SEPTEMBER 2018 • FREE
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Our 20th Year of Serving New Ha
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LEARNING FROM KIDS KEEPING TABS ON TECH TWEENS AND BEDTIME COLLEGE TIMELINES
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PARTY GUIDE PERSONALIZED GIFTS FUN PLACES TO PARTY PARTY RESOURCES
New Office Location Now Open
At Market & Mendenhall Across from Marsh Oaks and Aldi Specializing in dentistry for infants, children, adolescents, teens and children with special needs. 109 Mendenhall Drive Wilmington, NC 28411 910.686.1869
306 Dolphin Drive Suite 2 Jacksonville, NC 28546 910.333.0343
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IN THIS ISSUE Publisher/Editor in Chief Keith Jaworski 910-518-0011
E-Mail: seasidemedia1@gmail.com
Features Editor Danielle Villegas
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To Advertise Contact: Andrea Knight 910-632-0283
September 2018
E-mail: andreailmparent@gmail.com
SPECIAL SECTION: PARTY GUIDE Page17
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18 20 22
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PERSONALIZED GIFTS
Public Service Announcements/Calendar Please submit items/photos before the 2nd Friday of the prior month
PARTY LISTINGS FUN PLACES FOR A PARTY
or E-Mail: calendar@wilmingtonparent.com
WHAT YOU CAN LEARN FROM KIDS KEEPING TABS ON TECH TWEENS AND BEDTIME COLLEGE APPLICATION TIMELINES
3 EDITOR’S NOTE 4 HAVE YOU HEARD 5 PRODUCT REVIEW 6 CALENDAR 9 CHILDCARE LISTING GUIDE
24 25 26 27 28 29
FAMILY TRAVEL OUR PETS YOUR HEALTH FIT FAMILY SCHOOL NOTES
PEANUT GALLERY
cover credits Photography by Tennille Gore, www.tennillegorephotography.com • 910-398-7425 Cake provided by TOP Cakes 2 | September 2018 | Wilmington Parent
Nancy Lievre 910-240-3461
Opinions/Suggestions/Feedback We value our readers opinions — help us to serve you better! Our mailing address is: Wilmington Parent
PO Box 1336, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 or E-Mail: seasidemedia1@gmail.com Wilmington Parent is published 12 times a year. Distribution of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. The publisher reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the publication's standards. All contents of Wilmington Parent are protected under copyright. Reproduction of any content requires permission of the publisher. All rights reserved. Wilmington Parent • PO Box 1336, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 © Wilmington Parent 2018 Seaside Media, LLC Complimentary copies of Wilmington Parent are available to the public at various locations in the greater Wilmington area. One copy per family is permitted. Additional copies require the written permission of the Publisher. PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE
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EDITOR’S NOTE
A
re you back in the school-time groove? Well, we may not be ready, but it’s time! If afterschool activities and homework are already cutting into family time, try taking some required time off from everything and enjoying some of the activities we have listed in this month’s calendar. The fall festivals are just beginning to pop up, and those can make for an excellent distraction during the beginning days of the school year. Also, now is the perfect time to plan a fall getaway to one of those places you couldn’t afford during the peak, summer season. Check out some ideas in the Family Travel section! It’s that time of the year again, when we are overrun with birthday party invitations. If you are running short on birthday present ideas, and funds, there are some creative do-it-yourself gift ideas on page 18. If you are the one that needs to plan a birthday, we have a list of places that make partying fun on page 22. Our Party Guide resources are invaluable and I recommend keeping them for future reference. We have been having a blast featuring our reader’s pets these past few months! I love going through the photos, and reading stories about the mischief these furry family members get up to during the day. Keep it coming! I would love to see more pet submissions, and don’t worry if they’re not furry, we take all kinds! Have a fantastic fall season!
Danielle
Thank you for choosing us to be your Family Favorite Pediatric Dentist again this year! 2606 Iron Gate Dr. Suite 200,Wilmington, NC
791-7380 • www.catchasmile.net Turn ordinary into EXTRAORDINARY ! Pax Natura Academy is not your typical preschool! We specialize in school readiness with a focus on developing the whole child. Our programs are designed to highlight nature, community and diversity.
4202 Wilshire Blvd. Wilmington, NC • 910-791-2080
Looking for Quality, Affordable Child Care?
We have many convenient locations in the following areas: Wilmington, NC Leland, NC & Southport, NC
910-557-2471
Our Schools Provide: Care for ages 6 weeks - 12 years • Structured Curriculum for all Ages • Young Achievers Afterschool • Transportation to and from School • Nutritious Meals and Snacks www.wilmingtonparent.com
Wilmington Parent | September 2018 | 3
HAVE YOU HEARD….?
604 Junction Creek Dr. Wilmington, NC 28412 910-793-2520
www.browningorthodontics.com
Thank you for voting us a Family Favorite!
The Main branch library is looking for teen volunteers to help with the upcoming Haunted Library. Do you know any crafty and dramatic teens that want to build a haunted house and scare kids? Then encourage them to join the Scare Squad! The Scare Squad will meet on Tuesday nights from 6pm-7pm, starting in September, in the basement of Main Library, 201 Chestnut Street. Activities would include: building scary props, designing a haunted house and participating in the scary fun! For more info, contact Mr. Scooter at 798-6393 or shayes@nhcgov.com.
The Wilmington Symphony Youth Orchestra and Junior Strings are holding auditions for new members. Auditions will be held on September 6th at the UNCW Cultural Arts Building. To audition you must register online at http://wsoyouth.blogspot.com/p/auditions.html to receive an appointment time. You can also view audition times and download the required music on the website above or call 791-9262.
STRUGGLING STUDENT?
THERE IS HOPE!
Affordable Tutoring Pre-K to Adult For All Subjects Proven Effective Multi-Sensory Step-by-Step Processes
November 6, 2018 is the General Election. Are you registered to vote? What about your kids? If one of them turned 18, remind them to register. The deadline to register before the one-stop voting is 25 days before the election, so make sure everything is up to date this month! The New Hanover County Board of Elections website, www.elections.nhcgov. com, is an excellent website with everything you need in one place. There you can check your registration status, learn about your voting options, verify your polling place, and learn how and where to register to vote.
Fall is coming, and with it, Riverfest! Celebrated on the first full weekend of October, runs through Historic Downtown Wilmington on Water Street from the foot of Market Street to Cape Fear Community College. This free, familyoriented celebration is a two-day event and has grown to be a widely anticipated annual celebration. Riverfest was created in February 1979, by a group of Wilmingtonians interested in showcasing downtown Wilmington and the Cape Fear river and has since resulted in a cultural street festival that shouldn’t be missed. The Kids Zone and performance stages are always a hit, add in the amazing food and you have the perfect way to usher in the new season
General Dentistry for Youth
New Patients Welcome
(910) 790-3836
2520 N. College Road Most Insurance Accepted Including Medicaid, Health Choice, TRICARE
HABLAMOS ESPAÑOL!
!
Rafael Rivera, Jr., DDS, PLLC - Owner
Have a tip, lead, or just an interesting bit of news to share? I want to hear all about it! Send me an email to danielle.wilmingtonparent@gmail.com.
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PRODUCT REVIEW
Fenrici Backpacks I love when there is a better purpose served when I am in the middle of spending a chunk of money on necessities. If your kids have destroyed their backpacks and are ready for new ones this year, these durable packs do the job and also support children with rare diseases! Comfortable, roomy, and sturdy, Fenrici Backpacks offer kids a backpack for carrying all of their necessities with ease... all while knowing that they have made a difference in another child’s life. The backpacks have 3 large compartments with multiple interior pockets and a laptop sleeve to hold all the books, tablets, binders, and still maintain some organization. The deep mesh side pockets work well for keeping a water bottle in place, and the padded back panel, wide mesh shoulder straps, and adjustable sternum strap help reduce strain and keep your kid comfortable. Plus, reflector strips are strategically placed on the front and back so your child is visible in the dark. 5% of net proceeds is donated to non-profit Global Genes to fund the research and education for childhood rare diseases. Available at www.fenrici.com and www.amazon.com.
BuddyPhones PLAY Headphones These headphones are designed to protect kids ears while still giving them quality audio. ONANOFF is the first to produce kids’ headphones with StudyMode, an innovative way to enhance learning by making vocals crisp and clear while studying or watching lessons. StudyMode is available in a variety of BuddyPhones models, including the new PLAY, which comes packed with four distinct SafeAudio listening modes. They also connect wirelessly with a long battery life and provide decent durability to handle the abuse of kids. Included with the PLAY headphones are a Micro-USB charger cord, BuddyCable audio sharing cord, Soft Travel Bag and Custom Nametag Stickers. Available in 4 colors at www.buddyphones.com and www.amazon.com.
Kudo Banz These are cuter, more portable versions of a sticker chart. Created by a mom of three, Kudo Banz is a wearable reward system offering positive incentives and motivation. The Starter Kit comes with everything you need for 1 or 2 children, including a storybook introducing the child to Kudo Banz, two wristbands, six Kudo charms and a carrying pouch for on-the-go rewards. Have the child put on the wristband and reward them with Kudos based on the goals you’ve set. When it’s time for the child to earn their third Kudo, they download Kudo Banz free app so they can unlock other magical awards. Kudo Banz is a smart parenting tool created for kids 3-10 years old. Sold online at: www.kudobanz.com and Amazon. v
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GYM MAKEOVER! NEW EQUIPMENT! REGISTER NOW ONLINE
School Year Session Classes Begin Sept. 4th 910-796-1896
www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com 3529 Carolina Beach Road
CLASSES BEGIN THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 17TH Multi-aged classes for ages up to 5 years TUITION & MATERIALS: $80/child or $130 for 2 siblings/same class Weekly classes meet for 8 classes CLASS TIMES: Monday 11:00 am OR Tuesday 9:00 am CLASS LOCATION: St. Andrews-Covenant Presbyterian Church: 1416 Market St; Wilmington NC TO REGISTER FOR A CLASS please visit www.sacpc.org HAVE QUESTIONS? Contact Cindy at 910-431-9693 or CLitzinger@sacpc.org Visit us on facebook at facebook.com/musicwithcindy/
Wilmington Parent | September 2018 | 5
CALENDAR
• PLAN YOUR MONTH WITH US
SEPTEMBER | 2018
ALL MONTH LONG! Airlie Gardens Gnome Invasion Daily, through 10/28. For the sixth year in a row Airlie Gardens, is excited to host their summer art exhibit! Airlie Gardens has selected artists or teams of artists to decorate, paint, and otherwise adorn one of the 15 oversized 5-foot-tall fiberglass Garden Gnome models. These Garden Gnomes will be placed throughout the grounds for guests to enjoy as part of their garden experience. The hope for this outdoor exhibit is it will be a collection that appeals to all. The artist’s design has been selected based on creativity, craftsmanship, use of materials, the ability to appeal to all age groups, outdoor sustainability and durability.
