December 2018

AtlantaParent December 2018/ atlantaparent.com

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Let the Holidays Sparkle Out-of-the-Box Gifts and Terrific Toys Under $25

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Our Favorite Kids’ Books of 2018

GREAT FAMILY CONCERTS A FESTIVE

DEC 16

SUN: 1:30 & 3:30pm

HOLIDAY

Stephen Mulligan, conductor

FEATURING THE MOVING ARTISTS OF glo & THE JOYFUL CHORUS OF 100 ATLANTA CHILDREN Robert Spano, conductor Lauri Stallings, director

2 PERFORMANCES

1 SPECIAL NIGHT RAVEL’S

The beautiful fable of the princess & the frog REIMAGINED

MAR 17

SUN: 1:30 & 3pm

Mother Goose

MAR 2

SAT: 8pm

Magical

Music Adventure featuring The Listener with the Magic Circle Mime Company Stephen Mulligan, conductor

BUY TICKETS TODAY! BUY TICKETS TODAY!

aso.org aso.org

This is not a waterpark.

THIS IS A REFRESHING TWIST ON FAMILY TIME. Chill vibe or thrill ride, riding the wave or floating along a lazy river, SoundWaves fuses music and water to create an exclusive experience with something for the entire family. This is America’s first upscale indoor/outdoor resort water attraction. This is going to be fantastic.

BOOK YOUR PACK AGE TODAY AT SOUNDWAVESGO.COM.

GET IN TUNE WITH NASHVILLE’S ONLY RESORT WATER EXPERIENCE atlantaparent.com

December 2018 Atlanta Parent 3

OPEN HOUSE

lle Lawrencevi th January 26 pm 12 – am 10

404-409-0827 Sandy Springs

4 Atlanta Parent December 2018

Sandy Springs / Lawrenceville-Suwanee

678-985-8080 Lawrenceville-Suwanee

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Inside 35 December

YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

Holiday Fun Guide PAGE

35

n Oh So Many Nutcrackers: There are so many performances of this holiday-themed ballet that it’s hard to choose. Disney even has a Nutcracker movie this year. n Best Light Displays: See the bright holiday lights in the big city and a short drive away. n Fun Under $5: These low-cost events rate high on the fun meter. n And So Much More: See a parade, go ice skating, play in the snow and celebrate your faith by visiting a nativity display or a menorah lighting.

Features

14

Gifts That Make Memories

Pair an experience with a small gift for a Christmas that kids will remember.

20

Toys Under $25

28

London with Kids

30

... and more 8 Publisher’s Note 10 Good Stuff Things we like

12 Can’t Wait for Camp

Find the perfect summer camp for your kids.

Budget-friendly gifts, plus great stocking stuffers.

An adventure Across the Pond is an easy first trip abroad, with lots of museums, parks and kid-pleasing fun.

Best Books of 2018

Share some wonderful stories with your kids – Atlanta Parent’s recommendations will captivate every age group.

SPONSORED CONTENT

24 Preschools at the

Top of Their Class

Great preschools foster curiosity and learning.

Start your search here.

SPONSORED CONTENT

53 Winter Staycation 54 December Calendar 55 New Year’s Eve Events 58 For the Fridge Words of humor & wisdom

Magazine Association of the Southeast

2013 Award Winner atlantaparent.com

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BARRINGTON ACADEMY

PUBLISHER Liz White

lwhite@atlantaparent.com ASSOCIATE Laura Powell PUBLISHER lpowell@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Carolyn Haushalter EXECUTIVE chaushalter@atlantaparent.com

Where Learning Takes Flight

Infants & Toddlers Twos & Threes Private Preschool School-Age Programs Summer Camp

770-474-0772 Enrolling now for Free GA PreK

barringtonacademy.com

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ACCOUNT Cindy Ford EXECUTIVE cford@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Emily Satterfield EXECUTIVE Esatterfield@atlantaparent.com

SPECIAL EVENTS Hannah Sykes COORDINATOR/ hsykes@atlantaparent.com SALES ASSOCIATE CONTRIBUTING Amanda Miller Allen

EDITOR

810 Flat Rock Rd., Stockbridge 30281

STAFF Teresa Whiting WRITER tfarkas@atlantaparent.com

EDITORIAL Sheri Taylor-Emery

ART DIRECTOR creative@atlantaparent.com

PRODUCTION Robin Mintz

OPERATIONS Caroline Ward MANAGER cward@atlantaparent.com ADMINISTRATIVE Amelia Ramirez

ASSISTANT

MARKETING MOM Felicia Barman

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PARENT

MOST-READ STORIES 8 Reasons to Visit Great Wolf Lodge 9 Quick and Easy Breakfasts for Families Best Parenting Hacks for Getting Your Kids Out the Door

KID-FRIENDLY GUIDES Best Family Photographers in Atlanta

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CONTESTS Get Bouncing!

Best Jump and Trampoline Places Top Field Trips for Schools and Families in Atlanta and Beyond

Keep an eye out for #AtlantaParentContest every week on Facebook and our enewsletter.

This month, we’ll be giving away tickets to License to Chill Snow Island at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands, Chattahoochee Nature Center and more.

Facebook Feedback Fun My kid refuses to brush her teeth.

What should I do?

“My daughter likes the Alexa timer for tooth brushing, and picking out her own toothbrush and toothpaste.”

– Melinda Merrill “According to research from the AAPD, parents are supposed to brush children’s teeth until age 8. It’s worked for all three of our girls and we’ve had no cavities so far.”

– Amanda Alexander “Let them brush your teeth while you brush theirs.” – Bridget Campbell

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Publisher’s Note Gifts That Last Long After the Holidays

Pregnant & looking for ways to relax?

MASSAGE SPECIALTIES

• Pregnancy • Postpartum • Fertility • Neuromuscular 60, 75 or 90 minute massage sessions!

Toys are on everyone’s mind right now. Parents are on the hunt for that perfect toy to make a child’s Christmas morning magical.

Grandparents fret about choosing the right gift. Friends often have a similar dilemma. Maybe we should just ask the Magic 8 Ball.

This simple toy just got inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame, along with the card game Uno and the pinball machine. In fact, the toys in the Hall of Fame seem to have a lot in common – most of them foster creativity, imaginative play or group play. Kids love that – they can play with a cardboard box for hours, pretending it’s a fort or a car, packing it and unpacking it with groceries or making it into a doll house.

Memorable play is a powerful experience for kids and when that play includes time with their families, it’s the perfect gift. A football is just a football, and not much fun until the whole family gets involved in a tag team game or friends come over to play. Just like the Magic 8 Ball is more fun with friends and family.

Our story, “Not All Gifts Come in a Box,” on page 14 offers some ideas for “experience” gifts with a tangible gift to complement the experience. The story has lots of ideas for children who love books, crafts, sports and much more. They will cherish that special outing or special time forever.

The holidays in Atlanta offer so many opportunities to make memories with your family. There are classics like The Pink Pig and new adventures such as Santa’s Fantastical. Participate in a public menorah lighting, see the beautiful light displays, watch one of the many performances of the Nutcracker, play in the snow, go cut down your own Christmas tree and so much more. The possibilities are endless. Check Atlanta Parent’s Top Holiday Events starting on page 35 for inspiration.

Making this holiday special doesn’t have to be about that perfect gift – the one they really want is time with you.

How to Reach us: Two locations: Atlanta & Roswell

678-462-2173 pregnancymassage.com

$10 OFF

your first prenatal massage when you mention Atlanta Parent

8 Atlanta Parent December 2018

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

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WINTER BREAK CAMPS The weather outside is frightful and the kids are home from school.

These cool camps wrap up winter fun and learning into one neat package.

404-624-5822 / Zooatlanta.org

770-998-8111 / AtlantaWorkshopPlayers.com

Zoo Atlanta: Bundle up with us this winter break and have a blast at Safari Camp, Winter Session at Zoo Atlanta. Campers learn how they can become a Conservation Superhero! Campers will be introduced to modern-day conservation superheroes and learn how they can save wildlife and wild places. They’ll also meet animals that need our help. Camp starts December 27! Learn more and register at zooatlanta.org

Atlanta Workshop Players Winter Break Camp: Make A Movie AND Make A Difference. ACT On-Screen and as production crew. Make a movie with purpose.

Earn professional-level IMDB Resume Credits. Screen at film festivals AND walk the Red Carpet at your VIP movie Premiere! Dec. 27-31. Half Day (10 a.m.-2:30 p.m.) and Full (10 a.m.-6 p.m.) options. Grab your spot now!

Camp Kingfisher Winter Break at CNC: Get a dose of summertime fun in the winter with hikes, animal encounters, outdoor games, hands-on science and our survival camp! Winter Camp is open for current K-7th graders. Prices vary per session. Session 1: December 27–28 and Session 2: January 2–4.

770-992-2055 x222 / chattnaturecenter.org

678-493-5651 / clubscikidz.com

844-397-BALL (2255) / hifivenorthatl.com

Club Scikidz: Atlanta’s Best Science and Technology Holiday Camp. We have put together a fantastic collection of our Best STEM and STEAM projects and experiments. December 27 & 28; January 2-4. Attend all five days for $285 ($57 per day). Daily rate $65. The Unitarian Universalist Metro Atlanta North in Roswell.

9-4pm. Before & After Care Available. See our website for more details.

Hi-Five Sports Co-ed Winter Break Camp: Learn and enjoy multiple sports in this exciting Holiday Camp! Skills development, mini tournaments, end of Camp Championship games and more. Camp located at Desana Middle School in Alpharetta. Dec. 26-28. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Aftercare available 3 p.m.-5 p.m. Ages 5-14 welcome. Reserve your child’s spot today!

770-993-7975 / highmeadowscamp.org

High Meadows Camp: Summer fun will get a winter twist with traditional favorites and new activities designed for a week of laughter and learning, Groups will rotate between Archery, Wilderness and Lore, Art, and Sports. Special events such as Tipi Fire and Animal Adventures will change daily. Current Kindergartners through 8th Graders are welcome. Wednesday, Dec. 26 - Saturday, Dec. 29th. 9:15 a.m. to 4 p.m.

770-394-3447 / spruillarts.org

School Break Art Camps at the Spruill Center: Campers (ages 5-10) will explore art through a variety of mixed-media such as drawing, painting, collage or clay projects. 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. with Before & After Care Available in Dunwoody.

Price averages $75 per day. Dates: January 21 and February 18. Register at spruillarts.org/youthclassesandcamps or 770-394-3447 x 0.

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December 2018 Atlanta Parent 9

by Teresa Farkas

Good StUff

Super Sharing Super Bowl excitement is already starting in Atlanta, and the “Super Kids-Super Sharing” project collects books, sports equipment and school supplies for students in need.

The National Football League is teaming up with local schools in Atlanta to collect items in early January. Schools may register by emailing the name of their school, address and contact information to susan.groh@ NFLenvironment.com.

THINGS WE LIKE Fitbit for Kids

The ever-popular Fitbit device is redesigned for kids as the “Fitbit Ace,” and now the whole family can get in on the fun.

Fitbit Ace tracks steps, activity and sleep, and shows stats on a display. Kids receive celebration messages when they hit goals, and reminders to keep moving. Available at fitbit.com/ace for $99.95.

KIDBOX Seasonal changes mean kids need new, cute clothes that fit. KIDBOX offers a seasonal nonsubscription option that includes five to seven pieces of clothing for your boy or girl. Take a style quiz, then keep the whole box or only keep items you like. They offer free shipping both ways. Plus when you buy a whole box, they donate clothes to kids in need. KIDBOX also has a baby, pajama and essentials box options. Available at kidbox.com for $98.

Kid-Focused Meal Delivery Meal delivery services are everywhere these days, and for good reason – the plans make weekly meals a breeze for families. Nurture Life focuses on meal plans for babies, toddlers and kids. Choose a plan for your child’s age; the food is cooked and delivered and then can be reheated in the oven or microwave. Available at nurturelife.com. Prices typically range from $35 to $120 per week.

Highlights Kids’ Podcast This famous kids’ magazine continues to update their ways of communication for this technology-savvy generation. The “Highlights Hangout” brings many elements of Highlights Magazine into the podcast with familiar games, songs, stories and characters with exciting sound effects for kids. Listen and subscribe at Apple Podcasts. itunes.apple.com

10 Atlanta Parent December 2018

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Spotlight on Fine Arts Fine Arts Section ATLANTA DANCE & MUSIC ACADEMY 404-877-0005 524 Plasters Avenue NE, Atlanta atlantadanceandmusic.com Sharing the joys of Dance and Music since 1998. Atlanta Dance & Music Academy offers a full dance program including Preschool Dance, Ballet, Modern, Jazz/Hip-Hop and Teen Ballet. Private music lessons in Piano, Voice, Guitar etc. Have one child in dance while another takes music; easing the logistical challenges of modern family life.

Fine Arts Section

DUNWOODY SCHOOL FOR THE ARTS 770-280-1215 1445 Mount Vernon Road, Dunwoody www.dbc.org/schoolforthearts Learn Piano, Guitar, Drums, Woodwinds/Brass as well as Music Theory, Drama and Voice from instructors who love teaching students of all ages. We offer beginner to advanced Ballet, Tap, Jazz and Hip-hop. Young lovers of the arts will enjoy our Preschool Piano, Creative Movement and Little Maestros.

Fine Arts Section

FOREFRONT ARTS CHILDREN’S THEATRE 770-864-3316 Multiple Locations ForefrontArts.com Ages 3-18 can channel their talents with Forefront Arts Children’s Theatre – while boosting confidence and developing life skills in problem solving, listening and collaboration. School-year classes in Acting, Improv, Musical Theatre, Dance Technique and more.

Full-scale productions – perform in “The Lion King JR”! Summer and school break camps. Afterschool and weekend options.

Atlanta Parent

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THE MUSIC CLASS 770-645-5578 12 Locations in Metro Atlanta www.themusicclass.com/atlanta

Fun filled classes of singing, dancing, movement and instrument play. Parents learn how to enrich their child’s music environment and enhance music potential. Ages birth – seven years. Over 150 classes offered in metro Atlanta featuring our award winning music. Call for class times and to schedule a free observation class.

Atlanta Parent atlantaparent.com

December 2018 atlantaparent.com Atlanta Parent 11

SPONSORED CONTENT

CAN’T WAIT Overnight camps are gearing up for an amazing summer of discovery and fun, and now’s the perfect time to get your kids registered and ready to make lasting memories. Find the perfect fit with our guide to outstanding camps. n Riverview Camp for Girls

Riverview Camp for Girls

Adventure, inspiration, character and confidence building await you in Mentone, Alabama atop beautiful Lookout Mountain where there is a camp community full of fun, friends and adventure. Swing from a zip line, dress in the colors of your tribe, and try activities like archery, horseback riding or canoeing. The Riverview Equestrian program is a favorite and there is no extra fee to participate. There are over 20 activities to choose from with something for every interest. Riverview creates a positive, Christian environment and a feeling of family for girls to make life-long friendships. Many girls return year after year and more than 250 girls have received 10-year blankets. Mother-Daughter weekends, one-week and two-week sessions with longer stays available for girls ages 6-16. Session choices run May 26-July 26.Only 2 hours from Atlanta. For an information packet: 800-882-0722 or riverviewcamp.com

n YMCA Camp Ocoee

YMCA Camp Ocoee

Activities such as archery, mountain biking, horseback riding, high ropes and more are a staple in the daily activities at Camp Ocoee. Kids enjoy water sports on Lake Ocoee including canoeing, water skiing and stand up paddleboards. The camp is situated in the Cherokee National Forest with open-air cabins.

