Don’t Miss Atlanta Parent’s Family Block Party, Oct. 12
Parent Atlanta’s No. 1 Parenting Magazine
atlanta
atlantaparent.com / October 2013
3O YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT
Timeless Ideas for Halloween Fun Things Parents Can’t Live Without Atlanta Bloggers Worth a Read Like Us on FACEBOOK
www.nannypoppinz.com 678-608-2769
www.gallowayschool.org 404-252-8389
www.danceandarts.com 770-934-5010
www.LegacyAcademy.com
circuscamp.org 404-370-0001
MOVE FOR MOMS! 5K/1K
www.riverviewcamp.com 256-634-4043
www.dyslexiadash.com info@idaga.org
www.dsaatl.org 404-320-3233
www.littlelanguagellc.com 251-610-7968
pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/ buckhead
www.rispa.net
404-963-5612
www.daculamontessorischool.com.
www.moveformoms.com
770-277-3950
678-904-1968
678-620-3500
www.jewishpreschoolatl.com 404-872-8668
www.westcobbchristian.org 770-359-8754
www.beautifulbraces.com
www.oliveyounanny.com
770-619-1776
404-403-9773
casamontessori.com 770-973-2731
www.DanceTheatre.net 678-705-8421
www.peachtreeparkprep.com
www.MisterGreggy.com
www.allternativegym.com
404-452-4620
678-945-4662
Children’s Academy of Northlake
childrensacademyonline.net 404-325-3683
www.footnotesdance.net 770-992-5026
www.harbouroaks.org 770-979-8900
www.cloverleafschool.org 404-474-3904
my ClaygrounD www.myclayground.com 770-998-2983
Auntie Kris’ Scholar’s Academy Summer Camp & Afterschool Program
TONYBRISCHLER.COM 678-817-0169
www.thescholaracademy.com 770-895-7444
www.flair.com 321-723-3211
4 Atlanta Parent    October 2013
atlantaparent.com
Inside 3 O October Vol. 30 Number 10
YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT
Features 10
22
30 Years of Atlanta Parent
Did you know the first edition of the magazine in 1983 was called Capers for Kids? Publisher Liz White reflects on the past, and the future, of the magazine.
Atlanta’s Best Bloggers
When it comes to parents who blog, the metro area has some of the best. They help moms and dads find deals, cook dinner, get crafty, and find a sense of humor when disasters strike.
30
Parents’ Survival Kit
32
A Halloween with High Spirits
Atlanta parents list the 30 things they can’t live without – the essential gear, toys, snacks and parental and online support.
Put spooky fun and games into the day with these 30 ideas, from easy “Witch’s Hat” treats to a “pin the teeth on the vampire” game.
38
Get That Homework Done!
Use these strategies to get your child back on track when he’s procrastinating or feels overwhelmed with his assignments.
Departments 8 Editor’s Note
12 News You Can Use 14 The Frugal Family 30 Ways to Save
26 Up Close & Personal:
Spotlight on Businesses Special Advertising Section
74 Humor in the House
30 Signs You Live in Atlanta
Family Fun Guide 45 46
Try It: Parkour Three Exhibits
47
Don’t miss Atlanta Parent magazine’s annual Family Block Party. Saturday, October 12 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Mercer University’s Atlanta Campus. INSIDE: OUR FESTIVAL PULLOUT GUIDE
Magazine Association of the Southeast
2013 Award Winner
Free Fun:
At the Library
49
Come out for All-Day Family Fun!
Not-to-Miss Events
Eating Out:
Mexican Restaurant Roundup
53
Playground: Atlantic Station
54
Halloween Happenings
62
October Calendar
69
Fall Festivals & Fairs
Like us on Facebook; facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine
HELPING FAMILIES
THROUGH CRISIS
SHIVER HAMILTON – SERIOUS INJURY ATTORNEYS, WITH A PARTICULAR FOCUS ON PEDIATRIC INJURIES. Atlanta’s Award-Winning Parenting Publication PUBLISHER Liz White
lwhite@atlantaparent.com ASSOCIATE Laura Powell PUBLISHER lpowell@atlantaparent.com
BUSINESS Amy Smith DEVELOPMENT asmith@atlantaparent.com MANAGER ACCOUNT Julia Sparks EXECUTIVES jsparks@atlantaparent.com
Jennifer Fogel jfogel@atlantaparent.com
Helping put your family back together drives everything we do. When facing a life-changing injury or death caused by the negligence or fault of another, you need a skilled and compassionate advocate.
shiverhamilton.com
404-593-0020
Recognized as “Legal Elite” by Georgia Trend Georgia Super Lawyers “Rising Stars” Recognized as Top 40 Under 40 Trial Lawyers
SPECIAL EVENTS & Jordan Lisvosky DIGITAL SALES jlisvosky@atlantaparent.com COORDINATOR ASSOCIATE Dalia Faupel EDITOR
CONTRIBUTING Amanda Miller Allen EDITOR
EDITORIAL Sheri Taylor-Emery ART DIRECTOR creative@atlantaparent.com
Does your child have Asthma???
EDITORIAL Robin Mintz PRODUCTION rmintz@atlantaparent.com ARTIST
OPERATIONS Caroline Ward MANAGER cward@atlantaparent.com MARKETING MOM Felicia Barman
SPECIAL EVENTS Courtney Carter INTERN EDITORIAL INTERN Kelli Richardson
Sign Up For Our e-Newsletter at AtlantaParent.com
Consider volunteering for a clinical research study conducted at Emory University. This clinical trial is for children 1- 5 years of age, who suffer from wheezing. We are trying to see which asthma medication works best for preschool children. You may be asked to participate for as long as 12 months in this study. The study will also determine the best pain reliever/fever reducer for preschool children with asthma symptoms.
Qualified participants will receive at no charge:
• Asthma medications • Pulmonary Evaluation • Physical Exam • Compensation for time and travel Contact Emory AsthmaNet Study Coordinators for more information:
Jennifer Dodds 404-727-5176 • jcdodds@emory.edu Denise Whitlock 404-712-1773 • drwhitl@emory.edu 6 Atlanta Parent October 2013
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Atlanta Parent magazine is published monthly by Atlanta Parent, Inc., 2346 Perimeter Park Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30341. Telephone 770-454-7599, Fax 770-454-7699. Atlanta Parent magazine is available free of charge at more than 1,000 locations throughout the metro Atlanta area. First class subscription only $30 per year. Subscription orders must include check or money order made out to Atlanta Parent magazine. Atlanta Parent magazine welcomes letters, articles, artwork and photographs from its readers and the community. Atlanta Parent magazine is not responsible for the return of unsolicited materials. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part, is prohibited without written permission.
© Atlanta Parent, Inc. 2013
atlantaparent.com
ItFigures by Cynthia Washam
Trick or Trivia 45
Acres in Matt and Mark Cooley’s Dixon, Calif., corn maze, considered the world’s largest
Sometimes the girls need a lifT...
More than 70
Number of cities in the U.S. holding Green Halloween events
FREE
30,128
Number of lit Jack O’Lanterns displayed at a 2006 pumpkin festival in Boston
Consultation
4,522
Number of people dressed as zombies who attended the world’s largest gathering of living dead wannabes, in 2011 in Seattle: 4,522
A portion of proceeds from all breast augmentations during October will be donated to the Susan G. Komen Foundation
$2,500
Amount champion carver Ray Villafane of Arizona makes for a giving a pumpkin-carving demonstration
12
Hours it can take him to create one of his finely detailed, carved, pumpkin faces
Safety Snippets 47
Percent of home safety hazards that parents of 1- to 3-year-olds identified in a study
29
Visit Website for Details • • • • • • •
ACTUAL PATIENT
Read Dr. Mark Deutsch’s Credentials See Before and After Pictures Mommy Makeover Details Liposuction, Tummy Tucks Breast Implants Injectables Facial Plastic Surgery
Patient - Before
Patient - After
Percent of hazards health-care professionals identified
30
Percent overall drop in accidental deaths among children and adolescents since 2000
20
Percent increase since 2007 in children treated for accidental drug overdoses
5
Minutes a cap must keep 85 percent of 5-year-olds from opening a bottle in order to be considered “child-proof” Sources: Coolpatchpumpkins.com, Greenhalloween.org, Science World, WSJ.com, sdmcdonalds.com, Nation’s Restaurant News, Consumer Health News, Redbook
atlantaparent.com
Mark F. Deutsch, MD, FACS
Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
(770) 461-4824
Atlanta/Fayetteville
www.perimeterplasticsurgery.com
Big or Small Save Them All October 2013 Atlanta Parent 7
Editor’s Note Chapters Yet to Write in Atlanta Parent’s History Atlanta Parent exists today in part because I was born. My mom, Liz White, started this magazine at home on our dining room table so she could spend more time with me (and there might have been some bills to pay, too). The story could have ended there, with a failed attempt at starting a magazine. But if you know mom, you’d know that would never happen. Some of the magazine’s 30-year history is a blur to me. I do remember our dining room taken over by a massive orange desk-size computer, layout boards and stacks of magazines. Once we moved the business into an actual office, my parents spent late nights blow drying ads on paste boards as I slept on the roll-away. One of my first jobs at the magazine, as a middle schooler, was cleaning the bathrooms, vacuuming the floors and emptying the trash. At one of our offices on Cheshire Bridge Road, near the now-closed Varsity Jr., Dad and I would walk over for a hotdog when he needed a break (or maybe Mom needed a break). In 2005, I became a real employee at Atlanta Parent, Dad and I began our lunch dates again. I like to say, working at Atlanta Parent, I have taken the Waffle House approach, as have many awesome Atlanta Parent employees and volunteers over the years. I’ve done anything and everything, including (but not limited to!) writing stories, selling advertising, organizing special events, delivering the magazine, and making lifelong friendships with co-workers, readers and advertisers. I’ve never known a world without Atlanta Parent, without a list of fun places to go and things to do in and around Atlanta. We hope to keep Atlanta Parent on your must-read list as we move forward with exciting ways to share what’s happening in Atlanta for families, and information on schools, camps, baby gear and tips on what to expect when your child hits the middle and high school years. Now that I have children of my own – Elliot, 2½, and Eleanor, 7 months – I appreciate even more the moments I have to flip through the magazine and follow Atlanta Parent online for cool ideas. As we embark on our next 30 years, the magazine and all its publications – print and digital – we’ll face many joys and challenges. But, I know, for sure, the biggest challenge will be to stretch past our comfort zones and remain relevant and engaging to our loyal readers. I promise, we won’t let you down. Please promise me you’ll let us know how we’re doing.
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.
8 Atlanta Parent October 2013
atlantaparent.com
3O YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT For three decades, Alanta Parent magazine has provided valuable parenting information to metro-Atlanta families. Our goal is to serve as your trusted guide as you move from the joys of new parenthood to the challenges of raising teens. We celebrate this milestone and look forward to serving parents for generations to come. atlantaparent.com
October 2013    Atlanta Parent 9
3O YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT
A Conversation with Publisher Liz White
O
On Oct. 1, 1983, Atlanta Parent publisher Liz White and her late husband Mark produced their first eight-page newsletter called Capers for Kids, on an electric typewriter from their kitchen table and supported by four advertisers. 5,000 copies were printed and distributed free to family-friendly locations, hand-delivered by the couple. n That humble beginning evolved into a family-owned business that includes the monthly Atlanta Parent; six annual publications; local events including the Family Block Party festival and Camp Expos; a weekly e-newsletter; a website, atlantaparent.com, and social media. n Daughter Laura Powell joined the business in 2005, and is now associate publisher. The staff has grown to 12 full- and part-timers and 100,000 copies of the magazine are delivered each month. n Much has changed in 30 years, but Atlanta Parent’s core mission has stayed the same: A resource for parents for fun things to do with their kids and for parenting advice on tough issues all families face. We asked White to talk about the past, and the future, of Atlanta Parent.
10 Atlanta Parent October 2013
Liz and Mark at
the Atlanta Paren t office on Ches hire Bridge in the
mid ‘80s.
Q: What was the catalyst for you to start a parenting publication? What did you hope to accomplish? A: The catalyst was having my own baby girl and getting excited about fun things to do with her. I realized there was no central source of information for parents available at that time. I read about a magazine called Seattle Child and sent off $1 for a copy, and when it finally arrived six months later, I thought I could do that. I also wanted to stay home with Laura. At the time I started, there weren’t as many opportunities to work from home, and I didn’t even know publishing, so it didn’t start out as a career for me. Q: What was the parenting climate like in Atlanta at that time? A: There were not nearly as many opportunities for families. We have so many more museums, kids classes, children’s entertainment venues, children’s shops, many more parks and playgrounds today. There was no technology then, no instant access to all that information. As a new parent, you were more dependent on your family, friends, and professionals for information. Q. Who was your first advertiser? A: The four advertisers in that issue were Children’s Book and Gift Mart, Yellow River Wildlife Game Ranch, Williamsburg Bookstore, and Make a Wish gift shop. Of our current advertisers, Sweet Repeats, a consignment store, has been with us the longest, advertising since our third issue.
Q: Can you talk about the evolution of the magazine
over the years? A: More dads are reading the magazine today. When we started, it was almost exclusively moms. Dads were just beginning to become involved, sharing more parenting duties in the early 1980s. Atlanta Parent has always been about delivering information, whether in a monthly publication, the annual guides, our online publications or our events, such as Camp Expo and Block Party. We’ve gone from taking the print magazine and just putting it online, to posting fresh stories and events on the website and using our online presence to connect with readers. atlantaparent.com
Q: A popular feature of the magazine is the Cover Kids contest. When did it begin, and how many entries did you have that year? A: Atlanta Parent has had kids on the cover since the 1980s, but the first Cover Kids contest winners were announced in 1997. One of the things I love about Cover Kids is it gives parents a chance to test the waters and see if their child is a natural model. Every parent wants their child on the cover, and we’ve received thousands of entries over the years. In the beginning, we interviewed each child face-to-face. Now, the Cover Kids finalists are chosen from photos, with judges interviewing and selecting the final six. Q: What do today’s parents do better than the parents of your generation? A: They are better at balancing work and family life, and putting an emphasis on family. Many of today’s parents are much more aware that they need to seize the moment and not miss out on any stage of their child’s life. All parents want what’s best for their children.
Their goal is for their children to grow up and be happy, healthy, responsible adults. We hope we help them do that.
www.childrensmuseumatlanta.org
Q: What can today’s parents learn from your generation? A: They need to realize they are the parent, not their child’s best friend, and that means learning to say “no” when a request is not in their child’s best interests. They need to let their children fail sometimes, because they won’t always be around to rescue them. Sept. 28, 2013 Jan.12, 2014
Q: What do you hope parents
get out of reading Atlanta Parent publications? A: All parents want what’s best for their children. Their goal is for their children to grow up and be happy, healthy, responsible adults. We hope we help them do that. The parents who read us today are the daughters and sons of the parents who picked up Atlanta Parent in the early years, and they’re connecting with us in print and online. When you think of all the families we’ve influenced and hopefully helped to do a better job, whether in parenting or just finding fun things to do with their kids, it’s pretty amazing. c atlantaparent.com
Moneyville was created by The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. MONEYOPOLIS is a registered trademark of Ernst & Young. The MONEYVILLE trademark is used under license.
Presented Locally By
Major funding for this organization is provided by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners under the guidance of FCAC.
October 2013 Atlanta Parent 11
News You Can Use
by Amanda Allen
Snapshot of a Modern Dad 84 percent
of dads consider themselves “involved”
63 percent
manage the bath-time routine
61 percent
say family comes before work
58 percent
go to doctor’s appointments
*According to a joint survey by BabyCenter.com and Men’s Health magazine of 1,319 parents, including 559 fathers.
Hiking for Cause, and Fun Tell your children to take a hike on Nov. 2, and plan to go with them. The National Wildlife Federation’s third annual Hide & Seek is nationwide hike/scavenger hunt activity that aims to get children more in touch with nature and to raise money. Atlanta’s event will begin at noon at Piedmont Park. Along the 1.5-mile trail (ADA and stroller accessible), families will find a scavenger hunt, nature games and crafts, wildlife displays, naturalists, and the chance to meet Ranger Rick. Online registration for the event costs $12 adults and $7 children, age 17 and younger. Day of event registration is $15 and $9. Participants are encouraged to raise $100 for the NWF’s outdoors programs, but fundraising is not required to attend. Find more information at nfw.org/hike-and-seek.aspx
New Water Park at Six Flags
Hurricane season will take on new meaning when Six Flags Over Georgia opens its tropically-themed water park, Hurricane Harbor, in May. The water attraction will include an 800,000 gallon wave pool, a multi-slide tower, a “world’s first” single ride tower with two extreme slide thrills, and a children’s water play area. You’ll also find new food choices, shopping and shade. Hurricane Harbor is free with Six Flags admission or a season pass. Season passes for 2014 are on sale now and include admission to Fright Fest 2013. Find more information at sixflags.com/overgeorgia.
An App That Needs No Tweak
A cool new phone app and website, tweekaboo.com, lets you create a diary/photo album on your smartphone or the website, and the best part is, it’s free. You can snap photos and write captions, or just capture your thoughts about a moment, and upload to your Tweekaboo Diary. Invite your partner to join, and you both can add to the diary and view all its contents. You can keep the content private or share parts of it, or all of it, with your family and friends. Use Tweekaboo to save and date photos, and track milestones such as birthdays or first day of school. It’s always available to see on your phone or the website.
12 Atlanta Parent October 2013
Don’t Forget the Sunscreen Summer’s over, but children will be enjoying lots of outdoor play into October, still soaking up some harmful UVA and UVB rays. Pediatricians and dermatologists say children and adults should all be using sunscreen daily, even in winter, to prevent skin cancer and premature aging of the skin. Look for products that contain physicianrecommended titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, or both, as active ingredients to protect against UVA and UVB rays. For more on sunscreen, visit atlantaparent.com.
atlantaparent.com
the
frugalfamily “A penny saved is a penny earned,” Ben Franklin once said. In an economy where every cent counts, here are some ways to help those pennies add up.
3O
10 11
WAYS TO SAVE
12
These great tips from the past 30 years of Atlanta Parent have stood the test of time. Can you tell which decade each tip came from?
1 2 3 4
Live Below Your Means:
Subtract 10 percent from whatever you think you can spend. If the bank approves a $200,000 home loan, plan to spend no more than $180,000.
Go with a Group: Ask about
group rates at arenas, theaters and attractions and save 20 percent or more on admission.
Find Free Events: Atlanta has hundreds of free or low-cost familyfriendly events every month; check Atlanta Parent’s calendar for listings. Visit Museums for Free: Many museums have a free admission morning or afternoon; check the museum’s website for free dates.
14 Atlanta Parent October 2013
9
5 6 7 8
13 Buy an Arts Card: You’ll receive discounts on admission to more than 25 museums and theaters for your $20 annual fee. Information at artscard.com. Save on Movies: Have a movie night with popcorn popped the old-fashioned way at pennies per serving. Check out films at the library or rent them at Red Box or through Netflix. Save on Movies II: See the
latest blockbuster for less – eat lunch to reduce snack purchases, then take the kids to the matinee.
Get in the Swing: Tree swings cost a lot less than swing sets. Find a selection at treeswings.org.
Get Power Credit from Georgia Power: Let the
company install a regulating switch on your air conditioner and get $20 credit, plus $2 every time the switch is activated during peak summer use.
Install a Programmable Thermostat: Don’t pay to
heat and cool your home when you’re not there. Also, lower the temperature on your hot water heater.
Use the Grill: Decrease
oven use and keep the kitchen cool in summer, plus save time by grilling more than one meal for the week and reheating it in the microwave.
Check Websites:
You’ll often find discounts for ordering tickets in advance for entertainment or a destination.
Save on Hairstyling:
Get an inexpensive or free cut, perm or color from a student at a cosmetology school (work is supervised by a licensed hair stylist).
14
Put a Low Price on Beauty: Buy inexpensive
15
Stretch Your Food Budget: Always plan what
16
brands of cosmetics and shampoos, which often work fine. Many drug stores will allow you to return products you don’t like for a refund or store credit.
you’ll serve during the week, go grocery shopping with a list, and don’t go hungry to the store.
