january 2016 • FREE
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ck & Pender County Families!
Education Guide resource listings i structure at home i notetaking preschool readiness i crafty ideas
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Wilmington Parent | January 2016 | 1
2 | January 2016 | Wilmington Parent
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Choosing a maternal-fetal medicine specialist is one of the most impor tant decisions you will make during pregnancy. When you make your choice, we encourage you to ask your provider the following questions:
North Carolina’s kids need your love as a foster, foster-to-adopt or respite parent. Foster Parent training classes are forming now. To learn more, call (910) 202-9337.
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Are you board certified?
Do you offer a comprehensive scope of services in one location?
Do you offer the most advanced prenatal testing available today, including chorionic villus sampling?
Do you provide genetic counseling?
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Do you offer same day appointments for urgent issues?
Does your team include a full complement of providers, including genetic counselors, MFM sonographers and nurse practitioners?
Is your practice certified in obstetrical and fetal echocardiography by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM)?
The Wilmington Maternal-Fetal Medicine team has provided quality care to high-risk pregnant women in Wilmington and the surrounding communities since 1993. When considering your options, consider Wilmington Maternal-Fetal Medicine. • Secure Access to over 3,000 Clubs 24/7 • Private restrooms with Showers • FREE Tanning for the life of your membership • Personal Trainers who care • Group Training • Classes: Zumba, Yoga, Cycling, Palates, HIIT • Classes on Demand - 24/7
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www.wmfm.net 910.332.3660 Wilmington Parent | January 2016 | 3
in this issue Photo credit: Danielle Poulos
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January 2016 SPecial Section: education Guide
16 20 22 24
resource listings
5 6 7 8 9
importance of notetaking preschool readiness
cover credits
10 Calendar 13 Childcare Listing guide 26 school notes 27 fit family 28 Peanut Gallery
Cover by Katie Mathews Photography 910-297-5378 • www.katiemathewsphotography.com Location: The Bellamy Mansion 4 | January 2016 | Wilmington Parent
Public Service Announcements/Calendar Please submit items/photos before the 2nd Friday of the prior month Opinions/Suggestions/Feedback We value our readers opinions — help us to serve you better! Our mailing address is: Wilmington Parent
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5 crafty ideas
Editor’s Note have you heard Product Review growing up online your health
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or E-Mail: calendar@wilmingtonparent.com
providing structure at home
15
Nancy Lievre 910-240-3461
Wilmington Parent is published 12 times a year. Distribution of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. The publisher reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the publication's standards. All contents of Wilmington Parent are protected under copyright. Reproduction of any content requires permission of the publisher. All rights reserved. Wilmington Parent • PO Box 1336, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 © Wilmington Parent 2015 Seaside Media, LLC Complimentary copies of Wilmington Parent are available to the public at various locations in the greater Wilmington area. One copy per family is permitted. Additional copies require the written permission of the Publisher. Please recycle this magazine
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editor’s note
T
he school year is at the halfway point for most students. For parents, that means it’s time to start thinking about the next school year. January is the time to begin school visits and applications if you plan to start your child down a different educational path. Our January issue features the annual Education Guide and is an excellent start for parents looking for options for preschoolers all the way up to high school students. Once you’ve decided on a short list of potential schools, the next step is to attend an open house event. Our calendar starting on pg. 10 and online at www.wilmingtonparent. com has all the latest open house dates for many local independent and charter schools. For parents that are just trying to figure out how to survive the nightly homework wars for the current year, local educator Drew Sarmiere offers parents tips on how to provide structure at home during that crucial homework and study time on pg. 20. Parents with preschool age children at home can also find information on pg. 24 about preparing their little ones for their educational future. When you’re ready for some downtime during these long winter months, and you need some quick and cheap ways to keep little hands active, keep the article on pg. 15 nearby. Crafty Shortcuts for Busy Parents could be the key to saving money and your sanity!
Wilmington Pediatric Dentistry SKIP TYSON, D.D.S. STEPHANIE HEANEY, D.D.S.
I look forward to a wonderful new year with my Wilmington readers, and welcome any suggestions, tips, and submissions for 2016! Email your ideas to danielle.wilmingtonparent@ gmail.com.
791-7380
Happy New Year!
Danielle www.wilmingtonparent.com
2606 Iron Gate Dr. Suite 200,Wilmington, NC surf our website
www.catchasmile.net Wilmington Parent | January 2016 | 5
eterinary Ho Neck V s r te A Full Service, Small sp r o Animal Hospital
have you heard….? The Wilmington community is dedicated to educating the youth in this area, and that education is not limited to the classroom. Many organizations in the Cape Fear region have continually expanded their offerings to include afterschool, weekend, and alternative education. This sometimes includes the arts, environment, science and technology, history and often focuses on how these topics are connected to our community.
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Cape Fear Museum has always been a source of educational opportunities, but the new year will see their dedication move outside. With the opening of their new park a couple of months ago, they have steadily filled their 2016 calendar with more opportunities. Visitors to the Cape Fear Museum Park can engage with hands-on exhibits, explore gardens featuring native and adaptive plants, learn about historic objects and images, and enjoy special educational activities. Admission is always free! Every Thursday at 10am, they offer a free Little Explorers program for ages 3-6. The program features an interactive story time, exploration stations and play related to a weekly theme. The Children’s Museum of Wilmington has always offered a wide variety of art, science, and activity based weekly educational programs that are always included with the low admission price to the museum. Starting in the new year they will offer a Spanish language program. The Bienvenidos Amigos Program will be offered by UNCW intern, Ashleigh Kimble, on Fridays from 1:30-3:30 for ages 4 and up. This is a fun opportunity for children to learn basic Spanish phrases and vocabulary, while also participating in hands on activities, such as science experiments, interactive storytelling, and crafts!
New Hanover County Library also plans to provide daily activities for all ages. On January 21st, at the Main branch library on Chestnut St., children are invited for a Snow Day! Starting at 3pm, explore the science and fun of snow and snowflakes through interactive activities and crafts.
Outdoor education is just as important as what children learn in a classroom. At Halyburton Park, families can learn together through hikes, crafts, activities, and presentations. Halyburton Park offers these nature programs at very low cost, usually around $3 a person. Many programs focus on local animals and plants while teaching children how we can learn from nature while respecting its presence. A full schedule of events can be found at www.halyburtonpark.com. Most of these activities require pre-registration that can be completed by calling 341-0075.
Find more resources at
www.wilmingtonparent.com 6 | January 2016 | Wilmington Parent
Cape Fear River Watch is another wonderful organization whose goal is to protect and improve the water quality of the Lower Cape Fear River Basin through education, advocacy and action. The Cape Fear River is an important resource in our region, and teaching respect and sparking interest in this incredible feature is crucial to maintaining the health of our beautiful river. StriperFest Community Education Day at Coastline Convention Center is a day dedicated to inspiring young minds while teaching the whole family through a fisheries science forum, fishing seminar, educational booths, arts & crafts, face painting, casting lessons, boat trips up the Cape Fear, and more. This free event is held on January 16th at 10am and is filled with fun activities that focus on the Cape Fear River’s incredible anadromous fish and the importance of restoring our fishery. Have a tip, lead, or just an interesting bit of news to share? I want to hear all about it! Send me an email at danielle.wilmingtonparent@gmail.com.
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Product Review
Do Unto Animals Do Unto Animals is a new book that is part of a magical new merchandise collection by Tracey Stewart (wife of comedian and former “Daily Show” host Jon Stewart) and Farm Sanctuary. Proceeds from the whimsical collection of notebooks, note cards, fine art prints, youth apparel, and more, featuring illustrations the book Do Unto Animals, benefit Farm Sanctuary (www.farmsanctuary.org), a national nonprofit organization that works to end cruelty to farm animals. One reason these products are important in our area is because we have a farm animal sanctuary right here in the Cape Fear region! The Animal Sanctuary at Poplar Grove Plantation is home to a variety of farm animals. After reading this book by former veterinary technician and animal advocate Tracey Stewart, take the kids to Poplar Grove to help them better understand why it’s important to change the way we interact with animals. Visit www.poplargrove.org/animal-sanctuary for visiting hours and information.
Education Outdoors One of the best stress-free activities for families is sitting down and having a family game night. Not only is it fun, but it can be educational for everyone too! Education Outdoors creates fun, educational board games for families to play and learn together. The Camp Board Game and Fishing Camp Game offers families the chance to learn about the great outdoors. One of the secondary benefits to these games is that it encourages outdoor exploration and play after the game is finished. The Appalachian Trail Game is especially useful for scout leaders who want to prepare their little campers before they hit the trails. Players learn to identify plants and animals, get in exciting adventures, learn about low-impact camping skills and basic first aid. For more information about Education Outdoors games and products, visit www.educationoutdoors.net
Smart Flour Pizza I always try to convince myself that pizza is healthy. Thankfully, there is healthy pizza on the market and I have found a tasty brand. Smart Flour Foods has created a line of pizzas that are free from preservatives and artificial ingredients, feature real mozzarella and provolone cheese that is free of rGBH (recombinant Bovine Growth Hormone), and are topped with uncured meats that are free of nitrites and nitrates. In addition, Smart Flour Foods’ pizza is higher in protein, vitamins and minerals than leading conventional and gluten-free pizza brands.
910-795-2511 www.DrEggDental.com Mayfaire Town Center
Little mouths are a big deal.
Smart Flour Foods has also released a line of family-size pizzas. The new lineup comes available in original Uncured Pepperoni, Garden Margherita and Classic Cheese. These pizzas can be purchased at Whole Foods Market and are very reasonably priced. Visit www.smartflourfoods.com for full product information. v
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Accepting New Patients Wilmington Parent | January 2016 | 7
growing up online
Eleven Peaceful Apps for Families H
By Carolyn Jabs
ere’s a news flash: Life can be stressful. For parents. And for kids. Technology, of course, is part of the problem. And it can also be part of the solution. The apps described below were designed to promote well-being. Some are intended specifically for family members at different ages and stages; others are more generic. All offer respite from the demands and pressures of family life. Apps like these have been developed in response to a growing body of research indicating that stress is at the root of many social, mental and physical problems. The antidote is often mindfulness, which can be cultivated in a variety of ways. Research suggests that becoming more aware of bodily sensations, thoughts and feelings can help people cope with anxiety, sleep more deeply, focus on tasks and enjoy family time more. Don’t add any of these apps to your Must Do list. That would, of course, defeat the purpose. Instead, play with them to find out whether one of them helps the people in your family relax and connect with what’s important.
Mindfulness for Pregnancy helps expectant parents become deeply aware of the physical and emotional changes of pregnancy. The program includes guides to gentle yoga stretches, walking meditation, loving kindness meditation and being with baby meditation. $2.99. Apple.
Sleepy Sounds is one of many apps that promise to help children (and adults) fall asleep. This app offers choices—you can tune in to white noise, nature sounds, a lullaby, or music of your own choosing. The app also provides a soothing animation that can function as a nightlight for children, and you can set a timer so the sound doesn’t play all night. Free. Apple, Android.
Settle Your Glitter is a deceptively simple app that can be used by children as young as five. The app asks children to become aware of how they are feeling. Then, they see a virtual snow globe filled with swirling glitter. Coached by a friendly puffer fish, kids can settle the glitter by breathing deeply. The app is produced by the Momentous Institute, which also created Breathing Bubbles, another app that encourages children (or, for that matter, adults) to breath deeply as they “release a worry” or “receive a joy.” Free. Apple.