Campers have the opportunity to go on an overnight campout in tents by the lake, and cook s’mores over a campfire. The Christian values learned and the confidence gained by campers becomes a way of life. Generations of families have fond memories of their time at Camp Ocoee. One week sessions for boys and girls ages 7-15 from June 2-Aug. 3. Only two hours from Atlanta. Ocoee, Tenn. ymcacampocoee.org

n YMCA Camp Greenville

YMCA Camp Greenville

12 Atlanta Parent December 2018

For more than 100 years, Y Camp Greenville’s “magic on the mountain” has provided a lifetime of memories for 5-18-year-old boys and girls in a unique mountain-top setting. This overnight adventure camp offers a well-balanced schedule of activities to suit the interests of any camper – from arts and crafts, archery, swimming and boating, to classic all camp games, enjoying the natural surroundings, and on-camp adventure overnights. A new state-of-the-art health facility staffed by Greenville Hospital System nurses ensures that campers have the best of care, for knee scrapes or homesickness to the daily management of diabetes and asthma. Northern Greenville County, S.C. campgreenville.org

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FOR CAMP! n Valley View Ranch Equestrian Camp Is your daughter horse crazy? At Valley View Ranch girls get their own horse to care for and ride the entire time they are at camp. This includes grooming, tacking and cleaning the horse stable. Girls can spend four to six hours per day with the horses, and 600 acres of trails allow for trail riding time outside of training.

Campers get instruction in Western and English riding, with an instructor ratio of two to one. Traditional camp activities such as archery, swimming, and arts and crafts are woven into each day, and nightly activities include karaoke, campfires and scavenger hunts. One-hundred percent of the staff comes back year after year. One- or two-week sessions are offered for girls ages 8-17 from June 2-July 26. Cloudland, Ga. valleyviewranch.com

Valley View Ranch Equestrian Camp

n Cub Creek Science Camp Imagine a camp that has an interactive zoo with over 300 animals, a 6-element ropes course with ziplining and climbing walls, craft and pottery studios for creative expression, and over 100 activities ranging from science to culinary. We are that camp! At Cub Creek, campers can spend their day exploring their interests while meeting new people and trying new things. Camp offers air-conditioned cabins, variety in meals, incredible facilities, and outstanding staff. Sessions for boys and girls ages 7-17 from June 2-August 10. Rolla, Missouri. MoScienceCamp.com

Cub Creek Science Camp

n Camp Juliette Low Platform tents, outdoor adventure, traditional camping, fun and friendship!

Since 1922, Camp Juliette Low (CJL) has been providing girls with outdoor experiences that foster self-confidence, independence, teamwork and leadership.

At CJL, campers will find a place where they can be themselves, enjoy the outdoors, and learn new skills like archery, horseback riding, canoeing, sailing, paddle boarding, swimming, ceramics, zip-line, challenge course, climbing wall, backpacking and outdoor cooking. Camp counselors are alumnae of CJL and provide a safe, nurturing, inclusive environment for girls to grow and thrive. CJL is located on Lookout Mountain in Cloudland, GA, and offers 1 and 2 week sessions for girls ages 7-17. cjl.org

Camp Juliette Low

n Wake Lanier Wake Lanier offers an action-packed camp experience, with a focus on water sports and fun, sun up to sun down! Ride the waves and learn to wakesurf, wakeboard, wakeskate, water ski and more. Campers build self-confidence, learn to set goals and practice perseverance, while mastering water sports and new tricks. All training is specific to the campers current skill level and their desired pace of progression, so no experience is required. This all happens in a safe and supportive environment, where campers can excel at their own pace. Use the code eBIRD5 for 5 percent off all summer camps. Mon.-Fri. June 4-July 23 (excluding week of July 3). Ages 8 and older. Gainesville, Ga.; wakelanier.com

Wake Lanier

n Woodberry Compass Woodberry Compass blends academics with the outdoors to help boys discover their leadership style through outdoor adventure and intellectual challenge. The camp is set on the 1,200-acre campus of Woodberry Forest School, where boys stay in air-conditioned rooms while enjoying a high ropes course, hiking, canoeing, hands-on engineering challenges, leadership simulations, and fun and fellowship. They leave camp with new and deep friendships, an ability to collaborate with others, and an expanded sense of adventure. One session, June 15-22, for rising sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-grade boys. Early Bird special rate available until Jan. 15. Woodberry Forest, Va. woodberry.org/camps

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Woodberry Compass

December 2018 Atlanta Parent 13

NOT ALL

GIFTS COME IN A

BOX

Unwrap Priceless Experiences with Your Kids This Holiday Season

by Janeen Lewis

Parents want their children’s Christmas to be magical. Try one of these ideas for a memorymaking time together, and pair the experience with a related fun gift.

Crafty and Creative If your child likes projects or you’re a maker-minded parent that wants your child to learn practical life skills, try some of these ideas to get your hobbyist started: Experiences:

Gifts:

n Take knitting or crocheting classes at Yarning for Ewe

n Knit or crochet kit for kids

n Sign up for Home Depot free woodworking classes n Learn to sew with classes at JoAnn Fabrics or Fabricate Studios n Try beginning jewelry making class from Art at Home, where the artists come to you. n Take lessons in glasswork from Art at Home (some classes have an age requirement of 14 or 15) n Learn Bath Bomb Making from Green Girl Basics at Goat Farm Art Center

n The book “Woodland Crochet: 12 Precious Projects to Stitch and Snuggle”

by Kristen Rask n Young Woodworker’s Project Kit from Lakeshore Learning (includes everything needed to build a small corner shelf, tool box and treasure chest) n Beginner Sewing Machine like the Singer Start 1304 n Beads or jewelry making kit

Sports Fans Atlanta is a sports lover’s headquarters, with its many sporting museums and arenas. Try these ideas: Experiences: n Buy tickets to a professional sporting event like Atlanta Hawks basketball, Atlanta United FC or Atlanta Gladiators n Tour the Mercedes Benz Stadium, SunTrust Park or the College Football Hall of Fame. n Ice skate at one of Atlanta’s many seasonal outdoor rinks or take lessons together at an indoor rink n See jousting at Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament n Sign up for Dbat membership or lessons for baseball fans Gifts: n Sports equipment n Professional or college team jerseys or hats n Fitness tracker watch n Gymnastics or yoga mat n Over the door basketball hoop

14 Atlanta Parent December 2018

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Future Foodies Cooking classes for just kids or kids with their parents will get your young chef excited.

Experiences: n Take cooking lessons at Young Chef’s Academy or Cozymeal n Sign up for a kids or teens class at Publix Alpharetta Aprons Cooking School. n Join Kroger Chef Junior classes on Saturdays at select stores throughout Atlanta for $7 Gifts: n MasterChef Junior Cooking Essentials Set n Personalized chef apron, jacket or hat n MindWare Playful Chef Knife Kit (it really cuts but is safe for kids) n American Girl Baking Essentials Set and Cookbook Gift Set n “Kid Chef: The Foodie Kids Cookbook” by Melina Hammer

Fashionistas These ideas show your fashion lover you care about their style.

Experiences: n Go to a fashion show n Sign them up for modeling classes or do classes together n Indulge in Mommy and Me mani-pedis at Posh Spot, Sugarcoat or Lush Nails & Spa Gifts: n My First Fashion Designer (by Lakeshore Learning) includes a miniature dress form, cloth swatches and buttons to create runway designs n A mix-and-match fashion drawing set like Fashion Plates n FabKids subscription box n Gift card to a favorite clothing store n Books for designing and creating, such as “Klutz Fashion Portfolio” or “My Even More Wonderful World of Fashion”

Wild About Books

Cont’d on page 16

If your child loves to read, try one of these ideas: Experiences: n Go for storytelling at The Little Shop of Stories, The Wren’s Nest, the Children’s Museum of Atlanta or the Atlanta Botanical Garden or your local library n Attend book signings with the kids of some of their favorite authors n Browse with the kids at bookstores, thrift stores, used book stores or your local library for books they’d like Gifts: n Book by a favorite author and book light n Reading tent n Comfy beanbag chair n Magazine subscription n Book club subscription from Highlights

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December 2018 Atlanta Parent 15

NOT ALL GIFTS COME IN A BOX Back to Nature Atlanta has plenty of places to fish, hike, canoe and enjoy nature.

Experiences: n Sign up for the Wild Explorers Club, a monthly online adventure program n Visit the Chattahoochee Nature Center or take one of their canoe trips n Plan a whitewater rafting trip or fishing trip n Get SCUBA ready with beginner lessons n Experience the thrill of ziplining Gifts: n Fishing rod and gear

n Tent

n Compass, binoculars and hiking gear

n SCUBA gear n Canoe or kayak

Time for Tea Boys and girls both enjoy quiet conversation over a warm cup of tea, with scones, cookies or tiny sandwiches.

Experiences: n Enjoy a tea time at Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party, Tea Leaves &Thyme or American Girl Bistro n Set the table with your best china and dress up for a tea party at home Gifts: n Tea pot and cup n Tea cozy

A Flair for Design Help your child find their inner interior designer or architect.

n Costume necklaces, hats, gloves and purse to wear to tea time n Scones and tea biscuits

Experiences: n Use your child’s ideas to design his or her bedroom or playroom makeover

STEAM On

n Paint the bedroom together in a color your child chooses or put a faux finish on the bedroom furniture

If your child loves STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math), Atlanta provides a plethora of classes and camps.

n Sign up for architectural drawing or design classes at MODA, Atlanta’s museum of art and design Gifts: n Design Your Dream Room lets your child explore with patterns, color and space, with 300 punch-out pieces to design a room n Young Architect House Designer from Mindware lets kids design and build a 3-D home model n Paint for a bedroom or playroom picked out by your child n Sheets, bedspread, curtains or designer pillows your child wants

Experiences: n Explore with classes at Engineering for Kids or Start Code n Visit Chattahoochee Nature Center, Tellus Science Museum or Children’s Museum of Atlanta n Build and create at LEGOLAND Discovery Center n Sign them up for summer camp at Club SciKidz, Camp at iD Tech or Camp Invention Gifts: n Science subscription boxes like Groovy Lab in a Box and Kiwi Crate n Microscope

n Composter n Telescope n LEGO Master Builders Academy kit

n Lamps, desk set or wall art

16 Atlanta Parent December 2018

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BEST FAMILY MEMBERSHIPS IN ATLANTA Family memberships (good for one year) are a great way to save money when kids want to visit their favorite attraction again and again. Atlanta Parent thinks these memberships are worth the investment. We’ve listed them from the least to the most expensive. Keep in mind that these memberships usually pay for themselves in two visits or less.

Chattahoochee Nature Center

Escape the city and learn about nature through programs and hands-on activities. Family membership includes: Free admission for two adults and up to four children; guest passes for four people; free admission to Family Fun Days; member-only events; free or reduced admission to other nature centers. n Family memberships start at $90. chattnaturecenter.org

Atlanta History Center

Learn about the history of Atlanta and the South through visits to the 1840s Smith Family Farm. Family membership includes: Free admission for two adults and four children; two guest passes; free admission to History on the Rocks series. n Family memberships start at $99. atlantahistorycenter.org

Center for Civil and Human Rights

This cultural attraction connects the American Civil Rights Movement with today’s Global Human Rights Movement with galleries that tell the story of the struggles. Family membership includes: admission for two adults and up to five children. n Family memberships start at $100. civilandhumanrights.org

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Greene Family Learning Center at High Museum of Art

Atlanta Botanical Garden

Atlanta’s urban oasis is home to expansive and unique plants and trees and an interactive Children’s Garden. Family membership includes: admission for two adults and two kids at the Atlanta and Gainesville gardens; four guest passes; reciprocal privileges at other gardens. n Family memberships start at $109. atlantabg.org Cont’d on page 18

December 2018 Atlanta Parent 17

Painting & Drawing Lessons Art & Fitness School Break Camps

` `

Vinings School of Art

BEST FAMILY MEMBERSHIPS IN ATLANTA Center for Puppetry Arts

Muppets are here! The biggest American organization dedicated to the art of puppet theater includes a hand-on puppetry museum and numerous live puppet performances. Family membership includes: Free museum admission, plus priority seating and discounts on performances. n Family memberships start at $110. puppet.org

O

ARTNE-Ho C ur $1 lass 5

ART Parties 35

678-213-4278 $2 viningsschoolofart.com

Tellus Science Museum

Dig for gems and fossils, visit a solar house, marvel at dinosaur fossils and much more in this hands-on museum for science and technology. Family membership includes: Unlimited admission or two adults and all children under age 18; four planetarium tickets; reciprocal benefits at other science centers. n Family memberships start at $110. tellusmuseum.org

High Museum of Art

Older kids will appreciate the impressive exhibits and younger kids will love the Greene Family Learning Gallery with drawing stations, foam building blocks and a craft wall. Family membership includes: admission to museum collections, special exhibitions and Friday Jazz, First Friday and Toddler Thursday; members-only events; $5 admission tickets for up to five guests per visit. n Family memberships start at $110. high.org

Fernbank Museum of Natural History

Beyond those jaw-dropping dinosaur bones, Fernbank has discovery areas, traveling exhibits, kid-friendly events and a giant screen theater. WildWoods includes a playground, elevated walkways and stroller-friendly walking trails. Family membership includes: admission for two adults and four kids; access to special exhibitions and family adventure days. n Family memberships start at $120. fernbankmuseum.org

Zoo Atlanta

Close encounters with exotic animals are just the start – the zoo offers two playgrounds and a splashpad, a train, a carousel, and keeper talks and events year round. Family membership includes: admission for two adults and four kids; discounted admission at affiliated zoos and aquariums. n Family memberships start at $129. zooatlanta.org Fernbank Museum of Natural History

Children’s Museum of Atlanta

NEW PROGRAMS: •Speaking Skills •Music Theater

This museum is disguised as a play place with six permanent exhibits, traveling displays and special interactive programs. The water play and moon sand areas are can’t-miss fun. Family membership includes: admission for two adults and four kids; four vouchers valid for $5 museum admission; bring friends for free on select days; 50 percent off admission to other children’s museums. n Family memberships start at $130. childrensmuseumatlanta.org Now you can become one with the music

Our unique instructional method develops both musical and intellectual abilities, memory, attention, focus, critical thinking, and helps students reach full academic potential.

Enhance Your Child’s Brain Private Lessons: Music & Chess  4 years– adult Piano  Accordion  Violin  Voice Guitar  Drums  Flute  Chess

EuroSchoolMusic.org  404-255-8382 BUCKHEAD / SANDY SPRINGS

18 Atlanta Parent December 2018

Georgia Aquarium

Atlanta boasts the world’s largest aquarium and includes adorable penguins, Beluga whales, whale sharks and trained dolphins. Family membership includes: Free admission for four family members; two free admission tickets. n Family memberships start at $295.95. georgiaaquarium.org

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center

Young engineers and LEGO enthusiasts have plenty of opportunities to build and create and they’re fascinated by the designs of master builders. Annual passes include: admission for a year; 25 percent off admission for guests; 20 percent off café and 10 percent off at LEGO store and for birthday parties. n Annual Passes start at $55 per person. atlanta.legolanddiscoverycenter.com

atlantaparent.com

MAKE THE HOLIDAYS HAPPY

by Lisa A. Beach

Put a little less stress and a little more fun in the 12 days before Christmas with these ideas:

Secretly place a poinsettia plant on a neighbor’s porch, ring the doorbell and run away.