1 SATURDAY Riverfront Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm, Saturdays through Nov 17. Downtown Wilmington. Located in Riverfront Park on Water Street in Historic Downtown Wilmington in front of the Federal Courthouse. Curbside market featuring local farmers, producers, artists and crafters. Products include fresh fruits and berries, vegetables, plants, herbs, flowers, eggs, cheeses, meats, seafood, honey, baked goods, legumes, pickled items, jams and jellies, wine, art, crafts and more.
6 | September 2018 | Wilmington Parent
Wilmington Farmers Market 8am-1pm, Saturdays. Tidal Creek. The Port City’s premier local food shopping destination. A producer only market, which means they only sell what they produce! When you purchase something from one of the vendors, you are making a difference by supporting your local food economy. Dedicated to providing an alternative grocery shopping experience where you will find food grown and sold with integrity. Visit www.thewilmingtonfarmersmarket.com for more information. Carolina Beach Farmers’ Market 8am, Saturdays. Carolina Beach Lake Park. Enjoy a stroll around the lake while picking up some local produce, herbs, plants, crafts. Make a visit to the Farmers’ Market a weekly tradition! Visit the facebook page for more information. Little Explorers 10am, Saturdays. Cape Fear Museum. Explore the world around us with hands-on activities, experiments and fun in Museum Park! Enjoy interactive story time, exploration stations and play related to a weekly theme. In event of inclement weather, program moved inside. Perfect for children ages 3 to 6 and their adult helpers. Adult participation is required. Little Explorers is sponsored by the PNC Foundation. Visit www.capefearmuseum.com for more information. Super Saturday Fun Time 3pm Saturdays. TheatreNow. Join DOCK, the dog, and
his two-legged friends as they uncover mysteries and discover artifacts (courtesy of Cape Fear Museum). Different adventure each week. Families welcome. $8/ person. Visit www.theatrewilmington.com for tickets.
2 SUNDAY Family Fun Day 9am - 5pm. Airlie Gardens. Visit the parks and Arboretum for a full day of family fun. Contact 798-7700 or visit www.airliegardens.org for more information. Residents Free Day - Cape Fear Museum 1 – 5pm. Cape Fear Museum. NHC residents are admitted free to the Museum the first Sunday of every month. Call 798-4350 or visit www.capefearmuseum. com for information. Boogie in the Park Concert Series: The Rag Doll Band 5-7pm. Ocean Front Park, Kure Beach. Free concert series. This week features The Rag Doll Band. Bring your beach chair or blanket and enjoy the music! Visit www.pleasureislandnc.org for a complete summer schedule. Summer Movies at the Lake: Paddington 2 8:30pm. Carolina Beach Lake Park. Grab the kids, blankets and beach chairs and head to the Carolina Beach Lake to enjoy a free outdoor movie on a ‘gigantic’ screen. Movie goers can purchase cotton candy, www.wilmingtonparent.com
popcorn, candy, soft drinks and much more. This week’s movie is Paddington 2. You can also bring your own food and beverages (no glass or alcohol please). Movies start at dusk. Visit www.pleasureislandnc.org for a complete summer schedule.
3 MONDAY - LABOR DAY Wrightsville Beach Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm, Mondays through Oct. 29. Wrightsville Beach. Buy fresh locally grown produce, baked goods, seafood, unique craft items and more! The Farmers’ Market is located on Seawater Lane adjacent to Wrightsville Beach Town Hall. Visit www.townofwrightsvillebeach.com for more information. Railroad Storytime 10:30am. Wilmington Railroad Museum. Hear stories and enjoy creative activities in the Children’s Hall. $5/Family. Free/Members. Call 763-2634 for more information.
nutcracker a carolina
Saturday Dec. 1st 7 pm Sunday Dec. 2nd 3 pm
Performed by the City Ballet With guest artists of the Carolina Ballet Jan Burkhard and Adam Chavis
Live professional orchestra!
15% off all tickets purchased by October 15th!
4 TUESDAY Storytime at the Library 9:30am; 10am; 10:30, Tuesdays. Main Library. Babies up to 18 months at 9:30 are invited to bring an adult lap and enjoy up to 20 minutes of books, songs, fingerplays & rhymes. Toddlers 18 months to 3 years old are invited at 10am to 20 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in Story Place. Preschoolers aged 3 to 5 are invited at 10:30am to 20-30 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in our storytime room! Call 798-6303 for details. Storytime at Pleasure Island 10:30am, Tuesdays. Pleasure Island branch Library. Join our fun and educational storytime for all preschool ages (babies to 5 years of age)! We’ll enjoy books, music, manipulatives, and other pre-literacy activities. No registration or fees required. Kid’s Cooking Club - Mud Balls 3:30 - 4:30pm Tuesdays. Children’s Museum. Learn new skills and explore fun seasonal recipes. Then savor the flavor of your hard work. Kids Cooking Club is sponsored by Harris Teeter. Visit www.playwilmington.org for weekly themes and call 254-3534 to pre-register.
5 WEDNESDAY Poplar Grove Farmers Market 8am-1pm, Wednesdays. Poplar Grove, Hampstead. Fresh produce, landscaping & bedding plants, or meet herbalists growing herbs and mixing scented salves and oils, bakers with homemade cookies and desserts, and artisans making handmade soaps, cutting boards, jewelry, and accessories for home, hearth and garden. Visit www. poplargrove.org for more information. Storytime at the Library 9:30am; 10am; 10:30, Wednesdays. Myrtle Grove & Northeast Libraries. Babies up to 18 months at 9:30 are invited to bring an adult lap and enjoy up to 20 minutes of books, songs, fingerplays & rhymes. Toddlers 18 months to 3 years old are invited at 10am to 20 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in Story Place. Preschoolers aged 3 to 5 are invited at 10:30am to 20www.wilmingtonparent.com
the
Wilson Center 910•362•7999
www.wilsoncentertickets.com/carolina-nutcracker-2018
1 OPEN SPOT IN PREK/4'S CLASS call for information (910) 367-0287 I www.jpawilmington.com I 7888 Market St Wilmington Parent | September 2018 | 7
30 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in our storytime room! Call 798-6303 for details. S.T.E.A.M. Explorations - Kite Construction 10am & 3:30pm, Wednesdays. Children’s Museum. STEAM programs explore Science, Technology, Engineering Arts, and Mathematics by applying them in fun, hands-on activities. Children will learn about the scientific process while measuring and recording in mathematical terms, developing critical thinking skills in the process. Please pre-register. Visit www.playwilmington. org for more information.
6 THURSDAY
Exquisite Children's Clothing
Flower girl dresses and accessories for every wedding! Schedule an appointment today! Located in the Cotton Exchange
Storytime at the Library 9:30am; 10am; 10:30, Thursdays. Myrtle Grove & Northeast Libraries. Babies up to 18 months at 9:30 are invited to bring an adult lap and enjoy up to 20 minutes of books, songs, fingerplays & rhymes. Toddlers 18 months to 3 years old are invited at 10am to 20 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in Story Place. Preschoolers aged 3 to 5 are invited at 10:30am to 2030 minutes of books, music, and pre-literacy activities in our storytime room! Call 798-6303 for details. StoryCOOKS - The Sandwich Swap: Hummus Wrap 10am, Thursdays. Children’s Museum. A cooking club for preschoolers where we read a story and make a dish inspired by the book. Visit www.playwilmington.org for more information and weekly themes.
What’s Wild 10-11am. Halyburton Park. Bring your “Little Explorers” ages 2-5 out to the park and discover nature through stories, songs, hands-on activities, hikes and crafts. Your children will delight in the many nature themes we explore each month. Space is limited and pre-registration is required for these popular programs. $3/participant. Call 341-0075 to register. Nature Navigators - What is the Moon 3:30pm, Thursdays. Children’s Museum. Join us in exploring the beauty of the world around us! Nature Navigators will help foster a love of nature in children of all ages. From animal tracks to scavenger hunts, come explore some North Carolinian nature with us! Ideal for ages 5 - 9. Visit www.playwilmington.org for more information. Crafteen: 8-Bit Magnets 4:30pm. Northeast Library. Express your fandom by making cool pixelated magnets. For teens only, registration required at www.nhclibrary.org.
7 FRIDAY Toddler Time - Apple Stamping 10am, Fridays. Children’s Museum. No registration necessary. Projects and activities for our youngest visitors (ages 4 and under) and their special grownups to work on together. Call 254-3534 or visit www.playwilmington.org for more information.
910-399-6801 • www.littleangelboutiques.com
The Easiest Place for Kids to Get Alcohol?
