May 2016

Atlanta

PARENT May 2016/atlantaparent.com

Go Climb A Tree Going Places:

100

Short Trips Around The South

Atlanta’s First Lady (and Mom) Sarah-Elizabeth Reed and daughter Maria

+

SPECIAL NEEDS RESOURCES

e s o i T B a s O b BM E

MeEt MeI LuN & Mei HuaN The “terrible twos” phase isn’t just a human thing; these 2-year-old giant panda sisters are as rowdy as they come. You’ll find them climbing, playing and occasionally pushing each other around. Don’t worry, that’s just how they show their love. If you can appreciate their play hard, nap hard motto, then come meet the only twin pandas in the USA.

zooatlanta.org

#ONLYZOOATL

Sandy Springs/ Lawrenceville-Suwanee

4 Atlanta Parent May 2016

SUMMER CAMP Registration Open

atlantaparent.com

Inside 32 May Vol. 33 / Number 5

YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

Departments

Features

12

First Lady, First-Time Mom

Sarah-Elizabeth Reed, the wife of Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, shares the joys and the challenges of life in the political spotlight and with daughter Maria Kristan.

18 23

42

Go Out on a Limb

Climbing a tree is a childhood rite-ofpassage, and it’s a lot more fun – and safer – with tree-climbing instructors and a harness to stop a fall.

Going Places

Summer travel doesn’t have to be a two-week stay in an exotic locale – there’s plenty to see and do on short trips throughout the South.

8 Publisher’s Note 10 News You Can Use 66 For the Fridge

Words of humor & wisdom

Family Fun Guide

47 Not-to-Miss Events 48 Mother’s Day Brunches

49 News Splash: Water Parks Open 50 Exhibit: SPIN at Tellus Museum 51 Flipping for Sea Lions

52 Pirate

Adventure Island at Legoland Discovery Center

Wrap up the School Year

Take the time to review the past year now and get ready for August with our helpful tips.

Strawberry Picking

54 Playground:

Ocee Park, Johns Creek

34

Special Needs

Summertime fun – play in your own back yard, or take an outing – Atlanta Parent’s ideas will keep you and your child with special needs active and engaged. Plus, our resource guide.

Magazine Association of the Southeast

2013 Award Winner atlantaparent.com

55 56 58

May Festivals Toddler Time!

May Calendar

On the Cover: Sarah-Elizabeth and Maria Reed, at Arthur Langford Jr. Park. Photography by Images by N’Neka.

Like us on Facebook; facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine May 2016 Atlanta Parent 5

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

PUBLISHER Liz White

lwhite@atlantaparent.com

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

ASSOCIATE Laura Powell PUBLISHER lpowell@atlantaparent.com

BUSINESS Amy Smith DEVELOPMENT MGR asmith@atlantaparent.com

To participate in this study, you must:

ACCOUNT Carolyn Haushalter EXECUTIVE chaushalter@atlantaparent.com

Be 5-21 years old Have at least one grandparent of African descent Qualified participants will receive:

Alice Bruce | 404-712-1773 alice.bruce@emory.edu

ACCOUNT Candy Stirling EXECUTIVE cstirling@atlantaparent.com

Shanneka Douglas | 404-727-7687 sdougl5@emory.edu

Asthma medications

SPECIAL EVENTS & Jordan Lisvosky

DIGITAL SALES jlisvosky@atlantaparent.com

Pulmonary evaluation Compensation for time and travel

CONTRIBUTING Amanda Miller Allen

EDITOR

EDITORIAL Sheri Taylor-Emery

ART DIRECTOR creative@atlantaparent.com

1-12 Coed - Small Classes Competitive Athletic Programs College Preparatory Laptop Program Athletic Programs Extended Day Program Art, Band, Chorus, Drama Summer Programs SACS/SAIS Accredited

2016 Open House - May 11 at 9:00 a.m.

770.360.1336 www.millsprings.org/visitus “I’ve always believed that if a student can’t learn the way we teach ... we should teach the way a student can learn.”

Tweetie L. Moore, Founder

6 Atlanta Parent May 2016

PRODUCTION Robin Mintz

OPERATIONS Caroline Ward MANAGER cward@atlantaparent.com

MARKETING MOM Felicia Barman

Sign Up For Our e-Newsletter at AtlantaParent.com Like Us on FACEBOOK

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. 2016

atlantaparent.com

Cover Kids Contest All mail entries must be postmarked by May 20, 2016.

Online entries due May 23, 2016.

To register and more info visit:

Atlantaparent.com/coverkids l

Ages 0-12 years / $25 entry fee

l

Group category / $45 entry fee

2016

Yes!

cover kid search My kid wants to be a Cover Kid! Complete this form (please print) and send it, along with your $25 entry fee (per child/per photo) or $45 group entry fee (per photo) and a recent photo (4x6 preferred), to the address at the right. Sorry, photos will not be returned.

Individual Category

Mastercard

$25 entry fee (per photo)

Group Category $45 group entry fee (per photo)

Check #____________________ Visa

Please check one:

Child’s Name

Pay By :

Money Order #____________________

Child’s Birthday (mm/yy)

Age Cardholder Name

Multiples (twins/triplets)

Parent/Child

Grandparent/Grandchild

Name

Age

Name

Age

Name

Age

CVV code

Card Number

Expiration Date (mm/yy)

Address City State Zip Home Telephone Parent/Guardian Name Parent/Guardian Signature E-mail Address

Make check payable and mail to: Atlanta Parent Magazine Attn: Cover Kids Contest 2346 Perimeter Park Dr. Atlanta, GA 30341

Publisher’s Note Aren’t Kids Wonderful? YES! Adapted and directed by Jon Ludwig

NOW- MAY 22 AGES 4 & UP

Sponsored in part by:

THE SWAN

AN UGLY DUCKLING TALE

By Le Théâtre de Deux Mains of Montréal, Québec, Canada

MAY 24-JUNE 5 AGES 3 & UP

404.873.3391 puppet.org

Amateur wall frescos, mud puddle romps, nighttime stomach upsets, occasional daytime tantrums – aren’t kids wonderful? But no mom I know would trade those challenges for a simpler life without the joys of being hugged by small arms or laughing with her children.

As Mother’s Day nears, I often reflect on my life pre- and post-kids, and I can’t imagine my family without our preschoolers, Elliot and Corinne. It would seem so much less complete, lacking in surprises like pockets full of woodchips and kids that love to weed the yard and gift the “flowers.”

It would also be a lot less hectic. Being a mom is a full-time job, but most of us also work full time or part time, volunteer for organizations, take care of household chores and laundry, find time to have fun with our spouse and try to carve out time for ourselves.

That’s why it’s always fun to read how other people do it. Sometimes I pick up ideas or feel a kinship with other moms. In this month’s issue, Sarah-Elizabeth Langford Reed, shares her thoughts on being a first-time mom and juggling the demands of a life in politics and the public eye with time to be with her daughter Maria (see Page 12). The Reeds are advocates of attachment parenting and apply that philosophy with their almost 2-year-old daughter, taking her along most of the time when they’re on the go.

Kevin and I also take our two children plenty of places, and like lots of parents, one of our favorite places is a playground. We visit the ones in our neighborhood frequently, but also try others all around metro Atlanta.

The parks here are amazing and our kids can spend a few hours wearing themselves out. The Atlanta Botanical Garden’s Children’s Garden will be reopening soon and we can’t wait to visit.

Metro Atlanta also has lots of other attractions, where young kids can have fun as they learn and grow. You’ll find some ideas in our story, Toddler Time! on Page 56.

What’s your favorite part of being a mom? Share with us at Facebook. com/AtlantaParent.

Limited FREE Parking • MARTA Accessible • Arts Center Station

1404 Spring Spring Street Street NW NW 1404 Atlanta, GA 30309 Atlanta, GA 30309

Advance purchase is highly recommended as many shows sell out quickly.

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

Photos by Clay Walker and Alexandre Donato

8 Atlanta Parent May 2016

Associate Publisher

How to Reach us: Telephone 770.454.7599

Email lwhite@atlantaparent.com

Fax 770.454.7699

Website www.atlantaparent.com

Snail Mail 2346 Perimeter Park Drive Atlanta, Georgia 30341

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

atlantaparent.com

Two NEW Exhibits

l

Tickets: FernbankMuseum.org

ON THE

WEB n Tinkerlab.com Looking for creative ways to interact with your child, or projects your child can complete that are fun and educational? Tinkerlab is the website for mini-makers and inventors, from the author of Tinkerlab: A Hands-On Guide for Little Inventors.

You’ll find plenty of ideas to spur creativity in yourself and your child.

n Weather by Tiny Bop This app for iPhone and iPad lets kids play with the weather and learn the science behind rain, sun, snow, thunderstorms and other extreme weather. Kids can draw clouds and see how they change at different altitudes, jump inside a cloud and combine droplets and ice crystals to create rain or snow, and learn how cold and heat affect plants, pets and humans. $2.99. Find out more at tinybop.com.

Wild Music Sounds & Songs of Life

Hear it. Feel it. Play it.

LIGHT Blink. Glow. Flash. Flicker.

Wild Music is a production of ASTC, the Science Museum of Minnesota, and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro School of Music, with major funding from the National Science Foundation and additional support from Harman International and NEC Foundation of America. Principal Investor: Isdell Family Foundation Creatures of Light: Nature’s Bioluminescence is organized by the American Museum of Natural History, New York (www.amnh.org), in collaboration with the Canadian Museum of Nature, Ottawa, Canada, and The Field Museum, Chicago.

Insta

n AtlantaParent.com Get tips on how to plan a party that won’t make your wallet scream, parties that please tweens, and great ideas for themed parties. See our complete list of party places, entertainers, and more. (Click on Party)

atlantaparent.com

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 9

News You Can Use

by Amanda Miller Allen

Fruits, Veggies with Pesticide Residue

Fun Facts About Moms

2

Number of mothers worldwide (in billions)

82.5 Number of U.S. mothers

Strawberries are tops when it comes to pesticide residue, ranked No. 1 on the Environmental Working Group’s list of Dirty Dozen for 2016. The full list: strawberries, apples, nectarines, peaches, celery, grapes, cherries, spinach, tomatoes, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes and cucumbers. Find out more at ewg.org.

(in millions)

25

Average age of a new U.S. mom (21 in 1970)

2

Average number of kids per U.S. mom (3.5 kids in 1950s)

Source: happyworker.com/supermom/facts

In Home Décor, Color Us Blue What color you use to decorate says a lot about where you live.

Atlanta residents and Georgians prefer blue, which turned out to be the most popular color nationwide in a survey conducted by spoonflower.com, based on the type of designs people create and sell on the website.

The colors rounding out the top picks nationally are black, grey, white, pink (the top color in five cities!) and green.

Find out more at spoonflower.com.

Childcare Costs More than College Childcare in Georgia costs more annually than a typical college tuition, according to the Economic Policy Institute. The cost for infant childcare is $7,644, compared to $6,614 for college tuition. Caring for a 4-year-old costs $6,500 annually and an infant and toddler from the same family costs $14,144. For more about childcare costs, see epi.org.

Fewer Ear Infections than 20 Years Ago Though ear infections in infants are common, they’re actually on the decline, a new report in the journal Pediatrics says. About 46 percent of babies had ear infections in the first year of life from 2008-2014, compared with about 60 percent in the 1990s. Researchers say a pneumonia vaccination, higher breast-feeding rates and lower smoking rates contributed to fewer ear infections.

10 Atlanta Parent May 2016

atlantaparent.com

Happy Mother’s Day! How will you celebrate?

Share your day with us at Facebook.com/ AtlantaParent.

According to Ebates’ annual Mother’s Day survey, 63% of moms said spending quality time with their family came in as the top gift they want for Mother’s Day this year.

Other popular gifts include: n Flowers: 33 percent n Chocolate: 28 percent n Spa Day: 28 percent n Family Brunch: 27 percent When it comes to how much families plan to spend this year, 30 percent of Americans plan to spend $51-$100 on Mother’s Day and another 27 percent will spend between $100-$250.

I Love You Because…

Moms treasure the preschool questionnaire kids fill out for Mother’s Day, sometimes with a drawing of Mom. Their answers are honest and endearing, and perfectly capture a moment in time.

To download a questionnaire, visit atlantaparent.com/mothersday.

atlantaparent.com

For the Moms in Your Life n Word Clouds: Use a website such as tagxedo.com to take words, slogans or poems and turn them into a shape.

You can mat and frame this one-of-a-kind, thoughtful gift. n Chatbooks App: Create photo books of your children directly from a smartphone or Instagram using this app and send them to your mother and mother-in-law on Mother’s Day. Books can be sent automatically each month, for $8 a book; visit chatbooks.com.

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 11

Meet Atlanta’s First Lady Photo by Michael A. McGee

(and first-time mom)

Sarah-Elizabeth Reed, the wife of Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, enjoys her role as Atlanta’s First Lady and is excited about what’s to come. Atlanta Parent talked with her about her daughter Maria Kristan, life in the political spotlight and plans for the future.

12 Atlanta Parent May 2016

Q: A:

How has your background helped you in your role as spouse and political partner to Atlanta’s mayor?

My dad was a state senator and a minister and my mom is an attorney and does community service. So I guess community service is in my blood. I grew up campaigning with them and doing different projects in the community.

When Kasim and I got married, it was just natural to want to use my life for service.

Kasim is very similar. His family has also used their lives for a greater purpose. That’s one way we jelled well.

Q: A:

As First Lady of Atlanta, what are some of your initiatives?

Naturally, because we’re parents to an almost 2-year-old girl, we’re interested in early childhood education. We’ve created

a reading program with the Rollins Center, which specializes in speech and language educational curriculum. They’ve become our partner at the Thomasville Center of Hope where we’ve instituted a reading program for young students at Thomasville Elementary.

In addition to early childhood education, I also have an interest in women and youth empowerment.

Q: A:

Maria is almost 2 years old now.

What is your biggest challenge as a mom?

My biggest challenge … I guess it’s really just being able to balance everything, from family to friends to work to spending time with her. I think that’s what all parents go through, making sure you get a good balance in doing all the things in life that have to be done. atlantaparent.com

Q:

You have an impressive educational and career resume, so obviously education is important to you. What plans have you and Mayor Reed discussed for Maria’s education?

I love the schools that I went to, Pace Academy, University of Michigan and Howard, so I’m always advocating on behalf of those, but I think it’s so important to get to know a child’s personality and understand what really makes a child tick and then understand what schools are best. That’s what we’ve said – let’s get to know her personality a little better to know what school might be best for her. I’m excited for her to pursue different things – right now, music classes, swim classes and little toddler classes.

ABOUT SARAH-ELIZABETH n Atlanta native and daughter of attorney Susan Pease Langford and the late state Sen. Arthur E. Langford Jr.

A:

Do you feel extra scrutiny in the way you handle your child in public? What happens when Maria is unhappy or even on the verge of a tantrum?

We don’t have to be too careful, because I think people in Atlanta are understanding. We’re in a loving community, a loving city, where people know kids and they’re welcome in our city. People are always excited to be around Maria and all kids in general. We’ve always sensed that when we’re out, we don’t feel like we have to censor ourselves or censor her – we can just be ourselves.

A:

Q: A:

Atlanta is fortunate to have lots of toddler friendly places to go. Do you have some recommendations?

We like the city rec centers. Maria has been taking swimming classes there. Also “Music Together” is a class for toddlers and young kids that we really, really like. It’s a lot of fun. And we love the Children’s Museum of Atlanta.

Cont’d on page 14

n Worked for U.S. Rep. John Lewis (D-Ga.), for the D.C. Office of General Counsel and as an affordable housing developer for National Church Residences. n Contestant in the Miss America and Miss USA pageants. n The Reeds live in Southwest Atlanta, near the Niskey Lake neighborhood where Sarah grew up and her mother still lives.

Photo by Michael A. McGee

Q:

n Graduate of Pace Academy, the University of Michigan (degree in French) and Howard University School of Law

Q: A:

Has Maria attended many political events at her young age?

She’s been to a lot. She has met Hillary Clinton, she’s been to a lot of political events and always is extremely excited.

She’s learned to shake hands and say hello to people and I think she feels like she’s a little politician.

Q: A:

Where do you go for parenting advice? What parenting resources do you use?

We are so lucky that we have so much family here in town. My mom and Kasim’s mom and his stepmom and his dad – we have a lot of family here, so we’re really lucky. We have no shortage of people who’ve raised some great kids to ask about, ‘What do you think about this, and what about that? Is eating this OK? Are her teeth coming in OK? Should she be talking?’ So we really stick with family and, of course, like all parents, we use the Internet. And Atlanta Parent is one of the places I turn to for advice – I love the magazine. atlantaparent.com

Sarah-Elizabeth and Maria share a playful moment at Arthur Langford Jr. Park, a city of Atlanta park named after Sarah-Elizabeth’s late father.

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 13

Atlanta’s First Lady

Q: A:

What’s your favorite activity as a family?

I’d say going to parks or taking walks in our neighborhood. Occasionally, we’ll go to get ice cream or we’re always going to visit grandparents. Our city parks have really cool playground areas.

Q: A:

Anything else you’d like our readers to know about you?

People ask me about my style of parenting, and Kasim and I subscribe to what’s known as Attachment Parenting.

