September 2016

Atlanta

PARENT September 2016 / atlantaparent.com

Extra!

Extra!

Tips for getting your child in the movies

Great places for kids’ haircuts

+

Party planning help is here

Like Us on FACEBOOK

Need an OB-GYN?

Mom-approved picks

5

$

ONLINE ONLY

Back for our 13th year, it’s Atlanta’s favorite family festival!

October 8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. / Mercer University Atlanta Campus

MORE THAN 50 FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES!

Chris Lawery Photography

Camel and Pony Rides • Toddler-Only Play Area • Storytelling • Animals • Interactive Games Live Entertainment • 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.

BENEFICIARY:

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

Sandy Springs / Lawrenceville-Suwanee

404-409-0827 Sandy Springs

678-985-8080 Lawrenceville-Suwanee

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A MERCER BEAR? Mercer Bears don’t just learn. They master.

They don’t just accomplish. They thrive.

They don’t just compete. They dominate.

Mercer Bears command respect and walk with confidence.

They are distinguished leaders. Movers and shakers.

Real-life difference makers.

To learn more, visit mercer.edu.

4 Atlanta Parent September 2016

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Inside 32 September

YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

Vol. 33 / Number 9

Features 12

Departments 8 Publisher’s Note 10 Good Stuff

Is Your Child Star-Struck?

Find out what it takes to be an extra right here in Atlanta.

Things we like

66 For the Fridge

Words of humor & wisdom

16

Cuttin’ Up at the Hair Salon

These kid-friendly salons turn a haircut into a fun experience with games, toys, dress-up boxes and more.

28

37

Get the Party Started

Turn an ordinary birthday celebration into an extraordinary one, with decorations, treats and party favors that wow. Plus, great ideas for parties away from home.

Family Fun Guide

49 Not-to-Miss Events 50 Dinosaurs are coming to town; Atlanta Parent’s Family Festival

51 Military Reenactments 52 Gatheround at the Atlanta History Center

53

Take a Field Trip!

Time to go to the Fair

54 Fall

Find a place to learn while having fun for your school, church or kids’ club.

Festivals

56 Corn

Mazes

18

57 Apple

Oh, Baby!

Picking

Choose a great OB-GYN from our list of Mom-Approved Doctors. Plus, some fun pregnancy facts to ponder as you await the big day, and gift ideas that go beyond the baby registry.

60

42 / Cover Kid Winners See Page 21

Magazine Association of the Southeast

2013 Award Winner atlantaparent.com

September Calendar

On the Cover: Melo Watson, 3, of Lithia Springs.

Photography by Images by N’Neka.

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

Does your child have ASTHMA? PUBLISHER Liz White

Take part in a Clinical Research Study!

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

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

BUSINESS Amy Smith DEVELOPMENT MGR asmith@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Carolyn Haushalter EXECUTIVE chaushalter@atlantaparent.com

To participate in this study, you must: Be 5-21 years old Have at least one grandparent of African descent Qualified participants will receive: Asthma medications Pulmonary evaluation Compensation for time and travel

ACCOUNT Libby Hammonds EXECUTIVE lhammonds@atlantaparent.com

Alice Bruce | 404-712-1773 alice.bruce@emory.edu Shanneka Douglas | 404-727-7687 sdougl5@emory.edu

SPECIAL EVENTS & Jordan Lisvosky

DIGITAL SALES jlisvosky@atlantaparent.com

CONTRIBUTING Amanda Miller Allen

EDITOR

STAFF Teresa Farkas WRITER tfarkas@atlantaparent.com

EDITORIAL Sheri Taylor-Emery

ART DIRECTOR creative@atlantaparent.com

PRODUCTION Robin Mintz

OPERATIONS Caroline Ward MANAGER cward@atlantaparent.com

MARKETING MOM Felicia Barman

SUMMER INTERNS Kennedy Ogelsby

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Atlanta Parent, Inc. 2016

6 Atlanta Parent September 2016

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ON THE

WEB

n BedtimeMath.com Bedtime reading improves vocabulary and comprehension, so why not bedtime math to sharpen numbers skills? This website offers fun math puzzles and games the whole family can play, from toddlers to teens. You’ll also find information on starting a free math club or downloading a free Bedtime Math app.

n Artkive App Every piece of your children’s earliest art is precious, but storing it all is a bit of a nightmare.

Artkive helps you organize art pieces by child and age and save them electronically; you can access them from your account or turn them into a hardcover book.

App for iOS or Android, $4.99. Readers who go to artkiveapp.com and email them by selecting “contact” under resources and put “Atlanta Parent” in the message will get a $10 credit in their accounts.

Specializing in the Detection and Treatment of Pediatric Digestive Disorders

Good GI Health Starts Here If GI issues interfere with your child’s school day, we can help.

From stomachaches to chronic conditions, our Board Certified pediatric gastroenterologists treat children of all ages. Plus, we offer nutrition counseling for kids with food sensitivities and allergies.

ALPHARETTA • DULUTH • SANDY SPRINGS n AtlantaParent.com Get connected with us on social media. Make sure you follow Atlanta Parent on Facebook and Twitter for the latest on family festivals and events, news and so much more.

atlantaparent.com

For appointments: 404.843.6320 www.AGApediatrics.com AGA is a participating provider for Medicare, Medicaid and most healthcare plans offered in Georgia.

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 7

Legal Staff School Engaging in our legal assistant Studies program we can equip you for the day-to-day operations of a typical law office. We prepare our students to analyze cases, prepare and draft legal documents, and understand the regulations and procedures governing research, document preparation, and conduct of litigation.

Graduates may obtain positions in corporations, banks, insurance companies, accounting firms, real estate development and more.

The Legal Staff School legal Studies program aims to provide students with the resources necessary to work in the exciting field of law. We are an approved training course through NALS and graduates are able to sit for the exam! Call today for more information!

www.legalstaffschool.com 3020 Roswell Rd., Suite 200 Marietta, GA 30062 (678) 819-3919

Publisher’s Note Bitten by the Acting Bug? What kid doesn’t want to be in movies or on TV? Many Atlanta families are lucky to be able to find out firsthand what goes into making a movie. Almost 250 movies were filmed in Georgia last year, and many of them were looking for kids for extras.

What does it take to be an extra? Find out in our article this month, Lights! Camera! Action! If Your Kid Wants to Be in Movies, Spend a Day as an Extra (Page 12).

Some families sign up for work as extras just because it’s a cool family experience. Others have a child who’s fascinated with acting or performing, and it’s a way to explore that interest.

Extras commit to a full day – as long as 10 hours – so be prepared to be patient. Casting directors tell us that kids who are good listeners, are outgoing, love to perform and have that patience are the ones most suited for extras work. The lucky kids get a few seconds of screen time and an average of $8 an hour for their time (and yours!), so don’t count on a big boost to their college fund account.

Still, what bragging rights! Atlanta Parent had a cameo in the movies – a couple of shots of our magazine rack when What to Expect When You’re Expecting filmed in Atlanta a few years ago.

None of us were on screen, but it was fun to see our magazine cover there. Your young actor or actress also would get a thrill.

If a full day commitment for filming is a bit much, take a tour. So many movies have been shot around Atlanta that it’s possible to take tours of movie sites, and see places where scenes from The Hunger Games movies or television’s Walking Dead were filmed. To find out more about the tours, visit atlantaparent.com/movietours.

Associate Publisher

How to Reach us: Telephone 770.454.7599

Email lwhite@atlantaparent.com

Fax 770.454.7699

Website www.atlantaparent.com

Snail Mail 2346 Perimeter Park Drive Atlanta, Georgia 30341

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

8 Atlanta Parent September 2016

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Program starts at age 7 or in the 1st grade atlantabsa.org/cubscouts | 770.989.8820

atlantaparent.com

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 9

by Teresa Farkas

Good StUff

THINGS WE LIKE

Draw-on placemat Just like drawing on kid’s menus at restaurants, Modern-Twist’s Mark-Mat silicone coloring placemats bring the fun into your home.

Available at modern-twist. com starting at $18. Markers sold separately for $7.

Thermometer patch The Fever Frida is a patch to put under your baby’s arm with a Bluetooth monitor to send their temperature to your smart phone. It also continuously stores data for pediatrician visits and medicine dose reminders.

Available at fridababy.com for $69.99.

Become an IronKid With childhood obesity at its peak, it’s never too early to start promoting physical activity and healthy living. The IronKids Triathlon is the country’s largest youth triathlon, and it will be in Alpharetta on Sept. 18. Wills Park Pool.

Ages 6-15. 7:15-11:45 a.m. 1815 Old Milton Pkwy., Alpharetta. 504-454-6561.

Free; $50 to compete.

Light-up wall plugs Do your kids get afraid in the dark? Replace your normal wall plug covers with the Snap Power guide light plugs that will guide their way to the bathroom in the middle of the night. Available at snappower.com starting at $15.

10 Atlanta Parent September 2016

Fruit-flavored face wipes Neat Cheeks Wipes come in yummy sweet and peach flavors so your kids won’t complain about bad tasting wipes when you wipe their face.

Available at neatcheeks.com, 2-packs for $9.98.

atlantaparent.com

Find a Bargain at Consignment Sales!

Some sales have restrictions, so call or check the website of the sale to make sure you know the rules. Have fun shopping and be sure to check atlantaparent.com for an updated sales list. n Tykes, Tots & Teens

n St. James UMC Children’s

Consignment Sale Sept. 10-17 GA International Horse Park 1996 Centennial Olympic Pkwy., Conyers tttsale.com

Consignment Sale Sept. 16-17 St. James UMC Activities Building 4400 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta stjamesatlanta.org

n Midway United

n Kids Closet at

Methodist Church Fall Consignment Sale Sept. 15-17 Midway United Methodist Church 5025 Atlanta Hwy., Alpharetta midwayumc.org

Winters Chapel Sept. 22-24 Winters Chapel United Methodist Church 5105 Winters Chapel Rd., Atlanta kidsclosetwinterschapel.org

n Kindermart

n Decatur Consignment Sale

n Five and Dime Kids

n The Glenn Sale

Sept. 16-17 Smyrna First United Methodist Church 1315 Concord Rd., Smyrna kindermartsale.com

Sept. 23-24 Decatur First United Methodist Church 300 E. Ponce de Leon Ave., Decatur decaturconsignment.com

Sept. 23-24 New Church United Methodist Church 1561 McLendon Ave. NE, Atlanta fiveanddimekids.com

Sept. 23-24 Glenn Memorial Youth and Activities Building 1669 N. Decatur Rd., NE, Atlanta glennsale.com

Five and Dime Kids

ADVERTISEMENT

atlantaparent.com

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 11

Lights! Camera!

If Your Kid Wants to be in Movies, Spend a Day as an

Extra

12 Atlanta Parent    September 2016

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Photo by Cris Loveless

Action!

by Helen Newling Lawson

Does your kid love to ham it up?

Georgia’s booming film industry might give them the chance to be in the spotlight – or at least in the background.

GENT INSUR

Photo by Cris Loveless

THE R EJEC TS

Answering the Casting Call If your child has the right blend of patience, personality, and passion, how do you find the opportunities? And do you need fancy head shots?

All Atlanta extra agencies use social media almost exclusively to list opportunities. Follow their Facebook pages for the most up-to-date info.

Extras need to fit a very specific set of requirements (usually physical attributes). If your child isn’t the requested gender, size or hair color, don’t bother submitting.

Cont’d on page 14

atlantaparent.com

THE THRESE STOOGE

Photo courtesy of Georgia Dept. of Economic Development

Last year, 248 projects filmed in Georgia, and many, including “Mother’s Day” and “Allegiant: Part 1” hired kids to work as extras (also known as background artists). Letting your kids get in on the action sounds pretty cool, and might even be the first step in an acting career. But is it right for them (or you)?

If you’ve ever wondered if your kid should be in movies, a day as an extra will make it clear. Cris Loveless, whose son, Luke, 10, started his acting career as an extra on “Mockingjay: Part 2,” says, “Being an extra is the epitome of what you do: It’s hurry up and wait.” Cris knew the movie business was a fit for Luke the day they spent 10 hours on set. They never got called, but he never got bored. He had a great time meeting people on set and winning the heart of his casting director.

Ann Wittenberg of New Life Casting says it’s these kids who are best suited for acting. As she describes it, “In school, they are the ones who are just a little bit of trouble – but they’re the ones the teachers remember.” She’s also seen shy children blossom, so it might be worth seeing how your child responds to a new experience.

What isn’t a good indicator? According to Brian Beegle, casting director with Annette Stilwell Casting, “the common misconception is ‘My kid is cute and should be an actor.’”

Instead, he says, “the best child actors are great listeners and love to perform. Cuteness can’t hurt, but an outgoing and directable child makes the best actor.”

Everyone from parents to talent agents to casting agents agrees: You should only pursue films if your child is truly interested and has fun doing it. Wittenberg believes pushing kids to do it, “will only make everyone miserable.” But what your child enjoys might not be what you’d expect. Christine Taylor’s son, Nick, 12, decided his favorite part was the snack table!

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 13

Lights! Camera! Action!

Be sure to look at the days you’d be needed, too. If you aren’t available for all possible dates, don’t submit. As a parent, Taylor says being flexible with her schedule is the most difficult part. She has gotten calls at 11 p.m. for a 6 a.m. casting call the next morning. She warns that “you have to be ready to say yes if you want to get called back.”

If the project seems like a fit, follow the submission requirements to the letter.

Provide all the information requested in the order it is asked for (someone on the other end has to enter it into a database, and they’ll pass over anyone who makes them work harder).

Most importantly, send clear, up-to-date photos in the requested poses. Wittenberg doesn’t want to see professional headshots – she wants to see your kids the way they look on a normal day. And that means absolutely no make-up (unless it’s specifically requested). Natural, unretouched photos against a neutral background are best.

can work. However, they still might spend up to 10 hours on set, usually sitting quietly in a room so they don’t disrupt filming.

To make the day easier, pack extra food and something to entertain your child.

Loveless brought card games so Luke could make friends with the other kids, turning the waiting time into one of his favorite parts of the experience.

Wittenberg says that pros can “spot a stage mom a mile away.” She warns that the quickest way to turn off a director is to ask that your child get more time in front of the camera. Instead, come ready to listen, cooperate and be patient.

Be prepared with all the paperwork your child will need, including a passport or other forms of ID, such as school records and a copy of their birth certificate. Find out if they will need medical records or what they should wear to fit the part.

the production company must provide a tutor.

The company will need you to sign off on an application from the Georgia Department of Labor so kids can work legally. Look for a Child Labor Coordinator on site when filming begins.

And both parents and pros agree you should insist on your right to keep your child in eyesight at all times, including when they are in wardrobe.

Loveless sees these guidelines as a starting point, but will also (respectfully) speak up on Luke’s behalf. She remembers a week-long outdoor shoot in the dead of summer. Knowing how hot it can get in Georgia, but also knowing wardrobe can’t be changed once filming starts, she spoke up in time to ask an accommodating wardrobe crew to try a short sleeve top instead of a long-sleeved thermal shirt. She says, “You want to be your child’s advocate – without costing them their next job.”

What to Expect

Safeguards for Kids

Be Alert to Scams

Once you’ve agreed to a project, be prepared to devote your day to it. There are age-based time limits for how long a child

Besides time limits, other regulations protect kids’ interests. If your child will be on set more than two consecutive school days,

Unfortunately, you’ll need to watch out for scams. The most common of these is charging for professional photos to be

14 Atlanta Parent September 2016

On-Set Etiquette

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submitted for extra work (although you will need headshots if you get serious enough to look for an agent or speaking roles).

Wittenberg also says you should “never, ever” pay to be listed in a database, for “parent education meetings,” or for representation before an agent lands you a role.

The Payoff Acting is indeed work, so what can your child expect to earn? It can vary, starting at minimum.

Listings will show what your child will be paid for the number of hours you’re required on set, so “$64/8,” means $8 per hour for an 8 hour day.

Georgia does not require “Coogan accounts,” trust funds required in some states to hold child actors’ earnings. Think about how you can be a good steward of your kids’ money and teach some lessons about saving for the future.

The Next Act Being an extra is “good set experience to get started in the business,” according to Jayme Pervis of J Pervis Talent Agency. If your child had fun, you might want to let him take the next step. Most commonly, this is an acting class, although Pervis generally doesn’t recommend classes for kids younger than 7.

Besides teaching kids everything from dramatic techniques to the specific skills they need to find work, these classes can be another way to gauge if your kid has natural talent for and interest in acting. Even if your child isn’t planning an acting career, Wittenberg recommends them for building confidence and speaking skills.

Some schools will also help your kids prep for auditions. Ones that host showcases can help get you in front of talent agents, the next important step.

These classes will require a fee, of course, so evaluate them carefully and ask around for recommendations. c

Resources n Georgia Department of Labor, Child Labor Entertainment Employment: Read about rules for children in the entertainment industry at dol.georgia.gov/child-labor-entertainmentemployment n Georgia Film and Music: For information on how to become an extra and a list of casting companies visit tourgeorgiafilm. com/article/how-to-become-an-extra

atlantaparent.com

WHERE BOYS

WHO WANT TO CHANGE THE WORLD BECOME THE MEN WHO DO.

Providing a faith-based education that develops character, respect and critical thinking.

Now scheduling auditions for Fall 2016 for boys ages 6 through 13.

