Atlanta Parent Magazine June 2019

AtlantaParent ĂŚ June 2019 / atlantaparent.com

FLIP OVER for our Summer Fun Guide!

Pitch Perfect Dad

Atlanta Braves Mike Foltynewicz

Mom-Approved Pediatricians

FROM

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Inside 35 34 June YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

Publisher’s Note / 8 Digital Page / 11

12

Meet Mike Foltynewicz

22

Kids Who Blog

24

Summer, Retro Style

32

Give Back This Summer

The Atlanta Braves pitcher talks with Atlanta Parent about fatherhood, family and baseball.

A blog is a great way to build confidence and strengthen communication skills.

Use our tips to get back to simpler times when summer was more carefree. Plus, classic outdoor games to play with your kids.

Helping others can have its own reward, even for kids. Here are ideas to help your family get giving.

SPONSORED CONTENT

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Great Vacation Destinations / 10 n Last Chance: Sign Up Now for These Summer Camps / 16

Pediatricians We Love / 27 Pediatricians are the most important doctors in the lives of young families. Find a great one recommended

by Atlanta Parent readers.

On the Cover: Atlanta Braves pitcher Mike Foltynewicz and son Jett, 1. Photo by Joshua Jacobs.

Like us on Facebook; facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine atlantaparent.com

June 2019 Atlanta Parent 5

P N for aren ick Be t's elod st Pic eo Ar ks n tsy A Cl war as d se s

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PUBLISHER Liz White

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COPY Mary Williams

EDITOR EDITORIAL Sheri Taylor-Emery

ART DIRECTOR creative@atlantaparent.com

PRODUCTION Robin Mintz

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

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WELL-BEHAVED DOGS MAKE FOR A HAPPIER HOME! 678-787-5628 • atlanta.paramountdogtraining.com k9bcalm@gmail.com • Serving North Atlanta area 6 Atlanta Parent June 2019

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.

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50 years of the Peachtree.

One celebration for kids.

It’s the morning of the 2018 Anthem Peachtree Junior and Ray, wearing bib number 258, is preparing for his big race. First, he warms up in the Clif Wrapper Grab booth, then moves on to a miniature slackline. Next up is a lesson in how to toss a foam javelin before heading off to tackle – in his own unique way – the hurdles.

Ready for the main event, Ray lines up for the 50-meter dash and takes off, employing an arm motion more reminiscent of Michael Phelps than Usain Bolt. After crossing the finish line, he cools down on a playground slide and then stops to feed a duck whose face feathers match his new bright red race T-shirt.

“When I see Ray maneuver over, under and around the hurdles, I can’t help but smile,” said Rich Kenah, executive director of Atlanta Track Club, referring to the family YouTube video in which Ray stars.

“I see a kid who will no doubt find ways to maneuver around any barrier that life throws in his way. It’s a great example of how I see Peachtree Junior as more than a kids’ race. It’s an introduction to the sport, but it’s also about kids and their parents learning that there are many creative ways to have fun through aerobic fitness. It’s one of my favorite events – the emotions the kids feel are so pure, so innocent.”

What quickly evolved into a celebration began three decades ago out of concern.

n This Year’s Changes Thus, 32 years ago, the kids got their own Peachtree, separate from the adults, where they would be center stage. At the 2019 Anthem Peachtree Junior – for which registration is now under way, the joyous occasion continues as the children will move a step closer toward being part of the “grown-up” Peachtree again. The race will now take place on July 3 and end at the same finish line as the next day’s AJC Peachtree Road Race.

“As we celebrate all things Peachtree in its 50th year, it seems only appropriate to give these kids the same finish line and T-shirt experience that the adults will enjoy the next day,” said Kenah.

The event will also be streamlined to a Mile (ages 6-14) and a Dash (ages 6 and younger), in keeping with other Atlanta Track Club youth events. About 3,000 children are expected to participate.

After the race, Atlanta Track Club will hold a post-race celebration befitting of the world’s largest 10K, with finisher’s T-shirts, medals, snacks, activities and more.

To register for the race, head to atlantatrackclub.org.

n How It All Started In 1985, Julia Emmons directed her first AJC Peachtree Road Race after taking the helm as executive director of Atlanta Track Club. Afterward, she received a letter from a woman who asked if she realized that many of the children running were in tears by the time they reached Mile 5.

She hadn’t. The next year, she ran the race to investigate, and what she saw matched the letter. Small children were struggling in a sea of giant adults, who in turn had to dodge the little ones.

“Peachtree is to be a joyous event; it wasn’t for most of these kids,” wrote Emmons in the April 1987 issue of the Club’s Wingfoot magazine, in which she announced that the inaugural Peachtree Junior.”

This article is brought to you by Atlanta Track Club atlantaparent.com

June 2019 Atlanta Parent 7

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Publisher’s Note

Summer Fun is Here School’s finally out and we’re excited about the sense of freedom summer gives us. Don’t wait too long to think about getting your kids involved in a few fun and engaging activities! This month, our “Kids Who Blog” story (page 22) is a great idea for encouraging your kids to be creative. They could use a blog to talk about camp experiences, a family trip, or even a hobby like music. My 8-year-old son Elliot loves blogging.

He’s an avid ukulele player and is creating a blog about it, adding videos of himself playing along the way.

There is so much to do in and around Atlanta this summer! Flip over this month’s issue; our Summer Fun Guide will help you keep track of everything you want to do. There may even be a few discoveries. Our family is looking forward to visiting the new Alice’s Wonderland plant sculptures at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. We’re also planning to check out a few splash parks in our Get Wet Guide. I’m most certainly going to try out one (or two) of the ice cream shops on Atlanta Parent’s list of favorites.

Pack your blanket and a few snacks and head to one of the many outdoor movies in the area – check our list of outdoor movies in our Summer Fun Guide. Watching a film outdoors always seems more fun and there are plenty of titles everyone can enjoy. Don’t miss the indoor kiddie movies that are bargain priced at many of the local theaters.

If you’re hoping for a summer that’s a little more relaxed, our story on how to have a more unstructured summer can help you get started.

Unplugging from smartphones, scheduling fewer events and taking time to get outside and play are ideas we can all probably use.

We’re excited to catch a Braves game this summer, too. Meet Atlanta Braves pitcher Mike Foltynewicz and his wife Brittany, who talk about the challenges of balancing parenting and a career in Major League Baseball (page 12). One secret to their success? Patience and keeping a positive outlook – that’s advice we can all relate to!

No matter what you’re planning for the summer, we hope yours is off to a great start.

Associate Publisher

How to Reach us: Telephone 770.454.7599

Email lwhite@atlantaparent.com

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Snail Mail 2346 Perimeter Park Drive Atlanta, Georgia 30341

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

8 Atlanta Parent June 2019

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June 2019    Atlanta Parent 9

SPONSORED CONTENT

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Plan a visit and make summer memories at these family-friendly destinations. n Florida’s Hidden Gem

Martin County invites visitors to an authentic, unfiltered Florida bursting with charming communities.

Conveniently located on Florida’s East Coast, this hidden gem boasts a beautiful natural landscape, with nearly 22 miles of beaches, breathtaking outdoor venues, worldclass fishing, water sports and eco-adventure. There are family activities to tickle every fancy, from rodeos to highend shopping, art galleries and one-of-a-kind museums to sea turtle walks. Building restrictions have limited structures to four stories, preserving breathtaking views throughout the county. A wealth of lodging options offer everything from unique historic inns to modern resorts.

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n Outdoor Adventures Whether it’s summer vacation or a weekend getaway, Chattanooga is the ideal choice for a family trip.