Smiling Mind was created by a non-profit in Australia and has content customized for different age levels. Children answer a few questions and then are encouraged to practice easy-to-follow meditations designed to calm the mind and relieve stress. The app keeps track of progress and includes connections to Facebook and Twitter. Free. Apple, Android. Take a Chill is specifically for tweens and teens. Developed in response to research suggesting that mindfulness increases self-esteem and decreases anxiety, the app introduces teens to simple tools for self-assessment as well as quick meditations. Users can set up the program to send them reminders and motivational quotes. $1.99. Apple. Take a Break is perfect when parents feel they are the ones who need a time out. Created by Meditation Oasis, the free app includes two guided meditations—one 7 minutes and one 13 minutes. If you feel like you don’t
8 | January 2016 | Wilmington Parent
have that much time to spare, consider the Simply Being app, which costs $1.99 but includes a 5-minute option. These apps also provide an opportunity to reset between work and family time. Free. Android, Apple, Windows.
Calm will appeal to family members of all ages. Inspired by the idea that contact with nature helps people regain a sense of balance, this app includes video of beautiful settings, matched with natural sounds or soothing music. When a walk in the woods or a visit to the beach is out of the question, this app can provide an oasis. Free. Apple, Android, Windows.
Headspace was one of the first apps to promote mindfulness. Developed by a former Buddhist monk, the app encourages daily meditations that promise to increase focus and creativity while reducing stress and anxiety. The first 10 days are free, and then there’s a monthly fee that varies depending upon the length of your subscription. The app is supported by a website and blog which include some useful articles for parents. Free. Apple, Android, Windows.
Stop, Breathe, and Think asks you to close your eyes for 10 seconds. Then you take a quick inventory of your mental, physical and emotional health. Based on the results, the app recommends a 5-10 minute meditation. Developed by Tools for Peace, the app also includes meditations that improve sleep and reduce stress. Free. iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad. Omvana is an easy way to explore different approaches to mindfulness and meditation. The app includes free as well as paid recordings featuring vocals and calming sounds. A mixer allows you to combine the two so you get a customized track. The app is also supported by a website, HYPERLINK “http://omvana.com” \t “_blank” omvana.com. Type parenting into the search engine and you’ll find lots of intriguing ways to build family harmony including a Two Minute Laughter Meditation. Basic app is free. Apple. Android. Gratitude Journal is an updated way to “count your blessings.” Parents can use the journal as a personal reminder of what’s been good about every day. Or you may want to involve kids in creating a daily record of what they are thankful for. $2.99. Apple. (Attitudes of Gratitude is a similar app, available free on Android). Apps like these are just one way to help children become more mindful about themselves and the world around them—and put life’s stressors in perspective. As a parent, you may not be able to protect your kids from stress, but you can equip them with skills that will help them cope, and mindfulness is a good place to start. v Carolyn Jabs, M.A., raised three computer savvy kids including one with special needs. She has been writing Growing Up Online for ten years. In 2016, she will publish Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart. Visit www.growing-up-online.com to read other columns.
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your health
Cervical Health
Awareness By Danielle Villegas
The Bump & Beyond is a place for families. Our entire inventory has been chosen with our own children in mind. We are very driven in providing local and US made items that are eco-friendly and safe. Our goal is to provide a fun and casual shopping atmosphere where moms can meet up for a class, let the kids play in the “Kids Only” area and pick up a few necessitates while they’re in.
The Bump & Beyond Wilmington's premiere mother, child, and baby boutique. #ShopLearnGrow 890 S. Kerr Ave. Wilmington NC 28403 910-769-6443 www.thebumpandbeyond.com
J
anuary is Cervical Health Awareness Month. Cervical Health Awareness Month is a chance to raise awareness about how women can protect themselves from HPV (human papillomavirus) and cervical cancer. HPV is a very common infection that spreads through sexual activity. It’s also a major cause of cervical cancer. About 79 million Americans currently have HPV. Many people with HPV don’t know they are infected. The good news? • The HPV vaccine (shot) can prevent HPV. • Cervical cancer can often be prevented with regular screening tests (called Pap tests) and follow-up care. Cervical cancer screenings can help detect abnormal (changed) cells early, before they turn into cancer. Most deaths from cervical cancer could be prevented by regular Pap tests and follow-up care. A well-proven way to prevent cervical cancer is to have testing (screening) to find pre-cancers before they can turn into invasive cancer. The Pap test (or Pap smear) and the human papilloma virus (HPV) test are used for this. If a pre-cancer is found it can be treated, stopping cervical cancer before it really starts. Most invasive cervical cancers are found in women who have not had regular Pap tests. The most important thing you can do to prevent cervical cancer is to be tested according to American Cancer Society guidelines. In honor of National Cervical Health Awareness Month, Wilmington Parent magazine encourages: • Women to start getting regular Pap tests at age 21 • Parents to make sure pre-teens get the HPV vaccine at age 11 or 12 • Teens and young adults also need to get the HPV vaccine if they didn’t get it as pre-teens. • Women up to age 26 and men up to age 21 can still get the vaccine. For more information Visit http://healthfinder.gov/NHO. v
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Now Enrolling for the Season! The Little Gym of Wilmington
132 Racine Drive, Unit 1 Wilmington, NC 28403
www.tlgwilmingtonnc.com 910-799-3771
Wilmington Parent | January 2016 | 9
• PLAN YOUR MONTH WITH US
CALENDAR
january | 2016
All Month Long! Haunted Cotton Exchange Tours Daily (Year Round). Cotton Exchange, Downtown. Haunted Cotton Exchange Tours in downtown Wilmington, NC, features one of the most haunted locations in the Port City, and are conducted by an acclaimed storyteller. Under age 12 admitted free. Call for tour times. $10/Adults. $8/Students & Seniors. Free/ Under age 12. Visit www.TourOldWilmington.blogspot.com or call 409-4300 for information. Downtown Wilmington Trolley Tour Downtown at Water St. Wilmington Trolley offers a tour through the Port City on an authentically reproduced trolley. Tour highlights include: museums, beautiful mansions, birthplaces of famous natives, TV & movie locations, fine dining ideas, shopping, history and more! www.wilmingtontrolley.com.
1 Friday - New Year’s Day New Year’s Noon 9am-12pm. Children’s Museum. Countdown to the New Year with us! Toast to 2016 with a juice toast, make a party crown, streamer sticks, glittery slime and more! The event culminates with an epic confetti toss at NOON in the courtyard! Visit www. playwilmington.org for more information. Toast the Coast 9am. NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Celebrate New Year’s Day in a new way! The coastal-themed party lasts all day with crafts, ocean resolutions and daily programs featuring “What we love the most about the coast.” A noise-maker craft and kid parade precedes two countdowns for a fin-tastic 2016 to take place at the daily dive shows at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Free with Aquarium admission Toddler Time 10am, Fridays. Children’s Museum. No registration necessary. Projects and activities for our youngest visitors (ages 4 and under) and their special grownups to work on together. Call 2543534 or visit www.playwilmington.org for more information. Dolphin Dip 11am. Surf City. Join thousands in Surf City to watch or take part in the “Dip” into the cold waters of the Atlantic Ocean for the bravest at heart to start the New Year! Get your friends to sponsor your courage. Wear your craziest or most creative costume for the 2016 Dolphin Dip Extravaganza. Exciting, special, fun, fabulous prizes will be awarded for the top 3 costumes. You have to “Do the Dip” to be eligible. Baby Play! 11am, Fridays. Children’s Museum. No registration necessary.
10 | January 2016 | Wilmington Parent
An informal playtime for babies to explore the world around them through hands-on discovery, sensory play, music, baby sign language, early creative experiences, and more! (Ideal for ages 6 - 18 months). Bienvenidos Amigos! 1:30, 2:30, 3:30pm, Fridays. Children’s Museum. Free with admission or membership (Ideal for ages 4 and up) – No registration necessary. This is a fun opportunity for children to learn basic Spanish phrases and vocabulary, while also having hands on activities, such as science experiments, interactive storytelling, and crafts! Adventures in the Arts 3:30pm, Fridays. Children’s Museum. Please pre-register. Bring your child to express their creativity through various forms of art including but not limited to painting, sculpture, music, theater, dance, drawing, and printing. Visit www.playwilmington.org for details.
2 Saturday Rainbow Garden Preschool Open House 10am-12pm. Rainbow Garden Preschool, 497 Country Club Rd, Hampstead. Visit the facility, meet the teachers and find out if Rainbow Garden might be a good fit for your preschooler. Ages 3-6. Visit www.capefearchild.org for more information. Lady Pancake & Sir French Toast Storytime 11am. Barnes & Noble. Enjoy the funniest “food fight” story ever! Lady Pancake and Sir French Toast have a beautiful friendship---until they discover there’s ONLY ONE DROP of maple syrup left. Activities to follow. Young Living Yoga & Essential Oils Class 12pm, Saturdays. Be Unlimited Yoga, 5725 Oleander Dr. Suite B10. 30 minutes of gentle yoga, 30 minutes oil workshop with different themes every week. $5. Super Saturday Fun Time 3pm Saturdays. TheatreNow. Join DOCK, the dog, and his twolegged friends as they uncover mysteries and discover artifacts (courtesy of Cape Fear Museum). Different adventure each week. Families welcome. $8/person. Visit www.theatrewilmington.com for tickets.
3 Sunday Family Fun Day 9am - 5pm. Airlie Gardens. Visit the parks and Arboretum for a full day of family fun. Contact 798-7700 or visit www.airliegardens.org for more information. Residents Free Day - Cape Fear Museum 1 – 5pm. Cape Fear Museum. NHC residents are admitted free
to the Museum the first Sunday of every month. Call 798-4350 or visit www.capefearmuseum.com for information.
4 Monday
Railroad Storytime 10:30am. Wilmington Railroad Museum. Hear stories and enjoy creative activities in the Children’s Hall. $5/Family. Free/ Members. Call 763-2634 for more information. Storytime @ Pleasure Island 10:30am, Mondays. Pleasure Island Branch Library. Join our fun and educational storytime for all preschool ages babies to 5 years of age! We’ll enjoy books, music, manipulatives, and other pre-literacy activities. No registration or fees required. Mom to Mom: BYOB 1-2pm, Mondays. Main Library. Moms, bring baby/toddler to the library and discuss all things baby related with other moms. Parenting books and guest speakers will be available to help answer questions. During this hour it’s okay to: be late, nurse/feed baby, change diapers, and cry (baby or mom). Free 2 hour parking on ground floor of library parking deck. Contact Librarian (and new mom) Susan DeMarco at 798-6301 for more details. Mini Monets Clay & Sculpture Art Class 4:45-5:30pm, Mondays. Kings Grant Area. Let’s get our hands dirty with clay! All projects will be handmade in different types of clay and sculpting materials. This session is a great opportunity to create art in three dimension. Visit www.minimonetsart. com or call 399-1708 for more information.
5 Tuesday Storytime at the Library 9:30am; 10am; 10:30, Tuesdays. Main Library. Babies up to 18 months at 9:30 are invited to bring an adult lap and enjoy up to 20 minutes of books, songs, fingerplays & rhymes. Toddlers 18 months to 3 years old are invited at 10am to 20 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in Story Place. Preschoolers aged 3 to 5 are invited at 10:30am to 20-30 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in our storytime room! Call 798-6303 for details. Happy Little Singers 9:45am, Tuesdays. Hannah Block USO/ Community Arts Center. Music and Movement program for children 6 months to 6 years. Sing, Dance, Instruments, Creative Play with your child. Drop-ins welcome, $10 per family. Please call or text in advance 777-8889. Kid’s Cooking Club 3:30 - 4:30pm Tuesdays. Children’s Museum. Learn new skills and explore fun seasonal recipes. Then savor the flavor of your hard work. Kids Cooking Club is sponsored by Harris Teeter. Visit www.playwilmington.org for weekly themes and call 254-3534 to pre-register.
