July 2013 by Atlanta Parent

Parent Atlantaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s No. 1 Parenting Magazine

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July 2013

2O Ways

to Save This Summer

Historic Fun 11 Civil War Sites to Explore

Go Bananas!

All Things Monkey

Atlantaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Food Truck Craze July 4th Parades Fireworks Festivities Like Us on FACEBOOK

Don’t Miss Atlanta’s

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Block Party!

Saturday, October 12 Mercer University Atlanta Campus

10 am - 4 pm Brought to you by Atlanta Parent Magazine atlantaparent.com

More than 50 family-friendly activities! ENTERTAINMENT • TODDLER-ONLY PLAY AREA STORYTELLING • CRAFT ACTIVITIES TRICK-OR-TREAT STREET • EXHIBITORS • FOOD BENEFICIARIES: Autism Speaks / The Center for Children and Young Adults Georgia Center for Child Advocacy / Safe Kids Georgia

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Join the Fun!

Volunteer, exhibit, donate

Call Jordan about opportunities: 770-454-7599 or jlisvosky@atlantaparent.com

Inside 3 O July Vol. 30 / Number 7

YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

Features 16

34 52

Soak Up 65 Days of Summer Fun at atlantaparent.com

Keep it Simple

The concept of simplicity seems to elude today’s busy families. Try these ideas to lower hassles and breathe a sigh of contentment.

Departments 8 Publisher’s Note 12 News You Can Use 14 The Frugal Family

20 Ways to Save This Summer

Monkey Business

Let your kids “go bananas” with our roundup of monkey stuff.

44 Kids Activity Guide Special Advertising Section

74 Humor in the House

10 Sure Signs It’s Summertime

All About Bugs

Civil War Treasures

Take your child on a backyard safari to explore insects up close and learn about our environment’s best friends.

Pivotal battles in the War Between the States were fought throughout metro Atlanta and Georgia. Explore 11 sites as the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Atlanta nears.

Cut Costs on School Supplies

There’s more to buying school supplies last than just careful shopping. Follow our guide to make school supplies last.

Atlanta’s Food Truck Craze

Metro Atlanta families love food trucks – where else can you find a wide variety of kid-friendly bites in an atmosphere that feels like a neighborhood festival? Sample some of our favorites.

Magazine Association of the Southeast

2013 Award Winner

Family Fun Guide 49 50 51 54

Not-to-Miss Events

Eating Out: Zoës Kitchen Free Fun Review: “The Velveteen Rabbit” at Serenbe Playhouse

55 Exhibit: “Weebles Coast to Coast”

at The Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Playground:

Review: “The Cat in the Hat”

58 60 62 63

Rock Climbing

East Cobb Park, Marietta at Center for Puppertry Arts

Lake Winnie July Calendar Fourth of July Events

On the Cover: Cover Kid Presley Morales, 8, of Marietta. Photo by Studio 7 Photography.

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EDITOR Julie Bookman

editor@atlantaparent.com BUSINESS Amy Smith DEVELOPMENT asmith@atlantaparent.com MANAGER ACCOUNT Julia Sparks

Helping put your family back together drives everything we do. When facing a life-changing injury or death caused by the negligence or fault of another, you need a skilled and compassionate advocate. Recognized as “Legal Elite” by Georgia Trend Georgia Super Lawyers “Rising Stars” Recognized as Top 40 Under 40 Trial Lawyers

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EDITORIAL Sheri Taylor-Emery ART DIRECTOR creative@atlantaparent.com

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PRODUCTION rmintz@atlantaparent.com

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OFFICE Caroline Ward

COORDINATOR cward@atlantaparent.com MARKETING MOM Felicia Barman

EDITORIAL Kirby Cooperman INTERNS Taniqua Russ

SPECIAL EVENTS Betza Roman INTERN

Atlanta Parent magazine is published monthly by Atlanta Parent, Inc., 2346 Perimeter Park Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30341. Telephone 770-454-7599, Fax 770-454-7699. Atlanta Parent magazine is available free of charge at more than 1,000 locations throughout the metro Atlanta area. First class subscription only $30 per year. Subscription orders must include check or money order made out to Atlanta Parent magazine. Atlanta Parent magazine welcomes letters, articles, artwork and photographs from its readers and the community. Atlanta Parent magazine is not responsible for the return of unsolicited materials. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part, is prohibited without written permission.

6 Atlanta Parent July 2013

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ItFigures by Cynthia Washam

Summer Stats 1777

Year of the first Fourth of July parade, held in Philadelphia, then the U.S. capital

1941

Year Congress established Independence Day as a legal holiday

Percent of households that grill on the Fourth of July

$135.6 million

Amount Americans spend on fireworks for the Fourth of July

Percent of children who spend at least two hours a day outdoors

Percent of families who do not use sunscreen

Percent of children who spend some of their outdoors time using electronic media

Percent of children under 4 who have their own Facebook page

Percent of children under 5 who spend at least an hour a day using a smartphone

20,000

Number of profiles Facebook claims to remove every day to curb harmful underage activity

Miles per hour of the Cheetah Hunt roller coaster at Busch Gardens in Tampa

Miles per hour a real cheetah can run Sources: Brownielocks.com,, Shape, Life123.com, Parks & Recreation, MMR, Adweek, PC Magazine Online, Newsweek

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July 2013â&#x20AC;&#x192; â&#x20AC;&#x192; Atlanta Parent 7

Publisher’s Note A Low-Cost Summer of Fun It’s surprising how easy it is to entertain yourself and your kids for little or no money, and this is the perfect month for fun. July brings a lot of free or inexpensive events, from festivals to July 4th parades to fireworks displays to arts and crafts shows. I can’t wait for my grandkids to get a little older so we can go to the Sunflower Farm Festival in Rutledge (this year July 6-7), where one of the highlights is an antique tractor parade. Or we may just go and pick flowers one day. Wouldn’t it be fun to be in the middle of a field of gaily waving sunflowers? They always seem to be smiling at you. My grandson Elliot is now 2 and I am planning a few days away from the office to reacquaint myself with all the fun available to families with toddlers and preschoolers. On my list are visits to the Children’s Museum of Atlanta and Zoo Atlanta, and trips to swim, to a splash park and to nearby playgrounds. Maybe we’ll pack a picnic and spend a lazy day. One of Atlanta Parent’s friends on Facebook gave us a great idea for summer fun in your own back yard: She chills a watermelon and lets her children invite friends for a watermelon seed-spitting contest. Children enjoy lots of simple – and free – activities, from investigating caterpillars and bugs up close, to watching the stars, to delighting in the glow of a lightning bug. You’ll find many other ideas for inexpensive activities in this month’s issue, along with ways to save money on the not-so-fun stuff (air conditioning costs! back-to-school supplies!) so you’ll have more funds for fun. Even with all the technology at our fingertips – big screen TVs, computer games, and the like – sometimes it’s the simple things that make kids smile. Go to the park, take a dip in the pool, have a picnic in the backyard and store all those memories in your brain databanks under Summer 2013. While you’re at it, store a few photos in that smartphone, for smiles long after summer ends.

How to Reach us: Telephone 770.454.7599

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Snail Mail 2346 Perimeter Park Drive Atlanta, Georgia 30341

We welcome your views and comments. Letters that appear in the magazine may be edited for content and space.

8 Atlanta Parent July 2013

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July 2013â&#x20AC;&#x192; â&#x20AC;&#x192; Atlanta Parent 9

Our Parent Advisory Board shares:

Meet Atlanta Parent’s 2013 Parent Advisory Board These metro moms will lend their time and talents as they serve as Atlanta Parent “ambassadors” in their communities. They will offer input for articles and columns, take part in our special events and otherwise assist our award-winning magazine. But wait – we need your help too!

Would you be interested in participating on our 2013 Readers’ Panel? This group helps us with our coverage, provides feedback and suggests story ideas. Please email Felicia at fbarman@atlantaparent.com if interested.

What is the

sweetest thing your children have done for you?

Sharie Bassett, Mableton Children: Brayden, age 7; Bryce, age 2 My 7-year old once made me a homemade card for no reason other than to say “I Love You.” When that’s done without a holiday or birthday, it makes it that much sweeter! The sweetest thing my 2-year-old has ever done is given me a hug and a smile, then let me know he wanted to cuddle in my lap just because he loves me.

Charlotte Cruce, Marietta Children: Jordan, age 21; Lyndsey, age 18; Katherine, age 13 All three of my kids get along so well with each other and really love one another. I think that’s pretty sweet. It also makes me proud to be a mom. My kids consider themselves best friends. They love spending time together and they’re very thoughtful toward each other. For example, when one is out and about and picks up something special, he or she always wants to “get one” for their brother and sister, too.

Kim Curnutt, Brookhaven Children: Aiden, age 4; Riley, age 1 For me, the sweetest thing Aiden does for me is give me compliments without Daddy prompting him. Sometimes when I come out of the bathroom after the rare shower and makeup routine, Aiden just smiles at me and says “Mommy, you’re beautiful.” It just warms my heart every time!

Raechelle Gaffney, Fairburn Children: Ashlynn, age 6; Morgan, age 2 A couple of weeks ago I was not feeling well before work. My 6-year-old daughter asked me what was wrong. I told her I was OK and asked her to get ready for school. She came back in my room with her confessions and started praying for me. That simply brought me to tears. Needless to say, her prayer was answered and I went to work.

2013

Ayanna Hawkins, Duluth

PARENT ADVISORY BOARD

10 Atlanta Parent July 2013

Child: Sidney, age 3 My job requires that I travel often, and sometimes when I am in town for extended periods of time, my son reminds me of how much he misses me when I am away. Now, at random times, he tells me he misses me when he is away for short periods of time, such as after his nap, or when he is spending time alone with Dad. My son always follows these words with kiss after kiss. Of course, he asks for several kisses in return from me. It truly is sweet for my son to love me so!

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Ashley Kean, Snellville Children: Josephine, age 6; Mikayla, age 6; Zendrick, age 3 For Father’s Day we made “Daddy” a CD and the kids made a special label for it. We played the CD for him in the car and when it got to the song, “I Love You Rhis Big,” we all stretched our arms as far apart as they would go. There were tears in Daddy’s eyes as he drove us along the interstate. We ROCK!

Caren Lightfoot, Alpharetta Child: Micah, age 5 Micah prays each night and when she does she always says “Thank you for my Mommy.” That is one of the sweetest things.

Erica Roberts, Lithonia Children: Kaylup, age 11; Kennedy, age 3; Christopher Aiden, age 8 months My 11-year-old was about to spend my birthday weekend with his other family. So before he left, he took me to dinner to celebrate. He dressed up, pulled money out of his own bank account and spent more than two hours dining with and entertaining his mom with stories about summer camp and his hopes for middle school. Sweet.

Katrina Rucker, Covington Children: Kenneth, age 4; Kyle, age 7 months This Mother’s Day, my 4-year-old son made me a beautiful pink hat in his preschool class. He also presented me with a picture bearing his handprints that said “Even 10 little fingers cannot count the ways that I love you with all my heart.” That was so sweet, since this was the first year he could make me something all on his own.

Marteeta Spradling, Covington Children: Jaxson, age 7; Jayson, age 7; Jazlyn, age 4 One day all three of my children took turns giving me a foot massage. I thought it was the sweetest thing, considering that I am a licensed massage therapist and I rarely have time to get a massage myself!

Krissy Williams, Atlanta Children: Marjee, age 7; Avery, age 5 I think the sweetest thing my girls have done for me was when I returned from a Mediterranean cruise two years ago. With a little help from thier dad, they made a big sign that was pieced together to read “Welcome Home, Mommy!” They also each had a little something special for me. One gave me flowers and the other a Chick-fil-A iced tea. It was totally unexpected! I cried when I saw their smiling faces.

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July 2013 Atlanta Parent 11

News You Can Use

by Amanda Allen and Taniqua Russ

Cool Dads Rock Soap Box Derby

Building a soapbox derby car that you steer with your hands and feet could be a fun summer project for families – and a new upcoming derby festival may provide the motivation to gather the tools and materials and get going. Some parents and kids are already designing and building creative soapbox cars to race for a chance to win prizes in the First Annual Soap Box Derby Festival, slated Aug. 3 at Historic Fourth Ward Park. For guidance on building a derby vehicle, visit wikihow.com/Make-a-Soapbox-Derby-Car. It’s $60 to enter the derby race, but get a steep discount and pay $35 if you register by July 5. The event sponsor, Cool Dads Rock, is a nonprofit organization that nurtures the father-child relationship. For more information visit cooldadsrock.com.

Safety First!

When a mom quickly wrote her cell phone number on her child’s arm at an amusement park, the idea for SafetyTat was hatched. The temporary tattoos ($19.99 for a 24-pack) read: “If Lost, Please Call _________.” Learn more and order from SafetyTat.com

8.5

How the average mom rates her stress level on a scale of 1-10.

Percent of moms that say husbands are a bigger source of stress than kids.

Source: Survey of 7,164 mothers by Today Moms (today.com) and Insight Express

‘Sesame Street Explores National Parks’ “Sesame Street” pals Elmo and Murray are the newest park rangers ready to take young children on a nature hunt through America’s great outdoors. The National Park Service and “Sesame Street” have teamed up to create ‘Sesame Street Explores National Parks’ for ages 3-5. The series of short videos can be watched online or when visiting national parks. The mission: to help kids gain a strong appreciation of the outdoors early on. Learn more at sesamestreet.org/parks

Rating System for Child Care Starting this month, parents can check the quality of the child care center they use – if the center is participating in the state’s voluntary Quality Care Rating system. Some 200 centers’ ratings – 1, 2 or 3 stars – went online July 1; ratings for another 1,000 centers are being processed. To find the names and locations of rated centers, visit decal.ga.gov. The state is offering incentives such as an increase in federal and state reimbursements for low-income children, toys and supplies, and teacher bonuses to encourage all of the state’s 6,000 child care centers to participate in the program. 12 Atlanta Parent July 2013

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American Girl TV Movie & Contest: Win a Saige doll from Atlanta Parent! The newest American Girl will light up TV screens on July 13. That’s when NBC will air its new feature film, “American Girl: Saige Paints the Sky.” As a tie-in, Atlanta Parent announces an art contest for girls; the grand prize is a new American Girl Saige doll, value of $110. In the NBC movie, when Saige Copeland’s life takes a turn, the spirited girl begins to find her voice through artistic expression. Our contest asks girls 8-12 to submit a piece of original artwork that exhibits their own “creative spirit.” In addition to the grand prize, runnersup will receive a DVD of “Saige Paints the Sky.” To enter our Saige Contest: Girls 8-12 should send us a piece of artwork that exhibits their own “young artist’s creative spirit.” The art can be a painting, sketch or drawing; no graphic arts, digitally created work, or arts and crafts. Submit entries by July 26 by email (as a separate attachment) to contest@ atlantaparent.com; put “Saige Contest” in subject line. To send by snail mail: “Saige Contest – Atlanta Parent 2346 Perimeter Park Dr., Atlanta, Ga.,30341 Winners will be announced in August. All entries must include young artist’s name, age and a parent’s daytime phone number. – Taniqua Russ

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Be Book Smart Campaign

According to a new survey from Reading is Fundamental (RIF) and Macy’s, only one in three parents read bedtime stories with their child every night. Half of the more than 1,000 parents surveyed reported that their kids spend more time with TV or video games than with books. Macy’s and RIF continue a 10-year partnership to provide books for kids in need. Through July 21, the Be Book Smart campaign asks Macy’s customers to donate $3, with that full amount going to RIF. Customers who donate $3 will receive a coupon to take $10 off purchases of $50 or more. Since Macy’s and RIF have worked together, $25.8 million has been raised to support children’s reading and bedtime stories. – Kirby Cooperman

July 2013 Atlanta Parent 13

the

frugalfamily Complicated money-saving strategies just don’t work for today’s busy moms. Enjoy summer more with these simple steps that can become habits without too much effort.

20 Ways To Save This Summer

15.

Lower the heat setting on your dryer. Hang partially dry sheets and towels out to dry in the sun.

16.

Grow your own cutting garden. Fill an entire bed from end to end with varieties like daisies, lilies, gladiolas, sunflowers and zinnias.

by Christina Katz

Leave your car behind when possible – add baskets and racks to bikes. Make sure bikes get a tune-up, and take a tire repair kit.

Visit websites before you go to check for discount coupons.

Check neighboring towns for free music performances and festivals. Meet up with friends for low-key fun.

Attend a parade. Bring a picnic and homemade lemonade.

17. 9.

Decrease oven use. When you must, bake in the cool morning hours.

10.

Fire up the outdoor grill to keep the kitchen cool. Purchase meat in bulk, divide, marinade in freezer bags and stock the freezer. To save on gas, grill a few items for the week and reheat in the microwave.

11.

12.

Limit fireworks purchases to sparklers and attend free public fireworks shows. Have cooler, will picnic! Buy reusable ice packs, or fill with ice and bring along a day’s worth of hydration rather than pay for expensive drinks.

Check out lake beaches within an hour’s driving distance. Leave early and stay all day to maximize the fun without adding a hotel stay.

When the big summer movie that you all want to see comes out, eat lunch at home first, then go enjoy the matinee.

14 Atlanta Parent July 2013

Use your slow cooker in the summer and make your own BBQ sauce, baked beans or ratatouille. Scour the house for plugged-in appliances you simply don’t use in the summer. Unplug what you can.

13.

Save on air conditioning. Open upstairs windows before bed. Turn fans on low for the night. Close windows before the sun gets high in the sky. Close curtains on the sunny sides of the house.

14.

You don’t want your AC to quit on the hottest day of the year and incur a rush repair. Check your AC for maintenance and replace filters.

Build a raised garden bed to keep out weeds and pests and plant a whole summer’s worth of salad plants. Pace plants to harvest on an ongoing basis.

18.

Invite birds and butterflies into your yard by planting sweet smelling flowers like cosmos, phlox, and zinnias. Purchase seed in bulk to last the whole summer and fill feeders bought at the thrift store.

19.

A delicious way to start the day: Mix up homemade granola using oats, nuts, and dried fruits purchased in the bulk food section. Don’t forget the honey and peanut butter.

20.

Enjoy plenty of fresh, local berries, at their best prices of the year. Rinse, then dry in a salad spinner lined with paper towels. Refrigerate in a vented container lined with more paper towels.

Coming in our August issue: 20 MORE Ways to Save This Summer! atlantaparent.com

BOOKSHELF: Hands-on Projects As the summer drags on, consider picking up a new book filled with clever crafty projects. It could prove just the ticket to keep your youngster engaged. Four titles we recommend: n The Motorboat Book by Ed Sobey (Chicago Review Press, ages 9 and older, $14.95) The budding scientist or engineer will enjoy discovering how to build mini submarines, gravity powered boats and more. Equipped with step-bystep instructions, The Motorboat Book explores various subjects including gravity, hydraulics and energy. Kids will have fun experimenting and making their own scientific discoveries. n The Big Book of Crafts and Activities edited by James Mitchem (DK, $16.99) From tasty treats and healthy snacks, to outdoor fun and indoor art, this book has it all. Every page offers a fun activity to keep the kids smiling at slumber parties, tea parties, friendship get-togethers, and more. Bake up a summer treat in just a few minutes or spend the whole day crafting a beautiful work of art. Endless enjoyment n Dad’s Book of Awesome Projects by Mike Adamick (Adams Media/F+W Media, $18.95) Comic book shoes. Ice cream. Superhero capes. Everything a child dreams of. Stay-at-home dad Adamick teaches parents how to do it all at home and with their kids. Dad’s Book of Awesome Projects is packed with over 25 easy do-it-yourself activities that can keep parents and kids having creative fun together. . n The Big Book of Things to Make edited by James Mitchem (DK, $16.99) Who said arts ’n crafts were just for girls? This colorful volume offers activites, games, crafts and more for any enterprising kid, but there’s a boy-centric slant to many of the projects. Perhaps your son or daughter wants to learn to juggle, make some ooey-gooey slime, or challenge friends in a quick game of prehistoric trivia. Fingerprint doodles can be a blast. And finally: Learn how to bend and twist balloons into a dog ... or a giraffe! – Taniqua Russ and Kirby Cooperman

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Does your child have Asthma???