Interested parents call today • 404.378.0064 or info@atlantaboychoir.org

“They Sing and ... the Wold Listens”

The Atlanta Boy Choir Under the direction of founder, Maestro Fletcher Wolfe 404.378.0064 | www.atlantaboychoir.org

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 15

Fun Places for Kids’

Haircuts Hop into a plane, truck or taxi cab and let these stylists work their magic with diversions such as bubbles, treats and toys for an exciting salon experience. Each waiting room is also stocked full of games, play tables and dressup boxes to keep kids occupied until they feel comfortable to climb into the chair.

Most of these kid-friendly salons also use rewards, tricks and a lot of patience to make a trip to the salon a special adventure. Here are Atlanta Parent’s picks for hair cutteries that up “the fun factor” while getting a haircut. Many salons also offer highlights, extensions, braid and hair coloring among other treatments for when your children get older. – Teresa Farkas

Circus Cuts l Good to Know: PlayStations and movies are available for entertainment. They are a Locks for Love Salon, and the haircut is free to anyone making a hair donation of 10 inches or more.

Appointments are necessary. l Price: Haircut, $15.95.

3514 Old Milton Pkwy., Alpharetta. 678-417-9707. circuscuts.com

Curls to Cuts l Good to Know: Video games in the game room area and DVDs to watch during the appointment. They specialize in braids, twists and first-time relaxer treatment. l Price: Girl’s haircut, $15; Boy’s haircut ages 1-4, $10; ages 5 and older, $15.

3910 Cascade Rd., Atlanta. 404-699-7588. curlstocuts.com

The Kids Salon l Good to Know: iPads are placed at each car for children to play games and watch shows during the haircut. Each child gets a surprise from the treasure chest at the end. l Price: Haircut, $20.

1544 Piedmont Ave. NE, Suite 117. 404-426-3077. thekidssalon.com

Ms. Lisa’s Cuts for Kids l Good to Know: A train table in the waiting area keeps children occupied and distracted before the appointment. l Price: Haircut starting at $20.

125 Clairemont Ave. Ste 155, Decatur; 404-918-7982. mslisacutsforkids.com

Pigtails and Crewcuts l Good to Know: There are TVs throughout with cartoons playing.

The staff offers cookies and other treats during the haircut to keep your child happy. l Price: Haircut, $19.95.

Five locations: 3802 Roswell Rd., Atlanta; 404-963-5612.

4724 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta; 770-565- 8765. 3718 Dallas Hwy., Suite 9, Marietta; 770-795-9450. 1155 Woodstock Rd., Suite 710, Roswell; 770-993-3303. 881 Ridgewalk Pkwy., Suite 104, Woodstock; 679-842-8299. pigtailsandcrewcuts.com

Relish Kids Junior

Salon Red Kids

16 Atlanta Parent September 2016

l Good to Know: Magic tricks with water bottles are performed to keep kids excited. A tent and a paint table are set up in the waiting area. Sensory friendly and a Wigs for Kids Ambassador Salon. l Price: Haircut starting at $20.

924 Garrett St., Suite E, Atlanta. 404-748-1906. relishsalon.net/junior

atlantaparent.com

Salon Red Kids l Good to Know: This salon has a toy store inside that not only keeps kids entertained, but gives mom time to get some shopping done. They also use bubbles to distract wary customers. l Price: Haircut, 0-6 yrs., $20-23; 7-12, $25-28; 13 and older, $35-38.

123 East Ponce de Leon Ave., Decatur. 404-377-6230.

804 Town Blvd., Suite 1055, Brookhaven.

404-228-7887. salonred.com

Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids l Good to Know: Satellite TV playing concerts and sporting events, as well as Netflix. They also have a new tween girl lounge specialized for pampering. l Price: Ages 4 and younger, $18.95; boys 5 and older, $19.95; girls 5 and older, $20.95. Girl’s haircut includes nails painted and braid.

11720 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek.

770-623-2887. sharkeyscutsforkids.com

Zany Cuts for Kids and Tweens l Good to Know: Colorful, giant hand chairs for the older kids to sit in and a Nintendo Wii to play games. l Price: Haircut, $18.

Ashley Park, 318-B Newnan Crossing Bypass, Newnan. 770-683-7311. zanycuts.com c

atlantaparent.com

“

Pigtails and Crewcuts

”

Children enjoy coming to the salon because of the fun environment, and often come before their appointment just to play in the waiting area.

Theresa Underwood from Pigtails and Crewcuts

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 17

Coolest Products

Feeding time l Kleynimals flatware. This non-toxic, food grade stainless steel silverware is safe for baby. The three-piece set comes in arctic or safari friends designs, and is made in the USA. Available at kleynimals.com. $35.95

for Baby

by Teresa Farkas

With a baby comes routine tasks – feeding time, bath time, play time and bed time. Atlanta Parent picked our favorite baby products for each time of the day. l EZPZ ‘Happy Mat’ Silicone Feeding Mat. These mats will make meal time fun, and will suction to the table for fewer spills.

Foods can be separated, and they are dishwasher safe for easy clean up.

They come in mini-mats and bowls as well for every type of meal. Available at ezpzfun.com. $24.99

l Boon Snug universal sippy cup lids. Put this stretchable lid on most any cup you have at home, and turn it into a sippy cup. These are great for restaurants as well, when you forget to bring your child’s sippy cup. Available at booninc.com. $9.99 for a pack of three.

Play time l Boppy Musical Wind-Up Plush Bear. This soft plush bear plays a calming lullaby melody to put baby to sleep. It has crinkle elements for added interest and prints for visual stimulation Available at boppy.com for $14

l O Ball Rollie Rattles Toy. O Balls are perfect for baby to learn motor skills, and the holes make it easy for little hands to grasp. This ball rolls and rattles when baby pushes it across the floor, adding sounds and visual elements to playtime.

Available at walmart.com. $14.05

18 Atlanta Parent September 2016

l Lamaze Mix and Match Caterpillar. Smooth and crinkly textures to encourage touching, and cause and effect play. The Velcro pieces come apart for color matching, and it has chimes and rattles inside for sound.

Available at diapers.com for $20.99

l 3-in-1 Sit, Stride & Ride Lion. This toy grows with your baby as he moves from riding to walking. It has lights, music and fun sounds as well as three ways to get baby moving. Available at fisher-price.com. $45

atlanta baby

atlantaparent.com

Bath time l Prince Lionheart BathMat. You can stick this this puzzle-like bath mat in the bottom of the tub, and it will help prevent slips and falls during bath time. It is also antimicrobial and easy to clean. Available at princelionheart.com. $15

l Boon Star. This drain cover will keep all of the water in during bath time, but also cover the hard drain when baby is sitting. Available at booninc.com for $8.99.

Bedtime l Cloud B Peaceful Panda sleeping aid. This cuddly nighttime companion has a hidden sound machine that plays eight soothing sounds and melodies to lull your child into a restful sleep. Cloud B also has a wide range of other sensory products to soothe your child to sleep. Available at cloudb.com. $32.95

l WubbaNub Pacifier.

These pacifiers come with a stuffed animal attached to the suction tip, making it easy to find in the middle of the night if it falls out. Available at wubbanub.com. $14.99

l Solly Swaddle Set. This extra soft swaddle set is from the same makers as the Solly Baby Wrap, and sustainably made from the pulp of beechwood trees. You can also toss it over a stroller as a sunshield, and give baby an extra snuggle as a security blanket at bed time. Available at sollybaby.com. $45 c

l Babble Band Wearable Audio Monitor.

Wear this band like a watch or fitness tracker, and monitor baby’s sleep.

Complete with audio mode to hear baby, vibration mode to feel when there is movement and light mode to provide a visual cue.

Available at summerinfant. com for $59.99.

atlantaparent.com

atlanta baby

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 19

Taghechian, Elizabeth MD Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates, Marietta Tate, Joseph MD Dekalb-Gwinnett OB/GYN, Norcross Trench-Simmons, Charis MD Prestige Healthcare Atlanta, LLC, Atlanta Verleger, Susan MD Nile Women’s Healthcare, Johns Creek & Roswell

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

OB/GYNS Anderson, Samantha MD Arbor Obstetrics & Gynecology, Atlanta Aspuru, E.J. MD Northside/Northpoint OB-GYN, Alpharetta & Atlanta Barrett, Robert MD North Pointe OB/GYN, Cumming Barrett, Kimberly DO Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Heritage OB/ GYN, Braselton Bassil, Christopher MD OBGYN of Atlanta, Atlanta & Johns Creek Biggs, Vanessa MD Atlanta Women’s Obstetrics & Gynecology, Atlanta Bootstaylor, Brad MD SeeBaby, Atlanta Braswell, Precious MD Precious L. Braswell, MD/OB-GYN, East Point Burt, Rachel WHNP/ MSN Roswell OB/GYN, Atlanta Chapman, Thaddeus MD Promise Land Women’s Center, Atlanta Combs, Julia MD Piedmont OB-GYN, Atlanta Cox, Clayton MD Northeast Georgia Physicians Group OB/GYN, Braselton

Haugabrook, Clarisa MD Eagles Landing OB/GYN, Stockbridge Honoré, Marin MD Women’s Health Associates Atlanta, Atlanta Hood, S. Alice MD Atlanta Women’s Obstetrics & Gynecology, Atlanta Jewell, Bryan MD Haven OB/GYN, Atlanta Johnson, V. Leah MD Atlanta Women’s Specialists, Atlanta Johnson, Traci MD Gwinnett OB-GYN Associates, Snellville Kasparek, Dori MD Complete Women’s Healthcare, Alpharetta, Johns Creek & Suwanee Knoer, James MD Peachtree Women’s Specialists, Atlanta Lachiewicz, Mark MD Emory Women’s Center at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Atlanta Lake, Jr. Francis MD Northeast Georgia Physicians Group OB/GYN, Braselton Lambert, Sean MD North Pointe OB/GYN, Cumming Levitt, Brian MD Brian A. Levitt, MD, Decatur, Johns Creek & Snellville

Daus, Kevin MD Premier Women’s Specialists, Decatur

Martinuzzi, Kurt MD Emory Gynecology & Obstetrics, Atlanta

Davis-Williams, Camille MD Greater Atlanta Women’s Healthcare, Atlanta

McSwain, Helen MD Peachtree Women’s Specialists, Atlanta

Dawson, Michael MD Atlanta Women’s Specialists, Atlanta & Alpharetta

Moore, Brad MD Haven OB/GYN, Atlanta

Dodson, Amy DO West Georgia Healthcare for Women, Carrollton

Paul, Dara MD Atlanta Women’s Medical Center, Atlanta

Dott, Andrew MD Riverbend OB-GYN, Atlanta

Purdie, Jill MD Northside Women’s Specialists, Atlanta

Duhart, Benetta MD Greystone OB/GYN, Conyers

Rosenberg, Stephen MD North Atlanta Obstetrics & Gynecology, Atlanta

Eaton, Lakisha MD Greater Atlanta Women’s Healthcare, Atlanta

Scott, Michael MD Peachtree Women’s Clinic, Alpharetta, Atlanta & Cumming

Fisch, Jacqui MD Atlanta Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates, Atlanta Francis, Milele MD South Cobb OB/GYN, Austell Frederick, Hughan MD Nile Women’s Healthcare, Johns Creek & Roswell Garcia, Meera MD North Atlanta Obstetrics & Gynecology, Atlanta Harrison, Sabrina MD Sovereign Women’s Healthcare, Roswell Harrison, Holt MD Northeast Georgia Physicians Group OB/GYN, Braselton

atlantaparent.com

Siegel, Gabriela MD Atlanta Women’s Obstetrics & Gynecology, Atlanta Simmons, Lorenza MD Prestige Healthcare Atlanta, LLC, Atlanta Steele, Algernon MD Kaiser Permanente Cascade Medical Center, Atlanta Sternberg, Holly MD Atlanta Women’s Obstetrics & Gynecology, Atlanta Street, Elizabeth MD Unified Premier Women’s Care, LLC, Marietta Sun, Phoebe MD Women’s Health Associates Atlanta, Atlanta

atlanta baby

Walsh, Nancy MD North Pointe OB/GYN, Cumming Walters, Jacqueline MD Comprehensive Women’s OB/GYN, Duluth & Dunwoody Ward, Allison MD Piedmont Physicians Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jasper Ward, Jeffrey MD Northeast Georgia Physicians Group OB/GYN, Braselton Watkins, Melanie MD Maternal Gynerations, Dacula & Lawrenceville Williams, Rebecca MD Maternal Gynerations, Dacula & Lawrenceville Wootten, Charles MD Obstetrics & Gynecology of Atlanta, Atlanta

MIDWIVES Ali, Ameena PhD A Mother’s Peace, Atlanta Levy, Debbie CNM, MS, RN Abundant Life Healthcare, Duluth Parrish, Brenda CPM Traditional Birth Services, Atlanta & Marietta Murner, Dani CNM OB-GYN Associates of Marietta, Marietta Pulley, Debbie CPM Atlanta Birth Care, Lilburn Ruffin, Angelina CNM Touch of Osun, Atlanta Strickhouser, Margaret CNM Intown Midwifery, Atlanta Tandy, Diane CNM Lanier Obstetrics & Gynecology, Gainesville Tanner, Beverly CNM Nile Women’s Healthcare, Johns Creek & Roswell

FERTILITY SPECIALISTS Best, Monica MD Reproductive Biology Associates, Atlanta Bowling, Meaghan MD Emory Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Atlanta McCarthy-Keith, Desireé MD, MPH Georgia Reproductive Specialists, Atlanta Namnoum, Anne MD Georgia Reproductive Specialists, Atlanta Perloe, Mark MD Georgia Reproductive Specialists, Atlanta Shapiro, Daniel MD Reproductive Biology Associates, Atlanta Slayden, Scott MD Reproductive Biology Associates, Atlanta Straub, Robert MD Reproductive Biology Associates, Atlanta Toner, Jim MD, PhD Atlanta Center for Reproductive Medicine, Atlanta

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 21

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Vanessa Biggs, M.D.; Alice Hood, M.D. Gabriela Siegel, M.D.; Holly Sternberg, M.D.

At Atlanta Women’s Obstetrics & Gynecology, the physicians and staff are COMMITTED TO CARING! Dr. Vanessa Biggs, Dr. Alice Hood, Dr. Gabriela Siegel and Dr. Holly Sternberg are part of an all-female OB/GYN practice that was founded over 35 years ago. Since 1980, the practice has been committed to providing complete care to women in every stage of their lives. Today, the practice is proudly continuing its service to the community and is honored to have four of its physicians nominated for Atlanta Parent magazine’s 2016 Mom-Approved Doctors list.

In addition to focusing on healthy pregnancy care, other areas of their expertise include minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, family planning, and management of both normal and abnormal gynecologic concerns.

Whether you are expecting a baby or just looking for a great gynecologist, Atlanta Women’s Obstetrics & Gynecology, PC would love to have you!

The office is located in the North Atlanta community of Buckhead/Midtown in Piedmont Hospital’s Physician’s Plaza. Its proximity to Peachtree Road and all of the major highways make it easily accessible to patients who may live outside of the Buckhead/Midtown area.

Atlanta Women’s Obstetrics & Gynecology, PC 275 Collier Road NW, Suite 230 Atlanta, GA 30309 p: 404-352-3616 | f: 404-352-2028 www.awog.org

Michael Dawson, M.D.; V. Leah Johnson, M.D.

Dr. Michael Dawson is a Partner Physician at AWS. He was drawn to medicine and the opportunity to help others when he worked in an emergency room during college. His true calling became apparent during his medical training after he got to deliver a baby on his first day of rotation in obstetrics.

He also finds great satisfaction in knowing his interaction with a patient has made a difference, either by helping her feel physically better or by assuring her that her concerns have been heard. Dr. Dawson values the relationships that he has built with his patients over the years and believes that an informed patient who trusts her doctor is a patient who becomes instrumental in solving health problems. Dr. Dawson enjoys practicing at AWS because the staff is a highly skilled, diverse and open-minded group.

Dr. V. Leah Johnson is a Partner Physician at AWS. Dr. Leah Johnson believes she has the best job because it's never the same day twice. A diverse group of patients with a wide array of healthcare needs keeps her work interesting. Dr. Johnson may perform surgery, deliver a baby and advise a patient entering menopause...all in the same day.

Dr. Johnson says her patients appreciate her surgical skills and bedside manner. Dr. Johnson says the use of technology to give patients electronic access to their doctors, nurses and records sets AWS apart from other practices.

Our Ob/Gyn Physicians: Yvette M. Smith, MD, Juanita Wyatt-Hathaway, MD, V. Leah Johnson, MD, Michael Dawson, MD, Stanley Angus, MD, Sarah Jeffers, MD, Tressa Levenson, MD. Meridian Mark Office Alpharetta Office 5445 Meridian Mark Road NE, Suite 430 3400 Old Milton Parkway, Bldg C, Suite 200 Atlanta, GA 30342 Alpharetta, GA 30005 Phone (404) 252-5196 Phone (770) 667-7440 www.awsphysicians.com

22 Atlanta Parent September 2016

MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS

atlantaparent.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Dori Kasparek, M.D., FACOG, OBGYN Complete Women’s Healthcare was opened in 2007 by Dr. Dori Kasparek, and strives to provide comprehensive and empathic care for women of all ages. We provide our patients with a wide range of Women’s Healthcare services, including high-risk obstetrics, 3D/4D ultrasound, gynecological surgeries, robotic surgery, menopausal management, incontinence issues, pelvic floor therapy, contraceptive choices, menstrual problems, and fertility evaluation and infertility treatment.