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Storytime at the Library 9:30am; 10am; 10:30, Wednesdays. Myrtle Grove & Northeast Libraries. Babies up to 18 months at 9:30 are invited to bring an adult lap and enjoy up to 20 minutes of books, songs, fingerplays & rhymes. Toddlers 18 months to 3 years old are invited at 10am to 20 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in Story Place. Preschoolers aged 3 to 5 are invited at 10:30am to 20-30 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in our storytime room! Call 798-6303 for details. S.T.E.M. Explorations 10am & 3:30pm, Wednesdays. Children’s Museum. STEM programs explore Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics by applying them in fun, hands-on activities. Children will learn about the scientific process while measuring and recording in mathematical terms, developing critical thinking skills in the process. Please preregister. Visit www.playwilmington.org for more information. Stop Animation 3:30pm. Myrtle Grove Library. Learn how to make a short stop animation movie! We will be using a Readi-Animator, an apple iPad and three different apps. There is a lot to learn in a one hour session, but you will leave knowing how to do it. For youth aged 8-18. Sign up in person or over the phone 910-798-6393. Mini Monets Clay & Sculpture Art Class 4:15-5pm, Wednesdays. Carolina Beach Rec Center. Let’s get our hands dirty with clay! All projects will be handmade in different types of clay and sculpting materials. This session is a great opportunity to create art in three dimension. Visit www.minimonetsart. com or call 399-1708 for more information. Island Montessori Charter School Open House 5:30pm. Children’s House Campus, 222 Winner Ave. Come to this Parent Education Meeting and learn about montessori education and the application process. Visit www.islandmontessorischool. com for more information.
7 Thursday Storytime at the Library 9:30am; 10am; 10:30, Thursdays. Myrtle Grove & Northeast Libraries. Babies up to 18 months at 9:30 are invited to bring an adult lap and enjoy up to 20 minutes of books, songs, fingerplays & rhymes. Toddlers 18 months to 3 years old are invited at 10am to 20 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in Story Place. Preschoolers aged 3 to 5 are invited at 10:30am to 20-30 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in our storytime room! Call 798-6303 for details. Messy Hands Toddler Art 10am. Main Library. Toddlers and their adults will be introduced to a variety of hands on art experiences. The focus of this program will be on child driven art exploration. Make sure you wear your play clothes! This program is designed for toddlers, 2’s and 3’s and their adults. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required. Little Explorers: Be a Winter Explorer 10am. Cape Fear Museum Park. Explore the world around us with hands-on activities, experiments and fun in Museum Park! Enjoy interactive story time, exploration stations and play related to a weekly theme. In event of inclement weather, program moved inside. Perfect for children ages 3 to 6 and their adult helpers. Parental participation is required. FREE! Visit www.capefearmuseum. com for more information. StoryCOOKS 10am, Thursdays. Children’s Museum. A cooking club for preschoolers where we read a story and make a dish inspired by the book. Visit www.playwilmington.org for more information and weekly themes. Nature Navigators 3:30pm, Thursdays. Children’s Museum. Join us in exploring the beauty of the world around us! Nature Navigators will help foster a love of nature in children of all ages. From animal tracks to scavenger hunts come explore some North Carolinian nature with us! Ideal for ages 5 - 9. Visit www.playwilmington.org for more information.
8 Friday Family Yoga Storytime 10:30am, Fridays. Main Library. Parents & children birth- 5 will have fun listening to stories while stretching and learning basic
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yoga postures with Miss Susan. Children must have an adult present. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat or beach towel. No registration required! Call 798-6353 for more details.
9 Saturday
Art Classes Young Artist’s Series
Cape Fear Center for Inquiry Open House 10-11:30am. CFCI, 2525 Wonder Way. Attend this Parent Education meetings which give parents the opportunity to tour the school, meet the faculty, and learn about the school. Applications for the upcoming school year are distributed at the close of each meeting. No pre-registration is required and children are welcome to attend. Visit www.cfci.net for more information on the application process.
Katelyn
6 Wednesday
Family Science Saturday: Build It 10am-1pm. Cape Fear Museum. What is a structural foundation and why is it so important? Conduct fun and creative building experiments and make your own newspaper tower to take home. Take an engineering challenge and practice technical communication. Parental participation required. Parental participation required. 10 AM: Preschool; 11 AM and 12 PM: Ages 5-14. Visit www.capefearmuseum.com for more information. Dance Arts Conservatory Open House 2-4pm. Dance Arts Conservatory, 902 S. College Rd. Come visit during Open House and find out about this full study dance studio committed to enriching the lives of children of all ages, races and abilities with quality instruction and excellence in training in the fine art of dance, as well as the creative arts. Visit www.dacwilmington.com for more information.
11 Monday Animal Olympics 10am. Halyburton Park. Bring your “Little Explorers” ages 2-5 out to the park and discover nature through stories, songs, hands-on activities, hikes and crafts. Your children will delight in the many nature themes we explore each month. Space is limited and preregistration is required for these popular programs. Registration required $3/participant. Call 341-0075. Storytime @ Pleasure Island 10:30am, Mondays. Pleasure Island Branch Library. Join our fun and educational storytime for all preschool ages babies to 5 years of age! We’ll enjoy books, music, manipulatives, and other preliteracy activities. No registration or fees required. Mom to Mom: BYOB 1-2pm, Mondays. Main Library. Moms, bring baby/toddler to the library and discuss all things baby related with other moms. Parenting books and guest speakers will be available to help answer questions. During this hour it’s okay to: be late, nurse/feed baby, change diapers, and cry (baby or mom). Free 2 hour parking on ground floor of library parking deck. Contact Librarian (and new mom) Susan DeMarco at 798-6301 for more details.
Kids Classes • Adult Classes drawing
• painting
Nationally Recognized, Professional Artist & Art Educator Carolyn Faulkner
NEW Location!
Inland Greens/Cedar Ridge Clubhouse on
6135 Inland Greens Dr.
www.youngartistart.com
Call 910-685-5137
Wilmington School of Ballet & Dance
Free Ice Skating Lesson 5:30-6:45pm. Wilmington Ice House. Kids - Ages 4 yrs. - 10 yrs. Advance Registration REQUIRED Call - 910-686-1987 to Register. Please wear warm comfortable clothing. Gloves and Socks are a must! Skaters may bring their own bike helmet. Skates are provided by our skate rental desk! Contact the skate school director at Kbutler@wilmingtonice.com with questions. Island Montessori Charter School Open House 6pm. Charter School Campus, 6339 Carolina Beach Rd. Come to this Parent Education Meeting and learn about montessori education and the application process. Visit www.islandmontessorischool.com for more information.
12 Tuesday Animal Olympics 10am. Halyburton Park. Bring your “Little Explorers” ages 2-5 out to the park and discover nature through stories, songs, hands-on activities, hikes and crafts. Your children will delight in the many nature themes we explore each month. Space is limited and preregistration is required for these popular programs. Registration required $3/participant. Call 341-0075. Cape Fear Academy Open House Cape Fear Academy, 3900 S. College Rd. Come tour the campus and see how CFA offers excellence in academics and outstanding opportunities for all students in the arts, athletics, and leadership while nurturing exemplary character in a close knit community. Visit www.capefearacademy.org for more information.
Princess Dance & Birthday Parties Come try a free class!
mention this ad and get $50 OFF
www.wilmingtonschoolofballet.com
910-794-9590
Wilmington Parent | January 2016 | 11
American Girl Night 7pm. Barnes & Noble. Meet to discuss one of the ‘American Girl’ books in the series, and participate in an educational activity that ties into the history of that particular girl. All are welcome! Call 5091880 for details.
13 Wednesday Preschool Math and Science Program 3:30pm. Northeast Library. Play, learn, and explore with your child. Math and science concepts will be introduced through interactive story times, hands on science experiments and exploration stations. This program is designed for children between the ages of 3-6. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required. Stop Animation 3:30pm. Myrtle Grove Library. Learn how to make a short stop animation movie! We will be using a Readi-Animator, an apple iPad and three different apps. There is a lot to learn in a one hour session, but you will leave knowing how to do it. For youth aged 8-18. Sign up in person or over the phone 910-798-6393.
14 Thursday
Photo credit: April Fekete
Little Explorers: Winter Weather Wonders 10am. Cape Fear Museum Park. Explore the world around us with hands-on activities, experiments and fun in Museum Park! Enjoy interactive story time, exploration stations and play related to a weekly theme. In event of inclement weather, program moved inside. Perfect for children ages 3 to 6 and their adult helpers. Parental participation is required. FREE! Visit www.capefearmuseum. com for more information. Cape Fear Center for Inquiry Open House 6-7:30pm. CFCI, 2525 Wonder Way. Attend this Parent Education meetings which give parents the opportunity to tour the school, meet the faculty, and learn about the school. Applications for the upcoming school year are distributed at the close of each meeting. No pre-registration is required and children are welcome to attend. Visit www.cfci.net for more information on the application process.
Drop-In Child Care & After School Care
15 Friday Bienvenidos Amigos! 1:30, 2:30, 3:30pm, Fridays. Children’s Museum. Free with admission or membership (Ideal for ages 4 and up) – No registration necessary. This is a fun opportunity for children to learn basic Spanish phrases and vocabulary, while also having hands on activities, such as science experiments, interactive storytelling, and crafts!
16 Saturday The 151st Anniversary of the Battle of Fort Fisher 9am. Fort Fisher. Commemorate the 151st weekend of the 2nd Battle of Fort Fisher with a weekend of special events, including a re-creation of the January 1865 Union attack on Fort Fisher with hundreds of Civil War living history actors representing Union and Confederate soldiers, sailors and Marines. Infantry units will be on hand to talk with visitors about camp life, conduct drills and marching and perform live demonstrations. Hands on activities for the kids. Visit www.visitkurebeachnc.com for details. Frozen Winter Wonderland 11am. Northeast Library. Watch Frozen (Walt Disney Pictures), make Frozen themed crafts, wear your favorite Frozen costume, and share snacks. Call 798-6371 to register. Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes Storytime 11am. Barnes & Noble. Pete goes walking down the street wearing his brand new white shoes. Along the way, his shoes change from white to red to blue to brown to WET as he steps in piles of strawberries, blueberries and other big messes! Call 509-1880 for details.
17 Sunday The 151st Anniversary of the Battle of Fort Fisher 9am. Fort Fisher. See 01/16
18 Monday Martin Luther King Day Railroad Storytime 10:30am. Wilmington Railroad Museum. Hear stories and enjoy creative activities in the Children’s Hall. $5/Family. Free/Members. Call 763-2634 for more information. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day March and Commemoration 11am. Downtown Wilmington. Wilmington honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s memory with a week of events dedicated to him and his work ending with Monday’s commemorative parade. Additional programs include assorted venues with food and entertainment, a gospel concert, banquets and speeches - to view a full list of events please see www.mlkjrcelebration-senc10.com.
19 Tuesday
Thank you for voting us #1!
North Carolina Symphony Concert 7:30pm. CFCC Humanities and Fine Arts Center. Featuring Beethoven’s “Emperor” Concerto, and includes Brahms: Tragic Overture; Andrew Norman: Suspend; and Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 5, “Emperor.” David Glover conducts and featuring Inon Barnatan on piano. Visit www.ncsymphony.org for ticket information.
20 Wednesday Snake and Turtle Feeding 4-4:30pm. Halyburton Park. Enjoy a brief presentation about the live animals on display in the Event Center and then watch them feed. At least one snake and a turtle will be fed during the demonstration. Ages 3 & up. $1/participant. Call 341-0075 to register. Cape Fear Center for Inquiry Open House 4:30-6pm. CFCI, 2525 Wonder Way. Attend this Parent Education meetings which give parents the opportunity to tour the school, meet the faculty, and learn about the school. Applications for the upcoming school year are distributed at the close of each meeting. No pre-registration is required and children are welcome to attend. Visit www.cfci.net for more information on the application process.
