September 2015

Atlanta

PARENT

Favorite Fall Festivals

September 2015 / atlantaparent.com

Oh, Baby!

10 questions to ask your OB/GYN Like Us on FACEBOOK

The Problem with Pink & Blue

Win a Birthday Party!

Family Block Party Is Now Atlanta Parent’s Family Festival!

Same great festival, with a new name!

New Price!

Back for our 12th year, it’s Atlanta’s favorite family festival!

Buy Online & Save.

October 10, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. / Mercer University Atlanta Campus

Images By N’Neka and Butler Family Photography

MORE THAN 50 FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES! Camel And Pony Rides • Toddler-Only Play Area • Storytelling • Animals • Interactive Games Live Entertainment • Trick or Treat Street • Crafts • Food • Exhibitors & Much More! $10 per person at the gate. $5 per person online. Ages 1 and younger, free. Each paid admission includes five activity tickets.

SPONSORS:

BUY TICKETS

ONLINE!

SAVE $5 BENEFICIARIES: Page Turners Make Great Learners & Georgia Center for Child Advocacy

Exhibit, Volunteer, Donate Contact Jordan for more information: 678-222-1911 / JLisvosky@atlantaparent.com www.atlantaparent.com/familyfestival

Sandy Springs/ Lawrenceville-Suwanee

OCT. 7 – 11 Buy Tickets: Ticketmaster.com 800-745-3000 Venue Box Office Groups call 770-578-5125

323670

DisneyOnIce.com

4 Atlanta Parent September 2015

#DisneyOnIce

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Inside 31 September YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

Vol. 31 / Number 9

Departments

Features 12

14

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

Smart Looks

The fashion police will write no citations – except perhaps “well done!” – when kids choose these classy outfits for fall.

Words of Humor & Wisdom

Family Fun Guide

Gender Neutrality

Many parents are saying “no” to blue-or-pink traditions and picking gender-neutral colors, toys and more.

26 34

47 48

Party On

Get Out and Explore

Field trips bring classroom lessons to life – kids would rather see, touch and hear an animal than view a photo in a book. These places make learning fun!

18 Oh, Baby!

Magazine Association of the Southeast

2013 Award Winner atlantaparent.com

Three New Exhibits, Mark Your Calendar: Atlanta Parent’s Family Festival

Plan a perfect, and stress-free, birthday party with Atlanta Parent’s help. You’ll find plenty of ideas, plus where to find the best cupcakes.

Choose an obstetrician you can trust during pregnancy and birth from among Atlanta Parent’s list of Mom-Approved Doctors. Plus, baby showers are more festive with these fun themes.

Not-to-Miss Events

See Page 19

49 Free Fun: Museum Bargain Days 50 Inside CNN: Get the Scoop!

51 Atlanta

Botanical Garden Gainesville

52

Labor Day Events

53

Hands-on Fun

54 58 60

Fall Festivals and Fairs

at Tellus Museum

Corn Mazes September Calendar

Cover Kid Winners Page 44

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

PUBLISHER Liz White

lwhite@atlantaparent.com ASSOCIATE Laura Powell PUBLISHER lpowell@atlantaparent.com

BUSINESS Amy Smith DEVELOPMENT MGR asmith@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Carolyn Haushalter EXECUTIVE chaushalter@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Candy Stirling EXECUTIVE cstirling@atlantaparent.com

JR. ACCOUNT Diane Radloff

EXECUTIVE dradloff@atlantaparent.com SPECIAL EVENTS & Jordan Lisvosky

DIGITAL SALES jlisvosky@atlantaparent.com

CONTRIBUTING Amanda Miller Allen EDITOR

CALENDAR Hayley Markowitz EDITOR calendar@atlantaparent.com

EDITORIAL Sheri Taylor-Emery

ART DIRECTOR creative@atlantaparent.com

PRODUCTION Brittany Carlisle

Robin Mintz

OPERATIONS Caroline Ward MANAGER cward@atlantaparent.com

MARKETING MOM Felicia Barman

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Atlanta Parent, Inc. 2015

6 Atlanta Parent September 2015

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Publisher’s Note For Happy Kids, Say Goodbye to Stereotypes Interior designers have a flare most of us lack. Many of them will start with a neutral palette, then add splashes of color in just the right places. As if by magic, the personality of a room begins to sparkle.

As parents and grandparents, we could learn a lot from design techniques.

Children are very much like a room beginning to take shape. Though we can give them a moral code, an education and our best advice, it’s up to them to create harmonious surroundings. Choosing the right career, friends and a spouse are the splashes of color that help our kids grow into happy adults.

I’ve been thinking about color lately because of a thought-provoking article in this month’s magazine, “Pink, Blue & Neutral: How Gender Stereotypes Shape Kids” (Page 14).

Stereotyping begins early in our society, with baby girls cuddly in pink and baby boys snuggled in blue. To a degree, there’s nothing wrong with that, psychologists say. The problems begin when parents expect girls to be girlygirls and boys to be macho-boys – those expectations close off career paths and personal choices that could lead to a richer life.

This line of thinking assumes women are innately more nurturing than men, more thoughtful, more caring, more patient, and better suited to roles as teachers and nurses, not in careers as engineers, scientists, architects, lawyers or CEOs. Those roles are for men, who conversely, aren’t really good in the nurturing professions.

The fact is, some women are great nurturers and some men are, too. Some women are impatient and unsuited to be teachers or nurses, just as some men would make wonderful mentors or caregivers.

Children are all individuals and their gender is just one facet of who they’ll become. Let’s step back and give our boys and girls opportunities to explore who they are and create a life in their own personal style.

Great interior designers listen and don’t force fussy rooms on minimalist clients. Our role is also to listen, guide and cheer as our children find a life they’ll love.

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 September 2015

atlantaparent.com

ON THE

WEB n Keepy.me The new school year always poses the dilemma of what to keep, what to toss.

With Keepy, a free app for iPhones and androids and a website, you can do both. Save your child’s art and school work electronically, then recycle most of the paper. Many families use Keepy for much more – a chronicle of family life as the kids grow, from videos of birthday parties to photos from vacations. Save 15 photos and videos a month for free, or pay $5.99 a month or $39.99 a year for unlimited use.

n ArtfulParent.com Not all of us are intuitively creative, but all of us can learn. Jean Van’t Hul’s website with its huge array of art projects to do with your kids is an inspiration. You’ll find ideas such as fingerprint art, line drawing games, free printable art and even 39 artful ways to use Play-Doh. n AtlantaParent.com Now that you’re feeling arty, take a look at Atlanta Parent’s list of the best places in metro Atlanta to drop in and create art with your kids. Pick one out and spend a few hours painting or making a craft or collage. www.atlantaparent.com/dropinart

(404) 255-0886 Atlanta/Fayetteville www.perimeterplasticsurgery.com

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September 2015 Atlanta Parent 9

News You Can Use

by Hayley Markowitz

Sip Tea for a Cause The St. Regis Atlanta in Buckhead will be serving a special Afternoon Tea benefitting CURE Childhood Cancer every weekend in Sept., Fri.-Sun., 2:30-4:30 p.m., in the Atlanta tea room at Astor Court. Expect to munch on delicacies such as raspberry chocolate couple, golden raisin cinnamon and vanilla almond scones and smoked cheddar gougère with fig jam. Tickets, $40; ages 12 and younger, $22; free valet parking is included.

A $5 donation from each guest’s tea to CURE Childhood Cancer will be made by the hotel.

For reservations, call 404-563-7900 or visit stregisatlanta.com.

Be a Superhero to Support CHOA Put on a cape Sept. 15 and join Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta in support of children facing scary accidents and illnesses. “Cape Day Part Two: 100 Years Strong” celebrates CHOA’s century of treating children and its superhero patients.

Don’t have a cape? Purchase a commemorative Centennial Cape for $20 at choa.org/capedayATL, with proceeds benefiting children’s healthcare.

Grandparents: Just the Facts

70 million

Number of grandparents in the U.S.

$52 million

Amount grandparents spend on their grandchildren annually

48

Average age of grandparents in the U.S.

72

Percentage who say being a grandparent is the single most satisfying role in their lives

Nominate a Family for a Magical Experience If you know a child with chronic or terminal illness, you can nominate him or her for the Bert’s Big Adventure. This nonprofit organization was started

by Bert Weiss, the host of the Bert Show on Q100. It provides a magical, all-expenses-paid, five-day vacation to Walt Disney World for their family.

Applications are accepted until Oct. 10. Learn more at bertsbigadventure.org 10 Atlanta Parent September 2015

Don’t forget to celebrate Grandparents Day on Sept. 13. atlantaparent.com

atlantaparent.com

September 2015    Atlanta Parent 11

LOOK SMART

PRETTY IN PINK: Play It Again Pima Tee $22 Reversible quilted puffer vest $60 Straight leg jeans in medium-dark wash $45 Cerise knit purse. $28 Hanna Andersson at North Georgia Premium Outlets.

(Retail prices listed. All items discounted 20-40 percent)

Atlanta Parent teamed up with Bloomingdale’s and North Georgia Premium Outlets to find the cutest clothes for kids this Fall.

PURE WHIMSY: PLAYFUL IN PLAID: Lakeside Plaid Shirt $42 Get Appy Tee in Navy $34 Work Wear jeans in medium-dark wash $49 Hanna Andersson at North Georgia Premium Outlets.

(Retail prices listed. All items discounted 20-40 percent)

THE LITTLE EXTRAS n pediped Shoes pediped offers a range of awesome shoes for Fall to get your child from the playground to a special occasion.

We especially like the Flex Jay and the Flex Sarah for stylish kids. Flex Jay, $55. Flex Sarah, $53. pediped.com 12 Atlanta Parent September 2015

Long Sleeve Yoga Owl Graphic Shirt $14.95 Yoga Stretch Pants in Cobalt Blue $14.50 The Children’s Place at North Georgia Premium Outlets.

(Retail prices listed.

All items discounted up to 50 percent)

n Chelsea Clutch

by Rumba Time rumbatime.com. $20. These cute silicone, studded clutches come in a fun colors like grapsicle and cotton candy.

atlantaparent.com

FOR THE OLDER SET

PREPPED FOR SCHOOL: Skinny fit red Chino’s $19.95 V-neck Spruce Sweater $24.95 Uniform Heather Grey Short Sleeve Polo $12.50 The Children’s Place at North Georgia Premium Outlets.

(Retail prices listed.

All items discounted up to 50 percent)

PERFECT IN BLUE: Blue Striped Robert Graham Button Down $79.50 Vince Blue/Grey Color Block Shirt $34 DL1961 Denim Jean $49 Bloomingdale’s at Lenox Mall.

PUT A SHINE ON IT: Metalic Cropped Jacket - AQUA $88 Plaid Button Down $58 AQUA Skinny Stretch Jean $48 Bloomingdale’s at Lenox Mall.

Images by N’Neka

n PLAE Shoes New to school, PLAE shoes look cool and come with customizable tabs for kids to change up the look of their sneakers. PLAE sneakers come in toddler sizes, too. PLAE shoes like Ty the sneaker start at $54.95. goplae.com atlantaparent.com

September 2015 Atlanta Parent 13

Pink, Blue & Neutral How Gender Stereotypes Shape Kids l l l l l l

by Malia Jacobson

A

s soon as Marcy and Kyle Naismith discovered they were expecting a boy and a girl – twins – in 2012, their world turned pink and blue. A stream of gender-specific clothes, toys and gifts started arriving.

Through Marcy preferred more gender-neutral tones like red and orange, she couldn’t always fight the pastel-hued tide. After Tate and Lucy arrived, Marcy sometimes used color-coding to keep things like bottles straight. “We tried to steer clear of ‘boy’ and ‘girl’ things, but often, our options were pink and blue,” she recalls. Some gender symbols were all but impossible to avoid.

Society’s ideas about gender shape how even the tiniest babies are dressed, perceived and treated; in the groundbreaking Baby X experiment of 1975, adults who knew the baby’s gender handled girl infants more often and offered girls more gender-stereotyped toys, while boys were handled less. When adults did not know the gender, the babies were less likely to receive sex-stereotyped toys.

14 Atlanta Parent September 2015

Even parents like Marcy and Kyle who want to avoid gender-themed toys and clothes find that pink and blue have a way of creeping in, along with frilly princess frocks and ubiquitous sports motifs. So what’s the problem with the pink-blue paradigm? Does a baby tiara or the truckthemed bedroom set really matter when the child is still in diapers?

n The Problem with Pink Jo Paoletti, associate professor of American Studies at University of Maryland and author of Pink and Blue: Telling the Boys from the Girls in America (Indiana University Press, 2012), calls this phenomenon “pinkificiation.” And it matters, she says.

Pinkificiation isn’t about pink. Paoletti notes that pink’s history as a feminine color in our culture is less than 100 years old. It’s about reinforcing a gender definition that validates only certain gender expressions and the people who embody them – namely, those at either end of the gender spectrum:

hyper-masculine macho men or ultrafeminine girly girls.

Paoletti, who writes the Gender Mystique blog at pinkisforboys.org, notes that “pinkificiation” goes beyond the use of pink for girl’s things – it also narrows choices and exclude gender-neutral options.

Kids’ clothes and toys are becoming increasingly gendered, and researchers at National Association for the Education of Young Children report that gendered toys are less educational than gender-neutral playthings.

“Pinkification” also teaches and reinforces stereotypes and limits the way children perceive themselves and others, she says. And, perhaps most troubling, it excludes children who don’t fit society’s gender mold.

Kids who fall outside the strict frillsor-football gender framework can feel left out, says Diane Ehrensaft, Ph.D., director of mental health at the Child and Adolescent Gender Center in Oakland, Calif. The second of her two grown children was “a very gender-nonconforming” boy, she says, with little interest in the trucks and other atlantaparent.com

“boy” things she bought, while her daughter embraced dolls, pink, and all things girly.

“I was committed to gender expansiveness for both my children, with a mixture of all types of toys for them to choose from,” says Ehrensaft, co-author of Gender Born, Gender Made: Raising Healthy Gender-Nonconforming Children (Workman Publishing Company, 2011).

“They took it from there.”

n Let Children Choose As babies grow into toddlers, they begin choosing their own clothes and toys, often along gender lines. A study by the British Psychological Society found that by age 9 months, babies already prefer gender-specific toys and colors, with girls gravitating toward dolls and stuffed animals and boys choosing balls and cars. Similar results have been seen in studies with monkeys, suggesting that preferences for so-called stereotypical playthings might be innate.

So there’s nothing wrong with letting a little girl wear frills and ruffles if she wants to, Ehrensaft says. The problem with pink “princess culture” isn’t necessarily that it limits girls, she says, but that it excludes boys.

The fact is, most children love shiny, sparkly things, she says. Who wouldn’t?

Girls should have access to sparkles and frills if they want them, but boys should, too.

Parents sometimes cut boys off from this type of self-expression out of misguided fear that their child will “turn out” gay, she says. Nonsense, Ehrensaft says. “Gender is gender and sex is sex.

Think of them as railroad tracks. They’re completely different tracks. Don’t make them be the same track. You’ll be confused and lose focus of your child.”

call or click today: 678-233-3207 atlantaparent.com

There’s no way to tell whether a toddler boy who skips Army figures in favor of baby dolls will be gay, Ehrensaft says.

“What you have is a gender-creative little boy. It’s not a sexual identity.”

Trying to suppress a child’s early gender expressions is a losing battle, and doing so can cause lasting psychological harm, she says.

Cont’d on page 16

www.AtlantaBSA.org/CubScouts September 2015 Atlanta Parent 15

b

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

SPECIALTY PRACTICE IN PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY:

DENTAL & ORTHODONTIC CARE FOR CHILDREN & YOUNG ADULTS

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

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

How Gender Stereotypes Shape Kids l l l l l l

n Insist on Plenty of Choices The anecdote to limiting gender stereotypes is parent power, Paoletti says.

“Parents can insist on more choices for their kids.”

For babies and toddlers, more choices mean a more expansive view of themselves and others. The key is offering a spectrum of options, then standing back and respecting the choices kids make, and understanding that you can only engineer your baby’s social world so much, says Virginia Rutter, Ph.D. senior scholar with Council on Contemporary Families.

“You can’t raise your child in a completely gender-neutral world. Some of those influences are going to come in.”

Marcy Naismith is OK with that. Despite having access to both “boy” and “girl” toys, her twins gravitate toward things associated with their own gender: Lucy loves hairstyles and her stuffed bunny, while Tate’s into trucks.

