september 2013 • FREE
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Our 15
Serving New Hanover, Brunswick & Pender County Families!
Substance Abuse & Teens Youngest Therapy Dog Team Getting Your Child to Open Up Spend the Day with Grandma
INSIDE:
Party Guide
• Party Etiquette • Party Crafts • Listings - Venues, Shopping, and Entertainment Ideas to Plan the Perfect Party Cover Kid Lily with Meadow
Limited Spaces Available 2013-14
We believe the world needs passionate, lifelong learners who act with courage, integrity, and love. Inspired by that need, and the Quaker values of peace, equality, and care for the earth, Friends School of Wilmington is a vigorous academic community committed to educating the whole child.
18 months - 2nd Grade l 207 Pine Grove Dr. l 910.791.8221 3rd - 8th Grade l 350 Peiffer Ave. l www.fsow.org
William R. Cherry III, DDS, MS
Come see us on your birthday! Birthdays can be great yearly reminders to make sure you're seeing your dentist for your check-up! Seeing your dentist every 6 months is key to keeping your smile beautiful and healthy. Specializing in Children's Dentistry Ages 1-21 Preventative • Restorative • Cosmetic Nitrous Oxide and In Office Sedation Available • Early Morning/Late Afternoon Appointments Available
© 2013 Katherine Fallis www.furnishedphotography.com
1635 Doctors Circle Wilmington, NC (910) 343-1735 • www.drcherrydds.com www.wilmingtonparent.com
Wilmington Parent | September 2013 | 1
Protect your teeth while playing sports... Wear your athletic mouthguards!
Wilmington Pediatric Dentistry infants • children • teens
SKIP TYSON, D.D.S. STEPHANIE HEANEY, D.D.S. 791-7380
2606 Iron Gate Dr. Suite 200, Wilmington, NC
457-0111
910-795-2511 www.DrEggDental.com 6781 Parker Farm Drive Suite100 Wilmington, NC
4330 Southport Supply Road Southport, NC 28461
surf our website
www.catchasmile.net
2 | September 2013 | Wilmington Parent
Now open in Mayfaire
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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
Discover the CFA Difference at Open House on October 15, 8:15-9:15AM.
Learn about the opportunities at Cape Fear Academy and how we develop the whole child through a balanced program of academics, athletics and the arts. See why our students have the highest success rates in school, college, and beyond.
CFA is a learning community committed to discovering and developing individual potential, preparing each student for success in college and life.
.ORG
910.791.0287
A PK3-12th Grade College Preparatory School. Financial Aid Available.
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Wilmington Parent | September 2013 | 3
| in this issue
Have a cute photo you’d like to share? Submit your photo for consideration seasidemedia1@gmail.com October Theme - Halloween
Publisher/Editor in Chief Keith Jaworski 910 343-1226
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E-Mail: calendar@wilmingtonparent.com
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E-Mail: ads@wilmingtonparent.com
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To Advertise Contact:
September 2013 SPecial Section: Party Guide
24 26 28
Party Etiquette Party Crafts
5 6 8 11 12
Andrea Knight 910-632-0283
E-mail: andreailmparent@gmail.com
Savvy Moms Ilm Kelly Brantley 910-338-9678
Public Service Announcements/Calendar Please submit items/photos before the 2nd Friday of the prior month
Substance Abuse & Teens Bellamy & Gator - Therapy Dog Team Getting Your Child to Open Up Spend the Day with Grandma
Editor’s Note short stuff Growing Up Online school notes Reel life
E-mail: beth.wilmingtonparent@gmail.com
E-mail: kelly.savvymomsilm@gmail.com
Party Listings
10 23 31 35
Beth Burgee 561-339-6154
14 32 34 36
Calendar Fit Family Challenge Going Green Peanut Gallery
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 | September 2013 | Wilmington Parent
Please recycle this magazine
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| editor’s note
Wilmington's Oldest Montessori School
The Children's Schoolhouse
W
ith September here, I’m sure school is taking over the majority of your family’s schedule. Don’t let that stop you from enjoying a little family time. Especially with the Grandparents on their special day! September 8th is Grandparent’s Day, and we have some great ideas for making the most of your time together. I would like to congratulate our Me and My Pet photo contest winners Lily and her sweet dog Meadow. They are adorable cover models! Be sure to check out another amazing team, Bellamy Tyson and her therapy dog Gator on page 23. September is also our Party Guide issue, and a perfect place to start planning your next party! If you’re looking for an activity to add to your festivities, pg. 26 features a couple of crafty ideas to keep your party goers busy! Don’t forget to check in on our Fit Family Challenge families on pg. 32 for the latest on what they are working towards. I hate to break it to you, but fall festivals and holiday excitement are just around the corner! So if you thought the start of school was a whirlwind, watch out! Have a relaxing Labor Day!
The Children’s Schoolhouse is a small traditional Montessori School committed to a high quality of individual academic experience, administered with an enthusiastic but gentle approach. Now Enrolling students for 2, 3 or 5 day programs: ages 3-5, NC State recognized elementary kindergarten for 5-6 year olds, 1/2 day on-site Marine Science camp. Each classroom Directress is Montessori Certified Location: 612 South College Rd. (across from UNCW) Housed in St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church Lucy Hieronymus, Directress (910) 799-1531 TCSH admits students regardless of race, religion, national or ethnic origin
http://www.childrensschoolhouse.net
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
Danielle
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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 | September 2013 | 5
|
short stuff Cape Fear Sweeties 2nd in the State The Cape Fear Optimist Sweeties may be adorable, but they are a fierce softball team! These girls range in age between 5 and 6 years old, and they have accomplished a great deal at such a young age. The Sweeties won the District 9 ALLSTAR championship in Tabor City, NC this summer. Next, they went on to place 2nd in the state in Lillington, NC at the Dixie Youth Softball State Tournament. We are proud of the way these Sweeties represented the Cape Fear region! Congratulations girls!!
Pretty In Pink Foundation Hosts 4th Annual Pink Fashion Walk The Pretty in Pink Foundation will host its 4th annual Pink Fashion Walk at the Coastline Convention Center on Friday, September 13. The event will have live entertainment, hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction featuring items donated by local businesses. Beautiful models, many of which are cancer survivors, will also light up the runway for an entertaining fashion show. Proceeds will go to benefit the Pretty in Pink Foundation and the treatment for breast cancer patients such as stay-at-home mom Tina Alley. Once an active 29-year-old, Alley prided herself on spending tons of outdoor time with her 5-year-old son and husband. However, in March she was diagnosed with breast cancer and has undergone several extensive rounds of chemotherapy treatments that the Pretty in Pink Foundation has assisted in paying. Alley is a prime example of the growing number of young people being diagnosed with the disease. The number of American women ages 25 to 39 diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer has risen 3.6 percent a year from 2000 to 2009, according to a study featured in the February edition of the Journal of the American Medical Association. “I want people to be aware that it is around here,” Alley said. “It is with young people, it can happen; it does happen.” The Pretty in Pink Foundation is a Raleigh-based non-profit that works to provide quality life-saving medical treatment, regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. The organization has a regional office in Wilmington headed by Program Manager Joy Wade. Proceeds raised at the Pink Fashion Walk will benefit patients in the Wilmington area.
More than play at JPA Half day classes
P reschool A cademy
Limited spots Certified teachers available inSmall 2 year class class sizes
P
JPA
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
Call today!
Nurturing & fun
(910) 367-7210 | www.jpawilmington.com | 7888 Market St
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Homeschool Consignment • Homework Helpers • Project supplies • Bulletin Board Paper • Puzzles • Globes
6 | September 2013 | Wilmington Parent
Decor for the classroom & Home • Learning Place mats
Incentive Charts • Stickers • Pencils • Erasers • Flash cards • Workbooks • Reward Items • Toys • Games
eterinary Ho Neck V s r te A Full Service, Small sp r o Animal Hospital
l ita
Jenkins
We’ll treat your pet like one of our own!
Family owned & operated since 1999
686-6297 Emergencies 791-7387 8129 Market St. (behind TLC Auto Wash)
www.portersneckvets.com www.wilmingtonparent.com
The Hill School of Wilmington
Labor Day Lessons Labor Day signifies the end of summer and is often celebrated with vacations, barbeques, parades, and relaxation. But Labor Day means so much more! Take this time to teach your kids about the importance of working hard and the different roles everyone plays in society. Start with a trip to the library. Check out books that will show children different jobs and how everyone’s work is important to the community. Some book ideas for little ones include: • Jobs People Do by Christopher Maynard • A Job for Wittilda by Caralyn Buehner • Labor Day (Rookie Read-About Holidays) by Carmen Bredeson • I Want to be a Police Officer by Daniel Liebman • Tortoise Brings the Mail by Dee Lillegard Maybe one of these books will spark a future career interest, or teach them the importance of taking pride in workmanship. Later, have your children cut out pictures from magazines of people doing different kinds of work and glue them to construction paper. You can also play games by asking children to match which type of tools (judge’s hammer, dentist’s drill, gardener’s rake, etc.) are matched to which job. Source: www.sheknows.com
Call to Schedule a Tour A unique half-day academic program for students in grades 1-8 with learning disabilities and/or attention deficit disorder 4:1 teacher to student ratio Empowering children who have learning differences with the skills needed to become confident, independent learners
3240 Burnt Mill Drive, Suite 9A 910-685-3734 www.hillschoolofwilmington.org
AFTER-SCHOOL ART CLASSES FOR CHILDREN & YOUTH
Clas se start s Midi Sept n e m ber held f r 4:00
om to 5:3 0 pm
After-school Art Classes for Ages 5 to 8 and 9 to12 with Instructors Georgia Mastroieni & Sarah Richter
Children explore the museum through guided tours, scavenger hunts and special activities and hands-on art projects.
Upcycled Crayons
Introduction to Painting Techniques for Middle School Students with Instructor Kirah Van Sickle
You know all those drawers, boxes, and bins full of broken old crayons that the kids don’t want to use anymore? Don’t throw them away! Turn them into alphabet crayons with these super-easy instructions!
Students explore various painting techniques using water-based acrylic paint.
• You will need silicone alphabet molds or ice trays. These can be purchased at a local craft store.
Hand-building with Clay for Ages 9 to 12 with Instructor Renato Abbate
• Place the molds on an old cookie sheet to catch overflow. • Fill each letter with broken bits of crayon.
Students will be working on basic hand building techniques to create primitive musical instruments, relief tiles, miniature sculptures and games.
• Place them into the oven at 250 degrees for 20 minutes. • When they are fully melted into liquid they are finished. • Take them out of the oven leaving the trays on the cookie sheet and let them cool for several hours. • Once they are completely solid you can gently push them out of the molds. Source: www.lifeingraceblog.com
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3201 South 17th St. Wilmington, NC 28412
Register Online: www.cameronartmuseum.com Or Call: 910.395.5999 ext. 1008 Wilmington Parent | September 2013 | 7
| growing up online
| By Carolyn Jabs
Get Organized! Apps to Match Your Personal Style
M
ost parents make lists. Organized parents can actually find those lists when they need them. Dozens of apps promise to help, consolidating scraps of paper and tattered notebooks into one central location. The trick, of course, is finding an app designed by people who understand your organizational style. Before experimenting with any of the apps below, do a quick self-appraisal. Some parents really don’t need a list that tells them to buy bread, milk and bananas—they do that automatically every time they step into a grocery store. For others, a very thorough grocery list means they can turn their attention to the toddler squirming in the cart or even delegate the shopping to another family member.
features such as a packing list for vacations or the release dates for familyfriendly movies. (www.cozi.com)
Coordinate with others. Remember the Milk was one of the first successful organizing apps. Today, it has a lively community of users and makes effortless connections with a large number of other programs including Evernote, Twitter and even Siri, the personal assistant on I-phone. Because it synchs so well, this app is ideal for parents who want to communicate, coordinate and delegate with other family members and co-workers. (www.rememberthemilk.com)
Here are other things to consider. Do you jot notes all day long or allocate a specific time to getting organized? Do you need to integrate work and family tasks or would you prefer to keep them separate? Is your cellphone attached to you or do you hunt for it every time it rings? Is color-coding a help or a distraction? Do you want to synch with your spouse, friends, kids? Does it appeal to you to mingle practical tasks with personal record keeping or would you prefer to keep photos and journaling separate from your To-Do list?