Consider volunteering for a clinical research study conducted at Emory University. This clinical trial is for children 1- 5 years of age, who suffer from wheezing. We are trying to see which asthma medication works best for preschool children. You may be asked to participate for as long as 12 months in this study. The study will also determine the best pain reliever/fever reducer for preschool children with asthma symptoms.

Qualified participants will receive at no charge:

• Asthma medications • Pulmonary Evaluation • Physical Exam • Compensation for time and travel Contact Emory AsthmaNet Study Coordinators for more information:

Jennifer Dodds 404-727-5176 • jcdodds@emory.edu Denise Whitlock 404-712-1773 • drwhitl@emory.edu July 2013 Atlanta Parent 15

17 Ways to Simplify Home Life by Lara Krupicka

With the complexity of our schedules these days, a mom’s job as family manager can make a day in the life of an air traffic controller look easy. You may sigh wistfully over the illusive, and seemingly luxurious, concept of simplicity. But this old-fashioned practice can breathe new life into your household when you incorporate one or two strategic versions of here and there. n To give yourself a taste of what simplicity can look like in a modern family, pick one of the seventeen simplicity starters below to try in your home. 16 Atlanta Parent July 2013

1 2 3 4

Create device-free meal times. Provide a basket or other container for cell phones and other electronics to be deposited before the meal and keep it out of arms’ reach while you eat (and talk). Assure everyone that their devices will be returned once the table is cleared and dishes are washed (by someone other than mom – bonus relaxation for you). Fix homemade meals using simple, whole food ingredients. During farmer’s market season, buy produce fresh from a local source. Find joy in the free stuff around you: beautiful sunsets, afternoon naps, children’s laughter, playing with the family dog. Instead of paying money, pay attention. Keep a journal of what you notice. Shed traditions that don’t fit your family. As children grow, some of the trappings of celebrations and holidays cease to appeal to them. When all the preparation falls to mom, it can be frustrating to receive a lukewarm reaction. Drop the frustration along with the extra work. Instead let your kids tell you what they want the celebration to look like.

5 6 7 8

Embrace the indulgence of wearing that outfit you love every week. Like Mr. Rogers and his cardigans, you could become known for your signature look (in a good way). Consider letting acquaintance friendships fall away to make more time for going deeper in other relationships. It may cause you a little discomfort at first, but the payoff in the long-term will be priceless. Set aside a spot on the calendar for regular one-on-one time with your kids. Even just ten minutes of chatting over an after-school snack can help you both feel reconnected. And don’t forget to give your spouse regular, uninterrupted attention too. Encourage your kids to go broad in their explorations of their interests and abilities (for simplicity’s sake, have them try only one or two activities at a time). Then challenge them to follow an enthusiasm more deeply once they discover what excites them.

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9 10

11 12

Post signs, photos and other memory markers around your house that symbolize or embody your deepest values. Pause occasionally when you see them to reabsorb the message and check your bearings. Develop routines and rituals for the repetitive stuff. Following the same pattern for activities you do regularly, in the form of such things as a morning and bedtime routine, allows your mind to go on autopilot. Each routine you incorporate frees up mental space for all those other concerns you juggle. Celebrate people you know who live out your values. Point out to your children when you see those people putting into action ways you aspire to live. Find your own quiet space each day, even if it’s five minutes spent drinking a cup of tea.

13 14 15 16 17

Offer the most direct answer to your children’s questions. Keep it simple and let them ask for further explanation if they want it. As parents we can tend toward dumping more information at a time than our children might require. Make time for being outdoors – playing, gardening, or just relaxing. Keep a bin of outdoor toys such as jump ropes, balls and sidewalk chalk handy for outside entertainment. Teach your kids an outside game you enjoyed in childhood and see if it catches on. Whenever you face a problem, seek to simplify it to its root, rather than complicating it unnecessarily. Ask yourself, “what is this really about?” Don’t be afraid to repeat the same meal every week (such as Friday night pizza night)it’s the substance of tradition. Just make sure you choose a food everyone in your family won’t mind having over and over. Write a family motto or manifesto that summarizes your core values. See researcher Brene Brown’s Wholehearted Parenting Manifesto for an example at: brenebrown.com/parenting-manifesto-light/.

What was that? A sigh of contentment? Once you’ve tried a sample of modern simplicity you may find yourself hooked. The only trick will be keeping yourself from complicating life by implementing too many strategies at once. c Lara Krupicka is a freelance writer and mom who employs many strategies to keep her home life simpler (and saner).

Where Will Imagination Take Your Family This Summer? Create the vacation tale of a lifetime. Now – September 1, 2013! Join your favorite characters from DreamWorks Animation films such as Shrek, Madagascar and Kung Fu Panda for a summer getaway full of surprises! Enjoy music and games at Saturday Family Fun Nights, dig into a jungle-themed feast at the Madagascar Crack-a-Lackin’ Cook-In, meet your favorite DreamWorks Animation characters and rock out with Nashville’s number-one DJ at the DreamWorks Experience Pool Party. You won’t want to miss our other seasonal offerings, either: live music, culinary tours, Delta flatboat rides and much more. It’s all part of SummerFest at Gaylord Opryland Resort!

Book your summer getaway today!

GaylordOpryland.com/SummerFest

or call (888) 677-9872

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July 2013 Atlanta Parent 17

TAKE THE STING (and Bites and Burns) OUT OF SUMMER

Bee, wasp and hornet stings

Common Household Products Can Relieve Pain Quickly and Promote Healing

by Ashley Talmadge

For kids, summer is a season of freedom and smiles. But the season can also be filled with biting insects, ultraviolet sunray exposure and rash-producing plants. Inevitably, someone will encounter a bee in the wading pool, forget to re-apply sunscreen, or inadvertently find poison ivy. Most parents are well versed in the standard treatment of these minor traumas. We have ice, over-the-counter pain relievers, lotions and antihistamines at the ready. And we know to seek professional care or make an emergency 911 call when stings, sunburns or allergic reactions are severe. But even when a sting or bite is minor, a child might spend an agonizing 30 minutes waiting for a pain reliever to kick in. Luckily, you can find some quick-acting treatment options right in the kitchen to ease the distress. These home remedies can be used alone or in conjunction with standard treatments for great results. When you use home remedies, you are supporting the body’s natural ability to heal itself, says Michelle Rogers, a naturopathic doctor with Earth Friendly Medicine. Other advantages, Rogers says, include cost savings over storebought products and decreased environmental impact. Here are some household remedies for treating the stings, bites and burns of summer.

18 Atlanta Parent July 2013

A bee stings once, but leaves its stinger behind. Remove the stinger as quickly as possible; more venom is dispensed the longer it is left in the skin. Wasps and hornets do not leave their stingers behind and can sting multiple times, so leave the area before starting treatment. n Treatment: Make a thick paste using water and one of the following ingredients: baking soda; meat tenderizer (contains papain, which is said to break down proteins in the venom); charcoal (the activated form is cleanest, but charcoal from a campfire can be used in a pinch); honey (unpasteurized contains antibacterial agents); dirt/mud; or toothpaste (undiluted). Apply directly to the wound. Leave on for 20-30 minutes. Or try one of these plant-based items: sliced onion; papaya (a natural source of the papain found in meat tenderizer), or plantain (a common backyard weed), ground into a poultice. Leave on the wound for about 20 minutes.

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

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

Resources n 1801 Home Remedies: Trustworthy Treatments for Everyday Health Problems, Reader’s Digest Books, 2004 n Discovery Fit & Health, health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/ natural-medicine/home-remedies n Home Remedies Reference Center, home-remedy.org

Sunburn A cool bath is often the best way to relieve sunburned skin. Many believe in the addition of oatmeal, baking soda, or vinegar as a soothing agent. n Treatment: After a soak, try aloe (best straight from the plant, but pre-made lotions are helpful); shaving cream; milk or yogurt; potatoes (pulverized to a liquid, dried on the skin, and showered off); or corn starch (dusted on non-blistered areas irritated by clothing straps or bands)

Poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac The itchy blistering rash affecting people who are allergic to the plants is a reaction to the oil in the leaves. It is essential to wash well with soap and water to remove any oily residue from the skin. After that, a cooling bath can work wonders. Previously mentioned bath additives such as oatmeal and baking soda work well to relieve itching. You can also try Epsom salts, buttermilk, or mint tea as a soothing addition. n Treatment: After dabbing the rash dry, try applying one of the following to dry the outbreak and speed healing: oatmeal, baking soda, or vinegar paste; watermelon rind; cucumber slices; lemon slices or banana peel. c atlantaparent.com

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July 2013 Atlanta Parent 19

Easy Ways for Your Family to Sprinkle the Summer with Giving by Jenny Friedman

Whether you have five minutes or five hours, or toddlers or teens, make room on your calendar to give back this summer. It’ll feel as good as a dip in the pool and you’ll teach your kids important lessons about compassion, kindness and community involvement. n Card Caring.

n Oh, Rubbish.

Turn artistic urges into good will by making greeting cards. Troll through your art supplies to create some cheery missives, then deliver your handiwork to a lonely neighbor or to sick children (or adults) at a nearby hospital – anyone who needs some cheering up. Other grateful recipients can be found through sites such as hugsandhope.org.

Why not tidy the outdoors as part of your daily summer routine? Keep plastic bags and plastic gloves in your backpack or tote so that you can pick up trash whenever you’re out walking. When you visit a playground, make it a rule to throw away five pieces of trash before your little ones can let loose on the jungle gym.

n Hoopla for Moola.

Throw a backyard carnival to raise money for a favorite cause. Offer simple games, prizes, a ticket booth and face painting. Have hot dogs available on the grill, or be really sweet and rent a cotton candy machine. Other creative ideas can be found at mdacarnivals.com n Getting Down to Basics.

Get in the habit of picking up a few extra groceries when you shop, and drop them in a designated (and even decorated!) box in your kitchen. Take the kids with you when you deliver the box to your local food bank every month or so. Designate another box for a nearby family shelter. Toss in any gently used clothes or toys that are ready for a new home, or new socks or underwear when you find them on sale. Routine donations feel great and keep everyone thinking about others. 20 Atlanta Parent July 2013

n Meals on Wheels.

Want to break up your summer routine? Take an hour or two to deliver a noontime meal to someone who is homebound. Kids love to help carry the lunch and ring the doorbell. Your efforts will help our elderly and isolated neighbors to continue living in the homes they love. Visit mowaa.org to find a program near you. n Help Elderly.

Socializing with elders can be a wonderful experience for children – and you are sure to wind up with great stories. Drop by a nearby nursing home, but call the volunteer coordinator first to find out when you should visit. Come bearing homemade treats, handmade cards or small gifts (sun catchers, paper flowers, etc.) to share. Take a favorite book or two to share or read aloud. atlantaparent.com

n Kindness Kits.

Practice counting and organizing skills by assembling kits for those in need. Church World Service (churchworldservice. org) will store your kits until needed by disaster victims or people who need continuing aid. Choose the school kit, hygiene kit, baby care kit or emergency clean-up kit; the CWS website explains what to include in each kit. n Simply Cereal.

With foodshelf supplies low, homeless shelters almost always need cereal – and your children will surely want to help. Any cereal your friends and family want to contribute is welcome – colorful, lowfat, childhood favorites, heart healthy, etc. See how many boxes you can collect. Folks in shelters need to start their days with breakfast; your donations help save the shelter money. To find a shelter in your area, check with your local United Way. n Take a Stand.

Host a lemonade stand and raise money for your family’s favorite charity. Boldly decorate a sign with your cause – big

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enough for passersby to see – and watch the quarters flow in. Find out if the group you’re supporting has brochures you can hand out. For recipes and more ideas, visit sunkist.com/takeastand/stand/charity.asp. n Smiles of a Summer Day.

If the weather isn’t cooperating, settle in for an afternoon of coloring. Color A Smile (colorasmile.org) collects crayon drawings from school children, then distributes them to

nursing homes, Meals on Wheels programs and others in need. The goal: to bring smiles. Your child may even get a mention on the Color A Smile “thank you” page. c – Jenny Friedman, the founder and executive director of Doing Good Together and a leading national expert on family volunteerism, is coauthor of Doing Good Together: 101 Easy, Meaningful Service Projects for Families, Schools, and Communities.

July 2013 Atlanta Parent 21

Monkeying Around There’s nothing curious about how Curious George endures. Who can resist a smart and lovable animal who’s always exploring? (Plus, he can swing by his tail!) This summer, the fesity little monkey who got his start more than 70 years ago in children’s books by Margret and H.A. Rey, seems to be everywhere. He got us thinking about all kinds of monkey business.

n Monkey Rhyme “Five Little Monkeys” is a fun verse to teach to and recite with your kids Five little monkeys jumping on the bed, One fell off and bumped his head. Mama called the Doctor and the Doctor said, “No more monkeys jumping on the bed!” For the complete verse, and for “Five Little Monkeys” activities such as finger puppets, visit dltk-teach.com/ rhymes/monkeys. You can also find plenty of delightful re-enactments of “Five Little Monkeys” on YouTube.

n George on PBS

n Paper Roll Monkeys

PBS loves George as much as we do. He has his own TV program for ages 3-6 to introduce them to concepts of math, science and engineering. And you can find simple video games for kids at pbskids.org/ curiousgeorge. To check the showtime on PBS, visit pbs.org/parents/ tvprograms/program-curiousgeorgeairdates.html. Be sure to download PBS’ free Monkey Match app for iPhones, a memory match game that uses letters and rhyming words.

n Monkeys, For Real George’s monkey pedigree appears to be the Heinz 57 variety, but you can find four species of his interesting cousins at Zoo Atlanta – Golden Lion Tamarins, Drill Monkeys, Schmidt’s Guenons and Wolf’s Guenons. Read all about them at zooatlanta.org.

Source: Jeannette Fender, Adventures of J-Man and MillerBug, jmanandmillerbug.com

What you need: empty toilet paper rolls; dark brown paint; light and dark brown foam craft sheets; sponge brush; brown magic marker; googly eyes; glue; brown pipe cleaners What to do: Paint toilet paper rolls brown. Create monkey head by cutting out an oval from dark brown foam sheet. Cut another oval with attached eye area from the light brown foam. Glue light brown piece onto the dark brown oval piece. Glue on googly eyes, add a nose and mouth using your brown magic marker. Cut circles for the ears and attach them to the top of the head. Cut out light brown ovals for the belly and small ovals for the feet. Use marker to draw on toes. Glue belly, feet and head to the toilet paper roll. Take a half of a brown pipe cleaner, wind into a circle and attach to form the tail.

n Monkey on Your Plate n Hug-able Pals For just $5, you can get a Curious George book and a plush toy of George or one of his pals. Buy Curious George’s Dinosaur Discovery, for instance, and a dinosaur plush toy (other toys are George, a puppy, a kangaroo and a moose). The books and toys are available at Kohl’s stores or online through Kohl’s Cares, a foundation that has raised more than $231 million for children’s health and education programs. Visit kohls.com and search “kohls cares.”

22 Atlanta Parent July 2013

Breakfast time doesn’t have to be boring. Grab (just for one example) some English muffins, bananas, walnuts and blueberries and let your kids “monkey around” with their food. Source: Funny Food by Bill and Claire Wurtzel (Welcome Books, $19.95) – compiled by Amanda Miller Allen and Taniqua Russ

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Let’s Do Lunch! Ideas for a Simple Picnic with Your Kids by Meagan Ruffing

Summer is here and the kids are itching to be outside. Why not pack a lunch and head to the park? Whether you’re an on-a-schedule mom or the fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants mom, picnics are an excellent way to get some fresh air. Try these picnic-pleasing tips for your next outing with the family. n Picnic Basket: Get yourself

a cute picnic basket that’s big enough for the entire family. Be sure to buy one that has a separate compartment for cold drinks and enough pockets for snacks. n Snacks: Grab snacks that are easy

to pack such as carrot sticks, crackers, cheese cubes and raisins. Kids like finger foods that can be easily eaten without the mess. Pack each snack in individual snack bags or small containers. n Drinks: Individual juice boxes

or sippy cups filled with your kids’ favorite drinks are perfect for keeping your kids hydrated outside. Put ice packs on top of the drinks to keep them cold until you reach your destination.

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n Lunch: Kids love simple sandwiches

like peanut butter and jelly, turkey and cheese or cucumber and mayonnaise. Get creative and use a character-themed sandwich cutter to shape your child’s sandwich into their favorite cartoon friend. n Dessert: Let’s be real – chocolate chip

cookies or anything chocolate can get pretty messy under the sun. It’s better to keep it simple: think teddy grahams, fruit snacks or fresh fruit.

n Picnic S’mores: Julie Wages, mother

of two grown children, remembers when we would take our little ones from church on a picnic and “we would cheat and use chocolate graham crackers and marshmallow cream instead of s’mores. Just put the cream in a Dixie cup and give them the sticks of graham crackers to dip! A lot less mess!”

n Games: What’s a picnic without some fun?

Bubbles, kites and books are great things to bring along for an after-lunch activity. n Always Bring Extra: When Theresa Jones,

mother of two, goes on a picnic with friends, she says she always packs extra snacks. “If we are meeting friends – kids always want what the other has.” She also plays it safe by asking if anyone has allergies. “Our son’s friend has a nut allergy so we don’t do peanut butter and jelly.” n Wrap It Up: Bring a comfy blanket to set up

shop. Take it up a notch and think recycling. Use reusable sandwich bags and sippy cups from home. Roll up the blanket when you’re all done and stow it in your basket for an easy transport back to the car. Don’t forget the baby wipes. No matter what age your kids are, wipes are and always will be “mom’s best friend.”

July 2013 Atlanta Parent 23

“

What free or low-cost activities are you doing with your kids this summer?

”

Here are some of the responses Atlanta Parent received when we asked this question on Facebook.

