February 2015

Parent Atlanta’s No. 1 Parenting Magazine

atlanta

February 2015

28 Ways to Say I Love You

atlantaparent.com

CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY

Tooth Fairy Tales

OVERNIGHT CAMP GUIDE Don’t Miss Our CAMP EXPO on Saturday, February 21

deerrunretreat.org 615-794-2918

www.rockmont.com 828-686-3885

www.athensycamps.org 706-754-6912

WWW.CAMPOCOEE.COM 423-338-5588

CAMP DOVEWOOD campdovewood.org

www.camptekoa.org

386-935-0863

828-692-6516

Westminster

SCHOOLS Summer Programs www.campdixie.org 678-701-3052

www.westminster.net/summer 404-367-7868

MJCCA SUMMER DAY CAMPS circuscamp.org 404-370-0001

atlantajcc.org/camps 678.812.4004

www.HighMeadowsCamp.org 770.993.7975

CircusArtsInstitute.com 404-549-3000

www.openarmsbuckhead.org

404-256-1330

holyspiritprep.org/summer 678-904-2811

dramakids.com/ga3 770-776-7742

www.stmartinschool.org (404) 237-4260

TheSpanishAcademy.com 770-751-3146

DAY CAMPS • OVERNIGHT CAMPS • SUMMER PROGRAMS

Presented by

Parent atlanta

2 015 Atlanta Parent – the trusted source for day & overnight camp information for more than 30 years

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To exhibit or for info call Jordan Lisvosky at 678-222-1911

or JLisvosky@atlantaparent.com • atlantaparent.com/campexpo

4 Atlanta Parent    February 2015

atlantaparent.com

Inside 31 February YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

Vol. 32 / Number 2

Departments

Features 14

Say ‘I Love You’

16

Tooth Fairy Tales

38

just kids: 7 Habits of Effective Parents

In the month of Valentine’s Day, try some of these 28 ways to express your love to your mate, one for each day of the month.

How did the Tooth Fairy tradition start and what does she do with all those teeth?

Some parents of children with special needs know how to handle stress while making sure their children get the help they need.

44

Lessons in Culture

Families who host a foreign exchange student say the experience and the kids they get to know are unforgettable.

52

21

8 11 12 66

Overnight Camp Guide

When is your child ready for overnight camp?

Follow our guide and you’ll know if this is the year.

Plus, pick a great camp from our extensive list.

Hey Cupid! Your Holiday’s Been Hijacked!

Family Fun Guide 49 Not-to-Miss Events 50 Five New Exhibits 51 Free Fun: See Atlanta on a Streetcar

54

Black History in Atlanta

Atlanta offers plenty of sites to celebrate civil rights, including the new National Center for Civil and Human Rights.

Publisher’s Note News You Can Use Free and Cheap: Resale Shopping Humor

Black History Month Events

55 Run

Off to See the Circus

56 58 60

Need for Speed February Calendar Valentine’s Day Events

On the Cover: Cover Kid Edward Hudson Jr., 4, of Fairburn. Photo by Suspended Image Photography.

Don’t Miss Our Camp Expo on Saturday, February 21

Magazine Association of the Southeast

2013 Award Winner atlantaparent.com

Like us on Facebook; facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine February 2015 Atlanta Parent 5

Does your child have ASTHMA? Take part in a Clinical Research Study!

PUBLISHER Liz White

lwhite@atlantaparent.com

Consider joining a research study at Emory University / Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta to improve asthma treatments for African Americans/Blacks.

PUBLISHER lpowell@atlantaparent.com BUSINESS Amy Smith DEVELOPMENT MGR asmith@atlantaparent.com ACCOUNT Carolyn Haushalter

Be 5-21 years old

Qualified participants will receive: Asthma medications

ASSOCIATE Laura Powell

To participate in this study, you must: Have at least one grandparent of African descent

Atlanta’s Award-Winning Parenting Publication

EXECUTIVE chaushalter@atlantaparent.com

Jennifer Dodds | 404-727-5176 jcdodds@emory.edu Alice Bruce | 404-712-1773 alice.bruce@emory.edu Shanneka Douglas | 404-727-7687 sdougl5@emory.edu

JR. ACCOUNT Diane Radloff

EXECUTIVE dradloff@atlantaparent.com

SPECIAL EVENTS & Jordan Lisvosky DIGITAL SALES jlisvosky@atlantaparent.com

Pulmonary evaluation Compensation for time and travel

CONTRIBUTING Amanda Miller Allen

EDITOR CALENDAR Hayley Markowitz

EDITOR calendar@atlantaparent.com

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

PRODUCTION Robin Mintz

OPERATIONS Caroline Ward

MANAGER cward@atlantaparent.com MARKETING MOM Felicia Barman

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Atlanta Parent magazine is published monthly by Atlanta Parent, Inc., 2346 Perimeter Park Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30341.

Telephone 770-454-7599, Fax 770-454-7699.

Atlanta Parent magazine is available free of charge at more than 1,000 locations throughout the metro Atlanta area. First class subscription only $30 per year. Subscription orders must include check or money order made out to Atlanta Parent magazine.

Atlanta Parent magazine welcomes letters, articles, artwork and photographs from its readers and the community. Atlanta Parent magazine is not responsible for the return of unsolicited materials.

All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part, is prohibited without written permission.

© Atlanta Parent, Inc. 2015

6 Atlanta Parent February 2015

atlantaparent.com

ItFigures

When

by Cynthia Washam

EXERCISE is not Enough visit Perimeter Plastic Surgery

Valentine Vignettes 2010

Year NECCO, for the first time in its 145-year history, invited the public to create phrases for its Conversation candy hearts, with such results as “Text Me” and “You Rock”

COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION

$3.77 billion

Amount Americans spent in 2013 on Valentine’s gifts for family members other than spouses and significant others

in February

code AP

$850 million

Amount they spent on Valentine’s gifts for their pets

Blume and Barbie Feb.12

Date best-selling author Judy Blume was born in 1938 and the first Barbie doll debuted in 1959

More than 65 million

Copies of Judy Blume’s books sold

20

Number of languages her books have been translated into

ACTUAL PATIENT

Visit Website for Details • • • • • • •

Read Dr. Mark Deutsch’s Credentials See Before and After Pictures Mommy Makeover Details Liposuction, Tummy Tucks Breast Implants Injectables Facial Plastic Surgery

Patient - Before

Patient - After

$27,450

Value today of a mint-condition 1959 Barbie

10½

Hair length in inches of the best-selling Barbie ever – 1990s Totally Hair Barbie

More than 6,000 Number of Barbie dolls 33-year-old Tian Yang of Singapore owns

$392,000

Amount Yang estimates he’s spent on his collection Sources: TheTeachesCorner.net, HuffingtonPost.com, TeenReads.com, Inventors.about.com, PRWeb, NBCNews. com, Infoplease.com, RetailIndustry.about.com

atlantaparent.com

Mark F. Deutsch, MD, FACS

Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery

(404) 255-0886

Atlanta & Fayetteville

NEW ADDRESS:

980 Johnson Ferry Rd Suite 510, Atlanta,GA 30342

www.perimeterplasticsurgery.com

Big or Small Save Them All February 2015 Atlanta Parent 7

Publisher’s Note

A Valentine’s Day Gift of Love Directed by Jon Ludwig Written by Jon Ludwig, Stephanie Kaskel Bogle, and Raylynn Hughes

NOW - MAR 15 Anacondas, howler monkeys, and sloths—oh my! Join us for a day in the life of more than 30 exotic plants and animals that live in the amazing Amazonian rainforest!

- F O R T E E N S A N D A D U LT S -

Adapted by Bobby Box · Directed by Mira Hirsch

404.873.3391 puppet.org

The idea behind Valentine’s Day is wonderful – taking time on a special day to remind yourself and the people you’re fond of just how deep that love goes. For my family, the day got a huge boost of significance two years ago, when my husband Kevin and I had the best Valentine’s Day ever. It started early, at 5 a.m.

Valentine’s Day 2013 was more than a bit out of the routine. When labor pains started – five days early – I was in denial. I made Valentine’s cards for my son’s class the night before, and Kevin took Elliot and his cards to school.

When I finally went to the doctor at 1 p.m., she sent me directly to the hospital.

The day is a blur, though I do remember our doctor shuttling back and forth, checking on me and another mother-to-be, and a nurse saying around 4 p.m., “The doctor really needs to come NOW!” Corinne Eleanor arrived at 4:15.

We spent our hospital stay in an overflow room outside of labor and delivery, because, apparently, lots of couples give birth on Valentine’s Day. Who knew? I would have preferred our daughter not share her birthday with cupid, but I didn’t get to choose. In retrospect, we’ve actually grown to really enjoy celebrating Eleanor’s birthday on Valentine’s Day. On Valentine’s in 2014, we celebrated with a special birthday breakfast with friends and their children. All the little ones got to wear PJs to the party, there was plenty of coffee for the adults, and cereal, yogurt parfaits, and cake for the kids. This year, we’ll again have breakfast on Eleanor’s special day, and she can’t wait.

We hope you’ll find some fun ideas in this month’s magazine to try for yourself every day of February and beyond (Page 14). A fun essay (Page 66) about how the day gets redefined when you have kids made me smile. For our family, our day has certainly been redefined, with the best Valentine’s Day gift we’ll ever receive.

1404 Spring Street NW Atlanta, GA 30309 Limited FREE Parking • MARTA Accessible Advance purchase is highly recommended as many shows sell out quickly.

Season supported in part by: Fulton County Board of Commissioners; the City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs; and Georgia Council for the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.

Anne Frank: Within & Without presented in cooperation with the Georgia Commission on the Holocaust, sponsor of the Anne Frank Center USA’s exhibit Anne Frank in the World: 1929-1945. Photos and text courtesy of the Anne Frank Center USA-New York; the Anne Frank House - Amsterdam; and the Anne Frank - Fonds, Basel.

Photos ©Center for Puppetry Arts

8 Atlanta Parent February 2015

Associate Publisher

How to Reach us: Telephone 770.454.7599

Email lwhite@atlantaparent.com

Fax 770.454.7699

Website www.atlantaparent.com

Snail Mail 2346 Perimeter Park Drive Atlanta, Georgia 30341

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

atlantaparent.com

When your family is complete, consider Essure® permanent birth control.

Essure is the only non-surgical permanent birth control • Over 99% effective* • FDA-approved and available in the US for over 10 years

• Non-hormonal • May be covered by your health insurance plan at no cost†

The Essure® inserts are permanently placed in your fallopian tubes. Unlike getting your tubes tied, the Essure procedure is non-surgical. It can be performed right in your doctor’s office in about 10 minutes.

There’s no downtime to recover—most women go home about 45 minutes after the procedure and return to their normal activities within 1 to 2 days. The Essure Confirmation Test is given 3 months after the procedure to verify the inserts are placed correctly and your fallopian tubes are completely blocked, providing permanent birth control.

To learn more about Essure and find a doctor, visit essure.com or call 1.877.ESSURE4 (1.877.377.8734)

Indication Essure® is permanent birth control that works with your body to create a natural barrier against pregnancy.

Important Safety Information Essure is not right for you if you are uncertain about ending your fertility, can have only one insert placed, are or have been pregnant within the past 6 weeks, have had your tubes tied, have an active or recent pelvic infection, or have a known allergy to contrast dye.

Talk to your doctor if you are taking immunosuppressants.

WARNING: You must continue to use another form of birth control until you have your Essure Confirmation Test (3 months after the procedure) and your doctor tells you that you can rely on Essure for birth control.

It can take longer than three months for Essure to be effective. Talk to your doctor about which method of birth control you should use during this period. Women using an intrauterine device need to switch to another method. If you rely on Essure for birth control before receiving confirmation from your doctor, you are at risk of getting pregnant.

Please see additional Important Safety Information about Essure on next page.

*Based on 5-year clinical study data. †Some restrictions may apply. Visit essure.com/aca to learn more or contact your health insurance provider.

Important Safety Information (continued) WARNING: Be sure you are done having children before you undergo the Essure procedure. Essure is a permanent method of birth control.

During the procedure: In clinical trials some women experienced mild to moderate pain (9.3%). Your doctor may be unable to place one or both EssureÂŽ inserts correctly. Although uncommon, part of an Essure insert may break off or puncture the fallopian tube requiring surgery to repair the puncture. Your doctor may recommend a local anesthetic. Ask your doctor about the risks associated with this type of anesthesia.

Immediately following the procedure: In clinical trials some women experienced mild to moderate pain (12.9%) and/or cramping (29.6%), vaginal bleeding (6.8%), and pelvic or back discomfort for a few days. Some women experienced nausea and/or vomiting (10.8%) or fainting. In rare instances, an Essure insert may be expelled from the body.

During the Essure Confirmation Test: You will be exposed to very low levels of radiation, as with most x-rays. In rare instances, women may experience spotting and/or infection.

Long-term Risks: There are rare reports of chronic pelvic pain in women who have had Essure. In rare instances, an Essure insert may migrate through the fallopian tubes and may require surgery. No birth control method is 100% effective. Women who have Essure are more likely to have an ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the uterus) if they get pregnant. This can be life-threatening. The Essure insert is made of materials that include a nickel-titanium alloy. Patients who are allergic to nickel may have an allergic reaction to the inserts. Symptoms include rash, itching and hives.

The safety and effectiveness of Essure has not been established in women under 21 or over 45 years old.

Essure inserts do not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases.

Talk to your doctor about Essure and whether it is right for you.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects or quality complaints of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

BAYER, the Bayer Cross and Essure are registered trademarks of Bayer. Š 2015 Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals Inc., Whippany, NJ, 07981 All rights reserved.

PP-250-US-0532

Printed in USA

January 2015

News You Can Use

by Amanda Miller Allen and Hayley Markowitz

Pick 50 Objects To Define Our City

What says Atlanta to you – a bottle of Coke, a Delta Air Lines logo, a MARTA bumper sticker? The Atlanta History Center wants to know. The center is assembling an exhibit, “Atlanta in 50 Objects,” to open in January 2016, and it is asking the public for suggestions. You can see previous suggestions at atlantahistorycenter.com and submit your own. Deadline to submit is May 30.

Website: KidsEmail.org

Whether it is because you have the same tastes and it saves purchasing two or because you like to feel young and stylish.

1 in 5: Mothers who regularly borrow their daughters clothing

83 percent: Mothers who stated that their

children knew and consented to them borrowing their clothes

17 percent: Mothers who admitted that they borrowed clothes without their children knowing

Source: CouponCodesPro.com survey of 3,141 mothers

Be a Kid Again – Help The Children’s Museum

When kids are online, you can’t personally monitor everything they’re seeing. This site helps you screen their email and block inappropriate ads, intercept emails from unknown people or emails containing inappropriate material, block some senders and put time restrictions on email use. It’s free for 30 days, then $2.99 a month for up to six email accounts (billed annually at $38.95).

DeKalb Medical Needs Volunteers Teens looking for a summer “job” can find one volunteering for DeKalb Medical Center. Though the monetary rewards will be zero dollars, the experience assisting hospital staff will be invaluable. Teens ages 14-18 with at least one year of high school course work are eligible to apply.

Deadline is Feb. 27. Find information at dekalbmedical.org/volunteers.

atlantaparent.com

Do You Wear Your Daughter’s Clothes?

The Children’s Museum of Atlanta is hosting its annual fundraiser 7-11 p.m. Feb. 28 with the theme “Under Construction – Dream, Design, Build.” The adults-only event will include games and activities, cocktails and food, live music and dancing, and live and silent auctions. Tickets are $150 each and benefit the museum’s early childhood education programming.

Find more information at childrensmuseumatlanta.org.

February 2015 Atlanta Parent 11

&

FREE cheap

by Hayley Markowitz

It’s that time of year to bargain shop.

Consignment sales start this month. Look for more in March. If the sales don’t work into your schedule check out resale shops open year round. Children’s clothing, toys, furniture, books, and more for much less.

You’ll sometimes find items so gently used they look like new and plenty of others that will be perfect for many playdates. Selling your gently used clothes can also help you clear the closets and have some extra cash.

Rhea Lana’s

Find a Bargain on Consignment!

Here are some Atlanta area resale shops:

WeeCycle Consignment Children’s Sale Feb. 4-8 Kroger Shopping Center 7380 Spout Springs Rd., Flowery Branch weecycleconsignment.com

n Sweet Repeats Clothing for children and maternity wear.

Consign by appointment only. Buckhead; 404-261-7519; sweetrepeatsatlanta.com

Rhea Lana’s Feb. 8-14 Chamblee Plaza 5512 Peachtree Blvd., Chamblee

n Rhubarb & Custard Consignment Maternity, infant and children clothes.

Appointment recommended to consign. Sandy Springs; 404-474-9860; rhubarbandcustardconsignment.com

Feb. 22-28 Perimeter Expo Shopping Center 1181 Hammond Dr., Dunwoody rhealana.com Kidsignments Feb. 10-14 Gwinnett County Fairgrounds 2405 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville kidsignments.com Second Childhood Consignment Feb. 11-14 Brookwood Marketplace 2623 Peachtree Pkwy., Ste. 300, Suwanee secondchildhoodconsignment.com All 4 Kids Feb. 26-28 Hobby Lobby Shopping Center 5000 Commerce Pkwy., Roswell all4kids.com

12 Atlanta Parent February 2015

Five and Dime Kids Consignment Sale

Kid’s Spring Consignment Sale Feb. 26-28 Cumming First United Methodist Church 770 Canton Hwy., Cumming cfumcga.com Five and Dime Kids Consignment Sale Feb. 27-28 Epworth UMC 1561 McLendon Ave. NE, Atlanta fiveanddimekids.com

➤ For more listings of consignment sales in February and March and resale shops, visit atlantaparent.com.

n Finders Keepers Adult fashions, furniture and boutique.

Accepts consignment without appointment.

Locations: Avondale Estates and Decatur. fkconsign.com. n Kid to Kid Children’s goods and maternity wear.

Accepts consignment without appointment.

Locations: Alpharetta, Buford, Cumming, Duluth, Douglasville, Dunwoody (coming soon). kidtokid.com. n Once Upon a Child Apparel, toys, baby equipment and furniture for children. Accepts consignment without appointment. Locations: Austell, Duluth, Jonesboro, Kennesaw, Roswell and Sandy Springs. onceuponachild.com.

atlantaparent.com

atlantaparent.com

February 2015    Atlanta Parent 13

1 2

Take a walk without the kids, as often as you can. Ask about her day. Do not bring up what happened at your office.

Do not bring up what you want to get done on the house. Do not talk about your bowling league.