I think that’s worked really well for us -- to bring Maria everywhere that it’s appropriate to bring her. Of course, it’s very hard for parents who work demanding jobs to do that, but where we can, that’s what we do. It’s been neat to carry her a lot in our arms and in those Baby Bjorn carriers you strap to your body.

I think that’s helped Maria develop a strong sense of confidence and security. [Attachment Parenting] includes breast feeding and I’m so fortunate to have been able to breast feed for almost two years! Kasim is very knowledgeable about the health benefits of nursing and extremely supportive.

Q: A:

Do you have plans to go back to any type of full-time job when Maria is older?

I worked for an affordable housing developer for about 10 years, and after Maria was born, I started doing real estate consulting. I just have begun to explore getting back in a much stronger way into the work force. Of course, I’ll be even busier.

Q: Specializing in the Detection and Treatment of Pediatric Digestive Disorders

Expert GI Care for Your Children At Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates, our Board Certified pediatric gastroenterologists care for infants, children,‘tweens, and teens with any type of digestive or liver condition, including: • Abdominal Pain • Acid Reflux • Celiac Disease • Lactose Intolerance • Constipation/Diarrhea • Colic • Eosinophilic Esophagitis • Feeding Difficulties • Crohn’s Disease • Irritable Bowel Syndrome • Hepatitis/Liver Disease • Ulcerative Colitis

Alpharetta • Duluth • Sandy Springs

For Appointments: 404.843.6320 www.atlantagastro.com/pediatrics AGA is a participating provider for Medicare, Medicaid and most healthcare plans offered in Georgia.

14 Atlanta Parent May 2016

As a couple, you seem wellmatched. You both have a ‘can do’ attitude, and can make time for what’s important. Is that an accurate impression of both of you?

Both of us feel so blessed to be born in this country. There’s so much opportunity. I’m not saying it’s easy, but if you have a dream or a goal you want to reach, and you’re willing to do the hard work that it takes, you usually can reach it.

With all the traveling Kasim does to other cities, we’re constantly reminded of just how great our city is, and our country is. That also helps put things in perspective, when you think of the busy-ness and hectic-ness of being a mom and a wife and having a family.

You have to think about people in this country and in other countries who would love to be in our shoes.

– Amanda Miller Allen

A:

atlantaparent.com

As your baby learns about his world, he can teach us about autism.

YOUR HEALTHY NEWBORN CAN HELP ADVANCE AUTISM RESEARCH

If you’re pregnant, or have a newborn less than 3 months old, you can volunteer for an important autism study. Infants should have an older sibling, either with an autism spectrum disorder, or with no family history of autism. Your child will simply watch videos, interact with trained clinicians and have their babbles recorded. All while helping us move the science of autism forward. Learn more at marcus.org/infantstudy or call 404-785-7600.

This research is funded by the National Institutes of Health. IRBs are registered through Emory University. Š2016 Marcus Autism Center. All rights reserved.

Spring Fashions ✿

inCute Bloom Clothes and Shoes for Little Sprouts ✿

Get in a beachy state of mind with a fun seaside-inspired appliquéd top for boys from Boden.

The Seaside Capers T-shirt is $28.50. bodenusa.com

✿ ✿

Rainbow prints, flowers and fruits are all the rage in tops and dresses from The Children’s Place. Prices, $7.95-$24.95. childrensplace.com

✿

✿

Kids will be comfortable and stylish with pediped’s Flex® Gehrig Gingersnap sneakers.

These good looking sneakers are even machine washable. $59.95. pediped.com

16 Atlanta Parent May 2016

Stay dry during Atlanta’s afternoon thunderstorms.

Stephen Joseph’s classic raincoats, boots and matching umbrellas are perfect for your little fashionista. Raincoats, $39. Boots, $29.90.

Umbrellas, $13.90. stephenjosephgifts.com

Crocs has fresh kids’ styles as temps begin to rise. Our favorites are the Keeley Springtime Flat Sandal for girls and Croc Bump it Clog for boys, $29.99. crocs.com

✿

Even if you can’t get away to Europe this summer, your child can enjoy one of Livie and Luca’s new shoe styles inspired by the Mediterranean. Our favorite is the Luna. $59. livieandluca.com – Laura Powell

atlantaparent.com

Get Your Child

on the Cover

of Atlanta Parent

How to get started l Choose the cutest picture you have of your kid. We really like pictures where we can see your child’s face and hair, keep lighting in mind too. l Check out our website for a list of FAQ & feedback from past Cover Kid parents.

l Submit! Visit www.atlantaparent.com/coverkids kids to submit digitally or to download the mail in entry form. Consider entering our group category, a great opportunity to submit that cute daddy-daughter picture.

What’s next? l After May 20, we narrow our group of winners to 50 finalists. Finalists are contacted and posted online. These 50 are invited to a meet and greet with judges in mid-June-early-July. Plus, these finalists will participate in an informal photo shoot that day with opportunities to appear inside the magazine. Finally, six winners are chosen to appear on an Atlanta Parent cover with a fun official photo shoot to follow.

Advice from one parent to another: What was the best part about the contest?

“Kruz was in shock! He couldn’t believe that he was on the cover of ALL of those magazines. The best part for him was giving away ‘autographed’ copies to his family, friends and teachers.”

Peaches, Mom of Kruz Mendoza, Cover Kid May 2015.

“Seeing how my daughter realized her beauty, both inside and out. It gave her a renewed sense of confidence.

The positive reaction she received from family, friends, teachers, and classmates was priceless.”

Kim, Mom of Kamryn Washington, Cover Kid February 2014.

“The opportunity to be part of such a great magazine which has so much to offer to Atlanta!”

Lilian, Mom of Santiago & Oksana Caruso, Cover Kids April 2016.

“It shows kids that anyone can compete in it and win ... you don’t have to be a model, you just have to be a kid!! It gave her confidence in herself.”

Mary Jo, Mom of Katelyn Vetro, Cover Kid January 2016.

“Kristina absolutely loved being on the magazine. She was quite the star at her day care.”

Kathy, Mom of Kristina Oubre, Cover Kid March 2015.

For official rules, FAQ, and entry form visit www.atlantaparent.com/coverkids. Also, see page 7 for official entry form. atlantaparent.com

“It’s FUN! It is great to have as a keepsake and wonderful to send to family and friends.”

Pamela, Mom of Boston VanBelle, Cover Kid January 2015.

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 17

Climbing trees seems to define childhood – a magical combination of freedom, solitude, adventure, and nature that pushes the limits of kids’ strength and daring. But when was the last time your kids had the chance to actually climb a tree?

Photo by Helen Newling Lawson

GO CLIMB A TREE

By Helen Newling Lawson

Sawnee Mountain Preserve

18 Atlanta Parent May 2016

atlantaparent.com

W

e live in a mecca for recreational tree climbing, thanks to the pioneering influence of Peter Jenkins of Atlanta-based Tree Climbers International. With so many big trees perfect for climbing (many of them over 200 years old), he calls Georgia a “Yosemite of trees.”

He’s been training tree climbing instructors since 1983, and many of his students lead programs in metro Atlanta.

These climbs operate on a “safety first” principle, and require the use of harnesses, helmets and ropes at all times.

Patty Jenkins at Tree Climbers International tells us their techniques not only protect the tree from harm, but have never resulted in a serious injury in climbs led by their trained instructors.

Climbers as young as age 6 can follow the multi-step instructions. Climbing is very much a go-at-your-own-pace activity. The rope system allows you to stop to rest or just enjoy the sights and sounds from your new vantage point.

Although some kids will focus on conquering the next branch, most find themselves slipping into “tree time,” where the journey is more important than the destination.

Some studies are showing a link between activities like tree climbing and an improvement in issues affecting kids, including ADHD, anxiety and obesity. Researchers also have linked tree climbing to a deeper commitment to conservation and a measurable sense of relaxation.

Photo by Naomi Rice

Fun In Trees

Taking Fun to New Heights?

Here’s where beginners can go out on a limb with recreational tree climbing:

l Tree Climbers International Two Introductory Climbing sessions (noon and 3 p.m.) held the first Sunday of the month, April through September. Pre-registration is required. At Blackburn Park, 3530 Ashford-Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta. $29 per climber; ages 5 and older. treeclimbing.com l Fun In Trees “Tree for All” public introductory climbs held monthly in Roswell, Alpharetta and Brookhaven. See website for dates and locations, and to register. $28 per climber (higher for non-residents); ages 6 and older. funintrees.com; 404-229-9224. l Panola Mountain State Park Intro to Tree Climbing sessions at 1 and 3 p.m., third Saturday of every month. Preregistration required; groups should schedule a private session. 2620 Highway 155 SW, Stockbridge. $15 per climber; $5 per car park entry fee; ages 8 and older. gastateparks. org/PanolaMountain; 770-389-7801. l Sawnee Mountain Preserve Public tree climbing sessions available first and third Saturday of every month except June and July. Private group sessions can be scheduled Saturdays. Public climbs $15 per person; private climbs $30 per person ($180 minimum). Ages 8 and older. sawneemountain.org; 770-781-2217. l Tree Works Atlanta If you have a large, healthy hardwood tree in your own yard, Tree Works Inc. will bring all the gear and lead climbs for groups of up to 15 kids and adults (they will provide a pre-party site visit to check for hazards). treeworksatlanta.com; 404-379-1700.

Panola Mountain State Park

atlantaparent.com

Cont’d on page 20

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 19

Photo by Felicia Barman

GO CLIMB A TREE Up in the Trees

Treetop Quest

SkyHike at Stone Mountain Park

The Risks of Playing It Safe Risk is an essential part of play for building physical and emotional strength, researchers are finding. According to a “Position Statement on Active Outdoor Play,” allowing children to assess risk for themselves was a key component in healthy child development. In other words: Parents, back off.

While this might be a nerve-wracking proposition, not allowing kids to engage in risky play can make them more prone to injury, because they haven’t developed important skills like balance, studies suggest. Lauren Reese, a yoga instructor and mom of two in Suwanee, says she’s “all for kids climbing trees,” and is even “perfectly happy with the unsafe way – it’s a very important way for kids to build upper body strength.”

20 Atlanta Parent May 2016

I took my son Patrick, and his buddy, Grant, both 10, to Sawnee Mountain Preserve in Cumming to give it a try.

The boys weren’t really sure what to expect, and I got lots of questions on the ride over about how big the tree was going to be. Turns out, both were a little nervous about the idea, but as they day went on, comments like, “This is hard” or “I’m kind of scared,” started changing over to “This is fun!” and “How do I hang upside down?”

My personal favorite: “This makes you feel like James Bond!”

By the end of the day, both boys had maneuvered their ropes over so they could hug the tree, and my son said, “This is making me actually not afraid of heights.”

Our family spent Spring Break checking out two other adventurous options for getting up in the trees: SkyHike at Stone Mountain Park and TreeTop Quest (locations in Dunwoody and Buford).

Challenges like wobbly walkways and tightropes are just as much about agility and balance as they are about overcoming your fear of heights. Or, as my daughter Charlotte, 12, put it, “It’s not how high you are, it’s the lack of handrails!”

Once you get started, there aren’t many escape routes to let you chicken out. But the harnesses ensure you won’t actually fall, so take a deep breath and go – it really does get easier with practice! The zip lines in every course at Tree Top Quest are an awesome reward. A giant net at the Buford location’s SpiderQuest course also lets you experience free falling thrills. l SkyHike at Stone Mountain Park Park’s Adventure Pass includes admission to SkyHike and other attractions. Adventure Pass: $26.95 ages 12 and older; $20.95 ages 3-11; free younger than 3. stonemountainpark.com, 800-401-2407. l TreetopQuest Locations at Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center, 2020 Clean Water Drive, Buford, and at Liane Levetan Park at Brook Run, 4770 N. Peachtree Road, Dunwoody. Pricing varies by age, $22-$49 per person; make reservations or call for same-day availability. treetopquest.com, 770-365-0356.

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Photo by Houser Walker Architecture

Staying a Little More Grounded?

Trees Atlanta’s new TreeHouse, backing up to the Atlanta Beltline, hosts environmental programs for kids and is the jumping off point for their Junior TreeKeepers Summer Camp.

A number of Atlanta playgrounds now have treehouses, including Chastain Park’s newly renovated playground. The treehouse was created in memory of Summer Dale, a Chastain Park teenager who died of cancer in 2012. A bridge from an adjacent hill provides universal access and inside has areas for wheelchairs.

The Urban Tree House at Bessie Branham Park in Kirkwood is an enormous platform, built in cooperation with the USDA Forest Service and shaped like the United States, and is a popular spot for birthday parties.

The Atlanta Botanical Garden has also unveiled plans to nestle a treehouse-styled play structure, including climbing net and “nest,” between two pre-Civil War oaks in its Children’s Garden (part of the garden reopens in early June, but the treehouse section won’t be finished until late June or early July). In the meantime, the garden’s Canopy Walk lets you get a bird’s eye view of Storza Woods while keeping you on firm footing. l Atlanta Botanical Garden 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. atlantabg.org; 404-876-5859 l Chastain Park 135 W. Wieuca Rd. NW, Atlanta. chastainpark.org l Bessie Branham Park 2051 Delano Ave., Atlanta. 404-371-5010

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Chastain Park

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 21

ROAD TRIP! 1OO Places to play

Take your family on an adventure and discover amusement rides, water parks, museums, nature parks, trains, zoos and more. All destinations are less than a six-hour drive from metro Atlanta.

AMUSEMENT PARKS Take the whole family out for a fun-filled day of exciting roller coasters, thrills and entertainment.

Alabama Splash Adventure. Bessemer, Ala. Just west of Birmingham, this park was purchased by Koch Family Parks and has received a number of new rides and attractions to turn this into a water park worth stopping by. It features ten water rides, two roller coasters, a train and a laser maze. alabamasplash.com.

Beech Bend Park. Bowling Green, Ky. A 368-acre, multipurpose entertainment complex nestled amongst a Beech tree forest and the winding Barren River in southern Kentucky. Five new rides expected to be completed in June. beechbend.com.

Carowinds. Charlotte, N.C. 108 actionpacked acres, with more than 60 worldclass rides, shows and attractions, including Carolina Harbor Waterpark, Plants vs Zombies Garden Warfare: 3Z and Cirque Imagine. carowinds.com.

Dollywood. Pigeon Forge, Tenn. Major theme park with wooden roller coasters, including Lightning Rod, the fastest wood roller coaster and the first launching wood roller coaster in the world, thrilling rides and new family attractions. dollywood.com.

Family Kingdom Amusement Park.

Myrtle Beach, S.C. More than 30 funfilled rides for all ages, and the only seaside amusement park in Myrtle Beach. familykingdomfun.com.

Lake Winnepesaukah. Rossville, Ga. More than 30 family and kiddie rides to please the entire family. 2013 expansion added SOAKya Water Park. lakewinnie.com. atlantaparent.com

Pavilion Park. Myrtle Beach, S.C. Three areas of attractions to enjoy: East Park (original and new rides), West Park (kiddie rides) and Central Park (thrill rides). pavilion-park.com.

Tweetsie Railroad. Blowing Rock, N.C. This family-oriented theme park is based on the early Tweetsie railroad, whose nickname derives from the shrill “tweet, tweet” of its whistle. tweetsie.com.

Wild Adventures. Valdosta, Ga. A mix of more than 100 rides and attractions, including nine roller coasters, more than 500 wild animals, a variety of daily shows, Splash Island water park and a line-up of more than 50 concerts and special events throughout the year. New for 2016 are a new land filled with life-size dinosaurs and nine play spots for the whole family. wildadventures.com.

AQUARIUMS You and your children will be fascinated with the variety of aquatic life at these Southern aquariums.

Newport Aquarium. Newport, Ky. Showcases thousands of sea animals, including four rare shark rays, one of which gave birth to nine pups in January. newportaquarium.com.

South Carolina Aquarium.

Charleston, S.C. View over 5,000 animals, many that are native to the state, and don’t forget to touch a shark! scaquarium.org.

Tennessee Aquarium. Chattanooga, Tenn. Come eye-to-eye with 10-foot sharks, giant spider crabs, river otters and alligators. www.tnaqua.org.

CHILDREN’S MUSEUMS This summer, you and your kids can beat the heat through hands-on projects and fun-filled exhibits at one of these children’s museums.

Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa. Tuscaloosa, Ala. Storytime, Movin’ and Groovin,’ Kiddie Kitchen and Small Fry Science are among the programs you’ll find at this museum, which also has an art studio, farm area and even a place for space exploration. chomonline.org Children’s Museum of South Carolina.

Myrtle Beach, S.C. Exhibits and activities keep kids engaged and learning in the 8,700-square-foot space. You’ll find an under-construction house that encourages kids to build, a bank for role-playing, a South Carolina fossil hunt and an exhibit on electricity, among others. cmsckids.org Creative Discovery Museum.

Chattanooga, Tenn. Programs include art lessons, science demonstrations and story times, and you’ll find traveling exhibits such as Heart and Seoul – Growing Up in Korea. cdmfun.org Greensboro Children’s Museum.

