Charlotte Parent April 2014 by Charlotte Parent

April 2014 • Free CharlotteParent.com

33 SPRING FESTIVALS

+ EASTER EGG HUNTS

Dining With Kids

Do’s & Don’ts Build a Better BREAKFAST JOIN THE

Fit Family Challenge

ADHD? Learning disability? Autism? Don’t address the symptom. Address the cause. The Brain Balance Program® helps children overcome their behavioral, academic and social challenges with a drug-free, whole child approach that goes beyond the symptoms.

Call today to schedule an assessment for your child!

brainbalancecenters.com

Brain Balance of Cornelius

brainbalancecarolinas.com

704-655-1334

20601 Torrence Chapel Rd. Suite 104, Cornelius, NC 28031

Brain Balance of Pineville

704-540-6363

9101-J Pineville-Matthews Rd., Pineville, NC 28134

SUMMER PLANS? SUMMER PROGRAMS!

TO REQUEST A CATALOG AND TO REGISTER VISIT PROVIDENCEDAY.ORG/SUMMERPROGRAMS

Dragons are supposed to be scary and fire-breathing, but not the star of this heart-warming comedy. This peace-loving, poetry-spouting dragon would much prefer a cup of tea to a battle. When dragon-slayer Saint George arrives, the dragon and his young friend, Glaston, set out to change the hearts and minds of the villagers. April 11 - May 4 • For Ages 5+ • Tickets start at $12 704-973-2828 ctcharlotte.org

CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

13601 Providence Road, Weddington, NC 28104

www.southeasterngymnastics.com

704-847-0785

PRESCHOOL GYMNASTICS CAMPS SCHOOL AGE TUMBLE & ART CAMP

1-week camps, convenient to Charlotte, Weddington & Waxhaw

The home of Introduction to the basic skills of gymnastics. conditioning all through fun and safe instruction.

in the foam pit! Followed by seasonal art projects & instruction in the WAC Art Studio.

Come and join the summer fun!

Aden, Age 7 Jessica, his mother New York

Half of U.S. kids are exposed to secondhand smoke. For Aden, it triggers his asthma attacks. Keep kids smoke-free. If someone you know wants free help, call 1-800-QUIT-NOW.

APRIL 2014

CharlotteParent.com

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention www.cdc.gov/tobacco Mecklenburg County Health Department 249 Billingsley Road Charlotte, NC 28211 704-366-4660 charmeck.org

a p r i l 2014 24

features 24

Eating Out With Kids Restaurant etiquette 101 for kids and parents

Conquering the Breakfast Challenge Tips for quick and healthy early-morning choices

Fit Family Challenge Two families experts take the Challenge for a healthier lifestyle

4 9 12 14 15 19 21 22 37 38 47 51 52

in every issue

from the editor family fyi doc says chalk talk stay-at-home dudes food for thought mother of style growing up getting out daily calendar excursion daddy derek carolina smiles

Photo by Maura MacKinnon macphotography9.weebly.com. April 2014 • Free

33 SPRING FESTIVALS

Dining With Kids

CharlotteParent.com

+ EASTER EGG HUNTS

Do’s & Don’ts Build a Better BREAKFAST JOIN THE Fit Family Challenge

27 30

CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

FROM THE EDITOR MICHELE HUGGINS

GROUP PUBLISHER

Food is Good

Sharon Havranek

PUBLISHER/ EXECUTIVE EDITOR Eve White

EDITOR

s I write this, I’m hungry. My stomach is growling. It’s past lunchtime and I had a very small, albeit healthy breakfast. As a mom that works outside the home, I find that I often am pushing breakfast and midday meals later and denying myself a normal routine because I’m on the run. I always make sure my son has a good breakfast to start his day, but for some reason I tend to forget myself or wait until my stomach is growling to find that cup of yogurt that I stashed in the office fridge or pack of oatmeal in my desk drawer. That’s just the thing about healthy food, it’s more than just something to fill us up, and it’s as important for mom and dad as it is for your children. It’s important to help us think and thrive, and no one likes feeling “hangry,” you know that irritability that comes with hunger. The story on Page 27 is all about healthy, quick breakfast choices. I’m going to try the Monkey Mango Smoothie recipe for sure for myself and to mix it up for my family. I’m lucky to have a husband who likes to cook, and makes delicious meals. We enjoy eating at home, but sometimes in all the hustle and bustle of life, it’s so nice to go out to dinner and let someone else do the cooking and clean up, and to try something new. The clean up part can be tricky, especially if you have small children. Our story on Page 24 is all about restaurant etiquette for children. Teaching table manners is useful when dining out, but the principles those manners are based on carry through to many other areas of life. In addition to eating well, a healthy lifestyle includes exercise. On some of my most stressful days, exercise helps me get over the hump. It also is a good way to unite the family in fun. On April 15, we kick off our annual Fit Family Challenge! It’s an awesome program designed to get families off the couch and moving together toward a healthier, balanced lifestyle. For eight weeks, we challenge you to eat better, exercise more and be good to yourself. Sign up, tell us what you and your family are doing, earn points and you win prizes! Learn more at CharlotteParent.com/ fitfamilychallenge. We will also be out and about at several fitness-related events this month. Check out Page 33. I look forward to seeing you there. In other news, Parenting Media Association (PMA) honored Charlotte Parent magazine with three awards for editorial and design excellence. The magazine received gold and bronze awards for editorial excellence and one gold award for design. We appreciate the honors as we continually strive to provide the best resources for parents in the Charlotte area. Cheers to good eats and healthy lifestyles,

