtonNC.gov/ thataways.

4 WEDNESDAY

Art a la Carte. Noon-2 p.m. For ages 4-6. $20 per person/per session. Explore the world of art with your child. This parent/child class will show you a different art form each week and a hands-on project to go with it. Art can be messy, so please dress accordingly.

Pre-registration is required. Deep River Recreation Center, 1529 Skeet Club Road, HP. highpointnc.gov.

Creative Movement. Little dancers will be inspired with the use of props and kid-friendly music to leap, skip and twirl using creative movement techniques. Ages 2-3. Registration required. $35. 9:30-10 a.m. Oakview Recreation Center, 503 James Road, HP. highpointnc.gov.

Groovin’ Toddlers. Let your little dancer’s imagination take flight in this combo dance class that will include jazz and hip-hop techniques. For ages 4-5. Registration required. $35.

Wednesday 10:15-11 a.m. Oakview Recreation Center, 503 James Road, HP. highpointnc.gov.

La Leche League of Winston-Salem.

Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers and babies are welcome for information and support. FREE. 10 a.m. Redeemer Presbyterian Church, 1046 Miller St., W-S. 462-5782. lllofnc.org.

Pregnancy Yoga. This one-hour class incorporates gentle and relaxing postures suitable for any fitness level or stage of pregnancy. Light refreshments provided after class. $12 for a single rate; monthly passes at reduced rates. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Forsyth Medical Center, Maya Angelou Center Community Room 2 (first floor), 3333 Silas Creek Parkway, W-S. 414-5942.

› forsythmedicalcenter.org.

Preschool Films at First Baptist. Bring your preschooler to First Baptist every Wednesday for a film. 10 a.m. First Baptist Church. 501 W. Fifth St., W-S. forsyth.cc.library.

Preschool Story Time at May Memorial Branch Library. This story time offers 3- to 5-year-olds a variety of book-related experiences featuring stories, songs, finger plays and more.

FREE. 10:30 a.m. May Memorial Branch Library, 342 S. Spring St., Burlington. alamancelibraries.org.

Special Populations Bingo. Designed to offer those with developmental disabilities an opportunity to have fun playing and socialize. All ages. Small cost for games and concessions. 7-8 p.m. Thataways Youth Center, 1334 Overbrook Road, Burlington. 2225134. BurlingtonNC.gov/thataways.

ZUMBA for Kids. ZUMBA for Kids is an exercise class designed to promote healthy living in the youth of our community. Registration required.

2:30 p.m. Southwest Elementary School, 434 Central Ave. Lexington. lexingtonnc.net.

5 THURSDAY

Kids’ Building Event at Hemphill Library. Release your inner architect with a different building material each week. Explore Tinker Toys, Legos, Kapla Blocks and more. FREE. 3:30-5:30 p.m. Hemphill Branch Library, 2301 W. Vandalia Road, GSO. 373-2925. greensborolibrary.org.

Maker Space: History. Use a variety of materials to make history. Create a new invention, pay homage to your favorite history makers or create anything using the theme “making history.” Work in small groups or on your own. For ages 12-18. FREE. 4:30-6 p.m. McGirt-Horton Library, 2501 Phillips Ave., GSO. greensborolibrary.org.

Mocha Moms. Mocha Moms serves as an advocate for mothers and encourages the spirit of community and activism.

FREE. 9:30 a.m. Georgia E. Taylor Recreation Center, 471 W. Clemmonsville Road, W-S. 650-7695. mochamomswinston.tripod.com.

Preschool Discovery. See Feb. 3 listing.

Story Time at Jamestown Library.

Enjoy stories for toddlers and preschoolers. 10:30 a.m. Jamestown Public Library, 200 W. Main St., Jamestown. 454-4815. jamestownpubliclibrary.com.

Thursday Morning Music and Movement. Children ages infant-5 years and their caregivers gather to enjoy singing, dancing and playing along to developmentally appropriate music.

10:30-11 am. Walkertown Branch Library, 2969 Main St., Walkertown.

703-2990. forsyth.cc.

6 FRIDAY

$2 First Friday Nights. Experience the fun for a thrifty price. 5-8 p.m.

Greensboro Children’s Museum, 220 N. Church St., GSO. 574-2898. gcmuseum.com.