Color code everything. Awesome Note is a one stop app for people who would like to integrate their to-do lists and calendar with photos, maps, notes and even sketches. Folders are color-coordinated and you can assign fonts, icons and backgrounds to different kinds of information, making this an excellent choice for people who appreciate visual cues. (www.bridworks.com)
Answering these questions will help you decide which of the apps in the following list is worth a test drive. All are efficient list makers that will remind you of due dates and deadlines. Most include calendars. All but one are free, though many have premium features that are available for a monthly fee. All work with multiple platforms and many interface easily with other programs such as Google Calendar. Each has its own feel, so you’ll want to look for the one that seems like it will fit seamlessly into what you already do.
ents who are constantly changing channels. The app includes an appointment calendar, ToDo lists and a special section for “thoughts,” random and otherwise. By assigning colors, you can quickly see all of the items related to work, school, home, etc. (www.scatterbrain.it)
Customize your lists. Wunderlist is a streamlined, non-nonsense app that lets you set up your own lists in categories that make sense to you. Tasks can be assigned to others or sub-divided into smaller to-do lists. It’s perfect for minimalists and those who are easily distracted by features they don’t really need. (www.wunderlist.com)
Prioritize tasks. Toodledo encourages you to assign a priority to everything on your list so you can easily see what needs to be done TODAY. This app also encourages you to estimate the time a task will take. Then, when you find yourself with an unexpected gap in your schedule, you can put in the amount of time you have and generate a list of projects that will fit neatly into that slot. (www.toodledo.com)
Harvest your thoughts. Scatterbrain will appeal to par-
Track anything. Lumen Trails costs $2.99 and it’s only available for Apple products but it’s an extremely versatile app that lets you track everything. In addition to making lists and taking notes, you can keep track of calories and workouts, time logs and expenses, homework and naptimes. There’s even a journaling option. (www.lumentrails.com) If testing and learning yet another app seems like just another task for your To-Do list, you might want to take advantage of websites that offer printable organizers. In the download section of Mommytracked.com, there’s a weekly calendar, a menu planner and even a carpool list for ten minute tasks that can be tucked into odd moments. Organizedhome.com also has a good selection of practical printouts. (www.organizedhome.com/printable)
Take advantage of location. Any.Do has a clean, uncluttered interface so you can quickly see what needs to be done on any given day. This app also interfaces with a GPS component so it will remind you to do an errand when you are in the vicinity of the right store. (www.any.do)
One last tip—once you’ve made your lists, hold them loosely. Most days, the best things that happen, especially with young children, aren’t on anyone’s agenda. Happy families are invariably a little disorganized so leave lots of room for creativity, spontaneity and improvisation. If necessary, put that on your list! v
Manage from your desktop. Cozi has mobile apps for I-Phone and Android but its strength is its family-oriented website where you can keep (and share) a calendar, develop menu plans, organize shopping lists and even record memorable family moments in a journal. The site anticipates things busy parents might need with special
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.
8 | September 2013 | Wilmington Parent
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Wilmington School of Ballet
Register now for Fall classes
www.wilmingtonschoolofballet.com • 910-794-9590
Glitz & Glam
glamilicous parties!!!
Music for children & the families that love them!
spa fun, make-over magic, fashion runway and more
Also offering kindermusik with Sandy Errantes.
www.glitzandglamwilmingtonnc.com 910.794.9590
birth to four years old
www.musicwilmingtonnc.com • 910-794-9590
Open auditions for dancers kindergarten through professional
First Performance: Weekend in December 2013 Audition Date: September 7, 2013 Please email 1:30-3:00 Dancers on Pointe (includes Professionals) Performance: First Weekend in December 2013 wilballetcompany@yahoo.com 3:00-3:30 K—1st grade Please email for an email copy of the audition packet. 3:30-4:15 2nd - 4th grade wilballetcompany@yahoo.com Please email Or call (910) 777-1591 4:15-5:00 5th for & 6th wilballetcompany@yahoo.com angrade email copy of the audition packet. for more information. for an email copy of the audition packet. 5:00-6:00 7th grade andOr upcall (includes actors and non pointe dancers) (910) 777-1591 Or call (910) 777-1591 for more information. forWILL moreBE information. AUDITONS HELD AT THE WILMINGTON BALLET LOCATED AT 3834 OLEANDER DRIVE, WILMINGTON SCHOOL OF
Performance: Weekend in December 2013 First
www.wilmingtonballetcompany.org www.wilmingtonballetcompany.org
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www.wilmingtonballetcompany.org Wilmington Parent | September 2013 | 9
Performance: First Weekend in December 2013
Substance Abuse & Teens By Sandra Gordon
I
s my teen trying drugs and alcohol? If you’ve never asked yourself that question, it’s high time to consider it. According to a 2011 University of Michigan poll, only 10 percent of parents of teens believe their child used alcohol or marijuana in the last year. Teens themselves, though, report a different story. Twenty-eight percent of 10th graders reported using marijuana and 52 percent of 10th graders reported drinking alcohol, according to Monitoring the Future, a University of Michigan study. Those statistics are just a snapshot of the substance use that’s occurring in middle schools and high schools across the country. “The recreational use of substances consistently starts in adolescence, rising about halfway through middle school and peaking around the end of high school,” says Adi Jaffe, Ph.D., director of Alternatives Addiction Treatment, in Beverly Hills, California. Teens can be easily tempted to try new things without considering the consequences. Clearly, though, there’s a disconnect between teens’ behavior and parents’ awareness. Yet, if you can consider that your child may be using alcohol, marijuana or other drugs, you can begin to talk about it, provide guidance and allow your teen to ask questions.
Buzz Kill But what should you say? It’s not always so clear, especially if you drank or smoke yourself when you were a teen. “Don’t glorify your own substance use,” says Jaffe. Instead, take a prevention approach and aim to discourage experimenting. Times have changed. For one, marijuana is far more concentrated than what you might have smoked in high school. Be straight with your teen and tell them you’d prefer they didn’t use these substances. To build your case, “present it as a health issue.”
In fact, there’s no substance use that’s good for the teen brain or body. Illicit drugs can interfere with normal brain development. Adolescents who smoke marijuana are more likely as adults to develop depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia and to develop memory problems later on. Smoking marijuana also increases your risk of cancer. One joint equals the carcinogens in an entire pack of cigarettes. Meanwhile, research on the early use of alcohol is also grim: Taking your first drink before age 14 or so increases the chances of becoming an alcoholic by up to 50 percent. Throw in the fact that drugs and underage drinking are illegal and “all things considered, teens should not be using these substances,” Dr. Boyd says.
A Problem Solving Approach Once you’ve taken a stand, monitor your teen; know who he or she hangs out with and where. It’s okay to be that uncool parent. Call the parents of your child’s friend and ask if they’ll be home when your child is over and to ask them their view on alcohol and drugs. If the parents say they’ll just take away everyone’s keys if the kids drink, don’t let your child hang out at that friend’s house. Instead, create safe opportunities on your watch by engaging your child and her friends in wholesome activities, such as roller skating or bowling. Just because your teen looks all grown up doesn’t mean she doesn’t need you. Also, look for opportunities to keep the conversation going as nonjudgmentally as you can. Before your teen attends a party, for example, ask, “What are you going to do when people start drinking or smoking pot?” “Discuss it as a problem that needs to be solved,” Dr. Boyd says. Encourage your child to call or text you anytime she’s uncomfortable, which could even mean when she’s drunk. Having a code word or phrase to signal “things are not okay here” can help your teen communicate with you unbeknownst to her peers. v
When to Worry Trying alcohol once or twice or smoking marijuana several times doesn’t necessarily warrant a professional evaluation or sending your child to treatment. But, weekly use of marijuana or alcohol does. So does the single use of opiate pain medication, heroin or methamphetamines because those substances are highly addictive. If you’re getting signals that your teen may have a problem—maybe you smell alcohol on her breath or her grades are dropping--“ask her how frequently she’s using and what her experience is like,” Dr. Boyd says. If your radar is still on after talking with your teen, ask your pediatrician for a referral to mental health professional who specializes in adolescent substance abuse. Otherwise, contact an adolescent drug treatment program in your area as quickly as possible.
10 | September 2013 | Wilmington Parent
www.wilmingtonparent.com
| school notes
School’s Out!
New Hanover County Schools 2013/2014 Administrative Appointments
New Hanover County:
Amy Conklin - Principal of Mary C. Williams Elementary School. Ms. Conklin served as the interim principal of the school during the 2012-13 school year. Previously, she served as an assistant principal at Roland-Grise Middle School and College Park Elementary.
Traditional Schools: 09/02 – No School, Labor Day 09/27 – Half Day for Students Year Round Schools: 09/02 – No School, Labor Day 09/27 – Half Day for Students 09/30 – Intersession IBEC High School: 09/02 – No School, Labor Day WEC High School: 09/02 – No School, Labor Day 09/27 – Half Day for Students CFCI Charter School: 09/02 – No School, Labor Day 09/26 – Half Day for Students 09/27 – No School for Students Douglass Academy: 09/02 – No School, Labor Day 09/27 – Half Day for Students Pre-K Centers: 09/02 – No School, Labor Day 09/03-06 – Staggered Enrollment 09/09 – First Day of School 09/27 – No School for Students
David Greenwood - Assistant principal of College Park Elementary. Mr. Greenwood is currently working as the In-School Suspension Coordinator at Myrtle Grove Middle School. Mr. Greenwood taught for over 30 years at West Middle School for Plymouth-Canton Community Schools in Michigan. Kimberly Horton - Assistant principal of Williston Middle School. Ms. Horton was previously a teacher at Alderman Elementary School and Noble Middle School, and was the district’s 2010-2011 Teacher of the Year. Janna Lennon - Assistant principal of Bellamy Elementary. Ms. Lennon has taught at Codington Elementary and Pine Valley Elementary. Delores Overby - Assistant principal of Forest Hills Global Elementary School. Ms. Overby has served as AIG teacher and coach at Anderson Elementary. Prior to joining NHCS, Ms. Overby was a teacher for Johnston County and Richmond County school districts. Dr. Margaret Rollison - Assistant principal of Hoggard High School. Dr. Rollison has served as an assistant principal of Heidi Trask High School for Pender County Schools. Kristi Swain - Assistant principal of Williston Middle School. Ms. Swain has served as the Curriculum Coach and Arts Integration Specialist at Brunswick County Academy for middle and high school students.
Student Athletes & Concussions With the start of the school year, sports fields all across the county begin to fill with young athletes training for what they hope to be successful seasons. Seasons filled with goals, points, cheers, and wins. None of them are planning on brain injuries. However, every year athletes from every possible sport are diagnosed with concussions. Concussion in Sports: Fast Facts • A concussion is a brain injury and all are serious.