“I want them to know that no matter what gender they are, they can do anything they put their minds to,” Marcy says. c

More Books on Gender l Raising My Rainbow: Adventures in Raising a Fabulous, Gender Creative Son

by Lori Duron (Broadway Books, 2013) l The Princess Problem: Guiding Our Girls through the PrincessObsessed Years

by Rebecca Hains (Sourcebooks Inc., 2014) l Pink Brain, Blue Brain: How Small Differences Grow Into Troublesome Gaps – And What We Can Do About It by Lise Elliot (Houghton, Miffin, Harcourt Publishing Co., 2009)

16 Atlanta Parent September 2015

atlantaparent.com

10 Questions to Ask

an OB/GYN

The relationship between a family-to-be and an obstetrician is a special one.

When it’s time to find an OB/GYN, a good place to start is recommendations from friends and family, or other doctors your family uses. The physician also should be certified in obstetrics by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (abog.org).

Then you’ll need to check whether the doctor is part of your current health insurance plan, research the doctor’s credentials and office hours and factor in convenience, such as how far the doctor’s office is from your home or whether the doctor practices in the hospital you prefer for delivery.

Here’s what to ask the doctor or office staff:

(And 5 to Ask Yourself) After the visit, ask yourself:

n How long have you been practicing obstetrics and how many births have you attended? How many do you typically attend in a month?

n Do you recommend a written birth plan and does your practice make every effort to follow the plan unless there is an emergency?

n How can I get in touch with you if I have a concern? Are some questions handled by email or a nurse practitioner?

n Does your practice or hospital policy limit who can be in the room with me during labor and birth?

n Was the staff efficient and attentive? How long did you wait to see the doctor?

n If the doctor is in solo practice, who covers when the doctor is not available? If the doctor is in group practice, what percentage of his patients does he deliver each month? How often will my prenatal appointments be handled by other doctors in the practice?

n During labor, do you encourage natural child birth? What do your recommend for pain relief?

n Does the doctor share your philosophy about prenatal care and childbirth?

n What will be covered during prenatal visits and how much time do you allow for a visit? n What is your philosophy on pregnancy care, labor and birth? Which prenatal tests do you routinely recommend? Does your practice include midwives?

18 Atlanta Parent September 2015

n If an emergency C-section is needed, who will perform it? Is an anesthesiologist available if there is an emergency?

What percentage of your patients have C-sections or complications during delivery that require surgery? n After the birth, will I be separated from my baby, and if so, for how long? Can our baby stay in my hospital room?

atlanta baby

n Was the office clean and professional?

n Did the doctor really listen to your concerns or did the interview feel hurried? n Is there anything about the doctor or the medical practice that makes you uncomfortable? atlantaparent.com

Miller-Thrasher, Melinda MD Innovative Women’s HealthCare Solutions, Smyrna Moore, Bradley MD Haven OB/GYN, Atlanta Pancer, Stuart MD Montreal OB/GYN, Tucker Phillips, Kiwita MD Morehouse Healthcare, Atlanta

Atlanta Parent asked readers to recommend obstetricians, midwives and fertility specialists they trust for excellent medical care.

OB/GYNS Angus, Stanley MD Atlanta Women’s Specialists, Atlanta and Alpharetta

Johnson, Sylvia MD Dr. Sylvia C. Johnson, MD Office of Gynecology, Norcross

Pitcher, Mary MD Unified Premier Women’s Care, Marietta Pohl, Joseph MD Women’s Healthcare Consultants of Gwinnett, Lawrenceville Robbins, Laurie Leigh MD Unified Premier Women’s Care, Marietta Roberts, Archie MD Peachtree Women’s Specialists, Atlanta St. Julian, Tracey MD Premier Women’s OB/GYN, Riverdale

Joyce-Bailey, Sharon Sheree MD Gwinnett Physicians Group OB/GYN, Lawrenceville

Street, Elizabeth MD Unified Premier Women’s Care, Marietta

Bootstaylor, Brad MD SeeBaby, Atlanta

Keeling, Margaret MD Wellstar Medical Group Kennestone OB/GYN, Marietta and Woodstock

Suarez, Ramon MD Taylor, Suarez, Cook & Carroll, Atlanta

Carroll, Kelli MD Taylor, Suarez, Cook & Carroll, Atlanta

Kelley, Terry MD OB-GYN Associates, Marietta

Chapman, Thaddeus MD Promise Land Women’s Center, Atlanta

Kim, Edmund MD Maternal Gynerations, Lawrenceville

Chappell , Mary MD OB/GYN Associates, Marietta

Lathrop, Eva MD Emory Gynecology & Obstetrics, Atlanta

Daus, Kevin MD Premier Women’s Specialists, Decatur

Levitt, Brian MD Dr. Brian A. Levitt, MD, Snellville

Dawson, Michael MD Atlanta Women’s Specialists, Alpharetta

Little, Stephen MD Northeast Georgia Physician Group Heritage OB/GYN, Gainesville

Biggs, Vanessa MD Atlanta Women’s Obstetrics & Gynecology, Atlanta

Dodder, Michelle MD North Atlanta OB/GYN, Atlanta Dyar, Robert MD WellStar Medical Group North Cobb Women’s Health, Marietta Falkner, Sabrina MD The Women’s Group of Gwinnett, Lawrenceville Fisch, Jacqui MD Atlanta Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates, Atlanta Frederick, Hughan MD Isis Women’s Health Care, Johns Creek and Roswell

Lovinger, Jeffery MD Eagles Landing OB/GYN, Stockbridge Lynch-Miller, Sharon MD Southern Crescent Women’s Healthcare, Fayetteville Martin, Darrell MD Southern Crescent Women’s Healthcare, Fayetteville McIntosh, Kimberly MD Women’s Health Specialists, Stockbridge Middleton, Courtney MD Peachtree Women’s Clinic, Alpharetta

Garcia, Meera MD North Atlanta OB/GYN, Atlanta and Alpharetta

Sun, Phoebe MD Women’s Health Associates, Atlanta Taghecian, Elizabeth MD Marietta OB/GYN Affiliates, Marietta Tate, Joseph MD DeKalb-Gwinnett OB/GYN, Norcross Verleger, Susan MD Isis Women’s Health Care, Roswell and Johns Creek

MIDWIVES Bounds, Lorie CNM Isis Women’s Health Care, Roswell Ford, Marsha CNM OB/GYN and Midwife Associates, East Point Holt, Lisa CNM Arbor OB/GYN, Atlanta Jordan, Wronda CNM Northwest Women’s Care, Marietta Parrish, Brenda CPM, CLC Traditional Birth Services, Marietta Ruffin, Angelina CNM OB/GYN and Midwife Associates, East Point Schneider, Debbie CPM Dawning Life Midwifery, Kennesaw

Geltz, Christian DO Gynecology and Obstetrics of DeKalb, P.C., Stone Mountain and Decatur Grogan, Stephanie MD Peachtree Women’s Clinic, Atlanta

FERTILITY SPECIALISTS

Gumer, Arthur MD North Atlanta Women’s Specialists, Atlanta

Fogle, Robin MD Atlanta Center for Reproductive Medicine, Atlanta

Haugabrook, Clarisa MD Eagles Landing OB/GYN, Stockbridge Hill, Cherie MD Emory Gynecology & Obstetrics, Atlanta

Keenan, David MD Atlanta Center for Reproductive Medicine, Atlanta

Jeffers, Sarah MD Atlanta Women’s Specialists, Atlanta

Shapiro, Daniel MD Reproductive Biology Associates, Atlanta

Jewell, Bryan MD Haven OB/GYN, Atlanta

Go to atlantaparent.com to read comments on all doctors nominated.

atlantaparent.com

atlanta baby

Straub, Robert MD Reproductive Biology Associates, Atlanta

September 2015 Atlanta Parent 19

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Cherie Hill, MD; Eva Lathrop, MD, MPH Emory Clinic’s Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics congratulates Dr. Cherie Hill and Dr. Eva Lathrop on their selections as Mom-Approved Doctors! We are proud that Atlanta’s moms have recognized the compassion and skill that these physicians provide.

Dr. Hill, who sees patients at our Emory University Campus location, attended medical school at the University of California – Los Angeles and completed her residency at Duke University Hospital. One of our general obstetrician-gynecologists, she provides the full-range of gynecologic care, including obstetrics.

Dr. Lathrop, who sees patients at our Emory University Hospital Midtown location, attended medical school at the University of Vermont and completed her residency at Main Medical Center.

Dr. Lathrop also completed a Master of Public Health at Rollins School of Public Health and a fellowship in Family Planning at Emory University School of Medicine. She is an expert on issues of complex contraception.

Dr. Hill and Dr. Lathrop are part of a team of more than 40 providers who are committed to providing women with the highest quality and most advanced health care for all stages of their lives, from adolescence to obstetrics to menopause, and beyond. All of our providers are accepting new patients and would welcome the opportunity to meet your medical care needs.

Emory University Campus Building A, 4th Floor 1365 Clifton Road NE Atlanta, GA 30322

Emory University Hospital Midtown Medical Office Tower, 8th Floor 550 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta, GA 30308

Coming soon!

Emory Saint Joseph’s Hospital 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Road NE Atlanta, GA 30342

emoryhealthcare.org/gyn 404-778-3401

Sharon Sheree Joyce-Bailey, MD Born in Nashville, Tenn., Sharon Sheree Joyce-Bailey, MD, FACOG grew up in Atlanta.

She earned her Bachelor of Science in biology from Tennessee State University and obtained her medical degree from Meharry Medical College. Dr. Joyce-Bailey completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Tennessee. She became board certified in 2000 and has been with the Gwinnett Physicians Group OB/Gyn since 2001. She especially enjoys mentoring and helping her young adult patients develop into their full potential. Outside of work, Dr. Joyce-Bailey and her husband love spending time with their two teenage sons.

The Gwinnett OB/GYN Physicians Group comprises some of metro Atlanta’s most respected and renowned physicians, specialists and certified nurse midwives. Each of our board certified physicians holds admitting privileges with Gwinnett Medical Center, Gwinnett Women’s Pavilion and the Outpatient Center at Gwinnett Medical Center-Duluth.

Our OB/GYN Physicians Group is committed to providing excellent service and care to women of all ages. Our goal is to make sure that all of our patients have an understanding and are directly involved in all aspects of their women’s health.

To learn more about our women’s services or to schedule an appointment, please contact us at 678-775-0600.

Atkinson Road, Suite 100 Lawrenceville, 30043 678-775-0600 GwinnettPhysiciansGroupObgyn.com

20 Atlanta Parent September 2015

MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Hughan R.H. Frederick, MD, FACOG; Susan Verleger, MD and Lorie Bounds, CNM

Established in 2006, Isis has grown to be one of the most sought-after women’s practices serving North Fulton and Emory Johns Creek Hospitals. We offer traditional OB, GYN, and midwife services for those who are exploring alternative childbearing techniques, including water births.

Our midwives are well-known specialists in facilitating natural labor, and our experienced model of care produces one of the lowest C-section rates in metro Atlanta.

Isis goes a step beyond obstetrics by offering unparalleled expertise in adolescent and menopausal medicine plus a weight-loss program. We are also highly skilled in robotic surgery which offers our GYN clients a minimally-invasive alternative to many surgical procedures.

Careful scheduling methods limit our clients’ time spent in the waiting room and allow extra time with our experts. Our system helps us to understand your needs, and we offer personal attention and well-researched health solutions tailored to each individual.

Clients appreciate the relaxed boutique feel in our offices and our comfortable exam room amenities that make them feel right at home.

Call for your complimentary meet and greet today with any member of our team: Lorie Bounds, CNM, Hughan R.H. Frederick, MD, FACOG, Kim Storey, CNM, Beverly Tanner, CNM Susan Verleger, MD and Jessi White, WHNP.

ISIS WOMEN’S HEALTH CARE 770.521.2229 isiswhc.com

Alpharetta/Rowell: 1015 Mansell Rd. Roswell, GA 30076

Johns Creek: 3925 Johns Creek Court Suite D Suwanee, GA 30025

Bradley Moore, M.D.; Bryan Jewell, M.D. Haven OB/GYN is a small practice dedicated to providing personalized, top-quality medical care for women of all ages and in every phase of life. Their award winning obstetricians and gynecologists are board certified/board eligible and consistently rated among the top doctors in Atlanta. Doctors Moore and Jewell, along with Nurse Practitioner, Leah Pombo, offer a broad range of women’s health services from annual GYN exams and prenatal care to surgical procedures and treatment.

“They have the latest technology and best care anyone could ask for!”

Our newest technology allows ob patients to immediately share ultrasound pictures from their phones.

Dr. Moore attended medical school at the Medical College of Georgia, where he developed his love of ob/gyn while delivering babies and performing surgery. He later entered the U.S. Air Force as an ob/ gyn at Shaw Air Force Base!

Dr. Jewell was recipient of the Gold Foundation Humanism and Excellence in Teaching Award in 2008 and 2010 during medical school and residency training at Wright State University. This award, awarded by his peers, speaks highly of his caring demeanor, respect for others, and bedside manner.

Leah Pombo worked at Northside hospital in labor and delivery and Mother-Baby care areas all while obtaining her master’s degree from Georgia State. She has extensive knowledge of pregnancy and care during the weeks following the delivery, special interest in contraception and healthy lifestyles.

We invite you to join our family at Haven OB/GYN!

Haven OB/GYN

atlantaparent.com

4360 Chamblee-Dunwoody Rd, Suite 370 Atlanta, GA 30341 770-393-1988 HavenOB.com

MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS

September 2015 Atlanta Parent 21

Not Your Mother’s BABY✽SHOWERS The gender reveal The shower is planned around revealing the sex of the baby, in a fun way. Guests might be asked to pick a side when they arrive – blue team or pink team – and divide up to play games that offer clues to the gender. Or the host may reveal the gender through cupcakes with blue or pink filling or a cake with pink or blue frosting between the layers. Some hosts open a gender reveal box that releases blue or pink balloons.

The “Sprinkle” This shower is a tiny one, more casual, and intended for a second, third or fourth child. The gifts may be smaller and more practical, and the shower can be held after the birth so close friends can meet the new family member.

Co-ed showers

by Jan Pierce

B

aby showers have changed – they’re more in tune with the individual personality of the mother-to-be and her friends. Whether you’re about to host a shower or the “do” is for you, you’ll want to consider these baby shower ideas.

22 Atlanta Parent September 2015

atlanta baby

If you run with a tight group of couples, this shower is for you. The guys are invited and grown-up drinks are served.

Games might include competitions such as a blindfold baby changing relay, in which guests divide into teams and each team member must change a diaper on a baby doll blindfolded – first team to finish wins. Another idea: Baby Pictionary, played with Pictionary rules, but the host makes up playing cards with words and phrases related to motherhood or babies that players must draw and team members must guess. Winning teams might get Life-Savers for guessing “epidural” or Milk Way bars for “bottle feeding.”

The Heirloom or Green shower Those leaning toward minimalist thinking will enjoy a baby shower in which all the gifts are gently used; a Green theme means eco-friendly gifts such as organic cotton clothing or blankets or gifts made of recycled materials. atlantaparent.com

If You Host

Diaper Raffle

✽ Use e-vite or Facebook. Skip the hand-

Guests bring only diapers as gifts to the shower and earn the chance to put their names in a drawing for a nice prize – the more bags of diapers you bring, the more chances you get in the raffle. Simple, practical, and the focus is on the quality time spent together with friends.

addressed, snail mail invitations and RSVPs. Do it all online and save time and money. You’ll have an accurate head count as well.

✽ Ask guests to send a baby photo. Each

guest sends a personal baby photo to the host, who places it on a bulletin board. Then one of the shower games involves guessing the identity of all the pictures.

✽ Oops, my water broke. Another fun party

game: Buy tiny plastic babies and freeze them in water cubes that go into a guest’s drink. First guest to exclaim, “My water broke!” when the baby floats free, gets a prize.

Themed showers The possibilities are endless, but should somehow reflect the personality of the mom to be. One theme might be “Mom’s Ready to Pop,” if the mom-to-be is so excited she can’t wait. Another could be “Bows and Bowties” if the mom-to-be is expecting twins, or the shower is for two moms-to-be, one expecting a boy and the other a girl. A “Bow or Bowtie” theme could also be used for a gender reveal party.

atlantaparent.com

✽ Give a book, not a card. Suggest guests

Baby Shower by Mail

Long-distance friends or family can’t always attend, much less host, a shower. That’s where a shower-in-a-box comes in. Put together a themed box from your family, or invite friends of the couple to join you in the shower-by-mail party. Gather and wrap items in a theme to send to the expectant mom and put them in the mail as a surprise. Themes might include Baby’s First Bath (hooded towels, washcloths, soap, lotion) or Outfit the Nursery (crib sheets, a mobile, baby wipes, diapers, onesies). c

atlanta baby

write a message of well-wishes in a children’s book, instead of a card, to start the baby’s library.

✽ Plan party favors. Instead of guests bringing

the gifts and going home with a game prize or nothing, add some inventive favors for all guests to take home.