Grow a Frugal Garden:
Start plants from seed and get free mulch from a tree service operating in your neighborhood. atlantaparent.com
17 18 19 20
Use Coupons:
Save food coupons by categories or by expiration date, then put them in a recycled envelope as you make out your grocery list; even casual use will save 10 percent or more on a grocery bill.
21
Find Consignment Savings: Shop stores or semi-
22
Use Your Library Card:
Try Store Brands:
These products are less expensive and you often can’t detect any difference in quality.
Buy in Season:
23
Save on Travel:
24
Berries are cheaper in spring and summer; when the price climbs, buy frozen.
Find a deal on a destination, then figure out when you’ll go there, instead of picking a popular destination and paying a premium price.
atlantaparent.com
25
annual consignment sales for children’s clothing, toys and books, and take your child’s gently used items to sell.
Read books, magazines or newspapers, or check out CDs and DVDs for free; also check out a free parking pass for Georgia State Parks.
26 27 28
Start a Gift Closet: Dedicate a closet or shelf for gift-giving occasions and buy holiday, birthday and other gifts on sale throughout the year.
29
Join a Car Pool: Whether commuting to work or taking the kids to school, you’ll save gas money and time by using HOV lanes.
30
Check Into Teleworking: Work from home one day a week or more, if possible, for fewer car repairs and gas savings.
Check Car Insurance: If you overestimated the miles you drive each year, have a low deductible, pay for duplicate medical coverage or have collision coverage on an older car, you can find savings. Walk When You Can: Leave the car behind for short trips and bike or walk. Frame it Yourself: Instead of
paying to frame an artwork or photo, do it yourself with material from an arts supply store.
Wrap Up Savings: The newspaper comics section makes a festive wrapping for presents, or recycle wrapping paper from gifts your children receive. Use Cheap Labor: Offer to pay
your kids for jobs that would otherwise cost you more – car washing, garage cleaning, window washing, lawn mowing and gardening. A bonus: They’ll learn earning a dollar isn’t easy and they’ll be more aware of how they spend it. c
October 2013 Atlanta Parent 15
16 Atlanta Parent    October 2013
atlantaparent.com
Atlanta Parent’s
family block party Saturday, Oct. 12 / 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Mercer University Atlanta Campus
festival pullout guide 2013
SPONSORS:
STAGE SPONSOR:
Atlanta Parents Love Block Party!
“
For a toddler, it’s equivalent to Disney World, but you don’t have to go broke or pack! So much fun!! – Christy Duhon Bissell We drive 45 miles every year, the kids love it. – Lisa McClure
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12 10 am - 4 pm
~ Festival Pullout Guide ~
Mercer University • Atlanta Campus l Don’t forget to take a stroll to Trick-or-Treat Street, where you can indulge on tasty treats provided by SweetWorks. l Don’t miss Atlanta’s young stars! Winners from our Talent Showdown perform on the main stage and finalists are in our children’s performance area. l Watch a live parrot show on the Block Party stage, courtesy of Parrot Productions, then hold a parrot and pose for a photo with your new friend. l And don’t miss these cool activities from Family Block Party’s beneficiaries: explore your senses and visit the sensory station provided by Autism Speaks; enjoy a puppet show with The Center for Children and Young Adults; make a hope bracelet with the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy, and learn about safety do’s and don’ts with Safe Kids Georgia.
Buy Tickets Online!
1 OFF
$
Use promo code: earlybirdfbp Purchase at familyblockparty.com
Great family fun for all ages that does not break the bank!! – Brandice Abrams Always an awesome time with so much for the whole family to enjoy in one place! My kids love playing the games and visiting all the booths! AP goes all out to make it bigger and better every year! Looking forward to it! – Sharie Poulin Bassett Great fun for the entire family. My children did not want to leave. – Marteeta Cannon Spradling It is so much fun! My son loved the bounce houses and all the fun activities that they had for children. Especially the model train that was set up in the eating area! – Katrina Lind Rucker We happily travel 30 miles to Block Party. – Marlene Suarez Estorino Awesome event. – April Redding-Jackson
”
Join the conversation on Facebook and tell us why you love Block Party!
ADMISSION: $5 per person children 2 & younger FREE Paid admission includes three activity tickets Cash only the day of the festival
SKIP THE LINES! BUY YOUR TICKETS ONLINE
2013 Family Block Party Map Northwest Parking
www.familyblockparty.com Save $1 online with promo code: earlybirdfbp
Toddler Play Zone DeKalb County Police Dept.
Big Wheels Stop
Two Men and a Truck
Food Vendors
Tickets
Bubble Celebration
Exhibitors Restrooms
Musical Petting Zoo
Mask Making
Bee Keeping Pony Hops
Pilot Puppet Show
Zoo Atlanta
Face Painting
Tickets
G.E.E.A.R.S. Performance Stage Hope Bracelet Making
Scavenger Hunt
West Entrance
East Parking
Teddy Bear Hospital
Photo Booth Trick or Treat Street
Atlanta Hawks
Girls Scouts of Greater Atlanta
Sam’s Path Camel Rides
Atlanta Falcons Cheerleaders
G.E.E.A.R.S Big Thinkers
We s t Parking
Friendly Frights
Storytelling Stage
Performance Area
Pumpkin Treasures
Young Audiences Hat Making Center for Puppetry Arts
Wheel of Fortune
Atlanta Braves
PLUS MUCH MORE! Activities subject to change. Map not to scale.
Sam’s Path Ponies
Train Rides
East Entrance
Proceeds will benefit:
www.atlantaparent.com Go online for entertainment schedule
770-454-7599
~ Festival Pullout Guide ~
The Little Red Barn Mobile Petting Farm
Duck Pond
Crafty Camp Activities
Family Block Party 2013 Performance Schedule: Main Stage Sponsored by G.E.E.A.R.S
11:00 a.m Kidazzl 11:30 a.m
Alma Mexicana
12:00 p.m.
Parrot Productions
12:50 p.m.
Atlanta Belly and Salsa
1:30 p.m.
Big Thinkers Science Show
2:00 p.m.
Kim Armstrong
2:35 p.m.
Talent Showdown Winners: Born to Sing and diPA Tour Team
2:55 p.m.
Mama Koku
3:30 p.m.
Little Beat Music featuring DJ Willy Wow
DJ services provided by Little Beat Music. Plus, don’t miss performances by Atlanta Ballet and Dance and Arts Showcase and our Talent Showdown finalists: Soleil, Bethany Bell, Georgia Dance Alliance:Nyla and Sebastian, The YoYo Dude, Bella Yantis, Abbey Kochman & Dudley Merriam, Tre Rice, Nu Star Maker Jewanda Lanier, and Zemirah & Amauriah Davis in our Children’s Performance area. **schedule and performers are subject to change
Storytelling 11:00 a.m.
Rockin Finance
11:30 a.m.
Wren’s Nest- Curtis Richardson
12:00 p.m.
Southern Order of Storytelling
12:30 p.m.
Bowtie Brownlee
1:00 p.m.
Lawrenceville Ghost Tours
1:30 p.m.
Mama Koku
2:00-3:00 p.m. Therapy Dogs International 3:00 p.m.
Rosemary, The Story Lady
**schedule and performers are subject to change
Directions to MERCER UNIVERSITY Atlanta Campus 3114 Mercer University Dr., Atlanta, GA 30341 Traveling north on I-85 From downtown Atlanta, take Exit 94 and turn RIGHT onto Chamblee-Tucker Road. At the second traffic light, turn RIGHT onto Mercer University Drive. Turn RIGHT onto Mercer Lane (campus entrance). Traveling south on I-85 From outside the perimeter, take Exit 94 and turn LEFT onto Chamblee-Tucker Road. At the third traffic light, turn RIGHT onto Mercer University Drive. Turn RIGHT onto Mercer Lane (campus entrance). Traveling on I-285 north/west Take Exit 34 and turn LEFT onto Chamblee-Tucker Road. Proceed for 1.2 miles, then turn LEFT onto Mercer University Drive. Turn RIGHT onto Mercer Lane (campus entrance). Traveling on I-285 east Head towards the I-85 S exit, following the Chamblee Tucker signs. Take the Chamblee-Tucker Road exit, turn RIGHT onto Chamblee-Tucker Road. Proceed for 1.2 miles, then turn LEFT onto Mercer University Drive. Turn RIGHT onto Mercer Lane (campus entrance).
atlantaparent.com
October 2013    Atlanta Parent 21
Parents Who Blog
in Atlanta
Atlanta Parent’s
Best Local Blogs With a taste of what to expect when you visit…
by Courtney Sirotin
A
large and growing number of moms and dads are blogging their hearts out in Atlanta, and they’re creating a goldmine of resources for local parents. Reporting from the front lines of parenting, the bloggers in our community have the inside scoop on everything from ways to save money at your neighborhood grocery store to unique date night excursions in and around Atlanta. Parenting blogs are nothing new, but you might be surprised by how impressive our local blogging community has become. Our bloggers are being recognized on local and national levels for the creative, heartfelt and useful content they put forth on a daily basis. Motherhood Uncensored, Cool Mom Picks and Cool Mom Tech, for instance, have put author Kristen Chase on numerous top blog lists, and she’s made appearances on The Today Show, CNN and CBS Atlanta. Toulouse & Tonic author Suzanne Fleet is in the 10 Ten Humor Blogs at topmommyblogs.com, and has a following that regularly checks in for a good laugh. Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta has partnered with a number of metro bloggers in its Mom-to-Mom Blogger program and features them on its website. “We recognized the tremendous value key mom bloggers have in sharing parenting advice,” says Patty Gregory, manager of public relations for CHOA. “Ultimately, our audiences are similar – parents looking for expert advice to help them along the journey of parenthood,” she says. Atlanta bloggers cover it all – some blogs are service oriented (deals on baby supplies and gear, coupons for discounts on food and products), some are therapeutic (sharing common parenting problems), some focus on family entertainment, some on finding humor in family life and some are just online diaries of a family. While the slant of each blog may be different, they all have one thing in common: surviving and celebrating the mayhem of parenthood. Laura Mayes, who blogs at thequeso.com and is co-founder of the Mom 2.0 Summit, a conference for top mom bloggers that will meet in Atlanta this May, says parenting blogs bring a new voice for families. “It’s an important voice and a present-tense connection,” she says. “When you think about it, we are the first generation that has the tools to record our experiences in this way.”
n Atlanta
Green Mom
atlantagreenmom.com
“I’m making a commitment, just as soon as the blackberry sorbet bars are finished, to rid my house of as much sugar as possible. “ n Atlanta
on the Cheap
atlantaonthecheap.com
“Watching the Braves play doesn’t have to be expensive. Discount tickets and coupon codes are available for most Braves games, and fans have the option of bringing their own food & nonalcoholic beverages with them to Turner Field.”
Cont’d on page 24
22 Atlanta Parent October 2013
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n Baby
Cheapskate
n Modge
babycheapskate.com
“There are always little sales going around the cloth diaper world; a little off this brand over here, a percentage off that brand over there. All in all I have to say that Nicki’s Diapers is definitely one of the best for having the most amount of those small deals going on at one time.” n Daddy
Mojo
daddymojo.net
“A four-year-old is kind of like a lawyer who lives by their own laws and has a poor short term memory.”
“… I am hosting a play group at my house. There will be about 15 kids running around (eek!), and I honestly had no idea what project I was going to have available for them to do… painted bangles are the perfect solution to my poor planning!”
n I
n Toulouse
am a Mess
“We went out for dinner but for me it was more like going to the gym because I spent the whole meal using all of my muscles to try to contain Dylan in the booth. He was wired and literally climbing the walls.”
Mom
jollymom.com
with Sue
fieldtripswithsue.com
“The Dragon Con Parade is definitely the best parade I’ve ever seen. It doesn’t matter how old you are or even if you’re a Sci-Fi fan, there is something for everyone here.”
atlantaparent.com
and Tonic
toulouseandtonic.com
iamamess.com
n Jolly
n Fieldtrips
Podge Rocks
modpodgerocksblog.com
“If you’re having trouble meeting all your monthly bills, use your wipes warmer as a bill popup. Put them inside in random order and then pull one out to pay. By the next day, the rest of the bills will have magically disappeared (or turned into one lump of unreadable paper – whatevs).”
“A really fun and easy craft project parents can do with their kids is Sand Bottle Art … it’s the perfect activity for beach vacations, but it can also be done year round at home.” n Motherhood
Uncensored
motherhooduncensored.net
“The beach and I are synced up like high school girls apparently because every time I go, I have my period.”
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Blogger Honor Roll
Parents Who Blog in Atlanta
It was tough to make this list of blogs! Go online for even more local blogs: atlantaparent. com/article/detail/3025
l buckheadmommy.com l cincomom.com l couponsaregreat.net l jamonkey.com
Here’s how some local blogs are impacting the lives of Atlanta’s parents:
Home Improvement and Crafts
l janasthinkingplace.com l journeytojosie.com l kidneysandeyes.com l leslielovesveggies.net l mamaliciousmaria.blogspot.com
Trey Burley, a stay-at-home dad who writes at daddymojo.net, has a feature on his blog called Naptime DIY in which he shares simple home improvement projects that can be done during naptimes. Blogs are also a goldmine for craft and playtime ideas that will keep you and your children stimulated on rainy days stuck inside. Amy Anderson, at modpodgerocks. com, has hundreds of craft ideas using Mod Podge, a glue and sealer product.
Entertainment and Heartfelt Help l reallyareyouserious.com l richsinglemomma.com l sojournermarablegrimmett.blogspot.com l thebizymommy.com
l thebluebirdpatch.com l thedivinemissmommy.com l turningclockback.com
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Families are always looking for ways to get out of the house with the kids to experience new things and, let’s be honest, to try to wear them out. Sue Rodman, who blogs at fieldtripswithsue.com, researches and shares plenty of things to do with kids in and around metro Atlanta and the Southeast. The best thing about learning about a new activity from a blogger is that he or she is bound to give you practical details, such as the availability of changing tables or shade at a new park or how much cash you need on hand at a certain splash pad. A number of local blogs offer first person accounts and insights into dealing with specific health issues in the family, from the special considerations of a premature baby to congenital heart disease and autism. Many parents gather information from these blogs and bring specific and insightful questions and treatment ideas to their health care providers. A blog written by Nicole Pope at journeytojosie.com chronicles the adoption
of Pope’s two children, one of whom has a rare heart condition. The blog is an inspirational read with helpful information for parents in a similar situation.
Saving Money and Going Green Blogs are a great resource for saving money, especially when they have information specific to the stores in your area. Blogger Leandrea created the site couponsaregreat.net to help Atlanta families save money one coupon at a time, and by showcasing local deals on groceries, restaurants, crafts, clothing and more. Angie Wynne, at babycheapskate.com, pulls together great deals on all things baby. Another blogger, Jennifer Maciejewski, focuses on free and cheap activities and other deals for families, at atlantaonthecheap.com.
The best thing about learning about a new activity from a blogger is that he or she is bound to give you practical details, such as the availability of changing tables or shade at a new park or how much cash you need on hand at a certain splash pad. With the help of Atlanta Green Mom, it’s easier than ever to go green in Atlanta. The blog at atlantagreenmom.com written by Titania Jordan gathers research about everything green and health-related in Atlanta. atlantaparent.com
“I like to let people know that there’s a really awesome green presence in Atlanta and there are healthier choices and healthier alternatives to the conventional way that people do things here,” Jordan says. Anna Margaret Woods has been following Jordan’s blogs for over a year and values the information she receives. “Titania simplifies for me what I need to be doing. I’m very impressionable; if I read one article on the Internet about how sunscreen is harmful, I will obsess over it. Titania helps narrow down the things I really need to be concerned about,” Woods says.
Laughing at Parenting Sometimes parents just need a good laugh. Suzanne Fleet, at toulouseandtonic. com, is known for her sarcastic wit and, as she jokes on her website, “Making my kids hate me one post at a time.” “Writing is my passion and humor is what keeps me going,” she says. “I bring those two things together on my blog and, through it, get to connect with other people.” Fellow mother and blogger, Kathy Radigan, reads the blog for comic relief. “I find Suzanne’s combination of humor, heart and snark really entertaining. I think she captures the mix of feelings that motherhood and marriage bring up for
today’s educated mom,” Radigan says. There’s a misconception that bloggers are antisocial types that prefer hiding behind their computer screens to having social interactions. The 300 parenting bloggers in Georgia called the Georgia Social Media Society gather together at events as often as their parenting schedules allow to learn trade secrets, best practices, blog development ideas and, most importantly, grow friendships. Veteran blogger Krystyn Hall started reallyareyouserious.com in 2005, back when keeping personal blogs on the Internet was a fairly new trend. Hall was surprised by the community she found through blogging. “I’ve started going to more conferences and getting together with other bloggers and people really like to help each other out. I’ve even made several real-life friends through blogging and it’s really rewarding.” The collective power of parenting blogs can be credited to the simple and honest connections that form between readers and writers. As you can see, whatever your parenting style or situation, there’s sure to be a voice in our community offering valuable information to you. c Sirotin’s blog, I Am A Mess, chronicles a mother’s search to find order and happiness in her disorganized life.
7 Tips for New Bloggers Blogging expert and Mom 2.0 co-founder, Laura Mayes, shares her top tips for creating a successful blog.
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The best way to start a parenting blog is to start one. We over think these things in our quest to be perfect. It won’t be perfect; it’s not supposed to be, just start it. There are a lot of platforms; I’ve found Wordpress to be the easiest and most flexible. Think about what you want your blog to be and then make it that. For example, My friend Gabrielle wanted an intersection of motherhood and design, so she started Design Mom. That said, let your blog evolve as it needs to. If you change over the years, your blog might need to change too.
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Decide on a name that makes sense. I started my personal blog to share photos of my son with family. At the time, I thought blogs were kind of cheesy, so I called it Blog Con Queso, and it stuck...so be careful what you name it. Post regularly. If you can, post every day. It’s always good to post on a regular schedule. I write a calendar of what I plan to post about every two weeks and then I stick to it as closely as life allows. Be yourself, don’t over think it, be genuine and tell the truth. If you write about things that are interesting to you, you’ll find readers find it interesting too. October 2013 Atlanta Parent 25
Up Close &Personal
We salute these businesses that support families
Inspiring Students with the Passion to Excel McGinnis Woods Country Day School, established in 1999, is a private, non-parochial school offering a challenging Preschool, Elementary and Middle Grades Education. The beautiful school campus is located in Alpharetta on the border of Forsyth and North Fulton counties. The Preschool accepts children as young as 6 weeks and the Elementary School teaches students in PreK 4 through 8th grade. McGinnis Woods Country Day School has top accreditations, including GAC, SACS, and NAEYC. The mission of McGinnis Woods is to inspire students with the passion to excel. This is accomplished by providing superior academics through hands-on approaches which foster self-confidence and self-esteem and that inspire a lifelong love of learning. Superior educational
resources are implemented to maximize the learning experience for our diverse student population. Class sizes are small with low student-teacher ratios, allowing frequent one-on-one learning. The children learn through a variety of groupings including class lessons, small group activities, hands-on experiments and “buddy” classes which encourage multi-age groupings. Frequent guest speakers, monthly field trips reinforcing classroom learning, and community service round out the curriculum. Competitive Sports and Robotics teams train year round. After school programs and Specialty Clubs are also available. Visit www.mcginniswoods.org or call 770.664.7764 to set up a tour at 5368 McGinnis Ferry Road, Alpharetta, GA 30005.
Certainty of more complete preparation for college and life. Woodward Academy is metro Atlanta’s long-proven college-preparatory independent school for families who want the certainty of more complete preparation for college and life. Tapping into more than a century of educational wisdom, the Academy transforms each experience into a tangible opportunity for learning and growth. Woodward students develop a deep respect for difference as they collaborate with peers who come from 23 metro Atlanta counties, and from a broad array of religious, economic, and ethnic backgrounds. Woodward students find opportunities to explore and excel at every level, whatever their interests. They receive wise guidance at every step – from the first day of Pre-K to the final AP exam – expanding their academic capacities through specialized instruction and individualized support. A typical Woodward Academy graduating class attends more than 100 different colleges and universities, devotes 5,000 hours to community service projects, and earns more than $13 million in scholarship awards.