Greensboro, N.C. Kids are put to work on Main Street, operating a market or pizza parlor or performing in the theater. They can climb aboard a police car, a real tractor-trailer or a DC-9 jet. gcmuseum.com Kidsenses Children’s Interactive Museum. Rutherfordton, N.C. This 10,000-square-foot museum has wowed visitors since 2004, when it opened with 12 interactive exhibits, workshops and other learning experiences for visitors to this small town (population about 4,000). kidsenses.org Cont’d on page 24

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 23

ROAD TRIP! 1OO Places to play Marbles Kids Museum. Raleigh, N.C. The museum encourages imagination, learning and discovery by providing a stimulating environment for hours of play. marbleskidsmuseum.org.

Mississippi Children’s Museum. Jackson, Miss. Explore galleries focused on how the world works, health, creativity, history and animals, splash around or visit the Library Garden. mschildrensmuseum.org.

Savannah Children’s Museum. Savannah, Ga. This museum, with activities for kids Wednesday through Sunday, is next to the Georgia State Railroad Museum, so you can have two adventures in one stop. chsgeorgia.org.

HISTORICAL MUSEUMS & HOUSES The history lessons don’t have to stop once school ends: these historical museums will provide your children with valuable information about the nation’s past.

Abraham Lincoln Birthplace. Hodgenville, Ky. Discover Abraham Lincoln’s Boyhood Home at Knob Creek, which includes a memorial building, the actual sinking spring that inspired the farm’s name, an environmental study area and the location of the boundary oak. nps.gov/abli/.

Biltmore Estates. Asheville, N.C. Tour America’s largest home, along with its beautiful gardens, winery and 1890s farm village. biltmore.com.

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute.

Birmingham, Ala. With a collection of galleries, the Institute offers families a self-directed tour through the Birmingham Civil Rights Movement and human rights struggle, including exhibits that feature dramatic media presentations. bcri.org.

Fort Sumter National Monument and Museum. Sullivan’s Island, S.C. The place where the Civil War began remains a powerful symbol to both North and South. The island can only be accessed by private boat or park ferry. www.nps.gov/fosu/.

Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Little White House State Historical Site. Warm Springs, Ga. Tour this house to see our 32nd president’s carefully preserved retreat, guest house, servants’ quarters and garage, including a hand-controlled 1938 Ford. gastateparks.org/LittleWhiteHouse.

George Washington Carver Museum and The Oaks. Tuskegee, Ala. Located in the Tuskegee University, the museum teaches how Dr. George Washington Carver rose from slavery to become a renowned educator, scientist, artist and humanitarian. The Oaks, which is nearby, was the home of Dr. Booker T. Washington; free admission. nps.gov/tuin/learn/index.htm.

24 Atlanta Parent May 2016

Mississippi Children’s Museum

Georgia Museum of Agriculture and Historic Village. Tifton, Ga. Travel back in time to this 95-acre Agrirama featuring costumed interpreters explaining and demonstrating daily tasks as they were performed over a hundred years ago. abac.edu/museum.

Graceland: The Home of Elvis Presley.

Memphis, Tenn. For a one-of-a-kind experience, visit the home of a small town boy who became the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Don’t miss the tour of his automobiles and custom jets while you‘re there. graceland.com.

Ivy Green. Tuscumbia, Ala. Touch the actual well pump where Anne Sullivan brought the young, deaf and blind Helen Keller out of her dark, silent world at the 640-acre birthplace of Helen Keller. helenkellerbirthplace.org.

Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace.

Savannah, Ga. Scouts honor, you’ll love the birthplace of the founder of Girl Scouts of the U.S.A. This 1821 home is also a National Girl Scout Center and Savannah’s first National Historic Landmark. juliettegordonlowbirthplace.org.

Lightner Museum. St. Augustine, Fla. Located in the heart of our nation’s oldest city, the museum displays relics of America’s gilded age including costumes, furnishings, mechanical musical instrument demonstrations and the beautiful stained glass work of Louis Comfort Tiffany. lightnermuseum.org.

Mayfield Dairy Farms. Braselton, Ga. and Athens, Tenn. Find out (among other things) how the stick gets into the ice cream bar, view the historical exhibits and displays before taking a tour of the plant and end with a sample. mayfielddairy.com.

Mission San Luis. Tallahassee, Fla. A visit to Mission San Luis transports you back to 1703. Your destination is a community where Apalachee Indians and newcomers from Spain lived together. missionsanluis.org.

Muddy Pond Mennonite Community.

Monterey, Tenn. Catch a glimpse of the fascinating world of the Mennonites as you watch true craftsmen create fine horsedrawn buggies, wagons, and more with several homes selling fresh baked breads, pies, eggs and molasses. dalehollow.com/ attractions/mennonites.

Museum of Appalachia. Clinton, Tenn.

Your entire family will appreciate the privately-owned, 65-acre collection, which celebrates the rich Appalachian history with 30 log cabins and buildings and over 250,000 historical artifacts. museumofappalachia.org.

Oconaluftee Indian Village. Cherokee, N.C. An authentic replica of an 18th century Cherokee community, this village allows visitors to step back into 1760.

Watch Cherokee craftsmen demonstrate their skills, and tour the replica of a council house and typical Cherokee homes. visitcherokeenc.com/play/attractions/ oconaluftee-indian-village/. atlantaparent.com

Old Salem Museum & Gardens. Winston-Salem, N.C. History comes to life with costumed interpreters performing household activities and trades common to Salem in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, along with beautifully restored gardens waiting for visitors to stroll. www.oldsalem.org.

Oldest House Museum Complex. St. Augustine, Fla. A must-see tour that includes Florida’s oldest house, two museums, a changing exhibition gallery, an ornamental garden and museum store. saintaugustinehistoricalsociety.org/oldest-housemuseum-complex/.

Tallahassee Museum. Tallahassee, Fla. Travel back in time, see a wealth of exotic animals, walk nature trails and soar above the rest with Tree to Tree Adventures zip line course for children and adults. tallahasseemuseum.org.

Tennessee State Museum. Nashville, Tenn.

One of the largest state museums in the nation with interpretive exhibits include the prehistoric, frontier, age of Jackson, antebellum, Civil War and Reconstruction periods of Tennessee’s history. tnmuseum.org.

Tybee Island Light Station and Museum.

Tybee Island, Ga. Be amazed by the beauty of the lighthouse, which has been guiding mariners safe entrance into the Savannah River for over 270 years. tybeelighthouse.org.

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NATURE PARKS You and your children can be one with nature and its many wonders at these nature parks and wildlife centers.

Alabama Wildlife Center. Pelham, Ala. View the rehabilitation process of various raptors, mammals, birds and reptiles in the state’s oldest and largest rehabilitation center for orphaned and injured native wildlife. awrc.org.

Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park. Chimney Rock, N.C. Geological formations, sweeping 75-mile views and hundreds of acres of natural beauty can be found here. chimneyrockpark.com.

DeSoto Caverns Park. Childersburg, Ala. This natural wonder houses a main cavern that is 12 stories high and larger than a football field, as well as over 25 activities designed to amuse the whole family. desotocavernspark.com.

Etowah Indian Mounds State Park.

Cartersville, Ga. Explore the 54-acre site that includes 7 mounds, borrow pits, plaza, portions of the original village and museum. gastateparks.org/ EtowahMounds.

Farm Tours of Ocala

Farm Tours of Ocala. Ocala, Fla. Let Clydesdales and Percherons pull you through “The Horse Capital of the World”.

Ride in a carriage or a horse-drawn trolley past four working farms, which have produced 45 national champions. Not recommended for children younger than 10. farmtoursofocala.com.

Cont’d on page 26

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 25

Grandfather Mountain. Linville, N.C. The highest peak in the Blue Ridge mountain range is located just north of the city.

Attractions include the mile-high swinging bridge, 11 hiking trails and a wildlife habitat. grandfather.com.

Okefenokee Swamp Park. Waycross, Ga. A National Wildlife Refuge covering nearly a half million acres, the swamp is home to alligators, black bears, unique species of carnivorous plants, and rare birds. Education about the Okefenokee people as well. okeswamp.com.

Ruby Falls. Chattanooga, Tenn. America’s highest underground waterfall is 1,120 feet below the surface of Lookout Mountain. rubyfalls.com.

See Rock City. Lookout Mountain, Ga. Panoramic views 1,700 feet above sea level, ancient rock formations, 140-foot high falls, plus Fairyland Caverns and Mother Goose Village, will make the visit worthwhile. seerockcity.com.

The Blowing Rock. Blowing Rock, N.C. Don’t look down as you maneuver a rope bridge at breathtaking heights offering scenic views, and known for a wind that legend says once blew a man who had leapt from its cliff back into his lover’s arms. theblowingrock.com.

Photo courtesy of Discovery Place, Inc.

ROAD TRIP! 1OO Places to play SCIENCE & NATURE MUSEUMS The mysteries of science and technology will enthrall you and your kids at one of these museums.

Adventure Science Center.

Nashville, Tenn. Multilevel museum features nearly 175 hands-on exhibits and a planetarium teaches kids about biology, physics, visual perception, listening, mind, air and space, energy and earth science. adventuresci.org.

Anniston Museum of Natural History. Anniston, Ala. Explore the seven fascinating exhibit halls (in association with the Smithsonian Institute), where perhaps you can solve the mysteries of 2,000-year-old mummies. Nature trails, gardens and children’s discovery room included as well. annistonmuseum.org.

Discovery Place. Charlotte, N.C. The ever-growing science center features exhibits from the frontiers of space to the depths of the sea.

Also, the Charlotte Nature Museum provides education and entertainment. discoveryplace.org.

Discovery Place

Florida Museum of Natural History.

Gainesville, Fla. Visit a Butterfly Rainforest and Florida Fossils, along with other exhibits displaying Florida’s natural history. flmnh.ufl.edu.

Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center. Mobile, Ala. With more than 150 interactive exhibits, IMAX films, and fun educational programming, the center aspires to increase science literacy. exploreum.com.

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McWane Science Center. Birmingham, Ala. Permanent exhibits include Just Mice Size, Explore! Collections Center, Alabama Dinosaurs and Sea Monsters, NatureScope, Fox 6 Weather Lab, Science on a Sphere, High Cycle, World of Water Aquarium, Shark and Ray Touch Tank, the John W. Woods IMAX Dome Theater and Itty Bitty Magic City. mcwane.org.

Mississippi Museum of Natural Science.

Jackson, Miss. Named the Southeast’s Best Attraction in 2014, and a Family Fun Favorite in 2015, this museum is packed with activity. mdwfp.com Museum of Aviation. Warner Robins, Ga. Let your vacation take flight at the beautiful 51acre site displaying 93 aircrafts and hundreds of exhibits. Free admission and picnic and playground area. museumofaviation.org.

Museum of Life and Science. Durham, N.C. Explore the Butterfly house, the Insectarium, aerospace and weather. Take train rides, and visit over 60 different species of animals. lifeandscience.org.

Museum of Science and History (MOSH).

Jacksonville, Fla. Delight in the remarkable, hands-on exhibits for exploring the natural environment and history of Jacksonville and northeast Florida, featuring an Allosaurus and Planetarium. themosh.org.

U.S. Space and Rocket Center. Huntsville, Ala. Have a blast with the actual-size NASA and military rockets on display, The Spacedome IMAX and National Geographic theaters and numerous other hands-on attractions. rocketcenter.com.

TRAINS Climb aboard one of these train exhibits/ museums, and go “Choo Choo” for locomotives!

Big South Fork Scenic Railway. Stearns, Ky. Go back to the bygone era of logging and coal mining with a train ride through beautiful southern Kentucky. bsfsry.com.

Casey Jones Home and Museum.

Jackson, Tenn. The legend of America’s most famous engineer lives on. Fans can tour Casey’s original 1900 home or climb aboard a 130-ton replica of engine #382. caseyjones.com.

Folkston Funnel. Folkston, Ga. Train enthusiasts from all over the country converge at the double track, which serves as the main artery for railroad traffic in and out of Florida. The viewing platform features lights, ceiling fans and scanners to listen to radio traffic between trains. innatfolkston.com.

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.

Bryson City, N.C. The Railroad offers a variety of scenic, round-trip excursions.

Trips range from 3 ½ hours to a full day of fun and adventure. gsmr.com.

Lookout Mountain Incline Railway.

Chattanooga, Tenn. This breathtaking, onemile railway has thrilled passengers since 1895 and boasts the distinction of being the steepest passenger railway in the world. ridetheincline.com.

North Alabama Railroad Museum.

Chase, Ala. Self-guided tours are available for the depot, museum grounds and facilities. Vintage trains rides are offered on select days. northalabamarailroadmuseum.com.

SAM Shortline Railway. Cordele, Ga. All aboard! Ride through the countryside and historic towns in Georgia, including Cordele, Americus, Leslie and Plains, home of President Jimmy Carter. samshortline.com.

Tennessee Valley Railroad and Museum. Chattanooga, Tenn. Ride the Missionary Ridge Trail, which travels through Missionary tunnel on a steam or vintage diesel locomotive. Advance tickets required. tvrail.com.

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May 2016 Atlanta Parent 27

ROAD TRIP! 1OO Places to play Waterville USA. Gulf Shores, Ala. The ultimate in family fun with a 20-acre water park and amusement area, located in the beach resort community. Experience thrillseeker slides and relaxed family attractions. watervilleusa.com.

ZOOS & MORE

Nashville Shores

The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. Blue Ridge, Ga. A pleasant 26-mile round trip through historic Murphy Junction along the beautiful Toccoa River. brscenic.com.

WATER PARKS Many water parks are affiliated with amusement parks and have combined ticket prices. Most water parks are open from April to October.

Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park. Destin, Fla. Find a place to stay cool among the lazy river, slides and 40 other water attractions. The park even touts the biggest man-made waterfall in the world. bigkahunas.com.

Boomerang Bay. Charlotte, N.C. Part of Paramount’s Carowinds, this water park is a 16-acre, Australian-themed, outback oasis of wet fun. carowinds.com.

Dollywood’s Splash Country Water Park. Pigeon Forge, Tenn. A 30acre water adventure theme park that combines the beauty of the Smoky Mountains with the excitement of water park rides, slides and attractions. dollywood.com/waterpark.

Family Kingdom Water Park. Myrtle Beach, S.C. The city’s only oceanfront water park is home to some of the “coolest” fun on the Grand Strand. There are three water flumes, one with a 185foot drop, four speed slides, eight kiddie slides and a lazy river with waterfalls. familykingdomfun.com.

Nashville Shores. Hermitage, Tenn.

Brave the waves in a gigantic wave pool, plunge down eight thrilling water slides, or, play, slide and splash in Kowabunga Beach, a massive water treehouse and playground. nashvilleshores.com.

28 Atlanta Parent May 2016

Point Mallard Park. Decatur, Ala. Hidden among northern Alabama‘s wooded pines, the 750+-acre family park lets you stay in tune with nature 365 days a year with a water park (including America’s first wave pool), tennis courts, golf courses, nature trails and more. pointmallardpark.com.

Shipwreck Island Water Park. Panama City Beach, Fla. More than a dozen water attractions for thrill seekers, families and children. shipwreckisland.com.

Splash in The Boro. Statesboro, Ga. Race your buddies on their 5-lane mat racer, plus enjoy slides for toddlers, 3 large tube slides, a lazy river and more. This park also has the only double FlowRider in Georgia. splashintheboro.com Splash Island Water Park. Valdosta, Ga. Part of Wild Adventures, this fun water park boasts interactive play where you can enjoy a children’s water play area, wave pool, lazy river and dousing your family with buckets of water. wildadventures.com.

Splash Lagoon. Bowling Green, Ky. Beech Bend’s water park is a great place to cool off during a hot summer day. With three sky-high water rides, visitors can find thrills or relax at the leisure pool. Little ones also have their own area to splash around. beechbend.com.

Spring Valley Beach Water Park.

Blountsville, Ala. A charming, familyowned water park; bring your own picnic basket or grill to the park. Free suntan lotion provided, as well as free parking. springvalleybeach.com.

Summer Waves Water Park. Jekyll Island, Ga. Plan your fun-filled day with relaxing laps around Turtle Creek Lazy River, riding the waves of the Frantic Atlantic, and taking in high-speed thrills down Pirate’s Passage. jekyll-island.com/summer-waves/.

A visit to the zoo is always a hit. Your kids will be amazed to see all kinds of wildlife.

Don’t forget to bring your camera!

Alligator Adventure. Myrtle Beach, S.C. One of the largest facilities for reptile life in the world, it has new exhibits of Chilean flamingos and red kangaroos. alligatoradventure.com.

Birmingham Zoo. Birmingham, Ala. With rides both animal and mechanical, feedings galore, and over 900 animals to see, the whole family is sure to be busy, busy, busy. birminghamzoo.com.

Chehaw Park & Wild Animal Park.

Albany, Ga. This park is situated on over 800 acre and includes a zoo. Chehaw’s Zoo is home to 238 specimens representing 87 different species. Enjoy natural, outdoor exhibits including Cheetahs, Black Rhinoceros, Meerkats, Black Bears, Alligators and more. chehaw.org Duke Lemur Center. Durham, N.C. The world’s largest and most diverse collection of lemurs outside of Madagascar. The Center advances science, scholarship and biological conservation through interdisciplinary research, community-based conservation and public outreach. lemur.duke.edu.

Georgia Sea Turtle Center. Jekyll Island, Ga. Learn all about the life cycle of the sea turtle with interactive exhibits and presentations, then visit recovering turtles in the sea turtle hospital (the only one of its kind in the state).

And, if you time it right, you can even see some baby sea turtles! gstc.jekyllisland.com.

