Wilmington Parent June 2013 by Seaside Media

June 2013 • FREE

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Our 15th Year of Ser

wick & Pender County Families!

INSIDE:

Great Gifts for Grads

choices in childcare

Soothing the Summer bites & Burns

• How to Screen a Sitter • Ready for Preschool? • Childcare Resource Guide

The Great American Backyard Campout Cover Kid Sophia

Dental Care Tip #7 Regular brushing and flossing habits prevent tooth decay, cavities and gum disease.

Julie B. Dimock, DDS, MS • Adam W. Weinberg, DDS

Board Certified

3505 Converse Dr, Ste 175

PHN

910-794-2266

info@ccpedo.com • www.ccpedo.com

Now Scheduling Appointments in Leland at . . .

910-383-2615 • www.bluewavedentistry.com

Wilmington HealtH is here for every aspect of your life. Wilmington Health is pleased to offer complete family care at locations in Wilmington, Brunswick Forest, Carolina Beach, Hampstead, Jacksonville, Oak Island, and Southport. We want to meet your

complete healthcare needs.

Visit our web site to find an oB/gYn, Family medicine, internal medicine, or Pediatrics office in your neighborhood.

7686-2 OBGYN & Peds WilmingtonParent.indd 1

wilmingtonhealth.com

4/5/13 8:54:30 AM

Summer with

Enrolling for 2013-14

Friends Art, Music & Academic camps for ages 2-14

Session Dates June 17th, June 24th, July 8th, July 15th, July 22nd

18 months - 2nd Grade l 207 Pine Grove Dr. l 910.791.8221 3rd - 8th Grade l 350 Peiffer Avenue l www.fsow.org

www.fsow.org

Robert T. Kelly, DDS & William R. Cherry III, DDS, MS

Summer Days Bring Sunny Smiles Specializing in Children's Dentistry Ages 1-21

Preventative Restorative • Cosmetic Nitrous Oxide and In Office Sedation Available • Early Morning/Late Afternoon Appointments Available

Dr. Cherry and his family

1635 Doctors Circle Wilmington, NC (910) 343-1735 • www.drkellydds.com www.wilmingtonparent.com

Wilmington Parent | June 2013 | 1

Art Classes Young Artist’s Series • drawing • painting

Kids Classes Adult Classes Summer Camps Abby Kampschroeder Age 7

Coming in July to Mayfaire Find us on Facebook for updates and upcoming contact information! Facebook.com/DrEggPediatricDentistry • 6781 Parker Farm Drive Suite 100

Nationally Recognized, Professional Artist & Art Educator Carolyn Faulkner 3803 Wrightsville Ave #8, Downey Branch Office Park

www.studiocrealart.com

Call 910-685-5137

Boy & Girl Haircuts First Haircut Packages Birthday Parties Natural Haircare Products Manicures/Pedicures

(910) 399-4252

www.RibbetSalon.com

2 | June 2013 | Wilmington Parent

3610-E S. College Road Wilmington, NC 28412

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Is Your Child Struggling in School? Below average reading skills, careless errors, poor memory and concentration, reverses letters? If this sounds like your child, we can help.

How Can Our Center Help?

First, we test and diagnose if a child has learning-related vision problems. If such a difficulty exists, a vision therapy program is recommended to meet the child's special needs. Your child will work on specific goals with a certified optometric therapist, under the supervision of a developmental optometrist. The ultimate goal is to allow the individual to perform up to his/her potential in the classroom without unnecessary struggling.

What Do I Need To Do?

If your student is in the 1st grade-college, and is struggling academically, call us to set up an initial appointment. When diagnosed early, we can significantly improve and often alleviate the problem entirely. Many insurances help cover the cost of testing.

Tracey Glendenning, OD, FCOVD 201 Racine Drive 395-6050

Have fun this summer, but don't forget the sunscreen!

Wilmington Pediatric Dentistry infants â&#x20AC;˘ children â&#x20AC;˘ teens

SKIP TYSON, D.D.S. STEPHANIE HEANEY, D.D.S. NOW IN SOUTHPORT

791-7380

2606 Iron Gate Dr. Suite 200, Wilmington, NC

457-0111

4330 Southport Supply Road Southport, NC 28461

surf our website

www.wilmingtonparent.com

www.catchasmile.net

Wilmington Parent | June 2013 | 3

| in this issue

Publisher/Editor in Chief Keith Jaworski 910 343-1226

E-Mail: WilmingtonParent@ec.rr.com

Features Editor Danielle Villegas 910 343-1226

E-Mail: danielle.wilmingtonparent@gmail.com

Calendar Editor: Sandie Loudermilk

E-Mail: calendar@wilmingtonparent.com

Design/Layout Department: Yulia Zarubina - Brill 910 343-1226

Have a cute photo you’d like to share? Submit your photo for consideration seasidemedia1@gmail.com July Theme - Life’s a Beach!

E-Mail: ads@wilmingtonparent.com

Customer Service 910 343-1226

E-Mail: wilmingtonparent@wilmingtonparent.com

To Advertise Contact: Beth Burgee 561-339-6154

E-mail: beth.wilmingtonparent@gmail.com

June 2013

Andrea Knight 910-632-0283

E-mail: andreailmparent@gmail.com

SPecial Section: choices in Childcare

26 27-31 28 30 11 13 22 35 5 6 8 10 12

need a sitter?

E-mail: kelly.savvymomsilm@gmail.com

advertising section should your child attend preschool? childcare Resource Listing great gifts for Graduates soothing the burns & bites of summer library Event story Extravaganza the great american Backyard Campout

Editor’s Note short stuff Growing Up Online family finance Reel life

Savvy Moms Ilm Kelly Brantley 910-338-9678

14 23 32 34 36

Calendar school notes FIT FAMILY Going Green Peanut Gallery

Public Service Announcements/Calendar Please submit items/photos before the 2nd Friday of the prior month

or E-Mail: calendar@wilmingtonparent.com or Fax: 910 343-1227

Opinions/Suggestions/Feedback We value our readers opinions — help us to serve you better! Our mailing address is: Wilmington Parent

PO Box 1336, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 or E-Mail: WilmingtonParent@ec.rr.com

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 2010 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. Subscription rates for home delivery are $24 for one year. member

cover credits

Cover by Nichole Louise Photography 910-367-5151 • www.nicholelouisephotography.com 4 | June 2013 | Wilmington Parent

Please recycle this magazine

www.wilmingtonparent.com

| editor’s note at The Children's Schoolhouse

Wilmington's Oldest Montessori School 28 Years of Academic Excellence

he highly anticipated summer break and warmer weather is finally here! There are tons of activities and events all month long, so keep our calendar handy, and enjoy the season! However, we all know that summertime also brings a few annoyances. When the bugs and burns become a problem, check out the article, “Soothing the Stings, Bites, and Burns of Summer”, by writer Ashley Talmadge. She offers tips on how to calm the pain and itchiness with simple home remedies. If you want to avoid some of the outdoor summer problems, be sure to check out your local library! Inside you will find many worlds waiting to be discovered among the wall to wall shelves, all in a cooler setting with comfy seats, and sometimes entertainment! A listing of library events and information about the Storytelling Festival can be found on pg. 22. For those looking to enjoy an outdoor adventure this summer, join families across the country as they celebrate The Great American Backyard Campout on June 22nd! Don’t miss the information on how to register, plus other exciting campout ideas, on pg. 35. Although summer has just begun, it is also an excellent time to start planning ahead for childcare and preschool. Our Choosing Childcare special section begins on pg. 26 with an article geared towards helping parents choose the right sitter for your family. Following that article, you will find local childcare resources and other important information. Our Fit Family section is a must see this month! Look on pg. 32 for information on Wilmington Parent magazine’s Fit Family Challenge. Starting next month, we will begin choosing families to participate in our challenge to improve their family’s fitness. Interested families should also visit our website for more details. Enjoy your summer!

Danielle www.wilmingtonparent.com

Now Enrolling for 1/2 Day On-Site Summer Camp

Session I June 6 - June 26 Session II July 8 - July 26

Young children learn about our wonderful coastal environment in the safety of the Montessori classroom. This exciting marine experience is appropriate for children ages 3-6. Curriculum includes many sea critters, art, music, movement and many exciting takes of the sea! Sea life provided by Hieronymus Fishing Charter and Guide Service

PARENTING IS Parenting Causing YouHARD! Stress?

THE PARENTING PROFESSIONALS CAN HELP THE PARENTING PROFESSIONALS CAN HELP!

• We Individual parenting Offer the Following Services for Parents: skills sessions • Personal parenting guidance and

skills training in your home or • Small group parenting our offices skills workshops

• Learn proven strategies for key

• Individual, couples, parenting challenges like discipline, child and family sibling rivalry, tantrums, adolescent psychotherapy attitude and ADHD • • Child-focused Large groupparent counseling • Individual, couples and family parenting seminars psychotherapy

call us or VisitOUR our website for dates of parenting VISIT WEBSITE FOR DATES OF workshops and seminars PARENTING WORKSHOPS AND SEMINARS

Schedule aSchedule personal consultation to learn how to quickly create peace in your a personal consultation to learn how to family quickly create peace in your family 910-777-4728 or www.successfulparentinginstitute.com 910-777-4728 or www.successfulparentinginstitute.com Nancy B. Kotz MSW, LCSW I Arthur J. Frankel LCSW, PhD I David L.L.HillHill MD, FAAP Nancy B. Kotz MSW, LCSW | Arthur J. Frankel LCSW, PhD | David MD, FAAP Natasha Nunes, MS, NCC, LPC I Gail Richardson, MA Wilmington Parent | June 2013 | 5

short stuff MOMS OF SPECIAL NEEDS KIDS GET A REPRIEVE THIS SUMMER This July mothers of children with special needs like ADHD, Autism, FASD, mental health diagnoses, and other brain-based disabilities will be getting the pampering they deserve. Created by moms of kids with special needs for other moms of kids with special needs, the Happy Mama Conference and Retreat will be at the Brier Creek Embassy Suites in Raleigh July 12 - 14.

Learn new things this summer – for FREE! Don’t let your kids fall behind this summer! Screen time can be used for education and fun! There are many websites that offer free opportunities for everyone to review what they’ve learned or try something new. Here are some great ones to get you started! Starfall – Fun website for kids learning to read. www.Starfall.com Khan academy – A library of videos ranging from basic arithmetic to physics, history to cryptography, and hundreds of skills to practice. www.khanacademy.org Funology – This is a great site for hands-on activities. There are science experiments, magic tricks, crafts, and many “betcha can’t” challenges! www.funology.com

Parents of children with neuro-behavioral special needs often feel isolated, judged, unsupported, and stressed. The Happy Mama Conference and Retreat offers a soft place to land for mothers who need a break. This event gives mothers an opportunity to be surrounded by others who understand the challenges they face in a judgment-free zone. Nationally known speakers will present on topics such as self-care, educational advocacy, motivation, and mindfulness. A mid-day break will allow women to socialize, relax, and attend an optional restorative yoga class. Chair massages and other pampering will be available on site and at nearby spas. The registration fee is $165 only until June 15, 2013 (this does NOT including lodging costs). The registration fee increases to $175 June 15-July 3, 2013. Registration is closed after July 3, 2013. To find out more about The Happy Mama Conference and Retreat, please visit their website: if-mama-aint-happy.com or email them at happymamaretreat@gmail.com. Scholarships for the event may be available for residents of North Carolina. Please see the website for details.

Customized Banners • Photocopies • Border

831 South Kerr Avenue Wilmington, NC

910-799-0101 www.teachersaidnc.com

(Free Shipping from Site to Store)

www.facebook.com/teachersaidnc

10% OFF your Entire Purchase Expires: June 30, 2013

*Excludes any other promotion, discount, Girl Scout Product, Special Orders and Consignments.

Homeschool Consignment • Homework Helpers • Project supplies • Bulletin Board Paper • Puzzles • Globes

Decor for the classroom & Home • Learning Place mats

Incentive Charts • Stickers • Pencils • Erasers • Flash cards • Workbooks • Reward Items • Toys • Games

Picture Your Dad Art Contest Father’s Day is June 16th, and that’s a perfect time to think about your super special dad! While you’re at it, why not draw a picture of your dad or grandpa with a sentence about what makes him special. If you turn it in to Learning Express Toys on Military Cutoff Dr, you will be eligible to win a $25 Learning Express gift card and a $25 Starbucks gift card for dad! Make sure your little artist has their original artwork turned in by June 14th. All artwork will be displayed in the store windows! Call 509-0153 or 313-3100 for more information.

Park Avenue School 6 weeks – 12 years (infants – school age) ***availability all ages*** 1306 Floral Parkway Wilmington, NC • 910-791-6217 • www.parkavenueschoolnc.weebly.com 6 | June 2013 | Wilmington Parent

www.wilmingtonparent.com

I Scream for Ice Cream! Summer is a perfect time to dig out that ice cream maker and enjoy your favorite frozen treat. Feeling adventurous? Even though June 7th is National Chocolate Ice Cream Day, why not try some new flavors? Get the kids involved in coming up with their own variations too! Start with the basics: 2 c. cold heavy cream 1 c. cold whole milk 3/4 c. sugar Stir ingredients together until the sugar has dissolved, then freeze in your ice cream maker according to the instructions. Banana Split Ice Cream Add to the basic recipe: 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1 c. mashed ripe bananas (the riper the bananas, the better the flavor) 1/4 tsp. nutmeg 3/4 c. milk 1 can. fruit cocktail, drained 1/2 c. chopped peanuts 1/2 c. chocolate sauce, half frozen in freezer (should be paste-like) Blend the milk and bananas together with the nutmeg and vanilla. Chill for at least an hour before adding to the main recipe and freezing according to the directions. 5 min. before the end, add the can of fruit cocktail. Once the ice cream is finished, stir in nuts and chocolate sauce by hand before serving.