26 Atlanta Parent October 2013
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Up Close &Personal
We salute these businesses that support families
Unique year round services evaluations, screenings, treatment, and fun filled summer camps to assist your child achieve their highest potential. Touch Feel Smell information.Treating and Play our PLAY ADD, ADHD, Autism, Your Way to Sensory Developmental Delays, Motor Social Success Dysgraphia, Dyslexia, is All about knowing Performance Anxiety, yourself and getting Processing issues, etc. to know others!!Look CSS, LLC is the only again, these children are OT service in the practicing handwriting!! ATLANTA providing the Handwriting is best US Trademarked WIN™ learned when the whole body is involved Tracking , Eye-Hand (Write Incredibly Now™) and POP™ (Personal Options and and Trunk Stability play a huge role in handwriting and reading Preferences™ Sensory social skills group). Susan Orloff, OTR/L, success. Children’s Special Services, LLC offers unique year FAOTA is a Fellow of the American Occupational Therapy round services evaluations, screenings, treatment, and fun Association, the highest honor for a practicing therapist! filled summer camps to assist your child achieve Summer camps are small group focused, their highest potential. Utilizing sensory, thought ensuring maximum attention. Summer 2014 and movement while learning valuable skills: camp enrollment is open now; CALL EARLY academic, personal, self-regulation of their own Slots fill quickly! actions and reactions while learning to write, For more information call 770-394-9791. Children’s Special socialize and problem-solve thus helping your Susan Orloff, OTR/L, FAOTA Services, LLC child learn to sit, organize and absorb critical CEO/EXEC Director
Creative thought, self-expression, and skill development are established as a strong foundation for learning
The journey begins with a child’s very first visit to Legacy Academy. Upon arrival, your child will be greeted with a friendly hello and a smile, as he walks about the school, eagerly peeking around each corner to get a glimpse of what will soon be his new learning environment. Each classroom is a special place where children are encouraged to explore interest areas where life skills, such as independence and confidence, are introduced. Framework for Their Future® curriculum is designed with activities planned throughout each day to introduce children to new ideas and experiences weekly. Their excitement for learning is enhanced and new connections are made between previously introduced concepts. Creative thought, self-expression, and skill development are established as a strong foundation for learning at Legacy Academy. Brain development during those very first 2,000 days of your child’s life is critical. Moments of laughter, joy, and endless possibilities make Legacy Academy the perfect beginning for your child’s journey. Just imagine! For more information, please call 770-932-0091 or visit www.legacyacademy.com.
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October 2013 Atlanta Parent 27
Up Close &Personal Children Love to Jump Children love to jump, climb, slide, tumble and play. Inflatable bounce houses, water slides, dry slides, obstacle courses and interactive games have been a centerpiece for backyard parties, religious celebrations, family reunions and large community events for years. Authentic carnival-style concessions, like popcorn, cotton candy, snow cones, and nachos add even more enjoyment. Jumptastic, a family-owned local company, was founded in 2005 and is one of the fastest growing Children’s Party Rental Companies in North Georgia. By focusing on safety, customer service and a vast selection of over three hundred of the most popular and licensed inflatables and games, adding new items throughout the year, they have created a unique children’s party and event rental niche that customers from the Atlanta area and beyond continue to reward. The company offers a comprehensive online ordering system with images, availability and pricing at www.jumptastic.com Jumptastic Moonwalks 3651 McGinnis Park Drive Suwanee, GA 30024 404-537-1805 www.jumptastic.com
The Walker Experience The Walker School is Cobb County’s pre-k through grade 12 college-preparatory independent school for families seeking an engaging, perspective-widening academic program within an intimately scaled, caring environment where meaningful relationships engender transformative learning. Walker’s dedicated teachers exude contagious intellectual energy, demonstrate authentic interest in the life of the mind that extends beyond their core subject areas, and model genuine respect for students and one another. Through their actions and interactions, Walker teachers cultivate students’ spirit of wanting to know in every setting – the classroom and the hallway, the laboratory and the library, the art studio and the stage, the court and the playing field. Walker students, feeling known and encouraged by their teachers and classmates, come to value the experience over the applause, developing along the way the confidence to explore new avenues of thinking, the wisdom to articulate meaningful insights, and the fortitude to act with integrity and honor. Please visit walkerwonders.org or call 678-581-6891 today!
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We salute these businesses that support families New, all-natural interactive makeup line for girls EyeDoll Chatter is a new, all-natural interactive makeup line for young girls and teens. Girls can share their creations via iPhone app. The NEW birthday party packages are here! Host your next makeover party for only $7.00/guest. This special package includes a premium organic makeup kit for each guest, balloons, and gift bags! The premium makeup kits contain 5-6 individual mix & match lip glosses, face shimmers, and eye shadows. The all-natural products are mom-approved and are made in the United States. Contact birthdays@eyedollchatter.com or 404-2020052 for more information. www.eyedollchatter.com
EyeDoll Chatter 404-202-0052 www.eyedollchatter.com
Caring for Children Putting your child in the care of someone else can be stressful and nerve-racking. Every parent has had those uh-oh moments when a sitter just isn’t going to work out. Listing the job, interviewing the candidates and hopefully choosing the right person is not an easy process. Nanny Poppinz will gladly take this off your plate. With more than 20 years in business, Nanny Poppinz offers customized nanny services for every family’s unique childcare needs. They provide services ranging from a four hour per week babysitter to a full-time live-in professional nanny. Nanny Poppinz works with your schedule to set up the entire interview process, and conduct background and employment reference checks to ensure they’re providing a trustworthy and exceptional person to care for your children. Nanny Poppinz offers unmatched customer service available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There is no application fee or membership fee required to begin. Nanny Poppinz 678-608-2769 www.nannypoppinz.com
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October 2013    Atlanta Parent 29
3O SANITY SAVERS EVERY PARENT NEEDS
All of us have moments when getting through the day without losing it seems an unattainable goal. We asked Atlanta Parent readers to share what gear, toys, snacks and parental and online support they can’t do without, when patience is not enough.
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“ Wipes – no matter what age, we all use them.” – Joacey Fraser (and many other moms) Wall calendars or calendar apps keep everyone’s schedule in one place. “My family uses the Cozi app, and we love it!” – Bridgette Bliz Cell phones help parents keep track of older kids, and helps the kids check in with parents when plans change.
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30 Atlanta Parent October 2013
A baby mirror for the car is a must-have for moms with young children. “We do a lot of driving, and I need to see if my son is getting any naps in.” – Lora Liu
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DVDs are essential for long family drives.
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“I would have to add the ‘Cozy Coupe’ car! We have noticed that kids from ages 1-9 love it. It’s a hit at every play date for years and years.” – Sharie Bassett
Music engages children of all ages. “I really like the children’s indie station on Pandora. I loved it even more when my kids were not talking yet because it motivated me to sing to them most of the day. Now they ask me to stop singing.” – Mary Dailey
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Day planners not only keep schedules, but also allow room for notes and to-do lists. Shevelyn Toliver says her planner is a life-saver, and she checks it or adds to it daily. Electronic gadgets such as iPads loaded with educational games keep boredom – and complaining – from setting in. “My 2-year-old is obsessed with the iPad app Monkey Preschool Lunchbox. It is fun and interactive, but helps teach counting, matching and other preschool skills.” – Jennifer Morgan On-the-go toys of all types are a must, from Hot Wheels to baby dolls. “My daughter has to have her ‘baby’ everywhere we go.” – Laura Parson Parents of infants won’t leave home without a Moby wrap to carry baby. Nursing moms also need their breast pump. “It is my saving grace that allows me to part with my baby for a couple of hours for a little ‘me time’ or errand running.” – Katrina Rucker
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Books haven’t gone out of style, for entertaining toddlers, and for older kids to read on their own. Books on CD are great for trips.
“My chest freezer. I make meals in advance and freeze. A deep freeze will keep your food tasting a lot better. – Lori Bonicelli Johnson A well-stocked medicine cabinet prevents a midnight run to the 24-hour pharmacy when someone wakes up with a cough or cold. “I have baby/ children’s Tylenol and Motrin on hand at all times. – Kim Cumutt “I keep a small cooler in my car at all times. Saves you from spending $3 for a drink. Add up how many kids and how many times you stop for drinks a month – it’s crazy to spend $180 a month for my son and I to stop once a day for Gatorade or water.” – Brooke Amann Cash, a few moms say. “They need between $1 and $5 everyday for something during the school year! I say this because I always use my debit card and I don’t carry cash if I don’t have to.” – Misty Tolle
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MamaDoo Kids foldable play yard mattress topper is a favorite for pack ‘n play.
“My minivan. It’s nice that they can load and unload themselves, plus a DVD player for road trips – ahh, it’s Godsent.” – Jody Miles Bailey “A washing machine, because with four boys, there is always laundry needing to be done.” – Jessica James Coke
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“I cannot live without organizing my daughter’s clothes on the weekend. My daughter and I prepare an outfit for each day of the week by selecting the entire outfit including undergarments, socks, top, dress and leggings, etc. for each day. We place everything on hangers. Next, we arrange the outfits in order by the day of the week. This decreases the time spent in the mornings making selections with a picky 5-year-old. We just grab and go!” – Caren Davis Lightfoot
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Nursing moms say a Boppy, for nursing and lap naps, goes where they go.
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A First Aid Kit, one for home and one for the car, helps you be prepared for all those boo-boos.
“Bubble wrap! It keeps the kids busy when they get fussy or impatient. If they are too young, you entertain them by popping it for them. I keep it in my bag. It’s a miracle in the doctor’s office at shot time.” – Shemika Williams Play dates help kids burn off energy and give parents one-on-one time with another adult. “Me” time helps keep a mini-crisis in perspective, whether exercise, a nap or a tea or coffee break. “A regular workout routine helps me keep my energy levels high throughout the day.” – Lesli Peterson
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Parent websites and magazines are good resources. “They help me feel at ease when I am entering a new stage of development.” – Ayanna Hawkins Online support groups help some parents cope. “Facebook, emails and fantastic group texts from other moms needing to vent!” – Ansley Cox A good childcare center or a reliable and trustworthy babysitter are essential when all else fails.
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Snacks – fruits, crackers, cheese and more – save the day when hunger strikes, many readers said. “When all else fails, breaks or gets overwhelming, nothing works like a snack.” – Aiola L. Williams
October 2013 Atlanta Parent 31
HiGH-SPiRITeD Raise a few goosebumps with a ghost story. Sit in a circle and whisper the beginning of a ghost story into the recorder on a smartphone, then hand the phone to the next person for the next part of the story. When the story is finished, play it back, in a darkened room with sound effects.
Play a “pin the teeth on the vampire” game. Replace candy giveaways with these treats kids love: balloons, rubber snakes, spiders or bats, sidewalk chalk, stickers, wash-off tattoos, yo-yos, trading cards or whistles.
Make a ghostly apparition to decorate your treat table, using a 1-liter bottle, cheese cloth, a Styrofoam ball and wire; find directions at everydayisacraftingday.com. For a fall party, ask guests to bring a carved or decorated pumpkin for display, and award a prize to the best.
Create a “broken windows” look to your home using frosted contact paper cut apart to look like broken glass. source: halloweenforum.com
Make “monsters” snacks using mini pretzels, white easy squeeze decorating icing and candy eyes; directions at snydersofhanover.com.
veggie every week in October.
Take the kids on a reverse trickor-treating adventure – arrange with a
Fill a child’s wagon with hay and
nursing home or homeless shelter to hand out candy treats to residents.
Try a pumpkin recipe or fall fruit or
put the smallest trick-or-treaters in it for a safe and fun ride through the neighborhood.
Connect Halloween to history by visiting a historic cemetery to make tombstone or marker rubbings (ask permission first), then research the deceased’s history at the library or through ancestry websites.
Dress kids in group costumes – three could be Curly, Larry and Moe, a brother and sister could go as Peter Pan and Wendy.
Make “Witch’s Hat” treats using fudge-stripe cookies, Hershey’s Kisses and a tube of orange piping; find directions at bettycrocker.com.
32 Atlanta Parent October 2013
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HaLLoWeeN Make your own face paint by mixing one part cornstarch and two parts shortening with food coloring; for white paint, use cold cream.
Add some blemishes or scars to your kid or make a bigger nose by dipping tissue paper in maple syrup; apply to his face or body and let dry.
Take a road trip to one of metro Atlanta’s corn mazes or pick-your-own pumpkin farms for photogenic fun. (See listings on Page 56)
Make the candy bowl a haunting experience by covering the bowl with a spooky face with a cut-out mouth the kids have to reach through for their treat. Replace your porch light with a red or orange one to create an eerie glow, then hide a CD player to play creepy music when trick-ortreaters approach.
Make Halloween Frankenstein Cups using green food coloring, vanilla pudding, crushed Oreos and four-ounce plastic cups decorated with faces made with a Sharpie. source: aturtleslife.com
Sing a Halloween song to the tune from “The Twelve Days of Christmas” such as, “On the first day of Halloween, my worst friend sent to me …a spider in an elm tree.” Make up your own lyrics, or use these at kididdles.com/ lyrics/t066.html.
Roasted pumpkin seeds make a healthy snack. Harvest them from the pumpkin, rinse them and toss with two teaspoons melted butter and a little salt; roast at 300 degrees for 45 minutes.
Here’s another game: Roll 10 small prizes such as tiny candies or plastic spiders into a roll of toilet paper, then have players sit in a circle; each player wraps the end of the toilet tissue around an arm or ankle like a mummy until he uncovers a prize. Then the paper roll goes to the next player.
Make a platter of “bones” snacks (put mini-marshmallows on each end of a pretzel stick, then dip them in melted white chocolate; find a recipe at epicurious.com/ recipes/food/views/Funny-Bones-355110).
Create a “Candy Witch” tradition; the wicked witch strikes when the children are asleep to swap some of those candy treats for small gifts.
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Have fun with sweat shirts and pants for an easy Halloween costume – turn a white sweat outfit into a dog or cow by adding black spots; use an oversized green hooded sweat shirt to create a dragon, with triangles sewn down the back.
Have a pumpkin-carving contest.
* Some of these suggestions came from past issues of Atlanta Parent, proving that a good Halloween idea is still a winner years later: Articles by Tali Toland, 2009; Cynthia Curtis, 2007; Ashley Wilbourn, 2002; Amy Dusek, 2000; and Peggy Middendorf, 1999 and 1998.
Make ghosts to hang from the trees – use white trash bags, stuff the heads with newspaper, give them some eyes with Sharpie and string them up.
Use cardboard and spray paint to make “tombstones” to place in the yard.
Decorate the sidewalks with paper bags filled with glow sticks or battery-operated tea lights. Create glowing eyes to greet trickor-treaters using small cardboard boxes, blue acrylic paint, yellow tissue paper, black card stock and white holiday lights; find directions at spoonful.com/crafts/ spectral-eyes.
October 2013 Atlanta Parent 33
FIVE PUMPKINS
1 MUMMY DEAREST
WITH
PIZZAZZ
A mummy pumpkin is spooktacular and kid-friendly! All you need is gauze and stick-on eyes purchased at a craft store. Wrap the pumpkin in gauze and glue on the eyes. After gluing on the eyes cut the gauze to create a mouth and you have mummy pumpkin.
Compiled by Kelli Richardson
2 BLINGED OUT
3 DRIPPING APPEAL With a little paint and adhesive tape, you can have a cute and spooky pumpkin. Spell whatever you want across the pumpkin with the tape and then pour the paint over the pumpkin. After the paint has dried remove the tape.
This decorative idea is a fun and easy craft that you and the kids will enjoy. All you have to do is paint the pumpkin white or another color of your choice, then create a design with stickers.
This pumpkin idea does not take much time but it’s still creative. All you need to make a monogram pumpkin is Washi Tape from a craft store. Monogram the pumpkin with a letter or spell your child’s name.
4 P IS FOR PUMPKIN 5 A LITTLE BATTY
34 Atlanta Parent October 2013
Paint miniature pumpkins black with acrylic paint, and cut two identical eye shapes for each bat from white paper, using a hole punch to make pupils. Glue the eyes to the pumpkins. Cut a matching pair of wings and ears from craft foam; tape a skewer to the back of each wing and push the skewer into the pumpkin; use toothpicks to attach the pointed ears.
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PUMPKIN POINTERS!
A traditional carved pumpkin seems a bit old fashioned, but for some families, that’s the point. Tradition trumps snazzy new design every time, especially when older generations want to teach the grandchildren, or great-grandchildren, how it’s done. l Go for a traditional design, or mix a little of the new with the old, by using templates from these sites: zombiepumpkins.com, family.com (search “pumpkin templates”), bhg.com (search “free printable pumpkin stencils”) and ehow.com (search “Halloween templates”). l Before and after carving your pumpkin, store it in a cool, dark place – never in sunlight. Once it’s carved, cover it in plastic wrap when it’s not in use. l To keep your carved pumpkin fresh, mix 2 tablespoons vinegar with 1 tablespoon lemon juice and 1 quart water. Brush the mixture over the carved surface of your pumpkin. Use Vaseline to coat the cut and peeled areas of the pumpkin, including the inside. Your pumpkin will avoid discoloration for up to a week. l Professionals sometimes use acrylic spray or hair spray to add shine to a pumpkin and help preserve it. l Add a little sparkle to your pumpkin after it’s carved by spreading a thin coat of all-purpose glue on the surface and sprinkling it with glitter.
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October 2013 Atlanta Parent 35
Cast a Halloween Spell
How Big Could Your Pumpkin Grow? by Wendell Minor Use your imagination, and your pumpkin could grow big enough to use as a boat, or so big it won’t even fit into the Grand Canyon! Ages 3-5. $16.99
Curl up on the couch with one of these holiday-themed books:
Trick or Treat, Marley!
Ten Creepy Monsters
by John Grogan, illustrated by Richard Cowdrey Marley’s up to his old mayhem in a new book from the best-selling author of Marley & Me and the children’s book, A Very Marley Christmas. This time, he scampers through Halloween, leaving the usual mess in his wake. Ages 4-8. $9.99.
by Carey F. Armstrong-Ellis “Ten creepy monsters met ‘neath a gnarled pine, one blew away and then there were nine,” and so begins a beautifully illustrated rhyming book. It pulls you along to a surprise ending. Ages 4-7. $14.95
Halloween Night
Where’s Boo?
by Marjorie Dennis Murray, illustrated by Brandon Dorman This Halloween poem based on “A Visit from St. Nicholas” is just pure fun, with colorful and imaginative illustrations. Here’s a rhyme: “By the fire of the kitchen, the witch stirred her brew; To make it more smelly, she threw in a shoe.” Ages 4-8. $16.99.
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by Salina Yoon Young children will love searching for Boo the black cat in this board book with sweet illustrations. Boo’s not behind the jack-o-lantern or the broom, but you’ll find him trick-or-treating at the end of the book. Ages 0-3. $6.99
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Tricks
&
Treats
for Learning by Dr. Valerie Allen
The “teachable moments” can happen any time on any occasion. As we move into the holiday season one such event is Halloween. Aside from your personal, school, or neighborhood activities, Halloween can be a prime learning opportunity. Here are six ways to turn Halloween into an enjoyable learning experience to share with your child. atlantaparent.com
Vocabulary:
There are many words related to Halloween which can be categorized as nouns or verbs. Words can be alphabetized. They can be used to create word pictures or to find rhyming words. They can be sorted by number of syllables. Some words to consider: black cat, boo, broom, candy, costume, Fall, Jack-O-Lantern, October, pumpkin, scary, treat, trick and witch.
Big Word into Little Words:
Using only the letters in the word Halloween, make as many small words as you can in five minutes. You can offer points for the total number of words, with a bonus for words of five letters or more. Some of these words include: he, hen, hall, all, an, law, lean, low, eon, no, own, we and when.
Real vs. Make Believe:
Encourage critical thinking about facts and fiction. Discuss fairy tales and characters in children’s books. Decide which parts of a story are about real things and which parts are pretend. This can also be an opportunity to discuss social issues about truth, misinformation, lies and deception.