HOME. Talk It Up. Lock It Up!™ www.capefearcoalition.org Funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration - Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant
8 | September 2018 | Wilmington Parent
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What’s Wild 10-11am. Halyburton Park. See 09/06. Baby Obstacle Course 10am. Pleasure Island Library. Join us for a baby workout! Traverse through tunnels, climb over soft pillars, explore, and make new friends! No registration is required, just bring your adventurous baby! Little Explorers 10am, Fridays. Cape Fear Museum. Explore the world around us with hands-on activities, experiments and fun in Museum Park! Enjoy interactive story time, exploration stations and play related to a weekly theme. In event of inclement weather, program moved inside. Perfect for children ages 3 to 6 and their adult helpers. Adult participation is required. Little Explorers is sponsored by the PNC Foundation. Visit www.capefearmuseum.com for more information. Family Yoga Storytime 10:30am, Fridays. Main Library. Parents & children birth - 5 will have fun listening to stories while stretching and learning basic yoga postures with Miss Susan. Children must have an adult present. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat or beach towel. No registration required! Call 798-6353 for more details. Planetarium Adventures: Dinosaurs at Dusk 2pm. Cape Fear Museum. Cool off and enjoy an exciting full-dome film in Cape Fear Museum’s digital planetarium. These family-friendly programs are fun and appropriate for all ages. Space is limited and adult participation is required. Adventures in the Arts - Face the Foliage 3:30pm, Fridays. Children’s Museum. Please pre-register. Bring your child to express their creativity through various forms of art including--but not limited to--painting, sculpture, music, theater, dance, drawing, and printing. Visit www.playwilmington.org for details. Disney’s Alice in Wonderland 7:30pm. Hannah Block 2nd Street Stage. Thalian Association Youth Theatre presents this timeless story that follows an inquisitive young girl, formerly of Victorian England, who encounters the eccentric inhabitants of a fantastical land, including mock turtles, punctual rabbits, and dancing flora. Alice must make sense of her surroundings and figure out a way to get home. Visit www.thalian.org for ticket information.
8 SATURDAY INTERNATIONAL LITERACY DAY
CHILDCARE LISTING GUIDE CHILDCARE – PRESCHOOLS Childcare Network 8 convenient locations in Wilmington, Southport and Leland 866-521-KIDS www.childcarenetwork.com Ages 6-weeks to 12-years Jenkins Preschool Academy 7888 Market St. Wilmington, NC 28411 910-367-7210 www.jpawilmington.com Half day programs 9am-12pm, 2 or 3 day classes for 2-3 yr. olds, 5-day programs for 4 y.o. And PreK Gym & Learn Preschool Program Carolina Gymnastics Academy 3529 Carolina Beach Road Wilmington, NC 28412 www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com Ages 3-5, boys & girls, 9am-1pm. A good mix of structure, instruction, and free play including developmentally appropriate academics, gymnastics class, arts & crafts, & socialization. Put your name on the Waitlist now for 2018-2019. 3 day minimum!
DROP IN CHILDCARE Carolina Gymnastics Academy 3529 Carolina Beach Road Wilmington, NC 28412 910-796-1896 www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com Drop your children off Monday - Friday, 1pm-3:30pm, ages 3-11, boys & girls. Children play in the gym under the supervision of our coaches and camp staff. Run, jump, and flip for just $8/hour.
PARENTS NIGHT OUT
Wilmington Farmers Market 8am-1pm, Saturdays. Tidal Creek. See 09/01.
Carolina Gymnastics Academy 3529 Carolina Beach Road Wilmington, NC 28412 910-796-1896 www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com Friday & Saturday nights, 6-10pm, ages 3-11. Drop your children off for supervised free play in our 15,000 sq. foot gymnastics facility. Run, jump, & flip with your friends all night long! Parents can relax at home, or get things done while the kids have fun!!
Kids @ CAM 11am. Miracle Field at Olsen Park. Kids @ CAM at Miracle Field features a performance by the Broccoli Brothers Circus, Putt Putt & Corn Hole, a Planting Activity with The Ability Garden at New Hanover County Arboretum, and a www.wilmingtonparent.com
Wilmington Preschool of the Arts 3830 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, NC 28403 910-794-3025 www.wilmingtonartspreschoolnc.com Half and full day programs for ages 2 through Pre-K. We offer Spanish, dance, music and lots of art. Summer water play camps now in session. Limited spots in our 3 and 4 year old class for fall.
LIST YOUR PRESCHOOL, CHILDCARE CENTER HERE. CONTACT OUR AD EXECUTIVES FOR MORE INFORMATION.
Riverfront Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm, Saturdays through Nov 17. See 09/01.
Carolina Beach Farmers’ Market 8am, Saturdays. Carolina Beach Lake Park. See 09/01.
Pax Natura Academy 4202 Wilshire Blvd. Wilmington, NC 910-791-2080 www.childcarenetwork.net/159 Early Foundations Infant & Toddler Programs. Preschool for 2 & 3 yo. Kindergarten Prep for 4 & 5 yo. After School Program.
The Little Gym of Wilmington 132 Racine Drive, Unit 1 910-799-3771/3770 tlgwilmingtonnc@thelittlegym.com www.tlgwilmingtonnc.com When school’s out or you are looking for a safe, fun and nurturing environment for your child in Wilmington, we’ve got your back! The Little Gym offers classes as well as weekend Parents’ Survival Nights. We combine physical activity, gymnastics, games, and arts & crafts. Call us for fun!
Wilmington Parent | September 2018 | 9
Fortunately, A Life Can Also Be Turned Right Side Up.
Slime Activity with The Children’s Museum of Wilmington. Suggested donation: $5 per child. 11th Annual CBPD Bike Rodeo 2-5pm. Carolina Beach Rec Center. The Carolina Beach Police Department in conjunction with the Town of Carolina Beach is proud to announce that the Bike Rodeo is BACK! Tighten your helmets and dust off your bike for an afternoon of bicycle awareness and safety. This free event is the perfect opportunity to prepare for the upcoming school year, learn safe habits while riding your bike, make sure your helmet is properly fitted and register your bike! Enjoy music, food, games & activities, raffles and give-a-ways all for FREE. Give-a-ways include helmets, reflectors, lights and more. Disney’s Alice in Wonderland 7:30pm. Hannah Block 2nd Street Stage. See 09/07.
9 SUNDAY - GRANDPARENT’S DAY
See how your donations of goods help at www.salvationarmycarolinas.org/capefear
Community Day 1-5pm. Children’s Museum. Free Event. The Children’s Museum of Wilmington will be hosting its 2nd Annual Community Day sponsored by North State Bank on Sunday, September 9th, from 1-5 pm. Guests will enjoy free admission, face painting, balloon making, snacks from Waffle House and Tropical Smoothie, a football throw with New Hanover High School football players, a Black’s Tire/Ricky Benton Racing NASCAR show truck, photo opportunities with the Wilmington Hammerhead mascot and more! This event is a small gesture in thanking the community for 21 years of caring, support and generosity. Disney’s Alice in Wonderland 3pm. Hannah Block 2nd Street Stage. See 09/07.
10 MONDAY Wrightsville Beach Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm, Mondays through Oct. 29. See 09/03. Storytime at Pleasure Island 10:30am, Mondays. Pleasure Island branch Library. Join our fun and educational storytime for all preschool ages (babies to 5 years of age)! We’ll enjoy books, music, manipulatives, and other pre-literacy activities. No registration or fees required.
11 TUESDAY - PATRIOT DAY Kid’s Cooking Club - Owl Rice Cakes 3:30 - 4:30pm Tuesdays. Children’s Museum. See 09/04.
12 WEDNESDAY Poplar Grove Farmers Market 8am-1pm, Wednesdays. Poplar Grove, Hampstead. See 09/05. S.T.E.A.M. Explorations - Buoyancy of Oranges 10am & 3:30pm, Wednesdays. Children’s Museum. See 09/05.
10 | September 2018 | Wilmington Parent
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Meet Deputy Johnson 3:30pm. Main Library. Bring the whole family to the Main Library to meet Deputy Randy Johnson from the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office. We will watch “Officer Buckle & Gloria” based on the Caldecott winning book and make a fingerprint craft. Children with parental permission are invited to get official Child Identification Cards. No registration is required. Program will be held in the New Hanover Room.
13 THURSDAY StoryCOOKS - Little Owls Night: Owl Rice Cakes 10am, Thursdays. Children’s Museum. See 09/06. Nature Navigators - Chlorophyll 3:30pm, Thursdays. Children’s Museum.See 09/06.
14 FRIDAY Toddler Time - Leaf Prints 10am, Fridays. Children’s Museum. See 09/07. Adventures in the Arts - Yarn Painting 3:30pm, Fridays. Children’s Museum. See 09/07. Disney’s Alice in Wonderland 7:30pm. Hannah Block 2nd Street Stage. See 09/07.
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15 SATURDAY Riverfront Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm, Saturdays through Nov 17. Downtown Wilmington.See 09/01. Wilmington Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm, Saturdays. Tidal Creek. See 09/01. Carolina Beach Farmers’ Market 8am, Saturdays. Carolina Beach Lake Park. See 09/01. Native Plant Festival 9am-4pm. NHC Arboretum. Free Event. Celebrate Cape Fear area native plants and learn how to incorporate them into your own garden plans. The event features activities for adults and children, native plant vendors, a seed swap and seed giveaway, displays and presentations by local experts, food trucks, and live music for kids by Susan Savia. Summer Harvest Festival 9am-5pm. Poplar Grove Plantation. Features plantings for winter, local artisans and crafters, concessions, food, and activities for the kids including carnival games and entertainment with Mr. Twister and Mr. Mark, plus barnyard fun and a bounce house. Discovery Lab: Water Wonders 2pm. Cape Fear Museum. Ignite your curiosity! Discover history, science and cultures of the Lower Cape Fear through hands-on exploration and fun science labs.
Themes vary. Ideal for ages 5 and up. Drop in between 2 PM and 3 PM for several self-guided discovery stations. Adult participation is required. Disney’s Alice in Wonderland 7:30pm. Hannah Block 2nd Street Stage. See 09/07.