These may follow the theme of the shower; for a “Mom’s Ready to Pop” shower, for instance, consider things that “pop” – popcorn, soda pop, Popsicles, Tootsie Roll Pops, lollipops and cake pops.

✽ Party away from home. Many hosts are

opting for less work. For a no clean-up shower, rent or borrow a facility, perhaps at a church or a room at a restaurant, and have the event catered.

September 2015 Atlanta Parent 23

Baby Bits

by Amanda Miller Allen

Beautiful Baby Contest at the Fair Prenatal & Labor Support Postpartum Support NEW: Placenta Encapsulation For more information please visit www.northatlantadoulas.com

All babies are beautiful, but Atlanta Parent has seen some really cute babies and toddlers at the annual Beautiful Baby Contest at the North Georgia State Fair in Marietta.

Show off your infant and toddler, ages 0-36 months on Sept. 29. Signup begins at 5:30 p.m., and the contest starts at 6:30 with babies 0-6 months and continues in 6-month increments up to age 36 months. There is no cost to enter but fair admission is required: Adults, $7; ages 10 and younger, free.

Visit northgeorgiastatefair.com for more information.

404-465-3391

Treating Aches, Pains of Pregnancy

info@northatlantadoulas.com

Baby Safety Month: Check for Hazards September is Baby Safety Month, an observance sponsored by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association to educate parents on hidden-in-plain-sight hazards.

Baby-proofing a home is essential with a new baby or active toddler. Here are some hazards identified in the “Room with a Safe View” campaign: Magnets (easily swallowed), loose change, furniture that tips over, loose rugs, detergent pods (kids might ingest), and button batteries.

For more, see jpma.org.

24 Atlanta Parent September 2015

atlanta baby

Carrying around extra pounds for nine months puts extra stress on a woman’s body, and most women suffer neck, back, leg and foot pain, among other aches. Kinesio Tex Taping, used by athletes to help strained muscles heal, also can ease the pains of pregnancy by treating orthopedic, neuromuscular and neurological pain and other medical conditions.

Find out more at kinesiotaping.com.

‘Ease the Quease’ of Childbearing Nausea during pregnancy is an uncomfortable fact of life, and soda crackers are a sometimes effective, but dull-tasting, remedy. Instead, try Twisted Bellies, smart pretzel snacks with an advertising motto of “ease the quease.” Many pregnant women rave about them.

Find out more at twistedbellies.com.

atlantaparent.com

A professional, full service lactation practice that provides breast-feeding consultations, education and support groups in the North Georgia area.

Our practice currently provides home visits and clinic visits that consist of: • Prenatal lactation consults • Basic breastfeeding technique and management • Complex lactation issues • Back to work lactation care and education • Low milk supply/oversupply • Slow infant weight gain • Oral and feeding assessments • Support groups and classes • Hospital grade pump rentals

 678-965-0103

www.northgeorgiabreastfeedingcenter.com

Now Offering

Infant Massage Instruction Classes

Our Massage Specialties:

$10 off your first prenatal massage when you mention Atlanta Parent

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The Atlanta Parent Family of Publications atlanta

Atlanta Pare nt Magazine ’s

Education 2015 Guide

BABY FROM ATLANTA

PARENT MAGAZINE

Early Educat ioN

TakiNg the First Steps

Oh, Baby, Let’s Have Fun

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Advice for New Moms

At-a-glaNc

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Nesting 101

Help is on the

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September 2015 Atlanta Parent 25

A FRESH TAKE on Birthday Parties Celebrations should be about friends and family marking a special day. Here are some parties that focus on fun.

l The “Sleep-Under” party: Think of it as an old-fashioned pajama party for kids and parents who aren’t ready to commit to a sleep-over. Have guests arrive in pj’s and bring a favorite stuffed animal and sleeping bag. Decorate cookies, serve dinner, and watch a movie on the floor in sleeping bags. Afterward, serve cake and send guests home to sleep in their familiar beds. l An “Open House” party: Ask people to drop in during a three-hour time window for pizza, cake and nibbles. Without everyone there at once, your child is less likely to get overwhelmed, and guests can come whenever and stay as long as they’d like. l A “5 Spot” party: Many kids already have so much, and with a big party they get more things that just sit on the toy shelf.

Instead of presents, ask guests to bring $5; the birthday boy or girl donates half to charity and uses the remaining half to buy a small present. l A “Half Year” party: Sometimes kids with winter or holiday birthdays don’t want their birthdays to be overshadowed by the season. Having the party six months later on their half-birthdays will give your children the swim-themed or non-Halloween party they’ve always wanted. Plus, you’ll have more time to plan the event. l A “volunteer” party: More appropriate for older children, volunteer parties allow kids to put the joy of a birthday celebration to a good cause. Encourage your child to get a group of friends together to visit a nursing home and share birthday cake with the residents. The group can also spend the day picking up trash and recyclables in a local park and enjoying a picnic lunch afterwards. Suggest guests bring a small donation for a charity in lieu of a gift. l The “double” party: Many times, friends have overlapping birthdays in the same month, so why not join forces and host a party with the other birthday child, since they would probably be inviting some of the same people anyway? This way, parents can split the cost, and friends won’t have to choose whose party to go to if they fall on the same day. l The “un” party: Have the birthday child pick one or two good friends and go to a trampoline park, head to the nail salon for a manicure, and go out to eat at the child’s favorite restaurant afterwards. Or, the family could plan a quick weekend getaway to the beach, a theme park, or a nearby big city to celebrate. Another option is to keep things local and spend one night at an affordable hotel and enjoy the indoor pool and room service.

– Hayley Markowitz and Felicia Barman

Southeastern Railway Museum

Georgia’s “Official” Transportation Museum It’s PARTY Time!

Celebrate your special occasion: Birthday Parties, Anniversaries, Family Reunions Weddings & Corporate Events

Kid’s Day Out!

Train Rides | Gift Shop Pre-School Thursday

Southeastern Railway Museum (every 2nd Thursday of the month)

Georgia’s “Official” Transportation Museum It’s PARTY Time!

Birthday Parties at Tiny Towne!

Celebrate your special occasion: Birthday Parties, Anniversaries, Family Reunions Weddings & Corporate Events

Kid’s Day Out!

Train Rides | Gift Shop Pre-School Thursday

(every 2nd Thursday of the month)

Drive • Play • Learn High Tech Cars for Aspiring Drivers Real Life Driving Experience Realistic Streets with Traffic Signals Train*Restaurant*Party Room Norcross 470-545-7227 tinytowne.com

26 Atlanta Parent September 2015

3595 Buford Hwy | Duluth, GA 30096 770-476-2013

Party Planner 3595 Buford Hwy | Duluth, GA 30096

www.southeasternrailwaymuseum.org atlantaparent.com

A Birthday Party Fit for Fall Take advantage of the season and plan a celebration your kid will love.

Glow-In-The-Dark Play Area Features:  minigolf  football  soccer  basketball  air cannons  glow-in-the-dark inflatables  lighted interactive game floor

College Football Hall of Fame

PRIVATE PARTIES

Play-by-Play for Football Fans

Score a touchdown with your football fans. Ask your guests to wear their favorite team’s jersey or T-shirt for a day at The College Football Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame is a terrific way to learn about some of the greats in college football, with interactive exhibits and lots of activities. cfbhall.com Make the most of some of our newest college football teams. Kennesaw State University and Georgia State University football seasons kick off this month.

Tickets range from $10-$30, depending on the game. (See websites for individual and group ticket options.) georgiastatesports.com; ksuowls.com/sports Fire up the grill and set up an at-home tailgate with your child’s favorite team and colors. Make a custom banner to hang and add a PVC pipe goalpost to turn your back yard into a football field. Make footballthemed cupcakes in team colors and a tailgate-appropriate menu of party food and this party will sure be a touchdown.

Party Rooms with glow & regular lighting

6527 JIMMY CARTER BLVD. NORCROSS ❖ 770-368-3008

WWW.GLOWGALAXY.COM

Open Play Times (See website for times)

rties! Ages Science Pa 3-12

Chattahoochee Nature Center

Step Out in Nature

Nature centers are always a fun way to learn about plants, trees, animals and more.

The Chattahoochee Nature Center, Dunwoody Nature Center and the Atlanta Botanical Garden provide the perfect settings. Bring a few kids for a visit or plan to have the party there with a birthday party package.

Cont’d on page 28

We o c me to YOU!  Bubbling Potions!  Rockets!  Cotton Candy!  Much More!

678-392-1500

BigThinkersScience.com MENTION THIS AD FOR 10% DISCOUNT!

Did You PaRTY Know You GuiDe Can Read a Digital Version of Atlanta Parent’s

fUN-O-RAMA PARTIES

e’s Magazin Parent Atlanta

ers

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Mobile Part

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Supplies

PaRTY GuiDe

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tals

and Ren

Full Service Themed Parties

Inflatables & Party Rentals • Face Painting Creative Balloon Art • Characters & Mascots Puppets, Magic & MORE!

770-572-1737 www.funoramaparties.com Party Planner

September 2015 Atlanta Parent 27

Kid’s Party

A Birthday Party Fit for Fall

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

Fall weather is great for visiting a park or taking a hike.

For a hiking party, send an adult ahead to set up the birthday area at the end of the hike and celebrate once the destination is reached. Whether you have beginners or experienced hikers, metro Atlanta has many hiking trails to choose from, including those at the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area and at some county parks.

For an easy party, check no further than your county’s parks and recreation department. Bring the cake and food and use the parks without charge, unless you reserve a pavilion for a small fee. Many parks have shaded playgrounds and picnic table areas.

Guest will have plenty of parking, on-site restrooms and tons of room for running around. Some county park systems, such as Gwinnett Parks & Recreation, will do the work for you with party packages.

(770)

424-2287

WWW.COPYCATSFORKIDS.COM

The

POLO CLUB

of ATLANTA

atlpoloclub@yahoo.com 770-317-7546

5% OFF Party Packages

www.poloclubofatlanta.com

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

*reservations required

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

770-957-2659 McDonough

Call now to book your bouncing extravaganza!

WHO WILL YOU FIGHT FOR?

Hillcrest Orchards

Take a Day Trip

Get those city kids out of the city. Fall is prime apple-picking time, and many North Georgia communities hold fun festivals to celebrate the harvest and their history, including the Georgia Apple Festival in Gilmer County and the Gold Rush Days in Dahlonega.

Visit a festival and go for some apple picking at Mercier Orchards in Blue Ridge, Hillcrest Orchards in Ellijay or Jaemore Farm in Alto. In addition to apple picking activities, jump on a hayride, watch the kids play in a petting zoo or get lost in a corn maze. mercier-orchards.com; hillcrestorchards.net; jaemorfarms.com – Hayley Markowitz

LIVE ACTION SETTING 7,000 SQUARE FEET PARTY PACKAGES AVAILABLE 5140 COMMERCE PKWY ROSWELL 770.696.6161 WWW.WARGAMESATL.COM

28 Atlanta Parent September 2015

Party Planner

atlantaparent.com

Who loves birthday parties?

The kids!

Who loves FREE birthday parties?

The parents!

Atlanta Parent has teamed up with nine local party places to each give away a birthday party for 8.

Did your child just celebrate their birthday?

No problem, you have until September 2016 to redeem.

Enter to win a party from: ®

Chattahoochee Nature Center

Chattahoochee Nature Center 770-992-2055 ext. 249 chattnaturecenter.org

War Games Tactical Laser Tag 770- 696-6161 wargamesatl.com

Hoops N’ Sand 470-297-5620 hoopsnsand.com

SkyView Atlanta 678-949-9023 skyviewatlanta.com

Superior Play Systems Norcross: 678-380-5551 Alpharetta: 678-624-7529 superiorplay.com

Tiny Towne Drive Safely 470-545-7227 tinytowne.com

Ultimate Play and Parties 678-817-2982 ultimateplayandparties.com

Malibu Grand Prix Norcross or Mountasia Marietta 770-416-7630 • malibunorcross.com 770-422-7227 • mountasiamarietta.com

Funopolis Family Fun Center 706-335-3866 funopolisfamilyfuncenter.com

Visit Facebook.com/AtlantaParentMagazine to win through Sept. 30! atlantaparent.com

Party Planner

September 2015 Atlanta Parent 29

Time for a

by Hayley Markowitz

Sprinkles

When it comes to birthdays, cupcakes are the best – there’s no need to cut slices and they’re the perfect serving size. Plus, they’re just so darn cute. Visit one of these cupcake shops to find the perfect birthday cupcakes or anytime you feel like a little something sweet.

The world’s first cupcake bakery with a Cupcake ATM available 24/7. l Icing: Buttercream or cream cheese, with the consistency of ice cream. l Kid Favorites: Strawberry with naturally flavored icing. l Location: Lenox Square Mall. 404-846-1599. sprinkles.com l Cost: $3.75 l Mini Cupcakes: Select flavors available, $2; or pre-order any flavors. l Specials: Deals announced through social media channels.

GiGi’s Cupcakes Bert & Boo’s

This family owned location with an open bakery lets you see how the cupcakes take shape. l Icing: Buttercream or cream cheese. l Kid Favorites: Oreo and Confetti. l Location: 3900 Old McEver Rd., Acworth.

678-540-5833. bertandboos.com l Cost: $ 1.75 l Mini Cupcakes: Special order only, $10 dozen.

30 Atlanta Parent September 2015

With over 80 locations nationwide, all shops are locally owned with cupcakes baked in house. l Icing: Buttercream or cream cheese piped on high and thick. l Kid Favorites: Kiddie Kake, vanilla with a soft blue buttercream, rainbow sprinkles and gummy worm. l Location: Buckhead, Sandy Springs, Kennesaw, Marietta, Peachtree City and Norcross. gigiscupcakesusa.com l Cost: $3.50 l Mini Cupcakes: Available individually at some locations for $1.50 each. l Specials: Deals announced over social media channels.

Party Planner

atlantaparent.com

Georgetown Cupcake

Cupcakes for Grown Ups

This bakery has an open kitchen so customers can view the cupcakes being baked, frosted and decorated. l Icing: Buttercream or cream cheese with fresh fruit and chocolate for flavoring and color, no dyes. l Kid Favorites: Vanilla birthday. l Location: 267 East Paces Ferry Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-257-6502. georgetowncupcake.com l Cost: $3 l Mini Cupcakes: Special order only, 24 for $32. l Specials: Deals announced through social media channels.

The overall best seller to take the cake at any location is the Red Velvet. Unique flavors being Bourbon Pecan Pie at Cupcake Endulgers Boutique, Lavender Earl Grey Teacake at Georgetown Cupcake and Canadian Maple Bacon at GiGi’s.

Cupcake Endulgers Boutique

CamiCakes

Started in Florida by a mom who named her shop after daughter Camille, CamiCakes has five locations in metro Atlanta. l Icing: Buttercream or cream cheese. l Kid Favorites: Classic Cami, the signature yellow cake with classic pink buttercream frosting. l Location: Alpharetta, Buckhead, Camp Creek, Smyrna and Vinings. CamiCakes.com l Cost: $3 l Mini Cupcakes: Available for $1.50 each. l Specials: Tues., 2-4 p.m. All standard size cupcakes, $2 each.

Sugar Moon Bake Shop

Miss Mamie’s

This shop in Decatur’s Oakhurst Village is known for making cupcakes like grandma’s. l Icing: Just the right amount of buttercream or cream cheese. l Kid Favorites: Birthday cake, vanilla on vanilla with multicolored sprinkles. l Location: 707C E. Lake Dr., Decatur, 404-377-3354. sugarmoonbakeshop.com l Cost: $2.80 l Mini Cupcakes: Available by the dozen, $16. l Specials: Check Scout Mob for current deals.

atlantaparent.com

Two former teachers opened this bakery with a great seating area and drive-thru window. l Icing: Light and fluffy buttercream or cream cheese. l Kid Favorites: Vanilla bean cake with vanilla buttercream frosting. l Location: 749 Moreland Ave., Suite A101, Atlanta. 404-996-6995. cupcakeendulgers.com l Cost: $2.75 l Mini Cupcakes: Every Monday, $1.25; other days by special order only. l Specials: Deals announced through social media channels.

Located in the historic Marietta square with about 20 different flavors offered daily. l Icing: Buttercream and cream cheese. l Kid Favorites: S’mores, devil’s food cake filled with a homemade marshmallow fluff and chocolate buttercream icing topped with a graham cracker. l Location: 156 Roswell St., Marietta, 678-290-9811. missmamiescupcakes.com l Cost: $3 l Mini Cupcakes: Available by the dozen, $12. l Specials: Buy 5 regular cupcakes and get 1 free and Groupons.