Creative Imagination:
Talk about costumes and who they represent. Discuss how people dress in different countries and those who wear uniforms. Talk about the difference between styles of dress and costumes. Use a story character and make up an adventure story. Discuss the purpose of clothing to offer protection from the elements, safety and identification with others.
Cultural beliefs.
Research the history of the celebration of Halloween. There are significant religious, cultural, and agricultural roots in the celebration of Halloween. This can open discussions about differing beliefs, understanding and tolerance.
Food Celebrations.
There are certain foods we enjoy during specific holidays. You can find simple, no-cook recipes for children to make and enjoy together. Discussions can include favorite holiday foods. You can talk about the ingredients used in pumpkin pie, apple pie and mincemeat pie; which items are the same and which are different. Candies can be counted, sorted by texture or color, or by flavor. Other foods might include maple syrup, apples, cinnamon and cider. Halloween can be used to open doors to learning, not just to those cute little Trick or Treaters!
October 2013 Atlanta Parent 37
Homework Strategies
Overcome Procrastination and Set Your Child Up for Success by Gayla Grace
W
hen it comes to school work, parents often put up with their children’s procrastinating habits. Instead of encouraging good homework strategies, we allow distracted effort or inaction. But if we teach our kids to overcome the temptation of procrastinating, we give them a valuable skill that reaches into adulthood. Here are a few strategies to help your children complete their homework assignments in a timely way.
n Determine
your child’s most productive period.
Parents often insist that children complete their homework immediately after school to prevent distractions from interfering with finishing the work later. However, it might not be the most productive time for your child, which encourages procrastinating. Talk with your child about how she feels when she comes home from school. Does she need a snack break? Does she want to shoot the basketball first? Or does she want to immediately start her homework to allow more time to play later without having to think about her assignments? Be clear with your expectations. If your child doesn’t immediately start her task, make sure she understands why she’s allowed a break (so she will be more productive later) and how much time she has before she must begin the task. n Consider
the “why.”
Is there a legitimate reason your child hasn’t started his assignment? Does he have the resources he needs? Is there a clear goal in mind? Does he need some organizational help to get started? Does he have a quiet place to work? Every child has different needs, and as parents, we help our children succeed when we provide them with what they need to accomplish the task at hand. That doesn’t mean we dive in and tackle the assignment with them, but it might mean we take them to the store to buy necessary supplies to get started. Cont’d on page 42
38 Atlanta Parent October 2013
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How Much Homework Is Too Much? by Kelli Richardson
F
ifth-grader Kayla Smith is accustomed to having well over an hour of homework each night. This Smyrna mom, Nicole Smith, says Kayla would have to read for at least 30 minutes each night as well as complete worksheets for math and science classes. She felt like Kayla didn’t have any free time after spending a long day at school. The Smith family’s homework dilemma is not uncommon. Studies by the Brookings Institution and Rand Corporation show that in the past 20 years homework has increased among lower grade levels but remained the same among middle school and high school students. Their surveys show most students spend an average of an hour a night on assignments, regardless of grade level, though students taking advanced classes generally spend much more time than that.
What is the right amount of homework for a student to have each night? How much work is too much work and what effects can large amounts of work have on students? According to the National Parent Teacher Association and National Education Association, the amount of homework students have should correlate with their
grade level. For example, a first-grader should have 10-20 minutes of homework per night. An additional 10 minutes a night should be added per grade level. So, a second-grader would do 20 minutes or so per day and a 12th-grader might do 120 minutes of homework. The National PTA and NEA guidelines parallel those of Dr. Harris Cooper, a professor of Education at Duke University and author of The Battle Over Homework: Common Ground for Administrators, Teachers, and Parents. According to Cooper, if students are given too much work, they can begin to dread the material they are learning and become uninterested in school. Cooper also says that homework for younger students should fulfill certain requirements that build on their learning and school experience. He says that the homework should not be confusing, too easy, or tedious. Students should not feel like they are doing busy work. Jonathan Laird, a teacher at Campbell High School in Cobb County, agrees with Cooper on busy work. Laird teaches History of the Americas to 11th- and 12th-graders, and he does not like for his students to feel that he is giving them work for no reason. Cont’d on page 40
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October 2013 Atlanta Parent 39
How Much Homework Is Too Much? Laird does not assign homework every night but instead gives his students a reading schedule and major assignments to complete in one or two weeks. He says fewer assignments allow his students to go in depth on their work, develop analytical skills, and do better on the individual assignments. But Laird says that some teachers have to assign work every night, especially for math and science, because those subjects have to be practiced every day before students can be taught new material that builds on the same concepts. Building on basic concepts in addition to teaching analytical skills are some of the main focuses at the Lower School of Mt. Bethel Christian Academy. According to Vivian Lovett, the school principal, the school’s philosophy is that homework is essential to teaching students. Most of their students’ homework is assigned in language arts and mathematics classes. In addition to homework, students are expected to indulge in 20 minutes of pleasure reading a night.
The Davis Academy Grows Great Minds, Big Hearts and Creative Spirits
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Come see for yourself! Call 678-527-3300 to schedule a private tour or to RSVP to these “Get to Know Davis” Events: Sunday, October 27 – Rick Recht Community Concert for Preschoolers, 10 am Parent Information Sessions: Sunday, Nov. 3 at 10 am Proud Affiliate of: Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 10 am www.davisacademy.org
40 Atlanta Parent October 2013
Some teachers have to assign work every night, especially for math and science, because those subjects have to be practiced every day before students can be taught new material that builds on the same concepts. Homework will always vary in amount, the time it takes to complete, and the difficulty at different schools. Dr. Denise Pope, a professor of education at Stanford University and a founder of Challenge Success, says that when a student is too stressed out from homework or is having trouble completing assignments, it can lead to negative effects such as sleeplessness or headaches. When this occurs, parents should have a conference with students and their teachers to come up with a solution to the problem, she says. c atlantaparent.com
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October 2013    Atlanta Parent 41
Homework Strategies n Break
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If we teach our kids to overcome the temptation of procrastinating, we give them a valuable skill that reaches into adulthood. n Maintain
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42 Atlanta Parent October 2013
a balanced routine.
If we allow our children to participate in every sport, music, drama, and school activity that occurs, we create an unmanageable schedule with little time left over. When our children can’t visualize the satisfaction of completing a task when they begin, it’s likely they won’t want to start. So, ask your children what activities interest them most and prioritize their desires to create a schedule that allows time for starting and completing other tasks as well. Rearrange the schedule as necessary to maintain balance. n Model
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it down.
It’s easy to procrastinate when a task appears overwhelming. My son had an assignment recently that required multiple tasks to complete the finished product. When he looked at the project all at once, he became overwhelmed with the amount of work to do. I helped him put together a step-by-step outline to proceed to the goal, which empowered him to tackle the assignment. Slicing large projects into smaller assignments makes them more manageable to complete and thus, it’s less likely your child will procrastinate.
good habits.
Avoid procrastination in your everyday routine. Our children are watching us and will emulate what we do. A poem by Edgar Guest captures the importance of example. Here’s a portion of it: “I’d rather see a sermon than hear one any day. I’d rather one should walk with me than merely show the way. The eye’s a better pupil and more willing than the ear, fine counsel is confusing, but example’s always clear.” If we want to raise young adults who will avoid procrastination, we must avoid it ourselves. Procrastinating habits become harder to break the longer they’re practiced. But through intentional effort we, as parents, can teach our children how to incorporate homework strategies that work. c atlantaparent.com
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Don’t Miss Atlanta’s
Block Party!
BEST
Saturday, October 12 Mercer University Atlanta Campus
10 am - 4 pm Brought to you by Atlanta Parent Magazine atlantaparent.com
More than 50 family-friendly activities! ENTERTAINMENT • TODDLER-ONLY PLAY AREA STORYTELLING • CRAFT ACTIVITIES TRICK-OR-TREAT STREET • EXHIBITORS • FOOD BENEFICIARIES:
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Volunteer, exhibit, entertain, donate or sponsor Call about opportunities: 678-222-1911 or jlisvosky@atlantaparent.com
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Family Fun Guide * Eating Out
n
Free Fun
n
Exhibits
n
Playground
Not-to-miss events for October
1
Atlanta Parent’s Family Block Party
n
Calendar
oky A SpoThis Time ween Halloge 54 Pa
Mercer University, Atlanta Campus Oct. 12, 10 a.m.-4p.m. Come celebrate Block Party’s 10th birthday! This year features more than 50 family-friendly activities including live performances, camel rides for kids and adults, a parrot show, pony hop races, interactive exhibits, craft booths, a huge toddler play area, mobile petting farm, interactive sports games, an inflatable playground, pony rides, live music, continuous storytelling, performances by Talent Showdown winners, and festival foods. $5; 2 and younger, free. Each admission includes three activity tickets. Buy tickets online at familyblockparty.com.
2
The Berenstain Bears Live! Earl Smith Strand Theatre Oct. 5, 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. This family-friendly performance adapted from the classic children’s book series brings everyone’s favorite bear family to life. In Bear Country, Brother Bear’s grades are slipping, Sister Bear is learning about making friends, and Papa Bear just can’t stop eating junk food. Thankfully Mama Bear can help set things right. Proceeds benefit the Center for Kids & Young Adults. 117 North Park Square, Marietta. 770-293-0080. $12.50-$37.50. ccyakids.org.
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3
Family Fun Guide
Creatures of the Night Festival Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center Oct. 18, 6-9 p.m. Explore the nighttime world of nocturnal animals! Families are invited for a scavenger hunt, live animal presentations, crafts, an enchanted walk among eco-themed carved pumpkins, and a night hike using non-visual senses to explore the woods. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. Adults, $5; ages 3-12, $3; 2 and younger, free. gwinnettehc.org.
October 2013 Atlanta Parent 45
Family Fun Guide
PARKOUR
TRY IT
Your kids will be jumping off the walls!
W
hen I told my children that they were going to train with a finalist from NBC’s hit show, American Ninja Warrior, they were ecstatic! They couldn’t wait to take a class with Ryan Saegert, instructor and owner of the Georgia Parkour Academy. Parkour, also called free running, is a noncompetitive fitness discipline that combines running, climbing, and vaulting through an obstacle course or in a creative structured indoor environment. Parkour develops self-confidence and critical thinking skills, teaching participants how to overcome physical and mental obstacles to get from point A to point B in the most efficient way possible. Everything about Georgia Parkour Academy is unique, from the entrance (the building’s rear loading dock) to the repurposed equipment that
represents obstacles found in nature. Each Parkour session lasts 90 minutes, and anyone from age four to adult can benefit from these total body workout sessions. Parents at the Georgia Parkour Academy on the day we visited mentioned having seen improvements in their children’s agility and coordination in other sports due to classes in Parkour. Although my children didn’t backflip off the walls as they imagined, they did get to run up a wall and jump over a simulated fence. My 4-year-old daughter and 7-year-old twin boys equally enjoyed the exciting experience. I loved that although Parkour has structure, it is a wonderful way to play and learn together. Georgia Parkour Academy welcomes drop-ins; just call ahead to attend a class. – Marteeta Cannon Spradling
If You Go Georgia Parkour Academy 207 Fulton Ct., Peachtree City 770-289-2566 parkourfreerun.com n Drop in classes: $20/person, $35/2 people.
A Trio of New Exhibits Now Open n The Children’s Museum of Atlanta hosts “Moneyville,” the new interactive traveling exhibition that introduces the basics of economics through activities, games and simulations at an anti-counterfeiting lab, a bank, a shopping district, a stock market, and an international shipping dock. Through Jan. 12.
n Fernbank Museum of Natural History presents “Marco Polo: Man & Myth,” through an exhibit that follows the trail of the ultimate adventurer on his 24year journey from Venice to China along the Silk Road. More than 80 objects on display include coins, ceramics and navigational tools. Through Jan. 5.
46 Atlanta Parent October 2013
n The Georgia Aquarium introduces “Sea Monsters Revealed: Aquatic Bodies,” an exhibition of the world’s largest plastinated sea creatures. See both outside and inside the bodies of the most elusive aquatic animals discovered, including a whale shark and manta ray. Permanent exhibit.
Family Fun Guide
atlantaparent.com
FREE FUN atlantaparent.com
Library Events Local libraries do so much more than story times, and all the programming is free! Crafts, gaming days, celebrations, and hands-on workshops make a visit to a nearby branch an exciting experience beyond book check-out. Here are a few you’ll want to know about in October: Aesop’s Fantastic Fables Puppet Show Five Forks Branch / Oct. 14, 10:30 a.m. Lee Bryan weaves three classic tales into one zany puppet show with music, hand puppets, rod puppets and a behind-the-scenes demonstration.
Cobb County Library
Children’s Author Visit: Erik Oliver Central Library / Oct. 29, 10:30 a.m. The author of Kid Cavalier on a Halloween Quest visits Fulton’s Central Branch with a fun rhyming story that inspires keeping a positive attitude through life’s ups and downs.
Cobb County Libraries Semi-Annual Book Sale
Legomania Acworth Library / Oct. 22, 3:30 p.m. LEGO lovers unite! Visit the library to participate in a group build using the branch’s brick collection.
Read to Rover Stone Mountain-Sue Kellogg Library / Oct. 26, noon-1 p.m. Elementary school students can read aloud to Bogey, a trained therapy dog, to sharpen their skills.
Jim R. Miller Park / Oct. 11-13 It’s free to browse, but you’ll want to buy when books, magazines, homeschool resources, and other used library media go on sale for 10 cents to $5! For more library event info, visit these county library websites: n afpls.org/events n dekalblibrary.org n cobbcat.org n gwinnettpl.org
Family Fun Guide
October 2013 Atlanta Parent 47
Holy Guacamole!
Mexican Restaurants Around Town There are many great Mexican restaurants around metro Atlanta, and we find that cuisine to be especially popular with kids (say cheese!). We visited two this month:
EATING OUT
Rosa Mexicano
245 18th St. NW, Atlanta 404-347-4090 rosamexicano.com Sun. and Mon., 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Tues.-Thurs., 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Fri. and Sat., 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m. “Look at this place, its huge!” were the first words out of my young friends’ mouths when we walked in to Atlantic Station’s Rosa Mexicano. We sat inside where we admired the festive and fun atmosphere. The Amate Gods (metal sculptures of the gods of tomatoes, avocados, pomegranates and corn) are incorporated into the restaurants’s décor, and we challenged each other to find them – it’s a built-in scavenger hunt! n What’s on the menu: The menu is diverse with a variety of spicy and non-spicy items as well as traditional items with a twist. With beef, pork, chicken, vegetable and seafood entrées, there is something to please everyone in the family. Entrées range $14-$29. The restaurant uses foods from local farms and artisans, and gluten-free selections are available. n Why parents will like it: The atmosphere is sophisticated but not too fancy for the kids. The carne asada ($24.75) was a table favorite, and we had plenty of leftovers to bring home after we ate our fill. This would be an ideal spot for a family special occasion; let the staff know if you’re celebrating a birthday to get a free treat! n Why kids will like it: They get to cook! Young diners can “rock the guac” right at the table, using a molcajete (Mexican mortar and pestle) to
smash together cilantro, onions and chiles, and then gently add in cubed avocado and diced tomatoes. Every kid who participates gets an apron to take home proclaiming their guacamole skills. Guacamole is served for 2-3 people ($14) or for 4-6 people ($26) and there is no extra charge to make it yourself. The children’s tacos and quesadillas come with sweet potato fries and vegetables, and most children’s meals are $8.50. Crayons are offered to entertain little ones. – Jordan Lisvosky
Red Pepper Taquería
More Kid-Friendly Mexican Restaurants in Metro Atlanta
eatredpepper.com 2149 Briarcliff Rd. NE, Atlanta 404-325-8151 Daily, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
n El Porton Locations in Alpharetta, Duluth and Roswell Kids’ menu features: quesadillas, mini-burritos, tacos, enchiladas, and grilled chicken. elportonmexicanrestaurants.com
Red Pepper Taquería, near the corner of Lavista and Briarcliff (there is another location in Buckhead), delivers a dining experience that parents can enjoy as much as their kids. n What’s on the menu: Familiar Tex-Mex fare like quesadillas, enchiladas and tacos, are here, but with a creative twist. Our 8-year-old son loved the decadent queso dip ($5.95) and zesty salsa trio ($4.25), while my husband proclaimed the cilantro-packed guacamole ($6.95 – served mild, medium or hot) to be “the best in Atlanta.” Southern-inspired tacos such as the Trucha Libre (blackened Georgia trout with a chipotle remoulade, $3.79) or the BBQ Chicken (topped with poblano slaw, grilled corn and BBQ salsa, $3.59) shouldn’t be missed. n Why parents will like it: The food is fresh and mostly organic/local, with many healthy options. The restaurant has a friendly, high-energy vibe and outdoor patio seating. Large flat-screen TVs are placed around the dining area. The bar serves hand-crafted margaritas, plus signature cocktails, wine, beer and flavor-infused tequila shots. The free Loyalty Card has great rewards for members, such as birthday meal discounts.
48 Atlanta Parent October 2013
n Uncle Julio’s Atlanta and Sandy Springs Kids’ menu features: “kidsadilla”, tacos, fajitas, enchiladas, and chicken tenders. unclejulios.com n Why kids will like it: The children’s menu – with kid-sized tacos, burritos, quesadillas and fajitas (all items $5.50, including beverage) – will please even fussy eaters. The dessert options, including the churros ($4.25) served with hazelnut chocolate sauce and the chocolate abuelita ($4.75), a warm cake served with vanilla ice cream and a berry sauce were the perfect size to split between our family of three. The kids’ menu comes with a paper luchador mask to decorate! – Karen Robbins
Family Fun Guide
n La Parrilla Mexican Restaurant Acworth, Alpharetta, Atlanta, Fayetteville, Flowery Branch, Marietta, McDonough, Newnan, Norcross Kids’ menu features: tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas, burritos, and burgers. laparrilla.com
atlantaparent.com
Take a Ride and Explore
the History of Trains
T
his 35-acre railway museum is a trainlover’s dream. Young fans of Thomas the Train and Chuggington will be bursting for joy as they get to see and explore real live locomotives. Two huge warehouses filled with steam and diesel locomotives, passenger cars, mail trains and more. Kids will enjoy moving from platform to platform as many of the trains are open for guests to explore. Roam through the corridors, sit in the seats (if permitted), peek into the cabins, pretend you are an engineer, head back to the caboose, ring the bell, and put your imagination to work. It will feel like you just walked in to the early 20th century. In building one, don’t miss the model train room. The kids will love pressing the button and watching the miniature train go round and round. Named the official Georgia transportation history museum, the railway museum has some fascinating locomotives. You can stand next to the massive driving wheels of the locomotive that once pulled passenger trains to Key West on the “railroad that went to sea” or pose on the platform of the private car once used by President Warren G. Harding. Finally, take a ride on the museum’s only full-scale running train or on the miniature
If You Go Southeastern Railway Museum 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth; 770-476-2013 southeasternrailwaymuseum.org ■ When: Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; days open changes with season. Open Thurs.-Sat. from Sept. to Dec.; check website for museum schedule and train rides. ■ Cost: $8 for adults, $5 for ages 2-12, free for children younger than 2; Caboose Train ride, $3; Park Train Ride, $2.
park train. Engineers even dress the role – conductor hats, vintage overalls, and all – making the experience that much more real for the little ones. Check the museum’s website or call ahead to make sure the trains will be running on the day of your visit. Special events for kids are happening year-round. On the second Thursday of each month, the museum’s education department hosts a program for pre-school aged children featuring different pieces of locomotive equipment. On Oct. 26 it's “Train or Treat.” Celebrate Halloween with costume contests at noon and 4 p.m., wagon rides nd trick or treating on decorated train cars. – Kirby Cooperman
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Family Fun Guide
October 2013
Atlanta Parent 49
Fall
Family Adventures Fall is here! It’s time to get outdoors and enjoy a scenic hayride, get lost in a corn maze and lick ooey gooey- just-roasted marshmallows from your fingers. And that’s just what some local families did when Atlanta Parent sent them out to experience autumn adventures around the metro area. Each had a day – or night – to remember.