HollyWild Animal Park. Inman, S.C. Nearly 100 acres house close to 500 rare and exotic animals. Many are “Celebrity ZooperStars” of movies and commercials. hollywild.com.

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. Jacksonville, Fla. The zoo houses more than 2,000 rare and exotic animals. It also features a play park for kids, including a splash ground, forest play area, maze, otter and squirrel monkey exhibit, discovery building and animal care area. jacksonvillezoo.org.

Knoxville Zoo. Knoxville, Tenn. Situated on 53 acres, the zoo features more than 800 animals. Encounters with giraffes, camel and carousel rides, a splash pad and an indoor kid’s adventure area are just some of the joys that await. knoxville-zoo.org. atlantaparent.com

Nashville Zoo at Grassmere. Nashville, Tenn. A 200-acre zoo and historic plantation farmhouse located 6 miles southeast of downtown Nashville. It’s home to more than 2,248 animals including Red Pandas, blue Hyacinth Macaws and White-Cheeked Gibbons. nashvillezoo.org.

North Carolina Zoo. Asheboro, N.C. The zoo covers over 500 acres and is a walkthrough zoo. See animals and plants living in environments that simulate their natural habitats. Between exhibits, walk through North Carolina’s natural piedmont forests. nczoo.org.

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Columbia, S.C. The grounds are home to more than 2,000 animals and botanical gardens. The 170-acre site features dynamic natural habitat exhibits, scenic river views and spectacular valley overlooks. riverbanks.org.

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ADDITIONAL PLACES TO DISCOVER Museums devoted to unique themes like Rock ‘n’ Roll or automobiles may be just what your family needs for a little summer fun.

Ave Maria Grotto. Cullman, Ala. A 4-acre park, this mini Jerusalem contains 125 miniature reproductions of some of the most famous historic buildings and shrines of the world. avemariagrotto.com.

International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame & Museum. Chattanooga, Tenn.

Located three miles from where the first wrecker was created, this unique museum includes antique wreckers, toys and memorabilia that will entertain adults and kids alike. internationaltowingmuseum.org.

Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame & Museum. Jackson, Miss. The Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum celebrates the Magnolia State’s incredibly rich history of producing world class athletes and teams. msfame.com.

National Corvette Museum. Bowling Green, Ky. Corvette enthusiasts will appreciate the 115,000 sq. ft. building, which houses more than 80 Corvette models and one-of-a-kind concept cars spanning the history of Corvette. corvettemuseum.org.

The Tallahassee Automobile and Collectibles Museum. Tallahassee, Fla. An eclectic collection of items, with everything from Abraham Lincoln’s hearse carriage to the Steinway White House Piano to a Batmobile and Batman movie memorabilia, this museum is a delight for everyone. tacm.com. c atlantaparent.com

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(June 20th-24th is Team Camp Only) Full Day: (8:30am-5:30pm) $50/day or $200/week Half Day: (8:30am-1pm) $40/day or $150/week 10% Sibling Discount • Before and After Care for $10/day

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(June 13th-17th and July 11th-15th) Full Day: $60/day or $240/week Half Day: $50/day or $200/week The best summer camp in intown Atlanta now introduces a special Ninja touch to the daily routine, with a full hour of martial arts training each day by a Global Tang Soo Do Certified Black Belt Instructor, ninja-style games and activities, crafts, swimming, and free play that makes our camps so welcoming and fun.

TARSGYMNASTICS.COM INTOWNS 404-281-4835

Pencil Factory Lofts 349 Decatur St. SE #3 • Atlanta, GA 30312

Camp 2016

Atlanta Parent online

is the go-to resource for finding that perfect

summer camp!

Visit atlantaparent.com atlantaparent.com

HOORAY FOR SUMMER History & Writing Camp

— at Atlanta History Center and Margaret Mitchell House

AtlantaHistoryCenter.com/Summer Camp

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Camp 2016

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 31

June 6 – July 22

FREE W EEK *

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HORSE CAMP DATES: June 6-10 July 4-8 July 18-22 Atlanta Riding Club offers: - Lessons - Camps - Kids Programs -Adult Programs Contact us at 470-281-0881 or find us on facebook

32 Atlanta Parent May 2016

Camp 2016

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Special Advertising Section

Atlanta Parent’s Camp Preview Gwinnett County Parks & Recreation

MJCCA Day Camps

winnett County Parks & Recreation offers a multitude of adventures this summer for ages 5-13. Top-notch facilities, super staff, and low counselor to camper ratio provide safe, enriching environments. Adventure camps start at an affordable $125 per week.* Caped Crusaders – Holly alter ego! Unleash your inner superhero and unite against evil doers.

Outdoor Adventure – Could you survive in the wild? Put your outdoor skills to the test and explore activities that connect you to nature.

Fit and Fun – Go for the gold! Gear up for a week of friendly competition and individual challenges as we celebrate Olympic Day at Camp Games.

Kids in Motion – Get shakin’ with beats throughout the decades. Turn back the clock as we rock the week away!

Surfs Up! – Cowabunga Dude! Splash into this fun filled water week with an island twist!

Super Sleuth! – There’s a mystery afoot and we need your help to solve the case!

Campers Got Talent – Lights, camera, awesome! Set the stage and show off your talent. Get ready campers; this is your time to shine!

For more information call 770-822-8840 or visit gwinnettparks.com. *Higher Non-Gwinnett resident fees apply.

njoy awesome MJCCA Day Camps options for Summer 2016!

Summer is just around the corner, and the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta (MJCCA) is pleased to offer online registration, beginning Jan. 10 for returning campers and Jan. 17 for first-time campers, for summer day camp at the Zaban Park campus (5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody), as well as summer day camps in North Fulton, East Cobb, and Emory.

Families can register for more than 100 new and innovative, as well as popular, returning day camps for children in grades pre-K through 10. Some new day camps include: Minor League Travel, Zombie Invasion, Minion Madness, Camp Tech Jr., and more! Campers will also continue to enjoy traditional day camp amenities that they have grown to love, including swimming, archery, ropes course, lake activities, and more.

Summer 2016 benefits/savings for MJCCA camp families include: a free week of day camp valued up to $370 (some restrictions apply, details online), free bus transportation from several convenient locations throughout Metro Atlanta, and before-camp care and after-camp care from 7:30 am to 6:00 p.m.

To register, visit atlantajcc.org/camps or call 678-812-4004.

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Safari Day Camps at Zoo Atlanta

Riverview Camp

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

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

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

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nimals adapt with the changing seasons. How well-adapted are you for school’s-out survival? Safari Day Camps at Zoo Atlanta help you get prepared for classroom breaks during the year.

Choose award-winning day camp adventures featuring animal encounters, exclusive Zoo tours, educational exploration and enriching outdoor activities for campers ages kindergarten through fifth grade.

Try Safari Day Camp for spring, summer and winter breaks, or check out one of the Zoo’s many School’s Out! Safari Day Camp options for one-day holidays or teacher workdays.

Activities are age and grade-appropriate, and themes change regularly for an always-fresh experience.

Quest Safari Day Camp offers the perfect adventure for 12 to 14-year-olds. From solving Zoo mysteries to capturing wildlife though photography, Quest Campers take the Safari Day Camp experience to the next level. Got an adventurous camper at home? Register for Quest Safari Junior Keeper Week. Campers spend the week working with zookeepers learning about Atlanta’s wildest jobs!

Book a program today on zooatlanta.org, or call 404-6245822 to learn more about Safari Day Camps at Zoo Atlanta.

Camp 2014 2016

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 33

Special Needs

Resources for Your Family

School’s out and it’s time to have fun with your special needs child, whether it’s at home, on a field trip, at a playground or in a pool.

Atlanta Parent compiled some ideas to get you started, including play in your own back yard.

by Amanda Miller Allen

Play at Home

Lekotek of Georgia

It’s amazing what you can do with a 20 pound bag of rice.

Lekotek of Georgia colors some of the rice – a big bag costs less than $10 – then puts it on a former water table for sensory fun. Lekotek hides objects in the rice, including jewels, plastic animals and water toys, for kids to find, executive director Helen Prokesch says. This activity is especially good for kids who have impaired vision.

Kids also can swirl and create designs with the rice. A tub filled with rice also works well – kids can sit in it much like a sandbox as they hunt for objects or make designs, Prokesch says.

Lekotek offers monthly play sessions for kids with disabilities, as well as summer computer camps; find out more at lekotekga.org.

For outdoor fun, try volleyball with a twist – using balloons instead of a ball, says Heather Petersen, a physical therapist at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. The balloons stay up in the air longer, and there’s no danger of a hard ball landing on your 34 Atlanta Parent May 2016

child’s head.

Other ideas she suggested: Painting with watercolors or finger-painting, using sidewalk chalk, creating with Play-Doh, putting shaving cream on a mirror to create designs (easy cleanup when you’re done!), playing with bubbles, creating artwork in semi-darkness by using a light saber or flashlight, and making fun and easy snacks such as pizza or ice cream.

Petersen says inflatable pools are great for more than just water, though kids love them with water, too. Use them for a ball pit or to make a sandbox for sensory play.

Outdoor fun at home also can include games such as hideand-seek or treasure hunt. Kids can grow a plant or flower or help tend a small garden. You can create your own water park fun with garden sprinkler. Another idea: Make a tent inside your home or outside using blankets or sheets and chairs – grab a favorite book and read under the “tent.” atlantaparent.com

Take a Trip A field trip provides great opportunities for sensory exploration, physical activity and learning.

Most attractions in metro Atlanta accommodate special needs visitors. Here’s what you’ll find at some of the places kids love: n Atlanta Botanical Garden: All areas accessible, and wheelchairs available. atlantabg.org n Center for Puppetry Arts: New museum is fully accessible; high workshop tables at Make-aPuppet workshop for chairs to roll under; front-row seating in theaters. centerforpuppetryarts.com n Chattahoochee Nature Center: Ramps everywhere except woodland trails; multisensory exhibits; accessible Discovery Center. chattnaturecenter.org n Children’s Museum of Atlanta: Fully accessible, including exhibits and activities that accommodate wheelchairs; tactile exhibits for visually impaired; programs for children with autism spectrum. childrensmuseumatlanta.org n Fernbank Museum of Natural History: Entire museum is accessible; NatureQuest is designed to engage kids of all abilities. fernbankmuseum.org n Georgia Aquarium: Ramps and accessible parking; wheelchair access entry at the touch pools. georgiaaquarium.org

Chattahoochee Nature Center

n Georgia State Parks: Most offer accessible cottages, campsites, fishing piers, nature trails and picnic areas. gastateparks.org n High Museum of Art: All buildings and galleries fully accessible, and wheelchairs available; guided tours to groups with disabilities by advance reservation. high.org n Stone Mountain Park: Paved walking trail around the mountain; train has lift for passengers; SkyRide has level ground access; laser show accessible. Some historic buildings have limited wheelchair access. stonemountainpark.com n World of Coca-Cola: Wheelchairs for loan; assisted listening devices; closed captioning on video presentations; reserved row for wheelchairs for the 3-D movie. worldofcoca-cola.com n Zoo Atlanta: Fully accessible with open pathways and easy viewing of exhibits. zooatlanta.org

Splash in a Pool Most city and county recreation departments and YMCAs have accessible pools. Check with your city or county for one near your neighborhood. Most YMCAs will let you test the pool before you join, by issuing a seven-day free guest pass.

Atlanta Parent’s pool picks have

handicap lifts and all the fun of a typical pool. They are accessible for children and adults of all abilities. Most feature zeroentry “beach access” – a gently sloping entry to the pool’s shallow end. For a more comprehensive list, see atlantaparent.com/ accessiblepools.

n Bogan Park Aquatic Center.

An indoor pool in Buford, it has zero-depth entry. 770-614-2063 n Collins Hill Aquatic Center.

This outdoor pool in Lawrenceville has zero-depth entry and a river channel. 770-237-5647 n McKoy Pool. Zero-entry outdoor pool in Decatur also has splash fountains for kids and an accessible bath house. 404-378-8084 n Mountain View Aquatic Center. Indoor pool in Marietta has zero-entry access, a portable handicap lift and a second stationary lift. 770-509-4925 n Piedmont Park Aquatic Center. Outdoor pool in Atlanta has easy beach access. 404-875-7275

Piedmont Park Aquatic Center

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Cont’d on page 36

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 35

s”

A Summer Camp for Learning

Special Needs

Visit a Playground Session 1: June 13 – June 24 Session 2: June 27 – July 8

“AN EXCEPTIONAL “AN Since 1981 FOR SCHOOL EXCEPTIONAL Squirrel Hollow Camp, located on the beautiful SCHOOL 45-acre campus ofFOR The Bedford School in EXCEPTIONAL Fairburn, GA., serves children with academic EXCEPTIONAL needs, ADD, or learning differences.

STUDENTS” STUDENTS”

▶ Squirrel Hollow accepts students aged 5-15 ▶ 4:1 student/staff ratio ▶ Afternoon Rec. Program ▶ Academics: Reading, Math and Writing Skills

5665 Milam Road ▶ Fairburn, GA 30123 Phone 770-774-8001 ▶ Fax 770-774-8005 www.thebedfordschool.org Contact Dr. Betsy Box

AN EXCEPTIONAL SCHOOL FOR AN EXCEPTIONAL STUDENTS EXCEPTIONAL

SCHOOL FOR EXCEPTIONAL STUDENTS

Many playgrounds have ramp access to all levels, adaptive swings and smooth surfaces for wheelchair access, and more play areas are being built or undergoing renovations all the time.

Check with your city’s and county’s recreation departments for a list of playgrounds near your area. Here are some Atlanta Parent likes; for the magazine’s full list, visit atlantaparent.com/ playgrounds: n Boundless Playgrounds. Before this nonprofit organization ceased operations in 2014, it played a big role in building four accessible playgrounds in metro Atlanta, at Wesley Coan Park, Piedmont Park and Rosel Fann Park, all in Atlanta, and at Children’s Playgarden in Villa Rica. All have play equipment for toddlers to middle-schoolers and are safe for children of all abilities. n Resurgens Charitable Foundaton playgrounds. This organization has provided partial or full funding to 17 fully accessible playgrounds in metro Atlanta, including the All Abilities Playground at Lithia Springs Park, the All Play Playground at East Cobb Park and the recently renovated playground at Chastain Park in Atlanta. The foundation is part of the Resurgens Orthopaedic Group; more information at resurgensfoundation.com.

n All Children’s Playground at Centennial Olympic Park. The playground at this iconic Atlanta park has low-reach panels, skid-resistant rubber surfaces and wheelchair-accessible glider swings. centennialpark.com

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8

College prep and vocational College prep andacademics vocational school for students in grades four to twelve for and grades post graduate academy designed 4-12 with Autism, Asperger’s, ADD, ADHD and other and postgraduate students with high learning challenges. functioning Autism, Asperger’s, ADD, 650 A Mt.and Vernon Hwylearning NW, Atlanta, GA 30328 ADHD other differences. cumberlandacademy.org 650-A Mt. Vernon Hwy NE • Atlanta 30328 404.835.9000 www.cumberlandacademy.org 404-835-9000

36 Atlanta Parent May 2016

All Children’s Playground at Centennial Olympic Park

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A

h, summer camp. The mosquitoes, the swim races, the friendships, the bug juice, the postcards home. What child wouldn’t benefit from the fun and structured freedom camps provide?

Kids with special needs are no exception. But the idea can seem challenging to parents and kids alike – how can you be sure that your child will get the attention he or she needs? Will your child be able to participate fully? What about the other kids? Will your child make friends? Will they understand your child’s special needs?

The good news is that there are many camp choices for kids with special needs. From highly specialized camps to regular camps that accommodate kids with special needs, options abound.

Photo courtesy of Camp Twin Lakes

Camp for Kids with Special Needs Different Types of Camps When it comes to camps, kids with special needs have as many choices as other kids. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires all camps to make reasonable accommodations (such as the installation of wheelchair-accessible ramps) so that kids with special needs can attend. So, camps that previously couldn’t host kids with special needs might now be on your list of possibilities.

Inclusionary (or mainstream) camps do just what their name implies: They include kids with special needs in their groups of children with regular needs. These camps may have started out serving only a general population of kids, but they’ve gradually changed as the needs of the families they serve have changed.

Some camps are designed just for kids with special needs, including kids who have learning or behavioral problems, those with specific chronic illnesses, and kids with mental or physical impairments. Many accept kids with a variety of needs, but some only accept kids with specific problems (such as camps for kids with diabetes, cancer, speech or hearing

impairment, cystic fibrosis, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, etc.).

Within all of these categories, you’ll have even more choices to consider regarding length of stay, philosophy and cost. There are nonprofit and for-profit camps, religious camps, camps run by national organizations, private camps, day camps, camps that run weekend sessions, and sleepover camps that accept kids for the entire summer. c

© 1995- 2016 . The Nemours Foundation/KidsHealth®. Reprinted with permission.

For more information on choosing a camp for kids with special needs go to http://kidshealth.org/en/parents/finding-camp-special-needs.html#

Touch. See. Listen.

Play!

A Multisensory Learning System

freedom through technology

www.zumolearning.com info@zyrobotics.com

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ATLANTA PARTIES Kidstyle Amazing theme parties!

Custom designed by retired Special Education Teacher.

Parties at cost for children with special needs We speak Sign Language!