Party Planner

September 2015 Atlanta Parent 31

Spotlight on Parties Glow Galaxy

War Games Tactical Laser Tag

I

f you’ve ever wondered what it might be like to play your favorite video game in a LIVE ACTION setting ...then War Games Tactical Laser tag is for you! This new type of laser tag is the future, and its showcased in Roswell’s 7,000 square foot war zone.

The objective is to get kids off the couch and into the battle, where teamwork is a must!

Missions are played out like ‘domination’ where teams must capture a box or barrel by firing their taggers at them. A timer displays how long each team has maintained control and flashes the winner at the end. The taggers each have real scopes that players use to aim at their opponents head sensors.

The war zone was designed by Hollywood set designers and themed from a story created for the Georgia location.

There are war soundscapes, sentry turrets and plenty of props to keep the experience authentic. The war themed party rooms are perfect for birthday parties. Find out more by visiting the website at wargamesatl.com or by calling the office at 770-696-6161.

K

ids tell us all the time that their party at Glow Galaxy was their “best birthday ever” and it’s not because of our Glow in the Dark play area. Sure, the play area looks super cool and is crazy fun to play in, but that’s just the beginning of what makes our parties great.Glow Galaxy knows that what makes a party great is our focus on the birthday kid and keeping them at the center of attention while making sure their friends are having a great time too.

The Glow Galaxy party staff will handle all the little details of running the party so that party parents can relax and enjoy the party, allowing them to focus on the birthday kid or mingle with their guests. From organizing games, to serving food and cake, and making a list of gifts, the Glow Galaxy staff will handle it all for you.

The Glow Galaxy play area is truly unique with the awesome glow in the dark setting and variety of activities to keep kids interested throughout the party. We feature the world’s only glow in the dark inflatables, an indoor glow sports court with basketball hoops, soccer goals and footballs to toss, glow miniature golf and a lighted interactive game floor.

We never do Open Play with parties; your party will have it’s own dedicated section of the play area.

Call 770-368-3008 or visit www.glowgalaxy.com for more info or to book your party!

Special Advertising Section

Alligators, Monkeys, Farm Friends and more!

Pottery Painting, Canvas Painting, Mosaic, Clay Parties and More!

Splatters Birthday Parties Rock!

Live animals of all kinds!

Hands-on, Fun, Educational

Art Classes • Camps • Girl Scouts • Ladies Night • Showers

678-708-2321

5354 McGinnis Ferry Rd., Alpharetta 678-710-0103 • www.splattersrocks.com

www.azootoyou.com

You invite the guests and we’ll supply the rest!

We come to you! Miniature farm animals & a pony to ride.

Balloon Decor & Party Supplies throughout Atlanta.

Multiple themes such as Mickey Mouse & Despicable Me. Packages starting as low as $29.99

470.355.8484 • www.celebrateatl.com balloons that change the room

32 Atlanta Parent September 2015

Special Advertising Section

• Birthdays • Fieldtrips • Church Productions • Pony Carousels

678-493-5860

www.littleredbarn.us littleredbarnmobilepettingfarm@yahoo.com

CALL TO SCHEDULE YOUR PARTY!

atlantaparent.com

A whole new kind of fun is coming.

Point, Click, Party!

Closed for renovations through late 2015.

With a crafty spirit and a computer, you can plan parties that will give your birthday child and his guests something to sing about. So put on a birthday hat, eat some cake, and start tapping away – and surfing!

Check out where you can find us during closure and keep up to date on our progress at childrensmuseumatlanta.org

The Site List ■ Pinterest.com: A social networking

site that allows you to create boards and “pin” items from others or anywhere on the Internet to organize ideas. Fair warning: once you get started it can be really hard to stop!

■ Etsy.com: A seemingly endless online

marketplace where you will find beautiful invitations, unique gifts, banners and countless ways to customize your party.

■ All-free-download.com: If you have

a little graphic design skill, this site has free downloadable images to use on your own special invitations and party items.

You can find other sites but it may take a little hunting.

■ Shutterfly.com: This is just one of

many sites that offer printing online. Tip: print your invitation as a 4"x6" photo, which is much less expensive than actual cards.

■ punchbowl.com: This site can help

design online birthday cards to match any theme.

■ Pbs.org/parents/birthdayparties

and Disney.go.com: Two places to begin when you are looking for ideas for parties themed around specific characters.

■ YouTube.com: Learn how to make

your own balloon arch, bob for apples or sing Happy Birthday in Chinese.

■ Prezi.com: Create fun presentations

to show on your TV or computer screen. atlantaparent.com

Advertising in Atlanta Parent Gets Results

T

he Atlanta Boy Choir has advertised in in Atlanta Parent since 2002, and many boys and their parents get involved with the choir through these ads. “Atlanta Parent is perhaps the best publication in metro Atlanta on the interests of young children,” says Fletcher Wolfe, founding director of the Atlanta Boy Choir. In a letter to the choir’s Board of Trustees, he urged parents of the choir members to read the magazine every month.. “The Choir is well known throughout the world and visited Poland last year to honor the late Pope St. John Paul II, one of their long time admirers.

Again next year, this Grammy Award winning choir has been invited to sing at St. Peter’s in Rome during a June 2016 Mass.”

Parents interested in their boys auditioning for this outstanding choir should call 404-378-0064 or email info@atlantaboychoir.org. For more information, visit atlantaboychoir.org

Atlanta Boy Choir

Atlanta To advertise in Atlanta Parent,

PARENT Party Planner

please call 770-454-7599

September 2015 Atlanta Parent 33

Field Trip!

A Family or School Outing Sparks Curiosity and Learning

One week ahead:

Marvel at the incredible size and grace of a whale shark. See Delta Air Lines’ first passenger plane. n Whether the subject’s marine life or aviation, a family outing or school-sponsored field trip are great ways to rev up a child’s interest. Make the most of this opportunity for learning, before, during and after the experience. Here’s how.

Get Ready n Pick a destination that expands on lessons

being taught in school. n Schedule the trip as far in advance as you can. Some venues offer group discounts, so ask how many you need in a group to qualify. For popular destinations, visits early in the week will be less crowded. n If you’re taking a group, talk with your guide in advance to tailor the visit to your group’s interests. For instance, young children visiting the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site might be more interested in Dr. King’s life as a young boy than in his time in a Birmingham, Ala. jail. n Make sure you have enough chaperones for your group – one adult per five children – and that the chaperones know the itinerary, have a list of each child’s name and a list of the items each child should see.

Chaperones should know where and when to meet if the group splits up.

34 Atlanta Parent September 2015

n If taking a large group, outfitting

the kids in fluorescent T-shirts will help chaperones keep track. n Before the field trip, gather information from the destination’s website, read books, watch videos or take virtual field trips. Make sure the kids have a basic knowledge of the place they’ll be visiting.

Learn and Explore n Be prepared for the weather

and pack appropriately, whether it’s an umbrella, sunscreen and towels, or gloves and a warm coat. Be sure each child has comfortable walking shoes. n Bring extra cash and stash it separately from purse or wallet, in case either is lost or stolen. n Make sure each child eats breakfast, but bring portable healthy snacks for later in the day, such as boxes of raisins.

Call the location and confirm.

Verify the directions and be sure you know where to park. Set some ground rules for behavior, and make sure everyone knows them.

Decide how you’ll do lunch – you’ll need to make reservations with the venue or a restaurant for a large group, or you might have the kids pack a sack lunch.

n Add a little fun – and educational

value – to the trip by asking each child to complete an activity during the visit.

At the zoo, for instance, they could keep track of how many newborn animals they see.

Follow Up n Discuss what you’ve seen and

how it relates to your community or how an event in history shaped the children’s lives today. n If your group had its own guide or got other special treatment, be sure to thank the venue that provided it. Writing a thank-you note to your guide or the organization teaches children etiquette. n Kids often get more interested in a subject after a field trip. Be sure to follow up with more information and activities related to the trip.

– Amanda Allen atlantaparent.com

FIELD TRIP PLANNER Great field trips start here! Look through our planner for field trips at a variety of destinations – museums, farms, historical sites, nature centers and more. Atlanta Parent advertisers in this issue are listed in red.

ADVENTURE Atlanta Motor Speedway. Hampton.

770-946-4211, atlantamotorspeedway.com Malibu Grand Prix. Norcross. 770-416-7630, malibunorcross.com Monster Mini Golf. Marietta.

770-423-2212, monsterminigolf.com Mountasia Family Fun Center. Marietta.

770-422-7227, mountasiamarietta.com Six Flags Theme Park. Austell. 770-948-9290, sixflags.com SkyView Atlanta, Atlanta.

678-949-9023, SkyViewAtlanta.com A unique field trip experience educating students in the physics, geometry and aerodynamics involved in building and operating SkyView Atlanta. Flying 20 stories above Atlanta, you will have a narrated flight with unparalleled views of the city. Schedule your next field trip at SkyView Atlanta, or finish up your nearby field trip with a ride on the wheel and lunch on site. Chick-fil-A lunches available.

Stone Mountain Park. Stone Mountain.

800-401-2407, stonemountainpark.com

Tiny Towne – Drive Safely, Norcross.

470-545-7227, tinytowne.com 2-5 Hour Programs for Preschool-High School students and groups. Aspiring drivers will learn, discuss and practice traffic rules, road signs and safety and then put their knowledge to the test in a simulator or high tech car.

Treetop Quest. Buford, 404-277-6113, Dunwoody. 770-365-0356, treetopquest.com

ANIMALS AND FARMS The Art Barn at Morning Glory Farm.

Canton. 678-319-0286, theartbarn.com Buford Corn Maze. Buford. 678-835-7198, bufordcornmaze.com Cagle’s Dairy Farm. Canton.

770-345-5591, caglesfamilyfarm.com Georgia Aquarium. Atlanta.

404-581-4000, georgiaaquarium.org Visit the world’s largest aquarium with more than 100,000 animals from 500 species.

Educating students in the geometry and Cont’din on page 36 aerodynamics involving the bulding and operating of Skyview Atlanta

physics, Georgia Aquarium

skyview atlanta

field trips Fly 20 Stories above Atlanta!

Educating students in the physics, geometry and aerodynamics involved in the building and operating of SkyView Atlanta •Behind the Scenes VIP Tour •Interactive Learning Tools •Narrated Flight •Unparalleled Views •Chick-fil-A Lunches Available 678-949-9023 events@skyviewatlanta.com

atlantaparent.com

September 2015 Atlanta Parent 35

FIELD TRIP PLANNER Mitcham Farms. Covington. 770-855-1530, mitchamfarm.com Pettit Creek Farms. Cartersville.

770-386-8688, pettitcreekfarms.com The Pumpkin Patch at Yule Forest.

Stockbridge. 770-954-9356, yuleforest.com Opens Oct. 1. School tours, Hayrides, Petting Zoo, Fun zone, Puppet shows, Science Center, Honey Bee House and more. Christmas Tree Tours available in December.

Tanglewood Farm. Canton. 770-667-6464, tanglewoodfarmminiatures.com Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch.

Dawsonville. 770-772-6223, uncleshucks.com Yellow River Game Ranch. Lilburn.

770-972-6643, yellowrivergameranch.com Zoo Atlanta. Atlanta.

404-624-9453, zooatlanta.org Roam the globe with over 1400 animals from around the world. Don’t miss the Zoo train, carousel and new splash pad. Keeper talks, interactive shows, special events, camps and education programs run year-round.

Historic Mable House. Mableton.

770-819-3285, mablehouse.org

HISTORIC SITES AND HOUSES

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Site. Atlanta. 404-331-5190, nps.gov/malu

Bulloch Hall. Roswell.

770-992-1731, bullochhall.org

Oakland Cemetery. Atlanta.

404-688-2107, oaklandcemetery.com

Governor’s Mansion. Atlanta.

404-261-1776, mansion.georgia.gov

Root House Museum. Marietta.

770-426-4982, roothousemuseum.com

The Herndon Home. Atlanta.

404-581-9813, theherndonhome.org

Smith Plantation. Roswell.

770-641-3978, archibaldsmithplantation.org

Center for Civil and Human Rights The Wren’s Nest. Atlanta.

404-753-7735, wrensnest.org

MUSEUMS Atlanta History Center. Atlanta.

404-814-4000, atlantahistorycenter.com On 33 acres in historic Buckhead, the history center houses the Atlanta History Museum, Centennial Olympic Games Museum, Swan House, Smith Family Farm, six historic gardens, and the Kenan Research Center.

GET IN THE GAME AND LEARN SOMETHING TOO! More than 40 state-of-the-art interactive experiences and exhibits T.E.A.M.S™ Curriculum: A Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics and Science based program Located in downtown Atlanta near Centennial Olympic Park.

Free educational resources available at cfbhall.com/education-resources/ Contact us at groups@cfbhall.com or 404.880.4841 to book your field trip

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Sunday-Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Closed: Christmas and Thanksgiving Day

36 Atlanta Parent September 2015

atlantaparent.com

ADD A

Atlanta Preservation Center. Atlanta.

404-688-3353, preserveatlanta.com APEX Museum. Atlanta. 404-523-2739, apexmuseum.org Bartow History Center. Cartersville.

770-387-2774, bartowhistorymuseum.org Bodies The Exhibition. Atlanta.

404-496-4274, premiereexhibitions.com Booth Western Art Museum. Cartersville.

770-387-1300, boothmuseum.org Braves Museum & Hall of Fame / Turner Field Tours. Atlanta. 404-614-2310, braves.com Center for Civil and Human Rights. Atlanta 678-999-8990, civilandhumanrights.org Field Trips are designed to empower students and teachers from grades 3 through 12. The programs include self-guided or facilitated tours with supplemental activities and teacher resources. Self-Guided Tours lead students on a 60-minute exploration of The Center. High School experiences are facilitated by our exhibit interpreters and last approximately 90 minutes.

The Children’s Museum of Atlanta.

404-527-3693, childrensmuseumatlanta.org Play and learn about art, science, creative problem-solving, reading, nutrition and culture.

The museum is reopening late 2015 with field trips beginning early 2016.

College Football Hall of Fame and Chick-fil-A Fan Experience. Atlanta.

404-880-4841, cfbhall.com Get in the Game and learn something too! More than 40 state-of-the-art interactive experiences and exhibits. Technology Engineering, Arts, Mathematics and Science based program.

Delta Flight Museum. Atlanta.

404-773-1219, deltamuseum.org

TO YOUR LESSON PLAN* 2015-16 Special Exhibitions

Highlights

Searching for the Queen of Sheba

Dinosaurs

(Sept 26 – Jan 3)

Live Animals

Winter Wonderland (Nov 20 – Jan 10)

IMAX® Films

Wild Music

Educator-Led Programs

(Feb 6 – July 3)

Creatures of Light: Nature’s Bioluminescence (March 26 – Aug 14)

404.929.6306

Fernbank Museum of Natural History.

404-929-6306, fernbankmuseum.org See dinosaurs, children’s discovery rooms, Georgia history and IMAX films, with educatorled programs available. Special exhibits include “Searching for the Queen of Sheba” through Jan. 3; “Winter Wonderland” Nov. 20-Jan. 10; “Wild Music” Feb. 6-July 3 and “Creatures of the Light: Nature’s Bioluminescence” March 26-Aug. 1.

FernbankMuseum.org/Fieldtrips *We correlate field trips to Georgia Performance Standards.

Funk Heritage Center. Waleska.

770-720-5970, reinhardt.edu/funkheritage Guided field trips available for school groups of 15 or more include Southeastern Indian film, dioramas, art gallery and historic tools. Visit an Appalachian Settlement weather permitting. School tours Tuesday-Friday, reservations required. Reinhardt University campus, Waleska, GA. High Museum of Art. Atlanta.

404-733-4400, high.org Georgia Capitol Museum. Atlanta.

404-463-4536, libs.uga.edu/capitolmuseum Hudgens Center for the Arts and Children’s Art Museum. Duluth.

770-623-6002, thehudgens.org Interactive Neighborhood for Kids.

Gainesville. 770-536-1900, inkfun.org All exhibits are designed to provide a unique hands-on learning environment, to actively engage young minds while having lots of fun. Everyone is a kid at INK as adults are encouraged to join in the fun for intergenerational learning.

Jimmy Carter Library and Museum. Atlanta.

404-865-7100, jimmycarterlibrary.gov

NOW OPEN: ATLANTA’S MUST-SEE

CULTURAL EXPERIENCE

This stunning museum is a can’t-miss Atlanta attraction. My family had just under an hour before it closed, but it was among the most powerful hours of my life.

-Dante M, Sacramento, CA, TripAdvisor

civilandhumanrights.org

100 Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd. Atlanta, GA 30313 (next to the World of Coca-Cola)

Cont’d on page 38

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September 2015 Atlanta Parent 37

Spotlight on Field Trips

FIELD TRIPS!