The Rock Ranch 5020 Barnesville Highway, The Rock 706-647-6374; therockranch.com Cost: $15; Season Family Pass $140. Children 3 and younger, free. Open: Saturdays through Nov. 16 ll I have to do is mention “The Rock Ranch” and my boys will stop in their tracks, eyes round, faces aglow and whisper ‘when’? Their wait is finally over: Fall Family Fun Days are here! Each Saturday, Rock Ranch hosts guests as they explore and enjoy a day in the country. While each Saturday is a different theme, the paddle boats, hayrides, pony rides, train rides, corn maze, corn box, pedal carts, petting zoo, cane pole fishing, carousel, jumping pillow, slides and family dodge ball are always open. Guests can also zip line for an additional cost. The ranch is breathtakingly beautiful with pristine grounds. Every Rock Rancher we had the pleasure of interacting with was helpful and genuinely cared about our experience, taking the time to ask us what attractions we’d already experienced and then directing us toward the next one on our list. Little ones loved the cow train rides, girls loved the dress up areas in Tiny Town, and older kids were zip line enthusiasts. We all enjoyed the live music playing throughout the day. We plan to save our Halloween pumpkin and bring it with us when we return to the ever-popular Pumpkin Destruction Day! – Dana diLorenzo
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Cagle’s Family Farm Bonfire Hayride 355 Stringer Road, Canton 770-345-5591; caglesfamilyfarm.com Cost: Bonfire hayrides $7; Corn maze $10. Combo tickets available. Open: Fall activities through Nov. 17 e recently visited Cagle’s and spent a laid-back, lazy afternoon enjoying some farm-fresh fun. When we arrived, my children and their friends immediately spotted the jumping pillow. Shoes were kicked off and carefree jumping commenced. Friendly staff members helped us find our way and kept watch over the jumping area to make sure that the safety rules were being followed. From there, we navigated our way through the corn maze as my husband and I were led by our four excited explorers. We had a short visit with the resident goats, and then headed through the underground tunnel for our bonfire hayride. We eagerly climbed aboard the tractor with hay-filled rider space and had bounced our way through the pastures! We arrived at the bonfire site and were greeted by more friendly Cagle Dairy Farmers. Moments later, we had our complimentary marshmallows in hand and were relieved to see that each fire pit had an ample sized wall built around
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it and were spaced far enough apart that there was plenty of room for kids to freely frolic. We listened to music and enjoyed our treats by the fire until it was time to head back. We boarded our return hayride and got in a few more jumps before heading home, tuckered out from all the outdoor fun. – Dana diLorenzo
Family Fun Guide
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Hillcrest Orchards Apple Pickin’ Jubilee 9696 Hwy 52 E., Ellijay 706-273-3838; hillcrestorchards.net Cost: $7; Petting Zoo $3. Open: Apple Pickin’ Jubilee through Oct. 27 y daughter Micah and I took a day trip to North Georgia to visit the Hillcrest Farm not far from Ellijay for their apple picking jubilee. The drive was very scenic as we passed pumpkin patches, cows and horses in anticipation of our full day planned at Hillcrest. We arrived just in time to find great seats for the pig race! My daughter and several other children were selected to go up on stage to cheer the pigs by waving flags. There were even trophies for the child with the winning pig and participation ribbons for everyone. Next, we took the short walk to the petting zoo. “So much fun!” my daughter kept repeating as she held the baby chicks and kittens. She was brave enough to pet the little calf but kept her distance from the goats. Later, we took a wagon ride to see more of the farm, which includes a miniature golf course, pony rides and a huge playground. When my daughter saw the ponies she was sold. We hopped off the wagon and ended up riding the pony two times! This farm gave us the opportunity to really enjoy so many things that you cannot enjoy in the city. We took advantage of everything that the farm had to offer, including the jumpy inflatable pillow, gigantic slide, playground and the little trikes. We topped off our amazing adventure with apple picking from the “dwarf” apple trees and we milked Buttercup, a real cow! Micah kept saying “this is the best place ever”! On our way out, we stopped by the gift shop to pick up some apple cider slush, a sweet end to a great day! – Caren Davis Lightfoot
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e went on the Full Moon Hike at Panola Mountain State Park with our twin 11-yearold girls. The 1.5 mile hike began just before sunset and was led by a state park ranger, who shared stories of the land’s history along with facts about the ecosystem and plant life along the way (we saw resurrection moss in action!) Our group hiked to a pristine lake that in itself was worth the trip. Then we began the ascent up the mountain, being careful to not step on the various forms of lichen that the ranger said took hundreds of years to form. Minutes later, we saw the most incredible, unobstructed view of the Atlanta skyline and sat down on the granite to watch a magnificent sunset. We heard only the sounds of crickets and cicadas, as well as the “oohs” and “aahs” from the hikers around us. It was hard to believe we were only 18 miles from downtown Atlanta. We continued climbing to another vantage point, where we saw both Stone Mountain and Arabia Mountain at dusk. By the time we reached the summit, the moon had risen over the horizon and it was nighttime. Then came the fun part – we had to descend the short, but steep path down the mountain with flashlights. Fortunately, there were numerous footholds in the granite and it wasn’t difficult. As we neared the end of the 90-minute hike, one of my daughters said, “I loved it! When are we coming back?” – Rebecca R. Leffler
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Full Moon Hike at Panola Mountain State Park 2600 Hwy 155 SW, Stockbridge 770-389-7801; gastateparks.org/PanolaMountain Cost: $7 per person, $5 parking per car Open: Advance registration required; Upcoming dates Oct. 19 and Nov. 16.
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Fall Family Adventures Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze
4520 Highway 53 E, Dawsonville 770-772-6223; uncleshucks.com Cost: Corn Maze $10. Combo tickets available. Open: Through Nov. 24 y 5-year old raved as we drove from Uncle Shuck’s, “Oh my gosh, that was so fun!” We had just spent over an hour exploring the farm, getting lost in the corn maze, and taking a hay ride. The corn maze covers 12 acres of land with four miles of trails. It’s divided into two sections: a shorter trail for newbies and younger kids, and a longer, more extensive maze for experienced pioneers. My son enjoyed navigating the twists and turns, but for him, the highlight of the maze was climbing one of several bridges that provided a view across the rows and rows of corn! Enhance a daytime maze excursion with a scavenger hunt card when you buy tickets. As a member of the FSI: Farm Scene Investigation you can help solve the mystery of missing Farmer Joe by collecting clues as you make your way through the maze. For older kids, weekends in October bring the Haunted Maze, a scarier version for more daring adventurers. Families can purchase refreshments on site, and a series of covered picnic tables overlook the Kiddie Corner where young children can venture through a soybean maze or climb a mound of monster truck tires. Looking for more fun? Shoot cobs from the corn cannon at an abandoned truck, hop on a daytime or evening hayride, or watch goats balance atop the multi-story goat walk. Don’t forget to grab a pumpkin to bring home before you leave. – Lesli Peterson
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The Original Howlpharetta Ghost Tour Historic Downtown, Alpharetta 800-979-3370; alpharettatours.com Cost: $15/person Open: Year-round weekend tours; Recommended for ages 13 and older. ill you capture an orb on a photo in front of City Hall? Will you feel shaky in front of a retail store? Will you see the street light flicker at the Dodd Hotel? You might, if you’re open to it! This unusual Alpharetta history tour is full of information, great ghost stories, and fall is an ideal season to take an evening walking tour. Our group of teens and adults gathered at the old Dodd Hotel at dusk to sign waivers (in case one of us disappears – just kidding!) and go over the tour rules. Our guide and owner of Alpharetta Tours, Jen, is a true historian and great storyteller who shared the historical significance of several sites, what might have happened to the owners, and what could account for the eerie and strange happenings at these places. Through Jen’s descriptive narrative about the legends and ghosts of Milton Avenue, small town folklore comes to life. We also visited Resthaven Cemetery to learn about its notable
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spirits, and although some found the setting spooky, Jen added humor and silly jokes to lighten the mood. (For example, What’s a skeleton’s favorite thing to order at a BBQ restaurant? Ribs!) After about a two-hour walk around downtown Alpharetta and many “experiences” of our own, we all agreed that this was an enjoyable and entertaining tour that made us think more about the history of the places we visit every day! – Amy Smith
Family Fun Guide
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Playground: Atlantic Station Playground
The new Atlantic Station Playground is a great stop for getting the wiggles out if you’re shopping or sightseeing in town. My kids were so impressed by this sparkling new space that they had trouble deciding which play structure to try first! Other than two traditional slides, every piece of equipment is more modern and inventive than typical playground options. Even the benches are unique looking! n Features: Play equipment is designated for younger and older children. We discovered the climbing web, monkey bars, huge swing with a great view of the Millennium Gate, slides and the OmniSpin Spinner, which is a great new take on the old-school metal merry-go-round. All the equipment is large enough for adults to play on, too! A huge awning protects structures from direct sun, and there is disability access. There are no bathrooms or water fountains on site, but it’s adjacent to the shops and restaurants of Atlantic Station. The playground is open daily, 8 a.m.-dusk. Parking is limited near the playground. n Location: 1380 Atlantic Dr. NW, Atlanta. The park is at 17th Street, next to the electric car charging station. – Jordan Lisvosky
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Family Fun Guide
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HaLLoWeeN HaPPeNiNGS October is here, so get ready for pumpkins, corn mazes, scarecrows, haunted houses, crafts, ghost tours, and of course, trick-or-treating. Have a spooky good time visiting all of these haunts.
Special Events Fright Fest. Six Flags. The amusement park transforms into a ghoulish place with ghosts and goblins, with haunted attractions, pumpkin painting and trick-or-treating. Weekends through Oct. 27. Sat. 11 a.m.11 p.m.; Sun. Noon-10 p.m. 275 Riverside Parkway, Austell. 770-948-9290. General admission, $59.99; kids under 48”, $39.99; 2 and younger, free; parking, $20. Scarecrows in the Garden. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Families can enjoy more than 100 kooky and spooky scarecrows crafted by Atlanta-area business, organizations and individuals. Through Oct. 31. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-876-5859. $18.95 for adults; $12.95 for ages 3-12; 2 and younger, free. Pumpkin Festival. Stone Mountain Park. Weekends in October enjoy attractions, entertainment and plenty of fall fun. Dress your own scarecrows, then let kids try the trick-or-treat scavenger hunt and join the costume dance party. Sept. 27-Oct. 27. Sun., 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. US Hwy. 78, Stone Mountain. 770-498-5690. Adults, $28; children ages 3-11, $22; younger than 3, free; parking, $10. Brick-or-Treat. Legoland Discovery Center. Receive free giveaways, see LEGO monsters, and build your own LEGO pumpkins, coffins and tombstones. Oct. 1-31. 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. (Last admission is 2 hrs. before closing.) Phipps Plaza, 3500 Peachtree Rd., Atlanta. 404-848-9252. Adult, $19; ages 3-12, $15, 2 and younger, free.
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Scarecrow Harvest. Historic Downtown Alpharetta. Over 100 scarecrows decorated by elementary school children, a farmers market, awards, music, hayrides to the log cabin, face painting, cornhole, storytelling, inflatables and activities. Oct. 5. 10 a.m-2 p.m. 2 South Main St., Alpharetta. 678-297-6078. Free. Magic Monday. Atlanta History Center. Kids come dressed in Halloween costumes and come trick-or-treating through the museum exhibitions. Hear Halloween tales, make a spooky craft, and enter costume contests. Oct. 14. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4110. Adults, $6.50; ages 5 and younger, $5.50. Halloween Fun House. East Roswell Recreation Center. Fun for ages 8 and younger. Enjoy face painting, carnival games, inflatables, hayrides and more. Oct. 18. 4:30-7 p.m. 9000 Fouts Rd, Roswell. 770-594-6134. Free. Halloween Hayride & Family Festival. Cochran Mill Nature Center. Hayride, photos with live animals and haunted house! Crafts and activities, haunted house and costume contest at 6:45 p.m. Sweets and treats available for purchase. Sat., Oct. 19. 5-9 p.m. 6300 Cochran Mill Rd., Palmetto. 770-306-0914. $7. Halloween Night Hikes. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Guided hike along well-lit trails where children meet friendly costumed forest creatures. Stay for a world music bonfire, animal encounters, and treats for purchase after hike. Oct. 18, 19, 25, 26. Hikes begin at 7 p.m. and run continuously. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell 770-992-2055. $9/person; 2 and younger, free.
Family Fun Guide
Boo at the Zoo. Zoo Atlanta. Celebrate Halloween with more than 1,000 animals that call the zoo “home.” See festive paths with craft stations, enter a costume contest enjoy the hay maze. Oct. 19, 20, 26, 27. Boo at the Zoo hours: 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-624-5600. Adults $20.99, children $15.99, younger than 3, free. Little Five Points Halloween Festival & Parade. Findley Plaza. Live music, street entertainment, vendors, a costume contest and street parade. Oct. 19. Noon-10 p.m. Parade, 4 p.m. Intersection of Moreland and Euclid Avenues, Atlanta. 404-762-5665. Free. Run Like Hell 5k and 1k Run Like Heck Races. Historic Oakland Cemetery. Runners of all ages can race through the cemetery and Grant Park then enter the costume contest. Oct. 19. 5k, 9 a.m.; 1k, 10 a.m. 248 Oakland Avenue SE, Atlanta. 404-327-7738. Pre-register at active. com. 5k, $27; 1k, $20. Trunk or Treat. Kennesaw United Methodist Church. Wear your costume. Inflatables, a balloon artist, games, contests and more. Oct. 20, 4-6 p.m. 1801 Ben King Rd., Kennesaw. 770428-1543. Free. Donation of a non-perishable food item and bag of candy suggested. Haunted Museum: Villains in History. Downtown Kennesaw. Waxworks of Horror, storytelling, the Incredible Pumpkin Trail, costume contest nightly at 7 p.m. around the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History. Oct. 21-22. Fri., 6 p.m.; Sat., 5 p.m. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-427-2117. Adults, $7.50; children (recommended for ages 10-12), $5.50.
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Great Chefs of Atlanta Pumpkin-Carving Contest. Atlanta Botanical Garden. A 25-minute Halloween showdown using only knives and power tools during the Oct. 24 Fest-of-Ale. The winner is decided based on audience applause. Contest, 7-8 p.m. Fest-of-Ale every Thursday in Oct., 5-10 p.m. Regular Garden hours, Tues.Sun., 9 a.m.-7 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Adults, $18.95; Children 3-17, $12.95; 3 and younger, free. Spooky Mill. Autrey Mill Nature Preserve. Go trick-or-treating in the Heritage Green, play games, enjoy spooky stories. Fortune telling and a not-so-spooky haunted house. Oct. 25-26. 5-9 p.m. Fri., preschool only, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 9770 Autrey Mill Rd., Johns Creek. 678-366-3511. Activities are ticketed, free trick-or-treating. Trick or Treat on the Square. McDonough Square. Trick or treat around downtown. Oct. 25. 3-6 p.m. 5 Griffin St., McDonough. 770-898-9311. Free. Mummies and Milkshakes. Michael C. Carlos Museum. Visit animal and human mummies in the Egyptian galleries, purchase a Jake’s Ice Cream milkshake, and watch funny vintage mummy cartoons and mummy-themed films featuring the Three Stooges and Abbot and Costello. Oct. 25, 6:30 p.m. 571 South Kilgo Circle NE, Atlanta. 404-727-0519. $5; RSVP required by Oct. 23. Family Fall Festival. Southern Belle Farm. 7-acre corn maze, pumpkin and flower patches, hayride and cow train. Kids costume contest at 4:30 p.m. Oct. 26. 3-6 p.m. 1658 Turner Church Rd., McDonough. 770-288-2582. Adults and children, $12; 2 and younger, free. Great Pumpkin: Carving a Night of Fun. Cumming First United Methodist Church. Activities include pumpkin carving, pumpkin patch, outdoor movie on the lawn, roast s’mores, hot dog supper, hayride and more. Oct. 26. 5-8 p.m. 770 Canton Hwy, Cumming. 770-887-2900. $10/family. Haunted Halloween Festival. Lucky Shoals Community Rec Center. Enjoy crafts, games, a costume contest, haunted hay house, hayride and more! Includes a walk-through dark attraction with incredible monsters and special effects for older children. Oct. 26. 5-8 p.m. 4651 Britt Rd., Norcross. 678-277-0860. Pre-register. $5/person. Train or Treat. Southeastern Railway Museum. Make special crafts, trick or treat around historic trains, participate in a costume contest and more. Oct. 26, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 3593 Buford Hwy, Duluth. 770-476-2013. Adults, $8; children 2-12, $5; under 2, free; Wild West train ride, $3. Trek or Treat. Suwanee Creek Park. Trick-ortreat along the park’s greenway and participate in fall festival activities. Oct. 26. 11 a.m. 1170 Buford Hwy., Suwanee. 770-945-1524. Free. Trick or Treat. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. A night of fun, fall activities including crafts, prizes, games, Halloween movies and more. Come dressed in a costume. Ages 8 and younger. Oct. 26. 6:30-8:30 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $15. Trick or Treat on Main Street. Downtown Fayetteville. See the jack-o-lanterns that decorate the Fayetteville Square and trick-or-treat at local businesses. Oct. 26. 3-4 p.m.; kids costume contest, 4 p.m. Main St., Fayetteville. 770-7194173. Free. Cont’d on page 56
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Atlanta Parent’s not-to-miss events that will have your boos and ghouls howling with delight. Boo at the Zoo Zoo Atlanta l When: Oct. 19. 20, 26, 27; 9:30 a.m.- 3 p.m. l What: Hands-on craft stations, costumed creatures, trick-ortreating, and of course, the animals to see! l Where: 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-624-5600. l Cost: Adults $21.99; children ages 3-11, $16.99; younger than 3 free. l Costumes: Wear ‘em!
Halloween Night Hikes Chattahoochee Nature Center l When: Oct. 18, 19, 25, 26. Hikes begin at 7 p.m. and run continuously until 10 p.m. l What: An easy guided hike along well-lit trails to meet friendly (costumed) forest creatures, animal encounters, face painting, creepy crafts, and a world music bonfire with marshmallow roasting. l Where: 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. l Cost: $9/person; 2 and younger, free. l Costumes: Wear ‘em! Most young guests do.
Pumpkin Festival Stone Mountain Park l When: Weekends through Oct. 27. Fri. and Sun., 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m. l What: Crafts, trick-or-treat scavenger hunts, a new adventure maze, pie-eating contests, and the Pumpkinpalooza game show with zany and messy challenges. l Where: U.S. Hwy. 78, Stone Mountain. 770-498-5690. l Cost: Adults, $28; children ages 3-11, $22; 3 and younger, free; parking, $10. l Costumes: Wear ‘em! There’s a costume dance party for kids and adults. Cont’d on page 56
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HaLLoWeeN HaPPeNiNGS
HaLLoweeN TOP PICKS KSU Owl-O-Ween
BOO-seum Trick-or-Treat. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Halloween party with music, games, costume characters and treats for kids in costumes. Also, visit the rest of the museum. Oct. 26. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE., Atlanta. 404929-6300. Adults, $17.50; children 3-12, $15.50; 2 and younger, free.
Kennesaw State University Stadium Complex l When: Oct. 26, 4 p.m.-midnight. l What: Dozens of lit hot air balloons glowing in the autumn night, balloon to balloon trick-or-treating, roving performers, live music, soccer and rugby matches. l Where: 3200 George Busbee Pkwy. NW, Kennesaw. l Cost: Adults, $15; ages 4-12; $8, 3 and younger, free. l Costumes: Wear ‘em! There’s a costume contest with prizes for all ages!
Day of the Dead Festival. Atlanta History Center. Celebrate the Mexican festival and see elaborately decorated altars, listen to storytelling, enjoy authentic Mexican food, music, and much more. Oct. 27. Noon-5 p.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Free with admission. Goblins in the Garden. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Wear your favorite costume for an afternoon of treats and activities, including a parade, storytelling and more. Train and pony rides extra. Oct. 27. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-8765859. Adults, $18.95; children 3-12, $12.95; younger than 3, free. Munchkin Masquerade. Historic Newnan Square. Downtown merchants pass out Halloween treats to costumed kids. Oct. 31. 10 a.m.-noon. Historic Downtown Newnan Courthouse Square. 770-253-8283. Free.