Dr. Kasparek attended the Medical University of South Carolina, graduating with a Doctorate in Medicine in 1997. She performed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at New Hanover Regional Medical Center, an affiliate of the University of North Carolina, in Wilmington, North Carolina. Board certified she is a Fellow with the American College of Ob/Gyn. Voted Best of Duluth 2015 OB/Gyn, the office is conveniently located in Johns Creek and doctors serve both Emory Johns Creek and Northside Forsyth Hospital.

New second office location in Cumming opening soon!

Understanding and compassion, matched with highly developed skills and knowledge, make Complete Women’s Healthcare a truly distinguished practice.

Complete Women’s Healthcare 10710 Medlock Bridge Rd. Ste 200 Johns Creek, GA 30097 www.womenscareonline.com

Mark Lachiewicz, M.D.; Kurt Martinuzzi, M.D.

Emory Clinic’s Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics congratulates Dr. Mark Lachiewicz and Dr. Kurt Martinuzzi 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. Lachiewicz, who sees patients at the Emory Women’s Center on the Emory St. Joseph’s Hospital campus, attended medical school at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He completed the residency program in obstetrics and gynecology at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation/MetroHealth/Case Western University. Dr. Lachiewicz then completed a fellowship in Advanced Pelvic Surgery with our department before joining our faculty in 2015.

Dr. Martinuzzi, who sees patients at the Emory Women’s Center located on the Emory University campus, attended medical school at Wayne State University. He completed his residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Oklahoma. Dr. Martinuzzi has more than two decades of experience in academic medicine and has received numerous awards for his teaching of obstetrics.

Dr. Lachiewicz and Dr. Martinuzzi are part of a team of more than 40 providers who are committed to providing women with the highest quality of 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 Clinic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics Emory Women’s Center Emory University Campus Building A, 4th Floor 1365 Clifton Rd. NE Atlanta, GA 30322

Emory Women’s Center Emory Women’s Center Emory University Hospital Midtown Emory Saint Joseph’s Hospital Medical Office Tower, 8th Floor 5673 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd. NE 550 Peachtree St. NE Suite 700 Atlanta, GA 30308 Atlanta, GA 30342

emoryhealthcare.org/gyn 404-778-3401

atlantaparent.com

MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 23

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Hughan R.H. Frederick, M.D., FACOG; Susan Verleger, M.D. and Beverly Tanner, CNM

Established in 2006, Nile 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.

Nile 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: Hughan R.H. Frederick, MD, FACOG, Susan Verleger, MD, Beverly Tanner, CNM, Charmaine Pierce, CNM and Jessi White, WHNP.

NILE WOMEN’S HEALTH CARE 770.521.2229 nilewhc.com Alpharetta/Rowell: 1015 Mansell Rd. Roswell, GA 30076

Johns Creek: 3925 Johns Creek Court, Ste. D Suwanee, GA 30025

Elizabeth R. Taghechian, M.D.

Dr. Taghechian fell in love with the obstetrical part of women’s care because of the involvement in the miracle of birth. In her opinion, there is no happier part of medicine. She earned a B.S. in Biology from Oglethorpe University and obtained her medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia. She completed her residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Greenville Memorial Hospital.

Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates, P.A. consists of six experienced physicians and a dedicated team of nurses, medical assistants and administrative personnel. We offer complete obstetrical care to support expecting mothers from pre-pregnancy to pregnancy, delivery, post-partum and beyond. Our entire team is committed to the health and well-being of each and every one of our patients.

Church Street Office Kennestone Outpatient Pavilion 699 Church Street, Suite 220 Marietta, GA 30060 770-422-8505 |

West Cobb Office Across from the Bank of America 3475 Dallas Hwy, Bldg. 400, Ste. 410 Marietta, GA 30064 www.mariettaobgyn.com

atlanta BABY Coming in September The go-to guide for new and expectant parents.

To advertise, call 770-454-7599 24 Atlanta Parent September 2016

MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS

atlantaparent.com

25.2

Fun facts to ponder while you await the big day.

6-12

The average age of first-time moms in the U.S.

The number of hours an average first-time mom spends in labor.

one

For every 2,000 births, the number of babies born with a tooth.

The number of at-home births every year in the U.S.

40,000

49

PERCENTAGE OF NEW MOMS IN THE U.S. WHO ARE STILL BREAST FEEDING AFTER SIX MONTHS.

4.3

}

The number of babies born annually in Georgia

Number of births per second around the world.

130,946 The percentage of women in the U.S. who have Caesarean births.

300

The number of extra calories an average woman needs per day during pregnancy.

$245,340

COST OF RAISING A CHILD TO AGE 18 IN THE U.S.

Sources: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. Department of Agriculture, UNICEF.

atlantaparent.com

atlanta baby

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 25

The Premier Newborn Night Nursing Provider Nurse & Nurture provides private, in-home care for newborn babies throughout the night. All of our Registered Nurses are college educated, have at least two years of related clinical experience and are Infant CPR Certified. All of our nurses have successfully passed a criminal background check, wear company issued uniforms and are licensed and insured.

My role is to educate expectant parents and to assist them in their goal of a safe natural homebirth and a successful breastfeeding experience.

•Personalized midwifery care •Birth at home •Lactation counseling •Postpartum follow-up care

Nurse & Nurture is committed to providing the best possible care for your baby so you can rest peacefully and enjoy a good night’s sleep.

404.835.7580 | www.nurseandnurture.com

404-416-8445 Traditionalbirthservices.com

TWO Locations….Double the Relaxation!

Roswell 500 Sun Valley Dr., Suite D2 • Roswell 30076 Atlanta 1164 N. Highland Ave., NE • Atlanta 30306 Our Massage Specialties: • Pregnancy • Postpartum • Fertility • Neuromuscular

678-462-2173

www.pregnancymassage.com Pregnancy Massage Center

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

Gift Certificates Available

26 Atlanta Parent September 2016

atlanta baby

atlantaparent.com

Best Apps

for New Parents

n Milk Maid

n MagicSleep

This app helps you keep track of feeding times and how much your baby is nursing, as well as how much you have left in bottles.

Available in the iTunes store, $3.99.

Need some white noise to help baby fall asleep? This app recreates sounds heard inside the womb, used to relax and calm the listener.

Available in the iTunes store, $4.99.

Android store, $2.99.

n Cloud Baby Monitor

n Baby MedBasics

Clueless on what to do when your baby has a medical emergency?

Look to this app for advice on burns, CPR, choking and bleeding. It provides lifesaving tips and step-bystep instructions for scary scenarios.

Available in the iTunes store, $2.99.

atlantaparent.com

This monitor is genius for new parents that need to leave the room or leave the baby with a babysitter.

You can turn any Apple device into a baby monitor with live sound, video footage, and noise/motion alerts. You need to leave one device in your baby’s room, and keep one with you for an instant baby monitor. Available in the iTunes store, $3.99.

atlanta baby

n Baby Bundle

Parents, nannies and caregivers can record and edit a baby’s daily activities including sleeping, feeding and changing. You can also track baby appointments and growth. Another feature called “mumsnet” is basically a chat room for new parents. Available in the iTunes store, free.

– Teresa Farkas

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 27

Let’s Party!

Five No-Fuss Themes to Get the Fun Started Stumped on ideas for your child’s next birthday party? Turn your home into a great party place with these easy and inexpensive crafting ideas.

I Wish I Was a Mermaid l Food: “Crab sandwiches” made from croissants and chicken salad with googly eyes on top. Cupcakes with mermaid tails on top. Grapes on skewers to make “seaweed.” l Décor: Purple lanterns with streamers to make “jellyfish.” Green streamers with fish cut-outs hanging around the party area. Fish nets over blue and purple tablecloths to decorate the tables. l Game: Play “seaweed limbo” with a stick covered in green and blue ribbons hanging down. l Party favor: Starfish wand and crown made with starfish and ribbons from the craft store.

Sources: littlebabygarvin.blogspot.com; allthatglittersisgold.net

A Very Hungry Caterpillar l Food: Cupcakes and layer cake arranged to look like a caterpillar and finger foods that the caterpillar ate in the book. Add signs with the words from each page to label the foods. l Décor: Green paper lanterns lined up like a caterpillar hanging above and pictures of your child up to that age in circle cut-outs. l Game: Cut-out of the caterpillar’s face and fake plastic fruit. Let the kids toss the fruit in the mouth. l Party Favor: Bug catcher with gummy worms inside for a snack.

Use later to catch caterpillars or other critters.

Source: karaspartyideas.com; alittlepinchofperfect.com

28 Atlanta Parent September 2016

Party Planner

atlantaparent.com

Over the Rainbow l Food: Fruit skewers with every color of the

FPO

rainbow, rainbow layered cake and veggies on trays organized by color. l Décor: Rainbow striped table cloths, party hats in every color and jars with layered M&M’s and Skittles in the order of the rainbow. Stick rainbow lollipops in the jars for more color. l Game: Rainbow bucket ball toss. Get sand buckets of different colors and line the kids up with different colored balls. They must match the color ball with the coordinating color bucket to get the point. l Party favor: A pack of markers and rainbow construction paper pad tied together with rainbow yarn. Also a bag of M&M’s or Skittles and a rainbow lollipop on top of the stack.

Source: blog.chickabug.com

Trucks and Digs l Food: “Build-a-burger” station. Complete with all of the toppings in empty paint cans with mini paintbrushes to spread. Chips in the back of Tonka trucks lined up, or in construction hats.

Gatorade or punch in an Igloo orange cooler labeled “crew punch.” l Décor: Get lots of construction or caution tape and use it as streamers. Make signs that use construction terms such as “loading area,” and use a wheel barrow to collect the presents. l Game: Fill a small, plastic pool with sand and bury plastic dinosaurs, trucks and other small favors. Let the kids go to town with their hands and find the favors to take home. l Party Favor: Hubba Bubba gum “tape measures,” a bucket and shovel for the container and tool aprons from Home Depot.

Sources: blog.chickabug.com, fabeveryday.com

Volcano Party l Food: Hummus cups with red pepper, carrots and pita chips shaped like volcanoes. Pizza cut into triangles with parmesan “ash clouds.” Chocolate cupcakes turned upside down and drizzled with red and orange candy-melt “lava.” l Décor: Cut a hole in a red plastic planter and turn it upside down. Place a bubble machine underneath to look like smoke. l Game: Place stepping stones in a path and let kids balance over the “hot lava” underneath. Buy molded volcano cups from a party store for each guest, and put vinegar in them. Fill a bowl with red Kool-Aid, dish soap and baking soda and let kids pour some into their mini volcanos. Watch them each “erupt.” l Party favor: Fill party-favor bags with baking soda and let the guests take home the mini volcanoes, so they can make the volcano “erupt” again!

Source: Amber Harris – Teresa Farkas

atlantaparent.com

Party Planner

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 29

SPONSORED CONTENT

Looking for the PERFECT party spot?

Make your child’s birthday party unique with these nine great party places.

Andretti Indoor Karting & Games

Andretti Indoor Karting & Games Strap into your very own high-speed kart and get ready for a speedy good time.

Not only for racing-enthusiasts, Andretti’s Marietta and Roswell locations have attractions like arcades, laser tag arenas, Dark Ride motion theatres, a zip line over the track and more. The staff member assigned to your child’s party will guide the guests to each activity area, and will help set up food and drinks, which are included in each party package. The food is freshly made by an on-site chef, and they can accommodate health and allergy requests. andrettikarting.com; Marietta, 678-496-9530; Roswell, 770-992-5688.

Treetop Quest Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Swing like a monkey through the treetop obstacle course in no time. The self-guided activity, with staff ready to jump in if needed, is full of obstacle and climbing areas as well as a zip line to ride. Bring your own cake, decorations, goody bags, or food to the pavilion in Buford, or to the picnic areas in Dunwoody. Pre-made goody bags are available for $7, and include Treetop Quest souvenirs and a drink. treetopquest.com; Dunwoody, 770-365-0356; Gwinnett, 404-277-6113.

Stars and Strikes

College Football Hall of Fame

Chattahoochee Nature Center

30 Atlanta Parent September 2016

Bowl, play in the bumper cars, or play laser tag at this fun-filled space. The arcade is filled with games to play, and each party can be customized to fit the guests, including one or all activities. A party team host sets up the party, and guides the kids to each area of play. Each guest gets entry into the Fun Machine to collect free tickets for prizes. Invitations, paper products and balloons are included, as well as a meal and soft drink for each guest. Add-ons are available such as a private party rooms and more upscale food options. starsandstrikes.com; 678-965-5707.

Tiny Towne – Drive Safely

Party Planner

atlantaparent.com

Treetop Quest

Stars and Strikes

Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Vinings School of Art

Play in the Magic Tree House Exhibit, make a “meal” in the diner, paint on the walls or do science experiments. Geared towards children 2-9, guests will have almost two hours of personalized museum exploration and play including the special exhibits or events happening during the party. Some packages include a private room with a party host to conduct a science or art project with the kids; others include using the museum’s picnic tables for food and cake. childrensmuseumatlanta.org; 404-527-3693.

Whether it is traditional canvas painting, painted sculpture making or clay work, partygoers will enjoy the personalized atmosphere that Vinings School of Art birthday parties offer. The trained instructors will design a custom, one-of -a-kind art project for your guests. The package includes a private room with personal art instructors, art supplies and decorations. To do a test drive, attend one of the drop-in classes they offer 6 days a week for only $15. viningsschoolofart.com; 678-213-4278.

Tiny Towne – Drive Safely Practice your driving skills, hop on the train and even earn your very own Tiny Towne permit. Kids ages 3-15 drive on different courses, stop at traffic lights and even meet a Tiny Towne police officer to make sure he or she is following the rules. Enjoy the full arcade and high-tech driving simulators.

On-site chefs make a variety of tasty and healthy foods. The building has private safety and driving themed rooms, food packages for purchase and a personal party coordinator. tinytowne.com; 470-545-7227.

atlantaparent.com

Are your kid’s eyes glued to the TV during football season? Do they never take off their favorite team’s jersey? The Hall of Fame can host birthday parties perfect for your football-loving child. Each child is given an All-Access Pass to the museum, which includes free play in most areas like the 45-yard replica football field, Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl Skill Zone and The Quad plus AT&T Game Time and more. All interactive content will be saved to access after your visit by way of the All-Access Pass online. Chick-fil-A is available for purchase and cake is provided. Party area also provided on the field. cfbhall.com; 404-880-4841.

Chattahoochee Nature Center

Slingshot Entertainment Experience the largest indoor ninja playground in the U.S., visit the interactive bowling area and play in the arcade. Go high-speed go-karting, jump on 30ft jumping pillows and climb through a tri-level netted play structure complete with a maze and slides. Kids birthday parties start with the PLAY experience and customize from there. All parties include a party host, pizza and beverages. The facility has a full restaurant. Paper products, utensils and a table covering are set up, and guests can bring any decorations they choose. slingshotplay.com; 678-585-2268.

College Football Hall of Fame

Slingshot Entertainment

Party Planner

Have a face-to-face encounter with an owl, snake, tortoise, or more, which are hand-picked by the birthday kid, and learn to love being outdoors. A naturalist will lead your party around the center to help you learn more about what lives in your back yard, play fun nature games and conduct the cake festivities.

Choose from the Outdoor Explorer, Wildlife Wonders, STARLAB or Discovery packages, which include exciting activities suited to each interest, as well as an animal encounter and nature goody bag. Each party also comes with a cookie cake from Ali’s Cookies, plus drinks and paper goods. chattnaturecenter.org; 770-992-2055, ext. 237.

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 31

DIY Party Invites Atlanta Parent rounded up some do-it-yourself party invites that will make every kid want to be a guest at your child’s next birthday celebration. l Spa

Party

For a spa party or spa sleepover, invitations shaped like sleeping masks compliment the theme perfectly. Print them from the pdf on the website, fill in your own party information and glue to cardstock shaped like the masks.

Attach ribbons to the backs.

Sources: darlingdarleen.com, onecharmingparty.com l Princess

Fairy Party

or

Wand invites can be used as a toy or costume accessory after the party. l Outdoor Party All you need is colored cardstock, Perfect for a pool party, these watermelon wooden chopsticks and a glue gun. Print invitations can be printed from clementinecreative. your party information directly onto the co.za for free, and cut into a watermelon shape by cardstock, then cut into a star shape. Glue following the provided lines. When you download them on the top of the chopsticks, and if “Official” Museum theGeorgia’s pdf, you can also place the text you wishTransportation inside. desired, add glitter around the edges.

It’s PARTY Time!

Kid’s Day Out! Source: clementinecreative.co.za Source: danyabanya.com Celebrate your special occasion: Train Rides | Gift Shop Birthday Parties, Anniversaries, Family Reunions Pre-School Thursday (every 2nd Thursday of the month) Weddings & Corporate Events

Southeastern Railway Museum Southeastern Railway Museum

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

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

l Lego

Party

Every boy will go wild for these Lego invites. Build a Lego board that reads “party” with your child’s Legos then take a photo of the blocks. Upload the photo onto your computer, choose a Lego-esque font and place the text onto the photo.

Source: brendid.com l Monster

Party

Take brightly-colored cardstock and googly eyes to make cute, colorful monsters for a fun monster bash. Cut out the mouth with black cardstock, or draw it straight on the monster, and print out your party information to glue on the back.