Family Flick Friday. Enjoy a familyfriendly movie at the library. 4 p.m.

Kernersvile Branch Library, 130 E. Mountain St., Kernersville. forsyth. cc/library.

Kids’ Art Event at Hemphill Library: Studio Plus. Express your creativity with this unique painting technique.

Children ages 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult. FREE. 3:30-5:30 p.m. Hemphill Branch Library, 2301 W. Vandalia Road, GSO. 373-2925. greensborolibrary.org.

La Leche League of Greensboro Monthly Meeting. Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers are welcome for information and support.

Babies and toddlers also welcome.

FREE. 10 a.m. Leonard Recreational Center, 6324 Ballinger Road, GSO. lllofnc.org.

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BOOK & COOK Feb. 3, 10 and 17. Meet in The Edible Schoolyard Kitchen Classroom to combine literature and food. Feb. 3, Secret Pizza Party; Feb. 10, Dim Sum for Everyone; Feb. 17, Let’s Nosh. $8-$12. 10 a.m. Greensboro Children’s Museum, 220 N. Church St., GSO. gcmuseum.com.

FAMILY COOKING CLASS: A LITTLE LOVE LUNCH Feb. 7. On the menu: “I love you” salad with raspberry dressing, red beet and white bean hummus with vegetables, and Cupid’s cupcakes. Registration required. See website for registration and cost information. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Greensboro Children’s Museum, 220 N. Church St., GSO. 574-2898. gcmuseum.com.

VALENTINE’S DAY TEA Feb. 7. A special experience catered by JH Adams Inn, this fundraiser also includes entertainment, door prizes and a silent auction. All ages. Registration required. $15-$20. 1-4 p.m. High Point Museum, 1859 E. Lexington Ave., HP. 8851859. highpointmuseum.org.

CHOCOLATE-DIPPED HISTORY

Feb. 28. At Chocolate-Dipped History, you will investigate the value of chocolate, tea and coffee in Salem, and enjoy of few treats as well. Included in all-in-one ticket. 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Old Salem Museums & Gardens, 900 Old Salem Road, W-S. oldsalem.org.

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Preschool Music and Movement. Bring your little one to a program designed for preschool children to engage in fun movement activities. Large groups, please call. 10:30 a.m. Mallory Jordan Branch Library, 1110 E. Seventh St., W-S. forsyth.cc/Library.

7 SATURDAY

City of Burlington’s Free Electronic Waste Recycling Event. City residents can drop off electronic products to be recycled. Home electronics, personal computers, personal electronics and miscellaneous electronic devices accepted. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Public Works Parking Lot. 234 E. Summit. Ave., Burlington. ci.burlington.nc.us.

Lifted Voices: African-American History Makers. As you walk through the museum galleries, meet and talk with costumed interpreters portraying people who have made a difference in Greensboro and beyond. Noon-4 p.m. Greensboro Historical Museum, 130 Summit Ave., GSO. greensborohistory.org.

My Little Valentine. Spend an evening with the ones you love dancing the night away. This family-friendly event will be a memorable night for all. Light refreshments will be served and music provided by a DJ. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 6-8:30 p.m. For ages 2 through sixth-graders. $10 per child. Oakview Recreation Center, 503 James Road, HP. highpointnc.gov.

Saturday Children’s Story Hour. Join dynamic leaders from the community as they conduct a story hour every Saturday. 5-12 years. Does not include museum admission. $6 and under. 11 a.m. International Civil Rights Center and Museum, 134 S. Elm St., GSO. 2749199. sitinmovement.org.

St. Paul’s Preschool Consignment Sale. Shop gently used children’s items. See website for times. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 520 Summit St.,

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W-S. 723-4391. stpauls-ws.org.

8 SUNDAY

Half-Price Sundays at GCM. See Feb. 1 listing.

St. Paul’s Preschool Consignment Sale. See Feb. 7 listing.

9 MONDAY

Busy Bees. See Feb. 2 listing.

Simply Circle. A community-based circle-time program led by a speechlanguage pathologist that offers age- and language-based songs and activities for children ages 2-5. Registration required for the four-week series (Feb. 9, 16, 23 and March 2). $32-$40. 11 a.m. Children’s Museum of Winston-Salem, 390 S. Liberty St., W-S. 723-9111. childrensmuseumofws.org.