16 SUNDAY Summer Harvest Festival 10am-4pm. Poplar Grove Plantation. See 09/15. Disney’s Alice in Wonderland 3pm. Hannah Block 2nd Street Stage. See 09/07. Boogie in the Park Concert Series: David Nixon Trio 5-7pm. Ocean Front Park, Kure Beach. Free concert series. This week features David Nixon Trio. Bring your beach chair or blanket and enjoy the music! Visit www.pleasureislandnc.org for a complete summer schedule.
17 MONDAY Wrightsville Beach Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm, Mondays through Oct. 29. Wrightsville Beach. See 09/03.
Wilmington Parent | September 2018 | 11
Railroad Storytime 10:30am. Wilmington Railroad Museum. Hear stories and enjoy creative activities in the Children’s Hall. $5/ Family. Free/Members. Call 763-2634 for more information.
Adventures in the Arts Process Art: Scrape Painting 3:30pm, Fridays. Children’s Museum. See 09/07.
18 TUESDAY
Riverfront Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm, Saturdays through Nov 17. Downtown Wilmington. See 09/01.
Kid’s Cooking Club - Autumn Apple Punch 3:30 - 4:30pm Tuesdays. Children’s Museum. See 09/04.
19 WEDNESDAY TALK LIKE A PIRATE DAY
Fall 2018 Book Sale 9am. Northeast Library. Rooms full of all different types of books! Prices drop every day.
Amber B.
S.T.E.A.M. Explorations - Autumn Apple Punch 10am & 3:30pm, Wednesdays. Children’s Museum. See 09/05.
Grow As We Go 10--11am. Halyburton Park. See 09/20.
20 THURSDAY Grow As We Go 10--11am. Halyburton Park. Bring your “Little Explorers” ages 2-5 out to the park and discover nature through stories, songs, hands-on activities, hikes and crafts. Your children will delight in the many nature themes we explore each month. Space is limited and pre-registration is required for these popular programs. $3/participant. Call 341-0075 to register.
Melonee Perron
Nature Navigators - Migrating Animals 3:30pm, Thursdays. Children’s Museum. See 09/06.
21 FRIDAY Toddler Time - Playdough Fun 10am, Fridays. Children’s Museum. See 09/07. Grow As We Go 10--11am. Halyburton Park. See 09/20.
Wilmington Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm, Saturdays. Tidal Creek. See 09/01. Carolina Beach Farmers’ Market 8am, Saturdays. Carolina Beach Lake Park. See 09/01.
Poplar Grove Farmers Market 8am-1pm, Wednesdays. Poplar Grove, Hampstead. See 09/05.
StoryCOOKS - Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn: Autumn Apple Punch 10am, Thursdays. Children’s Museum. See 09/06.
22 SATURDAY - FIRST DAY OF FALL
Planetarium Adventures: Seasonal Stargazing - Fall 2pm. Cape Fear Museum. Cool off and enjoy an exciting full-dome film in Cape Fear Museum’s digital planetarium. These family-friendly programs are fun and appropriate for all ages. Space is limited and adult participation is required.
23 SUNDAY Youth Day 1-5pm. NHC Law Enforcement Association Club House, 5301 Holly Shelter Rd, Castle Hayne. Food, prizes, face painting, exhibits by NHC Sheriffs Department, Wilmington Police Department, NHRMC EMS, Coast Guard, NC Wildlife, Marine Patrol, Airlink and SABLE helicopter appearances. Ages 6 to 16 can participate in activities such as fishing skills, archery, and a chance to experience shooting sports/marksmanship in a safe and controlled environment. Parents, grandparents, or a responsible adult must accompany each youth at each event throughout the day. Adult lunch is $1. Fall 2018 Book Sale 1pm. Northeast Library. See 09/22.
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24 MONDAY Wrightsville Beach Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm, Mondays through Oct. 29. Wrightsville Beach. See 09/03. Your Vote = Your Voice 6pm. Northeast Library. Are you curious about how this whole election and voting thing actually works? Even if you’re not eighteen yet, there are lots of ways you can be involved. Come listen to special guests from the Board of Elections and the League of Women Voters talk about how you can get involved and get accurate information about voting. This event features nonpartisan speakers and is for informational and educational purposes. For teens. Registration required at www.nhclibrary.org.
Sea Turtles Presentation 4pm. Northeast Library. Wrightsville Beach Sea Turtle Project will be presenting on Sea Turtles! For children 6-12 years old and their families. Come to learn about sea turtles and what you can do to help them! Registration required at www.nhclibrary.org.
27 THURSDAY StoryCOOKS - Apples, Apples, Apples: Apple Cookies 10am, Thursdays. Children’s Museum. See 09/06.
25 TUESDAY
Big Block Building 3:15pm. Main Library. Celebrate National “Take Your Child Outside Week” in Story Park at the Main Library with super-sized blocks! Children must be accompanied by an adult. No registration is required.
Kid’s Cooking Club - Apple Cookies 3:30 - 4:30pm Tuesdays. Children’s Museum. See 09/04.
Nature Navigators - Elephants 3:30pm, Thursdays. Children’s Museum. See 09/06.
Teen LGBTQ Book Club 6pm. Northeast Library. Meets on the last Tuesday of every month. Every month will be different selections of short stories from the collection All Out: The No-Longer-Secret Stories of Queer Teens Throughout the Ages.
28 FRIDAY Fall 2018 Book Sale 9am. Northeast Library. See 09/22. Toddler Time - Apple Stain Glass Craft 10am, Fridays. Children’s Museum. See 09/07.
26 WEDNESDAY Poplar Grove Farmers Market 8am-1pm, Wednesdays. Poplar Grove, Hampstead. See 09/05. S.T.E.A.M. Explorations - Gummy Bear Experiment 10am & 3:30pm, Wednesdays. Children’s Museum. See 09/05.
studios and art spaces featuring exhibitions of various artistic genres including oils, acrylics, watercolors, pastels, photography, glass, metals, wood, ceramics, mixed media and more. 4th Fridays also include opening receptions, artist discussions, demonstrations, live music, wine, food and other traditional and nontraditional artrelated activities.
29 SATURDAY Riverfront Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm, Saturdays through Nov 17. Downtown Wilmington. See 09/01. Wilmington Farmers’ Market 8am-1pm, Saturdays. Tidal Creek. See 09/01. Carolina Beach Farmers’ Market 8am, Saturdays. Carolina Beach Lake Park. See 09/01. Fall 2018 Book Sale 9am. Northeast Library. See 09/22.
30 SUNDAY Fall 2018 Book Sale 1pm. Northeast Library. See 09/22.
Adventures in the Arts - Pointillism 3:30pm, Fridays. Children’s Museum. See 09/07. 4th Friday Gallery Night 6pm. Downtown Wilmington. The Arts Council of Wilmington and New Hanover County presents 4th Friday Gallery Night, a free monthly self-guided tour of galleries,
To submit events to the calendar, please email Danielle.wilmingtonparent@gmail.com. Deadline for submissions to the October issue is September 9, 2018.
BE AWARE. DON’T SHARE.®
LOCK YOUR MEDS.® www.lockyourmeds.org/ nc TM
Supported by the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse Services, with funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Opioid STR/Cures (Grant#1H79TI080257) and SPF-RX (Grant # 1U79SP022087).
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Wilmington Parent | September 2018 | 13
Kid Behaviors Adults Could Learn to Do Better By Cheryl Maguire
Please use your inside voice. Eat your broccoli. It’s bedtime. Wear your jacket.
A
s a parent you have probably said at least one of these statements more than a hundred times to your child. Adults are always telling kids how to behave. But there are times when kids do things better than us. Here are a few behaviors adults can learn from kids:
1. Just Say No Most toddlers favorite word is no. A child will cross their arms and stand their ground shouting no until they turn blue and pass out. Adults do not have the same ease in using the word. Why is saying no hard for adults? Adults struggle with using the word no. Often people want to belong to a group so they may say yes to receive approval from others. Another reason a person may resist using the word no is fear of upsetting another person. Lastly, a person may want to be helpful and feel valued so they reframe from saying no. How can adults just say no? The word no should feel empowering. By practicing and remaining diplomatic most people will improve their ability to say no to others. Envisioning how easy it is for a child to say no may also help you realize you can do it as well.
2. Ability to Negotiate If you tell your child their bedtime is 8 pm, often they will ask how about 8:30 pm? Or if you suggest they eat five more bites of their dinner they respond with, “can I only eat three bites?” Children have little fear or resistance to negotiating with adults or other kids.
14 | September 2018 | Wilmington Parent
Why is negotiating hard for adults? An article on Salary.com states, “our research found nearly one-fifth of workers never negotiate after they’re offered a job.” After interviewing 2,000 people about why they don’t like to negotiate Salary.com found the biggest reason was the fear of losing their job. Other answers were people felt they would seem greedy or they wouldn’t get a raise, anyway. How can adults negotiate better? Negotiating is an important skill since it enables you to earn a higher salary or pay less for a car or house. This skill can help you in both your personal and business relationships. Similar to saying no, you will feel empowered when you are able to negotiate effectively.
3. How to Succeed If you have witnessed a child learning to walk or learning to ride a bike, you will see that despite falling down, they continue to get up until they mastered the skill. Children don’t allow failure to hinder them from trying again until they succeed. Why is it difficult for adults to succeed? Most success is the result of many failed attempts such as mastering a new skill. In a Psychology Today, article Guy Winch Ph.D. discusses how when people fail they can believe they are helpless and unable to achieve your goal. How can adults succeed? Winch suggests the best way to overcome failure is to focus on the aspects you can control. After you are able to figure out what isn’t in your control, try to improve it by taking a class or preparing and practicing for the next time you attempt the skill. A couple other ideas, find humor in life around you and play! Kids are notorious players and laughers. We could learn so much more about the world from their free spirits and happiness. v
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KEEPING TABS ON TECH THIS SCHOOL YEAR
N
ow that school has started, it’s a great time to check in with your kids and ensure they’re interacting with their peers and participating in activities that don’t always revolve around technology. A recent ASHA survey reported that the average American child, age eight and younger, uses more than three personal technology devices at home, including tablets, smartphones and video game consoles. With so much access to technology in today’s world, utilizing strategies to encourage social and verbal interaction over screen time is imperative, though that doesn’t mean cutting out screens entirely. Here are a few ways to help kids (and the whole family) develop a healthy technological balance all year long:
Make tech use a family affair. Technology itself is not necessarily a problem, but how it’s being used and what it takes away from on a daily basis. For instance, does it take time away from reading or physical activity? Is it interfering with the quality or quantity of conversation between parents and children (as many parents report)? To help kids maintain time for real human engagement, try using technology with your childwhether that’s looking up information on the computer together or playing a game with them. That way you’re giving your child the opportunity to interact and keep the lines of communication open, while doing something they love.