Two New Inflatables! Book Your Party Now ~ call or go online

910-796-1896

www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com 3529 Carolina Beach Road

Carmel Apple Ice Cream In a frying pan, saute 2 medium apples, chopped, in 2 Tblsp. butter. Add 1 tsp. cinnamon and cook over low heat until the apples are soft. Mash them well and chill in the fridge before starting the ice cream. You will need the basic recipe, but only use half the sugar. Replace the other half with 1 cup of prepared caramel sauce. Freeze as usual, adding the apple mixture 10 min. before the ice cream is finished. Source: www.squidoo.com

Thalian Association Children’s Theater Presents Disney’s High School Musical Thalian Association Children’s Theater (TACT) presents Disney’s High School Musical June 13-16 at the Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center, 120 South 2nd Street in downtown Wilmington. Showtimes - Thursday-Saturday at 7PM with Saturday and Sunday matinees at 3PM. $12 general admission at the door or advance reservations by calling 910.251.1788. The TACT production features 50 of Wilmington’s brightest young stars directed by David T. Loudermilk, who guided TACT’s Guys & Dolls to a Wilmington Theater Award for Best Children’s Production last season. For more information about High School Musical or the upcoming 2013-2014 TACT season and TACT Academy schedule please contact Jason Aycock at 910.262.0470 or jasonaycock@ thalian.org.

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Wilmington Parent | June 2013 | 7

| growing up online

| By Carolyn Jabs

Is Technology Rewiring Your Baby’s Brain?

t’s a rule nearly every parent breaks. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children under two have no exposure to screens. That guideline was hard enough to follow when it applied to background TV and baby videos. Now that very young children are reaching for smartphones and tablets, most parents hand them over sooner or later. Some experts argue that these screens are different because they are interactive. When a little child pokes the screen, something exciting happens. There’s no question that this kind of cause and effect is mesmerizing, but is it good for little brains? The honest answer is no one knows because there hasn’t been time to do the relevant research. What scientists do know is that baby brains grow dramatically. At birth, each baby brain cell has about 2500 synapses or connections to other brain cells. Around age three, the typical brain cell has 15,000 connections because of the baby’s astonishing ability to learn. The AAP argues that there’s no reason to take chances with that development. Even if there’s no evidence that screen time is bad for baby brains, there’s also no evidence that it does anything to promote healthy growth. In some ways, this mirrors the conversation about sugary foods. Parents know candy and cookies aren’t necessary for growth. And, in large quantities, they displace other essential nutrients. Yet, sooner or later, most parents introduce kids to the pleasures of lollipops and birthday cake. Depending on how it’s done, the child may accept these foods as occasional treats or he may whine for candy every time he finds himself in a checkout aisle. Until we have evidence that screen time is good for babies and toddlers, access to technology should be limited and thoughtfully supervised by parents. Since you can’t see what’s happening in your baby’s brain, you’ll need other indicators to be sure development is on track. Here are a few questions worth asking:

Is your child excited to play with you? Experts agree that a deep connection with parents is crucial during the first two years of life. Early interactions in which children learn to make and break eye contact or to take turns making sounds become the foundation for emotional intelligence. Having face-to-face fun with your baby sets up a lifelong assumption that interacting with people is rewarding for its own sake.

Do people talk to your child—a lot? Research done in the 1990’s demonstrated that babies who hear around 2,000 words per hour do better in school and even have higher IQ’s. That’s because the language centers of the brain are especially absorbent during the first three years. Recorded words don’t make much of an impression. Language needs to be tailored to the child, responsive both to what she is doing and her emotions. Parents, of course, aren’t the only ones who should be talking to babies. Be sure other caregivers are aware of how important it is to use language with children who seem like they are too young to understand. 8 | June 2013 | Wilmington Parent

Does your child enjoy 3-dimensional play? Babies and toddlers figure out the world by picking things up, chewing on them, poking, throwing, rolling and stacking them. Not only is this fun, but it gives your child the basis for concepts like round and flat, fuzzy and smooth. A touch screen may reference these ideas but it takes lots of real life experience to get them fixed firmly in the brain. Healthy babies are always reaching and exploring. Most of what they find should stimulate multiple senses.

Can your child detach from the screen? Some parents report that little ones become fixated on smartphones and tablets, whining for them when they could be doing other things and melting down when parents take them away. According to Michael Rich, director of Boston’s Center on Media and Child Health, this occurs because the visual stimuli of many apps gives children a regular squirt of dopamine, a brain chemical that creates sensations of pleasure. Too much of this can create cravings that babies—and sometimes older people--can’t resist. Is your child able to settle down for quiet time and sleeping? Because baby brains are growing so rapidly, they can easily become overstimulated. Being able to settle and sleep peacefully is a lifelong skill, and most parents intuitively help little children calm down by gentle rocking, singing and stroking. Research indicates that the light emitted by screens stimulates brain waves in ways that interfere with sleep, so screentime should never be part of a baby’s bedtime routine.

Can you focus on your child? No matter what you say, young children will mimic what you do. If you are tethered to your devices--checking e-mail during diaper changes, texting during playtime, talking on the phone during walks with your baby—your behavior will imprint on your child. More important, your distraction will keep you from playing what Uri Bronfenbrenner, co-founder of Head Start, called “ping pong” with your child: Your baby giggles and you repeat whatever you did to make her laugh. Your toddler says something that sounds like Mama and you respond with delight. As Bronfenbrenner famously put it, healthy development occurs “through the process of progressively more complex exchange between a child and somebody else--especially somebody who’s crazy about that child.” If you can answer, “yes” to all these questions, you can be confident that your baby’s brain is getting what it needs. Under those circumstances, handing over the smartphone to secure a moment of quiet isn’t any more harmful than offering a cookie for the same reason. Neither is likely to undermine healthy development for your baby, unless you turn it into a habit. 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 and is working on a book about constructive responses to conflict. Visit www.growing-up-online.com to read other columns.

www.wilmingtonparent.com

At Busch Gardens and Water Country USA, even the youngest members of your family can touch the sky and go wild in the water. Busch Gardens has more than 50 exciting rides and attractions designed to entertain kids ages nine and younger. And down the road at Water Country USA, your little ones can soak up the fun inside three areas created just for them. That’s two amazing parks dedicated to kid-friendly fun. Look for the KIDsiderate logo to find these exciting attractions and rides on your next visit.

You’re never too small to soar high and splash big.

buschgardens.com/va

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Wilmington Parent | June 2013 | 9

Just add water for your fun time. Call us...

| family finance | By Robyn Passante

All types of events • Can set-up INdoors or OUTdoors • We deliver and pick up

910.200.4685

info@funtimeinflatablesnc.com

www.funtimeinflatablesnc.com

Amy Bradley School Summer School High School Remedial

June 24-July 12 July 15-August 2 Regular June 24-July 26 M-F 8:30-2:30

Elementary and Middle School

Grades K-8 June 10-21 August 5-23 9am-noon

910.794-6977 www.amybradleyschool.com

Life Insurance 101: Protecting Your Family

took over our family’s finances several months ago, and one of the first things I noticed was how often I was paying life insurance premiums. It seemed like every time I sent off another quarterly premium payment, another one for a different policy was waiting for me in the mailbox. Finally I gathered them all together and added up how much life insurance my husband and I had, and was staggered by the amount. How much life insurance does one family need,? I kept asking myself. So I did some research, and thought my readers might benefit from what I found out.

The right amount of coverage depends on a lot of factors. Independent financial planners recommend this rule of thumb: Purchase an amount of coverage equal to 6-10 times your annual gross income, using the lower level if you don’t have many dependents or debts, and the higher level if you have larger debts and more than one dependent. But there are a lot of personal factors that can shift that number significantly. A few questions you and your spouse should sit down and answer together are: • How much money do your dependents need each year and for how long? Because your children are likely different ages, that number is different for each beneficiary. • Do you want the policy to cover college expenses, and if so how much is that projected to be? • If your spouse isn’t currently working full-time, would that partner have the ability to work? How much income could they contribute annually? There are several online life insurance calculators that allow you to plug in figures that are relevant to your family to help you get started. (Try the one on financial expert and author Ellie Kay’s website: http://www.elliekay.com/calculators/how_much_life_ins.php).

Generally speaking, stick with term policies over permanent (whole). Term life insurance is what most families opt for to protect against loss of income due to a spouse’s death during the childrearing years. Term policies are great for covering a spouse’s lost salary, and they cover short-term protection against debt as well as long-term protection to help pay off a mortgage or pay for college. You pay a premium, usually annually or monthly, and are protected for that “term.” Don’t buy life insurance for your kids. Financial experts generally suggest investing in your children’s future by setting up traditional savings or investment accounts for them. Their needs will be factored into your life insurance policy, but unless your child is a huge breadwinner in the family (a la Justin Bieber), a life insurance policy isn’t necessary.

If you already have life insurance, it may need an update. Setting up life insurance is an uncomfortable chore for many because it brings to mind a number of unsettling thoughts and “what if’s.” So it’s common to buy it and bury it, so to speak, never returning to check your policy and make sure it still suits your needs. But families change, and your life insurance policy might need to change too. If there has been a divorce or a remarriage, you might need to update your beneficiary information. If your salary has taken a significant jump, if you’ve bought a home, or if you have another child whose future college expenses need to be considered, you might need to bump up your policy. You should check your policy at least every three years to make sure everything is up to date. v Robyn Passante is a freelance journalist and mother of two who used to be way over-insured. She can be reached at rspassante@gmail.com.

10 | June 2013 | Wilmington Parent

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Eight Great Gifts for your High School Graduate By Pam Molnar

he sounds of Pomp & Circumstance fill the air as we approach graduation season. When your graduate closes the door to childhood, you want to give him a gift that reflects that milestone. Stuck for ideas? No matter what your budget, you are sure to find a great gift for your graduate here:

Books – A classic graduation book is Dr. Seuss’ “Oh, the Places

Spirit wear – Help your recent grad blend in at their new school by

Grown-up Clothes – It’s time for your grad to join the big world of jobs and internships. It also might be time for a closet makeover. Give them the gift of a professional wardrobe that will help them make a good impression when the time is right.

getting them some college spirit wear. Contact the school directly or go online to PrepSportsWear.com. They have an amazing database of colleges in the U.S and Canada.

Luggage – Maybe your grad is taking a year off and plans to travel. Whether they are traveling first class or backpacking across the country, they need something to hold their things. For daily use, consider purchasing a book bag for walking around campus or a duffle bag for the gym. Toolkit – If your grad is planning to move out of Mom and Dad’s house, they won’t have access to Dad’s toolbox. A basic toolkit includes screwdrivers, pliers, a hammer, measuring tape and other handy tools. You can find a ready-made toolkit at your local hardware store.

Gift cards – Gift cards are a one-size-fits-all type of gift. New college students might appreciate a gas card or a gift card to Walmart, where they can pick up food, toiletries or household items. IKEA sells inexpensive furniture for small spaces – perfect for a dorm setting.

A Basket of Goodies – Whether your grad is starting out in his first apartment or headed to the dorm, he will appreciate a basket full of essentials. Fill a laundry basket with snack foods, toiletries, a sewing kit, and a roll of quarters for the Laundromat.

You’ll Go!” which is an inspirational graduation sendoff for all ages. For practical college advice, try “The Secrets of College Success” by Lynn F. Jacobs. To record their college experiences, consider buying a 5-year journal.

Homemade gift – If you have the time to make it, a homemade gift is a heartfelt one. Make a pillow or quilt out of high school and sports t-shirts. Put together a scrap book of high school memories and include theatre programs, sports medals and football programs. Create a photo montage of pictures from Kindergarten to graduation and present it at her party. Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three. She takes pleasure in finding the perfect gift for the graduates in her life.

eterinary Ho Neck V s r te A Full Service, Small sp r o Animal Hospital

pediatric dentistry

l ita

We’ll treat your pet like one of our own!

Ron & Sharon Harris, DVM Dr. Rebecca Simmons - Resnick, DVM Stan Griffith, DVM Amy K. White, DVM • Vaccines • Surgery • Geriatric • Dentistry Wellness • X-Rays • Spay/Neuter • Boarding • Bathing

Two Locations

Family owned & operated since 1999

686-6297 Emergencies 791-7387 8129 Market St. (behind TLC Auto Wash)

www.portersneckvets.com www.wilmingtonparent.com

Specialized Dentistry for Infants, Children, Adolescents and Children with Special Needs 8115 Market Street Ste. 204 • 910-686-1869 • www.GrowingGrins.com Conveniently located on the 2nd floor of the Medac Building in Porters Neck

306 Dolphin Drive, Jacksonville • 910-333-0343 Wilmington Parent | June 2013 | 11

reel life

| By Jane Louise Boursaw

June brings Will Smith and son Jaden in an epic sci-fi movie, the iconic Superman on the big screen again, and familiar monsters on a college campus. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s new in theaters this month.

After Earth

Not yet rated; likely PG-13. In theaters June 7 (2D, 3D). Ok for kids 13+. afterearth.com.

Director Zack Snyder helms this film about the iconic superhero, played by Henry Cavill. You know the story: A child, sent to Earth from a dying planet, is adopted by a couple in rural Kansas. Posing as a journalist, he uses his extraordinary powers to protect his new home from an insidious evil. All-star cast includes Russell Crowe as Jor-El, Amy Adams as Lois Lane, Diane Lane as Martha Kent, Kevin Costner as Jonathan Kent, and Laurence Fishburne as Perry White. An excellent installment to the long-running franchise, and definitely worth seeing on the big screen.

One thousand years after cataclysmic events forced humanity to flee Earth, Nova Prime has become mankind’s new home. Legendary General Cypher Raige (Will Smith) returns from an extended tour of duty to his estranged family, ready to be a father to his 13-year-old son, Kitai (real-life son Jaden Smith). When an asteroid storm damages Cypher and Kitai’s craft, they crash-land on a now unfamiliar and dangerous Earth. As his father lies dying in the cockpit, Kitai must trek across the hostile terrain to recover their rescue beacon. His whole life, Kitai has wanted nothing more than to be a soldier like his father. Now he gets that chance. It’s clear that Jaden has inherited his dad’s acting chops, and I love seeing them on screen together.