ATLPARTIESKIDSTYLE.COM May 2016 Atlanta Parent 37

special needs f.y.i Walk for Autism Speaks!

Photo by JandDimages

This year’s two-mile walk and educational fair to benefit Autism Speaks and the Marcus Autism Center is May 1.

Thousands of walkers and spectators will be on hand when the walk kicks off at 9:30 a.m. in the Turner Field Green Lot. Registration for the walk is free, but walkers are asked to raise as much money as they can. (Late registration begins at 8 a.m.) Parking fee at Turner Field is $10 cash.

A resource fair for autism is held in conjunction with the walk, as well as kids’ activities and games.

Autism spectrum disorder affects 1 in 68 children in the United States. For more information, visit autismspeakswalk.org/georgia.

Train Day For Autism Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History in Kennesaw will welcome kids of all ages with autism on National Train Day for Autism on May 7.

The day will provide a sensory-friendly experience, including model train layouts for kids to play with, puzzles and educational activities. In-depth circuitry workshops will be available for those who want to learn how the wiring of an electric train works.

The museum’s lighting will be changed for the day and sound effects will be switched off to eliminate extra noise. The museum also will provide a quiet room for overwhelmed children.

For more information, visit southernmuseum.org or call 770-427-2117.

Braille Books, A New DK Series DK Books’s two newest books in Braille are amazingly beautiful, and informative, too. The books are designed for blind children, or for sighted children with a blind parent.

It Can’t be True ($29.99) is a collection of strange but true scientific facts, such as “How far can a bird fly?” or “How much water is there?” Each answer is accompanied by a detailed tactile illustration.

On the Move: Knowledge You Can Touch ($22.99) is all about transportation and equipment, from trains to boats to bikes to heavy equipment and monster trucks.

Find out more about the series at dk.com.

Duluth Dog ‘Changed the World’ Rolex, a golden retriever service dog in Duluth, is a one of 10 dogs chosen by Milk-Bone as a “Dog Who Changed the World.”

Her best friend is Rosalie Brown, who has epilepsy. Rolex is able to detect her friend’s seizures before they occur so she can work regularly at an elementary school library. Rolex also helps her owner make friends with students.

Rolex graduated from the Canine Assistants school, which has placed more than 2,000 hero dogs with individuals across the nation.

CHILDREN USE THE LANGUAGE OF PLAY TO EXPRESS AND RESOLVE THEIR PROBLEMS. Trudy Post Sprunk

www.gapt.org 770.491.7423 38 Atlanta Parent May 2016

atlantaparent.com

Spotlight on Special Needs Resources The Bedford School/Squirrel Hollow Camp

Children’s Special Services, LLC

quirrel Hollow Camp is a 2-4 week summer program, (Session 1: June 13-June 24; Session 2: June 27-July 8) for children who need an academic boost.

The program is held on the wooded 45-acre campus of The Bedford School in Fairburn, approximately 15 miles south of the Atlanta Airport.

Students receive academic tutoring in small groups in the areas of math, reading and written expression.

Multisensory materials and techniques are used and individualized for each student. Parents receive a detailed report and recommendations at the end of camp. Students also participate in recreational activities on the Challenge Course, the soccer field, the gym and the outdoor pool.

Students gain academic skills as well as gains in selfesteem, confidence and social skills. The program is open to students currently in K-8th grade.

Some partial scholarships are available. Contact Dr. Betsy Box, Director, 770-774-8001.

Visit the website www.thebedfordschool.org for more information.

roup summer camps 2:1 ratios!! Unheard of!!

But yes, it is true, sensory, motor and social skills groups with 4 trained therapists and a limit of 10 children per group! With that ratio your child will be receiving 1-1 therapy in a group setting!! Getting the best of both worlds – private OT and peer interactions!

Children’s Special Services, LLC offers these 2 exciting camps: Children’s Special Services, LLC is the ONLY occupational therapy provider using the US trademarked WIN™ Write Incredibly Now™ handwriting program that takes children from labored to legible in just 12 hours!

PLAYYourWay to Sensory/Social-Motor Success is a sensory integrative playgroup using experiential activities to increase environmental and personal awareness. While learning necessary perceptual motor sensory skills the children also learn how to make friends not only with others but with themselves as well.

To learn more – contact Susan @ info@childrens-services. com 770-394-9791 or go to www.childrens-services.com Discounts for multiple camps enrollment and/or sibling / friend sign ups.

Susan Orloff, OTR/L/FAOTA, Creating Skills & Opening Possibilities for Children, sorloffotr@gmail.com, CEO/EXEC Director, Children’s Special Services, LLC, 770-394-9791, www.childrens-services.com

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The Cottage School

Porter Academy

he Cottage School’s 2015-2016 school year marks its 31st year of providing a comprehensive educational program for middle and high school students with learning differences and Attention Deficit Disorders. In August 2016, TCS will expand its program to 4th and 5th grades. The school’s 23-acre campus in Roswell includes a state of the art media center, computer and science labs, a multi-purpose athletic and performing arts facility, outdoor classrooms, and trails for mountain biking and cross-country. AdvancEd accredited for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and the Southern Association of Independent Schools, TCS provides an academic college preparatory curriculum that meets Georgia high school graduation standards and HOPE scholarship requirements.

Experiential classes and clubs include drama, forensics, horticulture, computer literacy, yoga, chess, photography, journalism/yearbook, Interact, and culinary skills. Ten-to-one student/teacher class sizes accommodate various learning styles.

TCS’ athletic program offers a wide range of sports and provides opportunities to develop a positive competitive spirit, learn selfdiscipline, and foster teamwork and sportsmanship. TCS offers an after school program as well as summer academic programs and sports camps. Visit www.cottageschool.org for more information.

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 socialdevelopmental level, 2) assessments to determine academic and developmental level, 3) individualized academic programs, 4) small group instruction of core academics to ensure comprehension, 5) integration of project based learning, multi-sensory techniques, and well established academic programs to engage students and enhance learning efficiency, 6) social guidance and intentional character development, and 7) therapeutic support (speech/ language therapy, occupational therapy, and music therapy) within a group setting.

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

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Special Advertising Section

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 39

Children’s Special Services, LLC

S LEFT ONLY A FEW SLOT S IN SELECTED CAMP Call today to t! reserve your spo

Call About Social Skills Handwriting Programs

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

FULTON COUNTY SCHOOLS IS HERE TO HELP FAMILIES… For any child age 3 or older, the school system can evaluate for a suspected disability, at no cost.

• DIAGNOSTIC AND EVALUATION SERVICES • SPEECH/LANGUAGE THERAPY • SPECIALIZED COMMUNITY-BASED AND SCHOOL-BASED EDUCATION We serve students with disabilities such as developmental delays, speech/language delays, autism spectrum disorders, hearing and vision impairments, orthopedic impairments who are three to five years of age and reside within the Fulton County School District.

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

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

770-394-9791

www.childrens-services.com

It is the policy of the Fulton County School System not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, or disability in any employment practice,educational program, or any other program, activity, or service.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL 470-254-0404 OR VISIT WWW.FULTONSCHOOLS.ORG

GetHealthyAgain 678-263-3297 1-800-832-9755

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Short Trips Around The South

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Atlanta’s First Lady (and Mom)

Nesting 101

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Tune in to your child’s education : Take the quiz

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770-234-9111 • www.focus-ga.org 40 Atlanta Parent May 2016

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Special Needs Resource Guide From therapists to parties and schools to camps, parents can find lots of great resources for their families in our Special Needs listings.

Listings provided by advertisers n Atlanta Parties Kidstyle Atlpartieskidstyle.com Amazing theme parties. Custom designed by retired Special Education Teacher. Parties at cost for children with special needs. We speak Sign Language! n Atlanta Children’s Therapy Associates Atlantachildrenstherapy.com Providing personalized and professional pediatric physical, occupational and speech therapy services in the comfort of your home or school. Serving Atlanta’s children since 1998. 678-313-3872. n Ava White Academy and Tutorials Avawhiteacademy.com Serving Students with Learning Disabilities; Grades K - 12 utilizing research-based strategies: Wilson, O-G, Lindamood Bell, Kansas Writing, Math-U-See, repetition, multi-sensory learning. Small teacher-tostudent ratio. Gainesville. 770-536-6898. n Bedford School/ Camp Squirrel Hollow Thebedfordschool.org For children with learning differences. Grades 1-9.

Students receive proper academic remediation in a small class setting. Fairburn. For more information, call 770-774-8001. n Beyond Play BeyondplayATL.com 1-1 school facilitation services, school placement consultation, and in-home, play-based therapy sessions. Weekly outdoor adventure summer camp!

Ages 3-10. 214-244-4451. n Camp Lee Mar Leemar.com An overnight camp for ages 7-21 with mild to moderate developmental challenges. Features traditional camp activities, plus academics, vocational preparation, speech and language therapy. 215-658-1708. n Center Academy Centeracademy.com Happy. Secure. Inspired. Founded in 1968.

Fully accredited. College prep environment for different learning styles. Grades 4-12. Smyrna.

770 333-1616. n Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta – Marcus Autism Center Marcus.org Marcus Autism Center is dedicated to helping children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We provide comprehensive evaluations, diagnostic services, behavioral therapy and research programs to families living with ASD. Visit marcus.org or call 404-785-7600 for more information.

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n Children’s Special Services Childrens-services.com Children’s Special Services, LLC offers multiple services inclusive of but not limited to evaluations, screenings, individual and group therapy, summer camps, handwriting and social skills. Atlanta. 770-394-9791. n Christy Kennedy, OTR/L ChristyKennedyOT.com Sensory-Social Camp Therapy Intensive - Increase social interaction, self-esteem, self-awareness. Ages 4-6, June 13-17 and Ages 7-9, June 20-24. 404-378-5734. n The Cottage School cottageschool.org Serves students in grades 4-12 with learning differences and Attention Deficit Disorders.

College Prep curriculum, experiential classes, Business acumen model, social skills and career planning. 700 Grimes Bridge Rd., Roswell. 770-641-8688. n Cumberland Academy of Georgia cumberlandacademy.org College prep academics for special needs students with Asperger’s, ADD, ADHD and other learning differences. Fully accredited with small classes. Cumberland Academy is an exceptional school for exceptional students. Grades 4-12. 650-A Mt. Vernon Hwy. NE, Atlanta. 404-835-9000. n Families of Children Under Stress (FOCUS) Focus-ga.org Provides emotional, physical and informational support to families who have children with disabilities or chronic/terminal illnesses. 3825 Presidential Pkwy., Ste. 103, Atlanta. 770-234-9111.

n Mill Springs Academy Millsprings.org Small private school for children with LD, ADD/ADHD. 1st-12th grades. 13660 New Providence Rd., Alpharetta. 770-360-1336. n Porter Academy Porteracademy.org Provides a learning environment for speechlanguage processing issues, dysgraphia, dyslexia and attention difficulties. Grades pre-K-8. 200 Cox Rd., Roswell.

770-594-1313. n The Piedmont School of Atlanta Tpsoa.org The Piedmont School of Atlanta accepts cognitively typical children with autism. The comprehensive K-9 curriculum integrates academic, social, and emotional learning, and stimulates the development of life skills, preparing students to be happy, independent adults actively engaged in their communities.

404-382-8200. n The Therapy Crew Thetherapycrew.com Private clinic in East Cobb/Marietta. A group of Speech-Language Pathologists that strive to enhance the lives of individuals through the Art of Therapeutic Intervention!

404-955-8132.

n Fulton County Schools FultonSchools.org Diagnostic and Evaluation Services for children 3 and older. Serving children with developmental delays, autism spectrum disorders, hearing, speech, vision and orthopedic impairments for children ages 3-5, and residents of the Fulton County School District. 470-254-0404.

n Social Skills Today Day Camps and Overnights Socialskillstoday.com Camp Journey, one week overnight camp.

June 26 - July 1 in Winder for ages 9 and older. Day Camp Sessions from June 6-July 29 in Roswell for ages 5-18 and Lawrenceville location for ages 4-young adult.

678-926-3598.

n Georgia Association for Play Therapy Gapt.org Children use the language of play to express and resolve their problems. Atlanta.

770-491-7423.

n Zyrobotics Zumolearning.com Zyrobotics designs smart mobile technologies for educational and accessible play to make a difference in the lives of children, ages 3- to 12- years old.

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 41

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Sort Papers Don’t start your summer with a lot of paper and digital clutter. Strive to retain only a few papers from each school year. If your child created many bulky projects, line them up for a quick photo shoot before tossing them in the recycle bin. Personally sorting through each child’s papers and projects with her will give you insights about how to steer your child toward improvements next year.

42 Atlanta Parent May 2016

atlantaparent.com

Contact Advisors Feeling stuck about what to do to help improve your child’s school year? Do some research. Reach out for more help. See if the school can provide you with access to a specialist. This is especially important if you are feeling upset about trying to meet any of your children’s needs yourself. Parents often forget that there are resources, experts and specialists all around them.

Rather than talking to friends or family members, reach out in a more targeted manner and collect helpful data, so you can make more informed decisions for next year.

Make a Cheat Sheet for Back to School

Visualize a Better Next Year At the end of the school year, sit down with your child and have a conversation about a better school year next year.

First, congratulate him on everything he did well last year. Be especially complimentary about any improvements he made since the year prior. Then ask what he would like to change next year. Cover all the angles: academic, homework, in-school extra-curriculars and after-school activities. You might be surprised by some of the answers you hear. Listen to everything he has to say, then offer some concrete suggestions you think will help him have a better year next year.

Taking all these steps will improve your memory when school starts back up again.

But just in case, write it down.

Before the school year is done, get out your calendar or electronics and mark down any critical sign-up dates or fee deadlines for next year’s academics or activities. Make a master to-do list with actionable steps you need to take before school begins, such as ordering special clothing, equipment or performing workouts to get ready for athletic training. Make sure children who are mature enough update their own calendars, as well. Schedule dates to take care of any shopping before school starts, so you can stretch summer out as long as possible. c

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44 Atlanta Parent May 2016

Enabling children with learning differences to succeed • Pre-K–8th • Small group instruction • Therapeutic Support • Hands-on Academics • Project Based Learning

Education Notes Book Lovers Event On May 7, visit the Alpharetta Barnes & Noble from 2-5 p.m. for a book signing, giveaways, food and fun from New York Times best selling mystery-author Robert Beatty. His new book Serafina and the Black Coat follows the tales of an unusual girl who prowls Biltmore Estate. The School Library Journal gives this book a thumbs-up stating, “The story drips with suspense, wrapping readers into the narrative just as easily as the man in the black cloak binds his young victims. Serafina’s friendship with Braeden is heartfelt and believable ... mystery fans will enjoy this book.” For ages 8-12. Barnes & Noble, 7660 North Point Parkway, Alpharetta.

Local High Schools Featured In U.S. News & World Report’s “Best High Schools”List U.S. News & World Report released its ranking of the nation’s top high schools with more than 99 schools in Georgia making the list.

Gwinnett County School of Mathematics, Science and Technology near Lawrenceville as the best high school in Georgia, and 27th best in the nation.

Fulton County has seven of the top 20 ranked schools and the most of any Georgia school system on the list. Alpharetta High School, Milton High School, Chattahoochee High School, Northview High School, Johns Creek High School, Roswell High School were all recognized with gold medal rankings and Cambridge High School was recognized with a silver ranking.

Other metro Atlanta schools making the top 20 list include DeKalb School of the Arts, Walton High School, Lassister High School and Pope High School.

U.S. News researched more than 21,500 public high schools across the nation, considering enrollment, diversity, participation in the free and reduced meals program as well as the results of state assessments, Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate tests. Rankings were based on the 2013-2014 school year data. c

atlantaparent.com

Fun Facts, Great Reads For Summer When class is dismissed for summer, keep your kids’ brains active with these fun reads. n Guinness World Records books

ATLANTA COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

‘A small school... with a big heart’

Who wouldn’t want to know about the man with the largest nose in the world? Guinness World Records’ books are just irresistible, full of quirky facts, photos and illustrations that grab a kid’s attention.

Two I Can Read books, Daring Dogs and Whacky Wheels (HarperCollins Children’s Books, $3.99), are perfect for young readers. Four new paperbacks tap into an older child’s natural curiosity, Amazing Body Records, Super Humans, Whacky and Wild! and Biggest and Smallest! (HarperCollins Children’s Books, $12.99). n National Geographic Kids The U.S. National Parks Service is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year – no better time to learn about the diversity of wildlife and terrain in this network of protected green spaces. A children’s version of National Geographic’s Guide to National Parks called National Parks Guide USA (National Geographic Kids, $14.99) presents facts about the park in a highly readable way, with lots of photos and illustrations to keep kids interested. Do you know which park was the home of Smokey Bear, the cub who was rescued from a forest fire and became the Parks Service’s symbol? n DK Books Kids are endlessly fascinated with bugs, and Super Bug Encyclopedia (DK Books, $24.99) takes advantage of that, dishing out facts on “the biggest, fastest, deadliest creepycrawlies on the planet.” They are also some of the weirdest, with nasty or fascinating habits.

The ruby-tailed wasp, for instance, slips into the nest of a wasp or bee and lays its eggs; when the wasp’s larvae hatch, they consume the young of the nest owner. A young scientist could spend hours poring over this book.

atlantaparent.com

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Call now for an individualized school tour!