Michele Huggins

ART DIRECTOR Melissa Stutts

AD DESIGNER Wade Baker

DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER Susannah Carpenter

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Mikala Young

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Resa Goldberg

SR. MEDIA CONSULTANT Leslie Hatheway lhatheway@charlotteparent.com

MEDIA CONSULTANT Jen Byrum jbyrum@charlotteparent.com Dawn Field dfield@charlotteparent.com

SALES & MARKETING ASSISTANT Kia Moore kmoore@charlotteparent.com

BUSINESS OFFICE MANAGER Kara Lynn Mann karalynn@charlotteparent.com

BUSINESS OFFICE ASSOCIATE Elizabeth Day eday@charlotteparent.com

CONTACT US Phone: 704-344-1980 Fax: 704-344-1983 214 W. Tremont Ave., Suite 302 Charlotte, NC 28203 advertising@charlotteparent.com calender@charlottparent.com distribution@charlotteparent.com editoral@charlotteparent.com promo@charlotteparent.com webeditor@charlotteparent.com Circulation 109,000. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. Charlotte Parent reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the publication's standards. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Published by Carolina Parenting Inc.

PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION

APRIL 2014

CharlotteParent.com

2014 Bronze Award Winner Editorial Awards Competition

Summer Camps begin June 16! 8 one-week sessions 9 am - 1 pm Ages 5Â˝ to 14 $335 Riding, Instruction, Horsemanship, Games, Crafts and a Horse Show Summer Lessons begin June 16, 2014. For scheduling, call 704-843-5215, ext. 1

424 Waxhaw-Indian Trail Rd., Waxhaw, NC 28173

704-843-5215

www.providenceequestrian.com

CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

WHAT’S NEW AT …

CharlotteParent.com

IT'S SPRING! // Shake off the winter blues with springtime activities, recipes and crafts. …/seasonalfun

t i F i m fa ly

READERS FAVORITES // Tell us your favorite places to play, shop and eat out with the family for a chance to win tickets to Sealife Charlotte-Concord Aquarium.

CHALLENGE

…/favorites

2014 FIT FAMILY CHALLENGE // Get oﬀ the

couch and moving to a healthier lifestyle as a family, and win prizes! Sign ups begin April 1.

Readers’

FAVORITES

…/fitfamilychallenge

Contest

STAY-AT-HOME DUDES // Fast and

funny insights from a stay-at-home dad on coping with the highs and lows of parenting.

SUMMER SCIENCE CAMP SPECIAL

…/blogs

Photo by Adam Mowery

Enter to win a free week at a Charlotte-area summer camp. …/contests

Pin-spiration: WASHCLOTH CRITTERS //

Brighten up an Easter basket with a colorful washcloth bunny and chick. Find it on Pinterest/CharlotteParent. Pinterest.com/ CharlotteParent

APRIL 2014

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Facebook.com/ Cltparent

@CharlotteParent

instagram.com/ CharlotteParent

Be a pro at motherhood. Find 400+ baby and toddler resources in our 2014 Baby & Toddler guide, on stands now.

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It will open a world of opportunities beyond their imagination. Our focus on students with learning differences and all types of ADHD means your child receives an education that helps close the gap and provides a path to educational success. OPEN HOUSE

SPEAKER SERIES

Tuesday, April 22nd 8:30am Wednesday, April 30th 8:30am Complexities & Barriers to Learning

RSVP: 704-365-5490 or peley@johncroslandschool.org

JohnCroslandSchool.org 5146 Parkway Plaza Blvd. • Charlotte, NC 28217 • 704.365.5490 •

/JohnCroslandSchool

Crosland does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, age, marital status, disability, religion, creed, or national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational programs, admissions, financial aid policies or employment practices.