Much Ado About Nothing

PG-13 for some sexuality and brief drug use. In theaters June 21. www.muchadothemovie.com.

Monsters University

Not yet rated; likely PG. In theaters June 21. Ok for kids 6+. disney.go.com/monsters-university.

Man of Steel

PG-13 for intense sequences of sci-fi violence, action and destruction, and for some language. In theaters June 14 (2D, 3D, IMAX). Ok for kids 13+. manofsteel.warnerbros.com/index.html.

Mike and Sulley overcame their differences and became the best of friends. Directed by Dan Scanlon from a screenplay by Andrew Stanton and Pete Docter, the star-studded voice cast also includes Helen Mirren, Steve Buscemi, Alfred Molina, Sean P. Hayes and more.

Squeeeee! Mike Wazowski (Billy Crystal) and James P. Sullivan (John Goodman) are back in this Disney Pixar prequel to 2001’s popular “Monsters, Inc.” Sure, the two amiable monsters were an inseparable pair in that movie, but that wasn’t always the case. From the moment they met, they couldn’t stand each other, and “Monsters University” unlocks the door to how

It’s good to be Joss Whedon. Every time you make a movie, you get all of your closest friends together to act in it. Then you go from vampires to superheroes to musicals to science fiction to Shakespeare, all in the course of a decade. And people love it. They love you. And with good reason. Whedon knows how to tell a good story, and that’s why it doesn’t matter which genre he’s working in at any particular moment. What matters is whether you’ve got good characters, snappy writing and a great story -- all of which this movie has, along with a classic lineage. The modern retelling of Shakespeare’s comedy follows two pairs of lovers with different takes on romance and a way with words. Stars include Amy Acker, Alexis Denisof, Nathan Fillion and more of Whedon’s inner circle..

Jane Boursaw is a syndicated family entertainment writer specializing in movies, TV and celebrities. Visit her at http://www.reellifewithjane.com or email jboursaw@charter.net.

Jane’s Reel Rating System 1 Reel - Even the Force can’t save it. 2 Reels - Coulda’ been a contender. 3 Reels - Something to talk about. 4 Reels - You want the truth? Greatflick! 5 Reels- Wow! The stuff dreams are made of.

12 | June 2013 | Wilmington Parent

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Emergency! When to Seek Medical Attention. Rogers warns that “when it comes to stings, it is always essential to rule out anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) before turning to our home remedies.” Other severe medical conditions may also warrant treatment by a medical professional. Call 9-1-1 immediately if any of the following symptoms are present: • Skin reactions (hives, itching, flushing) in areas other than the sting site • Swelling of the mouth, throat, and/or tongue • Difficulty breathing • Weak and rapid pulse

Soothing the Stings, Bites, and Burns of Summer By Ashley Talmadge

hhh, summer! The joy of being in the great outdoors once again seems endless. With the season also comes an abundance of biting insects, ultraviolet sunrays, and rash-producing plants.

When the exuberant squeals turn into screams of pain, most parents are well-versed in the standard treatment of these minor traumas. Ice, OTC pain relievers, lotions, and antihistamines can take an agonizing 30 minutes to kick in. Luckily, there is a treasure trove of quick-acting treatment options right in the kitchen. Naturopathic doctor Michelle Rogers of Earth Friendly Medicine says, “The main advantages include fewer side effects, supporting the body’s natural ability to heal itself (which is essential for the maturing immune system), cost effectiveness, and decreased environmental impact.” Here are some household remedies for treating the unavoidable stings, bites, and burns of summer.

• Dizziness

Bee, wasp, and hornet stings. A bee stings once, but leaves its stinger behind. Remove the

• Nausea or vomiting

stinger as quickly as possible. More venom is dispensed the longer it is left in the skin. Wasps and hornets do not leave their stingers behind and may sting multiple times, so leave the area before starting treatment!

• Severe headache • Neck stiffness • Disorientation or confusion • Blistering sunburn covering a large portion of the body • High fever or extreme discomfort Other reasons to seek medical attention: • If a person has a history of dangerous reactions to stings, call 9-1-1 even if symptoms are not present. • Multiple stings - If a person (especially a child) has been stung more than 10 times. • Mouth stings - Always seek medical advice if a child is stung on the lips or inside the mouth as quickly as possible so the airway is not affected. • Failure to begin healing after several days

How to make an oatmeal bath—a great soother for itching burning skin. 1. Measure about a cup of unflavored oats per bathtub of water. Instant, quickcooking, and old fashioned oats all work well. 2. Grind the oats to a fine powder, using a coffee grinder or food processor on the “high” setting. 3. Test your powder by adding a spoonful to a cup of warm water. It should make the water look “milky” and feel “silky.” If there’s a lot of sediment, you need to grind it more. 4. Pour the ground oatmeal into running tepid bath water, stirring as you go. 5. Be sure to help your child in and out of the bath, as it will be slippery.

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Make a thick paste using water and one of the following ingredients: • Baking soda • Meat tenderizer (contains papain, which is said to break down proteins in the venom) • Charcoal (the activated form is cleanest, but charcoal from a campfire can be used in a pinch) • Honey (unpasteurized contains antibacterial agents) • Dirt/mud • Toothpaste (undiluted) Apply directly to the wound. Leave on for 20-30 minutes. Or try one of these plant-based items: • Sliced onion • Papaya (a natural source of the papain found in meat tenderizer) • Plantain (a common backyard weed) ground into a poultice Leave on the wound for about 20 minutes.

Itchy bug bites. Many of the remedies used for stings (e.g. baking soda, charcoal, and onion) may also be used to treat the itchy bites of insects such as mosquitoes, horse flies and black flies. Additional remedies for itching include: • Oatmeal bath • Aloe cream (refrigerated for better itch relief) • Green tea bag, dampened and refrigerated • Tea tree oil, witch hazel, or alcohol (including hand sanitizer) • Basil, crushed (repels mosquitoes and contains anesthetic properties) • Mouthwash with menthol (cools the bite site)

Sunburn. A cool bath is often the best way to relieve sunburned skin. Many believe in the addition of oatmeal, baking soda, or vinegar as a soothing agent. After a soak, try one of these home remedies: • Aloe (best straight from the plant, but pre-made lotions are helpful) • Shaving cream • Milk or yogurt • Potatoes (pulverized to a liquid, dried on the skin, and showered off) • Corn starch (dusted on non-blistered areas irritated by clothing straps or bands)

Poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac. It is essential to wash well with soap and water to remove any oily residue from the skin. After that, a cooling bath can work wonders. Previously mentioned bath additives like oatmeal and baking soda tend to work well to relieve itching. You can also try Epsom salts, buttermilk, or mint tea as a soothing addition. After dabbing the rash dry, try applying one of the following to dry the outbreak and speed healing: • Oatmeal, baking soda, or vinegar paste • Water melon rind • Cucumber slices • Lemon slices • Banana peel • And nothing beats a bag of frozen veggies placed on the rash site for the ultimate cooling relief! v Ashley Talmadge is a freelance writer and mother of two energetic boys, who spend most of their summer days outdoors.

Wilmington Parent | June 2013 | 13

• PLA N YOUR MO N TH WITH US

CALENDAR

june | 2013 1 Saturday (Atlantic Hurricane Season Begins) Picture Your Dad Art Contest Turn in by 6/14. Learning Express Toys, Military Cutoff & Oleander Drive. Draw an original picture of dad or grandpa with a sentence about what makes him special. Bring to either store by Friday 6/14. All artwork displayed in windows and artists eligible to win $25 LE gift card and $25 Starbucks gift card for dad. Call 509-0153 or 313-3100 with questions. Cotton Exchange Tours Daily (Year Round). Cotton Exchange, Downtown. Tales of mystery of the Cotton Exchange ghosts. $10/Adults. $8/ Students & Seniors. Free/Under age 12. Visit www.TourOldWilmington.blogspot.com or call 409-4300 for information. Here and Now: A Decade of Contemporary Acquisitions Daily (through 07/21). Cameron Art Museum. View contemporary works of art featuring Romare Bearden, Jose Bernal, Allen Carter and more. Call 395-5999 or visit http://cameronartmuseum.com for list of artists. Attack of the Bloodsuckers! Daily (through 09/29). Cape Fear Museum. Explore the science creatures that eat blood, through encounters with interactive activities. Visit www.capefearmuseum.com or call 798-4350 for details. Katie B. Hines Senior Center Pancake Breakfast 7:30 – 11am. Senior Center, 308 Cape Fear Blvd. $6 includes pancakes, sausage, eggs, juice and coffee. Call 458-6609 for details. Riverfront Farmer’s Market 8am – 1pm Saturdays (through 12/21). North Water Street. Features local farmers, produce, arts & crafts, music, and more. Call 538-6223 with questions.

14 | June 2013 | Wilmington Parent

Carolina Beach Farmers Market & Art Show 8am – 1pm Saturdays (through 09/28). Carolina Beach Lake. Vendors sell locally produced fruits and vegetables, plants, and more. Live entertainment. Free parking at Lake and Lake Park Blvd. Call 458-7822 or visit www.facebook. com/CarolinaBeachFarmersMarket for updates. Learn to Row Open House 8:30am – 12pm. Wilmington Marine Center. Cape Fear River Rowing Club hosts a tour of the club’s boathouse and demonstrations on proper rowing techniques. Ages 14+. Free. Contact 431-6539 for information. 2nd Annual Run, Ride & Roll 9am – 12pm. Empie Park. Enjoy the 8-mile trip from Empie Park to Halyburton Park and back on the Cross-City Trail. Free. Call 341-0107 to register. Historic Wilmington Walking Tour 10am Saturdays (through 10/12). 17th & Market Streets. Step back in time with a streetcar tour of downtown Wilmington. $10. Visit www.historicwilmington.org for showcased home information. 20th Anniversary Party 10am – 2pm. Myrtle Grove Library. Four sessions of story time, historical displays, and memory book on this special occasion. Refreshments provided. Free. Call 798-6328 for details. Spring Flea at the BAC 10am – 5pm. Brooklyn Arts Center. Find vintage, retro, upcycled items. $5 admission. 12 years and under free. Call 538-2939 for event details. Horsedrawn Tours 10am – 10pm Daily. Water & Market Streets, downtown. Costumed driver narrates a unique adventure along the riverfront, driven by rescued horses. $12/Adults. $5/ Children under 12. Call 251-8889 with questions. Visit www.horsedrawntours.com for coupon.

Carolina Beach Music Festival 10:30am. Carolina Beach. 28th Annual “shaggers” and beach music festival hosted by Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce. $15/Advance. $20/At Gate. Call 458-8434 or visit www.pleasureislandnc.org for band schedule. Beginner Skateboard Clinic 10:30am. Greenfield Grind Skatepark. Skaters become familiar with equipment, skatepark setup, and fundamental skills. Ages 7-12. $15 (includes 2 free day passes for future visits). Call 362-8222 for details. Sensational Saturday Story Time 10:30am. Northeast Library. Read stories and enjoy fun activities. Call 798-6373 for details. Sightseeing Cruise 11:30am – 1:30pm (through 10/31). Henrietta III, downtown. Call ahead regarding lunch/sightseeing cruise as schedule varies. $27/Adults. $13/Ages 2-12. Board at 11:30. Visit www.cfrboats.com for buffet & ticket information. Shoulder Buddy Summer Smart Party 2 – 4pm. Learning Express Toys, Military Cutoff & Oleander Drive locations. Drop by to design a Shoulder Buddy and come up with a new “smart” for summer. Register to win autographed books and free Shoulder Buddies. Call 5090153 or 313-3100 with questions. The Penguin Music Festival & Castle Street Americana Festival 2 – 10pm. Castle Street Art District. 1st Annual Festival with antique car show, art vendors and antique sales. $35/ Advance. $40/Day of. Children 10 and under Free. Call 232-8414 for details. Game Time 4pm Saturdays. Children’s Museum. Explore and discover new games, team building skills, and fun. Free with admission or membership. Visit www.playwilmington.org for weekly details.

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Swing and a Miss 6:30pm. TheatreNOW, 19 S. 10th St. Original play revolving around star players of the Wilmington Sharks, whose love lives are getting in the way of winning a championship. Recommended for teens and older. $30 - $42. Visit http:// theatrewilmington.com for tickets. Dinner Cruise 6:30 – 9pm Saturdays. Henrietta III, downtown. Enjoy a cruise, buffet dinner and entertainment. $51/Adults. $35/Ages 2-12. Visit www.cfrboats.com for tickets and schedule. Stormfest 7 – 10pm. Cape Fear Museum. Meet meteorologists from area news stations; learn about weather phenomena, and more. Free and open to public. Visit www.capefearmuseum.com for details. Hammerheads vs Phoenix FC Wolves 7:30pm. Legion Stadium. Don’t miss a fun family sports night. $12/Adults. $10/Seniors. $8/Children. Visit www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com or call 777-2111 for tickets. Shakespeare on the Green Festival – Shadows of Shakespeare 8pm. Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre. Enjoy a collection of Shakespeare’s characters exhibiting the myriad tones of the human spirit. Free. (Donations accepted.) Call 399-2878 or visit www.capefearshakespeare.org for performance schedule. Movies in the Park 8 – 11pm. Leland Municipal Park. Enjoy summertime movies. Free. Call 371-0148 for movie schedule.

2 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.

Summer Music Series 4 - 8pm. Bluewater Grill. Central Park. Call 256-8500 for more information.

Spanish speaking instructor from the Children’s Museum of Wilmington. Ages 6 months – 5 years. Call 509-0153 for reservations.

Shakespeare on the Green Festival – Shadows of Shakespeare 8pm. Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre. See 06/01.

Go Green Engineer Team 3:30pm Mondays. Children’s Museum. Hands-on challenges that focus on the engineering design process using simple materials. Ages 5-9. Visit www.playwilmington.org or call 254-3534 to pre-register.

Free Movies at the Lake 8:45pm (through 09/01). Carolina Beach Lake Park. “Frankenweenie.” Free. Visit www.pleasureislandnc.org for summer movie list.