Brunswick: Traditional Schools: 09/02 – No School, Labor Day 09/30 – No School for Students Roger Bacon Academy/ Charter Day School: 09/02 – No School, Labor Day 09/27 – Half Day for Students Brunswick Early College: 09/02 – No School, Labor Day Pender: Traditional Schools: 09/02 – No School, Labor Day 09/25 – Half Day for Students Penderlea Year Round School: 09/26 – Intersession Pender Early College: 09/02 – No School, Labor Day Visit www.nhcs.net, www.co.brunswick.k12.nc.us or www.pendercountyschools.net for more information.
www.wilmingtonparent.com
• Most concussions occur without loss of consciousness. • Recognition and proper response to concussions when they first occur can help prevent further injury or even death. What is a Concussion? A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury, or TBI, caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head that can change the way your brain normally works. Concussions can also occur from a blow to the body that causes the head to move rapidly back and forth. Even a “ding,” “getting your bell rung,” or what seems to be mild bump or blow to the head can be serious. Concussions can occur in any sport or recreation activity. So, all coaches, parents, and athletes need to learn concussion signs and symptoms and what to do if a concussion occurs. All student athletes and their parents will be required to read and sign the concussion information sheet located on the NHCS website, www.nhcs. net/athletics/concussion_information, before being allowed to play. Stay safe and take even mild bumps to the head seriously!
Wilmington Parent | September 2013 | 11
|
reel life
| By Jane Louise Boursaw
September brings movies about break-dancers, a confirmed bachelor who ends up caring for six kids, and brand new “Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs.” Here’s a sneak peek at what’s new in theaters this month. be scared by this one, which releases on Friday the 13th! It’s rated PG-13, but best for kids 15 and older (and really should be rated R)
TIO PAPI
PG for brief language, thematic elements and mild rude humor. In theaters 9/06. Ok for kids 8+. tiopapimovie.com Directed by Fro Rojas, this heartwarming dramedy is an upbeat story about life’s unexpected surprises. It stars Joey Dedio as Ray Ray Dominguez, a confirmed bachelor who dreams of leaving the barrio for a more carefree existence in Miami. Then one day everything changes and he becomes a reluctant “Tio Papi” - aka Uncle Daddy - to his sister’s six children ages six to 16. Now, in charge of raising this energetic (and expensive) clan, Ray Ray must make important decisions on what life really is all about – family.
INSIDIOUS: CHAPTER 2
PG-13 for intense sequences of terror and violence, and thematic elements. In theaters 9/13. Ok for kids 15+. www.insidiousch2.com This sequel to the 2010 movie “Insidious” finds the haunted Lambert family (they can’t catch a break!) seeking to uncover the mysterious childhood secret that has left them dangerously connected to the spirit world. Patrick Wilson, Rose Byrne, Barbara Hershey and Ty Simpkins star in this movie directed by James Wan. The first movie was a smash hit with horror fans, and I’m sure they’ll be crowding into theaters to
BATTLE OF THE YEAR: THE DREAM TEAM
Not yet rated; likely PG-13. In theaters 9/20 (2D, 3D). Ok for kids 13+. www.battleoftheyear-movie.com
man can compare. When she decides to spend her life savings on a trip to an English resort catering to Austen-crazed women, Jane’s fantasies of meeting the perfect Regency-era gentleman suddenly become more real than she ever could have imagined. “Twilight” writer Stephenie Meyer produced this cute film, which also stars JJ Field, Bret McKenzie, Jane Seymour and Jennifer Coolidge as a hilarious Austenland guest.
In this year’s dance movie, “Lost” star Josh Holloway stars as a veteran basketball coach who whips a talented American breakdancing troupe into shape for the biggest b-boy competition in the world. For breakdancers, winning the Battle of the Year is like taking the gold medal in the Olympics, but no American has taken the prize in the last 15 years. A former b-boy with his eyes on the prize, L.A. hip-hop icon Dante (Laz Alonso) is determined to change that, but he’ll have to recruit his old friend Blake (Holloway) to help form a b-boy troupe of the best dancers in the country. With the competition just three weeks away, they’ll need a small miracle to reclaim the title. Based on the documentary “Planet B-Boy,” Chris Brown, Josh Peck and Caity Lotz also star in this movie directed by Benson Lee.
AUSTENLAND
PG-13 for some suggestive content and innuendo. In theaters 9/27. Ok for kids 13+. www.sonyclassics.com/austenland
Heads up, Jane Austen fans! This sweet romantic comedy directed by Jerusha Hess stars Keri Russell as 30-something Jane Hayes, a seemingly normal young woman with a secret: her obsession with Mr. Darcy - as played by Colin Firth in the BBC adaptation of “Pride and Prejudice.” But it’s ruining her love life, because no real
CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE “ OF MEATBALLS 2
Not yet rated; likely PG. In theaters 9/27. Ok for kids 6+. cloudy-movie.com
Picking up where the 2009 movie left off, this movie finds Flint Lockwood (voiced by Bill Hader) invited to join the Live Corp Company and
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 | September 2013 | Wilmington Parent
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use his gift for invention for the good of mankind. Just as young Flint prepares to go to work for his hero Chester V (Will Forte), the young genius learns that his water-to-food machine is not only still functional, but it’s also started cross-breeding animals with food. In order to prevent a growing army of “foodimals” from escaping isolation on an island and wreaking havoc on the mainland, Flint and his friends will have to do battle with such delicious, but deadly, hybrids as the ferocious tacodiles, slithering apple pie-thons, and vine-swinging shrimpanzees. Cody Cameron and Kris Pearn direct this cute movie also featuring the voices of Anna Faris, James Caan, Kristen Schaal, Terry Crews, Andy Samberg, Neil Patrick Harris, and Benjamin Bratt
Smile for a Lifetime is a non-profit organization that provides FREE orthodontic care to children in need from our community. Our mission is to create self-confidence, inspire hope and change lives. To nominate a deserving child, visit www.campbellsmiles.com and complete the application before September 30th, 2013.
Two Locations: 1516 Doctors Circle • 8066-A Market Street 910 251-1100 • www.campbellsmiles.com
BAGGAGE CLAIM
PG-13 for sexual content and some language. In theaters 9/27. Ok for kids 14+. www.foxsearchlight.com/baggageclaim
Committed to make your event special !! www.wilmingtonbouncers.com • wilmingtonbouncers@gmail.com
Because the safety of your child matters~Our equipment is NC State Inspected & Insured. COI available upon request
• Character Costumes • Elmo, SpongeBob & Minnie Look Alikes • Bounce Castles • Water Slides • Slip N Slides • Obstacle Course • Sno Cone Machine • Picnic Tables • Pop up Tents
Determined to get engaged before her youngest sister’s wedding, flight attendant Montana Moore (Paula Patton) finds herself with only 30 days to find Mr. Right. Using her airline connections to “accidentally” meet up with eligible ex-boyfriends and scour for potential candidates, she racks up more than 30,000 miles and countless comedic encounters, all the while searching for the perfect guy. Directed by David E. Talbert, this movie also stars Adam Brody, Jill Scott, Tia Mowry-Hardrict, Djimon Hounsou, Derek Luke and Taye Diggs. We haven’t had many good rom-coms lately, so I’m really happy for this movie from Fox Searchlight.
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Wilmington Parent | September 2013 | 13
1 Sunday
Residents Free Day - Cape Fear Museum
Artsy Exploration
Cotton Exchange Tours
1 – 5pm. Cape Fear Museum. NHC residents are admitted free to the Museum the first Sunday of every month. Call 798-4350 or visit www.capefearmuseum. com for information.
10am Daily. TMuffin. We open up the art room and let kids have access to finger painting, stamping, water play, and other sensory fun. Parents help facilitate the fun. Give your child a chance to get messy! Free with admission.
Boogie in the Park
Railroad Story Time
4 – 7pm. Kure Beach Ocean Front Park, K&L Ave. Enjoying free, live music by the sea. Bring a chair or blanket and boogie shoes for family-friendly fun. Call 458-8216 or visit www.townofkurebeach.org for band schedule.
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.
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.
CALENDAR
• PLA N YOUR MO N TH WITH US
september | 2013
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. 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. 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.
14 | September 2013 | Wilmington Parent
Free Movies at the Lake
Go Green Engineer Team
8:45pm. Carolina Beach Lake Park. Free. “Oz The Great and Powerful”. Visit www.pleasureislandnc.org for summer movie list.
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.
2 Monday – Labor Day
3 Tuesday
Wrightsville Beach Farmers’ Market
Leland’s Little Learners
8am – 1pm. Last one of the season! Seawater Lane, Wrightsville Beach. Enjoy a place to purchase locally grown produce and crafts. Contact 256-7925 or parksandrecreation@towb.org.
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.
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Happy Little Singers 9:45am 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.
events! Celebrate all artistic mediums through a collection of art experiences in downtown Wilmington including dance, theater, art, music and more! Visit www.artblastwilmington.com for details.
Discover Science
Lap Sit Story Time
Mini Math
Barnes & Noble 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.
10am Tuesdays. Barnes & Noble. Enjoy weekly story time in the Children’s section. Call 509-1880 for details.
Happy Little Singers
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 254-3534 to pre-register.
9:45am Wednesdays. 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.
Happy Bigger Singers 4pm Tuesdays. The Art Works, 200 Willard St. Ms. Susan’s Room presents music education through singing, chanting, dancing, instruments and creative improve for ages 4-7. $10/Family. $5/add’l child. Drop-ins welcome. Free parking. Call 777-8889 or visit www.ms-susans-room.com for more information.
Baby Dance Boogie
Family Night at Chick-Fil-A
Toddler Time
5:30 – 7pm Tuesdays. Chick-fil-a Mayfaire. Don’t miss the fun family events. Call 256-0854 for weekly details.
10am. Learning Express Toys, Military Cutoff. Jazz it up with Danielle Tisdale from Dance with Me. Ages 1-3 with a parent or caregiver. Please call 910-509-0153 for reservations, please.
10am Wednesdays. Myrtle Grove Library. Children 18 to 38 months are invited for approximately 20 minutes of stories, songs and activities with Mr. Scooter. Call 798-6393 for details.
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.
Preschool Science
4 Wednesday
Preschool Story Time
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. ARTblast Festival Downtown Wilmington. Five day festival packed full of
4pm. Wednesdays. Children’s Museum. Reinforce information learned in school and learn new concepts. Call 2543534 or visit www.playwilmington.org for details.
5 Thursday ARTblast Festival Downtown Wilmington. See 09/04 Wilmington Symphony Youth Orchestra Auditions Cultural Arts Building, UNCW. Wilmington Symphony Youth Orchestra (Grades 9-12) and Junior Strings (Grades 6-8) auditions. Applications and required music are available at www.wilmingtonsymphony.org. Appointment times will be assigned upon application. The Youth Orchestra performs four concerts per year. StoryCOOKS
Murder Mystery Cruise
Poplar Grover Farmer’s Market
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.
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.
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. Preschool Dance Mania 11am. Learning Express Toys, Oleander. Ages 3-5 with a parent or caregiver. Dance their willies out with Danielle Tisdale, director of Dance with Me. Call 910-313-3100 for reservations, please. stART with a Story
10:30am Wednesdays. Myrtle Grove Library. Stories, songs and activities with Mr. Scooter for children ages 3-5. Call 798-6393 for details.
3:30pm Thursdays. Children’s Museum. Create a masterpiece that reinforces a fun book. Call 254-3534 or visit www. playwilmington.org with questions. Happy Little Singers
Rap Club 3:30pm Wednesdays. Myrtle Grove Library. Choose the beat! Write the lyrics! Record the song! Each session attendees will work as a group to compose an original hip hop song about the library. Upon completion, children will be e-mailed the track. Ages 6-12. Free. Call 798-6391 to register.