Swimming at my parent’s house, Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary, Dauset Trails, Centennial Olympic Park fountains, bowling (kidsbowlfree.com). – Jessica James Spending lots of time playing in the water table and kiddie pool on the back porch to stay cool! – Susan McWilliams Gilchrist Library events, Noah’s Ark, Bank of America free museum days, parks, swimming, riding bikes, free Target Tuesdays at The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. – Brittany Holcombe $1 movies!!! – Liza Barr Cheek 24 Atlanta Parent July 2013

Pack lunches, take them to the park and have a picnic, pool, water balloon fight. – Tiffany Barnhill We go to our local library and check out the Atlanta Zoo DVD and receive free passes to the zoo! – Kristi Phillips Wade We do lots of things outside: painting, picnics, sprinklers and pool. My kids love to plan things on one day each week, such as “watermelon day,” when we have a seedspitting contest with a big group of kids. – Wendy Diamond

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Summer movies, tubing in Helen ($5 or less), picnics in the park and family membership to the zoo. Noah’s Ark in Locust Grove is absolutely free (donations welcome)! – Melissa Bowen-Webster

We go to parks with playgrounds and splashpads. It’s totally free.You can have picnics and fly kites. – Heather Om

65 Days Of

Anything outdoors. We’ve made a list of all the surrounding parks (the big ones) in the metro area and we like to experience what they have to offer. We enjoy everything from hiking, swimming, horseback riding, climbing, caving, geocaching, and wildlife observation. There are plenty of natural resources around us! – Amanda Chatham

We tour all the free fountains, including Centennial Olypmic Park. We visit Gwinnett pools, especially the ones with water slides! We visit each one at least once and even rate them. The ratings are a great exercise in graphs for my kiddos! – Nicole Littlejohn Jackson

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July 2013 Atlanta Parent 25

d r a B y u k c g a B

by Laura Lane

hen my son was three years old, he loved playing in mud and digging for worms. My daughter preferred chasing butterflies in our backyard. Young children are naturally curious and usually fascinated by insects lurking under rocks, sipping nectar from flowers or simply buzzing through the air. Grown-ups often give insects a bad rap. I’m embarrassed to admit the number of times I’ve said to my children, “Yuck! Stay away from that bug!” or simply squashed one with my tennis shoe. Insects, however, play a number of very important roles in nature. Just for starters, they pollinate flowers, keep pest insects in check, and recycle nutrients in the soil. “We really need insects more than people might think,” says Judy Burris, co-author of The Secret Lives of Backyard Bugs. “Did you know that around 80 percent of the plantbased foods that we eat require pollination by bees, butterflies, flies, beetles, moths or other creatures? Without pollinators, we risk having no fruits, nuts or even chocolate!” In addition, ladybugs, spiders, lacewings, praying mantises and other predators control pest insects. Earthworms enrich and turn over the soil allowing plant roots to breathe and absorb nutrients. Animals such as frogs, toads, lizards, birds and bats also rely on an insect diet, Burris adds. Summer is the perfect time to get outside and take your child on a bug safari in your own backyard – or a nearby park or woodsy area. Here’s how:

26 Atlanta Parent July 2013

Gather the Tools

Bring a magnifying glass, a clear plastic container with a lid, a small paint brush, and a camera. Burris does not recommend letting kids use a net to capture flying insects. “The nets manufactured for children tend to be much too short as far as the actual net is concerned,” she says, adding that butterflies and moths have tiny hooks on their legs that can get caught and even break in the mesh of lower-quality nets, she says. Because butterflies, bees and spiders may all be utilizing the same flowers and plants, “it’s possible to catch more than a child bargained for in a net-sweep and risk getting stung or bit.”

Where to Look Your lawn itself is like a desert when it comes to spotting insects, says Phil Pellitteri, an extension entomologist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Better places to find insects include under rocks, in the soil, in leaf litter, on logs, trees and flowers. Be on the lookout for ants, centipedes, worms, flies, grasshoppers, lady bugs, spiders, butterflies and moths.

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Observe and Collect Take Pictures

Your child can use a magnifying glass to watch insects without disturbing them. Talk with your child about the insect’s colors and markings. Does the insect use camouflage to blend in with its environment? Or is it brightly colored like a lady bug? Insects are brightly colored to attract a mate or to keep predators away. Predators associate brightly colored insects with tasting or smelling bad, Pellitteri says. Young kids can find plenty of fun in collecting insects. Pellitteri suggests having your child use a small paint brush to gently sweep the insect into a collecting container. Your child can keep the insect in the container for a few hours before releasing it back outside. Be sure to keep the container out of direct sunlight, so as not to overheat and kill any bugs being temporarily observed.

Safari

Young children love to snap pictures, so why not combine their love of bugs with picture taking? Print out the photos and your child can refer to them when she draws, colors or paints her own versions of them. Going on a bug safari allows your child to glimpse insects up close and learn about the big role the tiny critters play in our natural world. “Taking just an hour each day to explore your own backyard will reveal amazing insects,” Burris says. Along the way, your kids are sure to discover other curiosities, she points out, from mushrooms and chipmunks to birds and tiny wildflowers. c

Buggy Books Check out these titles to help your child identify and learn more about backyard bugs: l The Secret Lives of Backyard Bugs by Judy Burris and Wayne Richards l Don’t Squash That Bug! The Curious Kid’s Guide to Insects by Natalie Rompella

65 Days Of

Summer

l Everything Bug: What Kids Really Want to Know About Insects and Spiders by Cherie Winner

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July 2013 Atlanta Parent 27

150

YEARS LATER, THE CIVIL WAR IS REMEMBERED ALL AROUND ATLANTA – AND BEYOND



28 Atlanta Parent July 2013

Atlanta History Center

by Mary Beth Bishop

ne hundred and fifty years after famous battles ripped across the South, kids can see trains and recreated ships from the Civil War, and even talk to costumed “soldiers” about that defining moment in our nation’s history. With the big anniversary of the Battle of Atlanta (July 22, 1864) still a year away, families don’t have to wait to explore the stories behind four years of war. Lots of sites and experiences are right here in metro Atlanta. And, easy summer day trips provide more chances for families to soak up some Civil War history. In addition to the sites we spotlight here, there are monuments and plaques in and around Atlanta that point to lots of Civil War episodes, from the Battle of Ezra Church to a little farther away in Dallas, Ga., where 2,000 died at what is now Pickett’s Mill

Battlefield Historic Site. Jason Sabatino of Roswell says his family likes to visit a nearby historical park where a mill once turned out material for Confederate uniforms. While modern life covers some of the old battlefields, Sabatino – dad to Alec, 9, and Aubrey, 6, – says the past has lessons for kids today. His family, for example, has enjoyed the National Infantry Museum in Columbus, Ga.; the museum features dioramas of all our nation’s battles using life-sized figures that are modeled after active-duty soldiers. “The message is about the last hundred yards,” says Sabatino. “It doesn’t matter what technology or weapons you have, it takes boots on the ground to go the last one hundred yards to victory,” Here are just some of the places around Atlanta and elsewhere in Georgia where your family can learn more about the bloody clash between the North and South. atlantaparent.com

STORIES AMONG THE TOMBSTONES Civil War history will be highlighted during special tours at Oakland Cemetery where five Confederate generals are buried along with thousands of Civil War soldiers. Some soldiers lie in unmarked graves guarded by a well-known statue of a wounded lion. Lots of Oakland’s history is intertwined with the war. Confederate commander John B. Hood made his headquarters at Oakland during the Battle of Atlanta. Civil-war-themed “twilight tours” are set for July 13 and August 10 at 6:30 p.m. These and other tours are $10 for adults, $5 for kids and $26 for family groups of two adults and two children. Free tours that relate to the Battle of Atlanta will be July 20 and 21 at 7 p.m.

n Where: 248 Oakland Avenue SE, Atlanta n Hours: The visitors center/ museum shop is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends. n Cost: Free n Info: 404-688-2107; oaklandcemetery.com Oakland Cemetery

CLIMB ABOARD! Travel to Columbus, Ga. to climb onto a recreated steamship and see the remains of a warship that once weighed 2,000 tons. A highlight of the National Civil War Naval Museum is a full-scale replica of the USS Water Witch which was captured by Confederate forces in a daring nighttime raid. A slave acting as pilot was among those who were killed in the battle. With nobody to perform that job, the Confederates decided to sink the ship rather than let it fall back into Union hands. Now kids and parents are welcome to climb aboard the ship. Actual shipwrecks include part of the CSS Jackson which was burned by Union forces and then raised from the Chattahoochee River in 1961. Families can also peek inside recreated living areas onboard a ship and walk along a “dock” that includes storefronts and more. Two “special” days are coming up. On July 6, visitors can learn about medical care aboard ship. On Aug. 3, the focus is on technological advances. Check the website for details.

National Civil War Naval Museum

n Where: 1002 Victory Drive, Columbus n Cost: $7.50 for adults, $6 for kids n Hours: Sun.-Mon, 12:30-4:30 p.m.; Tues.-Sat.,10 a.m- 4:30 p.m. n Info: 706-327-9798; portcolumbus.org

PRISONERS AND GRAVES AT ANDERSONVILLE Learn about prisoners of war at the site where 45,000 Union soldiers were held in one of the most famous Civil War prison camps. The Andersonville National Historic Site includes the National Prisoner of War Museum with artifacts, films and personal stories from throughout our country’s military history. The 26.5-acre site of the Camp Sumter prison camp includes replica shelters. Finish your visit at Andersonville National Cemetery, the resting place of nearly 20,000 soldiers. Parents are cautioned that some of the museum’s content can be tough for kids to see or hear. But the site’s Eric Leonard, head of information and education, says there are important lessons for youngsters here about respect, endurance and sacrifice. “The survival stories are often awe-inspiring,” says Leonard, One prisoner, for instance, tried to lift his spirits by painting an American flag on a piece of cloth in defiance of his captors during World War II. n Where: 760 POW Road, Andersonville n Hours: Open daily, 9 a.m. -5 p.m. n Cost: Free n Info: 229-924-0343; nps.gov/ande/forkids/index.htm n While in the area: Consider a visit to the Drummer Boy Civil War Museum. You’ll see mannequins with Confederate and Union uniforms and learn the stories of the those who wore them. Exhibits include the bonnet Mary Surratt wore just before her hanging for taking part in plotting Lincoln’s assassination. 229-924-2558. atlantaparent.com

Andersonville National Historic Site

Cont’d on page 30

July 2013 Atlanta Parent 29

150 YEARS LATER, THE CIVIL WAR IS REMEMBERED

National Civil War Naval Museum

Re-enactments Watching a re-enactment is a great way for a family to feel like they’re back in the 1860s, right in the middle of the action. The Atlanta Campaign re-enacts battles at the historic Nash Farm Civil War Battlefield in Hampton, the site of the largest cavalry raid in Georgia’s history. For updated event information, visit atlantacampaign. com. There are other opportunities for families to “step back” to Civil War times. Living history demonstrations and battle re-enactments are scheduled on an ongoing basis. Here are some locations: n Battle of Tunnel Hill re-enactment: Sept. 7-8; tunnelhillheritagecenter.com n Battle of Chickamuaga re-enactment: 150th Anniversary reenactment of the historic Georgia battle with over 10,000 re-enactors. Sept. 21-22, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; nps.gov/chch; click on “schedule of events” n Battle of Utoy Creek re-enactment: Nov. 1-3, henrycountybattlefield.com

Just For Kids To help kids learn more about history, the National Park Service is featuring Civil War to Civil Rights trading cards. Each participating site has different cards for students to collect. Kids can add to their collection at Andersonville, Kennesaw, and Chickamauga-Chattanooga. Ask for an activity book as well, some books can be accessed online.

1,500 ARTIFACTS Kids can see how much a soldier’s knapsack would have weighed and can touch a rifle at the Atlanta History Center which has one of the nation’s biggest Civil War collections. This extensive exhibit with more than 1,500 items can be the starting point for family talks about the daily lives of soldiers. Highlights include medical equipment, a Medal of Honor won by the United States Colored Troops, and the Confederate flag that flew over Atlanta at the time of its surrender. See what life on the homefront was like by visiting the Smith Family Farm, which includes a house, gardens, smokehouse and more as they would have existed during the war years. Children can pet sheep and talk with costumed interpreters. n Where: 130 West Paces Ferry Road, Atlanta n Museum hours: Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sun., noon-5:30 p.m. Smith Family Farm tours: Mon.-Sat., 11:30 a.m.- 3:30 p.m.; Sun., 1-4 p.m. n Cost: Adults, $16.50; ages 13-18, $13; ages 4-12, $11. n Info: 404-814-4000; atlantahistorycenter.com

Kids Might Like to Know n More than 300 Andersonville prisoners won release by switching sides and becoming Confederate soldiers. n Some people in Tennessee didn’t want the South to leave the Union. So the Battle of Chickamauga pitted some Tennessee residents against each other. n Drums were sometimes used to tell sailors what to do. They learned to recognize more than fifty distinct drumbeats. The sound of the drum might mean mail call, for example, or time to eat supper or report to battle stations. – Taniqua Russ, contributing

30 Atlanta Parent July 2013

Atlanta History Center

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BEYOND THE FAMOUS CARVING There’s more at Stone Mountain Park than those huge Confederate figures carved into the mountain. A movie tells the story of the Civil War in Georgia with reenactments and archival photographs. You can also walk among 13 memorial terraces for the Confederate states and read related stories of the war. The Antebellum Plantation and Farmyard features buildings that date back to war days and before. A working cookhouse and petting farm add to the fun for kids. Another film details the history of the famous carving. (The nose and mouth of one horse is as big as a two-story building!) In addition, a museum tells the story of the area’s history, including the years of the war.

n Where: 1000 Robert E. Lee Boulevard, Stone Mountain n Hours: Vary according to attraction; check website n Cost: For park entry ($10 per vehicle), families can visit the memorial terraces and see movies about the war and the carving. Tickets required for the plantation and museum ($9 per attraction, ages 3 to adult). Or: the “Adventure Pass” includes all park attractions for $28 (adults) and $22 (ages 3-11). n Info: 770-498-5690; stonemountainpark.com

Stone Mountain Park

A CLIMBING TOWER AND A VIEW Explore hiking trails and monuments at the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park (on the GeorgiaTennesee border), where some of the war’s toughest battles were fought to win Chattanooga, an important center of railway transportation. Families can see several states at once from the Ochs Museum and Observatory. Climb inside an 85-foot-tall

tower built to honor the Wilder Brigade, Union forces that fought here in 1863. Weekend visitors can see a house which was destroyed during the war and rebuilt a short time later. At the Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center, see more 300 examples of military arms. n Where: Chickamauga Battlefield, 3370 LaFayette Road, Fort Oglethorpe, Ga; Lookout Mountain Battlefield, 110 Point Park Road, Lookout Mountain, Tenn.

65 Days Of

n Hours: Park open daily, 6 a.m.sunset. Visitors centers open daily: 8:30 a.m.- 5 p.m. (Chickamauga Battlefield); 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. (Lookout Mountain Battlefield). n Cost: Free entrance to park; ages 16 and older will be charged $3 at the Point Park scenic overlook on Lookout Mountain. n Info: 706-866-9241 (Chickamauga), 423-821-7786 (Lookout Mountain); nps.gov/chch/index.htm Cont’d on page 32

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150 YEARS LATER, THE CIVIL WAR IS REMEMBERED

A REALLY BIG PAINTING Take in the world’s largest oil painting at the Atlanta Cyclorama and Civil War Museum. Painted just 20 years after the war, the work depicts the Battle of Atlanta with a three-dimensional foreground that makes it appear lifelike. Sound effects, music and lighting help make this a dramatic viewing experience as your seats rotate to view the full portrait. While here don’t miss the Texas, a steam locomotive famous for the Great Locomotive Chase of 1862. (You can also see the General, the other locomotive in the chase at the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History; details below.) Cyclorama also shows a movie about the Battle of Atlanta and has an exhibit with artifacts. n Cost: Adults, $10; ages 4-12, $8. n Hours: Tues.-Sat., 9:15 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.; guided tours start every hour on the half hour. n Where: 800 Cherokee Ave., Atlanta n Info: 404-658-7625; atlantacyclorama.org

CALLING ALL RAILROAD FANS Gaze upon the second locomotive from Georgia’s famous train chase at the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History. Also, learn how a locomotive assembly line worked. Museum includes more artifacts and a children’s interactive area. n Cost: Adults, $7.50; ages 4-12, $5.50 n Where: 2829 Cherokee Street, Kennesaw n Hours: Mon.-Sat., 9:30 a.m.- 5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. n Info: 770-427-2117; southernmuseum.org

IS YOUR KID A STAR? T a Atlantt’s Paren

N E L TA WDOWN SHO

Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History

Download an entry form today at atlantaparent.com and mail it in by July 12. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity!

Enter your child (or group) for a chance to perform at Atlanta Parent’s Family Block Party on October 12. Ten of the most talented kids will be showcased at the event. l Local radio and TV personalities will be on hand at the auditions to select the winners in August. l Entries are $25/act for up to four kids, and $50/act for more than four kids. Up to eight Family Block Party passes are included with each entry. Age Groups: 5-9, 10-13 and 14 & up Talent Categories: Singing, Dancing and Miscellaneous (includes jump roping, instruments, monologue, etc.)

32 Atlanta Parent July 2013

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KENNESAW Take a self-guided audio tour through the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park and enjoy the walking trails. A movie and museum tell the stories of the Atlanta Campaign and the Battle of Kennesaw, where forces fought in the summer of 1864. Kids can see real cannons used in the Civil War along with authentic uniforms and other artifacts. Costumed reenactors give firing demonstrations throughout the summer; check website for dates. n Where: 900 Kennesaw Mountain Drive, Kennesaw n Cost: Park admission, free. Shuttle service to top of mountain is $2, adults; $1 ages 6-11. n Hours: Visitor Center, 8:30 a.m.5 p.m. daily; battlefield hours vary, with closing times 7:30-8 p.m. n Info: 770-427-4686; nps.gov/kemo/index.htm

A STORY TOLD IN PAINTINGS Paintings in chronological order tell the stories of the war at the Booth Western Art Museum. Learn about important battles and personal stories of people touched by the war. Kids can pick up a special guide to help them explore artwork in the Civil War Gallery. Also here: an authentic stagecoach, a hands-on kids area, and original signed letters from every U.S. president. n Where: 501 Museum Drive, Cartersville n Cost: $10 for adults and $7 for ages 13 and older. Free admission for younger than if accompanied by parent or guardian. n Hours: Tues.-Wed. & Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thurs., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., 1-5 p.m.. n Info: 770-387-1300; boothmuseum.org

A DAY AT THE PLANTATION Owned by the same family for more than 140 years, Jarrell Plantation survived Sherman’s troops and is now the Jarrell Plantation Historic Site outside Macon. Families virtually step back in time on the self-guided stroll past a dozen original structures, from living quarters to a cotton gin. n Where: 711 Jarrell Plantation Road, Juliette n Cost: Adults, $6.50; ages 6-17, $4; kids younger than 6, $1 n Hours: Thurs.-Sat., 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.; arrive by 4 p.m. n Info: 478-986-5172; gastateparks.org/Jarrell c atlantaparent.com

65 Days Of

Summer

Fight boredom! Visit atlantaparent.com to win prizes and find fun activities for everyday this summer.

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July 2013 Atlanta Parent 33

Choose quality over price Sure, you want to save a few bucks. Just make sure it’s not at the expense of quality. A super cheap backpack will ultimately cost more when you have to replace it with a new one in two months. Likewise, those bargain pens that start leaking on the third day of school will have you shelling out money for better pens. Name-brand supplies tend to be better quality, which means they will last longer.

Skip the paper

Making School Supplies Last

Save Money When You Buy Quality Items, Basic Backpacks by Tamekia Reece

ow much do you plan to spend on backto-school shopping? The National Retail Federation predicts you’ll probably spend quite a bit. The average family with a child in grades K-12 spends $690. Although the majority of the back-toschool budget will go toward clothing and electronics, about $100 will be spent on school supplies. And unless this is your child’s first year in school, you know that $100 is only the beginning. As the school year progresses, you’ll probably need to spend more to replace and replenish certain items. Or will you? Try these ideas to help save dollars and make your child’s school supplies last longer.

Folders get frequent use and rough handling, so many parents end up buying a stack of replacements. Not Leslie Komet Ausburn. “I buy plastic folders instead of those made with paper,” says the mom of three. “Plastic folders can be used for several years because they don’t rip.” To further extend the life of folders, buy the ones that have holes – or use a hole puncher to make your own – and place them in a binder. Because your kid won’t be shoving the unprotected folder in and out of his backpack, there’ll be less wear and tear.