Teen to Teen Theatre. See Feb. 2 listing.

Zaxby’s Kids’ Night. See Feb. 2 listing.

10 TUESDAY

Children’s Story Time (Walkertown).

See Feb. 3 listing.

Preschool Discovery. See Feb. 3 listing.

Saturday Morning LEGO Club. Design and build your fantasy lodging, perfect for knights and princesses.

FREE.10-11 a.m. Central Library, 219 N. Church St., GSO. greensboro-nc.gov.

Special Populations Dance. See Feb. 3 listing.

11 WEDNESDAY

Art a la Carte. See Feb. 4 listing.

Created Equal Film Series. See Feb. 4 listing.

Creative Movement. See Feb. 4 listing.

Groovin’ Toddlers. See Feb. 4 listing.

Pregnancy Yoga. See Feb. 4 listing.

Preschool Films at First Baptist. See Feb. 4 listing.

Preschool Story Time at May Memorial Branch Library. See Feb. 4 listing.

FEBRUARY 2015 | piedmontparent.com

Special Populations Bingo. See Feb. 4 listing.

Tail Waggin’ Tutors. Want to practice your reading with a furry friend? Make an appointment to read to a certified therapy dog. Call 703-2930 or email kellumsm@forsythlibrary.org to make a 10-minute appointment. Ages 5-11.

6 p.m. Kernersville Library, 130 E. Mountain St., Kernersville. 703-2930. forsyth.cc/library.

12 THURSDAY

Digital Media Teens. Back by popular demand, this event invites teens ages 12-18 to create sound effects and music to add to original short movies.

FREE. 5-6:30 p.m. McGirt-Horton Library, 2501 Phillips Ave., GSO. greensboro-nc.gov.

Kids’ Building Event at Hemphill Library. See Feb. 5 listing.

Mocha Moms. See Feb. 5 listing.

Preschool Discovery. See Feb. 3 listing.

Preschool Play Group. After story time, enjoy playtime with blocks, puzzles, riding toys and more. FREE. 11 a.m.noon. Hemphill Branch Library, 2301 W. Vandalia Road, GSO. greensboronc.gov.

Story Time at Jamestown Library. See Feb. 5 listing.

Thursday Morning Music & Movement. See Feb. 5 listing.

13 FRIDAY

$4 Fun Friday Nights. Explore the Greensboro Children’s Museum with the family when admission is discounted to $4 per person. 5-8 p.m.

220 N. Church St., GSO. 574-2898. gcmuseum.com.

Preschool Music and Movement. See Feb. 6 listing.

14 SATURDAY

X

Valentine’s Day

Reynolda SKETCH: Drypoint, Drawing

into Metal. Reynolda SKETCH is a series of workshops designed for visual-art students in grades 7-12 who are interested in improving their artistic skills. Registration required.

Per session: $25-$35. 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Reynolda House Museum of American Art, 2250 Reynolda Road, W-S. 663-1149. reynoldahouse.org.

Saturday Children’s Story Hour. See Feb. 7 listing.

Star Gazing at Pilot Mountain. Join Forsyth Astronomical Society and SciWorks Planetarium staff for a free astronomy observation at the summit parking lot of Pilot Mountain State Park. Telescopes provided.

6:30-9:30 p.m. In case of bad weather, call SciWorks after 5:30 p.m. for an update. Pilot Mountain State Park, 1792 Pilot Knob Park Road, Pinnacle. sciworks.org.

Stenciling in the Historical Park.

Stenciling has long been a popular method of decorative painting. Try your hand painting a keepsake. All ages welcome. $1 per item. Drop-in.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. High Point Museum, 1859 E. Lexington Ave., HP. 885-1859. highpointmuseum.org.

Valentine’s Day Family Craft. Bring the family to the library for Valentine’s Day-themed crafts. Noon. Lewisville Branch Library. 6490 Shallowford Road. Lewisville. forsyth.cc/library.

Winter Jam. An evening of energizing Christian music. $10 at the door, with no ticket required. 6 p.m. Greensboro Coliseum, 1921 W. Lee St., GSO. 800272-8874. jamtour.com.