Little 5 Points Halloween Parade and Festival Tiffany Powell Photography
Little 5 Points Neighborhood Streets l When: Oct. 19, noon-11 p.m.; parade, 4-6 p.m. l What: A colorful parade, artist market, kids’ activities, live music and local food. l Where: Corner of Euclid and Moreland Avenues, Atlanta. l5phalloween.com. l Cost: Free l Costumes: Wear ‘em! Everyone does.
The Sleepy Hollow Experience. Serenbe Playhouse. Come to the Serenbe Stables to enjoy this classic spooky story with all the thrills, chills and laughs that keep you on the edge of your seat. Oct. 10-31. Thurs.-Sun., 8 p.m. 9065 Selborne Ln., Chattahoochee Hills. 770-463-1110. $20. Halloween Magic Show. Aurora Children’s Playhouse. Atlantan Arthur Atsma will amaze and amuse with a show filled with captivating sleight of hand magic, audience interaction and comedy. Oct. 26. 10 a.m. 128 Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-2266222. Reservations recommended. $7.
Fright Fest Six Flags l When: Weekends through Oct. 27, Sat., 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun. noon - 10 p.m. Day activities for families; after 6 p.m. recommended for 12 and older only. l What: Trick-or-treating, Looney Tunes character meet-and-greets, magic shows, animal presentations, dance parties, and a new monster maze and time machine show. l Where: 275 Riverside Parkway, Austell. 770-948-9290. l Cost: General admission, $59.99; kids under 48”, $39.99; 2 and younger, free; parking, $15. Additional fee required for some haunted attractions. l Costumes: Welcome, but not necessary.
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Halloween Theater and Music
Family Fun Guide
The Phantoms of Orchestra. Woodruff Arts Center. Every Halloween the “phantoms of the orchestra” return to haunt the concert hall. The maestro and his terrified assistant must use the power of the baton to control this ghoulish orchestra of the undead and lead them in concert. Oct. 27, 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. Atlanta Symphony Hall. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-5000. $15-20 plus tax & service charge.
Corn Mazes and Pumpkin Patches * Designates pick-your-own Enchanted MAiZE. Blowing Springs Farm. Find your way through this year’s maze. Through Oct. 27. Thurs., 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; Fri., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., noon-6:30 p.m. 271 Chattanooga Valley Rd., Flintstone. 706-820-2531. Adults, $9; ages 4-12, $7. *Yahoo Farm. Jasper. Wander through the corn maze or try the Cosmic Corn Maze at night. Shoot the corn cannon, try fossil digging, take a hayride and visit the butterfly garden. Then choose your pumpkin! Open daily through Oct. 31. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Haunted hayride, Saturdays in Oct., 7-10 p.m. 4729 Waleska Hwy. 108, Jasper. 770-735-3638. Activities range from $2-$7.
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Carlton Farms. Rockmart. Choose a pumpkin, play on the hay jump, shoot the corn cannon, visit the catfish farm and explore five acres of corn and nearly two miles of winding trails. Corn maze open through Nov. 2. Fri., 6-10 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., noon-8 p.m. 1276 Cartersville Hwy., Rockmart. 770-684-3789. Attractions, $12 for hayride, hay maze, animal barn and hay jump. $7/person for corn maze. Pumpkin patch, free. Buford Corn Maze. Buford. Corn maze, hayride, Haunted Forest, corn box, old time farm demonstrations. Through Nov. 3. Fri., 10 a.m.midnight; Sat., 10 a.m.-midnight; Sun., noon-10 p.m. 4470 Bennett Rd., Buford. 678-835-7198. Corn maze and hayride or Haunted Forest and hayride: $13/person; combo corn maze/Haunted Forest/hayride, $20/person. Colonel Cob’s Corn Maze. Oxford. Admission to corn maze includes attractions such as a petting zoo, giant mountain slide, inflatable cow jumper and pumpkin patch. Through Nov. 3. Fri.-Sat., noon-10 p.m.; Sun., 1-5 p.m. 797 Macedonia Church Rd., Oxford. 770-786-8805. Corn maze and hayride, $10/person; 3 and younger, free. hayride, $4; hayride to bonfire and corn maze, $14 (no bonfires on Sun.). Corn Dawgs Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch. Loganville. “Duck Dynasty” themed corn maze, jumping pillows, zip line, petting zoo, giant checkerboard and pumpkins galore. Open through Nov. 3. Fri., 5-10 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 10-7 p.m. 955 Leone Ave., Loganville. 770-7869000. Admission, $12; 2 and younger, free. Jaemor Farms. Alto. Experience a quest through 8 acres of corn; features a pumpkin train, hayrides, apple cannons, duck races, farm slide and more. Through Nov. 3. Fri- Sat. 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun., 1-6 p.m. 5340 Cornelia Hwy., Alto. 770-869-3999. Corn maze, $9 (ages 4-12), $10 (ages 13 and older); mini maze, $3 (ages 4 and older); hayrides, $4 (ages 4 and older); Pumpkin Train, $3; “value access pass” includes maze, hayride plus three attractions, $12. Ages 3 and younger, free with paying adult. *Washington Farms. Bogart. Eight and a half acres of ears to explore, with new jumping pillows. Ride on the cow train, see pig races, take a romp in the corn box or a hayride, then choose a pumpkin. Through Nov. 3. Tues., 6-10 p.m.; Fri., 3-11 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun., 1-6 p.m. 5691 Hog Mountain Rd., Bogart. 706-769-0627. Ages 5 and older, $12/person for farm fun and corn maze; Ages 2-4, $8/person for farm activities and corn maze; under 2, free. Buck’s Corn Maze. Dawsonville. Explore this 12-acre corn maze with a beautiful view of the Appalachian Mountains. Through Nov. 4. Sat., 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-9 p.m. 1923 New Hope Rd., Dawsonville. 706-344-8834. Adults, $8; 10 and younger, $7; 4 and younger, free with paid adult. Kernel Kob Corn Maze. Jasper. Get lost in the maze, take a hayride or pony ride, visit the petting zoo and pick a pumpkin. Through Nov. 10. Fri., 7-10 p.m., Sat., 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 1153 Salem Church Rd., Jasper. 706-692-4464. Adults, $8; children 5-11, $6; 4 and younger, free. The Rock Ranch Corn Maze. The Rock Ranch. “Duck Dynasty”-themed maze, train and hay rides, pumpkin cannon, food and more! Fall Family Fun Days on Saturdays, Through Nov. 16, 10 a.m.- 8 p.m. 5020 Barnesville Highway, The Rock. 706-647-6374. $15/person. $2-off coupons at Chick-fil-A locations.
Terms & Conditions – This offer is valid for one (1) adult ticket at the price of a child’s $15 ticket plus tax. Coupon must be surrendered at admissions when purchasing tickets. This discount is not valid with other discounts, coupons or offers and cannot be used with online or pre-booked tickets. Duplication, photocopying or sale of this offer is prohibited. No cash value. Not redeemable for cash or credit. Valid until 12/31/2013 (Code: 1003) LEGO, the LEGO logo, the Brick and Knob Configuration, the Minifigure and LEGOLAND are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2013 The LEGO Group.
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Family Fun Guide
October 2013 Atlanta Parent 57
HaLLoweeN TOP PICKS Day of the Dead Festival
HaLLoWeeN HaPPeNiNGS *Southern Belle Farm. McDonough. Enjoy a hayride, corn maze, pumpkin patch and more. Through Nov. 8. Sat., 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 1-6 p.m. 1658 Turner Church Rd., McDonough. 770288-2582. Adults, $12/person; 2 and younger, free.
Atlanta History Center l When: Oct. 27, noon-5 p.m. l What: A celebration of the Mexican festival known as “El Dia de los Muertos” with storytelling, crafts, elaborate altars, authentic Mexican food, music and entertainment. l Where: 130 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000. l Cost: Free. l Costumes: No need, come as you are.
Burt’s Farm. Dawsonville. Thousands of pumpkins, stop by the store or take a hayride pulled by a tractor! Through Nov. 10. Hours through Oct. 30: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Oct. 31-Nov. 10: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 5 Burt’s Farm Rd., Dawsonville. 706-265-3701. Adults, $5; ages 2-12, $4; 1 and younger, free. Uncle Bob’s Pumpkin Patch and Tricky Crop Maze. Redwine Farms. See farm animals, try the crop maze, listen to storytelling, take a hayride, see puppet shows and choose a pumpkin. Through Nov.10. Fri. and Sun., 1:30-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 3781 E. Happy Valley Cir., Newnan. 770-2538100. $14/person; ages 3 and younger, free. Cagle’s Family Farm Corn Maze. Canton. Explore the 10-acre corn maze, enjoy tasty concessions and gather around the bonfire. Through Nov. 17. Fri., 5-11 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 355 Stringer Rd., Canton. 770-345-5591. Corn maze: $10/person; younger than 3, free. Farm tour, $7/person; hayride and bonfire, $7/person. North Georgia Corn Maze. Cleveland. Find your way through the 7-acre maze, relax on the hayride, enjoy a movie at dark or venture into the haunted “House of Burm” and take the elevator down to the “Dungeon of Fear”! Through Nov.17. Fri., 6-11:30 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-11:30 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-9 p.m. 559 Tom Bell Rd., Cleveland. 1-800959-1874. Adults, $10; children, $9; hayride and Barn of Fear, extra.
Phantoms of the Orchestra Atlanta Symphony Orchestra l When: Oct. 27, 1:30 p.m. & 3:30 p.m. l What: A one-hour concert of spooky classics including Mussorgsky’s Night on Bald Mountain and Dukas’s The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, with Magic Circle Mime Company. l Where: 1280 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4900. l Cost: $20 l Costumes: Wear ‘em! Audience members and musicians all do.
Goblins in the Garden Atlanta Botanical Garden l When: Oct. 27, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. l What: Fall-themed crafts, friendly witch storytelling, pony rides, train rides and creative scarecrows everywhere! l Where: 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-876-5859. l Cost: Adults, $18.95; children ages 3-12, $12.95; 2 and younger, free. Train and pony rides cost extra. l Costumes: Wear ‘em! Kids get to strut their stuff on the goblin runway. 58 Atlanta Parent October 2013
Family Fun Guide
Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze. Dawsonville. A 12-acre maze, pumpkin patch, “Great Goat Trek” attraction, hayride and bonfire. Through Nov. 24. Fri.-Sat. 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 4520 Highway 53 E, Dawsonville. 770-7726223. Maze, $13; combo hayride/maze, $16.
Pumpkin Patch Only Big Springs Farm. Visit the petting zoo, pick from hundreds of pumpkins, enjoy a scenic tour of the farm on a wagon ride, or bounce on inflatables. Oct. weekends. Fri.-Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 2100 Sugar Pike Rd., Woodstock. 678-899-3900. Free, activities and goods extra. *Berry Patch Farms. Take a hayride to the pumpkin patch, enjoy apple cider, fried pie, boiled peanuts and the petting zoo. Oct. 6-28. Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Oct. 15-30, Mon.-Fri., 3:30-7 p.m. 786 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock. 770-926-0561. Free. The Great Pumpkin Patch. Christ Episcopal Church. Search for pumpkins in our 1000+ patch as well as decorative gourds. Oct. 6-31. Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m. for Bounce House. Weekdays, noon-8 p.m., Sun., 11 a.m-5 p.m. 1210 Wooten Lake Rd, Kennesaw. 770-422-9114. Free. *Southern Tree Plantation. Ride the kids train, roast marshmallows, take a hayride or pony ride, enjoy inflatables and more. Weekends Oct. 9-24. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., noon-6 p.m. 2226 Owltown Rd., Blairsville. 706-745-0601. Activities, $5 each; packages, $10-$12.
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*Yule Forest Pumpkin Patch. Inflatables, talking chicken show, petting zoo, a rabbit pioneer village, paintball hayrides and more. Oct.1-31. Mon.Fri., 4-7 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 3565 Hwy. 155 N., Stockbridge. 770-954-9356. $8/person; free admission and hayride on Wed. for kids in costume. Additional fees $2-$5. *Kinsey Family Farm. Hayrides, petting barn, fish feeding and pumpkins. Through Oct. 31. Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 7170 Jot-em Down Rd., Gainesville. 770-887-6028. Activities, $1-$3. Pumpkin Fest. Pettit Creek Farms. Hayride, a corn maze, petting zoo and inflatables. Pick a pumpkin. Through Nov. 2. Farm hours, Mon.-Fri., 2-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 337 Cassville Rd., Cartersville. 770-386-8688. Adults, $10; children, $12; younger than 2, free.
Haunted Tours and Storytelling Ghost Tales & Trails. Woodstock. Go on a tour to help capture “The Shadow” lurking around town. Also enjoy games and activities for all ages. Oct. 24-26. 6-10 p.m. Groups depart every 45 minutes starting at 6:30 p.m. 111 Elm St., Woodstock. 678494-4251. Games and activities, free. Tour, $10/ person for ages 5 and older. Ghosts of Marietta. Marietta. A 90-minute lantern led walk through historic Marietta. Thurs.-Sat. 7:30 p.m. 131 Church St., Marietta. 770-425-1006 . Adults, $17; ages 12 and younger, $12. The Original Howlpharetta Ghost Tour. Alpharetta. The legends and ghosts of Alpharetta’s downtown come to life during a two-hour walking tour. Recommended for ages 13 and older. Fri.-Sat., 8 p.m. through Nov. Historic downtown Alpharetta. 800-979-3370. $15. Lawrenceville Ghost Tours. Aurora Theatre. Listen to vivid stories of the strange and supernatural as guides lead groups on a 90-minute adventure. Through Oct. 31. Sun.-Thurs., 7:30 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678226-6222. Adults $12-$15, 16 and younger, $9-$12. Roswell Ghost Tour. Roswell. Take a walking ghost tour led by paranormal investigators. Daily through Oct. 31. Times vary. 617 Atlanta St., Roswell. 770-649-9922. Adults, $15; children 12 and younger, $10. Decatur Ghost Tours. Decatur. Come meet some of Decatur’s ghosts on this historical, paranormal walking tour of downtown Decatur. Oct. 4-5, 11-12, 17-19, 23-31. 7:30 p.m. 101 East Court Sq., Decatur. 404-296-7771. Pre-register. Adults, $15; 10 and younger, $12. Tour of Southern Ghosts. Stone Mountain Park. Professional storytellers spinning tales of Southern ghosts along lantern-lit paths of the plantation grounds. Oct. 11-27. Thurs. and Sun., 7-9 p.m.; FriSat., 7-9:30 p.m. U.S. Hwy. 78 East, Exit 8, Stone Mountain. 770-469-1105. Adults, $15; 12 and under, $7; parking, $10. Ghosts of Marietta. Marietta. A 90-minute lantern led walk through historic Marietta. Thurs.-Sat. 7:30 p.m. 131 Church St., Marietta. 770-425-1006 . Adults, $17; ages 12 and younger, $12. Family Storytelling: Spooky Stories. Callanwolde Fine Arts Center. Join the Georgia Youth Storytellers and Emerging Voices as they share spooky stories. Oct. 18. 7 p.m. 980 Briarcliff Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-872-5338. Adults, $3; ages 12 and younger, $1. Cont’d on page 60
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October 2013 Atlanta Parent 59
HaLLoWeeN HaPPeNiNGS Beasties at Barrington. Barrington Hall. North Fulton Drama Club leads outdoor spooky story tours and refreshments are available for purchase. Oct. 18 -19. 7:30-9:30 p.m. 535 Barrington Drive, Roswell. 678-561-2273. $5. Scary-etta Ghost Tour. Marietta Trolley Co. Hop aboard the trolley for a 90-minute, fully-narrated ride through the city, learning the history and hearing stories of the resident ghosts. Includes a brief period of walking, about 2 blocks. Fri.-Sat. in Oct., 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. 131 Church St., Marietta. 770-425-1006. Reservations needed. Adults, $27; children 12 and younger, $14.
Haunted Fun For Older Kids
Lawrenceville Ghost Tours
Netherworld Haunted House. Norcross. This terrifying haunted house is not recommended for small children. Oct. 4-31. Sun., 7-11 p.m.; Mon.-Thurs., 7:30- 10:30 p.m.; Fri.- Sat., 7 p.m.midnight. Nov. 1-2, 7- 11 p.m. 6624 Dawson Blvd, Norcross. 404-608-2484. $22/person for the main haunt ($25 on Fridays and Saturdays), Dead Ones; $28/person for Dead Ones plus Boogeyman ($30 on Fridays & Saturdays).
13 Stories Haunted House. Newnan. Take a tour through five different attractions: 13 Stories Haunted House, Vertigo, Horror Hill Zombie Alley, Clown Haud 3D, and 13 Xtreme. Not recommended for small children and pregnant women. Oct. 9-Nov. 16. 320 Temple Ave., Newnan $25 for four hunts and $30 for all five.
Fear The Woods. Stockbridge. Haunted Hayride and Haunted Barn and Zombie Paintball Hayride. Not recommended for small children. Oct. 4- Oct 31. Fri-Sat. 7 p.m.-midnight, Sun. 7-11 p.m. 3565 N Hwy 155 Stockbridge. 770-954-9356. Adults, $15. 10 and younger, $12.
Containment. Atlantic Station. A 25,000-square foot, quarter mile long maze of haunted mayhem caused by demonic artifacts. Not recommended or small children. Oct 4-Nov. 3. 1380 Atlantic Dr. NW, Atlanta. 404-549-5953. $25.
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Ghostly Halloween Party. Northlake Mall. Kids can stock up on goodies from mall retailers. Halloween photo booth, balloon artist and bounce house. Attendees who join or renew their Kidgits Club membership at the event will receive a special gift, while supplies last. Oct. 31. 6-8 p.m. 4800 Briarcliff Rd., Atlanta. 770-9383564. $5. Boo Bash. Town Center at Cobb. Enjoy trick-ortreating, a bounce house and Halloween giveaways hosted by Radio Disney. Oct. 26. 6-8 p.m. 400 Barrett Pkwy., Kennesaw. 770-424-9486. $5.
Fall Family Fun down on the Mitcham Farm Sept. 20 - Nov. 3
Cow Milking • Pig Races Wagon Rides • Petting Farm Entertainment Playground & Mini Golf
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706-273-3838
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60 Atlanta Parent October 2013
Family Fun Guide
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Trick-or-Treating. Mall of Georgia. Mall-wide trick or treating. Simon Kidgits Club and Radio Disney are joining forces for the celebration, which will include entertaining performances by the Academy of Performing Arts, various games and activities, bounce houses, cotton candy machines and prize giveaways. Costume contest at 2 p.m., so children are encouraged to dress up. 1-3 p.m. Ages 12 and younger. 3333 Buford Dr., Buford. 678-482-8788. $5.
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FALL FAMILY FUN Win great prizes from our Fall Family Fun advertisers. Go to atlantaparent.com by October 15 to enter.
Mother/Son Halloween Dance. Bill Johnson Community Activity Building. Moms and sons dress in costumes and dance the night away. Games, prizes and snacks included. Oct. 25. 7-9 p.m. 10495 Woodstock Rd., Roswell. 770-6413760. Pre-register. $12 for Roswell residents; $18 for non-residents. Mother/Son Halloween Dance. George Pierce Park Community Rec Center. Dance with mom, enjoy refreshments and wear your costume. Ages 4 and older. Oct. 25. 7-9 p.m. 55 Buford Hwy., Suwanee. 678-227-0910. Pre-register by Oct. 18. $10/person. Family Halloween Dance. Pinckneyville Park Community Rec Center. Bring the whole family to this frightfully great Halloween dance, with light refreshments. Ages 4 and older. Oct. 26. 7-9 p.m. 4650 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Norcross. 678277-0910. $6/person.