New Ownership and Administration 770-998-0311

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8725 Dunwoody Place • Sandy Springs • 30350 May 2016 Atlanta Parent 45

Have the best summer ever!

✹

Atlanta Parent’s Online Summer Fun Bucket List will keep you busy with places to go, activities and giveaways!

Go to atlantaparent.com starting June 6.

ta Atlaennt’s Par

ER M M SU KET

BUCST LI

Call to learn how your summer event or attraction can be included.

770-454-7599

46 Atlanta Parent May 2016

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Family Fun Guide * Eating Out

n

Free Fun

n

Exhibits

n

Playground

Calendar

n

Not-to-miss events for May

Flip r Out foons i Sea Le 51

1

Decatur Lantern Parade Starts at 508 E. Howard Ave. and continues to Decatur Square May 13, 9 p.m.

Anyone can join the lightthe-night-and-welcomesummer parade. It’s a chance to stay up late.

Don’t forget your lantern!

Line up is at 8 p.m. Free. decaturlanternparade.com

atlantaparent.com

Photo by Caroline Ward

Pag

2

3

Decatur Lantern Parade

Good Neighbor Day Airshow May 14 Noon-5 p.m.

See amazing flying stunts and view antique planes, military aircraft and helicopters.

Bi-plane and helicopter rides available for a fee.

DeKalb-Peachtree Airport, 2000 Airport Rd., Atlanta.

Free admission; parking $10. pdkairshow.com

Family Fun Guide

Yaarab Shrine Circus May 21-30 Top circus acts with clowns, bears, elephants, horses, motorcycles and acrobats put on an entertaining show. Midway has rides, games and carnival food – even fried Oreos.

Check website for times. Jim R. Miller Park, 2245 Callaway Rd., Marietta. Admission $7; children 10 and younger free; ride tickets $1.25 each, or 22 for $20; parking $5. Discounts available on website, yaarabshrine.net.

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 47

Family Fun Guide EATING OUT

Mother’s Day Brunches Many families show Mom how much they love and appreciate her with a special meal out.

Atlanta Parent’s picks for great places to go:

Expensive l Horseradish

Grill.

Mid-range

Budget

l Alon’s

l No.

Bakery.

Fine dining in a rustic, yet sophisticated, atmosphere with a special menu of soup or salad, choice of entrée, and dessert. May 8. 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. 4320 Powers Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-255-7277. Adults, $49; 10 and younger, $25. horseradishgrill.com

Buffet of carved meats, artisan pizzas, gourmet sides and specialty desserts. May 8.

9 a.m.-2 p.m. 4505 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta. 678397-1781. Purchase tickets in advance. Adults, $34.99; ages 5-12, $14.99; 4 and younger, free. alons.com

l Villa

l Muss

Christina.

Gourmet buffet brunch for moms and their families.

Reservations required. May 8.

11 a.m.-3 p.m. 4000 Summit Blvd., Atlanta. 678-515-2729.

Adults, $45; ages 6-12, $25; ages 5 and younger, free. villachristina.com

& Turner’s.

A special southern Mother’s Day brunch buffet is offered.

May 8. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 1675 Cumberland Pkwy. SE, Ste. 309, Smyrna. 770-434-1114.

Adults, $34.93; ages 6-12, $14.93; ages 5 and younger, free. mussandturners.com

246.

Spring menu and a “build-abouquet” station to make mom a small flower arrangement during brunch. 129 E. Ponce de Leon Ave., Decatur. 678399-8246. Brunch, 11 a.m.3 p.m. $12-$18; dinner, 5-9 p.m., $18-$35. no246.com l Wahoo!

Grill.

Special buffet features hot and cold cuisine, including carved meats, shrimp and grits, French toast, eggs, salads and more. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 1042 W. College Ave., Decatur. 404373-3331. Adults, $25; ages 4-12, $10, ages 3 and younger, free. wahoogrilldecatur.com

For more restaurants serving Mother’s Day meals, visit atlantaparent.com.

It’s Strawberry Pickin’ Time!

Nothing tastes better than a strawberry picked fresh off the vine.

Prime strawberry picking time is May and June. Call before you go to make sure hours and berry availability have not changed. Bring your own bucket for picking or some farms have them available for purchase.

Mitcham Farm Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 1-5 p.m.

797 Macedonia Church Rd., Oxford.

770-855-1530. mitchamfarm.com You pick: $13/gal; pre-picked, $15/gal.

The Rock Ranch Wed.-Sat. 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

5020 Barnesville Hwy., The Rock.

706-647-0337. therockranch.com You pick: $12/gal; pre-picked, $14/gal.

48 Atlanta Parent May 2016

Southern Belle Farm Mon.-Sat., 8 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 1-6 p.m.

1658 Turner Church Rd., McDonough.

770-288-2582. southernbellefarm.com You pick: $12/gal; pre-picked, $14/gal.

Washington Farms Mon.-Sat., 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

270 Willowwind, Loganville. 770-554-8119; 5671 Hog Mtn. Rd., Bogart.

706-769-0627. washingtonfarms.net You pick: $12/gal; pre-picked, $14/gal; containers, $1.

Jaemor Farms Strawberry Festival Strawberry Festival is on May 7. 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

U-Pick strawberries available on this day only.

5340 Cornelia Hwy., Alto.

770-869-3999. jaemorfarms.com You pick: $14/gal.

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

NewsSplash!

Six Flags White Water Opens May 14-15

More than 50 water attractions, including the Atlanta Ocean wave pool, thrill rides and Little Squirts Island cater to all ages. n What’s new: Race five other riders on a 60-foot-tall slide, the Wahoo Racer.

Lie head-first on a water toboggan to navigate winding tubes at speeds up to 40 feet per second.

More at sixflags.com/whitewater

atlantaparent.com

No need to wait until Memorial Day for that traditional water outing!

LanierWorld

Callaway Gardens’ Beach

Opens May 21-22

Opens May 27

Georgia’s largest wave pool, giant water slides and Kiddie Lagoon make this a family destination. n What’s new: Movies will be screened on a Spectacular Screen, a giant high-definition outdoor theater screen measuring 46 feet by 80 feet. Witbit on Big Beach is a floating playground for bouncing and sliding.

More at lanierislands.com

Robin Lake’s inviting sandy beach and children’s playground have welcomed families for decades.

The beach is in use now, but official opening is May 27. Kids and teens love Aqua Island’s floating obstacle course, mini-golf and more. n What’s new: The 57th Masters Water Ski & Wakeboard Tournament, featuring top performers, will highlight Memorial Day Weekend events.

More at callawaygardens.com

Family Fun Guide

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 49

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

A Different SPIN on Learning Physics

H

Could your baby, toddler or kid be one?

Atlanta, New York, LA

404-636-1974

www.williamreynoldsagency.com

Stay up to speed on the latest events.

atlantaparent.com

COMPLETE EVENT LISTINGS

50 Atlanta Parent May 2016

ow would you like to give your kids a head start for their future studies in physics? Then gas up your car, and head to the SPIN exhibit at the Tellus Museum.

All three of my girls (5-yearold twins and an 8-year-old) were able to learn their first concepts of physics through play in the exhibit, which is especially appealing for ages 2-8. We left knowing some new words, such as centrifuge, inertia and torque.

The exhibit was divided into several different substations with interactive activities. Signs at all of the stations explain the physics concept as it relates to the activity. The spin speed activity, for example, had the kids sit in a swivel chair and spin around to learn more about inertia. There were also racing rollers, air thrusters and racing cars.

The most popular activity was the Human Centrifuge ride. The kids (and some adults) sit down in a ride that is similar to the teacups ride at Disneyworld, spin around in a circle and learn different aspects of inertia. My twins could not get enough of this ride! In fact, they wanted to make a second visit to the exhibit after we viewed other parts of the museum.

Parents will appreciate that this exhibit has STEM activities that involve real-life objects that rotate.

Family Fun Guide

If You Go SPIN Tellus Museum 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville 770-606-5700; tellusmuseum.org n Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Spin exhibit runs through Sept. 5. n Cost: Adults, $14; ages 3-17, $10, younger than 3, free. Admission includes SPIN exhibit. n Know before you go: The museum is about a 50-minute drive from the north metro area, and the museum is easy to spot from I-75. The cafeteria has affordable food options as well as picnic areas.

– Cindy Moss

atlantaparent.com

Flipping for

the Sea Lion Experience M

y boys couldn’t contain their excitement about the Sea Lion Experience at the Georgia Aquarium. When we got inside the main atrium, Aiden, 7, and Riley, 3, ran for the sea lion window and squealed with delight as the sea lions flipped and jumped and swam in front of them.

The Sea Lion Experience has two parts. Outside Pier 225, you stand in line to get in the pre-show. The pre-show is really fun and interactive – an aquarium team member emcees the show that includes animatronic dancing crabs and shrimp and a singing seagull.

After the pre-show, it was time for the main event, “Under the Boardwalk.” The sea lion trainers were like new parents excited to show off the new tricks their children had learned. Their enthusiasm was infectious and made for a truly great show. My boys loved it when the sea lions “talked” and when they danced.

Before the Sea Lion Experience show time, we walked through Coldwater Quest, to see our favorite marine creatures, the penguins.

We also attended the revamped AT&T Dolphin Tales show.

The theatrical portion has been removed and replaced with dolphin educational opportunities, pop music and crowd interaction. They even pick a lucky member of the audience to get in the water with them and show them how the dolphins work with humans.

The Georgia Aquarium is absolutely a full day activity, especially now with the added Sea Lion show. Plan on arriving early and staying for a better part of an afternoon.

Know before you go: To save money and avoid the ticket line, purchase tickets in advance. No outside food or beverages are allowed, so plan to buy snacks and lunch. Grab a small snack (goldfish, fruit snacks) for the kids for the pre-show. You’ll wait in line to get in the pre-show, so it is a perfect opportunity to keep the kids distracted with a snack. You can’t take a snack into the main show so enjoy it during the pre-show. For lunch, head to the second floor instead of sitting in the cafe. Tables by the conference center give you a view of the big aquarium tank. It’s mesmerizing to sit and watch the fish swim.

– Kim Curnutt atlantaparent.com

If You Go Georgia Aquarium 225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta. georgiaaquarium.org; 404-581-4000 n Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; hours adjusted by season and events; show times vary by date; check website. n Tickets: Adult, $40.95; ages 3-12, $34.95; younger than 3, free. Purchase tickets in advance online or by phone and save 20 percent on the ticket price. Aquarium’s covered parking is $10; save $1 by purchasing in advance. Sea Lion Experience and AT&T Dolphin Tales show included in ticket price.

Family Fun Guide

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 51

Ahoy, Matey!

Take a Pirate Adventure

If You Go Pirate Adventure Island Legoland Discovery Center Atlanta 3500 Peachtree Rd. Ste. G-1, Atlanta. 404-848-9252; legolanddiscoverycenter.com/atlanta/

52 Atlanta Parent May 2016

n Cost: Ticket prices vary by visit date and time. Tickets for guaranteed admission can be booked online for as low as $15 plus tax. Walk up tickets are $20 each for ages 3 and up. n Hours: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Mon.-Fri. and Sun.; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sat.

Family Fun Guide

M

y family played like pirates at the new Pirate Adventure Island at Legoland Discovery Center Atlanta.

My 4-year-old daughter had a blast with the cannon and my 7-year-old son loved building and sailing pirate ships on the water table.

If you’ve been to Legoland before and liked the Lego Racers: Build and Test attraction, you’ll love the water table. Kids can select from a large number of building blocks to create their own seafaring vessel.

Once it’s built, they can race the boats through various obstacles. At the end of the water table is a treasure trove of Lego blocks so kids can build boats, sandcastles or anything their imaginations can create.

Be prepared to make a splash and get wet!

Toddlers might need a change of clothes, but I plan to pack a rain jacket for my big kids next time just for the water table.

After the water table, my kids moved to the pirate ship play area. They climbed the rigging, walked the plank and took turns steering the ship. My daughter loved sending the giant Lego blocks up and down the conveyor belt to her mateys aboard the ship.

A Legoland visit must include two of my kid’s favorites: For my son, that’s the Build and Race Track; for my daughter, it’s the Merlin’s Apprentice Ride – her legs are finally long enough to reach the pedals that make the ride soar above the Discovery Center. The faster you pedal, the higher you go!

The thing I love most about visiting Legoland is the chance to see my kids build and create. Lego is one of our all-time favorite toys at home so it’s great to extend the creativity into a different environment.

– Nicole Mabry

atlantaparent.com

Run for Fun In

Peachtree Jr. Kids can lace up the running shoes and zip through Piedmont Park in the Peachtree Junior, an annual fun run for ages 14 and younger, sponsored by the Atlanta Track Club.

The event is designed to offer the experience and excitement of the annual AJC Peachtree Road Race on July 4.

Kids can participate in a festival and clinics in shot put, long jump, hurdles and high jump. After racing, they can take part in a kid-friendly decathlon featuring 1996 Olympic Gold Medalist Dan O’Brien.

Race options include a 3K fun run for ages 7-14, a ½ K for ages 5-9 and a 50m dash for ages 6 and younger. May 14, 8:30 a.m. (register

by May 11). 1342 Worchester Dr. NE, Atlanta. atlantatrackclub.org; 404-231-9064. Registration, $10-$25.

Celebrate Archaeology & Turtles! n Archaeology Day

Fernbank Museum of Natural History May 21, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Archaeology-themed crafts, activities and special demonstrations will mark Georgia Archaeology Awareness Month. 767 Clifton Road N.E., Atlanta.

404-929-6300; fernbankmuseum.org. Cost included in museum admission: $18 adults, $16 ages 3-12, free for ages 2 and younger.

n World Turtle Day Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center May 29, 1-5 p.m.

Focus on everything turtle with turtle crafts and activities, talk with a turtle expert and view his collection and learn about Georgia’s turtles and tortoises. 2020 Clean Water Drive, Buford. 770904-3500; gwinnettehc.org. Turtle Day included in admission cost: Adults, $13; ages 3-12, $10; free for age 2 and younger.

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 53

Playground: Ocee Park, Johns Creek The playground at Ocee Park’s renovation had a goal of creating a park that could be used by everyone. They “knocked this one out of the park” and created a fantastic space for kids of all ages and abilities. n Features: My family’s favorite feature is the “Ten Spin” Merry-GoRound. Kids can sit or stand and spin the merry-go-round.

The park tries some new ideas with traditional elements like swings and slides. A generation swing allows a little kid and a big kid or parent to swing together at opposite ends of a swing. The Avalanche slide allows kids use their upper body strength to climb up and then slide down. My daughter’s favorite activity was to climb to the top of the multi-level tower before wooshing down a tube slide.

Playgrounds are also for making noise! A touch pad makes different animal sounds and an entire section is set aside for making beautiful music.

My son put on a concert in Harmony Park with the xylophones and drums. n Amenities: Separate play structures for toddlers and older kids; swings; generation swing; Ten Spin Merry-Go-Round; musical instruments; climbing ramp; avalanche slide; mulit-level mega tower; backtrack climber; restrooms; four covered pavilions with picnic tables n Location: 10900 Buice Rd., Johns Creek – Nicole Mabry

TWO Locations….

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atlantaparent.com Family Fun Guide

After-school book clubs for students 2.

School-wide and community-involved Read-a-Thons where students can experience reading in a fun and engaging way while interacting with community role models and leaders from a broad spectrum of businesses and professions; and 3.

Book donation drives to provide books to underprivileged and deserving students.

If you'd like Page Turners Make Great Learners, Inc. to host your next school read-a-thon, please contact FeFe Handy at fefehandy@ptmgl.com.

Implementing Innovative Learning www.pageturnersgreatlearners.org

atlantaparent.com

* * spring festival fun Georgia Renaissance Festival. Fairburn.

Artist market, fire whip show, jousting, mud show, a hypnotist, belly dancing, aerial trapeze acts, knife throwing and more. Munch on big turkey legs and listen to live music! Sat.-Sun., through June 5. 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. 6905 Virlyn B. Smith Rd., Fairburn. 770-964-8575. Adults, $22; ages 6-12, $10; ages 5 and younger, free.

Inman Park Festival. Inman Park. The twoday festival includes a self-guided home tour of the neighborhood’s historic houses, an artist market, live music and food for purchase. The Kids Zone features moonwalks, giant slide, arts and crafts activities and basketball pop-a-shot.

April 29 (home tour only), noon-4 p.m. April 30May 1. Sat., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. (parade, 2 p.m.); Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Euclid Ave., Atlanta. 404-522-7860.

Admission, free; home tour, $20.

Snellville Days. Briscoe Park. Handmade crafts and food vendors, live entertainment and kids activities. April 30-May 1. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., noon.-5 p.m. 2500 Sawyer Pkwy., Snellville.

770-985-3535. Free.

May Day Celebration. Serenbe. Celebrate Spring with a day of live music, artisian demos, pony rides, face painting, plus a traditional May Pole. May 1. Noon-5 p.m. 9055 Selborne Lane, Chattahoochee Hills. 770-463-9997. $5.

Sweet Auburn Springfest. Sweet Auburn Historic District. Live entertainment, Fun Zone for kids, international food court and more. May 6-8.

Fri., 5-9 p.m., Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 2-8 p.m.