Source: simplisticallyliving.com

ART CLASSES & CUSTOM PARTIES

Kid’s Day Out!

Train Rides | Gift Shop Pre-School Thursday

(every 2nd Thursday of the month)

S.T.E.M. Fun • Arts & Crafts Clay & Sand Art • Painting Sensory Fun • Video Games Lego Art • Nail & Jewelry Art

678-691-1097

www.popadoodle.com 3595 Buford Hwy | Duluth, GA 30096 770-476-2013

www.southeasternrailwaymuseum.org

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

www.southeasternrailwaymuseum.org

32 Atlanta Parent September 2016

Party Planner

1218 Rockbridge Rd. SW, Stone Mtn. 30087 At the corner of Rockbridge Rd. & Five Forks Trickum Rd.

atlantaparent.com

6 for Tweens

Cool Party Themes

by Pam Molnar

As my tweenage daughter’s birthday was approaching, I asked her if she wanted to have a party with some friends. “I guess,” she answered in her typical non-committal way. While she thought she could have a killer party by just inviting friends, ordering pizza and plugging her phone into a speaker, I knew they would spend much of the party concentrating on their phones instead of each other.

I offered her a few tween party ideas that I hoped would get her friends moving, laughing and making memories at the killer party my daughter envisioned. Here are those six ideas.

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

PRIVATE PARTIES

Party Rooms with glow & regular lighting

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

WWW.GLOWGALAXY.COM

Open Play Times (See website for times)

Where the fun begins and never ends! Book your party today.”

WHERE THE FUN NEVER ENDS! BOOK YOUR PARTY TODAY.

Five Acres of Indoor & Outdoor Attractions Fun for ALL Ages and Best Party Place in GA! *Arcade Games *Laser Tag *Mini Golf *Go Karts *Rock Wall *Spider Zone *Inflatables Upgraded Themed Parties have matching character visit.

fear

n Night at the Club

n An 80s Party

Turn your basement into a night club or sports bar. Kids will love to Karaoke via your Wii, Playstation or Xbox, and dance games like “Just Dance” will get the party going fast. Consider asking your guests to wear neon or white and set the room in black light. Play games like Darts, Pool, Foosball or Air Hockey. You can also bring in Cornhole boards and bean bags for a friendly, competitive game. Instead of pizza, try serving nachos, cheese sticks and chicken wings.

My kids know all the 80s songs from Bon Jovi to ZZ Top because they grew up listening to them. At an 80s themed party guests can dress up as their parents did back in the day. Offer a variety of 80s games for the kids to play including Simon, Uno, Rubik’s Cube and Atari Flashback (available on Amazon). Serve popular 80s foods like pizza rolls, jello pudding pops, sloppy joes, and of course, Tab. Cont’d on page 35

atlantaparent.com

Party Planner

Fridays and Saturdays September 30 - Halloween

7pm-11pm FIREWORKS on Saturday Oct. 8 Haunted House $13 * Haunted Hay Ride $11

Quick Escape Room $5

Non-haunted Maze $5; younger than 5 $3 40155 Hwy 441 S.* Commerce, GA

Locate at Banks Crossing; Interstate 85 @ exit 149

706-335-3866 FUNOPOLISFAMILYFUNCENTER.com September 2016 Atlanta Parent 33

Kid’s Party

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6 for Tweens

Cool Party Themes

n Murder Mystery Not only is a Murder Mystery Party a theme within a theme, it is also a fun way to release your inner-actor. Some themes include the wild west, a night at the theatre, glamorous millionaires, medieval times, prom or even the holidays. You can find downloadable games online, which will include character descriptions, a storyline and directions. Your meal could revolve around your murder mystery setting.

n Amazing Race An Amazing Race party requires the guests to break up into teams, read and decipher clues and perform challenges in the shortest amount of time. The game can easily be set up in your neighborhood. Set challenges at the park, a neighbor’s backyard or a local business. Game printables can be found on Etsy. Offer appetizers and desserts before and after the race.

n Minute to Win Guests are given one minute to do a variety of simple challenges, like picking up four dry penne pastas with a dry spaghetti noodle.

Players can be individual or divided into teams of two or more. Have everyone do the same challenges and keep record of their times. For game ideas, check out the Minute to Win it website. Food ideas include quick and easy make-it-yourself bars like tacos, pasta or baked potatoes.

n Social Media Party OK, if you can’t beat them, join them. This is as close to it comes to just hanging out. Set up a photo booth with props for fun party posts.

Play “Find a Post” where players receive points for posting a particular item on social media – a team logo, their pet, a picture of a Starbucks cup. You can also play, “Best of” where all players take a preplanned photo and post it.

The person with the most likes in one minute is the winner. c

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Let’s Play a Game Friendly Feud: This is a spin off on the game show, “Family Feud.” Split into teams and ask questions to win points. Create your own questions or find online.

Name that Food: Select foods to be served in a blind taste test.

Truth or Task: The players are given a question that they have to answer truthfully. If they choose not to answer, they must perform a task like recite the ABCs backwards or sing “Let It Go” from “Frozen.“

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September 2016 Atlanta Parent 35

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 are listed in red.

ADVENTURE Andretti Indoor Karting & Games.

Marietta, 678-496-9530; Roswell; 770-992-5688; andrettikarting.com Want to take the tour up a notch? No matter the size of your group, Andretti’s can provide an amazing stop on that next outing with its unique blend of speed, thrills, interactive gaming and great eats. Around here, we don’t do “vanilla.”

Atlanta Motor Speedway. Hampton.

770-707-7970, atlantamotorspeedway.com Funopolis. Commerce. 706-335-3866, Funopolisfamilyfuncenter.com Explore the five acres of indoor & outdoor attractions. Three hour field trips for schools, camps,churches and group events. Corporate packages also available.

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

Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Six Flags Theme Park. Austell. 770-948-9290, sixflags.com/overgeorgia

ANIMALS AND FARMS

SkyView Atlanta. Atlanta.

678-949-9023, SkyViewAtlanta.com Slingshot Entertainment. Duluth.

678-585-2268, slingshotplay.com Roll, Race, Play during your next field trip at Slingshot Entertainment. Choose from Interactive Bowling, Indoor Go Kart Racing, 3-Story Netted Play Structure or the largest indoor ninja obstacle course in the U.S. Stars and Strikes. 8 Locations.

678-965-5707, starsandstrikes.com Book your next group outing or field trip at Stars and Strikes. Enjoy bowling and video games along with a private room. Lots of other options to customize your experience based upon which Stars and Strikes you choose – including Laser Tag, Laser Maze, Bumper Cars and more.

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 Incorporate nature into your classroom with a trip to Treetop Quest. Kids will have an unforgettable experience as they build confidence moving through our treetop obstacles and gain knowledge about nature and the environment with educational boards located throughout the park.

atlantaparent.com

The Art Barn at Morning Glory Farm. Canton. 678-319-0286, theartbarn.com Big Springs. Woodstock.

678-899-3900, bigspringsfarms.com Small groups to large groups welcome. Offering a corn maze, hayride, farm animals, make and taste homemade butter, story time, crafting and games. Each child takes home a pumpkin.

Buford Corn Maze. Buford.

678-835-7198, bufordcornmaze.com Open September 3 to November 13.

School field trips include corn maze, jumping pillow, hayride and corn box.

Available for parties, youth groups, scouts and more.

Georgia Aquarium. Atlanta.

404-581-4000, georgiaaquarium.org Hillcrest Orchards. Ellijay.

706-273-3838, hillcrestorchards.net Fieldtrips weekdays in Sept., Oct. and Nov. Guests can milk a cow, ride the wagon through the orchard, visit the apple museum and the petting farm. Teachers will receive activity sheets, and a list of state standards met on the trip. 706-273-3838, hillcrestorchards.net Jaemor Farms. Alto, 770-869-3999; Commerce, 706-335-0999 jaemorfarms.com Mitcham Farms. Oxford.

770-855-1530, mitchamfarm.com

Pettit Creek Farms. Cartersville.

770-386-8688, pettitcreekfarms.com See buffalo, cattle, horses and ponies as well as many exotic animals. Climb on the hayride or jump on the inflatable bounces. Go cane pole fishing and visit the petting zoo. Enjoy your lunch under the huge oak trees.

The Pumpkin Patch at Yule Forest.

Stockbridge. 770-954-9356, aboutyule.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 SITES AND HOUSES Bulloch Hall. Roswell.

770-992-1731, bullochhall.org Governor’s Mansion. Atlanta.

404-261-1776, mansion.georgia.gov The Herndon Home. Atlanta.

404-581-9813, herndonhome.org

Cont’d on page 38

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 37

FIELD TRIP PLANNER The Children’s Museum of Atlanta.

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

Historic Mable House. Mableton.

770-819-3285, mablehouse.org Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Site. Atlanta. 404-331-5190, nps.gov/malu

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 programs.

Oakland Cemetery. Atlanta.

404-688-2107, oaklandcemetery.com Root House Museum. Marietta.

770-426-4982, roothousemuseum.com Smith Plantation. Roswell.

770-641-3978, archibaldsmithplantation.org

Delta Flight Museum. Atlanta.

404-715-7886, deltamuseum.org

The Wren’s Nest. Atlanta.

404-753-7735, wrensnest.org

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.

MUSEUMS Atlanta History Center. Atlanta.

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

Fernbank Science Center.

678-874-7102 fernbank.edu Johns Creek Environmental Campus

Bartow History Museum. Cartersville.

770-382-3818, bartowhistorymuseum.org

Braves Museum & Hall of Fame / Turner Field Tours. Atlanta. 404-614-2310, braves.com

Funk Heritage Center. Waleska.

770-720-5970, reinhardt.edu/funkheritage Georgia’s Official Frontier and Southeastern Indian Interpretive Center. 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 Tues.-Fri., reservations required. Reinhardt University campus, Waleska, GA.

Biblical History Center. LaGrange. 706-8850363, biblicalhistorycenter.com

Center for Civil and Human Rights. Atlanta 678-999-8990, civilandhumanrights.org

Georgia Capitol Museum. Atlanta.

404-463-4536, libs.uga.edu/capitolmuseum

Atlanta Preservation Center. Atlanta.

404-688-3353, preserveatlanta.com APEX Museum. Atlanta. 404-523-2739, apexmuseum.org

Bodies The Exhibition. Atlanta.

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

770-387-1300, boothmuseum.org

FIELD TRIPS!

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

• Birthdays • Field Trips • Church Productions • Pony Carousels 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

678-493-5860

OBSERVE • DISCUSS • EXPERIMENT • PRACTICE

CALL TO SCHEDULE YOUR EVENT!

38 Atlanta Parent September 2016

atlantaparent.com

High Museum of Art. Atlanta.

404-733-4400, high.org 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 LEGOLAND. Atlanta. 404-848-9252, legolanddiscoverycenter.com/atlanta

GO OUT ON A LIMB

COMING SOON

Outdoor Exhibits for All Ages Immersive Nature Experiences Free with Museum Admission • Members FREE

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, train-musuem.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.

Southern Museum of Civil War & Locomotive History. Kennesaw.

770-427-2117, southernmuseum.org

Opening details at FernbankMuseum.org

@FernbankMuseum

Stately Oaks Plantation. Jonesboro.

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

470-254-6339 and Teaching Museum South. Hapeville.

470-254-8015, fultonschools.org Telephone Museum. Atlanta.

404-223-3661

The Atlanta Parent Family of Publications

William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum.

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

404-676-5151, worldofcoca-cola.com

atlanta

BABY FROM ATLANTA

Atlanta

GuiDe

PARENT MAGAZINE

Tips for getting your child in the movies

Great places for kids’ haircuts

Nesting 101

Help is on the

Atlanta Paren t Magazine’s

Camp Guide

Extra!

Extra!

Oh, Baby, Let’s Have Fun

Delivery Decisions

Atlanta Botanical Garden. Atlanta.

404-876-5859, atlantabg.org

Education Guide

September 2016 / atlantaparent.com

Advice for New Moms

NATURE AND SCIENCE

Atlanta Paren t Magazine’s

PARENT

t Magazine’s Atlanta Paren

PaRTY

2O16

Tellus Science Museum. Cartersville.

770-606- 5700, tellusmuseum.org

+ way: Our Baby

Resource Guide Entertainers

l

Mobile Party Services

l

Party Places

l

Supplies and

Rentals

Party planning help is here

Need an OB-GYN?

Mom-approved picks

The Bestol Scho Guide

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

Early Educatio n

Like Us on FACEBOOK

Day Camps Private

Public

Special Needs

Field Trips

Overnight Camps

Summer Program s

Atlanta Botanical Garden. Gainesville.

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

678-366-3511, autreymill.org

Call 770-454-7599 for advertising information.

Big Trees Urban Forest Preserve. Atlanta. bigtreesforest.com

AtlantaParent.com

Cont’d on page 40

atlantaparent.com

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 39

SOUTHEASTERN INDIAN & FRONTIER INTERPRETIVE CENTER

FIELD TRIP PLANNER

Curriculum Based Native America Field Trips Pioneer Living History Program

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

Chattahoochee Nature Center

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.

Science Creations. 678-531-2357, sciencecreations.com In-school science field trips. Fun, hands-on, educational workshops and shows for pre-k through fourth grade. Take home projects included.

Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Sandy Springs.

678-538-1200, nps.gov/chat

PERFORMING ARTS

Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve.

Lithonia. 770-492-5220, arabiaalliance.org Dunwoody Nature Center. Dunwoody.

770-394-3322, dunwoodynature.org Elachee Nature Science Center. Gainesville.

770-535-1976, elachee.org Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Buford. 770-904-3500, gwinnettehc.org

I-85 NORTH

Johns Creek Environmental Campus.

Roswell. 404-613-3012, fultoncountyga.gov/home-jcec Learn all about the ‘Water Treatment Cycle’, tour a state-of-the-art treatment facility and participate in a fun lab experiment.

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

770-822-8840, gwinnettcounty.com

Visit our dairy to see for yourself how your favorite Mayfield products are made with a fun and educational behind-the-scenes tour!

WWW.MAYFIELDDAIRY.COM 40 Atlanta Parent September 2016

Mayfield Dairy. Braselton.

706-654-9180. Mayfielddairy.com See how your favorite Mayfield products are made with a fun and educational behind-thescenes tour. Visit us in Braselton, Georgia to learn how our delicious milk makes it from our dairy to your fridge. It’s fun for the family or a perfect field trip for schools, church groups or any organization.

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

Alliance Theatre. Atlanta.

404-733-4650, alliancetheatre.org Center for Puppetry Arts. Atlanta.

404-873-3089, puppet.org Live puppetry shows throughout the year, plus Worlds of Puppetry Museum, puppetry workshops and more.

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.

Mercier Orchards. Blue Ridge.

706-632-3411, mercier-orchards.com Get outdoors and spend your next field trip on the farm! Mercier offers a guided tour of Georgia’s largest apple orchard. Learn about growing different fruit and all the healthy benefits.

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 Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37421. c

atlantaparent.com

Best Bike Trails Around Atlanta Have fun with your family peddling all over the city.

Arabia Mountain Trail

Atlanta BeltLine

East Cobb Trail

Made of a 33-mile network of multiuse trails, and colorful murals, the Atlanta Beltline is a pedestrian friendly area that can be used for biking as well as jogging and walking. The Eastside trail has many dining and retail options. Extensions link many of Atlanta’s existing parks and trails together.

Where: 24 Fairlie St. NW, Atlanta.

404-477-3003. beltline.org

Arabia Mountain Trail

In Marietta next to Roswell Road, it is a short trail, around 2 miles long, but perfect for young bikers and with parents walking or running beside them. It is also an easy connector to many neighborhoods in the area. Make sure to also check out the events listed on their website, as well as the playground.

Where: 3322 Roswell Rd., Marietta. eastcobbpark.org

Made up of 30 miles of biking, hiking and running trails, the Arabia Mountain National Heritage Trail takes you past exposed granite and lakes along the way.

Where: Arabia Mountain Trail, Stockbridge. 404-998-8384. arabiaalliance.org

Chastain Park Trail This trail is made up of a 3-mile path around Chastain Park, and on any given day you can find it full of bikers and joggers.

The trail is marked as two 5K courses and a separate 3K course. It is an asphalt trail with a few hills, which may be more challenging with a stroller, or young child.

Where: Chastain Park Trail, Atlanta.

404-237-2177. chastainparkconservancy.org

Get in Gear n Burley D’Lite Bike Trailers If kids are too young to bike longer distances a bike trailer is an excellent option. The Burley D’Lite bike trailer can become more than just a bike trailer.

It can also be a regular stroller or a jogging stroller with easy snap-on accessories. The D’Lite™ can comfortably accommodate one or two kids with space to hold water bottles and snacks for each.

It also has suspension to deal with bumps on the road and a really great shade cover that our toddler testers got excited about. Buy a second hitch to easily switch between bikes. $689. burley.com

atlantaparent.com

Silver Comet Trail

Stone Mountain Trail This 19-mile on-street and dedicated trail offers great views of Atlanta (bring a camera to take a picture at the Jackson Street bridge near Downtown), and has several great stopping points along the way. Take a stop at Stone Mountain village, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, Candler Park, and downtown Decatur.