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Dedicate tech-free times at home. We’ve all heard this advice, but actually try experimenting with setting daily limits on your child’s screen use and finding opportunities for the entire family to disconnect together. Taking those moments to talk and connect with your child could be something you build into a regular routine.
Lead by example. Perhaps one of the best and easiest ways to keep your kids engaged and lower-tech is to model the kind of behavior you’d like to see in them. Kids learn by example-and the biggest example they’ll see regarding technology use will come from you. Demonstrating your own commitment to carving out offline time and pursuing other interests will set the tone for the entire family’s screen use. v
Coming in OCT 2018
About the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). ASHA is the national professional, scientific, and credentialing association for 198,000 members and affiliates who are audiologists; speech-language pathologists; speech, language, and hearing scientists; audiology and speechlanguage pathology support personnel; and students.
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Wilmington Parent | September 2018 | 15
Don’t know where to turn?
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Bridge Builders Counseling Center 311 Judges Road, Suite 1E, Wilmington, NC 28405
910-792-9888 www.bridgebuilderscounseling.com
GO THE EXTRA MILE for your children
Ditch the Bedtime
T
he tween years are the perfect time for developing autonomy. This is the time before GPAs, driving, and first jobs. It is also when your child starts to realize that their decisions affect their lives. Letting them make decisions such as, what to wear or what to eat are good ways to start learning independence, but it’s time to take it a step further. No bedtimes. This may sound extreme, but it is much more reasonable than you may think. Hear me out.
Learning good habits Many people are under the assumption that to teach children that they need to get adequate sleep, they must force them into a schedule. But this is not teaching them anything except to obey orders. What happens when someone is no longer around to tell them what to do? How do they know what the best choice for them is when they’ve never had any practice making it? The way we learn to make good decisions is by being allowed to make them. By making mistakes and learning from them. By figuring it out on our own, with support if needed. Being allowed to feel tiredness after staying up too late is not a life threatening situation! Let them work out their own sleep needs by being the ones in control of their decisions.
Tweens are capable of listening to their bodies When we try to control their sleep and force them to bed at set times we interrupt their learning about their own bodies. They may begin to distrust themselves, believing that others know their body better than they do and that what they feel is unimportant. Eventually, they may lose the ability to hear their body’s tiredness signals, having had that opportunity regularly taken away from them.
It’s counterproductive Ever heard of a circadian rhythm? That’s our internal body clock which regulates periods of sleepiness and wakefulness throughout the day and night. The thing about this is, it’s endogenously generated, meaning that it originates from within our body. It can be influenced by light and temperature, which is why we sleep during the night and wake during the day, but not much else. In that case, there is no need to dictate to anyone when they should feel sleepy, their body has that covered. In fact, it’s counterproductive! Trying to argue with a 10 year old to go to bed who is not sleepy is fighting a losing battle. Instead of the rest you are after, all you end up causing is more stress for everyone.
Creating unhelpful sleep associations
Dr. Raaj Amin
27417 Andrew Jackson Hwy E, Delco, NC 28436
www.sandpiperpediatrics.com 910-207-0777
16 | September 2018 | Wilmington Parent
Have you ever laid in bed unable to get to sleep? Your mind incapable of switching off, and the longer you lay there the harder it gets to find sleep? Do you know what advice they give people suffering from insomnia in those situations? Get up out of bed and go back when you feel sleepy. Lying in bed thinking, worrying, upset, or busy doing other things is not good sleep hygiene. After many hours spent lying in bed fighting bedtime, children who are forced to bed unwillingly are likely to associate sleep with negative feelings. In the pursuit of ensuring children get enough sleep, we may actually be setting them up to dislike and resist it. v
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PARTY GUIDE FALL EDITION
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Wilmington Parent | September 2018 | 17
CRAZY. FUN. PARTIES!
OVER 10 YEARS!
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Personalized Gifts Kids Can Make and Give By Kimberly Blaker
A
s holidays and birthdays approach, are your kids scrounging to buy gifts they can hardly afford? Offer them these fun ideas for gifts from the heart.
Tell a story with photos. Create a memory page to add to a friend’s scrapbook. Buy a package of blank scrapbook pages. Then choose a theme that means something to the gift giver and receiver, such as ‘My Best Friend,’ ‘3rd Grade Fun’ or ‘Soccer Days.’ Design each page using stickers, markers, colored pencils, construction paper, photos, magazine pictures, and fun sayings or descriptions that fit your theme. Shape decorative soaps. Grate bars of inexpensive white soap. Then mix approximately ½ cup
SPECIAL SECTION: Party Guide
of warm water with a cup of shredded soap. Add food coloring to the water to create colored soap. Knead the mixture. Add additional warm water as necessary until it forms like dough. Next, fill cookie cutters with the mixture. Or flatten it on a sheet of waxed paper, and trim into shapes. Let the soap dry slightly. Then press with small leaves or other designs. Allow the decorative soaps to dry for 24 hours, flipping them occasionally.
Design your own pens and pencils. Purchase sheets of large white labels and cut them into 1-½ inch strips. Design the strips with colored markers. Then wrap the design around the length of the pens or pencils. Personalize them by adding a smaller label to the center of the pencil with “World’s Best Friend” or another catchy phrase. To protect your pencil design, wrap it with clear scotch tape.
Create bookmarks. Cut colored paper into 2” x 7” strips then design the strips with colored pencils and markers. Or clip fancy borders from magazines. Find out your gift recipient’s favorite author, artist or historical figure. Then look the person up in a book of quotations. Select a quote; type or write it out; and add it to the bookmark. Then laminate it for protection.
Construct a puzzle photo frame. Cut a piece of firm cardboard to your desired size of frame. Then ask an adult to trim out the center with a razor knife, leaving a 1” to 2” thick frame. Next, trace the outside edge of your frame onto another piece of thin cardboard, and cut it out. Place a sheet of colored paper between the two pieces of cardboard. Next, glue the paper and two pieces of cardboard together. Glue jigsaw puzzle pieces around the frame, overlapping each other to cover the entire thickness of the frame. Let the frame dry. Then brush a layer of glue over the puzzle pieces to prevent them from falling off. Stick your photo in the opening of the frame with double sided tape.
Compose a memory book. Buy a composition book from the office supply. Cover it with construction paper, then design and decorate the cover. Inside, write your memories of special times you’ve had with the person to whom you’ll present it. Memories might include a trip to the zoo, a favorite holiday celebration, a special gift, something funny, and lots other experiences you’ve had together. v
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We offer Open Jump,Trampoline DodgeBall, Family Night, College Night, Special Needs Night, Ultimate Birthday Parties, Extreme Slumber Parties and much more!