Just listen.

Go to bed early, lay in the dark, and talk. Cuddle without expectations of anything more, and just share your hearts. Fall asleep knowing that your best friend is right next to you.

28 Ways to Say ‘I Love You’

by Carol J. Alexander

Remember the wonderful glow you felt soon after you began dating your spouse and knew this might be The One? If the glow has faded a bit, though your love and appreciation have grown deeper, take time to make sure your spouse knows it.

Try some of these 28 ideas to show your spouse your love – that’s one for each day in February and plenty to recycle throughout the year.

14 Atlanta Parent February 2015

3 4 5

Work on a project together. Whether cleaning out the garage or painting the bathroom, working together gives you the opportunity to communicate in a nonthreatening way.

Establish a regular date night. Take a drive, walk the mall, or go to the park and swing. Stay home and watch a movie cuddling on the couch.

Share babysitting with another couple.

Send loving text messages throughout the day – a verse for encouragement, a quote, or just an “I Love You.”

atlantaparent.com

6

7 8

9 10 11

Surprise your spouse with a special date by trying a new experience. Take a ride on Atlanta’s Skyview Ferris Wheel (skyviewatlanta. com) or hop on Atlanta’s new streetcar system (atlantastreetcar.org) for two different views of the city. Go for a hike in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (nps.gov/ chat), rent roller skates or bikes for a tour of Piedmont Park (skateescape. com) or visit a new restaurant in your neighborhood.

Remember the first song you danced to? The song that was playing on the radio when you asked her to marry you? Whatever is your song, learn it – then sing it, play it or dance to it, often.

When your spouse complains about his day, about how the guy in the next cubicle talks too much, how her computer crashed three times, or that nothing went right, do not offer solutions.

Simply encourage the best employee in the world. Build up your spouse without trying to solve the problems.

If you are a person of faith, pray for her daily and tell her that you are. In fact, ask her what her prayer needs are so that you have something more than “God, please bless my wife today.”

Bake his favorite dish or buy her a favorite sweet. Don’t serve it to the family. This is just for your spouse. If your spouse takes lunch to work, make it for him or her.

Take your spouse for an intimate drink to your favorite neighborhood spot, or try a new place, such as Ormsby’s in Atlanta (ormsbysatlanta.com), Victory Sandwich Bar in Decatur (vicsandwich.com), Fontaine’s Oyster House in Virginia Highland (nightcapfoodandspirits. com), Shuck’s Oyster and Wine Bar in Brookhaven (h2sr.com.shucks) or one of the Marlow’s Tavern locations around Atlanta (marlowstavern.com). Or treat your spouse to coffee or hot chocolate in a local shop, morning or night.

atlantaparent.com

12 13 14 15 16

17 18 19

Make a gift. Do you carve wood, fashion metal, or paint? Are you a crafter? Can you make a card with a special message? Create something specifically for your spouse.

Give her one of your T-shirts to sleep in. Let her know that it’s one of your favorites. Or, give her one that reminds her of a special place you went together.

Ask your mother or sister for a piece of family jewelry (or another heirloom) that your wife would like to have. Give it to her. Have your mother write the history of the piece so that your wife can pass the story on to one of your children someday.

Send the kids to Grandma’s for the weekend. Turn off the phones and the computers and spend time together. Whether you work in the yard or watch back-to-back movies, just be together.

Spend the night away from home – take a quick retreat to the North Georgia mountains or book a hotel room in town, and get Grandma to stay with the kids. Find an inexpensive cabin to rent at one of Georgia’s State Parks (gastateparks. org), build a campfire and make s’mores.

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

Collect a few pictures of yourself as a child and make a little album for your spouse. Write a caption for each picture sharing your memories from that time period.

See the mold in the shower?

Scrub it. Sticking to the kitchen floor? Mop it. Need clothes for work tomorrow? Throw in the laundry. Look for what your spouse didn’t get done that day and do it, without saying anything.

Don’t complain about all those little things that need doing. Do them yourself. Oil the squeaky door. Reattach the toilet paper holder to the wall. Caulk the bathroom tub. Take the car for an oil change.

27 28

Watch the children so your spouse can have an evening out with friends, and do this on a regular basis.

While your spouse is at the grocery store, clean the kitchen.

Nothing is worse than coming home to a messy kitchen with a car load of groceries. If you have the time, clean the refrigerator, too.

Clean out the garage; take out the trash; or vacuum the car. Whatever chores he does on his day off, surprise him by having them done. Even if you just do it once in a while, your husband will love you for it.

Kiss good-bye in the morning, every morning. Kiss hello in the evening, every evening. Kiss goodnight, every night.

Whether you are walking for exercise or just shopping the mall, walk with your spouse, not 10 feet ahead. Hold hands so you stay together.

Give him or her a massage.

You don’t have to be a professional massage therapist to help out an achy back. After the kids go to bed, put a comfy mat on the floor and give your undivided attention while massaging out all the kinks.

Reconnect with Atlanta’s movie scene – yes, people still have fun at the movies. Go for Martinis and IMAX at Fernbank Museum of Natural History, or make a reservation for dinner and a movie at AMC Fork & Screen in Buckhead (amctheatres. com), CineBistro in Brookhaven (cinebistro.com), Studio Movie Grill in Alpharetta (studiomoviegrill.com) or the Movie Tavern at Northlake Festival in Tucker, at Horizon Village in Suwanee and at Sandy Plains Village in Roswell (movietavern.com).

Do not walk through a room where your spouse is without touching in some way – placing your hand on a shoulder, stroking a cheek to say “I care about you.”

Watch your wedding video together. When the part comes up where you say your vows, say them out loud to each other again. c

February 2015 Atlanta Parent 15

TOOTH FAIRY TALES to Be? e m o C e h How Did S What’s the Going Rate?

What Does She Do With All Those Teeth?

by Christa Melnyk Hines

I

t seems like just days ago when I waited patiently for my son’s first little biters to erupt in his infant mouth. Those days melted magically into years and soon I could hear the Tooth Fairy fluttering about.

Like many parents, I wondered: What is developmentally normal when it comes to baby tooth loss, how does the toothobsessed fairy collect her prizes, and what is the going rate for a baby tooth these days?

Losing Baby Teeth In general, children lose their first tooth between age 4 and 7, with teeth falling out in the order in which they first came in, pediatric dentists say. Dentists recommend you start regular checkups by your child’s first birthday.

Should you yank a loose tooth? Usually, the best policy is to let it come out on its own. If the other tooth is coming in, parents can have their child suck on a popsicle to numb the gums and eat pizza crust, carrots or apples. If a baby tooth is wiggly but no new tooth is visible, let your child work through it on his own.

Be sure to consult your child’s dentist if you have any concerns.

16 Atlanta Parent February 2015

Losing Teeth a Rite of Passage That first loose tooth can cause anxiety for some children. Often, anxiety turns to excitement as children listen to tooth-loss stories exchanged among classmates and anticipate the reward the Tooth Fairy leaves behind.

While the exact origin of the Tooth Fairy is steeped in mystery, historically the loss of baby teeth is an important rite of passage.

The earliest known written records regarding baby teeth date from northern Europe and describe a tann-fe, or tooth fee, in which money was paid for a baby tooth. In the Middle Ages, Europeans, fearing witches could curse their children if they acquired their baby teeth, buried the teeth in the ground. The Vikings wore baby teeth as jewelry, considering them good luck talismans in battle. Other cultures fed the teeth to animals believing the adult tooth would resemble the animal’s powerful, strong teeth.

Today, countries all over the world mark the loss of baby teeth with various customs. In Spain, France, Italy and Mexico, for example, the Tooth Fairy appears as a small white mouse or rat, symbolic because rodents have strong teeth that never stop growing. In Sweden, the baby tooth is placed in a glass of water where it is mysteriously replaced overnight with coins. It is customary in much of the Middle East for baby teeth to be thrown towards the sun and in Asia, onto the roof.

The Tooth Fairy as many of us know her, appeared in the early 1900s.

The Going Rate Per Tooth According to a 2014 survey conducted by Visa, the tooth fairy is tightening her belt. Kids are receiving an average of $3.40 per tooth. That’s down from $3.70 in 2013. Beth Foster says that the Tooth Fairy typically pays $1 per tooth although her daughter Logan, 6, discovered a $5 payout under her pillow for her fifth tooth. “This is a Foster tradition and I’ve been assured the good old fairy does not leave $10 for the tenth,” Foster says.

atlantaparent.com

How the Fairy Pays a Visit

What Happens to Those Teeth?

The Tooth Fairy isn’t picky about how she collects baby teeth. Lori Poland grew up placing her baby teeth in a clear glass of water on her nightstand. She says she loved fishing a wet $2 bill out of the cup the next morning, setting it out to dry and storing it in her memory box.

Although a tooth placed in a plastic ziplock bag or envelope tucked under the pillow should do the trick, many parents opt for a Tooth Fairy pillow or pouch for their child. Retailers offer an assortment of pillows or try making your own.

Monica Bradford designed a Tooth Fairy Pocket for her 6-year-old son when he lost his first tooth.

“He placed his tooth in the pocket, hung it on his bedpost and woke up to find $2 for his first tooth,” she says.

(For instructions on making your own Tooth Fairy Pocket, visit Bradford’s blog at scrapinspired.com/2011/10/ tooth-fairy-pocket/.)

Legend says that the Tooth Fairy tosses the teeth up to the sky and they become stars.

Naturally, many theories exist.

Foster’s daughter Logan says, “The fairy uses her wand to shrink the teeth to a very small size so she can carry them in a bag with her from house to house. She then takes the teeth to Santa so he can use them to make toys.”

Whatever she does with them, with each tooth lost, adulthood gains another foothold on our kids. No wonder we’ve found ways to mark this stage in our kids’ lives, which seems as fleeting as the Tooth Fairy herself. c

Capture the Magic The Baby Tooth Album Kit is filled with all the Tooth Fairy essentials to celebrate those precious “toothless” years. First hang the Tooth Fairy door hanger to remind the tooth fairy to stop by and use the stationary to write a letter to or from the Tooth Fairy. Then place the tooth in the pouch to keep baby teeth and coins safe under the pillow. The kit comes with a keepsake box to save and organize baby teeth, also included is a baby tooth chart to keep track of dates and special notes.

It is available in blue and pink for $24.95. babytoothalbum.com

b

Can You Imagine Your Child Loving To Go To The Dentist?

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b Gag Proof X-Rays: no probes in your child’s mouth b One location for all your child's dentistry & braces b We offer both Porcelin and invisible Lingual braces (tongue side of teeth) b Parents accompany children for all visits b Saturday appointments available b Located off GA-400 between Sandy Springs & Roswell

Children’s Dental & Orthodontic Care of North Atlanta Michael P. Healey, DDS,FAAPD 1145 Hightower Trail b Sandy Springs 770-993-9395 b dochealey.com

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February 2015 Atlanta Parent 17

Dental Visits

Without Tears

by Rachael Moshman

isiting the dentist can be a scary experience for many children. The dentist is a virtual stranger, even after several visits. Plus, the dentist and hygienists wear masks that cover their faces for most of the visit, making them appear even less friendly.

It can be a very over stimulating experience with the bright lights, loud buzzing and smell of chemicals. Plus, the expectation of holding still for an extended length of time is frustrating for many children. Fortunately, there are some ways to make the visit a bit less frightening and easier to handle.

V

n Find the right office. Look for a

pediatric dentist. Their offices are designed to be more comfortable and inviting for children, with toys and books. Some even have video game systems set up in the waiting room. My daughter looks forward to playing for a few minutes after her time in the dentist’s chair.

n Start early. Forty percent of parents don’t take their children for the first dental exam until age 2 or 3, after trouble has already started to develop. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children see a pediatric dentist as soon as their first tooth comes in or no later than their first birthday. Getting children accustomed to dental visits from a young age often makes visits less traumatic.

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18 Atlanta Parent February 2015

n Tell your child what to expect.

Children typically only see the dentist twice a year. They may forget what happens at the visits in between appointments.

Walk them through what to expect before each visit. Read books about going to the dentist. Especially help younger children to understand that they are going to have to have to open their mouth wide so the dental staff can look and clean their teeth. n Learn from the last visit. Focus

on the positive. However, if they became agitated when it was time to swish the fluoride rinse around their mouth, gently let them know that they will have to do it again. n Practice good dental hygiene

at home. Brushing and flossing your child’s teeth daily will help keep teeth and gums healthy. This may result in quicker and easier dental visits. Feeding your child a healthy diet and limiting sweets will also help accomplish this.

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Children’s Dentistry Parents trust us 100,000 times a year to give their children the very best smile to greet the world.

n Let the braver child go first.

Most people with multiple children have the oldest child receive treatment first. This isn’t necessarily the best order. If a younger child is less fearful, let them go first.

Dr. Anjali Williamson Board Certified Pediatric Dentist 3525 Busbee Drive, Suite 200 Kennesaw, GA 30144 678-836-2115 greatexpressions.com

n Start some traditions. A few

days before the dentist appointment, start reading books or watching cartoons about dentists, teeth and tooth care. Find a song about going to the dentist or make up one of your own. Sing it in the car on the way to the appointment. Have a special plan for after the dentist, such as visit to the park or trip to the movie theater. Do these things before and after every visit to give your children good memories of going to the dentist. n Deal with your own fears.

Many adults still have severe dental anxiety. Children pick up on their parent’s worries. Your child won’t be able to be calm or relaxed if she knows you aren’t.

Take time to address your own issues before the appointment so you don’t project your negative feelings onto your child’s experience.

Dentist visits don’t have to be terrifying – for child or parent! c

Specializing in the Detection and Treatment of Pediatric Digestive Disorders

Expert GI Care for Your Children At Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates, our Board Certified pediatric gastroenterologists care for infants, children,‘tweens, and teens with any type of digestive or liver condition, including: • Abdominal Pain • Celiac Disease • Acid Reflux • Colic

• Feeding Difficulties • Crohn’s Disease • Ulcerative Colitis • Lactose Intolerance

• Hepatitis/Liver Disease • Constipation/Diarrhea • Irritable Bowel Syndrome • Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Dr. Nirav R. Patel

5445 Meridian Mark Road NE | Suite 490

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Conveniently Located Near Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite

404.843.6320 www.atlantagastro.com/pediatrics

Fight Dental Disease With Screenings

AGA is a participating provider for Medicare, Medicaid and most healthcare plans offered in Georgia.

African-American children will be able to get free dental screenings and treatment referrals during February, National Children’s Dental Health Month and Black History Month.

The screenings, sponsored by Colgate-Palmolive and Family Dollar stores, will be at six Family Dollar locations, Feb. 8, 13, 20 and 21, when the Bright Smiles, Bright Futures mobile dental van visits.

Locations, times and dates are: n Feb. 8: 2045 Donald Lee Hollowell Pkwy. NW, Atlanta, noon-2 p.m. and 2615 Donald Lee Hollowell Pkwy., Atlanta, 3-5 p.m. n Feb. 13: 2324 Cascade Road, Atlanta, 3-5 p.m. n Feb. 20: 2310 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr., Atlanta, noon-2 p.m. and 565 Joseph E. Lowery Blvd. SW, Atlanta, 3-5 p.m. n Feb. 21: 2178 Cambellton Rd. SW, Atlanta, noon-2 p.m.

Family Dollar also will be offering in-store promotions of Colgate products.

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AtlantaParent.com CalendarEducationPartyBabyCampsResourcesJustKidsEducationPartyBabyCamps ResourcesJustKidsCalendarPartyBabyCampsResourcesJustKidsCalendarEducation PartyBabyCampsResourcesJustKids CalendarPartyBabyCamps Resources JustKids

February 2015 Atlanta Parent 19

It’s time to find a summer camp

2015 Overnight Camps atlantaparent.com

Camp 2015

February 2015 Atlanta Parent 21

On the Fence About Overnight Camp?

Let the Experts Persuade You Parents considering sending their child to overnight camp for the first time wrestle with the decision, and worry about everything from homesickness to choosing a camp their child will love. Atlanta Parent asked the experts – camp directors – to talk about some of those concerns.

Q:

When are most kids ready for an overnight camp, and why?

My most typical answer is that some kids are ready at age 6 and others are not ready at 16 – it depends on the kid. Camp is an opportunity for kids to practice healthy independence. Some kids may have a tough time at first, but most kids work through the anxiety of separation from their parents and the parents work through the anxiety of separation from their kids. Our camp starts at age 7 for campers without their parents; we have a halfweek camp for ages 5 or 6 with their parents. With young kids, I always recommend starting by going to a family camp so the kids become familiar with the camping experience.

– Rick Burris, executive director at YMCA Greenville in Cleveland, S.C. (ymcagreenville.org) Cont’d on page 24

Take This Quiz Before You Decide Kids are ready for overnight camp sooner than most parents think. Many overnight camps will take children as young as age 6 – some kids are ready at that age, but others are not. If you can answer “yes” to most of these questions, it may be time to think about letting your child spend a week away (or more).

❑ Has your child asked to go to camp? ❑ Has he spent at least a few nights away from home, either at a friend’s house or with a relative?

❑ Can your child care for his basic hygiene needs (bathing, brushing teeth, dressing)?

❑ Does your child have an understanding of time? (Kids who are unaware won’t be able to determine when an activity begins.)

❑ Does your child find slumber parties fun? (If she calls before bedtime to come home, she’s probably not ready.)

❑ Is your child old enough? (Numerical age isn’t important,

but maturity is; some kids are fine at age 6 or 7, others could be anxious at age 11).

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❑ Does your child want to go to camp but is a bit apprehensive?

(This is a normal reaction. One idea: Several camps offer two- or three-night camps for first-timers.)

❑ Does your child have an easy time making friends? (Even if the answer is no, camp activities help kids get acquainted.)

❑ Is your child involved in team sports or has he attended day camps? (These are good indicators he’ll do well at camp.)

❑ Is your child comfortable talking with other adults? (She needs to be able to communicate concerns she may have.)

❑ Is your child a picky eater? (Camps offer a wide variety of foods,

so most likely he’ll find items he likes; some camps will tailor meals if a child has allergies or, for instance, is a vegetarian.)

❑ Are you eager to send your child away because you need a

break or because you had so much fun at camp? (This is a trick question – just because you had a great time does not mean your child is ready; step back, and assess your child’s independence and desire to go to camp.)

❑ Are you ready to let your child go for a week or more? (Parents who aren’t quite ready sometimes unintentionally convey their anxiety to their children and can’t speak as positively about the camping experience as they should.)

February 2015 Atlanta Parent 23

Overnight Camp

Q:

How can parents make sure a camp is the right fit for their child?