3 Monday Wrightsville Beach Farmers’ Market 8am – 1pm. Mondays (through 09/02). Seawater Lane, Wrightsville Beach. Enjoy a place to purchase locally grown produce and crafts. Contact 256-7925 or parksandrecreation@ towb.org. Little Sprouts Story Time 10am Mondays. Children’s Museum. Preschoolers meet new people, hear wonderful stories, and enjoy an activity. Free with admission. Visit www.playwilmington.org or call 254-3534 to pre-register. Youth Nature Program: Animal Needs 10am. Halyburton Park. Designed for toddlers ages 2-5 to learn about animals that are commonly seen at the park. $3. Call 341-0075 to pre-register. Music Mondays 10am Mondays. Tmuffin. Shake your shakers and make some music. May stay, play and have creative art fun afterwards. Ages 0-7. $9 (for all day play and music). Contact gaby@ tmuffin.com for details. Railroad Story Time 10:30am. Wilmington Railroad Museum. Hear stories and enjoy creative activities in the Children’s Hall. $4/Family. Free/ Members. Call 763-2634 for more information.

Spring Flea at the BAC 10am – 5pm. Brooklyn Arts Center. See 06/01. 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 7984350 or visit www.capefearmuseum.com for information. Young Writer’s Club 2pm Sundays. Children’s Museum. Children learn all about writing through activities. Visit www.playwilmington.org for weekly details. Boogie in the Park 4 – 7pm (through 09/01). Kure Beach Ocean Front Park, K&L Ave. The MAKO Band. Enjoy free, live music by the sea. Bring a chair or blanket along with boogie shoes for family-friendly fun. Call 458-8216 or visit www.townofkurebeach.org for band schedule.

Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. Explore the spaces for animal holding, life support systems, and backstage accesses to exhibits. Guided tour. $15/Ages 13+. $13/Ages 8-12. $7/ Members. For ages 8+ only. For required pre-registration, call 458-7468. Extended Behind the Scenes Tour 2 pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. Visit the top of the largest exhibit and get a birds-eye view of 235,000-gallon tank of sharks, stingrays, moray eels and fish. Wear close-toed shoes. $20/Age 13+.$18/Ages 8-12. $12/Members. For ages 8+ only. Call 458-7468 for information and pre-registration. Spanish for Tots 3pm. Learning Express Toys, Military Cutoff. An experience in Spanish immersion through songs and props with native

Muddy Mondays 3:30 – 4:30pm Mondays. Tmuffin. Play with clay with Muddy Schoolhouse instructor Laurel Herbert and enjoy a squishy adventure. Learn pottery and sculpture through stories, games and hands-on activities. Ages 3 – 6. $18 includes art and all day play. Contact gaby@tmuffin.com for details.

4 Tuesday Surf Fishing 8am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. Learn the art and practice of saltwater fishing from the beach. Includes 1-hour workshop plus 2-hours of fishing. Ages 10+. (Up to age 14 must be accompanied by paying adult.) $13.50/Members. $15/NonMembers. Visit www.ncaquariums.com for details. Leland’s Little Learners 9 – 10am Tuesdays. Town of Leland. Enjoy story time, arts & crafts, and playground time. Free. Ages 3-5 (parents/guardians remain with children). Contact 332-4823 to pre-register. Happy Little Singers 9:45am & 4pm Tuesdays. The Art Works, 200 Willard St. Ms. Susan’s Room presents music and arts for creative young minds through singing, dancing, instruments and creative play. Ages 6 months – 6 years. $10/Family. $5/add’l child. Drop-ins welcome. Free parking. Call 777-8889 or visit www. happylittlesingers.com or www.ms-susans-room.com for more information. Barnes & Noble Story Time 10am Tuesdays. Barnes & Noble. Enjoy weekly story time in the Children’s section. Call 509-1880 for details. Youth Nature Program: Animal Needs 10am. Halyburton Park. See 06/03. French for Tots 10am. Learning Express Toys, Oleander Drive. Bonjour and more fun with native French speaker Marie Field from the Children’s Museum of Wilmington. Ages 6 months – 5 years. Call 313-3100 for required reservations. Toddler Tuesdays: Once Upon a Paintbrush 1 10 – 11am Tuesdays. Tmuffin. A creative and playful class for preschool-aged children to explore a story through creative movement and dramatic play and hands-on activities. Ages 2 – 6. $9. Contact gaby@tmuffin.com for details.

SELL TO KID TO KID & GET

SMART PARENTS MADE SMARTER at 3501 Oleander Drive in Wilmington www.wilmingtonparent.com

*10% more in cash or store credit for the items we purchase. Must present coupon. Not good with other offers. One per family. Expires 7/31/13. CPNWP0713

Wilmington Parent | June 2013 | 15

Brilliant Sky Story Time 10:30am Tuesdays. Mayfaire Town Center. Includes games and crafts. Visit www. brilliantskytoys.com or contact 509-3353 for details. Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am & 3:15pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Toddler Tuesdays: Art FUNdamentals for Preschoolers 3:30 – 4:30pm Tuesdays. Tmuffin. Art lessons created for ages 3 – 6 years focusing on a teacher-guided, process-oriented art experience. $18 (includes all-day play). Contact gaby@tmuffin.com for details. Kids Cooking Club 3:30 - 4:30pm Tuesdays. Children’s Museum. Harris Teeter sponsors fun time of learning new skills and seasonal recipes. Visit www.playwilmington.org or call 2543534 to pre-register. Murder Mystery Cruise 6 – 8:30pm Tuesdays. Henrietta III, downtown. Mingle with crowd and watch for clues. The more audience participation the more fun. Solve the crime and win a prize. Southern buffet included. $47.50/Adult. $26.25/Ages 2-12. Visit www.cfrboats.com for tickets and information. Hometown Opry 7 – 10pm. Leland Town Hall Classroom Annex. Enjoy a bluegrass/country/gospel/ folk jam session. Musicians of all levels of experience welcomed. Spectators welcomed too. Free. Contact 332-4818 for more information.

5 Wednesday Poplar Grover Farmer’s Market 8am – 1pm Wednesdays (through 11/27). Poplar Grove Plantation. Features fresh local fruits, veggies, dairy, meats, baked goods, cut flowers and more. Free admission. Visit http://poplargrove.com for more events. Lap Sit Story Time 9am Wednesdays. Myrtle Grove Library. Designed for babies up to 18 months. Features stories, songs, rhymes and activities. No reservations required. Call 798-6393 for details.

Happy Little Singers 9:45am Wednesdays. The Art Works, 200 Willard St. See 06/04. Preschool Science 10am Wednesdays. Children’s Museum. Hands-on activities geared for little ones allowing them to explore the world around them. Visit www.playwilmington. org for details. Toddler Story Time 10am Wednesdays. Myrtle Grove Library. Children 18 - 36 months are invited to story time. Enjoy stories, songs, and pre-literacy activities. No reservations required. Call 7986393 for further details. Baby Dance Boogie 10 – 10:30am. Learning Express Toys, Military Cutoff. Danielle Tisdale (Dance With Me Director) provides free interactive class with props. Introducing jazz, letters, numbers, body parts, animals, hip-hop, ballet & more! Ages 1-3 (with parent or caregiver). Call 5090153 for required reservations. Black River Cruise 10am – 2pm. 212 S. Water St. Cruise the Black River in a 4-hour guided tour. Bring a camera. $59/Person (includes lunch). Call 338-3134 for reservations. Preschool Story Time 10:30am Wednesdays. Myrtle Grove Library. Ages 3-5 come for stories, songs, and activities. No registration required. Groups welcomed. Call 798-6393 with questions. Advantages of Breastfeeding 10:30am. Wrightsville United Methodist Church, 4 Live Oak Drive. Join La Leche League for helpful information. Moms and babies welcome. Call 256-4471 for details. Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Kids Yoga 1:30pm Wednesdays. The Art Works, 200 Willard St. Ms. Susan’s Room brings Mommy & Me yoga for together time. $10/Family. $5/add’l child. Drop-ins welcome. Free parking. Call 777-8889 or visit www.happylittlesingers.com or www.ms-susans-room. com for more information.

Extended Behind the Scenes Tour 2 pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Rap Club 3:00pm Wednesdays. Myrtle Grove Library. Choose the beat. Write the lyrics. Record the song. Work as a group to compose an original hip hop song about the library. Ages 6-12. Free. Call 798-6391 to register. Discover Science 3:30pm Wednesdays. Children’s Museum. Explore and learn about the scientific process through critical thinking. Call 2543534 or visit www.playwilmington.org to pre-register. Worldly Wednesdays 3:30 – 4:30pm Wednesdays. Tmuffin. Join the hands-on multicultural experience by creating art with inspiration from art, crafts, stories, and songs from around the world. Ages 7–12. $12 (art class only). Contact gaby@tmuffin.com for details. Mini Math 4pm. Wednesdays. Children’s Museum. Reinforce information learned in school and learn new concepts. Call 254-3534 or visit www.playwilmington.org for details. Sunset Dinner Cruise 5:30 – 8pm Wednesdays. Henrietta III, downtown. Enjoy a nostalgic and relaxing adventure along the calm waters of the Cape Fear. Ribs on the River Buffet included. $32.75/Adults. $16.75/Ages 2-12. Visit www.cfrboats.com for tickets and information.

6 Thursday Lapsit Story Time 9:30am Thursdays. Northeast Library. Babies 3-18 months enjoy fun stories and songs. No registration required. Call 798-6373 for more information. Happy Little Singers 9:45am Thursdays. The Art Works, 200 Willard St. See 06/04. StoryCOOKS 10am Thursdays. Children’s Museum. Cooking club for preschoolers. Read a story and create a dish inspired by the book. Call 254-3534 to pre-register.

Photo Credit: Christy Henderson

Artsy Toddler Story Time: Once Upon a Paintbrush 2 10am Thursdays. Tmuffin. Creative and playful class designed to nudge preschoolers into being a little more kindergarten ready, appreciating art and literature through illustrations. Ages 3 – 6. $9 (includes class). Contact gaby@tmuffin. com for details. Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am & 3:15pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Man Eating Plants: Fact or Fiction? 1:30 – 3:30pm. Halyburton Park. Discover how fierce plants derive nutrients from trapping and consuming insects and other arthropods. Build craft. $5. Ages 5-11. Call 341-0075 to pre-register and visit www. halyburtonpark.com for more nature fun.

16 | June 2013 | Wilmington Parent

stART with a Story 3:30pm Thursdays. Children’s Museum. Create a masterpiece that reinforces a fun book. Call 254-3534 or visit www.playwilmington. org with questions. Mixed Media Art Class 3:30 – 4:30pm Thursdays. Tmuffin. Little artists expand artistic abilities in a group setting that sparks imaginations. Ages 5 – 10. $18 (includes all day play). $12 (art class only). Contact gaby@tmuffin.com for details. Happy Bigger Singers 4pm Thursdays. The Art Works, 200 Willard St. Ms. Susan’s Room presents music and arts for creative minds through singing, dancing, instruments and creative play. Ages 4-7. $10/Family. $5/add’l child. Drop-ins welcome. Free parking. Call 777-8889 or visit www.happylittlesingers.com or www. ms-susans-room.com for more information. Boardwalk Blast Family Night & Fireworks 6:30pm. Carolina Beach Boardwalk. Come for family fun including karaoke, bounce houses, line dancing, face painting and more. Fireworks at 9pm. Free. Call 458-8434 for details. Jazz at the Mansion 6:30 – 8pm. Bellamy Mansion. First in the series of live jazz on the lawns. Bring chairs or a blanket. Visit www.bellamymansion.org for details. Music in the Courtyard 7 – 8:30pm. Cameron Art Museum. Elijah’s Best. Don’t miss a relaxing evening at the CAM. Admission $5-$10. Call 395-5999 for tickets.

7 Friday Birding Tours 9 – 11am Fridays. Wrightsville Beach, Lumina Ave. Join the Audubon NC naturalists on a free, guided tour of the sanctuary with close-up looks at nesting birds and chicks. Call 686-7527 for information. Walk for Elder Abuse Awareness 9:30 – 11:30am. NHC Senior Center. 2nd annual walk. All ages welcomed and encouraged to participate. No registration required. Wear a lavender shirt. Free. Call 798-6409 with questions. Happy Little Singers 9:45am Fridays. The Art Works, 200 Willard St. See 06/04. Toddler Time 10am Fridays. Children’s Museum. Projects and activities for ages 4 and under (and their special grownups to work on together). Call 254-3534 or visit www.playwilmington.org for more information. Funcycle Fridays 10 – 11am Fridays. Tmuffin. Encouraging children to reduce, reuse, and recycle through art. Ages 3 – 6. $9 (includes activity and all day play). Contact gaby@tmuffin.com for details. Family Yoga Story Time 10:30am Fridays. NHC Main Library. Parents and children 6 months+ have fun

www.wilmingtonparent.com

listening to stories while learning basic yoga postures. Bring mat or beach towel. Call 798-6353 with questions. American Legion Fish Fry 11am – 7pm. American Legion Post 129. $8/plate includes whiting or catfish fillet, hush puppies, slaw, potato salad, tea or coffee. Call 458-4253 for more information. Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03.

Back Pain?

Extended Behind the Scenes Tour 2 pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03.

What back pain?

Adventures in Art 3:30pm Fridays. Children’s Museum. Experience different forms of art each week. Ages 5-8. Space is limited. Call 2543534 to pre-register and visit www.playwilmington.org for weekly projects. Rainbow Loom Summer “Band” Camp - Beginner 4 – 5pm Fridays. Learning Express Toys, Military Cutoff & Oleander Drive. Loom it up and trade creations with experts and friends. Participants receive a free charm. Ages 7+. (Bring loom and bandz.) Must call 509-0153 or 313-3100 for reservations. Rainbow Loom Summer “Band” Camp - Intermediate 5 - 6pm Fridays. Learning Express Toys, Military Cutoff & Oleander Drive. Loom it up and trade creations with experts and friends. Participants receive a free charm. Ages 7+. (Bring loom, bandz, and creations to trade.) Must call 509-0153 or 313-3100 for reservations.