Beyond Atlanta The Great Pumpkin Patch Express. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Kids can pick their own pumpkin, meet Charlie, Lucy and Snoopy and enjoy hayrides and music. Wear your costumes. Oct. 5-6, 11-13, 18-20, 25-27. Fri. departures, 3 p.m. Sat.-Sun. departures, 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. 226 Everett St., Bryson City, NC. 1-800-872-4681. Pre-register online at gsmr.com. Adults, $55; ages 2-12, $33; younger than 2, free. Fall Hoedown. Vogel State Park. Celebrate fall with a cakewalk, hayrides, chilli and drinks, campfire and square dancing, trick or treating, and storytelling. Oct. 19. noon-8 p.m. 405 Vogel State Park Rd., Blairsville. 706-745-2628. Free, parking, $5. Not So Spooky Halloween Fest. The Rock Ranch. Try pumpkin carving and painting, a costume contest for humans or pets, and entertaining shows. Families can trick-or-treat all over the Ranch, then try the corn maze after dark with no lights! Oct. 26. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. 5020 Barnesville Hwy., The Rock. 706-647-6374. $15.
FAMILY FARM FUN Sept. 1st - Nov. 2nd Hayrides Corn Maze Exotic Animals
Cartersville
770-386-8688
PettitCreekFarms.com
Ghost Train Halloween Festival. Tweetsie Railroad. Visit the 3-D maze, the Freaky Forest and of course, the Ghost Train! Older kids and adults, visit the Haunted House. Fridays and Saturdays through November 2. 7:30-11:30 p.m. U.S. Hwy. 321 between Boone and Blowing Rock, NC. 877893-3874. Adults and children 2 and older, $28; under 2, free.
Big Springs Farms Hayrides Farm Animals Pumpkin Patch Birthday Parties and so much more!
Woodstock / Hickory Flat Area
678-899-3900
Haunted Cavern. Ruby Falls. Visit the terrifying Haunted Cavern and beware of the Body Forge – this spooky event takes place above and below ground. Not recommended for young children or pregnant women. Through Nov. 2. Fri.-Sat., 8-11 p.m. Sun., 8-10 p.m. 1720 S. Scenic Hwy., Chattanooga, Tenn. 423-821-2544. $21/person online at hauntedcavern.com; $23 at the door. c
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FALL IS IN THE AIR, PUMPKINS ARE EVERYWHERE
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Family Fun Guide
October 2013 Atlanta Parent 61
Calendar
October 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.
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Events may be canceled or changed after our deadline.
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Submit your Family-Friendly Calendar Event at least 8 weeks prior to the event by visiting atlantaparent.com/event/submit.
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Please call the event beforehand to confirm dates and times.
DISNEY ON ICE
classes
Philips Arena OCT. 9-13. WED.-THURS. 7:30 P.M.; FRI. 10:40 A.M. AND 7:30 P.M.; SAT. 11 A.M., 2:30 P.M. AND 6:30 P.M.; SUN. 1 AND 5 P.M.
Mommy and Me Preschool Program. Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History. Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31. 11:30 a.m. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-427-2117. Ages 3-5. Free with museum admission. Adults, $7.50; children 4-12, $5.50; 3 and younger, free. Basic Archery. Panola Mountain State Park. Join a certified instructor to learn archery basics and take aim at the bull’s eye. Basic equipment is provided. Oct. 4, 5, 6, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 18, 19 and 20. Times vary; pre-registration required. 2600 Highway 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770-3897801. Adults and children ages 9 and older, $10. Parking $5.
Join Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse as they celebrate a Very Merry Unbirthday Party with Alice and the Mad Hatter; a Royal Valentine’s Day Ball with Disney Princesses, including Cinderella, Ariel and Tiana; a Hawaiian luau with Lilo & Stitch; a winter wonderland with Woody, Jessie and Buzz Lightyear; and more magical celebrations of festivities from around the globe. 1 Philips Dr., Atlanta. 404-878-3000. Tickets $15-$75.
Home Depot Kids’ Workshop. All locations. Learn tool safety while building a craft and receive a kid-sized orange apron. First Saturday of each month. Oct. 5. 9 a.m.-noon. Visit homedepot. com for locations. Ages 5-12. Free. American Girl Crafts. American Girl Boutique and Bistro. Have fun making crafts inspired by the stories of American Girl. Oct. 6, 14, 20. Acorn Pouch Craft, 1-3 p.m.; Paper Pumpkin Craft, Oct. 13, 27, 1-3 p.m. Ages 8 and older. 1202 North Point Circle, Alpharetta. 877-247-5223. Free. Magic Monday. Atlanta History Center. Storytime, sing-a-longs and crafts. Oct. 14. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4110. Adults, $6.50; ages 5 and younger, $5.50. Second Thursday Program. Southeastern Railway Museum. Parents and tots program includes circle time, an activity and craft. Ages 1-4. Oct.10. 10:30 a.m.-noon. 3595 Buford Hwy, Duluth. 770-495-0253. $7 per child, one adult free, additional adult, $8. 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. INK Craft Weeks. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids. Pirate craft, Sept. 30-Oct. 4; Police Officer craft, Oct. 7-11; Columbus craft, Oct. 14-18; Firefighter craft, Oct. 21-25, Halloween craft, Oct. 28-Nov.1. $1 with museum admission. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun., 1-5 p.m. 999 Chestnut St., Gainesville. 770-536-1900. Adults, $8; children, $6. Weekends in the Naturalist Center. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Activities include animal encounters, science explorations and more. Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6400. Activities included with price of admission. Adults, $17.50; ages 3-12, $15.50; younger than 3, free. Lil’ Bean Heads Crafts. Bean Head Toys. Create an art project twice a month. All ages welcome, but smaller children may need assistance. First and third Wednesday of every month. 3-4 p.m. 220 Johnson Ferry Rd., Sandy Springs. 404-8512980. Free.
62 Atlanta Parent October 2013
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Toddler Thursdays. High Museum of Art. Create masterpieces to compliment the museum’s current exhibits. Ages 2-4. Thursdays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404733-4400. Free with admission. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free.
Bodies: The Exhibition. Atlantic Station. This exhibition provides an intimate and informative view into the human body. Mon.-Thurs. 10 a.m.5 p.m., Fri.- Sun. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Last ticket sold 1 hour before closing. 265 18th St., Atlanta. 404-496-4274. Adult, $24; ages 3-11, $16.
Art Workshops. Vinings School of Art. Take a drawing, painting or pottery class. Supplies included. Ages 2½-13. Saturdays, 10 and 11 a.m. 1675 Cumberland Pkwy., Smyrna. 678-213-4278. Pre-register. $15 for one-hour workshop.
Marco Polo: Man & Myth. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Experience the story of the ultimate adventure traveler, Marco Polo. Follow Polo’s adventures and view a collection of more than 80 objects representing an epic journey that spanned 24 years and thousands of miles. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun., noon5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-9296300. Adults, $17.50; ages 3-12, $15.50; 2 and younger, free.
Crafts for Kids. Lakeshore Learning Store. Make a different craft each week. Saturdays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 4287 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770578-3100. 3 and older. Free.
exhibits Imaginary Worlds: Plants Larger than Life. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Tour the garden and view giant sculptures made of living plants. Through Oct. 31. Tues.-Sun., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Thurs., 9 a.m.-10 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95. 3 and younger, free. Turtle Travels. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Find out firsthand what it’s like to be a turtle. Watch a swimming loggerhead sea turtle, explore turtle anatomy and get nose to beak with turtles in a crawlunder aquatic tank. Through Jan. 3. Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. Adults, $10.50; ages 3-12, $6.50; 2 and younger, free.
Family Fun Guide
Dolphin Tales. Georgia Aquarium. The live show incorporates dolphins, actors, dramatic costuming, and special effects. Multiple shows per day, times vary. Reservations recommended. Sun.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-5814000. Adults, $29.95-34.95; ages 3-12, $23.95$28.95. Titanic: The Artifact Exhibit. Atlantic Station. Travel back in time and experience the wonder and tragedy of this ill-fated ship. Mon.-Thurs. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Fri.- Sun. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Last ticket sold 1 hour before closing. 265 18th St. (second floor), Atlanta. 404-496-4274. Adults, $24; ages 4-12, $16. Anne Frank in the World: 1929-1945. Parkside Shopping Center. Learn about the life of the Frank family and others who lived in the secret annex in Amsterdam; includes replica of Anne’s room. Tues.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., noon-4 p.m. 5920 Roswell Rd., Sandy Springs. 770-206-1558. Free.
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Calendar Turtle Tours. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum. Through stories, hands-on exhibits and crafts, museum mascots Sandy the chipmunk and Spring the turtle introduce the youngest visitors to history. Second Saturday of each month. 11 a.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Circle, Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111 Donations encouraged.. Moneyville. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Experience an educational traveling exhibit where children and their families can explore the history, science, math, and economics behind the fascinating subject of money. Through Jan. 12. Museum closed Wednesdays. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat.Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Adults and ages 1 and older, $12.75; younger than 1, free. Free admission starting at 1 p.m. on the second Tuesday of every month brought to you by Target Free Second Tuesday. Sea Monsters Revealed: Aquatic Bodies. Georgia Aquarium. Features the world’s largest plastinated sea creatures including a 6-foot-wide devil ray, a 15-foot-long mako shark and an 18-foot-long, 3,000 pound whale shark.. Sun.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-581-4000. Adults, $29.95-34.95; ages 3-12, $23.95-$28.95. LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Phipps Plaza. Come play, build and look at a variety of spectacular LEGO exhibits that will have all LEGO lovers amazed. Sun.-Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Sat.,10 a.m.-9 p.m. (Last admission 2 hrs. before closing.) 3500 Peachtree Rd., Atlanta. 404-848-9252. Adult, $19; ages 3-12, $15, 2 and younger, free.
ATLANTA PARENT MAGAZINE’S FAMILY BLOCK PARTY Mercer University OCT. 12, 10 A.M.-4 P.M. Join the 10th annual party that celebrates kids with more than 50 activities and live entertainment. You’ll find storytelling, food, interactive exhibits, craft booths, a huge toddler play area, a petting farm, sports games, an inflatable playground, pony rides, and – for the first time – camel rides. 3001 Mercer University Dr., Atlanta. 770-454-7599, atlantaparent.com. $5 per person, ages 3 and older; 2 and younger free (buy tickets in advance and avoid the line).
Quarry Exhibit at Stone Mountain. Stone Mountain Park. This outdoor display was developed to tell the story of an industry that played a significant part in the history of Stone Mountain. Mon.-Sun., dawn to dusk. 770-4985690. U.S. Hwy 78 E., Stone Mountain. Free. Parking, $10.
Centennial Olympic Games Exhibit. Atlanta History Center. Learn about the exciting 1996 Olympic Games that were held in Atlanta. Permanent exhibit. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Sun, noon-5:30 p.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; 3 and younger, free.
familyconcert Introduce your kids to the magic of classical music with this ghoulish production. Come in halloween costumes! Tickets start at just $18 Oct 27 Sun: 1:30 & 3:30pm Jere Flint, conductor Magic Circle Mime Company
aso.org | 404.733.5000 the ASO. Go!
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Family Fun Guide
October 2013 Atlanta Parent 63
Calendar Dairies in DeKalb. DeKalb History Center. This exhibit focuses on the history of dairy farming in DeKalb County in the 20th century. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 101 East Court Sq., Decatur. 404373-1088. Free. Today’s West! Booth Western Art Museum. An exhibit displaying contemporary art from the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. Oct. 24-April 13. Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun., 1-5 p.m. and Thurs., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. 501 Museum Dr., Cartersville. 770-387-1300. Adults, $10; ages 12 and younger, free. Wit in Wood. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum. See the whittle work of Moses Robinson, from animals to dancing couples. Through April 2014. Open Wed. and Sat., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Cir., Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111. Adults, $3; ages 6-12, $1; 5 and younger, free.
movies Penguins. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Follow a brave king penguin on the journey of a lifetime. Through Jan. 2 See fernbankmuseum. org for show times. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. IMAX tickets: adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; 2 and younger, free. Hidden Universe. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Take a breathtaking tour of deep space through images captured by Hubble and the world’s most powerful telescopes. Through Jan. 2. See fernbankmuseum.org for show times. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. IMAX tickets: adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; 2 and younger, free.
GREAT GEORGIA AIRSHOW Atlanta Regional Airport OCT. 11-13. FRI. 3 – 9:30 P.M.; SA.T & SUN. 9:30 A.M.-7 P.M. A weekend filled with breathtaking aerial stunts, roaring jet trucks, and helicopter rides also features the Airshow’s first nighttime show event (separate admission required.) A kids’ zone offers aviation-themed inflatables, a rock-climbing wall, spider bungee jump, bounce houses and face painting. 7 Falcon Drive, Peachtree City. thegreatgeorgiaairshow.com. Admission $15-$25; ages 5 and younger, free.
Music at Noon. Centennial Olympic Park. Enjoy lunch and live music performed by local artists. Tues. and Thurs. through Oct. Concerts from noon-1 p.m., 265 Park Ave. West, Atlanta. 404-223-4412. Free.
music Fall Concert Series. Dunwoody Nature Center. Bring a chair, blanket and picnic dinner for a night of rockin’ tunes in the beautiful fall colors of the newly restored meadow. Oct. 5, 26. 7-9 p.m. 5343 Roberts Dr., Dunwoody. 770- 394-3322. Adults, $5; children, $3; 2 and younger, free.
Swift-Cantrell Park: Outdoor Movie Series. Features family friendly movie and activities. “Hotel Transylvania” begins at dark but arrive early for inflatables and attractions. Oct. 12, 3140 Old 41 Hwy., Kennesaw. 770-422-9714. Free.
Pickin’ on the Square. Newnan. Acoustic musicians of all genres and skill levels are welcome to join in on the first and third Saturday of every month. 11 a.m. on Oct. 5 and 19. Historic Downtown Newnan Courthouse Square at LaGrange St. and E. Broad St. 770-253-8283. Free.
Carl Rhodenizer Recreation Center: Movies Under the Stars. Each movie is at a different park. Movies begin at dusk. Oct. 19,”Hotel Transylvania” at Carl Rhodenizer Recreation Center. See claytonparks.com. 770-477-3766. Free.
Riverside Sounds. Riverside Park. Outdoor concert series in the park. Randall Bramblett Band, Oct. 5. Concerts from 7-9 p.m. Free shuttle available from Azalea Park and Don White Park. 575 Riverside Rd., Roswell. 770-641-3705. Free.
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64 Atlanta Parent October 2013
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Family Fun Guide
nature Atlanta Audobon Society Bird Walk. Panola Mountain State Park. Bring your binoculars for a gentle hike through the park’s Power of Flight area. Wear long pants and sleeves. All ages. Oct. 6. 8-11 a.m. 2600 Hwy. 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. Pre-register. Donations of birdseed appreciated. Parking, $5.
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Calendar
YOUNG PEOPLE’S CONCERTS: FARMER JASON Spivey Hall OCT. 17, 9:45 A.M. & 11:15 A.M. FUTURE DATES WITH DIFFERENT PERFORMERS.
Fall Walk. McDaniel Farm. Examine beautiful changing colors and crisp temperatures while exploring trails at McDaniel Farm. Oct.12, 26. 10:30 a.m.-noon and 1:30-3 p.m. 3251 McDaniel Rd., Duluth. 770-904-3500. $8.
The Spivey Hall concert series for younger audiences (some for toddlers!) kicks off with two performances by Farmer Jason, whose blend of folk, Americana, and high energy rock teach lessons about ecology, farm life, animals, and nature appreciation. Clayton State University, Morrow. spiveyhall.org/young-peoplesconcerts. $2.
Creatures of the Night Festival. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Experience the wonders of nocturnal animals and their amazing adaptations to nature. Features a scavenger hunt, crafts, an enchanted walk among eco-themed carved pumpkins and ends with a night hike using non-visual senses to explore the woods. Oct. 18. 6-9 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. Adults, $5; ages 3-12, $3; 2 and younger, free. Feeding Time. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Join a naturalist for an in-depth look at one of the resident animals as the Wildlife Dept. feeds them. Tuesdays and Saturdays, 4 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free. Native Ectotherm Exhibit. Autrey Mill Nature Preserve. Visit local reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 9770 Autrey Mill Rd., Johns Creek. 678-366-3511. Donations encouraged. Trail Hikes. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Journey through the CNC trails using biofacts and activities to spark your curiosity. Saturdays and Sundays at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free.
special events Teen Arts Night. City Center. Teens can bring instruments, poetry, artwork and short stories to share. Includes a slice of pizza and a soda. Oct. 4. 6-8 p.m. 8534 Main St., Woodstock. 678-494-4251. $5. Fulton County Free Saturday. High Museum of Art. Admission is free for Fulton County residents with I.D. on the first Saturday of each month until 1 p.m. Oct. 5. Regular hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Free.
Disney on Ice. Philips Arena. Enjoy the “Let’s Celebrate!” Tour and see a magical medley of holidays, celebrations and festivals from around the globe. Oct. 9-13. Wed.-Thurs. 7:30 p.m.; Fri. 10:40 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sat. 11 a.m., 2:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.; Sun. 1 and 5 p.m. 1 Philips Dr., Atlanta. 404-878-3000. Tickets $15-$75. Free Family Day. Hudgens Center for the Arts. Admission is free all day with guided hands-on art activities for children from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 12. Regular hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Bldg. 300, Duluth. 770-623-6002 Adults, $5; children, $3; younger than 2, free.
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Family Fun Guide
October 2013 Atlanta Parent 65
Calendar Harvest on the Hooch. Chattahoochee Nature Center. A fundraiser for the Unity Garden. Enjoy family outdoor games, live music, cooking demonstrations, a scavenger hunt and more. Oct. 13. 3-6 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055 ext. 226. Adults, $30; children ages 6-12, $15; 5 and younger, free. Sunday Funday. East Cobb Park. Enjoy live entertainment and family fun. Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic dinner. Oct. 13, 27. 4-7 p.m. 3322 Roswell Rd. Marietta. 770591-3160. Free. Arts and Rec. High Museum of Art. Join Jerry Pinkney, children’s book illustrator and Caldecott Medal Winner for a read-aloud of The Tortoise and the Hare. Participate in workshops to illustrate the characters, storyboard and bind a book. Oct. 13. noon-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-7335000. Free with admission. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free. Dyslexia Dash 5k. Riverside Park. Fun run benefits the International Dyslexia Association. Oct. 19. 8 a.m. 575 Riverside Rd, Roswell. 404-256-1232. $30. Heavy Metal in Motion. Tellus Science Museum. This celebration of transportation involves hands-on activities with helicopters, hovercrafts, race cars, mini train rides, bounce houses and more. Oct. 19. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-6065700. Adults, $14; children ages 3-17, $10. History Tours. Piedmont Park. Learn about Piedmont Park’s history and the city of Atlanta. Saturdays through Dec. 11 a.m. Meet at the Green Market Info booth near 12th St. park entrance. Piedmont Park. 404-875-7275. Free. Alive After Five. Downtown Roswell. Enjoy a break from the busy workweek with live music, outside vendors, late hours at retailers, face painting and more. Bring your family, a date, your dog or your friends, and be sure to hop on the free trolley. Every third Thursday of the month, through Oct. 5-9 p.m. Downtown Roswell. 770-640-3253. Free.
storytelling Story Time by the River. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Join the librarian as she uses books, puppets and songs to share stories about nature. Oct. 2. 10:30 a.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free. Family Storytelling. Callanwolde Fine Arts Center. Join the Georgia Youth Storytellers and Emerging Voices as they share spooky stories. Oct. 18. 7 p.m. 980 Briarcliff Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-872-5338. Adults, $3; Children 12 and younger, $1. Children’s Story Time. FoxTale Book Shoppe. Age-appropriate stories followed by dance and song. Mondays and Saturdays. 11 a.m. 105 East Main St., #138, Woodstock. 770-516-9989. Free. Next Chapter JV Book Club. FoxTale Book Shoppe. This book club is for ages 6-12 and includes a snack, discussion and an activity. Second Friday of every month. 4:30 p.m. 105 East Main St., #138, Woodstock. 770-5169989. Free. Tales for Tots by Once and Again Books. Marietta Whole Foods. Enjoy a storytelling session every Tuesday at 10 a.m. 1311 Johnson Ferry Rd., Marietta. 770-726-9170. Free. Storytime with Miss Cynthia. Perimeter Barnes & Noble. Join Miss Cynthia every Wednesday for some wacky fun and crafts with a new story each week. 10 a.m. 120 Perimeter Center West, Atlanta. 770-396-1200. Free. Storytime at Little Shop. Little Shop of Stories. Storytelling three times a week; Thursday nights, milk and cookies provided and kids can come in pajamas. Sundays, 3 p.m.; Tuesdays, 11 a.m.; Thursdays, 7 p.m. 133A East Court Sq., Decatur. 404-373-6300. Free. Tales for Toddlers. Bean Head Toys. Stories read in the indoor tree house, then kids make a craft to take home. Every Thursday. 10:30 a.m. 220 Johnson Ferry Rd., Sandy Springs. 404-8512980. Free.