15 SUNDAY

Half-Price Sundays at GCM. See Feb. 1 listing.

16 MONDAY

Burlington Youth Council Meeting.

See Feb. 2 listing.

Busy Bees. See Feb. 2 listing.

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Maker Space: Beats. Make your own beats and music in the recording studio.

There will be a surprise ingredient revealed on the day of the event to use in your music-making. For ages 12-18.

FREE. 5-7 p.m. McGirt-Horton Library, 2501 Phillips Ave., GSO. greensboro-nc. gov.

Simply Circle. See Feb. 9 listing.

Teen to Teen Theatre. See Feb. 2 listing.

Zaxby’s Kids’ Night. See Feb. 2 listing.

Photo courtesy of Old Salem Museums & Gardens

17 TUESDAY

Presidents Day Children’s Story Time (Walkertown).

See Feb. 3 listing.

La Leche League of Kernersville.

Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers are welcome for information and support. Babies and toddlers also welcome. FREE. 7 p.m. Fountain of Life Lutheran Church, 323 Hopkins Road, Kernersville. lllofnc.org.

Mad Lab: Paper Inventions. Unleash your mad inventor at this event and create with a variety of paper materials.

In the Mad Lab there are only two rules: Share supplies and be creative. FREE. 4-5 p.m. Benjamin Branch Library, 1530 Benjamin Parkway, GSO. greensboronc.gov.

PIPP Squeaks Preschool Program. This month: Wiggling Worms. Included in museum admission. 10 a.m.-Noon.

SciWorks, 400 W. Hanes Mill Road, W-S. 767-6730. sciworks.org.

Preschool Discovery. See Feb. 3 listing.

Special Populations Dance. See Feb. 3 listing.

18 WEDNESDAY

Art a la Carte. See Feb. 4 listing.

Created Equal Film Series. See Feb. 4 listing.

Pregnancy Yoga. See Feb. 4 listing.

Preschool Films at First Baptist. See Feb. 4 listing.

Preschool Story Time at May Memorial Branch Library. See Feb. 4 listing.

ONGOING EVENTS FEB. 1-3

FEB. 13-15

A/PERTURE CINEMA PRESENTS: “BABE”

A/PERTURE CINEMA PRESENTS:

Enjoy a fun kids’ movie. $6.50-$9.50. Friday at

“THE PRINCESS BRIDE”

4 p.m., Saturday at 10 a.m., Sunday at

Robin Wright and Cary Elwes star in this

10 a.m. and 2 p.m. a/perture cinema,

fairytale adventure about a princess and the

311 W. Fourth St. W-S. 722-8148. aperturecinema.com.

gallant hero who rescues her from an evil villain. $6.50-$9.50. Friday at 4 p.m., Saturday

FEB. 1-28

at 10 a.m., Sunday at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

WATER’S EXTREME JOURNEY EXHIBIT

a/perture cinema, 311 W. Fourth St., W-S.

Created by world-renowned marine life artist

aperturecinema.com.

Wyland and Minotaur Mazes, Water’s Extreme Journey blends art, science and action.

FEB. 19-21

Included in museum admission. Tuesday-

“THE SCAR BOYS”

Sunday. See website for times. SciWorks,

Enjoy a theatrical adaptation of “The Scar

400 W. Hanes Mill Road, W-S. 767-6730.

Boys,” the young adult book by Len Vlahos.

sciworks.org.

$5. 7 p.m. Mount Tabor High School,

WINTER EXPLORATIONS IN OLD SALEM Spend the winter discovering history with Old Salem Museums & Gardens as your guide. From our African-American roots to the American presidents, and the history of chocolate, coffee and tea, there is lots to learn about at Old Salem. Included in all-in-

342 Petree Road, W-S. wsfcs.k12.nc.us.

FEB. 20, 22-23 BETH DAVID’S 13TH ANNUAL USED BOOK SALE Browse gently used books, LP records, DVDs, CDs and curiosities. Most items on sale at $3 or less. Friday 8-10 a.m. Early bird admission

one ticket, $11-$23. Tuesday-Sunday.

is $5. Sunday 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Monday

Check website for daily times. Old Salem

11 a.m.-6 p.m. No entry fee. Beth David

Museums & Gardens, 900 Old Salem Road,

Synagogue, 804 Winview Drive, GSO.