Invite neighbors to go Christmas caroling, with hot chocolate and cookies at your house afterwards.

Add crushed candy canes to the classic S’more recipe for a festive treat.

Have a Christmas scavenger hunt in the neighborhood.

Finish off with a family game night.

Blow holiday bubbles outside.

Add red food coloring to one jar of bubbles and green to another.

No real snow?

Let the kids have a flour fight outside and watch as they cover each other in clouds of white.

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Buy a special ornament each year or allow kids to open one gift on Christmas Eve.

Let your kids decorate their bedroom doors with festive garland, ornaments, ribbons, etc.

Make a holiday Bingo board. Drive around searching for snowflakes, inflatable Santas in yard displays.

Go on a hike and take gifts for the forest critters.

Bring bird seed or peanut-buttersmeared bread.

Rewrite a favorite holiday tune. Put your family’s spin on it: 12 light sabers dueling, 11 markers drawing ...

Let the kids sleep by the Christmas tree one night, to the glow of the lights and the soft sounds of holiday music.

December 2018 Atlanta Parent 19

KIDS WILL LOVE THESE TOYS AND SO WILL YOUR WALLET. n Lite-Brite Ultimate Classic from Basic Fun lets kids create patterns or their own designs; the new version features a bigger screen, brighter pegs and more templates.

Ages 4 and older. basicfun.com. $19.99

TOYS UNDER $25 n Water Wow! lets kids water color without the mess, using a water-filled pen and special boards. The coloring toy also has “seek and find” activities using a red lens (included). Ages 5 and older. At melissaanddoug.com. $4.99

n Drawing a n Kids can create a zebra, lion, tiger and more, or dream up their own creature with the Go Wild Craft Kit from Kid Made Modern. It has enough googly eyes, pom poms and–– fuzzy sticks to entertain for hours. Ages 6 and older. At kidmademodern.com. $9.99

hopscotch grid was never so easy as it is with Walkie Chalk, which lets kids or adults stand up and draw on a sidewalk or driveway; create games, funny faces or works of art by inserting chalk and using the three-foot extension to draw.

Ages 4 and older.

At walkiechalk.com. $12.99

n Klutz Grow Your Own

n Vtech’s Digiart Color by Lights is a light-up board that plays its own melodies as it guides kids on which color to use in each section of a coloring page; kids can connect the light-up dots to draw shapes, objects or animals and more. Ages 3-6. At vtechkids.com. $21.99

Crystal Mini Worlds lets kids shape unique designs using pipe cleaners and learn chemistry basics. The kit includes 38 paper punch outs and stands to display the three crystal creations (a dragon’s cave, a unicorn’s forest and a seahorse’s coral reef). Ages 8 and older. At shop.scholastic.com. $22.99

n Little Live Pets Scruff-A-Luvs

by Moose Toys might be a puppy, kitten or bunny – these abandoned pets arrive as a ball of matted fur, but when you bathe, dry and brush them, they reveal their true selves. Ages 2 and older. At littlelivepets.com. $19.99.

20 Atlanta Parent December 2018

atlantaparent.com

+STOCKING STUFFERS n Putty Scents

from Mindware come in a set of three mini tins of putty with scents of sweat treats, winter cheer, spa flavors and more.

Ages 4 and older.

At mindware.com. $10.95

n Collect and play with Playfoam Pals Snowy Friends 2-Pack. It’s a mystery snow globe with two animals from the arctic and enough Playfoam to create the environment your new pals need. Ages 5 and older. At educationalinsights.com. $7.99

n Open the cleverly packaged Smooshy

n Kids can set up their own road work using their imaginations and Play Dirt Construction Zone, which comes in a compact jar with 12 ounces of Play Dirt, two road signs and one cone and one barrel mold.

Ages 3 and older.

At playvisions.com. $6.99

Mushy Baby and find a smooshable baby character, a tiny “bestie” mini-smooshy, a sticker, name tag and collector poster and “birth certificate.” Ages 4 and older. At smooshymushy.us. At $14.99.

n CozyPhones’ Kids Character Headband Headphones are comfortable and easily stay on kid’s heads. Choose from many cute designs – a unicorn, panda, fox and more. Ages 4 and older.

At cozyphones.com. $19.97

Cont’d on page 22

Grand Opening December 10th

s Come discover how thi fit ne be amazing class can by e on le you and your litt ve engaging in interacti g, gin sin of l ful s classe . sic mu d an t en vem mo

Ages Newborns to Preschoolers.

Visit website for info or to sign up. www.musicinmeco.com Info@musicinmeco.com 11705 Jones Bridge Rd. Johns Creek 30005

atlantaparent.com

December 2018 Atlanta Parent 21

STOCKING STUFFERS

n Pikmi Pops PushMiUps! are full of confetti fun. Each contains a surprise scented plush, a message and a dangler string, and confetti, of course. Ages 5 and older. At pikmipops.com. $4.99

n Give that girl a 57-piece 3-D puzzle for a project that makes a nifty pencil cup with the Girly Girl Edition Underwater Pencil Cup from Ravensburger. Ages 7 and older. At ravensburger.us. $4.99

n Slinky Racers are mini-racers that drive down a Slinky track – just attach the Slinky to a table or shelf, put the racer on the track and watch it go! Ages 5 and older. At alexbrands.com. $11.95

n Glove A Bubble n Throw Break Away Ballz from Alex Brands against a hard surface and watch them come apart to reveal a bouncing ball inside. Put them back together and they’re ready to throw again. Ages 5 and older. At alexbrands.com. $12.99

from Zing Toys is a mitten full of fun – put it on, dip in the included bubble solution and surround yourself with dozens of bubbles by waving your hands. Ages 3 and older. At zing.toys. $8 for a four-pack.

Nature Tube from Wild Republic contains 12 aquatic collectible figures and lots of fun aquatic facts.

Ages 4 and older. At wildrepublic.com. $9.99

best summer ever?

Deer Run Camps & Retreats

Are you ready to have the

n Ocean Babies

Day Camps Overnight Camps Summer Programs

FEBRUARY

9

NORTH POINT MALL

MARCH

16

PERIMETER MALL

FREE

11 A.M. TO 4 P.M. To exhibit or for info call 770-454-7599 or hsykes@atlantaparent.com

2019 22 Atlanta Parent December 2018

l

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Unwrapping the gift that matters most.

Every child deserves a champion.

This season by partnering with Easterseals North Georgia, and providing kids the opportunity to nurture their gifts you are that champion.

For nearly 100 years, Easterseals has been empowering children and families in need. As experts in child development, we provide community-based services that help nurture the inherent gift in every child to be successful.

Give A Gift Donate Today www.eastersealsnorthgeorgia.org Inclusive Early Education atlantaparent.com

Early Intervention

Family Support

Disability Screening

Mental Health

December 2018 Atlanta Parent 23

SPONSORED CONTENT

Atlanta International School Early Learning Center

Preschool at Mount Paran Christian School

Atlanta International School Early Learning Center

Preschools at the Top of Their Class These great preschools foster learning in a caring and fun environment to get kids started on the right path for success in school and in life.

24 Atlanta Parent December 2018

Exposure to languages from a young age encourages learning. Atlanta International School offers this with full immersion preschool programs in French, German, Spanish and Mandarin. AIS offers the inquiry-based International Baccalaureate Primary Years (PYP) curriculum, allowing younger learners to explore the world through play. The teachers, all of whom are native speakers of the target language as well as English-proficient, are facilitators who empower students to question and problem solve. The low student-teacher ratio is maintained by having two educators in each classroom who provide personalized attention based on the needs of each child. AIS offers families a unique combination of immersion language programs, authentic community and the global IB curriculum, which help students develop the skills and resilience needed to thrive in an interconnected world.

Five-day program for ages 3 and 4. Atlanta; aischool.org

Preschool at Mount Paran Christian School

Preschoolers at Mount Paran Christian School learn through creativity and play, and can’t wait for hands-on STEAM exploration each week. Faculty are degreed teachers who love and nurture faith in God in the hearts of their students. Preschoolers conduct science experiments, master math concepts via iPad Osmo, solve building challenges and create masterpieces on SMART Tables. Curriculum centers around advanced levels of Wee Learn covering math, language arts, science, fine arts and foreign language – exceeding all Georgia standards. MPCS half and full-day preschool is fully accredited through SAIS, AdvancED and Bright From the Start compliant. Daily Bible instruction and weekly chapels integrate God’s Truth across all studies. Advanced PreK program provides an extra year of enrichment skills to prepare students for confident transition into kindergarten. Ages 3-5.

Kennesaw; mtparanschool.com

Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School

Primary School students at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School move to the next level of their educational journeys equipped with minds that are academically prepared, hearts with empathy for others and hands ready to serve. Students arrive excited to be at school, knowing they are loved. Learning resource coordinators conduct in-depth assessments to determine how each student learns, which allows for a great start. The vibrant Primary School curriculum meets each child’s unique learning style and develops joyful, excited and courageous learners. Parents know that caring HIES teachers help each child thrive by using time-tested methods combined with the latest educational techniques and technology. This includes the Earth Magic Learning Garden and a Brainstormers Design-Thinking class, where students creatively solve real and imaginary problems. PK3-K. Atlanta; hies.org

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Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School

Ahava Early Learning Center

At Ahava, they believe in the power of wonder and connected communities. Ahava is the Hebrew word for love, and at Ahava Early Learning Center, Jewish traditions, culture and values are woven into the experiences of the children. They welcome seekers of knowledge and experience, warmth and community to join as they explore the world through a child’s lens. Offering an environment rich in indoor/outdoor learning and play throughout all four seasons, teachers cultivate a child’s capacity to construct individual learning experiences.

Through a curriculum grounded in Constructivist philosophy and inspired by the schools of Reggio Emilia, teachers skillfully pull out the learning threads children build upon as they grow into empathetic, dynamic leaders of tomorrow. Ages 12 weeks to 5 years. Flexible schedule. Atlanta; ahavalearning.org

Ahava Early Learning Center

Little Sunshine’s Playhouse & Preschool

Little Sunshine’s Playhouse & Preschool is an award-winning, all-inclusive preschool program serving families with children ages 6 weeks through pre-kindergarten across the country. Dedicated educators, tight security and the connection to parents set this preschool apart from other programs. A Reggio Emilia-inspired curriculum is used and teachers personalize lesson plans to each child’s learning style. The importance of using imagination and growing socially through hands-on activities is emphasized, and playing and nature is incorporated into the lessons to make learning engaging and fun.

Additionally, the preschool provides learning opportunities in areas such as music, art, sports, cooking, dramatic play, storytelling and problem solving. LuvNotes™ are available for parents and teachers to electronically communicate. Five-day, three-day and two-day programs are offered for infants through pre-kindergarten. Alpharetta; littlesunshine.com

Little Sunshine’s Playhouse & Preschool

Atlanta Academy Preschool

The Preschool at Atlanta Academy quickly becomes an extension of your family, and helps young students make an easy transition from home to the classroom. The nurturing environment provides each child with what he or she needs in a foundation for lifelong learning. Children develop close friendships, and work together to learn and explore new concepts. The preschool curriculum is carefully developed for each age level, so students can find success. Inquiry becomes a daily activity, where each student’s self-initiated investigations are encouraged, and age-appropriate materials are incorporated. Students who advance from the preschool program into Kindergarten consistently demonstrate preparedness – a great foundation to build upon in the later primary years at Atlanta Academy. Five-day program for ages infant to 5 years. Roswell; atlantaacademy.com

Atlanta Academy Preschool

Cont’d on page 26

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December 2018 Atlanta Parent 25

PRESCHOOLS

Holy Spirit Prep Preschool

The Preschool at Holy Spirit Prep is a Christ-centered environment, and an extension of your family. They believe the love of learning begins at home. Your child will be loved by teachers and caretakers, and become a successful student.

Teachers meet weekly to construct lessons, and use the OWL program, “Opening the World of Learning,” which includes language-based learning with visual, multi-sensory and hands-on experiences to teach fundamentals. Play activities are incorporated, which inspire spiritual, intellectual, social and emotional growth.

Children attend chapel once a week, building a strong Catholic foundation from a young age. Spanish, art, music, STEAM and creative movement classes are offered weekly. Two-, three- or five-day programs are offered from 6 weeks to 4 years; extended day programs are also available. Atlanta; holyspiritprep.org

Holy Spirit Prep Preschool

MJCCA Preschools

MJCCA Preschools are not only a place where children come to learn and grow, but where families find a community that can last a lifetime. Children discover their confidence, meet their newest lifelong friends, and develop a love for learning.

The highly trained, experienced and nurturing teachers at The Weinstein School in Dunwoody, The Sunshine School in East Cobb, and the new Schiff School in Sandy Springs, understand that this is one of the most important decisions a parent will make. The Weinstein School and The Sunshine School are both NAEYC accredited (The Schiff School is pursuing accreditation), a distinction awarded to only the top seven percent of all preschools in the nation. MJCCA Preschools offer both full- and half-day programs. Learn more at atlantajcc.org/preschool

MJCCA Preschools

Mount Pisgah Christian Preschool

Mount Pisgah Christian Preschool students prepare for the next stage of learning in a loving environment through interactive activities and play. With small classroom sizes, students receive individualized care. They grow in faith through daily chapel programs featuring singing and dancing and Bible curriculum. The STEAM Lab opens a new world of discovery through technology and multi-sensory experiments. Children ages 2-5 participate in Spanish, music and STEAM Lab each week and may also participate in soccer, dance and additional STEAM Lab opportunities as an extra-curricular activity during the school day. Five-day, three-day and two-day programs are offered. Full day program for infants to Junior Kindergarten (7 a.m.-6 p.m.) and half-day program for toddlers (18 months-4 years) 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Johns Creek; mountpisgahschool.org

Mount Pisgah Christian Preschool

Mount Vernon Presbyterian Preschool

Mount Vernon’s youngest learners are curious, strong and competent. Fostering each child’s natural interests, teachers challenge students through handson, play-based activities to build a foundation for learning. Mount Vernon attracts high-performing teachers who form relationships with and nurture each child. A thorough understanding of brain science, child development and appropriate activities is at the heart of the Preschool. On the Frontier, a natural park-like playspace, students imagine, design and construct forts, tunnels and slides built into the hills. Drawing on the connection between brain and muscle development, teachers use this outdoor space to explore curriculum through play, creativity and discovery. Two-day, three-day, and five-day programs are offered for infants to age 5, with flexible full-day, half-day, or extended hours programs. Sandy Springs; mountvernonschool.org

Mount Vernon Presbyterian Preschool

The first five years have so much to do with how the next 80 turn out.

– Bill Gates, Microsoft founder 26 Atlanta Parent December 2018

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PRESCHOOLS

Redeemer Day School

Redeemer Day School provides a Christ-centered, teacher directed, academically challenging preschool. The School also mentors parents in Christ-centered child rearing. Love and support are given as teachers help children stretch and grow.