Say No to Doodles It may be difficult to convince your preteen not to draw hearts, flowers and other designs on her folders and binders, but try. These items can be used year after year, as long as they’re in good condition. However, personal designs may reduce their shelf life. Next year your daughter may decide she’s not into Hello Kitty anymore, which, of course, she stamped on her folder. Or, her younger brother will resist using a binder that is covered with glittery, purple stickers. For continued use of binders and folders, without squelching your child’s creative side, help her wrap it with paper (a brown paper bag, gift wrap, cloth, etc.) that she can use as a design or decorate herself. When she’s tired of that look, she can rip the paper off and start with a scribble-free binder. Or use duct tape to cover folders and binders; it comes in many different colors and designs. She can then decorate it as she pleases. An added bonus: The duct tape reinforces folders and binders, which means they’ll last longer.

Bag it Although your child likely won’t be bringing the required 48 pencils back and forth to school every day, he will need something that handily holds his pens, pencils, markers and colored pencils. The extra couple of dollars for a pencil pouch will be worth it because your child will be less likely to lose writing instruments and supplies such as erasers, protractors and compasses. If a pen or marker leaks, the pencil bag will protect folders, schoolwork and the backpack from damage.

Go with plain backpacks Your child may try to convince you that he or she needs that backpack with the latest ‘tween star or superhero, but backpacks will get more

34 Atlanta Parent July 2013

atlantaparent.com

wear if they’re plain and non-trendy. That “cool” superstar could be replaced by the next big thing in a few months. By buying a basic backpack, you don’t have to worry about the pleading to keep up with the ever-changing trends. You can jazz up a plain backpack by purchasing it in your child’s favorite color and then customizing it with beads, stick-on jewels, or patches bearing a favorite character or hobby that can be sewn or ironed on. If you use items that can be removed later (such as sewn-on patches), your child can start over next year with a “new” backpack.

Sure, you want to save a few bucks. Just make sure it’s not at the expense of quality. Name-brand supplies tend to be better quality, which means they will last longer.

Hide the extras

Store it right

For items you know will need to be replenished (notebook paper, pens and pencils), buy a little more than your child needs while shopping the sales, then store your extra supplies out of sight. When kids see they have plenty more of something, they’re less inclined to be economical with their supply. After all, if they lose, mangle, or sell it (yes, it happens), they know they have more on hand. Aprille FranksHunt, mom of two, knows this all too well. “I’ve found with my teenagers, if they have all of their school supplies, they use them all and give them away too,” she says. She puts supplies away so they aren’t accessible to her teens. Because they no longer see a stack of folders or a few boxes of pens ready for the taking, they use what they have sensibly (and have stopped supplying others).

“To store supplies properly, keep the extras in one container so you’ll always know where they are when you need them,” says Stacey Agin Murray, a professional organizer. The goal is to keep the supplies away from children, in a place that is cool, dry and easy to remember. Another storage tip: When your kid comes home with a dried-out marker or pen, keep the cap. “Next time your child loses a cap, you’ll have one to cover the marker and preserve the ink,” says Murray, also a mom and former first-grade teacher.

Keep it clean It’s frustrating to need to purchase a new lunch box because it has an odor. Even worse is having to replace your child’s backpack because three months into the school year, it has a huge

unidentified stain. Make it a habit (for you and your child) to remove old food and other trash from lunch boxes and backpacks every day. A good scrubbing with a baking soda and water mix will help keep lunch boxes odor-free and clean. For backpacks, follow the cleaning instructions on the tag. If there are none, vacuum the interior, pockets and crevices to remove crumbs and debris. Then, using a sponge or rag, hand wash the backpack with warm water and a teaspoon or two of dishwashing liquid. Hang the backpack to dry. To keep your child’s attire in good shape, be sure to treat any stains immediately, and always follow the directions on the tag. For other stuff, like plastic folders, plastic pencil bags, or even sticky markers or glue caps, a quick wipe down with a damp rag or baby wipe will keep things fresh. c

imagine Your Child? What do you want for

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Montessori School at Emory 3021 N. Decatur Rd., Decatur 30033

404-634-5777

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Montessori School of Alpharetta 3290 Old Alabama Rd., Alpharetta 30022

770-667-1277

Now enrolling children ages 15 months – 12 years • www.MontessoriSchoolsofGeorgia.com atlantaparent.com

July 2013 Atlanta Parent 35

GAC ACCREDITED 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY 2002-2012

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• Year-round open enrollment Infants - 12 Years • M-F 6:30 AM - 6:30 PM • Certified and Experienced Montessori Teachers • Fully Equipped Montessori Classrooms

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650-A Mt. Vernon Hwy, NE • Atlanta, GA 30328

www.cumberlandacademy.org 404-835-9000 www.SugarHillChristian.com

Helping your child grow in character and faith while being successful in the modern world. Ranked in the top 2% for ITBS nationwide K-8th Grade • ACSI & SACS Accredited Low Student / Teacher Ratio Affordable Tuition Sugar Hill Preschool program offers mother’s morning out, preschool and kindergarten preparatory classes.

678-745-4121

4600 Nelson Brogdon Blvd., Sugar Hill, GA 30518

36 Atlanta Parent July 2013

atlantaparent.com

Spotlight on

Education

Alexsander Academy

Aspire Day School

lexsander Academy, located in Alpharetta serves students with learning issues and special needs. Their students are those that do best in a small, flexible learning environment. The school focuses on academics as well as independence, classroom and social skills. Class sizes range from 3 to 8 students, depending on the students academic and social needs. Each class has one certified teacher. Programs are available for students working at, above or below grade level. Programs are also available for students who have been in one on one or ABA programs and are ready to learn how to take their skills into a classroom environment. Alexsander Academy believes ALL children are capable. They build up self-esteem by fostering an environment where students are successful, but also challenged, where there are high but realistic expectations, and where children are able to form true friendships with their peers. Alexsander Academy is accredited, accepts SB10 and has other scholarships and programs to help parents with tuition costs. Summer academic sessions as well as tutoring year round are available. For more information contact Stefanie Smith 404-839-5910 or smith@alexsanderacademy.org. Website www.alexsanderacademy.org

spire Day School is an independent school for children grades 1-5. A.D.S. provides an individualized learning environment where children are encouraged to explore opportunities, exceed expectations, and maximize their potential. More importantly, students are encouraged to accept and embrace their differences. Students are also encouraged to develop communication skills that will allow others to know how to best serve them. Aspire Day School offers a comprehensive educational program designed to build the academic, social, and emotional competence of its students who are diagnosed as having ADHD, ADD, Conduct Disorder and/or Oppositional Defiant Disorder. The program is unique because it allows students to experience success and embrace their unique talents. Aspire Day School aims to encourage, motivate, and inspire students to accept their individuality and become more comfortable in their own skin. A.D.S. is currently open for enrolment and would love the opportunity to show you their institution. For more information call (770) 936-6995 or email us at aspiredayschool@crs-ga.com or visit www. aspiredayschool.com.

Mill Springs Academy

St. John Children’s Center

ill Springs Academy is an SACS/SAIS accredited college preparatory, independent school community dedicated to the academic, physical and social growth of those students who have not realized their full potential in the traditional classroom setting. Since 1981 Mill Springs has been supporting student learning by raising expectations and developing self motivation, while providing skills and values for life. The population consists of average to superior ability students in grades 1-12. Small classes and an individualized curriculum help them to capitalize on their strengths while learning compensatory strategies. Mill Springs offers a broad range of fine arts and competitive sports options, as well as an extended day program. In the summer months they offer summer school, summer camp and sport workshops. Their 85-acre campus is nestled in the beautiful rolling hills and pasture land of Alpharetta. For more information, please visit www.millsprings.org or call (770) 360-1336. Mill Springs is a participant of the Georgia Special Needs Scholarship program. Follow them on Twitter.com (@ millspringsacad) and Facebook.

t. John Children’s Center is a full day Christian Preschool located at St. John United Methodist Church in the neighborhoods near Chastain Park. Bright classrooms, community spaces and outdoor play areas provide multiple venues for learning while playing in a loving environment. With an empowered faculty, children are encouraged daily through reading, music, science, art projects, outdoor time, and movement. The creative curriculum provides age appropriate projects and the low child to teacher ratio allows individualized attention for each child’s developmental needs. As each student prepares for their future success, St. John accepts the responsibility of creating lifelong learners and seeks to inspire all of God’s children with the wisdom and understanding of the world around them. Enrichment programs include chapel, story time, music, ballet, computer and gymnastics. A strong emphasis is placed on each child’s educational needs and social development. Teachers nurture students as they grow spiritually, physically, socially and emotionally while learning through play, mindful that the time they have with your child shapes the success they will experience throughout their life. Please visit www.stjohnchildren.org or call 404-843-8375 and schedule a tour today!

atlantaparent.com

Special Advertising Section

July 2013 Atlanta Parent 37

NEW SCHOOL, NO WORRIES

Tips to Take the Trauma Out of the Transition

Meet the staff

by Heidi Smith Luedtke

If your child is starting a new school this year, he may be concerned about finding his classroom, getting along with his teacher or making new friends. You can help your child confront and conquer new-school jitters. Here are 10 ways to help kids get comfortable.

Head to campus before school starts to meet the principal, teachers and other personnel – including coaches, the nurse and the office staff – if possible. Many staff members go back to work several weeks before the first day of school.

Be a player

Pack a picnic lunch and go to the school playground just for fun. Spend unstructured time in your child’s soon-to-be stomping grounds. Familiarity with the outdoor environment and play equipment makes recess and lunch time less intimidating.

Find friends

Visit the school

“Don’t make a kid go in cold,” says early childhood education specialist Maureen Taylor. “Spend your summer finding and introducing your child to students their age or younger who will attend the same school.” Even one familiar face can go a long way to increase kids’ confidence.

Check yourself

Attend orientation or create your own self-guided tour. Walk around the buildings and grounds with your child. Give him a campus map if one is available. If students must walk from one class to another between periods, practice the shortest route so your child knows he can get from gym to English class in the time allotted.

“Sometimes kids pick up on parents’ worries about sending the child to school,” says clinical psychologist Lawrence Levy. Monitor your own anxiety and be vigilant of signals you send. Talking with the principal, teacher and other parents can calm your fears and prevent them from amplifying kids’ school-related stress.

Talk it up

“Make your child a participant in backto-school preparations, instead of doing things for him,” Levy says. Shop together for supplies, clothing and athletic gear. Kids gain a sense of control and independence when they assist with back-to-school prep.

The stories kids tell themselves about their new-school transition have a major impact on their emotions. Count down the days until school begins with X’s on the calendar or using a paper chain in the new school colors. Create a sense of anticipation and excitement. Use optimistic words and phrases.

Work with your child to list appropriate getto-know-you questions and personal facts she can use during early (and sometimes awkward) peer interactions. Favorite movies, hobbies, sports and magic tricks are interesting things to share with new friends. Knowing what to say eases fears about the social scene.

38 Atlanta Parent July 2013

Team up

Stack the deck

atlantaparent.com

Anticipate academic challenges The level of difficulty, class schedule or homework load may be different at your child’s new school. Help your child create a plan to keep track of assignments and complete work on time. Look for tutors in subjects that are most challenging for your child. An academic plan of attack can relieve the performance pressure your child may feel.

Take a token

Kids feel more secure when they have a comfort object tucked away in their book bag or locker. Let your child select a small token to take with him to school – it can be his secret worry-busting weapon. A tiny toy, a favorite piece of clothing, or a silly photo of the family dog can bring a smile to a nervous student. New school transitions are harder for some students than others – you know your child’s temperament best. “Some kids breeze into a new classroom as if they did it every day,” Taylor says. “Others are anxious and withdrawn whether they are 5 years old or 11.” Offer extra reassurance and be patient while your student adjusts. c

atlantaparent.com

Books to Allay Fears Cuddle up with books that address your kid’s school and separation anxieties. We like these reads: n I Am Absolutely Too Small for School by Lauren Child

(Candlewick, $16.99) n The Berenstain Bears Go to School by Stan and Jan

Berenstain (Random House Books for Young Readers, $4.99) n The Invisible String by Patrice Karst (Devorss & Co.,

$16.95) n I Love You All Day Long by Francesca Rusackas and

Priscilla Burris (HarperCollins, $6.99) n Justin Case: School, Drool, and Other Daily Disasters

by Rachel Vail (Square Fish, $6.99) n What to Do When You Worry Too Much: A Kid’s Guide

to Overcoming Anxiety by Dawn Huebner (Magination Press, $15.99) n Wilma Jean and the Worry Machine by Julia Cook

(National Center for Youth Issues, $9.95) n The Feelings Book: The Care & Keeping of Your

Emotions by Dr. Lynda Madison (American Girl, $9.99) n Understanding Myself: A Kid’s Guide to Intense

Emotions and Strong Feelings by Mary C. Lamia, Ph.D. (Magination Press, $14.95) n A Smart Girl’s Guide to Starting Middle School by Julie

Williams Montalbano (Pleasant Company Publications, $9.95)

July 2013 Atlanta Parent 39

A Love of LEARNING

Four Steps to Ensure Your Child Enjoys School This Year by Christina Katz

Raising engaged students is not just the responsibility of the teachers and the administrators at your school – it’s a job that starts at home with every parent. Raising a child who loves school is easier than you might have imagined. Just follow these four simple guidelines and watch the magic that occurs when your child loves learning. n Share

to prepare

Tell your child what you enjoyed about school. If your spouse enjoyed school, encourage him to share stories, too. If you had a difficult time in school, share those stories with someone who is not your child. Talk to another adult about the ways you struggled, and how those struggles might

40 Atlanta Parent July 2013

color your expectations of what school will be like for your child. Get your fears and biases about school off your chest and let them go so you won’t unwittingly pass them on. Your child is not you; that was then, this is now. By confronting and releasing any bad back-to-school memories, you open the doors to a positive school experience for your

child today. If your child does not love learning by the time he or she graduates from elementary school, you may be in for a long uphill climb in middle school, high school and college. Keep your attitude towards academics upbeat if you want to instill a lifelong love of learning in your child.

atlantaparent.com

n Step

back

Some parents have trouble trusting that a school will care about their child as much as they do. And it’s true – teachers won’t treat your child like a parent would. They will probably expect more. And they will care about your child as educational professionals, who want to challenge your child so she can realize her potential, so let them do their jobs.

Keep your attitude towards academics upbeat if you want to instill a lifelong love of learning in your child. Smart parents know that school is not just about academics. When your child is in school, she is learning how to be a member of a community. She is learning how to socialize and enjoy playtime. She is learning how to express herself through art, music and physical activity. So remind yourself that the folks who run schools are trained professionals. Trust them with your child’s daily education and well being. n Be

Success In School Success In Life 9:00A.M. OPEN HOUSE 2013: Sept. 11 • Oct. 9 • Nov. 13 2014: Jan. 22 • Feb. 12 • March 12 April 9 • May 14 For Reservations for our OPEN HOUSE please call 770-360-1336

positive and proactive

Try to find something to like about your school on a regular basis. If you don’t know what to like then you might not be aware enough. Have a working knowledge of the school layout. Introduce yourself to teachers on open house days and meet the people who work in the front office, including the principal.

13660 New Providence Road • Alpharetta “I’ve always believed that if a student can’t learn the way we teach ... we should teach the way a student can learn.”

Tweetie Moore, Founder

Visit our website: www.millsprings.org Mill Springs Academy is a non-proﬁt school which does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletic programs and other school-administered programs.

Cont’d on page 42

Alexsander Academy Where ALL children are academically challenged regardless of their differences

• Elementary, Middle & High School • Flexible, small school environment • Tutoring • Scholarship funding available ALPHARETTA

404-839-5910 • 770-777-0475

www.alexsanderacademy.org atlantaparent.com

3340 Chestnut Drive Atlanta, GA 30340 Conveniently located in Doraville

Call 770-457-7261

DEVELOPING EACH CHILD’S POTENTIAL

Northwoods Montessori welcomes students of all races, faiths & cultures.

Children 2½ - 4 Years Old

Enrolling for Fall 2013 w w w. n o r t h w o o d s m o n t e s s o r i . o r g July 2013 Atlanta Parent 41

MDE SCHOOL

A Love of LEARNING

Unique solutions for unique learners • Offering a unique environment for your child to reach their maximum potential. • Specializing in children with autism, sensory processing and communication disorders • Serving students K-12th grade • Accredited by GAC K-8, Vocational Rehab 9-12 • Music, physical education, ﬁeld trips, art, improv • OT, PT and Speech made available through Greater Atlanta Speech & Language Clinics, Inc.

Make sure the teacher knows you are on her team. If you have a miscommunication or misunderstanding with a teacher or administrator, strive to work things out in a calm, pro-active manner. Don’t hang on to negative perceptions or try to create negative consensus with other parents. Confident, secure parents seek solutions not squabbles. Put yourself in the teacher or administrator’s shoes before you pick up the phone or shoot off that email. The way you would like to be treated is the way to behave, always, no matter how you feel in the heat of the moment. n Give

Director - Mindy Elkan, M.A. CCC,SLP

770-971-4MDE (4633) MDESchool@gmail.com www.mdeschool.com

The mission of The Bedford School is to maximize the potential of students with learning differences and develop foundations for success. 770-774-8001

5665 Milam Rd. Fairburn www.thebedfordschool.org

NEW LOCATION NOW OPEN IN TUCKER!!!

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678-462-1342 heartsandhandstherapy.com 42 Atlanta Parent July 2013

550 Mt. Paran Rd., Sandy Springs LeslieRose@StJohnChildren.org www.stjohnchildren.org

without strings

Whether you work full time or not, there are basically two types of parent volunteers: those who willingly pitch in and help and those who don’t want to spend time at school but do it for their kids. Be honest about the kind of parent you are, so you can find ways to be a cheerful contributor to the school. If you like to pitch in, join the PTA or sign up to be a room parent. You will find plenty of opportunities to contribute, but do so without expectations of payoffs for your child based on your involvement. The benefits for your child come when you happily contribute, not when you use your position as an insider to create an ongoing list of how you would do things differently and better.

It’s true – teachers won’t treat your child like a parent would. They will probably expect more. Be service-minded, looking for opportunities to match the school’s needs with what you have to offer. Do your best not to criticize parents who are less committed to volunteering than you. If you don’t want to spend a lot of time at school, acknowledge that your child could benefit from seeing you at school occasionally whether you enjoy volunteering or not. Break the school year up into three parts and try to pitch in to help or chaperone at least once each season. Don’t forget to get your spouse involved. Two reasonably involved parents are better than none. No matter how you choose to contribute, when you give the way you want to give, you set a great example for your kids. Parents who invest energy cheerfully and proactively in their child’s school stand out in the crowd. c atlantaparent.com

Yes! There is a Choice in Independent Education. Grades 6-12 Accredited by SACS, SAIS, GAC

OPEN HOUSE: Thursdays 9:30 A.M RSVP 770-641-8688

www.ChooseCottage.com 700 Grimes Bridge Rd. • Roswell 30075 TCS is a 501 ( c ) 3 organization that maintains a nondiscriminatory policy in all school programs.

Providing Excellence in Education Tailored to the Needs of Individual Students since 1985

Brandon Hall School

hat if your child could experience a world-class college preparatory education in the heart of Metro Atlanta? One that is truly multinational and personal. Small by design and expansive in academics, the arts and sports. Traditional and innovative in teaching. Where every student is celebrated as a unique individual in a diverse, Brandon Hall global family. Where 100% of our students are college bound. Where the world is a better place because of each Brandon Hall graduate. Did you know? Our faculty is multinational and 20% of our enrollment is gifted multinational students representing 5 continents and speaking 13 languages. 1701 Brandon Hall Drive

Atlanta GA 30350

Rolling Admissions: 770-394-8177

www.brandonhall.org

Cultivating her spirit of wanting to know.

One of the

inspiration. wonders

of Walker. Call 678-581-6891 for fall enrollment availability.

walkerwonders.org Cobb’s independent college-prep community pre-K through 12 The Walker School practices a nondiscriminatory policy of admission.

atlantaparent.com

THE WALKER SCHOOL

where wonders await.