There are several factors that go into picking a camp. The length of the camp is important, and whether it’s an all boys camp or all girls camp or coed. You also need to take into account your child’s interests – if he’s interested in sailing or sports, there are camps that specialize in that. Our camps are more old-school camps with a variety of activities – archery, hiking, canoeing, competitive games and other programs.

– Edward Schaefer, executive director at Athens Y Camp for Boys and Camp Chatooga for Girls at Tallulah Falls, Ga. (athensycamps.org)

24 Atlanta Parent February 2015

Q:

Q:

Going away to summer camp is good for a child for many reasons. First, the camp experience helps children mature socially, emotionally and mentally. We’ve had parents say their child has come home more self-confident and even more willing to help around the house. … Second, while camp gives children independence from Mom and Dad, it also provides boundaries. At home, kids are rarely deprived so they rarely appreciate what they have (TV, cell phones, junk food, video games). At camp, kids sleep in bunks, wait turns for showers, cook out, and work together to accomplish a task. When they get back to reality, they tend to appreciate Mom and Dad even more, and have a better understanding of cooperation and teamwork.

– Alyson Gondek, co-director of Camp Woodmont on Lookout Mountain in Northwest Georgia (campwoodmont.com)

Most parents do a very good job of preparing their kids, and that really helps.

Our counselors keep an eye out for early symptoms and signs, and start keying in on those children.

If the children start to progress to serious homesickness, our program director will call Mom and get her advice.

When children are homesick, it’s mostly at mealtime or bedtime – the rest of the time, they’re too busy having fun to notice. Lots of times kids feel like they might be missing out on something at home, and sometimes we’ll get Mom to talk to them by phone.

Last year, one child had a raging case of homesickness, but after talking with Mom, he had an amazing time the rest of the session.

– B.J. Davis, camp director at YMCA Camp Ocoee in Ocoee, Tenn. (campocoee.com)

Why is going away from home good for a child?

Camp 2015

How do you deal with a first-time camper who has a tough case of homesickness?

atlantaparent.com

A Great Summer Camp Experience Kids Love The Sports, Horseback Riding, Aquatics, Nature Study, Climbing Wall, Crafts, Hiking, Archery, Drama, Challenge Course, Campouts, and Much More!

• Limited Enrollment • Close Family-Like Atmosphere • Campers feel secure, welcome, and grow in confidence • 2 generations of family management 50+ years experience

Located in Cloudland, GA on cool, breezy Lookout Mountain just two hours north of Atlanta One/Two Week Sessions Boys/Girls 6-14

CALL: (706) 398-0833 www.campwoodmont.com Our Web Site has over 1000 pictures!

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Camp 2015

February 2015 Atlanta Parent 25

Special Advertising Section

Atlanta Parent’s Camp Preview Athens Y Camp for Boys/Camp Chattooga for Girls

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n Tallulah Falls, Georgia, the Athens Y Camp for Boys was founded in 1898 by Walter T. Forbes. Mr. Forbes also founded Camp Chattooga for Girls in 1933 as a sister camp to AYC. The camps are owned by the Athens YMCA and are accredited by the American Camp Association.

“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” - Proverbs 22:6 The mission of the Athens Y Camps is to provide a safe atmosphere for young boys and girls to aide them in maturing and growing as they learn and excel in various physical activities and social interaction, all based on Judeo-Christian principles. Fun, traditions and Christian values in a rustic setting - that’s what makes us so special, along with over 800 rolling, wooded acres in Tallulah Falls, GA. Our programs provide opportunities for skill, personal development, and spiritual growth with lots of fun. This is all provided in a safe, protective environment, both kids and

parents feel good about. There are opportunities to make new friends, improve abilities, and develop greater strength of character and personality. Of course, the health and safety of each camper is top priority; our 1:6 counselor-tocamper ratio assures close supervision of all activities.

Our summer camps each have their own private facilities and programs.

The boys camp setting is a lovely valley with a private lake that is complimented by surrounding mountains.

The girls camp setting is on a beautiful mountainside with a lake and horse stable surrounded by mountain laurel thickets.

Both camps offer several programs that are designed to give every camper a unique experience. If you would like more information on the Athens Y Camp for Boys or Camp Chattooga for Girls please visit the website at www.athensycamps.org or call the office at 706-754-6912.

Camp Tekoa

YMCA Camp Thunderbird

he Experience: Experience the thrill of traversing a cable 35 feet in the air while your friends encourage you; the warmth of a campfire on a cool mountain night; the fun of climbing 30 feet up a tree; the thrill of swinging off a giant swing from 40 feet in the air; the laughter and fellowship of an evening spent camping under the stars; the powerful unity of spirit that is present at the closing candlelight campfire service! Life is built from experiences such as these. Camp experiences help mold and shape who we are and what we believe. Tekoa is a Christian life experience.

Tekoa offers mini-camp sessions (4days/3nights) for 7-9 yr. olds, 1 week Tekoa Overnight camps (Co-Ed) for 8-17 year olds, Tekoa Adventure camp for 12-17 year olds, Average cost of camp $490, Tekoa has been recognized in WNC Parent Magazine Family Choice Awards as the #1 Overnight Camp for 6 years in row, ACA Accredited and Member of Christian Camp & Conference Association. For more information and/or to register online, check out our website: www.camptekoa.org

MCA Camp Thunderbird, encourages campers to find their wings and SOAR to new heights. Some kids grow by conquering fears; others thrive with newfound independence. It’s all a part of the journey at Camp Thunderbird, where there is a safe, action-packed experience in and out of the water!

Camp Thunderbird continues its legacy of innovation with the addition of two new activities to explore in 2015. As part of this year’s expanded land activities there is a new wiffle ball stadium where campers can play a fast-paced and fun-filled game against other campers and staff. In addition, a Quidditch arena will also be introduced … yes, that’s right, Quidditch! Campers will be able to channel their inner Harry Potter!

Located on a beautiful 100-acre campus with 1.7 miles of shoreline along South Carolina’s pristine Lake Wylie, Camp Thunderbird offers co-ed water and land adventures for children ages seven to sixteen. Find out more about Camp Thunderbird at the Open House on April 12 or online at www.campthunderbird.org. Or, come visit during special Camp Tour Days on March 15 and April 26.

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26 Atlanta Parent February 2015

Y

Camp 2015 2014

atlantaparent.com

Special Advertising Section

Atlanta Parent’s Camp Preview Camp Woodmont

Deer Run Overnight and Family Camps

top cool, breezy Lookout Mountain in Northwest Georgia is an ACA accredited camp where your child will feel secure, welcome, and reassured.

The limited enrollment, warm Christian atmosphere, caring counselors, and convenient camp lay-out give your camper a feeling of acceptance, belonging and appreciation.

The Bennett family gets to know each and every camper on a close personal basis; their two generations of family management and over 60 years combined experience makes for a highly supervised program and an intimate, meaningful experience for campers. “The Camp Woodmont program strives to provide a family-type atmosphere within the camp group where each child feels a sense of belonging as a valued member of our camp’s community”, says director Alyson Gondek, “most parents want their child to learn self-reliance, responsibility, independence, and how to get along with others in a close-knit group; our program is designed to provide children with those type of learning experiences.”

The 2015 season offers one and two-week sessions for boys and girls ages 6-14 starting May 31st. Call 706-398-0833 or visit www.campwoodmont.com for dates, rates, pictures and more information. Come to the Open House Sunday, May 17th, 2-5 pm to tour the facilities and meet the staff.

vernight Camps: A well-planned, outdoor camp experience that is long remembered and builds camper character, confidence and relationships in a nondenominational Christ-centered environment. Deer Run has a reputation for mature, well-trained counselors. Numerous recreation options include horseback riding, waterfront fun (swimming, zip line, waterslide, aqua park, kayaks), climbing tower, low and high ropes courses, archery, BB guns, paintball, cardboard boat regatta, wild water games, and skits. Each day includes age-appropriate small group Bible study plus a dynamic, challenging speaker and a time of worship.

One-week sessions for preteen (grades 3-5) and high schoolers (grades 9-12). One- and two-weeks for middle schoolers (grades 6-8). Supervised shuttle to and from Nashville Intl Airport is available plus discounts and payment plan.

Family Camps: A 3-night multi-generational camp experience for ages 5 and up with meaningful family time and fun activities designed to strengthen your relationships.

Accommodations are at The Lodge at Deer Run. Open houses from 2-4 p.m. (CST) on March 8, April 12, and May 3 give you an opportunity to tour the facilities and meet the camp directors and some of the summer staff.

Information and registration: Camps.DeerRunRetreat.org or call 888-794-2918. Located near historic Franklin, Tenn.

A

iD Tech Camps, iD Tech Academies, Alexa Café

i

D Tech is the leader in summer STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education for ages 7-18. Through innovative, hands-on courses, students discover and embrace their passions, develop tech skills, meet friends with similar interests, and gain a competitive advantage. With over 1 million STEM jobs projected to go unfulfilled in 2020, there’s never been a better time to learn about tech. There are several distinct weeklong, day and overnight experiences in Atlanta: 1. iD Tech Camps - Ages 7-17 code apps, design video games, mod with Minecraft, engineer robots, build websites, produce movies, and more. Held at Emory, Stanford, Rice, and others.

2. iD Tech Academies - 2-week, pre-college, overnight programs where ages 13-18 create a cutting-edge portfolio, tour a working studio, and interact with industry pros. iD Programming Academy and iD Game Design & Development Academy are held at Emory, Princeton, and universities nationwide.

3. Alexa Café - A unique all-girls tech program where ages 10-15 develop a passion for technology and innovation—all in a stylish environment emphasizing leadership, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. Courses: Design Technista, Electric Latte, and more. Held at Georgia Tech, Bryn Mawr, and others.

For more information, call 1-888-709-TECH (8342) or go online at www.iDTech.com/GA.

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O

Riverview Camp

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top breathtaking Lookout Mountain, only 2 hours from Atlanta, find a paradise of fun, friends and adventure for girls ages 6 to 16.

With over 15 activity choices and recreational opportunities, campers and parents alike will be pleased with the choices and quality of the programs. Enjoy Riverview’s exceptional riding program for no additional fees, directed by equestrians experienced Riding Staff. There is something for everyone including: swimming, heated pool, ropes course, tennis, canoeing, golf, archery, rifle range, sports, basketball, climbing tower, CIT program, Chorus, Drama, Flag Twirling, Voice and Music. Riverview offers both one and two-week sessions, or longer stays are available. Each cabin includes its own bathrooms and showers. The Staff of Riverview is comprised of many college-age counselors who have camped with Riverview and who understand the importance of nurturing and caring for each camper! Owners, Susan and Dr. Larry Hooks have been Camp Directors since 1983. Assistant Director Donna Bares has been on staff with the Hooks since 1987. The full-summer staff is certified in Red Cross First Aid and CPR, with two or more nurses and a physician on staff.

Riverview is a member of Christian Camping International & is accredited by American Camping Assoc. 1-800-882-0722 for a free DVD or visit www.riverviewcamp.com to view DVD’s on line!

Camp 2014 2015

February 2015 Atlanta Parent 27

Atlanta Parent online is the go-to resource for finding that perfect

summer camp!

Visit atlantaparent.com 28 Atlanta Parent    February 2015

Camp 2015

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Camp Can

Transform

Your Child

by Heidi Smith Luedtke

P

arents spend a lot of time trying to motivate kids. We use chore charts, checklists, reminders and rewards to get them to feed the dog, clean their rooms, and complete schoolwork. But these techniques don’t change behavior long-term. Real motivation must come from within, and that’s where overnight camp comes in. n The Psychology It sounds too good to be true – your school-age slacker, the one who expects you to find his homework and pack his lunch, might start doing some things for himself. And your often-bored tween might come home with more pep in her step.

Psychologists use self-determination theory (SDT) to explain why some experiences make us feel engaged and excited while others drain and deplete us. The premise is simple: when an activity meets our needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness, we are energized and empowered. Kids’ basic needs are no different than those of adults.

Kids want to do things for themselves. They crave a sense of accomplishment and routinely seek feedback. (“Look what I made, Mom!”) And kids thrive on connections with loved ones and peers. Feelings of belonging boost their self-worth. Summer camp offers loads of opportunities to meet all these needs. And that should make kids (and the parents who love them) very happy campers indeed. n Autonomy The need for autonomy is satisfied when kids control their own lives. At camp, your son will have endless opportunities to care for himself. Staff won’t select his clothes, organize the contents of his locker, or remind him to put on deodorant. No one will delay dessert until he eats his veggies. Independence is what camp is all about. Don’t worry. The world won’t stop if your son wears the same shirt three days in a row. His peers will speak up if he gets stinky.

During the school year, many kids jump from one regularly scheduled activity to the next with no unstructured time in between.

Camp puts kids in charge of their own activities. Maybe your daughter will take a hike. Maybe she’ll paint pottery. Maybe she’ll write you an email. It is up to her to decide how she’ll spend her free time. One thing is certain: she won’t sit around whining about having nothing to do. And if she does, you won’t be there to hear it.

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n Competence The need for competence is satisfied when kids learn new things and get positive feedback about their efforts. Your kid might choose a camp focused on art, science, sports or music. Or he may opt for an old-fashioned sleep-away experience, complete with row boats and weenie roasts.

Some camp activities may be outside your kid’s comfort zone.

Stretching is good. Your child may be unsure she can cross the slippery log over the creek. She may tremble with excitement about her role in the theater production. Peers and counselors will coax her along and give constructive advice. By the end of camp, she’ll be the star of her own adventure stories.

If your kid is an experienced camper, encourage him to share what he knows with newbies. Being an ambassador or mentor affirms kids’ competence in a big way. Teaching a peer how to trim a sail or chip a golf ball out of the tall grass will take your son’s skills to a higher level. His confidence will soar in response. n Friendship Your biggest concerns about summer camp may center on the social scene. Your child may not know anyone on arrival. That’s okay.

Camps create connections in many ways. Your kid will be instantly bonded with bunkmates because they share a home base. Familystyle dining and friendly competitions encourage interaction, too. The pursuit of shared goals – like building a robot or putting a frog in the counselor’s sleeping bag – cements kids’ camaraderie.

Extroverted kids may make lots of friends at camp. Less sociable souls may not. What matters most is that kids have opportunities to talk, play and live with a diverse group of peers. They won’t all become fast friends. Learning to navigate the choppy waters of friendship formation is a big part of the camp experience. Your kid’s social skillset will expand – even if she doesn’t find a new BFF. No matter what your kid takes to camp, he’ll come home with a suitcase full of memories and a renewed sense of self-determination.

You’ll see it as soon as he wakes from his long post-camp nap. c

Camp 2015

February 2015 Atlanta Parent 29

Overnight camp guide

2O15

The search for the perfect summer camp adventure for your child starts here. Our sampling of overnight camps features programs across the South. There’s a camp for all interests, including everything from the traditional camp experience to academic and outdoor adventure programs.

For more camps visit atlantaparent.com Riverview Camp for Girls

Alabama Camp Chandler. Montgomery. Co-ed, ages 5-15.

Three- and four-day sessions. One-week and multiple-week sessions. Water skiing, horseback riding, swimming, archery, sports and more.

334-229-0035. www.campchandler.org.

Camp Cosby-YMCA. Alpine. Co-ed, ages 6-16.

Three day and one-week sessions. Over 20 activities: horseback riding, minibikes, archery, tubing, wake boarding, the blob, and Alpine tower.

Expedition adventure trips. ACA accredited. 800852-6729. www.ymcabham.org/campcosby.

Camp Laney for Boys. Mentone. Boys, ages 7-14.

One (1st-3rd grade only) and two-week sessions.

Ropes course, horseback riding, canoeing, riflery, archery, tennis, mountain biking, and team sports.

ACA accredited. 256-634-4066. www.camplaney.com.

Lookout Mountain Camp for Boys.

Mentone. Boys, ages 7-15. Two-, four-, sixand eight-week sessions. Traditional camp with activities such as: water sports, fly fishing, canoeing, zip line, archery. 256-6344758. www.lookoutmountaincamp.com.

Lyman Ward Summer School Program.

Camp Hill. Boys, grades 9-12 academic program ages 10-18 adventure camp.

Four-week session academic program and 3 one-week adventure camp sessions.

Academic program includes on-campus and evening activities and weekend outings.

Adventure Camp includes rafting, caving, repelling, swimming, hiking and more.

800-798-9151. www.lwma.org.

Florida Camp Dovewood. O’Brien. Girls, ages 7-16. Oneand two-week sessions. Combination 3 week sessions.

Christian-based, horse-focused, English, Western and dressage riding, overnight trips, swimming, dance and more than 24 activities. 386-935-0863. www.campdovewood.org.

Camp Indian Springs. Crawfordville. Co-ed, ages 7-17. One- to nine-week sessions. Traditional camp with scuba, ATV, high-ropes, riding, archery, extreme skateboarding, paintball and more. ACA Accredited.

850-926-3361. www.campindiansprings.com.

Camp Kulaqua. High Springs. Co-ed, ages 7-17.

One-week sessions. Bible adventure, archery, canoeing, gymnastics, horsemanship, go-carts and zoo management. 386-454-1351. www.campkulaqua.com.

Camp Skyline. Mentone. Girls, ages 6-16. Two- to six-week sessions. Located on top of Lookout Mountain. Campers select six from more than 20 different activities. Founded 1947. 800-448-9279. www.campskyline.com.

Riverview Camp for Girls. Mentone.

Ages 6-16. One-and two-week sessions.

Enjoy traditional programs offering more than 25 activities including horseback riding, ropes course, tennis, gymnastics, canoeing, and more. 800-882-0722. www.riverviewcamp.com.

Camp Winnataska. Pell City. Co-ed, ages 6-15.

One-week sessions. Sailing, kayaking, paintball courses, arts and crafts, archery, The Blob, riflery, ropes courses and so much more. 205-640-6741. www.winnataska.org.

Space Camp. Huntsville. Co-ed, ages 9-18.

Overnight weeklong sessions and family weekend camps for ages 7-14. Space Camp, Aviation Challenge and Robotics Camp. 800637-7223. www.spacecamp.com.

Circle “F” Dude Ranch Camp. Lake Wales. Co-ed, ages 6-16. Two- and three-week, 10-day sessions.

Horseback riding, sailing, paintball, waterfront double zip line with rock climbing wall and more. 863-676-4113. www.circlefduderanch.com.

Chef Tech Academy. Auburn University. Coed, grades 9-12. One- week sessions. Nutrition, Exercise, Food Safety, Math and Science in Cooking, Kitchen Skills and Effective Written and Verbal Communication Skills and they’ll have fun while learning. 404-287-7223. www.cheftechacademy.com.