Creativity and play are present in daily activities that are engaging and varied, such as creating crafts to develop fine motor skills, working with math manipulatives to strengthen early math concepts, using phonics to teach reading skills and the A Beka program for handwriting. Students also participate in P.E. and music. Pre-k and kindergarten students enjoy Spanish and field trips. The parent association creates many opportunities to build community among parents. A variety of two-day, three-day and five-day programs are offered for ages 2 years through kindergarten. Half-day classes. Atlanta; redeemerdayschool.org

Redeemer Day School

St. Martin’s Episcopal School Early Childhood Learning Center

In early 2019, St. Martin’s will open a new Early Childhood Learning Center with classrooms specifically designed for ages 2 years through first grade. This includes a STEAM village, which intentionally connects a science lab, tinker space and art room and an outdoor learning space geared to foster engagement and collaborative learning.

A 21st-century core curriculum is coupled with a wide range of co-curricular classes including art, science, French, Spanish, religion and guidance. As an Episcopal school, St. Martin’s builds a strong foundation of values, beliefs and service. Toddler 2s (three-, four- and five-day options), Beginner 3s and Pre-K students dismiss at 1:30 p.m.

Kindergarten is full day, dismissing at 3 p.m. Before and after-school care is available until 6 p.m. Brookhaven; stmartinschool.org.

St. Martin’s Episcopal School Early Childhood Learning Center

The Suzuki School

The Suzuki School believes in the innate ability and talent of each child, and strives to provide an environment for students to thrive. The Montessori preschool is locally owned and operated, with roots in the city since 1976. Classroom success stems from a carefully planned and engaging environment, including intentionally designed materials, Montessori trained teachers and each child’s curiosity. Suzuki School teachers are passionate about education, and specialty areas include a Child Developmental Specialist, Spanish dual language instructors and musical experts.

Students are also exposed to language immersion in Spanish and foreign language instruction in Spanish and Mandarin, as well as yoga, violin, piano, exploring music classes and sports. Ages 3 months to 6 years. Five-day, full-day (7 a.m.-6 p.m.) program. Three Atlanta locations; suzukischool.com

The Suzuki School

The Walker School Primary School

With a curriculum that is hands-on and child-centered, the Walker Primary School focuses on preparing students to impact an ever-changing world through problem solving, movement and application. Playing has a purpose with improving a child’s fine motor skills, number sense and working memory. Walker’s program emphasizes an engaging educational experience while balancing social-emotional and academic learning, and students are able to learn in a way that meets their individual needs.

Teachers are trained in Orton-Gillingham, Singapore Math, and Handwriting Without Tears. Through intentional relationship building, Walker’s faculty provides opportunities for students to share interests, wonderings and experiences, forming the foundation for a strong learning community. Half-day and full-day options are available for ages 3 and older, as well as extended after-school programs. Marietta; thewalkerschool.org The Walker School Primary School

Preschool: What to Look For After you’ve researched and narrowed your preschool choices, it’s time to visit.

Here’s what to pay attention to: atlantaparent.com

n Look for a warm interaction between the teacher and the kids. n Make sure the classroom has different activity areas for reading, art, naps, books and toys. n Check the preschool’s daily routine and pacing.

n Find out how parents and teachers communicate. n Learn about the school’s policies on illness and discipline. n Consider whether the preschool is convenient to your home and/or office.

December 2018 Atlanta Parent 27

LONDON WITH KIDS

Families Will Have a Royal Time on a Trip Across The Pond

by Laura Powell

“The whole museum is shaking!” my 5-year-old exclaimed as she experienced the earthquake simulator at the Natural History Museum in London. From massive wonders at world-class museums to small moments at beautiful parks, my family loved our first trip across The Pond. My husband Kevin and I had an easy time planning activities in kid-friendly London to keep our 5- and 7-year-old engaged and learning. Here are our favorite experiences: n Museums Walk among dinosaur fossils galore and bask in ancient artifacts at London’s museums. We were awestruck by the size of dinosaur fossils and huge mammal casts at the Natural History Museum.

At the British Museum, you can see the Rosetta Stone and an unbelievable collection of ancient artifacts.

At the Victoria & Albert Museum, sit on the giant pillow, try on a muff and design your own coat of arms. Eat at the lavishly decorated cafe at the V&A, even if just for excellent scones, cakes and muffins. n Out and About Go back in time at the Tower of London, a medieval castle in the middle of Central London. See the Crown Jewels, the knights in the White Tower and the dungeon.

Stop at the London Eye nearby.

Kids and parents will enjoy the views of London during a gentle, 30-minute ride on the giant Ferris wheel. Take in the included-with-admission 4D movie before or after your ride.

Visit the playground of your kids’ dreams at Princess Diana Memorial Park Playground. Climb aboard the pirate ships, play in the tepees, explore the hidden paths in the garden, and even find treasure. Grab an ice cream or snack at the cafe next door, then stroll through the surrounding Hyde Park.

28 Atlanta Parent December 2018

View central London from a different perspective, via bike. Fat Tire Bike Tours offers kid-friendly rides, mostly in parks or trails around the city. We took the Royal Park Bike Tour, which included Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben and more. The guide stopped about every 5-10 minutes to allow for pictures as he shared a bit of history about the sites.

Hop on a Double Decker Bus and ride the London Underground. Getting from place to place via public transportation is half the fun of exploring London. Our kids loved riding the tube and cruising

on the second level above the driver on the bus, and Google maps provides accurate and convenient directions for both modes of transportation.

Visit famous department stores like Harrod’s and Fortnum and Mason and grab a take-away pastry treat. The Piccadilly area has all the big shops from H&M to Louis Vuitton. You can also find the famous toy shop Hamley’s, six floors of toys for kids of all ages. Browse the super cute backpacks and clothes at the quintessentially London, Cath Kidston stores around the city. n Special Treats Sip afternoon tea and eat delicacies at St. Ermin’s Hotel, a historic hotel near Westminster Abbey. The hotel offers a fun, kid-friendly tea with strawberry shaped cakes, fruity tea and chocolate treats as well as an adult menu.

A must for theater fans is a tour of the reconstruction of the iconic Globe Theatre.

The knowledgeable tour guide gave us a glimpse of life in London 400 years ago as well as how the stage is used today. Nearby, the trend-setting Tate Modern has Picasso masterpieces and huge swings kids will love.

We couldn’t pass up the most famous tennis venue in the world. An engaging guided tour of Wimbledon covered the history of the tournament and we imagined all the celebrities and royalty cheering on Serena atlantaparent.com

Williams at Centre Court. The museum inside the stadium grounds has a fun audio tour with a thorough history of tennis and a virtual tennis experience. Grab lunch at the cafe on site and stock up on Wimbledon gear and goodies after the tour. n Where to Stay Be neighbors with the Royals at the Royal Garden Hotel London. This super kid-friendly hotel offers spacious two-room park suites overlooking Kensington Gardens The Details Getting There: The kids are likely to sleep on an eight-hour overnight flight. Look for good airfare deals on googleflights. com/flights or try Scotts Cheap Flights, scottscheapflights.com.

Planning: Start your planning early enough to make sure all passports are in order and to find good deals. To save money, consider an Airbnb or HomeAway property with a kitchen, so you can make breakfast or sandwiches. airbnb.com; homeaway.com.

The Visit London website is a good place to start exploring what to do, visitlondon.com. Also, look at Rick Steves and Lonely Planet guidebooks and check recommendations from others using online searches such as “London with kids.”

atlantaparent.com

and Kensington High Street. Kids receive an awesome kids’ welcome backpack with art supplies and fun surprises to help them feel at home. Plus, there is a wigwam the kids can play in (or sleep in – the kids took turns).

Borrow scooters for kids at the front desk and go for a spin in Hyde Park right next door. Take a break from being a tourist with the Food & Flicks Package, which includes pizza, wings, Coke floats and a movie. The Park Terrace Restaurant serves a kid-friendly breakfast with coloring packs to keep the kids happy. The hotel is an easy walk to the Victoria & Albert Museum, Science Museum and the Natural History Museum. Book directly through their website and make sure to join the Royalty Rewards program. You get perks like early check-in, which is nice when you arrive on an early flight. royalgardenhotel.co.uk St. Ermin’s Hotel offers a taste of traditional and fancy London with a kidfriendly focus. Families can choose family rooms or suites with plenty of options.

The hotel has a nice breakfast buffet in the Caxton Restaurant. Kids will enjoy the Bee’N’Bee Hotel, with 350,000 bees who make the honey they use throughout the hotel in cakes, cocktails and more.

Since the hotel has a very cool, spy history past, kids receive a book and activity pack upon check-in. Kids can pretend

they’re spies-in-training and look for clues.

After finding the clues, kids get a special spy ID and free kid cocktail from the bar.

Our little spy loved this perk. The hotel is near St. James Park, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Parliament and Big Ben. sterminshotel.co.uk The Hilton London Metropole is a huge hotel that offers kid-friendly amenities like an indoor pool and pizza-making classes.

The queen rooms are basic, what you may expect at home, so request a family room and a refurbished room. It’s about a 10-minute walk to Paddington station with access to the Heathrow Express trains to the airport and easy access to Edgware Road metro station. hilton.com/London December 2018 Atlanta Parent 29

Atlanta Parent Magazine’s

Young readers can’t go wrong reading any book, but opening a book they can’t put down – that’s the ideal.

These books will keep them turning pages until it’s time for lights out.

Best Books of 2018 Compiled by Laura Powell and Amanda Miller Allen

n A Hundred Billion Trillion Stars

n A Peaceful Garden

n Baby Monkey, Private Eye

by Seth Fishman and Isabel Greenberg (Greenwillow Books) Learn a lot about our universe and other interesting facts – did you know there are 37 billion rabbits in the world? – in this charming book that starts and ends with the stars.

by Lucy London and Christa Pierce (HarperCollins Publishers) In sweet words and illustrations, kids can learn how to grow a peaceful garden full of vegetables for a feast and nibbles for the birds, bees and butterflies.

by Brian Selznick and David Serlin (Scholastic Press) When Baby Monkey is on the case, it’s a treat to read as he tracks down stolen jewels, a clown’s nose, a spaceship and more.

n All Are Welcome n A Parade of Elephants

by Kevin Henkes (HarperCollins Publishing) A parade of elephants, pink, blue, yellow and green, march around all day and play and when it’s time for bed, well …

by Alexandra Penfold and Suzanne Kaufman (Knopf Books for Young Readers) Children will learn about kindness and diversity in this book that celebrates a classroom where all are welcome, no matter race, religion or background, and all can learn from each other.

n Brick: Who Found Herself in Architcture

by Joshua David Stein and Julia Rothman (Phaidon Press) Brick learns that great things begin with small bricks as she makes a journey to find her place in the world and visits iconic sites such as the Great Wall of China.

n Bus! Stop!

by James Yang (Viking Books for Young Readers) When a young boy misses his bus, should he take the other ones that come along, even if they don’t look quite like a bus? Kids will enjoy this transportation adventure.

n Cuddly Critters for Little Geniuses

by Susan and James Patterson and Hsinping Pan (Jimmy Patterson Books) The best-selling author of crime thrillers and his wife have penned a charming children’s book all about unusual critters, including the Potoo, a bird that looks like a tree branch when it sits still, and the markhor, a goat whose horns are so long it can scratch its own back.

30 Atlanta Parent December 2018

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n Dad by My Side

n Hey, Wall, a Story of Art and

n Love

by Soosh (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers) “With Dad by my side, there’s nothing we can’t do.” And so begins a sweet tale of the bond between a daughter and her father, who always makes time for her, no matter how busy he is.

Community

by Susan Verde and John Parra (Paula Wiseman Books) A young boy is inspired to spruce up an old wall and bring a neighborhood together.

by Matt de la Pena and Loren Long (G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers) The Beatles sang “All You Need Is Love,” and this poetic book with beautiful illustrations captures how love enriches our lives.

n How to Be an Elephant, Growing Up

n Mae Among the Stars

in the African Wild

by Katherine Roy (Roaring Brook Press) How does an infant elephant ever survive in the wild, with so many survival skills to learn and so many predators? This beautifully illustrated book will teach kids about elephants and herd behavior.

by Roda Ahmed and Stasia Burrington (HarperCollins Publishers) Mae dreams of being an astronaut, but does she have the right stuff? With hard work and encouragement, she may just get there.

n Dear Girl,

by Amy Krouse Rosenthal, Paris Rosenthal and Holly Hatam (HarperCollins Publishers) Girls who read this affirming book will think they’re really great, just the way they are, and they won’t be afraid to ask questions or try something new.

n I Am the Boss of This Chair

by Il Sung Na (Chronicle Books) If pigs could fly … a pig loves birds and wants to join them on their journey south, but can he? Maybe with the help of a flying machine.

by Carolyn Crimi and Marisa Morea (Sterling Children’s Books) When a new kitten joins the family will the top cat, Oswald Minklehoff Honey Bunny III, learn to share his chair? He might find sharing with a sibling can be fun!

n The Dress and the Girl

n I Lost My Tooth! (Unlimited

by Camille Andros and Julie Morstad (Abrams Books for Young Readers) A young girl loves the dress her mother made for her and wears it on the journey from their Greek island home to immigration in America. But soon the dress is lost – will they find each other again?

Squirrels)

by Mo Willems (Hyperion Books for Children) When Zoom Squirrel loses his tooth, his friends set out to help him find it, then they lose Zoom Squirrel as well. This is a happy story, though, full of squirrelly adventures.

n Gentle Hands and Other Sing-Along

n Ladybug Girl and the Rescue Dogs

Songs for Social-Emotional Learning

by Amadee Ricketts and Ashley Barron (Free Spirit Publishing) Kids will love singing these lyrics set to familiar tunes and will learn a few life lessons along the way, like when it’s appropriate to use a quiet voice or how to be a good friend.

by David Soman and Jacky Davis (Penguin Young Readers) Ladybug Girl and the Bug Squad work together to help rescued dogs find homes and in the process learn that every dog, just like every child, has his own personality and needs.

n The Golden Glow

n Lena’s Shoes are Nervous, a First-

by Benjamin Flouw (Penguin Random House) A fox who loves nature sets off on a quest to find the Golden Glow, a rare plant that only grows in the mountains. Along the way, he learns about other plants and trees and makes friends with woodland creatures.

day-of-School Dilemma

by Keith Calabrese and Juana Medina (Atheneum Books for Young Readers) Lena’s eager to start kindergarten, but her favorite shoes are shy and not too sure they want to go. Can they be brave together?

n The Dreamer

n Mama’s Business Trip/Bunny’s Staycation

by Lori Richmond (Scholastic Press) When Mama bunny leaves for a business trip, Bunny doesn’t like it one bit so Papa Bunny devises a trip to the tropics, play in the snow, and they go on a safari, all in the living room.

n Mapping Sam, A Book About What Is Where and How to Get from Here to There

by Joyce Hellelberth (Greenwillow Books) Learning about maps, plants, cat anatomy and habits, the world and the universe was never so much fun as kids follow Sam the cat on nocturnal journeys.

n Max Explains Everything

by Stacy McAnulty and Deborah Hocking (G.P. Putnam’s Sons) Max knows all about the grocery store because Mom makes him go ALL! THE! TIME! Follow his pointers and you’ll have the best time, even if Mom doesn’t.

n New Shoes

by Chris Raschka (Greenwillow Books) When it’s time to buy new shoes, a few surprises await at the store.

n Night Job

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by Karen Hesse and G. Brian Karas (Candlewick Press) A child goes on an adventure with Dad as he does his night job cleaning the school. They share sweet moments together and a sandwich, then head for home with happy memories.