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n A Vacation to Remember

Vacation in Nashville’s Gaylord Opryland Resort with the Smurfs during its SummerFest celebration. Guests can test their skills in the interactive “The Smurfs’ Way Home” Scavenger Hunt or board a Delta Riverboat for the “Blues Cruise” and enjoy the sights and sounds of all things blue along an indoor river. Free activities include Brainy Smurf’s Learning Log, themed photo opportunities and family movies. Enjoy free nightly fountain shows and allnew self-guided Garden Tours. Kids can have breakfast with the Smurfs, make friends at Build-A-Bear Workshop® and learn from award-winning chefs at Junior Chefs Camps. Guests can choose a package that includes SoundWaves, the new upscale indoor/outdoor water attraction. gaylordopryland.com/summerfest; 888-677-9872.

10 Atlanta Parent June 2019

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Atlanta

PARENT

MOST-READ STORIES Favorite Mommy and Baby Classes Around Atlanta How to Raise Fearless Kids 6 Things to Do in Greenville, South Carolina with Kids

KID-FRIENDLY GUIDES 250 Fun Things to Do With Kids in Atlanta 2019 Guide to Summer Day Camps 20 Places for Healthy Food in Atlanta

“El Azteca” – Claudia Ramirez “Gabino’s Mexicana Grill” – Vanessa Padilla

CONTESTS Keep an eye out for #AtlantaParentContest every week on Facebook. This month, we’ll be giving tickets to Celebrate America at The Rock Ranch, the Children’s Museum of Atlanta and more.

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June 2019 Atlanta Parent 11

The Atlanta Braves

MIKE FOLTY: Pitch Perfect Dad

by Janeen Lewis

Atlanta Braves pitcher Mike Foltynewicz, the father of two children younger than 2 years old, talked to Atlanta Parent about baseball, his busy schedule and what life is like in the “Folty” household.

What are your favorite baseball memories from when you were a kid?

How did you meet your wife, Brittany?

MF: I remember vividly hitting my first

and had mutual friends, but we just never hung out. When I got traded to the Braves, I met her in the off season going into 2015.

We got married on October 13th, 2017. She has been through the grind of the Major League season years with me. She is the biggest sweetheart ever, and if she wasn’t with me, I don’t know where I would be now.

home run when I was younger. I always remember hanging out with my parents and road tripping with them pretty much every weekend to play baseball.

Once my mom got a tip that Ken Griffey Jr. was going to be at a country club when we lived on the border of Wisconsin, and I was a big fan of his. She took me out of school and said we were going for a drive. I said “Are we going to the dentist?” She said we were going to a country club. Eventually Ken Griffey Jr. came in and had lunch. He was just as nice as he could be. I still have the picture of him and me to this day.

12 Atlanta Parent June 2019

MF: We went to the same high school

What are the ages and personalities of your kids?

MF: Jett turned 1 in February and Lola

was born January 18th. They are the biggest gifts and blessings that I could have

received. When I come through the door, Jett lights up, and it almost brings a tear to my eye. Lola’s started smiling, letting us know she’s here, too. I’ve just had 14 months of having these two kids and it puts a hole in my heart when I have to leave.

What is life like in the Folty household with two young children?

MF: It’s actually pretty fun. Mom

[Brittany] is MVP. She’s organized. She’s got a game plan down. We had both kids before spring training, so we could get them used to the season. We also have three dogs so it can get a little hectic. It’s unbelievable how kids grow up. Last season I’d come home, and every day it was like Jett was a new person. atlantaparent.com

Photo by Joshua Jacobs

Folty Facts n Born in Sterling, Illinois, but grew up in Minooka, Illinois. n Has three dogs: Rookie, Ken Griffey Jr. and Winnie n Last name is pronounced FOL-TEN-EH-VICH n Favorite food is sausage and pepperoni Chicago-style pizza, and he eats one before every game that is he the starting pitcher n Had a plane and his son Jett’s name tattooed on his hand

When you have a break from baseball, what do you like to do with your family?

MF: I’m into car shows a lot, so

Brittany and I take Jett in the stroller.

At Christmas we drive around and look at the lights in our neighborhood. This past year was when Jett really started to notice things. We took him to the water park during spring training, and he had a blast there. On his birthday we took him to Georgia Aquarium.

Any similarities between baseball and parenting?

MF: I’ve learned a lot of parenting

that I’ve translated to baseball. Being patient, slowing things down, relaxing.

In baseball if I get in a jam, I relax and think about Jett. I have a jet plane and Jett’s name tattooed on my finger. I look down and see his name and it takes that stress away. I think happy thoughts and know I’m going to see him after the game. He brings that confidence I need as a Major League pitcher.

What do you like to do with your family on Father’s Day?

MF: Every Father’s Day I’ve been

playing baseball. I couldn’t imagine being any other place than the ball park, seeing my son watching his dad on a Major League field. I can’t wait until he gets a little older and realizes what all this is.

Cont’d on page 14

atlantaparent.com

“

When I come through the door, Jett lights up, and it almost brings a tear to my eye.

Lola’s started smiling, letting us know she’s here, too. I’ve just had 14 months of having these two kids and it puts a hole in my heart when I have to leave.

– Mike Foltynewicz

”

June 2019 Atlanta Parent 13

MIKE FOLTY: Pitch Perfect Dad The Atlanta Braves

How would your wife answer the question “What makes Mike a great dad?”

MF: Patience with them, taking care

of them at night, and spending as much time as I can with them makes me a great dad. I think she thinks I’m doing a pretty good job so far. I think I’ve got a pretty good grasp of it.

Can you share one of your favorite moments about being a father?

MF: When Jett walked. It was really

cute. He’d been taking a few steps and we were trying to get him to walk, and the night before Brittany went to have a C-section with Lola he walked to her.

Now we can’t keep him from walking and running.

Do you have any advice for new dads?

MF: Get those diaper changes out of

the way early when they are younger because they don’t squirm as much.

Now Jett’s kicking and he’ll grab the diaper if he gets a chance. Brittany can do it in five seconds, but it takes me two minutes.

And be with them as much as you humanly can because it goes by quickly.

Folty Faves Having two children 11 months apart has made Mike and Brittany Foltynewicz appreciate baby products that make their lives easier. Here are a few that are grand slams in the Folty household: n Owlet Smart Sock that wraps around baby’s foot and alerts with lights and sounds if baby’s heart rate or oxygen levels leave preset zones while sleeping n Comotomo bottles n Doona car seat that converts into a stroller in five seconds with the push of a button n DockATot baby lounger

14 Atlanta Parent June 2019

Meet MVP Mom Brittany Foltynewicz

A

lthough Brittany and Mike “Folty” Foltynewicz were classmates in high school, she never imagined she’d be married to him one day.

“I’m older than Mike, so my friend’s siblings were Mike’s friends,” Brittany, who is from Shorewood, Illinois, says. “He was so baseball oriented. He was always involved in that so I never hung out with him outside of school.”

Now that she has two young children, Brittany, who worked as a paralegal, nanny and bikini fitness model before she became a wife and mom, spends her days making sure the Folty household runs smoothly, something she says she’s always wanted to do.

“I’ve always loved children and anything related to home. I love socializing and going out, but I love making a home, too. It’s a good combo for me with baseball,” Brittany says.

Mike describes Brittany as an MVP mom, and Brittany admits “I’ve kind of nailed it. I have this down pat for my daughter only being 3 months old.”

Her secret? She keeps positive when life is a whirlwind.

“It’s a lot of prepping and a lot of chaos,” Brittany says. “It all depends on how you handle the chaos. You can take a positive attitude toward the chaos and get through it, or you can dwell on it and keep having a bad day with it. We don’t get upset about the little things around here.”

When there is a break from baseball, Brittany says the family enjoys going to Chastain Park and going out to eat at their favorite pizza place, Rosati’s in Buckhead. She recommends the Battery at the Braves Stadium as a great place to take kids. “There is something for everyone,” she says.

The family also enjoys spending time together at their home. “During our time off, we hibernate in our home,” Brittany says. “We’ve made it an oasis, so we love it.”

Brittany says that Mike is a great dad because he is so hands-on with his children.

“It’s like Christmas every day when he wakes up,” she says. “He has to go find them immediately. He just lights up. “He is so good at loving them and being there for them. His top priority is taking care of us.”

“

Now that she has two young children, Brittany ... spends her days making sure the Folty household runs smoothly, something she says she’s always wanted to do.

”

atlantaparent.com

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SUMMER CAMPS Your Kids Will Love

It’s not too late for your child to have an amazing summer camp experience!

These great camps still have a few spaces open. n Wildlife

exploration in a naturalistic setting!

Safari Camp at Zoo Atlanta is a great opportunity to engage young explorers in the wild world around them and begin their journey of conservation stewardship. Each session, campers are engaged in a different theme and explore how to make a difference for wildlife, while having fun. They do this through Zoo exploration with up-close animal encounters, hands-on science activities and environmental games, and group teambuilding games and STEAM based projects. Ten sessions May 29 Aug. 3. Ages 4-14 separated by age group. 404-624-9453; zooatlanta.org

Safari Day Camp at Zoo Atlanta

n Art

Camp with Daily Fitness in a Gym At Vinings School of Art camps, children learn fundamental art skills and develop artistic expression. There are three different age groups: 5-7, 7-10, and 10-14 years, in separate classrooms. It’s a perfect for a child that wants to learn how to paint large canvas paintings, draw people or their pet, work with clay, or use grout and tiles to design a mosaic tray!

Campers have one type of art in the morning, a PE/fitness session, and a different type of art in the afternoon for a wellbalanced camp day. Choose half day or full-day camps with affordable pricing. Spanish, piano, or guitar lessons by expert instructors are available from 3:45-6:45 p.m. for an additional fee. After and before care can be added. Sign up for single day camps on July 1 and 2, weekly sessions June 17-Aug. 16. Call about our 1-hour Art Classes for $15. 678-213-4278; viningsschoolofart.com/summer-camps.html

Vinings School of Art

n Camps

for Every Age and Interest At MJCCA Day Camps, kids and teens make lifelong friendships, try new things, explore their every interest, and build self-confidence and independence, all while having the best summer ever! With three locations (Dunwoody, Intown, and East Cobb) and over 100 camp offerings, the possibilities for an incredible summer are endless. In Camp Isidore Alterman, rising Pre-K–6th graders put down their electronics and have a blast outdoors; in Specialty Camps, rising K–8th graders choose from amazing performing arts, sports, theme, travel, and teen options. Take advantage of the multi-week discount, free bus transportation, and before-camp care and after-camp care. Weekly sessions, May 28-Aug 9.

678-812-4004; mjccadaycamps.org

16 Atlanta Parent June 2019

MJCCA Day Camps

Smith Stearns Tennis Academy

atlantaparent.com

n A

Tradition of Champions On and Off the Court Smith Stearns Tennis Academy immerses students in tennis training during the important summer months. After training with world-class coaches, and other players with similar goals, participants will leave the Academy knowing they received the best instruction to achieve their goals in high school tennis, or up to the National level. The camp helps build a strong foundation of tennis skills, but also includes summer fun like trips to the beach on weekends, fireworks, bowling, movies and more. May 26-Sept. 2. Daily, weekly and individual sessions are offered, along with a full housing program for overnight campers. Ages 8-18. Located at the Sea Pines Resort in Hilton Head, SC. 843-363-4789; smithstearns.com/programs/summer-camps.

n Hands-On

Summer Learning

KinderCare Learning Centers

KinderCare Learning Centers ignite curiosity with fun and handson summer camps. Oceanography, junior inventors, circus science and spy school are among the themes, which set up a summer of exploration and learning. Programs keep children’s minds and bodies active while they explore each subject. Even the youngest participants are engaged and stimulated by professionals who understand each stage of development. To add on to the camp experience, KinderCare also provides parents with ideas for learning activities at home.

23 Atlanta locations. May-August. Register for 1-12 weeks. Ages 6 weeks-12 years separated by age group. 888-525-2780; kindercare. com/summer

n Get

Artistic and Active

Whether your child is an athlete, artist or both, the City of Sandy Springs offers a variety of fun summer camps. Campers will have a blast being creative in STEAM and art camps, or getting active in a sports or traditional day camp. Gymnastics camps start at the preschool level and even include a rhythmic gymnastics program.

Kids will be immersed in the arts, sciences and sports and taught by experienced staff members. Your camper will have fun and learn new skills. Camps run June 3-July 22. One-week sessions for ages 5-12.

Preschool gymnastics starting at age 3. 770-730-5600; registration. sandyspringsga.gov

n Summer

Fun Just South of the City

Join the fun at Landmark Christian School this summer and choose from more than 40 camps! Summer camps offered include STEM, academics, foreign language, music, drama and more. Campers can find their place in the drumline, learn Mandarin, build a robot, brush up on academics or train for their favorite sport. Landmark Christian School has a camp for everyone grades K-12. Full and half-day camps are offered weekly, May 28-June 26. All camps will be led by skilled instructors and held at the 62-acre Fairburn campus, just south of the city of Atlanta and less than a mile from I-85. Register today at landmarkchristianschool.org/summercamp

n Play,

City of Sandy Springs

Landmark Christian School

Explore, and Create

At Zone of Light Studio, the weekly summer art programs focus on art and creativity. Each session has educational, historical and cultural elements that relate to a unique theme, including Zoo of Light, Creative Chaos and more. Guided by certified art instructors, students use various mediums and techniques to express themselves artistically. Activities include painting, sculpture, collage and recycledobject art; they also have nature walks, indoor and outdoor play and Black Light Room parties on Fridays! May 28-Aug. 9. Full and half week sessions separated by age groups, ages 5-15. 678-948-8059; zoneoflightstudio.com

Zone of Light Studio

Cont’d on page 18

atlantaparent.com

June 2019 Atlanta Parent 17

SPONSORED CONTENT: SUMMER CAMP n Summer

Adventure and Academics

Summer L.E.A.D. Academy provides students a great mix between a summer academic program and a high adventure summer camp, all within the context of Riverside’s famed military model of education. The specific curriculum a student participates in largely depends on the grade level they will be entering in the Fall and whether the student is seeking to replace or advance by an academic credit. During the weekends, the students go on trips that take advantage of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and the excitement of Atlanta. Apply at riversidemilitary.com or contact our Admissions Office at: 1-877-GO-CADET.

n Explore

Artistic Talents

Creativity and imagination take center stage this summer at the Spruill Center for the Arts with camps led by certified art instructors. The Creative Arts Camp for ages 5-6 includes visual arts, music, dance and storytelling. Campers ages 7-10 choose between visual or performing arts. Spruill’s Studio Arts Camps for ages 11-14 offer a variety of art mediums including jewelry, ceramics, filmmaking, drawing, painting and more. Each week concludes with a show on Friday, where campers showcase their art and talent. Ten sessions May 28-Aug. 2. 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Ages 5-14 separated by age group. 770-394-3447; spruillarts.org

n Build,

Spruill Center for the Arts

Design and Dance

Be a dance star, level up your engineering and STEAM skills, or get your game on this summer with the City of Marietta Parks and Recreation. Campers can choose to explore the parks in Marietta, build Lego creations in PlayWell STEAM Camp, learn new techniques at one of the sports camps, or new dance moves in dance camp. May 28-July 26. One-week sessions for a variety of ages. Traditional Camp, 6-12 years; Dance Camp, 6-16 years; PlayWell STEAM camp, 5-11 years; sports camps vary. For more information and to register: mariettaga.gov/parksrec

n Sew,

Summer L.E.A.D. Academy

City of Marietta Parks and Recreation

Knit or Craft

Campers can explore talents for sewing, photography and fashion design at Fabricate Studios. The camps are staffed by professional educators to guide kids and teens through a variety of projects including a beach tote, summer skirt, custom clutch and more. Whether your child is a beginner or has advanced skills, Fabricate offers the perfect fit with a variety of half-day camps for ages 5-15. All supplies are provided, including sewing machines, fabric and photography equipment. Sessions June 3-Aug 2. Yearround classes are also offered for kids and adults. West Midtown.

404-981-4665; fabricatestudios.com

n Learning

in a Culturally Rich Environment It takes a village to raise a child and a community to provide a great summer. Camp Village’s mission is to inspire children to change the world with the assistance of more than 60 community partners. Camp Village encourages a culturally diverse environment where campers are exposed to activities that reinforce learning and provide positive lifelong experiences. Activities include: arts, basketball, chess, etiquette, fashion, gardening, golf, gymnastics, horseback riding, Jr. Apprenticeship Program, math, music, public speaking, robotics, rocket building, science, soccer, Spanish, swimming, tennis, yoga, weekly field trips and more. Oneweek camp sessions, June 3-July 13 for ages 5-18. 404-349-0122; campvillage.com

Fabricate Studios

Camp Village

18 Atlanta Parent June 2019

atlantaparent.com Camp Village

October 5 Mercer University Atlanta Campus 10 am – 4 pm

Back for our 16th year, it’s Atlanta’s favorite family festival!

More than

50

Family-Friendly Activities! $5/per person online only. $10/per person day of event.

Admission includes 5 activity tickets.

BUY TICKETS ONLINE!

atlantaparent.com/familyfestival Contact Hannah for more information: 770-454-7599 / hsykes@atlantaparent.com

Is your child WHEEZING?

Celebrate Dad!

Your infant or preschooler may be eligible for a clinical trial to prevent future wheezing episodes.

Too often we think of Father’s Day as a time for a card and gift. This year plan a fun day and let Dad in on the decision making. Most of all, he’ll enjoy spending time with his family.

Eligible participants will receive, at no cost:  Health exams  Breathing medications  Study medications Participants will receive compensation for time and travel.

Shannon Kilman 404.727.7687 shannon.kilman@emory.edu Alice Bruce 404.712.1773 alice.bruce@emory.edu

Eat something: You can’t go wrong here. Dad’s day is a time to fix his favorite foods. Go ahead and have a big barbecue or if he has a favorite restaurant, go there.

Play something: Most dads enjoy some kind of sport. Maybe they golf or bowl or enjoy poker. Or perhaps they love to play video games but never get a turn because the kids always have the screens. You might try having a chess or checker tournament. Pull out favorite board games and puzzles. The new 3D Porsche puzzle by Ravensburger will be fun to piece together. The wheels even rotate.

Teach something: Dads are a wealth of wisdom – go ahead and have him share. How about showing the rest of the family how to tie a fly for fishing or how to pitch the perfect curve ball? Show the teen boys and girls how to check the oil or change a tire.

Remember something: While we’re praising the many skills and character traits of our dads, ask him to share a few memories. Make a video of him telling stories of his younger days and maybe a few stories you’ve never heard before.

Plant something: Go shopping at a local nursery and buy a rose bush, small tree or perennial flowers. You might mark it with a date and then watch it grow and mature as your family does. Another option would be to donate a plant in the family name to a local park or garden.

Watch something: You might enjoy keeping part of Father’s Day to just sit back and relax. Watch a movie or favorite sporting event. Gather up the gang and go to an Atlanta Braves game or Atlanta Motor Speedway.

– Jan Pierce 20 Atlanta Parent June 2019

atlantaparent.com

Dads get in free at these family attractions n Father’s Day at the Zoo. Zoo Atlanta.

Dads get in free with the purchase of one regularprice adult or child admission. June 16. 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. 404-624-9453. Adults, $22.99; ages 3-11, $16.99; ages 2 and younger, free. zooatanta.org n Celebrate Father’s Day. College Football Hall of Fame. All dads receive free admission and free chair massages on the field; the first 100 dads will receive a Home Depot gift card. June 16. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 404-880-4800.

Adults, $21.99; ages 3-12, $17.99; ages 3 and younger, free. cfbhall.com n Stone Mountain Park. In honor of Father’s Day, receive one free All-Attractions Pass for Dad per family with the purchase of one All-Attractions Pass. June 16, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. 800-401-2407. Ages 12 and older, $34.95; ages 3-11, $29.95; ages 2 and younger, free. stonemountainpark.com n Father’s Day Celebration.

Chattahoochee Nature Center. Head to the CNC on Father’s Day – dads and grandfathers get in free. June 16. Noon-7 p.m. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 13-18, $7; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free. chattnaturecenter.org n Father’s Day Weekend. North Georgia Zoo, Cleveland. Dads get free admission with a paid children’s admission. June 14-16. Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 706348-7279. Adults, $23; children ages 2-11, $21. northgeorgiazoo.com n Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament. Enjoy dinner and jousting at Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament in Lawrenceville. Dads receive a free ticket with the purchase of a full-price ticket. June 3-16. Show times vary. Adults $56.95; ages 12 and younger, $36.95. medievaltimes.com

Throw the Best Party in Town! ety of With a Wide Vari TALS! INFLATABLE REN

KID’S HOP SKIP AND JUMP (470) 633-9397 kidshopskipjump.com kidshopskipandjump@gmail.com

– Mary Williams

atlantaparent.com

June 2019 Atlanta Parent 21

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

Could your baby, toddler or kid be one?

KIDS WHO BLOG:

Atlanta, New York, LA

404-636-1974

www.williamreynoldsagency.com

TOP

10

LISTS

for Everything Family

Are You in the Top 10?

July 2019 Issue!

Email Laura

A SUMMER WRITING PROJECT

D

oes your child have a particular passion that could be explored more through writing or photography? Blogging is an educational way for kids to practice their writing and research skills over the summer while interacting with a receptive audience at the same time.

Take a cue from teachers. Pernille Ripp, a 5th grade teacher, introduced blogging to her students four years ago. She says the response has been overwhelmingly positive.

“Parents love that it provides them with a look into what is happening with their child

in school and what their child is thinking. It also allows extended family to be part of the learning conversation. My students love it because of the conversation it starts and the ideas they can get from others,” she says.

Why blog? Not only are kids learning to write to a target audience, they are enhancing their writing skills in the process.

“I’ve seen the rates of student writing really increase,” says Sue Gorman, a K-12 Innovation Learning Consultant. “You aren’t just turning this [writing assignment] in to your teacher, you are turning this in as a global writer, a global thinker.”

lpowell@altantaparent.com

770-454-7599

Get to know blogging. If you aren’t sure how blogging works, open an account and play around with the platform. Learn how privacy settings work and familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions associated with the platform. Explore blogs your child likes. If your child is interested in art or photography explore some professional artist and photography blogs. Consider what you and your child find attractive about these sites.

When is a good age to start blogging? Whether a child is ready for blogging, or any other type of social media, really depends on your child and her maturity level. Some teachers start kids blogging as early as second and third grades to flex their writing muscles with an encouraging audience. Educators use carefully moderated and secure sites like KidBlog.org.

22 Atlanta Parent June 2019

Blog options. For kids ages 12 and younger, Kidzworld offers a safe, moderated platform for kids to blog with parental consent. Your child could also blog through a free platform like Blogger or Wordpress; however, both platforms require users to be age 13 and older. In this case, you might want to create a family blog that you facilitate.

Make the blog private and invite family and friends to follow.

Tumblr, Twitter and Instagram are especially popular among teens. These are “short-form multi-media” blogging sites.

Members post photos, video and short posts.

(Due to some of the content, these social media sites are not suggested for kids younger than 13.)

Community blogs. Gather a few of your child’s friends who also like to write and encourage them to start a blog together. They can take turns posting and responding to each other’s work. atlantaparent.com

Unsure where to begin? Focus your child on a particular topic or passion.

Does she love to read? Encourage her to create an online book club where she posts reviews of different books she reads. Teach her how to link to the book and the author.

If your child loves photography, have him take pictures and create a photo blog.

Other tips/ resources:

Since posts can still be forwarded (and nothing posted online is truly private), you’ll still want to be careful about your child revealing too much personal information. Create a digital citizenship contract with your child to clarify your rules, expectations and consequences. Talk about the types of information she should never share: n Full name (she could even choose a nickname instead of using her real name) n Year of birth n The name and location of her school n Home address n If she includes a photo of herself, make sure it doesn’t leave a digital footprint that reveals your location. Prevent geotagging by going into the privacy settings on your smartphone and turn off location services for your camera.

n Set up a Google Alert

atlantaparent.com

n If you’re unsure about a particular app or social media platform, check out CommonSenseMedia. org, which posts reviews and recommendations for parents. with your child’s name to be notified if their name appears online somewhere.

At least at first, review her posts before they go live to make sure she isn’t inadvertently sharing information that could put her personal safety or identity at risk.

Discourage your child from using the blog as a private journal. He should ask himself questions like “Am I OK with my parents or teacher seeing this? Would I be embarrassed if my friends at school read this?”

Post an email account on the site that goes to you first, so you can review any correspondence that individuals are sending.

This is a good way for you to filter any

mean-spirited emails that your child doesn’t need to see. You might also show him examples of what spam and phishing emails look like.

Set up privacy settings to approve comments before they are posted. Hopefully, your child won’t receive negative comments, but discuss the best ways to handle these types of scenarios and encourage your child to come to you first before responding, especially if she is upset or isn’t sure how to manage the issue.

– Christa Melnyk Hines

June 2019 Atlanta Parent 23

Summer, Retro-Style

Leave Some Blank Days on the Calendar for Creative Fun

by Sarah Lyons

I’m ready for the long, unscheduled days of summer. Sleeping in, spending afternoons poolside, and playing hide and seek until the fireflies come out. n My idea of carefree summer days come from my youth. Today’s parents feel pressured to plan every minute of their child’s summer with camps, playdates and ball games. n I have decided my kids will have the summer I had as a child, one that is less scheduled and more child-created. Use these tips to enjoy your summer.

Ditch the Excess: Today’s parents often sign their kids up for as many camps, clinics and activities as possible. Instead, consider choosing one or two camps each child really wants to attend, and allow lots of free time this summer to play and create their own adventures.

Unplug: We love our electronics. Many of us can’t make it more than a few hours without checking in with social media and responding to emails and texts. Our kids are no different, so set limits on screen time to allow kids to play outdoors, curl up with a good book and use their imaginations. Let your kids build forts with whatever they can find, create art from recyclables, and make up games that last for hours.

24 Atlanta Parent June 2019

Go Outside: “Go outside and come back when it’s dinner time” is what my parents would say nearly every afternoon. There were no scheduled playdates, meet ups at the park or specific activities planned. If I wanted to go to the park, I would ride my bike or walk there. I might invite a friend to come along. My parents had only a vague idea where I was or who I was with and this was the norm. While many parents don’t feel quite as safe giving their children free reign, we can learn from this attitude.

Kids do not need us to plan and intervene in their daily activities.

Send them outside, have them go knock on a neighbor’s door and ask them to come play – play in the sprinkler, ride bikes, draw with chalk, drink from the hose, learn to do cartwheels, jump rope, plant flowers or simply sit in the sun.

Let It Go: Parents have so much pressure to live up to unrealistic standards. We feel we must provide educational crafts, plan interesting and affordable outings, provide well-balanced extracurricular activities, all while cooking healthy, organic food, maintaining a clean house, a healthy marriage, and balance our careers simultaneously.

The truth is, none of us are able to keep up with it all. My parents, while balancing many of the career and family obligations we have today, did not put the type of pressure on themselves that parents do today. This summer, take a break from the pressures of social media, enjoy your kids, join them outside, play a board game, have a movie night, lounge at the pool, eat a little (or a lot of) junk food, and give yourself permission to let things go and accept you can’t realistically keep up with everything anyway. atlantaparent.com

Games That Stand the Test of Time

by Katy M. Clark

n Sharks and Minnows: One child is the shark and stands in the middle of the yard. The other kids are the minnows and line up at one end of the yard. The object is for the minnows to get from one end of the yard to the other without being caught, aka tagged, by the shark. If tagged, then the minnow also becomes a shark. The game is repeated as the number of sharks grows. The last minnow is the winner. n Red Light, Green Light: A player is the traffic light, standing at one end of the yard. The other players line up on the opposite end of the yard. The traffic light turns away from the other players and says, “Green light!” Players try to run as quickly as they can towards the traffic light. At any time, the traffic light can turn around and say, “Red light!” That’s when all players must freeze. If they are spotted moving, the traffic light sends them back to the start. The first player to reach the traffic light wins and gets to be the next traffic light. n Mother, May I: Like Red Light, Green Light, one player, “Mother”, stands at one end of the yard. All other players line up at the other end of the yard. Players take turns asking “Mother” if they may take 1, 2, 3 or more steps forward. “Mother” answers “Yes, you may.” or “No, you may not.” The first player to reach “Mother” wins and gets to be the next “Mother.” This game invites creativity, too, because players can ask to take baby steps, giant steps, or even spins. n Blind Man’s Bluff: One player is designated “It” and is blindfolded. To start the game, “It” spins around five times as the other players disperse around the yard. Now “It” tries to find the others, who must stay rooted in the spot where they landed when “It” stopped spinning. Players can dodge and duck from the seeking “It”, but they can’t move their feet. “It” moves around the yard until all the players are found while whoever got caught first wears the blindfold for the next round. n Freeze Tag: This variation of the classic game of tag involves players freezing whenever “It” tags them. They must stay frozen as “It” tries to tag the other players, but they can unfreeze and rejoin the game if another player tags them. The game ends when “It” freezes all players.

n Hopscotch: Players draw and number a hopscotch grid, usually 10 squares. Start by tossing a rock or beanbag onto Square 1. Hop over the square on one foot, going up, then down the grid. Players stop on Square 2 to pick up their marker from Square 1. Repeat, tossing the marker to Square 2 and so on. For added difficulty, players lose a turn when they fall, touch a line with their feet, or miss tossing their marker onto the next square.

If the kids tire of group games, don’t forget the likes of sidewalk chalk, bubbles, jump ropes and hula hoops to beat summer boredom. atlantaparent.com

June 2019 Atlanta Parent 25

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Kennesaw Pediatrics

Dr. Maria Axelrod

Dr. Briana Brugner

Dr. John Pitts

Dr. Peter Strauss

Dr. Sarah Yount

Dr. Mark A. Long

Dr. Elizabeth McKinnon

Dr. Murali Vathada

Dr. Lisa Winters-Smith

At Kennesaw Pediatrics our entire team of staff and physicians is committed to providing exceptional pediatric healthcare with a personal touch. We are honored that each of our physicians have been nominated as Mom-Approved Doctors for THREE consecutive years.

At our three specialized centers, award winning pediatricians and staff offer care for your child from cradle to college. From the time you bring your new arrival into the comforting Newborn Center, to your school day visits at the Main Office, to care for your high schooler at the Teen Center, we meet the needs of your child at every age and stage.

Kids don’t take days off and neither do we. We’re here for you seven days a week. You’ll find the services you need under one roof: check ups to sick visits, sports physicals to asthma care, on site labs, classes, support groups and more.

And most importantly, we listen. At every location, at every visit, we take the time to hear your concerns and provide the best in skilled, compassionate healthcare for your growing child.

3745 Cherokee St. NW Kennesaw 30144 770-429-1005 KennesawPediatrics.com

26Atlanta AtlantaParent Parent <ISSUE> June 2019<DATE> 2

MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS

atlantaparent.com

Elliott, Stephen, MD Piedmont Pediatrics, Atlanta Faroqui, Mahnaz, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Duluth Fearing, Donna, MD PAMPA Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Woodstock Fedack, Maryann, MD Pediatric Physicians, Alpharetta Federer, Rhona, MD Pediatric Physicians, Alpharetta Fleming, Shea, MD Peachtree Park Pediatrics, Atlanta

Parents are choosy when it comes to medical care for their children. Atlanta Parent asked our readers – moms and dads just like you – to nominate pediatricians that they would recommend. We wanted to know why your child’s doctor is special and you told us.

PEDIATRICIANS Andrews, Wilson, MD PAMPA Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Marietta

Brown, Lauren, MD Peachtree Park Pediatrics, Atlanta Brown, Jina, MD Pediatric Physicians, Roswell

Angka-Servera, Maribel, MD Main Street Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Alpharetta

Brugner, Briana, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw

Ani, MaryGrace, MD Pediatric Associates, Marietta

Bufe, Ashley, MD Children’s Medical Group, Decatur

Axelrod, Maria, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw

Burnham, Robert, MD Roswell Pediatric Center, P.C., Cumming

Bataille, Fredly, MD Intown Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine P.C., Atlanta

Carroll, Karen, MD Pediatric Associates of Johns Creek, Johns Creek

Benaroch, Roy, MD Pediatric Physicians, Alpharetta

Carter, Stephen, MD West Atlanta Pediatrics, Lithia Springs

Benson, Kathryn, MD Medlock Pediatrics, Duluth

Cawley, Annalise, MD AGC Pediatrics, Cartersville

Benza, Natalie, MD Children’s Primary Care Center of Chamblee, Chamblee

Chaplin, Karen, MD A Kids World Pediatrics, Fayetteville

Berenson, Gloria, MD Dunwoody Pediatrics, Alpharetta Bien, Libby, MD Pediatric Physicians, Roswell Bien, Richard, MD PAMPA Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Roswell Biggs, Jennie, MD Pediatric Physicians, Alpharetta

Clark, Gerald, MD North Fulton Pediatrics, Roswell Clements, Larry, MD Kenmar Pediatrics, Marietta Colton, Kevin, MD Children’s Medical Group, Chamblee Cooper, Jeff, MD Cooper Pediatrics, Duluth

Billingsly, Tiffini, MD Premier Pediatric Associates, Smyrna

Darby, Scott, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Sugar Hill

Blackington, Rebecca, MD Roswell Pediatric Center, P.C., Cumming

Dorsey, Sara, MD Northside Pediatrics, Woodstock

Blair, Fiona, MD ABC Pediatrics, Stone Mountain

Eaton, Melissa, MD Roswell Pediatric Center, P.C., Alpharetta

Bowman, Catherine, MD Roswell Pediatric Center, P.C., Alpharetta

Ecklund, David, MD Cumberland Pediatrics, Vinings

Fleming, Debra, MD PAMPA Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Woodstock Forman, Penny, MD Pediatric Associates of Johns Creek, Suwanee Gadea, Marisa, MD East Cobb Pediatrics, Marietta Gfroerer, Terrence, MD Dunwoody Pediatrics, Dunwoody Goodloe, Adele, MD Northside Pediatrics, Woodstock Greenwald, Jodi, MD North Fulton Pediatrics, Roswell Guthrie, Bridgette, MD Roswell Pediatric Center, P.C., Alpharetta Hammad, David, MD Old Fourth Ward Pediatrics, Atlanta Hardin, Amy, MD Northside Pediatrics, Woodstock Hassel McNeil, Stephanie, MD PAMPA Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Marietta Herd, Hal, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Sugar Hill Herron, Merinda, MD Herron Pediatrics, Atlanta Heyliger-Thomas, Claudette, MD Southwest Primary Care Center, Atlanta Hill, Andrea, MD Monroe Pediatrics, Monroe Homer, Ronald, MD DeKalb Pediatric Associates, Tucker Hopkins, Jeffrey, MD Northside Pediatrics, Sandy Springs Hutchins-Howard, Angela, MD Zaman Pediatrics, Snellville Jackson, Joanne, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Buford Jackson, Vanna, MD Sandy Springs Pediatrics, Sandy Springs Johnson, Yolanda, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Sugar Hill Johnson, Wes, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Lawrenceville

Cont’d on page 28

atlantaparent.com

MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS

June 2019 Atlanta Parent 27

Josephson, Douglas, MD Roswell Pediatric Center, P.C., Alpharetta

Proctor, Keishaun, MD Kidcare, Atlanta

Kazi, Megan, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Lawrenceville

Queen, Shaveanda, MD Oakhurst Medical Centers, Stone Mountain

Kelly, Linda, MD Dunwoody Pediatrics, Alpharetta

Quisling, Yvette, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Sugar Hill

Klopman, Andrea, MD Roswell Pediatric Center, P.C., Alpharetta

Ransom, Lindsey, MD West Atlanta Pediatrics, Lithia Springs

Koenig, Allison, MD Piedmont Pediatrics, Atlanta

Reisman, Gerald, MD Dunwoody Pediatrics, Dunwoody

Kubagawa, Homare, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Lawrenceville

Roberts, Lisa, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics and Adolescent, Lawrenceville

Landis, Evan, MD Roswell Pediatric Center, P.C., Alpharetta Lavania, Hiral, MD One Family Pediatric, Cumming Levitt, Richard, MD North Fulton Pediatrics, Roswell

Rodbell, Kevin, MD Sage Hill Pediatrics, Atlanta Rodriguez, Jose, MD Well Star, Marietta Rodriguez-Sfeir, Sandra, MD Well Star, Marietta

Stickney, George, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Lawrenceville Stolle, Ashley, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Duluth Strauss, Peter, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw Thrower, Karen, MD East Cobb Pediatrics, Marietta Tolkan, Judith, MD Roswell Pediatric Center, P.C., Alpharetta Turlapaty, Neelima, MD PAMPA Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Woodstock Vathada, Murali, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw Verras, Anthanasios, MD Verras Pediatric, Tucker Vigil, J. Vincent, MD Children’s Medicine P.C., Lawrenceville

Long, Mark A., MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw

Royal, Dina, MD PAMPA Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Marietta

Loventhal, Gary, MD Children’s Wellness Center, Sandy Springs

Salzberg, Edward, MD Roswell Pediatric Center, P.C., Alpharetta

Lynes, Nathan, MD West Atlanta Pediatrics, Dallas

Santorum, Jennifer, MD Johns Creek Pediatrics, Suwanee

Marcus, Sally, MD Northside Pediatrics, Sandy Springs

Schuh, Jonathan, MD Well Star, Marietta

McKinnon, Elizabeth, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw

Sells, Deneta, MD Intown Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine P.C., Atlanta

Mekelberg, Kirsten, MD Children’s Wellness Center, Sandy Springs

Shah, Shalini, MD Village Pediatrics, Cumming

Welsh-Evans, Monique, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Dacula

Metzig, Natalie, MD Northside Pediatrics, Sandy Springs

Sherwinter, Julius, MD Dunwoody Pediatrics, Dunwoody

Wexler, Eve, MD Briarvista Pediatrics, Atlanta

Miller, Lisa, MD Lisa D. Miller Pediatrics, Covington

Shirazi, Kathy, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Dacula

Wiggins, Dorothy, MD Atlanta Pediatric Partners, Atlanta

Molock, Suzanne, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Dacula

Shu, Jennifer, MD Children’s Medical Group, Chamblee

Wilburn, Kelly, MD Dunwoody Pediatrics, Dunwoody

Morgan, Baraki, MD PAMPA Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Roswell

Silverman, Howard, MD Roswell Pediatric Center, P.C., Alpharetta

Williams, Wanda, MD Kids First Pediatric, Stockbridge

Munshi, Datta, MD North Fulton Pediatrics, Roswell

Smail, Nicole, MD PAMPA Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Marietta

Willingham, Melinda, MD Decatur Pediatrics, Decatur

Mynatt, John, MD Locust Grove Pediatrics, Locust Grove

Smiley, Susan, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Sugar Hill

Winters-Smith, Lisa, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw

Viswanadham, Madhuri, MD Dare2Care Pediatrics, Alpharetta Washington, Keyana, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Dacula Weiss, Philip, MD North Atlanta Pediatrics, Sandy Springs Wells-Jarrett, Estonna, MD Sandy Springs Pediatrics, Sandy Springs

Nix, Tamara, MD PAMPA Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Woodstock

Smith, Shayna, MD North Atlanta Pediatric Associates, Sandy Springs

Ologunga, Kola, MD Spectrum Pediatrics, Acworth

Spandorfer, Philip, MD North Atlanta Pediatric Associates, Sandy Springs

Worly, Julia, MD PAMPA Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Marietta

Philip, Tiji, MD Northside Pediatrics, Woodstock

Spector, Faye, MD Cobb Pediatrics, Marietta

Young, Earl, MD West Atlanta Pediatrics, Lithia Springs

Pitts, John, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw

Stebbins, Stanton, MD Pediatric Physicians, Alpharetta

Poole, Charva, MD Children’s Healthcare of West Georgia, Villa Rica

Steele, Sharon, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Dacula

Youngblood, Elaine, MD Kids First Pediatrics Group, LLC, Stockbridge

Price, LaKimberly, MD Intown Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine P.C., Atlanta

28 Atlanta Parent June 2019

Stephansson, Reanne, MD Pediatric Physicians, Alpharetta

MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS

Wise, Kimberly, MD Sandy Springs Pediatrics, Sandy Springs

Yount, Sarah, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw Zucker, Laura, MD North Fulton Pediatrics, Roswell

atlantaparent.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine

Dr. Hal Herd; Dr. Suzanne Molock; Dr. Sharon Steele; Dr. Joanne Jackson; Dr. Yvette Quisling; Dr. Susan Smiley; Dr. Lisa Roberts; Dr. Ashley Stolle; Dr. George Stickney; Dr. Monique Welsh-Evans; Dr. Keyana Washington; Dr. Homare Kubagawa; Dr. Yolanda Johnson; Dr. Mahnaz Faroqui; Dr. Scott Darby; Dr. Megan Kazi; Dr. Wes Johnson; Dr. Kathy Shirazi; Stephanie Jones, CPNP Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine is the oldest established practice in Gwinnett County. Our pediatricians are proud to provide traditional, conservative health care in agreement with recommendations and guidelines offered by the American Academy of Pediatrics. We consider it a great honor to partner with you in facing the challenges of caring for and raising your children. Working with parents throughout life’s most important endeavors has been the mission of GPAM for more than 40 years.

Our 18 board-certified pediatricians are part of the GPAM group, including our nurse practitioner and a new pediatrician coming in July 2019. We offer four convenient locations in Gwinnett County with offices located in Duluth, Dacula, Lawrenceville, and Sugar Hill.

Call today to learn more or to schedule an appointment at your nearby office, 770-995-0823.

To learn more about our pediatricians and the practice, visit GwinnettPeds.com and follow us on Facebook.

Duluth • Dacula • Lawrenceville • Sugar Hill 770-995-0823 GwinnettPeds.com Facebook.com/GwinnettPeds.com

2 Atlanta Parent atlantaparent.com

<ISSUE> <DATE>

MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS

June 2019 atlantaparent.com Atlanta Parent 29

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Dunwoody Pediatrics

Dr. Julius Sherwinter opened Dunwoody Pediatrics and began practicing in Dunwoody more than 40 years ago. The pediatricians and staff at Dunwoody Pediatrics take great pride in assisting you in raising healthy, happy children, from your first visit with your newborn to your visit before they head off to college. We love caring for your whole family as your children grow and move towards adulthood. With a combined experience of more than 100 years in pediatrics, our professionals extend the greatest caliber of care for you and your children.

Dr. Sherwinter, Dr. Reisman, Dr. Berenson, Dr. Wilburn, Dr. Gfroerer and Dr. Kelly are honored to be nominated among their peers for the 2019 Mom Approved Doctors.

They each bring a unique perspective to medicine with their training, experience and medical focus. Some areas of their expertise include Pediatric Nutrition, Obesity, asthma care, ADHD, Kidney Disease, Hypertension, Gastroenterology, Adoption and Foster Care. All Dunwoody Pediatric Physicians are Board Certified in Pediatrics and Fellows of the American Academy of Pediatrics. For more information about our providers, office hours and locations serving Dunwoody, Alpharetta, Roswell and the Cumming areas, please visit DunwoodyPediatrics.com to find out which location is most convenient for you and your family.

1428 Dunwoody Village Parkway 3300 Old Milton Parkway, Suite 200 Dunwoody, GA 30338 Alpharetta, GA 30005 770-394-2358 770-664-9299 DunwoodyPediatrics.com

Andrea V. Hill, MD

As the founder of Monroe Pediatrics and a mother of two, Dr. Hill has extensive experience with children of all ages. She opened Monroe Pediatrics, Inc. in 2002 to provide patients with a place where they are treated with quality care and with compassion. Dr. Hill attended medical school at Texas A&M and completed her pediatric residency there as well. She is board certified in Pediatrics and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Monroe office 770-207-7916

Monr e Pediatrics

Loganville office 770-466-1871

MonroePediatrics.net

Dr. Hiral Lavania, MD

Dr. Hiral Lavania is a Board-Certified Pediatrician, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. She is the proud mother of two girls.

Dr. Lavania is the creator of One Family Pediatrics. The practice is dedicated to providing accessible, individualized healthcare to children and adolescents and empower parents with knowledge about their child’s well-being. Along with being a Patient Centered Medical Home, the practice provides in-house mental health and lactation support for patient accessibility.

Dr. Lavania is affiliated with Northside Forsyth Hospital where she provides initial care and lactation support for newborns.

30 Atlanta Parent June 2019

MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS

2575 Peachtree Pkwy.

Suite 301 Cumming 30041 678-962-PEDS (7337) OneFamilyPediatrics.com

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Deneta H. Sells, MD; Fredly Bataille, MD LaKimberly Price, MD

Intown Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine was founded by Dr. Sells in 2006 to provide warm, friendly and excellent care for the growing population of in-town families. After becoming acquainted with the staff and patients at Intown Pediatrics, Dr. Bataille officially joined the practice in 2010. In the spring of 2017 Intown Pediatrics announced its newest location in Brookhaven and welcomed Dr. Price.

The mission of Intown Pediatrics is to be a true “neighborhood” practice by being involved in community activities, offering convenient appointment times and after-hours advice to concerned parents. Intown Pediatrics has eight pediatric providers committed to partnering with families to foster the healthy growth and development of their children, while striving to be easily approachable and communicative.

The entire staff at Intown Pediatrics is dedicated to providing comprehensive and informative care for each patient. Visit IntownPediatrics.com today and learn more about their team and all they can offer your family as they develop a “provider-parent” partnership with you.

Town Brookhaven 705 Town Boulevard, Suite S560 • Atlanta 30319 Glenwood Park 490 Bill Kennedy Way • Atlanta 30316 404-446-4726 IntownPediatrics.com

West Atlanta Pediatrics

West Atlanta Pediatrics provides excellence in pediatric and adolescent medicine to the Lithia Springs and Dallas areas. We pride ourselves on our academic credentials, extensive pediatric experience and our dedication to providing accessible healthcare to our patients.

West Atlanta Pediatrics is committed to quality healthcare for children of all ages through regular preventive health screening, patient and parent education, and appropriate management of illnesses and concerns.

It is our privilege to follow children from birth through age 18. We have been in the Lithia Springs area since 1992, and in Dallas since 2004. The many years that we have spent practicing have given us the opportunity to care for two generations of children. We know that the relationship that a family has with their pediatric practice is very important, and we strive to provide excellent service.

Doctors Stephen Carter, Earl Young, Lindsey Ransom, and Nathan Lynes are honored to be nominated four years in a row as Mom Approved Doctors.

We appreciate your support and welcome new patients to our West Atlanta Pediatrics family.

915 Thornton Rd. Lithia Springs 30122 770-739-9292 2713 Charles Hardy Pkwy., Suite 122 Dallas 30157 770-505-3162

WestAtlantaPediatrics.com

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MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS

June 2019 Atlanta Parent 31

Adventures In Giving

How to Instill Compassion in Kids This Summer

by Christina Katz

The warm-weather months are probably when you spend the most time with your children especially after they reach school age. Even though generosity tends to be emphasized during the colder months, summer is the perfect opportunity to model neighborliness, community service, and giving to worthwhile causes.

Kids often get bored during summer, and adventures in giving offer much-needed outlets for kids’ considerable energy. These activities fit well in the nooks and crannies between summer school, camps and family vacations.

Celebrate kind acts with a sweet treat like an ice cream cone or a smoothie afterwards. Giving is its own reward, but it never hurts to reinforce generosity of spirit from a young age. Here is a list of ideas to help your family get giving.

32 Atlanta Parent June 2019

n Volunteer Outdoors. Help clean up your city parks, drive meals to shut-in seniors, clean out vet kennels or participate in a city-wide rummage sale. Your town’s online calendar is a good place to get more information on community service events.

n Capture Gratitude. Create colorful postcard to mail to teachers, coaches and instructors who have helped kids blossom in the past year. Keep the message short and sweet infuse the message with creativity.

n Encourage Bookishness. Sign up for a summer reading program. Purchase new or used books. Then go through your shelves and remove books you no longer treasure. Donate them to your local library or resale shop.

n Plant Ahead. When planting summer vegetable gardens, plant an extra row or two for the local food bank. Look online to check their policies before you plant.

n Let Go Of Large Items. The sunny weather is your chance to move larger items without damaging them. See if you can fill your trunk or borrow a truck to deliver items to your local resale shop without a scratch.

n Clean Out Cabinets. Search your kitchen for food items that have not expired. Stop at the store on the way to the local food bank if you need a few more items. Charities are usually flooded with donations around the holidays and need support during the rest of the year.

n Delight Someone. Painting rocks is a fun summer activity that can be done indoors or out, alone or with family and friends. Taking your painted stones on the road and hiding them for unsuspecting new friends to find turns this craft activity into an adventure. For inspiration, check out paintedrocklife.com. n Transform A Plot Of Dirt. Know of an intersection with a median full of litter and weeds?

Pull together a renegade seed posse to quickly pick up that trash, yank those weeds, rake the dirt, and lay down a combination of annual and perennial seeds. Give the patch a good watering, then watch it blossom over the course of the next year. You’ll be able to say, “We did that,” every time you drive by.

n Sweat For A Cause. Visit active.com to find local walking, running or cycling races in your area and then participate as a family.

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n Banish Bedroom Clutter. Ask your kids to touch and sort every item in their rooms.

Consider the best ways to donate or store littleused items. Create a memory bin where each child can stash prized possessions, but don’t go beyond one bin per child.

n Create Blessings. Make summer blessing bags for homeless folks in your area: bottled water, hand sanitizer, lip balm, sunscreen, comb, travel-size toiletries and band aids. Add foods that won’t melt in the heat: granola bars, applesauce cups, nuts, dried fruit, beef jerky and mints. Don’t forget plastic cutlery and napkins.

n Spread The Fun. Declutter the attic, basement, garage, shop or shed. Dig out that outgrown outdoor gear, sporting goods and outdoor toys and donate them to a local family shelter.

n Bare Arms. Donate blood with teens, once they are eligible. This is a great opportunity to teach citizenship in a memorable way, and you just might save a life.

n Ship Some Love. Send playful care packages to elderly relatives who live far away. Draw a picture, write a poem, or make a handmade card. Include little things that surprise and delight them. If you are not sure what to send, maybe it’s time for a video chat.

n Build Small Sanctuaries. Make baths for birds and butterflies and put them on opposite sides of your yard since birds often prey on butterflies. Tuck both types of baths into areas with easily accessible shelter.

n Encourage Relaxation. Make homemade spa gifts for friends and neighbors.

Bath salts, face masks and hand scrubs are fun to craft and will be cheerfully received. Search for natural-based recipes online that utilize what you grow in your garden.

n Dump It Good. Find a safe place to store garbage unsuitable for local trash pick-up throughout the year. Then gather the family to load up the car for an annual dump pilgrimage.

Children need to visit dumps to understand the importance of recycling.

n Rise And Shop. Purchasing fresh food from your local farmer’s market makes a fun morning outing and supports local small businesses. Don’t just shop, chat with the vendors as you sample their wares and share photos of goodies on social media to help spread the word.

n Help The Earth Breathe. Plant a tree to help support clean air for future generations.

Join the Arbor Day Foundation at arborday.org and they will send you ten trees to plant where you live.

n Chill It Forward. Give the kids money to pay for the ice cream cone or smoothie of the next customer after you and make someone’s day.

n Share Your Bounty. When new neighbors move in, dig up a sampler of flowers or veggies from your garden to help them start theirs. For the rest of your neighbors, gather seedlings, flowering plants or bouquets of flowers and drop them by the front door with a kind note.

n Take A Day Off. Declare a slow day! Ask your children what they would do with a full day at home with zero commitments. Then let them do that. Everyone will feel refreshed afterwards.

n Support A Hobby. If your middleschooler is into baking, why not take those fresh out-of-the-oven cookies and make a plate for a family that could use some cheering up. There is no better feeling than seeing someone joyfully receive something you created.

n Sell For A Cause. Set up a weekend lemonade stand and contribute half or all of the proceeds to a charity of your family’s choice.

n Pull Together. You don’t have to be the Von Trapp family to put on a backyard concert.

Whether you are a family of readers, musicians or poets, come up with a summery way for the whole family to share what you enjoy doing.

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June 2019 Atlanta Parent 33

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You’re Invited to the 6th Annual Tower of Talent WHEN: Saturday, October 26 7:30 p.m.

Photo by Travis Hudgons

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Presented by Tower Beer, Wine & Spirits

WHERE: Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center at City Springs

Atlanta’s most-talented kids ages 6 to 21 are showcased with ‘kids helping kids’ in this inspirational concert as they perform, sing and entertain. Mark your calendar for an extra special 6th Anniversary performance this year.

The Annual Tower of Talent is inspired and underwritten by Michael Greenbaum, owner of Tower Beer, Wine & Spirits. The Tower of Talent has raised almost $1.7 Million (and counting) for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s music therapy program. All proceeds go directly to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

To purchase tickets or for more information, please visit www.choa.org/toweroftalent June 2019 Atlanta Parent 35