Extreme Military Challenge Marion. Coed, ages 13-18. Providing thousands of teenagers the opportunity to experience the military lifestyle through realistic and challenging programs 855-962-2267. www. xmccamp.com.

Everglades Youth Conservation Camp. West Palm Beach. Co-ed, grades 3-8. One-week sessions.

Operated by Florida Fish and Wildlife Commisson.

Outdoor skills, ecology, wildlife encounters, fishing, archery, mud hikes, canoeing and more. 561-624-6929 www.fyccn.com/eycc.

30 Atlanta Parent February 2015

Camp 2015

Camp Winona-YMCA. Deleon Springs. Co-ed, ages 6-16. One- and two-week sessions (14-16) CIT & LIT programs. Archery, canoeing, ropes course, sailing, paintball and more. 386-985-4544. www.campwinona.org.

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IMG Academies. Bradenton. Co-ed, ages 10-18. Leadership camp for high school students. Weekly sessions. Instructional programs offered in tennis, golf, soccer, baseball, basketball, football and performance training. 800-872-6425. www.imgacademy.com.

Atlanta Resident Camp. Lake Allatoona. Co-ed, ages 8-12. One-week sessions. Canoeing, team building and hiking and environmental education through the City of Atlanta. Open to Atlanta residents and non-residents. 404-624-0668.

Atlanta Workshop Players Summer Performing Arts Camp. Brenau University.

Co-ed, ages 8-18. One- or two-week sessions.

TV/film acting, theatre, dance, musical theatre and performances, audition for top agents and casting directors. Produce a full show. 770-9988111. www.atlantaworkshopplayers.com.

Seacamp. Big Pine Key. Co-ed, ages 12-17.

7- and 18-day sessions. Marine science, scuba, sailing, wind surfing and more.

877-732-2267. www.seacamp.org.

SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Adventure Camps. Orlando and Tampa Bay. Co-ed, grades 4-college. One-week sessions.

Up-close animal encounters from belugas to giraffes, plus everything the parks have to offer. 866-468-6226. www.seaworld.org/ camps.

Wellspring Florida. Melbourne. Three-, six- and nine-week sessions. Fun, scientific weight loss camps for teens. Beach and Disney World visits along with individualized therapy sessions. 1-866-277-0145. www.wellspringcamps.com/florida.

Brandon Hall Summer Programs. Atlanta.

Boarding and day experience. Co-ed ages 12-18. May 31-July 10. Two-week sessions.

Challenge yourself academically. Remediate weaknesses by learning in small, friendly classrooms. Weekend excursions.

770-394-8177. www.brandonhall.org/summer.

Camp Dovewood

Georgia

Athens “Y” Camp for Boys/Camp Chattooga for Girls. Tallulah Falls. Ages 7-16. One-week sessions.

All sports, zip line, lake activities and more. Horseback riding for girls. Outdoor adventure program for older campers. Boys: 706-754-6912; girls: 706-754-3329. www.athensycamps.org.

Adamah Adventures. Atlanta. Co-ed, ages 10-17. 18-day sessions 7-11th grade. 1 week session 5th-7th grade. Outdoor adventure treks for Jewish teens. Hiking, rock climbing, caving, rafting and more in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Utah or Pacific Northwest. 678812-4107. www.adamahadventures.org.

Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education. Atlanta.

Co-ed, ages 11 and up. Two- and five-week sessions.

Intensive resident courses available to intermediate and advance students in ballet, jazz, and modern, nutrition, musical theatre and dance history. Audition required. 404-873-5811. www.atlantaballet.com/ summer-programs.

atlantaparent.com

Camp 2015

Calvin Center. Hampton. Co-ed, grades 1-12. One-week. Christian camping since 1960. Residential camping, adventure and horse camps. High School Leadership. ACA accredited. 770-946-4276. www.calvincenter.org.

Camp Blue Ridge. Mountain City. Co-ed, ages 6-16. Two, five and seven-week sessions. 48 elective style activities in the areas of athletics, aquatics, outdoor adventure and cultural arts.

954-665-8686. www.blueridgecamp.com.

Camp Barney Medintz. Cleveland. Co-ed, ages 8-16. Two- and four-week sessions.

Activities include water skiing, horseback riding, mountain biking, theater and more. Jewish values. 678-812-3844. www.campbarney.org.

February 2015 Atlanta Parent 31

Overnight Camp Guide 2O15 Camp Chehaw. Albany. Co-ed, 4-12. Oneweek sessions. Canoeing, archery, living in a teepee, and behind the scenes tours at our AZA accredited Zoo. 229-430-3012. www.chehaw.org.

Camp Cherokee. Cartersville. Co-ed, ages 6-18.

Four-, five- and six-day sessions. Christian camp on Lake Allatoona with canoeing, arts and crafts, Bible study, white water rafting and more. Also offers day camp. 877-647-8542. www.cherokeeretreatcenter.com.

Camp Fire Camp Toccoa. Toccoa. Co-ed, grades 2-12. One- and multi-week sessions.

Campers reconnect with nature in a fun, noncompetitive environment. Horseback, ropes, canoeing, archery and more. ACA accredited.

706-886-2457. www.camptoccoa.org.

Camp Juliette Low. Lookout Mountain. Girls, ages 7-17. One- and two-week sessions.

Traditional camping and outdoor adventure, fun and friends since 1922. On beautiful Lookout Mountain in Northwest Georgia. 770-428-1062. www.cjl.org.

Camp Kaleo. Forsyth. Boys, ages 6-18. Threeday (grades completed 1-3) and one-week sessions (grades 4-12). A Christian camp in a rustic setting. 478-994-5333. www.campkaleo. org.

Camp New Dawn. Chickamauga. Co-ed, ages 6-18. One-week sessions. Traditional camp activities such as crafts, photography, swimming, sports and animal care. Adventure outdoor camp, civil war camp and multisports camp available. 706-539-2235. www. campnewdawnga.org.

Camp Strong4Life. Winder. Co-ed, ages 9-15.

One-week session. Zip-lining, rock climbing, cooking challenges, boating and fun. Kids struggling with their weight receive the support they need to get healthier. 404-785-7228. www.Strong4Life.com/camp.

Camp Westminster. Conyers. Co-ed, ages 6-17. Weekly overnight and day camp sessions.

Horseback riding, sports, crafts, outdoor skills, climbing tower, paintball and more with a Christian perspective. 770-483-2225. www.campwestminster.org.

32 Atlanta Parent    February 2015

Camp Woodmont. Lookout Mountain. Co-ed, ages 6-14. One- and two-week sessions. Deepseeded traditions and close family atmosphere.

High ropes, horseback, sports, dance, crafts, archery and more! ACA accredited. 423-4726070. www.campwoodmont.com.

Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center Summer Camps.

Mansfield. Co-ed, ages 10-16. Outdoor adventure teen challenge, conservation education, gardening, WILD creatures of Georgia and shooting sports. Also offers day camp. 770-7843059. www.georgiawildlife.com.

Clayton State University PEI Summer Entrepreneurship & Business Academy. Morrow.

Co-ed, high school students. One-week session. A summer academy for high school students.

678-466-4500. www.clayton.edu/business/seba.

Cohutta Springs Youth Camp. Crandall. Co-ed, ages 7-18. One-week sessions and family camp.

Archery, basketball, biking, canoeing, creative arts, drama, golf, gymnastics, horsemanship, nature, rock climbing, sports, videography, water sports. 706-602-7346. www.cs-yc.com.

Creation Encounters Camp. Cleveland. Co-ed, ages 12-15. Three-day session. Christ-centered learning experience through hands on animal interaction. Learn about animal diet, vet care, and enrichment for animals at the zoo. 706-348-7279. www.creationencounters.org.

Darlington Summer Camps. Rome. Co-ed and single gender, ages 6-18. Sessions vary by camp. Summer Scholars Program.

Specialty Sports Camps include soccer, tennis, lacrosse, fencing and more. 800-368-4437. www.darlingtonschool.org.

Camp Dixie LLC. Clayton. Co-ed, ages 8-17.

One-, two-, three-, four- and seven-week sessions. Traditional camp with sports, water activities, arts and more. 678-701-3052. www.campdixie.org.

Emagination Computer Camp. Atlanta. Co-ed, ages 7-18. Two-week sessions. Video game design, web design, 3-D animation. Build robots and RC Cars. Explore programming. Sports and recreation.

877-248-0206. www.computercamps.com.

Camp 2015

Camp Blue Ridge

Encore Music Camps. Morrow and Milledgeville. Co-ed, ages 10-16. Orchestra Camp, Clayton State, July 5-9. Band Camp, Georgia College & State, Milledgeville, July 5-9. A musical experience with rehearsals and master classes, with a blend of recreational activities. Camp closes with concert performances. Band: 678-643-7766; Choir/ Guitar/Orchestra: 404-988-1245.

Envision Middle School Camps. Atlanta.

Locations include GA Tech and Emory as well as other top colleges country wide. Career and leadership camps for grades 4-12 in medicine, law, technology, engineering and more.

1-844-320-0388. www.TryMyFuture.com.

ID Tech Camps. Emory University. Co-ed, ages 7-17. Exclusive teen academies 13-18.

One-week sessions. Build apps, programs in C++/Java, create movies, video games, websites, robots, and more. Also 2-week sessions for ages 13-18 at iD Tech Academies.

888-709-8324. www.iDTech.com/GA.

atlantaparent.com

Joe Machnik No.1 Goalkeeper Camp & Striker Camp. Rome. Co-ed, ages 8-18. Four- to twelveday sessions. Nationwide soccer camp with over 35 years experience. 706-378-3706. www.no1soccercamps.com.

Linda’s Riding School. Conyers. Co-ed, ages 7 and up. Overnight and one-week session.

Each camper has their own horse for the entire session, covered arena, trails and lessons daily.

Show at the end of the week for parents. Day camp also offered. 770-922-0184. www.lindasridingschool.com.

National Computer Camps. Atlanta-Oglethorpe.

Co-ed, ages 7-18. One- and two-week sessions.

Video game design, computer programming, networking, web design, software applications, minecraft and modding. Optional sports program.

203-710-5771. www.nccamp.com.

Riverside Military Academy. Gainesville. Boys, grades 7-11. Four-week sessions. High Adventure Camp. Test physical endurance, explore area rivers, hike in Blue Ridge Mountains, learn rafting, rappelling, marksmanship and leadership skills.

800-462-2338. www.riversidemilitary.com.

Sports Broadcasting Camp. Atlanta. Co-ed, ages 10-18. July 13-17. Overnight or day. Learn from the pros. Make reporting, play-by-play and sports anchor tapes. Meet celebrities and more. 800-3190884. www.playbyplaycamps.com.

Strong Rock Camp. Cleveland. Co-ed, grades 1-11. One- and two-week sessions. Horseback riding, canoeing, archery, riflery, climbing, art, drama and more. Christian family values.

706-348-1533. www.strongrockcamp.com.

Sunburst Stables. Clarksville. All girls and all boys, ages 8-15. One-week sessions. Horseback riding, swimming, The Blob, boating, ropes course, zip line and more. 800-806-1953. www.sunburststables.com.

University of Georgia Youth Programs. Athens.

Co-ed, ages 11-17. Two-week session. Summer Academy with specialty overnight or day camps and Pre-College Summer Programs for rising high school juniors and seniors. 706-542-3537. www.UGAYouthPrograms.com.

Valley View Ranch Equestrian Camp. Cloudland.

Girls, ages 8-17. One to nine weeks. 600 acres, English and Western, vaulting, barrels and trails .Spend 4-6 hours daily with your own camp horse. CHA instructors. 706-862-2231. www. valleyviewranch.com.

WinShape Camps. Young Harris and Cleveland.

Boys and girls camps, Completed 1st- completed 11th grade. One- and two-week sessions. A Christian recreation program. Chick-fil-A pays 50 percent for first time campers! Separate programs for girls and boys. 800-448-6955. www.winshapecamps.org.

Mississippi Camp Stanislaus. Bay St. Louis. Co-ed, ages 8-15. One-, two-, three- and four-week sessions.

Traditional camp that provides a non-competitive environment. Activities include: skiing, sailing, basketball, soccer, football and more. 228-4669057x277. www.campstanislaus.com.

Camp Windhover. Crystal Springs.

Co-ed, ages 7-14. One-, two- and three-week sessions. Activities include archery, cooking, canoeing, crafts, creative writing, dance, sports and more. ACA accredited 601-892-3282. www.campwindhover.com.

atlantaparent.com

Camp 2015

February 2015 Atlanta Parent 33

Overnight Camp Guide 2O15 North Carolina Blue Star Camps. Hendersonville. Co-ed, ages 6-16. Four-, six- and eight-week sessions. ACA accredited. Jewish values. 954-963-4494. www. bluestarcamps.com.

Camp Arrowhead. Tuxedo. Boys, ages 6-16.

One-, two-, three- , four- , five- and six-week sessions. Christian high-adventure summer camp. Backpacking, rock climbing, mountain biking, kayaking, blacksmithing, paintball and more. CCCA Accredited. 828-692-1123. www. camparrowhead.org.

Camp Cedar Cliff. Asheville. Co-ed, rising 2nd-10th graders. Half-week, one- and two-week sessions. Christ-centered camp with traditional summer camp activities. 828-450-3331. www. campcedarcliff.org.

Save $1,000 for Jewish Overnight Camp The Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta helps send children to Jewish overnight camp to experience new adventures and make lifelong friends! When it comes to camp, one size doesn’t fit all kids or all budgets. Our Community Camp Ambassador will help you select the right camp for your child and help you identify resources to make camp more affordable for your family. Contact us for more information about Jewish overnight camps and One Happy Camper, a first- and second-time camper incentive program.

678.222.3730 jewishcamp@jewishatlanta.org www.AtlantaJewishCamp.org

Camp Cheerio-YMCA. Glade Valley. Separate co-ed and all girls camp offered, ages 7-15.

One- and two-week sessions. Two programs: traditional overnight camp and adventure tripping program. 800-226-7496. www. campcheerio.org.

Camp Greenville-YMCA. Cedar Mountain.

Co-ed, ages 5-17. One- and two-week sessions. CIT program. Parent and Child camps. Traditional, adventure, wilderness and leadership programs for young people, since 1912. ACA accredited. 864-836-3291. www. campgreenville.org.

Camp Greystone. Tuxedo. Girls, grades K-11th. One- to five-week sessions. More than 80 activities, Christ-centered. 828-693-3182. www.campgreystone.com.

Camp Hanes. Sauratown Mountain. Co-ed, ages 6-15. Six one-week sessions. Canoeing, hiking, rappelling, arts and crafts, sports and more. 336-983-3131. www.camphanes.org.

Camp High Rocks. Cedar Mountain. Boys, ages 7-16. One -, two-, three- and four-week sessions. Traditional camp focusing on adventure in a non-competitive atmosphere.

828-885-2153. www.highrocks.com.

Camp Highlander. Mills River. Co-ed, ages 5-16. One-, two-, and three-week sessions.

Multi-sessions available. Traditional in-camp activities and challenging off-camp excursions.

Features Wilderness Program. ACA accredited.

828-891-7721. www.camphighlander.com.

Camp Hollymont for Girls. Asheville. Ages 6-15. One-, two-,three- and four-week sessions.

Recreational adventure and program activities.

Christian. ACA accredited. 828-686-5343. www. hollymont.com.

Camp Kanata-YMCA. Wake Forest. Co-ed, ages 6-15. One-week sessions. Multi-week sessions available. Traditional YMCA camp setting. ACA accredited. 919-556-2661. www. campkanata.org.

Camp Kanuga. Hendersonville. Co-ed, ages 7-17. 4-,9- and 13 day sessions. Trailblazer adventure camp for ages 15-17. Christian setting. ACA accredited. 828-692-9136. www. campkanuga.org.

Camp Lurecrest. Lake Lure. Co-ed, rising grades 3rd-12th. One-week sessions. Lake tubing, canoeing, high ropes activities, swimming, fishing, paintball and more. Christian setting. 704-841-2701. www.camplurecrest.org.

34 Atlanta Parent February 2015

Camp 2015

atlantaparent.com

Camp Widjiwagan

Camp Merri-Mac for Girls. Black Mountain.

Ages 6-16. One-, two- or four-week sessions.

Sister camp to Camp Timberlake. Riding, diving, gymnastics, climbing, cheerleading, tennis, dance and more. 828-669-8766. www.merri-mac. com.

Camp Mondamin for Boys/Green Cove for Girls. Tuxedo. Boys and girls, ages 6-17.

One-, two-, three- and five-week sessions.

Rock-climbing, whitewater canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, horseback, swimming, sailing, tennis, wilderness trips and more. 800-688-5789. www.mondamin.com; www.greencove.com.

Camp Pinewood. Hendersonville. Co-ed, ages 7-15. Four- and eight-week sessions. Offers more than 35 different sports and activities. Extensive waterfront program. Two and a half hours from Atlanta. 828-692-6239. www.camppinewood.net.

Camp Ridgecrest for Boys and Camp Crestridge for Girls. Ridgecrest. Ages 7-16.

One, two-, four-, six- and eight-week sessions.

Traditional camp activities, archery, riflery, horseback riding, sports and more. 828-6698051. www.ridgecrestcamps.com.

Camp Rockmont for Boys. Black Mountain.

Boys, ages 6-16. One-, two-, three- and four-week sessions. Variety of recreational adventures and program activities. Christian boys camp. ACA accredited. 828-686-3885. www.rockmont.com.

SPORTS BROADCASTING CAMP

Camp Sea Gull for Boys/Seafarer for GirlsYMCA. Arapahoe. Ages 6-16. One-, two- and four-week sessions. Seamanship programs for all skill levels. ACA and US Sailing Accredited. Sea Gull: 252-249-1111; Seafarer: 252-249-1212. 919719-9622. www.seagull-seafarer.org.

is back for our 8th year in Atlanta

July 13-17, 2015 • Boys and Girls 10-18 will have an opportunity to learn from the Pros • Meet Sports Celebrities • Make Sports Anchor Tapes • Make Play-By-Play Tapes of the Super Bowl & NBA Finals • Make Reporting Tapes from a Pro Stadium • Participate in Sports Talk Radio and Pardon The Interruption (PTI) shows and much more

Camp Tekoa Hendersonville. Co-ed,ages 7-11.

One-week sessions. High-energy boating, swimming, ziplines, the mud pit, slip n’ slide, s’mores and more at this faith-based camp. 828692-6516. www.Camptekoa.org.