July 2013 Atlanta Parent 43

kids activity guide

Enrich your child’s mind and life with extracurricular activities. Art, dance, foreign language or swimming classes can be the creative outlets your child needs for after-school enrichment. In our Kids Activity Guide, you’ll find listings for a variety of programs including art, dance, music and sports activities. Before you make your final decision, be sure to get some input from your child. You can ensure a better experience when you find a program that meets your child’s needs and interests.

Special Advertising Section

Dance Academy of Ballet www.academy-ballet.com Celebrating 20 years. NEW STUDIO coming FALL 2013. Ages 2 1/2 to adult. Creative Movement, Pre-Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Tumble, Hip Hop. For more information, visit website or call 770-242-6379. Dance and Arts Showcase www.danceandarts.com 47 years in Dance Excellence, Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Piano & Guitar. Ages 2 to Adult. 2861 Henderson Mill Rd. Open House. Aug. 3 & 4, 10 to 4 P.M. Call 770-934-5010 to sign up for Fall classes. Dance Theatre www.DanceTheatre.net Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Contemporary, Lyrical, Acrobatics and Cheer. Beautiful Sandy Springs studio conveniently located on Roswell Road and off I-285. Ages 2 - Adult. Actively enrolling for Fall 2013 season. Fall Studio hours: Mon.-Fri. 3-9 p.m. and Sat. 9 a.m.-12 p.m. 678-705-8421.

Moving in the Spirit www.movinginthespirit.org Dynamic classes focused on Modern and Ballet technique, Creative Movement, Choreography and Leadership Training. Ages 3-18. Open House August 24, 11am-1pm at 750 Glenwood Ave Atlanta. 404-624-5295. Studio 23 www.studio23dance.com Dance classes from preschool to high school offered in all levels for jazz, tap, ballet, hip hop for both boys and girls, lyrical, and contemporary. 770-442-0023.

Drama Drama Kids International - NE Atlanta www.dramakids.com/ga3 Drama Kids infuses developmental skills into high-energy, one-hour-a-week sessions. The Drama Kids difference helps build creative thinking, literacy, confidence, verbal expression, leadership and team building skills. 770-776-7742.

Educational Enrichment Kid Chess

www.kidchess.com

Lee Harper Studios www.leeharperanddancers.com Excellent dance instruction. Ages 3 and up. Creative movement, PreBallet, Modern, Ballet, Pointe, Jazz and Tap. Over 34 years experience. “Lexus Leader of the Arts.” 3080 East Shadowlawn Ave., Atlanta. 404-3649555. 44 Atlanta Parent July 2013

Kid Chess is the most popular after-school program in metro Atlanta where children improve skills such as focus, critical thinking, decisionmaking, concentration, memory and planning. Chess makes kids smart and Kid Chess makes it fun. Kid-friendly coaches provide engaging and fun lessons, and utilize professionallyproduced cartoons contain entertaining additional instruction. 770-575-5802. Cont’d on page 46 atlantaparent.com

Spotlight: Activity Guide Academy of Ballet

Dance and Arts Showcase

Kid Chess

Peggy Still School of Music

winnett County Teacher of the Year says “To engage minds, empower decision makers, and embrace uniqueness is a motto that guides my teaching. Kid Chess encompasses all those principles. I personally observed added enthusiasm for learning, an increase of concentration and focus, and strategy lead decision making as a result of participating in Kid Chess. This program also creates an atmosphere of success where all children feel self-assured and powerful in their own ‘kingdom.’’’ The popular afterschool enrichment company serves the metroAtlanta area providing chess instruction to elementary kids with over 3,500 students in over 50 schools enrolled in Kid Chess classes each semester. Classes and camps are conducted by teams of coaches, who supplement their extensive chess knowledge with funny instructional cartoons and a website filled with lessons, puzzles and games. Kid Chess’ techniques are effective. Every year their students compete in and perform exceptionally well in a variety of tournaments, including the Georgia Chess Association’s annual Georgia K-8 Team State Championship. For more information about the Kid Chess programs in your area or to get a Kid Chess program into your school please visit www.kidchess.com or call 770.575.5802.

ince 1988, Peggy Still School of Music has served the metro Atlanta market as a premier provider of private music lessons. With locations in Alpharetta and Atlanta the school and its staff of professional, independent teachers deliver over 600 lessons per week in all musical styles and genres to students of all ages and levels of ability. They feature clean, quiet, family friendly studios with comfortable parent waiting areas, which include free wifi access, homework desks for students and frequent cookies. They offer students dozens of community performance opportunities including recitals, National Anthem performances for Atlanta’s pro sports teams, festivals, open mics and more. In 2012, the school opened a professional grade recording studio, Lucky Dog Studios, where students can not only record their music but also get hands on experience with the processes, technologies and tools used in modern audio recording and sound engineering. Lessons and studio time are by appointment. Check out www.northfultonschoolofmusic.com, facebook.com/ peggystillmusic, and facebook.com/luckydogpssm, or call (770) 753-0322 for more information.

elebrating 20 years in 2014! 20 years ago, Cathleen Cronin-Dunlap, foresaw a need for a classical dance studio with professional teachers in the Peachtree Corners/Norcross area. Her great love of dance, performing, and teaching prompted her to open the Academy of Ballet. Seven years later she started the Academy Performing Ensemble to challenge her advanced students. In 2003 she debuted “The Children’s Nutcracker.” The Academy offers high caliber dance training in ballet, Pointe, tap, jazz, Hip Hop, and Lyrical for ages Pre-K thru Adult. The classes are taught in a loving environment by teachers who love what they are doing. The great success of the studio has prompted the Academy to open a NEW STATE OF THE ART STUDIO in the Peachtree Corners/Norcross area. The 5200 square foot studio will have ample dressing and waiting area, 3 large studios with professionally sprung floors, study area, teachers lounge and 3 bathrooms. The Academy will expand its program to include classes for Hybrid/Homeschoolers, Senior Citizens, recreational dancers, adults, private lessons, wedding choreography and more while continuing to offer Pre-K thru advanced dance classes. Visit www.academy-ballet.com, www. facebook.com/aobpc or call 770-242-6379.

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ance and Arts Showcase offers an exciting array of classes including Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Piano, Guitar, Middle Eastern, Karate, Hip Hop and Ballroom. Classes are offered for ages 2-adult. They offer an outstanding Broadway Dance Recital at the Gwinnett Civic Center. Jean Shapiro, director and owner, is a native Atlantan and has been teaching dance and gym classes for 44 years. She was the principal dancer of The Atlanta Playhouse Theatre, and produceddirected her own original T.V. show called “Exercise And Health” which won a cable award. Winner of The Golden Peach Award for Best Teacher-Director of The Georgia Tech Ballet Club and listed in the World Of Who’s Who Of Women, she has dedicated her life to helping children and adults learn beauty through the art of dance. Dance and Arts Showcase teachers are experienced, wellqualified and share a wonderful teacher-student relationship. Dance and Arts Showcase can come to your daycare center and teach there.To sign up for fall classes, register online at www.danceandarts.com or call 770-934-5010. 2861 Henderson Mill Rd., near Northlake Mall.Open Houses: August 3 & 4, Chamblee; 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

[Special Education Guide ] Advertising Section

July 2013 Atlanta Parent 45

Want to learn how to sing or play an instrument?

kids activity guide

Alpharetta and Atlanta

770.753.0322 Excellence in Teaching and Musicianship since 1988 www.northfultonschoolofmusic.com

Please Recycle

Educational Enrichment Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, Inc. www.inkfun.org A hands-on Children’s Museum where children can role play and learn through practical experiences about being a banker, grocery store clerk, doctor, dentist and much more. All exhibits are designed to provide a unique experience and to actively engage young minds (not to mention, it’s just plain fun!). 999 Chestnut Street, Gainesville, GA. 770536-1900. The Prime School of Mathematics www.theprimeschool.com We specialize in helping PreK-9th grade students excel in math. Our enrichment classes instill a deep, conceptual understanding of math. For class schedules and free trial lessons, please visit online or call 678-240-9200. RY Robotics Explorers www.ryre.org Students ages 5 to 18 get hands on experience with robotics, programming, architecture, technology and team building. We encourage young minds to explore the world of science with forward thinking and constructive problem solving. Located across from North Fulton Hospital at 715 Hembree Place in Roswell. Call (770) 772-6622.

The Tutoring Center www.tutoringcenter.com The Tutoring Center has been providing individualized, one-to-one instruction in reading, writing, & math, and improving students’ concentration and focus since 1994. Free Diagnostic Assessment! Visit www. tutoringcenter.com.

Language Alliance Française d’Atlanta www.afatl.com French classes for all ages: toddlers 12-24 months, Bébé Alliance, and Petite Alliance for ages 3-5. After school program from kindergarten up to 4th grade. Saturday youth program for children aged 9-16. Midtown & Roswell. 404-875-1221. Ecole Du Samedi www.frenchschoolatlanta.org French classes for children 18 months - 12 years every Saturday, on the campus of the Atlanta International School in Buckhead. For information visit the web site or call Marc Mallet 770-634-6228.

Music The Music Class www.themusicclass.com/atlanta Rob Sayer’s fun filled classes of singing, dancing, movement and instrument play. Parents learn how to enrich their child’s music environment, increase music potential and understand music development. Ages birth - six years. Over 150 classes offered metro-wide. Buckhead, Crabapple, Dunwoody, East Cobb, Intown Atlanta, Johns Creek, Sandy Springs, Smyrna, Suwanee, Toco Hills, Woodstock. 770-645-5578.

Academy of Ballet

years of DANCE ting 20 a r b ele

New Studio

COMING FALL 2013

All ages Register Online or Call Today!!

www.academy-ballet.com Corner of Spalding Dr. & Holcomb Bridge Rd. Peachtree Corners/Norcross Call 770-242-6379

46 Atlanta Parent July 2013

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Kid Chess “Chess makes you smart... we make it fun” ® Music Go Round www.musicgoroundlilburn.com/lessons.aspx At Music Go Round we offer classes in guitar, drums and keyboard. Our professional instructors are able to offer a great start for beginners or new inspiration for experienced musicians. Buy your first guitar at Music Go Round and you’ll get one free half-hour lesson from Rob Kuhlman. 770-931-9190.

• Classes • Tournaments • Summer Camps • Pre-K and up

770-575-5802 www.KidChess.com LEE HARPER STUDIOS Home of

Peggy Still School of Music www.northfultonschoolofmusic.com Atlanta’s premier music lessons business since 1988. All ages, all styles, all levels, all instruments. Locations in Alpharetta and Atlanta. Enroll at www.northfultonschoolofmusic.com or 770-753-0322.

Sports The Dojo American Karate Centers www.teamdojo.com Offering Kids Karate, After School Care and Summer Camps too. Let us help you teach your kids respect, focus and discipline while they get in better shape and have fun!

FRENCH CLASSES FOR CHILDREN Saturday program ages 18 mo-12 yrs • Buckhead location at Atlanta International School New Class: Bébé et Moi (Baby and Me) for children ages 18-36 months

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Dance & Arts Showcase

Lee Harper & Dancers and Lee Harper & Dancers II, a children’s dance company

34 Years of Teaching and Performing in Atlanta

Now Registering for the 2013 School Year

Ages 3 - Adult Creative Movement • Modern Ballet •Pointe • Tap Call for class schedule & registration package

404-364-9555

3080 E. Shadowlawn • Buckhead between Peachtree & E. Paces Ferry

leeharperanddancers.com

Ages Two-Adult Ballet • Tap • Jazz • Movement • Karate Piano • Voice • Guitar • Ballroom • Hip Hop

OPEN HOUSE

AUGUST 3-4: 10am-4pm

770-934-5010 www.danceandarts.com

Chamblee/Tucker - 2861 Henderson Mill Rd.

10 OFF

REGISTRATION FEE Must mention this ad. Expires 10/1/13

Advertise in the

KIDS ACTIVITY GUIDE

in our August issue.

770-442-0023 Your child is a star at Studio 23!

Don’t miss the opportunity for your activity to be seen by up to

200,000 MOMS in the metro Atlanta area as they figure out what after school activities to enroll their children in for the upcoming school year.

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Dance classes for boys and girls. Preschool to High School. All levels for: Jazz, Ballet, Lyrical, Tap, Hip Hop and Contemporary. For a complete class schedule visit:

www.studio23dance.com 1050 Northfield Court, Suite 400. Roswell, GA 30076 Conveniently located near North Point Mall and GA 400 July 2013 Atlanta Parent 47

Family Fun Guide * Eating Out

Free Fun

Playground

Exhibits

Calendar

Not-to-miss events for July

at The C Hat in theack is B 7 5 Page

Dinosaur Awareness Week Tellus Science Museum / July 8-12.

This summer celebration of everything dinosaurs will include free giveaways and dinosaur activities for kids of all ages to learn more about these extinct monsters. Still, be aware of the museum’s safety tips in case you happen to find a T-rex standing at your doorstep one evening. It’s highly unlikely, but hey, it’s never a bad idea to be prepared! 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. Adults, $14; ages 3-17, $10; ages 2 and younger, free.

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Flying Colors Butterfly Festival

Chattahoochee Nature Center July 13. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. July 14. noon-5 p.m. Chattahoochee Nature Center’s 20-by-20-foot walk-through exhibit is home to 250 beautiful, free-flying butterflies. See them flutter around right before your very own eyes, and then you, too can flutter around in the butterfly and caterpillar costume parade. That’s right: kids are encouraged to wear costumes. They can get their faces painted and add to the butterfly sidewalk art path before heading home after the fluttery fun. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Ages 3-adult, $12. 2 and younger, free.

Family Fun Guide

Flying Colors Butterfly Festival

Atlanta Ice Cream Festival Piedmont Park July 27. 11 a.m.

It’s an ice cream lover’s dream. Eat your heart out at the third annual Atlanta Ice Cream Festival. Don’t miss the wide variety of activities. Besides lots of ice cream vendors, there will be kids’ crafts, doggie treats, and even fitness workouts. 10th Street and Charles Allen Dr., Atlanta. 678-9645944; atlantaicecreamfestival.com. Free entry.

July 2013 Atlanta Parent 49

Family Fun Guide Zoës Kitchen

Six locations in Atlanta area: Perimeter Mall area; E. Cobb/Marietta; N. Buckhead; Peachtree Battle; Cumberland Mall area; Emory Village. Several more locations planned for metro area. zoeskitchen.com; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. daily

EATING OUT

While our family was moving recently, we had one carry-out meal after another. I never thought my kids would say, “Mom, we’re sick of pizza,” but they did. Zoë’s Kitchen in Dunwoody offered a solution that was as good as a home-cooked meal, with all of the nutrition and flavor, but with none of the clean-up. The casual atmosphere meant that we could “come as we were” and relax for our supper. The atmosphere is clean, bright and modern, with an easy-to-read menu above the counter, fast-food style. But don’t be fooled. This is no fast-food restaurant; the food is fresh and prepared by hand. The staff is friendly and quick to offer suggestions. We ordered a pita and hummus dish, two pizzas (which came with large Greek salads), a kids’ quesadilla, a steak kabob meal and a shrimp kabob meal. We savored the Mediterranean dishes and vowed that we would definitely come back again. n What’s on the menu: You’ll find a wide variety of gourmet salads, kabobs, unique pasta dishes and sandwiches. The serving sizes are very generous – particularly the pizza and salad combinations – and the prices suit a family on a budget, with plenty of entrees in the $10 range. n Why parents will like it: The choices of fresh, Mediterranean-inspired dishes are plentiful, but streamlined enough so you can find a favorite. The kids’ menu items are healthier than standard fast-food fare. We thought the portions were adequate for the under-12 set and the kids’ entrees (grilled

chicken fingers, quesadilla, grilled turkey and cheese, chicken salad sandwich and kids’ rollup) are definitely priced right, with nothing more than $4. We took a big table and liked spreading out and interacting in a casual environment. Nothing at Zoës is fried! Grilling is the main cooking method, and menu items include an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh herbs, olive oil and lean proteins. There are clearly marked gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. There are indoor and outdoor seating options. n Why kids will like it: The bright colors and modern, hip furnishings put kids in a relaxed mood. They may even eat their vegetables! The roomy booths feature fanciful tiles decorated by children. My kids enjoyed getting their own drinks, too, at the soda fountain. The kids’ menu items are familiar enough to satisfy the pickiest of eaters. They’ll hardly even notice that the entrees are nutritious. – Beth Balga

‘SkyView’ Ferris Wheel

Zoo Atlanta Adds

Splash Fountain

to Open Early July

et ready to see the city from a whole new perspective: 20 stories up into the sky. Opening soon, the Skyview Atlanta Ferris wheel will offer families a view of the downtown area from new heights. This same Ferris wheel was previously in operation near the Louvre museum in Paris, France. Patrons will settle into one of the 42 air-conditioned gondolas on the massive structure as it circles round and round. Or, enjoy a VIP ride in leather seats while hovering over a glass floor. Each ride makes four big loops on the 180-foot-high ferris wheel, approximately 15 minutes of breathtaking views and family fun. Up to six people fit comfortably into a single gondola. Sun.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-midnight. 168 Luckie St. NW, Atlanta. Adults, $13.50; ages 3-12, $8.50; ages 2 and younger, free. skyviewatlanta.com. 50 Atlanta Parent July 2013

Visitors to Zoo Atlanta will soon be able to cool off. A 2,500-square foot Splash Fountain is scheduled to open for “splashers” on July 4. Presented by Atlanta Fulton County Recreation Authority, Splash Fountain is in the zoo’s lower KidZone area, near the train and carousel. The fountain, a permanent attraction will be open from April through October, weather permitting. Kids can romp about in the fountain while parents take a break when exploring Zoo Atlanta’s habitats, wildlife shows, and other daily activities. But there is no age limit; adults can also get in and splash about. The fountain fun is included with zoo admission. 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta. zooatlanta.org

Family Fun Guide

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FREE FUN atlantaparent.com

Three Ways to Play 1 ‘Camp’ at Bass Pro Shops

“Family Summer Camp” takes place every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday through July 14 at Bass Pro Shops locations. Shooting ranges, fishing ponds, crafts and bird-watching workshops are just some of the free outdoorsy activities in store. While there, be sure to enter for a chance to win a brand new Toyota Tundra and pop over to the photo station for a free photo. Specific daily events vary by location, so check basspro.com for more information and information on events at the location nearest you.

2 3

Kids Camps at Apple Stores “Apple Camp for Kids” is a free three-day program at Apple stores nationwide in both July and August. At Apple Camp (90 minutes each day), kids ages 8-12 can learn to use GarageBand, iMovie, and work with an iPad and Mac computer. At the end of the camp, they will show off their masterpieces at the Apple Camp Film Festival. Spaces fill up fast; learn more and register online at rsvp2.applersvp.com/us/sections/ summer_camps/stores.