Cont’d on page 32

December 2018 Atlanta Parent 31

Best Books of 2018

n The Snow Lion

n What If …

by Jim Helmore and Richard Jones (Peachtree Publishers) Caro moves to a new home and is too shy to make friends, until her imagination comes up with the Snow Lion and he gives her the courage to venture out.

by Samantha Berger and Mike Curato (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers) Nothing can keep a young AfricanAmerican girl from creating, not if her pencil disappears and all her other supplies soon follow. She gets even more creative, finding other ways to tell stories.

n Up in the Leaves, the True Story n Snow Pony and the Seven Miniature Ponies

by Christian Trimmer and Jessie Sima (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers) Once upon a time, there was Snow Pony, a beautiful white creature everyone adored except the evil Queenie, who was jealous of Snow Pony and just happened to have a basket of apples … and the adventure begins.

32 Atlanta Parent December 2018

of Central Park Treehouses

by Shira Boss and Jamey Christoph (Sterling Children’s Books) A New York City boy finds refuge from the traffic, noise and city life in Central Park and begins to build tree houses, a true and amazing story based on the life of Bob Redman.

n Windows

by Julia Denos and E.B. Goodale (Candlewick Press) When night begins to fall, take a walk and you’ll see all sorts of interesting things framed by the windows of your neighborhood.

atlantaparent.com

Chapter Books, Graphic Novels and More n The Atlas Obscura for the World’s Most Adventurous Kid

by Dylan Thuras, Rosemary Mosco and Joy Ang (Workman Publishing Co.) This book is packed with weird and wonderful facts about 47 countries, including an abandoned water park in Vietnam that’s more popular than ever now that it’s closed, and a natural wonder, the Root Bridges of Cherrapunji, India, living bridges that can last for centuries.

n Be Prepared

by Vera Brosgol (First Second, an imprint of Roaring Brook Press) A girl’s first visit to summer camp turns into quite an adventure, but nothing like she expected, in this funny and touching graphic novel.

n Black Panther the Young Prince

by Ronald L. Smith (Marvel Press) T’Challa, young prince of a technologically advanced African nation, gets sent to middle school on the South Side of Chicago. To stop an ancient evil and protect his friends, T’Challa must be a hero and choose the path to becoming the Black Panther.

We Come To You!

Mobile Petting Zoo Monkey - Kangaroo Zebra - Camel Goats - Mini Horse

Camel Rides 706-717-8837

www.samspathpettingzoo.com

n Louisiana’s Way Home

by Kate DiCamillo (Candlewick Press) When Louisiana Elefante’s grandmother moves the family to a small Georgia town, Louisiana misses her friends and her former home. Can she find a way to love her new community or to overcome granny’s capriciousness and move back to her friends?

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A MERCER BEAR?

n Love Like Sky

by Leslie C. Youngblood (Disney Hyperion Books) G-Baby’s blended family moves from Atlanta to Snellville, and G-Baby tries to win the approval of her stepsister, Tangie. In the process, she doesn’t pay much attention to her little sister, Peaches. When Peaches gets terribly sick, G-Baby must find a way to help her.

n You Go First

Mercer Bears don’t just learn. They master.

They don’t just accomplish. They thrive.

They don’t just compete. They dominate.

Mercer Bears command respect and walk with confidence.

They are distinguished leaders. Movers and shakers.

Real-life difference makers.

by Erin Entrada Kelly (Greenwillow Books) Two middle-school kids who live 1,000 miles apart and play an online Scrabble game together are both struggling to fit in and make friends.

Their lives, so different, intersect in unexpected ways.

n The Journey of Little Charlie

by Christopher Paul Curtis (Scholastic Press) Twelve-year-old Charlie, the son of a white sharecropper, teams up with a slave catcher for a journey north in the 1850s to retrieve “stolen property.” Only as the journey progresses, does Charlie learn that the “property” are men and women who escaped slavery years before, and then he must decide what to do.

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To learn more, visit mercer.edu.

December 2018 Atlanta Parent 33

SNOW Much Fun! Open Now

through February 24 Tickets starting at $24.99

Get your thrills and chills on the fastest snow tubing hill in North America, plus ice skating, carnival rides and more!

Get your tickets and learn more at MargaritavilleAtLanierIslands.com.

34 Atlanta Parent    December 2018

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Holiday Fun Guide Best ght y Li Holidaplays Dis 47 Page

All About the Nutcracker Follow Clara through a dream world of battling mice, dancing sugarplums and snowflakes.

This year includes a new Disney movie, a re-make of Atlanta Ballet’s classic and a list of even more Atlanta-area ballets to round out the holiday season.

The Alliance Theatre

Top Holiday Events From festive parades to Rudolph and the Grinch, we have you covered with the best seasonal happenings. Don’t miss our favorite traditions like Stone Mountain Christmas, must-see shows such as A Christmas Carol, Madeline’s Christmas and much more!

Snow Much Fun Atlanta has four, chilly ways to play in the power this winter – complete with snow tubing, snowman building and snowball targets. Glide along the ice and practice twists and twirls at Atlanta’s best iceskating rinks, there is sure to be a rink close-by.

Snow Mountain

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Family Fun Guide

December 2018 Atlanta Parent 35

TOP HOLIDAY EVENTS

From a special show you see each year with the family to sipping hot chocolate while viewing Christmas lights, the holidays are all about traditions.

Don’t miss these classic favorites as well as events to make new memories.* Our Favorite Traditions

Children’s Christmas Parade Downtown Atlanta / Dec. 1. 10:20 a.m.

Floats, giant helium-filled balloons and marching bands will move down the street, and the arrival of Santa will announce the holiday season. Begins on Peachtree Street at 16th Street. 404-785-7974.

Free to watch. choa.org/parade

Stone Mountain Christmas Stone Mountain Park Through Jan. 6.

Thousands of lights and holiday activities including projections and special effects. Don’t miss the Wonderland Walkway, a dazzling tunnel of lights that leads to the Snow Angel Palace. Visit stonemountainpark. com for pricing and schedule. 1000 Robert E. Lee, Stone Mountain.

800-401-2407.

Macy’s Pink Pig Lenox Square Mall Upper Level Parking Deck Through Jan. 6; opens 10 a.m.; closing times vary (closed Dec. 25).

Atlanta’s famous pig train takes families for a life-sized storybook ride. Atlanta. 404-231-2796. $3 per ride. visitmacysusa.com/article/ macys-pink-pig

*Events could be cancelled or changed before our deadline. Please check before visiting to confirm. Full calendar online at atlantaparent.com

36 Atlanta Parent December 2018

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

The Alliance Theatre

Must-See Holiday Shows

A Puppet Holiday

A Christmas Carol

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre Dec.12, 14-16, 19-24; see alliancetheatre.org for showtimes.

The Alliance Theatre performs a musical version of the classic story with Ebenezer Scrooge and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future.

Atlanta. 800-745-3000. Ages 18 and older, $20-$80; ages 17 and younger, $14-$56; lap seats for toddlers and babies, $7.50 each.

Center for Puppetry Arts Through Dec. 30 (no shows Dec. 25); see puppet.org for showtimes.

Santa’s favorite reindeer Rudolph is back with this faithful adaptation of the holiday story. Ages 4 and older. Atlanta.

404-873-3391. Prices vary by date, $25-$35.

Elf the Musical

Roswell Winter Puppet Series

Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center at City Springs Dec. 7-16; see citysprings.com for showtimes.

Based on the beloved holiday film, this hilarious comedy follows Buddy the Elf in his quest to find his true identity. Sandy Springs. 770-206-2022. $30-$62. citysprings.com

Roswell Cultural Arts Center Dec. 13-15; 20-22 at 10 a.m.; Dec. 15 and 21, 1:30 p.m.

Santa’s Missing Mail and Trouble in Toyland puppet shows.

Roswell. 770-594-6232. Ages 2 and older, $5. roswellgov.com

’Twas the Night before Christmas

Serenbe Playhouse Nov. 28 - Jan. 6. Wed.-Sun. 7 p.m.; early shows Sat., 5 p.m., and Sun. 2 and 5 p.m.

From the classic tale that inspired “Frozen,” this version lights up the wintry woods with a story of love’s sovereign power over evil. Chattahoochee Hills.

770-463-1110. $16-$31. serenbeplayhouse.com

Aurora Theatre Dec. 8. 10 and 11:30 a.m.

See this classic Christmas Eve story come to life with puppets.

Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $7. auroratheatre.com Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and all elements © and ™ under license to Character Arts, LLC. Photo credit: Clay Walker

The Snow Queen

Madeline’s Christmas Horizon Theatre Dec. 1-30; see horizontheatre.com for showtimes.

Go on a musical holiday adventure with Madeline and her friends in Paris.

Atlanta. 404-584-7450. $15; ages 12 and younger, $12.

A Charlie Brown Christmas Roswell Cultural Arts Center Dec. 14 and 15, 7 p.m. Dec. 16, 2 and 7 p.m.

Roswell Youth Theatre presents a live action re-telling of the Peanuts cartoon. Celebrate with Peanuts pals as they look past the gifts to discover the true meaning of Christmas. Roswell. 770-641-3987. Ages 3 and older, $12. roswellgov.com/RYT

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Center for Puppetry Arts

Family Fun Guide

December 2018 Atlanta Parent 37

TOP HOLIDAY EVENTS Holidays with Music Spivey Hall Children’s Choir Clayton State University Dec. 7-9. Fri. 7:30 p.m. Sat. and Sun. 3 p.m.

A fusion of classic favorites and new selections showcase the talents of the children’s choir.

Advance ticket purchase recommended.

Morrow. 678-466-4200. $25. clayton.edu/ spiveyhall

Holiday Concert First Baptist Church Marietta Dec. 7. 7:30 p.m.

Hear the Marietta Pops Orchestra perform holiday classics. Marietta. 770-874-8525. $10-$20. 4 and under, free. mariettapopsorchestra.org

The Light of Christmas Infinite Energy Center Dec. 10. 7 p.m.

Gwinnett Symphony Orchestra and Chorus performs Christmas classics. Children from the audience can join Santa on stage to conduct the orchestra during the “Sleigh Ride.” Duluth.

770-626-2464. Ages 2 and older, $13-$25. gwinnettsymphony.org

A Festive Family Holiday Atlanta Symphony Hall Dec. 16. 1:30 and 3 p.m.

Join the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra for an afternoon of holiday favorites and an appearance by Santa. Atlanta. 404-733-5000. $15-$20; parking, extra. atlantasymphony.org

Dine With Bears Teddy Bear Tea Callanwolde Fine Arts Center Dec. 2 and 9. 2 p.m.

Bring a special teddy bear (if you would like) for a festive children’s tea and hot chocolate with Santa. Also a gift from Legoland Discovery Center. Includes admission to Christmas at Callanwolde. Registration required. Ages 4 and older. Atlanta. 404-872-5338. $37.74 per person. callanwolde.org

Atlanta Symphony Hall

Christmases Past Candlelight Nights Atlanta History Center Dec. 14 and 21. 5:30-9:30 p.m.

Holiday traditions of years past come alive with interpreters, music and special activities.

See the grounds decorated for the holidays and enjoy a candlelit stroll. Atlanta. 404-8144000. Adults, $20; ages 4-17, $10; ages 3 and younger, free. atlantahistorycenter.com

Victorian Holiday Oakland Cemetery Dec. 1. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Explore mausoleums decorated for the holidays on a walking tour led by a Victorian guide and hear a reading of “The Night Before Christmas.” Kids will enjoy ornamentmaking crafts and, of course, meeting Santa.

Atlanta. 404-688-2107. Victorian Holiday, free; Tour of Eternal Homes: adults, $16; ages 6-18, $12; ages 5 and younger, free. oaklandcemetery.com

Oakland Cemetery

Fun With Santa Santa’s Workshop

Supper with Santa

The Southern Museum Dec. 8. 9:30-5 p.m.

Come in PJs and watch the “Polar Express.” Santa and Mrs. Claus share holiday stories and conduct a holiday sing-along, and then stay for a meet and greet. Kennesaw. 770427-2117. Adults, $7.50; ages 4-12, $5.50; ages 3 and younger, free. southernmuseum.org

Gwinnett Historic Courthouse Dec. 15. 6:30 p.m.

Enjoy an evening meal with Santa in the decorated Superior Court Ballroom. Make a craft, hear a story and visit with Santa. Bring your cameras for a photo. Preregister. Lawrenceville. 770-8225450. $15. gwinnettparks.com

The Southern Museum

38 Atlanta Parent December 2018

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

Tellus Science Museum

Party As You Are Holiday PJ Party Tellus Science Museum Dec. 1. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Wear your favorite PJs to the Museum for handson science activities, photos with Santa, elves and more. Cartersville. 770-606-5700. Included with admission: Adults, $15.95; ages 3-17, $11.95; ages 2 and younger, free. tellusmuseum.org

Ugly Sweater Party Fernbank Museum of Natural History Dec. 16. 6-9 p.m.

Put on that Christmas sweater you never wear and show it off in all its glory at a festive party with cookie decorating, a seasonal craft and photo ops with Santasaurus. Atlanta. 404-9296300. $20 per person; ages 2 and younger, free. fernbankmuseum.org

atlantaparent.com

Fernbank Museum of Natural History

See Beautiful Trees

Chattahoochee Nature Center

Wild and Wonderful

Winter Wonderland

Jungle Bells

Fernbank Museum of Natural History Through Jan. 6. Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Explore two floors of decorated trees showcasing celebrations, holidays, traditions and events from around the world. Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Exhibit included with admission: Adults, $20; ages 3-12, $18; ages 2 and younger, free. fernbankmuseum.org

Zoo Atlanta Dec. 1. 2:30-5:30 p.m.

Visit for a tree lighting celebration, crafts, festive snacks, live music, costumed characters and more. 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-6249453. Included with admission: Adults, $25.99; ages 3-11, $17.99; ages 2 and younger, free. zooatlanta.org

Festival of the Trees

Chattahoochee Nature Center Dec. 9. 2-6 p.m.

Nature at its finest with live reindeer, performances, winter crafts, campfire with hot cocoa and more.

Roswell. 770-992-2055. Included with admission: Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free. chattnaturecenter.org

Southeastern Railway Museum Through Dec. 29. Wed.-Sat.,10 a.m.-5 p.m.

See trees of all types displayed throughout the museum. Duluth. 770-476-2013. $10; ages 2-12, $7; ages 1 and younger, free. train-museum.org

Family Fun Guide

Enchanted Woodland Wonders

December 2018    Atlanta Parent 39

TOP HOLIDAY EVENTS Dressed for the Season Holiday Bricktacular LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Atlanta Dec. 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23, 29-30.

Sat. 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. (last admission two hours before closing).

Build and take home your very own LEGO® Winter Puppy, meet and greet with LEGO characters, go on a scavenger hunt and more.