Downtown Sundown 6pm. Riverfront Park. Funky Monks (A Red Hot Chili Peppers Tribute Band). Rain or shine event with music on the river front. Free. Visit www.wilmingtondowntown.com for event schedule.

Music on the Town 6pm. Mayfaire Town Center. 360 Degrees. Bring dinner, blankets and chairs to enjoy a family evening at Mayfaire. Bring chairs, blankets and coolers. Free. Visit www.mayfairetown. com for summer schedule.

Airlie Summer Concert Series 6 – 8pm. Airlie Gardens. 40 East Band. $8/adults. $2/children. Free/Airlie members. Free parking and shuttles from Old Cinema 6 (5335 Oleander). Call 798-7700 or visit http:// airliegardens.org for schedule. Les Miserables 7pm. Community Arts Center. TACT performs the heartfelt Broadway musical based on Victor Hugo’s novel adapted for young performers. (Gala begins at 6pm.) $15 includes opening night Gala. Call 262-0470 for tickets. Barnes & Noble Story Time 7pm Fridays. Barnes & Noble. Enjoy weekly story time in the Children’s section. Call 509-1880 for details. Shakespeare on the Green Festival – Measure for Measure 8pm. Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre. Enjoy one of Shakespeare’s most powerful plays. Free. (Donations accepted.) Call 399-2878 or visit www.capefearshakespeare.org for performance schedule.

8 Saturday (Best Friends Day) Canoeing the Salt Marsh 9am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. Enjoy a 3-hour exploration of Zeke’s Island by canoe. Wear closed-toed shoes. Ages 8+. $22.50/Members. $25/Non-Members. Call 458-7468 for reservations.

www.wilmingtonparent.com

From muscle strains and painful herniated discs to degenerative disc disease, our highly skilled, board-certified and fellowship-trained spine team offers a multi-disciplinary approach to your back and neck pain. We will help you navigate the latest options and advanced treatment programs and design an individualized plan for you. From non-surgical approaches to minimally invasive and surgical procedures, our spine specialists, interventional pain specialists and spinespecialized physical therapy team will help you move better and live better. Patrick T. Boylan, MD Jon K. Miller, MD Francis S. Pecoraro, MD R. Mark Rodger, MD D. Todd Rose, MD

Learn more about how our spine program can help you. Call 910.332.3800. Same-Day Appointments Available. ORThOWilMingTOn.cOM Wilmington • Porter’s Neck • Brunswick Forest • Jacksonville

113190 OrthoWilm spine ad-wp.indd 1

Wilmington Parent | June 2013 | 17 5/14/13 3:59 PM

The Legacy Series: Armored Cruiser NC & the Great War 9am – 4pm. Battleship NC. Enjoy engaging with uniformed interpreters and asking about elaborate displays of WWI uniforms, guns and equipment. Free with Battleship admission. Visit www.battleshipnc.com for more information. Happy Little Singers 9:45am Saturdays. The Art Works, 200 Willard St. See 06/04. The Family and the Breastfed Baby 10am. T-Muffin, 3534 S. College Rd, Unit 1 (Food Lion/Lifepoint Shopping Center). Join La Leche League for information. Moms and babies welcome. Call 367-5722 for details. Story Extravaganza 10am – 1pm. Northeast Library. Sponsored by Children’s Museum of Wilmington. Local artists, musicians, and storytellers bring children’s books to life. Make paper pizzas and chef hats while being inspired by pizza books. Visit www.playwilmington.org for event information. Battleship 101 10am – 3pm. Battleship NC. Ship volunteers engage visitors in specific subjects and areas including gunnery, radar, sickbay, galley and more. Free with Battleship admission. Visit www.battleshipnc.com for details. On Track Tween Reward System Demonstration 10:30am – 12pm. Learning Express Toys, Oleander Drive. (from Kenson Parenting Solutions

Designers). Parents of tweens ages 8+ invited to learn to incorporate household chores, daily to-do lists and money management into life lessons that teach organizational skills, accountability and self-reliance. No reservations needed. Call 313-3100 for details. 29th Annual Lobster Fest 11am – 4pm. Church of the Servant, 4925 Oriole Dr. Order ahead for fresh, Atlantic lobster for a home, business or neighborhood party. Free delivery with orders of 15 or more. Call 473-1876 with questions. Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Learning Center – Incredible Insects 1 – 4pm. Cape Fear Museum. Get a bugs-eye view while exploring the world of insects. Free to Members or with admission. Parental participation required. Visit www.capefearmuseum.com for registration information. On Track Tween Reward System Demonstration 1:30 – 3pm. Learning Express Toys, Military Cutoff. Parents of tweens ages 8+ invited to learn to incorporate household chores, daily to-do lists and money management into life lessons that teach organizational skills, accountability and self-reliance. No reservations needed. Call 509-0153 for details. Aquarist Apprentice 2 pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. Join staff on a behind-the-scenes tour and participate in daily care. Wear closed-toe shoes and be prepared to smell fishy. $25/Ages 13+. $23/

Ages 10-12. $17/Members. Ages 10+ only. Call 458-7468 for required pre-registration. Visit www.ncaquariums.com for details. Summer Concert in the Park 6 - 9pm. Annsdale Park, Leland. The 4 Knights Band. Enjoy R&B, soul, Motown and beach music. Free. Visit www.brunswickforest.com or call 343-3150 for more information. Les Miserables 7pm. Community Arts Center. $12. See 06/07. Shakespeare on the Green Festival – Measure for Measure 8pm. Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre. See 06/07.

9 Sunday Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am & 3:15pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Les Miserables 3pm. Community Arts Center. $12. See 06/07. Boogie in the Park 4 – 7pm (though 09/01). Kure Beach Ocean Front Park, K&L Ave. The Casserole. See 06/02. Shakespeare on the Green Festival – Measure for Measure 8pm. Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre. See 06/07. Free Movies at the Lake 8:45pm (through 09/01). Carolina Beach Lake Park. “The Odd Life of Timothy Green.” See 06/02.

10 Monday Family Story Time 10:30am Mondays. Carolina Beach Library. All ages invited for stories, fingerplays, and activities. Call 798-6385 for details. Dig Into Science 10:30am Mondays. Northeast Library. Toddlers and preschoolers enjoy stories, songs, and activities while exploring math and science. Call 798-6373 for registration. Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Dig & Learn 2pm. NHC Main Library. Elementary ages build a volcano, make sewer slime and draw hieroglyphics while exploring math and science. Call 798-6303 for registration. Extended Behind the Scenes Tour 2 pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03.

Photo Credit: Max K.

Shakespeare on the Green Festival – Shadows of Shakespeare 8pm. Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre. See 06/01.

11 Tuesday Surf Fishing 8am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/04.

18 | June 2013 | Wilmington Parent

Lap Sit Story Time 9am Tuesdays. NHC Main Library. Designed for babies up to 18 months. Features stories, songs, rhymes and activities. No reservations required. Call 798-6303 for details. Toddler Story Time 10am Tuesdays. NHC Main Library. Children 18 - 36 months are invited to story time. Enjoy stories, songs, and pre-literacy activities. No reservations required. Call 798-6303 for further details. Summer Movie Express 10am. Mayfaire Cinema. $1 movie. “The Three Stooges” (PG) and “Ice Age: Continental Drift” (PG). Doors open at 9am. Visit www. mayfairetown.com for complete list. Dig Into Science 10:30am Tuesdays. Carolina Beach Library. Toddlers and preschoolers enjoy stories, songs, and activities while exploring math and science. Call 798-6385 for registration. Kindermusik for Babies 10:30am. Learning Express Toys, Military Cutoff. Gentle music and movement class provided by Kindermusik educator, Catherine Szuch. Babies from birth to age 1 (with parent or caregiver). Free. Call 5091053 for reservations. Preschool Story Time 10:30am Tuesdays. NHC Main Library. Ages 3-5 come for stories, songs, and activities. No registration required. Groups welcomed. Call 798-6303 with questions. Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am & 3:15pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Dig & Learn 2pm Tuesdays. Northeast Library. Elementary ages build a volcano, make sewer slime and draw hieroglyphics while exploring math and science. Call 798-6371 for registration. Shakespeare on the Green Festival – Shadows of Shakespeare 8pm. Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre. See 06/01.

12 Wednesday Bird Hike 8am. Airlie Gardens. Featuring environmental educators on a walking tour. $3 - $5. Call 798-7700 with questions. Lap Sit Story Time 9am Wednesdays. Northeast Library. Designed for babies up to 18 months. Features stories, songs, rhymes and activities. No reservations required. Call 798-6373 for details. Toddler Story Time 10am Wednesdays. Northeast Library. Children 18 - 36 months are invited to enjoy stories, songs, and pre-literacy activities. No reservations required. Call 798-6373 for further details. Summer Movie Express 10am. Mayfaire Cinema. See 06/11.

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Carmike Summer Kid Movies 10am. Carmike Cinema, Cinema Drive. “Despicable Me” (PG). $4/person includes movie and Kid tray with popcorn, drink and sweet. Call 815-0266 for complete list. Baby Dance Boogie 10 – 10:30am. Learning Express Toys, Oleander Drive. Danielle Tisdale (Dance With Me Director) provides free interactive class with props. Introducing Jazz, Letters, Numbers, Body Parts, Animals, Hip-Hop, Ballet & more! Ages 1-3 (with parent or caregiver). Call 313-3100 for required reservations. Preschool Story Time 10:30am Wednesdays. Northeast Library. Ages 3-5 come for stories, songs, and activities. No registration required. Groups welcomed. Call 798-6373 with questions. Dig Into Science 10:30am Wednesdays. NHC Main Library. Toddlers and preschoolers enjoy stories, songs, and activities while exploring math and science. Call 798-6303 for registration. Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Dig & Learn 2pm Wednesdays. Myrtle Grove Library. Elementary ages build a volcano, make sewer slime and draw hieroglyphics while exploring math and science. Call 798-6391 for registration. Extended Behind the Scenes Tour 2 pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Snake & Turtle Feeding 4 – 4:30pm. Halyburton Park. Enjoy a brief presentation and watch the live display animals feed. $1. All ages. Visit www. halyburtonpark.com for more nature adventures. CPR Certification Class 6 – 10:30pm. Leland Fire Dept. Visit www.townofleland.com for details. Shakespeare on the Green Festival – Shadows of Shakespeare 8pm. Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre. See 06/01. Trivia at Copper Penny 8pm. Copper Penny, 109 Chestnut St. Calling all science buffs to test their knowledge of dinosaurs and other prehistoric animals of the region. Expect questions drawn from museum exhibits and programs. Visit www.capefearmuseum.com for details.

13 Thursday Toddler Story Time 10am Thursdays. Northeast Library. Children ages 18 – 36 months join others for stories, songs and other fun activities. No registration required. Call 798-6373 for details. Preschool Story Time 10:30am Thursdays. Northeast Library. Ages 3 to 5 years are invited to enjoy a different weekly theme. Includes stories, songs, and activities. No pre-registration. Call 798-6373 with questions. Dig Into Science 10:30am Thursdays. Myrtle Grove Library. Toddlers and preschoolers enjoy stories, songs, and activities while exploring math and science. Call 798-6391 for registration. Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am & 3:15pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Dig & Learn 2pm Thursdays. Carolina Beach Library. Elementary ages build a volcano, make sewer slime and draw hieroglyphics while exploring math and science. Call 798-6385 for registration.

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Boardwalk Blast Family Night & Fireworks 6:30pm Thursdays. Carolina Beach Boardwalk. See 06/06.

Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03.

Bridge to Bridge Run/Walk 6:30pm. CFCC. Sea Devil Athletics and NewBridge Bank present the 2nd annual event to benefit student scholarships. Visit http://its-go-time.com to register.

Extended Behind the Scenes Tour 2 pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03.

WECT Sounds of Summer Concert 6:30 – 8pm. Wrightsville Beach Park. Bring your picnic, lawn chairs, and blankets for an evening of music and fun at the Park. Featuring 360 Degrees. Free. Call 256-7025 for schedule. High School Musical 7pm (through 06/16). Community Arts Center, 2nd & Orange Streets. $12.75. Contact 262-0470 for ticket purchases. Shakespeare on the Green Festival – Shadows of Shakespeare 8pm. Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre. See 06/01.

14 Friday (Flag Day) Picture Your Dad Art Contest Due Today. Learning Express Toys, Military Cutoff & Oleander Drive. Artwork due by store closing time today. See 06/01. Dock Street Kids Mystery Theatre 9am. NHC Main Library. Audience members help solve the case performed live by TheatreNOW. Free. Call 798-6303 for details. Splash into Summer 9am – 1pm. Children’s Museum. Kick off summer with a pool party at the Museum with inflatable pools, foam soap, and ice pool and more. Bring a swim suit and a towel. Free with admission or membership. Visit www.playwilmington.org for event details.

Film Club 2 – 4pm Fridays. NHC Main Library. Learn how to act, film, edit and animate. Ages 8+. Call 798-6303 for registration. Downtown Sundown 6pm. Riverfront Park. 20 Ride (Zac Brown Tribute Band). See 06/07. Music on the Town 6pm. Mayfaire Town Center. The Steadie Eddies. See 06/07. Summer Concert Series 6:30 – 8:30. Ft. Fisher Air Force Recreational Area. Eastbound. Bring blankets and chairs to relax or boogie the night away. Call 458-8434.for event schedule. Harrells 300 Truck & Tractor Pull 7:30 – 11pm. Harrells, NC. Harrells Volunteer Fire Dept sponsors the annual event that brings participants from all across the nation. Visit www.tpull.com for entry and information. Shakespeare on the Green Festival – Measure for Measure 8pm. Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre. See 06/07.

15 Saturday Father’s Day Aboard the Shamrock Daily. Harborside Dock in front of Blockade Runner. Treat dad to an inland fishing excursion. Dad fishes for free with purchase of 2 passenger tickets Visit www.wrightsvillebeachscenictours.com or call 200-4002 for reservations.