Craft Classes at Michaels (almost free) This craft store chain has a seven-week series of in-store educational craft classes. The program is called “Passport to Imagination.” Learning about the seven continents, their cultures, wildlife and landmarks has never been so much fun. Classes are every Monday, Wednesday and Friday through Aug. 2, 10 a.m.-noon. The $2 cost per person includes supplies. Go to michaels.com to find your local Michaels’ location, then sign up at least 24 hours in advance for a class. – Kirby Cooperman

Family Fun Guide

July 2013 Atlanta Parent 51

Atlanta’s Food Truck Scene:

Something For Everyone

Across metro Atlanta, families are lining up for a taste of one of the newer trends to sweep the city. For a quick, friendly and unique dining experience that the whole family can enjoy, food truck parks are just the ticket. Some food truck efforts have blown into what seem to be regular mini festivals, complete with live music featuring local musicians. Whether you visit the popular Atlanta Food Truck Park off of Howell Mill Road, a smaller food truck park in your neck of town, or get over to Piedmont Park for the Atlanta Street Food Festival in July, an adventure awaits – and tasty fare, too. A visit to Atlanta Food Truck Park & Market From Southern eats to a Middle Eastern feast, the Atlanta Food Truck Park in Northwest Atlanta has it all – and families regularly show up to treat themselves to a casual lunch or dinner. This place has it all – plenty of food options, picnic tables scattered about, a small playground and a grassy field if you want to bring a blanket and dine picnic-style. You’re guaranteed to find a selection of vendors on any given day. For mac-andcheese lovers, myself included, the Mac the Cheese truck is among the regulars and you can customize this favorite comfort food to your tummy’s delight. You can even BYOB, as in adult beverage – or even Buster. This food park is both kid- and dogfriendly. This year marks the one-year anniversary of the food park that occupies a former hotel site. On Thursday nights, there’s usually live music. Also, twice a month you’ll find “Taste of Art: An Artisan Showcase,” where vendors offer fresh produce and local artists sell their wares; this event takes place on the second and fourth Sunday of each month, through October. In addition, look for at least one special event each month. On a recent visit to the Atlanta Food Truck Park, I enjoyed a hearty helping of delicious fish tacos from Fish ‘N’ Chips. Several food trucks offered yummy free samples and we made sure to try as many as possible. On any given day (except Mondays), you’ll find at least seven food trucks here, but it’s not unusual for there to be more than a dozen. Some of the “regulars” include Masala Fresh (Indian fare); Mighty Meatballs; Dogs on Wheels (hot dogs); Yum Yum Cupcake; The Filipino; 4Green Vision (fresh local produce); Little Jimmy’s Italian Ices; Atlanta Burger Truck; Nana G’s (chicken and waffles), Tex’s Taco; and Chay J’s (New Orleans gourmet confections). Of course weather plays a big role in the park’s operation. If it’s raining, the park is generally not open. Before you go, always check the park’s Facebook page (“Atlanta Food Truck Park”) for the most up-to-date information including operation hours and to learn which food trucks will be there that day. – Jordan Lisvosky 52 Atlanta Parent July 2013

Family Fun Guide

If You Go Atlanta Food Truck Park & Market 1850 Howell Mill Road NW, Atlanta; atlantafoodtruckpark.com Hours: Tues., 11 a.m. -3 p.m.; Wed.-Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., noon-7 p.m.; closed Mon. n Come early for guaranteed seating, and nohassle parking n Use the entrance off Emery Street for easiest access n Park is open based on the weather, so be sure to check the “Atlanta Food Truck Park” Facebook page if you’re unsure.

Atlanta Street Food Festival Piedmont Park is the spot for this year’s Atlanta Street Food Festival, a benefit for the Atlanta Community Food Bank. Grab your lawn chairs, picnic blankets and sunscreen, then head out with your little ones to the Southeast’s largest food truck gathering. The July 13 festival kicks off at noon and lasts until 8 p.m. for a full day of food trucks, music and fun. Some 25 high-end food trucks will be whipping out tasty treats all day long while local artists provide live family entertainment until the sun goes down. Visit atlantastreetfoodfestival. com for ticket information and further details. – Kirby Cooperman atlantaparent.com

Smyrna Food Truck Tuesdays

Other food truck locations Smaller food truck operations roll into neighborhoods everywhere. Here’s just a taste of some spots where you can step right up. n Alpharetta Food Truck Alley 37 Old Roswell St, Alpharetta., Thurs., 5-9 p.m. facebook.com/foodtruckalley; 6-8 trucks weekly n Dunwoody Food Truck Thursdays Brook Run Park. 4770 N. Peachtree Rd., Dunwoody. hours., 6-9 p.m. facebook.com/pages/Dunwoody-Food-TruckThursdays; 5-6 trucks weekly. n Marietta Food Truck Rally Harry’s Farmers Market. 70 Powers Ferry Rd., Marietta. Mon., 5-9 p.m. facebook.com/pages/Marietta-Food-Truck-Rally; 4 trucks weekly. n Smyrna Food Truck Tuesdays Taylor-Brawner Park. 3180 Atlanta Rd., Smyrna. Tues., 5:30-8:30 p.m. facebook.com/SmyrnaFoodTruckTuesdays; 8-10 trucks weekly. n Suwanee Food Truck Fridays Suwanee Town Center Park. Buford Hwy. and Lawrenceville Suwanee Rd., Suwanee. Friday Aug. 2, Sept. 6; 7-10 p.m. Suwanee.com/whatsnew; 7 trucks at each event. n Virginia Highland Food Truck Wednesdays 841 N. Highland Avenue, Atlanta. Wed., 6-9 p.m. facebook.com/ VirginiaHighlandFoodTruckWednesdays; 8 trucks weekly.

Helpful tips n If the food trucks gather in a local park, bring blankets and lawn chairs to spread out on the grass. n If you want to know which food trucks will be on hand on any given date, check the sponsoring website or Facebook page. Most food truck operations post information prior to each event. n If the weather is iffy, check the sponsoring website or Facebook page for news about closings or delays.

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Family Fun Guide

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“The Velveteen Rabbit” is an enchanting must-see. Director Brian Clowdus and his lively cast of actors have transformed Margery Williams’ classic children’s story into an outdoor play that unfolds in a woodsy setting and engages adults as much as kids of all ages. Nestled in the woods of the unique community of Serenbe, south of Atlanta, this innovative production connects the performance art directly to nature. Upon arrival, you walk through a trail that leads you to Grange Creek. Be on the lookout for bunnies and ballerinas, sure to greet you along the way. The banks of the creek serve as the stage. Bring lawn chairs, blankets and bug spray. There is no intermission, so be sure to take care of restroom needs prior to the show. Originally written by Williams in 1922, “The Velveteen Rabbit” is the sweet tale of a rabbit who becomes real through the sheer power of a boy’s love for him. Although the original story belongs to another era, the moral of the story is evergreen; no matter who you are or what you are made of, we

54 Atlanta Parent July 2013

Photo by BreeAne Clowdus

Into the Woods with ‘The Velveteen Rabbit’ If You Go The Velveteen Rabbit Serenbe Playhouse; The Grange Creek (behind Fern’s Market), 10642 Serenbe Lane, Palmetto 770-463-1110; serenbeplayhouse.com When: Through July 27; 11 a.m. Fri. & Sat. Cost: $15 adults, $10 ages 13 and younger; 2 and younger, free.

all need to love, be loved and feel that we belong. Parents concerned about the “dark” overtones in the original book should know that this adaptation by Rachel Teagle stops short of being as dark or sad. Serenbe’s “Velveteen Rabbit” is narrated by the character Skin Horse, played with gusto by Tyrell Ruffin. Ruffin’s narration is so captivating, the audience is fixed on his every word. Sam Costantino is entirely convincing as the boy who has a powerful love for his stuffed bunny in the land of make-believe. Mary Hadsell is highly animated as she morphs into Maggie, a broken toy ballerina. Ryan Ortega breathes heartfelt life into the

Family Fun Guide

title character. The excellent cast is rounded out by Kelli Owens as the gentle Nana and a bewitching fairy; Brantley Ivey as the frisky Wild Hare; and Ryan Stillings as a toy soldier with his own entertaining shenanigans. For one delightful hour, it seemed as if our family had traveled to another place in time, when the simplicity of life was celebrated and imagination was encouraged and celebrated. My 4-year-old daughter and 7-year-old twin boys were on the edge of their seats, holding on to the actors’ every words. As the show ended, the entire audience was abuzz with delight. – Marteeta Cannon Spradling

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Exhibit: Journey Across the U.S.A. with The Weebles

Photos by Katie Landsman

f you’re looking for a cool way to beat the city heat this summer, pack up your kids and head for the new “Weebles Coast to Coast” at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta. In this exhibit created by the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum in Milwaukee in collaboration with Hasbro, Inc. (creator of those lovable “wobbling” Weebles characters), kids can learn about the 50 states in an entertaining way. The interactive exhibit continues until Sept. 8. From ringing in the New Year with an interactive countdown clock in New York to making Old Faithful erupt in Wyoming, kids of all ages have the opportunity to immerse themselves in fun and engaging activities. My 5-year-old daughter delighted in “tooling up the coast” of California with the radio blasting in her convertible, while my 7-year-old son got to hit a homerun at Fenway Park. We began our journey by planning our “trip” with the help of a giant map of the nation and a touch-screen kiosk featuring the If You Go country’s geographic regions, key facts about “Weebles Coast to Coast” each state, national landmarks and popular The Children’s Museum of Atlanta tourist destinations. Murals of beautiful 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW American landscapes provide the backdrop 404-659-5437 for terrific play areas that represent various childrensmuseumatlanta.org regions: Western, Mountain, Southwest, n When: Through Sept. 8. Midwest, Southeast and Northeast. There are Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; memorable “stops” at the seaside, mountains, Sat. and Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. forest and desert. n Cost: $12.75 plus tax for adults As they raced from state to state, my kids and children; children younger didn’t even realize that they were learning. than 1, free. At each interactive station, they were enthusiastic about which state they were “visiting” and what made it unique. We made several trips back to the Alaska station to race dog sleds, and even went back to New Mexico to fly our hot air balloon. Aside from this outstanding exhibit, there are several other permanent areas to explore at The Children’s Museum, including a farm, grocery store and a fishing pond that can entertain a variety of ages for hours on end. The Children’s Museum is a great way for kids to learn about the world around them in an intriguing, hands-on atmosphere, and “Weebles Coast to Coast” makes traveling across country a breeze! – Christy Smith

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Family Fun Guide

July 2013 Atlanta Parent 55

Playground: East Cobb Park, Marietta

Summer Fun at Rock Ranch

Just a one-hour drive south of Atlanta, The Rock Ranch offers lots of summer fun, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. daily, July 9-27. Kids love the pedal carts, paddle boats, petting zoo, pony rides, train rides and playing in Tiny Town, a pint-sized street with airconditioned playhouses that include a “bank” and a “jail.” Admission is $10, with kids 3 and younger free. It costs extra to ride the Cow-a-Bunga zip lines ($7 or $12, depending on which one you ride). 5020 Barnesville Hwy., The Rock. 706-647-6374; therockranch.com

There’s something for everyone at East Cobb Park and there’s always a reason to return. I go there some mornings for a walk while my son attends preschool and then take him right back to play as soon as he gets out. We fill his wagon with the necessities and then wind our way through the spacious park. We start with a snack at the covered picnic tables and then head into the large, fully fenced-in playground. n Features: The wood-chipped playground has two large play structures to accommodate both big and little kids, as well as swings, a freestanding dinosaur slide, merry-go-round and spin wheels that let your child run like a hamster. There is a second fenced-in all-abilities playground tucked behind the upper parking lot with additional swings, including chair swings, and a large play structure. Sunscreen and hats will be your friends on both playgrounds, as shade is at a minimum. When my son gets tired he hops back into the wagon and we head onto the shaded walking path to visit the outdoor stage, then over the bridge to throw pebbles into the river. We often pass children learning how to ride their bikes on the path, with parents shuffling after them. East Cobb Park is maintained by a nonprofit

volunteer organization. Unlike some parks that decline over the years, this one keeps getting better. Sections are restored, amenities added and interesting events take place here regularly. n Amenities: Ample parking, three shaded pavilions with picnic tables and grills, outdoor stage, outdoor classroom, walking trails, trail access to Fuller’s Park, fields, secluded sitting areas and restrooms with changing tables. n Location: 3322 Roswell Road, Marietta – Courtney Sirotin

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Photos by Jason Crawley

Review:

To ‘The Cat in the Hat’ You Simply Must Go. Because I tell you, My Friend, It’s a Magical show! by Sherry V. Crawley

s the house lights dimmed for the beginning of “Dr. Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat,” I must admit that I had my doubts. Bringing any book to the stage that relies so heavily on rhythm, timing and rhyme could be tricky, I thought. But in less than 60 seconds, I was no longer a skeptic. The incredibly talented cast and crew at the Center for Puppetry Arts fully honors this sacred childhood text, giving it the care and charm it requires – and more. The dialogue, sets and characters faithfully follow the popular Seuss book. Yet there are many surprises in this show, thanks to a mixture of puppet styles, engaging music and perfectly timed movements and transitions. As Sally and her brother sit sadly by the window, the anticipation begins to build. My 4-year-old son squealed when that famous red and white hat first peeked in the door. Then came his favorite part – and a collective gasp of delight spread throughout the audience as bubbles filled the theater. You know the story. Next, the Cat in the Hat starts to stack all sorts of household trappings onto his head. Tea cups! Books! A fish in a bowl! I have no idea how the performers manage to pull off the gravitydefying tricks of the mischievous visitor. What then? Why Thing One and Thing Two of course! These silly friends tumble out of their box with style and proceed to swirl and twirl, fly and purr. They dangle from kites over our heads, tumble in slow motion and create one epic and delightful mess. And then! The fish announces Mother’s return, and everyone panics – except that Cat in the Hat. He goes right to work and in no time at all, the house is spic and span. My favorite part was the end – the dramatic delivery of those famous last lines:

If You Go Dr. Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat The Center for Puppetry Arts; 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta; 404-873-3391;puppet.org n When: Through July 28, show times vary daily. n Cost: $16.50 ages 2 and older; tickets include museum admission as well as the Create-A-Puppet Workshop (or To-Go Kit), where kids can make their own “Cat in the Hat” shadow puppet.

Should we tell her about it? Now, what SHOULD we do? Well... What would YOU do If your mother asked YOU? This enchanting performance is truly a gift. If you have never been to the Center for Puppetry Arts before, then this is the time to go. The ticket price is worth it for the nostalgia fix alone and your kids will love it too! atlantaparent.com

Brian Harrison, teaching artist at the Center for Puppetry Arts, helps out two young puppeteers. Be sure you stay for the Create-A-Puppet Workshop to make a super cool Cat in the Hat shadow puppet.

Family Fun Guide

July 2013 Atlanta Parent 57

ROCK CLIMBING: Cool Indoor We sent two moms to climbing centers so their kids could “scale the walls” for the first time. The kids got a real workout – and had tons of fun.

Stone Summit Climbing and Fitness Center My 7-year-old son Adam could barely contain himself as we stepped inside Stone Summit’s impressive 45,000-square-foot facility. With climbing walls from 25 feet to more than 60 feet high, he announced at the onset that he would make it to the top of the highest wall. I was a little intimidated, having never climbed before – and being afraid of heights! – but Adam’s excitement and determination seemed contagious. After signing the mandatory safety waiver, we were each fitted into climbing shoes and a harness. We had signed up for the one-hour “base climb,” a good choice for a first-timer because an instructor stays with you. Our friendly instructor Zack took us upstairs to the beginner climbing walls, roped Adam into his harness and sent him up. Adam easily made his way to the very top and loved dangling from his rope and kicking off the wall as he was gently lowered back down to the ground. As I began my first climb, I was surprised by how much effort it took! It certainly looks easier from the ground than it really is. I was proud of myself for making it to the top (and for not looking down). That gave me courage to tackle the more difficult walls.

58 Atlanta Parent July 2013

Family Fun Guide

Zack took us downstairs to the main climbing floor and Adam began the more challenging route. I could see him taking more time to figure out the next steps. My attempt was not quite as fearless. I climbed up higher and higher using muscles long ignored, but the height aspect got to me and I asked to be lowered down.

Seeing the pride on my son’s face after he made it up to the ceiling was the best. Adam and I both enjoyed the puzzle of figuring out where to step and which handle to reach for next. When you make it way up the wall it’s a terrific feeling. Although I didn’t reach the very top, I was proud to have tried something new that had intimidated me. We both kept climbing to our own comfort levels and too soon the hour was over. Indoor rock climbing can be a great activity to try with your kids. It teaches them to set goals, makes them think logically, and gives them a great sense of achievement once they reach their goal. Bonus: It’s a fantastic way to release all that energy! – Kirsten Gromatzky

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Challenge Atlanta Rocks! I was only the mom (and official photographer) bringing two girls, ages 12 and 13, to Atlanta Rocks. Still, I found myself fighting the urge to sing out the lyrics to the Miley Cyrus hit, “The Climb” as I drove Alex and Lindsey to the 12,000-square-foot rockclimbing venue. After the waivers were turned in (each climber’s parent must sign for their own child), the girls were fitted for climbing shoes (bring socks!) and harnessed up. Then, we all met Nick Snow, our personal climbing expert, who asked the girls a few questions about their climbing experience. We all trekked over the cushioned floor (made of recycled, shredded tennis shoe soles – cool!) and made our way over to Route No. 1 (each climbing station at Atlanta Rocks! is called a “route”). The girls stepped into their harnesses. Side by side, they headed up the wall. With careful excitement and constant chatter about who was going to reach the top first, I cheered them on from below, clicking the shutter and watching Nick assist them as they rappelled back down. Mission Accomplished! It’s definitely fun for beginners to have a buddy to climb with – someone to laugh, encourage and challenge you along the way. The hardest part, they said, was holding their own body weight up close to the wall and figuring out which handle and step to use for their hands and feet. As they maneuvered along, their hands became slippery, so the small bag of chalk attached to each harness came in handy. Nick took Alex and Lindsey to the bouldering area on the main climbing floor and they worked on their skills laterally – talk

WHERE TO CLIMB n Stone Summit Climbing and Fitness Center Belay classes, bouldering, parties, teams, summer camps. 3701 Presidential Pkwy., Atlanta. 678-720-9882; ssclimbing.com Cost: Day pass, $13; reservations recommended.

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Both girls repeatedly said that the climbing looks a lot easier than it actually is. about a challenge! No ropes are used here. Kids climb and hang onto the sides of rocks while trying to maneuver themselves from one side to the other. It’s a real workout, not easy for a novice climber. Next stop was the high-climbing wall, where the girls took their time to go all the way up just so they could slap the number at the top! Each was satisfied just to make it just halfway, but with a little encouragement from Nick below, they both eventually made it – but were definitely exhausted after that!

n Atlanta Rocks! Belay classes, bouldering, parties, family days, ladies nights, summer camps. 1019 Collier Road NW, Ste. A., Atlanta. 404-351-3009; atlantarocks.com Cost: Day rate, $15; 1-month membership, $75. n Adrenaline Climbing Belay classes, bouldering, teams, competitions, Kidzone, family fun days. Climb cheap on Tues. & Thurs., 8-10 p.m., $5. 460 Brogdon Road, Ste. 100, Suwanee. 770-271-1390; adrenalineclimbing.com Cost: Day pass, $14; 1-month membership, $50.

Family Fun Guide

The last route proved the most challenging by far. It wasn’t that they were climbing higher, it’s that they were forced to climb smarter. Nick reminded them to “think about your feet – move them first, and then think to move your hands!” He was continually helpful, reminding them to stay on specific color-coded handles and footholds. It was a great physical workout for both budding climbers in just 45 minutes. The girls learned several new skills, had fun and were exhausted in a little less than an hour. As we drove home, “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus came on the radio. Great, great, now that’s stuck in my head all over again! – Amy Smith

n Escalade Climbing Gym Classes, birthday parties, children’s climbing playground, family nights, summer camps. 3694 Kennesaw South Industrial Dr., Kennesaw. 770-794-1575; escaladegym.com Cost: Day pass, $15; Day pass with guide (weekends only), $20; 1-month membership, $70. n Wall Climber Rock Club Classes, after school climbing clubs, summer camps, student discount nights. 1522 DeKalb Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-371-8997; wallcrawlerclimbing.com Cost: Day pass, $14 plus shoe and harness rental fees; Punch card for 10 visits, $130; 1-month membership, $79.