Where: Begins at Piedmont Ave. in downtown Atlanta and ends at the loop around Stone Mountain. pathfoundation.org/trails/stone-mountain/

This 61.5 mile rail to trail is named after the Silver Comet Rail Train that once ran from Atlanta to Birmingham. Ride your bikes across a 500-foot trestle and bring a picnic basket on this woodsy, paved trail.

Where: Mavell Road Trailhead, Smyrna. silvercometga.org – Teresa Farkas

n Nutcase Helmets

Fit all Size Heads

Little Nutty and Baby Nutty kids helmets come in cool, fun designs plus have a magnetic buckle for one-handed operation and are easy to adjust. They also have an adult version and lots of designs to choose from, so no worries if ladybugs, flowers or lava lamps don’t suit your fancy. $49.99-$69.99. nutcasehelmets.com

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 41

Cover Kids winners!

CONTEST 2016

Atlanta parents have the cutest kids! Congratulations to our 2016 Cover Kid winners and finalists. Thanks to our friends at HOP Models, Presence Models and Sidney Ellen Photography, the challenging task of selecting Atlanta’s most adorable kids is now complete. We look forward to seeing their faces on future Atlanta Parent covers. Thank you to all the families that submitted photos this year.

Graylan Edmonds Alpharetta

Aria Gupta Marietta

Griffin Lyles Atlanta

Makenna Johnson-Williams Duluth

Ruby Arabella Nicholson McDonough

Valentino Onate Smyrna

42 Atlanta Parent September 2016

atlantaparent.com

& our finalists

Olivia Jane Banks Woodstock

Mary Liz Barfield Buford

Boone Blanton Gainesville

Ava Rose & Xzandria Bones / Perry

Addison Boughey Norcross

Maiya Boyd Atlanta

Jaden Brock Suwanee

Lauren Cook Lawrenceville

Aubrey Cowan Covington

Dora Dai Atlanta

Grant Dallam Atlanta

Alton Davis Atlanta

Josiah Dawkins Atlanta

Conrad Dayringer Snellville

Isaac & Fiona Eastburn / Atlanta

Annabelle Edenfield Atlanta

Mason & Wreen Flowers / Woodstock

Matthew Gripado Lawrenceville

Aarin Gupta Marietta

Kennedy Hefner Atlanta

Luke Loveless Suwanee

Logan Marber Milton

Evangel Rivera Lithia Springs

Jude Shah Atlanta

Andrew Thompson Bryson Thompson Jr. Smyrna Atlanta

atlantaparent.com

Emmy Rose Jeyaram Kylissa Katalinich Snellville Alpharetta

Avril Vittoria Mordecai Harlow Jack Mullins Mackenzie Ponder Acworth Marietta Atlanta

Grant Shallenberger Jake Shallenberger Atlanta Atlanta

Chase VanBelle Atlanta

Sawyer Rae Ward Woodstock

Priya Faith Keyes Powder Springs

Asher Prestridge Gainesville

Nye Reynolds Lilburn

Alexander Smith Atlanta

Yakir Ariel Smith Sandy Springs

Eva Gabriella Sotelo Kennesaw

Camryn Williams Lithonia

Amelia Wolfe Woodstock

Peter Woltz East Point

September 2016    Atlanta Parent 43

A Way with Words

Spell School and Career Success This Way:

V-o-c-a-b-u-l-a-r-y

O

by Jan Pierce

One of the markers of bright students is the size of their vocabularies, the knowledge of words and word meanings.

Children with a larger vocabulary communicate better, read and write with greater understanding and radiate confidence in their learning ability.

While much of a child’s vocabulary growth occurs naturally through listening to language, hearing stories read aloud, speaking with others and general immersion in the family’s native language, there are simple and fun ways to increase word knowledge. Parents can boost their child’s vocabulary by:

n Incorporating word knowledge

into reading time. When you’re reading a story to your child and come to a new word, take the time to expand on it, define it, and relate it to another word your child already knows. For instance, when you come to the word “gigantic” you might say. “The egg was gigantic. That means it was really big. Can you think of some other gigantic things? A dinosaur maybe or that huge play structure at school?”

Then give your child the opportunity to use the word in naming other gigantic things. Studies show that rereading books is another way to reinforce new vocabulary.

44 Atlanta Parent September 2016

n Encourage them to read,

read, read independently.

Researchers say we learn from 5 percent to 15 percent of the words we know from our independent reading times. Children who read more develop a richer vocabulary.

They’re exposed to genre words such as everything related to kings, queens and castles, or everything about the beaver and its habitat. They learn to understand the meaning of new words through the context of their story. Encourage readers to make note of words they don’t understand and keep a dictionary handy.

n Foster real discussion in

your home. Make dinner time a time to share the stories of the day. Or take the time to talk about current events, while using some of the vocabulary related to that topic. Conversation is two way, with questions and responses. Children who engage in such discussions build their vocabularies and also learn the value of higher level interaction with language. n Build “word

consciousness” by playing word games that focus on meaning. You might play 20 Questions, a game of reasoning with words. “I’m thinking of an animal.”

Then allow questions that can only be answered with yes or no. Or play a guessing game with a word clue. “I’m thinking of a word that starts with b and is something a monkey likes to eat.”

You might take a word walk where you decide to walk outdoors and name everything you can find that begins with the letter “t.” Be sure to match the game to your child’s age and ability levels.

A powerful tool for learning new vocabulary and for gaining meaning of words is studying Greek and Latin root words. Many good study books have been written on root words. It’s enlightening to know that all words with “ped” in them have something to do with feet and movement. atlantaparent.com

n Use computer technology to teach

new vocabulary. Children love to play online games and there are excellent programs to increase vocabulary and have fun at the same time. Try pbskids.org/games/vocabulary or vocabulary.co.il.

The most effective forms of building word knowledge come from methods that actively engage the child, not in mere drill and memory work. While it is of some value to memorize the meaning of words, true mastery of a word requires that it be seen and used in proper context. Writing a story using the words jousting, castle and knight will cement real understanding of words in that word bank. Matching the words to their meaning is a more valuable experience than just memorizing the meaning.

In the adult world, people with a larger working vocabulary are much more likely to be successful in their careers. Conversely, those who begin life with a smaller word bank go on to receive lower academic marks and score lower on standardized tests. This in turn can affect their success in the work world.

The sooner children begin to build a robust vocabulary, the more they improve their skills in effective reading, writing and all forms of communication. Two websites that may be of help are enhancemyvocabulary.com and teachervision.com. c

The most effective forms of building word knowledge come from methods that actively engage the child, not in mere drill and memory work.

a school where your child learns

HALF OR FULL DAY, YEAR ROUND PROGRAMS

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

Montessori School at Emory

3021 N. Decatur Road • Decatur, GA 30033 MontessoriSchoolatEmory.com • 404-634-5777

Accredited Toddler Through Middle School Programs atlantaparent.com

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 45

Fulton County Schools

Is Here To Help…

The school system can evaluate any child age 3 or older for a suspected disability, at no cost.

➢ Diagnostic and Evaluation Services ➢ Speech/Language Therapy ➢ Specialized Community 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.

Call or visit for more information: 470-254-0404 fultonschools.org 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.

Saturday in

Paris?

Saturday Program 18 months - 12 yrs. • Buckhead location at the Atlanta International School

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

French Classes

For Adults & Children

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for Classes Online NOW! www.frenchschoolatlanta.org or call

770-634-6228

Country Brook & Covered Bridge Montessori Schools Toddler, Primary & Elementary

NORCROSS

Country Brook Montessori School 2175 N. Norcross-Tucker Rd. Norcross, GA 30071 770-446-2397 countrybrookmontessori.com

46 Atlanta Parent September 2016

SMYRNA

Covered Bridge Montessori School 3941 Covered Bridge Place & 488 Hurt Rd. Smyrna, GA 30082 770-434-3181 & 770-801-8292 coveredbridgemontessori.com

When the School Day Ends, Keep Learning at Home With the beginning of the school year, your child has already been soaking up new knowledge in the classroom.

Continue the learning process at home with these four books. n Pete the Cat’s Got Class

by James Dean (HarperCollins, $9.99) Pete the Cat is back to teach his friend that learning math can be fun. The book includes 12 flashcards to teach counting, adding and subtracting. It also comes with a poster and stickers for additional fun after reading. n Big Science for Little People

by Lynn Brunelle (Roost Books, $14.95) This little book is packed full of 52 activities to help you and your child discover different elements of science. Brunelle was a writer for Bill Nye the Science Guy, and it shows through the many activities and science experiments developed to help your child get hooked on science. n Bip, Bop and Boo Get Ready For School Series

by Caryn Jenner (DK| Penguin Random House, $6.99) This book series is designed to boost a child’s confidence, and prepare them for school.

The book series is divided into different colors for each level of learning.

Children can learn about numbers, colors, shapes and more through interactive sticker play and fun activities. n Let’s Read and Find Out Science Series by various authors (HarperCollins, $6.99) If your child is anything like the average kid, there are lots of questions about how the world works. How do earthquakes start, and why are the ice caps melting? This science series teaches kids everything about plants, animals and space to the human body and more through easy-to-read books.

– Teresa Farkas

atlantaparent.com

Atlanta Country Day School (ACDS) is a private, SACS & GAC accredited, coeducational college preparatory school that serves grades 6-12. ACDS was founded in 1977. ACDS provides exceptional education in a positive environment by offering: ● Low Student: Teacher Ratio (6:1) ● 4-Day School Week ● Fridays are for tutoring and electives ● Mandatory Study Hall ● 100% College Acceptance Rate ● Award-winning PERFORMING ARTS company ● Project-Assisted Learning ● School Field Trips

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Say Hello ... to the parents of perspective students with a Principal Profile in November.

For more information call 770-454-7599 atlantaparent.com

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 47

Calendar

SAVE 20% on Tickets!

Use offer code: GASSOUTH Savings applies only to the face price of tickets. Restrictions and exclusions may apply. No double discounts. Subject to availability.

Excludes premium seats.

Savings sponsored by

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Join the Fun!

Chris Lawery Photography

October 8 / 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. / Mercer University Atlanta Campus

More than 50 family-friendly activities at our 13th annual festival. $10 per person at the gate. One and younger, free.

Paid admission includes five activity tickets.

BUY TICKETS

ONLINE!

ONLY $5 BENEFICIARY:

atlantaparent.com/familyfestival 48 Atlanta Parent September 2016

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide * Eating Out

n

Free Fun

n

Exhibits

n

Playground

Not-to-miss events for September

n

Calendar

Fall s al Festiv54 Page

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Decatur Book Festival

Decatur Book Festival

Atlanta Beltline Lantern Parade

Tales of Peter Rabbit

Eastside Trail / Sept. 10. 7:30-11 p.m.

Decatur Square Sept. 2-4. Children’s parades begin at Community bandstand on Decatur Square. Sat. at 9:30 a.m. and Sun. at 11:30 a.m.

Art on the BeltLine kicks off with an evening Lantern Parade, a glowing procession of light and music.

Families can light up the BeltLine by bringing along a handmade lantern. Line up at Irwin Street and Krog Street; the parade concludes at Piedmont Park’s Lawn.

404-446-4408. Free. art.beltline.org/lantern-parade/.

Center for Puppetry Arts Sept. 14-25. Wed.-Fri., 10 and 11 a.m.

Sat., 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. Sun., 1 and 3 p.m.

Kids are invited to dress up as their favorite and most-admired historical figure on Sat. and their nerdiest self on Sun. Don’t miss kidnote speaker Dav Pilkey, author of “Captain Underpants” at the Decatur High School Performing Arts Center on Fri. at 5 p.m. 404-373-2021. Free tickets at local Decatur book stores. decaturbookfestival.com.

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

Based on Beatrix Potter’s timeless tales, watch as Peter Rabbit sneaks into Mr. McGregor’s garden to taste some veggies, only to realize he lost his blue jacket. See his sisters Flopsy, Mopsy and Cottontail and friend Benjamin Bunny join in as well.

1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 404-873-3089. $20.50; ages 2 and younger, free. puppet.org.

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 49

Family Fun Guide

THE DINOS are coming!

Fernbank is going to be filled with even more huge, prehistoric creatures stomping their way onto the big screen and into hands-on exhibits.

If You Go Fernbank Museum of Natural History 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta 404-929-6300; fernbankmuseum.org n Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 p.m. n Admission: Adults, $18; ages 3-12, $16; ages 2 and younger, free.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

The World’s Largest Dinosaurs Exhibit Sept. 17-Jan. 2.

Meet the greatest, most massive dinosaurs ever discovered as they would have looked hundreds of millions of years ago. Touch fossils and dinosaur teeth, greet a 60-foot Mamenchisaurus featuring a projection of its insides and examine a dig pit station depicting a paleontologist’s career.

Opening Day Sept. 17

10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Help celebrate the newest exhibition with a day full of hands-on learning opportunities. Come face-to-face with some of the biggest creatures in the world of paleontology.

Dinosaurs Alive!

Through Dec. 15 Imax film features the earliest dinosaurs of the Triassic Period to the monsters of the Cretaceous “reincarnated” into lifesized images. See fernbankmuseum. org for show times.

Atlanta Parent’s Family Festival Oct. 8 Get ready for fun with Atlanta Parent’s annual Family Festival. More than 50 activities to keep the kids entertained with games, jumpy houses, animals, arts and crafts and so much more all in one place. Make sure to buy your tickets online to get half-price admission!

There’s something for everyone in this action-packed day, here are a few sneak peeks: n Our stage will be rocking all day with performers like Music Together, Jason’s Music Party, Sir Crazy Pants, Kim Armstrong and more.

Come celebrate 13 great years of family fun.

n Let your toddler play with no worries in the Tiny Tot Town, games and inflatables just for Toddlers.

10 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Mercer University, Atlanta Campus, 3001 Mercer University Dr., Atlanta

n Our Festival will be overrun with herds of fun. Stop by early to meet our mystery guests! n Touch, pet and ride different types of animals! From parrots to chickens, cows, camels and ponies – you’ll never know what you’ll see.

Chris Lawery Photography

50 Atlanta Parent September 2016

n Get ready for soapy fun in our bubble play area in the lower field.

Family Fun Guide

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

For more information on how to exhibit, volunteer and buy your tickets visit atlantaparent.com/ familyfestival.

atlantaparent.com

CIVIL WAR HISTORY

LIVE! Soak up history re-made right before your eyes with these five military reenactments.

Labor Day Celebration

Battle of Tunnel Hill Reenactment

Fort McAllister State Park. Sept. 3.

9 a.m.-4 p.m. Watch Civil War soldiers fire rifles and cannons during living history programs. 3894 Fort McAllister Rd., Richmond Hill. Adults $8; children $5; 6 and younger, free. 912-727-2339.

Tunnel Hill. See the battle of Tunnel Hill reenacted with live demonstrations. Sept. 10-11. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Battle begins at 2 p.m. each day. Lawn chairs encouraged. This weekend also includes admission to the museum and a walk through the tunnel. 2154 Clisby Austin Rd.,Tunnel Hill. 706-876-1571. $10 per person; 12 and under, free.

Artillery Demonstrations at Kennesaw Mountain

Battle of Hurricane Shoals Reenactment

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. See the Civil War come to life with cannon demonstrations in the park. Sept. 4, 5 and 25. 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m. 900 Kennesaw Mountain Dr., Marietta. 770-427-4686. Free.

Hurricane Shoals Park. Visit a re-made Civil War Union and Confederate Camp with drills, history, cooking and haversack displays. Sept. 17-18. 2 p.m. 416 Hurricane Shoals Rd., Maysville. 678-978-7213. Free.

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

Harvest Time at the Homestead Red Top Mountain State Park.

Feel what it was like to be a civilian or a soldier in North Georgia during the Civil War. See apple cider being made, participate in pioneer games and play with pioneer-style toys. View Civil War style cannons and rifles fired. Sept. 17-18. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

50 Lodge Rd. SE, Acworth.

770-975-0055. Free; parking, $5.

September 2016    Atlanta Parent 51

Gatheround – The Atlanta History Center Has a Story to Tell!

S

o you think you know the Atlanta History Center? Been there.

Done that. Well you may want to see it again. The Atlanta History Center has added an exciting new feature to its artifacts bringing history to life. Literally.

“Gatheround: Stories of Atlanta,” a 7,700-square-foot exhibit which opened this summer, transports and immerses visitors to poignant and key moments in Atlanta’s history. The exhibit covers family and community life, politics and justice, urban growth and cultural life with more than 750 artifacts, music, oral histories and even computer games.

Gatheround expands the history center’s Meet the Past program that uses actors portraying people in history. The actors are staged in specific parts of the exhibit on weekends to perform monologues with visitors.

My kids and I (ages 4 to 15) had the chance to “travel back” with two historical figures: Rosalyn Walton (one If You Go of the Atlanta Nine, the Atlanta History Center students who desegregated 130 West Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta Atlanta Public Schools in 404-814-4000; atlantahistorycenter.com 1961, played by Anterior n Tickets: $16.50 adults; $11 ages Leverett) and Alonzo 4-12; free ages 3 and younger.

Herndon (Atlanta’s first n Gatheround: Stories of Atlanta: black millionaire, played Permanent exhibit. Stories are only told

by Marcus Hopkins on Saturday and Sundays. Check with Turner). Other historical the Atlanta History Center for times and figures that visitors might days of each character. see on another weekend include former Georgia Gov. John M. Slaton, who commuted the death sentence for Leo Frank, a newsboy who recounts the Atlanta Race Riot of 1906 and Eli Soto, a Greek Holocaust survivor who ran a barbershop for six decades in Midtown Atlanta.