236 Auburn Ave., Atlanta. 678-683-5647. Free.

Barefoot in the Park Festival. Buford Town Park. Artist market, a learning village, live entertainment and food. May 7-8. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 2200 Buford Dr., Duluth.

678-677-0172. Free.

Chastain Park Arts Festival. Chastain Park.

Arts and crafts vendors, children’s play area, live music and food. May 7-8. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 4469 Stella Dr., Atlanta. Free.

Cherokee County Indian Festival and Mother’s Day Pow Wow. Boling Park.

Primitive skills demonstrations, traditional dances, food, drumming and Native Americans from around the country gather for this Pow Wow. May 7-8. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

1098 Marietta Hwy., Canton. 770-735-6275. Adults, $15; ages 6-12, $5; 5 and younger, free.

Colors Festival of the Arts. Roswell Historic Town Square. Live music, children’s activities, artwork, performances and more. May 7-8. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 617 Atlanta St., Roswell. 770-6403253. Free.

Dunwoody Art Festival. Dunwoody Village Parkway. Live music, artists, Kid Zone, arts and crafts, rides, games and more. May 7-8. Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1449 Dunwoody Village Pkwy., Atlanta. 678-427-6450. Free.

Fairy House Festival. Chimney Park.

Enjoy live entertainment along with crafts, archery, storytelling, refreshments and costumes. Build your own natural fairy house and visit the fairy house village. May 7. 2-5 p.m. 8203 Hazelbrand Rd., Covington. 770-385-2810. $5; ages 1 and younger, free.

atlantaparent.com

Decatur Arts Festival

May-Retta Daze. Glover Park. Art festival with children’s activities and live entertainment. May 7-8.

Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 50 Park Square, Marietta. 770-794-5601. Free.

Roswell Cycling Festival. Downtown Roswell.

Roswell Mayor’s ride, adult racing, kids zone, kids bicycle safety rodeo, kids races. May 7-15. 8 a.m.-11 p.m. Canton St., Roswell. 770-640-3253. Kids Zone and Rodeo, free; spectators, free.

Strawberry Festival. Jaemor Farms. Strawberry picking, farm tours, pony rides, craft and food vendors, and a petting zoo. May 7. 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

5340 Cornelia Hwy., Alto. 770-869-3999. Strawberry picking, $14/bucket; farm tours, $5; pony rides and petting zoo, $5.

Taste of East Point. Historic East Point. Sample food from East Point restaurants and food trucks.

Artist market and live music. May 7. 3-9 p.m. 1612 West Cleveland Ave., East Point. 404-270-7217.

Admission, free; taste tickets, $1 each.

WoofStock. Suwanee Town Center Park. A day of live music, pet vendors, pet adoption, contest, inflatable for the kid, food trucks and more. May 7.

Noon-7 p.m. 330 Town Center Ave., Suwanee. 770945-8996. Free.

Taste of Alpharetta. Historic Downtown Alpharetta. Sample food from 60 local restaurants, live music featuring rock, folk and R&B bands. Kids fun zone and culinary demonstrations. May 12.

5-10 p.m. 2 Park Plaza., Alpharetta. 678-297-6048.

Admission, free; food samples, $1-$3.

Marietta Greek Festival. Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church. Greek Hellenic dancing, Greek food and pastries, traditional gifts and jewelry, and kids’ activities. May 13-15. Fri., 3-11 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 3431 Trickum Rd., Marietta. 770-924-8080. Adults, $4; ages 12 and younger, free.

Arts in the Park. Suwanee Town Center Park.

More than 100 artists, performers and food vendors.

May 14. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 300 Town Center Ave., Suwanee. 678-948-6422. Free.

Family Fun Guide

Kirkwood Spring Fling. Bessie Branham Park. Artists market, children’s area, live music, food, a 5K race and tour of homes. Festival, May 14. 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Tour of Homes, May 14-15, noon-6 p.m.; 5K race, May 14, 8:30 a.m. 2051 Delano Dr., Atlanta. 678-637-9835.

Festival, free; home tour, $20; 5K race, $30.

Mableton Day. Mable House Complex. Meet and greet artists at work, 5K race, car show, children’s play area, arts and crafts, food and live entertainment. May 14. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. 5239 Floyd Rd., Mableton. 678-590-2803. Free.

Canton Festival of the Arts. Historic Downtown Canton. Artists market, live entertainment, food concessions, serenity garden, hands-on activities for kids and more.

May 21-22. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 94 North St., Canton.

770-704-6244. Free.

Atlanta Jazz Festival. Piedmont Park. A weekend of jazz performances, kids activity area, face painting, kids’ concerts and games.

May 27-29. Festival, Fri., 7-11 p.m. Sat.-Sun., 11 a.m.-11 p.m. 400 Park Dr. NE, Atlanta. 404-5467246. Free.

Alpharetta Arts StreetFest. Historic Downtown Alpharetta. Artist market, children’s art and crafts area, listen to live music and more. May 28-30. Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Mon., 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. 2 North Main St., Alpharetta. 678-297-6000. Free.

Atlanta Caribbean Children’s Carnival.

Historic Fourth Ward Park. Children’s activities with music and games. May 28. 1-8 p.m. 680 Dallas St. NE, Atlanta. 404-519-6120. Free.

Decatur Arts Festival. Scott Park. Artists market, music performances, dance, literary arts, Children’s Art Festival on Saturday, jugglers, pony rides and more. May 28-29.

Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; kids and teen activities, Sat. 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Decatur Recreation Center. 231 Sycamore St., Decatur. 404-371-9583. Free. c

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 55

ToDDLeR TiMe!

Metro Atlanta’s youngest citizens have plenty to explore, from playtime to puppets and roller skating. Try these ideas to keep your toddler learning and active.

Tot Spot: Atlantic Station

aCTiViTiES n Tiny Tots: Kids younger than age 5 using ride-on toys and skates are welcome on the skate floor or to use the Bounce House at Sparkles skating rinks in Kennesaw, Smyrna, Hiram and Lawrenceville. Some Thursdays and Fridays in May (check schedules on website), 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Cost: $5, or $8 with lunch. sparklesfamilyfuncenters.com n Little Acorns: Preschoolers can enjoy playtime on The Plaza of the Avalon mixeduse community in Alpharetta, with face painters, storytellers, magicians, zoo animals and more. Tuesdays 10 a.m.-noon, through Oct. 25. Cost: Free. experienceavalon.com

Little Acorns: on The Plaza of the Avalon

CuLTuRE n Toddler Thursday: Toddlers and parents explore letters, colors, numbers and shapes in themed activities at the High Museum of Art. Thursdays, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free with museum admission, adults $19.50, ages 6-17, $12; ages 5 and younger, free. high.org

n Toddler Time: SkyZone trampoline parks in Kennesaw, Roswell and Suwanee offer special jump times for toddlers younger than age 5 and under 40 inches tall. Check each location for dates and prices. skyzone.com n Tot Spot: Atlantic Station’s Central Park becomes a playground on Tuesdays, with games, storytelling, toys, music and special guests appearances.

Tuesdays through Sept., for toddlers younger than age 5. 10 a.m.-noon. Cost: Free. atlanticstation.com

n Tale Time Thursdays: Folktales from around the globe come to life with puppet-led storytelling for toddlers and older children. Thursdays at 3 p.m. in the Global Collection gallery. Cost: Free with admission to the museum, $10.50 per person. centerforpuppetryarts.com Toddler Thursday at the High Museum of Art

56 Atlanta Parent May 2016

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

More to Explore n Stroller Cubs and Adventure Cubs: Zoo Atlanta, zooatlanta.org n Magic Mondays: Atlanta History Center, atlantahistorycenter.com n Mommy and Me: Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, southernmuseum.org n Preschool Program: Southeastern Railway Museum, southeasternrailwaymuseum.org n Turtle Tours: Heritage Sandy Springs Museum. heritagesandysprings.org

Toddler Time at the Georgia Aquarium

n Toddler Fridays: The Hudgens Center for the Arts, thehudgens.org

NaTuRe n Garden Playtime: Atlanta Botanical Garden has four new programs for kids up to age 5. Garden Playtime with sensory stations is Tuesdays, May-Oct., 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Storybook Time with stories about nature is on Wednesdays, April-Oct., 10:30 a.m. Kids will sing and dance to Garden Grooves, Thursdays, May-Oct., 10:30 a.m. Storytellers and musicians will perform in Amphitheater Programs on Saturdays, May-Sept., at 10:30 or 11:30 a.m. No registration required. Cost: Free with garden membership or admission fee, $18.95 adults, $12.95 children, 3-12, free for children younger than 3. atlantabg.org n Toddler Time: Georgia Aquarium’s program held once a month (during April, May and Sept.-Dec.) features costumed characters, storytime, crafts and learning about a marine animal. May 9 event, 10-11:30 a.m. Cost: $16 for an adult/ child pair. Does not include aquarium admission; advance registration required. georgiaaquarium.org. n Preschool Adventures: Kids ages 3-6 learn about the natural environment of Autrey Mill Nature Center; adventures might include a walk and hands-on activity or craft. May 10, 10-11:30 a.m. (last adventure until fall; advance registration required) Cost: $10. autreymill.org

LeaRNiNG n Tiny Club Mondays: Kids ages 2-5 can participate in hands-on classes at Children’s Museum of Atlanta to become a Tiny Artist, Tiny Foodie, Tiny Maker or Tiny Scientist. Mondays through May 23; sign up when the museum opens on Mondays.

Free with museum admission, $14.95 per person. childrensmuseumatlanta.org

Toddler Takeover,

An Arts Festival, June 3-5 The Alliance Theatre, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, and High Museum of Art’s third annual Toddler Takeover June 3-5 exposes preschoolers to the arts.

Children through age 5 years will be able to see six productions of Theatre for the Very Young, enjoy the symphony’s Music for the Very Young, and infant and toddler tours and art-making at the High Museum.

A variety of classes and events cover children’s yoga, storytelling, creative play, song writing, exhibits, movies, painting and sculptures. alliancetheatre.org/toddler-takeover-2016

Tiny Club Mondays at Children’s Museum of Atlanta

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 57

Calendar

May S M T W TH F S

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

n

Events may be canceled or changed after our deadline.

n

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

n

Please call the event beforehand to confirm dates and times.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 2 3 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

TEA WITH ‘BEATRIX POTTER’

classes

Barrington Hall MAY 7. 1-3 P.M.

Drop In Art Classes. Treehouse Kid & Craft. Enjoy weekly activities including painting, drawing, and sculpting inspired by the seasons, holidays, nature, artists, or community happenings. Ages 2-10.

Every Sat. 10 a.m. (ages 2-4) and 11 a.m. (ages 5-10). 533 W. Howard Ave., Ste. A, Decatur. 470-355-8305. $12.

The author of tales of Peter Rabbit, Jemima Puddleduck and Tom Kitten comes to life in a portrayal

by Atlanta actress Holly Stevenson, who uses storytelling and puppetry to entertain kids. Tea, crafts and games in the garden.

Cost: $10. 535 Barrington Dr., Roswell. 770-640-3855.

Reservations required.

Little Acorns. Avalon’s Plaza. Every week offers new experiences including storytellers, magicians, face painters or arts and crafts. May 2, 9, 16, and May 30. 10 a.m.- noon. 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. 770-765-2000. Free.

Mommy and Me Preschool Program.

Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History. Different activities each week. May 5, 12, 19 and 26.

10 and 11:30 a.m. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-427-2117.

Recommended for ages 3-5. Adults, $7.50; ages 4-12, $5.50; 3 and younger, free.

Toddler Thursdays. High Museum of Art. Create masterpieces to compliment the museum’s current exhibits. Ages 2-4.

May 5, 12, 19 and 26. 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-7334400. Free with admission. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free.

Home Depot Kids Workshop. All locations.

Learn tool safety and make a craft. May 7. 9 a.m.-noon. Homedepot.com. Ages 5-12. Free.

Magic Monday. Atlanta History Center. A different theme each month lets parents and children explore history together, with hands-on activities including arts and crafts projects, music and story time. Ages 18 mos.-5 years. May 9. 10 a.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $6.50; ages 5 and younger, $5.50.

Toddler Time. Georgia Aquarium.

Introduction to marine life, see costumed characters, story time, craft activities and a snack. Ages 0-3. May 9. 10-11:30 a.m.

225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta. 404-5814000. Advance registration required.

One adult/child pair, $16. Does not include Aquarium admission.

Mice Tours. Marietta Museum of History.

Mascots Murray and Etta mouse introduce history through tours, storytime and crafts geared towards ages 3-5. May 11. 10:30 a.m. 1 Depot St., Marietta. 770-794-5710. Reservations required. $5.

58 Atlanta Parent May 2016

Second Thursday Program. Southeastern Railway Museum. Parents and tots program includes circle time, an activity and craft.

Ages 2-4. May 12. 10:30 a.m.-noon. 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth. 770-495-0253. $9 per child, one adult free, additional adult, $11.

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

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

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

Drop-In and Draw. Gas-Art Gifts at North DeKalb Mall. Make a different project each week. Anytime between noon-3 p.m. Sat. and Sun. 2050 Lawrenceville Hwy., Decatur.

404-801-4926. $5.

Saturday Morning Art Classes. Vinings School of Art. Drawing, painting or pottery classes.

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

exhibits California Sea Lion Experience. Georgia Aquarium.

Guests can experience sea lions in an intimate setting while watching behaviors and human interactions in their habitat. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat.-Sun., 9 a.m.-8 p.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-581-4000. Admission price depends on date of visit. Adults, $38.95; ages 3-12, $32.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

INK Craft Weeks. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids. Enjoy different themed crafts each week. Check inkfun.org for schedule and times. $1 with museum admission. Mon.Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun., 1-5 p.m. 999 Chestnut St., Gainesville. 770-536-1900.

Mon.-Sat., $8; Sun., $6.

Pirate Adventure Island. LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Families can explore hands-on sensory activities with treasure island themes to build sandcastles, treasure maps and giant pirate ships in an aquatic building area. Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

3500 Peachtree Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-848-9252.

Adults and ages 3-12, $20; ages 2 and younger, free.

Turtle Tours. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum. Museum mascots Sandy the chipmunk and Spring the turtle introduce history through stories, hands-on exhibits and crafts. Every second Wed. of the month. 11 a.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Cir., Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111.

Recommended for ages 2-5. Free.

Donations encouraged.

TreeHouses: Look Who’s Living in the Trees.

Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center.

Forest explorers of all ages can enjoy an indoor nature exhibit with hands-on ways to explore the important roles that trees play. Through May 7.

Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., last Sun. of the month, 1-5 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-9043500. Adults, $13; ages 3-12, $10; ages 2 and younger, free.

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

Calendar

Wild Music. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Explore sound and music in nature and in life through whimsical, hands-on activities. Through July 31. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Adults, $18; ages 3-12, $16; ages 2 and younger, free.

Creatures of Light: Nature’s Bioluminescence. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Observe the extraordinary organisms that produce light, from backyard flickering fireflies, alien-like deep-sea fishes and other fantastic creatures that illuminate the perpetually dark depths of the oceans.

Through Aug. 14. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta.

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

Spin. Tellus Science Museum. Learn how objects spin, why things spin at different speeds, and how we use spinning objects in our daily lives. Through Sept. 5. Mon.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville.

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

atlantaparent.com

Infinite Energy Center MAY 10-11. 7 P.M.

photo courtesy of Disney The Lion King Jr.

Mystery of the Mayan Medallion. Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Become an archaeologist to uncover the mystery of the dig site and search for a priceless jade medallion buried in the temple. Through May 31. Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sat.Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., closed Weds. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404659-5437. $14.95; younger than 1, free.

DISNEY’S THE LION KING JR.

Students at North Metro Academy of Performing Arts tell the story of the lion cub Simba, Rafiki and other jungle characters in a musical production based on the 1994 Disney film.

6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-626-2464; infiniteenergycenter.com.

Tickets: $11.50-$21.50.

Fashion in Good Taste: Women in Atlanta from 1920-1969. Swan House. Showcases pieces from the extensive textile collection of the Atlanta History Center and features a variety of examples of the fashion and defining clothing from the 1920s to the 1960s. Through Oct. 10. Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun., 1-4 p.m. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Included in museum admission. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; ages 3 and younger, free.

Family Fun Guide

Atlanta in 50 Objects. Atlanta History Center.

Parents can show the kids the past with objects from Martin Luther King Jr.’s 1964 Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech manuscript to Georgia Tech’s Ramblin’ Wreck, and see a collection that showcases 50 citydefining pieces that make Atlanta “Atlanta.”

Through Dec. 31. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sun., noon-5:30 p.m. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; ages 3 and younger, free.

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 59

Calendar I See a Story: The Art of Eric Carle. High Museum of Art. Features more than 80 collages from 16 of Carle’s most popular books that span his 50-year career, including many original works rarely on view. Through Jan. 8. Tues-Thurs. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Fri. 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. noon-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-7334400. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free.

mother’s day Gardens for Connoisseurs Tour. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Take mom to view ten spectacular private gardens. Tickets valid both days of the tour. May 7-8. Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-8765859. Adults, $35; ages 11 and younger, free.

Second Sunday Family Funday: Celebrate Mother’s Day. High Museum of Art. Pose for a professional portrait with Mom or the whole family, and then make a keepsake frame for it with High Museum teaching artists. Also enjoy a performance by the Atlanta Opera. May 8. 1-4 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4400.