Atlanta. 404-848-9252. Included with admission: $12.50 and up. atlanta. legolanddiscoverycenter.com

Festival of the Season Georgia Aquarium Through Dec. 31. Daily.

Galleries and exhibits turn into a winter wonderland, incorporating light and music shows, appearances

by Santa and SCUBA Claus, holiday entertainment, daily tree-lighting ceremonies and more. Atlanta.

404-581- 4000. Adults, $39.95; ages 3-12, $33.95; ages 2 and younger, free. georgiaaquarium.org

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Atlanta

Deck the Hall College Football Hall of Fame Dec. 10-Jan. 4. Sun.-Fri. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Meet Fumbles the Elf and Santa, see holiday decorations and more. Atlanta. 404-880-4800. Included with admission; Adults, $21.99; ages 3-12, $17.99; ages 2 and younger, free. cfbhall.com

New In Town Illuminate Chinese Lantern Festival & Acrobat Show

Child Models We’ve booked kids for $2,000 per day and more, others at $50 - $60 per hour.

Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Small Wonders Celebrations in Light Children’s Museum of Atlanta Nov. 29-Dec. 30. Mon., Tues., Thurs. and Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Closed Wed.; Sat. and Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Special guest days: Dec. 9, 15, 22 and 29; see childrensmuseumatlanta.org for full schedule.

A showcase of different holidays from around the world each week with themed activities, cultural performances and more.

Don’t miss the sock skating rink (through Jan. 8) and hot cocoa with Daniel Tiger. Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Ages 1 and older, $15.95-$18.95.

Could your baby, toddler or kid be one?

Atlanta, New York, LA

404-636-1974

www.williamreynoldsagency.com 40 Atlanta Parent December 2018

Magic Monday: Happy Holidays Atlanta History Center / Dec. 10. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Enjoy sing-a-longs, ornament making and holiday stories.

Atlanta. 404-814-4000. $5.50-$6.50. atlantahistorycenter.com

Family Fun Guide

Sugarloaf Mills Through Jan. 1.

Wed.- Sun. 5-11 p.m.

Experience a maze of illuminated sculptures scaling nearly 30 feet tall, watch performances of Beijing Acrobats and visit Santa in the Christmas Village. Lawrenceville. $16.95-$22.95; ages 3 and younger, free. theilluminatefestival.com

Santa’s Fantastical Perimeter Pointe Through Dec. 11, Tues.-Sun. Dec. 12-24, daily.

Visit 12 whimsical worlds in this indoor family-friendly interactive experience, merging timeless traditions with innovative technology. See Santa by appointment. Atlanta. Reservations required. Adults, $36; ages 3-12, $32; ages 2 and younger, free. Children younger than 13 not admitted without adult. santasfantastical.com

atlantaparent.com

WE LOVE A PARADE

See giant floats, bands and performers flow down the street this holiday season. n Hometown Holidays Parade. Downtown Forsyth.

This year’s theme is “Christmas in the South.” Nov. 29. 7-8:30 p.m.

478-994-9239. Free to watch. forsyth-monroechamber.com

n Children’s Christmas Parade. Downtown Atlanta. Floats, giant

helium-filled balloons and marching bands will move down the street, and the arrival of Santa will announce the holiday season. Dec. 1. 10:20 a.m. Begins on Peachtree Street at 16th Street. 404-785-7974. Free to watch. choa.org/parade

n Santa Parade. Downtown Kennesaw. Marching bands, decorated floats, vintage cars, colorfully-costumed characters and Santa. Dec. 1. Noon. Begins near the intersection of Park Drive and Main Street, proceeding down Main Street.

A Day With Santa celebration following the parade until 6 p.m. 770-422-9714. Free to watch. adaywithsanta.com

n City of College Park Annual Christmas Parade.

Downtown College Park. This year’s theme is “There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays.” Marching bands, entertainment, floats and more. Dec. 8. 10:30 a.m.

Begins at 3872 College St. and ends at 3333 Main St., College Park. 404-669-9206.

Free to watch. collegeparkga.com

n The Parade of Christmas Trees. Historic Downtown Newnan.

Watch floats, walking groups, decorated cars, trucks and marching bands. Dec. 8.

6 p.m. LaGrange Street to Greenville Street. 678-673-5505. Free to watch. ci.newnan.ga.us/special_events_parades.php

n Holiday Parade. Buford Highway. Celebrate the holidays with this festive Historic Downtown Newnan

atlantaparent.com

parade along Buford Highway. Dec. 9. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Begins at the CDC on Buford Highway and ends at Plaza Fiesta. 404-982-9138. Free to watch. plazafiesta.net

Family Fun Guide

December 2018 Atlanta Parent 41

HOLIDAY FUN UNDER $5 Here are our best ideas for free or cheap events.

Explore a Nature Market Back to Nature Holiday Market

Chattahoochee Nature Center / Dec. 1. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Explore over 40 vendors with hand-made and/or eco-friendly gifts for the holiday season. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770992-2055. Free admission; items for purchase.

Old-Time Christmas Christmas at the Cabin

Red Top Mountain State Park / Dec. 1. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

1800s-style Christmas with music, tree decorating, toys and games. Bring a camera for free pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus. 50 Lodge Rd., Cartersville. 770-975-0055. Free; parking, $5.

A Horse-Drawn Ride Through Town Carriage Rides

Downtown Norcross Dec. 4-21. Tues., Wed. and Fri. 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Ride through the charming downtown on a horse-drawn carriage and take in holiday lights. Take photos with Santa afterwards. Starts in front of Taste of Britain. 65 Lawrenceville St., Norcross. 770-448-2122. Free; photos with Santa, extra.

Red Top Mountain State Park

Country Christmas Nights Ride a Tractor Pulled Wagon through over a mile of lights and meet Santa for only $8 Locomotive Train Rides Santa's Workshop Christmas Cafe & Shop Breakfast with Santa Tickets will Sell Out

Purchase Online at www.therockranch.com 42 Atlanta Parent    December 2018

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

At the Farm Christmas in the Country Celebrations

Southern Belle Farm Through Dec. 16 Visit with Santa, take a festive hayride and meet farm animals as well as enjoy some apple cider. 1658 Turner Church Rd., McDonough. Free. Visit southernbellefarm. com/christmas for schedule.

Party with Santa PJ Party with Santa

Town Center at Cobb – Upper Level, JCPenney Wing Dec. 8. 1-3 p.m.

Meet Santa and hear him read a story, plus games and giveaways. 400 Barrett Pkwy., Kennesaw. 770-424-0742. Free.

Santa’s Wonderland

Bass Pro Shops / Through Dec. 24.

Families can make Christmas memories including free pictures with Santa, crafts and activities. Check basspro.com for locations and schedule of events. 678-847-5500. Free.

Holiday Treats Gingerbread Christmas

Smith Plantation Dec. 8. 10:30, 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Gingerbread baking over an open hearth and holiday ornament making. Reservations required. Ages 5 and older. 935 Alpharetta St., Roswell. 770-641-3978. $5.

Holiday Bonfire and Marshmallow Roast

Decatur Square Dec. 13. 7-8 p.m.

Roast marshmallows on the Square.

Marshmallows provided; registration required. 101 E. Court Sq., Decatur.

404-371-8386. Free.

Holiday Show Roswell Winter Puppet Series

Roswell Cultural Arts Center Dec. 13-15; 20-22.10 a.m.

Additional shows Dec. 15 and 21, 1:30 p.m.

Santa’s Missing Mail and Trouble in Toyland delightful puppet shows. 950 Forrest St., Roswell. 770-594-6232. Ages 2 and older, $5.

Meet the Grinch Grits with the Grinch

Heritage Park Dec. 8. 9-10:30 a.m. and 11-a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Wear PJs and have breakfast with the Grinch and other characters from Whoville. Register

by Dec. 5. 99 Lake Dow Rd., McDonough.

770-288-7300. $5. Purchase at co.henry. ga.us/Grinch. The Grinch will also be at Ponce City Market Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 16.

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

December 2018 Atlanta Parent 43

VISIONS OF SUGARPLUMS AND DANCERS GALORE! Oh so many Nutcrackers to brighten the holidays, even a Disney movie On the Big Screen: Disney’s The Nutcracker and the Four Realms Rated PG The Nutcracker is reimagined in this tale staring Keira Knightley, Morgan Freeman and Mackenzie Foy. Young Clara finds a key to unlock a box with a priceless gift but it disappears into a mysterious parallel world with three realms, the Land of Snowflakes, the Land of Flowers and the Land of Sweets. She meets a soldier named Philip and they must enter a fourth and dangerous realm to retrieve the key and restore harmony to the world. Movie critics have not been kind, but families are still casting their votes.

WHAT DO YOU REALLY KNOW ABOUT THE NUTCRACKER? You’ve seen the ballet multiple times and it seems so familiar, but did you know…

n The story on which The Nutcracker ballet is based, E.T.A. Hoffman’s “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King,” has been illustrated, rewritten and reimagined hundreds of times in books and mo-vies, including Barbie in the Nutcracker, a computeranimated film in 2001.

n Though The Nutcracker was performed in St. Petersburg, Russia, in 1892, its first performance in the United States wasn’t until 1944, by the San Francisco Opera Ballet.

n Tchaikovsky’s original manuscript of the Nutcracker Suite was found in 1946, in wastepaper bought to cover the walls of a flat in St Petersburg, Russia.

n Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, who composed The Nutcracker’s beautiful score, actually preferred the music he wrote for Sleeping Beauty.

44 Atlanta Parent December 2018

n The Atlanta Ballet first performed The Nutcracker in 1959, nearly 60 years ago, and was the only regional company granted permission at the time to perform the New York Ballet’s choreographed version.

n Macaulay Culkin, the star of the Home Alone movie series, had a role in the 1993 movie version of The Nutcracker, as Drosselmeier’s nephew.

Sources: encyclopediaoftrivia.com, imdb.com, takelessons.com, thoughtco.com, atlantaballet.com

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

Revamped!

Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker.

Fox Theatre. Dec. 8-24.

See foxtheatre.org for showtimes.

Atlanta Ballet’s first new Nutcracker in 20 years with a completely revamped show. 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 855-285-8499. $35-$140.

On Stage: The Nutcracker.

The Children’s Nutcracker. St. Pius X High

Jennie T. Anderson Theatre. The classic story presented by The Georgia Ballet. Nov. 29 through Dec. 2. Thurs. 7:30 p.m.

Fri. 7 p.m. Sat. 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sun. 2 and 5:30 p.m. 548 S. Marietta Pkwy., Marietta. 770-528-0881. $13-$50. georgiaballet.org/season

School Theatre. The classic story presented by the Academy of Ballet of Norcross. Dec. 8-9. Sat. 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Sun. 1:30 and 4:30 p.m. 2674 Johnson Rd., Atlanta. tututix.com/ academyballet. $17- $25; ages 2 and younger, free.

The Nutcracker.

The Nutcracker.

The Grand Theatre. Cartersville City Ballet performs the classic story through dance. Dec. 1-3. Fri. 7:30 p.m. Sat. 2 and 7:30 p.m.

Sun. 3 p.m. 7 N. Wall St., Cartersville. 770-386-7343. Adults, $21-$25; ages 18 and younger, $18-$22. cartersvilleschoolofballet.com

Blessed Trinity Performing Arts Theater.

Join The Fleetwood Dance Theatre for the annual performance of this family classic. Nov. 30, Dec. 1-2. Fri. 8 p.m.; Sat. 11 a.m., 3 and 8 p.m.; Sun. 2:30 p.m. 11320 Woodstock Rd., Roswell. tututix.com/fleetwood. $23.

The Nutcracker. Infinite Energy Center. Gwinnett Ballet

Theatre performs the classic story. Nov. 30, Dec. 1-2, 7-9, 14 and 16.

6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-626-2464. $32-$39. See infiniteenergycenter.com for showtimes.

The Nutcracker.

Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center at City Springs.

Follow Clara through a dream world of battling mice and dancing sugarplums.

Presented by Tolbert Yilmaz School of Dance and the Roswell Dance Theatre.

Nov. 23-Dec. 2. 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs. 770-998-0259. $20-$35. See tysod. com for times and special events before shows.

The Nutcracker.

Roswell Cultural Arts Center. Atlanta Dance Theatre performs this version with battling mice, dancing snowflakes, waltzing flowers and more. Dec. 7-9. Fri. 7:30 p.m.; Sat. 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Sun. 2 p.m. 950 Forrest St., Roswell. 404-438-3028. $21.70-$33.12. atlantadancetheatre.eventbrite.com

Urban Nutcracker.

TCHS Viola Turner Theater. Enjoy a different take on the classic production of the Nutcracker presented by Ballethnic Dance Company. Dec. 20-23. Thurs. 7:30 p.m. Fri. 8 p.m. Sat. 2 and 8 p.m. Sun. 3 p.m.

2575 Harris St., East Point. 404-762-1416. $20-$40. ballethnic.net

Mouse King Cheese Bites It’s simple to make these adorable crackers and cheese mice. You’ll need crackers, cheese, green onions, red bell pepper, almond slices and peppercorns.

Urban Nutcracker

Clay Pot Toy Soldiers Make a cute toy soldier using clay pots, spray paint, a wooden dowel, pencil and twine.

Find more soldier designs and directions at pinterest.com

Find directions at wonderlandrecipes.com

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

December 2018 Atlanta Parent 45

HANUKKAH FUN

n Menorah Lightings

Hosted by Chabad Intown. Menorah lighting, balloons, doughnuts, latkes, music and more. Dec. 2, 4 p.m. at Decatur Square; Dec. 3, 6 p.m. in Virginia Highland; Dec. 4, 6:30 p.m. at Atlantic Station; Dec. 5, 6:30 p.m. at Ponce City Market. Advanced registration encouraged. See chabadintown.org/chanukah for more information. 404-898-0434. Free.

n Menorah Lighting and Hanukkah

Celebration

MJCCA, Zaban Park. Hanukkah songs with Rabbi Glusman, lighting of the menorah and a performance. Jelly doughnuts and hot chocolate served.

Dec. 3-5. 5:15-5:45 p.m. 5342 Tilly Mill Rd., Dunwoody. 678-812-4161. Free.

n Celebrate Hanukkah: A Cultural Exploration

Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Celebrate Hanukkah with storytime, music and dance. Dec. 9. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta.

404-659-5437. Ages 1 and older, $15.95-$18.95.

n Hanukkah Storytime

Little Shop of Stories. Listen to stories about the Festival of Lights. Dec. 9.

2-2:30 p.m. 133A E. Court St., Decatur. 404-373-6300. Free.

n Menorah Lighting

Marietta Square. Meet at the Glover Park stage for a Chanukah celebration including holiday music and children’s games presented by Congregation Ner Tamid. Free hot chocolate and jelly doughnuts. Dec. 8. 6:30-7:30 p.m.

50 N. Park Sq., Marietta. 678-264-8575. Free.

n Community Chanukah Party

MJCCA

46 Atlanta Parent December 2018

Temple Kehillat Chaim. Celebrate Chanukah with lighting of the menorah, crafts, music and more. Dec. 5. 6:30-8 p.m. 1145 Green St., Roswell.

770-641-8630. Pre-register. Free.