Camp Timberlake for Boys. Black Mountain.

Ages 7-16. One-, two- or four-week sessions.

Brother camp to Camp Merri-Mac. Backpacking, riflery, swimming, canoeing, wrestling, riding, fencing, ropes course and more. 828-669-8766. www.camptimberlake.com.

Day/Overnight options available.

For more info: 800.319.0884

Camp Wayfarer. Flat Rock. Co-ed, ages 6-16.

One and a half-, three- and five-week sessions.

Outdoor sports, arts, water sports, outdoor adventures and Christian life. ACA accredited.

828-696-9000. www.campwayfarer.com.

atlantaparent.com

facebook.com/sportsbroadcastingcamps youtube.com/sportsbroadcastcamp

WWW.PLAYBYPLAYCAMPS.COM

Camp 2015

February 2015 Atlanta Parent 35

Overnight Camp Guide 2O15 Camp Weaver-YMCA. Greensboro. Co-ed, ages 6-16. One-week sessions- up to 10 weeks. Horseback riding, skateboard park, canoeing, iceberg, the blob, hiking, crafts and more. 336-697-0525. www.campweaver.org.

Skyland Camp for Girls. Clyde. Girls, ages 6-15.

Eight-, 17-, 21- and 38 day sessions. Horseback riding, musical theater, tennis, archery, crafts and more. Skyland campers learn sportsmanship and the importance of teamwork, confidence, selfexpression and leadership skills. 828-627-2470. www.skylandcamp.com.

Deep Woods Camp. Brevard. Boys, ages 9-14. Four-, five-, nine- and 10-week sessions.

Outdoor wilderness adventure program.

828-885-2268. www.deepwoodscamp.com.

Green River Preserve. Cedar Mountain. Co-ed, grades rising 2-12. Expedition trips grades rising 9-12. Trailblazers grades 12-college freshman.

One-, two- and three-week sessions. Noncompetitive, co-ed summer camp connecting children to nature. Hiking trips, mountain biking, canoeing, fly fishing, visual arts, theater, fencing and more . ACA accredited. 828-698-8828. www.greenriverpreserve.org.

Duke Summer Camps. Durham. Co-ed, 5th-11th. One- and two-week sessions. Action Science Camp for Young Women. Girls, grades 5-7; Young Writers Camp. Co-ed, grades 6-11. Bio-sciences and engineering camp, middle and high school. 919-684-6259. www.learnmore.duke.edu/youth.

Eagle’s Nest Camp. Pisgah Forest. Coed, ages 6-19. One-, two- and three-week sessions. Activities include: art, music, drama, whitewater paddling, rock climbing, wilderness activities, horseback riding, athletics and swimming. 828-877-4349.

336-761-1040-off season www.enf.org.

Falling Creek Camp. Tuxedo. Boys, ages 6-16. One- to four-week sessions. Canoeing, rock climbing, tennis, horseback riding and more. 828-692-0262. www.fallingcreek.com.

Gwynn Valley Camp. Brevard. Co-ed, grades K-8. One-, two- and three-week sessions. A traditional, farm and wilderness camp with horseback riding, rock climbing and more.

ACA accredited. 828-885-2900. www.gwynnvalley.com.

36 Atlanta Parent February 2015

The Vineyard. Westfield. Co-ed, ages 6-16.

One-week sessions. Multi-week sessions available Christian sports camp with 40 activities including body building, lacrosse, golf and crafts.

336-351-2070. www.vineyardcamp.com.

Deer Run Camps and Retreats

Pepperland Music Camp. Murphy. Co-ed, ages 8-16. One-week session. Bands, private lessons and jamming, bonfires, swimming and open mic nights. All levels of musical experience. 823-4942353. www.pepperlandmusiccamp.org.

Rockbrook Camp for Girls. Brevard. Girls, ages 6-16. Two, three and four-week sessions. Traditional camp offering horseback riding, adventure, crafts and more. Est. 1921. ACA accredited. 828-8846151. www.rockbrookcamp.com.

Camp 2015

South Carolina Camden Military Adventure Camp. Camden.

Boys, grades rising 7-12th grade. Three- and sixweek sessions. Academic classes for high school credit and adventure camp fun. 800-948-6291. www.camdenmilitary.com.

Camp Chatuga. Mountain Rest. Co-ed, ages 6-16.

One-, two-, three- and four-week sessions. 3-day mini camp. Traditional recreational camp. ACA accredited. 864-638-3728. www.campchatuga.com.

atlantaparent.com

Camp Thunderbird-YMCA. Lake Wylie.

Co-ed, ages 7-16. One- and two-week sessions.

Activities include: skiing, sailing, swimming, horseback riding, sports, crafts and more.

ACA accredited. 800-732-3855. www.campthunderbird.org.

Clemson University’s Youth Learning Institute.

Five South Carolina Locations. Co-ed, ages 6-17. One-week sessions. Six camps including traditional, marine science, wildlife, adventure expeditions and excursions and technology.

864-878-1041. www.ylicamps.com.

International Junior Golf Academy. Hilton Head Island. Co-ed, ages 10-19. One- to multi-week sessions. Daily instruction with PGA professionals, which includes full swing, chipping, putting, sand play, mental training and video analysis. 843-686-1500. www.IJGA.com.

International Riding Academy. Hilton Head Island. Ages 8-18. One-week sessions.

Intensive riding camp on beautiful Hilton Head Island. Hunters and jumpers, junior equestrians. Day or overnight. 843-671-2586. www.iridingacademy.com.

Tennessee Camp Walkabout at Baylor. Chattanooga.

Co-ed, ages 11-14. Two-week sessions. Outdoor adventure camp featuring climbing, canoeing, camping, paddleboarding, caving, kayaking and more. 423-757-2616. www.baylorschool.org Camp Ocoee-YMCA. Lake Ocoee. Co-ed, ages 7-17. One- week sessions. Traditional Wilderness program ages 7-15, Teen Leadership Program ages 16-17. Staff to camper ratio of 1:4.

423-338-5588. www.campocoee.com.

Camp Widjiwagan. Nashville. Co-ed, 5-16.

One-week sessions with weekend stayovers available. Wide range of programs from equestrian to themed camps such as Percy Jackson, Star Wars and Minecraft, as well as Leadership Teen Programs and off-site trips.

615-360-2267. www.campwidjii.org.

Deer Run Camps and Retreats. Thompsons Station. Co-ed, grades 3-12. One-week sessions.

Two-week middle school camp in June.

Traditional camp; Christian emphasis. Wooded; new facilities; horseback riding, climbing tower, paintball, archery, crazy games, lake activities, low or high ropes, nightly speaker and worship, small group Bible study. 888-794-2918. www.camps.deerrunretreat.org.

Doe River Gorge. Hampton. Co-ed, rising 3-12.

One-week sessions. Adventure, worship and Bible teaching. Wilderness, equestrian, water sports and outdoor sportsman emphasis.

423-725-4010. www.doerivergorge.com.

Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont.

Townsend. Co-ed, ages 5-17. One-week sessions. Summer youth adventures create space for discovery, personal development and opportunities to unplug and explore. 865-4486709. www.gsmit.org.

McCallie Sports Camp. Chattanooga. Boys, ages 9-15. Two-week sessions. Boys compete in team and individual sports daily. Excursions include paintball, rafting and Atlanta Braves baseball. World-class facilities. 800-672-2267. www.mccalliesummercamps.com. c

For Special Needs Camps, see page 43.

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For parenting resources you can actually use.

Point.

Click.

You’re There. atlantaparent.com Camp 2015

February 2015 Atlanta Parent 37

just kids

A quarterly focus on Special Needs

7 Habits of Highly Effective Parents of Children with Special Needs

by Judy M. Miller

any parents M of children with special

needs appear to parent with grace, balance, and energy. They also seem remarkably stress-free and organized. In the face of all of these challenges and more, what habits do they embrace that allow them to be so effective?

1 They are proactive and advocate for their children and educate others.

Parents become experts about their children and their needs. They conduct ongoing research; ask questions of therapists, doctors, specialists, and other professionals; and keep an organized binder full of notes and important information.

They create and add to their at-home special needs libraries. They are knowledgeable about vernacular, treatments and services.

They are well versed in the state and federal laws that regulate services for their children.

Because of their knowledge, parents are effective educators of their child’s faculty and staff. They are powerful advocates for treatment, services, and support-in and outside of school.

Ashley and Dallas Olson of Peachtree City started advocating for their daughter Anna, now 13, early on. Anna has a 38 Atlanta Parent February 2015

dual diagnosis of Williams Syndrome, a chromosome disorder that affects fine and gross motor skills and can cause other developmental delays, and autism. “We call it the double whammy,” Ashley says.

Soon after the diagnosis, they started researching her condition, and talking with doctors and therapists to find therapies to help her. “It felt like a lot of the time I was educating the doctors about Anna,” Ashley says. “I’d always been a very shy, quiet person and being able to stand up to a doctor was very difficult for me.”

When Anna entered first grade, “she was in a great public school, but they didn’t know what to do with her,” Ashley says.

The couple pulled her out after a month and enrolled her in the Joseph Sams School in Fayetteville, where she’s getting the education and therapies she needs.

“The Joseph Sams School has been lifechanging for her and for our family,” Ashley says. “She loves it. She feels happy and accepted. School and going to the beach are her two favorite things.”

2 They maintain a sense of “normalcy” within the family.

Effective parents realize that although everyone in the family is affected by their child’s disorder, they are not defined by it. Parents work to ensure that siblings have childhoods and do not take on adult responsibilities. They encourage siblings to spend time with their friends.

The Olsons work hard to focus on all three of their children. Parker, 16, is a good student and soon will be college-bound; Mary has the needs of a typical 7-year-old.

Ashley says they’ve heeded the advice of her parents’ friend, who raised a child with Down syndrome. “She called me out of the blue” after Anna’s diagnosis, Ashley says, and told Ashley: “Your child will most likely be living with you the rest of her life, but remember that you have other children who will grow up and leave and be out in society and you must never forget that.” The Olsons atlantaparent.com

aim for a balance between Anna’s needs and those of Parker and Mary.

Parents are proactive about training other family members, friends and sitters about how to care for their child so that they can have time for themselves – individually and as a couple, perhaps going out on weekly dates. They also spend time in the company of other adult friends.

3 They take care of themselves.

Parents nurture their needs, and recognize that doing so is important for them as well as their children. Effective parents take care of their physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual needs.

They eat nutritious unprocessed food and don’t skip meals. They make sure their bodies are properly hydrated.

They schedule time for regular exercise, by themselves or with friends. They engage in activities that offer creative or intellectual enrichment.

atlantaparent.com

Ashley Olson and her daughter Anna, 13.

4 They manage their stress.

Effective parents are intentional about reducing stress in their lives by setting time aside each day to promote calm and centering. They adopt practices such as prayer, deep breathing and meditation to replenish their inner reserves. They resolve to forgive people for letting them down or for rejecting their child.

When parents lead lives that are stress-free and balanced, all family

members, especially children, win.

Research, by the Gottman Institute supports that children fare better emotionally, socially and academically when parents manage their stress properly.

Ashley exercises and participates in Bible study at her church and in a neighborhood book club – activities that “have nothing to do with special needs children.” The family also has a network of friends with children with special needs and friends with typical kids, and friends with a mixture of both.

Cont’d on page 40

February 2015 Atlanta Parent 39

The Bedford School accepts students in grades one through nine. Students receive proper academic remediation in a small class setting, as well as specific help with physical skills, peer interaction and self-esteem. The Bedford School also offers Squirrel Hollow Camp, a remedial summer camp program.

For Children With Learning Differences

770-774-8001 5665 Milam Rd. Fairburn, Georgia 30213 www.thebedfordschool.org

just kids

7 Habits

Open Houses Sunday, February 8th 2-4pm Sunday, March 1st 2-4pm Wednesday, March 18th 9am

The Bedford School maintains a non-discriminatory policy concerning admissions, scholarships, use of facilities and employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex or creed.

Porter Academy

Enabling Children with Learning Differences to Succeed

We learned the components of blood by making candy blood.

• Pre-K–8th • Small Groups • Individualized programs • Hands-on learning activities • Speech, Ocupational & Music Therapies; Art, Sign Language and daily PE

770-594-1313 | www.porteracademy.org | 200 Cox Rd., Roswell

Children’s Special Services, LLC G

OPTIMIZE LEARNIN POTENTIAL! Developmental Screenings!

Handwriting and Homework Skill Specialist

ADD, ADHD, ASD, Autism, Sensory Integration, Dyslexia, Dyspraphia, LD ...and more

Individual & Group therapy sessions available

Comprehensive Evaluations Addressing Sensory Motor • Visual Motor • Coordination Visual Processing • Handwriting • Autism Organizational Skills • ADD • ADHD • PDD OCD • Behavior Disorders • Sensory Integration

Susan N. Schriber Orloff, OTR/L, FAOTA Director, Occupational Therapy

• Over 35 years experience • 2006 Georgia OT of the Year

770-394-9791

www.childrens-services.com 40 Atlanta Parent February 2015

5 They make rest a priority.

While any parent can tire in their parenting responsibilities, parenting a child with special needs can elevate fatigue to a whole different level. Sometime parents don’t realize the extent of their exhaustion.

I didn’t – my child’s physical therapist pointed this out to me.

Effective parents realize the importance of getting to bed as early as possible, or taking naps to offset the sleep they lose due to their child’s irregular sleep patterns – up and down throughout the night, late to bed, and/or early to rise.

6 They surround themselves with energy givers.

People are either energy zappers or energy givers. Effective parents opt to spend time with people who lift them up, make them feel confident, positive, and happy. Parents of children with special needs appreciate and need this energy.

7 They have a support group.

Parenting a child with special needs can be lonely, but there is no need to be alone in the journey. Effective parents are part of or have created a group of parents whose parenting journeys are similar to theirs.

People on the same journey understand what you are dealing with, and their support helps parents stay calm and focused on their child’s needs. c atlantaparent.com

More Habits of Effective Parents All children, not just those with special needs, benefit from effective parenting, and even great parents can learn new tricks. Here are some suggestions to consider:

Integrating academics • friendships • life skills

Our curriculum cultivates language, social emotional development and adaptive life skills for children with autism.

n You can’t give your child too much love.

Even when you are disciplining them, make sure they feel your love.

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n Share discipline with your spouse and never disagree about it in front of the kids. n Agree with your spouse on desirable and undesirable behavior, then be consistent with reward or punishment of that behavior. Make sure the kids know what’s acceptable and what’s not. n Once you state a position and the child asks “why” or attacks the position, don’t defend your position or respond to the attack; just restate it. “Put your dirty clothes in the laundry basket, not on the floor” is not up for discussion. n Make sure you have a positive attitude when speaking with your child and you treat him with respect; expect the same respect from him. n Help your child develop self-esteem.

Praising accomplishments, however small, will make children feel proud; letting kids do things independently will make them feel capable and strong.

&

Embracing Strengthening

Metro Atlanta Families since 1983

Pediatric Occupational, Speech and Physical Therapy Ages birth-21 years old Woodstock  McDonough

770-234-9111 www.focus-ga.org n Listen to your child; even if what he’s saying seems trivial, it’s not trivial to him. n What you do matters, so be a good role model. Your kids are watching.

Sources: Child Development Institute, EffectiveCommunicationAdvice.com, The Ten Basic Principles of Good Parenting by Laurence Steinberg, KidsHealth.org.

atlantaparent.com

1-844-543-8437 heartsandhandstherapy.com

Did You Know You Can Read Atlanta Parent Online? atlantaparent.com February 2015 Atlanta Parent 41

Spotlight on Special Needs Resources Families Of Children Under Stress (FOCUS)

W

hen a baby is diagnosed with a lifelong disability or serious medical condition, parents just want to kiss and make it better. This can be a scary and emotional time, and some parents may be so overwhelmed by the medical terms and by their emotions that they really do not understand; they might not even know the questions to ask! Parents often feel relieved to know that they are not alone.

Families Of Children Under Stress (FOCUS) offer comfort and encouragement and is there to help – to listen and cry, to inform and educate, and to offer programs for the families and the baby with special needs through our support groups and programs. Seek support so you can have the information and tools to help your baby and to help meet your emotional needs.

FOCUS offers support groups all over metro Atlanta; a newsletter with stories by families about their experiences and information about equipment and resources; an education conference; community respite programs; and several annual activities for the entire family. FOCUS believes that if your baby has special needs, then your family has special needs – FOCUS cares. If your child has a physical, cognitive or developmental disability, please call FOCUS at 770-234-9111 or visit www.focus-ga.org.

Porter Academy

P

orter Academy is dedicated to educating children Pre-K through 8th grade by utilizing individualized programs that are appropriate to each student’s developmental level and learning style. If one technique is not proving effective for a particular child, then the teachers will try alternative techniques until they find one that works. The team of teachers, therapists, and administrators work together to develop academic abilities, foundational abilities (e.g, processing skills, attention, motor skills), and self-esteem.

Porter Academy utilizes 1) small homerooms grouped by social-developmental level, 2) assessments to determine academic and developmental level, 3) individualized academic programs, 4) small group instruction of core academics to ensure comprehension, 5) use of physical movement and multi-sensory techniques to enhance learning efficiency, 6) social guidance and intentional character development, and 7) therapeutic support (speech/language therapy, occupational therapy, and music therapy) within a group setting.

“This is the first environment which has enabled my daughter to be successful in so many ways. She knows herself that she is learning and improving academically.” – Porter Academy Parent For more information, visit the website www.porteracademy.org or call 770-594-1313.

Special Advertising Section

Got Kids? Got Ideas?

Atlanta Parent Magazine is now accepting applications for our 2015 Atlanta Parent Advisory Board n

Who Should Apply?

Moms and dads who have opinions to share about parenting in Atlanta! As a member, you’ll offer input on articles, contribute your talents and ideas, and get involved with Atlanta Parent’s special events and projects. (It’s a volunteer position with perks!) n

How to apply?

Visit atlantaparent.com to fill out a brief application. n

Deadline: March 20

42 Atlanta Parent February 2015

atlantaparent.com

just kids

A quarterly focus on Special Needs

More Summer Camp Options:

Overnight Summer Camps for Kids with Special Needs Camp Twin Lakes has developed partnerships with more than 58 organizations, which recruit campers and provide volunteer counselors and medical staff for their groups while at camp. Camp Twin Lakes, located on 500 acres in Rutledge, provides the facilities, programming, staff and medical supervision, and subsidizes 70 percent of the costs. Below are just some of this year’s camp partners. Visit camptwinlakes.org for a complete list and details.