Wilmington Parent | June 2013 | 19

Kure Beach Double Sprint Triathlon 7am. 117 Settlers Lane, Kure Beach. Join the first “Formula 1” or super sprint style triathlon in the US. Hosted by Step Up for Soldiers and Kure Beach Fire Dept. Contact 458-8216 with questions. Visit http://its-gotime.com to register. UNCW Archaeology Field School Open House 9am – 12pm. Halyburton Park. Interact with a student archaeologist who will be surveying the site. Drop by anytime during the 3 hours. Free. Call 341-0075 for more information.

CFRG All Stars vs. Mason Dixon Roller Vixons 6pm. CFCC Schwartz Center. Enjoy heart stopping roller derby action. Tickets $5 - $12. Contact info@capefearrollergirls.com for more information. Hammerheads vs NY Red Bulls Reserves 7:30pm. Legion Stadium. Don’t miss a fun family sports night. $12/Adults. $10/Seniors. $8/Children. Visit www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com or call 777-2111 for tickets.

Splash into Summer 9am – 1pm. Children’s Museum. See 06/14.

Shakespeare on the Green Festival – Measure for Measure 8pm. Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre. See 06/07.

NC Blueberry Festival 9am – 9pm. Pender Courthouse Square, Burgaw. Celebrate the significance of blueberries in this area. Enjoy live entertainment, art, crafts, and more. Contact 259-9817 or info@ burgawchamber.com for more information.

Movies in the Park 8 – 11pm. Leland Municipal Park. Enjoy summertime movies. Free. Call 371-0148 for movie schedule.

Summer Walking Tour 10am – 12pm. Oakdale Cemetery. Be enlightened with historical stories that remain unsolved. $10/Non-Members. Free/ Members. Visit www.oakdalecemetery.org for information. Beginner Skateboard Clinic 10:30am. Greenfield Grind Skatepark. See 06/01. Sensational Saturday Story Time 10:30am. Northeast Library. Read stories and enjoy fun activities. Call 798-6373 for details. Create Thumbprint Art Cards 10:30 – 11:30am. Learning Express Toys, Military Cutoff. Create a Father’s Day gift while supplies last. No reservations needed. Call 509-0153 for details. Pint Size Polkas 11am. NHC Main Library. Mike Schneider and his polka band bring happy, bouncing polka rhythms to people of all ages. This family program celebrates the 2013 Summer Reading Club “Dig into Reading.” Free. Contact jcriser@nhcgov.com or 798-6303 for details. Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Learning Center – Incredible Insects 1 – 4pm. Cape Fear Museum. See 06/08. Aquarist Apprentice 2 pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/08. Pint Size Polkas 2pm. Northeast Library. Mike Schneider and his polka band bring happy, bouncing polka rhythms to people of all ages. This family program celebrates the 2013 Summer Reading Club, “Dig into Reading.” Free. Contact jcriser@nhcgov.com or 798-6303 for details. Create Thumbprint Art Cards 3 – 4pm. Learning Express Toys, Oleander Drive. Create a Father’s Day gift while supplies last. No reservations needed. Call 313-3100 for details.

16 Sunday (Father’s Day) Father’s Day Aboard the Shamrock Daily. Harborside Dock in front of Blockade Runner. See 06/15. Canoeing the Salt Marsh 9am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/08. Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am & 3:15pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Father’s Day Cruise 1 – 2:30pm. Wilmington Water Tours, downtown. Treat dad to a cruise. Visit www. wilmingtonwatertours.net for tickets. Cape Fear Skies: Mythological Monsters 1:30, 2:30, & 3:30pm. Cape Fear Museum. Explore the folklore of mythical creatures and hear tales that have left their mark on the night sky. Free for members or with admission. Visit www.capefearmuseum.com for details. Summer Music Series 4pm. Bluewater Grill. Featuring soul, funk, and dance music of Manny Lloyd. Visit www. bluewaterdining.com for event information. Boogie in the Park 4 – 7pm (though 09/01). Kure Beach Ocean Front Park, K&L Ave. Two Cents Worth. See 06/02. Shakespeare on the Green Festival – Measure for Measure 8pm. Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre. See 06/07. Free Movies at the Lake 8:45pm (through 09/01). Carolina Beach Lake Park. “The Lorax.” See 06/02.

17 Monday Leaf Litter Critters 10 – 11am. Halyburton Park. Ages 2-5 learn about animals that live and hide in the leaves of the longleaf forest. $3. Call 341-0075 to pre-register and visit www. halyburtonpark.com for more adventures.

20 | June 2013 | Wilmington Parent

Railroad Story Time 10:30am. Wilmington Railroad Museum. See 06/03.

Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03.

Extended Behind the Scenes Tour 2 pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03.

20 Thursday

Spanish for Tots 3pm. Learning Express Toys, Oleander Drive. An experience in Spanish immersion through songs and props with native Spanish speaking instructor from the Children’s Museum of Wilmington. Ages 6 months – 5 years. Call 313-3100 for reservations. Hammerheads vs NY Red Bulls Reserves 7:30pm. Legion Stadium. Don’t miss a fun family sports night. $12/Adults. $10/Seniors. $8/Children. Visit www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com or call 777-2111 for tickets.

18 Tuesday Surf Fishing 8am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/04. Nutrition and Weaning 10am. Grace United Methodist Church, 4th and Grace St. Join La Leche League for information. Moms and babies welcome. Call 763-5197 for details. Summer Movie Express 10am. Mayfaire Cinema. $1 movie. “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days” (PG) and “Parental Guidance” (PG). Doors open at 9am. Visit www.mayfairetown.com for complete list. Leaf Litter Critters 10 – 11am. Halyburton Park. See 06/17. Kindermusik for Babies 10:30am. Learning Express Toys, Oleander Drive. Gentle music and movement class provided by Kindermusik educator, Catherine Szuch. Babies from birth to age 1 (with parent or caregiver). Free. Call 313-3100 for reservations. Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am & 3:15pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Hometown Opry 7 – 10pm. Leland Town Hall Classroom Annex. See 06/18.

19 Wednesday Summer Movie Express 10am. Mayfaire Cinema. See 06/18. Carmike Summer Kid Movies 10am. Carmike Cinema, Cinema Drive. “Smurfs” (PG). See 06/12. Preschool Dance Mania 10am. Learning Express Toys, Military Cutoff. Ages 3-5 dance their willies out with Dance With Me director, Danielle Tisdale. Call 5090153 for required reservations. Black River Cruise 10am – 2pm. 212 S. Water St. See 06/05.

Moores Creek Kayaking Expedition 8:30am – 3pm. Halyburton Park. $30 - $45. Contact 341-0075 to register and learn more about the adventure. Preschool Dance Mania 10am. Learning Express Toys, Oleander Drive. Ages 3-5 dance their willies out with Dance With Me director, Danielle Tisdale. Call 313-3100 for required reservations. Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am & 3:15pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Introduction to Painting 1:30 – 3:30pm. Halyburton Park. Provides kids with a chance to learn about plants and animals living in the park through fun, hands-on activities. Ages 5-11. $10. Call 341-0075 for required pre-registration and list of supplies. 3rd Thursday Community Farmers Market 5 – 8pm. Hugh MacRae Park. Local growers, producers and crafters sell wares. Enjoy activities related to fitness, wellness, education and more. Free admission. Call 798-7622 for more information. The Art of Breastfeeding and Overcoming Difficulties 6:30pm. Pine Valley United Methodist Church, 3788 Shipyard, Bldg B, Rm 3. Join La Leche League for information. Dads, moms and babies welcome. Call 200-6324 for details. Boardwalk Blast Family Night & Fireworks 6:30pm. Carolina Beach Boardwalk. See 06/06. WECT Sounds of Summer Concert 6:30 – 8pm. Wrightsville Beach Park. Dutch Treat. See 06/13. Shakespeare on the Green Festival – Measure for Measure 8pm. Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre. See 06/07. Pilobolus 8pm. Durham Performing Arts Center. Be mesmerized by the wonder of Pilobolus with its brilliant ingenuity that defies all notions of what modern dance is and can be. $18 - $54. (full-time students receive half-priced tickets). Visit www.dpacnc.com for information and tickets.

21 Friday (First Day of Summer) Dock Street Kids Mystery Theatre 9am. NHC Main Library. Audience members help solve the case performed live by TheatreNOW. Free. Call 798-6303 for details.

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Extended Behind the Scenes Tour 2 pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Downtown Sundown 6pm. Riverfront Park. Dave Matthews Tribute Band. See 06/07. Music on the Town 6pm. Mayfaire Town Center. Selah Dub (Reggae). See 06/07. Airlie Summer Concert Series 6 – 8pm. Airlie Gardens. Shine. $8/adults. $2/ children. Free/Airlie members. Free parking and shuttles from Old Cinema 6 (5335 Oleander). Call 798-7700 or visit http:// airliegardens.org for schedule. Raise the Roof from Under the Sea Gala 7pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. An evening of music, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and live and silent auctions. Proceeds benefit completing home repairs for the elderly, disabled, and low-income homeowners. $75. Wear elegant island wear. Call 399-7563 for details. Shakespeare on the Green Festival – Measure for Measure 8pm. Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre. See 06/07. Pilobolus 8pm. Durham Performing Arts Center. See 06/20.

22 Saturday Canoeing the Salt Marsh 9am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/08. Down East Doll Show 9am – 5pm. Sheraton Imperial Hotel & Convention Center, Durham. See 06/21. NC Beach Wrestling State Championships 9:30am. Carolina Beach Boardwalk. Call 395-4362 or visit www.ncwrestling.org for event details.

Learning Center – Incredible Insects 1 – 4pm. Cape Fear Museum. See 06/08. Jeff Jones – Magician 2pm. Myrtle Grove Library. Become spellbound with Mr. Jones’ sleight of hand and world of illusions. Free. Park in bank lot next door. Performance will be in library lot. Call 798-6303 with questions. Aquarist Apprentice 2 pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/08. Superman Saturday 3 – 4:30pm. Learning Express Toys, Military Cutoff. Create a cape, perform super smarts test, discover superpowers, and avoid the kryptonite. Call 509-0153 for reservations please. Sand & Surf Car Show 5 – 9:30pm. Federal Point Shopping Center, Carolina Beach. Second Generation American Muscle Cars 1989-2013. Awards presented. Call 707-0060 for event details. Hammerheads vs Charlotte Eagles 7:30pm. Legion Stadium. Don’t miss a fun family sports night. $12/Adults. $10/Seniors. $8/Children. Visit www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com or call 777-2111 for tickets. Shakespeare on the Green Festival – Measure for Measure 8pm. Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre. See 06/07. Pilobolus 8pm. Durham Performing Arts Center. See 06/20.

23 Sunday Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am & 3:15pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Shakespeare on the Green Festival – Measure for Measure 8pm. Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre. See 06/07. Free Movies at the Lake 8:45pm (through 09/01). Carolina Beach Lake Park. “Racing Stripes.” See 06/02.

24 Monday

Superman Saturday 10 – 11:30am. Learning Express Toys, Oleander Drive. Create a cape, perform super smarts test, discover superpowers, and avoid the kryptonite. Call 313-3100 for reservations please.

Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03.

Sensational Saturday Story Time 10:30am. Northeast Library. Read stories and enjoy fun activities. Call 798-6373 for details.

25 Tuesday

Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Pilobolus 1pm. Durham Performing Arts Center. Children’s Matinee. One hour condensed performance to inspire young imaginations. Followed by free Kids Party in DPAC lobby with live music and activities. See 06/20.

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Photo Credit: Maria U.

Down East Doll Show 9am – 5pm. Sheraton Imperial Hotel & Convention Center, Durham. Enjoy a doll show and retail floor for collectors. $5/One Day. $9/ Both Days. Free/Children under 12. Contact downeastdollshow@gmail.com for details.

Extended Behind the Scenes Tour 2 pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03.

Surf Fishing 8am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/04. Summer Movie Express 10am. Mayfaire Cinema. $1 movie. “Mr. Popper’s Penguins” (PG) and “Alvin & the Chipmunks” (G). Doors open at 9am. Visit www.mayfairetown.com for complete list. Kindermusik for Babies 10:30am. Learning Express Toys, Military Cutoff. See 06/11.

Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am & 3:15pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03.

Shakespeare on the Green Festival – Measure for Measure 8pm. Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre. See 06/07.

26 Wednesday

28 Friday

Summer Movie Express 10am. Mayfaire Cinema. See 06/25. Carmike Summer Kid Movies 10am. Carmike Cinema, Cinema Drive. “Hotel Transylvania” (PG). See 06/12. Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Extended Behind the Scenes Tour 2 pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Summer Evening Series: Alligators 6:30 – 7:30pm. Halyburton Park. Presented by NC Aquariums. $5. All ages. Call 341-0075 to pre-register and visit www.halyburtonpark. com for list of summer events.

Salt Marsh and Crabbing 8am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. Introduction to catching blue crabs and expedition through the salt marsh. Wear closed-toed shoes. $8/Members. $14/Ages 7-12. $16/ Ages 13+. Call 458-7468 for reservations. Bird Hike 8 – 9:30am. Smith Creek Park, 633 Harris Road. Features NHC environmental educators teaching participants about the bird species in the area. Meet at picnic shelter & wear comfortable walking shoes. Free. Call 7987700 for information.

27 Thursday

Dock Street Kids Mystery Theatre 9am. Carolina Beach Library. Audience helps solve the case performed live by TheatreNOW. Free. Call 798-6385 for details.

Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am & 3:15pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03.

Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03.

Boardwalk Blast Family Night & Fireworks 6:30pm. Carolina Beach Boardwalk. See 06/06.

Extended Behind the Scenes Tour 2 pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03.

WECT Sounds of Summer Concert 6:30 – 8pm. Wrightsville Beach Park. Chillen Dixie. See 06/13.

Downtown Sundown 6pm. Riverfront Park. The Breakfast Club (80’s Tribute Band). See 06/07. Music on the Town 6pm. Mayfaire Town Center. Seneca Guns. See 06/07.