21 Thursday Little Explorers: Wild Winter Art in the Park 10am. Cape Fear Museum Park. Explore the world around us with hands-on activities, experiments and fun in Museum Park! Enjoy interactive story time, exploration stations and play related to a weekly theme. In event of inclement weather, program moved
12 | January 2016 | Wilmington Parent
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inside. Perfect for children ages 3 to 6 and their adult helpers. Parental participation is required. FREE! Visit www.capefearmuseum. com for more information. Snow Day 3pm. Main Library. Come explore the science and fun of snow and snowflakes through interactive activities and crafts. Best enjoyed by preschool and early elementary children. Call 798-6300 to register. Magic Tree House Night 7pm. Barnes & Noble. Meet to discuss one of the ‘Magic Tree House’ books in the series. Participate in an educational activity that ties into the history of that particular story. All are welcome! Call 509-1880 for details.
22 Friday It Takes Two Cubed 7pm. Community Arts Center. Thalian Association Youth Theatre presents It Takes Two Cubed at the Hannah Block 2nd Street Stage in downtown Wilmington, NC. The production has been conceived and directed by Mike Thompson. Visit www.thalian.org for ticket information.
23 Saturday Island Montessori Charter School Open House 10am. Children’s House Campus, 222 Winner Ave. Come to this Parent Education Meeting and learn about montessori education and the application process. Visit www.islandmontessorischool. com for more information. Mystery at the Museum 1pm. Cape Fear Museum. Something mysterious has happened at the Museum! Participating “detectives” apply the scientific method using chemistry, biology, mathematics, and physics as they collect and interpret evidence. They use logic, technology, and engineering skills to help figure out what happened. Parental participation required. Visit www.capefearmuseum.com for more information. Ticket to Ride Event 2pm. Barnes & Noble. All aboard for a fun adventure! Join us for a special event where customers can learn to play the popular Ticket to Ride strategy board game. Call 509-1880 for details. It Takes Two Cubed 7pm. Community Arts Center. See 01/22.
24 Sunday St. Mark Catholic School Open House 11am. St. Mark, 1013 Eastwood Rd. Prospective families are invited to visit St. Mark and find out about education opportunities available for next year. Families will have the opportunity to tour our school and meet faculty and staff. Visit www.stmarkcatholicschool.org for more information. It Takes Two Cubed 3pm. Community Arts Center. See 01/22.
Childcare Listing Guide Childcare – Preschools AAI Pharma Learning Center 2320 Scientific Park Drive Wilmington, NC 28405 910-254-7384 • denise.ward@aaipharma.om Ages 6 weeks-12 years. 5 star program with degreed teachers,low staff /child ratios, and a Project Approach based curriculum. Full day, After School and morning programs available. Childcare Network 8 convenient locations in Wilmington, Southport and Leland 866-521-KIDS • www.childcarenetwork.com Ages 6-weeks to 12-years The Children’s Schoolhouse Montessori 612 South College Rd. Wilmington, NC 28403 910-799-1531 • www.childrensschoolhouse.org Now enrolling students ages 3-5, for 2, 3, or 5 day programs. Jenkins Preschool Academy 7888 Market St. Wilmington, NC 28411 910-367-7210 • www.jpawilmington.com Half day programs 9am-12pm, 2 or 3 day classes for 2-3 yr. olds, 5-day programs for 4 y.o. And PreK Friends School of Wilmington PreK 207 Pine Grove Drive, Wilmington, NC 28403 910-791-8221 • www.fsow.org A truly unique and desirable educational experience. Montessori teaching principles are used for preschool.
25 Monday Winter in the Park 10am. Halyburton Park. Bring your “Little Explorers” ages 2-5 out to the park and discover nature through stories, songs, hands-on activities, hikes and crafts. Your children will delight in the many nature themes we explore each month. Space is limited and preregistration is required for these popular programs. Registration required $3/participant. Call 341-0075. Mom to Mom: BYOB 1-2pm, Mondays. Main Library. Moms, bring baby/toddler to the library and discuss all things baby related with other moms. Parenting books and guest speakers will be available to help answer questions. During this hour it’s okay to: be late, nurse/feed baby, change diapers, and cry (baby or mom). Free 2 hour parking on ground floor of library parking deck. Contact Librarian (and new mom) Susan DeMarco at 798-6301 for more details.
26 Tuesday Winter in the Park 10am. Halyburton Park. Bring your “Little Explorers” ages 2-5 out to the park and discover nature through stories, songs, hands-on activities, hikes and crafts. Your children will delight in the many nature themes we explore each month. Space is limited and preregistration is required for these popular programs. Registration required $3/participant. Call 341-0075.
www.wilmingtonparent.com
No Limit Sports N More / Afterschool ADVENTURES Program 102 S. Kerr Ave. Wilmington NC 28403 910-540-0189 • NOLIMITSPORTSNMORE.ORG Our program is designed to provide youth in our community a fun, positive atmosphere so they can ensure that the physical, cognitive, social and emotional needs of youth and teens are addressed and provided for through a variety of engaging and appropriate programs. Ages PRESCHOOL-12TH Pax Natura Academy 4202 Wilshire Blvd. Wilmington, NC 910-791-2080 • www.childcarenetwork.net/159 Early Foundations Infant & Toddler Programs. Preschool for 2 & 3 yo. Kindergarten Prep for 4 & 5 yo. After School Program. Rainbow Garden Preschool 1497 Country Club Rd Hampstead, NC 28443 910-515-1100 • www.capefearchild.org 3 day and 4 day preschool inspired by Montessori and Waldorf philosophies for ages 3-6 (Potty trained is required). 4K program for 4-5 year old children. Wilmington Christian Academy 1401 North College Road 910-791-4248 • www.wilmingtonchristian.com Ages 3 & up, WCA offers a year-round, full-day program including developmental, experiential & academic elements in a secure, faith-based environment.
Drop in childcare Porter’s Neck Playhouse 7946 Market Street #200 Wilmington, NC 28411 910-319-7879 • www.PNPlayhouse.com The Play House is a drop in play center that cares for children 12 months and older on an as needed, no reservation required, basis. Daily play involves lots of art, games, computers, pretend play, dancing, relay races, movies (sometimes), puzzles and story time. No matter what time of day you stop in your child will have a great time! Promise. After school care available. Weekly and monthly packages available.
Parents Night Out Carolina Gymnastics Academy 3529 Carolina Beach Rd. Wilmingon, NC 28412 910-796-1896 www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com Friday & Saturday night, 6-10pm, for ages 3 – 10.
The Little Gym of Wilmington 132 Racine Drive, Unit 1, Wilmington, NC 238403 910-799-3771 • www.tlgwilmingtonnc.com 3-12 years. The Little Gym of Wilmington Parentsʼ Survival Nights lets you enjoy some adult time to see a movie, catch up with friends or enjoy a meal. We schedule Parentsʼ Survival Nights for select Friday and Saturday evenings.
Wilmington Parent | January 2016 | 13
Photo credit: Elizabeth Rosenberg
Friends School of Wilmington Open House 12:30-1:30pm. FSOW, 350 Peiffer Ave. Grades 3-8. We welcome the opportunity to introduce you to Friends School of Wilmington at our Open House events. Tour the campuses and grounds, visit classrooms, and meet dedicated faculty, administrators and current parents. Visit www.fsow.org for more information. Cape Fear Center for Inquiry Open House 5-6:30pm. CFCI, 2525 Wonder Way. Attend this Parent Education meetings which give parents the opportunity to tour the school, meet the faculty, and learn about the school. Applications for the upcoming school year are distributed at the close of each meeting. No pre-registration is required and children are welcome to attend. Visit www.cfci.net for more information on the application process. Hill School of Wilmington Open House 6-7:30pm. Hill School of Wilmington, 25 S. 3rd St. We invite you to tour our school and talk to our faculty. The Hill School of Wilmington is the only school in southeastern North Carolina designed to specifically address the needs of students with learning disabilities and/or attention deficits. Visit www.hillschoolofwilmington. org for more information.
27 Wednesday Friends School of Wilmington Open House 10-11am. FSOW, 207 Pine Grove Dr. Ages 18 months-2nd grade. We welcome the opportunity to introduce you to Friends School of Wilmington at our Open House events. Tour the campuses and grounds, visit classrooms, and meet dedicated faculty, administrators and current parents. Visit www.fsow.org for more information.
Photo credit: Staci Ward
Stop Animation 3:30pm. Myrtle Grove Library. Learn how to make a short stop animation movie! We will be using a Readi-Animator, an apple iPad and three different apps. There is a lot to learn in a one hour session, but you will leave knowing how to do it. For youth aged 8-18. Sign up in person or over the phone 910-798-6393.
tian has to offer for your preschool through 8th grader. Visit www. mgcs.org for more information. Island Montessori Charter School Open House 6:30pm. Charter School Campus, 6339 Carolina Beach Rd. Come to this Parent Education Meeting and learn about montessori education and the application process. Visit www.islandmontessorischool.com for more information.
29 Friday Wilmington Wine and Chocolate Festival: Grand Tasting 7-10pm. Coastline Convention Center. Pick your pleasure as participating regional vintners and chocolatiers offer their best for sampling and sale! Indulge yourself in the delicious abundance of hors d’oeuvres and relax to live music performed by El Jaye Johnson and the Port City All-Stars while shopping artisan exhibits. Visit www. wilmingtonwineandchocolatefestival.com for details.
30 Saturday Groundhog Storytime 11am. Barnes & Noble. Join us Saturday, January 30 at 11:00AM for a special Storytime celebrating Groundhog Day! At this Storytime we will feature two titles Groundhog’s Dilemma and Groundhog’s Day Off. Call 509-1880 for details. Wilmington Wine and Chocolate Festival 11am-6pm. Coastline Convention Center. Sip, Nibble & Sigh! Enjoy this European style marketplace with a tasting tour of the best Carolina wineries, sample sweet sensations from the region’s signature chocolatiers and revel in the good things in life with specialty foods and fine artisan products. Enjoy entertainment, food demonstrations, raffles and of course more chocolate. Visit www. wilmingtonwineandchocolatefestival.com for details.
31 Sunday
28 Thursday
Wilmington Wine and Chocolate Festival 12-4pm. Coastline Convention Center. See 01/30.
Little Explorers: Fur and Feathers - Animals in Winter 10am. Cape Fear Museum Park. Explore the world around us with hands-on activities, experiments and fun in Museum Park! Enjoy interactive story time, exploration stations and play related to a weekly theme. In event of inclement weather, program moved inside. Perfect for children ages 3 to 6 and their adult helpers. Parental participation is required. FREE! Visit www.capefearmuseum.com for more information.
Skyquest: The Orion Family of Constellations 1:30pm. Cape Fear Museum. Investigate the well-known constellation Orion. Learn the science behind the legend of the Orion and see fascinating objects that call the winter sky home. Parental participation is required. Visit www.capefearmuseum.com for more information.
Myrtle Grove Christian School Open House 8:30am. & 11am. MGCS, 806 Piner Rd. Come visit, tour, and speak with teachers, staff, and administrators. See all Myrtle Grove Chris-
Wilmington Christian Academy Open House 2-4pm. WCA, 1401 N. College Rd. Tour the campus and meet the teachers. Come find out about the excellent education opportunities available at Wilmington Christian Academy. Visit www.wilmingtonchristian.com for more information.
Photo credit: Yuki Gallan
Photo credit: Jennifer Spencer
To submit events to the calendar, please email calendar.wilmingtonparent@gmail.com. Deadline for submissions to the February issue is January 9, 2016.
14 | January 2016 | Wilmington Parent
www.wilmingtonparent.com
5 Crafty Ideas for Busy Parents By Michelle Shirk
T
he weather outside may be frightful, but creating art with your little ones is so delightful! While it can be fun to admire elaborate craft ideas posted online, keep in mind that family art projects don’t need to be complicated or expensive. If you find yourself lacking the time, money or artistic ability to prepare and assemble Pinterest-worthy crafts with your kids, stock up on these easy and affordable alternatives instead.