W-S. 721-7300. oldsalem.org.

294-0007. bethdavidsynagogue.org.

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Special Populations Bingo. See Feb. 4 listing.

19 THURSDAY

Greensboro-Central MOMS Club.

Meets the third Thursday of each month. 10 a.m.-noon. Email: momsclubgso@gmail.com. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

St. Paul of the Apostle Catholic Church, 2715 Horse Pen Creek Road, GSO. momsclubcentralgreensboro.com.

Mocha Moms. See Feb. 5 listing.

Preschool Discovery. See Feb. 3 listing.

Story Time at Jamestown Library. See Feb. 5 listing.

Thursday Morning Music and Movement. See Feb. 5 listing.

20 FRIDAY

$4 Fun Friday Nights. See Feb. 13 listing.

Preschool Music and Movement. See Feb. 6 listing.

21 SATURDAY

Black History Celebration. Enjoy breakfast and speakers at Allen Jay Recreation Center and an afternoon youth black history quiz bowl at Morehead Recreation Center. We encourage area families to come out for a day of celebration during Black History Month. FREE. 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Allen Jay Recreation Center, 1073 E. Springfield Road, HP. highpointnc.gov.

Girl Gaming (Teen Central). Girls in grades 6-12 are invited to Teen Central for Girl Gaming. For information call 703-3080. 1-3 p.m. Central Library, 660 W. Fifth St., W-S.703-2665. forsyth.cc.

Lifted Voices: African-American History Makers. See Feb. 7 listing.

Reynolda SKETCH: Drypoint, Drawing into Metal. See Feb. 14 listing.

Saturday Children’s Story Hour. See Feb. 7 listing.

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22 SUNDAY

Family Fun Sunday at Four Seasons Town Centre. Four Seasons Town Centre presents Family Fun Sunday on the fourth Sunday of every month.

3-5 p.m. Center Court, 410 Four Seasons Town Centre, GSO. 292-0171. shopfourseasons.com.

Half-Price Sundays at GCM. See Feb. 1 listing.

23 MONDAY

Busy Bees. See Feb. 2 listing.

Simply Circle. See Feb. 9 listing.

Teen to Teen Theatre. See Feb. 2 listing.

Zaxby’s Kids’ Night. See Feb. 2 listing.

24 TUESDAY

Children’s Story Time (Walkertown).

See Feb. 3 listing.

Preschool Discovery. See Feb. 3 listing.

Special Populations Dance. See Feb. 3 listing.

25 WEDNESDAY

Art a la Carte. See Feb. 4 listing.

Maker Space: History. Use a variety of materials to make history. Create an invention, pay homage to your favorite history makers or create anything using the theme “making history.”

Work in small groups or on your own.

For ages 12-18. FREE. 4:30-6 p.m.

McGirt-Horton Library, 2501 Phillips Ave., GSO. greensborolibrary.org.

Preschool Films at First Baptist. See Feb. 4 listing.

Preschool Story Time at May Memorial Branch Library. See Feb. 4 listing.

Special Populations Bingo. See Feb. 4 listing.

26 THURSDAY

Mocha Moms. See Feb. 5 listing.

“Pinocchio, The Opera.” Adapted from the classic fairy tale and presented

by Children’s Carousel Theatre. Per-

FEBRUARY 2015 | piedmontparent.com

formed by graduate-level students of The A.J. Fletcher Opera Institute of the UNC School of the Arts. For PreK-fifth grade. $5. 10 a.m. Centennial Station, 121 S. Centennial St., HP. hpcarouseltheatre.org.

Preschool Discovery. See Feb. 3 listing.

Story Time at Jamestown Library. See Feb. 5 listing.

Teen Movie: “Divergent.” Rated PG-13.

For grades 6-12. FREE. 5 p.m. GlennMcNairy, 4860 Lake Jeanette Road, GSO. greensboro-nc.gov.

Thursday Morning Music and Movement. See Feb. 5 listing.