Initially, I thought my youngest two wouldn’t understand or stay attentive throughout the performances. They surprised me! My daughter peppered me with questions about “the little girl” and asked “why were they mean to her in school?” My 7-year-old, remembering things he’d

52 Atlanta Parent September 2016

learned in school last year, was very excited to “see” history.

The actor and actress themselves were phenomenal, adding to the experience. Each performance feels like a mini play lasting about 15 minutes. There are various historical character performances staggered throughout the day each weekend day, allowing time to visit other parts of the center.

We caught the 11:30 a.m. performance of Rosalyn and the 2:30 p.m. performance of Alonzo. Between performances, we explored the interactive exhibits within the Gallery, then visited the Smith Family Farm and the Swan House, which also presents Meet the Past characters. We grabbed snacks and drinks at Souper Jenny, which offers a full menu of healthy and delicious meals.

If you’ve been to the Atlanta History Center before, you may want to give it a second look on an upcoming Saturday or Sunday to take in a performance. If you’ve never been, there is no time like the present.

– Melissa Williams

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

Photo by Tyloer Ertzberger Photography

Time to go to the Fair

Fall means fair time, which means playing games on the midway, funnel cakes, carnival rides and more! Take your family to one of these three fairs for old-fashioned fun.

Gwinnett County Fair

Gwinnett County Fairgrounds Sept. 15-25 Livestock shows, carnival rides, games and live entertainment. Mon.-Fri. 5-11 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.-midnight, Sun. 1-10 p.m. 2405 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville.

770-963-6522. Adults, $7; 5 and younger, free. gwinnettcountyfair.com.

North Georgia State Fair

Jim R. Miller Park Sept. 22-Oct. 2 At the largest fair in the metro Atlanta area, enjoy carnival rides and games, a petting zoo, pony rides and kid zone. This year’s live entertainment includes K-9s in Flight, Lady Houdini, Peter Hart with Atlanta Puppets and concerts.

Mon.-Thurs., 4-11 p.m.; Fri. 4 p.m.midnight; Sat. 10 a.m.-midnight; Sun. 12:30-10 p.m. 2245 Callaway Rd., Marietta. 770-528-8989. Adults, $7; ages 10 and younger, free. Ride tickets $1.25 each or 21 for $20. Parking, $3. northgeorgiastatefair.com.

Georgia State Fair

Atlanta Motor Speedway / Sept. 30-Oct. 9 Petting zoo, tiger display, pig races, rides and more. Mon.Thurs. 4-10 p.m. Fri. 4 p.m.-midnight, Sat. 10 a.m. - midnight, Sun. noon-10 p.m. 1500 Tara Place, Hampton. 901-8677007. Adults, $10; ages 5-12, $5; 4 and younger, free. Ride wristbands: Sun.-Fri. $20; Sat. $25. georgiastatefair.org.

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

Could your baby, toddler or kid be one?

Atlanta, New York, LA

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www.williamreynoldsagency.com atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 53

Celebrate the autumn season with

fallfestivalfun

Enjoy live entertainment, stroll through an artist’s market or try a festive treat.

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

Pioneer Day Festival. Sam Smith Park.

Celebrate Labor Day with an arts and crafts show, festival foods, carnival rides, games and fireworks.

Sept. 2-5. Fri. 4-11 p.m. Sat., noon-11 p.m. Sun., 12 p.m.-11 p.m. Mon., noon-10 p.m. 1155 Douthit Ferry Rd., Cartersville. 770-974-9033. Adults, $5; ages 12 and younger, free.

Art in the Park. Glover Park. Celebrate fine arts from across the country. Kids K-12 can enjoy the Chalk Spot, a street chalk art display for aspiring artists, a free interactive ‘make and take’ area and Tiny Tot Town, an area specifically designed for toddlers with small toys, bounce house and crawling tube. Sept. 3-5. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Historic Marietta Square. 404-966-8497. Free.

Caribbean Jerk Festival. Georgia International Horse Park. Caribbean cuisine from Georgia’s top Caribbean restaurants, authentic Caribbean style food and produce market, arts and crafts, kids’ activity zone, and domino tournament.

Sept. 4. noon-10 p.m. 1996 Centennial Olympic Pkwy., Conyers. 770-860-4190. $25 until 5 p.m.; $30 after 5 p.m.; 12 and younger, free; $5 parking.

Nosh Fest. Temple Kol Emeth. Food from local restaurants, live music, community vendors and children’s games and inflatables. Sept. 4-5. Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Mon., 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 1415 Old Canton Rd., Marietta. noshfest.com. Admission is two canned goods per family. $1-$5 food tickets.

Yellow Daisy Festival. Stone Mountain Park.

Visitors can glimpse at the work of more than 400 artists and craftspeople. Kids can play in the Children’s Corner and enjoy craft demonstrations.

Sept. 8-11: Thurs. and Fri. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Hwy. 78, Stone Mountain. 1-800-401-2407. Free; parking, $15.

Taste of Kennesaw. Downtown Kennesaw.

Taste food from local restaurants, enjoy live entertainment, and take the kids to the Kids Zone with inflatables, an obstacle course, rock wall and more. Sept. 10. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-423-1330. Free admission, tickets for samples, $1-$4.

Taste of Soul Festival. Westside Village.

Sample all things Soul food and Southern cuisine.

Live bands, virtual reality booths and kid zone with festival games and prizes. Sept. 10. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. 808 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. NW, Atlanta. tasteofsoulatlanta.com. Free; food for purchase.

Pine Log Arts and Crafts Fair. Pine Log UMC Campground. Live entertainment, barbecue and arts and crafts. Sept. 10-11. Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Off Highway 411, Rydal. 770607-5350. Adults, $3; children younger than 12, free.

Hapeville Happy Days Festival. Jess Lucas Downtown Park. Live music Friday; games, rides, and arts and crafts Saturday. Sept. 16-17. Fri. 7-11 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 680 S. Central Ave., Hapeville. 404-669-2136. Free.

54 Atlanta Parent September 2016

Suwanee Fest

Inman Farm Heritage Days. Minter Farms.

Sept. 16-18. Hundreds of antique tractors and engines on display. See syrup making, quilting, blacksmithing and more. Fri.-Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sun., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 283 Hills Bridge Rd., Fayetteville. 770-461- 2840. Free.

Rock n’ Ribville. Lawrenceville Lawn. A fall festival celebrating all things BBQ, brisket and ribs complete with arts and crafts vendors and Kid’s Zone activities. Sept. 17. Noon-8 p.m. 210 Luckie St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-2639. Free; food for purchase.

Fall Folklife Festival. Atlanta History Center.

A variety of farm demonstrations, music and kid-friendly activities represent traditions of the Southeast. Sept. 17. 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-814-4000.

Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; 3 and younger, free. atlantahistorycenter.com East Cobber Parade and Festival. Johnson Ferry Baptist Church. See more than 80 floats, marching bands, classic cars and more. Parade begins at 1223 Johnson Ferry Rd. and travels south. Live entertainment, arts and crafts, carnival games and more at the festival. Sept. 17. Parade, 10 a.m. Festival, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, 955 Johnson Ferry Rd., Marietta.

770-640-7070. Free.

Taste of Smyrna Festival of Delectable.

Village Green. Taste food from local restaurants, enjoy live music and take the kids to the interactive Kids Zone. Sept. 17. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. 200 Village Green Cir. Smyrna. 770-423-1330. Free, tickets for samples $1-$4.

Marietta Streetfest. Glover Park in Marietta Square. Stroll through an artist’s market and antique alley, enjoy live music and gaze upon classic cars in the Hubcaps and History Classic

Family Fun Guide

car show. The kids will want to dash to the family fun zone, where they’ll find inflatables and artist stations.

Sept. 17-18: Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Marietta Square. 770-794-5710. Free.

Suwanee Fest. Town Center Park. Celebrate the City of Suwannee with games, kid’s activities, all-day on-stage entertainment, a parade and more. Sept.

17-18. Sat. Festival, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Parade begins at 9 a.m. Sun., noon- 5 p.m. 370 Buford Hwy., Suwannee.

770-945-8996. Free.

Art in the Square. Downtown Gainesville.

Youth artist alley, street chalk art competition, live entertainment and interactive art. Sept. 17-18. 10 a.m.5 p.m. Downtown Gainesville. 770-535-6860. Free.

Roswell Arts Festival. Roswell Town Square.

Live performances and arts and crafts for purchase.

Children’s painting, sand art, balloon animals and other activities. Sept. 17-18. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Downtown Roswell. 770-641-3705. Parking and shuttles available at City Hall. 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. 17-18.

Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 201 McIntosh Trail Peachtree City. 770-487-7656. Free.

Sandy Springs Festival. Heritage Sandy Springs. Fine art, live music and entertainment, children’s rides and gourmet food. Sept. 17-18. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Cir., Sandy Springs.

404-851-9111. $5.

Duluth Fall Festival. Taylor Miller Park. Live entertainment, arts and crafts, parade, 5K road race and carnival. Sept. 22-25. Thurs. and Fri. 6-10 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. W. Lawrence St. and Main St., Duluth. 855-385-8841.

Free.

atlantaparent.com

Riverfest Arts and Crafts Festival.

Boling Park. Arts and crafts, children’s area, antiques and live entertainment. Sept. 24-25.

Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Hwy. 5, Canton. 770-704-5991. Adults, $5; children 10 and younger, free.

A Taste of Culture: Take in flavors and music from three different parts of the world without ever buying a plane ticket.

These festivals showcase performances, activities, language and more to help expose your family to distinct cultures.

Beyond Atlanta

Atlanta Korean Festival

Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival. Callaway Gardens. Between balloon launches, experience a Kids Zone, live music, classic car show, or disc dog demonstration. Sept. 2-4. Visit callawaygardens. com for a full list of scheduled events. Hwy 27, Pine Mountain. 800-852-3810. Adults, $30; ages 6-12, $25; ages 5 and younger, free.

Korean Cultural Center Sept. 16-18. Fri. 3-9 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun. 4-8 p.m.

Live performances, exhibitions, cultural games and Korean food, as well as a performance from the Atlanta Philharmonic Orchestra.

5900 Brook Hollow Pkwy., Norcross. 770-813-8988.

Free; food for purchase. koreanfest.com.

Mountain Music and Arts & Crafts Festival. Vogel State Park. Bluegrass and gospel music and arts and crafts booths. Sept. 10. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 405 Vogel State Park Rd., Blairsville.

706-745-2628. $2-$5 plus $5 parking.

Chocolate Festival. Creative Discovery Museum. Spend the afternoon celebrating chocolate’s history, science and decadence. Make lotion using cocoa butter, sample three different types of chocolate and explore how chocolate pods are grown. Sept. 10. Noon-4 p.m. 321 Chestnut St., Chattanooga, Tenn. 423-756-2738. $13.95; younger than 1, free.

Fall Festival. BabyLand General Hospital. Enjoy rides, activities and costumed characters all while surrounded by Cabbage Patch kids. Reservations required. Sept. 10. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 300 N.O.K. Dr., Cleveland. 706-865-2171. Free.

Rail Fest. Grand Junction Station. Hop on the Missionary Ridge Local train that takes you along one of the original railroad lines in Chattanooga.

The train will be running at various times, but you can also enjoy operating model railroads, live music, a moon walk, play tables, mini golf, a petting zoo and more. Sept. 10-11. Sat., 9 a.m.

Sun., 10 a.m. 4119 Cromwell Rd., Chattanooga.

423-894-8028. Adults. $25; child, $20; 1 and younger, free.

Apple Pickin’ Jubilee. Hillcrest Orchards.

Apple picking, cow milking, mule-drawn wagon rides, pig racing, live entertainment and more.

Sept. 10-Oct. 30. Sat. and Sun. 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

9696 Hwy. 52 E., Ellijay. 706-273-3838. $10 per person.

JapanFest Infinite Energy Center Sept. 17, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sept. 18, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Celebrate all things Japanese culture with musical and dance performances, martial arts demos, a tea ceremony, workshops about Japanese kimonos, kids’ area with crafts, games and more. Stroll through Ginza St. for Japanese goods, the Anime village and taste Japanese street foods. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 404-842-0736.

Adults, $10; ages 6 and younger, free. japanfest.org.

Arts in the Heart of Augusta. Augusta Commons. Over 20 different cultures will be featured, international cuisine, live entertainment and a children’s area. Costumed performers and a scavenger hunt. Sept. 16-18. Fri. 5-9 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun. noon-7 p.m. Historic Downtown Augusta. 706-826-4702. Adults, $10; children younger than 10, free.

Atlanta Greek Festival Greek Orthodox Cathedral Sept. 23-25. Fri. 5-11 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Ocmulgee Indian Celebration. Ocmulgee National Monument. More than 200 craftsmen, dancers, storytellers and living history demonstrators celebrate rich Native American history. Sept. 17-18. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1207 Emery Hwy., Macon. 478-752-8257. 13 and older, $6; Ages 6-12, $3; 5 and younger, free.

Greek food, music, dancing, hands-on children’s activities, cultural exhibits and more. Stop by the Greek “drive-through,” for a quick bite, or visit the children’s tent for face painting and crafts. 2500 Clairmont Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-633-5870.

Adults, $5; ages 12 and younger, free. atlantagreekfestival.org.

Ghost Train. 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. 23-24. 7:30-11:30 p.m. U.S. Hwy. 321 between Boone and Blowing Rock, NC. 877-8933874. $36; younger than 2, free. c

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September 2016 Atlanta Parent 55

CORN MAZES Get lost between the corn stalks in this Ahh-MAZE-ing autumn tradition.

Besides just corn mazes, these farms are packed full of animals to pet, jumping pillows, hayrides and more fun to bring on the fall season.

Prices typically range from $5-$25 depending on the activity. Some mazes operate on Fridays, so check wesbsites for details. n Buford Corn Maze. Buford.

Sept. 3-Nov. 13. Sept. & Nov.: weekends.

Oct: Mon. & Wed.; weekends. 678-835-7198. bufordcornmaze.com. n Pettit Creek Farm. Cartersville.

Sept. 5-Nov. 1. Weekdays after 2 p.m; weekends. 770-386-8688. pettitcreekfarms.com. n Jaemor Farms. Alto. Sept. 10-Nov. 6.

Weekends. 770-869-3999. jaemorfarms.com. n Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze.

Dawsonville. Sept. 10-Nov. 20. Weekends.

1-888-674-8257. uncleshucks.com. n Corn Dawgs. Loganville. Sept. 16-Nov. 6.

Weekends. 770-786-9000. corndawgs.com.

n Yahoo Farms. Jasper. Sept. 17-Oct. 31.

Daily. 770-735-3638. yahoofarm.com. n Southern Belle Farms. McDonough.

Sept. 17-Nov. 6. Weekends. 770-288-2582. southernbellefarm.com. n Washington Farms. Bogart.

Sept. 24-Oct. 30. Weekends. 706-769-0627. washingtonfarms.net. n Colonel Cob’s Corn Maze. Oxford.

Sept. 24-Nov. 6. Weekends. 770-855-1530. mitchamfarm.com. n Uncle Bob’s Pumpkin Patch and Tricky Crop Maze. Redwine Farms, Newnan. Sept. 25-Nov. 6. Weekends.

770-253-8100. unclebobspumpkinpatch.com. n Enchanted MAiZE. Blowing Springs Farm, Flintstone.

Sept. 30-Oct. 30. Weekends. 706-820-2531. blowingspringsfarm.com. n Big Springs Farms. Woodstock.

Oct. 1-30. Weekends. 678-899-3900. bigspringsfarms.com. n Poppell Farms. Odum.

Oct. 1-30. Weekends. 912-586-2215. poppellfarms.com. n Lane Southern Orchards. Fort Valley. Oct. 1-30. Wed.-Sun. 478-825-3362. lanesouthernorchards.com.

Buford Corn Maze

At Pettit Creek Farms Sept. 17-18 & 24-25 October: Closed on Mondays

Tues-Fri. 2-6pm Sat & Sun 10am-6pm

Hayrides Corn Maze Exotic Animals 770-386-8688

FAMILY FARM FUN

56 Atlanta Parent September 2016

Family Fun Guide

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The Pumpkin Patch at Yule Forest WEEKENDS ember - October Sep t Market Open Daily Farm Milk a Cow Mini Golf Swimming Playground Pig Races NEW Apple Petting Farm Tree Maze Wagon Rides Pony Rides

V Pick pumpkins right off the vine V Sunflower Patch V Honey Bee House V Petting zoo V Puppet show Hayrides V Chicken Coop & Tiny Gardens V Country Store V Fun zone and so much more!

Sunflower Festival Oct. 1 st FEAR THE WOODS.com

R&A Orchard

apple picking Take a fall family road trip to these orchards and pick your own crisp apples right from their branches.

(Night Time Weekends Only) School Field Trips – weekdays

706-273-3838

www.hillcrestorchards.net applelan@ellijay.com

AHaunted House AHaunted Hayride A Pandemic Frontline Combat 770-954-9356 Yu l e F o r e s t . c o m

B.J. Reece Apple House

9131 Hwy. 52 East, Ellijay.

706-276-3048; reeceorchards.com Sept. 1-Oct. 31, Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Sun. 1-6 p.m.

U-Pick is a chance to go into the orchards and pick your own apples straight from the tree.