FIELD TRIP PLANNER LEGOLAND. Atlanta. 404-848-9252, legolanddiscoverycenter.com/atlanta Margaret Mitchell House. Atlanta.

404-249-7015, atlantahistorycenter.com/mmh Michael C. Carlos Museum. Atlanta.

404-727-4282, carlos.emory.edu Museum of Design. Atlanta.

404-979-6455, museumofdesign.org Robert C. Williams Museum of Papermaking.

Atlanta. 404-894-5726, ipst.gatech.edu/amp Southeastern Railway Museum. Duluth.

770-495-0253 ext. 2, SoutheasternRailwayMuseum.org The largest transportation museum in the Southeast! Offering field trips for school groups K-5, seniors and adults. 33 acres house buses, tractors, cars, fire engines, taxis and more than 90 trains!

The original Duluth depot, built in 1871 is also located on the property.

2-5 Hour Programs Pre-K - High School

Aspiring Drivers Learn: • Traffic Rules • Road Signs & Safety • And then put their knowledge to the test in a simulator or high tech car 36,000 sq. ft. Indoor Park with a Restaurant Norcross 470-545-7227 tinytowne.com

OBSERVE • DISCUSS • EXPERIMENT • PRACTICE SOUTHEASTERN INDIAN & FRONTIER INTERPRETIVE CENTER Curriculum Based Native America Field Trips Pioneer Living History Program

Southern Museum of Civil War & Locomotive History. Kennesaw.

770-427-2117, southernmuseum.org Stately Oaks Plantation. Jonesboro.

770-473-0197, historicaljonesboro.org Teaching Museum North. Roswell.

770-552-6339 and Teaching Museum South. Hapeville.

404-669-8015, fultonschools.org Telephone Museum. Atlanta.

404-223-3661, attpioneervolunteers.org Tellus Science Museum. Cartersville.

770-606- 5700, tellusmuseum.org William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum.

Atlanta. 404-870-1632, thebreman.org World of Coca-Cola. Atlanta.

404-676-5151, worldofcoca-cola.com

NATURE AND SCIENCE Atlanta Botanical Garden. Atlanta.

404-876-5859, atlantabg.org Atlanta Botanical Garden. Gainesville.

404-888-4760, atlantabg.org/visit/gainesville Autrey Mill Nature Preserve. Johns Creek.

678-366-3511, autreymill.org

FUNK HERITAGE CENTER Reinhardt University in Waleska, GA near Canton & I-575. reinhardt.edu/funkheritage Field Trip or Tour: 770-720-5970

Big Trees Urban Forest Preserve. Atlanta. bigtreesforest.com

PLEASE RECYCLE 38 Atlanta Parent September 2015

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Dunwoody Nature Center. Dunwoody.

770-394-3322, dunwoodynature.org Elachee Nature Science Center. Gainesville. 770535-1976, elachee.org Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center.

Buford. 770-904-3500, gwinnettehc.org Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park.

Kennesaw. 770-427-4686, nps.gov/kemo McDaniel Farm Park. Duluth.

770-814-4920, gwinnettcounty.com Panola Mountain State Park. Stockbridge.

800-864-7275, gastateparks.org/panolamountain Reynolds Nature Preserve. Morrow.

770-603- 4188, reynoldsnaturepreserve.org Truly Living Well Center for Natural Urban Agriculture. Atlanta.

678-973-0997, trulylivingwell.com Fernbank Museum of Natural History

Chattahoochee Nature Center. Roswell.

770-992-2055, chattnaturecenter.org/education Come explore the Chattahoochee Nature Center with your class for fun, educational experiences your students won’t ever forget!

Onsite programming and outreaches yearround that are correlated to the State’s GPS.

PERFORMING ARTS Alliance Theatre. Atlanta.

404-733-4650, alliancetheatre.org

Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Sandy Springs.

678-538-1200, nps.gov/chat

Center for Puppetry Arts. Atlanta.

404-873-3089, puppet.org Worlds of Puppetry Museum opens Nov. 14 with 7,500 square feet of museum space in two galleries and display of the Jim Henson Collection.

Live puppetry shows throughout the year, plus exhibits, puppetry workshops and more.

Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve.

Lithonia. 770-492-5220, arabiaalliance.org

Medieval Times. Lawrenceville.

866-543-5278, medievaltimes.com/atlanta

BEYOND ATLANTA Foxfire Museum and Heritage Center.

Mountain City. 706-746-5828, foxfire.org Great Smoky Mountain Railroad.

Bryson City, N.C. 828-586-8811, gsmr.com Hop aboard for a fun family ride all year long.

In October, enjoy rides themed to the Peanuts gang, the cartoon characters created by Charles M. Schulz. Just in time for the holidays, ride the Polar Express™ for a quick trip to the North Pole.

Hillcrest Orchards. Elijay.

706-273-3838, hillcrestorchards.net Field trips on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Students can milk cows, ride the wagon, see the apple museum and visit the petting farm.

Jaemor Farms. Alto, 770-869-3999.

Commerce, 706-335-0999, jaemorfarms.com North Georgia Zoo and Petting Farm.

Cleveland. 706-348-7279, myfavoritezoo.com Alligators, monkeys, kangaroos, wildcats, wolves, zebras and more. Groups can visit the zoo or have animals visit the school or event.

The Rock Ranch. The Rock.

706-647-6374, therockranch.com Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum.

Chattanooga, Tenn. 423-894-8028, tvrail.com Sit back, relax and let our trains take you away for an hour or a day. Perfect for families. Check the website for all ride offerings and dates. Group rates are available for groups of 20 or more in season, 50 or more off season. 4119 Cromwell Road.

Chattanooga, TN 37421.

Spotlight on Field Trips The Center for Civil and Human Rights

Interactive Neighborhood for Kids!

he Center for Civil and Human Rights is located in the heart of Atlanta. This immersive experience features engaging storytelling along with historic documents and one-of-kind artifacts.

School programs at The Center include tours, supplemental activities and teacher resources to engage and empower students and teachers, grades 3–12. Exhibition self-guides for grades 3 – 5 and 6 – 8 lead students on a 90 minute exploration of The Center. High School experiences are facilitated by our exhibit interpreters and last approximately 90 minutes. As a companion to your field trip experience, comprehensive Teacher’s Guides for Grades 3–5, 6–8, and 9-12 are available for download and use before, during, and after your visit. The Center also has a family guide, “Across Generations,” that provides visitors who come with children age-appropriate tools to enhance the family experience and foster multigenerational dialogue.

Schedule your next field trip at The Center! 250 Williams Street, next to the World of Coca Cola. 678-999-8990 www.civilandhumanrights.org

nteractive Neighborhood for Kids is one of the best places in Northeast Georgia for a child’s educational experience or event! There are several different opportunities offered to fit everyone’s needs. Call today for field trip or birthday party needs.

What better place to learn & celebrate than at INK where guests can truly become the figments of their imagination. Children can role play and learn through practical experiences about being a banker, grocery store clerk, doctor, pilot and much more. All exhibits are designed to provide a unique hands-on learning environment, to actively engage young minds while having lots of fun. Everyone is a kid at INK as adults are encouraged to join in the fun for intergenerational learning.

INK is open to the general public 10am-5pm Monday through Saturday and 1pm-5pm on Sundays. There is also a gift shop, annual family memberships and Paint Your Own Pottery Studio available. Group rates are available with advance reservations.

Call 770-536-1900 or visit the website www.inkfun.org to book your next event!

T

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I

Special Advertising Section

September 2015 Atlanta Parent 39

My Teacher Doesn’t Like Me! n n n

Solving School Struggles

by Malia Jacobson

W

hen a child dislikes a teacher – or feels disliked by one – school becomes a daily struggle. Fortunately, teacher-student traumas usually can be fixed. Here’s how to smooth the bumps for a better school year. n Preschool Years: Ages 3-5

When a preschooler appears to dislike a teacher, don’t hastily switch classes or schools, longtime early childhood educator Evelyn Addis says. When a child first begins preschool, he may be responding negatively to the overwhelming experience of school rather than a specific teacher. “Allow a period of adjustment for your child in any new classroom setting,” Addis says. “It takes time for classes to come together as a group.”

Most schools welcome parents to observe a child’s classroom in action, particularly when a concern arises. But beware: a short classroom observation doesn’t present a true picture of an entire instructional day, and a parent’s presence can alter a child’s behavior.

If complaints about a teacher persist, document your concerns and set up a conference with the teacher. Brainstorm a plan for addressing the problem areas, along with a plan for daily or weekly communication to monitor the situation, Addis suggests.

40 Atlanta Parent September 2015

n Grade School Years: Ages 6-12

When a grade-schooler complains about a super-strict teacher, investigate before complaining, says child and adolescent psychologist Kristen Wynns. Gather information about the conflict. After a few weeks of documenting the problem, request a meeting with the teacher to talk about a solution before you consider alternative options like changing teachers.

Sometimes, there’s more to the “mean teacher” situation than meets the eye.

Constance Zimmer’s stepson Harrison felt targeted by his teacher, but it turned out that he had undiagnosed attention deficit disorder.

“Once the problem was treated, he made progress in leaps and bounds, and realized that it wasn’t a matter of the teacher not liking him, but his own perceptions about his lack of progress in school,” Zimmer says. n Teen Years: Ages13-18

Most teens will run into a teacher conflict at some point, Wynns says. “Any parent knows if you go to school long

enough, it’s inevitable you’ll have that ‘really mean’ or demanding teacher.” While those experiences aren’t always fun, they can teach teens valuable lessons about dealing with difficult people, she notes.

After ensuring that the class in question isn’t too easy or too advanced for the teen’s academic abilities, Wynns advises parents to avoid automatically “rescuing” teens who find themselves in a tough spot with a teacher.

When parents encourage teens to continue in the class instead of granting them the easy way out (dropping the course), it conveys a strong message about the parent’s confidence in the teen, Wynns says.

Teenagers who see that a parent believes they can handle a tricky situation will often rise to the occasion. c When Conflict is Serious Rarely, conflict resolution goes nowhere, but contacting the principal or administrator of the school shouldn’t be done lightly.

If you and the teacher can’t agree on how to address problems, or you’ve agreed and the teacher isn’t following the plan, a third party’s viewpoint might help resolve issues.

atlantaparent.com

imagine Your Child?

What do you want for

IMAGINE A SCHOOL WHERE YOUR CHILD LEARNS…

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

E MIDDL L O O SCH EN

OP NOW ccepting

A ons applicati

Montessori School at Emory 3021 N. Decatur Road Decatur, GA 30033 MontessoriSchoolatEmory.com 404-634-5777

Montessori School of Cumming 4601 Post Road Cumming, GA 30040 MontessoriSchoolofCumming.com 770-205-6773

Now enrolling children ages 15 months – 12 years

&

Embracing Strengthening

Metro Atlanta Families since 1983

770-234-9111 www.focus-ga.org atlantaparent.com

September 2015 Atlanta Parent 41

Saturday in

Saturday Program 18 months - 12 yrs. • Buckhead location

Paris?

at the Atlanta International School

Bébé et Moi (Baby and Me) ages 18 - 36 months

French Classes

For Adults & Children

REGISTER

for Classes Online NOW!

Library Card Sign-up Month

A Backto-School Essential

by Kimberly Blaker

“A

www.frenchschoolatlanta.org

library card” says the American Library Association, “is the most important school supply of all.”

September is Library Card Sign-up Month. It began in 1987, when Secretary of Education William J. Bennett said “Let’s have a national campaign ... every child should obtain a library card – and use it.”

Libraries today offer a broad array of free materials, services, and activities. These are just a few of the great reasons to make the library an integral part of yours and your child’s life.

or call

770-634-6228

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

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

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

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL 470-254-0402 OR VISIT WWW.FULTONSCHOOLS.ORG

n Movies & films: Today’s libraries offer a great selection of mainstream movies and television series as well as educational, independent, and foreign films on DVD for both children and adults. n Music CDs: Music is the universal language. Your can check out pop, rock, and country CDs and even introduce your kids to a great selection of classical, jazz, blues, international music and more.

Integrating

academics • friendships • life skills

The curriculum, delivered by master’s level, dually-certified teachers, develops language, social emotional and adaptive life skills for children with autism.

Limited spots available.

Today Personalized

42 Atlanta Parent September 2015

O

ONT

S

OL

404-382-8200 • WWW.TPSOA.ORG

DM

HO

Fully Accredited/SB-10 approved

E

C

Grades K-6 • Rolling Admission

THE P I

Call to Schedule a Tour.

F

ATLANT

A

The

PIEDMONT SCHOOL of ATLANTA

n Computer software & games: For today’s video game obsessed youth, the array of children’s educational computer software and games found in libraries is welcomed. You’ll also find teen and adult video games, instructional and reference software, and productivity software ranging from Microsoft programs to graphic design. n Periodicals: Newspapers, magazines, and special interest periodicals are available for both in-library use and for check out. atlantaparent.com

ATLANTA COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

‘A small school... with a big heart’

n Books, audio books, and ebooks: In addition to large collections of print fiction, non-fiction and reference books, libraries offer audio books on CD and typically carry unabridged editions.

Most libraries now offer ebooks as well in many different formats. n Computer & Internet use: Nearly all libraries today offer free computer access for browsing the Internet as well as basic word processing programs like Excel, PowerPoint, and more. n Online catalog: You can browse or search for materials from home. If the item you want isn’t available, you can usually reserve it or request an inter-library loan.

You can also renew your books online. n Special events: Libraries offer a wide array of programs, events, and activities. These may include children’s story times, computer classes, enrichment programs, book discussion groups, usedbook sales, author events, children’s and teen movie and craft events, and much more.

Check with your local library to see what they offer. c

Metro Atlanta Libraries Cherokee: sequoyahregionallibrary.org Clayton: claytonpl.org Cobb: cobbcat.org DeKalb: dekalblibrary.org Fayette: fayettecountyga.gov/public_library Fulton: afpls.org Gwinnett: gwinnettpl.org Henry: henry.public.lib.ga.us

atlantaparent.com

SACS Accredited College Preparatory School Grades 6-12 Rolling Admissions Average Student/ Teacher Ratio 6:1

Call now for an individualized school tour!

New Ownership and Administration 770-998-0311

atlantacountrydayschool.com

8725 Dunwoody Place • Sandy Springs • 30350 September 2015 Atlanta Parent 43

Cover Kids winners!

CONTEST 2015

Atlanta is home to the countries cutest kids! Say hello to our 2015 Cover Kid winners and finalists. Thanks to help from our friends at HOP Models, Presence Models and Images by N’Neka, the challenging task of picking Atlanta’s cutest kids is now complete. Be sure to look for them on future covers of Atlanta Parent.

Thank you to all the families that submitted photos this year.

Santiago & Oksana Caruso Cumming

Peyton Kinser Woodstock

Ian McKay Mableton

Melo Watson Lithia Springs

Elias Yee Atlanta

Dallas Bryant & Althea Howery Atlanta

44 Atlanta Parent September 2015

atlantaparent.com

& finalists

Zara Beniwal Alpharetta

Alexandra Calvo Marietta

Savanna Castle Canton

Noah Coryell Acworth

Keaton Filstrup Marietta

Ella Fingerman Roswell

Rita Fingerman Roswell

Andrew Karacalidis Atlanta

Dhruv Khurana Alpharetta

Andrew Kochman Alpharetta

Sufi Momin Dunwoody

Jack Morgan Kennesaw

Maxwell Morris Atlanta

Lively Pope Tucker

Valerie Rodriguez Duluth

Demi Rowzee Marietta

Noemi Ruiz Mableton

Lauren Smith Atlanta

Isabella Stacy Alpharetta

Natalie Suarez-Filomeno Brookhaven

Aiden Turker Atlanta

atlantaparent.com

Hannah Daffron Hiram

Lacey Dahmani Alpharetta

Garrett, Garrison, Gary Gay Austell

Giavanni Lewis Smyrna

Benjamin Bufford Lawrenceville

Holland Byrd Smyrna

Archer Dennis Sautee

Ramsey Donnelly Atlanta

Brynn Harmon Cumming

Brayshon Hoffler Lithonia

Josephine MacKaben Frederick Maxwell Jr. Raam McKnight-Gattu Cumming Austell Atlanta

Solomon Mosqueda Harper-Victoria Murray Lawrenceville Tucker

Evan Nichols Atlanta

John Persichetti Atlanta

Axel Sawyer Atlanta

Cash Semancik Atlanta

Sian Shropshire-Taylor Smyrna

Ace Waldman Atlanta

Karis Yee Atlanta

Haley Young Smyrna

September 2015    Atlanta Parent 45

i woke up next to a

whale shark.

FOR THE MOST MAGICAL SLEEPOVER EVER, come to Georgia Aquarium. We offer sleepover nights for families, youth groups and adults. After everyone else has gone home, you’ll enjoy an exciting night of entertainment, exploration and fun. See the amazing galleries and then sleep next to our magnificent animals.