BlazeSports Georgia Blaze Camps. Warm Springs, Ga. Ages 8-18. One-week sessions.

Multi-sports summer camps for youth with physical disabilities. 404-270-2000. www.blazesports.org.

Camp ASCCA - Easter Seals. Jackson Gap, Ala. Co-ed, ages 6 and up. One-week sessions for people with disabilities. Aquatic activities, arts and crafts, canoeing, ropes course, horseback riding and more. 256-825-9226. www.campascca.org.

Camp Barney Medintz. Cleveland, Ga. Co-ed, grades 2-10 Two- and four-week sessions. An overnight camp celebrating Jewish culture that features the Chalutzim (Pioneers) Program for children with developmental disabilities. 678-8123844. www.campbarney.org.

Camp Twin Lakes

n Camp AcheAway: Arthritis Foundation,

n Camp Oasis: Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of

Georgia Chapter. For kids with juvenile arthritis and related diseases.

America - Georgia Chapter. For kids ages 7-17 with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

n Camp Braveheart: Children’s

n Camp Oo-U-La: For kids with serious burn

Healthcare of Atlanta. For kids with heart defects and heart transplant recipients.

injuries.

n Camp Breathe Easy: American Lung

Medical Center. For kids with cancer and rare blood disorders.

Association in Georgia. For kids with asthma. n Camp Courage: Children’s Healthcare of

Atlanta. For kids with craniofacial disorders.

n Camp Rainbow: MCGHealth Children’s

n Camp Strong Hearts: MCGHealth Children’s

Medical Center. For kids with heart disorders. n Camp Sunshine: For children and teens

n Camp ESP: Extra Special People. For

with cancer.

youth and young adults with developmental disabilities.

n Camp TBI – To Be Independent:

n Camp Hardgrove: Brain Injury

Association of Georgia. For children and young adults with brain injuries. n Camp High Five: For kids who are

Walton Foundation for Independence-Walton Rehabilitation Health System. For kids with acquired brain injuries. n Camp Twitch and Shout: Tourette Syndrome

affected by HIV.

Association of Georgia. For kids with Tourette’s syndrome.

n Camp Horizon: For kids who have been

n Camp Walk ‘N Roll: Muscular Dystrophy

abused and/or neglected.

Association. For children with muscular dystrophy.

n Camp Independence: National Kidney

Foundation serving Georgia. For kids with kidney disorders and transplants. n Camp Infinity/Under the Stars

n Camp Wannaklot: Hemophilia of Georgia,

Inc. For children with hemophilia or other inherited bleeding disorders.

Weekend: FOCUS. Support for children and teens with disabilities and their families.

n Camp You B You: Marcus Autism Center. For

n Camp Journey: Spectrum Clubs for kids

n Center for the Visually Impaired: For

with autism.

children and youth with visual impairments.

n Camp Kudzu, Inc.: For kids living with

n Second Chance Family Weekend:

Type I diabetes.

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. For kids with solid organ transplants and their families.

n Camp New Hope: Sickle Cell

Foundation of Georgia. For kids with sickle cell disease.

atlantaparent.com

Camp Sparrowood. Dahlonega, Ga. Co-ed, ages 8 and up. One-week sessions for the high functioning, special needs individual. Nature activities, cookouts, crafts, games, horseback riding, overnight campout, swimming. 1:2 counselor-camper ratio. 706-864-6181. www. glisson.org.

Camp Sunshine. Decatur, Ga. Ages 7-18. Oneweek sessions. Overnight camp for children who have or have had cancer. 404-325-7979. www. mycampsunshine.com.

Florida Diabetes Camp. Several locations.

Co-ed, ages 6-18. One-week sessions. Traditional camp with swimming, sports, arts and crafts and diabetes education. Medical care provided. 352334-1321. www.floridadiabetescamp.org.

Georgia Lions Camp for the Blind. Waycross, Ga. Co-ed, ages 4 and up. One- and two-week sessions. Campers must have a visual loss of 20/70 or greater. Indoor/outdoor activities, field trips and swimming. 912-283-4320. www.glcb.org.

Soar’s Summer Adventures. North Carolina, Florida Keys, Wyoming, California, New York, Belize and Costa Rica. Co-ed, ages 8-18. Post grad course 18-25. 10-28 day program sessions.

High-adventure camps for LD and ADHD youth.

828-456-3435. www.soarnc.org.

Talisman Programs. Zirconia, N.C. Ages 6-22.

Two- and three-week sessions. adventure camp for youth with ADHD, LD, high-functioning autism or Aspergers. builds social competence in a wilderness setting. 855-588-8254. www.talismancamps.com.

kids with autism spectrum disorders.

n Camp Krazy Legs: Children’s Healthcare of

Atlanta. For kids and teens with spina bifida.

Talisman Programs

February 2015 Atlanta Parent 43

Hosting an Exchange Student Is Challenging, Rewarding and a Whole Lot of Fun

by Judy M. Miller

I

came across several pictures of our Japanese friend Emiko recently. She was pictured with my son, then age 6, and my daughter, a toddler. My younger two children had not been born.

My son is now an adult and my daughter firmly in her teens.

The pictures of the them and Emiko serve as a reminder of how long – 15 years – we have welcomed students and young adults into our home from all over the globe. In addition to Japan, we have hosted students and young adults from Mexico, Spain, France, and South Korea.

While one student proved challenging, primarily due to the male culture of his county, the other stays have been quite successful. Hosting an exchange student is full of opportunities.

l You

can learn to communicate outside of your comfort zone.

Our first exchange student arrived from Japan. We were concerned about communication. We were told her she spoke English well, but it turned it that her English was poor at best. Our Japanese was nonexistent. We figured it out together. By the time Emiko left, we could communicate pretty well using a combination of English, Japanese, and body gestures. Humor came in handy, too. l You

learn about cultural differences, first-hand, without the expense of traveling.

Food is an easy way to share culture.

All of our exchange students have created at least one meal for us, a family favorite of theirs. Years later, any cereal eaten within our home is with a chocolate milk concoction introduced by our two French “daughters.” l You

grow globally.

You gain exposure to the world. Kids learn, as adults should, that our world is much bigger than the communities, states, and great 44 Atlanta Parent February 2015

nation we live in. Having an exchange student underscores the expanse of the world, and makes it real and less frightening. We often fear what we have not had exposure to. l You

develop understanding.

You learn that people are more alike than they are different. Culturally we, and our children, are conditioned to focus on differences – language, culture, politics, religion, race and ethnicity, perspective, etc. – and see them as roadblocks to getting along. Hosting enables you to focus on and embrace differences, the first steps to building understanding and compassion for one another. When exposed to people of different cultures we begin to notice how similar we are, and to appreciate the differences. Discussions about similarities and differences with an exchange student are wonderfully fascinating and educational! l You

are able to share and understand your culture.

We often do not realize how rich and diverse our own culture is, or exactly what it is, until we share it with someone whose culture is different. We have had ample

opportunities to view our culture though different lenses, understanding how it is perceived by other cultures. How our culture is perceived has been humbling in a few instances, and funny at other times. l You

have the opportunity to learn a new language.

Or improve what you do know of it.

We have learned a smattering of Korean and Japanese words and phrases. Our kids have been able to improve their Spanish and French fluency, diction and grammar. l You

can cultivate meaningful and life-long relationships.

Rarely a week goes by when we do not talk about or are not reminded of one or more of our exchange students. We reminisce and laugh. We miss the contact.

The bonds we have created still exist, and for that we are enriched and grateful. We all had an enormous cry-fest when our two young French women left. My kids were sad for months. We have continued to stay in contact via social media and are able to celebrate their new life milestones, such as marriages and babies.

Cont’d on page 46

atlantaparent.com

Xiao Ruihao – Jack – Has Become Part of Our Family

O

ur family decided to host a foreign student two years ago because we noticed that most of the students in the program at our kids’ school were being hosted by teachers, people without children or families with young children, not high-schoolers. We wanted to give an opportunity for a student to really experience an American family with kids who go to the same school and are his peers.

Our family is hosting “Jack” Xiao, who is from Zhengzhou, China. He is a high school sophomore along with our son Daniel at Mount Vernon Presbyterian School. Mount Vernon’s program is about 4 years old. Jack is in metro Atlanta for the entire school year and is an enrolled student who plans to graduate high school and attend college in the United States.

Jack (his Chinese name is

Xiao Ruihao – the students select American first names before they arrive) has his own room and bathroom in our house and is essentially a fifth member of the family. He eats meals with us and helps out around the house.

We take him with us on family outings and gatherings. We are big sports fans – he has not quite gotten used to football and baseball, but he likes basketball, which is very popular in China.

Thanksgiving is a new concept we had to explain to him. He is very active in school and participates on sports teams and in other extracurricular activities.

His classmates think so much of him they elected him to the Homecoming Court this past fall.

Like all “blended” families, we’ve had to make some some adjustments. Jack’s English was OK when he first arrived but he especially had a hard

time understanding our everyday colloquialisms. Being immersed in English here over the past three semesters has greatly improved his speech and understanding of our language. Chinese table manners and some other habits are quite different, so we had to spend some time teaching him the “American” way. Overall, though, he has been a pleasure to have and we have learned much from him as well.

Jack’s biggest revelation about being in America is how open and inquisitive our culture is. He has taken that spirit to heart here. In China, authority (including teachers and

principals) is rarely questioned, much less challenged. While Chinese students come here with a greater knowledge of STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) than most U.S. students, using those tools to create and innovate something new isn’t promoted or encouraged in Chinese culture. Our greatest satisfaction in this experience is that Jack has embraced the American spirit and how that may contribute, in some small way, to greater understanding and cooperation between our two great cultures.

– Dan Ward

imagine Your Child?

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February 2015 Atlanta Parent 45

Exchange Student l You

become more comfortable with flexibility, while realigning the important things.

Fulton Leadership Academy “Where Young Men Soar To Greater Heights”

A Tuition-Free Public Charter School for Grades 6-11

Now Enrolling

for the 2015-16 year.

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l You

can use “misunderstandings” and cultural differences as teachable moments.

We have hosted exchange students that have pushed the envelope, from lying to not bathing. We have used these misunderstandings and cultural nuances as teachable moments for all of the kids within the home, whether they concern safety, health or courtesy. l Your

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It is important to go over the expectations, rules, and consequences at the beginning of the hosting period and compare them with what your exchange When student is used exposed to to. We had a male that felt people of he did not need different to let us in on cultures where he was in the evenings. we begin to He was used to notice how total freedom similar we are, and little adult oversight; this and to appreciate was part of the differences. his cultural upbringing. We needed to know where he was since we were responsible for him and his safety. Having someone live in your home for an extended time requires flexibility and openness. You may find you need to ease up on schedules or expectations, while still adhering to the important family rules.

kids value being an exchange student and wish to experience being hosted.

My kids have and continue to travel as exchange students to other countries. They understand what kind of exchange student they should strive to be. Sometimes my kids are able to connect with students and adults we have hosted. Other times their travel is full of new experiences. Travel has been very enriching and full of personal growth. l Hosting

is fun!

We have found it a joy to have students in our home and look forward to hosting more. We relish the continued experience of cultures and expansion our horizons. c atlantaparent.com

Interested in Hosting?

F

amilies who would like to host a high school foreign exchange student will find plenty of opportunities.

More than 30 nonprofit organizations, and many private schools, coordinate exchange students in Georgia.

Those students attend private or public schools for a year or more or simply come for a language immersion or cultural exchange program for two weeks or more.

“Our hosting experience provides a rich diversity for families,” says Meg Brown, International Coordinator and Director of Interim Term at Mount Vernon Presbyterian School in Atlanta. “Families learn to see the world in a different light.”

Mount Vernon is hosting eight students this school year, from China and Ukraine.

Most foreign students at private schools come with the intention of graduating, then attending college in the United States.

They come on an F-1 Visa (International Student Visa), which requires them to pay school tuition, and requires host families to receive a stipend to defray some of the costs involved with hosting. The families commit to one year, but can decide to host a second year or more.

Foreign exchange students at public schools typically come on a J-1 Visa (Cultural Exchange Visa) for one year or one semester.

Their placement and support are coordinated through a variety of nonprofit organizations, all certified by CSIET – Council on Standards for International Educational Travel. J-1 Visa rules forbid paying school tuition, or paying the families any stipend. Instead, these students pay a fee to the coordinating organization. Some students pay nothing, coming to the United States on scholarships.

Ruth Blackstock, volunteer chairman for one of the nonprofits, AFS/USA in Georgia, calls hosting these students “citizen-to-citizen diplomacy” with volunteers opening their homes to feed, house and guide students in return for a rich cultural experience.

“We have many return hosting families – one family is on its sixth student and another on its seventh,” Blackstock says.

The demand for families, though, always is greater than the supply. AFS/USA in Georgia is hosting 29 students this year from 14 countries. The organization also assists Georgia students who want to spend a few weeks, a semester or a year abroad.

“We have many more students who want

Tiffiney Mungroo’s young daughter Priya, became good friends with their host student from Thailand, Apissada “May” Jindarojanakul. May attended Mountain View high school in Gwinnett County.

to come here than want to go abroad,” she says, and families of college-bound students might want to rethink that. “Colleges look differently at students who’ve done a year immersion project abroad – it for sure gives an admission advantage.”

– Amanda Miller Allen For more information on hosting a foreign student, visit afsusa.org/georgia; csiet.org; and mountvernonschool.org.

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Serving Cumming, Suwanee & Johns Creek Educating students in an academically competitive, authentic Montessori environment.

Ages 18 months – 15 years AMS & SACS ACCREDITED. CALL FOR A TOUR! February 2015 Atlanta Parent 47

48 Atlanta Parent    February 2015

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide * New Exhibits

n

Free Fun

Calendar

n

Not-to-miss events for February

1

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus presents Legends Philips Arena, Feb. 11-16 The Arena at Gwinnett Center, Feb. 19-Mar. 1 The Greatest Show on Earth is coming to downtown Atlanta and then to Gwinnett County. Legends, a legendsthemed show is packed with performances that include a Unicorn, a Pegasus and a Woolly Mammoth.

800-745-3000. $28-$158. ringling.com.

rate Celeb ck Bla y Histor 2

2

5 Page

Atlanta Parent Magazine’s Camp EXPO Town Center Mall Feb. 21, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

It’s never too early to think about summer camp! Visit Atlanta Parent’s second Camp Expo of 2015 to browse camp booths, chat with former campers, and meet with camp representatives from day and overnight camps throughout the Southeast. Star 94 provides giveaways and music. 400 Ernest W. Barrett Pkwy. NW, Kennesaw. 770-454-7599. Free. atlantaparent.com.

3

Snow White Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre Feb.14-15, 2 p.m.

Cheer on our young heroine and her prince as they stop the plots of the evil queen in this one-hour family ballet presented by the Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education. 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta.

404-892-3303. $12-$45. cobbenergycentre.com.

Snow White

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

February 2015 Atlanta Parent 49

Family Fun Guide Ecology, History, Medicine, Math – Who Knew They Could Be Fun?

NEW EXHIBITS

From hands-on activities to reenactments, make the most of these new exhibits – solve puzzles, become eco-aware, learn about poisons and see history in a whole new way.

Already Open!

Brain Teasers 2

Tellus Museum Through May 3. Mon-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

This hands-on science exhibit will sharpen your problem-solving skills with 20 different challenges that range from mathematical conundrums to mind boggling block puzzles. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville.

770-606-5700. Adults, $14; ages 3-17, $10; ages 2 and younger, free. tellusmuseum.org

Coming Soon!

The Power of Poison

Centuries of Childhood: An American Story

Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center Through April 30. Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Visitors will connect the stories of American history to their own experiences by learning about the lives of five historical children and their families. Each historical character will have its own distinct environment based on the time period and location in which he or she lived.

Replicas of artifacts, home settings and traditional dress will make children and families feel like they are stepping into another time and place. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. Adults, $10.50; ages 3-12, $6.50; ages 2 and younger, free. gwinnettehc.org

Fernbank Museum of Natural History Feb. 7-May 3. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 p.m.

From the pages of fairytales to the journals of modern medicine, this exhibit uncovers the secrets of poison through the use of interactives, models, multimedia and live animals. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-9296300. Adults $18; ages 3-12, $16; 2 and younger, free. fernbankmuseum.org

Super Kids Save the World

The Children’s Museum of Atlanta Feb.7-May 3. Mon.-Fri. (closed Wed.) 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Kids can take the Super Kids pledge to take care of the world at this traveling exhibit designed with “green” materials to teach children the importance of practicing eco-friendly habits in the community. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404659-5437. Admission, $12.75; younger than 1, free. childrensmuseumatlanta.org – Hayley Markowitz

GYRE: The Plastic Ocean

David J. Sencer CDC Museum Through June 19. Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. with extended hours to 7 p.m. Thurs.

Through art and science this exhibition brings the problem of floating garbage in the five major ocean currents into perspective. 1600 Clifton Rd., Atlanta.

404-639-0830. Free. cdc.gov/museum

50 Atlanta Parent February 2015

Family Fun Guide

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FREE FUN

See Atlanta on a Streetcar!

atlantaparent.com

G

etting around downtown Atlanta just got easier – park your car and hop on the Atlanta Streetcar for a fun ride that stops at many spots you’ll want to visit (or make it easier still by parking free at a MARTA lot and taking the train downtown.)

The 2.7-mile streetcar route connects Centennial Olympic Park on one end and King Historic District on the other, with stops in between at the Sweet Auburn Curb Market, at the Sky View Ferris Wheel, at Peachtree Center and more.

You can get off to visit the If You Go boyhood home of Dr. Martin Atlanta Streetcar Luther King Jr. or the Historic Twelve stops on a 2.7 mile Ebenezer Baptist Church or other loop. 404-330-6424; attractions, then hop back on to streetcar.atlantaga.gov go to another site. There are stops n Cost: Free until April 1, near the APEX Museum, Youth then $1 per fare or $3 for a Art Connection gallery and Rialto day pass. Once fare charges Center for the Arts. If you are up begin, two children up to 46 for a walk, you can visit Oakland inches tall can ride free with Cemetery and the State Capitol. a paying adult; additional The most kid-friendly stop children with the same adult will be charged a fare. is Centennial Olympic Park.

Within easy walking distance is n Hours: Mon.-Thurs., the Georgia Aquarium, World of 6 a.m.-11 p.m.; Fri., 6 a.m.1 a.m.; Sat., 8:30 a.m.-1 a.m.

Coca-Cola, the College Football and Sun., 9 a.m.-11 p.m.

Hall of Fame and Chick-fil-A Fan Experience, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, and The Children’s Museum of Atlanta.