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4310 Shipyard Blvd. Ste. 101 Wilmington, NC 28403
www.bounce-wilmington.com • 910-769-1080 Wilmington Parent | September 2018 | 19
SPECIAL SECTION: Party Guide
Ballerina Birthday Parties www.wilmingtonschoolofballet.com * 25.00 off birthday parties* 910-794-9590
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BOOK KONA FOR YOUR PARTIES! BIRTHDAY PARTIES CORPORATE PARTIES SCHOOL EVENTS FAMILY REUNIONS WEDDINGS HOA EVENTS
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25 Van Campen Blvd Suite 103 Wilmington, NC 28403 910-769-2090 • info@jazzyspartyrentals.com Water Slide Inflatables, Tents, Tables & Chairs plus unique party decorations 20 | September 2018 | Wilmington Parent
Apple Annie’s Bake Shop 837 S Kerr Avenue Wilmington NC 28403 910-799-9023 www.appleanniesbakeshop.com Wilmington’s premier bakery for the last 33 years, Apple Annie’s Bake Shop is proudly baking pastries, breads, cakes and more. We offer a hands on, interactive experience for all those budding young bakers with our Bakery Birthday Parties. Kids learn from the experts how to decorate their own cake! Call for more details! Battleship North Carolina #1 Battleship Road, Wilmington 910-399-9111 www .battleshipnc.com For kids of all ages, the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA is the best place in Wilmington to hold your next birthday party. You will instantly become the coolest parent as your party will be the most talked about among all the children. Join the Charlie’s Crew Lids Club and receive member perks including 20% off Battleship Birthday Parties. Party packages include the following: • A private space onboard the ship for two hours. • Admission for the birthday child and his/her guests (including adults). • A sailor hat and a Battleship t-shirt • Tables and chairs. **This fee does not include any food, drinks, or decorations.** Bounce Parties & Games 4310 Shipyard Blvd. Suite 101 Wilmington, NC 28403 910-763-1080 www.bounce-wilmington.com Party goers will enjoy numerous bounce houses and obstacle courses along with a state of the art arcade with tickets to win prizes. We also have a toddler zone and designated bounce has for toddlers only. Parties include unlimited time on the bouncers, a private party room, a personal party host, pizza, drinks and many other add-ons are available for your convenience. Check out our website for more info and book your party online! Carolina Gymnastics Academy Michele Zapple/Rebecca Bishop 3529 Carolina Beach Road Wilmington, NC 28412 910-796-1896 www.carolinagymnasticsacademy.com Have your child’’s PRIVATE party at Carolina Gymnastics Academy, and leave the entertainment and supervision to us! Your party is the ONLY party in the gym! For the first hour, children can play in the gym, use the inflatables, swing on the rings, jump on the trampoline, and play in our 2 foam block pits. After that, you have a half hour in the party room to enjoy your birthday cake. We provide the facility, coaches, tables, maps/invitations, and goodie bags; you
provide whatever food, drink, paper products, and decorations that you want. Cost of the party is $275, payable upon reservation. Parties are non-refundable 2 weeks prior to date. There is a $50 cancellation fee with 2 week notice. Click on “View Monthly Events Calendar” to book online, or call the gym. 30 children MAXIMUM! Due to time constraints, we do not open presents at the gym. Coastal Horizons Outdoor Adventure Birthday Parties 3807 Juvenile Center Dr. Castle Hayne, NC Contact Person- Meredith Ross 910-392-7306 adventure@coastalhorizons.org www.coastalpreventionresources.org or www. facebook.com/CoastalHorizonsOA Three hours of climbing our 50 foot Alpine Tower. Coastal Horizons’ enthusiastic facilitators are with your group the whole time and all equipment is included, so climb to your hearts content. All parties are outside where your party-goers can enjoy nature on our 17 acre wooded course. While groups must provide their own snacks or food; tables, water and lemonade are provided. Coastal Horizons’ instructors are responsible for all climbing related activities, so no experience is necessary. $300 for up to 15 people, $20 for each additional person. Cold Culture Frozen Yogurt 250 Racine Drive Suite # 12 Wilmington NC 28403 910-523-5278 coldculturefroyo@gmail.com Our staff here at Cold Culture Frozen yogurt have been experts at providing the perfect place to host events, fundraisers and birthdays. We offer renting the whole place for whatever event you would like to have, and our staff are always happy to help! We are always ready to set up plans for any of your eventplanning needs! Come in or give us a call any time during our business hours and ask us about planning a birthday. DefyGravity Wilmington 6431 Market Street Wilmington, NC 28405 910-444-1002 wilmington@defygravity.us DefyGravity Birthday Parties are the best in Wilmington! The Ultimate Birthday Party Package Includes: • 1 Hour Flight Pass for 10 Jumpers plus the Birthday Jumper • Exclusive Use of a DefyGravity Party Room for 45 minutes • Party Host; Set-Up and Clean-Up • One Large Piece of Pizza for each Jumper • Beverage (1 Bottled Water and 1 Soda/Juice for each Jumper) • Plates, Utensils, Napkins & Table Covering • Flight Shirt and Socks for the Birthday Jumper Contact us for more details! www.wilmingtonparent.com
Jazzy’s Party Rentals 25 Van Campen Blvd Suite 103 Wilmington, NC 28403 910-742-8228 info@jazzyspartyrentals.com www.jazzyspartyrentas.com We offer everything you need for a special Birthday Party from inflatables and awesome birthday party decorations of your favorite theme. We personalize each event with balloons arch, columns and much more. Kona-Ice of Coastal Carolina, LLC Contact Person: Pam Sample 910-270-2575 psample@kona-ice.com www.kona-ice.com Kona brings the party to you! Create your own nutritious blend of tropical shaved ice on our Flavorwave! We have wonderful flavors for children as well as our new line of Krafted Flavors for adults!
Mini Monets Birthdays Greater Wilmington Area 910-399-1708 www.minimonetsart.com www.Facebook.com/Minimonets Does your artist have a birthday coming up? Why not celebrate with an art project designed by your artist! Art projects range from clay sculptures to painting on canvas. Mini Monets will come to your party, bring all of the supplies and materials, and the party guests get to keep what they make. Children 2-12 years old enjoy projects and the cost starts at $14.00 per artist. Please call or email for more details. I look forward to celebrating with you soon! No Sleeves Magic 910-200-5300 www.nosleevesmagic.com Voted Wilmington’s Best Party Entertainer since 2006! If you want to give your child one of the craziest and most FUNnominal Parties they will never forget, then take a RUN on the Wacky-Side with No Sleeves Magic. We provide an adrenaline rush of Magic mixed with comedy that’s great for the whole family. Some party packages include tricks, games & more! So, Sit Back, Relax and Laugh, while No Sleeves makes your event a success! To find out which package is best for you, contact one of our PARTYOLOGISTS or visit our website. We have different themes to suit your event and even offer magic telegrams as well as summer magic camp programs.
Kids Salon Best Party Venue Best Childrens Haircut
Power of Play 6644 Gordon RoadWilmington, NC 28411 910-332-1660 www.powerofplaywilmington.com For ages 1-11 Play time for your birthday party includes an indoor jungle gym, play sets, climbing walls, tire swings, trike track and 12 imagination stations. Parties are two hours and include a private party room, party host, pizza, drinks and many other add ons for your convenience. Check out our website for more info and book your party online! Wilmington Rock Gym 8118 Market Street (Behind PT’s Grill in Porter’s Neck) Wilmington, NC 28411 910-319-7209 wilmingtonrockgym@gmail.com wilmingtonrockgym.com Join us for a birthday adventure! Bring your group for an hour and a half of rock climbing games and roped-in climbing run by two enthusiastic and highly-trained staff members. Afterward, utilize our party room for cake, pizza, or any other treats you’d like to bring. Perfect for ages 6+ and up to 10 participants. All gear rental is included. Wilmington School of Ballet Dance Studio 2250 Shipyard Blvd. Unit 12 Wilmington, NC 28403 910-794-9590 www.wilmingtonschoolofballet.com www.princessforadayparties.com Ballerina Birthday Parties - Birthday girl and friends are greeted by a princess ballerina and a ballet craft activity. Once all the guest have arrived, the girls are lead into a beautiful ballet room for special party fun. Little Ballerinas enjoy and enchanted playful ballet program. Parents can relax and enjoy watching their princess and her friends have fun. A ballerina and a ballet helper will lead the group through 50 minutes of ballet fun. Dress up, ballet games, obstacle course, parachute play, and a big red dragon make up a delightful time. Give your daughter a special birthday she will remember for a lifetime. Your Pie 4403H Oleander Dr., Unit H 910-769-5767 jomalley@yourpie.com www.Yourpie.com Celebrate your child’s birthday with us!. Kids meals are $5.49 which includes a scoop of gelato and a drink. We specialize in Pizza, Paninis and Chopped Salads, built your way, one price regardless of toppings. Come visit us today!
1427 Military Cutoff Rd, Unit 102 mantascuts.com • 910.239.9096
JUMP INTO SOME SERIOUS FUN THIS FALL! NOW ENROLLING FOR CLASSES! OPEN HOUSE AUGUST 25TH 10-12PM The Little Gym of Wilmington
132 Racine Drive, Unit 1 Wilmington, NC 28403
www.tlgwilmingtonnc.com 910-799-3771
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Wilmington Parent | September 2018 | 21
SPECIAL SECTION: Party Guide
Manta’s Cuts Kids Salon 1427 Military Cutoff Rd., Unit 102, Wilmington, NC 28403 910-239-9096 www.mantascuts.com Manta’s Cuts is one of Wilmington’s Best Children’s Party Venues for three years running! Whether you have 2 or 16 partygoers, little kids or tweens, girls or boys, we can help you fully customize a dream worthy birthday party. With more than 30 party elements to choose from the Manta’s Cuts staff will help you select ones perfect for your child and budget. Then you enjoy an incredible hands-off party or one that is orchestrated by you but blissfully out of your house and run by experts.
The Little Gym of Wilmington 132 Racine Drive, Unit 1 Wilmington, NC 28403 910-799-3771 tlgwilmingtonnc@thelittlegym.com www.tlgwilmingtonnc.com Parents magazine named The Little Gym the #1 place to host children’s birthday parties. Your group will have the whole place to yourselves with games, music and fun activities created especially for your birthday kid. Our trained instructors handle everything from setup to cleanup, which means you get to go home to a clean, quiet house when all the fun is done.
FUN PLACES FOR A PARTY By Kimberly Blaker
S
o your child’s birthday is just around the corner, and you don’t have time to plan and prepare the perfect birthday party? Don’t despair. There are plenty of fun places to hold kids’ parties that’ll save you time in planning, preparation, and cleanup. Most importantly, your birthday girl or boy and guests will have a blast.
Skates & Blades - Roller skating rinks are again gaining popularity and most offer a choice of inline or roller skate rentals for today’s kids. Consider ice-skating and ice or roller hockey parties as a fun alternative.
Old MacDonald Had a Farm – Check with your nearby farm, ranch, or apple orchard to find out what activities are offered. Many include hayrides, petting zoos, corn mazes, apple picking, and more. These are perfect for fall birthdays. Recreational Romp – Recreation and fitness centers offer a wide variety of activities for birthdays
SPECIAL SECTION: Party Guide
including gymnastics, swimming, basketball, and arts and crafts.
You Should be Dancin’ – Check with your local dance studio for birthday party packages. Some offer professional dance instruction and allow food and party treats to be brought in so the whole shebang is done right there. Craft Magic – Young children love to create, so schedule a craft party at a fabric shop, craft store, or scrap-recycling center where kids’ activities are offered.
Cops and Robbers – Kids will thrill at testing their skills and cunningness in a game of laser tag. These centers often offer on-site party areas and birthday packages. Hands on Science – Keep kids of all ages thoroughly engrossed and entertained at one of the
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many hands on science museums where they can try out gadgets, watch or participate in experiments, play instruments, construct, and much more.
Rock Climbing Adventures – Daredevils won’t want to miss one these exciting quests. Look for a rock climbing gym in your area where party guests can do rock climbing with a professional instructor. Beach Party – Give your teen some fun in the sun with a bash at the beach. Contact the park for information on volleyball equipment and to make a reservation for a covered picnic area. Look for a spot with horseshoes and plenty of sand, and don’t forget the beach balls, pizza, and cooler of pop. Monkeyin’ Around – Parties away from home don’t have to be costly. Reserve a shelter at a nearby park with a large, fenced-in, frontier-style playscape. Little ones can run, climb, and play to their hearts content. Bring along your party supplies and set up under a pavilion. To keep things simple, call ahead for pizza delivery.