You’ll wake up with a whole new sense of wonder.

Get all the details at GeorgiaAquarium.org/Sleepovers 404.581.4000 |

#1 AQUARIUM

IN THE U.S.

Georgia Aquarium is a not-for-profit organization, inspiring awareness and conservation of aquatic animals.

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atlantaparent.com July 31, 2015 11:15 AM

Family Fun Guide * Eating Out

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Free Fun

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Exhibits

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Calendar

Not-to-miss events for September

1

Sesame Street Live: Make a New Friend

Fox Theatre Sept. 19-20.

Sat. 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.; Sun. 1 and 4:30 p.m.

Join Elmo and the Sesame Street gang as they welcome Grover’s friend from India.

Together they explore the universal fun of friendship and celebrate cultural similarities.

660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta.

855-285-8499. Tickets $20-$40. sesamestreetlive.com

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Corn s Maze 8 5 Page

North Georgia State Fair Jim R. Miller Park Sept. 24- Oct. 4. Mon.-Thurs., 4-11 p.m.; Fri. 4 p.m.-midnight; Sat., 10 a.m.-midnight; Sun., 12:30-10 p.m.

At the largest fair in the metro Atlanta area, enjoy carnival rides and games, a petting zoo, pony rides and kidzone. This year’s live entertainment includes Wolves of the World, Galaxy Girl, Human Cannonball, an exotic petting zoo and more. 2245 Callaway Rd., Marietta. 770-528-8989. Adults, $7; ages 10 and younger, free; discounts for advance purchase. Ride tickets $1.25 each or 21 for $20. Parking, $3. northgeorgiastatefair.com

Peter Pan Center for Puppetry Arts Sept. 24-Oct. 25.

Wed.-Fri. 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.; Sat. noon and 2 p.m.; Sun. 1 and 3 p.m.

Take an adventure with Wendy Darling and her brothers and travel to Neverland with the one and only Peter and his fairy companion Tinkerbell. The gang romps with the Lost Boys, rescues the resourceful Princess Tigerlily, battles the evil Captain Hook and more. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404-873-3391. Ages 2 and older, $16.50. puppet.org

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Family Fun Guide

September 2015 Atlanta Parent 47

Family Fun Guide The Power of Children: Making a Difference Opening Sept. 7 Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center

New Exhibits Now Open: This fall treat yourself with one of these great museum happenings!

Throughout this interactive, hands-on exhibit the stories of Anne Frank, Ruby Bridges and Ryan White, three children whose lives teach us about overcoming obstacles to make a positive difference in the world are shared. Recommended for ages 8 and older. gwinnettehc.org

Nature Connects: Art with LEGO Bricks Opening Sept. 19 The Atlanta Botanical Garden, Gainesville See more than 375,000 LEGO bricks featuring a Mother Duck and her babies next to the pond, a 6-foot-tall praying mantis, a butterfly with a 5-foot wingspan and more. Enjoy a special opening day family festival featuring music and games in the amphitheater, discovery stations, and LEGO-related activities from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. atlantabg.org

Searching for the Queen of Sheba Opening Sept. 26 Fernbank Museum of Natural History This exhibit brings together ancient artifacts from Yemen, contemporary Ethiopian artwork, archaeological reconstructions and modern media to explore the mystery of this legendary queen. fernbankmuseum.org

Oct. 10

Mark your Calendar Atlanta Parent’s Family Festival Get ready for fun with Atlanta Parent’s annual Family Festival, previously Family Block Party. Over 50 activities to keep the kids entertained with games, jump houses, Trick-or-Treat Street, arts and crafts and so much more all in one place.

There’s something for everyone in this fun-filled day, here are just a few:

n Get Hand’s On! Touch and learn about animals and more with Zoo Atlanta. n Run away and join the circus!

Juggle, tight rope walk and ride a unicycle with Circus Camp. n Put the hammer to work with Home Depot. Plus, get crafty with Paint a Pumpkin and many other fun crafts throughout the festival. n There are animals to touch, pet and ride. Parrots, chickens, cows, camels, and ponies are just a few of what you’ll see. n Get slimy with Big Thinkers and see their science show on the Main stage

Images By N’Neka and Butler Family Photography

48 Atlanta Parent September 2015

n Toddlers will play with no worries of big kids in the Toddler Play Zone with inflatables and games just for them.

Family Fun Guide

10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Mercer University, Atlanta Campus, 3001 Mercer University Dr., Atlanta $10 per person at the gate. $5 per person online purchase only. Ages 1 and younger, free. Each paid admission includes five activity tickets.

More information on how to exhibit, volunteer and buy your tickets at atlantaparent.com/ familyfestival.

(Purchase tickets in advance to skip the admission lines at the festival and save $5.)

atlantaparent.com

FREE FUN atlantaparent.com

Visit a Museum on Bargain Days!

Explore science, history and more for a steal with many museums and historical sites occasionally offering free days, perfect for families on a budget.

Museums on Us / Sept. 5-6

museums.bankofamerica.com Receive one free admission for Bank of America and Merrill Lynch credit card holders on the first full weekend of every month.

Some participating locations include: n Atlanta History Center n Center for Civil and Human Rights n The High Museum of Art n National Center for Civil and Human Rights n Tellus Science Museum

Center for Civil and Human Rights

Museum: Day Live! Sept. 26

Celebrate culture, history and art for free as local museums welcome anyone presenting a Museum Day Live Ticket. Each ticket provides free admission for two people per household, per address and must be printed out. To learn more and claim your ticket for this event hosted by Smithsonian magazine, visit smithsonian.com/museumdaylive.

Some participating locations include: n Archibald Smith Plantation Home n Barrington Hall n Bulloch Hall n David J. Sencer CDC Museum n The High Museum of Art n Marietta Museum of History n Oglethorpe University Museum of Art – Hayley Markowitz

Family Fun Guide

David J. Sencer CDC Museum

September 2015 Atlanta Parent 49

Inside CNN: Get the Scoop!

M

y kids and I had the chance to discover just how exciting life behind the news can be when we took the Inside CNN Studio Tour.

Inside CNN Center’s atrium my three kids, ages 14, 6, and 3, simultaneously let out gasps and wows. The large space consists of a food court, gift shops, and continent shaped floor tiles (try finding them all). The kids wanted to take a picture with Lady Rainicorn from Cartoon Network’s Adverturetime, a favorite show of my 14-year-old, and then our tour started.

CNN runs guided walking tours every 20 minutes; tours last about 55 minutes.

To start the tour, we stepped onto “the world’s longest freestanding elevator, supported only on the top and bottom, in the world,” as explained by our tour guide Christian. We had a blast riding the elevator “across the sky and into the world.” Now inside the globe, we posed for a professional picture behind a news desk. The tour continued into an auditorium where we listened to control room conversations across CNN globally.

If You Go Inside CNN Studio Tour 190 Marietta St. NW, Atlanta (inside the CNN Center ) 404-827-2300; cnn.com/tour n Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Mon.-Sun. n Admission: Adults, $16; ages 13-18, $15; ages 4-12, $13.

A big highlight for my youngest kids was when we toured a mock studio where we read “copy” from a monitor or demonstrated the green screen effect. Then we viewed a live broadcast of The Daily Share and spotted a celebrity. Ali Nejad, a host, was about to go live on the air!

From a walkway, we looked down on the CNN Newsroom, where producers,

researchers, and editors work. My 14-yearold was impressed and said it looked like fun – he asked about what college major he needed to work there. We also visited CNN Española and CNN Global.

We all had fun and decided the CNN Center is a definite on our list of new and cool places to visit.

– Melissa Williams

JOIN THE FUN!

MORE THAN 50 FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES! 50 Atlanta Parent September 2015

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

The Atlanta Botanical Garden Branches Out: A Day at the Gainesville Garden

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If You Go Atlanta Botanical Garden - Gainesville 1911 Sweetbay Dr., Gainesville 404-888-4760; atlantabg.org/visit/gainesville n Hours: Tues-Sun., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Closed Mon. n Admission: Adults, $8; children, ages 3-12, $5; age 2 and younger, free

Nature Connects: Art with LEGO Bricks Opening Sept. 19-Jan. 3.

See more than 375,000 LEGO bricks and 27 installations featuring a Mother Duck and her babies, a 6-foot-tall praying mantis, a butterfly with a 5-foot wingspan and more.

Images By N’Neka and Butler Family Photography

couldn’t believe it – my 13-year-old daughter was actually having fun with her mom today. Amidst a tranquil, wooded landscape of maple and magnolia trees dotted with colorful perennials, we were visiting the Gainesville location of the Atlanta Botanical Garden. Only a few miles off of I-985, the newly-opened site is an easy drive from Atlanta with free parking and little congestion.

“Look at all the butterflies!” my daughter Allison exclaimed. Various species of butterflies hovered around the bright yellow and purple flowers outside the visitor’s center. Nearby is a 1,200 person amphitheatre adjacent to a great lawn area (perfect for practicing cartwheels) with two oversized Adirondack chairs. Allison was immediately engulfed when she climbed in one of them.

After passing a pond, we explored the two nature trails. With each a half-mile in length, the Sourwood Trail curves around the perimeter of the gardens, while the Holly Ridge Loop offers more hills and traverses a small stream. The shady, mulched trails gave us a respite from the outside world.

But the highlight for my daughter (and every kid there) was the model train garden.

We stood mesmerized watching two model trains cross a bridge, travel through a tunnel and wind around a small, countryside village. Later, we walked through the stream garden. This hydrangea-lined path switches back and forth over a man-made waterfall until reaching a scenic overlook area.

Although smaller than its sister site in Atlanta, parents will love that the gardens are a manageable size for younger kids and grandparents.

In addition to the model train garden, kids will love playing with the toy train set under the covered pavilion. While they play, parents can sit in the shade, relax and take in the surrounding flora.

It was a most successful outing for the two of us. I enjoyed being outdoors and spending “unplugged” time with my daughter. She liked that the gardens weren’t crowded and offered a variety of plants. As we were leaving, she said, “That was amazing. I think they had one of every plant there.”

– Rebecca Ruffin Leffler

October 10 Mercer University Atlanta Campus 10 am – 4 pm $10 at gate, $5 online.

Ages 1 and younger, free.

Exhibit, Volunteer, Donate Contact Jordan for more information: 678-222-1911 JLisvosky@atlantaparent.com atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

September 2015 Atlanta Parent 51

Dragon Con Parade

Saturday, September 26, 2015 J 10:30 a J

petting

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Labor Day Weekend Events

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n Decatur Book Festival. Decatur Square.

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Major funding is provided by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners

FAMILY PROGRAM AtlantaHistoryCenter.com/Family

Stories galore at this weekend festival. Children’s parades happen Saturday at 9:30 a.m. and Sunday at 11:30 a.m. Kids are invited to bring instruments and dress up as their favorite Wizard of Oz characters for the parade. Don’t miss kidnote speaker Judy Schachner as she presents her newest book, Dewey Bob at the Decatur High School Performing Arts Center on Sept. 4 at 5 p.m.

Free tickets at local Decatur book stores. Sept. 4-6.

Sat., 10 a.m.-6:15 p.m. and Sun., noon-5:45 p.m.

404-471-5769. Free.

n Art in the Park. Glover Park. A weekend

celebrating fine arts includes an artist market, children’s art alley, and Chalk Spot, a street chalk art display for children K-12 to create unique designs in 3-foot square spaces. Sept. 5-7. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Historic Marietta Square. 404-966-8497. Free.

n Pioneer Day Festival. Sam Smith Park.

Celebrate Labor Day with carnival rides and games, arts and crafts shows, live entertainment and fireworks. Sept. 4-7. Fri., 4-11 p.m., Sat.-Sun., noon-11 p.m., Mon., noon-10 p.m. 1155 Douthit Ferry Rd., Cartersville. 770-974-9033. Adults, $5; ages 12 and younger, free. Unlimited rides each day, $25 wristbands.

n Dragon Con Parade. Downtown Atlanta.

The largest pop culture convention featuring comics, film, TV and gaming boasts a colorful parade through downtown. Sept. 5. 10 a.m. Visit website for parade details. 404-669-0773. Free. dragoncon.org.

Beyond Atlanta n Callaway’s Sky High Hot Air Balloon

Festival. Callaway Gardens. Watch the skies light up with a balloon glow on Friday evening and stick around for balloon launches Sat. and Sun. in the mornings and evenings. Between balloon launches, experience a Kids Zone, classic car show, or disc dog demonstration. Sept. 4-6. Visit callawaygardens. com for scheduled events and times. Hwy 27, Pine Mountain. 706-663-2281. Adults, $30; ages 6-12, $15; ages 5 and younger, free.

n Labor Day Beach Bash. Tybee Island.

Enjoy free live entertainment and fireworks at the Tybee Island Pier and Pavilion. Oceanfront beach party featuring live music and entertainment at the Tybee Island Pier and Pavilion. Fireworks start at 9:15 p.m. Sept. 6. 7-10 p.m. 1605 Strand Ave., Tybee Island. 912-786-5444. Free.

52 Atlanta Parent September 2015

Family Fun Guide

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Adapted by Michael Haverty Directed by Amy Sweeney

NOW- SEPT 20

Hands-on Fun

at Tellus Science Museum

M

y daughter Micah and I arrived at Tellus Science Museum just in time for the planetarium show, “Black Holes, the Other Side of Infinity.”

Throughout the show we held onto our seats as we felt like we were being swept into outer space!

In the spirit of summer fun, we had decided to beat the heat and see the museum’s traveling exhibit, “Toys – The Inside Story!”

It was well worth the drive for the toy exhibit and the museum’s other galleries.

After “returning to earth” from our planetary adventure, we walked among gigantic dinosaurs, marine reptiles and mammals in the fossil gallery. The exhibits are vast in size with quick and easy-to-read descriptions for excited children moving throughout the gallery.

In the Toys exhibit, located in the “Collins Family My Big Backyard” interactive area, kids can operate gears, pulleys, linkages, cams and circuits and see how toys work on the inside.

The exhibit was great! I joined in along with other parents, turning gears and working circuits. In my opinion, it’s one of the best hands-on exhibits my daughter and I have visited. Throughout the exhibit, the kids were clearly engaged and excited.

With “kid friendly” descriptions and ease of use, children explored the exhibits independently and through teamwork, which was fun for everyone. We even played with a traditional jack-in-the-box and another jack-in-the-box that exposed the inner workings, showing how “jack” pops up. atlantaparent.com

If You Go Tellus Science Museum 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville 770-606-5700; tellusmuseum.org n Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sun. Tours of the Solar House 1-4 p.m. on Thurs.-Sun. n General Admission: Adults, $14; ages 3-17, $10 (includes fossil dig and gem panning). Planetarium admission: $3.50 in addition to general admission; $2 for second planetarium show on same visit. n Exhibit: Toys: The Inside Story! through Jan. 4.

peter pan Adapted by Michael Haverty Directed by Amy Sweeney Based on the book by J.M. Barrie

SEPT 22-OCT 25

Full Throttle: Evolution + Design of the Motorcycle through March 27.

This exhibit is STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) focused and engaging.

Families also shouldn’t miss the Full Throttle: Evolution + Design of the Motorcycle that is there through March 2016. Kids can learn all about vintage motorcycles, sidecars and mopeds from 1930s-1970s.

As we concluded our visit, we took advantage of the Fossil Dig where every child takes home a real fossil. In addition, the Gem Panning activity was great fun as we searched for “sparkly” stones.

This Tellus Museum adventure was just what we needed to incorporate STEM learning into our summer fun!

– Caren Davis Lightfoot

Family Fun Guide

404.873.3391 puppet.org

Limited FREE Parking • MARTA Accessible

1404 Spring Spring Street Street NW NW 1404 Atlanta, GA GA 30309 30309 Atlanta, Advance purchase is highly recommended as many shows sell out quickly.

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

Images: Rod Reilly; Clay Walker

September 2015 Atlanta Parent 53

fallfestivals&fairs Celebrate the autumn season with festival fun. Enjoy live entertainment, stroll through an artist’s market or just hit the midway!

Charges may apply for some festival activities, such as inflatables and activity stations in addition to entrance fees.

Yellow Daisy Festival. Stone Mountain Park. More than 400 artists and craftspeople will be displaying and selling their works, plus you’ll find fun in the Children’s Corner, craft demonstrations, festival food and live entertainment. Sept. 10-13. Thurs-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sun. 10-5 p.m. Highway 78, Stone Mountain. 770-4985690. Free; parking, $15.

Inman Farm Heritage Days

Minter’s Farms Sept. 18-20. Fri.-Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Antique machines, including a printing press, steam engine and cotton gin are on display. This festival recalls a simpler time and celebrates the farming community.