After we did most of the loop, we hopped off at the park and grabbed lunch at Waffle House. The Sky View Ferris wheel is also at this stop.

I had purchased a Family of Four pack from Groupon and we all took a ride high above Atlanta.

– Jennifer Joyner

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February 2015 Atlanta Parent 51

BLACK HISTORY MONTH Atlanta is home to some of the nation’s largest African-American attractions and there is no better time to visit than Black History Month. Here are some important sites and events to celebrate the milestones and contributions of African Americans.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site The site, managed by the National Park Service, includes a museum and the civil rights icon’s birth home, church and tomb in downtown Atlanta’s Sweet Auburn neighborhood. Free.

404-331-6922; nps.gov/malu

APEX Museum Named for “The African American Panoramic Experience,” the museum offers artifacts, photographs and multi-media presentations on the African-American cultural experience in Atlanta, past and present.

Admission $6 adults, $5 students, free for children younger than 4. 404-523-2739; apexmuseum.org.

52 Atlanta Parent February 2015

Center for Civil and Human Rights Engaging cultural attraction that connects the American Civil Rights Movement to today’s Global Human Rights Movements. Admission $15 adults, $13 students, $10 ages 3-12, free for age 2 and younger. 678-9998990; civilandhumanrights.org.

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The Herndon Home This National Historic Landmark was the residence of Alonzo Herndon, who overcame slavery, sharecropping, and Jim Crow to become one of the foremost African-American businessmen of his era. Open Tues. and Thurs., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission $7 adults, $5 students.

404-581-9813; theherndonhome.org.

Atlanta History Center Struggles and Strides: The Early Fight for Civil Rights on Feb.7, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., is a day of activities, special museum theater performances, and guest lectures that explore the African-American experience from the Great Migration to the Civil Rights Movement. At other times, several exhibits highlight the struggles and successes of African Americans seeking freedom and equality. Admission $16.50 adults, $13 ages 13-18, $11 ages 4-12, free for children younger than 4. 404-814-4000; atlantahistorycenter.com.

The Life of Rosa Parks Actress Joanna Maddox portrays the life of this civil rights heroine on Feb.13, 7 p.m., at The Grand Theatre, 7 North Wall St., Cartersville. 770-386-7343. Admission $10 adults, $5 ages 18 and younger. thegrandtheatre.org.

Black History Month Parade The parade is the largest celebration of Black History Month in Atlanta. The parade starts at the Martin Luther King Jr. historic district and ends at Underground Atlanta on Feb. 28, noon-5 p.m. Free. 404-478-7820; blackhistorymonthparade.com.

Kuumba Storytellers of Georgia Costumed storytellers portray known and not-so-well-known African Americans throughout history on Feb. 22, 3 p.m. Roswell Visitor’s Center, 617 Atlanta St., Roswell. Admission $5.

770-641-3727; roswellgov.com.

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The King Center Established in 1968 by the late Coretta Scott King, the widow of the civil rights icon, The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change, now called The King Center, has been a global destination, resource center and community institution for people to learn, be inspired and pay their respects to Dr. King’s legacy.

Free. 404-526-8900; thekingcenter.org.

Family Fun Guide

February 2015 Atlanta Parent 53

Black History Month Events n Laugh and Learn. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Learn all about Georgian African American scientists, performers and athletes. Mon. and Sat. 10:30 a.m. Sun. 11 a.m. Through Feb. 6. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437.

Admission, $12.75; younger than 1, free. n Soul Train. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta.

Join the Imaginators celebrate black history with song and dance to music from the past to present.

Feb. 1. 2 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Admission, $12.75; younger than 1, free. n Are you smarter than The Griot? Roswell Branch Library. All ages are welcome to test their knowledge of black history in this Q & A competition.

See who can answer more questions than a traditional African griot, who was tasked with keeping the oral history of the village. Feb. 7. 2-5 p.m. 115 Norcross St., Roswell. 770-640-3075. Free. n African American History Family Bingo Night.

West Cobb Regional Library. Learn about famous African Americans while playing themed bingo.

Snacks are provided. Feb. 28. 3:30-4:30 p.m. 1750 Dennis Kemp Ln., Kennesaw. 770-528-4699. All ages, free. n Art Celebration. South Cobb Regional Library. Kids will learn about prominent African American artists, specifically the collage style of Romare Bearden and then make collages. Feb. 18. 3-4 p.m. 805 Clay Rd., Mableton. 678-398-5828. Ages 5 and older. Free. n Struggles and Strides: The Early Fight for Civil Rights. Atlanta History Center. A day of activities, special museum theatre performances, and guest lectures that explore the African American experience from the Great Migration to the Civil Rights Movement. Feb. 7. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; ages 3 and younger, free. n History in the Making. Roswell Cultural Arts Center. The Groveway Players present a play based on African America history in the Groveway community. Feb. 1. 2:30 p.m. 950 Forrest St., Roswell. 770-993-4245. Adults, $15; ages 12 and younger, $5.

The Children’s Museum of Atlanta

n Black History Month Parade. Downtown Atlanta. The parade celebrating black history month starts at the Martin Luther King Jr. historic district and ends at Underground Atlanta.

Feb. 28. noon-5 p.m. 404-478-7820. Free.

n Kuumba Storytellers of Georgia.

Roswell Visitor’s Center. Costumed storytellers portray African Americans throughout history. Feb. 22. 3 p.m. 617 Atlanta St., Roswell. 770-641-3727. $5 at the door

n Rosewell Roots. Roswell Visitor’s Center.

Celebrate Roswell’s African American history and culture throughout the month of February with a series of events each day. Feb.128. Visit roswellroots.com. 770-641-3727.

Prices vary per event.

n Celebrating Digital Learning Day. East Marietta Library. Grades 1-5 discover how to use digital technology to learn more about the lives of African American History.

Feb. 4. 4-5 p.m. 2051 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta. 678-398-5828. Free.

n High John the Conqueror and African Folktales. Teaching Museum North. Enjoy hearing Rob Cleveland deliver tales of High John the Conqueror and other African Folktales. Feb. 18. 7 p.m. 793 Mimosa Blvd., Roswell. 770-641-3705. Reservations requested. Ages 9 and older, free.

n The Life of Rosa Parks. The Grand Theatre. In celebration of Black History Month, actress Joanna Maddox portrays the life of this civil rights heroine. Feb.13.

7 p.m. 7 North Wall St., Cartersville.

770-386-7343. Adults, $10; ages 18 and younger, $5.

Child Models

.

Have a Family Friendly Calendar Event?

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

Submit your event!

Could your baby, toddler or kid be one?

Send us the information and photos by the first of the month prior.

calendar@atlantaparent.com

Atlanta, New York, LA

404-636-1974

www.williamreynoldsagency.com 54 Atlanta Parent February 2015

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Run Off to See THE CIRCUS! February in Atlanta means circus season.

Whether your family is drawn toward an old-fashioned circus experience or a modern extravaganza, you’ll find a show that suits you.

Saturday, February 7, 2015 J 11:00 am – 4:00 pm Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents Legends The Greatest Show on Earth is coming to downtown Atlanta and then to Gwinnett County.

Legends is a legends-themed show packed with performances that include a Unicorn, a Pegasus and a Woolly Mammoth. Plus, one hour before each show, families can meet the performers and see an elephant up close.

800-745-3000. ringling.com n When: Feb. 11-16 at Philips Arena, 1 Philips Dr., Atlanta. Wed., 7:30 p.m.; Thurs., 7:30 p.m.; Fri., 10:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Mon., 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. n When: Feb. 19-Mar. 1 at the Arena at Gwinnett Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. Thurs., 7:30 p.m.; Fri., 10:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Sun., 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. n Tickets: $28-$158.

Commemorate Black History Month with a day of activities, special performances, and guest lecturers that explore the African American experience from the Great Migration to the Civil Rights Movement.

Major funding is provided by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners

AtlantaHistoryCenter.com/Family 404.814.4000

flio

SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE using #AHCedu

UniverSoul Circus For a rockin’ musical and theatrical circus experience, don’t miss the UniverSoul show.

The high-flying acrobatic acts are accompanied by pop, R&B, hip hop, Latin, jazz and gospel music. This year, catch exciting acts like motorcycle daredevils, tigers jumping through rings of fire, Caribbean limbo dancers, jugglers, trapeze artists and much more. 800-345-7000. universoulcircus.com n When: Feb. 4-Mar. 1, Turner Field Green Parking Lot, 521 Capitol Ave., Atlanta. Tues.-Fri., 10:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sat., noon, 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 12:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. n Tickets: 16-$37.

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Family Fun Guide

February 2015 Atlanta Parent 55

K1 Speed.

This indoor karting center offers an authentic racing experience.

All junior racers must be at least 48" tall and adults must be at least 4'10" to race.

These European-designed electric karts reach speeds of 45 miles per hour.

Mon.-Thurs., noon-10 p.m.; Fri., 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

1625 Pleasant Hill Rd., Duluth. Prices vary depending on experience; starting at $20. 678-3672857. k1speed.com

The Need for SPEED

Let your family’s inner racecar driver out.

If you are looking for a way to get the whole family’s motor running, go for a spin at one of these top three places in Atlanta for an indoor driving experience.

Andretti.

Allow the kids to experience the thrill of highperformance electric go-karts that can reach 15 mph. Mon., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Tues.-Thurs. and Sun., 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Fri. and Sat., 11 a.m.-1 a.m. 11000 Alpharetta Hwy., Roswell. Adult race, $24.95; Junior race, ages 16 and younger, $15. 770-992-5688. andrettikarting.com

56 Atlanta Parent February 2015

Tiny Towne. Let your aspiring drivers ages 3-15 steer high-tech mini cars on realistic streets. Staff members and bumpers prevent the kids from bumping each other and keep the little ones on track if they get stuck. Mon.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m.; Fri.-Sun., 11a.m.-9 p.m.

2055 Beaver Ruin Rd., Norcross. Tiny and Booster cars, 5 credits per round; credits, $1 each. 470-545-7227. tinytowne.com

Family Fun Guide

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How Many Birds Can You Count?

The four-day Great Backyard Bird Count, taking place Feb. 13-16, enlists the help of citizen scientists. Learn about birds, record how many birds you see and what kind for at least 15 minutes. Visit gbbc.birdcount.org on how participate from your backyard or try one of these events!

Chattahoochee Nature Center Feb. 13-16. Fri., Sat., Mon., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m.

Kids of all ages can stop by the Nature Exchange to learn how to participate in the program, then children can make a backyard bird feeder. Reservation required. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free. chattnaturecenter.org Dunwoody Nature Center Feb. 14. 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. and Feb. 16.

10 a.m. and noon.

Birding lessons for adults and children will cover species identification, observation and how to enter the tally on the birdcount website. Reservations required. 5343 Roberts Dr., Dunwoody. 770-394-3322. Free. dunwoodynature.org.

Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center Feb. 14, 15 and 16. 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Learn about birds through crafts and activities inside the center, then take a hike and count birds. Register for Birding 101,1 p.m. and Birding 102, 2 p.m. for ages 8 and older. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. Adults, $10.50; ages 3-12, $6.50; ages 2 and younger, free. gwinnettehc.org.

Smith-Gilbert Gardens Feb. 14. 10 a.m.-noon.

Bring your binoculars and identify all kinds of birds in the garden. Enjoy a birdhouse picture scavenger hunt. Reservation required. 2382 Pine Mountain Rd, Kennesaw. 770-919-0248. Adults, $7; ages 6-12, $5; ages 5 and younger, free. smithgilbertgardens.com.

The Blue Heron Nature Preserve Feb.14. 8:30 a.m.

Join Atlanta Audubon Society to celebrate and enjoy a guided bird walk.

Binoculars available to borrow and take-home posters, coloring pages for kids and more.

4055 Roswell Rd., Atlanta. 678-972-2437. Free. atlantaaudubon.org – Hayley Markowitz

atlantaparent.com

DRIVE U PLAY d LEARN Learn the Rules of the Road and Experience Driving along with Play

The Perfect Place for Aspiring Drivers Ages 3-15 It’s education through entertainment Education + Entertainment = “Edu-tainment!”

♦ High Tech Cars for All Ages ♦ Real Life Driving Experience ♦ Realistic Streets with Traffic Signals ♦ 36,000 SF Indoor Park ♦ Field Trips ♦ Party Room ♦ Restaurant ♦ Train

COME DRIVE TODAY 470-545-7227 Tiny Towne

2055 Beaver Ruin Road • Norcross • www.tinytowne.com

Family Fun Guide

February 2015 Atlanta Parent 57

Calendar

February 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.

GROUNDHOG DAY JUGGLERS FESTIVAL

classes

Yaarab Shrine Rec Building FEB. 7.

SAT. 10 A.M.-10 P.M.

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

Different activities each week. Feb. 5, 12, 19 and 26. 10 and 11:30 a.m. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-427-2117. Recommended for ages 3-5. Adults, $7.50; ages 4-12, $5.50; 3 and younger, free.

The Atlanta Jugglers Association presents its quirky annual festival with a weekend of juggling that includes competitions, live music, kids’ corner, unicyclists and a nighttime Light Extravaganza.

400 Ponce de Leon Ave., Atlanta.

404-584-8180. Free admission. atlantajugglers.org.

Me and Mommy. Georgia Aquarium. Moms, dads, grandparents and caregivers as well come out for different activities each week. Through April 2. Visit georgiaaquarium.org for schedule. 225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta. 404-581-4000. Adult Total Ticket includes up to 4 children each ages 5 and younger, $39.95.

Home Depot Kid’s Workshop. All locations. Learn tool safety while building a craft and receive a kid-size orange apron. First Sat. of each month.

Feb. 7. 9 a.m.-noon. Homedepot.com. Ages 5-12. Free.

INK Craft Weeks. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids. Groundhog’s Day week, Feb. 2-7; Valentine’s Day week, Feb. 9-14; President’s Day week, Feb. 16-21; Polar Bear week, Feb. 23-28. $1 with museum admission. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sun., 1-5 p.m. 999 Chestnut St., Gainesville. 770536-1900. Mon.-Sat., $8; Sun., $6.

Mice Tours. Marietta Museum of History. Mascots Murray and Etta mouse introduce history through tours, storytime and crafts geared towards ages 3-5. Feb. 11. 10:30 a.m. 1 Depot St., Marietta.

770-794-5710. Reservations required. $5.

Second Thursday Program. Southeastern Railway Museum. Parents and tots program includes circle time, an activity and craft. Ages 1-4. Feb. 12. 10:30 a.m.-noon. 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth.

770-495-0253. $7 per child, one adult free, additional adult, $8.

Turtle Tours. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum.

Museum mascots Sandy the chipmunk and Spring the turtle introduce history through stories, hands-on exhibits and crafts. Feb.14. 11 a.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Cir., Sandy Springs.

404-851-9111. Recommended for ages 2-5.

Donations encouraged.

Toddler Thursdays. High Museum of Art. Create masterpieces to compliment the museum’s current exhibits. Ages 2-4. Feb. 5, 12, 19 and 26.

11 a.m.-3 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404733-4400. Free with admission. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free.

Saturday Morning Art Classes. Vinings School of Art. Take a drawing, painting or pottery class.

Supplies included. Ages 2-13. Every Sat. 10 and 11 a.m. 1675 Cumberland Pkwy., Smyrna. 678213-4278. Pre-register. $15, siblings $12.

Build and Grow Clinics. Lowes. Clinics teach kids to build wooden crafts. Free apron, goggles and merit patch. Visit lowesbuildandgrow.com for times and locations. 800-445-6937. Preregister. Free.

58 Atlanta Parent February 2015

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Crafts at Lakeshore Learning. Lakeshore Learning. Make a different craft each week.

Every Sat. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 4287 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-578-3100. Free.

Drop-In and Draw. Gas-Art Gifts at North DeKalb Mall. Make a different project each week. Every Sat. 1-8 p.m. Every Sun. 1-5 p.m. 2050 Lawrenceville Hwy., Decatur.

404-801-4926. $5.

exhibits All About Trains. Tellus Museum. Exhibit featuring model trains on 100 feet of track running past scenes of an imaginary village, displays about the basics of model railroading, how to build railroad scenes and popular model scales. Through March.

100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700.

Adults, $14; ages 3-17, $10; ages 2 and younger, free.

American Sabor: Latinos in U.S. Popular Music. Atlanta History Center. Celebrate and savor the impact of Latinos in American popular music in a bilingual exhibition.

Through Feb. 8. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Sun., noon-5:30 p.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000.

Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; ages 3 and younger, free.

Anne Frank in the World: 1929-1945. Parkside Shopping Center. Learn about the life of the Frank family in Amsterdam. Includes replica of Anne’s room. Tues.-Thurs. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Fri. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sat.-Sun. noon-4 p.m. 5920 Roswell Rd., Sandy Springs. 770-206-1558, holocaust.georgia. gov. Ages 10 and older, free.

Family Fun Guide

Cinderella’s Tightrope: Adapted Childhood Tales.

Special Exhibit Gallery at Center for Puppetry Arts.

See how characters from classic childhood tales like Cinderella and the Little Mermaid can be adapted for the puppet stage. Through April. Tues.-Fri., 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Sat.;10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404-873-3391. Museum admission, $8.25. Free admission Thursdays from 1-3 p.m.

Aquanaut Adventure: A Discovery Zone. Georgia Aquarium. A 45-minute experience that allows parents and children to learn about aquatic life as they complete a series of educational and fascinating challenges. Multiple shows per day, times vary. Reservations recommended. Check out the daily guide for show times. 225 Baker St., Atlanta.

404-581-4000. Admission price depends on date of visit. Adults, $38.95; ages 3-12, $32.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

The Civil War in Sandy Springs. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum. Exhibit detailing the Civil War in Sandy Springs featuring letters, diaries, family artifacts and cannon shells. Through April. Wed. and Sat., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Cir., Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111. Adults, $3; ages 6-12, $1; ages 5 and younger, free.

Sea Monsters Revealed: Aquatic Bodies.

Georgia Aquarium. An exhibit of sea creatures includes an 18-foot-long, 3,000 pound whale shark.

Sun.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-581-4000. Admission price depends on date of visit. Adults, $38.95; ages 3-12, $32.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

Super Kids Save the World. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Kids can take the Super Kids pledge to take care of the world at this traveling exhibit designed with “green” materials teaches children the importance of practicing eco-friendly habits in the community. Through May. 3. Mon.- Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., closed Weds. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437.

Admission, $12.75; younger than 1, free.