July 2013 Atlanta Parent 59

C’mon, Get Happy (and Soaked!)

at Lake Winnie by Dana diLorenzo

t’s time for family fun, but your tight entertainment budget dictates a choice between a water park or an amusement park. Get ready to beat the budget by visiting Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park and its own brand-new SoakYa Water Park. That’s right, one price allows you to enjoy the family, kiddie and thrill rides and also get soaked in SoakYa. Since 1925, “Lake Winnie,” located in Rossville near the Tennessee border, has beckoned families to “Come On, Get Happy” with tried-and-true amusement park fun. We loaded into the car and did the easy 90-minute drive from metro Atlanta. Our family enjoyed rides such as the classic Cannon Ball roller coaster, the Genie, the Wave Swinger and Bumper Cars. We saved the SoakYa park for the heat of the day, when the whole family kicked back for a float in “lazy river.” The water park also boasts several large water slides and our boys had plenty of fun plunging down the twisting, turning slides. My youngest son also liked the SoakYa kiddie area with mini slides and gentle fountains. While some families enjoyed picnic lunches under many umbrella-shaded tables, we opted to try the park’s food and found the options tasty and reasonably priced; a large fruit bowl, for example, cost $5, while the kids’ meals are $4.50. After our fun cooling off, we changed back into dry clothes and headed toward the Oh-Zone, 14-story free fall ride, and my all-time favorite, the circa-1916 carousel with its beautifully hand-painted steeds. We finished our action-packed day with a twilight train ride around the park and then finally succumbed to the wafting scent of a funnel cake.

If You Go Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park & SoakYa Water Park 1730 Lakeview Dr., Rossville. 877-525-3946. lakewinnie.com n Hours: various; check website n Admission: Unlimited rides and all-access water park pass for ages 3 and older, $31.95; ages 1 & 2, $15.95; babies free. Free parking. n Note: Water park closes for season Sept. 2. Amusement park open weekends until Oct. 26; check website for Sept.-Oct. dates and price adjustments.

Know before you go: n To save time, wear swimsuits/cover-ups into the park, then use one of the many changing areas to shower and change into dry clothes. n Souvenirs are reasonably priced (we purchased a large souvenir cup for $8 and enjoyed $1 refills all day). n Carnival-type games (ring toss, water shooting gallery) are available for about $2 a game; my older son was thrilled to win a 5-foot plush Super Banana (and we were thrilled that it only cost us $2!) n If you’re a picnic-packing parent, there are many shaded picnic tables located throughout the park.

60 Atlanta Parent July 2013

Family Fun Guide

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While you’re in the area . . . If looking for other activities in the Lake Winnie vicinity, here are two family-friendly destinations: Raccoon Mountain Caverns 319 West Hills Rd., Chattanooga, Tenn. 423-821-9403; raccoonmountain.com n Open seven days a week, but hours vary; check website. The last cave tour departs one hour before closing time. n More than 5½ miles of underground passageways that allow you to see natural formations along a lighted walking trail. This well-preserved cave, with a steady temperature of 60 degrees, is considered to be one of the most geologically active in the South. Also here: go-karts, gem panning, cabins and camping. Rock City Gardens 1400 Patten Rd., Lookout Mountain, Ga. 706-820-2531; seerockcity.com n Summer hours: 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m. daily n Atop Lookout Mountain, Rock City is a marvel of massive ancient rock formations. There are more than 400 native plant species among the 14-acre gardens. The vantage point of 1,700 feet about sea level allows visitors a panoramic view of seven states. Features include the self-guided “Enchanted Trail,” and Fairyland Caverns.

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M A G A Z I N E July 2013 Atlanta Parent 61

Calendar

July S M T W TH F S

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REPTILE DAY

classes

Fernbank Museum of Natural History JULY 20. 10 A.M.-2 P.M.

Mommy and Me Preschool Program. Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History. July 4, 11, 18 and 25: 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-427-2117. Ages 3-5. Free with museum admission. Adults, $7.50; children 4-12, $5.50; 3 and younger, free.

Lizards, turtles, salamanders – oh, my! Live reptiles right before your very own eyes. Interact with these unique creatures, make an alligator hat craft, and learn more about why reptiles are ecologically important at this fun, annual kid-friendly event. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-9296300. Activities included with museum admission. Adults, $17.50; kids ages 3-12, $15.50; 2 and younger, free.

Home Depot Kids’ Workshop. All locations. Learn tool safety while building a craft and receive a kid-sized orange apron. First Saturday of each month. July 6. 9 a.m.noon. Visit homedepot.com for locations. Ages 5-12. Free. Second Thursday Program. Southeastern Railway Museum. Parents and tots program includes circle time, an activity and craft. Ages 1-4. July 11. 10:30 a.m.noon. 3595 Buford Hwy, Duluth. 770495-0253. $7 per child, one adult free, additional adult, $8. Build and Grow Clinics. Lowes. Clinics teach kids to build wooden crafts. Free apron, goggles and merit patch. July 6, 10. a.m.; July 7, 2 p.m. Visit lowesbuildandgrow. com for locations. 800-445-6937. Preregister. Free. INK Craft Weeks. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids. Stars and Flags craft, July 1-5; Sharks craft, July 8-12; Sunglasses craft, July 15-19; Cow craft, July 22-26; Eagle hats craft, July 29-Aug. 2. $1 with museum admission. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun., 1-5 p.m. 999 Chestnut St., Gainesville. 770-536-1900. Adults, $8; children, $6. Weekends in the Naturalist Center. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Activities include animal encounters, science explorations and more. Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6400. Activities included with admission. Adults, $17.50; ages 3-12, $15.50; younger than 3, free. Lil’ Bean Head Crafts. Bean Head Toys. Create an art project twice a month. All ages welcome, but smaller children may need assistance. First and third Wednesday of every month. 3-4 p.m. 220 Johnson Ferry Rd., Sandy Springs. 404-851-2980. Free. Toddler Thursdays. High Museum of Art. Create masterpieces that complement the museum’s current exhibits. Ages 2-4. Thursdays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4550. Free with admission. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free. Crafts for Kids. Lakeshore Learning Store. Make a different craft each week. Saturdays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 4287 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-578-3100. 3 and older. Free.

62 Atlanta Parent July 2013

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exhibits Imaginary Worlds: Plants Larger than Life. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Tour the garden and view giant sculptures made of living plants. Through Oct. 31. Tues.-Sun., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Thurs., 9 a.m.-10 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95. 3 and younger, free. Playing Together: Games. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Learn about the history of games and use recycled objects to create your own game in July. Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. Adults, $10.50; ages 3-12, $6.50; 2 and younger, free. Bodies: The Exhibition. Atlantic Station. This exhibit provides an intimate and informative view into the human body. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.6 p.m., Fri.- Sun. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Last ticket sold 1 hour before closing. 265 18th St., Atlanta. 404-496-4274. Adults, $24; ages 4-12, $16. Extreme Mammals. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Examine some of the biggest, smallest and most amazing animals of all time. Through Aug. 18. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun., noon-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Adults, $17.50; ages 3-12, $15.50; 2 and younger, free. Dolphin Tales. Georgia Aquarium. The live show incorporates dolphins, live actors, dramatic costuming and special effects. Multiple shows per day, times vary. Reservations recommended. Mon.-Sun., 9 a.m.-9 p.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-581-4000. Admission price depends on date of visit; Adults, $34.95; ages 3-12, $28.95.

Family Fun Guide

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibit. Atlantic Station. Travel back in time and experience the wonder and tragedy of this ill-fated ship. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Fri.- Sun. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Last ticket sold 1 hour before closing. 265 18th St. (second floor), Atlanta. 404-496-4274. Adults, $24; ages 4-12, $16. Anne Frank in the World: 1929-1945. Parkside Shopping Center. Learn about the life of the Frank family and others who lived in the secret annex in Amsterdam; includes replica of Anne’s room. Tues.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., noon-4 p.m. 5920 Roswell Rd., Sandy Springs. 770-206-1558. Free. Turtle Tours. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum. Through stories, hands-on exhibits and crafts, museum mascots Sandy the chipmunk and Spring the turtle introduce the youngest visitors to history. Second Saturday of each month. 11 a.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Circle, Sandy Springs. 404851-9111. Donations encouraged. Weebles Coast to Coast. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Prepare to be whisked away on a 50-state adventure at this educational traveling exhibit. Through Sept. 8. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Adults and ages 1 and older, $12.75; younger than 1, free. Free admission starting at 1 p.m. on the second Tuesday of every month brought to you by Target Free Second Tuesday. Cont’d on page 65

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H Celebrate the Fourth H Fantastic Fourth Celebration. Memorial Lawn at Stone Mountain Park. Enjoy a fireworks display following the Lasershow Spectacular. July 4-6. 9:30 p.m. U.S. Hwy. 78 E, Stone Mountain. 770-498-5690. Fireworks show, free; parking, $10.

Dunwoody Fourth of July Parade. Dunwoody Village. Marching bands, floats, clowns and mascots who will march from Mount Vernon Rd. and Jett Ferry Rd. to Dunwoody Village, where the fun continues with a festival. July 4. 9 a.m. Dunwoody Village Pkwy., Dunwoody. 770-393-9647. Free.

Cumming Fourth of July Celebration. Cumming Fairgrounds. Festivities begin July 3, 6-11 p.m., with music, inflatables and fireworks. Steam Engine Parade on July 4 at 10 a.m. with antique cars, tractors and floats. Celebration ends at 1 p.m. 235 Castleberry Rd., Cumming. 770887-0516. Free.

Fourth in the Park. Glover Park. A parade, free live concerts, museum tours, arts and crafts show, food, carnival games and fireworks. Parade begins at Roswell St. Baptist Church and ends at North Marietta Pkwy. July 4. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. 50 Park Square, Marietta. 770-794-5601. Free.

Sparks in the Park. E.E. Robinson Park. Fireworks, inflatables, food and drinks, live entertainment and a feature film. July 3. 6:30-11:30 p.m. 850 Level Creek Rd., Sugar Hill. 770-945-6716. Free. Fourth of July Festivities. Peachtree City. Fourth of July parade begins in front of Village on the Green, travels up Peachtree Parkway and ends at Huddleston Elementary School. Fireworks at dusk. July 4. Parade begins at 9 a.m. Peachtree City. 770-631-2525. Free.

Legendary Fourth of July. Lenox Square. Games and rides for kids in carnival area at 10 a.m., live music, food and the largest fireworks display in the Southeast. July 4. Family entertainment begins at 10 a.m., music at 6 p.m., fireworks at 9:40 p.m. 3393 Peachtree Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-2336767. Free. Fabulous Fourth. Mall of Georgia. Music, a movie and Gwinnett’s biggest fireworks display. July 4. Festivities begin at 2 p.m.; fireworks begin at dark; after the fireworks, “Playing for Keeps” will screen. 3333 Buford Dr., Buford. 678482-8788. Free. Cont’d on page 64

Pied Piper Parade, Decatur

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Family Fun Guide

July 2013 Atlanta Parent 63

H Celebrate the Fourth H

Centennial Olympic Park

All-American Fourth of July Celebration for Children. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Learn about America’s birthday and join in on kids activities. July 4. 2 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Adults and ages 2 and older, $12.75.

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Fourth of July Celebration. Centennial Olympic Park. Family-friendly entertainment throughout the late afternoon, live music, fireworks set to patriotic music at dark. July 4. 265 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404222-7275. Free. July Fourth Concert and Fireworks. Cauble Park. Live music in the afternoon, followed by fireworks at dark. Food, inflatables and more. July 4. 4-10 p.m. 4425 Beach St., Acworth. 770917-1234. Free. July Fourth Festivities and Fireworks. Wills Park. Games, entertainment, local bands and fireworks at dusk. July 4. 5-10 p.m. 1825 Old Milton Pkwy., Alpharetta. 678-297-6133. Free. Chamblee Fourth of July Celebration. Keswick Park. Activities for kids and adults, food vendors, live music and an elaborate fireworks show in the park. July 4. 5-10 p.m. 3496 Keswick Dr., Chamblee. 770-986-5016. Free. Pied Piper Parade, Concert and Fireworks. Downtown Decatur. Decorate a wagon, ride your bike, skate or walk along with the parade that begins at First Baptist Church of Decatur. The Callanwolde Concert Band performs after the parade. Fireworks display at dark. July 4. Parade, 6 p.m.; concert, 7 p.m.; fireworks, 9 p.m. Downtown Decatur. 404-3718386. Free. Fourth of July Parade and Rotary Celebration. Downtown Newnan. A patriotic, hometown parade through downtown begins at 6 p.m.; followed by entertainment and food at Newnan High School’s Drake Stadium; fireworks at dusk. July 4. Newnan. 770-253-8283. Free.

64 Atlanta Parent July 2013

Family Fun Guide

Atlanta Braves Independence Day Postgame Fireworks. Turner Field. Celebrate the 4th of July with a Braves game against the Miami Marlins followed by a spectacular fireworks display. This fireworks show is set to patriotic music and will light up the Atlanta skyline in red, white, and blue. July 4. Game starts at 7:10 p.m. 755 Hank Aaron Dr., Atlanta. 404-522-7630. Game tickets, $8 and up. Annual July Fourth Fireworks Extravaganza. Roswell High School. Carnival games and activities begin at 6 p.m. July 4. Live music at 7:30 p.m. 11595 King Rd,. Roswell. 770-641-3705. Free.

Beyond Atlanta Celebrate America. The Rock Ranch. A world-class fireworks extravaganza and night of family fun. Entertainment includes train rides, pony rides and more. June 29. 4-10 p.m. 5020 Barnesville Hwy., The Rock. 706-647-6374. $25/carload. July Fourth “Day at the Beach.” Unicoi State Park. The day includs a watermelon seed-spitting contest, sack races and more. July 4. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 1788 Hwy. 356, Helen. 800-573-9659. Free; parking, $5. Independence Day at Vogel. Vogel State Park. A special flag-raising ceremony, bicycle parade, pedal boat races, sandcastle-building competition, watermelon eating, sack races, egg tosses and pole climbing. July 4. 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 405 Vogel State Park Rd., Blairsville. 706-745-2628. Free; parking, $5. Fourth of July Independence Day Celebration. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. Fireworks extravaganza. July 4. 9:45 p.m. 1311 Music Hall Rd., Hiawassee. 706-896-4191. Free. c

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Calendar Frogs: A Chorus of Colors. Georgia Aquarium. Features 15 species of frogs in more than 3,000 square feet of habitats, with hands-on and interactive activities. Sun.-Mon., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Tues.-Sat., 9 a.m.-9 p.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-581-4000. Admission price depends on date of visit; Adults, $34.95; ages 3-12, $28.95.

Centennial Olympic Games Exhibit. Atlanta History Center. Learn about the 1996 Olympic Games that took place in Atlanta. Permanent exhibit. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Sun, noon-5:30 p.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; 3 and younger, free.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Phipps Plaza. Come play, build and look at a variety of spectacular Lego exhibits that will have all Lego lovers amazed. Sun.-Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Sat.,10 a.m.-9 p.m. (Last admission 2 hrs. before closing.) 3500 Peachtree Rd., Atlanta. 404-848-9252. Adult, $19; ages 3-12, $15, 2 and younger, free.

Dairies in DeKalb. DeKalb History Center. This exhibit focuses on the history of dairy farming in DeKalb County in the 20th century. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 101 East Court Sq., Decatur. 404-373-1088. Free.

Jim Henson Special Exhibitions. Center for Puppetry Arts. This long-term exhibit profiles the life of Jim Henson and his most famous puppet, Kermit the Frog. Tues.-Fri., 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Sat.; 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404-873-3391. Museum admission, $8.25. Free admission Thursdays, 1-3 p.m. Quarry Exhibit at Stone Mountain. Stone Mountain Park. This outdoor display was developed to tell the story of an industry that played a significant part in the history of Stone Mountain. Mon.-Sun., dawn to dusk. 770-498-5690. U.S. Hwy 78 E., Stone Mountain. Free. Parking, $10.

Covering America. Booth Western Art Museum. An exhibit displaying the Saturday Evening Post covers in the 1950’s and 1960’s. Through Sept. 29. Tues.Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun., 1-5 p.m. and Thurs., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. 501 Museum Dr., Cartersville. 770-387-1300. Adults, $10; ages 12 and younger, free. Wit in Wood. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum. See the whittle work of Moses Robinson, from animals to dancing couples. Through April 2014. Open Wed. and Sat., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Cir., Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111. Adults, $3; ages 6-12, $1; 5 and younger, free.

65 Days Of

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NATIONAL BLACK ARTS FESTIVAL BOOK FAIR Fulton County Public Library Locations SATURDAYS IN JULY 10 A.M.-4P.M. In an effort to promote literacy, the NBAF is hosting a day of activities for the whole family. Come listen to the Kuumba Storytellers of Georgia tell enchanting tales, along with other special guest readers. Each child with a Fulton County library card will receive a free award-winning book. Pre-registration is required. Find locations for each Saturday at nbaf.org, click on “festival 2013.” 404-730-7315. Free and open to the public.

Summer

Family Fun Guide

July 2013 Atlanta Parent 65

Calendar movies Titans of the Ice Age. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Take a journey back in time to encounter some of the Earth’s most awe-inspiring mammals that lived thousands of years ago. Through Aug. 15. See fernbankmuseum.org for show times. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. IMAX tickets: adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; 2 and younger, free. Under the Sea. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Explore some of the ocean’s most exotic and isolated undersea locations and experience face-to-face encounters with unusual creatures. Showing now through Sept. 5. See fernbankmuseum.org for show times. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. IMAX tickets: adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; 2 and younger, free. Chastain Park and Town Brookhaven: Summer Movie Series. Neighbors, families and friends will enjoy free movies. Watch classics or movies you missed while enjoying fare from gourmet food trucks. Movies begin at dusk. July 11, “Parental Guidance” at Town Brookhaven; July 18, “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” at Chastain Park; July 25, “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” at Town Brookhaven. See chastainparkmovies.com. 404-845-0793. Free. Atlantic Station: Movies in Central Park. Movies begin at dusk every Thursday. July 11, “Despicable Me”; July 18, “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”; July 25, “Ratatouille.” 1380 Atlantic Dr., Atlanta. 404-733-1221. Free.

66 Atlanta Parent July 2013

NATIONAL TRAIN SHOW Cobb Galleria Centre JULY 19-21 The 23rd annual National Train Show is chugging its way here. Bring your young choo-choo lovers out to this huge model train extravaganza. For details, visit nationaltrainshow.org. Two Galleria Pkwy, Atlanta. 770955-8000. Adults, $12; ages 6-12, $6; 5 and younger, free.

Mall of Georgia: Movies Under the Stars. Grab your lawn chairs, blankets and enjoy a movie every Saturday night. July 13, “Hotel Transylvania”; July 20, “The Croods”; July 27, “Wreck It Ralph.” Kids’ activities and concessions open at 5 p.m. Movies start at 9 p.m. 333 Buford Dr., Buford. 678-482-8788. Free. Johns Creek: Movies at Newton Park. Watch family-friendly movies on a huge inflatable screen. Pre-show activities include an inflatable moonwalk, face painting and other children’s activities. Movies TBA. Show dates are July 13 and Aug. 24. 3150 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek. 678-512-3200. Free.

Family Fun Guide

Carl Rhodenizer Recreation Center: Movies Under the Stars. During the summer each movie is at a different park. July 13, “Rise of the Guardians” at Rex Park; July 27, “Escape From Planet Earth” at Panhandle Park; Aug. 10, “Jack the Giant Slayer” at International Park. See claytonparks.com. 770-477-3766. Free. Stone Mountain: Movies on Main. There’s a giant screen for this outdoor movie series. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. July 20 and Aug. 17. Movies start at sundown. 922 Main St., Stone Mountain. 770-879-4971. Free.