Live music, crafts for sale and festival foods are also planned.

283 Hills Bridge Rd., Fayetteville.

770-461-2840. Free. mintersfarm.com

Taste of Kennesaw. Downtown Kennesaw.

Taste food from local restaurants, enjoy live entertainment, and take the kids to the children’s zone with inflatables, a trackless train and more. Sept. 12. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-423-1330. Free admission.

East Cobber Parade & Festival. The Fidelity Bank. Live entertainment, arts and crafts, carnival games and parade. Sept. 12.

Parade starts at 10 a.m., festival 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 1223 Johnson Ferry Rd., Marietta.

770-640-7070. Free.

Marietta Streetfest

Pine Log Arts and Crafts Fair. Pine Log UMC Campground. Live entertainment, barbecue, and arts and crafts. Sept. 12-13.

11 a.m.-5 p.m. Off Highway 411, Rydal.

770-607-5350. Ages 12 and older, $3; ages 11 and younger, free.

Marietta Square Sept. 19-20. Sat., 9 a.m.-9 p.m; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Classic cars, live bluegrass music, an artist market and a children’s zone featuring inflatables, arts and crafts, interactive stations and more. 50 N. Park Sq., Marietta. 770-794-5710. Free. mariettastreetfest.com

Gwinnett County Fair. Gwinnett County Fairgrounds. Thrill rides, live music performances, carnival games, craft and produce competitions, pageants and livestock displays. Sept. 17-27. Mon.-Fri., 5-11 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-midnight; Sun., 1-10 p.m. 2405 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville.

770-963-6522. Adults 6-64, $5; younger than 6, free. Parking, free.

Hapeville Happy Days Festival. Jess Lucas Downtown Park. Live music Friday; games, rides, and arts and crafts. Sept. 1819. Fri., Concert 7-11 p.m.; Sat., Festival 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 680 S. Central Ave., Hapeville.

404-669-8269. Free.

JapanFest

Gwinnett Center Sept. 19-20. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Taste of Smyrna Festival of Delectable.

Downtown Smyrna. Taste food from local restaurants, enjoy live music and take the kids to the interactive kids zone. Sept. 19. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. 200 Village Green Cir., Smyrna.

770-423-1330. Free.

Experience Japanese culture with musical and dance performances, martial arts demos, a tea ceremony, workshops about Japanese kimonos, kids’ area with crafts and games and much more.

6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth.

404-842-0736. Adults, $10; ages 6 and younger, free. japanfest.org

Art in the Square. Downtown Gainesville.

Live entertainment, including belly dancing and music, food from local restaurants and more. Sept. 19-20. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Downtown Gainesville. 770-297-1141. Free.

Cont’d on page 56

54 Atlanta Parent September 2015

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

Some Old Fashioned Fun

at the North Georgia State Fair Returning to Marietta on Sept. 24-Oct. 4 is the North Georgia State Fair featuring over 40 carnival rides, animal attractions, competitions, flower show, food vendors, free concerts and more.

New this Year n The Black Forest Fun House n Balloon Ferris Wheel n The Lolli Swing Kiddie Ride n David “The Bullet” Smith human cannonball n Wolves of the World Show n Eudora Farms Exotic Petting Zoo

If You Go North Georgia State Fair Jim R. Miller Park, 2245 Callaway Rd. SW, Marietta. 770-528-8989; northgeorgiastatefair.com n Dates: Sept. 24-Oct. 4. Mon.-Thurs., 4-11 p.m.; Fri., 4 p.m.-midnight; Sat., 10 a.m.-midnight; Sun., 12:30 - 10 p.m. n Cost: Adults, $7; ages 10 and younger, free. Ride tickets, $1.25 or 21 for $20; Parking, $3. *Receive half price tickets at all metroAtlanta Walgreens until Sept. 25.

Must know before you go Make sure to see the returning Sea Lion Splash, Racing Pigs and Paddling Porkers and North Georgia Animals Petting Barn.

Check website for special rates for Family Weekend Sept. 26-27 and unlimited ride days.

The Beautiful Baby Contest is September 29, at 6:30 p.m. with registration opening at 5:30 p.m.

All rides require more than 2 tickets.

– Hayley Markowitz

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Family Fun Guide

September 2015 Atlanta Parent 55

fallfestivals&fairs Roswell Arts Festival. Roswell Town Square. Live performances and arts and crafts for purchase. Children’s activities and food vendors. Sept. 19-20. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Downtown Roswell. 770-641-3705. Free.

Sandy Springs Festival. Heritage Green. Children’s park, live entertainment and more than 600 artists, crafters, vendors and entertainers.

Lightning 10K and 5K races and pet parade. Sept. 19-20. Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Cir., Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111.

Adults, $5; ages 6-17, $2; younger than 5, free.

Shakerag Arts and Crafts Festival.

Shakerag Knoll. More than 100 art vendors selling handmade jewelry, pottery, candles and more; children’s activities, live entertainment and food.

Sept. 19-20. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 191 McIntosh Tr., Peachtree City. 770-631-2542. Free.

Atlanta Greek Festival. Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Greek food, music, dancing, hands-on children’s activities and cultural exhibits and more. Sept.

24-27. Thurs., 5-10 p.m. Fri., 5-11 p.m.

Sat., 11 a.m.- 11p.m. Sun., 11 a.m.- 7 p.m. 2500 Clairmont Rd., NE Atlanta.

404-633-5870. Adults, $5; ages 12 and younger, free.

Suwanee Fest

Town Center Park Sept. 19-20. Sat., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m.

Celebrate the City of Suwanee with games, kid’s activities, inflatables, all-day onstage entertainment, a parade and more. 370 Buford Hwy., Suwanee. 770-945-8996. Free. suwaneefest.com

Fall Folklife Festival

Smith Family Farm at the Atlanta History Center Sept. 26. 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

A variety of farm demonstrations, music and kid-friendly activities represent traditions of the Southeast.

Enjoy African American chefs, home cooks and Southern food ways. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-814-4000.

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

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Family Fun Guide

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Duluth Fall Festival. Taylor Miller Park. Live entertainment, arts and crafts, parade, 5K road race and silent auction.

Sept. 26-27. Sat., 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. W. Lawrence St. and Main St., Duluth. 855-385-8841. Free.

Riverfest Arts and Crafts Festival. Boling Park. Arts and crafts, children’s area, antiques and live entertainment.

Sept. 26-27. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1200 Marietta Hwy., Canton. 770-704-5991. Adults, $5; ages 10 and younger, free.

Honeybee Festival. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Find out what is buzzing with bee games, crafts, honey samples, Bee costume contest and more. Sept.

27. 1-5 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500.

Admission, $8; ages 2 and younger, Free.

Beyond Atlanta Callaway’s Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival.

Callaway Gardens. Watch the skies light up with a balloon glow on Friday evening and stick around for balloon launches Sat. and Sun. in the mornings and evenings.

Between balloon launches, experience all the food, music, and entertainment Robin Lake has to offer on its last weekend of operation for the year. Sept.4-6. Visit callawaygardens.com for scheduled events and times. 17800 U.S. Hwy 27, Pine Mountain. 706-663-2281. Adults, $30; ages 6-12,$25; ages 5 and younger, free.

Railfest. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Enjoy a train excursion and a festival that offers tastes of railroad food, memorabilia, storytelling, dance, music, special excursions and entertainment. Sept. 5-7. Sat., 9 a.m-8 p.m., Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon., 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. 226 Everett St., Bryson City, NC. 800-872-4681. Festival is free; purchase tickets for train rides. Adults, $51-$94; ages 2-12, $29-$54; ages 23 months and younger, $10-20.

Apple Pickin’ Jubilee. Hillcrest Orchards. Apple picking, cow milking, mule-drawn wagon rides, pig racing, live entertainment and more. Sept. 12-Nov. 1. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 9696 Hwy. 52 E., Ellijay. 706-273-3838. $10, per person.

Mountain Music and Arts & Crafts Festival. Vogel State Park. Bluegrass and gospel music and arts and crafts booths. Sept. 12. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 7485 Vogel State Park Rd., Blairsville. 706-745-2628. $2-5 plus $5 parking.

Arts in the Heart of Augusta. Augusta Commons. Over 35 different cultures will be featured, international cuisine, live entertainment, and a children’s area. Sept. 18-20. Fri., 5 p.m.-9 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., noon-7 p.m. Historic Downtown Augusta. 706-826-4702. Adults, $10; ages 10 and younger, free.

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. Sept. 25-26.

7:30-11:30 p.m. U.S. Hwy. 321 between Boone and Blowing Rock, NC. 877-893-3874. $34; younger than 2, free. c

Callaway’s Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival

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Family Fun Guide

September 2015 Atlanta Parent 57

CORN MAZES Where Ahh-MAZE-ing autumn adventures grow!

Cagle’s Family Farm Corn Maze. Explore the 10-acre corn maze, enjoy tasty concessions and gather around the bonfire. Sept.

4-Nov. 15. 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; younger than 3, free; haunted barn, $12; farm tour, $7; hayride and bonfire, $7.

Buford Corn Maze. Corn maze, hayride, Haunted Forest, corn box, jumpy pillow and more. Opening Sept. 5. Fri., 6-10 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., noon-10 p.m. 4470 Bennett Rd., Buford. 678835-7198. Corn maze: $14; Haunted Forest: $14; combo corn maze/ Haunted Forest, $22.

Jaemor Farms. Experience 8 acres of corn; features a pumpkin train, hayrides, apple cannons, duck races, farm slide and more. Sept.

12-Nov. 8. Sept. hours, Sat: 10-10 p.m. Sun: 1-6 p.m. 5340 Cornelia Hwy., Alto. 770-869-3999. Corn maze, Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $9; ages 2 and younger, free with paying adult. “Value access pass” includes maze, hayride and all attractions, $14.

Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze. A 12-acre maze with Medusa design, pumpkin patch, hayride and bonfire. Sept. 12-Nov. 22. Fri., 4-10 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 4520 Highway 53 E, Dawsonville. 1-888-674-8257. Maze, $10; combo hayride/maze, $13.

4 and younger, free.

Buck’s Corn Maze

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Family Fun Guide

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FALL FAMILY FUN The Pumpkin Patch at Yule W E E K E ND S Forest ember - October Sep t M Farm

Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze

Buck’s Corn Maze. Explore this 12acre corn maze with a beautiful view of the Appalachian Mountains. Opening Sept. 19.

Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

1923 New Hope Rd., Dawsonville. 706-3448834. Adults, $8; ages 5-10, $7; 4 and younger, free with paid adult.

arket Open Dail y

Milk a Cow Playground Mini Golf Pig Races Petting Farm Apple Museum Wagon Rides Pony Rides

Uncle Bob’s Pumpkin Patch and Tricky Crop Maze. Redwine Farms.

V Sunflower Patch V Honey Bee House V Puppet show Hayrides V Petting zoo V New: Chicken Coop & Tiny Gardens V Fun zone and so much more!

Colonel Cob’s Corn Maze. Mitcham Farm. This year’s theme is Space Exploration and even enjoy a mini corn maze. Admission to corn maze includes attractions such as a petting zoo, giant mountain slide, inflatable cow jumper and pumpkin patch. Sept. 25-Nov. 8. Fri.-Sat., noon10 p.m.; Sun., 1-5 p.m. 797 Macedonia Church Rd., Oxford. 770-786-8805. Corn maze and hayride, $12; age 3 and younger, free.

V Pick pumpkins right of the vine

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See farm animals, try the crop maze, listen to storytelling, take a hayride, see puppet shows and choose a pumpkin. Sept. 25-Nov. 8. Fri. and Sun., 1-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 3781 E. Happy Valley Cir., Newnan. 770-253-8100. $16; 2 and younger, free.

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Washington Farms. 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. Sept. 26-Nov. 1. Fri., 4-11 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, $14 for farm fun and corn maze; ages 2-4, $10 for farm activities and corn maze; younger than 2, free.

North Georgia Zoo Petting Farm

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Fall Happenings Scarecrow Trail 9/26 – 10/31 Pumpkin Fest 10/3 – 10/31 Howl with the Wolves, Pony Rides, Animal Encounters and More!

Pumpkin Patch, wool jump and other fun fall activities.

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Night time animal shows and petting zoos!

myfavoritezoo.com • 706-348-7279 Jaemor Farms

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Family Fun Guide

September 2015 Atlanta Parent 59

Calendar

September S M T W TH F S

n

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

n

Events may be canceled or changed after our deadline.

n

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

n

Please call the event beforehand to confirm dates and times.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

DECATUR BOOK FESTIVAL

classes Little Acorns. Avalon’s Plaza. Every week offers new experiences including storytellers, magicians, face painters or arts and crafts.

Sept. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29. 10 a.m.- noon. 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. 770-765-2000. Free.

Tot Spot. Atlantic Station’s Central Park. A variety of activities are provided along with special experiences each month including storytellers, face painters or arts and crafts. Sept. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29. 10 a.m.-noon. 1380 Atlantic Drive, Atlanta. 404-733-1221. Free.

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

Different activities each week. Sept. 3, 10, 17 and 24. Thurs., 10 and 11:30 a.m. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-427-2117.

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

Toddler Thursdays. High Museum of Art. Create masterpieces to compliment the museum’s current exhibits. Ages 2-4. Sept. 3, 10, 17 and 24. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta.

404-733-4400. Free with admission. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free.

Mice Tours. Marietta Museum of History. Mascots Murray and Etta mouse introduce history through tours, story time and crafts geared towards ages 3-5. Sept. 9. 10:30 a.m. 1 Depot St., Marietta. 770-794-5710. Reservations required. $5.

Second Thursday Program. Southeastern Railway Museum. Parents and tots program includes circle time, an activity and craft. Ages 1-4. Sept. 10. 10:30 a.m.-noon. 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth. 770-495-0253. $7 per child, one adult free, additional adult, $8.

Turtle Tours. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum.

Museum mascots Sandy the chipmunk and Spring the turtle introduce history through stories, hands-on exhibits and crafts. Second Saturday of the month. Sept. 12. 11 a.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Cir., Sandy Springs. 404-8519111. Recommended for ages 2-5. Free.

Donations encouraged.

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

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

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

Drop-In and Draw. Gas-Art Gifts at North DeKalb Mall. Make a different project each week.

Anytime between noon-3p.m. Sat. and Sun. 2050 Lawrenceville Hwy., Decatur. 404-8014926. $5.

60 Atlanta Parent September 2015

Decatur Square SEPT. 4-6. FRI., 5-10 P.M.; SAT., 10 A.M.- 6:15 P.M. AND SUN., NOON- 5:45 P.M. Stories galore at this weekend festival. Children’s parades happen Saturday at 9:30 a.m. and Sunday at 11:30 a.m. Kids are invited to bring instruments and dress up as their favorite Wizard of Oz characters for the parade. Don’t miss kidnote speaker Judy Schachner as she presents her newest book, Dewey Bob at the Decatur High School Performing Arts Center on Sept. 4 at 5 p.m. Free tickets at local Decatur book stores. 404-471-5769. Free. decaturbookfestival.com

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

Sun., 1-5 p.m. 999 Chestnut St., Gainesville. 770-536-1900. Mon.-Sat., $8; Sun., $6.

Saturday Morning Art Classes. Vinings School of Art. Drawing, painting or pottery classes. Supplies included. Ages 2-13. Every Sat. 10 and 11 a.m. 1675 Cumberland Pkwy., Smyrna. 678-2134278. Pre-register. $15, siblings $12.

exhibits The Power of Children: Making a Difference. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Throughout this interactive, hands-on exhibit that shares the stories of Anne Frank, Ruby Bridges and Ryan White, three children whose lives teach us about overcoming obstacles to make a positive difference in the world. Recommended for ages 8 and older. Opening Sep. 7. Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.4 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford.

770-904-3500. Adults, $10.50; ages 3-12, $6.50; ages 2 and younger, free.

Family Fun Guide

Searching for the Queen of Sheba. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. This exhibit brings together ancient artifacts from Yemen, contemporary Ethiopian artwork, archaeological reconstructions and modern media to explore the mystery of this legendary queen. Opening Sept.

26. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. noon-5 p.m.

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

Bruce Munro. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Inspired

by Munro, an internationally acclaimed British artist known for his use of light. See installations created from hundreds of miles of fiber optics.

Through Oct. 3. Wed.-Sun., 6-11 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Fri.-Sat., Adults, $22.95; ages 3-12, $15.95; ages 2 and younger, free; Wed., Thurs., Sun., Adults, $19.95; ages 3-12, $13.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

Los Trompos. High Museum of Art. See the Spinning Tops, featuring more than 30 threedimensional, larger than life tops in all colors throughout the Sifly Piazza. Through Nov. 29.

Tues.-Thurs. and Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Fri. 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun. noon- 5 p.m. closed Mon. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4400. Free.