Row, Row, Row Your Boat – An afternoon canoe excursion for teens is the ultimate in outdoor fun. Contact canoe rental facilities for details. Bring along pop and a picnic lunch, and make sure the food stays in the chaperone canoe where it’ll be safe from tips. Don’t forget balloons for water balloon fights during rest stops. v
CUSTOM HAND-CRAFTED PIZZA, PANINI, SALAD • CRAFT BEER • WINE & GELATO SPECIALS: MONDAY KIDS EAT FREE WITH PURCHASE OF ENTREE + COMBO TUESDAY $3 OFF WITH THE YOUR PIE LOYALTY APP WEDNESDAY 1/2 OFF BOTTLES OF WINE, $3.14 GLASSES • THURSDAY $3.14 PINTS OF BEER
4403 Oleander Dr. Suite H, Wilmington, NC 28403 • (910) 769-5767
Mon-Thurs: 11am-9pm Fri-Sat: 11am-10pm Sun: 11am-8pm 22 | September 2018 | Wilmington Parent
/YourPieWilmington
/YourPiePizza
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College Application Timeline Tips
T
he college application process can be one of the most stressful events of a student’s time in high school. Start planning early to avoid last minute overload.
JUNIOR YEAR September - Make sure your child registers for the October PSAT. This is the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship program and great practice for the SAT. This is also a good time to visit college fairs to see what is available.
New Music School Opening Private string and harp lessons, glee club, general music classes, and more! We bring students of all ages (from 2 year olds through adults) exciting and comprehensive music education.
November - Schedule a day trip to visit nearby colleges. Don’t worry if these are places where your child won’t apply. The goal is to explore different types of schools. Aim for variety. Discuss which characteristics of schools are attractive and which aren’t. December/January - Look to the future. Help refine the list of colleges, with PSAT test results in mind. If you or any of your acquaintances have a college student at home for the winter break, ask them questions and encourage your child to do so as well. March - Have your son or daughter start a “College Binder” by making an early list of target colleges in a notebook. Visits to college Web sites should increase and he or she should begin calling, writing, or e-mailing target colleges to request publications. May - Check upcoming SAT or ACT registration deadlines for tests your child still needs to take. Is there one on the horizon? Make note of the test and registration dates on your calendar.
www.bamamusic.org
Summer - Keep your child on track with test preparation, if needed. He or she should continue requesting college publications. Review and update the list of target schools that you and your child have been developing, adding the pros and cons of each school.
SENIOR YEAR September - Start the year off right by planning an evening out (perhaps dinner at a favorite restaurant) with your college-bound child. Go over your strategy for the school year. Finalize plans for college visits. If it all seems overwhelming, reassure your child (over dessert!) that you’ll be there to support them every step of the way. October - Make a decision on early decision: Go over options for early decision and early action and determine if it’s an option you and your child want to pursue. Help your child complete the college list by adding application and financial aid due dates. November - Monitor the start of applications and encourage your child to mull over various application essay topics to determine if any can be overlapped to reduce the workload. Your child should also start requesting teacher recommendations now; that way, they’ll be done well in advance of any deadlines. December - Use the holidays to do some college visits and get your federal financial aid forms (FAFSA) from the guidance office or the Web and attend workshops if there any available. Leave gentle reminders about any January or February application deadlines and have your child confirm that teachers and guidance staff are up-to-date with reference forms. January - Remember “parent” deadlines: If you have everything you need, file your income taxes and begin filling out financial aid forms, such as the FAFSA. Finish up applications: Encourage your child to complete all of his or her applications, even those with later deadlines. Make copies of everything and save them! When the last application hits the mailbox, CELEBRATE!
A 12 GRAIN ARTISAN LOAF
WITH TURKEY, GRANNY SMITH APPLES, RED ONION, CRANBERRY MAYONNAISE AND SPINACH.
WHAT IF THEY WANT A GAP YEAR? Remember, use this time and enjoy imagining the possibilities with your child. This does not have to be a make-or-break decision, and flexibility is key to success in life. They can always revisit their college options later. If your child is still unsure what colleges to consider, or what major to choose, that is OK! Too much pressure to make these decisions early can be counterproductive. If they ask to take a gap year after high school graduation, encourage your child to participate in some global explorations, study abroad, or volunteer in order to discover their passions. Sometimes you need to spend a little more time exploring possibilities, and learn what the world needs most before deciding how you may want to contribute. v
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Wilmington Parent | September 2018 | 23
FAMILY TRAVEL
OFF-SEASON TRAVEL DEALS FOR FALL
A
s the summer rush winds down, anyone lucky enough to have leftover vacation days can score some cheap travel deals. In many places, fall means cooler weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices for everything from accommodations to tours to plane tickets.
Orlando, FL Now is the time for shorter lines and falling hotel prices. The weather is also nicer in autumn: Waiting until September and October, for instance, means pleasantly warm days with highs in the low 80s and a lower risk of rain. Just remember, crowds surge around Thanksgiving and Christmas.
The ABC Islands Want a fall Caribbean vacation without worrying about hurricanes? Crowds are light and prices more forgiving from September through November in Aruba and its lesser-known siblings, Bonaire and Curaçao. These islands are so far south -- just off the coast of Venezuela -- that storms usually bypass them. These islands are family-friendly with abundant beaches and opportunities for snorkeling.
Montreal Canada Many tourists venture to Canada only during the summer months, making fall an opportune time to score cheaper hotel rates at the country’s top
24 | September 2018 | Wilmington Parent
tourist destinations. Among them is French-Canadian mecca Montreal, which offers beautiful parks, impressive museums, and a unique fusion of old cobblestone streets and modern cityscapes. If the weather gets too chilly -- expect highs in the 50s in October -- head down into the Underground City, which boasts an array of shopping and several connections to the city’s metro system.
Chattanooga, TN The tourists have left and they’re not coming back until the leaves change color, so that makes September and October the perfect time to snag a deal. Absolutely plan on climbing around on Lookout Mountain (a trip up on the disturbingly steep Incline Railway is worth it,) if for no other reason than to reach Sunset Rock, a one time strategic lookout spot for confederate generals during the Civil War. You can also rock-climb, horseback ride, or simply rent a two-wheeler and bike all around town.
Washington DC Once summer ends, the hordes of seasonal tourists empty out of the nation’s capital, leaving plenty of room for fall visitors to museum hop, explore the monuments and enjoy D.C.’s blossoming culinary scene. With low hotel prices, free museums, and no lines - this is the time to visit.v Sources: Cheapism, Bargain Travel, and Thrillist
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OUR PETS
Six Tips To Keep Pets Safe During Storm Season While no one is immune from the devastation of a natural disaster, preparing before a storm hits is key to keeping everyone in your family, including your pets, safe. Here are a few ideas to keep in mind for your pet as you map out your disaster preparedness plan. • Have your pet microchipped. In the event of an emergency, natural or otherwise, you want to ensure your pet can get back to you if you’re separated. Collars and ID tags, though important, can break or detach. Microchips, computerized and scannable implants about the size of a grain of rice, are more fool-proof since they’re inserted under your pet’s skin. • Bring your pets inside at the first sign of danger. Disasters can be disorienting for pets, and they could run away or hurt themselves reacting to loud noises and strange changes to their landscape. Also, rain, flying debris and high winds pose a danger. • If you have to leave, keep your pet with you. Leaving your pets behind during a natural disaster is never a good idea because they could escape or become exposed to a number of life-threatening hazards. Keep them on a leash or in a pet carrier so they don’t escape even in a “familiar” neighborhood. • Determine where you’ll go. Coordinate, in advance, to stay with friends or family members, or find a pet- friendly hotel outside the disaster area. Have those conversations and do your research well ahead of time so you have a plan in place when needed. • Create a pet-friendly resource list. Not all emergency shelters will accept pets, so you need a Plan B. Develop a list of the pet-friendly hotels outside your immediate area. Research a list of veterinarians in the area should your pet need medical care (your regular vet may have some recommendations). Also, figure out which boarding facilities are nearby in case you need to separate from your pet for a time. • Pack an emergency bag. You’ll want emergency provisions packed for your pet well in advance of a catastrophe so you can evacuate your home quickly if needed. Choose an easy-to-carry bag, label it and keep it where everyone in the family can find it quickly. The bag should include a pet first aid kit; enough food and bottled water for a week (rotate this every couple of months to keep it from going bad); medications (check periodically to ensure medicines in your emergency bag don’t expire); cleanup supplies; food and water dishes; bags (or litter for cats) for collecting waste; an extra collar and leash; photocopies of medical records; towels; recent photos of your pets; and a favorite toy or chewy for comfort. It’s also a good idea to have a sturdy carrier or crate for each pet.
Nest Bedding Nest Bedding, is a family owned bedding and mattress company and they have recently launched a brand new line of organic, all-natural pet beds! These are unique beds designed to meet the needs of our four-legged friends. The line, consisting of a Bolstered Dog Bed and Wool Dog Bed, is made from 100% green waste recycled plastic fill that is both breathable and non-absorbent, with a bolstered edge for pressure point relief. The simple design is encased with a canvas cotton fabric, rendering the beds durable and tough for pups to chew through. I’ve been through lots of beds, these seem like they will last for the long-haul!
Pet of the Month Buffy the Protector Meet Buffy! For a vampire slayer, she is actually quite skittish. Buffy is very well behaved and super sweet, but terrified of thunderstorms and fireworks. Even a little snap pop will have her cowering! Buffy has been with her family since she was born and is now 8 years old. Buffy’s human mom, Amber, had her Mom with her when she delivered five other pups. Buffy and her sister are identical except she has a chip in her ear on the right side while her sister has one on the left. Momma swears they fought in the womb! Buffy is very shy and timid but fiercely protective of her family, including her human siblings, Xander, 8 and Scarlett, 3. Xander is only a few months older than Buffy, so they have been pals since day one!