Winter Dance. This concert commemo rates the past while celebrating the new. Works include Birthday Offering, a one-act ballet choreographed by Sir Fredrick Ashton in honor of Royal Ballet’s 25th anniversary. See website for ticket info. Thursday, Friday and Saturday: 7:30 p.m., Sunday: 2 p.m.

Stevens Center, 405 W. Fourth St., W-S. 770-3399. uncsa.edu.

27 FRIDAY

National Engineer’s Week BridgeBuilding Competition. 6-7:30 p.m.

Celebrate National Engineer’s Week by testing your skill building bridges.

The competition involves a one-week

term to complete the build, ending with testing day. All bridges will be tested to their breaking point.

Materials and rules will be available for pick up Friday, Feb. 20 by 6 p.m.

Deep River Recreation Center, 1529 Skeet Club Road, HP. highpointnc. gov.

“Play to Win: The Jackie Robinson Story.” A musical adaptation of Jackie Robinson’s groundbreaking career with the Brooklyn Dodgers.

General admission $11.24. Friday 10 a.m. and noon, Saturday 11 a.m. The Children’s Theatre of Winston-Salem, 610 Coliseum Drive, W-S. 748-0857. childrenstheatrews.org.

Preschool Music and Movement. See Feb. 6 listing.

28 SATURDAY

“Play to Win: The Jackie Robinson Story.” See Feb. 27 listing.

Repair Fair. There will be “fixers” to help with everything from bikes, electronics and small appliances, to shoes, laptops and landline phones. Included with museum admission. 1-5 p.m.

SciWorks, 400 W. Hanes Mill Road, W-S. 767-6730. sciworks.org.

Saturday Children’s Story Hour. See Feb. 7 listing.

CALENDAR POLICY The Piedmont Parent calendar lists local and regional activities for children and families.

To submit an event for consideration, visit piedmontparent.com or email calendar@piedmontparent.com by the 1st of the month for the next month’s issue.

Readers, please call ahead to confirm dates and times.

This calendar may include some events not intended for young children.

Dept of Psychology UNCG

Kids Eat Free!

Want to know where to find the best meal deals for your family? Our Kids Eat Free directory lists Triad restaurants where the under 12 crowd eat free or at a reduced price.

To find out if your favorite restaurant participates go to www.piedmontparent.com > Directories & Resources > Family-Friendly Restaurants.

Greensboro Ballet

A Preschool Enriched Arts & Basics in the Cultural Arts for Children 5 days per week Creative 2-5 years old

400 W. Radiance Dr. • 655-9536 jaimelovesed@yahoo.com

Register now for Summer & Fall!

Dental Health Month

The No. 1 dental problem among preschoolers is tooth decay. By age 5, nearly 50 percent of children have one or more cavities. Here’s how to help your child prevent dental decay: Teach good dental habits. Help your child brush her teeth two times a day with a child-sized toothbrush that has soft bristles.

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Center for Visual Arts

NEVER TOO EARLY TO TOUR FOR FALL 2015

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Lunch bunch until 2 Classes from 9-12 with early drop off starting at 7:30

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Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste, which helps prevent cavities. If your child doesn’t like the taste of the toothpaste, try another flavor or just use water.

Teach your child not to swallow toothpaste. Swallowing too much fluoride toothpaste can create white or brown spots on your child’s adult teeth.

Clean each tooth thoroughly, top and bottom, inside and out. A child cannot brush his teeth without help until he’s about 6-8 years old.

Avoid adding sugar to your child’s diet. The longer and more frequently her teeth are exposed to sugar, the greater the risk of cavities. n

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Establish a “dental home” for your child. By the time he is age 1, make sure your child’s oral health care is managed in a comprehensive and continuously accessible way by a licensed dentist.

Source: American Academy of Pediatrics piedmontparent.com | FEBRUARY 2015

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Send your photos to esdavis@piedmontparent.com.

Include the child’s first and last name, city and age.

Non-professional photos only. Only high-resolution images will be accepted.

Sierra, 3, Winston-Salem

Ava, 10, and Zoe, 6, Greensboro

Khlowie, 8, Winston-Salem

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FEBRUARY 2015 | piedmontparent.com

Daiana, 11 months, Reidsville

Ka'layah, 2, High Point

Eagle Physicians

Tina Merhoff

Sunshine