1. “Plussed” Coloring Books – When your kids get tired of their basic coloring books, try one of the enhanced versions currently on the market. Some books now come with stickers, allowing your little artist to add a special touch to her finished works. Paint-with-water books combine paper, paint and often even a brush all in one convenient package. For older kids (or adults!) looking for a unique coloring experience, check out Dover Publications’s (store.doverpublications.com) line of gorgeous stained glass coloring books. 2. Preassembled Craft Kits – Purchasing the materials needed for a complicated craft project can be both costly and time-consuming. Alex Toys (www. alexbrands.com) takes the prep work out of crafting with its extensive line of craft kits for a wide range of ages. Each kit contains all the necessary components to make the crafts pictured on the box. For preschoolers, choose from themes like “My Sticker Art,” “My First Mosaic,” “Clothespin Farm” and more. Older kids can create jewelry, origami or room décor. 3. Community Crafting Events – Enjoy a fun, free morning or afternoon of crafting with absolutely no preparation or cleanup! Sound too good to be true? New Hanover County Libraries offer occasional and regular crafting events geared toward families, often in conjunction with a story time. You can also check with Learning Express, Children’s Museum of Wilmington, Cape Fear Museum, or Cameron Art Museum for similar offerings. Also, learn about Lowe’s Kids Clinics at www.lowesbuildandgrow.com and Home Depot’s Kids Workshops at workshops.homedepot. com/workshops/kids-workshops. 4. Kiwi Crate – These days, there are delivery services for everything from food to movies to fashion, and crafts are no exception. Signing up for a Kiwi Crate (www.kiwicrate.com) subscription brings a themed box of supplies to your door each month. Past themes have included “Dig Into Dinosaurs,” “Colorful Inspiration” and “Growing Gardens.” Kiwi Crates are designed for children ages 5-8 and provide enough materials for at least two or three different activities, many of which involve art. Single child subscriptions cost between $12.95 and $19.95 per month, with shipping included in the price.
Reduce, Reuse,
Recycle
Now recycle me downtown!
5. Collages – In search of a completely free way to create? Let the kids turn old magazines and catalogs into a work of art. Little ones can practice their cutting and gluing skills, while older ones can create scenes and themed collages. All you need is a glue stick.
Find new recycling containers downtown!
There are many resources available to help families create together with ease. Take advantage of these artsy alternatives to complicated crafting and use the precious moments you save to make some fabulous memories with your kids! v
Recycle More with the City of Wilmington
Michelle Shirk is an Indiana-based attorney and freelance writer. She writes about family, travel and seasonal events for parenting publications across the United States
wilmingtonnc.gov/recycling 910.341.7875
3rd www.wilmingtonparent.com
NORTH CAROLINA
*Must present coupon. Not good with other offers. One per family. Expires 01/31/16. CPNWP0114
Wilmington Parent | January 2016 | 15
Ed u cat i o n Guide AAI Pharma Learning Center
2320 Scientific Park Drive, Wilmington, NC 28405 Contact: Denise Ward 910-254-7384 denise.ward@aaipharma.om Ages 6 weeks-12 years. 5 star program with degreed teachers,low staff /child ratios, and a Project Approach based curriculum. Full day, After School and morning programs available.
SPECIAL SECTION: Education Guide
Cape Fear Academy
3900 South College Road, Wilmington NC 28412 Contact: Nelda Nutter, Director of Admission 910-791-0287 info@capefearacademy.org www.capefearacademy.org Grades: PK3-12th Enrollment period: Applications for first round, priority consideration (all grades) and/or for the Scholars Program for grades 6-12 are due January 15, 2016. From these, the majority of our seats are filled. Applications received thereafter will be reviewed on a rolling basis until all spaces are filled. Open Houses: January 12, 2016 & April 14, 2016 Arts/music offered: Drama, Visual Arts, Vocal/Choral, Band/ Strings, Technology/Video Production, Journalism/Publications Languages offered: Spanish & Mandarin Sports: Cross Country, Field Hockey, Soccer, Surfing, Tennis, Volleyball, Basketball, Cheer, Swimming, Golf, Lacrosse, Softball Mission: CFA is a learning community committed to discovering and developing individual potential, preparing each student for success in college and life. Core Values: Character (integrity, respect, resilience, accountability), Community, Opportunity, and Academic Excellence Principles: 1-Empowered to succeed: Rigorous, college preparatory academics and strong character development are delivered within a uniquely supportive learning environment. 2-Motivated from within:Strong student–teacher relationships are based on mutual trust and respect that instill a desire to excel and foster accountability. 3-Provided with exceptional opportunity: A rich array of academic, fine arts, athletics, extracurricular and individualized learning opportunities prepare students for success in a complex and competitive global society. 4-Prepared to go further: Students equipped with the skills and determination to succeed in any endeavors they pursue.
Gym & Learn Preschool @ Carolina Gymnastics Academy
3529 Carolina Beach Road Wilmington, NC 28412 Contact: Michele Zapple 910-796-1896 contact@carolinagymnasticsacademy.com Ages: 3-5 years Ongoing, rolling enrollment Open House Date: TBA Programs offered: Art & Music, Gymnastics Class Mission/vision: Our amazing Gym & Learn program is an active, hand on, early education program which provides children ages 3-5 the opportunity to get a “jump start” on learning the important academic, physical, and social skills necessary to be prepared for kindergarten.
Cape Fear Center for Inquiry
2525 Wonder Way Wilmington, NC 28401 Contact: Lori Roy, Director 910-362-0000 Lori.roy@cfci.net Cfci.net Pam O’Dell, Office Assistant Saturday Jan. 9th 10-11:30am, Thursday, January 14th 6:007:30 pm, Wednesday January 20th 4:30-6:00pm, Tuesday, January 26th, 5:00-6:30 pm Applications Due Friday, January 29th, 2016 K-8 Art, Music, Spanish, Technology, PE, 5-8 Band 6-8 Musical Theatre, Acting, Creative Expression Cape Fear Center for Inquiry is committed to promoting students’ abilities to think and create in personally meaningful ways through an inquiry-based, integrated curriculum in a nurturing and empowering environment.
16 | January 2016 | Wilmington Parent
Pax Natura Academy
4202 Wilshire Blvd., Wilmington, NC, 28403 Contact: Casey Davis 910-799-1788 cni159@childcarenetwork.com www.childcarenetwork.com Grades accepted - 6 weeks - 12 years Enrollment period - NA Open house date(s) - not scheduled arts/music - Little People’s Creative World Dance classes available to parents for extra cost, High Reach Learning Music and Art lessons, Mini Monet art classes for NCPK class. Language(s) offered - English Sports - Soccer Shots available to parents for extra cost. Gross motor activities provided for an hour each day. Mission/vision/goal - At Childcare Network 159 we strive to foster our students’ curiosities of nature and the community. We focus on learning through eco-conscious efforts amd work to develop leadership skills within our students. With the hope to create an appreciation of diversity and respect for all people, we strive to create global citizens who appreciate nature and their community.
Childcare Network
6 Locations in Wilmington, 1 in Leland & 1 in Southport. All 5 star schools. See website for complete listing. www.childcarenetwork.com Ages: 6 weeks-12 years. All day preschool, infant curriculum, High Reach Learning Curriculum for toddlers-two’s. Pre- Kindergarten Prep Academy and Kindergarten Prep Academy for 4-5 year old. Fast Track special program for five year olds. NCPrek in all locations Mission/Vision/Goal: We are the Working parent’s best friend. We are not the typical daycare or childcare. We are an all day preschool.
The Children’s Schoolhouse Montessori
612 S. College Rd www.childrensschoolhouse.net 910-799-1531 Ages: children 3- 6 years Mission/Vision/Goal: We offer instruction in reading, math, geography and other Montessori curriculum. Music and seasonal stage performance. Goals include the lifelong love of learning. A high quality of Montessori education administered with an enthusiastic but gentle approach. A safe and comfortable learning environment.
Classical Conversations
Several local campuses www.classicalconversations.com 910-262-4409 K4-12th grade 2016-17 registration begins in February Open Houses noted on the website calendar Classical Conversations provides Christian classical community for families desiring a home-centered education. With local, weekly meetings with a paid tutor, students and families can engage with others as they learn how to think about all subjects with a Biblical worldview. Classical Conversations’ desire is to come alongside families in an endeavor to know God and make Him known.
Coastal Christian High School
1150 The King’s Highway, Wilmington, NC 28409 Contact: Jennifer Snyder 910-395-9995 office@coastalchrisitan.net www.coastalchristian.net Grades Accepted: 9-12 Enrollment Period: January through August 15 Open House Dates: December 10 and February 4 at 7:00 PM Our Mission: To provide excellence in academics, fine arts, and athletics while instilling biblical truth in the hearts and minds of its students. Our Vision: The vision of Coastal Christian High School is to glorify God by providing a high school that challenges stu-
dents to achieve educational excellence grounded in biblical truth while inspiring them to walk with strength and honor as they seek to discover God’s plan for their lives. Arts and Music: AP Art, AP Music Theory, Honors Drawing/painting, Honors Ensemble, Honors Instrumental Ensemble, Honors Studio Art, Honors Show Choir, Honors Yearbook, Graphic Design, Introductory Art, Vocal Fundamentals, Yearbook
Friends School of Wilmington
18 months -2nd: 207 Pine Grove Dr. 3rd-8th: 350 Peiffer Ave. www.fsow.org 910-791-8221 Grades: 18 months -8th grade Enrollment Period: Rolling Admissions Open House: Jan. 26 – 12:30-1:30pm at Peiffer Ave. Campus. Jan. 27 – 10-11am at Pine Grove Dr. Campus Arts /Music: Art, Drama, Music, Instrumental Languages Offered: Spanish Sports: Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball, Girls on the Run, and STRIDE. Mission/Vision/Goal: Friends School of Wilmington inspires a love of learning. Our vigorous academic curriculum is built on nationally-recognized programs for math, language arts and science and also features Spanish, art, music and P.E. for kindergartners through 8th grade. With a social curriculum that celebrates inclusivity, small class sizes, hands-on learning, field trips, and extracurricular opportunities, Friends School helps students develop into confident, creative thinkers and humanitarians.
Hill School of Wilmington
3240 Burnt Mill Drive, Suite 9A Contact: Dr. Dawn Hodges 910-685-3734 info@HillSchoolofWilmington.org www.HillSchoolofWilmington.org Grades accepted 1-8 Rolling admissions Open House: January 26, 2016, 6;00-7:30 pm The Hill School of Wilmington offers a unique half-day academic program for students in grades 1-8 with learning disabilities and/or attention deficit disorder. Our teachers are trained in the evidence-based Hill Center methodology and our instructional program uses a research-based, multisensory, structured language methodology based on the OrtonGillingham approach. We instruct our students using a 4:1 student to teacher ratio. During the traditional school year, our students attend the Hill School for three hours a day for intensive remediation in reading, writing, and math. They attend their base school for the remainder of the school day. The Hill School currently serves students from New Hanover County, Pender County, and Columbus County, charter schools, independent and religious schools, and home school students. A five-week Summer Program is also offered to provide students an opportunity to improve their skills as well as to help prevent the regression in performance that occurs without daily practice. We are the only school in southeastern North Carolina designed to specifically address the needs of students with learning disabilities and/or attention deficits. Mission: To empower children who have learning differences with the skills needed to become confident, independent learners.
Island Montessori PreSchool
222 Winner Ave, Carolina Beach, NC 28428 Contact: Carrie Dworshak 910-707-1200 cdworshak@islandmontessorischool.com www.islandmontessorischool.com 3-4 year olds Open Enrollment all year long Open house Feb 6th 10am-12pm art/music - yes-----specialized instruction Languages - Spanish integrated into Montessori Curriculum Our Mission at IMS is to create a Montessori community that respects each child as an individual and fosters in each student respect for self and others, joy in discovery, independence communal responsibility, and a peaceful approach to problem solving.
www.wilmingtonparent.com
Looking for educational a l t e r n a t i v e s ? C h e c k o u t t h e freedom found in Home Education. Here are support organizations that will help you on your homeschool journey.