We all love to show off our nonhuman family members, and now is your chance to have a bigger audience! Send in your pet photos to danielle.wilmingtonparent@gmail.com with a little information about their unique personality and how they fit in to your family, and they may be featured in an upcoming issue!
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Wilmington Parent | September 2018 | 25
YOUR HEALTH
PREPARING FOR BACK-TO-SCHOOL ILLNESSES
N
ow that you’ve settled into the new school year routine, the last thing you want is a call from the school nurse telling you to come pick up your sick child. Here are some common ailments you can expect during the fall term, how to prevent them, and ways to treat them.
Colds/Sinusitis. Is it a cold that will simply run its course or a more complicated sinus infection that may need more aggressive treatment? That question perplexes pediatricians as well as parents. If your child has a history of sinusitis and comes down with a cold, you might think the doctor should prescribe an antibiotic. Sinusitis can look like a cold, but is more defined as cold symptoms that haven’t improved or are getting worse after 10 to 14 days. Doctors recommend not taking antibiotics unless it has gone beyond what a normal cold would last. Gastroenteritis (stomach flu). When your child comes down with diarrhea and vomiting -- the characteristic signs of stomach flu -- take heed. Usually the cause is from a virus carried in the stool and is easily passed from one person to another. Here’s where hand washing becomes a survival skill. Meanwhile, keep your sick child comforted and hydrated. If abdominal pain or fever is also present, make sure to seek medical attention to make sure it isn’t something more serious that would require more immediate and urgent attention.
26 | September 2018 | Wilmington Parent
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease. More common in children under 5, but can be passed along to older siblings. HFMD, is caused by a virus. Symptoms include ulcers, or sores, inside or around the mouth and a rash or blisters on the hands, feet, legs, or buttocks. And while it’s not pleasant, it also isn’t serious. Your child can catch hand-foot-and-mouth through contact with someone who has it, or from something that’s been in contact with the virus, like a toy, tabletop, or doorknob. It tends to spread easily in the summer and fall. Hand-foot-and-mouth disease should go away on its own after 7 to 10 days. There is no treatment for the illness and no vaccine. Over the counter pain relievers can ease symptoms. Your child is most contagious in the first 7 days. But the virus can stay in her body for days or weeks after symptoms go away and it could spread through spit or poop. The best way to prevent that is to wash hands thoroughly. Sore Throat/Strep Throat. Most sore throats are caused by viruses and clear up on their own. Strep throat, which in very common among kids and teens, is a contagious bacterial diseas generally accompanied by fever, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, and red, swollen tonsils. Not all sore throats are from strep. A strep infection can be verified and diagnosed by a test at the doctor’s office. Completion of an antibiotic course is extremely important in the treatment of strep. Encourage your child to not share food, drinks, or utensils with others to avoid coming home with strep. v
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FIT FAMILY
Best Times to Eat When people try to make adjustments to their eating for health reasons, most focus on the actual food they consume. However, when you eat can affect your health, energy, hunger levels, and sleep. Here are some good guidelines: BREAKFAST - Eat within 30 minutes of waking up - Ideal time to have breakfast is 7am - Do not eat breakfast later than 10am LUNCH - Ideal time to have lunch is 12:45pm - Try to keep a gap of 4 hours between your breakfast and lunch - Do not eat lunch later than 4pm DINNER - The ideal time to have dinner is 7pm - You should keep a gap of 3 hours between your dinner and bedtime - Do not eat dinner later than 10pm
Merry-Go-Run On September 8th at 8:30am, join families for a 1-Mile Fun Run and 5K at Brunswick Forest in Leland. Proceeds from this fundraiser run will benefit The Carousel Center, a non-profit in Wilmington that helps child victims of domestic and sexual abuse. The Carousel Center provides medical exams, child-friendly forensic interviews as well as therapy to help children through a traumatic experience. After you enjoy your run through the beautiful Brunswick Forest, return for fun, kid-friendly activities and vendor booths after the race. Register at www.its-go-time.com/merry-go-run.
Mindfulness Expo The Mindfulness Expo is an amazing day of walking meditation, yoga, labyrinth, sitting meditation, special programs for kids, and a variety of tables and booths with community mindfulness resources. This event will be held on September 29th from 10am-3pm at Halyburton Park. Local Practitioners will be available to share wisdom: Bhavana Community: Local meditation resources, classes, activities Mindfulness Plugged in: Internet Resources, Brain Biofeedback, phone apps Mindfulness of the Body: Eating, Smelling, Listening, Feeling Mindfulness Engaged: Environment, Politics, Human Values Mindful Reading: What to read to learn more
Pier-2-Pier Swim Race Come out and swim, or cheer for your favorite swimmer, on September 15th at 9am. The Pier-to-Pier Swim in Wrightsville Beach, features a swim of 1.7 miles between Johnny Mercer’s Pier and Crystal Pier. The starting point is determined on race day depending on the ocean current. Awards given to the Best Overall Male, Best Overall Female, Best Overall Masters Male (40+) and Best Overall Masters Female (40+). This event is free for spectators, fun to watch, and proceeds benefit Wilmington Family YMCA’s Swim Team-CFAC. For more information call 251-9622.
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Wilmington Parent | September 2018 | 27
SCHOOL NOTES
School’s Out! NEW HANOVER COUNTY: Traditional Schools: 9/3 - No School, Holiday Year Round Schools: 9/3 - No School, Holiday 9/21 - Half Day for Students Isaac Bear Early College HS: 9/3 - No School, Holiday Wilmington Early College HS: 9/3 - No School, Holiday
NHC Board of Education to Hold Three Redistricting Public Forums The New Hanover County Board of Education will conduct three public forums during the month of September 2018 to hear input from the community on the proposed redistricting maps. To make these forums convenient for citizens across the county, they will be held in the central, northern, and southern regions at various schools. The itinerary is as follows: Thursday, September 13, 5:30pm - 8:00pm Williston Middle School Wednesday, September 19, 5:30pm - 8:00pm Holly Shelter Middle School Wednesday, September 26, 5:30pm - 8:00pm Minnie Evans Arts Center Each forum will be recorded and aired on NHCS-TV. For more information, visit www.nhcs.net/redistricting.htm or call 254-4200.
BRUNSWICK: Traditional Schools: 9/3 - No School, Holiday
NHCS Selected for National Literacy Improvement Initiative TrueSchool Innovation Fellowship
Year Round Schools: 9/3 - No School, Holiday Early College High School: 9/3 - No School, Holiday
Four New Hanover County Schools, Winter Park, College Park, Pine Valley and Murrayville Elementary Schools, have been selected to receive the 2018-2019 TrueSchool Innovation Fellowship. The project, fully funded by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, is an intensive, collaborative effort aimed at improving literacy among students, prekindergarten to 3rd grade.
PENDER: Traditional Schools: 9/3 - No School, Holiday Year Round Schools: 9/3 - No School, Holiday 9/17 - Teacher Workday, No School for Students Pender Early College HS: 9/3 - No School, Holiday Visit www.nhcs.net, www.co.brunswick.k12.nc.us or www.pendercountyschools.net for more information.
The TrueSchool Innovation Fellowship provides a $15,000 scholarship per school to cover the full cost of year-long programmatic and coaching support. Only two states, North Carolina and Nebraska, and 20 schools within each of these two states were selected. Selected schools will each create teams made up of 3 to 6 members, including the principal and at least two teacher leaders. These teams, with the assistance of TrueSchool’s specialized program and experienced coaches, will lead a school-wide innovation effort with a focus on equity, academic achievement, social-emotional support, and 21stcentury learning. For more information on TrueSchool visit their website at www.trueschool.org. For more information on the W.K. Kellogg Foundation visit www.wkkf.org.
Bring Your Own Device Bring Your Own Device, also known as BYOD, is an initiative in New Hanover County Schools that empowers staff and students to use their mobile device(s), on the school’s NHCS_Personal network, to both enhance existing digital teaching and learning opportunities and create new ones. This initiative is part of the NHCS Digital Teaching and Learning plan and was created to help increase and improve teachers’ and students’ use of digital tools for learning. All schools are equipped with a NHCS_Personal network, but here are a few things teachers and students should know before getting started. • Students should check with their teacher before bringing a device to school for use. • Before participating in BYOD staff and students must read the BYOD Policy and sign the appropriate agreement form. • The completed form should be returned to the school. Visit www.nhcs.net for forms and more information.
28 | September 2018 | Wilmington Parent
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PEANUT GALLERY
Emory H. 8/11 • 2yo
Liam
9/9 • 4yo
Judson C.
• 4yo
Boyd 8/26 • 1yo
Aryana R. 8/21 • 9yo
Miranda S. 9/14 • 2yo
Shealyn 7/2 • 10yo
Tucker 9/18 • 1yo
Maggie W. 9/19 • 5yo
Jace P. 9/6 • 5yo
Samari W.
9/9• 1yo
Sebastián B. 9/15 • 1yo
DOES YOUR CHILD OR GRANDCHILD HAVE A BIRTHDAY IN OCTOBER?
Greta Kate 8/9 • 4yo
Honor them by having their photo published in Wilmington Parent. Here's how: e-mail image (size not to exceed 1mb) to birthday@wilmingtonparent.com. Deadline for publication: 09/12. We have a limited number of spots, so if you sent your child’s picture and do not see it this issue, please check back next month!
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Wilmington Parent | September 2018 | 29
STEP UP & STEP OUT
There are over 402,000 kids & teens in U.S. foster care, and over 100,000 of those children are available for adoption. You can literally change the destiny of a child or teen by becoming a foster or foster-to-adopt parent.
Foster Parent Training classes are forming now. Call for details!
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PROFESSIONAL PARENTS NEEDED! Ask Us About Our Professional Parenting IAFT Program!