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Calendar Brain Teasers 2. Tellus Museum. This hands-on science exhibit will sharpen your problem-solving skills with 20 different challenges that range from mathematical conundrums to mind boggling block puzzles. Through May 3.100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700.

Adults, $14; ages 3-17, $10; ages 2 and younger, free.

ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATER Fox Theatre FEB.11-15. WED.-FRI. 8 P.M., SAT. 2 P.M. AND 8 P.M. AND SUN. 3 P.M. Using African-American spirituals, song-sermons, gospel songs and holy blues this modern dance company presents Revelations, which continues to move audiences around the world with its powerful storytelling and soul-stirring music. Feb. 14. Family matinee buy one, get one 50 percent at alvinailey.org/ Atlanta. 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta.

855-285-8499. Tickets, $25-$56.

The Power of Poison. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. From the pages of fairytales to the journals of modern medicine this exhibit uncovers the secrets of poison through the use of interactives, models, multimedia and live animals.

Through May 3. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta.

404-929-6300. Adults $18; ages 3-12, $16; 2 and younger, free.

GYRE: The Plastic Ocean. David J. Sencer CDC Museum. Through art and science this exhibition brings the problem of floating garbage in the five major ocean currents into perspective. Through June 19. Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 1600 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-639-0830. Free.

ice skating Atlantic Station. A 10,000-square-foot, open-air ice skating rink. Through Feb. 15. Opens daily at 3 p.m. 17th St., Atlanta. 404-410-4010. Admission including skates, $13; ages 5 and younger, $10.

atlantaparent.com

Avalon. A rink surrounded by twinkling lights, a gingerbread house and other holiday decorations. Open through Feb 28. 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. 770-765-2000.

Admission including skates, $16.

The Rink at Park Tavern. Heated tent, state-of-the-art sound system and rinkside dining. Through Feb. 18. Mon.-Fri., 4:30 p.m.-midnight. Sat. and Sun., 10:30 a.m.-midnight. (Adult skate nightly 8:30 p.m.-midnight.) 500 10th St. NE, Atlanta.

404-249-0001. $15/all day skate.

Family Fun Guide

music Jam Zone. Georgia World Congress Center. Enjoy the day before Winter Jam with live music, games, food and more. Feb 7. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 285 Andrew Young International Blvd., Atlanta. Free.

Winter Jam. Georgia Dome. The annual Christian concert is an evening for all ages with music, games and inspirational speakers. Feb 7. 6 p.m. 1 Georgia Dome Dr., Atlanta. Ages 2 and older $10 at the door.

February 2015    Atlanta Parent 59

Valentine’s Day Events Valentine Crafts at Lakeshore Learning. Lakeshore Learning.

Make from the heart coupon to share with the ones you love. Feb. 7. 11 a.m.3 p.m. 4287 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-578-3100. Free.

My Family Valentine. Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Bring your

valentine and enjoy classic love stories including Cinderella, Romeo and Juliet and Sleeping Beauty through music. Feb. 14. 11 a.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE. Atlanta. 404-733-4900. Tickets $20-40.

Daddy-Daughter Dance. George Pierce Park Community Recreation

Center. Valentine dance with light refreshments for dads and their daughters.

Feb. 6. 7 p.m. 55 Buford Hwy., Suwanee. 678-277-0910. Pre-registration required. Ages 4 and older, $8 per person.

Mother-Son Dance. Rhodes Jordan Park Community Recreation

Center. A family night includes music, dancing, games, and light refreshments. Bring a camera for photographs. Feb. 7. 6 p.m. 100 E. Crogan St., Lawrenceville. 770-822-5414. Reservations required by Feb. 7. All ages, $8 per person.

Daddy-Daughter Dance. Lucky Shoals Park Community Recreation Center. Valentine’s dance includes music, dancing, games, snacks and a photo. Feb. 7. 5-8 p.m. 4651 Britt Rd., Norcross. 678-277-0860. Preregistration required. All ages, $8 per person.

Magic Monday. Atlanta History Center. Get your body warmed up for

Terrific Toddlers Valentine! Powder Springs Library Branch.

Valentine’s-themed stories, music, art and play to improve reading comprehension. Feb. 11. 11-11:30 a.m. 4181 Atlanta St., Powder Springs.

770-439-3600. Ages 18-36 months, free.

Valentines Make and Take. East Marietta Library. Kids will make a

valentine for either someone special or a character from their favorite book.

Feb. 14. 2-4 p.m. 2051 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-509-2711. Free.

some heart pumping Valentine’s Day games. Play fun games from a hearty relay race to a catch my heart game. Feb. 9. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4110. Adults, $6.50; ages 5 and younger, $5.50.

Valentine Card Craft. American Girl. Make Valentine’s cards with

Be My Valentine, Preschool Pollywags! East Cobb Library

Wee Readers: Are You My Valentine? Kemp Memorial Library.

Branch. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with stories, a short film, and a heart hat craft for ages 3-5. Feb. 10 and 11. 11 a.m. 4880 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta.

770-509-2730. Free.

decorative paper and stickers. Feb. 14. 4-6 p.m. 1202 North Point Cir., Alpharetta. 877-247-5223. Ages 8 and older, free.

Storytime with age appropriate books, songs, activities, a movie and a craft. Feb. 11. 11:15 a.m.- noon. 4029 Due West Rd. NW, Marietta. 770528-2527. Free.

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60 Atlanta Parent February 2015

Family Fun Guide

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Calendar music Galapagos: Nature’s Wonderland. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Travel deep into the heart of the Pacific Ocean to a volcanic setting filled with stunning biological marvels. Through Mar. 5. See fernbankmuseum.org for show times. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6400.

IMAX tickets: Adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; ages 2 and younger, free.

Jerusalem. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Explore Jerusalem and the Holy Land in this cinematic journey. Through Feb. 12.

See fernbankmuseum.org for show times.

767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6400. IMAX tickets: Adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; ages 2 and younger, free.

nature For the Love of Birds. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Come out to experience live birds, live music, storytelling and games. Feb. 21. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-9922055. Adults, $10; ages 6-12, $6.

Great Backyard Bird Count. Dunwoody Nature Center. Bird lessons for adults and kids featuring information about species identification, the importance of the bird count, how to do basic bird observation and how to correctly enter your tally for the Great Backyard Bird Count.

Feb. 14. 9:30 and 11 a.m. and Feb. 16. 10 a.m. and noon. Reservation required. 5343 Roberts Dr.,Dunwoody. 770-394-3322. Free.

Saturday Mountain Hike. Panola Mountain State Park. Take in the view and enjoy a guided hike to the top of the mountain. Wear hiking shoes and bring water. 2600 Hwy. 155 Stockbridge.

770-389-7801. Pre-register. Ages 10 and older, $5. Parking, $5.

Trail Hike. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Journey through the CNC trails using biofacts and activities to spark your curiosity. Sat. and Sun. 1 p.m.

9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free.

Weekends in the Naturalist Center. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Activities include animal encounters, science explorations and more. Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m.

767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Activities included with price of admission. Adults, $18; ages 3-12, $16; ages 2 and younger, free.

Feeding Time. Chattahoochee Nature Center.

Join a naturalist for an in-depth look at one of the resident animals as the Wildlife Dept. feeds them. Tues. and Sat., 4 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Ages 5 and older, $10 plus admission. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free.

special events Fulton County Free Saturday. High Museum of Art. Admission is free for Fulton County residents with I.D. on the first Saturday of each month until 1 p.m. Feb. 1. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Free.

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Family Fun Guide

February 2015 Atlanta Parent 61

Calendar CHINESE NEW YEAR

The year 2015 is the year of the Sheep. This Chinese holiday is celebrated by tasting traditional Chinese cuisine or learning about Chinese culture while viewing the traditional dragon dance and more.

Lunar New Year Festival

WORKSHOPS CLASSES

Atlanta Chinese Lunar New Year Festival Culture Center of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office FEB. 21-22, 10 A.M.-4 P.M. A weekend of cultural entertainment including traditional dragon and lion dances, performances of Chinese folk music, an arts and craft exhibition and authentic Chinese foods. 5377 New Peachtree Rd., Chamblee. 770451-4456. $5 per person; children under 3.5 feet, free. facebook.com/ AtlantaChineseLunarNewYearFestival.

62 Atlanta Parent February 2015

Meet the Holiday: Chinese New Year The Children’s Museum of Atlanta FEB. 21, 11 A.M. - 1 P.M. Celebrate with The Imaginators in making a sheep puppet craft to wave in a Chinese Parade with “fireworks” and enjoy song and dance with a performance by Toomer Elementary, plus listen to the story of The Dancing Dragon by Marcia Vaughan. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437.

Admission, $12.75; younger than 1, free. childrensmuseumatlanta.org

Traditional Folktales with a Twist. Aurora Theatre. Explore folk tales in a different way with a high-energy performance by Rob Cleveland a children’s author and storyteller.

Feb. 7. 10 and 11:30 a.m. 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $7.

Atlanta Parent Magazine’s Camp EXPO. Town Center Mall. Meet camp representatives from more than 50 day and overnight camps throughout the Southeast. Star 94 provides giveaways and music. Feb. 21. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 400 Ernest W Barrett Pkwy. NW, Kennesaw. 770-454-7599. Free.

Groundhog Day. Yellow River Game Ranch.

Visit the ranch to see if General Beau Lee sees his shadow this year. Feb. 2. 6:30-8:30 a.m. 4525 US 78, Lilburn. 770-972-6643.

Free.

Supercross. Georgia Dome. Motocross competition includes stunts, racing, and a Pit Party. Feb. 21 and 28. 6:30 p.m. 1 Georgia Dome Dr., Atlanta.

404-223-9200. $29-$75.

Teen Arts Night. City Center. Teens can bring instruments, poetry, artwork and short stories to share. Includes a slice of pizza and a soda. Feb. 6. 6-8 p.m. 8534 Main St., Woodstock. 678-494-4251. Ages 12-18, $5.

Vanilla Sunday. Atlanta Botanical Garden. A vanillathemed education day offers cooking demonstrations, sensory experiences and vanilla ice cream sundaes. Feb. 22. 1-4 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

Fairy Tale Tea. Callanwolde Fine Arts Center.

The Callanwolde Dance Ensemble hosts a fairy tale tea and performances by costumed storybook characters. Feb. 8. 1 p.m. 980 Briarcliff Rd., Atlanta. 404-872-5338. Reservations required. $25.

Book Blast. Town Center Mall. Enjoy celebrity storytellers, free giveaways and other activities. Attendees are encouraged to bring a new or slightly used children’s book to donate. Feb. 21. 1-3 p.m.

400 Ernest W. Barrett Pkwy. NW, Kennesaw. 770424-9468. Free.

Family Fun Guide

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Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus presents Legends. This all new legendsthemed show is packed with performances that include a Unicorn, a Pegasus and a Woolly Mammoth. Philips Arena. Feb. 11-16. The Arena at Gwinnett Center. Feb. 19-Mar. 1. 800-745-3000. $28-$158.

UniverSoul Circus. The Green Lot at Turner Field. Interactive combination of circus arts, theater, and music that spans genres including Pop, Classic R&B, Latin, Hip Hop, Jazz and Gospel. Feb. 4-Mar. 1. Visit universoulcircus.com for show times. 755 Hank Aaron Dr., Atlanta. 800-745-3000.

Tickets, $16-37.

storytelling Children’s Storytime. FoxTale Book Shoppe.

Storytimes are followed by dance and songs. Mon. and Sat. 11 a.m. 105 E. Main St., Woodstock. 770-516-9989. Free.

STINKYKIDS THE MUSICAL Synchronicity Theatre FEB. 13-MAR. 8. FEB. SHOW TIMES, FRI. 7:30 P.M., SAT. 1 P.M. AND 4 P.M., SUN. 2 P.M. AND 5 P.M. Britt never gets in trouble, and she loves making her friends happy. When Britt wakes up with a huge wad of gum stuck in her hair, she’s afraid her parents might cancel their big trip! Can Britt and her friends get out of this sticky situation? 1545 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-484-8636. Adults, $20; ages 2-12, $15; younger than 2, free. synchrotheatre.com

Next Chapter JV Book Club. FoxTale Book Shoppe. Book club for ages 6-12.

Includes a snack, discussion and an activity. Feb.13. 4:30 p.m. 105 E. Main St., Woodstock. 770-516-9989. Free.

Wren’s Nest Storytelling. The Wren’s Nest.

Ramblers host storytelling each Sat. 1 p.m.

1050 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd., Atlanta.

404-753-7735. Adults, $8; ages 4-12, $5; ages 4 and younger, free. (Price includes storytelling).

Storytime at Little Shop. Little Shop of Stories. Storytelling three times a week.

Thurs. nights kids can come in pjs. Milk and cookies provided. Tues. 11 a.m., Thurs. 7 p.m., and Sun. 3 p.m. 133 A East Court Sq., Decatur. 404-373-6300. Free.

Storytime by the River. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Come enjoy stories and take part in a craft. Ages 3-5. Feb. 4. 10:30-11:30 a.m.

9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055.

Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free.

theater The Three Little Pigs. Aurora Theatre. A new take on a classic story with an Anime pop score. Through Feb. 27. 10 and 11:30 a.m. 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville.

678-226-6222. $7.

Snow White. Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Cheer on our young heroine and her prince as they stop the plots of the evil queen. Feb.14-15. 2 p.m. 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. 404-892-3303. $12-45.

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February 2015 Atlanta Parent 63

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64 Atlanta Parent February 2015

Family Fun Guide

Wicked. Fox Theatre. A musical of the two girls before they turned in to the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch. Feb.18-Mar. 8. Tues.-Thur. 7:30 p.m., Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sun. 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

660 Peachtree St. NE. Atlanta. 404-881-2100.

Tickets, $63 and up.

Disney’s Aladdin, Jr. MJCCA’S Jerry’s Habima Theatre. Join Aladdin, Jasmine, Iago, Jafar, the Genie and more for an adventure filled with magic, mayhem and flying carpet rides.

Feb. 26 and 28. 7:30 p.m. 5342 Tilly Mill Rd., Atlanta. 678-812-4002. Adults, $35; ages 12 and younger, $15.

Rainforest Adventures. Center for Puppetry Arts.

It’s a jungle out there in this entertaining and educational puppet show that peeks at the Amazonian rainforest! Through Mar.15. Tues.-Fri., 10 and 11:30 a.m.; Sat., noon and 2 p.m.; Sun., 1 and 3 p.m. 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 404873-3089. $16.50; ages 2 and younger, free.

beyond atlanta Valentine’s Day Celebration. BabyLand General Hospital. Find your Valentine’s Day Family Sweetheart baby. There will be prize drawings, holiday craft, candy goody bags and costume character. Feb. 14. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 300 N.O.K. Dr., Cleveland. 706-865-2171. Free.

Valentine Sweetheart Train. Great Smoky Mountain Railroad. Enjoy special Valentine’s activities during the Peanuts Be My Valentine, Charlie Brown Excursion. Charlie Brown, Lucy and Snoopy will be aboard. Feb. 14. 11 a.m.

226 Everett St., Bryson City, N.C. 800-8724681. Adults, $51; ages 2-12, $29; ages 1 and younger, free.

Georgia National Rodeo. Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agricenter. The weekend includes steer wrestling, team roping, bull riding, barrel racing, 4H livestock show and more. Feb. 19-21. 401 Larry Walker Pkwy., Perry. 478-9873247. Adults, $11-20; ages 2-12, $9-$16.

Historic Trolley Tour. Downtown Augusta. Take the Lady Liberty Trolley for a kid-friendly ride to see some of Augusta’s most famous homes and the Augusta Canal. Hear a historical story and head to the James Brown exhibit at the Augusta History Museum. Saturdays. 1 p.m.

560 Reynolds St., Augusta. 706-724-4067. Preregister. $12 per person, includes admission to the museum.

River Giants Exhibit. Tennessee Aquarium. A collection of freshwater fish at legendary sizes, the “goliaths” of freshwater. Open daily 10 a.m.-6 p.m. One Broad St., Chattanooga, Tenn. 800 262-0695. Adults, $26.95; ages 3-12, $16.95; 2 and younger, free. c

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February 2015 Atlanta Parent 65

Humor

by Lara Krupicka

Hey, Cupid! Your Holiday’s Been Hijacked!

F

orgive me for butting in on your business, this being a hectic time of year for you and all. But I had to write you about something that has been bothering me in the years since I became a mom: Your holiday has been hijacked by other little people who don’t sport wings and a bow and arrow.

Three of them reside in my house and they’re not remotely ready for the idea of romance (okay, so maybe the 14-year-old thinks she is). Yet they’ve co-opted what should be a celebration between couples.

For instance, have you ever noticed on Feb. 14 how my husband hurries to leave love notes on the breakfast table for our daughters and in his haste forgets to even tell me goodbye?

It seems your powers of attraction have been redirected to cause parents to overexert themselves on this day to be sure their children know they are cherished. They’re moved to gush over their offspring, whom they already cuddle and coddle.

Then, they give their conspirator in the scheme called “family” an exhausted peck on the cheek and a quick, “Love ya, hon!”

Romancing the Kids I’ve been a victim in this hijacking myself – reduced to tucking frilly cards in lunch boxes and decorating heartshaped sugar cookies. Oh yes, and I’ve been swayed into spending hours coaching my children to squeeze their names on the cheap character-themed greetings they exchange with classmates.For once, dear Cupid, I’d like to wake to flowers on my dresser and champagne in the fridge. I’d be thrilled to break out a dress and heels for dinner at a restaurant that doesn’t serve chicken fingers. I could use a special day where the cards and wishes flowed only between me and my sweetheart.

Actually Cupid, what I really wish is that you had given me a heads-up for what was to come. I would have squeezed in more romantic fondues or steak-andseafood dinners. I would have taken more chilly moonlit strolls.

Mom Needs a Snuggle

For once, dear Cupid, I’d like to wake to flowers on my dresser and champagne in the fridge.

66 Atlanta Parent February 2015

Then again, I was too smitten to imagine bringing little people into our lives could do anything but multiply our devotion to each other.

Which in a way, it has. I have so much more to appreciate about my husband now. Like the way he can create a fishtail braid in a young girl’s slippery tresses. Or how he gently glues the heads back onto tiny plastic princess dolls to restore them for his own princesses.

Yet for all the devotion and love flowing in our household, I wish I could again, for one Valentine’s Day, be the center of someone’s world, to attract again all that affection to myself.

You should do something to reclaim your holiday for romance.

If not, I guess I’d settle for a box of chocolates, a candlelit dinner at home with my husband and a snuggle in front of the lit fireplace – while the kids wash the dishes and clean up the kitchen. c atlantaparent.com

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