Individualized Instruction Custom Curriculum Directed Worldview
www.nche.com www.chewilm.com www.classicalconversations.com www.shscardinals.org phone 910.398.7172
Flexible Schedule Field Trips Fine Arts Sports Teams Group Classes Emphasis On Learning
www.wilmingtonparent.com
Wilmington Parent | January 2016 | 17
SPECIAL SECTION: Education Guide
HOME EDUCATION
Ed u cat i o n Guide Island Montessori Charter School
6339 Carolina Beach Wilmington, NC 28412 910-795-4860 skuhn@islandmontessorischool.com K-8 January 4th- Febuary 5th 2016 (applications accepted for lottery) Open Houses: Wednesday, January 6th 5:30pm - Children’s School Monday, January 11th 6:00pm - Charter School Saturday, January 23th 10:00am - Children’s School Thursday, January 28th 6:30 - Charter School Art/Music - Yes ---specialized instruction Languages - Spanish K-8 Our Mission at IMS is to create a Montessori community that respects each child as an individual and fosters in each student respect for self and others, joy in discovery, independence communal responsibility, and a peaceful approach to problem solving.
SPECIAL SECTION: Education Guide
Jenkins Preschool Academy
7888 Market St. www.jpawilmington.com 910-367-0287 Ages: 2-5 years Enrollment: Open enrollment begins Monday, Feb 1, 2016 Arts/Music: arts and crafts, music and movement part of curriculum; Mini Monet offered on site Languages Offered: Spanish Mission/Vision/Goal : A private, part-time preschool. Classes are small (7/2 max child/adult ratio) for maximum learning opportunities. JPA follows the New Hanover Co school traditional schedule. We have certified & experienced teachers, a curriculum model, and unique learning environment that will promote a child’s personal and academic success in kindergarten and beyond.
Little Chapel on the Boardwalk Preschool
2 West Fayetteville Street Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 (910) 256-2819 X104 Grades Offered: Preschool / 3 and 4’s Half Day Program Enrollment Period: Open Curriculum: Children experience the excitement of learning through freedom of choice doing purposeful work which promotes success and independence.
Myrtle Grove Christian School
806 Piner Road, Wilmington, NC 28409 910-392-2067 www.mgcs.org Grades offered: 3yr preK through 8th grade Enrollment Period: Rolling Enrollment Open House: January 28, 2015 with tours at 8:30am and 11am Curriculum: Rigorous curriculum based on state and national standards and naturally integrated with Biblical truths. It is designed for the above to well-above average student. Mission: Myrtle Grove Christian School’s mission is to educate students by exposing them to biblical principles as a framework for all that is taught. The goal for all students is that they be strengthened spiritually, morally, academically, emotionally, and physically to meet the challenges of higher education and their call to serve Christ in the world. Vision: Myrtle Grove Christian School’s vision is that all students exemplify biblical principles, godly character, and academic skills to be life-long learners and productive citizens as they serve Christ. Core Values: Academic Excellence - Academic quality will not be sacrificed in exchange for a Christian education. We are committed to offering a challenging academic program that helps students reach their full potential and prepares them to excel in high school, college, and beyond. Biblical Truth - Scripture is the revealed word of God. It is taught as truth, integrated into the learning experience, and applied to decision-making at every level of the school. The Gospel - As a Protestant, Evangelical institution we
18 | January 2016 | Wilmington Parent
regard the gospel of Jesus Christ as integral to our outlook on life, and gospel-centered spiritual transformation as an essential aspect of learning. Personal Relationships - The school exists to serve people and does so through personal relationships which exemplify dignity and respect. Integrity - The school’s day-to-day practices are a consistent model of integrity, efficiency, and accountability. Stewardship - The school’s management of finances and other resources reflects an understanding that we are caretakers on behalf of God and those who support the school’s mission.
New Horizons Elementary School
3705 South College Road, Wilmington NC 28412 www.newhorizonselementary.org 910-392-5209 Grades offered: K-5th Enrollment Period: January 1st Open House: February 1, 2016, 9:00am-12:00pm and 5:30pm-7:00pm Curriculum: New Horizons Elementary School has a proven innovative curriculum which encompasses mathematics, literacy, science and social studies, physical education, Spanish, art, and choral music. Teachers use engaging lessons, inquiry-based projects, as well as technology to create challenging course work that promotes critical thinking, independent learning, and leadership. Mission/Vision/Goal: New Horizons Elementary School provides a nurturing environment promoting student achievement and personal development through a whole child approach. Small classes ensure personal attention for every student. Engaging lessons, inquiry-based projects, and technology are infused into a challenging curriculum that promotes critical thinking, independent learning, and leadership.
No Limit Sports N More / Afterschool ADVENTURES Program
102 S. Kerr Ave. Wilmington NC 28403 NOLIMITSPORTSNMORE.ORG 910-540-0189 Grades offered: PRESCHOOL-12TH Enrollment Period: Anytime Open House: Anytime after 4pm or by Appointment Curriculum: Fitness and Sports Development Mission/Vision/Goal: Our program is designed to provide youth in our community a fun, positive atmosphere so they can ensure that the physical, cognitive, social and emotional needs of youth and teens are addressed and provided for through a variety of engaging and appropriate programs. All of our programs will encourage youth participation in sports and fitness activities by providing opportunities for fun and age-appropriate programming (ages 2 to 18 years). We thrive to educate in fitness and sports activities and to teach each child to strive in good sportsmanship, honesty, loyalty, and a sense of teamwork so that children, youth, and teens will become strong, healthy, well-adjusted, and contributing members of society. Our Program will work in partnership with parents, volunteers, and community organizations to provide a full range of fitness and sports activities.
Porters Neck Playhouse
7946 Market Street #200 Wilmington, NC 28411 910-319-7879 pnplayhouse@gmail.com www.PNPlayhouse.com The Play House is a drop in play center that cares for children 12 months and older on an as needed, no reservation required, basis. Daily play involves lots of art, games, computers, pretend play, dancing, relay races, movies (sometimes), puzzles and story time. No matter what time of day you stop in your child will have a great time! Promise. After school care available. Weekly and monthly packages available.
Rainbow Garden Preschool
1497 Country Club Rd, Hampstead, NC 28443 910-233-8594 www.capefearchild.org Grades offered: 3-6 years Enrollment Period: Open Enrollment Open House Saturday January 2nd from 10-12 Curriculum: Montessori and Waldorf inspired Mission/Vision/Goal: Nurturing the whole child through life experience, nature, science, arts and play. Through our daily routine and work cycles your child will become prepared for Kindergarten and beyond.
St. Mark Catholic School
1013 Eastwood Road Wilmington, NC 28403 910-452-2800 www.stmarkcatholicschool.org PreK 4yr – 8th Grade Open House: Sunday, January 24 at 11am St. Mark is a Catholic School committed to educating the whole child academically, spiritually, and physically. St. Mark Catholic School strives for academic excellence by instilling in each student Christian values, confidence, and a desire to be effective leaders of tomorrow. Along with a robust curriculum that includes a multi-tiered system of support and high school preparedness, St. Mark supports 14 athletic teams as well as the arts. Contact the school to schedule a private tour.
Wilmington Christian Academy
1401 North College Road, Wilmington, NC 28405 910-791-4248 info@wilmingtonchristian.com www.wilmingtonchrisitan.com Grades accepted – Age 3 to Grade 12 Enrollment period – Year-round Open house date(s): Sunday 1/31 2-4 pm, Tuesday 2/9 5:307 pm, Thursday 2/18 9-11 am Arts/music - Choral, Instrumental, Strings, Drama, Art, Creative Writing Language(s) offered – Spanish, American Sign Language Sports – Basketball, Soccer, Baseball, Volleyball, Cross Country, Golf, Tennis, Cheerleading Mission/vision/goal - WCA exists to assist parents in teaching students to glorify Jesus Christ in the pursuit of spiritual, academic, physical and social excellence.
Windermere Presbyterian Preschool
104 Windemere Rd. Wilmington,NC 28405 Contact: Leslie Moore, Director 910-791-8290 windpreschool@att.net www.windermerepreschool.com Toddlers(15 months)-PreK Open Enrollment begins on January 25 Chapel and music offered Stretch-N-Grow is optional for 3’s and 4’s Mission:Provide a loving environment that focuses on social, emotional, physical, spiritual, and academic development of young children.
Winter Park Presbyterian Preschool
4501 Wrightsville Avenue Wilmington, NC 28403 910-791-5893 www.wppc-preschool.org Toddler-Pre-k Public Registration Begins January 25, 2016. Wait list available now. Art, Crafts, Kindermusik We are a half-day Christian preschool. We offer low student-teacher ratios, an experienced nurturing staff and a fun preschool environment. Our hand-on-learning approach to learning fully prepares our preschoolers for kindergarten. We use Creative Curriculum and Handwriting Without Tears. Kindermusik and Stretch-n-Grow classes are provided at no extra charge.
www.wilmingtonparent.com
SPECIAL SECTION: Education Guide Give your child the greatest gift: one-on-one attention, small class sizes, and dynamic learning opportunities that ensure your child will GO FURTHER.
ADMISSIONS OPEN HOUSE JANUARY 12 I 8:15 AM I or schedule personal tour SCHOLARSHIP TESTING JANUARY 18 I JANUARY 23 I 9:00 AM A P K 3 – 1 2 T H G R A D E C O L L E G E P R E PA R ATO RY S C H O O L
www.wilmingtonparent.com
3900 S. COLLEGE RD. I WILMINGTON, NC 28412 I 910.791.0287 I CAPEFEARACADEMY.ORG
Wilmington Parent | January 2016 | 19
SCHEDULE A TOUR: 910-707-1200
Providing Structure at Home By Drew Sarmiere
CHILDREN'S SCHOOL (PreSCHOOL) 222 Winner Avenue, Carolina Beach, NC 28428 ACCEPTING FULL DAY AND HALF DAY STUDENTS
SPECIAL SECTION: Education Guide
Our Mission at IMS is to create a Montessori community that respects each child as an individual and fosters in each student respect for self and others, joy in discovery, independence, communal responsibility, and a peaceful approach to problem solving.
Acceptance into the IMS Preschool does not guarantee enrollments into the Charter School in Kindergarten. The charter school has a mandatory random lottery. IMS is a nonprofit preschool that seeks diversity in its student/parent body, faculty, staff, administration and board. IMS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or any category protected by law, in its recruitment of students, recruitment of staff, educational policies, employment practices and all other school administrative procedures and programs.
Winter Session begins NOW! Gymnastics • Gym & Learn Preschool Afterschool Program
W
hen I was about 13 years old I regularly pestered my parents for a telephone in my room. Fortunately, my parents recognized that allowing this would have created a huge distraction for me and, despite my efforts to wear them down, refused. Though less than pleased at the time, in hindsight it was certainly the correct choice and, now, I’m thankful, and so is my grade point average . . . . Oh, how times have changed. Forget about a phone in your room, now it’s a phone in your pocket. Strike that, a computer in your pocket, one that keeps you instantly connected at all times. As an educator and academic coach, I witness daily first-hand the myriad distractions from which students these days suffer and the ways these distractions negatively impact academic achievement. As parents, there are many ways you can help your child manage these distractions and create a relatively distraction-free study environment.