Wilmington Parent | June 2013 | 21

Fourth Friday Gallery Walk 6 – 9pm. Downtown Galleries & Studios. An after-hours celebration of art and culture through a self-guided tour. Free. Visit www. wilmingtondowntown.com or call 343-8997 for map of participants. Summer Concert Series 6:30 – 8:30. Ft. Fisher Air Force Recreational Area. Jam Sandwich. Bring blankets and chairs to relax or dance the night away. Call 458-8434.for event schedule. Shakespeare on the Green Festival – Measure for Measure 8pm. Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre. See 06/07. Kyle Abraham/Abraham.In.Motion 8pm. Durham Performing Arts Center. Enjoy the fresh, unique and innovative movement of a groundbreaking and sought-after artist. $18 - $48. Visit www.dpacnc.com for tickets.

29 Saturday NC Freedom Run 8 – 11am. Waterfront Park, Southport. A

family affair includes a 5K and 1-mile fun run. $20 before 06/08. $25 after 06/08. Contact events@southport-oakisland.com or 457-5578 for registration.

of dinner catered by Bon Appetit and live music. Benefits Kids Making It. $45. Call 763-6001 for tickets.

Canoeing the Salt Marsh 9am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/08.

Shakespeare on the Green Festival – Measure for Measure 8pm. Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre. See 06/07.

Beginner Skateboard Clinic 10:30am. Greenfield Grind Skatepark. See 06/01.

Kyle Abraham/ Abraham.In.Motion 8pm. Durham Performing Arts Center. See 06/28.

Sensational Saturday Story Time 10:30am. Northeast Library. Read stories and enjoy fun activities. Call 798-6373 for details. Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Learning Center – Incredible Insects 1 – 4pm. Cape Fear Museum. See 06/08. Aquarist Apprentice 2 pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/08. Hippie Ball 2 7pm. Brooklyn Arts Center. An evening

Movies in the Park 8 – 11pm. Leland Municipal Park. Enjoy summertime movies. Free. Call 371-0148 for movie schedule.

rock and beach music of Heart & Soul. Visit www.bluewaterdining.com for details. Shakespeare on the Green Festival – Measure for Measure 8pm. Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre. See 06/07. Free Movies at the Lake 8:45pm (through 09/01). Carolina Beach Lake Park. “The Big Miracle.” See 06/02.

To submit events to the calendar, please email

30 Sunday Behind the Scenes Tour 11:15am & 3:15pm. NC Aquarium Fort Fisher. See 06/03. Summer Music Series 4pm. Bluewater Grill. Featuring the classic

calendar@ wilmingtonparent.com Deadline for submissions to the July issue is June 9, 2013.

Story Extravaganza, Reading Clubs, and Free Books! By Danielle Villegas

hen the temperatures get a little too unbearable, a visit to your local library can be a fun place to cool off! Children love to listen to stories, and look through the shelves to find their own special book to take home and enjoy.

Bring your family on Saturday, June 8th from 10:00am-1:00pm to the Northeast Regional branch of New Hanover Country Library, for the 3rd annual Storytelling Festival for Children! Admission is free for the whole family, and live performances are planned by local artists and performers. There will also be activities for children of all ages including . . . • Arts & Crafts with the Children’s Museum! • Summer Reading Club Kickoff & Prize Bags! • It’s a Tiger Story Walk! • And Much More! Dorothy Hodder, Senior Librarian at NHC Library, says that her fondest childhood memories are when her mother would take the time to read to her every day. As she grew and learned to read on her own, her mother would have a difficult time pulling her away from her books. She would love to see all children develop this same love of reading. New Hanover County Library is planning for a busy summer of events and reading clubs for kids of all ages. Visit any of the local library branches for a complete list of summertime events!

SATURDAY, JUNE 15TH PINT SIZE POLKAS 11AM - MAIN LIBRARY 2PM - NORTHEAST LIBRARY Mike Schneider and his polka band are bringing happy, bouncy rhythms polka!

22 | June 2013 | Wilmington Parent

SATURDAY, JUNE 22ND JEFF JONES MAGIC 2PM - MYRTLE GROVE LIBRARY Magician Jeff Jones amazes audiences with his spellbinding illusions and moves! v

Reluctant Reader Incentives Summer reading clubs can be a great way to encourage reluctant readers. Below is a list of places that kids can receive or print a summer reading log, and turn it in for free stuff! Fuzzy Peach – Free cup of Fuzzy Peach for completed reading logs. TD Bank – After your child reads ten books, and turns in their reading log, they will receive $10 in a new or existing Young Saver account at TD Bank! www.tdbank.com/summerreading Barnes and Noble – Read any 8 books, complete the reading log, turn it in for a free book. www.barnesandnoble.com/u/summer-reading Book Adventure (Sylvan) - Kids in grades K-8 can search for books, read them offline, come back to quiz on what they’ve read, and earn prizes for their reading success. www.bookadventure.com Local Library – Visit your local library for information on their Summer Reading Programs!

www.wilmingtonparent.com

| school notes Hoggard High School Carpentry Reaches Out Hoggard High School’s carpentry classes created over 50 walking canes for US military men and women, supporting the Wounded Warriors Project. Carpentry students at all levels took part in this project; each student spent significant time and energy to create so many canes in just three weeks. On April 23, Mr. Jimmy Wooten, representative of the local chapter of the Wounded Warriors Project, accepted the canes on behalf of active and veteran military men and women to aid in their physical rehabilitation. Mr. Jackson spoke on the students’ behalf. “My students and I are most thankful for this opportunity to show our gratitude to the brave service men and women who valiantly serve our country. The Wounded Warriors Walking Cane Project has taught the students a lot. It has enhanced their carpentry skills, as well as helped them appreciate the sacrifices that have been made to ensure our freedom.” The students and Mr. Jackson give gratitude to Mr. Lennie Shidly of Inter-Continental Hardwoods for the donation of Purple Heart wood and the contributions made by Home Depot and Wal-Mart that helped make the project a success!

Community Outreach: Mary C. Williams Supports Cancer Research To benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, students and staff of Mary C. Williams Elementary recently collected “spare change” and provided $2,072.28 to support treatment and research for these childhood blood cancers. HOORAY for a successful community outreach!

NHC Schools – Television Survey You are invited to participate in a 10 to 15 minute viewing survey that will be helpful to students and volunteers at NHCS-TV and their partnership on The Learning Network. The survey is designed for students, parents, guardians, and community members. Simply go to www.nhcs.net and look for TV SURVEY (in red) under “Items of Interest.” NHCS-TV thanks you so much for your help!

School’s Out! New Hanover County: Traditional Schools: 06/07 – Last Day and Half Day for Students 06/08 – High School Graduation Year Round Schools: 06/13 – Last Day & Half Day for Students IBEC High School: 06/01 – High School Graduation 06/06 – Last Day for Students WEC High School: 06/01 – High School Graduation CFCI Charter School: 06/07 – Last Day for Students

Pre-K Centers 06/07 – Last Day and Half Day for Students Brunswick: Traditional Schools: 06/07 – Last Day of School 06/15 - Graduation Roger Bacon Academy/ Charter Day School 06/06 – Kindergarten & 8th Grade Graduation 06/07 – Last Day for Students

Pender: Traditional Schools: 06/07 – Last Day & Early Release for Students Penderlea Year Round School: 06/07 – Last Day & Early Release for Students Pender Early College: 06/01 – 06/30 – Student Vacation

Brunswick Early College: 06/01 – 06/30 – Student Vacation

Visit www.nhcs.net, www.co.brunswick.k12.nc.us or www.pendercountyschools.net for more information. If your child’s public school is not listed, please check the county site to confirm there are no “days off” during the month of February.

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Wilmington Parent | June 2013 | 23

uncw

ams gr

th pro ou

Our Camps Make Learning Fun! 910.962.3195 www.uncw.edu/youth

UNCW Marine Quest Engineering Expectations

Horseback riding camp for youth 6 - 16 years of age interested in learning to ride and care for horses. Supervised by Experienced Counselors

An EEO/AA Institution

Summer Camps

The daily activities will include instructions on barn safety, understanding horse behavior and anatomy, games on foot and horseback, swimming, art and crafts that are equestrian related. Campers will become confident as they learn to groom, lead and even help each other to tack up or bathe their horses

www.hanoverstables.net 910.675.8923

Skittles Summer Camp

Special

Kids

fitness, riding, swimming, nature excursions, and more.... Wilmington’s most unique summer camp www.afterschoolwilmingtonnc.com • 910-794-9590 Daily spa treatment, create & perform a princess ballet, dress up & run way shows, glitter fun, and more!!!

Wilmington School of Ballet Princess Camp www.wilmingtonschoolofballet.com • 910-794-9590 24 | June 2013 | Wilmington Parent

The July 2013 issue of Wilmington Parent Magazine will feature our annual resource guide devoted to Special Needs children. With articles, resources, tips, and provider listings of local businesses and organizations that serve the special needs population in Brunswick, New Hanover and Pender counties. For more information, contact: Beth Burgee 561-339-6154 beth.wilmingtonparent@gmail.com Andrea Knight 910-632-0283 andreailmparent@gmail.com Kelly Brantley 910-338-9678 kelly.savvymomsilm@gmail.com www.wilmingtonparent.com

Summer Camps

ages 7-11 www.wbsurfcamp.com

ages 6-10 www.guppycamp.com

Marine Science Adventure Camps 910.256.7873 Ask about our New Full Day "Grom Ocean Academyâ&#x20AC;?

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Wilmington Parent | June 2013 | 25

Need a Sitter?

How to interview a potential sitter By Danielle Villegas

iring a sitter can be tricky business. It’s not the same as looking for steady childcare, and usually the person hired is not a certified childcare provider. However, there are wonderful people available that truly love caring for children on a temporary basis! It offers the sitter flexibility, and is often just what a parent needs in pinch or for a night out. So how can parents be sure they are hiring the right person for the job?

SPECIAL SECTION: Choices in Childcare

Every family’s needs are different. You want to make sure that the sitter is a good fit for your child. If you have an infant, you will want to hire someone with more matu-

rity and patience. For toddlers and preschoolers, you need a sitter that is capable of keeping up with that age’s energy level.

Here are some important questions to ask when interviewing a potential sitter: • What kind of experience do you have? Siblings, church nursery, neighbors, coaching? • Have you ever been left alone with a child for more than 2 hours? • Why do you like babysitting? • What do you look for in an employer/family? • Are you OK if a job runs later than planned? • What is your transportation situation? • What type of safety certifications do you have? CPR, First Aid, lifeguard training? • What would you do with the kids on a day like today? Describe a typical day or evening of activities. • How would you handle tantrums? • How can you tell if a room is properly childproofed?

What are some warning signs of a problem sitter? • Not appropriately dressed. • Not returning calls promptly. • Caught in a lie. One can lead to many. • Coming home to a filthy child and house. • Sitter argues with your instructions. • Kids show no connection, or are unhappy about staying with sitter after a certain amount of time. • Kids have frequent accidents or injuries while under their care. • Unreliable, or always running late. • Low energy level. Always do a background check and contact all references to make sure the person that will be caring for your child is safe. It can be difficult for parents to do a complete background check, and it would be best if you hired a professional. Also, beware of online sitter sites. Their background checks are not always extensive. It is often a good idea to use a local babysitting service. Most sitter services thoroughly interview the sitters they send out to your home, and run extensive nationwide background checks. Check out our Resource Listing on page 30 for babysitting and other childcare resources. v

26 | June 2013 | Wilmington Parent

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Jenkins

More than play at JPA

Half Summer day classes Super Camps 9am -1pm Mon-Fri

JPA

Certified teachers June 17-21 Wilderness 101 July 8-12 Wild, Wild West! July 29-Aug 2 Island Life Small class sizes Aug 5-9 Digging for Dinosaurs Nurturing & fun

P reschool A cademy

(910) 367-7210 | www.jpawilmington.com | 7888 Market St

Winter Park Presbyterian Preschool Enroll Now for 2013-2014

• 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

The WCA Advantage • 3 year-old classes filled with nurturing and learning • Recreational Summer Day Camp • Interesting Weekly Enrichment Camps • Exciting Weekly Sports Camps

Convenient location in Wilmington on North College Road between MLK Parkway and I-140 only minutes from Leland, Hampstead and southern Pender County www.wilmingtonparent.com

Wilmington Parent | June 2013 | 27

SPECIAL SECTION: Choices in Childcare

Half Day Preschool

SPECIAL SECTION: Choices in Childcare

Drop in Child Care From Trains to Tutus, Basketball and a Rock Climbing Wall, We Have It All! Celebrating Children 12 months to 12 years

791-0022 us on 3818 Oleander Drive Like facebook www.playsimplyplay.com M-Th 8:30am - 8:30pm • F-Sa 8:30am - 11:30pm

Should Your Child Attend Preschool? By Danielle Villegas

our sweet baby is getting bigger and learning new things every day! So why would you want to send your little darling off with strangers for part of the day? Most children will enter into a school setting at the age of 5 or 6. An effective preschool will prepare your child for that day, and should guide them towards a lifelong love of learning!

5 reasons your child should attend preschool: 1. Children learn to share and follow instructions in a structured setting. 2. Teaches them how to interact with different kids and their various personalities. 3. Offers the opportunity to learn pre-math and pre-literacy skills, while still having fun! 4. Children learn to take care of themselves and help others. 8. Preschool-age children’s language skills are nurtured in a “language-rich” environment.

Is my child ready for preschool? Potty trained? Most preschools require that a child be able to use the toilet with little assistance. Easily understood? Your child does not need to speak perfectly, but they should be able to express their needs. Follows directions? Nothing too complicated, but should be able to follow simple instructions.

COME JOIN IN THE FUN!

Separation anxiety? Your child should be able to stay with another adult for short amounts of time without a parent present. Transitions well? Make sure your little one is capable of going from one activity to the next without much of a fuss. v

Northside Weekday Preschool • 2501 North College Road •

NOW ENROLLING FOR 2013-2014 SCHOOL YEAR

Half Day Preschool Programs available:

• Toddler Class, 2 days (18-23 mo) • 2 and 3 year olds, 2, 3 or 5 days • Pre-K, 3 or 5 days (4-5 year olds) For more information or to enroll, contact Jennifer Groves

791-6053 or jgroves@enorthside.org www.enorthside.org 28 | June 2013 | Wilmington Parent

www.wilmingtonparent.com

$200 Child Care Credit (new enrollees only) See center for details.