You can even try a taste of each apple to find your favorite flavor. Gala, Red and Granny Smith are just a few of the apples in season. To pick your own, pay the orchard entrance fee of $2 weekdays and $5 weekends, and buy a bag to fill with apples. Prices range from $7 for a halfpeck to $18 for a half-bushel.

Hillcrest Orchards

9696 Hwy. 52 East, Ellijay.

706-273-3838; hillcrestorchards.net Weekends in Sept. and Oct., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

“Apple Pickin’ Jubilee” is this orchard’s apple picking festival. Small children will especially enjoy picking from Hillcrest’s dwarf trees with apples hanging well within reach.

Don’t miss their new attraction, the apple maze!

Seven varieties of apples are available to pick. $10 with apple picking bags costing $6 for a half-peck, $9 for a peck and $14 for a halfbushel.

Cont’d on page 58

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September 2016 Atlanta Parent 57

apple picking Mercier Orchards

8660 Blue Ridge Dr., Blue Ridge.

706-632-3411; mercier-orchards.com Weekends in Sept. and Oct., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

This orchard is the largest in the state.

The do-it-yourself apple picking starts with a tractor ride to the orchards and a brief talk about Mercier’s history. Gala, Blonde and Golden Supreme apples will be ready to pick. The tractor ride is $4 per person. $12 for a peck of apples; $6 for a halfpeck.

R&A Orchard

5505 Hwy. 52 East. Ellijay.

706-273-3821; randaorchards.com Weekends in Sept., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Grab the family and walk or take a wagon to the orchard. Here you only pay for the apples that you pick. Granny Smith, Rome Beauty, Fuji and Golden Delicious are a few of the apples in harvest at the orchard. Call ahead for a reservation for your family.

Red Apple Barn

3379 Tailscreek Rd., Ellijay.

706-635-5898; redapplebarn.com Weekends in Sept. and Oct., Sat. 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. 1-4 p.m.

Load the family on the tractor and head out to the orchard. Tractor ride to and from the orchard, tour of the farm, pick an apple from the orchard, a cup of cold cider and an apple cider donut are all included in the $7 admission; 3 and younger, free.

Additional bags can be purchased for $4, a quarter-peck; $6, a half-peck; $12 for a peck.

Red Apple Barn

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Family Fun Guide

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Stroll with the Family on

T

he renowned glass sculptor Dale Chihuly returns to the Atlanta Botanical Garden with an expansive display of 19 sites, some made expressly for this show, scattered throughout the now 30-acre garden.

While you can see the sculptures during the regular daytime hours, a special treat is to visit Chihuly Nights, where you can stroll the garden through the sunset and view the transformation of the sculptures from brilliant sunlight to dazzling night lighting.

At least two laps of the garden are needed to fully appreciate this change – one prior to sunset and, of course, again afterwards. The works range from the Saffron Tower (2008), which stands like a flaming beacon at the end of the Water Mirror, to the Black and Green Striped Herons with Icicle Clusters (2015) shimmering in the reflecting pool surrounded by a myriad of orchids in the Fuqua Orchid Center.

While waiting for the sunset, grab a bite in the Petit Café or, for a more sophisticated sit-down dinner, visit the delightful Linton’s restaurant and sample

atlantaparent.com

dishes created by Chef Linton Hopkins.

After sunset the sculptures take on their own life as their hues deepen and brighten against the background of the darkening evening. Fern Dell Paintbrushes (2016) blazes amidst the Southern Seasons Garden.

Wander among the glowing Green Hornets and Waterdrops (2014) and Neodymium Reeds (2016) – look, but don’t touch!

Younger visitors can take an exhibit map and navigate the family through the gardens to find each sculpture. When finding a sculpture ask the kids, “Without looking at its title, what would you name it?” Look at it again in the dark, and ask, “Would you still name it the same? Do you agree with what the artist named it?”

Other conversation starters: “Can you believe all of these are made from sand?

How in the world do you make these fascinating works of art from sand?”

(Parent’s hint: Check out the videos showing how in the Chihuly Gift Shop.)

Who knew seeing an art exhibit could be this cool?

– Dan Ward

Family Fun Guide

Photo by Katherine Ward

Chihuly Nights

If You Go Chihuly Nights Atlanta Botanical Garden 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta 404-876- 5859; atlantabg.org n Exhibit Hours: 6-10 p.m. (last entry at 10 p.m., garden closes at 11 p.m.) Wed.-Sun. through Oct. 30.

Garden’s regular daytime hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Wed.-Sun., 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Tue. n Cost: Adults $21.95, ages 3-12 $15.95, younger than 3 free. Paid garden admission is required to dine at Linton’s in the evening (advance reservations recommended). n Information: On-site parking in the SAGE garage for $10 ($5 for carpools of 4 or more Fri.-Sun.).

September 2016 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

FALL FOLKLIFE FESTIVAL

classes

Atlanta History Center SEPT. 17.

10:30 A.M.-4:30 P.M.

Drop-In Art Classes. Treehouse Kid & Craft.

Enjoy weekly activities including painting, drawing and sculpting inspired by the seasons, holidays, nature, artists, or community happenings. Every Sat. 10 a.m. (ages 2-4) and 11 a.m. (ages 5-10). 533 W. Howard Ave., Ste. A, Decatur. 470-355-8305. $12.

A variety of farm demonstrations, music and kid-friendly activities represent traditions of the Southeast. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-8144000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; 3 and younger, free. atlantahistorycenter.com

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

Different activities each week. Sept. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29. 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. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta.

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

Home Depot Kids Workshop. All locations. Learn tool safety and make a craft. Sept. 3. 9 a.m.noon. Homedepot.com. Ages 5-12. Free.

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

Sept. 6, 13, 20 and 27. 10 a.m.-noon. 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. 770-765-2000. Free.

Tot Spot. Atlantic Station’s Central Park. A variety of activities including storytellers, face painters or arts and crafts each month. Sept. 6, 13, 20 and 27. 10 a.m.-noon. 1380 Atlantic Drive, Atlanta. 404-410-4010. Free.

Mice Tours. Marietta Museum of History. Mascots Murray and Etta mouse introduce history through tours, storytime and crafts geared for ages 3-5. Sept. 14. 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 2-4. Sept. 8. 10:30 a.m.-noon. 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth. 770-495-0253. $9 per child, one adult free, additional adult, $11.

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

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

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

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

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

60 Atlanta Parent September 2016

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.

Turtle Tours. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum.

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

Donations encouraged.

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

Supplies included. Ages 2-12. Every Sat. 10 and 11 a.m. 1675 Cumberland Pkwy., Smyrna. 678-213-4278. Pre-register. $15, siblings $12.

Indoor Basic Archery. Panola Mountain State Park. Release your inner Katniss while learning archery basics. All equipment provided. Ages 9 and older. Sept. 3-5, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24 and 25. 10 a.m.-noon. Preregister. 2620 Highway 155 SW, Stockbridge.

770-389-7801. $15; parking, $5.

Toddler Time. Georgia Aquarium. Meet and learn about a marine animal, enjoy a costumed character appearance, story time, craft activities and a small snack. Sept. 12.

10-11:30 a.m. Reservations required. Ages 0-3. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-581-4000. $8/person + museum admission. Adults, $39.95; ages 3-12, $33.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

Family Fun Guide

exhibits African Galleries. Michael C. Carlos Museum. The new exhibit will offer insight into African artistic expressions, from personal identity to community entertainment and communion with the divine (remove date). Tues.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. noon- 5 p.m. 571 South Kilgo Cir., Atlanta. 404-727-4282. Adults $8; ages 6-17, $6; 5 and younger, free.

XOXO: An Exhibit About Love & Forgiveness.

Children’s Museum of Atlanta. This exhibit encourages children and their caregivers to take a deep breath and explore powerful feelings and the effects they have on themselves and on others. Through Sept. 5. Mon., Tues., Thurs. and Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 275 Centen¬nial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-6595437. $14.95; younger than 1, free.

Spin. Tellus Science Museum. Learn how objects spin, why things spin at different speeds, and how we use spinning objects in our daily lives.

Through Sept. 5. Mon.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. Adults, $14; ages 3-17, $10; ages 2 and younger, free.

Fashion in Good Taste: Women in Atlanta from 1920-1969. Swan House. Showcases pieces from the collection of the Atlanta History Center and features examples of the fashion and defining clothing from the 1920s to the 1960s.

Through Oct. 10. Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun., 1-4 p.m. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta.

404-814-4000. Included in museum admission.

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

atlantaparent.com

Calendar Chihuly in the Garden. Atlanta Botanical Garden.

Internationally acclaimed artist, Dale Chihuly, returns to the Garden for an encore exhibition of his spectacular art. Through Oct. 30. Tues., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Wed.-Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and 6-10 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859.

Adults, $21.95; ages 3-12, $15.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

Tiovivo: Whimsical Sculptures by Jaime Hayon.

High Museum of Art. Features four wooden sculptures specifically sized for children in the familiar shapes of animals or objects, which inspire playful interaction. Through Nov. 27.

Tues.-Thurs. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Fri. 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. noon-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4400. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free.

Atlanta in 50 Objects. Atlanta History Center.

Parents can show the kids the past with objects from Martin Luther King Jr.’s 1964 Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech manuscript to Georgia Tech’s Ramblin’ Wreck, and see a collection that showcases 50 city-defining pieces that make Atlanta “Atlanta.” Through Dec. 31. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sun., noon-5:30 p.m. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; ages 3 and younger, free.

I See a Story: The Art of Eric Carle. High Museum of Art. Features more than 80 collages from 16 of Carle’s most popular books that span his 50-year career, including many original works rarely on view. Through Jan. 8. Tues.-Thurs. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Fri. 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. noon-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404733-4400. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free.

SESAME STREET LIVE: ELMO MAKES MUSIC Fox Theatre SEPT. 17 & 18.

SEE FOXTHEATRE.ORG FOR SHOW TIMES. When the teacher’s instruments go missing, Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Big Bird and more come to the rescue. Sing with your favorite Sesame Street characters. 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. Adults, $20$45; ages 2 and younger, free. foxtheatre.org.

Where Children Sleep. David J. Sencer CDC Museum.

Photographer James Mollison’s photography series, “Where Children Sleep,” captures personal portraits of children from around the world, alongside images of where they sleep each night.

Through October 28. 1600 Clifton Rd., NE, Atlanta.

404-639-0830. Free.

Art Lab. High Museum of Art. An interactive exhibition space for families to discover, create, play and imagine through hands-on art activities. Work with Atlanta artist Esteban Patiño through Sept. 11. Aug. 7, 1-4 p.m. Aug. 11, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4400.

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

Where the Wild Things Are. The Breman Musuem. The exhibition features drawings, artifacts and biographical information as well as fun, interactive activities all featuring your child’s favorite storybook characters. Sun.-Thurs. 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Closed Sat. 1440 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 678-222-3724.

Adults, $12; ages 3-6, $4; younger than 3, free.

FALL! FAMILY! FOLK ART! FOOD! Visit our Fall Folklife Festival September 17, 2016 10:30am-4:30pm atlantahistorycenter.com

Major funding is provided by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners

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Family Fun Guide

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 61

Calendar

ATLANTA WARBIRD WEEKEND

Mach Speed: MiG-21 Jet Cockpit. Tellus Science Museum. Get a peek inside the cockpit of a MiG-21 and imagine what it was like to fly the jet fighter at supersonic speeds. See a Soviet flight suit and an interactive control panel. Through March 26. 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.

DeKalb-Peachtree Airport SEPT. 24 & 25.

10 A.M. - 4P.M. Aircraft rides, cockpit tours, historical reenactors, military equipment displays and live 1940s era music. Meet WWII veterans and see the historic aircraft. 2000 Airport Rd., Atlanta. 404-202-9348.

Free; parking, $10 cash. atlantawarbirdweekend.com.

Magic Tree House. Children’s Museum of Atlanta.

Based on the popular children’s books, hop inside Jack and Annie’s magical tree house and explore American history through a timetraveling adventure. Sept. 24-Jan 16. Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-6595437. $14.95; younger than 1, free.

ghost tours Decatur Ghost Tours. Decatur. Come meet some of Decatur’s ghosts on this historical, paranormal walking tour of downtown Decatur.

Ev0ery Fri. and Sat. 8 p.m. 101 East Court Sq., Decatur. 404- 296-7771. Adults, $15; 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. 8:30 p.m. 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville.

678-226-6222. Adults, $12; 16 and younger, $9.

Movies by Moonlight. Sandy Springs United Methodist Church. Outdoor movie series on the lawn. Sept. 9, “The Jungle Book.” Sept. 30, “Minions.” 86 Mount Vernon Hwy., Atlanta. 404256-9091. Free.

music

Roswell Ghost Tours. Roswell. Take a walking ghost tour led by paranormal investigators.

Every Fri., Sat. and Sun. 8:30 p.m. 617 Atlanta St., Roswell. 770-649-9922. Adults, $15; ages 12 and younger, $10.

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. 7, 14, 21 and 28. 5:30 p.m. 265 Park Ave. West NW, Atlanta.

404-222-7275. Tickets, $5.

Ghosts of Marietta. Marietta. A 90-minute lantern led walk through historic Marietta. Every Fri., Sat. and Sun. 8 p.m. 131 Church St., Marietta.

770-425-5755. Adults, $17; ages 12 and younger, $12.

Riverside Sounds. Riverside Park. Outdoor concerts feature a variety of musical styles; food trucks are on site. Bring blankets or chairs. Sept.

3. 7-9 p.m. 575 Riverside Rd., Roswell. 770-6413705. Free.

movies A Beautiful Planet. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. See an awe-inspiring glimpse of Earth from space, providing a unique perspective and increased understanding of our planet and galaxy as never seen before. Through Sept. 15. 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.

Flicks on the Bricks. Duluth Town Green. Grab a bite from the surrounding food trucks then enjoy a movie under the stars. Sept. 2, “Cinderella” Sept. 16, “Batman vs. Superman.” Movies start at dusk by the fountain. 3167 Main St., Duluth.

770-476-3434. Free.

Movie Under the Stars. Gerald Matthews Sports Complex. Movie begins at dusk. Bring popcorn and a blanket. Sept. 10, “Cinderella.” Gerald Matthews Sports Complex, 1935 McDonough Rd., Hampton. 770-473-3800. Free.

Flick-Nic. Candler Park. Movie under the stars with other festivities starting an hour prior in front of the pool house. Movies begin at dark.

Blankets and picnic dinner encouraged. Sept.

17, “McFarland USA.” 585 Candler Park Dr. NE, Atlanta. 404-546-6757. Free.

62 Atlanta Parent September 2016

Friday Jazz. High Museum of Art. Enjoy a jazz quintet in the atrium with uplifting, exciting jazz music sure to inspire the audience. Sept. 16.

6-10 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-7335000. $10.

Lawrenceville’s Summer Concerts. Lawrenceville Lawn. Bring chairs or blankets, pack a picnic dinner and enjoy a concert. Sept. 30. 8-10 p.m.

210 Luckie St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-2639. Free.

Glover Park Concert Series. Glover Park. Pack a picnic and blanket to hear Members Only. Sept.

30. 8 p.m. 50 Park Sq., Marietta. 770-794-5601.

Free.

Music at Noon. Centennial Olympic Park. Enjoy lunch and live music performed by local artists – from pop and R&B to classic jazz. Every Tues. and Thurs., through Oct. noon-1 p.m., 265 Park Ave. West, Atlanta. 404-223-4412. Free.

Concerts by the Springs. Heritage Green. Bring picnic baskets, coolers and blankets for an outdoor concert. Sept. 11. 7-8:30 p.m. 6110 Bluestone Rd., Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111.

Free.

Sundays on the River Concert: Montana Skies.

Chattahoochee Nature Center. Combines elements of classical technique, jazz improv and rock n’ roll. Bring a chair or blanket for the lawn. Sept. 11. 7-9 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m.

9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $17.50; ages 11-18, $15; 10 and younger, free.

Family Fun Guide

Duluth Fall Festival Concert. Duluth Town Green.

Celebrate the beginning of fall with the band “On The Border.” Sept. 10. 6:30 p.m. 3167 Main St., Duluth. 770-476-3434. Free.

Summer Concert Series. Thrasher Park. Listen to the sounds of A1A while enjoying a picnic dinner. Sept. 2 7:30-9:30 p.m. 93 Park Dr., Norcross. 678-421-2027. Free.

Salute to America and The Arts Celebrity Concert. Callanwolde. Sept. 10. Daytime celebration 1-6 p.m.; concert 1:30-9:30 p.m.

To raise scholarship funds for veterans and students in need. CeeLo Green and the Celebrity All-Star Band will be preforming.

Kids activities and food trucks also on site.

980 Briarcliff Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-872-5338.

Daytime, $10; concert, $100.

Concerts on the Square. Decatur Square. Various bands perform every Saturday night in Sept.

Sept. 10, 17 and 24. 7 p.m. Downtown Decatur.

404-371-8386. Free.

nature Stroller / Adventure Cubs. Zoo Atlanta. Play and learn about different animals each week.

Babies-2 years, Sept. 21, 24. Ages 3-4, Sept. 7, 10, 17. 10-11 a.m. 800 Cherokee Ave., Atlanta.

404-624-5822. Reservations required. $12 per person includes zoo admission.

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

Advance registration required. Sept. 3 and 24 noon- 1:30 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770992-2055. Ages 5 and older, $15.

Feeding Time. Chattahoochee Nature Center.