First, lose the phone. Your child will likely tell you that it is not a distraction, and for some students it is not, but for most students it most certainly is, and a big one at that. Of course, they will try to convince you that they need their phone to do their work but you must recognize this for what it is, simply untrue. I need it for a calculator - use an actual calculator instead; I need it to look up my assignments - use the computer. I need it to ask my friends questions - so call them and ask them and then give me the phone, and if you can’t do your schoolwork on your own we’ve got bigger problems to deal with. These wily creatures will come up with all sorts of reasons why they need their phone. Simply put, they don’t. Second, lose the computer. What? But they definitely need their computer don’t they? Not nearly as much as you think or that they’d like you to believe. The majority of schoolwork is still completed the old fashioned way with pen and paper. They may need it to look up their homework (though they should be using a planner which reduces this need), but that takes two minutes. The most likely need will be to write a paper or an essay, but they’re not writing essays 24-7. Trust me when I tell you your child does not need his computer to do his homework nearly as much as he says. Third, lose the music. This one’s a little bit trickier because the right music in the right situation can actually improve focus for some students, but most of the time it’s a distraction. If your child insists that listening to music helps her focus, then watch her and see. Is she mouthing the lyrics? Is she tapping her pencil or nodding her head to the music? Is she picking a new song every two minutes? If so, it’s a distraction and needs to go. One alternative you can try is allowing her to listen to music that lacks lyrics like jazz, classical, or electronica, for example, and see how that goes.
Finally, provide a quiet, dedicated workspace for your child, prefer-
Register Online:
www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com 3529 Carolina Beach Road • 910-796-1896 20 | January 2016 | Wilmington Parent
ably not in their bedroom. Students are more focused and productive if sitting at a desk dedicated only to schoolwork and studying. Many students like to sit on their bed or on the floor. If your child feels strongly about this, I’d say let it slide if they’re staying focused. If not, use the desk. v Drew Sarmiere is an experienced educator and founder of Peak Learning Solutions - an educational consulting, academic coaching, and tutoring business with offices of Colorado and Wilmington (www.peaklearningsolutions.com)
www.wilmingtonparent.com
St. Mark Catholic School Now Accepting Applications St. Mark is a Catholic School committed to educating the whole child academically, spiritually and physically. St. Mark Catholic School strives for academic excellence by instilling in each student Christian values, confidence, and a desire to be effective leaders of tomorrow.
Windermere preschool
St. Mark provides each child with a robust curriculum that includes: A multi-tiered system of support • high school preparedness • year round community service and outreach programs demonstrating our Faith in Action • foreign languages, art, drama and music classes • television studio • access to a school nurse and counselor • state of the art technology including Chromebooks • a 12,500 volume library with 21st century information skills instruction.
We are a half day preschool for Toddlers-PreK. Children will learn through play and teacher-directed activities in a loving and encouraging environment.
14 athletic teams • Odyssey of the Mind competition teams • tuition assistance opportunities.
Please contact Leslie Moore for more information.
St. Mark
8th grade students consistently test at or above the high school level on the IOWA Test for Basic Skills. Private Tour by Appointment
www.stmarkcatholicschool.org
1013 Eastwood Road, Wilmington, NC 28403 910-452-2800
New Horizons elementary school
Learning, Growing and Thriving Together
Join us for an Open House! Monday, February 1 at 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. & 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.
K-5th Grade • Small Class Sizes • Proven Academic Excellence www.newhorizonselementary.org | 910.392.5209 3705 South College Rd., Wilmington , NC www.wilmingtonparent.com
Wilmington Parent | January 2016 | 21
SPECIAL SECTION: Education Guide
Call 791-8290 or email windpreschool@att.net
Catholic School
67tour 0 2 2- House
The Importance of Note-Taking By Drew Sarmiere
3y9our Open l l Ca dule
SPECIAL SECTION: Education Guide
he to sc
T Where faith and learning take root.
Open enrollment for 2016 school year starts Feb. 1st. Call now for a tour.
(910) 367-0287 I www.jpawilmington.com I 7888 Market St 22 | January 2016 | Wilmington Parent
he need to take notes in school usually starts sometime around late elementary or early middle school, and by high school note-taking is an imperative skill every student needs. Importantly, keep in mind that note-taking is a skill, not a trait. It must be taught, practiced and honed over time; it is not something that just comes naturally to most students. As a rule of thumb, I tell my students that a good set of notes are written in such a way that another person should be able to be able to understand and learn from them, and they must include, at a minimum, everything that was written or presented by the teacher. If the teacher writes it down, you write it down. It’s not a hard and fast rule, but a good general rule from which to start. Furthermore, good notes are legible, well spaced out, and include appropriate separation of ides (e.g. by means of spacing, indentations, numbering, bullets, lists, etc). The most common issues I see with students’ notes are a lack of separation of ideas, and a lack of elaboration of ideas on the part of the student. Encourage your child to practice good notetaking skills and to share their notes with you every night at home. v
www.wilmingtonparent.com
AAI LEARNING CENTER
Island Montessori School is a K-6 public charter school. We are committed to providing a unique, child-centered environment, using the internationally recognized curriculum of pioneering educator, Dr. Maria Montessori.
School Age Program (5yr-12yr) V Five Star Child Care Center V
All school age instructors have a Bachelors Degrees.
Hours of operation: 7:00am - 6:00pm
IMCS2014 is a K-8*Island public charter school committed to providing an unique, Montessori Charter School child-centered environment using the internationally recognized curriculum Dates of pioneeringLottery educator, Dr. Maria Montessori. Our mission at Island Parent MontessoriEducation School is to create a Montessori Prospective Meetings communityWednesday, that respectsJanuary each child as an individual and fosters in each 8th 5:30pm - Charter School student a Saturday, respect forJanuary self and11th others, joy- in discovery, independence, 10am Children’s School communalThursday, responsibility, and 23rd a peaceful approach problem solving. January 6:00pm - ChartertoSchool Tuesday, January 28th 6:30pm - Children’s School
2016-2017 Island Montessori Charter School Lottery Dates
We Put the Fun & Adventure in After School Care After School Curriculum We provide a wide variety of activities including arts, crafts, and indoor & outdoor games. We also provide homework time and homework assistance.
CALL For A Tour
910.254.7384 or 910.254.7385 2320 Scientific Park Dr., Wilmington, NC 28405
Lottery Application Deadline: Friday, February 5th 5pm Our mission at Island Montessori School is to create a Montessori If mailed, must beeach postmarked no later and thanfosters 2/6/16 community that respects child as an individual in each Lottery be held at 6:00pm studentwill respect for selfon andTuesday, others, joyFebruary in discovery,23rd independence, at the communal responsibility, andCharter a peacefulSchool. approach to problem solving.
Charter School
6339 Carolina Beach Rd.
Children’s School 222 Winner Ave
Phone: (910) 795-4860 Fax: (910) 550-3767 www.facebook.com/IslandMontessori www.IslandMontessoriSchool.com *8th grade will be added based on 2016/2017 funding factors.
Apply Now For Fall 2016 2525 Wonder Way Wilmington, NC 28401
Our Mission Cape Fear Center for Inquiry is committed to promoting students’ abilities to think and create in personally meaningful ways through an inquiry-based, integrated curriculum in a nurturing and empowering environment.
910-362-0000 www.CFCI.net
Application Process
CFCI is a tuition free public charter school open to any NC school age resident. Application are accepted each school year. Completed applications must be returned to the school office no later than January 29th, 2016 4pm. Information Sessions Will Be At CFCI On... Saturday January 9th 10am – 11:30am Wednesday January 20th 4:30 pm – 6:00pm
Thursday January 14th 6pm – 7:30pm Tuesday January 26th 5 pm-6:30pm
CFCI will foster academic and social inquiry based learning by enriching the state curriculum. We will facilitate research, communication, and action through: Community partnerships, wellness, environmental education, global connections, and technology.
CFCI does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age or disability.
New application admission priority is determined by a lottery, which will be held February 23, 2016 9am. www.wilmingtonparent.com
Wilmington Parent | January 2016 | 23
SPECIAL SECTION: Education Guide
Pick Up Locations: Winter Park, Alderman, Forest Hills, Gregory, CFCI, Ogden, Murrayville, Wrightsboro, Calvary, Douglas Academy, Eaton, Castle Hayne Two Classrooms! Small group sizes! Grouped Separately! Younger Children (5yr-7yr) & Older Children (8 yr -12yr)
Lottery Application - Friday, February ProspectiveDeadline Parent Education Meetings7th 5pm. If mailed, must be postmarked no later than 2/7/12. Wednesday, January 6th 5:30pm - Children’s School Monday, January 11th 6:00pm - Charter School Lottery on 23rd Thursday, 20th at 6pm Saturday,Held January 10:00amFeb. - Children’s School at the Charter School Thursday, January 28th 6:30pm - Charter School
Preschool Readiness at Home By Sandra Gordon
SPECIAL SECTION: Education Guide
Y
ou’ve picked up your child from her 2s, 3s or 4s program, with the rest of the day or the weekend ahead of you. Now what? It’s a common dilemma. “So many parents ask me, ‘What do I do with my child when we get home?’” says Elissa Sungar, a former preschool teacher and co-creator of www.ifnotyouwho.org, a free Website that guides parents through 300 short and fun daily activities to help them prepare their child for kindergarten. It turns out there’s a lot you can do to help your child keep learning all day long and it doesn’t involve workbooks or writing letters over and over. Instead, it’s about playing and interacting with your preschooler to develop the cognitive, physical, language and motor skills he’ll need to be ready for the “big school.” Here are three things you can do now to help your preschooler become a capable learner.
Let your child take the lead. When playing with your child, it’s tempting to take over, as in: “Now it’s time to dress the baby doll. Now it’s time to give the baby a bath.” “Many adults think play should be a certain way,” Sungar says. But that’s too limiting. To enhance your child’s creativity and confidence, guide her instead. “While you’re playing with your child, narrate what your child is doing, ask questions about why she’s doing what she’s doing and what comes next, as in: “Now, you’re giving baby a bath. What’s baby going to do after her bath?” If she has a tough time getting the baby undressed, for example, don’t do it for her. “It’s critical to let kids explore, learn from their experiences and fix problems as they happen,” Sungar says.
Give explicit feedback. Throughout your child’s day, give specific praise and negative feedback. Instead of saying, “good job,” for example, when your child shows you a picture he painted, you might say, “I like how you used the blue and the red paint. Those colors mix well together.” Similarly, if your child decides to stand up on a chair, instead of saying, “sit down,” say, “Please sit on your bottom. When you stand, you can fall off the chair and get hurt.” Get the idea? Providing pointed criticism and advice is more valuable than vague remarks because it gives your child direction and helps build his vocabulary. Save one-word negative feedback, such as “No!” or “Don’t!” for safety issues, such as when your child runs out into the street or tries to touch a hot pan. It’s more effective if they hear “No!” or “Don’t” less often.
Allow free play. Each day, give your child the space to do her own thing. “Preschoolers need at least four hours per week—up to a roughly half an hour each day--of unstructured play time other than preschool,” Sungar says. Down time allows children to think creatively and gives them a mental breather. Without downtime, kids can feel overwhelmed by the increased pressure to succeed at school, which can start as early as preschool.
Three Things to with Preschoolers Each of these activities helps develop your child’s cognitive and fine motor skills but your child will just know he’s having fun. • When you need a time out: Fill up the bath tub. Preschoolers love to splash around in water as well as pour it, strain and transfer it from one object to another. So plop your child in the tub along with items from your kitchen, such as plastic cups, a turkey baster or a strainer or just give them a sponge. Squeezing a sponge or turkey baster and transferring water from one cup to another enhances fine motor development. Stay in the bathroom with your child, but feel free to sit back and watch the supervised fun unfurl. • When you’re making dinner: Have your child make tinfoil letters. Ask your child to squeeze a sheet of tinfoil into a skinny tube then see what she can do with it. Can she make a circle? A triangle? A letter, like a b? Be sure to show her what a circle looks like if she doesn’t know or point to letter examples on food labels. • When you’re waiting anywhere: Have your child go on a letter hunt. Bring along a magazine or the newspaper and have your child circle letters, numbers, animals or people with a marker. v
24 | January 2016 | Wilmington Parent
www.wilmingtonparent.com
Little Chapel on the Boardwalk
Preschool
Little Chapel on the Boardwalk Preschool offers a Christian based program that focuses on age appropriate activities designed to target all aspects of early childhood development. Our classroom materials will help your child develop concentration, coordination and fine motor skill development to prepare them for more advanced activities in the classroom and beyond. Students will gain an early enthusiasm for learning when introduced to our daily fun-filled lessons and activities that incorporates structure and freedom.