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

Atlanta Botanical Garden

BEST HOLIDAY LIGHT DISPLAYS IN ATLANTA AND BEYOND See the brightest, most beautiful holiday lights this season. n Fantasy in Lights

n Country

n Stone Mountain

n Atlanta Botanical Garden

The Rock Ranch Dec. 6-8, 13-15 and 20-22.

Thurs.-Sat., 5:30-9:30 p.m.

Hop on-board the Christmas Express Train featuring a snowflake tunnel and a dancing Christmas lights show. 5020 Barnesville Hwy., The Rock. 706-647-6374. $8-$12; ages 2 and younger, free. therockranch.com

Stone Mountain Park Through Jan. 6.

Thousands of lights and holiday activities including projections and special effects. Don’t miss the Wonderland Walkway, a dazzling tunnel of lights that leads to the Snow Angel Palace. Visit stonemountainpark.com for pricing and schedule.

1000 Robert E. Lee, Stone Mountain. 800-401-2407.

Callaway Gardens Through Jan. 5. Opens at 6 p.m.

Drive through more than 8 million twinkling lights and a garden decorated for the season. 17800 US Hwy. 27, Pine Mountain. 800-852-3810.

Adults, $21-$30; ages 6-12, $10.50-$15; ages 5 and younger, free. callawaygardens.com

Through Jan. 6. Sun.-Sat.. 5-11 p.m.

Countless bulbs light up the garden with Nature’s Wonders, Orchestral Orbs Glittering Galaxy, Radiant Rainforest and Model Trains.

1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. See atlantabg.org for tickets and pricing. Varies by date.

n Enchanted Garden

of Lights

Rock City Nov. 16-Dec. 31. Daily 6-9 p.m.

Closed Dec. 24.

Make your way through 1 million holiday lights with over 30 different scenes from the North Pole to Magic Forest and Yule Town. Decorate cookies and meet Santa.1400 Patten Rd., Lookout Mountain. 706-820-2531. Adults, $16.95-$28.95; ages 3-12, $8.95-$14.95. seerockcity.com

atlantaparent.com

Christmas Nights

Christmas Lights

n Lights of Life

n Pettit Creek Farms

n Magical Nights of Lights

Pettit Creek Farms Through Dec. 30. Sun.-Thurs. 6-9 p.m.

Fri. and Sat. 6-10 p.m.

More than one mile of light displays, Santa visits, petting zoo, reindeer and more. 337 Cassville Rd., Cartersville. 770-386-8688. $20-$35 per car; hayrides, $10; ages 2 and younger, free. pettitcreekfarms.com

Life University Through Dec. 31. Sun.-Thurs. 6-9 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 6-10 p.m.

Tons of holiday lights on display around the campus. Pony rides, train rides and petting zoo.

1269 Barclay Cir., Marietta. 678-331- 4342. $5$10 per car. life.edu/lights-of-life

Margaritaville at Lanier Islands Through Jan 6. Dec. hours: Dec. 1-13 and Dec. 27-31, 5-10 p.m.; Dec. 14-26, 5-11 p.m.

Celebrate 26 years of magical holiday lights by driving through this large display, this year with a Margaritaville twist. Don’t forget to visit Santa.

7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford. 678-304-3120. $49-$59 per car. margaritavilleatlanierislands.com

Family Fun Guide

Christmas Lights

n Holiday Lights of Hope

Hobgood Park Dec. 7-23. Nightly from 6-9 p.m.

Walk-through light and animated displays, visit with Santa and more. 6688 Bells Ferry Rd., Woodstock. 678-504-6388. Adults, $10; ages 14 and younger, free. holidaylightsofhope.com

December 2018 Atlanta Parent 47

THE NATIVITY

Learn about the true meaning of Christmas through living nativities and a creche exhibit. n Bethlehem Walk. Mountain View United Methodist Church.

Walk through the streets of Bethlehem, depicted as it was the first Christmas, complete with shopkeepers. Dec. 7-9. Fri.-Sun. 7-9 p.m.

2300 Jamerson Rd., Marietta. 770-928-0050. Free.

n Live Nativity. Sardis United Methodist Church. Performances run on the front lawn and feature live animals. After the performance, Christmas carols and refreshments. Dec. 8-9. Shows: 6 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 7 p.m., 7:30 p.m. 3725 Powers Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-237-6060. Free.

n Walk Through Bethlehem. St. John United Methodist

Church. Live nativity, live animals, music, refreshments and crafts. Dec. 8-9.

6-8 p.m. 550 Mount Paran Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-255-1384. Free.

Sardis United Methodist Church

n Evening in Bethlehem. Roswell United Methodist

Live nativity scene to re-create the glory of Christmas. Dec. 16. 6-7 p.m.

4147 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd., Chamblee. 770-457-2525. Free.

Church. Indoor, dramatic re-enactment of the first Christmas with live characters and real stable animals. Dec. 15. 4-6:30 p.m. Reservations required. 814 Mimosa Blvd., Roswell. 770-993-6218. Free, $10 donation suggested.

n Walk Through Bethlehem. Simpsonwood United

n Nativities Exhibit. Episcopal Church of the Epiphany.

n Live Nativity. Chamblee First United Methodist Church.

Methodist Church. Walk through the candlelit outdoor nativity scene, complete with Roman guards, shopkeepers and live animals. Dec. 7-9.

Fri. and Sat. 7-9 p.m. Sun. 6-8 p.m. 4500 Jones Bridge Cir. NW, Peachtree Corners. 770-441-2181. Free.

48 Atlanta Parent December 2018

Nativity scenes from around the world made of everything from wood to volcanic ash. Dec. 8-10, 12, 14-16. Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun. 2-4 p.m.; Mon., Wed. and Fri. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 2089 Ponce de Leon Ave. NE, Atlanta.

404-373-8338. Adults, $5; 11 and younger, free.

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

DESTINATION: NORTH POLE Embark on a journey by train complete with hot cocoa, storytelling and Santa.

Tennessee Valley Railroad

n North Pole Limited

Tennessee Valley Railroad.

A round-trip journey to the “North Pole,” featuring storytelling, light refreshments and an appearance by Santa. Select dates through Dec. 30. See tvrail.com for departure times and prices. 4119 Cromwell Rd., Chattanooga, Tenn. 423-894-8028.

Prices vary by trip.

We come to you! Miniature farm animals & a pony to ride.

n The Polar Express

• Birthdays • Field Trips • Church Productions • Pony Carousels

Train Ride

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.

A round-trip train ride with a Santa visit.

Includes warm cocoa, carols and a treat while the story is narrated. Select dates through Dec. 31. Departure times at gsmr. com. Limited availability. 45 Mitchell St. Bryson City, N.C. 800-872-4681. Prices vary: Adults, $42-91; ages 2-12, $28-$67.

Enchanted Woodland Wonders Sunday, Dec. 9 2–6 pm

Enchanted Woodland Trail Dec. 9 – Feb. 28

Fairy Houses and Gnome Homes

TEXT TO SCHEDULE YOUR EVENT!

678-493-5860 LittleRedBarn.us

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

December 2018 Atlanta Parent 49

8 RINKS FOR ICE SKATING

Practice your twists and twirls or improve on last year’s moves by visiting these ice rinks. n Avalon on Ice Dec. 21-Jan. 4, and Jan. 21. Mon.-Fri. 3-10 p.m.

Sat. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sun. noon-7 p.m. 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Lace up your skates and glide on the ice. Adults, $18; ages 9 and younger, $14. Includes skate rental.

Where: 400 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. 770-765-1000. experienceavalon.com

n Astor Holiday Ice Skating Rink Weekends through Dec. 9. Daily, Dec. 14-Jan. 6. Hours vary.

Twinkling lights, holiday melodies, hot cocoa and s’mores. Reservations recommended. Adults, $30/hr.; ages 12 and younger, $18/hr.

Where: 88 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-563-2799. stregisatlanta.com.

n The Rink at Mall of Georgia

Avalon on Ice

Through Jan. 6. Mon.-Thurs. noon.-9 p.m. Fri.-Sat. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sun. Noon.-8 p.m.

Skate on a faux-ice rink in the Village. Adults, $5; ages 12 and younger, $3. Skate rental included. Tuesdays, $2.

Where: 3333 Buford Dr., Buford. 770-271-9458. simon.com/mall/mall-of-georgia

n The Ice Rink at Sugar Hill Through Feb. 10. Hours vary.

Practice your ice skating moves on this real ice outdoor rink.

Adults, $12; 8 and younger, $10. Includes skate rental.

Where: 5039 West Broad St., Sugar Hill. 770-554-7506. haveanicedayrinks.com

n Ice Days: Olde Town Conyers Pavilion Through Feb. 24. Hours vary.

Indoor/outdoor rink in a botanical setting with real ice. $10; Skate rental included.

Where: 949 S. Main St., Conyers. 678-374-7655. icedays.com/conyers

n Skate the Sky at The Roof,

Ponce City Market

Through Jan. 15. Mon.-Wed. 3-10 p.m. Thurs.-Fri. 3-11 p.m.

Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sun. noon-9 p.m. Fri. and Sat. ages 21 and older after 5 p.m.

Twirl across 3,500 square feet of ice, while enjoying skyline views and seasonal lights. Skyline Park: Adults, $10; ages 12 and younger, $7.

Skating is an additional charge: Adults, $15; ages 12 and younger, $7.

Where: 675 Ponce de Leon Ave., Atlanta. 770-999-1530. skylineparkatlanta.com

n The Rink at Park Tavern Through Jan. 21. Mon.-Fri. 4:30 p.m.-midnight.

Sat. and Sun., 11:30 a.m.-midnight.

Heated tent, state-of-the-art sound system and rink-side dining.

Ages 16 and older starting at 8:30 p.m. $15-$20, all day skate.

Where: 500 10th St., Atlanta. 404-249-0001. parktavern.com/ice-rink

n SKATE Atlantic Station

SKATE Atlantic Station

50 Atlanta Parent December 2018

Through Jan.21. Mon.-Thurs. 4-10 p.m.

Fri. and Sat. noon-11 p.m. Sun. noon-9 p.m. Holidays, 3-11 p.m.

10,000-square-foot open-air ice skating rink with skate pavilion indoor space overlooking the rink. Adults, $15; ages 12 and younger, $12.

Skate rental included.

Where: 1380 Atlantic Dr., Atlanta. 404-410-4010. atlanticstation.com

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

4 WAYS TO PLAY IN THE SNOW

You don’t have to travel far to play in the powder – these experiences bring the fun to Atlanta.

1

3

Snow Mountain

Stone Mountain Park transforms into a winter wonderland, and brings lots of snow to Atlanta. This snow-covered area includes tubing down snow-covered hills, snowman building areas and plenty of room for more snow play. For a different experience, go Galactic Snow Tubing with lights and lasers after 5:30 p.m. Select dates through Feb. 24. Tickets are $34.95 and up. stonemountainpark.com

Snow to Celebrate

A Day with Santa in Downtown Kennesaw at Depot Park is Dec. 1 from noon-6 p.m. and includes a snow tubing hill, inflatables, crafts and visits with Santa after the festive parade down Main Street. adaywithsanta.com.

Christmas at Piedmont at Piedmont Church is Dec. 7 (5-9 p.m.) and Dec. 8 (10 a.m.-5 p.m.) and includes hot chocolate and s’mores, entertainment, Santa visits and two snow slides. 770-422-2566. piedmontchurch.tv

atlantaparent.com

2

4

License to Chill Snow Island

The new Margaritaville at Lanier Islands transitions to snow play for the winter. There is a fast-moving snow tubing hill, winter-themed carnival rides, an ice skating rink and a fire pit with s’mores. Snow play areas will be set up around the park. Through Feb. 24. Daily through Jan. 6. Hours vary, see website for details. Weekends, Jan. 12- Feb. 24, 11 a.m.- 7 p.m. Tickets are $24.99 and up. margaritavilleatlanierislands.com

Snow Shows

In addition to tons of other holiday magic at Atlantic Station (German market, ice skating, Santa visits and a giant, sparkling Christmas tree) take a walk through Winter Wonder Lane and watch snow fall from above while holiday music plays. These free snow shows occur Sun.-Thurs. at 7 p.m. and Fri. and Sat. each hour from 6-9 p.m. through Dec. 23. Make sure to have a camera ready before the snow falls! atlanticstation.com

Family Fun Guide

December 2018 Atlanta Parent 51

LAST-CHANCEEXHIBITS

Catch these exhibits before they leave town.

Nature’s Superheroes Fernbank Museum of Natural History Through Jan 1 Explore the diversity of life as you discover the extreme adaptations that allow organisms to thrive all over the world. Hear the calls of fruit bats and the pig frog, meet the world’s toughest animal and find the mimic octopus if you can! 404-9296300. Adults, $20; ages 3-12, $18; ages 2 and younger.

Free. fernbankmuseum.org

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: A Grr-ific Exhibit Children’s Museum of Atlanta Through Jan. 6 Step into Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, where Daniel and his friends help children navigate their world.

Play, sing, explore and pretend in some favorite and familiar places from the Neighborhood, and even don character costumes.

404-659-5437. $15.95$18.95; younger than 1, free. childrensmuseumatlanta.org

Brain Teasers 2 Tellus Science Museum / Through Jan. 6 Sharpen your problem-solving skills with 20 different challenges that range from conundrums to mind-boggling block puzzles. 770-606-5700. Adults, $15.95; ages 3-17, $11.95; ages 2 and younger, free. tellusmuseum.org

Are you ready to have the

FEBRUARY

9

best summer ever?

NORTH POINT MALL

MARCH

16

PERIMETER MALL

Get prepared with Atlanta Parent’s

FREE

11 A.M. TO 4 P.M.

2019 52 Atlanta Parent December 2018

Family Fun Guide

To exhibit or for info call 770-454-7599 or hsykes@atlantaparent.com atlantaparent.com atlantaparent.com

WINTER BREAK ON A BUDGET Get out of the house this winter break, have fun and save some cold hard cash with these ideas

CityPASS

Library Pass Program

This multi-use ticket helps with discount offers to area attractions. It’s a packaged selection along with some perks.

Check out free passes at your local library to several area attractions including Georgia ParkPass or a Historic Site Pass, Zoo Atlanta and Center for Puppetry Arts. Visit your local library website for complete details and restrictions. Free admissions vary by county.

n It’s Good at Five Attractions: Atlanta CityPASS includes admission to Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola and CNN Studio Tours. For your last two attractions, you get choices. Visit Zoo Atlanta or the Center for Civil and Human Rights, and choose between Fernbank Museum of Natural History and the College Football Hall of Fame. n Admission Savings are Big: You can save up to 40 percent on regular admission at the five attractions you visit. n It’s Valid for Nine Days: Don’t think you have to see all these spots in a weekend (we’d need more than one nap)! The CityPASS is valid for nine consecutive days. You can plan for one or two adventures a day.

Ages 13 and older, $76; ages 3-12, $61; ages 2 and younger, free.