Resettling in America: Georgia’s Refugee Communities. David J. Sencer CDC Museum.

Explore the challenges of resettlement and the resiliency of refugees living in metropolitan Atlanta as they build new lives, identities, and a sense of community. Through Dec. 31. Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 1600 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-6390830. Free.

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Calendar

ATLANTA BELTLINE LANTERN PARADE

Toys: The Inside Story. Tellus Museum.

See and learn the simple mechanisms commonly found in toys and your own toy-like combinations of gears, pulleys, linkages, cams and circuits. Through Jan. 4, 2016. Mon.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

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

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

Eastside Trail SEPT. 12.

PARADE LINE UP, 7:30 P.M., AND STEP OFF, 8:30 P.M. Art on the Atlanta BeltLine kicks off with an evening Lantern Parade, a glowing procession of light and music that celebrates Atlanta’s biggest temporary art exhibition.

Families can light up the BeltLine and participate with a handmade lantern.

Line up at Irwin Street and Krog Street; the parade concludes at Piedmont Park’s Lawn. Parade watching and participation, free. art.beltline.org/ lantern-parade

Seriously Silly: the art & whimsy of Mo Willems. High Museum of Art. Explores the illustrations by the best-selling children’s book artist and author. Through Jan. 10, 2016. Tues.-Thurs. and Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Fri. 10 a.m.- 9 p.m., Sun. noon- 5 p.m. closed Mon. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta.

404-733-4400. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free.

Full Throttle: Evolution + Design of the Motorcycle. Tellus Museum. Learn all about vintage motorcycles, sidecars and mopeds from 1930s-1970s. Through March 2016. Mon.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

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

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

Aquanaut Adventure: A Discovery Zone.

Georgia Aquarium. Educational journey through the Aquarium’s upper levels while completing a series of entertaining challenges. Sun.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta.

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

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Family Fun Guide

September 2015 Atlanta Parent 61

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

ghost tours Decatur Ghost Tours. Decatur. Come meet some of Decatur’s ghosts on this historical, paranormal walking tour of downtown Decatur. Fridays and Saturdays, 8 p.m. 101 East Court Sq., Decatur.

404-296-7771. Reservations required. Adults, $15; ages 10 and younger, $12.

Ghost Tours. Lawrenceville. Listen to vivid stories of the strange and supernatural as guides lead groups on a 90-minute adventure. Every Fri. and Sat. through Sept., 8:30 p.m. 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. Adults $12; ages 16 and younger, $9.

Roswell Georgia Paranormal Investigations.

Roswell. Take a walking ghost tour led by paranormal investigators. Every Fri., Sat. and Sun. 8 p.m. 617 Atlanta St., Roswell. 770-6499922. Adults, $15; ages 12 and younger, $10.

Ghosts of Marietta. Marietta. A 90-minute lantern led walk through historic Marietta. Fri.-Sun. 8:30 p.m. 131 Church St., Marietta. 770-425-1006.

Adults, $17; ages 12 and younger, $12.

movies Secret Ocean. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Explore the ocean like never before with Jean-Michel Cousteau. Through Oct. 1.

See fernbankmuseum.org for show times.

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

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

EAST COBBER PARADE & FESTIVAL Parade begins at Fidelity Bank SEPT. 12. PARADE STARTS AT 10 A.M., FESTIVAL 11 A.M.-3 P.M. Join the parade and see more than 80 floats, marching bands, classic cars and more. Parade begins at 1223 Johnson Ferry Rd. and travels south toward festival.

Live entertainment, arts and crafts, carnival games and more at the festival.

Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, 955 Johnson Ferry Rd., Marietta.

770-640-7070. Free. eastcobber.com/parade Robots. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Robot “actor” RoboThespian will take you on an amazing tour of what’s going on in robotics labs around the world. Through Oct. 29. See fernbankmuseum.org for show times. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6400. IMAX tickets: Adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; ages 2 and younger, free.

music Wednesday WindDown. Centennial Olympic Park Amphitheater. Atlanta’s longest-running outdoor free concert series offers jazz and contemporary music performed by local and national touring acts. Bring blankets or chairs.

Sept. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30. 5:30 p.m. 265 Park Avenue West NW, Atlanta. 404-222-7275. $5.

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Family Fun Guide

Riverside Sounds. Riverside Park. Outdoor concerts feature a variety of musical styles; food trucks are on site. Bring blankets or chairs. Sept. 1. 7 p.m. 575 Riverside Rd., Roswell. 770-641-3705. Free.

Concerts by the Springs. Heritage Green.

Bring picnic baskets, coolers and blankets for an outdoor concert. Sept. 6. 7 p.m. 6110 Bluestone Rd., Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111.

Free.

Friday Night Music Remix. High Museum of Art. Live music every third Friday of the month. Extended hours and access to special exhibitions. Sept. 18. 6-10 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-5000. $10.

Glover Park Concert Series. Glover Park. Pack a picnic and blanket to hear Electric Avenue.

Sept. 25. 8 p.m. 50 Park Sq., Marietta. 770794-5601. Free.

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atlantaparent.com

Calendar Lawrenceville’s Summer Concerts.

Lawrenceville Lawn. Bring chairs or blankets, pack a picnic dinner and enjoy a concert.

Sept. 25. 7 p.m. 210 Luckie St., Lawrenceville.

678-226-2639. Free.

Music at Noon. Centennial Olympic Park. Enjoy lunch and live music performed by local artists – everything from pop and R&B to classic jazz.

Every Tues. and Thurs., through Oct. noon-1 p.m., 265 Park Avenue West, Atlanta. 404-2234412. Free.

Drum Circle. Chattahoochee Nature Center.

Chuck Cogliandro leads a drum circle open to drummers and spectators. Sept. 11. 8 p.m.

9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. $5 donation.

nature Toddler Trek Tuesdays. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Interactive outdoor program is designed to give toddlers an opportunity to spend some time enjoying and experiencing nature. Pre-registration recommended. Sept. 1, 15 and 29. 11 a.m.noon. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-9043500. $6.

Adventure Cubs. Zoo Atlanta. Learn about animal habitats. Sept. 2, 5 and 12. 10-11 a.m.

800 Cherokee Ave., Atlanta. 404-624-5822.

Recommended for ages 3-4. Reservations requested. $12 per person includes zoo admission.

Treasure Hunt. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Search for golden and sparkly treasures in the Children’s Garden. Meet in the Levy Parterre.

Sept. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30. 10:30 a.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Free with admission. Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

Stroller Cubs. Zoo Atlanta. Programs for babies to 2 years and parents/caregivers. Sept.

19, 23 and 26. 10-11 a.m. 800 Cherokee Ave., Atlanta. 404-624-9453. Reservations requested. $12 per person includes zoo admission.

Fun begins with Fencing REGISTER NOW! Calling all Beginners!

Let us introduce you to the coolest Olympic sport around!

FENCING IS FUN GROUP PROGRAM (ages 5-7; 8-10; 11-13) TRY IT CLASS (ages 5 + up) COMPETITIVE START PROGRAM (ages 5 + up) ADULT FENCING AND FITNESS Scholarships available for qualified youth.

Provided by: Please call for information (470) 218-0361

All programs under the direction of U.S. Olympic Coach, Maestro Arkady Burdan

1530 Carroll Dr. NW • Atlanta 30318 (404) 603-3600 www.nellyafencers.com

Visit our website for information on the above programs as well as our NAVC Sand Volleyball, Summer Camps, Club Season Information Meetings, and more!

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Family Fun Guide

September 2015 Atlanta Parent 63

20th Annual Cheer for Children Ball

Calendar

PIRATE AND PRINCESS DAY

Night Hike. McDaniel Farm. Discover how the plants and animals in the forest are adapting to prepare for the upcoming seasonal changes. Pre-registration required. Sept. 25.

8-9:30 p.m. 3251 McDaniel Rd., Duluth. 770904-3500. Adults, $8; ages 3-12, $6.

special events Fridays -N- Duluth. Duluth Town Green. Activities include movies, musicians and children’s activities each Friday night. Sept. 4, 11, 18 and 25. 6-9 p.m. Food for purchase or bring a picnic. 3167 Main St., Duluth. 770-476-3434.

Free.

Family Fun at the Woodruff Arts Center. As part of CREATE ATL, activities include art making, interactive musical story times, composers-intraining sessions, instrument making, drop-in acting classes and more. Every Sun., Sept. 6, 13, 20 and 27. noon-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4200. Free.

Family Day. High Museum of Art. Art-making workshops with fun hands-on projects that connect to works of art in the permanent collection and special exhibitions. Sept. 6, 13, 20 and 27. 1-4 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Included with general admission. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; ages 5 and younger, free.

Teen Arts Night. City Center. Teens can bring instruments, poetry, artwork and short stories to share. Includes a slice of pizza and a soda.

Sept. 4. 6-8 p.m. 8534 Main St., Woodstock.

678-494-4251. Ages 12-15, $5.

Sunday Funday. East Cobb Park. Enjoy live entertainment and family fun. Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic dinner. Sept. 6 and 20. 3-6 p.m. 3322 Roswell Rd. Marietta.

770-591-3160. Free.

What Do We Do?

Page Turners’ specializes in literacy activities for elementary-aged students. We effectively communicate the importance and pleasure of reading to even the most indifferent students through: 1.

After-school book clubs for students 2.

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

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

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

Implementing Innovative Learning www.pageturnersgreatlearners.org

64 Atlanta Parent September 2015

Grandparents Day. Zoo Atlanta. Enjoy free admission for up to two grandparents with purchase of any regularly-priced child’s or adult’s general admission ticket. Mention “Grandparents’ Day” at Admissions to redeem the discount. Sept. 13. 800 Cherokee Ave., Atlanta. 404-624-5822. Adults, $22.99; ages 3-11, $17.99; ages 2 and younger, free.

International Observe the Moon Night. Tellus Science Museum. A special night that encourages everyone all over the world to look up and notice of the moon. The Observatory will be open but the museum will be close. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. $5 per person.

Sesame Street Live. Fox Theatre. Enjoy the “Make a New Friend” Tour as Elmo and the Sesame Street gang welcome Grover’s friend from India. Together they explore the universal fun of friendship and celebrate cultural similarities. Sept. 19-20. Sat. 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.; Sun. 1 and 4:30 p.m.

660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 855-285-8499. $20-40.

Family Fun Guide

Georgia Aquarium SEPT. 13. 9 A.M.-6 P.M. Bring your prince, princess or pirate for a day of royal treatment and fun with special activities 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Free entry for ages 12 and younger dressed in costume with paying adult.

225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta. 404-5814000. Adults, $39.95; ages 3-12, $32.95; ages 2 and younger, free. georgiaaquarium.org Outdoor Skills Day. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Canoeing, camping, cooking, and learn more skills for the outdoors. Sept. 20. noon- 4 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free.

City of Kennesaw’s Worldwide Day of Play.

Swift-Cantrell Park. Celebrate all things active in this entire morning devoted to play.

Activities include obstacle course, playground games, relay challenges, inflatables, rock climbing wall and more. Refreshments provided. Sept. 26. 9 a.m.-noon. 3140 Old 41 Hwy., Kennesaw. 770-422-9714. Free.

storytelling Magical Garden Stories. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Storytelling about animals and nature with puppets and songs by different performers. Sept. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30. 10:30-11 a.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-8765859. Free with admission. Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

Storytime by the River. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Join the volunteer librarian as she uses books, puppets and songs to share stories about nature. Ages 3-5. Sept. 2. 10:30-11:30 a.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055.

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

Garden Stories. Smith Gilbert Gardens.

Young Sprouts ages 3-6 years old and their caregivers enjoy a story on a garden-related topic, crafts, dancing and playtime. Sept.

16. 10:30 a.m. 2382 Pine Mountain Rd., Kennesaw. 770-919-0248. Adults and ages 3-6, $7.

atlantaparent.com

Calendar

Classified Pages Marketplace BU SIN E SS O P P O R T U N I T Y

Tadpole Tales. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Preschoolers will enjoy a story with a Fernbank educator along with an activity or song. Sept. 19. 11:30 a.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Free with admission.

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

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Storytime at Little Shop. Little Shop of Stories.

Thurs. nights kids can come in pjs for milk and cookies. Tues. 11 a.m., Thurs. 7 p.m., and Sun. 3 p.m. 133 A East Court Sq., Decatur. 404-3736300. Free.

Children’s Storytime. FoxTale Book Shoppe.

Storytimes are followed by dance and songs.

Every Sat. 11 a.m. 105 E. Main St., Woodstock.

770-516-9989. Free.

CHI L D R E N ’ S SALO N

FALL & WINTER Clothes Arriving Every Day! 800 Miami Circle • Buckhead 404•261•7519

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

Ramblers host storytelling each Sat. 1 p.m.

1050 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd., Atlanta. 404753-7735. Adults, $8; ages 4-12, $5; ages 4 and younger, free. Price includes storytelling.

SE R V I C E S

theater The Tortoise, The Hare & Other Aesop’s Fables. Center for Puppetry Arts. Children will be bouncing, clapping and singing along when the carnival comes to town and presents five stories from Aesop’s timeless fables.

Through Sept. 20. Thurs.-Fri., 10 a.m. and 11:30 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. Sun. 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404873-3391. Ages 2 and older, $16.50.

Peter Pan. Center for Puppetry Arts. Take an adventure with Wendy Darling and her brothers and travel to Neverland with the one and only Peter and his fairy companion Tinkerbell. Sept. 24-Oct. 25. Wed.-Fri. 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.; Sat. noon and 2 p.m.; Sun. 1 and 3 p.m. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404-8733391. Ages 2 and older, $16.50.

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beyond atlanta First Friday Night Concert Series. Hancock Park, Dahlonega. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs and listen to entertaining bands.

Sept. 4. 6:30 p.m. North Park and Warwick Streets, Dahlonega. 706-482-2707. Free.

Cabbage Patch Kids Fall Fest. BabyLand General Hospital. Enjoy giveaways, a DJ and various activities with dressed up characters.

Sept. 12. 2-3 p.m. 300 N.O.K. Dr., Cleveland.

706-865-2171. $12.

Explore the Rails Exhibit. Creative Discovery Museum. Join Thomas & Friends and travel to the Island of Sodor for hands-on, STEM activities based on the adventures of the children’s TV and book series. Through Sept.

13. 321 Chestnut St., Chattanooga, Tenn. 423756-2738. $12.75; younger than 1, free.

“Each franchise is independently owned and operated.”

I just can’t figure out why you’re not advertising in Atlanta Parent?

It’s the best place to reach parents!

The Nancy Hanks Special. Macon Terminal Station. The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum Steam locomotive #4501 will carry passengers from Macon to Tennille for a 112 mile round trip. Commissary car and gift shop featured on board. Sept. 26-27.

Departure times at 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. 600 5th St. in Macon. Ages 3 and older, $50-$110. c

For information on how to advertise in Atlanta Parent,

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

Call 770-454-7599.

September 2015 Atlanta Parent 65

You know, all that really matters is that the people you love are happy and healthy.

Everything else is just

sprinkles on the sundae. l l l l l

Paul Walker 66 Atlanta Parent    September 2015

atlantaparent.com

GAC ACCREDITED ESTABLISHED 2002

G FR A P EE re K

• Year-round open enrollment Infants - 12 Years • M-F 6:30 AM - 6:30 PM • Certified and Experienced Montessori Teachers • Fully Equipped Montessori Classrooms • Full Service Childcare • Summer Camp, Field Trips, ASP • Ballet, Karate, Music, Piano, Spanish, Chinese • Full & Part Time, Mother’s Morning Out

Scholarships for 4/5 Years Old Available!

Call Us Today for Details!

Franchising Opportunity Available

www.CrescoMontessori.com

KIDS LOVE

WHERE BOYS WHO WANT TO CHANGE THE WORLD BECOME THE

MEN WHO DO. (PARENTS DO TOO)

Some distinguished alumni of this Grammy Award winning choir include: Pulitzer Prize Winner

Taylor Branch Invite Saber-Tooth Sam to your next party or event!

Broadway Tony Award Winner

Schuler Hensley American Idol Finalist

Justin Guarini

Producer of AMC’s “Mad Men”

Dwayne Shattuck Metropolitan Opera Star

Morris Robinson ATLANTA’S PREMIER EVENT COMPANY WITH 18 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

European Orchestra Conductor

Mark Stringer

Over 50 Inflatables • Quad Jump • 24ft Rock Wall • Trackless Train

FUN-FARE.COM CALL TODAY 770.425.3033

School Carnivals • Company Picnics • Church Festivals

The Atlanta Boy Choir

Under the direction of founder, Maestro Fletcher Wolfe

404.378.0064 | www.atlantaboychoir.org Providing a faith-based education that develops character, respect and critical thinking.