4pm Thursdays. 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. Dropins welcome. Free parking. Call 777-8889 or visit www. happylittlesingers.com or www.ms-susans-room.com for more information.
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Wilmington Parent | September 2013 | 15
6 Friday ARTblast Festival
pediatric dentistry
Downtown Wilmington. See 09/04 Toddler Time
Two Locations
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. Ms. Susan’s Room – Finger, Hand, and Feet Painting 10am Fridays. The Art Works, 200 Willard St. Children ages 3+ enjoy a weekly Art/Craft project. $10/family. $5/add’l child. Visit www.ms-susans-room.com for weekly events. Contact 777-8889 or info@ms-susans-room.com to register. Family Yoga Story Time 10:30am Fridays. NHC Main Library. Parents and children 6 months+ have fun listening to stories while learning basic yoga postures. Bring mat or beach towel. Call 798-6303 with questions.
Specialized Dentistry for Infants, Children, Adolescents and Children with Special Needs
Adventures in Art 3:30pm Fridays. Children’s Museum. Experience different forms of art each week. Ages 5-8. Space is limited. Call 254-3534 to pre-register and visit www.playwilmington.org for weekly projects.
8115 Market Street Ste. 204 Wilmington• 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
Rainbow Loom Classes 4-6 pm. Learning Express, Oleander & Military Cutoff. Beginners class the 1st hour, intermediate the 2nd. Participants bring your own loom and bands. Classes are taught by Learning Express Loomineers and kid looming experts. Call 509-0153 or 313-3100 for details, reservations suggested. Fridays for Fun - Volleyball 4:30pm. Capt’n Bill’s Volleyball Facility. Open to kids ages 7-16 and is only $5 a child. We teach them correct technique, sportsmanship and have FUN learning the game of volleyball. Call 762-0173 for more information. Airlie Summer Concert Series 6 – 8pm. Airlie Gardens. Stardust. $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. Barnes & Noble Story Time 7pm Fridays. Barnes & Noble. Enjoy weekly story time in the Children’s section. Call 509-1880 for details.
7 Saturday ARTblast Festival Downtown Wilmington. Artists will line the streets of Historic Downtown Wilmington for Wilmington’s largest outdoor arts show. Visit www.artblastwilmington.com for details. Riverfront Farmer’s Market 8am – 1pm Saturdays (through 12/21). North Water Street. Features local farmers, produce, arts and crafts, music, and more. Call 538-6223 with questions.
16 | September 2013 | Wilmington Parent
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Intercultural Festival 10am. Brunswick Community College. The event includes an International Pavilion displaying information from Africa, South America, Asia, and Europe; the International Food Tasting Tent (admission fee applies); an entertainment stage featuring musicians, dancers and performers dressed in authentic traditional costumes. Kid’s events and activities are also included. Call 842-6566 for details. 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. Happy Little Singers 9:45am Saturdays. 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. Carnivorous Plant Hike 10am Saturdays & Sundays (through 10/27). Carolina Beach State Park. Enjoy nature by hiking with a park ranger to view a variety of plants. Call 458-8206 for information. 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. Super Saturday Fun Time 11am Saturdays. TheatreNow. Join DOCK, the dog, and his two-legged friends as they uncover mysteries and discover artifacts (courtesy of Cape Fear Museum). Different adventure each week. Families welcome. $8/person. Visit www. theatrewilmington.com for tickets.
swashbuckler or fairy princess! Visit www.playwilmington.org for more details.
9 Monday
Art Classes Young Artist’s Series • drawing • painting
Spanish for Tots: Free trial class 10-11am. Learning Express, Oleander. Courtesy of the Children’s Museum of Wilmington with teacher Karina Villalobos. Call 313-3100 for reservations. Muddy Mondays 3:30pm Mondays. TMuffin. Come and play with clay during this kids’ pottery class. During this program, we’ll explore many different types of clay and sculpture mediums like traditional potter’s clay that gets fired in a kiln, modeling clay, oven-bake clay, and even making our own homemade playdough. Ages 5-10. Visit Tmuffin.com for more info. Go Green Engineer Team 3:30pm Mondays. Children’s Museum. See 09/02
10 Tuesday French for Tots: Free trial class 10-11am. Learning Express, Military Cutoff. Courtesy of the Children’s Museum of Wilmington with teacher Marie Field. Call 509-0153 for reservations. American Girl Event: Traitor in the Shipyard, A ‘Caroline Mystery’ 7pm. Barnes & Noble, Mayfaire. Come enjoy a fun event for girls interested in the American Girl book series. Call 5091880 for more details.
Kids Classes Adult Classes
Ella Coxe
Nationally Recognized, Professional Artist & Art Educator Carolyn Faulkner 3803 Wrightsville Ave #8, Downey Branch Office Park
www.studiocrealart.com
Call 910-685-5137
11 Wednesday – Patriot Day Kindermusik for Babies 10:30am. Learning Express, Oleander. Ages newborn to 1 year with Kindermusik educator Catherine Szuch. Call 3133100 for reservations required.
Ocean Adventures Learning Center 1-4 pm. Cape Fear Museum. Explore ocean science. What is an aquanaut? Why is the estuary called the “ocean’s nursery?” Examine local shells and learn about North Carolina’s state shell. Find out why starfish are not fish at all! Use various magnification tools to examine sea life up close. Parental participation required. Visit www.capefearmuseum.com for more information.
Worldly Wednesdays
Klutz Playday: Create Paper Flying Dragons
12 Thursday
2-3 p.m. Learning Express, Military Cutoff. Free, while supplies last. Ages 8+. For more information contact 509-0153.
Little Hands Art
8 Sunday – Grandparent’s Day
10:30 am. Learning Express, Military Cutoff. Free for Ages 2-5. Simple art activities for little people and their parents, grandparents or caregivers. Call 509-0153 for reservations.
ARTblast Festival
Jazz at the Mansion
Downtown Wilmington. See 09/04 Pirates and Princesses 1-5pm. Children’s Museum. Come dressed as your favorite
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3:30pm Wednesdays. TMuffin. Art is your passport to the world in this mixed-media art class and multicultural experience. Movement and other sensory activities are often encouraged as children learn not only art, but the give and take of accepting others’ perspectives as part of a global community. Ages 5-10. Visit Tmuffin.com for more info.
6:30 – 8pm. Bellamy Mansion. El Jaye Johnson & the Port City All-Stars perform live at the Mansion in a series of live jazz on the lawns. Bring chairs or a blanket. Visit www.bellamymansion.org or capefearjazzsociety.org for tickets and details.
Wilmington Parent | September 2013 | 17
Lady Seahawks Preseason Bash 7:30pm. Capt’n Bill’s Volleyball Facility. Help the lady Seahawks kick off their season with a preseason bash! We will have giveaways, games, contests and lots of fun. Come by and meet the UNCW volleyball team. Call 762-0173 for more information.
Photo credit: Traci Johnson
13 Friday Ms. Susan’s Room - Art & Crafts: Creating a Collage 10am Fridays. The Art Works, 200 Willard St. Children ages 3+ enjoy a weekly Art/Craft project. $10/family. $5/add’l child. Visit www.ms-susans-room.com for weekly events. Contact 777-8889 or info@ms-susans-room.com to register. Klutz Playday: Create and Fly Paper Airplanes 2-4 p.m. Learning Express, Military Cutoff. Free, while supplies last. Ages 8+. Reservations not needed. Contact 509-0153 for more information. 4th Annual Pink Fashion Walk 6:30 pm. Coastline Conference Center. This premiere charity fundraiser will have live entertainment, hors d’oeuvres, and a silent and live auction featuring items donated by local businesses. Models and cancer survivors will also take to the runway for an entertaining fashion show. Proceeds benefit cancer patients in the Wilmington area. Visit www.pinkfashionwalk.com for details.
Photo credit: Diana Gore
Roger & Hammerstein’s Cinderella 7pm. Community Arts Center. The Thalian Association Children’s Theatre presents to you the timeless enchantment of a magical fairy tale! General admission $12. Call 341-7860 for details.
14 Saturday Leland Founders Day Festival 3-9pm. Brunswick Forest. Food, vendors, bounce houses, crafts, live music with Jim Quick and The Coastline Band, plus performances by local school choruses and bands -- and fireworks beginning at 8:30pm. Free parking. Pier-2-Pier Swim Race Wrightsville Beach. Annual open water ocean swim race. The race course is 2 miles between the Johnny Mercer and Crystal Pier. Open to all swimmers 11 years old and up. Visit www. wilmingtonfamilyymca.org for more information. Birth Retreat TMuffin. Peaceful Beginnings, and Heartsong Yoga for a comprehensive birth retreat that combines a Lamaze-style birth class with hands-on yoga and massage for labor workshop. Includes baby massage class. Visit Tmuffin.com for more information. Ocean Adventures Learning Center 1-4 pm. Cape Fear Museum. Explore ocean science. What is an aquanaut? Why is the estuary called the “ocean’s nursery?” Examine local shells and learn about North Carolina’s state shell. Find out why starfish are not fish at all! Use various magnification tools to examine sea life up close. Parental participation required. Visit www.capefearmuseum.com for more information. Rainbow Loom Classes
Photo credit: Christine Cheesman
4-6 pm. Learning Express, Oleander & Military Cutoff. Beginners class the 1st hour, intermediate the 2nd. Participants bring your own loom and bands. Classes are taught by Learning Express Loomineers and kid looming experts. Call 509-0153 or 313-3100 for details, reservations suggested. Roger & Hammerstein’s Cinderella 3pm & 7pm. Community Arts Center. See 09/13.
15 Sunday Birth Retreat TMuffin. Peaceful Beginnings, and Heartsong Yoga for a comprehensive birth retreat that
18 | September 2013 | Wilmington Parent
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combines a Lamaze-style birth class with hands-on yoga and massage for labor workshop. Includes baby massage class. Visit Tmuffin.com for more information. Roger & Hammerstein’s Cinderella 3pm. Community Arts Center. See 09/13.
16 Monday
Heal like a pro.
Spanish for Tots: Free trial class 10-11am. Learning Express, Military Cutoff. Courtesy of the Children’s Museum of Wilmington with teacher Karina Villalobos. Call 509-0153 for reservations. 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.
17 Tuesday Kindermusik for Babies 10:30am. Learning Express, Military Cutoff. Ages newborn to 1 year with Kindermusik educator Catherine Szuch. Call 509-0153 for reservations. A Taste of the Town 6pm. Downtown Wilmington. A special benefit for Thalian Hall. Diners have the opportunity to sample the fare of some of downtown’s best restaurants. Stroll downtown with map in hand or take the provided trolley and enjoy an appetizer size portion of each establishment’s signature dish. All proceeds benefit Thalian Hall. Visit www.thalianhall.org for tickets and more information.
18 Wednesday Baby Dance Boogie
No matter your sport or activity level, trust the practice that
10am. Learning Express, Oleander. Jazz it up with Danielle Tisdale from Dance with Me. Ages 1-3 with a parent or caregiver. Call 910-313-3100 for reservations, please.
treats many of the area’s professional athletes. OrthoWilmington
Preschool Dance Mania 11am. Learning Express, Oleander. For ages 3-5 with a parent or caregiver. Dance their willies out with Danielle Tisdale, director of Dance with Me. Call 910-313-3100 for reservations, please.
provides comprehensive sports medicine care, from repairing foot and ankle injuries, rotator cuffs and meniscal tears, to ACL reconstruction. Treatment options range from non-surgical solutions and physical therapy, to state-of-the-art, minimally invasive total joint replacement and reconstruction.