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

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

Weekends in the Naturalist Center. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Activities include animal encounters, science explorations and more. Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300.

Activities included with price of admission.

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

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Calendar Outdoor Skills Day. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Enjoy the outdoors while learning basic outdoor skills. Canoeing, camping, cooking and more. Sept. 18. Noon. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free.

Toddler Trek/ Forest Friends. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center.

Experience nature while learning the names of local animals and plants and singing songs.

Sept. 6, 20. 18-36 months, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Ages 4 and 5, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Pre-register.

2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. $10; members $8.

Garden Playtime. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Fun with hands-on learning and sensory stations.

Ages 6 mo.-4 yrs. Sept. 6, 13, 20 and 27. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta.

404-876-5859. Adults, $21.95; ages 3-12, $15.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

Garden Grooves. Atlanta Botanical Garden.

Dance, join in for a sing-a-long and play with instruments and scarves. Ages 2-4. Sept. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29. 10:30 a.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Adults, $21.95; ages 3-12, $15.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

Geology Hike. Sweetwater Creek State Park.

Geologist leads a moderate 2-mile hike identifying rock types and explaining how they formed. Also visit the ruins of a Civil War era mill alongside the rapids of Sweetwater Creek.

Sept. 10. 10 a.m.-noon. 1750 Mt. Vernon Rd., Lithia Springs. 770-732-5871. $6; $5 parking.

Moonlight Mountain Hike. Panola Mountain State Park. Hike up Panola Mountain to enjoy the sunset over Atlanta then stop by a lakeside campfire to enjoy s’mores. Bring bug spray, hiking boots and water. Ages 10 and older.

Sept. 10. 7-9 p.m. 2620 Highway 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. Pre-register. $15; parking $5.

Frog Feeding. Atlanta Botanical Garden. The frogs jump into action and stick out their tongues when presented with their meal, watch the conservation team feed the rare and endangered amphibians. Included with admission. Sept. 3, 10, 17 and 24. 11 a.m.

1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859.

Adults, $21.95; ages 3-12, $15.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

Little Diggers. Heritage Sandy Springs.

Gardening series to learn about the world of horticulture. Sept. 10. 10-11 a.m., create mosaics with dried beans and seeds or flowers. Ages 6-10. 6100 Lake Forrest Dr., Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111. Free.

Friday Night Hike. Dunwoody Nature Center.

Enjoy this rare chance to hike and connect with nature after-hours allowing for a completely different sensory experience as the night animals take over. Sept. 23. 8-9 p.m. 5343 Roberts Dr. Dunwoody. 770-394-3322. Free.

Creature Feature. Panola Mountain State Park.

A Panola Mountain Ranger introduces you to reptiles in this animal show. Learn about turtles, snakes, salamanders and more.

Sept. 17. 2-3 p.m. 2620 Highway 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. Pre-register. $2; $5 parking.

Labor Day Tree Climbing. Panola Mountain State Park. A course on rope tree climbing for ages 8 and older. Sept. 5. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 2620 Highway 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. $5; $5 parking.

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Hummingbird Banding. Smith-Gilbert Gardens.

Watch a federal master permit holder band hummingbirds, and maybe even hold one yourself. Make your own hummingbird ornament and play lawn games like corn hole, ring toss and Frisbee. Sept. 10. 8-11 a.m. 2382 Pine Mountain Rd., Kennesaw. 770-919-0248. Pre-register. Adults $7; ages 6-12, $5; 5 and younger, free.

Red Panda Day. Zoo Atlanta. Celebrate “the other panda” with a day devoted to Idgie the red panda and her species. Family activities, a zoo keeper talk and more. Sept.17. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

800 Cherokee Ave., Atlanta. 404-624-5822. $25.99; ages 3-11, $17.99; 2 and younger, free.

Play the Animal Way. Zoo Atlanta. Take a look at the activities zookeepers use to keep animals active, interested and engaged. Keeper talks and training demos, crafts and themed activities.

Sept. 10. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 800 Cherokee Ave., Atlanta. 404-624-5822. $25.99; ages 3-11, $17.99; 2 and younger, free.

Eco Quest. Dunwoody Nature Center. Learn more about the habitats, animals and plants in the park. Sept. 17. 1-2:30 p.m. 5343 Roberts Dr. Dunwoody. 770-394-3322. Adults, free; 4-12, $10; 3 and younger, free.

Eco Explorers. Dunwoody Nature Center. Naturebased theme, craft, activity stations, circle time and hike. Ages 2-5. Sept. 10. 10-11:30 a.m. 5343 Roberts Dr., Dunwoody. 770-394-3322. Adults, free; 2-5, $10.

special events Fridays -N- Duluth. Downtown Duluth. Activities include movies, musicians and children’s activities each Friday night. Sept. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30. 6-9 p.m. Food for purchase or bring a picnic.

3167 Main St., Duluth. 770-476-3434. Free.

Family Fun. Woodruff Arts Center. Explore, play, learn and create art in an interactive, familyfriendly environment with free activities. Every Sun., 1-4 p.m. Sept. 4, 11, 18 and 25. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4200. Free.

Talk Like a Pirate Day. LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Guests will receive free admission for the day, or a voucher for future use, and an eye patch upon arrival. Sept. 19. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 3500 Peachtree Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-848-9252. Free.

Atlanta Beltline Lantern Parade. Eastside Trail. Art on the BeltLine kicks off with an evening Lantern Parade, a glowing procession of light and music.

Families can light up the BeltLine and participate with a handmade lantern. Sept. 10. 7:30-11 p.m. Line up at Irwin Street and Krog Street; the parade concludes at Piedmont Park’s Lawn.

404-446-4408. Free.

Paws in the Park. Lawrenceville Lawn. Bring your dog to the park and meet with pet trainers and a variety of pet businesses and vendors. Also, treat your pet to his own dog portrait with the on-site artist. Sept. 10. 12-4 p.m. 210 Luckie St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-2639. Free.

The World’s Largest Dinosaurs Opening Day. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Help celebrate the newest exhibition, “The World’s Largest Dinosaurs” with a day full of hands-on learning opportunities. Come face-to-face with some of the biggest creatures in the world of paleontology. Sept. 17. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Adults, $18; ages 3-12, $16; ages 2 and younger, free.

Family Fun Guide

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 63

Calendar Dragon Con Parade Downtown Atlanta. The largest pop culture convention featuring comics, film, TV and gaming boasts a character-filled parade through downtown. Sept. 3. 10 a.m. 404-6690773. Free.

Atlanta British Car Fayre. Downtown Norcross. See hundreds of classic British cars and motorcycles, and shop used goods from vendors selling out of their trunks. Sept. 10. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. atlantabritishcarfayre.com. 65 Lawrenceville St., Norcross. Free.

Brownwood Bike Rally. Celebrate cycling, fitness and health. Includes street bike races and a bike safety rodeo for kids, a health fair and a festival area featuring family-friendly activities. Sept. 17.

10 a.m.-2 p.m. 602 Brownwood Ave. SE, Atlanta.

404-627-8050. Pre-register. Adults, $10-20; 5-15, free.

IronKids Alpharetta. Wills Park Pool. Watch the nation’s top youth triathlon talent and first-time triathletes swim, bike and run their way to the finish line. Ages 6-15. Sept. 18. 7:15-11:45 a.m.

1815 Old Milton Pkwy., Alpharetta. 504-454-6561.

Free; $50 to compete.

September Saturdays. Douglas County Courthouse.

Marketplace with community vendors, children’s play area with inflatables and family amusement rides. Sept. 17 and 24. 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m. 8700 Hospital Dr., Douglasville. 770-920-7593. Free.

Atlanta Warbird Weekend. DeKalb-Peachtree Airport. Aircraft rides, cockpit tours, historical reenactors, military equipment displays and live 1940s era music. Sept. 24 and 25. 10 a.m.- 4p.m.

2000 Airport Rd., Atlanta. 404-202-9348. Free; parking, $10 cash.

64 Atlanta Parent September 2016

Pirate and Princess Day. Georgia Aquarium. Bring your prince, princess or pirate for a day of royal treatment and fun with special activities 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sept. 10. Free entry for ages 12 and younger dressed in costume with paying adult from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta.

404-581-4000. Adults, $39.95; ages 3-12, $33.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

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.

Stop, Drop and Roll! Martin Luther King Jr. Branch Library.

The Atlanta Fire Rescue Department will conduct an educational puppet and fire truck show. Sept. 20. 10:3011:30 a.m. Ages 3-10. 409 John Wesley Dobbs Dr., Atlanta. Wren’s Nest Storytelling. The Wren’s Nest.

Ramblers host storytelling each Sat. 1 p.m. 1050 404-730-1185. Free.

Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd., Atlanta. 404-753-7735.

Jim Henson’s 80th Birthday Celebration. Center for Adults, $9; ages 4-12, $6; ages 4 and younger, Puppetry Arts. 11 a.m., guided tour of the “Jim Henson free. Price includes storytelling.

Collection;” 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. Henson-focused Storybook Time. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Listen to storytime; 1-4 p.m. fantastical friends puppet building; 2-5 stories about bees, butterflies, frogs and flowers. p.m. Q&A with Jim Henson puppet conservators. Sept. 24.

Meet in the Turner Broadcasting Garden Theater.

11 a.m.-5 p.m. 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 404-873-3089.

Sept. 7, 14, 21 and 28. 10:30-11 a.m. 1345 PiedIncluded with museum admission. $10.50; ages 2 and mont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Adults, $21.95; younger, free. Guided tour and film screenings are extra. ages 3-12, $15.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

Classics at the Crossing. Southeastern Railway Museum.

Garden Stories. Smith Gilbert Gardens. Young Classic car show with many models of vehicles on display. Bill’s Grills on Wheels available for lunch onsite.

Sprouts ages 3-6 years old and their caregivers Sept. 24. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 770-476-2013. 3595 Buford enjoy a story on a garden-related topic, crafts, Hwy., Duluth. Included with museum admission. dancing and playtime. Sept. 7 and 21. 10:30 Adults, $10; Ages 2-12, $7; 2 and younger, free. a.m. 2382 Pine Mountain Rd., Kennesaw. 770919-0248. Pre-register. Adults, $7; ages 3-6, $7.

storytelling

Storytime at Barnes & Noble. Perimeter Barnes & Noble. Come enjoy a different themed storytime this month with coloring and other activities to follow. Sept. 3, 10, 17 and 24. 11 a.m. 120 Perimeter Center West, Atlanta. 770-396-1200. Free.

Storytime by the River. Chattahoochee Nature Center.

Join the volunteer librarian as she uses books, puppets Magic Monday. Atlanta History Center. Storytime, and songs to share stories about nature. Ages 3-5. sing-a-longs and crafts. Sept. 12. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Sept. 7. 10:30-11:30 a.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell.

130 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4110.

770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and Adults, $6.50; ages 5 and younger, $5.50. younger, free.

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Classified Marketplace

Calendar Family Storytelling: Father Goose Brigade.

Callanwolde. Listen to the men of the Father Goose Brigade tell some of the South’s best stories. Sept. 22. 7-8 p.m. 980 Briarcliff Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-872-5338. $5.

American Girl Book Club. American Girl Boutique and Bistro. Discuss an American Girl book, make a craft and sip on pink lemonade. Ages 8 and older. Sept. 23. 4:30 p.m.. 1202 North Point Circle, Alpharetta. 877-247-5223. Reservations required. $10.

Themed Storytime and Crafts. College Park Branch Library. Children will listen to stories and create crafts; each day is a different theme. Sept.

7, 8, 12, 19, 22, 26 and 28. Ages 4-6. 10:30 a.m.

Pre-register. 3647 Main St., College Park. 404762-4060. Free.

On Your Mark, Get Set … Back to School!

Storytime. West End Branch Library. Children will listen to back to school stories to prepare for the school year. Sept. 6, 13 and 20. 10 a.m. 525 Peeples St. SW, Atlanta. 404-752-8740. Free.

Children’s Storytime. Mechanicsville Branch Library. Children will enjoy various stories with finger plays, songs and crafts. Every Tues. 10:30 a.m. Pre-register. 400 Formwalt St. SW, Atlanta.

404-730-4779. Free.

Early Riser Storytime for Tots. Spruill Oaks Branch Library. Children will play, learn and explore through interactive stories, songs and finger plays. Sept. 13, 20 and 27. 10:15 a.m. 9560 Spruill Rd., Johns Creek. 770-360-8820. Free.

Storytime with Friends. Ocee Branch Library.

Storytime for ages 0-5. Encouraged to invite friends to join. Sept. 27. 10:30-11:30 a.m. 5090 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek. 770-360-8897. Free.

A Balloon for Grandad and Flowers for Grandmother. Central Library. Sept. 10. 2-3 p.m.

Celebrate Grandparent’s Day with storytime and a craft. Ages 4-8. Pre-register. One Margaret Mitchell Sq., Atlanta. 404-730-1781. Free.

Rickety, Rackety Rack Goes the Book Train!

Martin Luther King Jr. Branch Library. The Children’s Librarian will be reading stories and conducting finger plays and crafts about wagons and trains. Sept. 6. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Ages 4-8.

409 John Wesley Dobbs Dr., Atlanta. 404-7301185. Free.

The Busy Ant Finally Gets a Day Off, Yay! Martin Luther King Jr. Branch Library. Author Bonny Becker will be reading “An Ants Day Off,” and conducting songs and crafts about ants. Sept.

13. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Ages 4-8. 409 John Wesley Dobbs Dr., Atlanta. 404-730-1185. Free.

C L ASSE S Amphitheater Programs. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Enjoy a variety of live performances from some of Atlanta’s best storytellers, actors and musicians. Sept.

3, 10, 17 and 24. 10:30-11:30 a.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859.

Adults, $21.95; ages 3-12, $15.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

Old MacDonald’s Farm. Center for Puppetry Arts. Little ones will move, sing and help the farmhands on Old MacDonald’s farm.

Through Sept. 11. Tues.-Fri., 10 and 11:30 a.m. Sat., 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. Sun., 1 and 3 p.m. 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta.

404-873-3089. $6.75; ages 2 and younger, free.

Tech Time Academy. Technology Learning Center for kids offering classes in coding, robotics, animation, and more!

Camps and parties. 678-485-7941.TechTimeAcademy.com

C O U N SE L I N G Forward Steps Counseling. Provides counseling for couples, families, and individuals. We specialize in helping couples rebuild and restore their relationships.

Call 678-552-2689 today to begin moving forward.

Forwardstepscounseling.com. 2011 Commerce Drive.

Peachtree City, GA 30269

E DU C AT I O N European School of Music & Chess. Piano, violin, guitar, drums, voice, math, and chess instruction develops musical and intellectual abilities, focus, attention and helps students reach full academic potential. Buckhead/Sandy Springs. 404-255-8382 www.euroschoolmusic.org

H O R SE B AC K R I D ING

Shrek the Musical. Atlanta Lyric Theatre.

Watch your favorite ogre and donkey find themselves on a life-changing journey alongside a feisty princess who resists her rescue. Through Sept. 4. 2, 8 p.m. 117 N. Park Sq., Marietta. 404-377-9948. $33-58.

Tales of Peter Rabbit. Center for Puppetry Arts. Based on Beatrix Potter’s timeless tales, watch as Peter Rabbit sneaks into Mr. McGregor’s garden to taste some veggies, only to realize he lost his jacket.

Sept. 14-25. Wed.-Fri., 10 and 11 a.m. Sat., 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. Sun., 1 and 3 p.m.

1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 404-873-3089. $20.50; ages 2 and younger, free.

La Cucarachita Martina. Center for Puppetry Arts. Martina, a little roach, finds happiness and friendship as she searches for love. A comical story based on a popular Cuban and Puerto Rican children’s tale. Sept. 28Oct. 9. Wed.-Fri., 10 and 11 a.m., Sat. 12 and 2 p.m., Sun. 1 and 3 p.m. 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 404-873-3089. $20.50; ages 2 and younger, free.

The Illusionists Tour. Fox Theatre.

Magic tricks, levitation, mind-reading, disappearance and more illusions for all ages. Sept. 27-Oct. 2. See foxtheatre.org for show times. 660 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta. 855-285-8499. $35 - $105.

From Head to Toe. Alliance Theatre. Inspired

by Eric Carle’s book, the Theatre for the Very Young will help the audience think, observe and move like their favorite animals.

Sept. 24-Nov. 6. See alliancetheatre.org for show times. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta.

404-733-4650. Adults, $10; ages 6-17, $5; ages 5 and younger, free. c

What’s in That Milk? Yummy! Yummy! Yum! Martin Luther King Jr. Branch Library. To celebrate National Chocolate Milk Day, children will enjoy storytime, songs and crafts all with a focus on milk and cows. Sept. 27. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Ages 3-5. 409 John Wesley Dobbs Dr., Atlanta. 404730-1185. Free.

R E SAL E

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theater Babies in Space. Alliance Theatre. Toddlers can explore an interactive outerspace playscape and performance for young astronauts by the Theatre for the Very Young. Through Sept. 3. Sat., 9:30, 10:30 and 11:30 a.m.; Sun., 1, 2 and 3 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4650. Adults, $10; ages 6-17, $5; ages 5 and younger, free.

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Family Fun Guide

September 2016 Atlanta Parent 65

e h t r o f fridge

The biggest thing I remember is that there was just no transition.

You hit the ground diapering.

Paul Reiser 66 Atlanta Parent    September 2016

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