Free with admission. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; ages 5 and younger, free.

Free Mother’s Day Admission. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Visit on Mother’s Day and moms get in free. May 8. Noon-5 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; mom and ages 2 and younger, free.

Classified Pages Camp

MILITARY TIMELINE Atlanta History Center MAY 28. 10 A.M.-4 P.M. Learn about military service from the Revolutionary war to the present from veterans and living history interpreters. Activities include creating a Revolutionary War spy code and experiencing a Vietnam patrol simulation. Kids can explore World War II vehicles and climb into a B-17 bomber turret.

At 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000; atlantahistorycenter.com.

Admission: $16.50 adults, $13 ages 4-12, free for ages 3 and younger.

Mother’s Day. Children’s Museum of Atlanta.

Enjoy Mother’s Day storytime with Mother Goose or Father Gander, music and movement, build a keepsake box (preregister in person), and make a special sign in honor of mom (pre-register in person).

May 7-8. Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404659-5437. $14.95; younger than 1, free.

Celebrate Mother’s Day. Georgia Aquarium.

Mom will receive half off her general admission ticket with the purchase of one full price admission (adult, child or senior).

May 8. Sun., 9 a.m.-8 p.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-581-4000. Admission price depends on date of visit. Adults, $38.95; ages 3-12, $32.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

summer camps!

Girls Ages 11-17 Call for more info

r summiseh ii skirm Our mission-

based SUMMER CAMP begins each TUESDAY and THURSDAY at 10 am and ends at 1 pm.

Ages 10-17. $30/soldier/day Call 770-998-6161 to register!

5140 Commerce Pkwy., Roswell Visit us at WARGAMESATL.COM

60 Atlanta Parent May 2016

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

Calendar Mother’s Day at the Zoo. Zoo Atlanta. Visit on Mother’s Day and moms get in free with the purchase of one full price admission (adult or child). May 8. 9:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.

800 Cherokee Ave., Atlanta. 404-624-9453.

Adults, $25.99; ages 3-12, $17.99; ages 2 and younger, free.

movies Wild Africa. Fernbank Museum of Natural History.

Travel from enchanted forests to the edge of the underworld, from ice-capped mountains and lava-spewing volcanoes. Through May 12. See fernbankmuseum.org for show times.

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

Classified Pages

Camp

summer camps!

A Beautiful Planet. See an awe-inspiring glimpse of Earth from space, providing a unique perspective and increased understanding of our planet and galaxy as never seen before.

Opens May 13. See fernbankmuseum.org for show times. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-9296400. IMAX tickets: Adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; ages 2 and younger, free.

National Parks Adventure. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Follow modern-day explorers as they discover spectacularly wild and beautiful places, including Yellowstone, the Everglades and the Redwoods. Through June 16. See fernbankmuseum.org for show times.

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

Movies in the Park. Atlantic Station’s Central Park.

Grab the kids and a blanket and enjoy a familyfriendly movie under the stars. May 19 and 26. Movies TBA. 8-11 p.m. 1380 Atlantic Drive, Atlanta. 404-733-1221. Free.

music Riverside Sounds. Riverside Park. Outdoor concerts feature a variety of musical styles; food trucks are on site. Bring blankets or chairs. May 7. 7 p.m. 575 Riverside Rd., Roswell. 770-641-3705. Free.

BIRTHDAY PARTIES & SUMMER CAMP

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Family Fun Guide

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 61

Calendar Concerts in the Park. Dunwoody Nature Center. Bring your chair, blanket, and picnic dinner for an outdoor concert.

May 14 and 28. 7 p.m. 5343 Roberts Dr., Dunwoody. 770-394-3322. Adults, $5; ages 3 and younger, free.

PANCAKES, PANCAKES! Alliance Theatre MAY 31-JULY 10. CHECK WEBSITE FOR TIMES This musical was inspired by the iconic Eric Carle book of the same name and celebrates cooking, the joy in labor and the final feast. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4702; alliancetheatre.org.

Tickets: Adults, $15; ages 6-17, $8; ages 5 and younger free.

Friday Jazz. High Museum of Art. Enjoy a jazz quintet in the atrium with uplifting, exciting jazz music sure to inspire the audience.

May 20. 6-10 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-5000. $10.

nature Family Canoe Day. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Learn the basics of canoeing in one of the Chattahoochee Nature Center’s ponds. Advance registration required.

May 7 and 28. 10:30 a.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Ages 5 and older, $15.

ECOExplorers. Dunwoody Nature Center.

Children and their adult partner will explore the Nature Center in this fun, interactive class with a nature-based theme, craft, activity stations, circle time and hike. May 14. 10-11:30 a.m. Ages 2-5. 5343 Roberts Dr., Dunwoody. 770-394-3322. $12 per child.

Fernbank Forest Bird Walk. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Join Atlanta Audubon Society to discover more about the feathered inhabitants of Fernbank Forest. May 21. Sat., 8:30-11 a.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta.

404-929-6400. Pre-register. Free.

Feeding Time. Chattahoochee Nature Center.

Join a naturalist for an in-depth look at one of the resident animals as the Wildlife Dept. feeds them. Every Tuesday and Saturday.

4 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-9922055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free.

Stroller Cubs. Zoo Atlanta. Programs for babies-2 years and parents/caregivers to learn about plant-eating animals.

May 25 and 28. 10-11 a.m. 800 Cherokee Ave., Atlanta. 404-624-5822.

Reservations requested. $12 per person includes zoo admission.

Weekends in the Naturalist Center.

Fernbank Museum of Natural History.

Activities include animal encounters, science explorations and more. Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Activities included with price of admission. Adults, $18; ages 3-12, $16; ages 2 and younger, free.

Fernbank Forest Night Tour. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Join Fernbank Museum scientists on a guided tour of Fernbank Forest to experience the unique nocturnal world that awakens at dusk. May 27. Fri., 7:30-9:30 p.m. Ages 8 and older. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6400.

Pre-register. $10.

special events Fridays -N- Duluth. Downtown Duluth.

Activities include movies, musicians, and children’s activities each Friday night. May 6, 13, 20 and 27. 6-9 p.m.

Food for purchase from vendors or bring a picnic. 3167 Main St., Duluth.

770-476-3434. Free.

National Train Day for Autism. Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History. Creates a sensory friendly experience for individuals on the autism spectrum with model train layouts, puzzles, and educational activities for individuals of different ages and needs. May 7. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw.

770-427-2117. Adults, $7.50; ages 4-12, $5.50; ages 3 and younger, free.

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Family Fun Guide

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Calendar Tea With Beatrix Potter. Barrington Hall. Take in an afternoon of tea, storytelling and puppetry as popular characters from Peter Rabbit tales come to life. Includes game, take-home craft and photo ops with live bunnies. May 7. 1-3 p.m. 535 Barrington Dr., Roswell. 770-6403855. $10 per person.

Serafina and the Black Cloak Book Signing.

Barnes & Noble Alpharetta. Book signing by New York Times best selling mystery-author Robert Beatty plus giveaways, food and fun.

May 7. 2:00-5:00 p.m. 7660 North Point Pkwy., Alpharetta. 770-993-8340. Free, book available for purchase.

Cirque du Soleil: Kurios. Atlantic Station.

Step into the curio cabinet of an ambitious inventor who defies the laws of time, space and dimension in order to reinvent everything around him. Through May 8. 241 20th St., Atlanta. 877-924-7783. Tickets, $35 and up.

Decatur Lantern Parade. Parade begins at Color Wheel Studio. The Decatur night sky lights up with a parade of creatively designed batterypowered lanterns. May 13. Parade route begins at 508 Howard Ave., Decatur and ends at the Decatur Square. 404-377-0641. All ages. Free.

Endangered Species Day. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Celebrate rare plants and animals and come nose to nose with exceptional creatures while learning about conservation efforts happening throughout Georgia. May 14. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404876-5859. Fri.-Sat., Adults, $22.95; ages 3-12, $15.95; ages 2 and younger, free; Wed., Thurs., Sun., Adults, $19.95; ages 3-12, $13.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

Good Neighbor Day Airshow. DeKalb Peachtree Airport. A day of aerial activities showcases nine airshow performances including Team Aeroshell and more. Helicopter rides and biplane rides are available. Children’s activities include inflatables, airplane tours, face painting, whacky hair creations, funnel cakes and sand castles. May 14. Noon-5 p.m. 2000 Airport Rd., Atlanta. Admission, free; parking, $10; helicopter and airplane rides, $40 (must be at least 5 years old and accompanied by an adult); inflatables, $1-$2 per slide/jump.

Peachtree Junior. Piedmont Park. Lace up the running shoes and run through the park, and enjoy clinics with local Olympic athletes. Race options include a 3K fun run for kids ages 7-14, a 1/2K for ages 5-9 and 50m dash for ages 6 and younger. May 14. 8:30 a.m. Register by May 11. 1342 Worchester Dr. NE, Atlanta. 404231-9064. Registration, $10-25.

Summer Kick-Off Picnic. Newtown Park. Families who have an individual with a disability are invited to enjoy activities, music and more on the Park Place event lawn. Meal included.

Registration required. May 14. 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

3150 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek. 404-3743634. Free.

Archaeology Day. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Celebrate the new special exhibition, Creatures of Light: Nature’s Bioluminescence, with a day of family-friendly fun including crafts, hands-on activities and more. May 21. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Included with museum admission. Adults, $18; ages 3-12, $16; ages 2 and younger, free.

Backyard Campout. Swift-Cantrell Park. Enjoy camping under the night sky, along with backyard games, field activities, discovery stations, and campfire entertainment featuring professional storytelling, stargazing and s’mores. May 21. 5 p.m. 3140 Old 41 Hwy., Kennesaw. 770-424-8274. Registration fee, $20 per camp site.

Yaarab Shrine Circus and Fair. Jim R. Miller Park. Watch high-flying trapeze acts, aerials and acrobats, daredevil acts, carnival rides and more. Go to yaarabshrine.net for showtimes. May 21-30. 2245 Callaway Rd. SW, Marietta. 404-872-5818. Adults, $7; ages 10 and younger, free. Ride tickets cost extra.

Military Timeline. Atlanta History Center. Spend Memorial Day traveling the military timeline from the Revolutionary War to current conflicts.

Meet veterans who share personal stories and memorabilia from wartime and living history interpreters that engage visitors of all ages.

May 28, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; 3 and younger, free.

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Family Fun Guide

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 63

Classified Pages Marketplace C L A SSE S Tech Time Academy. Technology Learning Center for kids offering classes in coding, robotics, animation, and more! Camps and parties. 678-485-7941.

TechTimeAcademy.com

C H I LDR EN ’S B OU TIQU E

Calendar World Turtle Day. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Explore ideas and actions to help our Georgia turtles and tortoises survive and thrive. Enjoy turtle crafts and activities that emphasize the importance of Georgia turtles. May 29.

1-5 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford.

770-904-3500. Included with museum admission. Adults, $13; ages 3-12, $10; ages 2 and younger, free.

Fun, Organic, Fashion!

Beauty and the Beast. Center for Puppetry Arts

storytelling Storytime by the River. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Join the volunteer librarian as she uses books, puppets and songs to share stories about nature. Ages 3-5.

May 4. 10:30-11:30 a.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free.

Tadpole Tales. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Preschoolers will enjoy a story with a Fernbank educator along with an activity or song. May 7 and 28. 11:30 a.m.

767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300.

Free with admission. Adults, $18; ages 3-12, $16; 2 and younger, free.

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Storytime at Little Shop. Little Shop of Stories. Thurs. nights kids can come in pjs for milk and cookies. Tues. 11 a.m., Thurs. 7 p.m., and Sun. 3 p.m. 133 A East Court Sq., Decatur. 404-373-6300. Free.

Children’s Storytime. FoxTale Book Shoppe. Storytimes are followed by dance and songs. Every Sat. 11 a.m. 105 E. Main St., Woodstock. 770-516-9989.

Free.

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

Ramblers host storytelling each Sat. 1 p.m. 1050 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd., Atlanta. 404-753-7735. Adults, $9; ages 4-12, $6; ages 4 and younger, free. Price includes storytelling.

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Family Fun Guide

theater The Lion King Jr. Infinite Energy Theater.

Presented by North Metro Academy of Performing Arts. Features a colorful show of music and dance adapted from the popular animated film. May 10-11. Tues.-Wed., 7 p.m.

6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-626-2464. $11.50-$21.50.

Beauty and the Beast. Infinite Energy Theater.

Presented by Northeast Atlanta Ballet. Features colorful costumes, an enchanted castle full of dancing teacups, forks and spoons, and the French village where Belle’s story begins. May 20 and 22. Fri., 7:30 p.m.; Sun. 3 p.m. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-626-2464. $15.50-$21.50.

Beauty and the Beast. Center for Puppetry Arts.

See this contemporary adaptation of the classic fairy tale where trash is turned to treasure and true love prevails by way of a magical rose.

Through May 22. Tues.-Fri., 10 and 11:30 a.m.; Sat., noon and 2 p.m.; Sun., 1 and 3 p.m. 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 404-873-3089. $20.50; ages 2 and younger, free.

The Swan: An Ugly Duckling Tale. Center for Puppetry Arts. Audiences will be captivated by this whimsical adaptation of the classic ugly duckling story. May 24-Jun.5. Tues.-Fri., 10 and noon. Sat.,11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. Sun., 1 and 3 p.m. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404-873-3391.

Ages 2 and older, $20.50.

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Classified Pages Party

Calendar Charlotte’s Web. Serenbe Playhouse. Watch Wilbur, a charismatic young pig who wants desperately to avoid the fate of bacon and ham, and his friend Charlotte, a literate spider, create a plan in this adaptation of the classic children’s book. May 27-July 31. See serenbeplayhouse. com for show times. 10496 Serenbe Ln., Chattahoochee Hills. 770-463-1110. Adults, $20; ages 12-18, $15; ages 11 and younger, $10.

Pancakes, Pancakes! Hertz Stage at Alliance Theatre. This world premiere play features original songs and a stunning design while exploring the process of cooking and celebrating the joy in the labor and in the final feast. Adapted from Eric Carle’s iconic book of the same name. May 31-July 10.

See alliancetheatre.org for showtimes. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Adults, $15; ages 6-17, $8; ages 5 and younger, free.

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Entertainment • Great Costumes • Cartoon Characters • Princesses • Superheroes • Face Painting • Balloon Tying • Clowns • Magic

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Parties include: • Pony Rides • Petting Zoo • Play Area • Picnic Area

*reservations required

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Kid’s Party

Day Care, Mother’s Morning Out, Church Groups & Day Camp outings available

Day Out with Thomas. Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Spend the day with Thomas and Friends. Take a ride, meet Sir Topham Hatt, see authentic engines and more. April 30, May 1 and 7. Visit tvrail.com for departure times. 4119 Cromwell Rd., Chattanooga, Tenn. 866-468-7630. $21-24.

(770)

424-2287

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Alligators, Monkeys, Farm Friends and more!

Live animals of all kinds!

Hands-on, Fun, Educational

Nantahala Gorge Excursion. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Round trip train excursion to the Nantahala Gorge. Bluegrass music and storytelling during the journey. The 4½ hour trip includes a one hour layover at the Nantahala Gorge. See gsmr.com for train schedule.

Departure 10:30 a.m. 226 Everett St., Bryson City, NC. 800-872-4681. Adults, $51; ages 2-12, $29; ages 1 and younger, free. c

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fUN-O-RAMA PARTIES Glow-In-The-Dark Play Area Features:

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minigolf football soccer basketball air cannons glow-in-the-dark inflatables lighted interactive game floor

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Open Play Times

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Family Fun Guide

May 2016 Atlanta Parent 65

e h t r o f fridge Always kiss your children good night, even if they’re already asleep.

– H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

66 Atlanta Parent May 2016

atlantaparent.com

More than 50 family-friendly activities Back for our 13th year, it’s Atlanta’s favorite family festival!

October 8th, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Mercer University Atlanta Campus

Join the FUN!

Images By N’Neka and Butler Family Photography

Exhibit, Volunteer, Donate 678-222-1911 JLisvosky@atlantaparent.com

www.atlantaparent.com/familyfestival

WITH KIDS, ILLNESSES AND INJURIES HAPPEN.

THEY ALSO HAPPEN TO BE OUR SPECIALTY. Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Urgent Care Centers are open seven days a week, including holidays. And with our online scheduling, you can get in line for check-in before you leave home. For more information, visit choa.org/urgentcare or call 404-785-KIDS (5437).

Locations Children’s at Cherokee – Now Open In the River Pointe shopping center

1558 Riverstone Parkway, Canton Children’s at Forsyth In The Collection at Forsyth

410 Peachtree Pkwy., Ste. 300, Cumming

Children’s at North Point 3795 Mansell Road, Alpharetta

Children’s at Satellite Boulevard 2660 Satellite Blvd., Duluth

Children’s at Hudson Bridge In the Hudson Bridge Crossing shopping center

1510 Hudson Bridge Road, Stockbridge

Children’s at Town Center 625 Big Shanty Road NW, Kennesaw

Urgent Care Hours Weekday hours: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Weekend hours: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.

©2016 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

If you think your child’s illness or injury is life-threatening, call 911. We accept walk-in patients during business hours. Hours may be affected by unanticipated circumstances. Visit choa.org/urgentcare for real-time updates.

Holiday hours: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.