19 Thursday
All Day. Learning Express, Military Cutoff & Oleander. Free. All the Learning Express elves will be transformed into pirates all day. Come with your booty in yer pirate duds for silly pirate nonsense, activities and random prizes all day long. Call 509-0153 or 313-3100 for details. 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.
Don’t play games with your sports injury. Call for an appointment 910.332.3800. Same-Day Appointments Available Robert B. Boswell, MD • Shawn B. Hocker, MD Albert W. Marr, MD • John S. O’Malley, MD Kevin S. Scully, MD • William R. Sutton, MD ORtHOWilMingtOn.cOM Wilmington • Porter’s Neck • Brunswick Forest • Jacksonville
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113191 OW sports med ad-wp.indd 1
© 2013 OrthoWilmington
International Talk Like a Pirate Day!
Wilmington Parent | September 2013 | 19 8/16/13 4:35 PM
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.
20 Friday Secret Garden Tour
Photo credit: Irina T.
10am-4pm. Tours begin at Latimer House Museum. 10th annual tour of “hidden gardens”. Visitors tour elegantly manicured gardens, including some that have never before been open to the public. All proceeds will benefit the 1852 Latimer House Museum and Gardens. Admission $15 per person. Visit www.hslcf.org for more information. Ms. Susan’s Room - Art & Crafts: Paper Bag Costumes 10am Fridays. The Art Works, 200 Willard St. Children ages 3+ enjoy a weekly Art/Craft project. $10/family. $5/add’l child. Visit www.ms-susans-room.com for weekly events. Contact 777-8889 or info@ms-susans-room.com to register. Rainbow Loom Classes 4-6 pm. Learning Express, Oleander & Military Cutoff. Beginners class the 1st hour, intermediate the 2nd. Participants bring your own loom and bands. Classes are taught by Learning Express Loomineers and kid looming experts. Call 509-0153 or 313-3100 for details, reservations suggested. Airlie Summer Concert Series – Make-up Day
Photo credit: Shawneezi
6 – 8pm. Airlie Gardens. The Imitations. $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.
21 Saturday YMCA Triathlon 7am. Wrightsville Beach. A USA Triathlon sanctioned event that includes a 1500m swim, a 12 mile bike and a 5k run. Call 251-9622 for details. Bug Fest 2013 9am-7pm. NC Museum of Natural Science, Raleigh. FREE. All four floors of the museum will be filled with buggy fun! This year’s theme: Scorpions. Entertaining displays, exhibits, and activities inside and outside. Taste delectable dishes featuring creepy crawlers. Attend a beekeeping workshop, or bring an unusual bug to the Stump the Expert table. Surf Fishing 9am. 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/Non-Members. Visit www. ncaquariums.com for details. Secret Garden Tour 10am-4pm. Tours begin at Latimer House Museum. See 09/20. Ocean Adventures Learning Center
Photo credit: Mandy Peterson
1-4 pm. Cape Fear Museum. Explore ocean science. What is an aquanaut? Why is the estuary called the “ocean’s nursery?” Examine local shells and learn about North Carolina’s state shell. Find out why starfish are not fish at all! Use various magnification tools to examine sea life up close. Parental participation required. Visit www.capefearmuseum.com for more information. Klutz Playday: Face Painting and Creating Crazy Faces 2-4pm. Learning Express, Military Cutoff & Oleander. Join us for lots of fun to celebrate our 18th birthday! Free for all ages 3-103! Reservations not needed. Call 509-0153 or 313-3100 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.
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Wilmington Parent | September 2013 | 20
$17/Members. Ages 10+ only. Call 458-7468 for required pre-registration. Visit www.ncaquariums.com for details.
22 Sunday Learn From the Seahawks – Free Volleyball Clinic 3-5pm. Capt’n Bill’s Volleyball Facility. The UNCW volleyball team will be holding a FREE volleyball clinic for kids in the 4th -8th grade. Preregistration is required - only 50 total spots are available. Call 762-0173 to register.
23 Monday Artsy Exploration 10am Daily. TMuffin. We open up the art room and let kids have access to finger painting, stamping, water play, and other sensory fun. Parents help facilitate the fun. Give your child a chance to get messy! Free with admission. 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.
24 Tuesday Happy Little Singers 9:45am 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. French for Tots: Free trial class 10-11am. Learning Express, Oleander. Courtesy of the Children’s Museum of Wilmington with teacher Marie Field. Call 313-3100 for reservations.
Spend your Saturdays with UNCW Youth Programs! Engineering Expectations MarineQuest
Barnes & Noble Story Time
Literacy Live
10am Tuesdays. Barnes & Noble. Enjoy weekly story time in the Children’s section. Call 509-1880 for details.
www.uncw.edu/youth/registration.html 910.962.3195 An EEO/AA Institution
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 254-3534 to pre-register.
4pm Tuesdays. The Art Works, 200 Willard St. Ms. Susan’s Room presents music education through singing, chanting, dancing, instruments and creative improve for ages 4-7. $10/Family. $5/ add’l child. Drop-ins welcome. Free parking. Call 777-8889 or visit www.ms-susans-room.com for more information.
25 Wednesday Toddler Time 10am Wednesdays. Myrtle Grove Library. Children 18 to 38 months are invited for approximately 20 minutes of stories, songs and activities with Mr. Scooter. Call 798-6393 for details.
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Rumba Cha-Cha Swing Salsa Shag Hip-Hop Waltz Foxtrot Tango
Happy Bigger Singers
wilmington’s premier dance studio
Fun, New Kids Classes New Instructors
Check us out online www.babsmcdance.com Give us a call 910-395-5090 6782 Market Street Wilmington, NC 28405
Wilmington Parent | September 2013 | 21
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. Kindermusik for Babies 10:30am. Learning Express, Oleander. Ages newborn to 1 year with Kindermusik educator Catherine Szuch. Call 3133100 for reservations. Preschool Story Time 10:30am Wednesdays. Myrtle Grove Library. Stories, songs and activities with Mr. Scooter for children ages 3-5. Call 798-6393 for details.
27 Friday Ms. Susan’s Room – Origami Butterflies 10am Fridays. The Art Works, 200 Willard St. Children ages 3+ enjoy a weekly Art/Craft project. $10/family. $5/add’l child. Visit www.ms-susans-room.com for weekly events. Contact 777-8889 or info@ms-susans-room.com to register. Tween Scene: About Me! 5-6pm. Learning Express, Military Cutoff & Oleander. Free. Bring your BFF and fill out All About Me questionnaires, play Coke or Pepsi, Spot It, and create Tattoo Jewelry. Ages 8+. Reservations not needed. Call 509-0153 or 313-3100 for details. Fourth Friday Gallery Walk
Rap Club 3:30pm Wednesdays. Myrtle Grove Library. Choose the beat! Write the lyrics! Record the song! Each session attendees will work as a group to compose an original hip hop song about the library. Upon completion, children will be e-mailed the track. 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. Mini Math 4pm. Wednesdays. Children’s Museum. Reinforce information learned in school and learn new concepts. Call 2543534 or visit www.playwilmington.org for details.
26 Thursday
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.
28 Saturday Cape Fear Mothers of Twins Club consignment Sale 8am-11am. The Elks Lodge, Oleander Drive. Join us for a fun morning of shopping. Gently used clothing, shoes, baby accessories, toys and more will be available to shoppers for babies, children and teens. Admission: Free. Email us at cfmotc@yahoo.com or visitwww.capefearmotc.org for more information. 50th Annual NC Spot Festival All Day. Hampstead. Come celebrate the spot fish, a staple of Hampstead! Enjoy a spot dinner with all the fixings. Fireworks on Saturday. Arts, crafts, and live music both days. Visit www.ncspotfestival.com for more information.
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. Little Hands Art 10:30 am. Learning Express, Oleander. Free for Ages 2-5. Simple art activities for little people and their parents, grandparents or caregivers. Call 313-3100 for reservations. 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.
22 | September 2013 | Wilmington Parent
state shell. Find out why starfish are not fish at all! Use various magnification tools to examine sea life up close. Parental participation required. Visit www.capefearmuseum. com for more information. RAINBOW LOOM CLASSES 4-6 pm. Learning Express, Oleander & Military Cutoff. Beginners class the 1st hour, intermediate the 2nd. Participants bring your own loom and bands. Classes are taught by Learning Express Loomineers and kid looming experts. Call 509-0153 or 313-3100 for details, reservations suggested.
29 Sunday 50th Annual NC Spot Festival All Day. Hampstead. Come celebrate the spot fish, a staple of Hampstead! Enjoy a spot dinner with all the fixings. Arts, crafts, and live music both days. Visit www.ncspotfestival. com for more information. Pleasure Island Day Carolina Beach Park. Come enjoy a day on the island! There will be fun for kids of all ages with live music, kid’s activities, food and drinks. Contact 458-6835 for more information. NC Shell Show 9am-5pm. Cape Fear Museum. See 09/28.
30 Monday Artsy Exploration 10am Daily. TMuffin. We open up the art room and let kids have access to finger painting, stamping, water play, and other sensory fun. Parents help facilitate the fun. Give your child a chance to get messy! Free with admission.
NC Shell Show 9am-5pm. Cape Fear Museum. Interested in all things molluscan? Experience the largest gathering of shell collections in North Carolina. View displays of some of the world’s most beautiful, unusual and rare shells; as well as shell crafts. Learn how to start your own collection and shop for shells from on-site vendors. Visit www.capefearmuseum.com for more information. Ocean Adventures Learning Center 1-4 pm. Cape Fear Museum. Explore ocean science. What is an aquanaut? Why is the estuary called the “ocean’s nursery?” Examine local shells and learn about North Carolina’s
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.
To submit events to the calendar, please email calendar.wilmingtonparent@gmail.com Deadline for submissions to the October issue is Sept. 9, 2013.
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Bellamy & Gator – an Inspiring Team! By Danielle Villegas
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ellamy Tyson, a 13 year old Myrtle Grove Middle student, and her 2 year old yellow lab named Gator are the youngest Therapy Dog team ever certified by Carolina Canines. Bellamy enjoys spending time around all types of animals, but when the Tysons decided to add Gator to their family, they knew he was an exceptional dog that had a special job to accomplish. Bellamy says, “When I was in elementary school I enjoyed helping in the EC (exceptional children) classes. I was also inspired to do therapy work because of my autistic cousin, and by watching my dad work with special needs children.”
The Carolina Canines for Therapy program trains owners and their dogs to provide animal-assisted visitations in hospitals, nursing homes, schools, group homes and treatment facilities. This 6-week course is designed to provide a hands-on approach for people and their dogs to learn the skills needed for successful visitations. Carolina Canines trains canines in the art of the “healing touch”. After completing the program, the teams become registered Carolina Canines for Therapy teams and can then volunteer in the community. Bellamy and Gator went through months of training in preparation for this course. They have visited schools, nursing homes, Special Olympics, Dr. Skip Tyson’s office, among other places. This impressive team loves making people feel good! The program was challenging to complete, but Gator and Bellamy enjoy holding the titles of “youngest handler” and “youngest dog”! It has also given Bellamy a different perspective on life. “Being a part of a therapy team really makes me thankful for my health and more appreciative of the opportunities I have in life. It also reinforces the fact that I would like to be a veterinarian,” says Bellamy.
s anielle Villega Photo credit: D
If anyone wants to find out more about being a therapy team, or just donate to the organization, contact Carolina Canines at volunteer.services@carolinacanines.org to learn more about this rewarding program. v
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Wilmington Parent | September 2013 | 23
Newest ship in fleet!
All types of events • We deliver and pick up
910.200.4685
info@funtimeinflatablesnc.com
www.funtimeinflatablesnc.com
Birthday Party Etiquette
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By Danielle Villegas
irthday parties are often the first social event your children will be exposed to, and usually children manage to get by with a few hints and reminders about basic manners. Yet there are a few gray areas that occasionally trip up party hosts and guests. Below are a few guidelines to follow that should help everyone avoid awkward moments and hurt feelings.
SPECIAL SECTION: Party Guide
Guest List Invite the whole class, or just their closest friends? Parents decide who’s on the list, or let your child pick who gets an invitation? Trickiest part of planning a party! It’s important to allow children to make their own decisions, with limitations. Parents should have the ultimate “veto” or “pass” power when it comes to the final list. Allow your child to choose a few, but if they leave off guests that will definitely hear of the party and may feel excluded, use this as a time to explain the importance of including others because it’s the “right” thing to do. Also, as a general rule either – have a very small party (5 or less), invite all the girls (or boys), or invite the whole class.
Admission Fees If the Birthday Party venue requires an admission fee, the fee should be paid by the host/hostess of the party for the child that was invited to the party. If the parent hosting the party does not want to be responsible for a large number of children, they should also include admission for 1 parent per guest. Any additional family members that attend should expect to pay for their own entrance. This includes siblings of invited party members.
RSVP This is important! It is very difficult for the party planner to know how many people to anticipate without an RSVP. If you RSVP and later realize you can not attend, call with your regrets. What to do about no-shows? You can expect about 10% of your invited guests will not show up. However, if they RSVP’d, did not show, and later give no apology – you can probably leave them off future guest lists.
Gift Required? When your child is invited to a birthday party that they are unable to attend, you are not “required” to send a gift or give one later. Gifts are optional; they are not a payment that is due. If you are close to the family and would truly love to provide a gift then you should, but not because you feel obligated.
Party Favor Expectations Do not feel pressured to go overboard with goodie bags. Keep it simple, cheap, useful, and if possible homemade by your child – the other parents will be grateful. Also, it is not necessary to provide these treats to siblings that were not invited to the party. If you have extra then feel free to share the excess, but it’s not a requirement.
Gift Prices
Inflatable Rentals
Fairy Party Package • Spa Spectacular • Super Hero Party • Carnival Party Harry Potter Party • Pirate Party • Space Party Laser Tag Party • Polar Express Party • Princess Party Mickey & Minnie Party • Cars Pitstop Party Our Party Packages:
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To book call 910-520-7925 or www.wowfactorofwilmington.com 24 | September 2013 | Wilmington Parent
Do not feel the need to compete. Regardless of how extravagant the party, you should have a set amount that you spend for gifts. Especially when the same circle of children are attending parties all year. You don’t want little Maddie wondering why her gift was obviously less expensive than the current birthday girl’s gift. One way to avoid this uncomfortable situation is for the host to let everyone know that gifts will be opened at home to avoid taking away from fun time at the party! Just don’t forget to have your child send thank you notes later.
Parents not invited Until age 5 or 6, it is expected that parents will stay at the party to help supervise their child. School age children, in a controlled and otherwise supervised venue, should be able to socialize at the party without parents hovering. However, if the party host wants to offer the parents an option to stay, this should be clearly stated on the invitation. In this case, make sure there is enough food for the adults too! v
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Register Online for School Year Session www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com
Gymnastics makes boys STRONG! 910-796-1896
www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com 3529 Carolina Beach Road
Thanks for Voting us
Best Kids Eat Free Night! Every Tuesday, All Day
4401 Oleander Dr & 1427 Military Cutoff www.facebook.com/MoesWilmington www.wilmingtonparent.com
Wilmington Parent | September 2013 | 25
SPECIAL SECTION: Party Guide
Book Your Party Now ~ call or go online
Party Crafts By Danielle Villegas
• After School Care • Birthday Parties • Parent’s Night Out (4yrs & up every Sat. night starting Sept.7, call to reserve your spot)
SPECIAL SECTION: Party Guide
Intersession Camp • Summer Camp • Stay n Play • Drop In Care • Field Trips • Group Rates
www.PowerofPlayWilmington.com
910-332-1660
powerofplaywilm@yahoo.com 6644 Gordon Road Wilmington, NC Mon.-Fri. 9-6 • Sat. 10-6
Glow-in-the-Dark Slime Gooey glow-in-the-dark slime is an exciting birthday party craft that will keep kids entertained, and they can take it home as a party favor. While this will work any time during the year, it would especially make an enchanting fall/Halloween birthday activity! Ingredients:
of Wilmington something for everyone’s budgets
• 1 - 4oz bottle of clear or blue gel Elmer’s glue • 1 cup of warm water • 2-3 tablespoons of glow-in-the-dark paint • Green Neon Food Coloring • 2 teaspoons of Borax • 1/3 cup of warm water Mix together the Elmer’s glue and the 1 cup of warm water. Stir in the paint and food coloring. In a separate small bowl mix together the 1/3 cup warm water and 2 teaspoons of borax. Stir until the borax is dissolved. Now add about 2 tablespoons of the borax solution to the glue solution. Stir continuously while adding the solution. It should start sticking together and you’ve got green glow-in-the-dark slime! Separate the solution into separate baggies for the kids to take home!
I-Spy Bottle These bottles are fun for all ages to create and enjoy! They make great party activities and favors.
Playnation of Wilmington offers a full line of custom and ready-to-assemble swing sets, parts and accessories for every budget. Playnation has offered the best warranties, service and selection in Wilmington for over 12 years. In addition to swing sets we provide the safest and most durable trampolines by Magic Circle with a 450 lb. weight limit. Swing by Power of Play today and let your child try before you buy in our expansive indoor/outdoor playground. www.PlaynationofWilmington.com
910-332-1660
6644 Gordon Rd. Wilmington, NC • Mon.-Sat. 10-6 26 | September 2013 | Wilmington Parent
• Start collecting various glass jars or clear plastic bottles. • Pick a theme and find little trinkets and objects to “spy”. • Decide on a filler. Colored or plain rice, sand, small pasta, or anything that allows the objects to move around. • Make sure the kids make a list of the items they will add. Later this will be their I-Spy list. • Have the kids put it together, first add some filler, then a few objects. Alternate until the jar is 2/3 of the way filled. • Use a hot glue gun to seal the cap to the bottle. • Punch a hole in the list and loop some string through the list and tie it around the jar. A few possible themes: • Sand and Shells • Alphabet • Animals • Holidays v Source: www.Parentmap.com
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See what has caught everyone’s attention At
Hanover Stables Horsemanship Camps for Kids Birthday Parties and Riding Lessons www.hanoverstables.net 910-675-8923
Different Themed Shows For Any Event. Call now before spaces disappear!
910•200•5300 www.NoSleevesMagic.com
Find more resources at
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Wilmington Parent | September 2013 | 27
SPECIAL SECTION: Party Guide
Lady’s Day Camps and Trail Rides
...has the parents laughing just as hard, if not harder than, their children." -StarNews
Birthday Party Listings Party Animals
SPECIAL SECTION: Party Guide
Hanover Stables Phone: 910-675-8923 www.hanoverstables.net
Birthday parties or Company Events at Hanover Stables. Celebrate your celebration pony style!! Ride ponies in a safe, fun relaxing setting with our basic one or two hour pony instructional package. Want more than a pony ride? Personalize your party with some fun-filled extras! Build your party: Basic Pony Ride Package, Extras (Choose as many as you’d like), Relay Games on horseback $25, Roast old fashion hot dogs and marshmallows over a campfire by the pond $100, Nature Hike and Scavenger Hunt $25, “My Pretty Pony Party”-/”My Handsome Pony” Pony decorating and parade $50. Call us today for prices, dates and information to schedule your unique pony party! Basic Pony Ride Package: 1 pony 1 hour $150.00, 2 ponies 2 hours $250 Extras may add an extra hour to your party!
Party at Your Place Mini Monets Mini Monets Birthdays Greater Wilmington Area 910-399-1708 www.minimonets.wordpress.com www.facebook.com/minimonets
Does your artistic child have a birthday coming up? Why not celebrate with an art project designed by your child! Art projects range from drawing or painting on canvas or a clay sculpture. Mini Monets will come to your party, bring all the supplies and materials, and the party guests get to keep what they make! Children 2 - 12 years old enjoy projects and the cost starts at $10 per child. Please call or email for more details. I look forward to celebrating with you soon. The Wow Factor of Wilmington 910-520-7925 www.wowfactorofwilmington.com
es, company parties and more (Military Thank You Discount). Our hostess will set it up and take it all down. We provide all the bells and whistles from table settings, chairs, decorations, balloons, party favors, props for photo ops, goodie baskets/bags and all supplies for cake time. All you have to do is be there and enjoy. Our party packages starts at $175.00 for 8 children, $8.00 for each additional child or call for a large group pricing. We have something for everyone. Add-ons available for each party such as a bounce house, a visit from a Princess, special up-dos, mani’s or pedi’s, or a UFO landing in your yard! Parties include: Princess/Mini Azalea Belle Party, The Enchanted Tea Party, Spa Party, UFO Laser Encounter and Carnival Party
Party Bouncers Backyard Bouncers (910)617-4242 www.wilmingtonbouncers.com wilmingtonbouncers@gmail.com
Backyard Bouncers is a locally owned and operated Inflatable Rental business dedicated to providing quality, safe and insured rental units. Our ultimate goal is to insure that your Backyard Party or event provides hours of fun for you and your guests. We offer wet and dry units, obstacle course, slides, concessions, character costumes, pop up tents and picnic tables. We bring the party to you in a timely fashion and return when the party is over to break down the equipment. For more information, check out our website www.wilmingtonbouncers.com or give us a call 910-617-4242 Funtimeinflatables Violet Huggins, 910-200-4685 www.funtimeinflatablesnc.com
One call will take care of your party or event entertainment, bounce houses, inflatables, wet or dry slides for children or adults, sumo suites, concessions. Just call Violet, 910-200-4685
Party Eats & Treats Kona-Ice of Coastal Carolina, LLC 910-270-2575 www.kona-ice.com www.facebook.com/ KonaIceofCoastalCarolinaLLC twitter.com/KonaIceCC
Kona Ice is a one of a kind experience that serves a premium tropical shaved ice; the finest icy treat on the planet. This is NOT your typical lack-luster snow cone. Our flavors are bold & delicious... like nothing you’ve ever had! Kona Ice is dairy-free, gluten-free and we even offer flavors that are sugar-free and dye-free! What really sets Kona Ice apart is our patented FlavorWave®! Those top 10 flavors that YOU can apply yourself!! Or choose from over 50 custom flavors we can create for you! Kona-Ice can do anything with fundraising or fun ¨C sports leagues, school events, festivals and fairs, school sports, birthday parties, corporate events, picnics, church events, block parties, daycares and preschools. Contact us to schedule your event today! Moe’s Southwest Grill 4401 Oleander Dr. & 1427 Military Cutoff Ste 106, Wilmington (910) 256-5100 Military Cutoff (910)794-7112 Oleander www.facebook.com/ MoesWilmington
Throwing an awesome party or event is exhausting. That’s why Moe’s catering comes with everything. Whether you’re in the mood for hot, delicious burritos, mouthwatering fajitas or irresistible tacos, we’ve got you covered along with plates, napkins and cutlery. We deliver customizable options with real ingredients and real flavor that pleases even the pickiest eaters. Whether it’s Moe’s Famous Queso or our one-of-a-kind Taco Bar we deliver it, set it up and it’s all disposable for easy clean-up. We bring all the originality and flavor of our restaurant to your event. That’s just how we roll. We also are great for fundraisers. Stop in and see why we’ll not only make raising money easy, but also a lot of fun.
We bring the party to you! Backyards, hospitals, church-
BIRTHDAY HEADQUARTERS FOR 18 YEARS! Thank you from Ed, Shelley and all the Elves!
28 | September 2013 | Wilmington Parent
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Party Entertainers No Sleeves Magic 910-200-5300 www.nosleevesmagic.com
Voted Wilmington’s Best Party Entertainer since 2006! If you want to give your child one of the craziest and most FUNnominal Parties they will never forget, then take a RUN on the Wacky-Side with No Sleeves Magic. We provide an adrenaline rush of Magic mixed with comedy that’s great for the whole family. Some party packages include goodie bags, tricks, games & more! So, Sit Back, Relax and Laugh, while No Sleeves makes your event a success!To find out which package is best for you, contact one of our PARTYOLOGISTS or visit our website. We have different themes to suit your event and even offer magic telegrams as well as summer magic camps programs. Melissa Davis The Party Crew 910-685-7019 www.wilmingtonpartycrew.com
SPECIAL SECTION: Party Guide
Hire a princess or superhero to entertain at your next party! At The Party Crew we specialize in high quality performances, all characters are well trained actors wearing custom made costumes. Some characters include: Rapunzel, Spiderman, Cinderella, Batman, Mermaid Princess, Superman, Tinkerbell, Sleeping Beauty. Princesses tell stories, teach dance lessons, do crafts, and host tea parties; superheroes conduct superhero training, drills, and rescue missions. The character brings all the craft supplies, games, party favors, props, music, and tools to conduct the party activities. Contact us now to book a super duper magical party!
Party Gifts Blue Moon Gift Shops 203 Racine Drive Wilmington NC 28403 910-799-5793 shop@bluemoongiftshops.com bluemoongiftshops.com
Unique gifts: 18” doll clothes, toys, games, handcrafted jewelry, accessories and so much more! FREE gift wrapping too! Kid to Kid 3501 Oleander Drive, Wilmington 910-833-8857 Www.kidtokid.com/Wilmington
Kid to kid offers a wide selection of NEW Melissa & Doug products as well as many other great toys, clothing and shoes. Call on us for your party needs!
Learning Express Progress Point, 1437 Military Cutoff Rd Wilmington, NC 28403 910-509-0153 and Oleander Place, 3804 Oleander Dr. (Next to Whole Foods) Wilmington, NC 28403 910-313-3100 www.learningexpresstoys.com/ wilmington/
Learning Express offers a Birthday Wish Box gift registry for kids who love to make birthday wishes. It’s popular with kids and convenient for busy parents who can also call and shop by phone. The birthday child fills a jumbo
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Get Your Business Noticed! • Generate New Sales • Create New Leads • Get Visibility - Web Facebook - Pinterest
Contact Kelly Brantley 910-338-9678 kelly.savvymomsilm@gmail.com Wilmington Parent | September 2013 | 29
bucket with wished-for toys ten days before his/her party and receives a personalized mini-box filled with treats. A “Birthday Box” is created, and friends and family can call or come in and choose a gift from the child¹s box. The elves at Learning Express will help with party favors, personalize, and even wrap your gifts, free of charge. Birthday kids can also make an online wish list and email it to friends and relatives. Once Upon A Child 4719-J New Centre Drive Wilmington, NC 910-452-9976 www.onceuponachildwilmington.com
Once Upon A Child offers many types of new and used gifts for your next occasion. Be sure to stop by the store to get a cool gift at a low price!
Party Places
SPECIAL SECTION: Party Guide
Cameron Art Museum Heather Ivady 3201 South 17th Street, Wilmington, NC 28412 910-395-5999 hivady@cameronartmuseum.com www.cameronartmuseum.com
Cameron Art Museum offers facility rentals for private social or corporate events and birthday parties. Areas include a large Reception Hall, Courtyard, Café and Grounds. Access to exhibition wings available with option of guided tour (limitations could apply). The Reception Hall is a stunning option for larger events. The open and airy Café overlooks the Courtyard. This area is perfect for smaller, intimate functions and is available for rent outside of normal café hours. The Courtyard is a secluded outdoor area for functions of all kinds. With special lighting and garden views your event will be a unique experience.
Carolina Gymnastics 3529 Carolina Beach Road 910-796-1896 Register online @ www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com
Enjoy a private party in the gym! The birthday child and friends can play in the gym, and jump in the inflatables, the tumbletrak, and the foam block pits, while parents relax and socialize. Our coaches supervise gym time and they also help serve cake, clean up, and load presents into your car after the party. A stress free time for parents; a safe and active party place for boys & girls, ages 2-12. Cost is $250 per party for 1.5 hours - 30 children maximum, Saturdays only. The Children’s Museum of Wilmington 116 Orange Street Wilmington, NC 28401 910-254-3534 x 132 www.playwilmington.org mypartyis@playwilmington.org
The Museum is pleased to offer parties featuring great themes that provide a worry-free experience for parents and an exciting time for children. Our celebrations will make everyone SMILE! Come And Party With Us! Exclusive use of a private party room for 2 hours, full day admission for all party guests, Children’s Museum of Wilmington birthday invitations and envelopes, a fun, educational activity includedfor 30 | September 2013 | Wilmington Parent
all children, party supplies include table decorations napkins, plates, cups, linens, forks, candles and cake knife, a goody bag full of fun trinkets, a FREE child’s return guest pass for each, guest, birthday child receives a Children’s Museum of Wilmington t-shirt and 4 free guest passes, Set up and Clean up by CMOW’s friendly staff Our theme parties are exciting and complimented by fun table decorations, props and party music. Birthday Parties are held in 2 great locations in The Children’s Museum: Secret Cove under the Sea Room and Make Merry Birthday Room. Themes include Princess Party, Pirate Party, Science Party and Art Party. Downtown Darlings 112 Market Street Unit A Wilmington, NC 28401 910-251-2233 www.downtowndarlings.net
Downtown Darlings offers free baby, birthday or any occasion gift registry. Come into the store and have your child fill a gift bag with treasured and coveted items. Provide us with a list of people to notify about the registry and we will be happy to email them. Shop online and pick up in store for select items. We also offer free distinctive and stylish gift wrapping. See how quick, easy, and convenient our service really is. We also offer Nine different Themed Party Packages. Glitz & Glam Wilmington School of Ballet & Creative Arts Center 3834 Oleander Drive Wilmington, NC 29403 910-794-9590 www.glitzandglamwilmingtonnc.com 910-794-9590
Glamilicous parties!!!!! Spa fun, make-over magic, fashion runway and more. Glitz & Glam offers glamilicous parties that make everyone a star! Glittery updos, makeover magic, fashion show glamour, sparkle nail fun, karaoke party, and the latest dance moves - don’t miss the fun! Choose from the party themes: pretty princess, Magical Fairy, Fashion Runway, Pop star, “spa-sational,” Diva Dance, Ballerina, or princess & pirates. Add onto the fun with a bounce house or outside playground time! Check us out at www.glitzandglamwilmingtonnc. com or call 910-794-9590 to book your party today!!! North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher 900 Loggerhead Rd. Kure Beach, N.C. 28449 www.ncaquariums.com/fort-fisher 910-458-8257
Celebrate your child’s special day with a birthday party at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Program birthdays include a T-shirt craft with T-shirts and all art supplies included, a live animal presentation, use of the Aquarium’s classroom and a self-guided tour of the Aquarium. You can choose the following themes for a live animal presentation: Amphibians - Frogs, toads, salamanders; Reptiles - Turtles, alligators, snakes; Invertebrates - Sea urchins, starfish, crabs Cost: $205.00 for up to 12 children and 12 adults, $10.00 for each additional child, $6.80 for each additional adult Time Length: 2 hours. Parties are recommended for ages 4-10. •Aquarium Outreach Programs - Let our education staff bring a fun, interactive program to your classroom or other location. Each program is specifically adapted to
fit your needs, customized for age, size and focus of your group. Live animals, props,hands-on learning activities and costumes make Aquarium Outreach parties enriching for groups of all ages. Please contact Special Activities Coordinator at 910-458-8257 Power of Play 6644 Gordon Road, Wilmington, NC 28411 (Phone) 910-332-1660 (Fax) 910-332-0640 PowerofPlayWilm@yahoo.com
Birthday parties at are POP are stress free! Our party hosts are trained, friendly, ready and willing to assist with you with every aspect of your party from decorating to cutting the cake, passing food out, cleaning up and taking pictures! All you have to do is enjoy your child’s special day! Play time for your birthday party includes our indoor jungle gym, trike track, Playnation play sets with slides, see saws, roller racers and 12 imagination stations. Call us today to plan your party. Ribbet Salon & Shop for Kids Amy Haley, Manager 3610 South College Rd, St E Wilmington, NC 28412 manager@ribbetsalon.com (910) 399-4252 www.RibbetSalon.com
We offer salon parties for girls and Nintendo Wii parties for both boys and girls. Over 40 games to choose from or bring your own. Use our large party room for your own dance party, crafts, food and fun! Available Monday through Saturday. Tmuffin Gaby Merediz 3534 S. College Rd Unit I, Wilmington 28412 910-367-5722 Gaby@tmuffin.com http://Tmuffin.com
Pinterest-style parties let you leave the crafty stuff to us! Let us plan your child’s birthday party, from mailing out invitations to coming up with crafty decorations. We offer private and semi-private birthday party packages at affordable rates starting at $99 for a private party. YMCA Birthday Parties Mark Sinclair 2710 Market Street 910-251-9622 mark.sinclair@wilmingotnfamilyymca.org www.wilmingtonfamilyymca.org
We offer great Pool parties but we also offer Zumba, basketball, futsal, volleyball, dodge ball, tennis and flag football parties. We provide the space, equipment and the Y staff! After your fun event, then we provide a room for food and Birthday celebrations. At the end your child will receive a special Y-Birthday shirt! Call and book your party today!
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Getting Your Child to Open Up
Y
ou pick up your child from school, and can’t wait to hear about his or her day. So you turn to the passenger seat and ask, eagerly:
where to go on vacation. If you show that you value their opinion, they will open up more.
“How was your day?”
Ask good questions
Child: “Fine.” You: “What did you do today?” Child: “Nothing.” You: “Did you learn anything new?” Child: “Nope.” Aarrrghh! There go those lines of communication. But don’t give up on having a real conversation with your child yet. There are some simple things you can do to help your child open up and talk:
Don’t pounce At the end of the school day, kids are spent – emotionally, physically and mentally. “Expecting something other than a tired, one-word answer when kids walk in the door or get in the car is unrealistic,” said Maggie Macaulay, president of Whole Hearted Parenting, which offers parent coaching and workshops.
Nourish Give kids a snack or a little time to themselves to help recharge their batteries. “Do whatever is soothing for the child,” Macaulay said. “Parents can provide these things, and a conversation will naturally happen over time.”
Be patient “Conversation doesn’t have to be immediate. Accept that, and a lot of your frustration will disappear,” Macaulay said. “Parents may have an attachment to their child answering their questions about the school day because they equate the conversation with love – ‘If my child really loved me, he couldn’t wait to tell me all about his day,’” Macaulay said. The attachment to this mythical end-of-the-schoolday conversation is what causes the frustration.
Share To encourage conversation, share something about your own day. Or ask your child for advice -- what to wear to a party, what to fix for dinner, or
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Use open-ended questions, instead of yes-or-no questions. Instead of “Did you have a good day,” ask “What was the best part of your day?” Instead of “Did you make any new friends,” ask “What did you and your friends do at recess?”