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Calendar Fox Theatre: Coca-Cola Summer Film Festival. Catch a few big-screen hits. July 26, “Django Unchained” at 7:30 p.m.; July 27, “The Croods” at 2 p.m.; July 28, “Lawrence of Arabia” at 4 p.m. 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 855-285-8499. Adults, $10; ages 12 and younger, $5.

music Pickin’ on the Square. Newnan. Acoustic musicians of all genres and skill levels are welcome to join in on the first and third Saturday of every month. 11 a.m. on July 6 and 20. Historic Downtown Newnan Courthouse Square at LaGrange St. and E. Broad St. 770-253-8283. Free. Riverside Sounds. Riverside Park. Outdoor concert series in the park. Serenata Band, July 6; Concerts from 7-9 p.m. Free shuttle available from Azalea Park and Don White Park. 575 Riverside Rd., Roswell. 770-641-3705. Free. Concerts by the Springs. Heritage Green. A-Town A-List, Bring picnic baskets, coolers and blankets. Smoking and pets prohibited. July 14. Lawn opens at 5 p.m., concert 7-8:30 p.m. 6110 Bluestone Rd., Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111. Free. Music at Noon. Centennial Olympic Park. Bring you lunch and enjoy live music performed by local artists. Tues. and Thurs. through Oct. Concerts from noon-1 p.m., 265 Park Ave. West, Atlanta. 404-223-4412. Free. Wednesday Wind Down. Centennial Olympic Park. Concert series includes jazz, R&B and blues performed by local and national touring acts. Wednesdays through Sept. Concerts from 5:30-8 p.m., 265 Park Ave. West, Atlanta. 404-223-4412. Free. Wednesday Wind Down. Douglasville. Concert series with various types of jazz and blues music. Bring lawn chairs and picnics. Wednesdays, through Aug. 28. Concerts at 7 p.m. O’Neal Plaza 6695 Church St., Douglasville. 770-947-5920. Free. Friday Night Live. Atlantic Station. Up-and-coming artists perform on the stage in Central Park; genres range from country to rock, jazz to blues. Last Friday of the month. July 26. Concerts begin around 7 p.m. 18th St. NW., Atlanta. 404-7331221. Free. Brown Bag Concert Series. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse. Various artists perform music on the lawn. First Friday of each month. July 5. Includes crafts and face painting. Pack a lunch and bring a picnic blanket. Concerts 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 185 East Crogan St., Lawrenceville. 770-822-5450. Free. Glover Park Concert Series. Glover Park, Marietta. Concert begins at 8 p.m. Blankets and lawn chairs may be set up after 4 p.m. Picnics permitted. The Grapevine. July 26. 50 Park Sq., Marietta. 770-794-5601. Free.

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Calendar Summer Concert Series. Village Green in Smyrna. Open-air summer concert series features a wide array of talent under the stars from R&B to rock and soul. July 13. Various artists, call for band details. Concerts begin at 7 p.m. Bring friends, chairs and blankets. 200 Village Green Circle. Smyrna. 770-4346600. Free.

nature Fernbank Forest Night Walk. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Join Fernbank Museum educators on a guided tour of Fernbank Forest to experience the unique nocturnal world. Listen for owl and frog calls, search for bats, find organisms that glow under UV light, and much more. Suitable for ages 8 and older. July 5. 7:309:30 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404929-6300. Pre-register. $10/person. Full Moon Night Hike. Panola Mountain State Park. See wildlife at night and watch the sun set and the moon rise. Bring flashlights and hiking boots. July 20. 8 p.m. 2600 Hwy. 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. Pre-register. $7/person. Parking, $5. Trail Hikes. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Journey through the CNC trails using biofacts and activities to spark your curiosity. Saturdays and Sundays at 1 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free.

Native Ectotherm Exhibit. Autrey Mill Nature Preserve. Visit reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates. Mon.Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 9770 Autrey Mill Rd., Johns Creek. 678-366-3511. Donations encouraged. Buck Moon Night Hike. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Watch the forest come alive during this easy hike that is perfect for families with kids ages 8 and older. July 22. 8-9:30 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. Pre-register. Adults, $11; children, $8. Feeding Time. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Join a naturalist for an in-depth look at one of the resident animals as the Wildlife Dept. feeds them. Tuesdays and Saturdays, 4 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Ages 5 and older, $10/person plus admission. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free.

special events American Girl Historical Character Scavenger Hunt. American Girl Store. Learn about the American Girl historical characters and go on a scavenger hunt throughout the store. Collect fun facts about the historical dolls along the way and receive a free American Girl poster. For ages 8 and older. July 5. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 1202 North Point Circle, Alpharetta. 877-247-5223. Free. Fulton County Free Saturday. High Museum of Art. Admission is free for Fulton County residents with I.D. on the first Saturday of each month until 1 p.m. July 6. Regular hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5000.

Teen Arts Night. City Center. Teens can bring instruments, poetry, artwork and short stories to share. Includes a slice of pizza and a soda. July 5. 6-8 p.m. 8534 Main St., Woodstock. 678-494-4251. $5. Dinosaur Awareness Week. Tellus Science Museum. Celebrate all things dinosaur with activities for kids of all ages and giveaways. July 8-12. Mon.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-6065700. Adults, $14; ages 3-17, $10. National Black Arts Festival: Family Book Fair. Different Fulton County libraries each date. Includes a day of activities featuring Kuumba Storytellers and special guest readers. Each child receives a free awardwinning book when they present their public library card. July 6, 13, 20, 27. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 404-730-7315. Pre-register. Free. Flying Colors Butterfly Festival. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Watch the air fill with hundreds of beautiful butterflies. Stay for live music, face painting, crafts, sidewalk sale and a plant sale. July 13-14. Sat., 10 a.m.-3 p.m; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Ages 3 and older, $12; 2 and younger, free. National Train Show. Cobb Galleria. Enjoy the industry’s most respected model train show, complete with extraordinary model train displays, children’s play area and hands-on demonstrations. July 19-21. Fri., noon-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Two Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. 770-955-8000. Adults, $12; ages 6-12, $6; 5 and younger, free.

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Family Fun Guide

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‘GREASE’ SING-A-LONG The Fox Theatre JULY 27. 7:30 P.M. You better shape up for an action-packed night full of singing and dancing. The whole family can “get into character” by dressing up – and gel the hair back ‘til it’s nice and slick. With lyrics projected onto the big screen and a costume competition, you’re all sure to be belting “Summer Lovin‘” for quite some time. 660 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta. 404-8812100. Tickets in advance, $15; at the door, $20.

Reptile Day. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Come face-to-face with scores of live reptiles and amphibians. Interact with and learn more about these unique and ecologically-important creatures. July 20. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Regular hours are Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Adults, $17.50; ages 3-12, $15.50; 2 and younger, free.

Tales for Tots by Once and Again Books. Marietta Whole Foods. Enjoy a storytelling session every Tuesday at 10 a.m. 1311 Johnson Ferry Rd., Marietta. 770-726-9170. Free.

Fishing Rodeo. Lost Mountain Park. Bring your pole for fun, prizes and giveaways. Trophies awarded for most fish caught in each age group. July 27. 9-11 a.m. 4845 Dallas Hwy., Powder Springs. 770-528-8825. Free.

Storytime at Little Shop. Little Shop of Stories. Storytelling three times a week; Thursdays, 7 p.m., milk and cookies provided and kids can come in pajamas. Sundays, 3 p.m.; Tuesdays, 11 a.m. 133A East Court Sq., Decatur. 404373-6300. Free.

Atlanta Ice Cream Festival. Piedmont Park. Festival features local Atlanta ice cream shops, a kids’ zone, and health and wellness vendors. July 27. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 10th St. and Charles Allen Dr., Atlanta. 678-964-5944. Free. Grease Movie Sing a Long. Fox Theatre. A unique interactive show with on-screen lyrics and costume competition. July 27. 7:30 p.m. 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 1-855-2858499. $20.

storytelling Story Time by the River. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Join the librarian as she uses books, puppets and songs to share stories about nature. Every Wednesday in July. 10:30 a.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free. Children’s Story Time. FoxTale Book Shoppe. Age-appropriate stories followed by dance and song. Mondays and Saturdays. 11 a.m. 105 East Main St., No. 138, Woodstock. 770516-9989. Free. Log Cabin Storytelling. Biffle Cabin. Traditional stories and folktales from around the world. Wednesdays. July 10, 17, 24, 31. 10 a.m. DeKalb History Center. 720 West Trinity Place, Decatur. 404-373-1088, ext. 20. $6. Next Chapter JV Book Club. FoxTale Book Shoppe. This book club for ages 6-12 includes a snack, discussion and an activity. Second Friday of every month. 4:30 p.m. 105 East Main St., No. 138, Woodstock. 770516-9989. Free.

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Storytime with Miss Cynthia. Perimeter Barnes & Noble. Join Miss Cynthia every Wednesday for some wacky fun and crafts with a new story each week. 10 a.m. 120 Perimeter Center West, Atlanta. 770-396-1200. Free.

Storybook Time. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Listen to stories about bees, butterflies, frogs and flowers. Wednesdays through Oct., 10:3011 a.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95; 2 and younger, free. Tales for Toddlers. Bean Head Toys. Stories are read in the indoor tree house, then kids make a craft to take home. Every Thursday. 10:30 a.m. 220 Johnson Ferry Rd., Sandy Springs. 404-851-2980. Free. Wren’s Nest Storytelling. The Wren’s Nest. Wren’s Nest Ramblers host storytelling sessions every Saturday. 1 p.m. 1050 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd., Atlanta. 404-753-7735. Adults, $8; children $5, 4 and younger, free.

theater Beauty and the Beast. City Center Auditorium. Watch Belle trade places with her father to save his life from a terrible beast. July 10, 13, 14, 17, 20, 21 and 24. Wed., 10 a.m.; Sat. and Sun., 2 p.m. 8534 Main St., Woodstock. 678494-4251. $10/person. Roswell Summer Puppet Series. Roswell Cultural Arts Center. Choose from several different puppet shows for summer fun brought to you by “That Puppet Guy.” Recommended for kids ages 2-12. The lineup includes: “Circus Fanta-Sea,” July 1-6; “Three Bears,” July 8-13; and “Beauty and the Beast,” July 15-20. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.; Wed. and Fri., additional performances at 1 p.m. 950 Forrest St., Roswell. 770-594-6232. Adults, $6; ages 2-12, $5.

Family Fun Guide

CAN YOUR KID DANCE? SING? PERFORM? Enter your child (or group) for a chance to perform at Atlanta Parent’s Family Block Party on October 12.

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Download an entry form today at atlantaparent.com and mail it in by July 12. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity! July 2013 Atlanta Parent 69

SUNFLOWER FARM FESTIVAL Sunflower Farm JULY 6-7 This fun-filled weekend festival has something for the whole family. Whether it’s the antique tractor parade, the petting zoo, live music, pony rides, or zip-lining across the flower-filled fields, the Sunflower Farm Festival is sure to be a sunshiny time. Find more details and specific event times at sunflowerfarmfestival. 1430 Durden Rd., Rutledge. 706-557-2870. Adults, $8; ages 4-12, $5; 3 and younger, free.

Children’s Theatre. Aurora Children’s Playhouse. Get ready to sing, dance and laugh at these performances for kids. July 10. 10 and 11:30 a.m. 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $7/person. The Cat in the Hat. Center for Puppetry Arts. The cat in the red and white striped hat will show kids a good time in this live puppet performance. Through July 28. See puppet.org for show times. 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $16.50; younger than 2, free. Mighty Myths and Legends. Georgia Shakespeare. Conant Performing Arts Center at Oglethorpe University. This is a collection of myths and legends for the whole family. Takes place around 3,000-gallon pool. July 2-20. Tues.-Sat., 11 a.m.; July 2 and July 9., 7 p.m. 4484 Peachtree Rd., Atlanta. 404-5041473. $14. The Velveteen Rabbit. Serenbe Playhouse: The Grange Creek behind Fern’s Market. This is a story about the beauty of friendship and the power of love. Bring your own seating. July 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27. 11 a.m. 10642 Serenbe Ln., Palmetto. 770-463-1110. Adults, $15; 13 and younger, $10: 2 and younger, free.

beyond atlanta First Friday Night Concert Series. Hancock Park, Dahlonega. Bring friends, family lawn chairs and listen to entertaining bands. July 5, 19. 6:30 p.m. North Park and Warwick Streets, Dahlonega. 706-864-6133. Free. SpongeBob Squarepants and Patrick. Tweetsie Railroad. Watch these favorite underwater friends take the stage. Meet the Nickelodeon characters and take a picture with them afterward. July 12-14. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 300 Tweetsie Railroad Ln., Blowing Rock, NC. 800-526-5740. Adults, $37; ages 3-12, $23. Critter Call. Tugaloo State Park. Enjoy an informative evening with a naturalist and wildlife rehabilitator showcasing wildlife including a python. July 13. 8-9:30 p.m. 1763 Tugaloo State Park Rd., Lavonia. 706-3564362. Free. Parking, $5. Frog Slog. Hard Labor Creek State Park. Discover amazing things about wetlands and frogs. Be prepared to get muddy and wet. July 13. 2-4 p.m. 5 Hard Labor Creek Rd., Rutledge. 706-557-3001. Free. Parking, $5.

70 Atlanta Parent July 2013

Family Fun Guide

Saturday Market on the River. Augusta Riverwalk. Browse local produce, baked goods, art and more on the banks of the Savannah River. Saturdays through November. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. 8th St. Plaza, Augusta. 800-726-0243. Free. Historic Trolley Tour. Downtown Augusta. Take the Lady Liberty Trolley for a kidfriendly ride to see some of Augusta’s most famous homes and the Augusta Canal. Hear a historical story and head to the James Brown exhibit at the Augusta History Museum. Saturdays. 2 p.m. 560 Reynolds St., Augusta. 706-724-4067. Preregister. $12 includes museum admission. River Giants Exhibit. Tennessee Aquarium. A collection of freshwater fish of legendary sizes, the “goliaths” of freshwater. Open daily 10 a.m.-6 p.m. One Broad St., Chattanooga, Tenn. 800262-0695. Adults, $24.95; ages 3-12 $14.95. c

GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS DINOSAUR TRAIN Bryson City, NC JULY 19-21, JULY 26-28, AUG. 2-4; FRI. & SAT., DEPARTURES 11 A.M. AND 2:30 P.M.; SUN., DEPARTURES 2:30 P.M. This “prehistoric” ride is filled with music, stories and activities. During the layover, make sure to take a photo with a T-rex, play “dino golf.” or go on a dinosaur fossil dig. Bryson City, NC. 828- 586-8811. Tickets start at, ages 13 and older, $39; ages 2-12, $30; younger than 2, free. atlantaparent.com

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Live animals of all kinds! Hands-on, Fun, Educational

678-708-2321

www.azootoyou.com

Trackless Train Rides Conce ssio Game ns s Much Much More

walks Moon lides S r Wate os Comb

24ft Rock Climbing Wall J&S Funtastic Entertainment 770-973-2633

www.jsfuntastic.com

We come to you! Miniature farm animals & a pony to ride. • Birthdays • Fieldtrips • Church Productions • Pony Carousels

PONY RIDES FOR ALL OCCASSIONS Contact Cowboy Jim and they'll giddy up to your 678-378-1889 next Party or Event. Licensed & Insured Happy Trails

www.PonyUpPonies.com Learn More Video Online! We sell King of Pops

We LoVE Birthday Parties!

• Full service paint-your-own-pottery studio • Children’s party packages-up to 45 kids • You provide food, drinks, balloons and cake -we clean up the mess! • Every child will have a personalized masterpiece to take home 1000 Marietta St. Ste. 104, Atlanta 30318

www.wiredfired.com | 404.885.1024

• Birthday Parties • Corporate Events • Weekend Art Nights • Creative classes for all ages • Summer Programs

678-493-5860

www.littleredbarn.us littleredbarnmobilepettingfarm@yahoo.com

CALL TO SCHEDULE YOUR PARTY!

O’Brien Productions, Inc. 770•442•7200 • obrienproductions.com • Trackless Train • Snow Cones • Popcorn • • Cotton Candy • 24’ Climbing Rock Wall •

To advertise please call Jennifer at

678-222-1912 72 Atlanta Parent July 2013

atlantaparent.com

Classified Pages

Party Planner The

POLO CLUB

of ATLANTA

5% O

Party PackFF ages ex p 10/31/13

atlpoloclub@yahoo.com 770-344-0274 • 770-317-7546

www.poloclubofatlanta.com

Parties include: • Pony Rides • Petting Zoo • Play Area • Picnic Area

Glow-In-The-Dark Play Area Features:

*reservations required

Day Care, Mother’s Morning Out, Church Groups & Day Camp outings available

Kevin Pittman and his Forest Friends Puppet and Costume Character Entertainment Featuring Lovable Animal Characters • Original fairy tale style puppet shows • Original handcrafted animal characters • Puppet building & performance workshops • 10% discount on your ﬁrst booking

minigolf football soccer basketball air cannons glow-in-the-dark inflatables lighted interactive game floor

PRIVATE PARTIES

6527 JIMMY CARTER BLVD. NORCROSS ❖ 770-368-3008

WWW.GLOWGALAXY.COM

www.forestpuppets.com 770-312-8451

A MA -R

Inﬂatables & Party Rentals •Face Painting Creative Balloon Art • Characters & Mascots Puppets, Magic & MORE!

(770) 904-3547 www.TreetopQuest.com

770-572-1737 www.funoramaparties.com

2 mins from the Mall of Georgia ine’s ent Magaz Atlanta Par

1-877-LIL-BEAT 1-877-545-2328 Jump Places ed Characters Cakes Costum

atlantaparent.com

(See website for times)

S med Parties PARFTullISE ervice The

K BIG BOO s ie rt a P f o

littlebeatmusic.com

Open Play Times

FUN-

DJ Services School Events Birthday parties And more!

Party Rooms with glow & regular lighting

e Th ate im UltPartye id Gu011 2

COMING in JULY!

. . . and Party Places Magicians

more!

The Ultimate Party Guide

Party Entertainers • Clowns Party Places Supplies • Magicians Petting Farms • Moonwalks • Sports Photographers AND MORE! July 2013 Atlanta Parent 73

Humor

by Heidi Smith Luedtke

10 Sure Signs It’s Summertime 1

You’re serving frosty, frozen Greek-yogurt-and-fruit pops for breakfast. Calcium, vitamins and protein on a stick. Delicious!

2 3

You just spent 20 minutes on the Internet shopping for a waterproof combination sunscreen-bug repellent product that doesn’t need to be reapplied every hour. Your first grader is lobbying to skip bath time tonight. He promises to soap up before his last slip-n-slide run instead.

The pile of single socks has disappeared from the top of the washing machine, but there are wayward flip-flops in every room of the house.

5 6 7

The kids just ran in to request more paper cups and lemonade mix to restock their stand. Dinner is whatever you have in the fridge that won’t fall through the grates on the backyard grill. The kids have been camping out in your backyard for three nights in a row, and no one is complaining that they can’t fall asleep or that their backs are sore in the morning.

74 Atlanta Parent July 2013

It is almost noon when you realize everyone – including you – is still wearing pajamas.

9 10

You fetch the mail with a spirit of anticipation knowing it may contain precious, hand-written letters from kids at sleep-away camp.

You savor a cool drink on the patio after dark, listening to the hum of nature and dreaming of tomorrow’s adventures.

– Heidi Smith Luedtke is a busy mom who enjoys everything about summer, except the mosquitoes. She is the author of Detachment Parenting.

atlantaparent.com