Purchase at citypass.com

Free Museums

South Cobb Aquatic Center

n Georgia Capitol Museum: Kids can learn about the government during this self-guided tour. libs.uga.edu/capitolmuseum/tours n Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park: Includes his boyhood home, Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church and more. nps.gov/malu n The Marietta Fire Museum and the Roswell Fire Museum: Firefighting history and antique fire trucks are just part of the artifacts that fascinate kids. mariettaga.gov/189/Fire-Museum and roswellgov.com search “Fire Museum” n The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum: Free for ages 16 and younger, and adults pay $8. jimmycarterlibrary.gov n Fernbank Science Center: Free to visit, but planetarium shows are $7 for adults and $5 for ages 3-18. fernbank.edu

atlantaparent.com

Indoor Waterparks n Bethesda Park Aquatic Center: This park features a giant water slide that curves out of the building and then re-enters before dropping you into a pool. Lazy river, pool and dunking buckets.

678-277-0880. gwinnettparks.com, search “aquatics.” 225 Bethesda Church Rd., Lawrenceville. Adults, $10.50; ages 4-10, $8.25; ages 3 and younger, $6.25 n Bogan Park Aquatic Center: Indoor leisure pool with beach entry, giant water slide and water play structures. 678-277-0853. gwinnettparks.com, search “aquatics.” 2723 N. Bogan Rd., Buford.

Adults, $10.50; ages 4-10, $8.25; ages 3 and younger, $6.25 n South Cobb Aquatic Center: Splash down the spiraling enclosed slide; slip through the yellow tube slide and into the water for a lazy river float. 770-739-3180. cobbcounty.org, go to “aquatics.”

875 Riverside Pkwy., Austell. Adults; $6.75; ages 2-17, $5.25

Family Fun Guide

December 2018 Atlanta Parent 53

Calendar

December S M T W TH F S

n

Visit our Calendar at atlantaparent.com for calendar updates and ongoing events and attractions in Atlanta.

n

Events may be canceled or changed after our deadline.

n

Submit your family-friendly Calendar event at least 8 weeks prior to the event by visiting atlantaparent.com/event/submit.

n

Please call the event beforehand to confirm dates and times.

classes Toddler Time. Georgia Aquarium. Children will meet an approachable animal during an introduction to marine life, enjoy a costumed character appearance, storytime, craft and a small snack.

Ages infant-3 yrs. Advance registration required.

Dec. 3. 10-11:30 a.m. 225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta.

404-581-4000. $10 per person, does not include Aquarium admission.

Mommy and Me Preschool Program. The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History.

Learn through play with hands-on activities.

Recommended for ages 3-5. Every Thurs. 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with storytime at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and noon. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-4272117. Included with admission: Adults, $7.50; ages 4-12, $5.50; ages 3 and younger, free.

Toddler Thursdays. High Museum of Art. Create masterpieces to complement the Museum’s current exhibits. Recommended for ages 2-4. Every Thurs.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta.

404-733-4400. Included with admission: Ages 6 and older, $14.50; ages 5 and younger, free.

Drop-In Art Classes. Treehouse Kid & Craft. Enjoy weekly activities including painting, drawing and sculpting. Every Sat. 10 a.m. (ages 2-4) and 11 a.m. (ages 5-10). 533 W. Howard Ave. Ste. A, Decatur. 470-355-8305. $12.

Crafts at Lakeshore Learning. Lakeshore Learning.

Make a different craft each week. Every Sat. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Ages 3 and older. 4287 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-578-3100. Free.

Saturday Morning Art Classes. Vinings School of Art. Piano, guitar or art classes. Select Sat. Times vary, see viningsschoolofart.com for schedule and to register. 1675 Cumberland Pkwy. SE #102, Smyrna. 678-213-4278. Group classes: $10.62-$15 per hour.

Drop-In and Draw. GAS-ART Gifts at North DeKalb Mall. Create a different project each week. Every Sat. and Sun. Between noon-3 p.m. 2050 Lawrenceville Hwy. #C-30, Decatur. 404-801-4926. $5.

Beginner/Intermediate Skateboarding. The BeltLine.

One-hour skateboarding class led by expert instructors. Every Sat. Beginner: 10-11 a.m.

Intermediate: 11:10 a.m.-12:10 p.m. and 12:30-1:30 p.m. Register online at beltline. org/events. 1614 Arthur Langford Jr. Pl. SW, Atlanta. 404-477-3003.

Free.

Mice Tours. Marietta Museum of History. Mascots Murray and Etta mouse introduce history through tours, storytime and crafts for ages 3-5. Reservations required. Second Wed. of each month. 10:30 a.m.

1 Depot St. Ste. 200, Marietta. 770-794-5710. $5 per family (one adult and up to three children).

Second Thursday Program. Southeastern Railway Museum. Parents and preschool program includes storytime, an activity, game and craft. Ages 2-4.

Second Thurs. of each month. 10:30 a.m.-12:05 p.m. Check in before 10:20 a.m. 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth. 770-495-0253. $10 per child, one adult free, additional adult, $12.

54 Atlanta Parent December 2018

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THE BIGGEST BABY SHOWER EVER! ATLANTA Southern Exchange DEC. 4. 5:30-9 P.M. Test the latest baby gear, hear from experts, meet other new and soon-to-be parents in your area, win prizes and more.

200 Peachtree St. NW, Atlanta.

770-944-6111. $18.23 and up. bigcitymoms.com/biggestbaby-shower-ever/atlanta

exhibits Nature’s Superheroes: Life at the Limits.

Fernbank Museum of Natural History.

Explore the diversity of life as you discover the extreme adaptations that allow organisms to thrive all over the world. Through Jan 1. Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404929-6300. Adults, $20; ages 3-12, $18; ages 2 and younger. Free.

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: A Grr-ific Exhibit. Children’s Museum of Atlanta.

Step into Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, where Daniel and his friends help children navigate their world. Play, sing, explore and pretend in some favorite and familiar places from the Neighborhood. Through Jan. 6. Mon.Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; closed Wed.; Sat.Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW, Atlanta. 404-6595437. $15.95-$18.95; younger than 1, free.

movies Planetarium Shows. Fernbank Science Center.

Various shows per month about the solar system in the planetarium. See fernbank.edu/ planetarium for full schedule. 156 Heaton Park Dr., Atlanta. 678-874-7102. Adults, $7; ages 3-18, $5; ages 2 and younger, free.

Earthflight 3D. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Embark on a flight across the world on the wings of birds. Through Dec. 13. See fernbankmuseum.org for showtimes. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Giant Screen Theater: Adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; ages 2 and younger, free.

Flight of the Butterflies 3D. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Soar alongside as half a billion Monarch butterflies head south on a 3,000-mile journey. Through Jan. 10. See fernbankmuseum.org for showtimes. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Giant Screen Theater: Adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; ages 2 and younger, free.

Brain Teasers 2. Tellus Science Museum.

Sharpen your problem-solving skills with 20 different challenges that range from conundrums to mind-boggling block puzzles. Through Jan. 6. Daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville.

770-606-5700. Adults, $15.95; ages 3-17, $11.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

Great Barrier Reef 3D. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Learn how this living treasure, home to a thriving metropolis of creatures, has endured for thousands of years. Dec. 14-May 2. See fernbankmuseum.org for showtimes.

767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300.Giant Screen Theater: Adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; ages 2 and younger, free.

Meteorite Headlines. Tellus Science Museum. At the center of this exhibit is a 1980 Chevrolet Malibu struck by the Peekskill Meteorite in 1992. Other featured casualties include a mailbox, a window, a radio and more headliners.

Through March 24. Daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-6065700. Adults, $15.95; ages 3-17, $11.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

First Friday Concert. Norcross Community Center.

Different concert first Friday of the month. Dec. 7. 7-9 p.m. 10 College Street, Norcross. Call 678-421-2048 for reservations. Free.

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Kid-Friendly Ways to Ring in the New Year Watch balloons drop early to ring in 2019, enjoy bubble play, live performances and more. n Noon Year’s Eve. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Let the kids celebrate

early with a balloon drop at noon and music, bubbles and dancing. Dec. 31. 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Purchase separate event ticket in advance; includes general event admission and all exhibits. $22-$28. fernbankmuseum.org

n New Year’s Bubble Bash.

The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Countdown to 2019 with a dance party, special guests, bubble-wrap fireworks and more. Countdowns at noon and 3:30 p.m. Dec. 31. 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 1:30-4 p.m. Purchase tickets in advance.

275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW, Atlanta. 404-527-3693. $20 per person; prices increase on Dec. 24. childrensmuseumatlanta.org

n Noon Year’s Eve.

The Hotel at Avalon. Live music, face painting, crafts and countdown to noon when a giant balloon drop will welcome in the New Year. Dec. 31. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 9000 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. 678-722-3600. $15; ages 2 and younger, free. thehotelatavalon.com/events/

n Noon Year’s Eve. LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Balloon drop at noon,

large group LEGO build and giveaways. Dec. 31. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. 3500 Peachtree Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-848-9252. Included with admission. $29.95; ages 2 and younger, free. legolanddiscoverycenter.com/atlanta

n Kids’ Early New Year’s Eve Celebration.

Stone Mountain Park. Fireworks, snowfall and early New Year’s celebration at 9 p.m. Activities begin with costumed characters, music and dance-a-longs prior to countdown to 9 p.m. Dec. 31.

1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain. 770-498-5690. 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Christmas AllAttractions Pass for adults $34.95; ages 3-11, $29.95; ages 2 and younger, free; parking, $20. stonemountainpark.com

Fernbank Museum of Natural History

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Family Fun Guide

December 2018 Atlanta Parent 55

Calendar

A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD Synchronicity Theatre DEC. 7-30. FRI. 7 P.M.; SAT. 1 AND 4:30 P.M.; SUN. 2 AND 5:30 P.M.

nature Wildlife Feeding Time. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Join a naturalist for an in-depth look at one of the resident animals as the Wildlife Department feeds them. Every Tues. and Sat. 4 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770992-2055. Included with admission: Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free.

First Saturdays. Dunwoody Nature Center. Different nature theme the first Sat. of each month. This month’s theme is winter. Pre-register. Dec. 1.

1-2 p.m. 5343 Roberts Dr., Dunwoody.

770-394-3322. Free.

Guided Mountain Hike. Panola Mountain State Park. Take a close look at unique ecology and see how outcrop plants scrape out a living in this environment.

Wear hiking shoes and bring water.

Register in advance. Dec. 1 and 9. 1-4 p.m. Ages 10 and older. 2620 Hwy. 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. $10; parking, $5.

Intro to Tree Climbing. Panola Mountain State Park. Introductory program to recreational tree climbing. Participants will use rope and harness to climb, swing and scramble. Dec. 16. Climbs begin 1 and 3 p.m. Ages 8 and older.

2620 Hwy. 115 SW, Stockbridge. 770389-7801. $15; parking, $5.

Arnold Lobel’s beloved characters Frog and Toad “hop from the page to the stage” in this musical. Recommended for ages 3 and older.

Each Fri. is PJs and Play with cookies and milk.

1545 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-484-8636.

Adults, $21-31; ages 3-12, $16-$26; ages 2 and younger don’t need a ticket. see website for additional showtimessynchrotheatre.com

special events Snow Mountain. Stone Mountain Park.

Stone Mountain transforms into a Winter Wonderland, and brings lots of snow to Atlanta. Tube down snowcovered hills, build a snowman, play in snow and more. Galactic Snow Tubing with lights and lasers after 5:30 p.m.

Select dates through Feb. 24. 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain.

800-401-2407. $34.95 and up. visit stonemountainpark.com for times.

License to Chill Snow Island. Margaritaville at Lanier Islands.

Snow tubing hill, winter-themed carnival rides, an ice skating rink, a fire pit with s’mores and photos with Santa.

Through Feb. 24. See margaritavilleatlanierislands.com for full schedule. Dec. hours: Dec. 3-7; 10-14 and 17, 5-10 p.m.

Dec. 1-2; 8-9; 15-16 and 18-31, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford. 678-304-3120. $24.99 and up.

SEC FanFare. Georgia World Congress Center Halls C1-C3.

Celebrity athletes, pep-rallies, attractions and more to celebrate the SEC Championship Game. The SEC Network’s pregame show, “SEC Nation,” will broadcast live from the Center on Sat. Nov. 30-Dec. 1. Fri. 2-8 p.m. Sat. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

285 Andrew Young International Blvd. NW, Atlanta. Adults, $10; ages 12 and younger, $5. secsports.com, search SEC FanFare.

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Calendar

ENCHANTED WOODLAND TRAIL: FEATURING FAIRY HOUSES AND GNOME HOMES

Second Sunday. High Museum of Art. Free admission to the Museum the second Sunday of each month, and family programs from 1-4 p.m. include art making, storytimes and more. Dec. 9. noon-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404733-4400. Free.

Chattahoochee Nature Center DEC. 9-FEB. 28 MON.-SAT. 10 A.M.-5 P.M. SUN. NOON-5 P.M. More than a dozen miniature fairy and gnome houses line Kingfisher Pond Trail. Create your own house in the play area. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell.

770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free. chattnaturecenter.org

Family Fun. Alliance Theatre. Drama workshops for ages preschool to fifth grade with games, storytelling and more. Dec. 9. 1-4 p.m. Preregistration recommended. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4650. Free.

Winter Art Break. High Museum of Art. Explore The High’s galleries with a family guide and make art with teaching artists. Dec. 26-30. 1-4 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4400. Included with admission: $14.50; ages 5 and younger, free.

Family Free Day. Museum of Design Atlanta. Free admission the second Sunday of each month.

Special programs include design and STEAM activities. Dec. 9. Noon-6 p.m. 1315 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-979-6455. Free.

Storytime at Little Shop. Little Shop of Stories.

Storytime each week with different stories read aloud. Tues., Thurs. and Fri. 11 a.m. Sun. 2 p.m. 133A East Court Sq., Decatur. 404-3736300. Free.

storytelling Grandma Snazzy’s Storytime. Crabapple Kroger.

Grandma Snazzy reads every Mon., Thurs. and Fri. 10 a.m. Call before visiting to confirm. 12460 Crabapple Rd., Alpharetta. 770-740-2050. Free.

Children’s Storytime. FoxTale Book Shoppe.

Storytimes are followed by dance and songs.

Each Sat. 11 a.m. 105 E. Main Ste. 138, Woodstock. 770-516-9989. Free.

FAMILY FUN DAY MJCCA, Zaban Park DEC. 25. 11 A.M.-3 P.M. Inflatables, movies, sports, swimming, JCC Maccabi Games and arts and crafts.

5342 Tilly Mill Rd., Dunwoody.

678-812-4000. Free and open to the public. atlantajcc.org

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Warm Winter Stories. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Head over to the toasty theater and catch a story reading. For ages 3-5. Dec. 26-28. 11 a.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free.

Tadpole Tales. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Preschoolers can enjoy a story and special activity with a Fernbank educator.

Dec. 15 and 22. 11:30 a.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Adults, $20; ages 3-12, $18; ages 2 and younger, free.

beyond atlanta Hello From Japan. Creative Discovery Museum. Families will be transported to two distinct areas of Tokyo that exist side by side: a kawaii streetscape and a peaceful Shinto shrine park area to learn about Japanese culture. Through Jan. 6. See cdmfun.org for hours. 321 Chestnut St., Chattanooga, Tenn. 423-756-2738. $14.95; younger than 1, free.

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770-454-7599 December 2018 Atlanta Parent 57

for thee fridg

Sweater, n.:

garment worn by child when its mother is feeling chilly.

– Ambrose Bierce

58 Atlanta Parent December 2018

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