Open House
January 26, 2016, 6:00-7:30 pm
Little Chapel on the Boardwalk Preschool is a half day program for 3 and 4 years’ olds. We offer the option of enrolling your child for 2, 3 or 5 day weeks.
For more information about our Preschool please call us at (910) 256-2819 ext. 104
• Strength Boot Camp Programs • Boxing Program Contact & Non-Contact • Baseball/Fastpitch/TeeBall Hitting and Pitching Areas • 2/3yrs. & 3/4/5yrs. Programs Fit n Fun / Pre-Boxing / Bat on Ball • Personal Fitness / Strength Conditioning 1 on 1 Training by Certified Instructors • Afterschool & Preschool Care • Parent's Night Out & Social Events for Youth
102 S. Kerr Ave. Wilmington, NC call/text: 910-540-0189
www. nolimitsportsnmore.org
RAINBOW GARDEN PRESCHOOL
We are southeastern North Carolina's only school designed to specifically address the needs of students with learning disabilities and/or attention deficits. We provide a unique half-day academic program for students in grades 1 - 8. Come talk to us! 3240 Burnt Mill Drive, Suite 9A
www.HillSchoolofWilmington.org
Winter Park Presbyterian Preschool Enroll Now for 2016-2017 Half Day Preschool
Now Registering for 2016-17 Preschool 9am-1pm 3-5 days Day Care Hours 7:00-6pm Ages 3-6 1497 Country Club Rd, Hampstead, NC 910-515-1100 • www.capefearchild.org www.wilmingtonparent.com
• Ages toddler - pre - kindergarten • Low teacher/child ratio • Nurturing & fun environment • Kindermusik Classes • Stretch-n-Grow Classes
t precious gift!
children are our mos
791-5893 • 4501 Wrightsville Ave. www.wppc-preschool.org Wilmington Parent | January 2016 | 25
SPECIAL SECTION: Education Guide
Youth • Teens • Adults
school notes
School’s Out! New Hanover County: Traditional Schools: 1/1 - No School, Holiday 1/18 - No School, Holiday 1/22 - No School, Teacher Workday Year Round Schools: 1/1 - No School, Holiday 1/1-8 - Intersession 1/8 - No School, Teacher Workday 1/18 - No School, Holiday CFCI Charter School: 1/1 - No School, Holiday 1/4 - No School, Teacher Workday 1/18 - No School, Holiday 1/19 - No School, Teacher Workday WECHS 1/1 - No School, Holiday 1/4 - No School, Teacher Workday 1/18 - No School, Holiday IBECHS: 1/1 - No School, Holiday 1/15- No School, Teacher Workday 1/18 - No School, Holiday Brunswick: Traditional Schools: 1/1 - No School, Holiday 1/18 - No School, Holiday 1/19 - No School, Teacher Workday Brunswick Early College: 1/1 - No School, Holiday 1/18 - No School, Holiday 1/19 - No School, Teacher Workday Roger Bacon Academy: 1/1 - No School, Holiday 1/4 - No School, Teacher Workday 1/18 - No School, Holiday Pender: Traditional Schools: 1/1 - No School, Holiday 1/18 - No School, Holiday 1/22 - No School, Teacher Workday Penderlea: 1/1 - No School, Holiday 1/4-5 - No School, Student Vacation 1/18 - No School, Holiday
Career Readiness Academy at Mosley Partners with Local Organizations The Career Readiness Academy (CRA) at Mosley Performance Learning Center is the first New Hanover County school to collaborate with the Wilmington Hammerhead Professional Soccer Club assisting in promotion, implementation, and expansion of their newest outreach program. This hands-on opportunity will allow students to explore various careers affiliated with a professional athletic team through volunteering, job-shadowing and internships. Other partnerships that CRA has established are with the Hugh McRae Park officials and YMCA programs such as the Y- Express program, lifeguard program and their after-school program. Wrightsville Beach Family Medicine has also partnered with CRA to offer student job-shadowing opportunities. The Career Readiness Academy works to expose students to a variety of lifelong opportunities and graduate them with an established foundation of college and career readiness. Through the College and Career promise initiative, CRA students are able to take courses at Cape Fear Community College. Current CRA students are enrolled in classes such as Cosmetology and Criminal Justice at CFCC. The opportunity for students to attend CFCC, will allow them to graduate high school, gain college credits, and establish a strong platform for their college and/or career path. Organizations interested in being a part of CRA’s job-shadowing/internship program should contact Jana Barone, Career Development Coordinator, at 251-6163.
Student Scholarships for Future Teachers The New Hanover County Board of Education Student Scholarships for future teachers will award four scholarship loans of $7,000, specifically, $3,500 per semester, each year to an accredited North Carolina college or university of the recipient’s choice, for a total amount of $28,000 per scholarship. Application Process: Part 1: Application Release Form The Application Release Form must be signed by the applicant and the applicant’s parent if the applicant is a minor. Part 2: Online Application The online application must be completed in one session. Partial applications will not be considered. Online application and release form can be found at www.nhcs.net/forms Part 3: Reference Letters Applicants must submit at least three reference letters, including one from a teacher, one from a community member, and one that highlights applicant’s teaching abilities. Part 4: Selection of Recipients Recipients are selected through a rigorous selection process. Selection is made on the basis of grades, class standing, SAT scores, writing samples, community service, extracurricular activities and references from teachers and members of the community. Part 5: Awarding of Scholarships A formal letter will be sent inviting the recipients to a signing ceremony to accept the scholarship during the April 5th Regular Meeting of the Board. Submission Instructions: Completed applications, including three reference letters and signed Application Release Form, must be received by the Board administrator no later than noon on Friday, February 5, 2016. Online applications will not be considered for the scholarships until all three parts have been received by the Board administrator. Questions? Please call Tabitha Adams at 254-4280.
New Hanover High School Students Can Now “Read and Ride”
Pender Early College: 1/1 - No School, Holiday 1/18 - No School, Holiday 1/22 - No School, Teacher Workday
New Hanover High School (NHHS) now has two new recumbent bicycles installed in their school library where students can “Read and Ride,” working out both their bodies and brains at the same time. Inspired by similar programs in Virginia and Winston-Salem, NC, NHHS Media Coordinator Melissa George was eager to give the Wildcats the opportunity to fit in some of their recommended daily physical activity while simultaneously catching up on reading and schoolwork.
Visit www.nhcs.net, www.co.brunswick.k12.nc.us or www.pendercountyschools.net for more information.
Ms. George partnered with New Hanover County Schools Lead Healthful Living Coordinator Jayne Emma to present the idea to Principal McAdams. They shared research that links physical activity to increased blood flow to the brain, sharpened neurological function and improved concentration.
26 | January 2016 | Wilmington Parent
www.wilmingtonparent.com
fit family
Sand Workouts We live at the beach, and even during the winter months a visit to the sandy shores can brighten your mood. Did you know the sand can be a great place to fit in the occasional workout? It’s a great change of scenery from the typical gym, of course you’ve got to get a little sandy too. Here is a workout plan for your next trip to the beach. • • • • • •
Drop down for 60 seconds of timed regular push-ups Flip over for 60 second sit-ups 45 seconds wide push-ups 45 seconds elbows-to-knees crunches 30 seconds diamond push-ups 30 seconds fingers-to-toes crunches (legs bent up at 90 degrees) • Finish it off with a couple sets of 25 three-count arm • Haulers and flutters kick
The Salvation Army distributes more than $125,000 in clothing, furniture and household items help those in need. Help us Theto Salvation Army help others by donating your used clothing distributes more than and furniture.
$125,000 in clothing,
Stick to Your Goals! Beginner Workout Calendar Have you set some fitness goals for the new year? Maybe you’ve gotten yourself a shiny new gym membership and you’re ready to get started, but have no idea how to begin. Even worse, how to continue? One idea is to get a workout calendar. This can be any calendar that you can write your goals and schedule your workouts. Be sure to hand your calendar in a prominent place. An inspirational or motivational calendar would be best, but any calenday would work. Below are some ideas for planning out your month of workouts. • Aim for 3-5 workouts a week • Make sure at least 2 of your planned workouts are cardio related • Include and schedule at least 2 rest days. On your rest days, on the calendar, write down your goals and reasons for wanting to continue your new fitness lifestyle. • Schedule a day for legs, a day for arms, and include abs with one of your cardio sessions each week. • Even if you have a scheduled rest day, you can always take the family for a walk after dinner! • Try starting your workout at different times of the day until you determine which time works best for you.
To schedule a pick-up please call 762-6611 furniture and house-hold Thank you and God bless !
items to help those in need. Help us help others by donating your used clothing and furniture. To schedule a pick-up please call 762-6611
Thank you and God bless!
Anchor It! for Safety The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has released a new video featuring mothers who have lost their children to a terrible, but preventable tragedy: a TV or furniture tip-over incident. These mothers, like most parents, didn’t know that every 24 minutes, tipped furniture or a falling TV sends an injured child to the emergency room, and every two weeks a child dies when a TV or furniture falls onto him or her. While the threat is serious, the solution is simple. The Anchor It! Campaign is reminding consumers to anchor TVs and furniture to prevent a tragic tip-over incident. Anchor It! Tips: To prevent a tip-over tragedy, Anchor It! recommends parents and caregivers take the following steps: • Anchor TVs and furniture to prevent them from tipping. • Avoid keeping items in places where kids might be tempted to climb and reach for them. • Keep heavier items on lower shelves or in lower drawers. • Place TVs on a sturdy, low base and push them as far back as possible • Recycle unused TVs and if moving older TVs to another room, secure them to the wall. Taking these simple and low-cost steps will ensure children are safer. To learn more, visit www. anchorit.gov or www.cpsc.gov.
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Wilmington Parent | January 2016 | 27
peanut gallery
Lillian L. 12/15• 5yo
Jayse Christian D. 1/21• 2yo
Anya 1/11• 3yo
Zachary F. 1/3• 2yo
Easton J. 1/19• 6yo
Luke G. 1/27• 1yo
Gia R. 1/2• 2yo
Grace 1/3• 3yo
Jaidyn 1/15• 1yo
Kate & Claire J. 1/25• 9yo
Jane M. 1/29
Does your child or grandchild have a birthday iN february? Honor them by having their photo published in Wilmington Parent. Here's how: e-mail image (size not to exceed 1mb) to birthday@wilmingtonparent.com. Deadline for publication: 1/12. We have a limited number of spots, so if you sent your child’s picture and do not see it this issue, please check back next month! Skyler B. 1/26• 4yo
28 | January 2016 | Wilmington Parent
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Announcing the Winners of the Paws and Claws Animal Hospital Me & My Pet Photo Contest!
1st Place: The Princesses Prize: A Free Spa Day, includes bath, nail trim, ear cleaning and gland expression - Paws & Claws Animal Hospital and a $50 Gift Card - Aunt Kerry’s Pet Stop
2nd Place: Bryson and his best friend, Otis! Prize: 3 Days of Daycare or 2 Nights Boarding - The Dog House
3rd Place: Throw the ball!! Prize: Framed 11x14 canvas print ($85 value) Agnes Gray Designs
Winners will be notified by email on how to claim prizes. Thanks to all who entered and voted!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Coming in 2016, Our Annual Cover Kids Contest! www.wilmingtonparent.com
Wilmington Parent | January 2016 | 29
Wilmington Parent’s 13th annual
Summer Camp Fair Saturday, March 5, 2016 10am - 3pm Independence Mall
FREE ADMISSION & FREE PARKING!
Camps for Every Interest and Age: Local Residential Sports Day Camps Science Athletic Drama Eco Art Nature Surfing Magic & Much More! Booths & Sponsorships Packages available now reserve your space!
Sponsored by: