January 2013

Don’t Miss Our Camp Expo on Saturday, January 26

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atlantaparent.com January 2013

The Formula for Success in School Our Annual Education Issue

Are You Tuned In? Take our Quiz

O PE N S JA N U A RY 4

ExpEriEncE thE most incrEdiblE migration on Earth.

Visit fernbankmuseum.org for tickets and details.

WHAT ARE YOU DOING THE NEXT 10 SATURDAYS? Become a Dental Assistant in your spare time!

• Led by a team of working dental professionals in a professional environment with modern digital radiology.

• 10 Consecutive Saturdays Instruction times make it easy to learn on “off time” • Licensed by GA, TN and AL Higher Education Commission.

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Our Dental Assistant Course is the right choice for you: • are looking for a new career direction...

• aren’t satisfied in your present entry level job...

• need flexible working hours while you finish school...

• Tuition loans Available The Dental Staff School is now offering cross training courses that include Front Office Administration and Orthodontic assisting in order to better train tomorrow’s leading dental assistants. Please visit our website for more information.

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Welcome to Riverview Camp for Girls...

Why do I choose Riverview each summer? “I saw my first river on a mountain, and first mudturtle. I rode my first horse. I had campfires every night. I felt close to God. I giggled a lot with new friends and counselors. The time flew by! I felt safe and secure. I gained confidence in myself through the world around me.”

“As times go, it was one of the BEST.”

And what child couldn’t use some of that these days?

We’ve put together everything you’re looking for in a perfect camp setting! Recognized as one of the Southeast’s best all-around camps for girls, Riverview is an oasis of fun, friends and happiness...

www.riverviewcamp.com

Call for FREE DVD and catalog 1-800-882-0722 Accredited by American Camping Association • Members of Christian Camping International

D RAMA

Only 2 hours from Atlanta on top of Lookout Mtn. in Mentone, AL

AND

Dr. Larry & Susan Hooks, Owners/Directors • Donna Bares, Asst. Director

C RAFTS • C HORUS

GOOD NEWS: Spaces are still available for summer! Call now to hold a space!

MORE GOOD NEWS: You can enroll on-line: www.riverviewcamp.com GREAT LOCATION: Only 2 hours from Atlanta on Top of Lookout Mountain in Mentone, AL on the banks of Little River!

SESSION OPTIONS: Both 1 and 2 week sessions for ages 6-16!

WE’RE HERE TO SERVE: Registered Nurses on staff. Entire full-summer staff is First Aid and CPR Certified. Carefully selected Qualified Activity Instructors and Christian Counselors who really care... (Camper/Counselor Ratio is 5:1)

AND

FLAG TWIRLING • CHEERLEADING • RIFLERY • ARCHERY • TRIP DAY • GOLF

Summer Camp She Will Love!

B ASKETBALL • S OCCER • A RTS

• H ORSEBACK R IDING • S WIMMING • T ENNIS • C ANOEING • D ANCE • A EROBICS • G YMNASTICS • B EACH V OLLEYBALL •

• R OPES C OURSE • C LIMBING T OWER • O UTDOOR L IVING S KILLS • C AMPFIRE F UN • C OUNSELOR -I N -T RAINING •

4 Atlanta Parent January 2013

atlantaparent.com

Inside 3 O January YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

Vol. 30 Number 1

Features 16 18

Make Fond Memories Now

Kids grow up so quickly, you’ve no time to waste. Here are 25 things to do before they finish high school.

Pooh’s Timeless Lessons

The Lessons of Dr. King

This month we celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., so it’s a fine time to instill King’s lessons in your children.

24

28

35

Our Annual Education Issue

Information, articles and more in our 2013 guide will help your family get the most from school. n Pop Quiz for Parents: Take our totally unscientific quiz and pat yourself on the back – or sign up for the makeup test.

Much of what you need to know about parenting you can learn from reading Winnie the Pooh, first published in 1924.

22

PAGE

Game On!

Togetherness, competition, laughs – it’s all in the game.

Whether it’s Monopoly or something new (Zombie Dice, anyone?), board games help families connect.

Score Savings with Coupons

Atlanta moms share tips for using coupons to shave as much as 50 percent off their grocery bills, and to save on clothing, activities and more.

n Charter Schools: Here to Stay: As the state’s new charter schools commission takes shape, educators and parents debate its effect on current and future charters and traditional public schools. n iPads In, Pencils Out: Schools keep adding new technologies. Are you up to speed on how technology is used in the classroom and for communication with parents?

PLUS: How to choose a school; teachers offer parents their “best” advice; how to handle common woes of middle schoolers; overcoming test stress; and much more.

Don’t Miss Our Camp Expo on Saturday, January 26

Magazine Association of the Southeast

2012 Award Winner

Like us on Facebook; facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine

Inside January Departments 10 Publisher’s Note 12 News You Can Use 14 Dollars & Sense

Tips for Frugal Families

130 Humor in the House

Slash the Budget, Starting with the Tooth Fairy

HELPING FAMILIES

THROUGH CRISIS

SHIVER HAMILTON – SERIOUS INJURY ATTORNEYS, WITH A PARTICULAR FOCUS ON PEDIATRIC INJURIES.

Family Fun Guide

113 Not-to-Miss Events 114 Eating Out: Roasters

Snow Mountain Fun

115 Free Fun: Head to the Library!

116 Exhibit: Fast Forward: 100

Years of History and Modern Art at the High

118 Review: Emory’s

Michael C. Carlos Museum

When facing a life-changing injury or death caused by the negligence or fault of another, you need a skilled and compassionate advocate.

We created our firm with you in mind.

CONTACT US FOR A

Helping put your family back together drives everything we do.

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Over $10 million in recoveries in 2012 Numerous multi-million dollar trial jury verdicts Recognized as “Legal Elite” by Georgia Trend Named to Georgia Super Lawyers “Rising Stars” since 2008 Recognized as Top 40 Under 40 Trial Lawyers

6 Atlanta Parent January 2013

FREE CONSULTATION

119 Inside CNN Studios Tour 120 January Calendar 122 MLK Events

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Coming Next Month: Overnight Camp Guide atlantaparent.com

Presented by

Parent atlanta

2 013 Atlanta Parent – the trusted source for day & overnight camp information for 30 years

January 26

Saturday, 11 am - 4 pm North Point Mall Alpharetta

February 23

Saturday, 11 am - 4 pm Town Center Mall Kennesaw

DAY CAMPS

OVERNIGHT

March 16

Saturday, 11 am - 4 pm Perimeter Mall Atlanta

To exhibit or for info call Kaitlyn Morris at

678-222-1911 or Kmorris@atlantaparent.com • atlantaparent.com

D L I H C R YOU ?

G N I Z E WHETAKE PART IN A

TIRED OF

CLINICAL RESEARCH STUDY!

If YES then consider volunteering for a clinical research study conducted at Emory University. This clinical trial is for children 1–5 years of age, who suffer from wheezing.

We are trying to see if giving an antibiotic (azithromycin) for upper respiratory infections will help improve asthma symptoms and lower the incidence of more serious lower respiratory infections in preschoolers. You may be asked to participate for as long as 18 months (82 weeks) in this study.

Contact:

Jennifer Dodds 404-727-5176 jcdodds@emory.edu or Denise Whitlock 404-712-1773 drwhitl@emory.edu

Atlanta’s Award-Winning Parenting Publication PUBLISHER Liz White

lwhite@atlantaparent.com

ASSOCIATE Laura Powell PUBLISHER lpowell@atlantaparent.com

EDITOR Julie Bookman editor@atlantaparent.com

BUSINESS Amy Smith DEVELOPMENT asmith@atlantaparent.com MANAGER

ACCOUNT Julia Sparks EXECUTIVES jsparks@atlantaparent.com

Jennifer Fogel

jfogel@atlantaparent.com

Ashley Sult asult@atlantaparent.com

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

Study Includes: • Pulmonary evaluation • Physical exam (by a MD) • Study drug • Compensation for time and travel

PRODUCTION Natalie Thavenot MANAGER production@atlantaparent.com

EDITORIAL Robin Mintz PRODUCTION rmintz@atlantaparent.com ARTIST

CALENDAR EDITOR Kate Wallace

calendar@atlantaparent.com COPY EDITOR Glenn Emery

Joe C. Davis Outdoor Center

CAMP WIDJIWAGAN

CONFIDENCE FRIENDSHIP CHARACTER

OFFICE Caroline Ward COORDINATOR cward@atlantaparent.com

SPECIAL EVENTS Kaitlyn Morris COORDINATOR kmorris@atlantaparent.com

ADMINISTRATIVE Kirsten Gromatzky ASSISTANT kgromatzky@atlantaparent.com

MARKETING MOM Felicia Barman

INTERNS Sarah Egan Jordan Lisvosky

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Nashville, TN

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Overnight Camp

campwidji.org 615-360-2267

Our Mission: A worldwide charitable fellowship united by a common loyalty to Jesus Christ for the purpose of helping people grow in spirit, mind and body.

8 Atlanta Parent January 2013

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. 2013

atlantaparent.com

ItFigures

by Cynthia Washam

New Year’s News 100th Anniversary the Girl Scouts celebrated in 2012

3.2 million

Number of Girl Scouts worldwide

5

Number of Girl Scout cookie varieties, including thin mint and chocolate peanut butter, that debuted as LipSmacker lip balm flavors in 2011

250

Boxes of cookies Girl Scouts in Savannah, Georgia, were selling per hour in front of the home of Girl Scouts founder Juliette Low in February 2011, when they were barred for violating a city ordinance against sales on public sidewalks

48

Percent of news readers who considered the city’s ban against the cookie sales “depressing”

1

Days after the ban that the city manager granted the Girl Scouts an exception so they could resume their sales

Learning by the Numbers $4,944 Average annual tuition in 2007-08 at Catholic elementary schools

$15,945

Average that year at non-sectarian, private elementary schools

55

Percent of parents with children in public school who say they would choose private school if they could afford it

53

Percent of teens who say they want to learn more about managing their money

27

Percent of teens who say their parents regularly talk to them about personal finance Sources: Brokensecrets.com, Girlscouts.org, gsnc.org, Seventeen.com, Associated Press, Newser.com, Capenet.org, Jumpstart.org

atlantaparent.com

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 9

Publisher’s Note A Tough Job Just Got Harder

Stadium Childcare Providers for the Atlanta Braves

It’s tough to be a parent, harder than any of us realized when we first found out we’d be having a family. And it remains the hardest job you’ll ever love, even when your children, like my daughter, have families of their own.

The job changes as your children grow, but you never quit being a mom or dad, wanting the best for your kids.

When our children are younger, we want safety; we want to shelter them from evil.

And at some point, we realize that’s just not possible, no matter how much we might wish it.

Maybe that’s why the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, resonates so deeply with us, even if we didn’t personally know any of the families involved, and makes us want to hold our children close.

Until a 20-year-old man turned his guns on 20 innocent children and six teachers, we never had to be too concerned about the safety of our children in elementary school.

We might worry they’d be injured in a playground fall or become a target for bullying, but we never imagined they could be terrorized by a gunman.

Just as the Columbine High School killings in 1999 changed our perception of safety in high school, this tragic incident will give us just one more worry for our younger children. Some of the young students and teachers at Sandy Hook might owe their lives to the heightened school security put in place in all of our schools after Columbine.

It’s hard to keep in mind that incidents like this are thankfully rare. With increased security measures taken since 1999, our schools are safer from people intent on doing harm. As more information unfolds about the latest tragedy, I’m sure school security will undergo a thorough evaluation, though it’s not possible to turn our schools into fortresses, nor would we want to. We want our children to come home each day, full of stories about what happened in school, and we want none of those stories to be tragic.

As a community, we need to come together to look at all the issues in this tragedy, from the availability of mental health services to assault weapons. We also need to consider how our culture portrays violence in television, movies and video games. On a local level, we need to support our schools and be involved in the decisions that affect our kids.

This month’s issue, which contains our annual A+ Education Guide, focuses on the many positives in our schools – the educational opportunities and innovations that are preparing our kids for a changing world.

Most importantly, we must hug and kiss our children and tell them we love them, and send them off to school.

How to Reach us: Telephone 770.454.7599

E-Mail lwhite@atlantaparent.com

Fax 770.454.7699

Website www.atlantaparent.com

The Old Fashioned Way 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.

10 Atlanta Parent January 2013

atlantaparent.com

News You Can Use

by Kate Wallace

Bouncy-House Injuries From 1995 to 2010, emergency rooms saw a 15-fold increase in the number of injuries kids sustained from romping about in inflatable bounce houses, according to a study published in Pediatrics. The majority of the injuries reported were sprains, strains and fractures. One-in-five injuries were related to the head and neck. There were fewer than 1,000 injuries in 1995 but almost 11,000 in 2010, posing questions about the need for guidelines for safer bounce house usage.

The most popular New Year’s resolution in 2012 was “lose weight.”

Source: University of Scranton, Journal of Clinical Psychology

Cookie Time!

The Girl Scouts will soon be knocking on your door. Cookie orders begin January 4. Be sure to try the newest cookie flavor, a lemon wedge named the Savannah Smile. Storefront cookie sales begin Feb. 11. To find a source for Girl Scout cookies near you, download the free Cookie Locator app for iPhone or Android or visit cookielocator.littlebrownie.com.

12 Atlanta Parent January 2013

Suitcase Drive for Foster Kids Jan. 18 is TOTES 2 TOTS DAY, an annual metro-wide drive to collect new and gently used suitcases and backpacks for foster children. Drop-off locations are at 24 Georgia Cancer Specialists offices. Donations will be accepted between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. To learn more and find the drop-off location nearest you, visit gacancer.com. atlantaparent.com

Websites

Worth Visiting

n Proactiveparenting.net Parent, educator, author and professional speaker Sharon Silver runs this site with a mission to help parents “respond” rather than “react” to difficult situations with kids.

The site features articles on topics ranging from misbehavior to separation anxiety. n Builtbykids.com The tagline is “The ABC’s of DIY.” This site is all about family projects that can involve the kids. Here’s where you can find 50 different ways to build a fort. The free site is filled with ideas, directions and photos.

The Wiggles

Debut on Sirius Radio

The Rock Stars of the kids’ scene, the Wiggles, have launched “The Wiggles Radio Show” on the Kids Place Live, Channel 78, on Sirius XM Radio. Airing from noon to 3 p.m. weekdays, the show for preschoolers includes musical segments and kid-friendly commentary from the four original Wiggles members, as well as the newest Wiggles members.

Calling local non-profit organizations!

Atlanta Parent Seeks Benefi ciaries for Family Block Party 2013.

Eligible non-profi ts are those with budgets less than $1.5 million that serve families, special needs children, communities or the environment.

Dr. Debbie King and daughter Elyse

Healthy Smiles Are Contagious

For more information or to request an application, please contact Kaitlyn Morris at kmorris@atlantaparent.com

“One of the greatest responsibilities we are given as parents is to establish and maintain healthy routines to ensure the best for our children. Often, the demands of our hectic schedules overshadow the necessary time to establish or maintain a good oral health routine for ourselves. In order for you to care for those who count on you most, we at Buckhead Dental Care remind you to schedule routine time for your oral health. I invite you to contact me and my talented dental team to assist you in establishing, or re-establishing a regular oral health routine you wish your children will adopt”

atlantaparent.com

(404) 239-9566

- Dr. Deborah King

2964 Peachtree NW Suite 340

(next to Barnes and Noble, just behind Brio Italian Restaurant)

www.buckheaddentalcare.com atlantaparent.com

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 13

Dollars Sense & TIPS FOR FRUGAL FAMILIES

by Kate Wallace

Hit the Outlets Hot Spots where Kids EAT FREE! n South City Kitchen. Sunday through Thursday, 5-6 p.m., at the Smyrna location only, a kid’s meal is free with the purchase of an adult’s meal.

1675 Cumberland Pkwy., Smyrna.

770-435-0700. n Chonas Mexican Grill. On Sundays all day, kids 12 and younger can eat a free kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult entrée. 1032 Old Peachtree Rd. NW, Lawrenceville. 678847-0072.

Outlet shopping can be a gold mine for post-holiday sales. Just to get you started, here are four outlet malls within easy driving distance of the metro vicinity, plus one in South Carolina:

Tanger Outlet Center

North Georgia Premium Outlets

Calhoun Premium Outlets

800 U.S. Hwy. 400 S, Dawsonville.

706-216-3609.

455 Belwood Rd., Calhoun. 706-602-1305.

n Kid-friendly stores include: BabyGap, Carter’s, The Children’s Place, Gymboree, Hanna Andersson, OshKosh B’gosh.

Tanger Outlet Center 800 Steven B. Tanger Blvd., Commerce.

706-335-3354. n Kid-friendly stores include: Carter’s, Nike, Gymboree, OshKosh B’gosh, Nautica Kids, Bass, The Children’s Place, Tommy Hilfiger.

1000 Tanger Blvd., Locust Grove. 770-957-5310. n Kid-friendly stores include: Old Navy, OshKosh B’gosh, The Children’s Place, Bass, Carter’s, Gymboree, Polo Ralph Lauren.

n Kid-friendly stores include: Carter’s, The Children’s Place, Gymboree, Looks Better on You, Old Navy, OshKosh B’gosh.

Tanger Factory Outlet Center 1414 Fording Island Rd., Bluffton, S.C. – the mother lode of area outlets. n Kid-friendly stores include: J.Crew, Levi’s, Janie and Jack, The Children’s Place, Carters, Columbia Sportswear Co., OshKosh B’gosh, Gymboree.

Product Spotlight:

n Frosty Frog Creamery and Café. On Mondays and Tuesdays, after 5 p.m., kids eat free from the kids’ menu selections with the purchase of an adult meal and beverage. 6205 Hickory Flat Hwy., Canton. 770-704-9333.

Moonjar – for small change and more

Frugal tip: Buy generic Shopping for store brands can save an average of 30 percent.

Here are a few grocery staples available in a store/generic brand:

Worthy Website Zulily.com is an online store that offers daily “events” (or sales) on clothing and gear for moms, kids and babies.

Users sign up for a free membership in order to receive a daily email highlighting the day’s sales. Some items are limited.

Every day is different and you never know what you’ll find.

14 Atlanta Parent January 2013

Teach kids the importance of budgeting.

Moonjar is a piggy bank with three compartments: one for saving, one for sharing, and one for spending. With Moonjar, kids can get into the habit of holding onto and controlling their allowance and other earnings. $25.

Moonjar.com

n Orange juice. The store brand is usually less expensive because it’s produced regionally, involving less processing and transportation than national brands. n Flour, sugar, salt and spices. Aside from the label and packaging, these items are universally the same. Name-brand spices can run up to four times as much as the generic brand. n Cleaning products. Most surface cleaners, bleaches and detergents aren’t that different from each other and come in generic versions for a couple dollars less than national brands.

atlantaparent.com

The average family of four spends from

$536 to $1,212

on food per month Source: USDA

Mark your calendar!

FEB. 5 is National Pancake Day Order free pancakes at IHOP on Feb. 5, 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Guests will be encouraged to donate to the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals in celebration of its 30th anniversary. IHOP aims to raise $3 million for the charity.

Visit ihoppancakeday.com.

Staff Tip: Kids’ Consignment “I consign all my kids’ clothes,” says Jennifer Fogel, advertising account executive at Atlanta Parent and mom to kids ages 1 and 5. Stores want clothes that are in season, and cleaned and pressed,” says Fogel, who makes about $150-$200 every three months consigning her kids’ gently used items.

She saves “at least” several hundred dollars more a year by also shopping at these stores. Fogel just bought a hooded and quilted Timberland jacket for her 5-year-old son for $9, plus matching gloves for $1.

Find our list of kids’ metro-area consignment stores at atlantaparent. com. Click on “previous issues”; choose the July 2012 issue, Page 17.

atlantaparent.com

MJCCA SUMMER DAY CAMPS Traditional • Specialty • Teen • Sports • Drama

More than 100 Day Camp Options for Campers of all Ages and Interests!

Indoor & Outdoor Camps

Regist Online B er egin January ning 13!

Free Bus Transportation Register online at atlantajcc.org/camps 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody 678.812.4004 camps@atlantajcc.org

MARKET YOUR CAMP IN OUR OVERNIGHT CAMP ISSUE IN FEBRUARY OR THE DAY CAMP ISSUE IN APRIL Also, don’t miss the Big Book of Camps this January!

Call 770-454-7599 for more info

Parent atlanta

atlanta

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 15

Parenting Resolutions for the Not-SoPerfect Parent

by Gayla Grace

C

onsidering the innumerable parenting books I’ve read and parenting workshops I’ve attended, I should be a perfect parent.

I’m not. I’ve been a parent long enough, however, to realize that if I keep pressing forward and do the best job I can with a loving and sincere heart, my kids won’t be eternally scarred by my imperfections.

This year, instead of making resolutions about being a better parent, I decided to ponder a few resolutions on how to move past my imperfections and keep going on days I want to quit as a not-so-perfect parent.

So, this year I commit to ... n Let go of the Mommy guilt.

We all experience it from time to time. We do too much for our kids one day and the next day we do too little. One day we give them too much slack and the next day we nag them incessantly. Our parenting choices never seem right. Or maybe our thinking isn’t right. Mommy guilt comes from the expectation that we need to be a perfect parent. News flash: a perfect mom doesn’t exist. We can choose to let go of unrealistic expectations that keep us bound to guilt when we don’t measure up.

n Forgive myself when I fail.

A defeated parent doesn’t parent effectively. When we barrage ourselves with negative self-talk over a poor parenting choice, we continue down a negative path. Forgiving ourselves for less-thanstellar parenting moments allows us to begin again with a renewed mind and fresh perspective for our parenting challenges.

n Seek out support from other moms on hard days.

My neighbor is a single parent with two school-aged children.

She recognizes her need for help in juggling her responsibilities and seeks out other moms to assist with car pool or after school care when the demands of her work schedule become overwhelming. Fellow moms understand the struggles of busy moms and are usually happy to help when asked.

16 Atlanta Parent January 2013

n Listen to my heart on how to parent my child, instead of others’ opinions.

It’s easy to run to the phone and ask our best friend what to do when we’re facing a difficult parenting moment, but if we step back and listen to our heart while considering our options, we make better decisions. Considering our child’s personality (which we know better than anyone) as part of the parenting equation allows us to tailor our parenting in a healthier light.

n Take time to run, or quilt, or whatever activity works for me to re-group when the parenting strain takes over.

It’s important to re-group and make time for self-care when we’re about to go off the parenting cliff. Balancing parenting demands with activities we can look forward and enjoy by ourselves or with others, creates a well-rounded parent who can more effectively handle the strains of parenting.

n Remember that my kids love me, even on days I’m a not-so-perfect parent.

Our kids don’t expect us to be perfect parents. If they know we are doing our best to care for them, emotionally and physically, they love us on our good days and our days that are not so good. I heard the reply of a young child recently when asked what he thought about his mom’s significant weight loss. His response? “I don’t see her any different - I love her either way ‘cuz she’s my mom.”

As you start a new year, do you have resolutions to consider as a not-so-perfect parent? Do you need a mindset do-over that includes room for imperfection and second chances as a parent?

Perhaps that’s the ticket to success this year on your not-so-perfect parenting journey. c atlantaparent.com

Parenting with ‘Pooh’ Art ©E.H. Shepherd

A

by Stacy Loscalzo

author of the beloved Winnie the Pooh books, A.A. Milne was born on January 18, 1882. As parents, we read books and articles, listen to experts on the radio, and watch psychologists on the news to learn how to best raise our children. There is a vast wealth of knowledge on the topic of child rearing and child development. ✤ What, though, if it were as simple as listening to the words of Winnie the Pooh and his creator? In simple text and nearly childlike expressions, Pooh and Milne distill the raising of children into easy and manageable tasks. ✤ Following are some tips based on the wisdom of a pudgy, hungry bear. As the days grow shorter and we approach Milne’s birthday, perhaps we can take some of the author’s words to heart and grow as parents.

“The things that make me different are the things that make me me.”

Allow your child the chance to be an individual. In our competitive world, it is easy to believe that our children must excel at all things. They must earn top grades and play on the soccer team. They must love to read and volunteer at the soup kitchen on the weekend. They should be friends with everyone and never complain. In truth, each child is just one person with one set of strengths and one set of passions.

Allow your child to be the “me” he is meant to be.

18 Atlanta Parent January 2013

Allow your child to be heard. As we rush from one activity to the next, it’s often difficult to stop and listen. While listening, we learn who our children are. We realize exactly the individual each is meant to be. If we take the time to truly listen, our children’s strengths will rise to the surface. Perhaps we feel our child is too sensitive, complaining about the light being too bright or the sounds too loud. Maybe that sensitivity can be channeled into an artistic venture. Or the child who talks constantly could become a great stage actor. Or the one who won’t stop throwing his toys could thrive on the baseball field. If we watch and listen, these “weeds” will become flowers.

“Weeds are flowers too once you get to know them.”

“It is more fun to talk with someone who doesn’t use long, difficult words but rather short, easy words like ‘What about lunch?’”

Allow your child the chance to understand you. While it’s important to help children develop their vocabulary and conversational skills, it’s also important to remember that children are not small adults. If we ask our children to do something and they don’t, it’s possible our directions were too wordy. If we suggest our child chooses one thing over another but he can’t, perhaps we made the choice too complicated. Just as Pooh would, simplify your message – and watch your child understand.

Cont’d on page 20

atlantaparent.com

Pooh toys: l V-Tech

V Reader Winnie the Pooh: Young readers can listen to the interactive story, play alphabet and phonics games, and learn new words with a dictionary of words featured in the story. Ages 3-5, $21.95.

Gotta Love That ‘Silly Old Bear’ Winnie the Pooh first hit bookshelves in 1926 – and he’s never gone out of style. Pooh bear, Piglet, Eeyore and their other friends decorate children’s bedrooms everywhere.

Kids of all ages can enjoy a huge variety of toys and games based on their favorite characters from A.A. Milne’s classic stories. Here are just some toys and books we like:

Pooh titles: l The

Complete Tales of Winnie the Pooh by A.A. Milne (Dutton Juvenile, $40): A complete, unabridged collection of classic Winnie the Pooh stories.

l V-Tech

Winnie the Pooh Sort n’ Learn Cart: Toddlers can learn all about colors, shapes and sorting with their favorite Pooh characters. Ages 6 months and older, $22.95. l Pooh’s

l LEGO

Winnie’s Picnic: Little hands can easily manipulate these starter LEGO blocks and have lots of fun playing with Pooh and his honey pot. Ages 18 months-5 yrs., $19.99.

atlantaparent.com

Toys available at Target,Walmart, Kmart, Babies ‘R’ Us, Amazon. Books available at Barnes & Noble and Amazon.

Party by Laura Dollin (Grosset & Dunlap, $5.99): Christopher Robin is throwing Winnie the Pooh a party with lots of games, treats and surprises!

– Kirsten Gromatzky

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 19

Parenting with ‘Pooh’ “Rivers know this: there is no hurry.

We shall get there some day.”

Allow your child time.

Children move fast. They run when adults would walk. They climb when adults would go around. They throw something when adults would carry it across the room. Because of this, we tend to believe that kids can do everything quickly when, in fact, they can’t. Their small muscles and their ability to plan and organize movement are not as developed as ours. Children take more time to brush their teeth and tie their shoes. They take longer to choose what to wear and what cookie to eat. As adults we must remember to give them the time they need. If we allow our children the time they need to complete their tasks, they will improve.

“You can’t help respecting anybody who can spell TUESDAY, even if he doesn’t spell it right; but spelling isn’t everything. There are days when spelling Tuesday simply doesn’t count.”

Allow your child to be imperfect. There are days when we are great parents and there are days when we aren’t. Sometimes it is hard to forgive ourselves those bad days, but usually we go to sleep and simply hope for a better tomorrow. With our children though, we dwell on their imperfections. Why did she get a B? Why didn’t he throw more strikes?

Shouldn’t she have been invited to that birthday party? Bear in mind that there will always be days when your child isn’t perfect. And just like spelling Tuesday correctly doesn’t count every day, neither does our children’s behavior. Sometimes, they just aren’t perfect. And that is all right. c

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20 Atlanta Parent January 2013

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The years with children under our roofs slip past all too quickly. Suddenly, we find ourselves with preschoolers, then grade-schoolers, and before you know it, teenagers. We do our best to make the most of the childhood years, but it’s still important to engage our kids in ways large and small. Here are 20 activities to get in before packing them off to college:

1

Sleep out under the stars. Pitch a tent or just drag blankets and sleeping bags out into your yard or deck.

2

Visit a lighthouse. Take a picture while you’re there.

3

Pick apples, blueberries or another fruit.

Enjoy eating produce right from the source.

by Lara Krupicka

20

Things To Do With Your Kids Before

They’re Grown 8

Carve a pumpkin. Encourage your kids to scoop out the seeds with their fingers and get up to their elbows in the gooey flesh.

4

Have a Silly String fight – just because.

Launch a sneak attack, but leave an arsenal in plain sight for them to retaliate.

10

5

Try skiing – water, cross country, or downhill.

6

Go to a theme park. Ride the roller coasters and eat cotton candy.

Take them to meet a favorite author or sports star.

Drive around at night looking at holiday light displays. To make it extra enchanting, tuck the kids into bed first, then ask them to get out of bed. Let them get in the car in their pajamas and give them hot cocoa for the ride.

7

Go on special dates, just parent and child. It doesn’t have to be fancy.

It’s about one-on-one time. atlantaparent.com

9

Serve at a soup kitchen or homeless shelter – together.

11

12

Own a pet (fish, bird, dog, cat, lizard).

13

Catch lightning bugs, in your hands or in a jar. Have a contest to see who can collect the most.

14

Climb a mountain or go to the top of a skyscraper. Then take in the view from up high.

15

Swim in the ocean. Or at least wade in up to your knees and feel the rocking motion of the waves.

16

Plant flowers. Give them a garden trowel and invite them to dig in the dirt with you.

17

Teach them how to waltz. Or hip-hop or line dance. Get out some music and show them your moves.

18

Take them to a big concert event.

Whether it’s kid music or classical, give them exposure to a live performance.

19

Let them make you dinner – by themselves.

Even if it’s PB&J sandwiches.

20

Make and take a meal to a shut-in neighbor or friend – together.

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 21

EMBRACING THE VALUES OF DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.

by Marta Oti Sears

L

ove, generosity and compassion are beautiful concepts to teach our children. This month we celebrate the ways in which Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. brought those ideals, and the concepts of social and economic justice, to the forefront of our nation’s attention.

Families in metro Atlanta and around the world need our help.

In Fulton and DeKalb counties alone, almost 7,000 people are homeless, according to 2011 homeless census. Multiply those statistics over the 13-county metro area and you’ll get an idea of the problems that charitable organizations deal with every day. Many thousands more families may have shelter, but need help with food and clothing or school supplies for their children.

One charitable organization, Must Ministries of Marietta, has provided 82,071 hot meals for needy people over the past year, and 189,678 summer lunches for children whose only real meal each day might have been the one they received as a free lunch at school. Another nonprofit, Atlanta Community Food Bank, through its partnership with 600 other nonprofits, distributed more than 35 million pounds of food to needy families in 29 counties in metro Atlanta and North Georgia this year.

These organizations and other nonprofits always need donations and volunteers. “Life on the margins is a very difficult place to live,” says Ike Reighard, president and CEO of Must Ministries of Marietta, noting that “any of us could find ourselves in a dire situation. We have even been helping people who never dreamed that they would be in a position of having to have someone else intervene so that they could make ends meet.”

In the month of January, Reighard says, “you can find no better example of serving to change your world than Martin Luther King Jr.” In talks he gives, Reighard often uses a quote from Atlanta’s world-famous civil rights leader: “Everybody can be great . . . because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.”

King’s words, Reighard believes, are golden advice “for any parent to teach their child. I have a 4-year-old granddaughter and I’m already teaching her that not everyone has all of their needs provided. I want to help her understand what we want everyone to understand: That serving is a way to give back because you have been blessed.

“If we raise a generation of children with a heart of service,” Reighard adds, “we could change the world.”

If you’d like to develop compassion in your children and a desire to help those less fortunate, here are four ways to get started.

‘Rice and Beans Night’ “One in seven people in the world live in extreme poverty and have to spend 50-80 percent of their household budget just on food,” says Todd Post, senior editor of Bread for the World’s Hunger Report. Many can only afford the cheapest, most basic foods. One way to encourage an awareness of hunger and a concern for economic well-being is to incorporate a “rice and beans night” into your dinner plan. You can make this a weekly or monthly meal, every Monday, for example, or the first Monday of the month.

“I often work a ‘rice and beans night’ into the menu,” says Ginean McIntosh, mother of two. “It tastes good, saves on the budget, and reminds us of those less fortunate. It also helps my little ones appreciate the other more favorable meals, and appreciate having a meal.”

You may want to read an inspiring quote or blessing before your meal.

Carry Water for a Week One-in-six people worldwide don’t have access to safe water, and more people die from unsafe water annually than from all forms of violence (including war), according to the World Health Organization. Women and children usually bear the burden of water collection, often walking miles to the nearest water source.

A hands-on way to build awareness and empathy starts with finding two empty gallon-size milk jugs and filling them with water. As a family, agree that for one week, whenever it’s time to shower, wash hands, get a drink or do anything involving water, you’ll pick up the water jugs, carry them to your destination and then carry them back.

Interactive learning experiences stick with children and adults.

Enhance your “water week” by watching some short videos around the dinner table that educate and inspire. Find one at charitywater.org.

22 Atlanta Parent January 2013

atlantaparent.com

Sponsor a Child

Connect with ‘Homeless Kits’ Parents often don’t know what to do when they see a homeless person.

Sometimes they pull their child close and walk by the person quickly without making eye contact.

One of the worst things about being homeless is feeling invisible. The simplest way to affirm the value of our homeless neighbors it to look them in the eyes and smile.

You can also offer something more tangible. Heidi Pender, mother of three, makes homeless kits with her children and keeps them in her van so that they’re on hand when they see someone at a freeway exit or outside a grocery store. To make a kit, fill a gallon-size storage bag with hygiene items such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, and hand sanitizer; clean socks; and food items such as granola bars, trail mix, dried fruit or anything that doesn’t need to be refrigerated.

“My kids often notice homeless people before I do,” Pender says, “and they’re usually the first ones to say, ‘Let’s give that person a kit.’”

Putting these kits together with your children will give you the opportunity to talk and ask questions such as, “How do you think you would feel if you were homeless?” As you look for opportunities to give your kits away, you’ll teach your children to notice people that society often ignores.

A beautiful way to embrace compassion as a family is to sponsor a child. Start by choosing a religious or secular organization that’s a good fit for your family. Most organizations have online photos and information about children who are available to sponsor. You may want to sponsor a child who is the same age or gender as your child.

Sponsorship typically involves sending a monthly check or allowing an automatic monthly debit to your bank account.

Most organizations use the money to pay for school supplies and fees, food, and medical expenses for the sponsored child.

You and your children can write letters and send drawings and photos to your sponsored child, who in turn writes back. Your family can develop an ongoing relationship with a child.

Poverty can often feel like a distant issue, but child sponsorship makes it personal. Your family can’t do everything needed to end poverty, but you can disrupt the cycle of poverty for one child by providing her with food, medical care, education and hope.

As you empower your children to love their local and global neighbors during these formative years, don’t be surprised when you see growth in yourself, too. Children have much to teach us about compassion, if we’re humble enough to let them. c – Julie Bookman contributed to this story

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January 2013 Atlanta Parent 23

Oh, the

games families play The Pereira-Santos Family

Fun interaction helps kids with cognitive, educational and social skills and strengthens the family bond.

24 Atlanta Parent January 2013

by Julie Bookman

I

t’s early on a Saturday night and the mom is doing a final wipe-down of the kitchen counters while Dad dries the last of the pots and pans. “Hey everybody!” the mom calls out. “Time for Family Game Night!”

When parents choose to spend part of an afternoon or evening playing games with their kids, they are showing the kids that they put high value on family time and just being with their kids.

“Even in the midst of work demands, financial strain and household chores and responsibilities, the parents are showing that the family unit is still the top priority,” says Nadine Kaslow, a professor at Emory University whose specializes in family psychology.

Jennifer Joiner says that she and husband Randy wouldn’t have it any other way.

“Playing games brings us together,” says Joiner, mom to Nathan, 14 and Grayson, 8.

“We tried to make every Wednesday night our game night, but that has turned into a big homework night, so now we try to choose another night to play. Then we definitely play on weekends and sometimes invite friends or a neighbor family over to play.”

From the “regular” Settlers of Catan and Catan Jr. to Monopoly, Uno, Ticket to Ride and the Monty Python version of Flux, the Joiners own “probably a hundred” games.

“If done well, playing together is good for bonding and connection,” Kaslow adds.

“In families that have fun together, there’s a greater sense of satisfaction and of love and

Search “family social games” and “family game night” on the Internet to find lots of ideas – even recipes – for your family’s game night.

warmth. It’s even easier to do chores together – and you can even turn that into a game.”

“We all enjoy the nice, friendly competition, and we enjoy each other’s company,” Joiner says. “My older son is all about beating Mom and Dad. His angle is to win, and he even gets cutthroat about trying to beat us. It’s fun thinking of that sly little grin on his face when he thinks he has us beat.”

Just a few games that the Joiners, who live in Tucker, are enjoying these days: 7 Wonders (build your city and affirm your military supremacy in the ancient world); Zombie Dice (get as many little green brains as you can before you get three zombies!); Guillotine (compete with other executioners during the French Revolution for “heads” such as Marie Antoinette’s); and Ticket to Ride (a cross-country train adventure that can be played as a board game and also in a Xbox “live arcade version”).

Joiner grew up in a game-playing family, and her passion for games has rubbed off on husband Randy, who nowadays has his own “guys night out” to play hot-contest games atlantaparent.com

Family Board Games: Thanks to the many Atlanta Parent readers who told us which games their families enjoy playing together. We’ve done a little research ourselves to add to their recommendations. The “Here to Stay” games are younger than the old standbys (or the “Tried and True”).

Tried & True:

Here to Stay:

Catching On:

Monopoly

Apples to Apples

Quirkle

Early Games for Kids

Scrabble

Cranium

Beat the Parents

Hullabaloo

Life

Trivial Pursuit

Hedbanz

Sonny the Seal

Parcheesi

Jenga

Scabs ’N’ Guts

Cootie

Rummikub

Connect 4

Where’s my Water?

Memory

Operation

The Settlers of Catan

Angry Birds: Knock on Wood

Hi Ho Cherry-O

Pick-up Sticks

Scene It!

Spot It

Elefun

Candyland

Blockus

Rory’s Story Cubes

Busytown-Eye Found It!

Chutes and Ladders

Rush Hour

Cranium Zooreka!

Hungry Hungry Hippos

Clue

Scattergories

Ticket to Ride

Zingo

Battleship

I Spy Eagle Eye

Risk

Fibber

Super Why ABC Letter Game

Trouble Sorry!

such as Risk. Randy and the boys also have regular, ongoing game nights with other dads and their sons.

A sixth-grade social studies teacher at DeKalb County’s Kittredge Magnet School, Jennifer Joiner also uses games in her classroom such as the much-awarded Settlers of Catan, another strategy game where players collect resources to build things along their road to winning. “Through games, kids can learn teamwork and planning and thinking strategies,” she says. “Games help us with everything from math skills to cooperation.” Game-playing encourages positive social skills and also helps kids with everything from following directions to sharing, negotiating, patience, and taking responsibility for their choices and actions.

In addition to blending entertainment with education, lots of games also enhance cognitive development; there are games that reinforce such concepts as problem-solving, sequencing, reasoning and perception, for example, while others help kids enhance their vocabulary or history knowledge.

Joiner likes family game time for another reason: “I’ve found it to be a natural way to just get your kids talking to you,” she says.

“Sometimes, it’s only about the game, but then something will come up and suddenly you’re in the middle of a life lesson. But it’s easier to communicate because you’re atlantaparent.com

The Joiner Family

already in a relaxed setting with each other.”

Game time doesn’t have to mean “get out another board game,” notes Kaslow. “Peeka-Boo is a game. Playing make-believe is a game. A family can make up a story together, do a drawing together, get creative. The point is to start having fun with your children early – and play all the time.” Throwing snowballs at each other qualifies as game time, but when Atlanta gets any sort of real snowfall, better hurry and get out there before it melts.

Cont’d on page 26

Joiner grew up in a game-playing family and her passion for games has rubbed off on husband Randy, who nowadays has his own “guys night out.”

Randy and the boys also have regular, ongoing game nights with other dads and their sons.

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 25

Oh, the games families play Like Joiner, Erin Grismore of Grant Park has kids who are in different age groups; her boys are 12, 6 and 4. “You can’t find a lot of activities that will keep everyone involved, happy and together,” says Grismore.

“Games do that for us. We love them all!”

Consequently, the Grismores play at least one sort of game every day – even if it’s just a 20- or 30-minute version of Apples to Apples (“the game of hilarious comparisons”).

Grismore always liked games but didn’t get to play them much as a kid. It was a “definite goal” of hers, she says, “to raise a game-playing family.” She loves the fact that playing card and board games “are about the only way to get everyone away from electronics. But also, I love that the kids are learning good sportsmanship. To have your 12-year-old lose a game to your 4-year-old and not get angry – that’s having a healthy attitude about competition.”

A family with kids of varying ages can usually figure out a way to create reasonably balanced teams to play board games, and may need to try a variety of games to find ones that best suit their style and interests. A certain level of competitiveness is normal and healthy, Kaslow says, but parents should still be careful not to let competition rule above all else. “Younger children learn from older children, but you don’t want to put them in a situation where the challenge is so great that they get frustrated.”

These days, Cranium Zooreka is the Grismores’ go-to game (besides Uno, Sorry Sliders, Apples to Apples and both the “Harry Potter” and Disney editions of Scene It!); the object of Zooreka is to collect things such as food, shelter and animal cards in order to build enough habitats – from Insectarium to Hippo Hideaway – to create your own zoo.

“We’ve had that game for several years and still play it all the time,” Grismore says.

The Grismores play at least one sort of game every day – even if it’s just a 20- or 30-minute version of Apples to Apples (“the game of hilarious comparisons”).

Grismore always liked games but didn’t get to play them much as a kid. It was a “definite goal” of hers, she says, “to raise a gameplaying family.”

The Grismore boys

Roswell’s Denise Pereira-Santos says her family likes games “that make us move around and be silly with each other.” she says.

She and husband Chris have an 8-year-old daughter and 2-year-old twin boys. “We’re busy,” she says. “We both work, and with our daughter’s ballet and little brothers taking up a lot of attention, it can be easy to get caught up in the day-to-day grind. Playing games forces us slow down, take a step back and just enjoy laughing and being together.”

One favorite game these days in the Pereira-Santos household is Scabs ‘N’ Guts, (the “meducational” game promising “yucky fun”), which is focused on anatomy; players get to choose which body part they will be and sometimes get to act out certain

scenarios. Daughter Sophia “loves to ham it up,” says Denise, “and with this game, she gets to do stuff like show us she has bad gas by walking around with a stomach ache. We all just laugh and laugh.”

This mom has even been known to turn mishaps into fun-haps. “Even when the kids spill something or make a mess, it is what it is – no big deal,” she says. You can even turn the cleanup into a game “because do you really want your kids to see you angry and frustrated all the time over little things?

“I do think that as adults, we can sometimes forget to have fun,” Denise adds.

“Playing games reminds us how to have fun.

And having fun with your kids – well, you can’t get any better than that.” c

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Facebook.com/atlantaparentmagazine 26 Atlanta Parent January 2013

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Get Crafty!

Keep winter-break boredom at bay with these two craft projects. Finally, a use for those pesky crayon stubs and an entire scavenger hunt that fits in your hands.

Recycled Chunky Crayons:

Make good use out of all those broken crayons in your house! Transform them into new, multi-colored jumbo crayons. Spray non-stick vegetable oil into muffin tins. Next, put crayon pieces into each muffin mold. Or: spray a cookie sheet with the non-stick oil and place metal cookie cutters on the sheet; put plenty of crayon pieces inside each cookie cutter. You can have fun experimenting with different color combinations. Place filled muffin tins (or cookie tray) in oven at 275 degrees, “bake” for 7-8 minutes. Once melted, remove from oven and let cool. Your kids now have colorful new drawing tools.

Source: makeandtakes.com

Scavenger Hunt in a Bottle:

Scavenger hunts are fun for kids but can be troubling for parents with all the clue-making and hiding. This craft is a blast to make and lets your child partake in a scavenger hunt anywhere, anytime. You need: a water bottle, uncooked rice, and 10 miniature items that can be found in your house or junk drawers (rubber band, tiny eraser, paper clip, coin, bead, button, game token, etc.).

Start by removing the label from your water bottle and pouring a scoop of dry rice into the bottle (use a funnel). Next, scatter a few of your small items on top of the rice and cover with another scoop of rice. Repeat this process until the bottle is three-quarters full. Cap securely.

Be sure to make a list of all of the items you included in the bottle for your child to check off as he finds each hidden treasure. After your child has found all the items in the bottle, shake it vigorously to hide items again so it’s ready for another round of searching and finding. Try using a timer: How fast can your child fine all the items? Faster than you? c

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January 2013 Atlanta Parent 27

COUPON

MANIA KA-CHING, KA-CHING!

ATLANTA MOMS TELL US HOW USING COUPONS HELPS STRETCH THE FAMILY BUDGET.

by Mary Beth Bishop

E

specially in these tough economic times, moms and dads are using coupons to save 50 percent or more on groceries, cleaning products and even to secure discounts on family outings.

28 Atlanta Parent January 2013

Rachael Mercer, a mother of four, uses coupons to spend an average of $40.48 per week at the grocery store on food, toiletries and cleaning supplies.

With two house payments strapping the family budget, saving is vital. Mercer began teaching her skills to others when a friend pointed out how many people in their church were struggling in the face of job loss or medical bills. Now she runs a coupon website and leads workshops on saving money.

The McDonough mom grew up in a home where coupons were saved and stored in a Strawberry Shortcake lunchbox. As a high school junior, she took over the grocery shopping when her mom went back to work. She got to keep the savings – and that made an impression.

The search for deals extends beyond the grocery store to nearly everything she does. Her family, for example, took a free trip to the World of Coca-Cola by using rewards codes printed on Coca-Cola products.

And that may have been the drink that started the whole idea of using a thing called a coupon to get something for less – or even free. Many experts, including the website grocery.com, trace the first coupons back to right here in Atlanta, where coupons were handed out in 1887 for free Coca-Cola samples.

Coupons.com named Atlanta as the top frugal city for 2011 and the two years before that as well; Atlanta residents are seven times more likely than those in other major cities to print coupons or save them onto a store loyalty card.

Why has Atlanta become such a savings mecca? The huge number of major retailers is one reason, according to Stephanie Nelson of couponmom.com, a top free site for deal hunters with more than 6 million members. Nelson tells us that the Sunday Atlanta Journal-Constitution has “as many or maybe more” atlantaparent.com

coupons than any other city relative to its population. Because of the high number of coupon users, Atlanta is a top choice for manufacturers when it comes to coupon distribution, says the mom of two who makes her home in Marietta.

Even as the hit TV show “Extreme Couponing” turns the practice into an over-the-top competition, there are plenty of parents out there who just want a way to stick to their household budgets – and afford nice things when possible. Americans in 2011 saved more than $4.6 billion by using coupons, according to figures from Inmar, which processes coupons for leading retailers. Experts say changes are on the horizon, including increased availability of coupons that can be downloaded onto mobile phones.

Aimee Brittain told Atlanta Parent that one time she gathered just the right combination of coupons to get a week’s worth of groceries for only 12 cents.

It was her daughter’s desire to try ballet that motivated Brittain, a single mom, to get serious about couponing. “I cut down on everything I possibly could, but it wasn’t enough” to cover ballet lessons, says the Fayetteville mom. She began to wonder what her late mother might have done to solve the problem. That got her thinking back to her own childhood, when the Sunday routine was “church, then lunch, then coupons.”

“The first month I saved 50 percent,” says Brittain. One week, when she had “absolutely no money,” she was able to celebrate her daughter Jordan’s birthday by using coupons and only paying 75 cents for cake mix, frosting and ice cream.

Now Jordan has traded in her ballet slippers for tumbling, and Brittain has her own couponing website.

Local couponing wizards say they save the most when they combine sales with coupons, sometimes using more than one coupon for a single item. Many stores will let you “stack” a store coupon with that of a manufacturer.

Cont’d on page 30

How to Save More n Facebook, then “like” their page in order to get deals and coupons on your news feed. n Familiarize yourself with the coupon policies at your favorite stores. Some will double savings on certain deals or accept competitors’ coupons. Some stores will let you ramp up your savings by “stacking” coupons from the store and manufacturers. And some have even been known to take a coupon that’s been expired for several days. n Find out when prices change at your favorite store. If prices change on Thursday, consider waiting for the Sunday coupons in order to maximize your savings. n Top savers must be flexible with the brands they buy, willing to try a new product if the price is right. n Pay attention to sales cycles. Some items, for example, hit their lowest price about once every three months. That’s a good time to buy multiples of things with a long shelf life. Simply having a coupon doesn’t mean the time is right to buy. n Some of the more valuable coupons are available directly from manufacturers. Call the phone numbers that are often listed on the back of the product, then ask what coupons might be available, says Mercer. “If you take a tiny bit of time and call four or five a week, you can get some high-quality coupons,” she says. n Buy multiple newspapers on days when there are a lot of coupons for things you can use. n When organizing a large number of coupons, make the categories as narrow as possible to make it easier to find what you need when you’re in the grocery aisle. For instance, bunching all the “toiletries” coupons together can result in a frantic search through a thick stack of paper. An easier way would be to have sections for “shampoo,” “soap,” etc. n If you’re buying an item online, use a search engine to check for coupon codes that might just lower your cost. n Watch the screen carefully as your sales are being totaled. Some stores will give you an item free if the cashier rings it up at the wrong price. n If you see a sale sign listing a price for multiples on an item, don’t assume you have to buy more than one to get the special price. “Ten for $10” might also mean that you can get one for $1. Don’t be afraid to ask.

ATLANTA RESIDENTS are seven times more

likely than those in other major cities to print coupons or save them onto a store loyalty card. atlantaparent.com

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 29

COUPON MANIA

For More Information:

Nelson, Brittain and Mercer offer savings advice at couponmom.com, prettyfrugaldiva. com and savingcentsably.com.

Richardson loves checking the Internet for deals. She suggests that frugal moms check out these additional sites. n fabulesslyfrugal.com n savingwithshellie.com n southernsavers.com n dealseekingmom.com n truecouponing.com n myfrugaladventures.com n faithfulprovisions.com n coupondivas.com n hotcouponworld.com n fishingfordeals.com

30 Atlanta Parent January 2013

The biggest savers also take time to search the Internet and newspapers for deals and coupons. They plan their meals based on food items that are most affordable that week. A plethora of coupon websites makes savings easier to find.

Most moms we talked to say that the couponing process takes two to three hours a week. “That seems like a lot of time,” says Kellyann Cruz, a mother of three, “but when I see how much I save, to me it’s completely worth it.” She estimates that it took her about a year to get the hang of couponing so it worked to her best advantage. “I had a lot of hits and misses,” she says. Now she often buys brand-name products for less than store-brand products used to cost.

Coupons savings, Cruz says, have helped give her the chance to stay home with her children and still stick to the family budget.

“We’re not ones who believe in putting a lot on credit cards,” says the Woodstock mom, whose children range in age from 1 to 7.

Nelson said moms can use websites like hers to spend just an hour a week planning their menus and savings. And the careful planning most likely will save them a trip

back to the store to pick up a few more items to round out dinner menus. “You might save a hundred dollars, and you’ll get the time back by not having to race back to the store where you’ll inevitably spend more,” she says.

Nelson suggests that savers keep the two or three circulars that come in the Sunday paper, filing them away with the date marked on the front, and keeping each circular for a period of three months. Nelson’s site not only allows users to find the coupons that will save them the most, but tells them which circulars have the coupons that they’ll need. Many people also choose to print coupons directly from a website.

Kids are getting involved as well, and are learning lessons in the process. Lisa Richardson of Roswell says she always involved her three children, who would head down the grocery aisle and try to look for an item listed on a coupon.

Now her kids are teenagers and young adults who know to look for deals. “They see how expensive things are,” says Richardson, who has shown her children that coupons can be a lot more fun than a deal on soap or cereal. Once she and a friend

atlantaparent.com

E D Y! IT L M N LI E O M TI

found coupons for $3-off on makeup that was already marked down 75 percent. The result was an assortment of beauty products for her daughter to share with friends. When the cashier finished subtracting, some of the items were free.

Other moms have also found fun ways to involve their kids. Mercer’s 11-year-old removes expired coupons from the family’s stash. And the group plays a game at dinner to see how much the family paid for the meal. They talk about which coupons and sales factored into the price, and how much it might have cost them to eat out at a restaurant.

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THE BIGGEST SAVERS also take time to search the Internet and newspapers for deals and coupons. They plan their meals based on food items that are most affordable that week.

The system Nelson employs on her popular website was born out of the need to find an easy way to teach couponing to her son’s third-grade class. She suggests that parents choose a dollar amount that’s meaningful to a child, and challenge them to see how much they can buy for that amount of money. Kids, for instance, might be amazed at the massive haul of items their weekly allowance can buy.

Her son, now grown, was able to find 18 products for just $3.50 suitable for donations to needy families. Nelson started her site in 2001 as a way to show shoppers how they can contribute to hunger organizations in a cost efficient way.

Brittain says her 12-year-old daughter knows the routine of finding a coupon for a favorite snack. Her daughter will hunt for a specific coupon; once found, she will add it to her mother’s pile of coupons, then jot that item down on the grocery list posted on the fridge. “She knows if it’s on sale and I have a coupon, I’ll get it,” Brittain says.

For Richardson, the savings means a chance to spread the benefits around.

“Friends give me coupons, so I’ll share with them if I get two-for-one items. It’s good karma to give back, and I also give to North Fulton Charities,” she says.

Sometimes her savings go for a date night with her husband at one of their favorite restaurants. Chances are she’ll have a coupon for the eatery, too. c atlantaparent.com

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January 2013 Atlanta Parent 31

Teenage

as a Second Language What to do when your cheerful, friendly kid morphs into a sarcastic, sullen adolescent who can’t – or won’t – talk to you.

by Jennifer A. Powell-Lunder

W

e all know by now that men are from Mars and women are from Venus. But once your kids hit their teen years, it can seem like they’re from another planet altogether. That sweet little girl who once couldn’t wait to jump off the bus and give you her after-school hug? She has suddenly morphed into a sarcastic, sullen alien who slinks straight from bus to bedroom – without even acknowledging your existence.

What can a parent do? Take time to learn “teen talk” the same way you might go about learning Spanish or French. “Teenage” is a multifaceted language. Learning the language involves interpreting both the words your teen is speaking, as well as what his body language is telling you.

Often the two do not match, which makes it difficult for parents to understand what their teens are really saying. For example, if your teens are talking to you with arms crossed, or a hand over their mouth, or feet facing the door, those might be indications that they’re not comfortable with what they’re saying. They’re likely withholding information and/or are desperate to end the conversation.

As with any language, however, it takes time and effort to correctly understand and translate – but if you take the time, it will be well worth it. The quantity and quality of the communication between teens and parents affects teen decision-making. Teens who communicate well with their parents not only make smarter, healthier life decisions, as adults they actually live longer.

A Taste of Teenage Language … and suggestions for a parent’s response.

Whatever

An expression that implies a teen may give in but is not really interested in what is being said. An attempt to be dismissive in as few words as possible. n Parental Response: Leave this alone. Your teen may be less than thrilled, but don’t let it create unnecessary controversy.

32 Atlanta Parent January 2013

And, yeah...

A phrase often used just as a teen is getting to the main point of a story. This phrase serves to deflate or minimize the importance of the main point of the story, especially when a teen is unsure of how the story will be received. n Parental Response: This is an opportunity to respond in an interested and neutral manner. “Hey, I’m interested in the rest of the story if you feel like telling me now or later.”

Fine

Reluctant consent, but not with pleasure. An intentionally vague term used when a teenager has no interest in providing further details. n Parental Response: None needed. You have made your wishes known. atlantaparent.com

I hate you

Used to convey anger at the moment. An expression meant for “shock value” in an effort to secure “alone time,” or a last-ditch attempt to get you to give in. n Parental Response: “I’m sorry you’re upset, but that isn’t going to change my answer.”

It is not what you say to your teen but how you say it that can make all the difference.

Thanks or Thanks a lot

atlantaparent.com

When said sarcastically, a simple expression of anger and/or disappointment. n Parental Response: “When you’re ready to talk to me, maybe we can come up with some other fun things to do.” Never respond sarcastically. (Of course, if your teen genuinely thanks you for something, make sure you acknowledge the good manners as well.)

Remember to remain responsive, not reactive.

Think cool, calm and collected. Your teens will not only hear what you’re trying to say, but you’re teaching them the most productive way to approach most life situations. Also, avoid the trap of asking too many questions. Don’t push. If they’re holding back, let them disclose information at their own pace. When starting a dialogue, pointed questions result in more expansive responses. (Example: “Tell me one thing you learned in school today,” rather than “How was school today?”)

Teens by nature are egocentric. They assume that the whole world is watching them and that everything they think and feel is unique to them. Your perception of your teen should take these factors into account. If their responses frustrate or anger you, calmly explain why. Anger begets anger. It is not what you say to your teen but how you say it that can make all the difference.

Of course, it may take some trial and error for parents, too. After all, it’s not easy to put up with the eye-rolling and endless “whatevers.” Remember, it’s not personal, even though at times it may feel that way. c – Dr. Jennifer A. Powell-Lunder is co-author (with Dr. Barbara R. Greenberg) of Teenage as a Second Language: A Parent’s Guide to Becoming Bilingual. The authors have set up an interactive website: talkingteenage.com.

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 33

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Fulton Carlisle Montessori School ...................404-949-0053 ........ carlislemontessori.com Children Today Montessori ...................770-817-8201 ........ childrentodaymontessori.com Crabapple Montessori School...............770-569-5200 ........ crabapplemontessori.com Cross of Life Christian Montessori ........770-475-3812 ........ colmontessori.com Discovery Montessori Academy ...........404-767-5005 ........ discoverymontessoriacademy.com First Montessori School of Atlanta ........404 252 3910......... firstmontessori.org Montessori In Town ...............................404-784-1038 ........ montessoriintown.com Montessori School of Alpharetta ...........770-667-1277 ........ montessorischoolofalpharetta.com Renaissance Montessori School ..........404-755-1915 ........ renmont.com The Children’s House at Serenbe.........770-317-4310 ........ thechildrenshouseatserenbe.com Village Montessori School.....................770-552-0834 ........ vmschool.com

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Visit www.montessori-mag.org for more information.

Our A+ Education Guide One moment she’s in grade school, and the next she’s graduating. Make the most of your child’s school years using the resources and information in our annual education guide.

36 Are You Tuned in to

your Child’s Education?

42 Encourage a Can-Do Attitude 44 iPads In, Pencils Out 48 Choosing a School 52 What’s Ahead for Charter Schools 56 Teacher Advice for Parents 60 Help Kids Get Better Grades 62 Paying for Performance 64 Get Rid of Test Stress 68 Welcome to Middle School 73 Quick, Online Learning 74 Public School Profiles 83 Guide to Private Schools 102 Get Your Preschooler to Listen 104 Sampling of Private Schools

Are You TUNED IN

to Your Child’s and Education?

School

We think we’re tuned in. We think we’re on top of things. And so many of us are always doing the best we can! But a whole lot of information and updates come at us every day. Just for fun, or for a little personal enlightenment, we’ve prepared this POP QUIZ for Atlanta metro parents who have school-age kids.

Full disclosure: This is not a quiz prepared by educational professionals, nor is our scoring process a sure or scientific thing. The hope is that some of your answers may get you thinking or at least give you cause to pat yourself on the back. Please choose one answer to each of these 15 questions.

36 Atlanta Parent January 2013

te and have a websi child’s class ur yo es Do 6. you check it? how often do a week to keep at it about once ok lo I d an s, a) Ye . myself informed t I confess I’ve s a website, bu e’ er th d ar he a) I’ve d never seen it. ning, noon an e website mor th w vie re I d b) Yes, an rt time. night. progress repo the website at c) I only check with ) do you help (or how little h uc m ow H 7. mework? my your child’s ho 50 percent of pr I obably do y, st ne ho l al a) In ork.

I child’s homew mework, and lped me with ho he er ev e on b) No fine. y turned out just 0 minutes ever u yo n ca rs for about 60-9 he ild ac ch te y m ’s at I’m th ild th wi ch so sit I k, ur or c) yo ew of m y ckles her ho 1. How man night as she ta name? need be. if lp he he to there mework when t. er my child’s ho ar a) One or two. ov d . an ok be lo ic ed ys us ne m wa if t al d) I u coun w it with him b) Three, if yo ed it and revie ish n? fin s tio ha es qu t ec bj c) Is this a trick d I know the su her. all of them an about his teac d) I can name is complaining ild ch ur s.

Yo he 8. each teac do?

What do you d to talk to the r? fo d an one and deman st . ph .T e .C th .R up C ck a) Pi 2. What does Treasures iately. ad Children’s principal immed ild.

Tests y nc a) Children Re te pe acher for my ch om C te w ed ne nc a t re fe es Re qu Re there b) st if Te rn n lea b) CriterionComprehensio her parents to g ot , in e m ad so Re ll k al ac Ca lo ic c) be oked into c) Crit riculum Tr ue that should Readiness Cur th the wi might be an iss ce en er d) Centralized nf request a co quired when then perhaps ation is not re rm fo in s? of ol e r. ec ho teache 3. Which pi that there ia public sc ild once again child in Georg Remind my ch you register a d) no matter th wi al de certificate. fficult people to di . e ar ce en a) Child’s birth sid s/re in life. oof of addres where you go b) Family’s pr y number. rit cu Se al ci s. rd c) Child’s So d dental reco ing, vision an d) Child’s hear t hools do no at private sc 4. Students : have to necessarily teria. fe ca e th in t a) Ea ized tests. rd da b) Take stan e th staff. c) Be polite to s. rm ifo d) Wear un lly day is genera y minutes a sureea pl ’s 5. How man ild d for your ch de en m m co re other reading time? too busy with use my kid is ca be , g. er in ev N a) d read school-require other activities and ops and with pt la r ou on sy bu r fun so fo re st e’ ju W b) reads at none of us technology th n anymore. reading, seve t two hours of as le at ire qu c) We re e, if possible. days a week. a day and mor es ut in m 30 t d) At leas

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

a u to help with rent asks yo ade gr ird th e 9. A room pa tir rty for the en pa ely s e’ lik t in nt os le m Va Your plus faculty).

(92 students ll frost response: es that you wi ke 100 cupcak ba arts he to r le ffe litt O th a) wi and decorate with pink icing d know and cupids. rent who calle ine. Let the pa ng so hi et m b) Firmly decl so r fo y too busy that you are wa . us with frivolo or cookies in some punch nd tually se ac to n r ca ffe c) O y you t there’s no wa your child, bu rge show up. akes plus a la e the 100 cupc nd te at ll wi u d) Offer to mak yo table tray; say Valentine fruit and vege games and a e th an pl d supplies. l al the party an e ut you will contrib h ic wh r fo t, craf ’s at your child u volunteer 10. Why do yo so my school? r’s good side t on the teache . es ad gr a) I want to ge od ld stars and go d I want kid will get go do our part, an to ed ne l al we ion and ve at lie uc be ed I s b) that I value hi ow kn to ild my ch s. ake it a succes want to help m love to make I d an ed feel need place to bring c) It’s good to a I always have so , es ak pc cu r them. m my child fo to be away fro d) I can’t bear day. seven hours a ’s school eck your child 11. Do you ch online? rd ca rt d repo progress an s possible. realize that wa en ev ’t ure dn di I a) No, but couldn’t fig on the website go to ed tri I b) up. e it, so I gave and out how to us child’s grades y m w vie re to st be y m do c) I ek. ast once a we ed progress at le who doesn’t ne t en ud st dy ea st a is ild ch . him d) My checking up on me constantly ”? hool calendar “balanced sc a is t t ou ha W ab . r 12 ssion fo school is in se a) That’s when in a year and ys da ek we e th t of 50 percent of her 50 percen ot e th r “off” fo students have a year. g its weekdays in diversity amon has excellent at b) A school th faculty. he students and many days as t is absent as en ud st a n he W c) d is present. r to year-roun y people refe d) It’s one wa schools.

s ols have dres neral, do scho 13. Why, in ge not codes? riately and do s dress approp kid re su en To a) learning. lps the distract from s in uniform he students dres e th g in av H b) entrate. ground. teachers conc pants on the n’t wear their ca ts en r” ud ne st c) So ey on “desig rents save mon d) To help pa clothes. e with communicat e best way to 14. What is th teacher? on your child’s r after 6 p.m. lling a teache ca in ve lie . be ns I oo a) tern on Sunday af ionery that weekdays or on pretty stat s te no n te rit -w nd ha nd se I b) ers. my child deliv l. ai k them to em c) By school and as nt office at the . ox lb d) Call the fro mai the teacher’s put a note in , t curriculum to learn abou go u yo ia n rg ca eo 15. Where d more for G gulations an rules and re schools? principal. k the school’s unications. a) I simply as office of comm hool district’s sc e . th ll gs in ca I th b) sort of to know those ite: bs we n c) I never need io at Dept. of Educ ia rg eo G e th d) On s. doe.k12.ga.u

U HOW DID YO d fin To E? R O SC e w ts in out the po ch ea to ed gn si as ur answer and yo se ea pl e, or sc l tota .

38 ge turn to Pa

– This purely un-scientific and fully subjective just-for-fun quiz was concocted by Julie Bookman and Caroline Ward.

atlantaparent.com

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 37

Are You TUNED IN

to Your Child’s and Education?

School

“Tuned In” Quiz Scoring: 1. a=1, b=3, c=0, d=2 2. a=0, b-3, c=2, d=1 3. a=0, b=0, c=3, d=0 4. a=1, b=3, c=0, d=2 5. a=1, b=0, c=2, d=3 6. a=3, b=0, c-1, d=2 7. a=0, b=1, c=2, d=3 8. a=0, b=1, c=3, d=2 9. a=3, b=0, c=1, d=2*** 10. a=0, b=3, c=2, d=o 11. a=1, b=0, c=3, d=2 12. a=0, b=0, c=1, d=3 13. a=3, b=2, c=0, d-1 14. a=0, b=1, c=3, d=2 15. a=1, b=2, c=0, d=3 ***A note on Question 9: Surprise! We gave the top score to the parent making 100 cupcakes, not to the parent who goes “whole hog.” Remember, there could be another parent who might like to help out; share the duties, share the joy!

45 Points Top score! Perfect score! You scored a “3” on each of the 15 questions. Will you please come work for Atlanta Parent? It’s just that we’ve never, ever in our almost-30year history known a parent to be entirely perfect. (Then again, this is hardly a scientific, objective or scientifically proven conclusion.

There may still be a slight chance that you are not perfect, so please don’t let this score go to your head).

31-44 Points You get a gold star, because you’re on top of plenty of stuff when it comes to your child’s education. But if you are indeed the one who baked 100 cupcakes for the last class party, next time around take a deep breath and go ahead and ask someone else to make 50 of them! You deserve it!

16-30 Points You are a creative parent who thinks a little outside the box. Give yourself a gold star for that!

0-15 Points There may be a little wiggle room for improvement when it comes to the nitty-gritty details, but even you get a silver star because you bothered to take our quiz – which shows how much you care!

38 Atlanta Parent January 2013

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

The Davis Academy Grows Great Minds, Strong Spirits and Big Hearts

Join us for an Open House on Sunday, January 13, 2013 from 10 a.m. - noon.

For Open House RSVP or to schedule a private tour: Lisa Mirsky Director of Admissions 678.527.3300

Proud Affiliate of:

www.davisacademy.org

Atlanta’s Reform Jewish Day School

atlantaparent.com

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 39

Creative.

Nurturing.

Unpretentious.

For students who need extra help in reading • GAC Accredited • GA Special Needs Scholarship • SMALL CLASSES • 1st – 12th Grade • College or Tech Prep • Wilson Reading Program Email or call today to schedule your personal tour Kim.Wigington@BrookwoodChristian.com

678-401-5855

4728 Wood Street Acworth 30101 At the corner of North Main St. and Wood Street, north of the Hwy 92 overpass

www.brookwoodchristian.com

40 Atlanta Parent January 2013

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

EDUCATION 2,607

BY THE NUMBERS eleven Number of public schools in Georgia.

180

The minimum number of school days required by Georgia law.

Tons a student with a 12-pound backpack will lift and carry in the course of a school year (based on lifting it 10 times per day in a 180-day school year).

730

173

480,000 Number of private schools in Metro Atlanta.

$9,685 AVERAGE AMOUNT SPENT PER STUDENT IN GEORGIA.

Sources: U.S Census Bureau; Color Census 2000 - Crayola; Backpack Safety America; National Center for Education Statistics; American School Bus Council.

atlantaparent.com

[ Focus on Education ]

100 Percentage of public schools with Internet access.

The average annually salary increase a public school teacher makes over a private school teacher.

}

Estimated number of school buses in the U.S.

$10,000

NUMBER OF CRAYONS A CHILD HAS WORN DOWN BY HIS 10th BIRTHDAY.

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 41

42 Atlanta Parent January 2013

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

imagine Your Child?

What do you want for

IMAGINE A SCHOOL WHERE YOUR CHILD LEARNS…

• By Individual Instruction • A Love of Learning An Authentic • To Think Outside the Box AMI Accredited • Independence Montessori School • Respect for Others • A Solid Foundation • Foreign Language, Music, Cooking, Gardening and More HALF OR FULL DAY, YEAR ROUND PROGRAMS

Open House: JAN 26, 10am-3pm

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

Montessori School of Cumming 4601 Post Rd., Cumming 30040

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

404-634-5777

770-205-6773

770-667-1277

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

• Small school environment for students with learning differences and special needs • Academically rigorous elementary/ middle school classrooms • Academic/life skills middle and high school classrooms • SB10 approved; scholarships and other programs available to help with tuition costs.

• Tutoring year round; academic summer session available • Rolling admissions; open house by appt.

atlantaparent.com

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 43

iPads In, Pencils Out AN EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY PRIMER

Sweet Apple Elementary School

by Sherry V. Crawley

T

oday’s schoolchildren will not remember life without email, text messaging and Facebook. In a world in which we are all expected to take care of business faster and smarter at all turns, both private and public schools are integrating technology in every aspect of education. They see it as critical to preparing students for tomorrow’s workplace.

“The classroom walls are coming down,” says Hoke Wilcox, an instructional technology specialist at Kennesaw State University.

“Technology is very much a part of children’s culture now. Teachers are adapting to a population that wants to have ‘anytime, anywhere’ learning.”

A set of technology standards based on national guidelines were implemented in Georgia’s public schools in 2011, encouraging schools to make technology a part of the routine. Technology is no longer a standalone discipline, but rather an integral part of instruction, allowing for cross-curricular, real-world learning.

Accomplishing this seamlessly is where the art and science of teaching begins. Across Georgia, schools are trying new techniques, putting the latest tools into the hands of students, and working all the while to help parents keep up.

The message from educators: Talk to your kids, try something new and support your children’s school and teachers, who are working to grow good digital citizens.

44 Atlanta Parent January 2013

[ Focus on Education ]

BYOT: Bring Your Own Technology It would be impossible for a school to continuously supply students with up-todate laptops or the latest tablets. Educators are finding ways to leverage the tools their students already have to bring technology into the classroom.

Heather Temske, a fourth-grade teacher at Sweet Apple Elementary in Fulton County, chose to be part of a pilot program that allows her students to bring their own technology to school. Students with laptops, tablets and smartphones are sharing with their classmates, creating a collaborative and connected environment.

“It’s amazing what you can do on a phone these days. Having connected devices is great for research, sharing and communicating,” Temske says.

Her students use technology regularly; from writing fables and then making Claymation movies of their stories to getting writing advice live via Skype from an author.

Notes Temske: “It allows them to show what they have learned in non-traditional ways.” atlantaparent.com

Goodbye Textbooks, Hello iPads Some schools are testing the idea of replacing costly and quickly outdated textbooks with tablet devices, allowing greater flexibility to both teachers and students.

The seventh- and eighth-grade students at St. Thomas More, a K-8 private school in Decatur, are not using textbooks this year.

Instead, they all have iPads purchased with grant funds.

Heather Kloer, the school’s computer teacher and technology coordinator, explains that teachers create units by putting together a digital package of photos and videos, podcasts and articles, website links and presentations. Students wirelessly download the entire unit at school and then have access to everything they need wherever they go.

Some schools are testing the idea of replacing costly and quickly outdated textbooks with tablet devices, allowing greater flexibility to both teachers and students.

“Having all the information on the iPad has made it much easier to study,” says Erin Egan, an eighth-grader at St. Thomas More. “With all the resources that are available, I can look something up or check a PowerPoint if I don’t understand or want to know more. When we relied on textbooks and paper materials, I would have to wait until I could access a computer to look further into something.”

From connecting with students in their own school and around the world to learning the ins and outs of cyber etiquette, Kloer believes that using iPads and other technology is essential to prepare kids for the future.

“The genie is out of the lamp,” she says.

“These kids have technology-rich lives.

They want to be active creators of their own learning.”

Online Classes Some 12,000 Georgia students are turning to “virtual learning,” by taking online courses for school credit.

The virtual school (gavirtuallearning. org), for grades 9-12, lets students take up to three full credit hours per semester to supplement their regular classes at school.

For example, a student who attends a atlantaparent.com

school that doesn’t offer a specific foreign language can often take a specific course online and submit the grade for their high school transcript.

Charter virtual schools also are also starting to catch on. Both the state-run and the charter programs offer webcasts with Georgia-certified teachers. Studnets interact via both phone and email. The state-run program has some flexibility; students can view a webcast that’s part of an online course when convenient – not only at one specific time and date.

The Writing’s on the Wall

All in the Family

Similar to a social network like Facebook, Edmodo is a “walled” virtual community that allows open communication between parents, teachers and students. Edmodo.com.

So how can parents, many of the VCR and even cassette tape generation, help kids excel when they are scrambling to keep up themselves?

Parents should talk to their kids to find out the technology they need to know in order to help support their kids’ learning process, says Coleman Cooper, a ninthgrader at the Gwinnett School of Math, Science and Technology.

“My mom is always on the parent portal to check my grades,” he says. “Our grades update daily. Sometimes it’s a little frustrating that she knows every little assignment I do, but I’m happy she is aware of what I’m doing in school.”

Jim Verrecchia of Acworth has six kids, and two attend Cobb County schools. He says he sometimes feels overwhelmed by emails and other electronic communication from his children’s many teachers – and sometimes frustrated by the range of digital tools being used by educators.

“Kids today are lucky to have these tools at their fingertips,” he says, “but these things don’t replace human relationships.”

Some schools are addressing this divide, bringing parents and educators together in person to talk about life online.

The Atlanta International School, a private school in Buckhead with 1,100 students from preschool through 12th grade, has developed a series of digital citizenship workshops just for parents.

Rachel Hovington, head of curriculum and professional development for AIS, says the optional classes are designed to help parents become more comfortable with the deep role technology plays in their children’s lives.

“Parents share strategies and ideas and realize they are not the only ones dealing with the issues associated with technology use,” she says. “We want them to feel more comfortable and realize it is their responsibility to have an ongoing conversation with their child.”

Cont’d on page 46

[ Focus on Education ]

Technology is quickly becoming a part of almost every aspect of the educational process. Here are a few frequently used terms: n BYOT: Bring Your Own Technology Children are encouraged to bring devices from home to increase the number of tools being used in the classroom and to promote collaborative learning.

n Edmodo

n Flip Teaching or Flipping Lengthy in-class lectures are going by the wayside. Kids are being asked to watch videos at home to learn basic concepts, and classroom time is used for more personal interaction, including tutoring and homework help.

n NETS-S The National Educational Technology Standards for Students, adopted by the Georgia State Board of Education in 2011.

n Net-texts.com Used by teachers at St. Thomas More, this website allows teachers to create virtual units and pull materials from all over the Web that students can download and access on their own.

n Parent Portal Almost all school systems now have a portal, giving parents access to grades, lesson plans and a host of other resources to support the learning process.

n Prezi Just one of many alternatives to PowerPoint that teachers and kids are using today to create more interactive presentations.

n Skype You’ve probably heard of this Web tool that features video chat functions. With a special site just for the classroom, students can interact with people all over the world. education.skype.com

n BrainPOP A free kids’ website full of educational games and resources. The site uses quirky characters to introduce new topics and illustrate complex concepts. brainpop.com

n Smart Board An electronic whiteboard that’s interactive with a computer and projector. Schools are increasingly replacing the traditional chalkboard with a Smart Board.

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 45

iPads In, Pencils Out

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[ Focus on Education ]

In our increasingly connected world, technology is what unites the universe.

Wilcox says he believes that being ready for the real world is what makes exposure to technology in the educational environment so important.

“In the workplace, just about every job uses technology. You can’t escape it,” he says. “In order to prepare our students to move forward, we need to expose them to these things in a responsible way.”

Kloer at St. Thomas More believes the use of instructional technology can help nurture a child’s future in unexpected ways.

Last year, fourth-graders at the school created a relationship with a school in Uganda. “Our kids raised money to build a well because the kids there had to walk for two hours to bring water to school.”

The students at St. Thomas More used their digital and artistic talents to create materials to promote the fundraiser; they practiced their writing skills while communicating virtually with the children in Uganda; they gained valuable experience working with others to reach a common goal.

Clearly, Georgia’s students are not the only direct beneficiaries of the exponential growth of technology in education. New websites, teacher-focused blogs and social networking are helping teachers create a global community.

“The community is beyond what a couple of teachers in your school do and share,” says Sweet Apple’s Temske. “We have been these little islands, but now we can truly collaborate with other teachers.” c atlantaparent.com

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January 2013 Atlanta Parent 47

CHOOSING A SCHOOL FOR YOUR CHILD This is the part when you get to do the homework.

by Mary Beth Bishop

C

hoosing a school is one of the biggest decisions a parent will face. With public charter schools in the mix along with private schools, magnet programs and the option of homeschooling, parents certainly have plenty of choices and much to consider.

We talked to moms who weighed their options and came up with different answers and perspectives. But they all agreed on one thing: Before you look at schools, consider the traits that make your child unique. Some children need structure. Some students thrive in smaller settings. A school might be great for one child and not quite right for another.

Rena Pearson turned to homeschooling when she was seeking an environment that would allow her daughter to work at a high academic level.

“She was already reading at 4, and she was very math-minded and very scienceminded,” says Pearson about daughter Emma, almost 14. “I just felt like she wouldn’t have been challenged enough in a 48 Atlanta Parent January 2013

classroom setting, so we decided to do our own thing.” Pearson was less than thrilled with some of the things she had heard about public schools near her old neighborhood in Cherokee County. (The family today lives in East Cobb County.)

For different reasons, homeschooling made sense for her younger daughter Sarah, now 11, who wasn’t ready to read as early as some of her peers. Homeschooling, says Pearson, allowed Sarah to develop at her own pace. “She’s an amazing reader now,” says the mom, who thinks that at another school her youngest might have been held back or given a label as “the kid who can’t read.”

Pearson looks for inspiration to her own childhood and the memory of her brother who struggled in school despite the fact that he was smart. “Nobody explained things in a way he could understand,” she recalls.

“Nobody valued his strengths.”

Now, each of her own children has time to follow their passions. Emma loves cooking and books that connect science to the kitchen; Sarah loves to sew. As for

[ Focus on Education ]

Pearson, she enjoys the extra time with her girls. Most kids, she says, leave home on the big yellow bus just when they are at the age parents can have the most fun doing activities with them.

Whether parents prefer a public, private or homeschool setting, experts and moms agree that the checklist for the ideal classroom is different for each student. “There’s a lot of wisdom in knowing how to match your child with a school,” says Jeff Jackson, president of the Georgia Independent School Association (GISA). Some children, for instance, respond to different styles of teaching, says Jackson, whose organization includes 160 schools across the state.

“Each parent should look at a school with a different lens,” says Jennifer McGurn, director of Lower School Admissions for Pace Academy, an Atlanta private school.

“Think about your child and their needs and wants. We’re fortunate in Atlanta that there are many great public and private schools, and they’re all a little bit different.”

One key, she says, is multiple visits to the atlantaparent.com

school. Watch the teacher-student interaction, she says, adding that many families visit more than once to get a good sense of the school. While “it may be time-consuming on the front end,” she says, getting several looks at the school in action will pay off in making an educated decision.

Parents should remember that even in our virtual society, “there’s no substitute for physically walking around and getting a feel for the school,” says Jackson.

Travis Bull of Sandy Springs looked at five private schools, complete with tours, before her oldest started school at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School in Atlanta.

She sensed a nurturing environment at Holy Innocents’ that gave the school the edge.

Bull also liked the smaller environment and the student-teacher ratio.

The mother of two teens began the search because she wasn’t pleased with what she had heard about the public elementary schools in her vicinity.

The family’s experience proves that even a brother and sister might find their needs best met at different schools as they grow older.

Bull’s son Austin is now an eighth-grader at Holy Innocents’, but daughter Alexandra chose

atlantaparent.com

Parents should remember that even in our virtual society, “there’s no substitute for physically walking around and getting a feel for the school.”

– Jeff Jackson, president of the Georgia Independent School Association (GISA)

to transfer last year to the public Riverwood International Charter School, where she’s now in the 10th grade. She wanted to experience more diversity, both racial and economic, before heading to a large college.

Mom reports that the family is pleased with Alexandra’s experience at Riverwood, while Austin is “happy and content” at Holy Innocents’.

In addition to considering your child’s unique needs and learning style, think about what’s important to you in a school, parents and experts advise.

Laura Calloway is pleased that her 8-year-old son Clifton gets to spend ample time on music, art, physical education and Spanish at The Main Street Academy, a

[ Focus on Education ]

charter school in College Park. Her secondgrader has two electives each day.

“I’m very disappointed that the government isn’t paying more attention to music and art and P.E.,” says Calloway, who says Main Street offers more of these educational components than her son would have had in a regular public school.

Choosing a school was fairly easy for Calloway. When it came time for her son to start his education, she had already become familiar with Main Street through parents she knew from her son’s daycare. She also knew members of the school’s governing board. That familiarity with school leaders, she says, gave her peace of mind.

Cont’d on page 50

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 49

Find out who you are, and become that person.

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gallowayschool.org 50 Atlanta Parent January 2013

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[ Focus on Education ]

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[ Focus on Education ]

January 2013    Atlanta Parent 51

Wesley International Academy

Charter Schools:

The Pros, The Cons, The Future

by Rachel Roberts Quartarone

A

decade ago, few people in metro Atlanta knew what a charter school was. However, in recent years, these tuition-free, state-funded schools that operate independently of public schools have been at the forefront of local education debates.

Georgia voters went to the polls last November to determine whether a special commission appointed by the governor, and not just local school districts, could authorize charter schools. On the ballot: a state constitutional amendment that would reinstate a charter school commission first formed in 2008. The commission, which had the power to authorize charter schools that were denied by their local districts, had been struck down by the Georgia Supreme Court in 2011. The court ruled that only local boards of education could decide to fund and open public charter schools. After a heated campaign, Georgia voters approved 52 Atlanta Parent January 2013

the amendment, which means the state commission is to be reformed this month.

Opponents of the amendment were concerned that a state commission would diminish local control of schools, among other issues, but supporters of the amendment were relieved. Schools such as Heritage Preparatory Academy in Southwest Atlanta felt their future depended on the passage of the amendment.

The charter school, which focuses on at-risk middle-school students, was authorized by the former state commission after being denied by Atlanta Public Schools.

Proponents say charter schools offer more choice for parents who feel that their child is not best served by his neighborhood public school or a magnet program or theme school within his school district. [ Focus on Education ]

“Had the amendment failed, there was no guarantee that we could have continued,” said Patti Ghezzi, a communications consultant who represents the school. Ghezzi also serves on the board of The Museum School of Avondale Estates, another charter school initially approved by the former state charter schools commission. After the court decision in 2011, the school had to reapply for approval from the DeKalb County School System, which had originally denied its charter application. n Support for Charters

Proponents say charter schools offer more choice for parents who feel that their child may not be best served by his neighborhood public school or a magnet program or theme school within his school district. Even though they receive public funds, charter schools are guided by the objectives of their charter and a board of directors. Many charter schools can’t offer as many services as public schools, such as transportation, extracurricular sports programs or extensive special education.

Cont’d on page 54

atlantaparent.com

What is a Charter School?

Charter schools are tuition-free, publicly-funded schools that operate independently from the local school system.

They are administered through their charter, which states how the school will carry out its mission and sets performance goals. A board of parents and community members oversees the charter school.

Like public schools, charter schools have defined attendance zones. Some communities have several charter schools , while others have none.

In Georgia, there are two types of charter schools: startup charters, founded by parents, nonprofit organizations or community members; and conversions, former traditional schools that apply for charter status to operate with more independence from local and state boards. A traditional school system also can gain charter status under Georgia law, and convert its schools to charter school status.

Conversion charter schools typically operate more like traditional schools than startups. Most startup charter schools are approved first by the local school board and then by the state. If a local school board denies a petition, the state’s soon-to-be-appointed charter schools commission will have the power to override that decision. Previously,

Ivy Preparatory Academy

charter schools applicants could appeal decisions to the state Department of Education. The new commission also will be able to consider initial applications for charter schools that would have a statewide attendance zone. For charter approval, organizers must show they will offer a different educational experience from a traditional school.

Charter schools use the same tax dollars as traditional schools and must serve students with special needs.

For a list of charter schools in your neighborhood, see the Georgia Department of Education’s website, gadoe. org/External-Affairs-and-Policy/Charter-Schools/Pages/ Approved-Charter-Schools.aspx.

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[ Focus on Education ]

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January 2013 Atlanta Parent 53

Charter Schools Charter schools also can have different instruction models. For example, Ivy Preparatory Academy, in Gwinnett County, was the state’s first all-girls public charter school. Its charter was denied by the county school system but then approved by the former state commission. Ivy Prep has expanded to DeKalb County and now operates K-7 academies for both boys and girls.

“Every parent should have the opportunity to educate their child in a high-performing school,” says Ivy PrepGwinnett’s principal, Victoria Hudson.

Ivy Prep offers an extended school day and a college prep curriculum tailored to the learning style of girls. The school has often found itself at odds with Gwinnett County Schools, although it is now one of the county’s highest performing schools.

When the school’s charter renewal is up in 2014, it will likely petition the new state commission. For Hudson, the amendment means security for her school.

While proponents of the amendment depicted local districts as being unsupportive of charter schools, some argue that it isn’t the case.

Allen Mueller, Executive Director of Innovation, at Atlanta Public Schools, is encouraged by the ways that traditional schools and charter schools within his system are working together. Atlanta Public Schools has three new charter schools opening next year. “The problem with large bureaucracies is that they tend to protect the status quo. I do think that charter schools can do very positive things, but so can traditional schools,” he says.

Part of Mueller’s job is to build partnerships between the charter and traditional schools within Atlanta Public Schools so that they can share best practices.

By working together, the hope is that all students within the district will benefit. n Opposition to Charters

Opponents to the amendment contend that an authorizing commission set up by the state impedes local control. Erica Jong, whose children attend Wesley International Academy, an Atlanta Public Schools charter school founded in 2007, shares the concerns of many educators and parents about the state approving charter schools. “I did not appreciate the deceptive wording of the amendment,” she says. “A vote ‘no’ was not a vote against charter schools. I am a huge supporter of charter schools; I just believe that local control is best.”

Some school administrators believe that charter schools could take away money and resources from local districts that are already 54 Atlanta Parent January 2013

Heritage Preparatory Academy

Some school administrators believe that charter schools could take away money and resources from local districts that are already struggling with reduced budgets.

struggling with reduced budgets, and could lead to education shortcomings for kids in public schools.

Other critics point out that charter schools are not required to hire state-certified teachers, provided they meet the outcomes set forth in their charter. This means that teachers with little or no experience could be hired, possibly affecting the quality of education for students.

Hudson, principal at Ivy Prep, does not see that as valid criticism. “We are looking for skilled educators who love kids. If a science teacher who used to be a chemist has a passion for teaching, I don’t see anything wrong with hiring someone like that,” she says.

Plenty of charter schools opponents fear that a lack of local oversight could lead to more poorly organized charter schools as well as for-profit education companies entering the state, resulting in a lower quality education for the charter students.

The state commission it to be made up of seven members recommended by the governor, lieutenant governor and speaker of the House of Representatives and approved by the state Board of Education.

Mueller, who supervises the charter approval process for Atlanta Public Schools, believes that the state commission will

[ Focus on Education ]

benefit those who seek to open charter schools serving multiple districts, but worries that it will limit collaboration within school districts. “We have daily conversations with the charter schools we have authorized. If any problems arise, we own those together.”

It would be more difficult, he notes, to build a relationship with a state commissioned school within a local district. n When Charters Fail

While charter schools can be highly successful, sometimes they simply don’t work. There are numerous and complex reasons for failure; inadequate school leadership is often cited as one reason charter schools don’t make it.

“Since each charter school has its own independent, nonprofit board, they carry the brunt of the responsibility for a school’s failure. If the board fails to properly oversee the school’s academic leader or if they fail to keep a proper eye on finances, things will go south pretty quickly,” Mueller says. Tech High, a charter school within Atlanta Public Schools, closed at the end of last school year. The board will vote this month on the potential closure of Atlanta Prep Academy.

“It’s very hard to start a charter school and keep it going,” Ghezzi adds. Her longtime work with charter schools inspired her to choose one for her kindergartner this year.

Ghezzi’s daughter attends the International Community School in DeKalb County. “It takes so much skill to run a charter school,” she says.

Finances play a huge role. “Charters are funded at about 74 percent of what traditional schools are funded at, so this is challenging and requires creativity atlantaparent.com

and extremely effective management of resources,” says Kelly Cadman, vice president of school services with the Georgia Charter Schools Association. Her organization works with charter schools to provide training and support. “Highly successful charter schools have a strong school culture that is powerful, purposeful, and pervasive. They also have the commitment of all stakeholders – parents, leadership as well as the community.” n Predicting the Future

On both sides of the debate, very few believe charter schools will eventually replace public school districts, because many of those schools have strong parental support and do a fine job educating students.

In fact, there’s already a “middle ground” between a charter school and a traditional public school. Several metro area school districts operate as charter school districts.

Charter districts are approved by the Georgia Department of Education and will not be handled by the re-established commission, which will only approve individual school charters. Decatur City Schools and Marietta City Schools were among the first to receive charter system status in 2008; they are currently up for renewal. Fulton County Schools recently became the state’s newest charter district.

More information: n doe.k12.ga.us/ExternalAffairs-and-Policy/CharterSchools/Pages/default.aspx n gacharters.org n publiccharters.org

It’s important to understand that individual schools within a charter school districts do not operate as independent charter schools. These schools operate as traditional public schools, but they have more flexibility when it comes to instruction, class size and governance. The schools are still guided by district administrators, their superintendent and an elected school board.

Like independent charter schools, they still must meet Georgia Performance Standards.

“For us, and many other school districts, it has been a good process to go through.

We have been able to sit down with the community and have a discussion about what the community wants and needs,” says Courtney Burnett, Legislative and Community Liaison with City of Decatur Schools. In Decatur, each of its eight schools is governed by a school leadership

team made up of teachers, parents, administrators and community members. A system charter leadership team helps make decisions for the district as a whole.

By 2015, all Georgia schools systems will need to decide whether they want to be a charter school system, an IE2 (a program in which districts contract with the state to increase student performance) or a status quo district. Many systems are considering the charter route.

As for independent charters, supporters and opponents don’t expect an onslaught of new schools, chiefly because of the hefty challenges of starting one.

“It’s very hard to write a good charter – and it should be,” Mueller says. He hopes that the commission will carefully review the charter applications and apply the same standards that local school districts do.

Only one thing is certain about the future of charter schools – they’ll continue to be a hot topic for educators and parents. c –Rachel Roberts Quartarone is a freelance writer who lives in Atlanta with her husband and two children. One son attends a traditional public school, while the other attends a public charter school.

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1

[ Focus on Education ]

10/11/12 2:11 PM January 2013 Atlanta Parent 55

Because the Teacher Said So!

W

hile there are many variables that affect the pursuit of success, there are two that any parent would be well advised to instill in their child: a) the ability to listen and understand and b) the willingness to give a “good” effort following that understanding. This will be true at any level from childhood to adult.

Also, everyone – and I mean everyone, especially children – needs the proper amount of rest, sufficient exercise and healthy nutrition. Again, no excuses. Do the research (library, Internet, experts in the field). Find what is correct for your child and create a consistent, habit-forming environment.

– J. O’Donnell, PhD, physical education teacher at Henderson Mill Elementary School, DeKalb County Schools

E

schew the thesaurus and purchase instead The Synonym Finder by J.I. Rodale for your budding writer. This 1,361-page resource is invaluable!

– Mark Lawton Thomas, sixth-grade gifted language arts, Sutton Middle School, Buckhead

The best advice I could give parents is to give their children independence. At 5 and 6 years old, kids are capable of much more than you realize.

– Mary Johnson, kindergarten teacher, Midvale Elementary IB Primary Years Programme School, Tucker

P

W

e asked teachers across the metro area to give us their “best advice to parents.” Thanks to all the teachers who responded.

The most common advice we received: “Allow your child to make mistakes so they can learn from those mistakes,” and “Please don’t do your child’s homework.”

Here’s a selection of the best advice we received.

56 Atlanta Parent January 2013

ush for consistent involvement throughout high school in the arts or in school clubs. Lay off the idea that a student must take all the AP classes offered. This evidence of consistency is at least equally compelling to colleges and employers.

– John Brandhorst, fine arts teacher, Grady High School, Atlanta

F

or high school, I would advise that parents stay informed about what their children are studying. Ask your kids what is going on in each class. Be sure you have a syllabus from each teacher and know how to contact the teacher via email. I constantly send emails to individuals and to the entire class. Many high school teachers have websites, and our school system has real-time access to daily grades. Use these tools and stay informed is my advice to parents.

– Dan Smith, social studies teacher for grades 9-12, Centennial High, Roswell

One of the worst mistakes a parent can make is doing everything for their child. Please realize the importance of helping your child become responsible.

– Toni Samuelu, kindergarten teacher, Shallowford Falls Elementary, Marietta

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

My best advice to parents is to admit it when you make a mistake and apologize when you are wrong. It is important for children to see that adults mess up from time to time and are not afraid to apologize and make amends when they do!

– Jennie Paulsen, social studies teacher, seventh and eighth grades, St. Martin’s Episcopal School, Atlanta

Never threaten or promise anything that you cannot deliver.

Stay true to your word.

– Patti Pitoscia, Dean of Students, St. Martin’s Episcopal School, Atlanta

T

he best advice I can give parents is to take your child outside and let them explore their world. Let them dig in the dirt, look under rocks, collect leaves, count bugs, trace shadows, etc. The more opportunities you give a child to explore, the more questions they will ask, and the more questions they ask, the more they learn!

– Kelly Bodner, math and science teacher, grades 3-5, Russell Elementary School, Smyrna

R

ead, read, read! Children should read about what interests them. Read about the seasons, animals and sports. Read labels, signs and price tags, too! Writing is important for children as well. Children can keep a journal, where thoughts are written down. It’s important for children to write about their interests and experiences. Whatever career choice your child makes, your child will definitely have to read and write on the job!

– Dorinda Crawford, first-grade teacher, Ison Springs Elementary, Sandy Springs

Know that 99 percent of teachers want to do nothing more than help your child learn and grow. Keep this in the back of your mind when receiving emails, notes or calls that may not be what you want to hear.

– Devi Knapp, art educator, Greenfield Hebrew Academy, Atlanta

E

xpose your child/children to a variety of diverse and cultural activities. Go to the High Museum of Art, experience an event that focuses on another culture, or try a variety of restaurants to experience different types of food. Wide exposure is essential if we want our children to become productive citizens in our global society.

– Aish J. Burchfield, fifth-grade teacher, Stoneview Elementary, DeKalb County Schools Cont’d on page 58

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[ Focus on Education ]

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 57

Because the Teacher Said So!

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chools and classrooms can be harbors for germs. Teachers clean the students’ desks each day, but we cannot control the spread of germs. Make sure they practice good personal hygiene such as washing hands and bathroom manners.

– Brad Daniell, eight-grade science teacher, Peachtree Charter Middle School, DeKalb County

M

y best advice to parents would be to allow their middle school students to take ownership of their schoolwork. So many times parents want to make things easier for their children by talking to the teacher on their child’s behalf. Allow your child to get a “0” for a forgotten homework assignment. Allow your child to fail a quiz or test because he or she didn’t prepare adequately for it. Middle School is the best time to learn these lessons. Also, know that we are on your side. We want what’s best for your child, too!

– Laura Lewis, middle school math, St. Martin’s Episcopal School, Atlanta, DeKalb County

T

ake time every day to talk to your children about their day! Ask them about their schoolwork, their activities, recess, friends – and tell them about your day, too. They may only want to talk about the good things, but you should also encourage them to tell you about the things that weren’t so good. Then, together, you can plan ways that they can improve, make better choices, or set goals.

– Jaine Punjabi, third-grade teacher, Henderson Mill Elementary, DeKalb County Schools

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Don’t be afraid to let your children be angry with you. If we expect our children to be kind and considerate, then we need to teach them kindness and consideration by example.

Children do not just “pick up” good manners and habits. They need to be taught.

– Paula M. Pranger, owner of Peachtree Etiquette and teacher of character development (grades K-5) at Alpharetta Christian Academy

C

hildren learn to write by writing; however, they also learn to write by reading. Encourage your child to read different genres such as mystery, poetry, realistic fiction, science fiction, fantasy, fiction, or nonfiction. Allow your child opportunities to read editorials and magazines. The more your child is exposed to different types of writing the better they become at their own writing.

– Charisse Barnes-Ferraro, seventh-grade language arts teacher, Inman Middle School, Atlanta Public Schools

Set clear expectations and guidelines, and be sure to be consistent with your follow-through.

It is important to help children make choices on their own and learn to handle natural consequences of these choices.

– Nancy Sellinger and Susan Salganek, middle school teachers, Alexsander Academy, Alpharetta

P

lease send your child to school each day in clothing that is comfortable and can get messy. We wear smocks and only use washable paints, but students are often reluctant to participate because they are wearing new clothes or something that is “special.” Today’s stain may signal tomorrow’s creative genius!

– Eugenia Mullis, art teacher (Teacher of the Year 2006-2007), Midvale Elementary, Tucker

Do not dwell on “bad” kids in your child’s class. Discuss with your child how he might be able to make better choices in certain circumstances.

– Andrea Raphael, regular substitute in Gwinnett County

58 Atlanta Parent January 2013

[ Focus on Education ]

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January 2013 Atlanta Parent 59

Helping Your Kids Get

Better Grades

by Gary E. Howard

Parents can have a tremendous impact on how a child handles school and takes tests. The goal is bringing the grades up to A’s and B’s, right? Here are some ways parents can help kids improve their study habits and make studying as enjoyable as it can be. That, in turn, will make all the difference at test time. n n n

n Let

the student select the perfect pen. The right pen makes all the difference when taking notes or writing long essays on an exam.

n Schedule study time and stick to it. Set up a weekly schedule for study time of two 40-minute sessions each day, with a 20-minute break between. Pick the times and stick to them.

n Buy study guides for your student. There are all sorts of guides available for key subjects. For high school students, these guides cost just $5-$10 and are a quick and easy way to get information on a topic. In no way are they considered cheating. They are a wonderful way to tackle vital subjects.

n Encourage

participation in study groups.

Help your student get a study group organized or find a study group your child can join. The group should discuss ideas, ask each other questions and research answers together. But the focus is on work – this is not a social gathering.

n Hire a tutor. In sports you have a coach, at the health club there’s a trainer. So in academics, don’t hesitate to get a tutor. It’s not as expensive as you may think. Use the Internet and look for graduate students at local colleges who often offer their services and charge reasonable rates. A tutor can help get the student “over the hump” of a difficult subject and can make all the difference in the student either “getting” a subject or staying completely lost.

n Get a good backpack. Your student should like his backpack. Essential items include: notebooks, two favorite pens, two pencils, text books (for the day only), a pack of tissues, energy bars, about two dollars in change, and extra clothing for the weather.

Parents should inspect weekly or even daily. Write name, address and phone number in indelible ink on the pack in case it gets lost.

60 Atlanta Parent January 2013

n Have

reading skills tested. Make sure your child is reading at the appropriate level and does not have eye problems. See an eye doctor if you have any doubts or concerns.

n Define the home study location. Make sure your child has a good place to study with sufficient lighting, desk and comfortable chair. There should be few or no distractions such as TV, radio, music or games during study time.

n Can your student take good notes? The best memory in the world cannot remember all that is learned in a classroom. Taking good notes is a learned skill that you want to help your student acquire. A student should use clean paper and favorite pens and a three-ring binder with paper and separators. The student needs to know how to create an outline when note-taking and how to identify the major points. Re-reading good notes is where learning really takes place. There are several types of note-taking methods students can learn.

n Develop the memory with mnemonics. Using rhymes, telling stories or jokes, and memorizing four- to five-letter acronyms are all great ways to remember lists of details or essential rules.

– Gary E. Howard was a teacher and administrator at the high school and college levels for 35 years. He is the author of Help Your Kids Get Better Grades (Cambridge Learning Skills, $11.95).

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January 2013 Atlanta Parent 61

Paying for Performance Is cash for grades or sports a good idea?

by Laura Amann

I

f you want to start a lively discussion, ask parents what they think about paying kids for good grades or for excelling at a sport. Then sit back and listen to the heated banter.

Most parents seem to fall squarely into one camp or the other. Some believe that money is a great motivator and a realistic indicator of how the real world works. Others say paying for grades sends the message that money speaks louder than the value of a job well done.

For some students, getting paid can be a huge incentive, driving them to accomplish something that they weren’t motivated to do on their own.

For others, no amount of cash reward is going to make them do what you want them to do.

Careful Making Promises Janet Bodnar, author of Raising Money Smart Kids (Kaplan) and author of the “Money Smart Kids” column at kiplingers. com, recommends first trying a nonmonetary reward such as a special dinner, lots of praise or a favorite dessert.

If parents want to pay, she recommends a temporary monetary promise. “Tailor the monetary reward to a specific situation, say one grading term, to get a grade up.” But she cautions parents to take an active approach when doing this. “Go to the teacher and see if they need more help, go over the homework every night, show them that it’s not just a dollar sign floating out there but something that you’re in together,” she advises.

Parents who oppose paying for grades point out that just as we teach our children good manners and kindness, we also need to teach them the value of a job well done.

Getting good grades, in their view, is an expectation, not something for which you get rewarded.

62 Atlanta Parent January 2013

Another consideration is that kids are less likely to work creatively when offered money, performing for a grade rather than trying something new or taking on a challenge. And some students have true learning disabilities that no amount of money can change. In those cases, it could do more harm to teetering self-esteem.

When To Consider Paying While most experts caution against paying for grades, parents who have tried it are often amazed at the results. It can work particularly well if your child is close to reaching a goal but needs an extra push.

“I offered my daughter money as an incentive to get straight A’s,” says Karen Weiler, mom of two daughters. “I knew it was a reachable goal, and I wanted her to see that she could do it. And she did.”

Joelle Masolowski, mother of two boys, agrees. “We give the kids money for a straight-A report card. It’s more as a reward for demonstrating hard work, responsibility

[ Focus on Education ]

and effort. They don’t expect it ... it’s just a treat for a job well done.”

And while $20 may seem like a lot to shell out, it’s cheaper than hiring a tutor. For older kids, it could even get them scholarships.

What About Sports?

In today’s world of competitive sports, money speaks at any level. Spend some time at a youth athletic competition and you’ll see parents shelling out for making baskets, scoring goals or runs, or reaching a particular score.

Dr. John Mayer, an adolescent psychologist and president of the International Sports Professionals Association, is not a fan of this practice.

“Paying for performance doesn’t teach responsibility, motivation, focus, desire, passion or even skill development,” he says.

“Great athletes will tell you that they developed outstanding skills by putting in the extra time without anyone rewarding them. They were intrinsically motivated to succeed.” atlantaparent.com

Bodnar agrees. “Sports are a voluntary activity. If parents feel they must offer a reward, tie it to a very specific situation.”

Mary Beth Moore, mother of three, has seen the other side of those rewards. “My kids have been on sports teams with kids who were monetarily rewarded for baskets in basketball and it was horrible! They never passed the ball because they were only focused on making a basket.”

Parents who want to reward their children for sports should consider basing pay on how well their child plays with his team or how well he plays his team position, rather than whether he scores.

Denise Joyce, a DeKalb mom of three, emphasizes that she would “never pay for grades,” but she did opt to offer a cash incentive last year – $5 – whenever her daughter, now 11, “pushed herself” on the basketball court.

“We would never give money for grades or for winning games,” says Joyce, “but we might try it for certain tasks, such as an area of development.” Last year, her older daughter would hesitate when she had the ball. “She just wouldn’t take the shot was embarrassed to take a shot when she had the ball and the opportunity,” Joyce recalls.

Parents who want to reward their children for sports should consider

basing pay on how well their child plays with his team or how well he plays his team position, rather than whether he scores.

Adults are certainly motivated by money, and Joyce found her daughter was, too. “We tried it just for last season, and it worked well,” she says. “Once she did it, then she did it again and again” – earning $5 each time she “pushed harder” rather than hesitated.

“Once she did it and gained the confidence she needed, we didn’t continue” the cash incentive,” Joyce says. “It was a motivating factor for helping her do something we knew she was already capable of doing. Now, she takes shots whenever she has the opportunity.”

As with all aspects of parenting, every child and every situation is different. Bodnar reminds any parent who is considering using money to motivate, “Reward the effort, not the results.” c

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January 2013 Atlanta Parent 63

Get Rid of the Stress for

TEST SUCCESS

by Ben Bernstein

A

child’s performance is directly affected by his stress level. If stress is too high or too low, your child’s performance will suffer. Parents can have a tremendous impact on how a child handles test-taking stress.

Students can learn to overcome schoolrelated stress. One student’s low SAT scores rose dramatically once he learned how to calm down during the test itself.

Another experienced utter joy when she finally learned how to focus her energy throughout the entire race. The parents of yet another student learned to build their son’s self-esteem instead of tear it down.

How? By easing up on their unrealistic expectations of him.

Here are the four main causes of poor test scores, along with some suggestions on how parents can help children deal with the issue.

Trouble with the Content When getting set for a test, understanding the material is the first and the most important factor. Help your child prepare for a test. Here are some questions you could ask: n “Is there something specific in the material that you don’t understand?” n “Do you feel like this material is too difficult for you? n “What doesn’t make sense to you?” n “Are you having trouble memorizing?” n “Are you just bored with this material?” (Note: When a child says something is “boring,” that sometimes could mean he either doesn’t like or understand it.)

You, the parent, can ask the teacher to shed light on the situation. Sometimes a child can’t pinpoint her difficulties. If a student is embarrassed, shy or otherwise unwilling to talk with her teacher, she may need you to do so on her behalf. The teacher could be more familiar than you are with your child’s 64 Atlanta Parent January 2013

learning style, so ask for his observations.

Also, see if he can explain the material to you. Do the teacher’s explanations seem clear? Could the teacher be part of the problem? Can the teacher show you a way to help your child?

Consider arranging for a tutor to work with your child. A tutor may be helpful to your child by providing close personal attention. Tutorial resources are increasingly available and don’t have to be costly. You can always go online to advertise for a tutor or find out who is advertising services. Check with local colleges; students and grad students might offer tutoring at reasonable rates.

Physical Tension Jitters and tension make it hard for anyone to concentrate. A bad case of nerves can seriously undermine a student’s test performance because it robs them of their ability to focus and concentrate.

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n Is your child getting enough regular physical exercise? Bike riding, working out at the gym, running and swimming are all tension-releasing activities that can give your student the opportunity to let off steam and “restart” her system. Watching TV, talking on the phone and playing video games are not aerobic. All too often kids try to study after long hours of these activities – but their energy is already zapped. n Is your student getting enough sleep? Does he have a hard time getting out of bed in the morning? Does he look tired at other times of the day, such as after school? Children need a lot more sleep than adults, at least nine hours a night; anything less can severely hamper their school performance because tired minds can’t pay ample attention. Recent research shows that inadequate sleep can cause problems that look like attention deficit disorder.

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n Review your child’s diet. A daily intake high in carbs, sugars and caffeinated drinks is common in our culture. While these foods and “energy drinks” may appear to keep the engine stoked, they are actually wearing your child down. A balanced diet keeps glucose levels from going on a rollercoaster and has a positive effect on metabolism, energy levels and brain function. n Learn to calm down yourself.

As a parent, it is easy to pick up on what your child feels and start feeling the same way yourself. If your child is anxious, sad or angry, you may quickly begin feeling the same thing even if you were feeling calm just moments ago. In psychology, we call this an “induced reaction” – you are induced into your child’s state. You increase your chances of reducing your child’s stress if you learn how to keep yourself calm no matter what is going on with your youngster.

A tutor may be helpful to your child by providing close personal attention.

Tutorial resources are increasingly available and don’t have to be costly.

Issues of Self-Doubt Are you the right person to be your child’s confidante? As you will see, she has to be able to confide her lack of selfconfidence to someone. You might think of yourself as her best friend, but you may not be the best choice to serve as her confidante.

You have to give up the idea that your child should confide in you. Think of someone else she can talk with: a teacher she respects, such as an adviser or counselor at school she trusts, a clergy member, or one of her close friends who is a responsible individual.

Encourage her to share her deepest thoughts with that person. Make supportive, positive, but accurate statements to your child: Examples: “You work hard.” “You’ve taken on big challenges before and succeeded.”

“You can do it.” “I believe in you.” “I know you’ve got what it takes.”

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January 2013 Atlanta Parent 65

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Ask these questions: n Whose goal is it for your child to succeed?

Of course, you want her to do well, but if she doesn’t have that goal herself, you are in an uphill battle that you may never win. Talk with your child about this. A straightforward discussion about her goals can go a long way toward clarifying why she needs and wants to work harder. n In what ways does your child becomes distracted?

Does she stay on the phone, text, surf the Web, email, play video games, watch TV, eat – everything except do her homework? Can you help her set realistic working periods with breaks for “treats” and distractions?

Consider getting a timer as a tool so she can focus better and more consistently.

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n How focused are you?

If you have clear goals and minimize distractions, you can be a good role model for your child. She can see the effects for herself.

Remember: Cultivating good work habits is ultimately something children should learn to do for themselves because they see the positive results and feel good about having accomplished a goal. Though you may need to encourage and mentor them through this process, they are doing the work so they can go on to lead a more fulfilling life. c Ben Bernstein, PhD, has been helping children take tests for more than 40 years.

He is the author of Test Success: How to Be Calm, Confident and Focused on Any Test (Spark Avenue, $19.95). atlantaparent.com

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January 2013 Atlanta Parent 67

Help!

Aliens Have Taken Over My Kid!

Welcome to Middle School

by Jeff Dess and Tammy White

K

ids today may seem to have a more challenging time, both academically and emotionally, than previous generations did during the middle school years. For one thing, they need to find their way in two different worlds: the real world and cyberspace. Consequently, parents need to “parent” in these different worlds.

We asked middle school students to identify some of the biggest challenges they face today. Their concerns ranged from stress about homework and grades to anxiety about changing clothes in a school locker room (brought up by some sixth graders) to alcohol and drugs (brought up by some eighth graders). Here are five worries and woes that middle schoolers routinely face, along with advice to parents from school counselors who regularly tackle these issues.

68 Atlanta Parent January 2013

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I don’t have any friends.

Many kids feel self-conscious about themselves during the middle school (or junior high) years.

Middle school students often see themselves as the outsider, the weird kid, or just not popular enough.

They try to reach out to others, but find themselves shut out of various social circles and events. This can be quite frustrating. If your middle school student comes home discouraged because she has few friends, or her friends are not in the “popular” group, here are some things parents can try: Share a time in your life when you felt awkward or unsure of yourself.

Have your son/daughter identify their gifts. What is it that they see inside themselves that makes them unique?

Ask your child to define the various qualities and characteristics of a friend they do have. See if they can think of other kids in school who possess similar qualities. Encourage them to reach out to those kids.

See if your school offers any youth leadership programs that your child can get involved in. This will give them the opportunity to connect with peers they may not have otherwise met. atlantaparent.com

It is worth mentioning there are more “not popular” kids than popular kids. Explore with your child/teen what makes someone popular.

Do these kids have characteristics they would want to emulate? If your youngster has a difficult time maintaining friendships, you may need to explore this further.

Does your child behave in a manner inappropriate for his age level? Does he say and do things that may be perceived as strange? Once taken out of their comfort zone, do they lack social skills? If so, you may want to consider placing them in a social skills class. Learning appropriate social skills can make a huge difference in your child’s social life.

Kids are bullying me.

I want them to stop, but I don’t want to be a snitch.

Bullying behavior has been going on a very long time. To make matters worse, technology now affords kids more avenues in which to bully and be bullied anonymously or without direct contact. Many kids report they are bullied on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, and then this behavior is carried from the community and into the classroom.

Once within the walls of the school, the home

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Many kids feel self-conscious about themselves during the middle school (or junior high) years.

Middle school students often see themselves as the outsider, the weird kid, or just not popular enough. bullying issue is now a school bullying issue.

Interestingly, most victims of bullying are not the ones who report the issue. It is generally a friend who brings the abuse to the school’s attention (often, the counselor’s office). Once in the office, the target is fearful of disclosing the bully’s name. Sometimes this is out of fear of retaliation, and other times it is because the target does not want to be seen as a snitch.

The school counselor can be instrumental in helping reduce or eliminate the bullying behavior. First, the counselor needs to let the target know that his identity will be protected.

The counselor can do this by finding out what times or in what classes the students are together, and then talk with other students about bullying they might see happening. The goal is to talk with many students so that no one will know who said what. Next, the counselor

[ Focus on Education ]

should have enough information to talk with the student accused of bullying behavior and refer this student to the administration if necessary.

It is also important to mention that your child’s school should have a school-wide bullying prevention program in place. This can be accomplished by making sure there is common language for defining bullying behavior and a way to report this behavior.

Parents must encourage kids/teens to report bullying behavior. It is important to document all information shared by your child/teen.

You can find an informal script at psychcentric.com. This framework will help you when investigating hurtful teasing or bullying behavior reported by your child. There is also a link to a parent pamphlet on the difference between playful/hurtful teasing and bullying behavior at cobbk12.org/bully.

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January 2013 Atlanta Parent 69

Help!

Aliens Have Taken Over My Kid! I am so overwhelmed by my class schedule and school assignments.

Middle school can be overwhelming for many students. They are swiftly given more independence and responsibility. Most students report to six or seven different teachers, change classes, keep up with multiple assignments, and juggle sports and other commitments – and their social relationships. So much drastic change would be overwhelming for an adult, much less someone in the 11-14 age range.

As a parent, it is important to work with your child on organization. Developing this skill set will not only help them now, they will use these skills throughout life. Does your middle school student own and routinely use a calendar or student planner? If not, they need one. It can be a regular calendar or you can download a calendar app. Many kids feel very comfortable with technology, so you may want to review the various organizational apps currently available online. Encourage

them to fill in their calendar and review it on a daily basis. Doing this will help them remember upcoming tests, quizzes and other important events. This one strategy alone can greatly help minimize a middle school student’s stress and overwhelming feelings.

My parents are driving me crazy. They don’t know anything about me anymore.

Many of us can think back to our own early teen years and remember being moody, easily irritated and sometimes downright angry. Some young teens feel like their parents don’t understand them and so they don’t feel comfortable talking with them. It is not uncommon for students to come to the counselor’s office to complain about their parents. They feel misunderstood, micromanaged or insignificant. Many kids often complain that their parents are out of touch with what’s going on in their world. This thought process is nothing new.

What can parents do here? It’s important to make time for your middle school student.

Sit down together at dinner or plan an outing so you can spend time talking about what is going on in your child’s life.

Be sure to listen and not judge. Many kids just want their parents to listen! Do not ask them questions or give them feedback – unless personal safety issues are involved.

Keeping the lines of communication open is key to maintaining a healthy relationship with your kid. Don’t react to everything they say. Give them lots of choices. Even if they don’t like the choices, it will give them the sense of having some control over their lives.

If they ask questions, answer them honestly.

They will open up and share with you when they know their thoughts and opinions will be honored and not judged harshly.

I like this boy/girl but I am not allowed to date.

What do I do?

A lot of middle school students want to “date.” Bear in mind that yesterday’s definition of “dating” and today’s definition can be very different. To most middle school students, dating means they are texting one another and seeing each other during locker breaks. This is most common by eighth

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70 Atlanta Parent January 2013

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• Friday, January 4 • Friday January 18 • Friday January 25 • Friday, February 22 epiphanyocs.org • facebook.com/epiphanyocs • info@epiphanyocs.org grade. Developmentally, this is perfectly appropriate. Middle school students are generally going through puberty and are starting to become curious about their sexuality. “Liking” someone at this age is definitely the norm.

If your middle school child asks you about dating, you first need to ask them to define what dating means to them. If it is texting, talking on the phone or seeing each other during school hours, this is probably not going to be a big deal. However, if this entails hanging out after school or going to social events together, you may need to discuss your rules about dating. For example, many parents do not want their child to go out on an unsupervised date until they are at least 16. Some adults may feel that starting to date too early can lead to promiscuous behaviors. How do you and your spouse feel about this? Is your child mature enough to handle this type of relationship? If not, you will need to sit down with your child and have a candid conversation about your beliefs and views.

When it comes to the five issues discussed here, we’ve only just skimmed the surface of challenges your middle school child might encounter. Also, recognize there is a huge developmental gap between a sixth-grader and an eighthgrader. Regardless of what is going on with them or what age they are, it is important to realize that your most powerful strategy is loving your child through all their trials and tribulations. Even if they sometimes act like aliens. c – Dr. Tammy White is a counselor at Mabry Middle School in Cobb County; she was named middle school counselor of the year in 2012 for Cobb schools. Jeff Dess has longtime experience as a prevention specialist/consultant with Cobb Schools. atlantaparent.com

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January 2013 Atlanta Parent 71

character REVEALED ”

If I can live up to the image that these kids see, I’ll have accomplished a part of what God has called me to be.

“

— Kyle (MPCS senior and first-grade mentor)

I

sn’t that what it’s all about–reaching the heart of a child? Not only does Mount Paran Christian School provide exemplary PK3-12 academics in small classes; we do it all with Christ at the center. Our job is to prepare servant-leaders — in the classroom, on the ball field, on the stage, and ultimately in our community. This is our highest priority, as it is yours.

We invite you to explore your choice in education at an open house or on a personal tour. Call 770.578.0182 or visit www.mtparanschool.com to register.

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72 Atlanta Parent January 2013

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...a place where faith and intellect grow as one atlantaparent.com

A Plug for Quick, ONLINE LEARNING

by Lori Shepherd

W

hen teachers and administrators at Atlanta’s Morningside Elementary School were students themselves, they could not have imagined completing assignments, writing book reports or preparing for spelling bees using Webbased learning resources and mobile apps.

But in 2012, these same educators would flashcards to build their child’s vocabulary find it inconceivable to guide their students’ skills; accessing math practice sheets; educational journeys without them. and gathering materials to boost reading “I am fascinated by the effectiveness of comprehension skills and to encourage certain online learning websites and what more reading. they offer students, parents and faculty,” Solomon, who has been an educator for says Myana Solomon, assistant principal at 18 years with Atlanta Public Schools, cites Morningside. “Everyone benefits.” Solomon Dictionary.com as her personal favorite described her school’s use of online resource. She says online resources among her the site is never far from her MANY PARENTS teaching staff as a natural part fingertips. She uses it to locate SOON DISCOVER synonyms and definitions and of the learning process that THE WIDE helps supplement lessons in the finds it as useful as carrying classroom.

RANGE OF around a pocket dictionary – Assessing students’ reading but better. “I have it saved as a CHOICES THE comprehension, mastery of math favorite on my cellphone, just WEB OFFERS concepts, and preparing them for in case I want to double check WHEN SEEKING taking tests are several specific a word spelling or find a new WORKSHEETS, ways Morningside’s faculty has word,” Solomon says.

PRACTICE TESTS incorporated online resources to With Atlanta and other AND OTHER help them educate their student school districts across the body more efficiently, Solomon SUPPLEMENTAL country relying on standardized says. But she points out that tests to assess students’ skills, RESOURCES. online learning and educational Morningside teachers have resources are considered been on the forefront of using complementary to the teaching process – not online learning resources to accelerate the a substitute for it. assessment process.

Many parents soon discover the wide Having teachers receive data about range of choices the Web offers when students’ skills earlier in the school year versus seeking worksheets, practice tests and other waiting until the spring, when standardized supplemental resources that match what a tests are typically administered, provides child is learning in school. educators much more time to engage and Parents can become overwhelmed prepare children based on skills and needs. conducting a computer search for school “There’s no doubt that we view online study sheets or other resources. Yet assessment tools favorably,” Solomon Solomon, who connects with parents daily, says. “In many ways these resources are finds that many families are successfully providing excellent supplemental resources traversing the online learning landscape. for students, parents and educators…and the They’re doing such things as finding online best part of all, many of them are free.” c atlantaparent.com

[ Focus on Education ]

10 ways students can use Dictionary.com As teachers continue to raise the bar when it comes to reading and writing skills, kids and parents look for innovative ways to help them meet the challenge.

Here are 10 ways students regularly use dictionary.com. Other reference sites will also assist in some of these areas. n Build vocabulary. n Learn the correct spelling of a word. n Understand the differences of similar words such as effect and affect. n Study for classes with WordDynamo.com. n Prepare for standardized tests. n Find the perfect synonym. n Explore the roots and origins of words. n Create a “favorite word” account. n Discover the word of the day. n Learn the definitions of words.

Go-to sites for homework help Here are some recommended dictionary and reference sites for homework help and more: n dictionary.com n thefreedictionary.com n Merriam-Webster.com n smartmath.com n factmonster.com n homeworkspot.com n efdesk.com/homework n infoplease.com/homework n kids.yahoo.com/learn

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 73

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Henry County Schools

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Public School Profiles

At your fingertips: A glimpse at the school systems in the metro area.

Atlanta Public Schools 404-802-3500 www.atlanta.k12.ga.us Atlanta Public Schools is the sixth largest school system in Georgia with 49,476 students. There are 3,694 teachers, of which 59 percent have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 50 elementary (2 year-round); 15 middle; 21 high schools; 2 non-traditional/evening schools; 13 charter schools; 1 residential charter school. n Pupil to teacher ratios: Kindergarten, 25 to 1; Grades 1-3, 26 to 1; Grades 4-5, 33 to 1; Middle, 33 to 1; High, 33 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $12,090 Bartow County School System 770-606-5800 www.bartow.k12.ga.us There are 14,500 students attending Bartow County’s 20 schools, with 56 percent of 1,072 teachers holding advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 12 elementary; 4 middle; 3 high schools; 1 preschool n Pupil to teacher ratio: 18 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $7,619 2011-12 information

74 Atlanta Parent January 2013

Buford City Schools 770-945-5035 www.bufordcityschools.org There are 3,172 students enrolled in Buford City Schools. 82 percent of the 241 teachers have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 2 elementary; 1 middle; 1 high school n Student to teacher ratio: 14 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $10,060 2011-12 information Cherokee County School District 770-479-1871 www.cherokee.k12.ga.us Cherokee County has 39,167 students attending 41 schools.

There are 2,681 teachers in the county, of which 76 percent have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 24 elementary; 1 intermediate; 7 middle; 6 high schools; 1 alternative school; 2 pre-K centers; 1 special services center n Pupil to teacher ratio: 16 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $7,074

[ Focus on Education ]

Clayton County Public Schools 770-473-2700 www.clayton.k12.ga.us Clayton County has the fifth largest school system in Georgia with approximately 51,012 students. Of the district’s 3,600 teachers, 30.5 percent have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 36 elementary; 15 middle; 9 high schools; 1 K-8 school; 2 LEA charters; 1 alternative school/center for learning; 3 special education centers; 3 magnet schools n Pupil to teacher ratios: 15:1 n Per pupil expenditure: $7,658 Cobb County School District 770-426-3300 www.cobbk12.org Cobb County has more than 107,681 students attending 112 schools. There are 7,052 certified employees with 61 percent having advanced degrees. There are also 133 National Board Certified teachers. n Number of Schools: 67 elementary; 25 middle; 16 high schools; 2 special education centers; 1 adult education center; 1 open campus high school; 2 ESOL centers. n Pupil to teacher ratio: Varies by school. Meets or is lower than state mandated numbers. n Per pupil expenditure: $7,825

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Public School Profiles Coweta County School System 770-254-2800 www.cowetaschools.org Coweta County has 22,715 students and about 3,043 employees (not including substitutes) with 55 percent certified employees. n Number of Schools: 19 elementary; 6 middle; 3 high schools; 1 career academy charter high school; 2 alternative schools (middle and high); 1 adult education school; 1 transition learning center; 1 performing and visual arts center n Pupil to teacher ratios: Grades K-3, 20 to 1; Grades 4 and 5, 21 to 1; Middle/High, 25 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $7,804 City Schools of Decatur 404-370-4400 www.csdecatur.net City Schools of Decatur have 3,542 students attending eight schools. Of the district’s 270 teachers, over 70 percent hold advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 8 total; 1 pre-K; 4 Kindergarten-third; 1 fourth-fifth; 1 middle; 1 high school n Pupil to teacher ratio: 13 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $1 DeKalb County School System 678-676-1200 www.dekalb.k12.ga.us DeKalb County School District is the third largest school system with 98,700 students.

More than 7,000 teachers in the system, about 65 percent hold advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 82 elementary; 21 middle; 25 high schools; 3 alternative schools; 8 exceptional student centers; 12 magnet programs; 7 theme schools; 109 pre-K classes. n Pupil to teacher ratio: 15 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $7,859 Douglas County School System 770-651-2000 www.douglas.k12.ga.us There are approximately 25,102 students attending Douglas County’s 33 schools.

72 percent of the 2,000 certified employees have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 20 elementary, 8 middle, 5 high schools; 1 performance learning center; 1 college and career institute n Pupil to teacher ratio meets or is lower than state mandated standards. n Per pupil expenditure: $8,453

Gainesville City School 770-536-5275 www.gcssk12.net 7,343 students attend Gainesville City’s eight schools. 542 teachers are employed by the system, and 67 percent of them have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 5 elementary; 1 middle; 1 high school; 1 blended learning academy n Pupil to teacher ratio: 15 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $8,878

Cherokee County School District

Fayette County Public Schools 770-460-3535 www.fcboe.org Fayette County School System has 21,069 students.

More than half of the 1,617 teachers have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 17 elementary; 6 middle; 5 high schools; 1 alternative school; 1 open campus high school n Pupil to teacher ratio: 14:1 n Per pupil expenditure: $8,359 Forsyth County Schools 770-887-2461 www.forsyth.k12.ga.us Over 38,952 students attend Forsyth County’s 36 schools. There are over 2,637 certified employees in the system, of which 70 percent have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 20 elementary; 9 middle; 5 high schools; 1 charter non-traditional high school with night school; and 1 6-12 virtual school (open to out-of-county students. n Pupil to teacher ratio: 20 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $7,868 Fulton County Schools 404-768-3600 www.fultonschools.org Fulton County has 93,818 students and 6,800 certified staff members at 100 schools. 37 percent of the teachers hold advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 58 elementary (with pre-K programs); 19 middle; 17 high schools (2 with open campuses); 6 charter schools n Pupil to teacher ratios: Kindergarten, 22 to 1; with paraprofessional; Grades 1-3, 23 to 1; Grades 4-5, 30 to 1; Middle, 30 to 1; High, 32 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $8,735

Gwinnett County Public Schools 678-301-6000 www.gwinnett.k12.ga.us With more than 164,977 students attending 132 educational facilities, Gwinnett County is the largest school system in Georgia. It has 11,456 teachers with 46 percent holding at least a master’s degree. n Number of Schools: 77 elementary; 26 middle; 19 high schools; 10 other educational facilities, including 4 charter schools. n Pupil to teacher ratio: Varies by classroom, per Investing in Education (IE2) contract. n Per pupil expenditure: $7,392 Hall County Schools 770-534-1080 www.hallco.org There are 25,706 students and 1,843 certified staff at Hall County’s 33 schools.

65 percent of the teachers have obtained Master’s Degrees and 20 percent have achieved Specialist or Doctorate Degrees. n Number of Schools: 20 elementary; 6 middle; 6 high schools; 1 evening school n Pupil to teacher ratio: 16 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $7,785 Henry County Schools 770-957-6601 www.henry.k12.ga.us There are 40,000 students and 2,898 certified teachers in Henry County Schools.

75 percent of the certified employees have advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 29 elementary; 11 middle; 9 high schools; 1 alternative school; 1 academy for advanced studies n Pupil to teacher ratio: Kindergarten, 24 to1; Grades 1st-3rd, 25 to 1; Grades 4th-8th, 32 to 1; Grades 9th-12th, 34 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $7,401 Cont’d on page 76

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[ Focus on Education ]

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 75

Marietta City Schools 770-422-3500; www.marietta-city.org Some 8,466 students attend Marietta City’s 11 schools, 710 certified employees with 75 percent of certified staff holding a Masters Degree or higher. n Number of Schools: 8 elementary (one is grades 3-5 Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Magnet school); 1 sixth grade academy; 1 middle; 1 high school. n Pupil to teacher ratio: 20 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $9,199 Paulding County School District 770-443-8000; www.paulding.k12.ga.us The Paulding County school district has 33 schools, 28,460 students and 2,034 classroom teachers. 57 percent of the teachers hold advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 19 elementary; 9 middle; 5 high schools. n Pupil to teacher ratio: 22:1 n Per pupil expenditure: $7,716 Rockdale County Public Schools 770-483-4713; www.rockdale.k12.ga.us There are 15,960 students attending Rockdale County public schools. Approximately 70 percent of the 1,352 certified personnel hold advanced degrees. n Number of Schools: 11 elementary; 4 middle; 3 high schools; 1 career/vocational academy; 1 alpha school; 1 open campus; 1 magnet school n Pupil to teacher ratio: 14:1 n Per pupil expenditure: $8,193 c

76 Atlanta Parent January 2013

[ Focus on Education ]

Gwinnett County Public Schools

atlantaparent.com

Raising Funds

for Your Child’s School

by Stacey Boyd

Now, more than ever, parents are coming to the rescue of struggling school districts hit hard with budget cuts.

Needs vs. Wants Most parents don’t want to buy cookie dough or wrapping paper, but such goods are among the more popular items that schools sell to their communities to raise money. Instead, why not focus on fundraisers that are more practical and enticing. One idea that works well is a shopping night for your school or

neighborhood. Sign up local businesses to participate on a specific night and they donate back a certain percentage of proceeds of sales that night to your school.

Go Local Partner with local businesses that have a vested interest in the parent community.

Local establishments know that moms

handle the majority of household spending and are usually happy to forge authentic connections to attract and retain a mom’s business. Leverage the mom customer to the business! Consider a weekly pizza night at a local restaurant where a percentage of the billings go to your school. Or do a couple of “special” restaurant nights during the school year.

Cont’d on page 78

Cornerstone Leadership Academy Creating ambassadors for the World...

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• Organic/Natural Meals • Yearly International Trips • Small Teacher/Student Ratio • All Certified Teachers Focus on Leadership, International Studies & Character Advanced Academic Curriculum also offering Bilingual Pre-K program, Art, Music, Spanish and Mandarin Chinese

Academic Scholarships and Financial Aid

www.claschool.org • Lithonia • Conyers • 770-987-4400 atlantaparent.com

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 77

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

Raising Funds

Open Houses Sunday, January 27th 2-4pm Wednesday, March 13th, 9am Sunday, April 28th 2-4pm

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.

78 Atlanta Parent    January 2013

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

Listen, Learn and Unite Talking with your child’s teacher can help your child meet goals.

by Sharon Nolfi

eeting with your child’s M teacher can be a powerful tool for helping your child

succeed in school. Whether scheduled by the school, requested by you, or suggested by the teacher, a meeting gives you a platform to learn about your child and to talk about her needs.

You and the teacher can help each other provide the best educational experience possible.

Children learn best when home and school are in agreement on expectations and goals.

Follow these guidelines for productive (and even enjoyable) parent-teacher conferences: Have a goal in mind

Request special services

You or the teacher may have initiated the meeting. Either way, you should consider what you hope to accomplish.

Ask yourself ahead of time what a successful outcome for you and your child would be, then plan and work toward that goal.

Many services are available for children with special needs. Ask for an evaluation if you suspect your child has a learning disability.

Come prepared Write down your questions ahead of time. Bring samples of your child’s work that demonstrate problem areas and/or strengths. Keep track of problem behaviors at home that may be repeating in the classroom.

Listen first, then respond Let the teacher speak first, and listen carefully. Take notes on points for which you need clarification or with which you disagree. Respond to the teacher’s concerns, then introduce topics you want to cover.

Ask for specifics Is there a particular behavior the teacher is complaining about? At what times and how frequently is it occurring?

Ask what an acceptable behavior would look like.

atlantaparent.com

Be firm, but don’t threaten You have a right to assert your point of view, but do so with respect and courtesy. Most teachers care about your child’s success. Politely ask to bring the principal into the discussion if you want, but don’t raise your voice or threaten to have them fired. Being nasty will only distract from your point of view and make it harder to work with the school in the long run.

For parenting resources you can actually use.

Point.

Avoid discussion of other children Teachers have legal and ethical reasons they can’t discuss other children. Information about your child should be kept confidential, as well. Respect these practices.

Be willing to follow up Let the teacher know you are willing to help your child at home. Ask what you can do at home to supplement what is going on in the classroom, and then do it.

Ask for more time if needed

Click.

You’re There. atlantaparent.com

Don’t forget to sign up for our weekly e-newsletter while you’re there.

You are entitled to a full discussion and understanding of your child’s progress at school. If the teacher can’t continue right then, set up another appointment. c

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 79

Questions to Jump-Start Conversation with Your Kids

by Lara Krupicka

It’s evening. Maybe you’re lucky enough to be sitting around the dinner table as a family. Or perhaps you have a few moments in the car with your child. You ask, “How was your day?” But all you get are grunts and shrugged shoulders. So you try asking, “What did you do in school today?” This time you get the customary one-word answer: “Nothing.”

What’s happening here? You’re simply trying to connect with your child. And while it seems like he’s brushing you off, he may just be trying to disengage from school business. And your questions prevent that. Or he’s so used to the question rolling off your tongue as a form of greeting that he doesn’t think you expect a real answer.

Rather than push harder for answers to your standard end-of-the-school-day questions, why not try some new conversation primers? Here are 21 ideas to get you rolling:

1

Tell me something that made you laugh.

2

Who did you encourage today?

How?

3

Who encouraged you? What did they do?

4

If you had a “do-over” button, which part of your day would you press it on? Why?

5 6

What are you glad for?

7 8 9

[ Focus on Education ]

Name something you are proud of.

If you could be any teacher in your school, who would you be? Why? If today had a color, what would it be? Why?

10

Who did you sit with at lunch today?

What did you talk about?

11

What do you look forward to next week/weekend/month?

12

Name something you’re good at now that you weren’t last year. What makes it easier?

13

What’s one thing you’d like to learn to do someday?

14

What’s one thing I could do for you or say to you that would make you feel good?

15

Who do you admire in your class?

What do you like about them?

16

When you approach school, who do you look for first? Why?

17

Tell me about one thing you learned today. What makes it interesting?

18 19

80 Atlanta Parent January 2013

Is there anything you missed today?

What do you miss about it?

What do you hope to do tomorrow?

What part of your day do you wish lasted longer?

20

What’s the best thing about your teacher(s)?

21

What don’t most people at school know about you? atlantaparent.com

Just for fun, write each question on a slip of paper and place in a container near the dinner table or in your car. Each evening pick out a question from the container to ask. Invite your child to add questions of his own to the mix or let him create his own container of questions to ask you. Take turns answering the same or different questions.

If all else fails, try posing this final question and see if your child can begin building the bridge from his side of the conversation: What question do you wish I would ask you after school?

Other resources for initiating dialogue:

Some tips on creating an atmosphere that encourages dialog: n Don’t machine gun multiple questions at your child at once. It’s best to only ask one or two questions to get a conversation going. Then stop and listen. n Be prepared to answer any question that you ask. And be honest in the answers you give. You and your child can both learn more about each other and what goes on in your day when you create an atmosphere of safety and openness. n Listen carefully to your child.

Reflect back on what you hear her say.

Acknowledge any emotions implicit in the communication. n Stick with what works. If several of these questions (or new ones of your own) generate more discussion than others, don’t be afraid to go back to them again and again. Just don’t let them become the rote substitute for “how was your day?”

n Check out conversationstarters.com for hundreds of discussion topics, including a random question generator. n TableTopics sells sets of conversation-starting question cards geared to a variety of situations, including Family, Teen, and Mom & Daughter editions. You can buy a cube with 135 cards or a portable set of 40 cards.

Available at select retailers or online at tabletopics.com or through Amazon.com. n Flip through a book of questions to get fresh ideas. Consider the new release: 101 Conversation Starters For Families by Gary D. Chapman and Ramon L. Presson (Chicago: Northfield Publishing, 2012). c

K5 - 12th Grade COLLEGE PREP FULLY ACCREDITED EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION SINCE 1958

CHANGING THE WORLD FOR CHRIST NOW ENROLLING

Helping children grow as Jesus did “in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man” (Luke 2:52)

K5 to 12th Grade 2013-2014

4500 Ridge Road

770-964-9871

www.arlingtonchristian.org

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Fairburn, GA 30213 Conveniently located to Douglasville, Newnan, Peachtree City

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 81

Non-Japanese Speakers are welcome for 2½~5-year-old classes 2013 School Year (April 2013 - March 2014)

Affordable Tuition A need-based

Application deadline:

Scholarship Available.

Friday, January 11, 2013

Please contact

Exam Date:

scholaship@seigakuin.us

Saturday, February 9, 2013

or check our website.

Please call for a school tour

☆Trial Class: 2 or 3 days/week for 2½ ~ 3-year-olds

☆Christian Values

☆K3 ~ 6thGrade

Seigakuin Atlanta International School 5505 Winters Chapel Rd. Atlanta, GA 30360 www.seig.ac.jp/english/atlanta

Email: info@seigakuin.us Tel: 770-730-0045

Experience pisgah Daily Tours Ages Six Weeks through 12th Grade

College Prep.

Life Ready. mount pisgah christian school

82 Atlanta Parent January 2013

9820 Nesbit Ferry Road • Johns Creek, Georgia 30022

(678) 336-3443 • experiencepisgah.org [ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Guide to Private Schools When searching for the best school for your child, there’s much to consider, from the school’s academic approach to its learning environment, size and location. Our comprehensive guide to private schools will help you make the right decision for your child.

Private Schools Academe of the Oaks

Alexsander Academy

cademe of the Oaks prepares high school students to think beyond facts and standardized tests. Instead of relying on textbooks, students learn from direct experiences, whether of the original writings of great thinkers, scientists, and leaders, or through hands-on experiments and projects.

An Academe education is the difference between memorization and thoughtful consideration.

The school’s college preparatory curriculum asks students to tackle the big questions of science, math, and the humanities. Members of the faculty hold advanced degrees, and classes are small enough for individual students to flourish. To deepen academics, all students participate in music, drama, and the fine arts, regardless of skill level.

Located just east of downtown Decatur, Academe of the Oaks offers ninth through twelfth grades.

Qualified applicants may be admitted throughout the year; students applying for Fall 2013 should submit application materials by Monday, February 18th, 2013. For more information about the school and to reserve a space for a Visiting Morning, call (404) 405-2173, or visit www. academeatlanta.org.

lexsander Academy, in Alpharetta, serves students with learning issues and special needs who need a very small, flexible learning environment. The school focuses on academics, independence skills, classroom and social skills. The school has four to five classrooms. Each class has a maximum of 8 students with one certified teacher. Elementary and middle school programs follow the same standards as public school but are tailored to student’s individual needs. High school students focus on the academic and life skills needed to be successful independent working adults. “Peer tutors” are mentors for other students but still have needs that benefit from the small environment. They also qualify for substantially reduced tuition.

Alexsander Academy believes ALL children are capable when taught the way they need to learn. We build up our student’s self esteem by fostering an environment where students are successful, but also challenged, where there are high but realistic expectations, and where children are able to form true friendships.

SB10 and other scholarships available. Tuition is $5,000-$14,500 if enrolled by 3/15. Tutoring and summer academic sessions are also available.

For more information please contact Stefanie Smith 404-839-5910 or email smith@alexsanderacademy.org.

Also visit www.alexsanderacademy.org.

A

Arbor Montessori School

F

Arlington Christian School

ounded in 1970, Arbor is one of the largest and oldest Montessori schools in the Southeast, serving 302 students from ages 2.5 to 14. Arbor is one of only two Montessori schools in Georgia that are accredited by Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), SACS and SAIS. For over 100 years, the hallmarks of a Montessori education have been creativity and innovation; critical thinking and problem-solving; communication; collaboration; and focus on character. These are the same core competencies being advocated in today’s education arena as the necessary “21st Century Learning Skills” for students to meet the challenges of a changing world.

An Arbor Montessori education cultivates concentration, motivation, self-discipline and love of learning in every child. This is accomplished through specially designed sensorial materials, multi-age classrooms, and teachers who are specifically trained to put the child in touch with exactly what he or she needs at that very moment to learn. In addition to an outstanding academic curriculum, Arbor offers art; music; Spanish; a before and after-school program; clubs and teams; and a close-knit community of families.

Register for an information session and tour by calling 404-321-9304. Sessions run December-February. Open House is January 26, 10am-Noon. Application deadline is February 15, 2013. Visit www.ArborMontessori.org.

84 Atlanta Parent January 2013

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L

iving its mission statement (Luke 2:52), Arlington Christian seeks to challenge college preparatory students in Grades K5-12; to equip them in academic, spiritual, physical growth; and to teach them to honor God and become servant leaders.

Celebrating over 50 years, Arlington is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).

Students take numerous field trips to area museums and theatrical productions, the Georgia Aquarium, the Center for Puppetry Arts, Rock Eagle, Jekyll Island, Space & Rocket Camp, Washington, D.C., and Kennedy Space Center. Upper School students have been on mission trips to Give Kids the World, New Orleans, Honduras, and Mexico. Many fulfill their service commitment helping with foster children and building with Habitat. International travel has included many European destinations.

The 40-acre campus includes the Charles K. Sewell Athletic Complex (fields for football and soccer with seating for 600, track and practice field, press box and concession stand), Cannon Field (softball), baseball field, gymnasium, science laboratory, media center, computer labs, cafetorium, tennis courts, music and art facilities.

Located on Ridge Road between Highway 92 and Highway 154, Arlington is easily accessible to Douglas, Coweta and Fayette Counties.

Join them for an open house or call for a personal tour, 770-964-9871, www.arlingtonchristian.org.

[ Education Guide ] Special Advertising Section

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Atlanta Girls’ School

Atlanta Montessori International School

tlanta Girls’ School offers girls in grades 6 through 12 a college-preparatory curriculum of the highest standards.

Graduates attend Ivy League schools, prestigious liberal arts colleges, leading southeastern universities, and respected research institutes. Atlanta Girls’ School was custom-built for one purpose: girls’ achievement and success. Girls attending AGS learn to take appropriate risks, be courageous leaders, give back to their communities, and project personal confidence and competence in all they do.

Through their classrooms, sports, stage, and community involvement, AGS leverages the legacy and experience of girls’ schools all across the country, preparing girls to be respected leaders in every field. With access to real-world experiences, AGS students complete two customized internships with local, national, or global organizations.

These unique internships are unmatched opportunities that—combined with the school’s signature Winterim minisemester, community service projects at every grade level, and global travel program— fuel extracurricular learning that culminates in each student’s Senior Speech to the entire school.

For girls entering grades 3 through 7, AGS also offers SMART Girls Summer Camp. This weeklong day camp offers courses in science, math, art, and real technology.For more information, call 404-845-0900 or visit www.atlantagirlsschool.org.

tlanta Montessori International School (AMIS) nurtures the potential of the whole child and cultivates the growth of a diverse international community.

In multi-age classrooms, children learn together in respectful, peaceful Montessori environments specifically designed to follow the child’s needs from 8 weeks to 15 years. AMIS programs promote independence, initiative, confidence, responsibility, strong academics, selfdiscipline, leadership and a lifetime love of learning.

AMIS is open Monday to Friday 7:30 am - 6:00 pm.

Core school hours are 8:30 am - 3:15 pm. Extended day option available to all students. The Infant and Toddler communities enjoy a year-round school program.

AMIS offers a Summer Program to all Montessori children in the area.

AMIS promotes a multi-cultural, multi-language Montessori atmosphere from language exposure for young children to international travels for older students.

Elementary and Jr. High participate in an extensive Music, Orchestra, Voice, and Visual Arts programs.

RSVP: Open House January 13th and weekly school tours November to March For more information please call 404-325-6777 also visit us at www.amischool.com. 1970 Cliff Valley Way, NE, Atlanta, GA 30329. AMI affiliated and AdvancED SACS accredited.

A

A

Avery Montessori Academy

The Bedford School

very Montessori A c a d e m y (AMA), a new, fully bilingual Spanish/ English immersion Montessori school, is now open in Woodstock, Georgia, for children 6 weeks to 6 years old. This authentic, bilingual Montessori school is the only one of it’s kind in Georgia and represents a labor of love for its founder, Elaine Torres Feinblum.

Elaine is a Montessori-trained teacher and an impassioned believer in the Montessori approach to education and its emphasis on the development of independence, movement, self-confidence and respect for oneself and others. AMA’s motto is “Making a Difference” and it is a driving philosophy.

In order to meet families’ busy schedules, AMA offers before and after-care programs and is open from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm. The school is now enrolling in its Nido (6 weeks – 18 months), Pre-Primary (15 months – 3 years old), and Primary (2.5 – 6 years old) programs. We are conveniently located along Highway 140 in Cherokee County, only a 5 minutes drive to Roswell, Alpharetta, Milton and Canton.

For more information, please visit www.averymontessori. com or call 770-754-9800 to schedule a tour.

he Bedford School in Fairburn, serves 1st-9th graders who have learning differences. Students are grouped by skill levels in classes of 12 or less.

Students receive the proper academic remediation,as well as specific remedial help with physical skills, peer interaction and self-esteem. Students must be diagnosed professionally as having specific learning disabilities.

The Bedford School is based on the idea that every human being should have the opportunity to become the very best person possible. For the child with the learning disability, this is difficult without proper intervention. The goal of the school is to help each child maximize his potential through a combination of teamwork, structured materials, organized activities and a dedicated staff. Extracurricular activities include basketball, soccer, volleyball and track and field.

Squirrel Hollow summer camp is also available, where children can receive tutoring in the areas of Language Arts, Math and written expression in a camp-like setting. The summer program is open to students in grades 1-9 who need an academic boost.

For more information, call Betsy Box at 770-774-8001 or visit the website at www.thebedfordschool.org.

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January 2013 Atlanta Parent 85

Private Schools Brookwood Christian

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rookwood Christian School, founded in 2004, is a small 1st through 12th grade GAC accredited school. It is appropriate for bright students with Dyslexia and Dyscalcula and for students who speak English as a Second Language.

Students are encouraged to work to the best of their abilities in a creative, nurturing, unpretentious, low stress environment. Individual learning styles, preferences, and strengths are nurtured while specific deficits are remediated.

Wilson Reading, Teaching Textbooks and Spectrum math, as well as AGS Publishing make up the backbone of the curriculum. Homework is assigned according to student needs and abilities. Monthly field trips enhance the curriculum. Friday afternoons are devoted to chapel, fine arts, experiential learning, and life skills.

Brookwood Christian School offers College Prep and Tech Prep programs. Students may attend full time or choose a home school option.

Reasonably priced tutoring for 1st graders through college students is available after school to the whole community.

The little red schoolhouse is located at 4728 Wood Street, just off North Main Street in Historic Downtown Acworth near Dallas Landing on Lake Allatoona. Call 678401-5855 or email kim.wigington@brookwoodchristian.com to schedule your personal tour.

The Children’s School

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ince its establishment in 1970, The Children’s School has maintained a tradition of quality education. An independent, nonprofit elementary school, The Children’s School is a learning environment in which academic development is stressed along with social and emotional growth. The atmosphere is a caring, nurturing one that fosters a deep sense of community.

The Children’s School provides children with experiences that accommodate a variety of learning styles. The faculty and staff are committed to the fullest possible development of each child on many different planes, including intellectual, social, emotional, physical and cultural. They provide rich educational experiences that enable every child to thrive in a rapidly changing and increasingly complex society.

At The Children’s School, strong interrelationships among students, faculty, parents and the community are stressed.

Children learn by active involvement in diverse media and by direct personal experiences. Motivation for learning comes from within the child and is stimulated and cultivated by teacher and parent reinforcement, guidance and example.

The Children’s School embraces a multicultural approach to learning.

The Children’s School recruits and sustains a diverse student body of more than 400 students three years old through the sixth grade. For more on the school’s programs call 404-873-6985 or visit www.thechildrensschool.com.

Chrysalis Experiential Academy

ClearWater Academy

hrysalis is a community of achievers that believes in the power of experiential learning for 6-12 grade students. Recognized for individualized curriculum and authentic multi-sensory experiences, Chrysalis is committed to maintaining small class sizes, capturing student interests, providing a safe learning environment and fostering pursuit of students’ dreams. Chrysalis students are divergent thinkers who become motivated through a traditional foundation, academic relevancy and experiential learning.

Preparation is essential to success. Students that attend Chrysalis begin preparing to become future leaders. The faculty invests in sustainable solutions that return lifelong benefits for the students through customized programming, small class sizes for individualized attention, and community service within the Greater Atlanta community. Community service is an integral part of Chrysalis’ existence.

Chrysalis is an accredited (SACS, SAIS, and GAC) school of the future that is here today, tapping into the creative intellect of their students, one dream at a time. Chrysalis does not discriminate in any of its policies or practices.

Chrysalis maintains a policy of ongoing student enrollment.

10 Mansell Court East, Roswell, GA 30076, 770-649-7077, www.chrysalisexp.org.

learWater Academy is a private state-of-the-art school for children with learning differences, ages 6-18, in Tyrone, GA. CWA provides an all-inclusive, unique blend of researchbased academics, therapies, assistive technology and social-emotional development, all within a sensory-sensitive environment. CWA is happy to announce the addition of secondary education programs to meet the educational needs of older students transitioning into middle and high school levels. CWA continues its relationship with Dr. Lynda Boucugnani-Whitehead, consulting neuropsychologist, and CEO, Strategic Learning Connections, Inc. and developer of Strategic Learning Coaching to provide individual education plans. Targeted academic and social/emotional development plans are created using student’s interests, strengths and best ways of learning to teach students “how” to learn rather than just “what” to learn. Therapies include recreation therapy with Outdoor Rec. Adventures, therapeutic horseback riding provided by PATH-certified instructors, certified occupational, speech and aquatic therapy provided by Hands on Healing. CWA accepts students, ages 6-18 years, with processing delays, ADD, ADHD, Asperger’s Syndrome, sensory integration disorder, PDD/NOS, mild Autism Spectrum Disorder and Non-Verbal Learning Disability diagnoses. Call 770-631-3650 today to schedule a personal tour of ClearWater Academy or visit online at www.clearwateracademyga.org

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Cornerstone Leadership Academy

Covenant Christian School

ow many elementary students can say that, for their senior trip, they did community service in the Philippines? Cornerstone Leadership Academy is an accredited non-profit independent school with a mission to ‘create ambassadors for the world’. This goal is passionately carried out through the implementation of a rigorous and discovery-based curriculum with the child at the center of learning. Students are taught at least one year above grade level with real-life/hands-on experiences ranging from pre-k students learning about nature through nature walks to 4th graders going to Washington D.C. to learn more about our government. Organic meals and snacks are served daily with classroom sizes of no more than twelve.

Pre-k, elementary, and middle school students explore through an innovative integrated curriculum of Leadership, Character, and Culture (LCC) as foundational pillars. An example of how this is incorporated into teaching; each month, the entire school studies a world leader and his/her county of origin along with an obvious character trait of that leader.

The month-long examination culminates with a cultural dinner for students, families, and friends where students exhibit what they have learned about the leader and country.

For information, visit www.claschool.org or call 770-987-4400.

stablished in 1975, Covenant Christian School (CCS) in Smyrna celebrates 37 years of Christian education.

CCS is committed to partnering with Christian families in the nurture and education of their children by providing a classical academic program in a distinctly Christ-centered environment. CCS students are taught to think biblically and analytically, to articulate fluently, and to embrace a life-long love of learning in order to influence our culture for Christ. The distinctive classical approach to learning draws upon proven methods which are structured around three traditional stages of development in children: Grammar, Logic, and Rhetoric. These are also teaching methods implemented throughout each subject and grade level Pre-K 4-8th.

The experienced faculty and staff bring many years of committed Christian teaching to our students each day.

They are personally devoted to applying sound biblical principles in all areas of teaching as they lead students to seek knowledge, understanding and wisdom.

CCS also enables students to broaden their interests outside the classroom including athletics, chess, Communicators for Christ, ballet, piano, sign language choir and others. Come see the benefits of a Covenant education by attending an Open House on Jan 24, Feb 7 and March 7. For more information, call 770-435-1596 or visit www.ccssmyrna.org.

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Cresco Montessori School

The Davis Academy

resco Montessori School is a year-round GAC certified private school, and full-service childcare center. Serving families in Marietta, Buford, Johns Creek and Woodstock for 10 years.

Cresco Montessori School is open from 6:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m., for children from 6 weeks old to 6 years old. Students can attend for a half day, school day or full day. Cresco Montessori offers free Georgia Pre-K, scholarships and a GA Tax Redirection Program. Cresco also provides an afterschool and summer camp program along with many enrichment activities for children up to 12 years old.

A focus on family is an important component of the school. Each year, Cresco Montessori hosts fall flings and spring carnivals for students, parents and siblings to enjoy.

Each Montessori classroom is prepared with a range of materials to allow children to progress through the curriculum as their skills develop. Montessori classrooms intentionally include a mix of ages, so that younger children can learn from older children, and older children develop leadership skills and confidence.

Visit www.crescomontessori.com for more information.

Daily tours are available at each location from 9:30-11:30 am.

he Davis Academy offers a balanced curriculum, blending an outstanding secular education with Reform Jewish traditions and values through 8th grade. This year, Davis is celebrating 20 years of excellence! Davis offers Mechina: Kindergarten Prep, our highly successful full day program, for children who turn five by Dec. 31. Our innovative programs include integrated technology, theatre, fine arts, languages, community service projects, after-school enrichment, student government, broadcasting, yearbook, academic and honors clubs, and athletics for students of all ages.

Davis students take top placements in academic and arts-related competitions. Students take overnight trips beginning in Fifth Grade, culminating in a life changing trip to Israel in Eighth Grade.

Students learn life skills and enjoy enriching experiences so that they become well balanced and self-confident individuals. Small class sizes allow our experienced teachers to provide personal attention helping each student meet his/ her potential. The Davis Academy community is diverse, including a variety of geographic, socio-economic and religious backgrounds. Validated by triple accreditation, The Davis Academy provides a strong foundation that enables students to succeed at the best high schools and colleges and beyond. For more information, please contact Lisa Mirsky, Director of Admissions at 678-527-3300 or visit davisacademy.org.

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Private Schools Epiphany Orthodox Christian School of Mathematics and Science

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piphany, a private Christian preparatory school opening this spring, 2013 in Cumming, will offer a superior S.T.E.M.-focused education for preschoolers ages 2 and older, and for children in grades K through 5.

Epiphany recognizes the critical needs in today’s education for preparing students to be competitive and educationally sound Christian leaders in the S.T.E.M. business world, giving not only our future adults the means of a successful personal future, but ensuring our community, state, and nation will have cutting-edge leaders ready to solve local and global issues. S.T.E.M. stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The school will emphasize critical and inquiry-based thinking, problem solving, and project-driven, collaborative instruction through a comprehensive curriculum based on the National and State Common Core Standards in an Orthodox Christian environment.

Daily S.T.E.M. Laboratories, customized and differentiated instruction, coupled will hands-on learning afford the highest quality of education for all grades. Students will also learn the Greek language, whose root words are predominant in the vocabulary for science, mathematics and medicine.

The school’s mission statement says it succinctly: “To nurture and instill in every student a love for learning and a

First Montessori School of Atlanta

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irst Montessori School of Atlanta, the Southeast’s oldest Montessori school, has a long history of providing nurturing and skilled teachers and a safe learning community for students age 1 ½ through 14. First Montessori’s educational experience is crafted to each stage of the child’s development, cultivating each student’s individual talent. Students’ intellectual abilities grow alongside their character in this warm and supportive environment. The students develop the skills and spirit to thrive in the high school of their choice and in the world beyond. As a result, graduates and students matriculate to their choice of Atlanta’s competitive private and public schools.

First Montessori School of Atlanta is located on a 7-acre wooded campus in a Northwest Atlanta neighborhood. In addition, First Montessori School of Atlanta owns an 86acre Landschool in Northwest Georgia for outdoor programs supporting science research and discovery, outdoor excursions, independence and creativity. First Montessori School of Atlanta is more than school, it’s smarter than that. Call 404-252-3910, ext. 215 to make an appointment to observe classes with the Admission Coordinator or to reserve your place at an Open House on Jan. 13 or Feb. 7. Adults only please.

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passion for developing the skills and careers for the 21st century within the S.T.E.M. subjects.”

Each student will be taught using a customized Student Learning Profile developed by teachers, parents and the child. School days will include time for prayers and reflection to nurture each child’s spiritual formation, personal development and civic leadership development.

The founder and president of the school’s board is Laura Kefalas.

Principal Sydney L. Lee, an elementary school teacher for 11 years, has a master’s degree in education as well as certifications as a Gifted Specialist and Reading Specialist.

She has developed numerous highly demanded science summer camps and S.T.E.M.-related education programs, with the latest successful program including an international technology curricular collaborative between her elementary students and students and teachers from a private Christian school in Manila, Philippines.

For an overview of the school, plan to attend one of four Open Houses on Jan. 4, 18 or 25 and Feb. 22, and tour the new school at 514 West Maple Drive, Suite 102 in downtown Cumming.

Private appointments for tours are also available. The school will open in May for preschool students, this summer 2013 for summer camps, and in fall 2013 for grades K-5.

The Galloway School

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ince its founding more than forty years ago, the Galloway School has been home to a diverse, vibrant community of learners who come together to pursue its collective values: individuality, fearlessness, mastery, and community.

The educational philosophy and approach stem from the belief that learning should be both challenging and joyful. It’s only then that children learn to love learning. The exceptional results of the graduates speak to the power of a Galloway education. They believe that it’s the journey of learning and personal development that makes Galloway truly different.

And the results speak for themselves, because Galloway graduates are mature, independent, and well prepared for college and for life as enlightened citizens of a changing and competitive world.

While they don’t define student success by comparative ranking, the students do well on standardized measures. The Galloway School offers an environment of high expectations and low anxiety that challenges its students to grow by teaching them to challenge themselves today and for the rest of their lives.

For more information, call 404-252-8389 or visit the website at www.gallowayschool.org.

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High Meadows School

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igh Meadows School’s innovative, inquiry-based, integrated curriculum emphasizes love of learning, creativity, meaningful connections, and environmental responsibility. Research supports the school’s inquirybased approach, “increasingly, we’re seeing study after study showing that an early childhood curriculum structured around engaged play helps children develop a wide variety of skills and capabilities,” Head of School Jay Underwood said.

According to Underwood, the benefits of the right preschool and kindergarten environment do far more than encourage fine, gross motor, pre-reading/reading and counting/premath skills.

“Many early years programs encourage those abilities.

But we’re also talking about the ability to self-regulate and focus, organize and internalize information, collaborate with others, explore independently, and draw meaningful connections between ideas and the world in which they live.

That’s the difference between kids who feel like they have to go to school and people who have a deep, lifelong love of learning,” Underwood said.

The High Meadows approach prepares students to thrive today and pursue high levels of achievement in high school, universities, and the world beyond. “When I talk with our alumni, I’m continually impressed by their self-awareness and depth of perception, as well as their many accomplishments.

Long past their years in school, they talk about elements of their High Meadows education that enabled and inspired them to achieve so much, ” Underwood explained.

High Meadows alumni have earned top scholarships and awards in high school and college, including top SAT and ACT scores, as well as valedictorian, National Honor Society, Phi Beta Kappa, Presidential Scholar, and Magna Cum Laude honors. They have gone on to become champion athletes, musicians, visual artists, writers, and entrepreneurs.

These successes may seem like a tremendous leap from the playtime of three, four, and five-year-olds. “Children really do grow up so quickly. Yet, so much of who they become is developed at such a young age,” Underwood said.

High Meadows School (preschool – eighth grade) is located in Roswell, Georgia. information at www.highmeadows.org.

George Walton Academy

The Heiskell School

or over 40 years, it has been GWA’s mission to establish and maintain a safe environment, to promote lifelong learning and to assist students in becoming responsible, self-disciplined adults who will contribute positively to society.

Their small class sizes offer increased individualized attention from a dedicated teacher base. Curriculum and technology are continuously evaluated to ensure students are equipped with the most current educational tools available.

GWA’s beautiful 50-acre campus allows many opportunities for students to become involved in a multitude of athletic and extra-curricular activities; developing their interests, encouraging community service and building confidence, self-esteem and mutual respect.

Located forty-five miles east of Atlanta, GWA continues to provide an exceptional environment in which college-bound students can reach their goals. *100% of graduates are accepted to college *SAT scores are consistently above the National Average *National award winning Fine Arts and Music programs *Fully Accredited Call 770.267.7578 or visit www.gwa.com for more information.

he Heiskell School is a dynamic Christian School in Northwest Atlanta that offers one of the finest academic programs available at the preschool, elementary and junior high levels. Students thrive in a close-knit, family-like atmosphere. Classrooms are animated and inviting. Teachers tailor their instruction for academically talented students, guiding bright, curious children toward academic success in phonics and grammar as well as mathematics, literature, foreign language, science and history.

At Heiskell, students are encouraged to utilize their talents to impact their community, their country and the world. Using an innovative blend of traditional and modern methodologies, the school provides a teacher-directed education that integrates the Word of God into everyday academic studies, instilling leadership qualities and developing the strength of character that provide the foundation for a successful future as followers of Christ and “lights of the world”.

From the first day a preschool child enters The Heiskell School, he is gently guided on the path leading to a love for learning. Biblical principles and precepts lay the foundation for building character at an early age. In a calm, yet vibrant setting, work and play complement each other.

The Heiskell School’s comprehensive program builds successively upon the mastery and discipline acquired at each grade level, setting a high standard that equips graduates to excel in Atlanta’s college preparatory schools.

The Heiskell School is located at 3260 Northside Drive in Atlanta. Call 404-262-2233 or visit www.heiskell.net.

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Private Schools Heritage Preparatory School

Hess Academy

eritage is a distinctive classical Christ-centered school located on a beautiful twelve-acre campus in Midtown Atlanta.

Classes are small, ensuring that each student receives individual attention. Class days are shorter in the Lower School to ensure quality time at home. The content of Heritage’s curriculum is “classical” in that it emphasizes timeless works of literature, music, art, drama, history, Latin, logic, science, and mathematics.

Teachers incorporate the methodology of the educator Charlotte Mason by focusing on good habits, nature studies, and joyful discovery in learning. Heritage teachers are gifted professionals who are committed followers of Jesus Christ.

Heritage believes that early development of a disciplined lifestyle provides a solid foundation for a responsible and productive life in a complex modern world. Heritage graduates have a proven track record of being accepted into Atlanta’s top private high schools.

Heritage is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS); a member of ACSI, ACCS, and National Junior Honor Society; and a participant in the Duke Talent Identification Program (TIP).

Heritage is located at 1700 Piedmont Avenue N.E., Atlanta, GA 30324.

For more information, please call 404-815-7711 or visit www.heritageprep.org.

ess Academy, a newly formed private school, provides a joyful, rigorous, and nurturing environment for children PreK through 8th grade. At Hess Academy teachers work in partnership with students and help them build on their talents and gifts. This collaborative process allows students to develop academic excellence and emotional intelligence.

The founder and principal, Kristen Hess, has a PhD in education with over 20 years experience teaching students PreK through college – general education, special education, and gifted. Hess Academy provides an interdisciplinary curriculum aligned with the Common Core and Georgia Performance Standards. Small classes facilitate individualized and hands-on instruction while creating a strong sense of community.

Hess Academy is conveniently located in the North Decatur Presbyterian Church at the corner of Medlock and Scott Boulevard. The classrooms and outdoor green space reflect the belief that children need to be in spacious environments conducive to learning and enjoying the natural world. For more information, please visit www.hessacademy.com or call 678-308-6380.

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The Howard School

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he Howard School educates students with language based learning disabilities and learning differences, ages 5 years old through 12th grade. Small student-teacher ratios allow for personalized instruction, enabling children to work at their own pace and to express their knowledge in a variety of ways.

The integrated curriculum takes into account each child’s learning style and processing needs. The focus is on depth of understanding, breadth of experience, and real-world connections.

Students share what they’ve learned and who they are as learners in their student-led conferences.

Students are supported by a collaborative team of education specialists; experienced classroom teachers, Speech – Language Pathologists, Literacy Specialists, a Math and Assistive Technology Specialist. Art, music and PE classes support the academic program. Inter-scholastic sports with a no-cut policy emphasize skill building and sportsmanship.

The Howard School is accredited by SACS and SAIS. For more information, please call 404-377-7436, or visit www.howardschool.org.

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Jacob’s Ladder

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acob’s Ladder Neurodevelopmental School and Therapy Center, founded in 1998, is an SAIS-SACS Accredited, SB-10 school, Pre-K – 12. Following a Neurodevelopmental Evaluation, their team of specialists develops tailored programs designed to optimize strengths and address weaknesses for children with Autism, ADHD, Brain Injury, CP, Down Syndrome, Processing Disorders, Bi-Polar Disorder, Behavioral Disorders and other developmental delays.

Their brain-based methodology is used to strengthen a foundation for learning. Placement options include: intensive individualized instruction with a 1:1 ratio, small group instruction, summer programming, in-home programs, and various therapy services.

The Jacob’s Ladder Group Schools provide a Neurodevelopmental classroom model with individualized attention. Classes serve up to ten students at a 3:1, 2:1, or 1:1 ratio. All core subjects are covered while incorporating the Jacob’s Ladder philosophy and methodology. The Jacob’s Ladder Therapy Center offers hourly interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Brain Mapping, Behavior Intervention by a BCBA, Reading Intensives, Tutoring, and Neurofeedback in their cutting edge lab - one of five in the world. All are encouraged to attend free educational seminars and tour the campus in Roswell, Georgia. Call 770-998-1017 or visit www.jacobsladdercenter.com.

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McGinnis Woods Country Day School

cGinnis Woods Country Day School is a private, non-parochial school offering a challenging Preschool, Elementary and Middle Grades Education. The school is located on the border of Forsyth and North Fulton counties in northeast Alpharetta. The Preschool at McGinnis Woods accepts children as young as 6 weeks and the elementary and middle school teaches students in PreK 4 through 8th grade. McGinnis Woods Country Day School has top accreditations, including GAC (Georgia Accrediting Commission), SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools), and NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) in the Preschool. McGinnis Woods is a member of many professional and educational organizations including the Georgia Independent School Association (GISA).

Class sizes are small with low student-teacher ratios, allowing frequent one-on-one learning. The children learn through a variety of groupings including class lessons, small group activities, hands-on experiments and “buddy” classes which encourage multi-age groupings. The school is equipped with an in-house broadcast system, computer labs, wireless laptop labs and interactive whiteboards throughout the school. Frequent guest speakers and monthly field trips reinforcing classroom learning round out the classroom experience. Off-campus overnight class trips are offered for students in 1st-8th grade. Recent trips have included Zoo Atlanta, Elachee Nature Center, Desoto Caverns, Nature’s Classroom and Wahsega 4H Center.

The mission of McGinnis Woods is to inspire students with the passion to excel. This goal is accomplished by providing superior academics through hands-on approaches which foster self confidence and self esteem and that inspire a lifelong love of learning. Superior educational resources are implemented to maximize the learning experience for our diverse student population. These programs include, but are not limited to: The Letter People, Saxon Phonics and Math, Wordly Wise, McGraw Hill, Harcourt, Glencoe, and Core Essentials. The excellent curriculum provides the children with a strong framework on which to develop academically, socially and emotionally. The administration and staff are committed to helping each student achieve their full potential.

Students at McGinnis Woods enjoy many enrichment classes as part of their curriculum including library and computer skills, Spanish, character education, health, music, art, band and chorus, physical education and quarterly

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electives for students in 5-8th grade. Community Service projects are emphasized throughout the year. All special programs are taught by specialists and provide opportunities for students to explore and discover talents and strengths.

Competitive sports and robotics teams train year round.

Athletic teams include: soccer, volleyball, cross country, basketball, and track and field. Fine Arts offerings include: drama, chorus, band, visual arts, and special performances providing an avenue for creative expression.

Elementary school hours are 8:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m. (3:30 p.m. for students in 4th-8th), with Before and After School programs available for families needing additional child care.

Discovery Clubs are offered during After School and include an impressive variety of choices including drama, band club, robotics, Science Club, ballet, cheerleading, football, JuJitsu, tennis, and cooking. The Preschool and After School programs are available from 6:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Exciting Summer Camps are also available. Junior and Senior Summer Camp Programs include a variety of theme based activities featuring fun field trips, enriching educational opportunities and on-site water activities. Our theme for summer 2013 is Summer Spectacular.

The school encourages all prospective parents to visit and tour the beautiful campus and review the curriculum for each grade level. Parent involvement is strong and parents are invited and encouraged to take an active role in their child’s education. McGinnis Woods is known as a wonderful, caring family where community is strongly valued and nurtured.

Please visit www.mcginniswoods.org or contact the school to schedule a personal tour by calling 770-664-7764.

An open house for prospective students will be held on Saturday, January 12, 2013 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Additional tours are available by appointment.

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January 2013 Atlanta Parent 91

Private Schools King’s Ridge Christian

Legacy Academy

ducating students in a PreK-12th grade school allows for the developmental continuity in a vision-driven environment. At King’s Ridge Christian School this progression is a distinctive approach called the Journey for Life Impact.

As a Christian school it’s recognized that each individual is unique by design. The unfolding of each child’s story, or Journey, allows students to discover their God-given talents and reveal their purpose to then prepare and enroll in college studies that will align with interests, abilities and ultimately what they were each called to do with their lives. The partnership of parents, community and teachers invest in each child’s individual story and future success.

With a 100% college acceptance rate, graduates of this multi-denominational college preparatory school enter higher education with the ability to write well, speak well and relate well in ways that allow them to stand out and be prepared for their future.

Located on a 70-acre campus with easy access to north Fulton, Forsyth, Cherokee and east Cobb counties, students benefit from relevant opportunities for growth in faith and development of skills that prepare them to be self-directed learners, self-aware leaders and self-confident servants.

For additional information contact us at 770.754.5738. www.kingsridgecs.org

he journey begins with a child’s very first visit to Legacy Academy. Upon arrival, your child will be greeted with a friendly hello and a smile, as he walks about the school, eagerly peeking around each corner to get a glimpse of what will soon be his new learning environment.

Each classroom is a special place where children are encouraged to explore interest areas where life skills, such as independence and confidence, are introduced. Framework for Their Future® curriculum is designed with activities planned throughout each day to introduce children to new ideas and experiences weekly. Their excitement for learning is enhanced and new connections are made between previously introduced concepts.

Creative thought, self-expression, and skill development are established as a strong foundation for learning at Legacy Academy. Brain development during those very first 2.000 days of your child’s life is critical. Moments of laughter, joy, and endless possibilities make Legacy Academy the perfect beginning for your child’s journey. Just imagine!

For more information, please call 770-932-0091 or visit www.legacyacademy.com

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The Lovett School

Mill Springs Academy

he Lovett School seeks to develop young men and women of honor, faith, and wisdom with the character and intellect to thrive in college and in life. Founded in 1926

by Eva Edwards Lovett, we continue today as an Atlanta independent school serving children in Kindergarten through Grade 12. Lovett provides integrated experiences in academics, arts, athletics, and service.

Lovett’s reach extends beyond the Buckhead neighborhood – students come from 73 zip codes across Atlanta – and even into Central America, where Lovett maintains 825 acres of Ecuadoran cloudforest as a preserve and research center.

Lovett received LEED-Gold certification on its Middle School building, part of the schoolwide focus on sustainability, which also includes school vehicles running on biodiesel converted from the cafeteria’s used cooking oil!

Lovett’s curriculum includes a required year of American Studies, options for African and Asian studies, multivariable calculus and linear algebra, and organic and biochemistry.

Lovett is one of the first schools in Georgia to offer AP Chinese, the culmination of a Chinese program that begins in the Lower School. In addition, Lovett offers a one-to-one laptop program in Grades 4-12, and many single-gender classes in Grades 6-8.

For more information, visit www.lovett.org or call 404-262-3032.

ill Springs Academy is an SACS/SAIS accredited college preparatory, independent school community dedicated to the academic, physical and social growth of those students who have not realized their full potential in the traditional classroom setting. Since 1981 Mill Springs has been supporting student learning by raising expectations and developing self motivation, while providing skills and values for life. The school is a not-for-profit 501(3)C organization governed by a board of trustees.

The population consists of average to superior ability students in grades 1-12. Small classes and an individualized curriculum help them to capitalize on their strengths while learning compensatory strategies. Mill Springs offers a broad range of college preparatory and fine arts options, along with college and fine arts placement support. A variety of sports and an extended day program are also available. In the summer months, summer school, summer camp and sport workshops are offered.

Our 85-acre campus is nestled in the beautiful rolling hills and pasture land of Alpharetta. For more information, please visit our website at www.millsprings. org or call (770) 360-1336. Mill Springs is a participant of the Georgia Special Needs Scholarship program (SB10).

Follow us on Twitter (@millspringsacad) and Facebook.

Mill Springs Academy 13660 New Providence Road, Alpharetta, GA 30004

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Montessori Schools of Georgia

ontessori Schools of Georgia offers you three conveniently located schools: the Montessori School at Emory, the Montessori School of Alpharetta and the Montessori School of Cumming.

Montessori provides the finest quality education available for children ages 15 months to 12 years. Three specific educational programs designed for Toddler, Primary and Elementary age children are based on the developmental needs and characteristics of each age group.

Children are given one-on-one instruction from their teacher which creates an individualized program that engages their interests and skill levels.

The Montessori Schools of Georgia offer several options. Full day, half day, 10 month or year round formats are available. Afternoon enrichment programs are also offered from 3pm to 6pm, in which children enjoy experiences in the creative arts and sciences such as music, art and foreign language. Also, early morning drop-off is available at 7 a.m.

The Montessori School at Emory, founded in 1993, just moved to a new campus setting complete with beautiful classrooms, large garden areas, a soccer field, basketball court, a working kitchen for young aspiring chefs, and its own

Mount Paran Christian School

Mt. Bethel Christian Academy

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ince its founding in 1998, Mt. Bethel Christian Academy has grown to a thriving school of nearly 500 extraordinary Kindergarten through 8th grade students. The secret to this success? A commitment to excellence and a desire to help children become all that God intends them to be. In addition to core subjects, training in critical thinking and reasoning skills are also provided, as well as Latin, Spanish, and Logic. Bible is taught at all grade levels and students are encouraged to explore their faith and grow closer to Christ.

In addition to a vibrant academic program and a one-toone Mac laptop program, MBCA provides Fine Arts, service projects, and athletic programs. The championship athletic program provides opportunities for students to participate in basketball, baseball, soccer, volleyball, crosscountry, cheerleading, golf and tennis.

The 44-acre campus features athletic fields, a pond, and nature area allowing for exploration outside of the classroom. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS), Mt. Bethel Christian Academy delivers an exemplary program that produces well-rounded students grounded in Christian principles. To learn how your student can begin a journey of exciting growth at Mt. Bethel Christian Academy, visit: www.mtbethelchristian.org, call Rhea Adkins, Director of Admission at 770-971-0245, or email: rhea.adkins@mtbethelchristian.org.

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gymnasium. For more information about the Montessori School at Emory, call 404-634-5777.

The Montessori School of Alpharetta is adjacent to New Town Park, which adds to the children’s outdoor experience. The beautifully equipped classrooms have many oversized windows which creates an abundance of natural lighting. There are two large garden areas for children to get their hands in the dirt. For more information about the Montessori School of Alpharetta, call 770-667-1277.

The Montessori School of Cumming is situated on four wooded acres with nature trails and an outdoor classroom. The classrooms have beautiful views with cathedral ceilings. A huge playground provides room for soccer as well as imaginative play.

For more information about the Montessori School of Cumming, call 770-205-6773.

Montessori enjoys world renowned success because it draws on children’s inherent love of learning. Please call to schedule a tour at one of the three locations or join us for our Open Houses anytime between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 pm: Montessori School at Emory on January 26th, Montessori School of Alpharetta on January 19th, Montessori School of Cumming on January 26th. Learn more at www.MontessoriSchoolsofGeorgia.com.

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n interdenominational community, MPCS has been providing a balance of traditional education and contemporary approaches where faith and intellect grow as one for 36 years. Students of all ages participate in spiritual growth opportunities such as weekly chapel services, daily Bible classes, community service projects, and short-term mission trips.

In this Christ-centered environment, students discover how using their God-given talents and abilities to excel in the areas of academics, arts, and/or athletics brings honor and glory to God. With full SACS/SAIS accreditation, MPCS offers transformative academics for grades PK3-12. Expanded opportunities exist for those who qualify with an ENCORE/ Gifted program in lower school, advanced classes in middle school, and over 50 honors and AP courses along with a summer study abroad program in high school. Additionally, the Dozier School of Performing Arts is a performing arts magnet program housed in one of the finest performing arts centers in the country.

The school also benefits from an extensive athletic program with fifteen sports offered in middle and high school.

If you feel your child would benefit from the experience of Mount Paran Christian School, call the Admission Office at 770-578-0182 for your personal tour or visit online at www.mtparanschool.com

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January 2013 Atlanta Parent 93

Private Schools Mount Pisgah Christian School

Mt. Vernon Presbyterian School

ollege Prep. Life Ready. Being prepared for college is important. But to be successful, today’s students need much more. They must be ready to face the challenges of life.

That’s the Pisgah difference. The essence of Mount Pisgah Christian School’s mission is best described as: College Prep. Life Ready.

Personalized instruction, excellent academics, and oneon-one relationships between faculty and students are Pisgah trademarks. The Pisgah Advisement program guides students through the education process and produces dramatic results–initially in self-discovery and academic performance and ultimately in college acceptances and lifelong success. The results are impressive–93% of Pisgah graduates are accepted to their first college of choice. The exceptional athletic and arts programs allow students to discover talents and build self-confidence. Global mission trips and leadership opportunities abound.

From infants to high school seniors, Pisgah meets the needs of every child. Dedicated teachers have a passion for working with children, opening a new world before their eyes in the classroom, on the stage, on the playing field, and in the local, national, and worldwide mission fields. Experience Pisgah and discover the difference when students are prepared for college and ready for life.

Schedule your personal tour by calling 678-336-3443. www.experiencepisgah.org.

stablished in 1972, Mount Vernon Presbyterian School, serves students in Preschool through Grade 12. Located on 37 acres in the heart of Sandy Springs, MVPS is a school of inquiry, innovation, and impact. Grounded in Christian values, Mount Vernon prepares all students to be college ready, globally competitive, and engaged citizen leaders. During the last four years, graduates have received acceptances for admittance into 197 top-tier colleges and universities in 36 different states and two countries outside the United States. Also, they have earned $7 million in scholarships not including the HOPE Scholarship.

Athletically, MVPS offers 45 sports teams for grades 5-12.

Demonstrating the School’s commitment to inquiry, the Upper School offers a dynamic opportunity unique to Atlanta private schools called Interim Term. Students travel through cultural arts trips, national college tours, mission trips, as well as participate in internships. In the Lower School, Mount Vernon’s Center for Design Thinking teaches students to identify real world issues, collaborate through research, test their results, and produce prototypes to impact the world.

Preschool-Grade 6 Group Tours are January 17, February 7, and March 14. Grades 7-12 Group Tours are January 16, February 6, and March 13. Open House is Saturday, January 26 10 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

Visit www.mountvernonschool.org or call 404-252-3448.

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North Atlanta International Academy

Pace Academy

orth Atlanta International Academy (NAIA) is a fully licensed and accredited International School for preschool through elementary. A strong focus on academics provides students with the highest quality education. NAIA fosters multilingualism and internationalism through the combination of its curriculum, the International Baccalaureate (IB), and its 5 immersion languages - English, Spanish, French, German and Mandarin. Small class sizes (7:1) in all grades encourage critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and an individual approach. The challenging curriculum combines a world-renowned educational methodology with real life experiences that empower children to inquire about the world around them. Activities are tailored to each child’s ability to keep them engaged and balanced. A new facility offers students a variety of books, activities and experiences, computers and technology, as well as two all natural playgrounds for outdoor exploration.

All teachers are experienced educators and native speakers in the 5 language tracks.

Please visit www.northatlantainternational.com or call 770-205-5574. Take a tour to see how NAIA can enhance your child’s development and education. The Open House is scheduled for February 9, 2013 from 11am to 2pm.

ith 1080 students in grades Pre-First through 12, Pace Academy is the ideal size to maximize all facets of a child’s development. Pace’s intimate setting enables students to be involved on many levels – in the classroom, in athletics, in the arts and in service. With average SAT scores exceeding 1300, Pace students regularly attend colleges such as the University of Virginia, Duke, Northwestern and Brown.

In Pace’s close environment, students know they have support from their teachers and friends. They learn to ask questions, think critically and communicate effectively.

Because Pace is small, student, faculty, and parent partnerships come easily. The family-centered environment develops academically, culturally, socially, athletically and emotionally strong students. Pace offers championship sports teams, acclaimed fine arts programs, an awardwinning service program and a Global Education program that links the Pace curriculum to international travel.

To be at Pace is to belong at Pace. The school fosters an environment in which students grow to appreciate and respect each other. Many Pace students will become great leaders, scholars, athletes and artists, but the goal of the school is to develop confident global citizens who lead balanced lives and are well-prepared for the world ahead.

For more information, visit www.paceacademy.org or call 404-262-1345.

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Perimeter School

Porter Academy

erimeter School has been uniquely educating children since its inception in 1983 and currently serves 325 Christian families of 543 students from Kindergarten through 8th grade. They are a covenant school based on a biblical mandate that all followers of Jesus act on their responsibility not just to teach their own children, but to serve the students of fellow believers with the intent to raise up a generation that reveres God, refreshes others and redeems the world. Perimeter is committed not to push parents aside, but to work with them to educate the mind, and inspire the heart. Knowing all effective schools must choose a basis for truth, they integrate biblical principles while embracing the importance of play, critical thinking and the vital roles of creativity and serving in education. Class ratios are very small because Perimeter believes education is poorly received outside of authentic relationships. Since the child is a valued person, he or she is expected to share ideas frequently, communicate honestly, reflect deeply, and interact respectfully. In honor of their natural bent to learn and discover truth, an atmosphere is created that encourages children to enjoy doing so without undue rewards or bribes.

Likewise to feed their innate wonder and imagination, Perimeter has selected a curriculum which is a feast of rich sources of literature, science, history, art, math and physical growth. Curious? Please visit www.perimeterschool.org or call 678-405-2307 to schedule a tour.

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) routine assessments to determine optimal instructional levels for each subject, 3) individualized academic programs that incorporate a variety of evidence-based materials and techniques, 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, occupational, and music therapy within a group setting.

Porter Academy fosters lifelong success through the development of cognitive, academic, social, and psychological abilities that provide a strong foundation upon which the child can build.

For more information, visit the website www.porteracademy.org or call 770-594-1313.

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Seigakuin Atlanta International School

Shiloh Hills Christian School

n today’s competitive and international world, it is never too early to start learning another language. Seigakuin Atlanta International School (SAINTS) accepts non-Japanese speaking children in the preschool/kindergarten program where they are mostly immersed in Japanese. They learn the language gradually in a very nurturing environment. They are being prepared academically in Japanese before they enroll in SAINTS elementary school. SAINTS also offers a 2 to 3 day per week pre-school program.

SAINTS elementary school is a unique educational institution offering Japanese and English two-way immersion program. It is 90% Japanese immersion in the early grades, with the ratio of instructional languages gradually shifting to 50/50 in the upper grades. SAINTS alumni are highly successful in both American and Japanese school systems.

SAINTS students are nurtured in a Christian environment and prepared to become active participants in an international Society.

SAINTS offers affordable tuition and scholarship.

Please visit www.seig.ac.jp/english/atlanta or call 770730-0045.

hiloh Hills Christian School, located in Kennesaw, is a ministry of Shiloh Hills Baptist Church. In its 33rd year, Shiloh seeks to provide, in a loving and safe environment, a balanced and quality education with a Christian emphasis in academics, fine arts, and athletics.

Its foundation is the Word of God. Working together with its parents to provide a well-balanced and Biblically-based, quality education, Shiloh produces graduates that do well in college and professional life.

The school, offering grades K-3 through 12th, is accredited by Georgia Private School Accreditation Council through the Georgia Association of Christian Schools.

Further accreditation through the regional AdvancEd/SACS is scheduled for this February.

Programs offered at Shiloh include a Directed Studies Program for early reading intervention, resource, mentoring, tutoring, and enrichment; Special Needs; International Student Program; and college prep courses including AP classes.

Enrollment for the 2013-14 school year is underway with Open Houses scheduled through April. Contact the school office at 770-926-7729 or shilohhills.com for more information or to set up a tour.

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Private Schools St. Joseph Catholic School

St. Martin’s Episcopal School

JCS, a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence, is dually accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS). Established in 1953, it is part of the educational system of the Archdiocese of Atlanta. With a current enrollment of 490 in grades Kindergarten through eight, St. Joseph School prides itself on the spiritual growth and academic excellence of both students and teachers.

The core curriculum includes religion, mathematics, science, social studies, language arts and reading. Recently built dedicated space is used for middle school and for supporting classes in Spanish, computer science, art, physical education and music. Students enjoy enriching experiences such as weekly Mass, community service, field trips, choir, band, student council, and arts festival.

The middle school offers elective classes in a variety of areas including Lego Robotics. Graduates continue their academic excellence by attending rigorous high school programs at Catholic and private schools and also IB and magnet programs in the public school systems. For more information visit St. Joseph Catholic school on the web at www.stjosephschool.org or call 770-428-3328.

t. Martin’s Episcopal School is a place where each child can discover his or her unique gifts. Serving approximately 615 students from 3 years old through 8th grade, St. Martin’s has offered a quality education in a loving, Christian environment for more than 50 years.

Every parent knows that the ability to learn, create, lead and serve is as individual as each child. With small classes and a nurturing community, students can safely explore, take risks, face challenges and celebrate each other’s success. They are not only well-prepared to be high achievers and strong leaders during high school, they also build a foundation that encourages lifelong learning.

Students’ spiritual growth remains an important part of the school’s mission. While St. Martin’s is a Christian school with an Episcopal identity, children of all faiths are welcomed.

This school year, St. Martin’s opened a brand-new, 42,000-square-foot Middle School building and newly renovated campus to better support student learning and extracurricular programs. We invite you to tour our outstanding new campus to learn more. Contact Director of Admission Blythe Marsau for more information at (404) 237-4260.

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The Waldorf School of Atlanta

The Walker School

elebrating 26 years, The Waldorf School of Atlanta provides an extraordinary educational experience for your child and a nurturing school community for your family.

Located in Decatur, the school offers a preschool through middle school curriculum for 250 students. Our curriculum – rich in every branch of academics and enlivened with the arts and practical skills – honors children at each stage, nurturing their current capacities and preparing them for new learning to come. Music, art, movement, handwork, and foreign language are significant aspects of our curriculum.

The Waldorf School of Atlanta is founded around several basic principles: that childhood is sacred and must be protected; that children’s imaginations must be actively engaged to support life-long learning; and that innovative teaching methods are important to a curriculum that addresses every aspect of a student’s being – mind, body, and soul. Students are gently guided to develop capacities for reasoning and judgment in a supportive and structured environment, strengthening the child to meet not only the challenges of school but also those of life.

Based on the philosophy of educational pioneer Dr. Rudolf Steiner, there are more than 1000 Waldorf schools worldwide. Visit www.waldorfatlanta.org or call 404-3771315.

he Walker School is Cobb County’s college-preparatory independent school for families seeking an engaging, perspective-widening academic program within an intimately scaled, caring environment where meaningful relationships engender transformative learning.

Walker’s dedicated teachers exude contagious intellectual energy, demonstrate authentic interest in the life of the mind that extends beyond their core subject areas, and model genuine respect for students and one another.

Through their actions and interactions, Walker teachers cultivate students’ spirit of wanting to know in every setting— the classroom and the hallway, the laboratory and the library, the art studio and the stage, the court and the playing field.

Walker students, feeling known and encouraged by their teachers and classmates, come to value the experience over the applause, developing along the way the confidence to explore new avenues of thinking, the wisdom to articulate meaningful insights, and the fortitude to act with integrity and honor.

At the culmination of this carefully guided, increasingly independent journey from pre-K through grade 12, Walker graduates have evolved from curious young learners into young adults thoroughly prepared for the challenges of college and life.

Please visit walkerwonders.org or call 678-581-6891 today!

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The Westminster Schools

Whitefield Academy

estminster is a Pre-First-12 Christian preparatory school, where motivated young people discover their gifts, their potential, and the world around them. The 1:1 laptop program undergirds rigorous academics, fostering communication and collaboration in the classroom and inspiring creativity among students and teachers alike.

The campus has a global reach: Westminster is a member of the Global Online Academy; students participate in a variety of international programs; and technology facilitates learning partnerships between even our very youngest students with peers internationally. Westminster features a distinctive arts program, including music, visual arts, and drama, and offers the best overall athletic program in Georgia with 25 sports and 84 teams. Serving others is a key facet of a Westminster education, with service learning opportunities for all grades in partnership with 37 nonprofit agencies.

Westminster students discover their innate passions even as they serve the world’s great needs. Learn more about the excellent academics, faculty, and extracurricular activities at westminster.net. To schedule a tour or participate in a parent information session, please call 404-609-6202. The Westminster Schools celebrates diversity and practices a nondiscriminatory admission policy.

hitefield Academy, a Christcentered college preparatory school located in the Smyrna/Vinings area of northwest Atlanta, serves 650 students in grades PreK-4 through 12.

Situated on a wooded 75-acre campus, Whitefield has established a solid academic reputation as its numerous AP and honors courses and rigorous curriculum set a framework for 100 percent of its graduates to matriculate to colleges and universities. Graduating classes amass $4-6 million in scholarships and grants every year.

Consecutive, annual perfect SAT scores have been recorded for numerous years across each of the different disciplines.

Over 50 sports teams, including 24 varsity teams, provide opportunities for competitive athletics. Whitefield grads have moved to NCAA competition in football, basketball, golf, soccer, baseball, and track and field.

The award-winning fine arts department, which includes drama, orchestra, band, chorus, and visual arts, has produced successful performers and artists who have honed their skills at the collegiate and professional levels.

Whitefield Academy is accredited with the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Please contact Linda Simpson, admission director, at 678-305-3000 for more information.

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Woodward Academy

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oodward Academy is metro Atlanta’s long-proven college-preparatory independent school for families who want the certainty of more complete preparation for college and life. Tapping into more than a century of educational wisdom, Woodward transforms each student’s experience into a tangible opportunity for learning and growth. Woodward students develop a deep respect for difference as they collaborate with others who come from 23 metro Atlanta counties, and from a broad array of religious, economic, and ethnic backgrounds. Because of the Woodward experience, Academy graduates are notably confident and well-prepared as they enter the complex and evolving world.

A typical Woodward Academy graduating class attends more than 100 different colleges and universities, devotes 5,000 hours to community service projects, and earns more than $12.5 million in scholarship awards.

The Woodward North Open House will take place on Sunday, Jan. 27 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Main Campus Open House will take place on Sunday, Feb. 10 from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. Please call 404.765.4001 for more information or to make a reservation.

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FOR MORE EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES VISIT

OPEN HOUSE atlantaparent.com To be listed in our Open House Directory, please contact Amy Smith asmith@atlantaparent.com or 678-222-1918.

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January 2013 Atlanta Parent 97

Focus on

Boarding Schools Tallulah Falls School

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allulah Falls School is an independent, coeducational college preparatory boarding and day school serving approximately 375 students in grades 6 - 12. Tallulah Falls is located in northeast Georgia, 90 miles from Atlanta.

In 1909, Tallulah Falls School opened its doors to serve children in the surrounding community. Today, TFS continues to provide opportunities for academic challenge, athletics, and personal growth to students from the local area, across the state of Georgia, across the nation, and around the world. In addition to its challenging college preparatory curriculum, the school offers up to 8 college credit courses on campus as well as a comprehensive selection of competitive sports and

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extracurricular clubs and activities.

TFS provides need-based financial aid to students whose families may not be able to afford all the expenses associated with a high-quality, private college-preparatory education.

The TFS experience is centered around community and characterized by personal attention in a nurturing environment. Classes are small, with an average size of 1215 students. The community of students, faculty, staff and administration are committed to promoting an atmosphere of respect and encouragement, conducive to learning and living.

Visit the school’s website at www.tallulahfalls.org or call 706-754-0400 for more information.

To read our digital version of the Big Book of Schools! visit atlantaparent.com [ Education Guide ] Special Advertising Section

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TALLULAH FALLS SCHOOL

www.tallulahfalls.org

www.tallulahfalls.org

ALABAMA Indian Springs School (Co-ed) FLORIDA Bolles School (Co-ed) Vanguard School (Co-ed)

GEORGIA Darlington School (Co-ed) Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School (Co-ed) Riverside Military Academy (All Boys) Tallulah Falls School (Co-ed)

NORTH CAROLINA Asheville School (Co-ed) Christ School (All Boys) Salem Academy (All Girls)

TENNESSEE Baylor School (Co-ed) McCallie School (All Boys) St. Andrew’s - Sewanee (Co-ed) The Webb School (Co-ed)

Welcome to SABS. We are a consortium of 16 schools located in five southeastern states. Our schools Welcome to SABS. We are a consortium of 14 schools located in five southeastern states. Our schools have over 1,500 have over 1,500 combined years of tradition. Information about the programs of each school is combined years of directory tradition.section Information about of each is available at the school directory section available at the school of our Web site. the We programs encourage you to visitschool and learn what our havesite. to offer children. you to visit and learn what our schools have to offer your children. of schools our Web Weyour encourage atlantaparent.com

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January 2013 Atlanta Parent 99

MATH:

A Fun Excuse to Stay Up Late

by Laura Overdeck

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s parents, we all know we should read to our kids at bedtime, right?

But what about math? It’s funny how the bedtime story has become a favorite presleep activity for kids, and yet math usually isn’t in the picture – when the time-honored way to fall asleep is to count sheep!

As our country frets over its sliding skills in math and science, this divide between how we handle reading and math at home might provide clues to a solution. Just as nighttime reading teaches kids to love books, math can and should have that same appeal as a fun, recreational activity.

That’s why I started Bedtime Math. For years, my husband and I have given our kids a math problem along with the bedtime story.

Starting when our oldest was 2, we would count the ears and noses on her stuffed

animals. As the kids got older, we moved onto ninjas and flamingos and roller coasters. When our third child at age 2 started hollering that he also wanted a math problem, we realized we were onto something: Math had become a sought-after activity in our house. About a year ago, I started sharing our daily math problems online, and now we have 25,000 people doing them with us.

Everyday Math It’s so important to make math a fun part of kids’ everyday lives. Luckily, math shows up in every aspect of our daily routines. Some of our children’s favorite activities lend themselves perfectly to numbers. Seizing an opportunity to toss out a math exercise is far easier than sneaking broccoli into your child’s ice cream.

Here are some ideas for weaving numbers into your day:

n Baking: Great for math. Doubling recipes requires multiplying; cutting in half requires dividing; measuring 1/4 cups or 1/4 tsps. uses fractions. At a more basic level, kids love counting out chocolate chips. n Building: Anything that involves measuring gets kids counting, adding and multiplying. My kids love cutting and taping together squares of cardboard to make forts and furniture for their dolls and guinea pigs.

Lego and other building toys revolve around numbers, too. n Planning: Take party favors, for example. They’re all sold in different quantities: 10 in one pack, 24 in another, 18 in a third (why are they sold that way, anyway?). If there are 16 kids coming over,

Let us introduce our family to yours. Come visit!

Admissions deadline is Feb. 15, 2013.

www.paceacademy.org/admissions 100 Atlanta Parent January 2013

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Open HOuse how many packs of each will you need, and what will be left over? Even setting the table takes some planning and counting: dishes, glasses and all those forks you sometimes have to use in just the right order. n Sports and exercise: Kids love stopwatches, and watching those seconds tick off gives them great exposure to counting. Distances and heights require measurement, too: How high can you jump?

How far can you kick a soccer ball?

Bedtime Math sends out a fun, mischievous math problem nightly for parents to do with their kids. Here’s a sample problem for you to try:

January 23, 6-7pm sara Duke, 7-8 pm

Bedtime Math Problem: Eat Like a Bird When we see someone eating a really small, healthy meal in teeny bites, we say that person “eats like a bird.” The thing is, birds actually eat a lot. They chow down more like linebackers on a football team, except birds eat more politely.

So how much food do birds eat? Some eat their own body weight in one day, or even double their weight. But the winner might be the hummingbird, which can eat up to 12 times its weight in one day! Well, when you flap your wings 80 times per second trying to suck nectar out of a flower, you work up an appetite. Try flapping your arms that fast and you might want to eat like a bird, too. n For tots (counting on fingers): If a bird eats two worms and twice as many beetles, how many snacks in total did the bird eat? n For little kids: If you tried to eat 10 times your weight in one day, how many pounds of food would that be? Bonus: If M&Ms come in half-pound bags, how many bags of M&Ms would you have to eat that day? n For big kids: An average hummingbird weighs one-sixth of an ounce, about the same as seven M&Ms. If the hummingbird eats 10 times its weight in one day, how many M&MS would that be? Bonus: If you weigh 5,000 times as much as that hummingbird, how many M&Ms would you have to eat to keep up? c – Laura Overdeck is the creator of Bedtime Math. To learn more, visit bedtimemath.org

2880 Dresden Dr., Atlanta | 404.303.8722 | sophiaacademy.org

Answers: Tots: 6 total.

Little kids: Different for everyone...tack a zero onto the end of your weight! Bonus: Double the first answer to get the number of bags.

Big kids: 70 M&Ms. Bonus: 350,000 M&Ms

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January 2013 Atlanta Parent 101

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Sign Up Today for Camp and Preschool!

For Ages 6 weeks - Pre-K At the MJCCA’s NAEYC-accredited preschools, our loving, highly-trained, and experienced teachers guide your child through our exceptional program.

Age-appropriate • Baby Sign Language programs for infants • Zoo Phonics through Pre-K: • Ready, Set, Go...to Kindergarten • Handwriting Without Tears

preschool@atlantajcc.org atlantajcc.org

The Day School

of Sandy Springs Christian Church

THE SUNSHINE SCHOOL at Temple Kol Emeth THE WEINSTEIN SCHOOL 1415 Old Canton Road, Marietta 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody 678.812.3720 678.812.3834

102 Atlanta Parent January 2013

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4 Enroll Today!

“the perfect beginning for your legacy”

Success Starts with Legacy’s research-based curriculum.

5

Studies from Harvard University and the American Academy of Pediatrics highlight the importance of high-quality education before the age of five in the success of children as they grow into adulthood.

Visit our website to learn more about how the right pre-school can help your child get the educational foundation he or she deserves.

Call or visit today!

770-932-0091 www.legacyacademy.com

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Infants To 5 Years

ALPHARETTA 5390 Flynn Crossing. Dr. (770)-475-1011

SNELLVILLE 1560 Summit Chase Dr. (770)-982-5530

BERKELEY LAKE 4565 P’tree Ind’l Blvd.

(770)-573-1700

SUWANEE 4055 Smithtown Rd. (770)-932-2800 & 5558 Suwanee Dam Rd. (678)-546-7255

DULUTH 1825 Satellite Blvd.

(770)-622-9200

NECPA Accreditation

Qualified, Experienced Teachers Spanish, Music, Movement, Soccer, Karate & Water Play Summer Camp 5 years - 3rd grade

2013 - ‘14 Community Registration begins January 2013

12 months - Kindergarten Early Drop Off & After School SACS Accredited Certified School of Excellence

7 404-256-3091

Sandy Springs & Perimeter Mall Area 6025 Glenridge Drive, Atlanta 30328

www.apostleslearning.com

Apostles does not discriminate admission against race, religion, nationality, color or sex.

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Sandy Springs United Methodist Preschool & Kindergarten

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Call now for information!

404-250-9455

85 Mt. Vernon Hwy., Atlanta 30328

email: nnadolski@ssumc.org

www.ssumc.org

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 103

A Sampling of Atlanta’s Private Schools Finding a private school can be overwhelming. We’ve gathered all the information you’ll need to start your search and divided schools into four categories: non-sectarian, religious-affiliated, Montessori and special-needs school. Tuition prices are approximate.

Alpharetta Christian Academy

Non-Sectarian Schools Schools listed below offer classes at least through the third grade. They include the largest in the metro area as well as Atlanta Parent Magazine advertisers.

Academe of the Oaks. 146 New St., Decatur.

(DeKalb). 404-405-2173. 9th-12th. 70 students. $16,000/yr. academeatlanta.org Atlanta Girls’ School. 3254 Northside Pkwy., Atlanta. (Fulton). 404-845-0900. 6th-12th. 207 students. $19,800/yr. atlantagirlsschool.org Atlanta International School. 2890 N. Fulton Dr., Atlanta. (Fulton). 404-841-3840. K3-12th. 1,100 students. $19,080-$21,780/yr. aischool.org Ben Franklin Academy. 1585 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. (DeKalb). 404-633-7404. 9th-12th. 150 students. $24,000-$31,000/yr. benfranklinacademy.org

104 Atlanta Parent January 2013

Cambridge Academy. 2780 Flat Shoals Rd., Decatur. (DeKalb). 404-241-1321. 2 1/2yrs.-7th.

225 students. $6,760-$7,860/yr. acambridgeacademy.com

Cornerstone Schools. 4888 Browns Bridge Rd., Cumming. (Forsyth). 770-205-8202.

PreK-10th. 350 students. $8,000-$11,000/yr. cornerstonesch.com

The Children’s School. 345 Tenth St., Atlanta.

(Fulton). 404-873-6985. 3yrs.-6th. 400 students. $17,250/yr. thechildrensschool.com

Eastminster School. 2450 Lennox Rd., Conyers. (Rockdale). 770-785-6780.

K-11th. 157 students. $8,750-$11,680/yr. eastminsterschool.org

Chrysalis Experiential Academy. 10 Mansell Court East, Ste. 500, Roswell. (Fulton). 770-6497077. 6th-12th. 42 students. $17,000-$20,000 chrysalisexp.org Cliff Valley School. 2426 Clairmont Rd., Atlanta. (DeKalb). 678-302-1302. 2yrs.-8th. 262 students. $4,000-$15,000/yr. cliffvalleyschool.org Cornerstone Leadership Academy. 3800 Big Miller Grove Way 1151 Flat Shoals Rd., Lithonia Conyers. (DeKalb) (Rockdale). 770-987-4400 770-929-3758. PreK-8th. 87 students. $10,600$13,600/yr. claschool.org

[ Focus on Education ]

Eaton Academy. 1000 Old Roswell Lakes Pkwy., Roswell. (Fulton). 770-645-2673.

K-12th. 150 students. $13,500-$20,900/yr. eatonacademy.org Foundations for the Future. 1500 Stanley Rd., Kennesaw. (Cobb). 770-429-4799.

6wks.-5th. 202 students. $7,200-$9,800/yr. foundationscorp.com Galloway School. 215 W. Wieuca Rd., Atlanta.

(Fulton). 404-252-8389. K3-12th. 747 students. $10,650-$21,370/yr. gallowayschool.org

atlantaparent.com

George Walton Academy. 1 Bulldog Dr., Monroe. (Walton). 770-267-7578. K4-12th. 877 students. $3,500-$8,950/yr. gwa.com The Heritage School. 2093 Hwy. 29 N, Newnan. (Coweta). 770-253-9898. 3yrs.12th. 429 students. $7,205-$13,640/yr. heritagehawks.org Hess Academy. 611 Medlock Rd., Decatur.

(DeKalb). 678-308-6380. PreK-8th. 10 students. $10,200/yr. hessacademy.com High Meadows School. 1055 Willeo Rd., Roswell. (Fulton). 770-993-2940. 3 yrs.-8th. 390 students. $5,000-$16,000/yr. highmeadows.org HoneyFern. 2257 Smith Ave. SW. Marietta.

(Cobb). 404-725-0603. 6th-12th. 7 students. $7,000/yr. honeyfern.org.

Lakeview Academy. 796 Lakeview Dr., Gainesville. (Hall). 770-532-4383. PreK312th. 590 students. $8,200-$15,340/yr. lakeviewacademy.com Lovett School. 4075 Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. (Fulton). 404-262-3032. K-12th. 1,500 students. $19,000-$22,000/yr. lovett.org McGinnis Woods Country Day School. 5368 McGinnis Ferry Rd., Alpharetta. (Forsyth).

770-664-7764. Infant-8th. 450 students. $8,640$11,260/yr. mcginniswoods.org North Atlanta International Academy.

1235 Peachtree Pkwy., Bldg. 600, Cumming.

(Forsyth). 770-205-5574. PreK-5th. 65 students. $3,000-$9,000/yr. northatlantainternational.com Pace Academy. 966 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. (Fulton). 404-262-1345. Pre112th. 1,080 students. $19,600-$22,570/yr. paceacademy.org The Paideia School. 1509 S. Ponce de Leon Ave., Atlanta. (DeKalb). 404-377-3491.

3yrs.-12th. 975 students. $11,346-$20,448/yr. paideiaschool.org Peachtree Academy Private School. 1801 Ellington Rd., 1760 Ebenezer Rd., and 14101 Hwy. 278, Conyers and Covington. (Rockdale) and (Newton). 770-860-8900. PreK-12th. 300 students. $4,100-$5,800/yr. peachtreeacademy. com Piedmont Academy. 126 Hwy. 212, Monticello.

(Jasper). 706-468-8818. K3-12th. 294 students. $6,180-$6,360/yr. piedmontacademy.com Saint Francis Schools. 13440 Cogburn Rd. and 9375 Willeo Rd., Alpharetta and Roswell.

(Fulton). 678-339-9989. K-12th. 750 students. $9,900-$17,600/yr. saintfrancisschools.com Shreiner Academy. 1340 Terrell Mill Rd., Marietta. (Cobb). 770-953-1340. Toddler-8th.

200 students. $11,929-$14,632/yr. shreiner.com Tabula Rasa Language Academy. 5855 Riverside Dr., Atlanta. (Fulton). 404-409-0827.

Preschool-5th. 150 students. $4,000-$14,000/yr. trlanguages.com Trinity School. 4301 Northside Pkwy., Atlanta.

(Fulton). 404-231-8100. 3yrs.-6th. 632 students. $13,950-$19,750/yr. trinityatl.org The Waldorf School of Atlanta. 827 Kirk Rd., Decatur. (DeKalb). 404-377-1315. PreK-8th. 235 students. $6,144-$13,755/yr. waldorfatlanta.org

atlantaparent.com

Westminster Schools

The Walker School. 700 Cobb Pkwy., Marietta. (Cobb). 770-427-2689. 4yrs.12th. 1,050 students. $10,040-$17,950/yr. thewalkerschool.org

The Atlanta Academy. 2000 Holcomb Woods Pkwy., Roswell. (Fulton). 678-461-6102.

K3-8th. 245 students. $6,000-$12,400/yr. atlantaacademy.com

Wesleyan School. 5405 Spalding Dr., Norcross. (Gwinnett). 770-448-7640.

K-12th. 1.035 students. $14,900-$19,965/yr. wesleyanschool.org

Berean Christian Junior Academy. 401 Hamilton E. Holmes Dr., Atlanta. (Fulton).

404-799-0337. PreK-12th. 217 students. $4,250$5,500/yr. bcjaschool.org

Westminster Schools. 1424 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. (Fulton). 404-609-6202. Pre 1st-12th. 1,845 students. $19,205-$22,270/yr. westminster.net

Bible Baptist Christian School. 2780 Mount Carmel Rd., Hampton. (Henry). 770-946-4700.

K4-12th. 203 students. $3,255-$5,900/yr. biblebaptistchristianschool.com

Whitefield Academy. 1 Whitefield Dr., SE., Mableton. (Cobb). 678-305-3000. PreK412th. 649 students. $9,730-$19,410/yr. whitefieldacademy.com

Blessed Trinity Catholic High School. 11320 Woodstock Rd., Roswell. (Fulton). 678-2779083. 9th-12th. 960 students. $11,000/yr. btcatholic.org

The Wood Acres Schoole. 1772 Johnson Ferry Rd., Marietta. (Cobb). 770-971-1880.

2yrs.-8th. 500 students. $3,500-$9,500/yr. woodacresschool.org

Bridgeway Christian Academy. 4755 Kimball Bridge Rd., Alpharetta. (Fulton). 770-7511972. K3-8th. 187 students. $3,500-$10,600/yr. bridgewayca.org Cont’d on page 106

Woodward Academy. 1662 Rugby Ave. and 6565 Boles Rd., College Park and Johns Creek. (Fulton) and (Gwinnett). 404-765-4000.

PreK-12th. 2,700 students. $10,000-$21,900/yr. woodward.edu

Religious-Affiliated Schools Schools listed below offer classes at least through the third grade. These listings include the largest religious-affiliated schools in the metro area plus Atlanta Parent Magazine advertisers.

Alpharetta Christian Academy. 44 Academy St., Alpharetta. (Fulton). 770-475-5762. 2yrs.5th. 350 students. $180-450/mo -$8,000/yr. alpharettachristianacademy.com Arlington Christian School. 4500 Ridge Rd., Fairburn. (Fulton). 770-964-9871.

K-12th. 250 students. $6,700-$10,200/yr. arlingtonchristian.org

[ Focus on Education ]

High Meadows School

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 105

A Sampling of Atlanta’s Private Schools Cherokee Christian Academy and Cherokee Christian High School. 3075 Trickum Rd., Woodstock. (Cherokee). 678-494-5464.

K-12th. 375 students. $6,750-$10,750/yr. cherokeechristian.org Christ the King School. 46 Peachtree Way, Atlanta. (Fulton). 404-233-0383. K-8th. 563 students. $8,300-$11,610/yr. christking.org Collins Hill Christian School. 1612 Collins Hill Rd., Lawrenceville. (Gwinnett). 770-9620642. K4-8th. 240 students. $2,000-4,000/yr. chcscrusaders.org Colonial Hills Christian School. 7131 Mt. Vernon Rd., Lithia Springs. (Douglas). 770-9416342. K4-12th. 280 students. $6,395-$8,020/yr. chrams.org Community Christian School. 2001 West Jodeco Rd., Stockbridge. (Henry). 678-4320191. Nursery-12th. 900 students. $6,175$7,800/yr. communitychristianschool.net Cornerstone Christian Academy. 5295 Triangle Parkway, Norcross. (Gwinnett). 770441-9222. K-8th. 183 students. $8,705-$9,479/ yr. cornerstonecougars.org

Covenant Christian School. 3130 Atlanta Rd., Smyrna. (Cobb). 770-435-1596. K4-8th. 238 students. $3,970-$7,470/yr. ccssmyrna.org Creekside Christian Academy. 175 Foster Dr., McDonough. (Henry). 770-961-9300.

K3-12th. 627 students. $3,200-$5,400/yr. creeksideacademy.org Cumberland Christian Academy. 2356 Clay Rd., Austell. (Cobb). 770-819-6443.

PreK3-12th. 390 students. $3,200-$6,900/yr. cumberlandchristian.org The Davis Academy. 8105 Roberts Dr., Atlanta.

(Fulton). 770-671-0085. K-8th. 600 students. $16,000-$18,500/yr. davisacademy.org Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy. 2400 Hwy. 42 North, McDonough. (Henry). 770-9572927. K3-12th. 1,100 students. $2,790-$10,344/ yr. elcaonline.org Eastside Christian School. 2450 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta. (Cobb). 770-9712332. K-8th. 345 students. $5,335-$7,524/yr. eastsidechristianschool.com Epiphany Orthodox Christian School of Mathematics and Science. 514 W. Maple Dr,

Perimeter Christian School

Excel Christian Academy. 325 Old Mill Rd., Cartersville. (Bartow). 770-382-9488.

K-12th. 275 students. $8,700-$9,400/yr. excelacademy.cc Faith Community Christian Academy.

6420 Woodrow Rd., Lithonia. (DeKalb). 770696-9657. PreK3-12th. 26 students. $7,500/ year. www.faithcca.org.

Covenant Christian Academy. 6905 Post Rd., Cumming. (Forsyth). 770-674-2990. K4-12th.

225 students. $6,600-$7,200/yr. covenantrams.org

Suite 102. Cumming (Forsyth). 678-825-2143.

PreK-5th. Opening May 2013. $4,250-$7,500. epiphanyocs.org

Faith Lutheran School. 2111 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta. (Cobb). 770-9738921. 2yrs.-8th. 233 students. $2,925-$6,675/ yr. faithmarietta.org

Covenant Christian Academy. 3425 Hwy. 20 SW, Loganville. (Gwinnett). 770-466-7890. K312th. 300 students. $6,100-$6,950/yr. covenantcougars.org

The Epstein School. 335 Colewood Way, NW., Sandy Springs. (Fulton). 404-250-5600.

18mos.-8th. 550 students. $4,995-$18,725/yr. epsteinatlanta.org

Fellowship Christian School. 10965 Woodstock Rd., Roswell. (Fulton). 70-9931650. K4-12th. 785 students. $3,250-$12,980/ yr. fellowshipchristianschool.org

Educating Christian families since 1975

OPEN HOUSE January 24th February 7th • March 7th (visit website for specific times)

• BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW, STRONG ACADEMICS IN THE CLASSICAL TRADITION • K4-8TH GRADE • LOW STUDENT/TEACHER RATIO • POSITIVE, NURTURING ENVIRONMENT CCS is fully accredited by the Georgia Accrediting Commission (GAC) and is a member of the Association of Classical and Christian Schools (ACCS), and the Atlanta Christian School Association (ACSA).

3130 ATLANTA ROAD • NEAR SMYRNA MARKET VILLAGE Covenant Christian School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

770.435.1596 106 Atlanta Parent January 2013

•

WWW.CCSSMYRNA.ORG

[ Focus on Education ]

atlantaparent.com

First Baptist Christian School. 2958 N. Main St., Kennesaw. (Cobb). 770-422-3254.

2yrs.-8th. 185 students. $1,965-$6,150/yr. fbcskennesaw.com The Friends School of Atlanta. 862 Columbia Dr., Decatur. (DeKalb). 404-3738746. PreK-8th. 171 students. $15,800$17,000/yr. friendsschoolatlanta.org Gerard Preparatory School. 1288 Braselton Hwy., Lawrenceville. (Gwinnett). 770-2774722. PreK-12th. 250 students. $2,900$7,500/yr. gerardprep.com Grace Christian Academy. 355 McDonough Rd., Fayetteville. (Fayette). 770-461-0137.

K3-12th. 211 students. $2,324-$6,476/yr. gracechristian.info Greater Atlanta Adventist Academy.

401 Hamilton E. Holmes Dr. NW, Atlanta.

(Fulton). 404-799-0337. 9th-12th. 172 students. $5,500-$6,500/yr. gaaaschool.org Greater Atlanta Christian School. 1575 Indian Trail Rd., Norcross. (Gwinnett). 770243-2000. K3-12th. 1,800 students. $10,540$15,490/yr. greateratlantachristian.org Greenfield Hebrew Academy of Atlanta.

5200 Northland Dr., Atlanta. (Fulton). 404843-9900. Infants-8th. 350 students. $13,000$17,000/yr. ghacademy.org Greenforest-McCalep Christian Academy Center. 3250 Rainbow Dr., Decatur. (DeKalb). 404-486-6737.

K-12th. 310 students. $5,440-8,080/yr. greenforestacademy.org Harvester Christian Academy. 4241 Central Church Rd., Douglasville. (Douglas). 770942-1583. K4-12th. 306 students. $3,000$6,000/yr. harvesteracademy.com Hebron Christian Academy. 2975 Old Peachtree Rd. and 570 Dacula Rd., Dacula.

(Gwinnett). 770-962-5423. K-12th. 950 students. $5,891-$7,580/yr. hebronlions.org The Heiskell School. 3260 Northside Dr., Atlanta. (Fulton). 404-262-2233. 2 yrs.-8th.

300 students. $4,830-$13,455/yr. heiskell.net Heritage Preparatory School. 1700 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. (Fulton). 404815-7711. PreK-8th. 141 students. $4,750$14,325. heritageprep.org Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School. 805 Mt. Vernon Hwy., Atlanta. (Fulton). 404-2554026. 3yrs.-12th. 1,310 students. $11,000$21,510/yr. hies.org Holy Redeemer Catholic School. 3380 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek. (Fulton). 770410-4056. K-8th. 500 students. $7,300/yr. hrcatholicschool.org

OPEN HOUSE: February 9, 2013 We‛re more than a school…we‛re a family!

Affordable Kingdom education for K-5th grade that is distinctively Christian while pursuing academic excellence in every discipline of study Spanish, Music & Art, Math, Science and Technology Afterschool Program featuring academic enrichment and club-based activities 404-505-7395 • 667 Fairburn Rd., NW

www.legacychristianacademyk-8.org

Schools, educational services, child care centers are wanted for Learning Lane at KidVille Come and be a part of KidVille A day of Discovery, Learning & Entertainment April 20, 2013 – Northlake Mall

Holy Spirit Preparatory School. 4465 and 4449 Northside Dr.; 4820 Long Island Dr., Atlanta. (Fulton). 678-904-2811. PreK212th. 731 students. $5,000-$17,952/yr. holyspiritprep.org Hopewell Christian Academy. 182 Hunter St., Norcross. (Gwinnett). 770-903-3387.

K4-12th. 155 students. $5,000-$6,616/yr. hopewellchristianacademy.org Cont’d on page 108

atlantaparent.com

To exhibit call 678-222-1911 or kmorris@atlantaparent.com [ Focus on Education ]

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 107

A Sampling of Atlanta’s Private Schools Horizon Christian Academy. 2160 Freedom Pkwy., Cumming. (Forsyth). 678-947-3583. K-12th. 204 students. $6,650-$7,500/yr. horizonchristian.org Immaculate Heart of Mary. 2855 Briarcliff Rd. NE, Atlanta. (DeKalb). 404-636-4488. K-8th. 503 students. $6,600-$8,775/yr. ihmschool.org Intown Community School. 2059 Lavista Rd., Atlanta. (DeKalb). 404-633-8081. K-8th. 235 students. $4,500-$9,000/yr. intownschool.org Killian Hill Christian School. 151 Arcado Rd., Lilburn. (Gwinnett). 770-921-3224. K5-12th. 375 students. $5,400-$8,680/yr. khcs.org King’s Ridge Christian School. 2765 Bethany Bend, Alpharetta. (Fulton). 770-754-5738. PreK12th. 737 students. PreK-$7,000; $12,861-$15,735/ yr. kingsridgecs.org Landmark Christian School. 777 Robinson Rd. and 50 SE Broad St., Peachtree City and Fairburn. (Fayette) and (Fulton). 770-306-0647.

K4-12th. 842 students. $4,225-$13,500/yr. landmarkchristianschool.org Legacy Christian Academy. 667 Fairburn Rd. NW, Atlanta. (Fulton). 404-505-7395. K-5th. 65 students. $6,770.00/yr. www.legacychristianacademyk-8.org

Midway Covenant Christian School. 4635 Dallas Hwy., Powder Springs. (Cobb). 770590-1866. Kprep-8th. 300 students. $2,455$5,415/yr. midwayschool.org Mohammed Schools. 735 Fayetteville Rd., Atlanta. (DeKalb). 404-378-4219. PreK312th .176 students. $5,500-$17,600/yr. mohammedschools.org Mount Paran Christian School. 1275 Stanley Rd., Kennesaw. (Cobb). 770-578-0182.

K3-12th. 1,215 students. $2,857-$14,309/yr. mtparanschool.com Mount Pisgah Christian School. 9820 Nesbit Ferry Rd., Johns Creek. (Fulton). 678-3363443. 6wks.-12th. 950 students. $9,045$16,635/yr. experiencepisgah.org Mount Vernon Presbyterian School. 471 and 510 Mt. Vernon Hwy., Atlanta. (Fulton). 404252-3448. 6 weeks -12th. 807 students. $9,000$16,900/yr. mountvernonschool.org Mt. Bethel Christian Academy. 4385 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta. (Cobb). 770-9710245. K-8th. 495 students. $9,380-$10,650/yr. mtbethelchristian.org

Loganville Christian Academy. 2575 Hwy. 81, Loganville. (Walton). 770-554-9888. PreK-12th. 575 students. $6,750-$8,050/yr. lcalions.com

North Cobb Christian School. 4500 Lakeview Dr., Kennesaw. (Cobb). 770-9750252. K3-12th. 865 students. $3,450-$12,120/ yr. ncchristian.org

Marist School. 3790 Ashford-Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta. (DeKalb). 770-457-7201. 7th-12th. 1,081 students. $16,800/yr. marist.com

Notre Dame Academy. 4635 River Green Pkwy., Duluth. (Gwinnett). 678-387-9385. PreK3-8th.

511 students. $2,410-$11,895/yr. ndacademy.org

108 Atlanta Parent January 2013

[ Focus on Education ]

Sugar Hill Christian Academy

Our Lady of Mercy Catholic High School.

Hwy. 279, Fayetteville. (Fayette). 770-4612202. 9th-12th. 380 students. $11,600/yr. mercycatholic.org Our Lady of the Assumption School.

1320 Hearst Dr., Atlanta. (DeKalb).

404-364-1902. PreK4-8th. 500 students. $7,570/yr. olaschool.org Our Lady of Victory Catholic School. 211 Kirkley Rd., Tyrone. (Fayette). 770-3069026. PreK-8th. 225 students. $7,800/yr. olvcatholicsch.org Peoples Baptist Academy. 850 Mill Rd., McDonough. (Henry). 770-914-7388.

K3-12th. 215 students. $4,200-$5,100/yr. peoplesbaptistacademy.org

atlantaparent.com

Perimeter Christian School. 9500 Medlock Bridge Rd., Duluth. (Fulton). 678-405-2300.

K-8th. 550 students. $4,500-$7,800/yr. perimeterschool.org Pinecrest Academy. 955 Peachtree Pkwy., Cumming. (Forsyth). 770-888-4477. PreK312th. 750 students. $3,800-$12,900/yr. pinecrestacademy.org Providence Christian Academy. 4575 Lawrenceville Hwy., Lilburn. (Gwinnett). 770279-7200. K-12th. 667 students. $8,500-$12,630/ yr. providencechristianacademy.org Queen of Angels Catholic School. 11340 Woodstock Rd., Roswell. (Fulton). 770518-1804. K-8th. 504 students. $7,050/yr. qaschool.org Seigakuin Atlanta International School.

5505 Winters Chapel Rd., Atlanta. (Gwinnett).

770-730-0045. PreK-6th. 100 students. $7,100$9,200/yr. seig.ac.jp/english/atlanta Shiloh Hills Christian School. 260 Hawkins Store Rd., Kennesaw. (Cobb). 770-926-7729.

K3-12th. 273 students. $3,040-$7,715/yr. shilohhills.com Southwest Atlanta Christian Academy. 3911 Campbellton Rd., Atlanta. (Fulton). 404-3462080. Preschool-12th. 200 students. $6,850$10,000/yr. sacanet.com St. Benedict’s Episcopal Day School. 2160 Cooper Lake Rd., Smyrna. (Cobb). 678-2794300. Preschool-6th. 280 students. $2,900$8,600/yr. stbenedictsdayschool.org St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School. 1618 Ben King Rd., Kennesaw. (Cobb). 770-4198601. K-8th. 418 students. $6,835/yr. scsiena.org St. John Neumann Regional Catholic School.

791 Tom Smith Rd., Lilburn. (Gwinnett). 770381-0557. K-8th. 436 students. $6,820-$8,900/ yr. sjnrcs.org St. John the Evangelist Catholic School. 240 Arnold St., Hapeville. (Fulton). 404-767-4312.

PreK-8th. 321 students. $6,798-$8,041/yr. sjecs.org

Programs are designed for grades 4th–12th and postgraduate students with high functioning Autism, Asperger’s, LD, ADD & ADHD. • SACS & GAC Accredited • SB10 Approved • Open Enrollment • Social Skills

OPEN HOUSE Jan. 27 & Mar. 31, 2013 2-4 p.m.

650 Mt. Vernon Highway, NE 30328

An Exceptional School for Exceptional Students

404-835-9000 • www.cumberlandacademy.org

St. Joseph Catholic School. 81 Lacy St., Marietta. (Cobb). 770-428-3328. K-8th. 490 students. $5,878-$7,641/yr. stjosephschool.org St. Jude the Apostle Catholic School. 7171 Glenridge Dr., Atlanta. (Fulton). 770-394-2880.

K-8th 510 students. $7,332/yr. saintjude.net St. Martin’s Episcopal School. 3110-A Ashford-Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta. (DeKalb). 404237-4260. PreK3-8th. 610 students. $10,000$16,500/yr. stmartinschool.org St. Paul Lutheran School. 700 Ardenlee Pkwy., Peachtree City. (Fayette). 770-486-3545.

12 mos.-8th. 190 students. $2,000-$6,950/yr. stpaulptc.org

OPEN HOUSE

St. Pius X Catholic High School. 2674 Johnson Rd., Atlanta. (DeKalb). 404-636-3023. 9th-12th.

1,116 students. $11,500/yr. spx.org

(no children please)

St. Thomas More Catholic School. 630 W. Ponce de Leon Ave., Decatur. (DeKalb). 404373-8456. K-8th. 482 students. $6,740-$9,180/ yr. stmga.org Cont’d on page 110

atlantaparent.com

February 2, 2013 10am to 12 noon 3340 Chestnut Drive Atlanta, GA 30340

DEVELOPING EACH CHILD’S POTENTIAL

Enrolling for Fall 2013

Call 770-457-7261

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

Children 2½ - 3½ Years Old

www.northwoodsmontessori.org

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 109

A Sampling of Atlanta’s Private Schools

Country Brook Montessori School.

2175 N. Norcross-Tucker Rd., Norcross.

(Gwinnett). 770-446-2397. 2yrs3rd. 100 students. $6,600-$8,500/yr. countrybrookmontessori.com

Strong Rock Christian School. 4200 Strong Rock Pkwy., Locust Grove. (Henry). 678-8331200. PreK-12th. 765 students. $5,071-$10,644/ yr. strongrockchristianschool.com

Covered Bridge Academy. 488 Hurt Rd., Smyrna. (Cobb). 770-801-8292. 3yrs3rd. 100 students. $6,200-$10,500/yr. coveredbridgeacademy.com

Sugar Hill Christian Academy. 4600 Nelson Brogdon Blvd., Sugar Hill. (Gwinnett). 678-7454121. K-8th. 280 students. $6,955-$7,245/yr. sugarhillchristian.com

Crabapple Montessori School.

12387 Crabapple Rd., Alpharetta.

(Fulton). 770-569-5200. 18mos-12yrs.

160 students. $4,080-$12,000/yr. crabapplemontessori.com

Torah Day School of Atlanta. 1985 Lavista Rd., Atlanta. (DeKalb). 404-982-0800. K-8th.

360 students. $10,500-$12,000/yr. torahday.org Trinity Chapel Academy. 4665 Macland Rd., Powder Springs. (Cobb). 678-831-1062.

K-12th. 280 students. $6,300-$8,480/yr. trinitychapelacademy.com

http://slpai.com

The Adaptive Learning Center Building Communities Through The Inclusion of Children With Special Needs & Their Families

The Weber School. 6751 Roswell Rd., Atlanta.

(Fulton). 404-917-2500. 9th-12th. 230 students. $23,000/yr. weberschool.org

Montessori Montessori schools use the teaching technique developed by Dr. Maria Montessori. Schools listed below have elementary classes through at least the third grade.

Inclusive Preschool

ALC offers an inclusive preschool program in partnership with Peachtree Presbyterian Preschool, The Preschool at Peachtree Road, United Methodist Church, First Presbyterian of Atlanta Preschool, and the 2 preschools of the Marcus Jewish Community Centers of Atlanta (MJCCA).

Atlanta • Buckhead • Dunwoody • Marietta

www.adaptivelearningcenter.org

770.509.3909

Arbor Montessori School. 2998 Lavista Rd., Decatur. (DeKalb). 404-321-9304.

2.5-14yrs. 305 students. $8,130-$16,005/yr. arbormontessori.org Atlanta Montessori International School.

1970 Cliff Valley Way and 1240 Euclid Ave., Atlanta. (DeKalb) and (Fulton). 404-325-6777.

8wks.-9th. 218 students. $9,556-$17,660/yr. amischool.com Casa Montessori. 150 Powers Ferry Rd., Marietta. (Cobb). 770-973-2731. Primary6th. 150 students. $7,800-$10,100/yr. casamontessori.com

Discovery Montessori. 1453 East Cleveland Ave., East Point. (Fulton). 404-767-5005.

2mos.-9yrs. 98 students. $6,100-10,020/yr. discoverymontessoriacademy.com The Duluth Montessori School. 1768 Old Peachtree Rd., and 2997 Main St., Duluth.

(Gwinnett). 770-476-9307. 14 mos.12yrs. 140 students. $7,600-$10,040/yr. duluthmontessori.com Fayette Montessori. 190 Weatherly Dr., Fayetteville. (Fayette). 770-460-6790.

20mos.-6th. 88 students. $2,624-$8,160/yr. fayettemontessori.com First Montessori School of Atlanta. 5750 Long Island Dr., Atlanta. (Fulton). 404-2523910. 18 mos.-14yrs. 265 students. $5,130$17,750/yr. firstmontessori.org Harbour Oaks Montessori. 1741 Athens Hwy., Grayson. (Gwinnett). 770-979-8900.

18mos.-8th. 100 students. $6,500-$8,750/yr. harbouroaks.org Montessori Academy of Sharon Springs. 2830 Old Atlanta Rd., Cumming.

(Forsyth). 770-205-6277. 3yrs15yrs. 270 students. $690-$1,130/mo. montessoriacademygeorgia.com Montessori School at Emory. 3021 N. Decatur Rd., Decatur. (DeKalb). 404-6345777. 15mos-12yrs. 150 students. $885$1,280/mo. montessorischoolsofgeorgia.com Montessori School of Alpharetta.

3290 Old Alabama Rd., Alpharetta.

(Fulton). 770-667-1277. 15mos12yrs. 52 students. $4,900-$11,950/yr. montessorischoolsofalpharetta.com

Educating children K-5 with ADHD, Asperger's, high functioning autism, and other learning differences

Montessori School of Cumming. 4601 Post Rd., Cumming. (Forsyth). 770-205-6773.

15mos-12yrs. 57 students. $4,450-$10,700/ yr. montessorischoolsofgeorgia.com Nesbit Ferry Montessori. 9330 Nesbit Ferry Rd., Alpharetta. (Fulton). 770-5528454. 2yrs.-4th. 155 students. $6,950$11,120/yr. montessori.com

• SB-10 Approved • Open Enrollment • Afterschool Program

Northwoods Montessori. 3340 Chestnut Dr., Doraville. (DeKalb). 770-457-7261.

2.5yrs.-12yrs. 175 students. $6,720-$12,725/ yr. northwoodsmontessori.org

(404) 474-3904 cloverleafschool.org Village Montessori

110 Atlanta Parent January 2013

[ Focus on Education ]

Oak Meadow Montessori School.

2145 Collins Hill Rd., Lawrenceville.

(Gwinnett). 770-963-8303. 15mos.5th. 100 students. $5,000-$8,000/yr. oakmeadowmontessori.com

atlantaparent.com

The Community School. 308 Clairemont Ave., Decatur. (DeKalb). 404-308-8548. 7th-12th + post. high-school. 20 students. $27,800/yr. thecommunityschool.net The Cottage School. 700 Grimes Bridge Rd., Roswell. (Fulton). 770-641-8688. 6th-12th. 140 students. $22,950-$23,950/yr. cottageschool.org Cumberland Academy of Georgia. 650 Mt. Vernon Hwy. NE, Atlanta. (Fulton). 404-8359000. 4th-12th, post grad. program. 80 students. $20,900-$21,500/yr. cumberlandacademy.org Hayden’s Way. 1005 Alderman Drive, Ste. 203, Alpharetta. (Fulton). 770-351-6304. K-12th. 30 students. $11,000-$21,000 haydensway.com Heart of Hope Academy at the Elaine Clark Center. 5130 Peachtree Ind. Blvd., Chamblee.

(DeKalb). 770-458-3251. 6-22yrs. 65 students. $18,000/yr. elaineclarkcenter.org The Swift School

Old Peachtree Montessori. 33 Hills Shop Rd., Hwy. 324, Auburn. (Gwinnett). 770-963-3052.

18 mos.-8th. 100 students. $5,400-$7,200/yr. opmontessori.com Renaissance Montessori. 2407 Cascade Rd., Atlanta. (Fulton). 404-755-1915. 2.5yrs.-5th. 66 students. $4,850-$7,870/yr. renmont.com Riverstone Montessori. 455 Casteel Rd., Marietta. (Cobb). 770-422-9194. 2.5yrs.8th. 105 students. $7,744-$13,562/yr. riverstonemontessori.com Village Montessori. 1610 Woodstock Rd., Roswell. (Fulton). 770-552-0834. 18mos.-12yrs.

128 students. $4,600-$11,150/yr. vmschool.com

Special Needs Schools Alexsander Academy. 1090 Powers Place, Alpharetta. (Fulton). 770-777-0475. 2nd12th. 15 students. $5,000-$18,000/yr. alexsanderacademy.org Atlanta Speech School. 3160 Northside Pkwy., Atlanta. (Fulton). 404-233-5332.

2yrs.-6th. 400 students. $6,980-$29,743/yr. atlantaspeechschool.org Aurora Day School. 3776 Lavista Rd., Ste. 200, Tucker. (DeKalb). 404-377-8882. 6-21yrs. 16 students. $15,000-$30,000/yr. aurorastrategies. com

The Howard School. 1192 Foster St., Atlanta.

(Fulton). 404-377-7436. 5yrs.-12th. 245 students. $25,500-$26,750/yr. howardschool.org Jacob’s Ladder Neurodevelopmental School and Therapy Center. 407 Hardscrabble Rd., Roswell. (Fulton). 770-998-1017. PreK-12th. 75 students. $29,000/yr. jacobsladdercenter.com

Now teaming with l Learning on Log cal about our Preschoolg Group Now Formin

Call About Social Skills Handwriting Groups

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 Director, Occupational Therapy

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

770-394-9791

www.childrens-services.com www.SugarHillChristian.com

Joseph Sams School. 280 Brandywine Blvd., Fayetteville. (Fayette). 770-461-5894.

Birth-22yrs. 72 students. $8,600-$20,600/yr. josephsamsschool.org Kaleidoscope ABA School. 153 Norcross St., Roswell. (Fulton). 770-993-7008. 2-10yrs. 9 students. $30,000/yr. kaleidoscopeaba.org Lighthouse Program. 116 Peachtree Ct., Fayetteville. (Fayette). 770-632-7100. 5 th-12th. 53 students. $10,500/yr. thelighthouseprogram.com The Lionheart School. 225 Roswell St., Alpharetta. (Fulton). 770-772-4555. 6-21yrs. 36 students. $25,000/yr. thelionheartschool.com MDE School. 1000 Johnson Ferry Rd., Ste. A100, Marietta. (Cobb). 770-971-4633.

K-8th 22 students. $15,000-$17,000/yr. greateratlantaspeech.com

Helping your child grow in character and faith while being successful in the modern world.

Ranked in the top 3% for ITBS nationwide K-8th Grade • ACSI & SACS Accredited Low Student / Teacher Ratio Affordable Tuition Sugar Hill Day School program offers mother’s morning out, preschool and kindergarten preparatory classes.

678-745-4121

4600 Nelson Brogdon Blvd., Sugar Hill, GA 30518

Mill Springs Academy. 13660 New Providence Rd., Alpharetta. (Fulton). 770-360-1336. 1st12th. 320 students. $20,570/yr. millsprings.org The Orion School. 458 Ponce de Leon Ave., Atlanta. (Fulton). 404-551-2574. K-8th. 24 students. $19,800/yr. theorionschool.org

Bedford School. 5665 Milam Rd., Fairburn.

(Fulton). 770-774-8001. 1st-9th. 131 students. $16,350/yr. thebedfordschool.org

Porter Academy. 200 Cox Rd., Roswell.

(Fulton). 770-594-1313. PreK-8th. 66 students. $18,000-$19,000/yr. porteracademy.org

Brookwood Christian School. 4728 Wood St., Acworth. (Cobb). 678-401-5855. 1st-12th. 45 students. $13,000/yr. brookwoodchristian.com

The Schenck School. 282 Mt. Paran Rd., Atlanta. (Fulton). 404-252-2591. K-6th. 250 students. $24,835-$26,280/yr. schenck.org

Center Academy. 3499 South Cobb Dr., Smyrna. (Cobb). 770-333-1616. 5th-12th .43 students. $15,995/yr. centeracademy.com

Sophia Academy. 2880 Dresden Dr., Atlanta.

(DeKalb). 404-303-8722. PreK-12th. 100 students. $4,600-$20,500/yr. sophiaacademy.org

Clearwater Academy. 210 Greencastle Rd., Tyrone. (Fayette). 770-631-3650.

6-17yrs. 20 students. $20,000-$25,000/yr. clearwateracademyga.org

Stepping Stones Educational Center. 141 Futral Rd., Griffin. (Spalding). 770-229-5511.

6wks.-16yrs. 85 students. $5,550-$9,000/yr. steppingstonesschool.org

The Cloverleaf School. 2108 Briarcliff Rd. NE, Atlanta. (DeKalb). 404-474-3904, K-5th. 12 students, $23,500/yr. www.cloverleafschool.org

The Swift School. 300 Grimes Bridge Rd., Roswell. (Fulton). 678-205-4988. 1st-8th 214 students. $21,495-$21,895/yr. theswiftschool.org c

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Children’s Special Services, LLC

[ Focus on Education ]

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 111

®®

January

AT THE CENTER FOR PUPPETRY ARTS Bilingual Show!

Ages 4+

Jan 8 - 27

Anthony Owsley

By Thistle Theatre of Seattle, WA

In this bilingual Mexican folktale, Brother Coyote conspires to eat Doña Conchita’s plump chickens. But quick-witted Sister Fox stays one step ahead of him! Spanish, English, and plenty of chickens!

Educational Fun! Written and directed by Jon Ludwig

Diane Pavelin

Supported in part by:

Ages 4+

Watching over the insect citizens of Bugville is the superhero, Mighty Bug! But he isn’t the only arthropod with an eye on the town. Can Mighty Bug defeat the evil Scorpiana and save Bugville? Find out in this fun and educational adventure!

Jan 31 - Mar 17

½ Price Previews: Jan 29 & 30

1404 Spring Street NW Atlanta, GA 30309 Limited FREE Parking • MARTA Accessible

112 Atlanta Parent January 2013

404.873.3391 www.puppet.org

Season supported in part by: Fulton County Arts Council, City of Atlanta Office of Cultural Affairs, National Endowment for the Arts, Georgia Council for the Arts.

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide * Eating Out

n

Free Fun

n

Exhibits

n

Reviews

n

Calendar

Not-to-miss events for January

1

n MartiKing r Luthveents e 2

Shen Yun

Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre / Jan. 5-6. Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 1 & 6 p.m.

Through music and dance, this show brings to life 5,000 years of Chinese culture, taking audiences on a whirlwind experience through the country’s regions, dynasties and legends. Look forward to energetic dance, tremendous athleticism and animated backdrops. The traveling show features

about 100 artists, 400 costumes and a classical Chinese orchestra that has performed on five continents. 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy. 678-681-1868. $50-$150. The show will also perform at the Fox Theatre on Jan. 8 & 9, 7:30 p.m. 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 1-855-285-8499. $50-$150.

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Atlanta Parent Magazine’s Camp Expo North Point Mall / Jan. 26, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Reptiles!

Southeastern Snake Encounter Show

It’s never too early to start thinking about summer camp. Find plenty of camp options for your child at Atlanta Parent’s three upcoming camp expos, the first of which takes place at North Point Mall. Browse booths, chat with former campers, and meet with camp representatives to gather information about day and overnight camps throughout the southeast. 100 North Point Circle, Alpharetta. 770-454-7599. Free.

Chattahoochee Nature Center / Jan. 19. Noon-4 p.m.

Join Jason Clark of “Animal Planet” as he shows off some venomous and non-venomous snakes. Kids are sure to both laugh and squirm as all kinds of snakes are presented in an educational and humorous way.

Look forward to crafts and get close to tortoises and alligators from Southeastern Reptile Rescue. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell.

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

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 113

Family Fun Guide Roasters

EATING OUT

Roastersfresh.com Three locations in metro Atlanta.

Lenox Square: Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

Alpharetta: Sat.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri., 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

Sandy Springs: Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

Roasters is one of our favorite places to take our two children, ages 5 and 1. It’s familyfriendly, convenient and with so many choices, the whole family is happy to eat there. It’s a great choice for busy families because the food is fresh and homemade and the service is quick. Roasters’ atmosphere is cozy and welcoming – it’s definitely a place where you can feel comfortable eating out with young kids.

Another great thing: You can dine in or stop by to pick up dinner on your way home. You can choose side orders in family-size portions, whole roasted chickens and more to help you put dinner on the table on those nights when you really don’t feel like cooking. n What’s on the menu: Roasters is known for its chicken, ribs and veggies, and

these items alter daily. Other choices include delicious soups, salads, sandwiches, wraps, tacos and my personal favorite, spicy spinach cheese dip. Roasters has meal options to suit all budgets, from the three-veggies plate for $5.75 to a half slab of ribs for $14.99. The kids’ menu includes hot dogs, quesadillas, barbecue plates and grilled cheese sandwiches, each under $5.

I love how you can mix and match the veggies and side items to create the exact meal you want; this is especially great if your child is a fussy eater. n Why parents will like it: Any picky eater can find something at Roasters to enjoy. The many choices for your combo plate include baked beans, black beans and rice, macaroni and cheese, and sweet potato soufflé. I like the

fresh food quality, the fast service and the fact that the restaurant welcomes young families.

This is just an easy, relatively low-stress place for us to eat out with the kids. n Why kids will like it: My 5-year-old son loves that he can make his meal just the way he wants by choosing from the huge assortment of sides. He especially loves the basket of corn bread and soft bread rolls that you get as soon as you arrive. Roasters also provides coloring sheets and crayons to help keep the little ones busy.

– Jennifer Fogel

Still Chilly Enough for Snow Mountain Fun

T

he lush and green Memorial Lawn that we lounged upon this past summer at Stone Mountain Park was hardly recognizable as we entered the Snow Mountain attraction area; the entire lawn was blanketed in beautiful, white snow.

My sons and their friends were balls of energy as they eagerly watched the clock and counted down the time for our two-hour tubing session to begin. With tubes in tow, we rode the moving escalator to the top of Snow Mountain and experienced the wintry fun of tubing without a break for our entire session.

If You Go We started on “whole family” inner “Snow Mountain” tubes. Later, my boys – ages 6 and 8 – at Stone Mountain Park let their inner daredevils out and opted US Highway 78 East, Stone Mountain. for their own tubes. We watched them 770-498-5690, stonemountainpark.com. slide down the 400-foot slope giggling n Hours: Open through Feb. 18. and whooping as they slowed to an easy n Snow Mountain Pass: $27 adults stop. They did it again and again. and kids, includes two-hour tubing We later made our way to other Snow session and all-day access to snow Mountain attractions, including the Snow areas. Reservations must be made in Zone, where we built snowmen (buckets/ advance. Parking, $10. (See website for shovels/accessories provided). We hung various ticket offers.) out at Fort Snow, then made our way over to the Snowball Shootin’ Gallery, for snowball target practice. We were finally able to lure our youngest away to SnoFire Point to make s’mores and warm up with some hot chocolate.

We took a short break to watch the youngest snow enthusiasts romp in the Little Angels area (complete with little snow-boggans that carry kids 3 and younger down a gentle slope).

Pack your camera, gloves, coats and dry clothes for the ride home. A day in the snow is bound to result in a quiet drive home as the kiddies doze off!

– Dana diLorenzo

114 Atlanta Parent January 2013

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

FREE FUN

Head to the Library!

Boredom can strike when it’s too cold to play outside. Luckily, our public libraries offer an abundance of free indoor activities. We present a sampling of library events here, but you’re encouraged to examine the calendar of the library branches nearest you to find similar activities.

Doggie Tales Some Gwinnett Library locations.

Visit gwinnettpl.org for more information.

Kids will love practicing their reading skills alongside a fourlegged furry friend from Atlanta Therapaws. These trained dogs make great companions and even better listeners. Best for ages 5-10.

Film Fest Some Cobb County Library locations.

Visit cobbcat.org/calendar for more information.

Who knew you could even watch a flick at the library? Whether it’s a series of short films based on picture books or a classic Western feature, the whole family is sure to find something suitable.

Lego Club Roswell branch; Jan. 29, 4-5 p.m.

115 Norcross St., Roswell; 770-640-3075.

Let the architect in every kid come out to play at this afternoon activity. This club is all about creativity and learning such things as patience. Kids can look forward to building a “Winter Wonderland” along with other Lego lovers. Pre-register by Jan. 22.

Rockin’ Readers Powder Springs branch Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; 3:30-4:30 p.m.

4181 Atlanta St., Powder Springs; 770-439-3600.

Explore stories and themes introduced through reading, music and art. Reading comprehension is the focus of this learning adventure. Activities designed for ages 4-10.

Crafty Saturdays Chamblee Library; Jan. 12, 2 p.m.

4115 Clairmont Rd., Chamblee; 770-936-1380.

Kids’ artistic creativity can run wild. Here’s an opportunity to create masterpieces that parents will surely want to hang in the kitchen. Pre-registration begins two weeks before the event. Best for ages 7-12.

– Sarah Egan

Family Fun at the Atlanta History Center

Discover history, culture, and fun during AHC's monthly family programs.

For a complete schedule of programs or to purchase advance tickets and save, visit AtlantaHistortyCenter.com/Family

AtlantaHistoryCenter.com/Tickets atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 115

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?

Atlanta, New York, LA

404-636-1974

www.williamreynoldsagency.com

Planning for life. Planning wisely.

Compassionate lawyers specializing in Wills. Special Needs Trusts. Probate. Guardianships.

Attorneys & Counselors at Law 1815 Lockeway Drive, Suite 106 Alpharetta, Georgia 30004

770.475.8041 www.bhvlegal.com

116 Atlanta Parent January 2013

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

MARKYOURCALENDAR Clifford the Big Red Dog Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre Feb. 2, 11 a.m.

Everyone’s favorite big red dog is turning 50! Wish him well at this live musical performance. Clifford and Emily Elizabeth embark on a journey to Birdwell Island to meet up with their friends Cleo, T-Bone and Charley. They learn to share Clifford’s BE BIG! ideas about such things as sharing and helping others. 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., 770-916-2800. $15.50-$30.50.

Yo Gabba Gabba Live!

Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre Feb. 21, 3 & 6 p.m.

Get set to giggle the night away during Yo Gabba Gabba’s “Get The Sillies Out!” traveling show. Dance and sing along with DJ Lance Rock, Muno, Foofa, Brobee, Toodee and Plex. Also on board: hip-hop star Biz Markie. 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., 770-916-2800. Atlanta. $16-$46.

Atlanta Parent presents

Camp Expo 2013

Attention all campers and their parents – it’s never too soon to get wheels in motion for summer camp because spaces at camps can fill up quickly.

Don’t miss three upcoming dates for Atlanta Parent’s Camp Expo 2013, where you can gather lots of information about a wide variety of camps in order to start planning a great summer for your camper suited to almost any desire or interest. Meet camp directors and former campers, watch camp videos and load up on brochures.

Let Atlanta Parent be your guide to a fun-filled summer. Grab the latest issue of our Big Book of Camps.

Don’t miss our Atlanta Parent Overnight Camp issue (February) and Atlanta Parent Day Camp issue (April).

Camp Expo Dates: n North Point Mall: Jan. 26, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. n Town Center Mall: Feb. 23, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. n Perimeter Mall: March 16, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

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@AthOnTheRise /AthletesOnTheRise

JAN 5-6

Cobb energy Centre

678-391-2450 Now Enrolling Summer Camp: June 4-29 atlantaparent.com

JAN 8-9

Fox Theatre

all-new show wITh lIVe oRChesTRa Family Fun Guide

T H E AT R E AT L A N TA

Tickets: 1.888.974.3698 www.ATLshow.com January 2013 Atlanta Parent 117

Natural Nursing Covers Extra large for complete coverage Inside Pocket Adjustable strap Top opening for viewing

Like us ! on facebook to enter to win a free nursing cover 770-380-6364

NATURALNURSINGCOVERS.COM Protect the Important Things in Life If diagnosed with a chronic, critical or terminal illness, choose a life insurance policy that will give you living benefits:

Have a Family Friendly

• Pay for care that may not be covered by Calendar Event? your health plan.

Send your info & photos eight weeks • Replace income lost due to your illness. prior to your event to: • Provide in-home or facility care. calendar@atlantaparent.com • Benefit value not used as a living benefit OR: visit goes to your loved ones. atlantaparent.com/event/submit • Create life-memories with your loved ones.

Protecting Families & Preserving Wealth Ronnetta S. Coker

404-477-4918

Have a Family-Friendly Calendar Event? ur tos ed yo We ne tion & pho a to inform eeks prior w t eigh ent. v your e

Visit atlantaparent.com/event/submit or email calendar@atlantaparent.com 118 Atlanta Parent January 2013

Family Fun Guide

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Our primary purpose is to show how much “We Care”in a pleasant surrounding with courtesy and understanding.

Cheryl Jones Kendall, MD, FAAP

• New Patients Welcome • Accepting Most Insurance Plans • Medical care for children Birth to 21 1422 E. Cleveland Ave. East Point, 30344

Terrie Dixon, PA-C The LATCH system makes it easier to be sure your child’s car seat is installed correctly every time. Just clip it to the lower anchors, attach the top tether, and pull the straps tight. To find out more, visit safercar.gov.

atlantaparent.com

404-766-3337

www.WeCarePediatric.com Family Fun Guide

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 119

Calendar n Visit

January

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 Please call the event beforehand to confirm dates and times.

n Submit

your Family Friendly Calendar Event at least 8 weeks prior to the event by visiting atlantaparent.com/event/submit.

Lil’ Bean Heads Crafts. Bean Head Toys. Create an art project twice a month. All ages welcome, but smaller children may need assistance. First and third Wednesday of every month. 3-4 p.m. 220 Johnson Ferry Rd., Sandy Springs. 404-851-2980. Free.

Girl of the Year 2013 Crafts. American Girl Store. Make crafts inspired by the stories of the newest contemporary girl doll. Ages 8 and older. Jan. 5. 11 a.m.-1 p.m.; Jan. 6. noon-2 p.m.; Jan. 11. 4-6 p.m.; Jan. 12. 2-4 p.m.; Jan. 13. noon-2 p.m.; Jan. 18. 4-6 p.m. 1202 North Point Circle. 877-247-5223. Free.

Kid’s Yoga. Cross Life Christian Montessori School. A free “parent and me” yoga class open to the public. The first Wednesday of the month. Jan. 2. 9:30-10 a.m. 1000 Hembree Rd., Roswell. Pre-register, 770-475-3812.

Free.

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

Jan. 3, Simple Toys, Simple Joys; Jan. 10, Chessie the Railroad Kitten; Jan. 17, Trains, Trains, Trains; Jan. 24, Weclome Winter; Jan. 31, Freight Train: 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-427-2117. Ages 3-5. Free with museum admission. Adults, $7.50; children 4-12, $5.50; 3 and younger, free.

INK Craft Weeks. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids.

New Year’s Craft, Jan. 1-4; Bird Craft, Jan. 8-11; MLK craft, Jan. 14-18; Snowflake craft, Jan. 28-31; $1 with museum admission. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun., 1-5 p.m. 999 Chestnut St., Gainesville.

770-536-1900. Adults, $8; children, $6.

Build and Grow Clinics. Lowes. Clinics teach kids to build wooden crafts. Free apron, goggles and merit patch. Saturday, Jan. 12. 10 a.m. Visit lowesbuildandgrow.com for locations. 800-4456937. Pre-register. Free.

Homeschool Day: Empires. Atlanta History Center. Explore history’s great empires including Aztecs, Romans and Egyptians and learn how they rise and fall. Jan. 7. 1-4 p.m. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000. $8.50.

Weekends in the Naturalist Center. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Activities include animal encounters, science explorations and more. Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6400. Activities included with price of admission. Adults, $17.50; children 3-12, $15.50; younger than 3, free.

Crafts for Kids. Lakeshore Learning Store. Make a different craft each week. Saturday, Jan. 5, 12, 19, 26. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 4287 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-578-3100. 3 and older. Free.

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Don’t miss this bilingual puppetry performance of a classic Mexican folktale. Find out what happens when Brother Coyote desperately wants to trap and eat Doña Conchita’s chickens, while Sister Fox schemes to keep them all for herself. 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $16.50; younger than 2, free.

Recommended for ages 4 and older.

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

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

Art Workshops. Vinings School of Art. Take a drawing, painting or pottery class. Supplies included. Ages 2-13. Saturdays, 10 and 11 a.m.

1675 Cumberland Pkwy., Smyrna. 678-2134278. Pre-register. $15 for one-hour workshop.

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Center for Puppetry Arts JAN. 8-27. TUES.-FRI., 10 & 11:30 A.M.; SAT., 11 A.M., 1 & 3 P.M.; SUN., 1 & 3 P.M.

Toddler Thursday. High Museum of Art. Create masterpieces to compliment the museum’s current exhibits. Ages 2-4. Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4550. Free with admission. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free.

Magic Monday. Atlanta History Center. Storytime, sing-a-longs and crafts. Jan. 14. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta.

404-814-4000. Adults, $6.50; ages 5 and younger, $5.50.

M

BROTHER COYOTE AND SISTER FOX

classes Home Depot Kids’ Workshop. All locations.

Learn tool safety while building a craft and receive a kid-sized orange apron. First Saturday of each month. Jan. 5. 9 a.m.-noon. homedepot.com. Ages 5-12. Free.

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exhibits African American History Through Sight and Sound. North DeKalb Mall. The exhibit presents more than 8,000 artifacts displaying the historical passage of Black-Americans from their roots to present day America. Located near the Macy’s wing. Jan. 4-27. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun. noon-6 p.m. 2050 Lawrenceville Hwy., Decatur.

404-235-6444. Free.

Family Fun Guide

Bodies: The Exhibition. Atlantic Station. This exhibition provides an intimate and informative view into the human body. Mon.-Thurs.

11 a.m.-6 p.m., Fri.- Sun. 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Last ticket sold 1 hour before closing. 2685 18th St., Atlanta. 404-496-4274. Adult, $24; children 4-12, $16.

Winter Wonderland. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. View dozens of festive cultural displays and holiday trees. Through Jan. 6. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun., noon-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404929-6300. $17.50; ages 3-12, $15.50; 2 and younger, free.

National Geographic Greatest Photographs of the American West. Booth Western Art Museum. View more than 125 rare photographs that capture the pictorial history of Western expansion. Through March 10.

501 Museum Dr., Cartersville. 770-3871300. Adults, $10; ages 12 and younger, free.

Space Spinoffs. Tellus Science Museum. Explore ways and devices that were ”accidentally invented” from space-age technology.

Through April 7. Mon.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

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

Adults, $14; ages 3-17, $10.

Dolphin Tales. Georgia Aquarium. The live show incorporates dolphins, live human actors, dramatic costuming, and special effects. Multiple shows per day, times vary.

Reservations recommended. Sun.-Mon., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Tues.-Sat., 9 a.m.-9 p.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-581-4000. Admission price depends on date of visit; Adults, $34.95; ages 3-12, $28.95.

atlantaparent.com

Calendar

MONSTER JAM

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibit. Atlantic Station. Travel back in time and experience the wonder and tragedy of this ill-fated ship. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Fri.Sun. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Last ticket sold 1 hour before closing. 265 18th St. (second floor), Atlanta. 866-866-8265. Adults, $24; ages 4-12, $16.

Georgia Dome JAN. 12, 7 P.M. Feast your eyes on 16 tough trucks as they race on a custom-designed track full of obstacles to smash into or soar over. Examine the 12-foothigh, 10,000-pound machines up close and meet the drivers from 2-5 p.m. during the Party in the Pits. Pick up a free Pit Pass at participating MetroPCS locations through Jan. 11 while supplies last. One Georgia Dome Dr. NW, Atlanta.

800-745-3000. $20-$50.

Anne Frank in the World: 1929-1945.

Parkside Shopping Center. Learn about the life of the Frank family and others who lived in the secret annex in Amsterdam; includes replica of Anne’s room.

Tues.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., noon-4 p.m. 5920 Roswell Rd., Sandy Springs. 770-2061558. 10 and older. Free.

Turtle Tours. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum. Through stories, hands-on exhibits and crafts, museum mascots Sandy the chipmunk and Spring the turtle introduce the youngest visitors to history. Second Saturday of each month.

11 a.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Circle, Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111. Donations encouraged.

Ghengis Kahn. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Experience the amazing true world of Ghengis Kahn, one of the world’s greatest and most misunderstood conquerors. Through Jan. 21.

Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404929-6300. Adults, $17.50; ages 3-12, $15.50; 2 and younger, free.

The Magic School Bus Kicks up a Storm. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Kids can learn about the weather and how it happens. Through Jan. 27. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Adults and ages 2 and older, $12.75; younger than 2, free. Free admission starting at 1 p.m. on the second Tuesday of every month brought to you by Target Free Second Tuesday.

Frogs: A Chorus of Colors. Georgia Aquarium. Features 15 species of frogs in more than 3,000 square feet of habitats, with hands-on and interactive activities. Sun.Mon., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Tues.-Sat., 9 a.m.-9 p.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-581-4000.

Admission price depends on date of visit; Adults, $34.95; ages 3-12, $28.95.

family concert

Platypus Theatre’s

Charlotte & the Music-Maker February 17 Sun: 1:30 & 3:30pm Jere Flint, conductor | Platypus Theatre Gleeful entertainment for everyone! Ignored at home despite her musical talent, Charlotte runs away and runs smack into trouble until the Music-Maker, a genial but mysterious gent, sweeps her away on a trip of wondrous discovery. Charlotte enters the thrilling world of the orchestra and the exciting sound and colors of its instruments, accompanied by a stunning original score.

404.733.5000 | aso.org Woodruff Arts Center Box Office @ 15th & Peachtree Make it a group! 404.733.4848

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Family time to treasure!

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Family Fun Guide

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 121

MLK Eventss Celebrate the life of civil rights hero Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at one of these honorary events in Atlanta. Dr. King’s birth city is full of family activities and service opportunities for Atlantans of all ages. n MLK Jr. Drop-In Craft. Buckhead Library Branch. Elementary school-aged children can drop-in with their parents to make a MLK Jr. craft. Ages 4-12. Jan. 12. Noon-4 p.m. 269 Buckhead Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-814-3500. Free. n King Youth Expo & Showcase.

MLK Jr. Gymnasium. This event for youth features middle school, high school and college students in the Atlanta area.

Enjoy song, dance, poetry, music and drama performances along with activity stations and exhibits. Jan. 12. Noon-4 p.m. 449 Auburn Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404526-8900. Free. n MLK Jr. Preschool Storytime.

Buckhead Branch Library. Preschoolers will enjoy a story about MLK Jr. Ages 3-5.

Jan 15. 11:45 a.m. 269 Buckhead Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-814-3500. Free.

n Walk Together Children’s Stories to honor Dr. King. Perry Homes Branch.

Stories and activities will focus on the great man and the civil rights era. Ages 2-6. Jan. 15-23. 10-11 a.m. 2011 Bolton Rd., Atlanta.

404-792-4994. Free. n Buckhead Teens Celebrate the Life of Martin Luther King Jr. Buckhead Library Branch. Teens are invited to watch the documentary “Martin Luther King Jr.: The Man and the Dream.” Ages 1218. Jan. 19. 11:30 a.m. 269 Buckhead Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-814-3500. Free. n Commemorative Service. Horizon Sanctuary, Ebenezer Baptist Church. This annual commemorative service hallmarks the King Holiday and features tributes to the life and achievements of King from national and international leaders. Jan. 21. 8 a.m. 407 Auburn Ave., Atlanta. 404-526-8900. Free. n Day of Service. Throughout Atlanta.

Join Hands-On Atlanta’s efforts to serve the local community at various schools, streets, and other monuments named after civil rights leaders. Over 3,000 volunteers will continue King’s ideas of strength and service. Jan. 21. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Visit handsonatlanta.org for a complete list of agencies and opportunities.

122 Atlanta Parent January 2013

The Children’s Museum of Atlanta

n Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday Celebration. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta.

To commemorate Martin Luther King Jr.’s commitment to peace, children will celebrate cultural unity by making a hand print wreath filled with many diverse colors. Jan. 21. 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW, Atlanta. 404-6595437. $12.75; 1 and younger, free.

Family Fun Guide

n I Have a Dream. Vinings Library. Come for a special story time to learn about the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Jan. 22. 4 p.m. 4290 Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta.

770-801-5308. Free. n Dr. King Program. South Cobb Library. Celebrate with books, songs and music about Dr. King.

Ages 5 and older. Jan. 23. 3:30 p.m.

805 Clay Rd., Marietta. 678-3985834. Free.

atlantaparent.com

Calendar LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Phipps Plaza. Come play, build and look at a variety of spectacular LEGO exhibits that will have all LEGO lovers amazed. Sun.-Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m. (Last admission at 5 p.m.) Sat.,10 a.m.-9 p.m. (Last admission at 7 p.m.) 3500 Peachtree Rd., Atlanta. 404-848-9252.

Adult, $20.52; ages 3-12, $16.20, 2 and younger, free.

ice skating Astor Holiday Rink. St. Regis Atlanta. The covered ice rink is set atop the hotel’s swimming outdoor pool. Open through Jan. 2. Mon.-Fri. noon-9 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. 88 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-563-7797. Pre-register. Adults, $30 per hour; ages 16 and younger, $18.

Jim Henson Special Exhibitions. Center for Puppetry Arts. This long term exhibit profiles the life of Jim Henson and his most famous puppet, Kermit the Frog. Tues.-Fri., 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Sat.; 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404-873-3391. Museum admission, $8.25.

Free admission Thursdays from 1-3 p.m.

Quarry Exhibit at Stone Mountain. Stone Mountain Park. This outdoor display was developed to tell the story of an industry that played a significant part in the history of Stone Mountain. Mon.-Sun., dawn to dusk. 770-498-5690. U.S. Hwy 78 E., Stone Mountain. Free. Parking, $10.

Centennial Olympic Games Exhibit. Atlanta History Center. Learn about the exciting 1996 Olympic Games that were held in Atlanta. Permanent exhibit. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Sun, noon-5:30 p.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404814-4000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; 3 and younger, free.

movies To the Arctic. Fernbank Museum of Natural History.

Swim alongside a polar bear and her cubs and discover a world beneath the ice where corals and odd creatures thrive. Through Jan. 3. See fernbankmuseum.org for show times. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. IMAX tickets: adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; 2 and younger, free.

Africa’s Elephant Kingdom. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Journey into Kenya for a glimpse of an elephant’s wild world through waterfalls, desert and vast plains. Through Jan. 3. See fernbankmuseum.org for show times. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. IMAX tickets: adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; 2 and younger, free.

Calling local non-profit organizations!

Atlanta Parent Seeks Benefi ciaries for Family Block Party 2013.

Eligible non-profi ts are those with budgets less than $1.5 million that serve families, special needs children, communities or the environment.

For more information or to request an application, please contact Kaitlyn Morris at kmorris@atlantaparent.com

atlantaparent.com atlantaparent.com

Lake Lanier Island Resort. Buford. An outdoor rink near the Magical Nights of Lights. Through Jan. 6. Sessions begin daily at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford. 770-945-8787. $10/person.

Centennial Olympic Park

Flight of the Butterflies. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Enter the enchanting world of monarch butterflies as they travel south for the winter. Opens Jan. 4. See fernbankmuseum.org for show times. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. IMAX tickets: adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; 2 and younger, free.

Alaska: Spirit of the Wild. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Watch the ultimate story of survival in the majesty and uniqueness of wild Alaska. Opens Jan. 4. See fernbankmuseum.org for show times. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. IMAX tickets: adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; 2 and younger, free.

Gone with the Wind. Earl Smith Strand Theatre.

See this popular classic on the big screen once again with an organ preshow and singa-long. Jan. 11. Organ preshow and singa-long, 7: 30 p.m.; movie, 8 p.m. 117 North Park Sq., Marietta. 770-293-0080. Tickets, $9.

Casablanca. Earl Smith Strand Theatre. Watch the Oscar-winning love story and take in a live organ pops variety show and sing-a-long.

Jan. 12. Variety show, 7:30 p.m.; movie, 8 p.m.

117 North Park Sq., Marietta. 770-293-0080.

Tickets, $8.

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(770) 795-8399 Sponsor of www.TheWageRevolution.com We are a non-profit that employs low income single Moms and allows then to earn a livable wage. Proverbs 3:5,6.

Family Fun Guide

Centennial Olympic Park. Downtown Atlanta. The city’s largest outdoor rink offers real ice, theatrical lighting and holiday music. Through Jan. 27. Mon.-Thurs., 4:30-10 p.m.; Fri., 4:30-11 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-10 p.m. 265 Park Ave., Atlanta. 404-223-4412. $10/person for 90 minutes.

The Rink at Park Tavern. Piedmont Park.

Enjoy rink-side dining and skate to music.

Through Feb. 14. Mon.-Fri., 4:30 p.m.midnight; Sat.-Sun., 10:30 a.m.-midnight.

500 10th St. NE, Atlanta. 404-249-0001. $15/person for 90 minutes.

The Pavilion in Olde Town. Conyers. A classic ice skating experience. Through Feb. 3. See icedays.com for hours. 949 S. Main St., Conyers. 770-554-7506. $7/person; skate rental, $2.

music Pickin’ on the Square. Newnan Courthouse Square. Acoustic musicians of all genres and skill levels are welcome to join in on the first and third Saturday of every month. 11 a.m. on Jan. 5 and 19.

LaGrange St. and E. Broad St., Newnan.

770-253-8283. Free.

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January 2013 Atlanta Parent 123

BLUE MAN GROUP

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Fox Theatre JAN. 15-20 TUES.-FRI., 8 P.M.; SAT., 2 & 8 P.M.; SUN., 1:30 P.M. A touring production of the longrunning off-Broadway show starring blue performers makes its way to Atlanta. The high-energy Blue Man Group performances incorporate tribal rhythms from a live band.

Families will find this show bursting with comedy, music and technology.

660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 855285-8499. $25-$65.

Friday Night Jazz. High Museum of Art. Listen to jazz performer Melvin James. Jan. 18. 5-10 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St.., Atlanta. 404-7335000. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17; $12; 5 and younger, free.

nature

January 26

Trail Hikes. Chattahoochee Nature Center.

Journey through the CNC trails using biofacts and activities to spark your curiosity. Saturdays and Sundays at 1 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free.

February 23

STARLAB. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Take a naturalist-led journey through the night sky.

Jan. 6. 1-2 p.m. Ages 5 and up. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free.

Saturday, 11 am - 4 pm North Point Mall Alpharetta

Saturday, 11 am - 4 pm Town Center Mall Kennesaw

March 16

Saturday, 11 am - 4 pm Perimeter Mall Atlanta

To exhibit or for info call Kaitlyn Morris at 678-222-1911 or Kmorris@atlantaparent.com atlantaparent.com 124 Atlanta Parent January 2013

Atlanta Audubon Society Bird Walk. Panola Mountain State Park. Bring your binoculars for a gentle hike through the Park’s Power of Flight area. Birdseed donations appreciated. Jan. 6, 8-11 a.m. 2600 Hwy. 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. Pre-register. Free.

Parking, $5.

Candlelight Hike to the Mill. Sweetwater Creek State Park. A mile-long night hike leads to the five-story ruins of the Civil-War era New Manchester textile mill. Jan. 12. 7-9 p.m. 1750 Mt. Vernon Rd., Lithia Springs. 770-732-5871. $5/person; parking, $5.

Full Moon Night Hike. Panola Mountain State Park. Take a hike as the sun sets and the moon begins to rise, wildlife is seen often.

Bring a flashlight and hiking boots. Jan. 26.

5:30 p.m. 2600 Hwy. 155 SW, Stockbridge.

770-389-7801. Pre-register. $7/person; parking, $5.

First Day Hike. State Parks across Georgia.

Start the New Year off on the right foot. Various parks offer guided day hikes in honor of New Year’s Day. Jan. 1. Times and locations vary, see georgiastateparks.org for more info.

1-800-864-7275. Parking, $5.

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. Jan. 5. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5000.

Free.

Garden Lights Holiday Nights. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Stroll through Midtown’s 30-acre garden adorned in holiday lights. Nightly Through Jan. 5. 5-10 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Adults, $20 Thurs.-Sun.; $17 Mon.-Wed.; ages 3-12, $14 Thurs.-Sun.; $11 Mon.-Wed.

Reptiles! Southeastern Snake Encounter Show. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Jason Clark, star of the Animal Planet series, SnakesKin, introduces venomous and non-venomous snakes during this exciting show followed by a craft session. Jan.19. Noon-4 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free.

Back Country Geology Hike. Sweetwater Creek State Park. Three-mile guided hike; learn about rock types and how they formed. Jan. 13. 1-4 p.m. 1750 Mount Vernon Rd., Lithia Springs. 770-732-5871. $5 per person; parking, $5.

Family Fun Guide

Atlanta Botanical Garden

atlantaparent.com

Calendar Shen Yun. Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Enjoy a colorful show of ancient Chinese music and dance. Jan. 5-6. Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 1 & 6 p.m.

678-681-1868. $50-$150. Catch a second round of performances at the Fox Theatre Jan. 8-9, 7:30 p.m. 660 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 1-855-285-8499. $50-$150.

Season of Magic. Piedmont Park. Enjoy a horsedrawn carriage ride through the park and go for a twirl on the carousel. Daily through Jan. 6. 500 10th St. NE, Atlanta. 404-875-7275. Carriage rides: 4-10:30 p.m., $25 adults and $20 for ages 2-11.

Carousel: noon-9 p.m., $3 per ride.

Gift of Lights. Atlanta Motor Speedway. Gaze at some 2 million LED lights while from the comfort of your car. Nightly through Jan. 6. Sun.-Thurs., 6-9 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., 5:30-10 p.m. 1500 Tara Place, Hampton. 770-423-1330. $15/car Mon.-Thurs.; $20/car Fri.-Sun. Teen Arts Night. City Center. Teens can bring instruments, poetry, artwork and short stories to share.

Includes a slice of pizza and a soda. Jan. 4. 6-8 p.m. 8534 Main St., Woodstock. 678-494-4251. $5.

Three Kings Day. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta.

Celebrate Three Kings Day by listening to music and making a crown to wear. Jan. 5 and 6. Sat., noon. Sun., 2 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Adults and ages 2 and older, $12.75; younger than 2, free.

Three Kings Day. Atlanta History Center. Kick off the New Year with a celebration in conjunction with the Mexican Consulate. Jan. 6. 1-5 p.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; 3 and younger, free.

atlantaparent.com

MR. GREG’S MUSICAL MADNESS FAMILY CONCERT Punchline in Sandy Springs JAN. 26, 11 A.M. Get your dancing shoes on for a concert by the lovable and laughable Mr. Greg.

Kids will recognize him from his music videos on Atlanta’s PBS station and on Georgia’s PBS Kids. This educational and inspirational musical extravaganza best suits ages 1-8. 280 Hilderbrand Dr., Atlanta. 404-252-5233.

Ages 2 and older, $10.

Emperor and Empress Day. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Dress up and enjoy family fun inspired by the Genghis Khan exhibition. Jan. 12. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Regular hours are Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta.

404-929-6300. Adults, $17.50; ages 3-12, $15.50; 2 and younger, free.

Family Fun Guide

Camp Expo. North Point Mall.

Attend Atlanta Parent’s Camp Expo 2013 and get your summer camp plans figured out. Jan. 26.

11 a.m.-4 p.m. 1000 North Point Circle, Alpharetta. 770-454-7599.

Free.

January 2013 Atlanta Parent 125

Calendar Girl of the Year 2013 Scavenger Hunt. American Girl Store. Go on a scavenger hunt and get a free American Girl poster. For ages 8 and older. Jan. 5. 11 a.m.-1 p.m.; Jan. 6. noon-2 p.m., Jan. 10. 4-6 p.m.; Jan. 11.

4-6 p.m.; Jan. 12. 2-4 p.m.; Jan. 13. noon-2 p.m.; Jan. 17. 4-6 p.m.; Jan. 18. 4-6 p.m.; Jan. 24. 4-6 p.m.; Jan. 31. 4-6 p.m. 1202 North Point Circle. 877-247-5223. Free.

Children’s Storytelling Festival. First Baptist Church of Decatur. Join the Southern Order of Storytellers and attend children’s workshops and concerts design for kids 12 and younger. Jan. 26. 12:30-3:30 p.m. 308 Clairemont Ave., Decatur. 404-377-2704. $5-$20.

Second Sunday Funday. High Museum of Art. Enjoy art demonstrations, art-making workshops and live performances. Jan. 13.

1-4 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404733-4550. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free.

Snow Mountain. Stone Mountain Park. Enjoy tubing and games in real snow. Through Feb. 18. Visit stonemountainpark.com/ event/snowmountain for times. U.S. 78, Stone Mountain. 770-498-5690. $27/person.

Parking, $10.

DEKALB SYMPHONY ANNUAL CHILDREN’S CONCERT

Georgia Perimeter College Clarkston Campus Gymnasium JAN. 27, 3 P.M. Join Atlanta journalist Jovita Moore as she narrates the annual hour-long children’s program. The concert features Prokofiev’s “Peter and the Wolf” and includes dancers, clowns and the DeKalb Symphony Orchestra. Doors open at 2:30 p.m. 555 North Indian Creek Dr., Clarkston. 678-891-3565. Tickets, $5.

theater storytelling Children’s Story Time. FoxTale Book Shoppe.

Age-appropriate stories followed by dance and song. Mondays and Saturdays. 11 a.m.

105 East Main St., #138, Woodstock. 770516-9989. Free.

Next Chapter JV Book Club. FoxTale Book Shoppe. This book club is for ages 6-12 and includes a snack, discussion and an activity. Second Friday of every month. 4:30 p.m. 105 East Main St., #138, Woodstock.

770-516-9989. Free.

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

Storytime at Little Shop. Little Shop of Stories. Storytelling three times a week; Thursday nights, milk and cookies provided and kids can come in pajamas. Sundays, 3 p.m.; Tuesdays, 11 a.m.; Thursdays, 7 p.m.

133A East Court Sq., Decatur. 404-3736300. Free.

Tales for Toddlers. Bean Head Toys. Stories read in the indoor tree house, then kids make a craft to take home. Every Thursday.

10:30 a.m. 220 Johnson Ferry Rd., Sandy Springs. 404-851-2980. Free.

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

Wren’s Nest Ramblers host storytelling sessions every Saturday. 1 p.m. 1050 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd., Atlanta. 404-753-7735.

Adults, $8; children $5, 4 and younger, free.

Storytime by the River. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Listen to storytellers read about the night sky as they use books and crafts.

First Wed. of the month. 10:30 a.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Free with admission. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free.

126 Atlanta Parent January 2013

Waiting for Balloon. Alliance Theatre. Two clowns try to figure out what makes a balloon a balloon. Designed for ages 18 mos.5 yrs. Jan. 3-6, 12 & 19. Thurs.-Sun. 9:30 and 11 a.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta.

404-733-4702. $10/person.

Cinderella. Gwinnett Performing Arts Center.

Enjoy an hour-long family ballet performance of the classic fairytale. Jan. 4-6. 2 & 5 p.m. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 404892-3303. $10-$30.

The Blue Man Group. Fox Theatre. Popular creative theatrical show featuring performers decked in blue. Jan. 15-20. Tues.-Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 8 p.m.; Sun., 1:30 p.m.

660 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-881-2100. $34-$66.60.

Fiddler on the Roof. Marcus Jewish Community Center. Enjoy colorful characters and a score that includes favorites like “If I Were a Rich Man” and “Matchmaker.” Jan. 19-Feb. 3. Visit atlantajcc.org for show times. 5342 Tilly Mill Rd., Dunwoody. 678-812-4000. $15-$28.

The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe.

City Center Auditorium. Adapted from the book by C.S. Lewis, children embark on an adventure upon discovering a hidden world in the back of a wardrobe. Jan. 18-20, 25-27. Fri., 7:30 p.m., Sat. and Sun., 2 p.m.

5384 Main St., Woodstock. 678-494-4251. $12/person.

The Producers. Fox Theatre. This Broadway musical tells the story of a scheme to produce the biggest flop in theater history but plans turn when the play becomes a smash hit. Jan. 25-31. Fri., Tues.-Thurs., 8 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 8 p.m.; Sun., 1:30 and 7:30 p.m.

660 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-881-2100. $34-$66.60.

Family Fun Guide

The Adventures of Mighty Bug. Center for Puppetry Arts. Watch Mighty Bug protect Bugville from the evil arachnid Scorpiana in this puppetry performance. Jan. 31-March 17. Tues.-Fri., 10 and 11:30 p.m.; Sat., noon and 2 p.m.; Sun., 1 and 3 p.m. 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 404873-3391. $16.50.

Steel Magnolias. Earl Smith Strand Theatre. A glimpse into the lives of six southern women.

Jan. 17-20. Thurs.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 3 p.m. 117 North Park Sq., Marietta. 770-293-0080. $25.

Kids on Broadway. Earl Smith Strand Theatre. Kids will perform the best Broadway hits. Jan. 25-27.

Fri.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun. 3 p.m. 117 North Park Sq., Marietta. 770-293-0080.

Beauty and the Beast. Earl Smith Strand Theatre.

West Side Elementary’s drama program presents this classic tale. Jan. 5 and 7. 7:30 p.m. 117 North Park Sq., Marietta. 770-293-0080. $10.

beyond atlanta 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. 800262-0695. Adults, $24.95; ages 3-12 $14.95.

IMAX Movies. Tennessee Aquarium. Take your pick between three 3D films: Flight of the Butterflies, To the Arctic and The Last Reef until Feb. 28.

See tennis.org for show times. One Broad St., Chattanooga. 800-262-0695. Adults, $9.95; Ages 3-12, $8.50.

Historic Trolley Tour. 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. Departs at 2 p.m.

560 Reynolds St., Augusta. 706-724-4067. Preregister. $12 per person, includes admission to the museum. c

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January 2013 Atlanta Parent 127

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Humor

by Lela Davidson

Slash the Budget, Starting with the

Tooth Fairy

If you’re stinging from the pain of the economic downturn or suffering nasty paper cuts from your post-holiday credit card statements, consider cutting back on child-related costs in the new year.

Examine your budget carefully, and wisely wield your scalpel. If you vow to say no to peer pressure of the imaginary kind this year, you just may find the Tooth Fairy budget is ripe for cutting.

W

hen my daughter lost her first tooth, she was handsomely rewarded by the Tooth Fairy with a crisp dollar bill (which I swiped from my son’s piggy bank, but that’s another story). The next morning she pranced down the stairs, proud of her newfound riches.

A whole dollar! She couldn’t have been happier.

A couple of days later, her mouth got in the way of two toddlers engaged in a friendly backyard brawl. She ran bleeding and triumphant across the lawn, showing off the fresh gape at the bottom of her kindergarten smile.

That evening as I put her to bed, she placed the tooth carefully under her pillow.

“Mom?” Her little face shone, full of hope.

“Yes, Sweetie?” I said, pulling up the sheet and folding it under her chin.

Her eyes grew large. “Some people get more than a dollar.”

Knowing where this was going, I tried not to react. “Really? What do they get?”

She hesitated before answering. “Well… some people get toys.” She turned shy – or was it calculating – before adding, “Ella got $20.”

Twenty bucks? For a tooth? No wonder the economy is in such a mess.

I told my daughter that I didn’t know Ella’s arrangement, nor anything about the official Tooth Fairy payment schedule, but that her brother had always received one dollar from the irrepressible imp, and that she ought to ex130 Atlanta Parent January 2013

pect the same.

Not to deprive the Tooth Fairy of her mission in life, but consider for a moment where this kind of inflation leads. If you let the Tooth Fairy drop $20 a pop, then what about the Easter Bunny? He won’t be upstaged by some flighty chick who doesn’t even merit her own holiday. Before you know it, the gold bunny will be made of actual gold.

I don’t mind if other parents choose to buy every impulse snack and toy in the checkout. I humor the birthday parties boasting magicians, princesses and ponies, where children garner more gifts than my first 12 Christmases combined. I accept that Valentine’s Day and Easter have been elevated to “gift holiday” status. But don’t mess with the Tooth Fairy. When I was a kid, the going rate was a quarter. Just a gesture really. The real thrill of the event was the thing coming out, especially so if there were bloodshed.

Twenty dollars? Seriously?

Poor Santa is already on the hook for plenty.

Let this kind of spending go unchecked and mark my words, next year you’ll be pulling out a home equity loan for the Valentine’s treats. If you can get credit, that is.

Bottom line: It’s a tooth, not an accomplishment. Stick to one dollar, and if your kid complains, blame it on the Fairy. c

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