Must present coupon to qualify. Expires 8/31/13

• After-school pickup at most area schools • Ages 6 weeks to 12 years • Experienced & credentialed teachers • Hot, nutritious meals and snacks included • Summer Camp Ages 4-12

The little things are infinitely the most important.

910-338-9808 • CoastalSitterSolutions.com

High Quality Childcare That Will Last Your Child A Lifetime

AAI Learning Center

Community Enrollment in Our School Age Program! Two classrooms with small group sizes – Younger children (5yr-7yr) and older children (8 yr-12yr)

Summer Camp Program

Activities Including: Messy Day • Game Day • Pajama Day • Movie Day Outdoor Waterplay • Exciting Field Trips

After-School Program Homework time/assistance, arts, crafts & games, pick-up at several schools

We are an official 4-H club Located off 23rd St. w/ easy access from MLK or Market St

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Wilmington Parent | June 2013 | 29

SPECIAL SPECIAL SECTION: SECTION: Choices Motherin and Childcare Baby

2619 Newkirk Ave. (910)799-7195 • 5222 S. College Rd. (910)799-8023 • 4304 Henson Drive, across from Laney High School (910)799-3556 www.kidconc.com

Safe. Simple. Reliable.

Childcare AAI Pharma Learning Center

2320 Scientific Park Drive Denise Ward or Mary Kosterman 910-254-7384 denise.ward@aaipharma.com Ages: 6 weeks to 12 years Availability: Call for openings Comments: A 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: Choices in Childcare

Childcare Network

10 Locations in New Hanover, Brunswick and Bladen Counties 866-521-KIDS www.childcarenetwork.net Ages: 6 weeks – 12 years Availability: Infant and toddler early learning curriculums, Preschool, PreK, and More at Four Programs. Young Achievers Program for school agers, including Summer Camp Comments: We offer working parents the best value in childcare with the best combination of learning, safety and fun at an affordable price.

The Children’s Schoolhouse Montessori

612 S. College Road Wilmington Lucy Hieronymus 910-799-1531 lhieronymus@aol.com www.childrenschoolhouse.com Ages: 3 years to 6 years Availability: Call for details Comments: Wilmington’s Oldest Montessori School, 25 years of excellence, also offering Montessori Marine Science Camp.

Coastal Day School

9781-B Blackwell Road, Leland, NC 28451 910-383-3919 ashley@coastaldayschool.com or caroline@coastaldayschool.com www.coastaldayschool.com Ages: Preschool for ages 2-5, Kindergarten, Mommy’s Morning Out for ages 1-4 Availability: After School Care and Full Time Summer Camp Comments: Since September 2006 we have been offering the best in morning preschool and kindergarten education and after school care to Leland families. Our goal is to provide quality care and education for your child in and environment that is clean, safe, secure, and FUN taught by certified teachers!! Call us today to schedule a tour.

Jenkins Preschool Academy

7888 Market Street Wilmington 28411 Contact: Alethea Jenkins 910-367-7210 momofktj@aol.com www.jpawilmington.com Ages: 2-4/preK Availability: limited for all age groups Comments: Also offer summer camp sessions; Call for a tour. Voted a Wilmington Parent Family Favorite 2 years in a row!

Kids & Company

5222 S College Rd. Wilmington, NC 28412 Jennifer Varella, April Ruxton 910-799-8023 kidscompanycollege@gmail.com 2619 Newkirk Ave. Wilmington, NC 28412 Maurica Bennett, Melanie Walsh 910-799-7195 kidscompanynewkirk@gmail.com

30 | June 2013 | Wilmington Parent

4304 Henson Dr. Wilmington, NC 28405 Marie Parker, Meg Glover 910-799-3556 kidscompanyhenson@gmail.com www.kidconc.com Ages: 6wks-12 yrs Comments: Kids & Company was established to provide a safe and secure learning environment where parents and guardians can feel at ease leaving their children each day. We are owned and operated by individuals who are in the early childhood field because of their love and devotion to children. Our staff is committed to each child’s continued development and well-being. All locations are 4 star facilities, licensed by the Division of Child Development and Early Education. Please call for current availability.

Miss Grace’s Place

111 Cannon Road, Wilmington, NC 28411 Contact: Grace Patterson 910-681-0383 gpwilmington@ec.rr.com missgracesplace.com Ages: Birth-5 years Availability: Open Mon-Thurs. 7:00-5:00 pm Fri. 7:00-4:00 pm Comments: Grace Patterson has worked with N.H. County Schools for many years and almost 10 years now in a private setting. We offer a warm, cozy and nurturing atmosphere for our infants and a colorful, fun and upbeat atmosphere for our toddlers and preschoolers. We use the Creative Curriculum, Mother Goose Time, Science Experiments, Hands on Crafts and Learn Through Music with “Joey’s Little Julliard’s.” Research has shown that early childhood learning is a critically important window of opportunity to develop a child’s full potential and shape key academics, social, and cognitive skills that will determine a child’s success in school and in life. Here at Miss Grace’s Place we strive to help your child to their next level of learning.

Comments: Our goal at Park Avenue School is to provide a

play-learning environment with age-appropriate classes that are geared to their interests and a developmentally appropriate curriculum. We provide a loving, safe environment that stimulates learning, expands the imagination and sense of self. Trained, qualified teachers and staff help provide a firm learning foundation, but no one is more important to a child than their own family. We have an open door policy and frequent visits are encouraged so families can see all of the fun and fantastic things that are happening. Great communication between families and teachers is key to a child’s overall success. Same owner & director since 1976, Trained, qualified, and seasoned teachers.

SPEC

#2 4308 S. 17th St. Wilmington, NC 28409 Portia Lucas 910-799-4160 spec2@speckids.com #7 165 Vision Drive, Wilmington, NC 28403 Wanda Mitchell 910-350-1495 spec7@speckids.com www.speckids.com Ages: 6weeks - 12 years Availability: Mon-Fri 6:30am-6:00pm

WCA Preschool

1501 Beasley Rd. Wilmington NC 28409 Contact: Sheryl H. Hartwell 910-395-0059 noahsark@masonborobaptist.org Ages: 6 weeks+, afterschool Availability: Pre-K Fall 2012 Comments: Christian-based 5 Star Center with low ratios, experienced and educated staff offering a loving, hands-on learning environment now enrolling for 2013-2014 school year.

1401 North College Road (Near MLK) Dr. Cathy Dotson 910-791-4248 ext. 122 info@wilmingtonchristian.com www.wilmingtonchristian.com Ages: 3-5 year olds Comments: Program offers a unique, customized curriculum for each age level, as well as an art lab, music studio, a gym, and library. Our hands-on, developmentally appropriate activities target all aspects of early childhood development, while emphasizing the love of Jesus Christ. The exposure children receive to Bible, phonics, numbers, art, computers, music and movement, books and reading, physical education, science, and Spanish, provides a wealth of experiences for the children on which to build a solid educational foundation. Our goal is to provide the highest quality program where loving kindness, gentleness, consistency, safety, and security are of utmost importance.

Northside Weekday Preschool

Winter Park Presbyterian Preschool

Noah’s Ark Children’s Center

501 North College Road Wilmington, NC 28405 Contact: Jennifer Groves, Director 910-791-6053 jgroves@enorthside.org www.enorthside.org Ages: 18 months-Pre-K, availability: 2 day, 3 day, and 5 day programs; 8:30-12:30 Comments: Our goal is to lead our preschoolers in their first steps toward a walk with Christ. We follow W.E.E. Learn curriculum as well as Handwriting Without Tears to provide a well rounded, hands on curriculum. Our staff is experienced, caring, and committed to provide your child with the best education possible. All of our classrooms 2 year olds and up go to Stretch-nGrow weekly. All of our teachers are NC Credential Certified or have their Bachelors in Education.

Park Avenue School

1306 Floral Parkway Wilmington, NC 28412 910-791-6217 myparkaveschool@gmail.com www.parkavenueschoolnc.weebly.com Ages: 6 weeks – 12 years (infants – school age) Availability: all ages

4501 Wrightsville Avenue Wilmington, NC 28403 Contact: Mary Jane Coble 910-791-5893 preschool@winterparkpres.org. www.wppc-preschool.org Ages: Toddler - Pre-K Availability: Half - Day Preschool Program September – May, Summer Camp for ages 2 - 6 Comments: We are a half-day Christian preschool. We offer low student/teacher ratios, an experienced, nurturing staff and a fun preschool environment. We use Creative Curriculum and Handwriting Without Tears. Kindermusik and Stretch-n-Grow classes provided at no extra charge.

YWCA- Lower Cape Fear

2815 South College road 910-799-6820 www.thetotspot.org Classes@ywca-lowercapefear.org Childcare@ywca-lowercapefear.org Ages: Tot spot: infants-kindergarten,grouped by ages, NC school cutoff on or before 8/31. After school and summer cap: ages 5-12 Comments: YWCA membership required.

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Drop-In Childcare Simply Play Drop-In Childcare

3818 Oleander Dr. Wilmington, Nc 28403 Contact: Any of our fabulous employees! Owner Jodi Butler 910-791-0022 simplyplay@yahoo.com www.playsimplyplay.com/ Ages: 12 months-12 years Availability: hours Monday-Thursday 830am-830 pm, FridaySaturday 830 am-1130pm Private Birthdays held on Sunday Comments: Simply Play is an award winning drop-in childcare center created by a Kindergarten teacher to meet the needs of today’s busy families. We celebrate children ages 12 months to 12 years and they are welcome to play for up to 4 hours a day. Simply Play offers safe, flexible hourly care when you need it! From the moment you walk through the white picket gate you can see that this fun filled playspace was designed to stimulate the curiosity of all children. Playing in the bubbles, dressing up and building block towers, the fun here never stops. Simply Play is full of active areas including plasma cars, a rock climbing wall, indoor basketball, jungle gym, slides and a rollercoaster! Simply Play - it’s what kids want to do!

Tmuffin

3534 S. College Rd Unit I Contact: Gaby or Laurel 910-367-5722 info@tmuffin.com tmuffin.com Ages: 3 months and up Availability: Check out our website for drop-off days/hours Comments: Tmuffin is an interactive playspace for kids that provides parents and kids with a place to get creative and connect. Similar to a one-room children’s museum, Tmuffin focuses on open play with parents present. However, Tmuffin also offers a drop-off service for parents who need a few hours to get some things done. Tmuffin also offers art and music classes for children up to age 12 and summer camps for kids ages 3-7.

missgracesplace.com

Coastal Sitter Solutions

Contact: Allison Miller 910-338-9808 CoastalSitterSolutions@gmail.com www.CoastalSitterSolutions.com Ages: all ages Availability: 24/7 Comments: Coastal Sitter Solutions is a sitter-referral service that strives to connect families with screened, educated, experienced, trustworthy, and reliable sitters! CSS offers a variety of services ranging from single-use sitters to full-time nannies with everything in between!

Resources Smart Start of New Hanover

3534 S. College Rd., Suite F, Wilmington Mebane Boyd 910-815-3731 info@newhanoverkids.org www.newhanoverkids.org Ages: Birth-5 years Comments: Smart Start of New Hanover County, a non-profit agency, offers a wide array of support to families with young children including helping parents find childcare, after school programs, and summer camps; assisting parents accessing community services to meet their child’s needs; and offering a lending library with educational materials and toys, children’s books, activity ideas, informational books for adults.

www.wilmingtonparent.com

Now enrolling for:

-Kindergarten -Morning Preschool ages 2-5 years -Full Time Summer Camp ages 3-12 years -After School Care for 2013-2014 School Year Located at 9781 Blackwell Road in Leland, NC.

910.383.3919 www.coastaldayschool.com

Wilmington Parent | June 2013 | 31

SPECIAL SECTION: Choices in Childcare

Babysitters

| fit family

Nighttime + Outside = Fun! Night Bowling

• 10 2 Liter plastic bottles • Glow Sticks • Food Coloring • Soccer ball

Fill the plastic bottles with water and a few drops of food coloring. Then drop in a glow stick. Set up the pins and knock them down with a soccer ball.

Flashlight Limbo

How low can you go? Two people, holding flashlights, face each other and make a steady beam of light for others to limbo under.

Hunt for Glow Sticks

Just like an Easter Egg Hunt, but in the dark! Hide a bunch of glow sticks all throughout the yard and let the kids hunt for them.

Flashlight hunt

Fit Family Challenge Would your family like to get into better shape and learn to live a healthier lifestyle? Wilmington Parent magazine wants to help! Starting next month, we will begin our search for a few families that are committed to improving their family’s fitness. Once our families are chosen, sponsors within the community will work with them and help each family achieve their fitness goals. Visit the Wilmington Parent website for more information about sponsorships, prizes, and how to enter your family to be chosen for our 2013 Fit Family Challenge!

One player hides an object, like a rubber duck, and the others try to find it using their flashlights. Source: www.childhoodbeckons.com

Local Races JUNE

JULY

NewBridge Bank 4.0 Thursday 06/13 @ 6:30pm CFCC Schwartz Center

Island Independence 5K Saturday 07/06 @ 7:30am Topsail Beach

Dash for Dad 5K/10K Saturday 06/15 @ 8am Pine Valley Neighborhood

31st Annual Tri-Span 10K/5K Saturday 07/13 @ 7am Downtown Wilmington

Enter your child in the

Me & My Pet Photo Contest

• Individual Counseling • Family Counseling • Couples/Marriage Counseling • 1 Day Parenting Program • Anger Management Groups • DWI Services Bridge Builders Counseling Center 311 Judges Rd. Building 1, Unit E, Wilmington, NC 28405

www.bridgebuilderscounseling.com 32 | June 2013 | Wilmington Parent