HEAVY METAL IN MOTION Tellus Science Museum OCT. 19. 10 A.M.-5 P.M. Rev your engines: Tellus is celebrating transportation with vintage race cars, helicopters, fire engines, motorcycles and a weather truck! Visitors can get up close and climb on or in many of the vehicles on display. Kids can ride a miniature train and bounce on inflatables. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. Adults, $14; children ages 3-17, $10. 66 Atlanta Parent October 2013
Family Fun Guide
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Calendar Wren’s Nest Storytelling. The Wren’s Nest. Wren’s Nest Ramblers host storytelling sessions every Saturday. 1 p.m. 1050 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd., Atlanta. 404-753-7735. Adults, $8; children $5, 4 and younger, free.
theater The Berenstain Bears Live! In Family Matters the Musical. Earl Smith Strand Theatre. This family-friendly performance adapted from the classic children’s book series brings everyone’s favorite bear family to life. Oct. 5. 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. 117 North Park Square, Marietta. 770293-0080. $12.50-$37.50/person. Everybody Loves Pirates. Center for Puppetry Arts. Treasure map in hand, Lucy and Little Chucky set off on the adventure of a lifetime only to find themselves walking the plank at the hands of some pesky (but lovable) pirates. Through Oct. 6. See puppet.org for show times. 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $16.50; younger than 2, free. The Wizard of Oz. Center for Puppetry Arts. Enjoy this American fairy tale as Dorothy travels down the Yellow Brick Road to find out why the Lion, Tinman and Strawman are singing the Blues. Oct. 9-20. See puppet.org for show times. 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $16.50; younger than 2, free.
SOUTHEASTERN COWBOY FESTIVAL AND SYMPOSIUM Booth Western Art Museum, Cartersville OCT. 24-27 This 11th annual festival celebrates western traditions with Native American dances, art history lectures, a western marketplace, living history encampments, live music, a cowboy church, children’s activities and a concert by John Anderson. 501 Museum Drive, Cartersville. 770-387-1300. Adults $10; children 12 and younger, $3.
Peter Pan and Wendy. Aurora Children’s Playhouse. Neverland beckons as Peter Pan and Wendy encounter fairies, mermaids and a ticking crocodile while trying to defeat the nefarious Captain Hook. Oct. 12. 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $7/person. The Dragon King. Center for Puppetry Arts. A wise and fearless grandmother is determined to find out why the Dragon King is holding back the precious rains. Oct. 22-Nov. 3. See puppet.org for show times. 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $16.50; younger than 2, free.
beyond atlanta First Friday Night Concert Series. Hancock Park, Dahlonega. Bring friends, family lawn chairs and listen to entertaining bands. Oct. 4. 6:30 p.m. North Park and Warwick Streets, Dahlonega. 706-8646133. Free. Mom’s Morning Out. North Georgia Zoo and Petting Farm. Bring the kids for a morning out and enjoy special rates. Oct. 8. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 706-348-7279. 2912 Paradise Valley Rd., Cleveland. Petting zoo and hayride, $6 or add in a wildlife walk for $15.
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Family Fun Guide
October 2013 Atlanta Parent 67
Calendar ATLANTA WORLD KITE FESTIVAL AND EXPO
Piedmont Park at the Meadow OCT. 26. NOON-5 P.M.
Advertising in Atlanta Parent Gets Results
T
he Atlanta Boy Choir has advertised in Atlanta Parent since 2002 and gets many interested boys and parents involved in their group through these advertisements. In a letter to his Board of Trustees, Fletcher Wolfe, founding director of the Atlanta Boy Choir has requested that the parents of his choir boys think seriously about reading what he says is perhaps the best publication on the interests of young children. The choir is well known throughout the world and will once again visit Poland to honor one of their long time admirers, the former Pope John Paul II. Parents interested in their boys auditioning for this outstanding choir should call 404-378-0064 or email them at info@atlantaboychoir.org. Also visit their website at www.atlantaboychoir.org. To advertise in Atlanta Parent, please call 770-454-7599
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68 Atlanta Parent October 2013
Family Fun Guide
Learn to fly a kite and celebrate the international cultures of Atlanta at a family-friendly fest featuring kite flying, food vendors, entertainment, a kids’ fun zone, arts and crafts, a costume contest and more. 10th St. between Charles Allen Dr. and Monroe St. Free. atlantaworldkitefestival.com. Free.
Harvest Happenings. Tugaloo State park. Celebrate the coming of fall with hay rides and stories around the campfire. Oct. 26. 7 p.m. 1763 Tugaloo State Park Rd., Livonia. 706-3564362. Pre-register. Parking, $5. Augusta Market at the River. Augusta Riverwalk. Browse local produce, baked goods, art and more on the banks of the Savannah River. Saturdays through November. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. 8th St. Plaza, Augusta. 800-726-0243. Free. Historic Trolley Tour. Downtown Augusta. Take the Lady Libby Trolley for a kid-friendly ride to see some of Augusta’s most famous homes and the Augusta Canal. Hear a historical story and head to the James Brown exhibit at the Augusta History Museum. Saturdays. 1:30 p.m. 560 Reynolds St., Augusta. 706-724-4067. Preregister. $12 per person, includes admission to the museum. Family Fun Days. The Rock Ranch. Enjoy farming attractions and kids activities at the Rock Ranch. Every Saturday through Nov. 16. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. 5020 Barnesville Hwy., The Rock. 706-647-6374. Admission, $15; ages 3 and younger, free. River Giants Exhibit. Tennessee Aquarium. A collection of freshwater fish at legendary sizes, the “goliaths” of freshwater. Open daily 10 a.m.-6 p.m. One Broad St., Chattanooga, Tenn. 800-262-0695. Adults, $24.95; ages 3-12 $14.95. c
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fallfestivals&fairs Charges may apply for some festival activities, such as inflatables and activity stations in addition to entrance fees.
Cumming Country Fair and Festival. Cumming Fairgrounds. Carnival rides, live music, fireworks, chainsaw carving and more. Oct. 3-13. Mon.-Thurs., 4-10 p.m.; Fri., 4 p.m.-midnight; Sat., 10 a.m.-midnight; Sun., 12:30-9 p.m. 235 Castleberry Rd., Cumming. 770-781-3491. Adults, $7; ages 5-18, $3; 4 and younger, free; parking, $3. Autumn Fest. Barrett Memorial Park. Arts and crafts, childrens’ activities, live entertainment, food and more. Oct. 5. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Park Lane and Hickory Rd., Holly Springs. 770-721-7506. Free. AutumnFest Arts and Music Festival. Avondale Estates across from City Hall. Features regional artists, live music and entertainment, food trucks, chef demonstrations and recreational activities for the kids. Oct. 5-6. Sat. 11 a.m.- 6 p.m.; Sun. noon-6 p.m. Clarendon Ave. and S. Avondale Rd., Avondale Estates. 404-2945400. Free. Crabapple Fest Antique and Art Festival. Historic Crabapple. Featuring antiques dealers and local juried artists, roaming musicians, food trucks and kids’ activities. Oct. 5. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 765 Broadwell Rd., Milton. 770-241-1125. Free. E. Rivers Fall Festival. E. Rivers Elementary. Enjoy carnival rides and games, live entertainment, bake sale and food vendors. Oct. 5. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 4360 Powers Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-802-7050. $25 per wristband; parents free. Norcross Art Fest. Historic Downtown Norcross. Local and national artists display and sell folk art, photography, pottery, jewelry and more. Oct. 5-6. Sat., 10 a.m.6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Downtown Norcross. 770-452-1727. Free. Rock’n Ribville. Downtown Lawrenceville. Enjoy BBQ competition, burger eating contest, music, kids’ zone and more. Oct. 5. Noon-9 p.m. 185 W. Crogan St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-2639. Free. Scarecrow Harvest. Historic Downtown Alpharetta. Over 100 scarecrows decorated by elementary school children, a farmers market, awards, music, hayrides to the log cabin, face painting, cornhole, storytelling, inflatables and activities. Oct. 5. 10 a.m-2 p.m. 2 South Main St., Alpharetta. 678-2976078. Free. Sunday in the Park. Historic Oakland Cemetery. Live music, Victorian costume contest, artists market, living history demonstrations, storytellers, Irish dancers, and a scavenger hunt. Oct. 6. noon-6 p.m. 248 Oakland Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404688-2107. Free, suggested donation, $5; parking, $5. Fall Festival. Wilburn Farm at DavidsonArabia Mountain. Hayrides, face art, mini farmers market, live music, vendors, fresh apple cider and more. Oct. 11-13. Fri., 5-9 p.m., Sat., 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Sun., 8-10 a.m. 3899 N. Goddard Rd., Lithonia. 770-4843060. Free.
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Oakhurst Arts & Music Festival
Atlanta Parent Magazine’s Family Block Party. Mercer University, Atlanta Campus. More than 50 kid-friendly attractions, storytelling, inflatables, pony rides and prizes. Oct. 12. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 3001 Mercer University Dr., Atlanta. 770454-7599. $5; 2 and younger, free. Fall-O-Ween Fest. Swift-Cantrell Park. The park will be transformed into “SpookCentral Park,” featuring a costume contest, free and pay-to-play inflatables, a trackless train, carnival games, a Trick-or-Treat Trail, childrens’ crafts, scarecrow displays, carved pumpkins and more. Oct. 12. 5 p.m. 3140 Old 41 Hwy., Kennesaw. 770-422-9714. Free. Mall of Georgia Fall Festival. Mall of Georgia. Kids can enjoy crafts, games, a bounce house and stage performances. Radio Disney will entertain. Oct. 12. 1-3 p.m. 3333 Buford Dr., Buford. 678-482-8788. $5. Taste of Suwanee. Town Center Park. Local performers and restaurants, kids activities. Oct. 12. noon-5 p.m. Buford Hwy. and Lawrenceville-Suwanee Rd., Suwanee. 770945-8996. Free admission, tasting tickets for a fee.
Highland Games and Scottish Festival. Stone Mountain Park. Featuring musical entertainment, children’s events and more. Oct. 19-20. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Old Hugh Howell Rd., Stone Mountain. 770-521-0228. Sat., adults, $17 (at gate, $19); Sun., adults $15 (at gate, $17); both days, ages 4-12, $5 ($6 at gate); younger than 4, free. Advance purchase 3-day parking pass, $10. smhg.org. Harvest Balloon Festival. Sterling on the Lake. Take part in balloon adventures, competitive races and tethered rides. On land, pumpkin carving, hayrides, face painting and a bake sale. Oct. 19. Sat., balloon rides, 5:30-8 p.m., festivities 1-8 p.m. 7004 Lake Sterling Blvd., Flowery Branch. 770-967-9777. $25 donation for 30 activity tickets. Parking, $5. Harvest Square Festival. Glover Park-Marietta Square. Halloween games, family activities, scarecrows and more. Oct. 19. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 50 Park Sq., Marietta. 770-794-5601. Free. Pace Fall Fair. Pace Academy. Laser tag, bungees, inflatables, fair games and more. Rain or shine. Oct. 19, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 966 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-240-7411. Free admission, activity tickets for a fee.
Oakhurst Arts & Music Festival. Harmony Park in Oakhurst Village. More than 50 artists, seven bands, 5K run, neighborhood parade, African drumming and more. Oct. 12. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Corner of East Lake Dr. and Oakview Rd., Decatur. 404-371-9583. Free.
Southeastern Cowboy Festival and Symposium. Booth Western Arts Museum. Childrens’ activities, pioneer demonstrations, Western gun fight reenactments, Native American dancing and more. Oct. 24-27. Thurs., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 1-5 p.m. 501 Museum Dr., Cartersville. 770-3871300. Adults, $10; children 12 and younger, $3.
Parktoberfest. Whittier Mill Park. Live music in the 22-acre park with local food and beverages. Oct. 12. 3-10 p.m. 2975 Wales Ave., Atlanta. 404-735-3367. $5 admission; $20 for adults to receive a cup that can be filled with local craft beer; children 12 and younger, free.
Country Living Fair. Stone Mountain Park. Over 150 booths of antiques and hand-crafted goods, plus a harvest market and general store. Oct. 25-27. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. U.S. Highway 78 East, Stone Mountain. 770-498-5690. $16/one day; $20/ weekend pass; one-day parking, $10. Cont’d on page 70
Family Fun Guide
October 2013 Atlanta Parent 69
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fallfestivals&fairs Georgia National Fair Perry / Oct. 3-13 he fair, in its 23rd year, has won 93 awards from the International Association of Fairs and Expositions for its livestock and horse events, competitive exhibits, and communications programs. New this year is the Georgia Grown Building, featuring the state’s products, manufacturers and agricultural businesses. You’ll also find midway rides and games, headliner concerts, food, commercial vendors, street entertainers and nightly fireworks. At Exit 135 off I-75, Perry. $10 adults; ages 10 and younger free with paying adult; free parking. 800-987-3247, georgianationalfair.com.
T
Taste of Atlanta. Midtown at Tech Square. Celebrate Atlanta’s best chefs, local farmers, music cafes and live cooking stages. Oct. 2527. Fri., 7:30-10:30 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. Spring Street & 5th Street, Atlanta. 404875-4434. Advance purchase, $30; at gate, $40; 13 and younger, free with paid adult. Atlanta World Kite Festival and Expo. Piedmont Park at the Meadow. Family friendly fun featuring kite flying, food vendors, entertainment, kids’ fun zone, arts and crafts, costume contest and more . Oct. 26. noon-5 p.m. 10th St. between Charles Allen Dr. and Monroe St. Free. Fall Jonquil Festival. Smyrna Village Green. Arts and crafts market, festival food, live music and kids’ activities. Oct. 26-27. Sat., 10 a.m.6 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 200 Village Green Circle, Smyrna. 770-423-1330. Free. Nightfall. Elachee Nature Science Center. See a live animal program, play games, make crafts, enjoy hikes. Also costumed animal characters, face painting and more. Oct. 27. 5-8 p.m. 2125 Elachee Dr., Gainesville. 770-535-1976. $5.
Beyond Atlanta Georgia National Fair. Georgia National Fairgrounds. Carnival rides, concerts, food vendors, livestock, live entertainment and more. Oct. 3, 3-10 p.m.; Oct. 4-13, 8 a.m.-10 p.m. 401 Larry Walker Pkwy., Perry. 478-987-3247. Adults, $6-$10; children 10 and younger, free with paid adult. Unlimited ride wristband, $16. National Storytelling Festival. Jonesborough, Tenn. America’s favorite storytellers perform at this three-day outdoor festival. Nightly family-friendly ghost story concerts and much more! Oct. 4-6. Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Historic Downtown Jonesborough. 800952-8392, ext. 221. Tickets start at $45. See storytellingcenter.net for complete ticket package breakdown.
Family Fun Guide
Cotton Pickin’ Fair. Gay Family Farmstead. Enjoy musicians, folk dancers, marionettes and delicious Southern food on the 1828 family farm. Oct. 5-6. Sat., 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Sun., 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. 18830 Georgia Hwy. 85, Gay. 706538-6814. Adults, $7; children 7-12, $3. Georgia Mountain Fall Festival. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. Arts, crafts, history, music and more. Oct. 11-19. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.- 7 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. 1311 Music Hall Rd., Hiawassee. 706-896-4191. georgiamountainfairgrounds.com. $11/person, 9 and younger, free; parking, free. Georgia Apple Festival. Ellijay Lions Club Fairgrounds. Handmade and handcrafted items, plus all the apples you can eat! Oct. 1213, 19-20. Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 1729 South Main St., Ellijay. 706-636-4500. Adults, $5; children 10 and younger, free. Dahlonega Gold Rush Days. Dahlonega Gold Museum. Celebrate the 1828 discovery of gold with 300 arts and crafts exhibitors, a parade, gold panning, hog calling, buck dancing, wrist wrestling, live entertainment and more. Oct. 1920. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 1 Public Square, Dahlonega. 706-864-2257. $3.50. Fall Hoedown. Vogel State Park. Celebrate fall with noon chili, a cakewalk, hayrides, bonfire, line dancing, trick or treats and professional storytelling. Oct. 19. noon- 8 p.m. Details at gastateparks.org. 405 Vogel State Park Rd., Blairsville. 706-745-2628. Free; parking, $5. Hummingbird Festival. Historic Downtown Hogansville. Enjoy food, crafts, antiques, music, local artists, open storefronts, rides, and activities for the whole family. Oct. 19-20. Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 301 E. Main Street, Hogansville, 706-637-9497. Free. Mossy Creek Festival. Mossy Creek Barnyard. Find arts and crafts, hayrides, petting zoo, live entertainment and more. Oct. 19-20. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 315M Lake Joy Rd., Perry. 478-922-8265. Adults, $5; children, $1.c
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October 2013 Atlanta Parent 71
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The Ultimate Party Guide October 2013 Atlanta Parent 73
Humor
30 Signs You Live in Atlanta You hear that you’re in the home of the Braves and it doesn’t cause a double take, and other signs you’re from around here:* 1. You don’t get confused when someone says they’re on the corner of Peachtree and Peachtree. 2. Someone says they’re at “Spaghetti Junction” and it doesn’t make you hungry. 3. You run to the store to stock up on bread and milk at the remote possibility of snow. 4. You slow down when it rains. You
slow down when it’s sunny. You slow down to let someone merge.
Peachtre e
Dr.
7. You have a clean, old-fashioned
hate for Georgia Tech or UGA.
8. You’ve had more than a few meals
at Chick-Fil-A or The Varsity.
9. You’re a fan of The Braves and you have a Chipper Jones bobble head to prove it. 10. You’re down with OTP. Yeah, you know what we mean.
11. You would never name your kid Marta.
12. You’ve purchased peach jam at a farmers market.
74 Atlanta Parent October 2013
debated “St. Louis Style” vs. “Carolina Style” barbecue.
21. You’ve
spent 20 minutes looking for parking to go to a festival at Piedmont Park.
Peachtree St.
22. You’ve
Peachtree Circle
e e r t h c a e P Old
driven to North Georgia to watch the leaves change colors in the fall, or to Lake Lanier to cool off in the summer.
23. You’ve
seen a film crew following a reality TV star.
24. You’ve been to a haunted
ee r t h c a e P New
house in a strip mall.
25. You know a ton of Ray Charles songs.
26. The only tea you drink is
5. Construction plagues your life. 6. Pollen plagues your life.
20. You’ve
sweet tea.
13. You realize how friendly Atlanta is when you travel to other cities.
14. You’ve taken a lot of visitors to the
World of Coca-Cola museum, the Georgia Aquarium and Underground Atlanta.
15. You feel guilty when you drink Pepsi. 16. You’ve asked someone if they mean Midtown or Downtown.
17. You get excited when you meet someone who was born in Atlanta.
18. You have a favorite flavor of peanuts. 19. You remember the ‘96 Olympics. Or just Izzy, depending on how old you are.
27. You’ve told someone to make a turn at The Big Chicken. Or the Waffle House. Or the church on the corner.
28. You’ve considered getting
satellite radio, using music apps or listening to books on CD in your car to make the commute go by faster.
29. You’ve freaked out a little bit
when riding the cable car up, up and farther up at Stone Mountain.
30. You’ve spent an hour packing blankets, chairs and food for the laser light show at Stone Mountain. *Courtesy of Redfin real estate agents in Atlanta atlantaparent.com
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The ultimate adventure traveler.
on Vi ew 速
Plan your adventure at fernbankmuseum.org/marco. Sponsored locally in part by The Rich Foundation, Inc. Marco Polo: Man & Myth is organized by Contemporanea Progetti & Expona.
VENICE TIB JAVA JAVA ET VENICE L BU ISTANBUL ISTAN JERUSALEM BEI JAVA G JING N