Observe Know what your child’s “love language” is – what makes them feel loved and secure, Macaulay said. There are five kinds: -Words of affection: spoken words, love notes or cards -Acts of service: cooking a special meal, fixing a toy or other helpful task -Gifts: something unexpected, such as bringing someone a memento from a trip -Physical affection: hugs, kisses or hand-holding -Time – quality time and one-on-one time
Don’t fix Don’t try to fix problems as your child tells you about them. It will shut down the conversation. Instead, ask your child how they think the problem can get better. Then you can help them brainstorm ideas, especially if this is the first time you are giving them this opportunity.
Set up rituals Eating dinner together, and having routines for bedtime and morning helps adults and kids feel secure and comforted. At dinner, keep conservation light, instead of trying to solve problems at that time. “Don’t have dinner be about conflict resolution, you want it to be about connecting,” Macaulay said. The table is a place where everyone comes together. Share, coach, listen, laugh and learn from and with each other. Sharing moments from the day help to create the bond. Macaulay said every step helps in forging family bonds, and creating the sense of security and comfort that will help a child open up and talk. Focus on making connections throughout the day, and stop focusing on the time right after school,” Macaulay said. “Wait, and conversation will happen.” v
Wilmington Parent | September 2013 | 31
| fit family Presented by
O
ur Fit Family Challenge families have begun their journeys toward a healthier lifestyle! For each of them the journey is different and their paths have unique obstacles to overcome. Soon they will have the food they eat scrutinized, their daily activities evaluated, and their lifestyles altered in hopes of a long, healthy, active life! Most of us can relate in one way or another to these families and the struggles they face. To get a better idea of what they have done in the past and what they are currently working towards, we asked them to explain how they found themselves at the beginning of this adventure.
Villari Family
Wilson Family
After having my first child I wanted to fit back into my clothes and joined Weight Watchers. It is a great program for me to follow, but then life just got busy and I stopped doing the work. We are ready as a family to make better choices and get fit! My girls are so excited to get memberships to the YMCA for the Kidzone area. They also can’t wait for the kids Zumba classes. I signed up to do a 5k in October with some friends so I started following the Couch to 5k work out a few weeks ago and have begun working out at a local gym again!
In the past, I’ve tried Weight Watchers with great results but did not continue due to the expense. Recently I’ve adopted clean eating and only eat unhealthy foods in moderation. I follow the 90/10 rule, where I make good choices 90% of the time and then the other 10% I can splurge a little. I’ve lost 17lbs. since April and I want to continue. I’m also training for a 5k and have started a running regimen.
Riggs Family In the past I’ve tried Weight Watchers and had great success, but once I stopped my unhealthy eating habits returned. Any weight that was lost came back, plus a little more. Recently we have been trying to take more walks as a family. My son Mason starts a new season of soccer soon and that will keep him moving! I have signed up to run a 5k in October and I hope to work up to that distance in time. We all received our pedometers as one of the sponsor prizes, but we found it was easier to use the pedometer app on our phones. We’ve been trying to average between 8,000-10,000 steps a day. We’ve been trying to be more active so we’ll be more prepared when we start our family classes with Wilmington Health. We have also cut out all sodas and scaled back on the sweets a lot too!
Participating Sponsors:
King Family Overall, we are a pretty active family when time allows. I am a runner and we travel to Disney at least once a year for me to compete in a half marathon. The girls compete in kids’ races the same weekend. The girls know that when I go to run for training that if I don’t take care of myself, then I can’t take care of them. This summer we have been going to the beach in the evenings and wearing our new pedometers while we pick up trash. The girls love the pedometers. They run around the house with them on just to get ‘a higher number’. I look forward to suggestions on the food issue. Time is a problem, but I still want to prepare healthy options
Wilmington School of Ballet Murrayville/North College
Knight Fitness
Check out FIT Family Challenge Blog @ www.wilmingtonparent.com 32 | September 2013 | Wilmington Parent
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Now Enrolling!
Healthy Living FallFest Cooking Demos • Speakers Exhibitors • Face Painting Fitness • Nutrition • Games Kids Activities • Trick or Treats Bounce Houses Costume Contest
October 26, 2013, 9am-3pm Tidal Creek Cooperative Food Market Free Admission & Plenty of Free Parking
• 2 to 4 Year Old Morning Program 8:30am-12:30pm (2, 3 & 4 days a week) • 2 to 4 Year Old Preschool Classes Preparing your child for Kindergarten • Infant & Toddler Program Safe, Nurturing & Loving environment • After School Program Homework, Fun Activities, Crafts & Games • We are an official 4-h club Located off 23rd St. w/ easy access from MLK or Market St
Sponsorship, exhibitor, vendor, speaker & entertainer opportunities available... Contact your Acct Exec or our office 910-343-1226 for information.
The Longer you wait... the deeper they sink
K-12th Grade 4:1 Student/Teacher Ratio Individualized Instruction ADD, ADHD, Autism & Dyslexia Affordable, Quality Education Open House every Tuesday from 10-3
Look for Outside the Box in the Enrichment Guide
Teach and Inspire. Reach and Transform. Every Student. Every Year.
Join now! Six fun and exciting ways for girls and volunteers to participate! Camp Travel Troop Events Virtual Series
PointInstituteWilmington.org • (910) 515-2933 www.wilmingtonparent.com
Wilmington Parent | September 2013 | 33
| going green | By Brandy Metzger
Sustainable Food for a Healthier Community
T
here are many reasons to purchase and eat locally grown produce. The produce tastes better because it is fresh and lacks chemical preservatives. Additionally, there is less environmental impact because the food doesn’t need to be heavily packaged and transported, and supporting local farms helps contribute to a sustainable food system. A sustainable food system is a collaborative network that integrates sustainable food production, processing, distribution and consumption in order to enhance the environmental, economic and social health of a particular place. The benefits of a sustainable food system are: • Healthy and affordable food for everyone • Financial support to local farmers • Preservation of farmlands and natural habitats
Supporting area farms by purchasing locally grown produce is one way families can contribute to the sustainable food system.
• Stimulation of the local economy by keeping tax dollars in our area and creating new jobs • Maintaining and enriching local soil • Conserving and protecting water and air • Safeguarding biodiversity • Minimizing fossil fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions
Local products can be found at farmer’s markets around town such as the Riverfront Farmers’ Market each Saturday from 8am1pm and the Poplar Grove Farmers’ Market each Wednesday from 8am-1pm. In addition to farmers’ markets, locally sourced goods can be found at some stores such as Tidal Creek, Carolina Farmin’ and Whole Foods. If you don’t have time to shop for local produce, there are also several options for produce delivery services such as The Veggie Wagon, The Produce Box and Backyard Produce. Purchasing locally grown products is a great place to start contributing to a sustainable food system, but there is so much more that can be done. A great local resource is Feast Down East. Feast Down East, also known as the Southeastern NC Food Systems Program, is a non-profit economic development program that began in 2006 to support a sustainable food system. To accomplish this task they connect small farmers to local markets through several ongoing projects. Their Farm-to-Chef Program brings farmers and chefs together to create working relationships with one another. The SENC Foods Processing and Distribution Program delivers farm products to restaurants, grocers, schools and hospitals. The Farm-to-School Program links farmers to schools. Feast Down East also provides workshops and resources to residents of Wilmington and surrounding areas. Recent workshops included information on how to grow vegetables from seeds and the impact of genetically modified organisms. Resources include a list of area restaurants that support local farmers, a farm directory which lists the farm’s location and what they produce, seasonal growing charts, ideas for schools and much more at www. feastdowneast.org. Through efforts such as these our community can develop lasting and committed relationships with businesses, farmers, and schools to pioneer a more healthy and sustainable future. v Brandy Metzger is a freelance writer with a passion for green living. She is also a mother and a principal educator with STIZZil (an online education company).
34 | September 2013 | Wilmington Parent
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Spend the day with Grandma Strong Roots Make Flowers Bloom By Pam Molnar
A
fter work and school, soccer and dance class, we don’t have very much free time. Even our time to visit with Grandma is limited these days. As a result, our children are missing out on the family stories and traditions of the generations before them. Life is full of moments and opportunities to make new memories, but at our current pace, we often miss them. It is the moments in our lives that help us to make connections and strengthen our relationships. Don’t wait for another moment to pass. Cancel your plans, gather your kids and head over to Grandma’s house. Make the effort to restore the lost the art of just spending time together.
Pass Down a Tradition – Ask Grandma to share something from her childhood with your children. Whether it is a game, recipe, or song, sharing with the next generation rekindles Grandma’s memories and creates new ones for your kids today.
Get to know each other better – Try asking each person to share a memory from a common time in their lives. Start with the age of the youngest child in the house and move up to the next age until the only one sharing is Grandma. For example, if the youngest is 6, start with a memory from the age of 6. If the next youngest is 10, then have everyone 10 and older share a memory from that time in their life. Don’t forget to bring the video camera to capture this wonderful moment.
Shake up your family tree – Ask Grandma to tell you the names of her www.wilmingtonparent.com
parents, grandparents and siblings. You may discover family names that have been passed down for generations. Find out what part of the world your family comes from and when they arrived in this part of the country. If Grandma speaks another language, ask her to teach you a few words. Does your family have any traditional clothes or music that has been hiding in the attic? Pull them out and tell their story.
Bring Grandma into this century – Ok, kids, it’s your turn. Bring Grandma a Tiger Beat magazine and gush with her over One Direction. Introduce her to Instagram. Show her how to play Just Dance on the Wii or Minecraft on Xbox. Explain what emojis are and send her a few via text. The technology of today, while part of our kids’ every day, is mind blowing to our parents and grandparents. Take silly pictures – End the day on a high note. Set up a back drop with a sheet and decorative lights. Print out photo booth prop templates like eyeglasses, hats and mustaches or use some items from a box of dress up clothes. Take multiple pictures of your family being silly for the day. Preserve today’s memories by framing those pictures and displaying them in a special spot in your home. Every time you pass you will be reminded that fun can be shared by family of all ages if we just take the time. v Pam Molnar is a freelance journalist and mother of three. Her children are blessed to be able to spend time with both their grandmother and their great-grandmother.
Wilmington Parent | September 2013 | 35
| peanut gallery
Evan T.
Chelsea S. 8/15 •19yo
Christian M. 8/20 •5yo
Dy’Chuan W.P. 8/20• 6yo
Perry Jane H. 8/18• 1yo
Gianna S. 9/30• 10yo
Anaia R. 8/19• 3yo
Shaniah H . 8/22• 2yo
Greyson E. 9/22• 3yo
Camden K. 9/4 • 4yo
Ethan Ray H. 9/27• 1yo
Myla C. 8/21• 3yo
Lyndsey H. 9/25• 7yo
Emma H. 9/4• 1yo
Rebekah E. 9/10 • 1yo
Alex O. 8/25• 5yo
Jamir 9/29• 5yo
Kaitlyn 9/9• 3yo
Asher 9/1• 2yo
Taylor J. 9/30 • 2yo
Aubrey R. 9/20• 5yo
Chloe B. 9/12• 8yo
Hans-Hillary W. 9/23• 10yo
Hemingway W. 9/18• 6yo
Page 9/19 • 4yo
7/16•3yo
Does your child or grandchild have a birthday iN october? Honor them by having their photo published in Wilmington Parent. Here's how: e-mail image (size not to exceed 1mb) to birthday@wilmingtonparent.com. Deadline for publication: 9/12. We have a limited number of spots, so if you sent your child’s picture and do not see it this issue, please check back next month! 36 | September 2013 | Wilmington Parent
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