300 Tweetsie Railroad Lane • Blowing Rock, NC 28605

JUNE 6-15 ADULTS .......................$39* KIDS 3-12 ....................$26* KIDS 2 and UNDER ... FREE *Includes 6.75% NC Admission Tax

tweetsie.com or call 877-TWEETSIE (877-893-3874)

Advance purchase of tickets is recommended. Ticket sales are final. Events are rain or shine.

CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

CHELITA KAYE KELLEY, DDS

MICHAEL HOLT, DDS

Accepting New Patients Board Certified in Pediatric Dentistry

Saturday, May 3, 9 a.m. Blythe Elementary, Huntersville Join us as we celebrate the limitless potential of 1,600 girls as they complete a 5k for the first time.

Learn more at http://gotrchArlotte5k.racesonline.com

brookdalepediatricdentistry.com Exit 36, off of I-485 9601 Brookdale Drive, Suite 400, Charlotte, NC 28215 704-599-3901

Cross the Bridge and discover all that’s waiting for you at MillBridge.

This race is a Fit Family Challenge event. Stop by the Charlotte Parent table after the race to earn 100 bonus points! See CharlotteParent.com/fitfamilychallenge.

Summer Fun at HISTORIC LATTA PLANTATION!

FARM CAMPS

for ages 4 to 17. Work with the farm animals, participate in farm chores, make crafts & much more!

MISS JANE’S ACADEMY

for ages 8-12. Civil War camp for girls that takes them back in time to learn English Country Dancing, ink making, crocheting and more!

CIVIL WAR & REVOLUTIONARY WAR SOLDIER CAMPS

for ages 8-12. Experience life as a soldier as you drill, march, build forts in the woods, and battle it out across the plantation!

Visit www.lattaplantation.org for camp weeks and pricing!

New homes from the $180s to the $400s in Waxhaw, NC Learn more at MillBridge-NC.com 8

APRIL 2014

CharlotteParent.com

HISTORIC LATTA PLANTATION IS LOCATED IN LATTA PLANTATION NATURE PRESERVE.

5225 SAMPLE ROAD, HUNTERSVILLE, NC 28078

704-875-2312

fyi

FAMILY The newly cast Team Broadway members pose with co-directors Lori Anne Sword (far left) and Linda Booth (far right), as well as musical director Bill Congdon (behind Booth).

o to by Pat

ri c k S c h n e i der

Let's Go RACING

Charlotte Knights Celebrate Inaugural Season at BB&T Ballpark

t's Knighttime in Charlotte for the first time and celebrations are underway. The Charlotte Knights are inviting fans to help them commemorate the beginning of their introductory season in the new BB&T Ballpark in uptown Charlotte with a season jam-packed with family fun, fireworks, live music and performances and special theme nights. Beginning with the first game against the Norfolk Tides on April 11, the minor league baseball excitement includes fireworks shows, giveaway game days, a Star

Wars theme night, monthly heritage nights, Education Days and tributes to the Charlotte O’s and Charlotte Hornets throughout the 2014 season. Fans 17 and younger can sign up for the Junior Knights Club. A $45 membership gets club members an outfield ticket to three home games, a commemorative Junior Knights T-shirt, a 2014 baseball card set, a membership card and exclusive special event invitations. Junior Knights Club members also get the chance to be a VIP for the

Kids Run the Bases on Sunbelt Family Sundays after all non-fireworks Sunday home games. Beginning with opening night, fans can “ooh” and “ahh”at the fireworks display at three games in April, two in May, three in June, three in July, and four in August, and the WBT Skyshow is scheduled for July 4, all part of the Friday night Fireworks series. A lineup of entertainment acts, including the ZOOperstars and the Russian Bar Trio, are also scheduled. Find more information at charlotteknights.com.

On April 6 at North Mecklenburg Park in Huntersville and on April 27 at Fisher Farm Park in Davidson, kids can hit the trails with Charlotte Youth Cycling League’s Mountain Bike Race Series. The fun begins with a free hour-long skills clinic beginning at 9:30 a.m. followed by racing on the trails for children ages 7 to 14. Skills clinic participants do not have to race, and there is also a course in the grass for kids 6 years and younger. charlotteyouthcycling.org.

86% of consumers recycle and 52 percent recycle more than they did two years ago. Source: Bridgestone’s Earth Day 2013 Consumer Recycling and Sustainability Survey.

CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

fyi : : COMMUNITY

good deed: Tyler Howe

get real with

Susan Caldwell Quick stats: age 39, founder of Flour Power Kids Cooking Studios … Family tree: Lives with husband Michael Caldwell, and children Cameron, 8, and Abby, 11, plus two cats — Prince Lilly and Georgia Grace in Ballantyne … Favorite indulgence: blueberry banana milkshake from Cook Out… Favorite outing: any amusement park, with or without my family … Favorite local eats: Fig Tree … iPod: Prince and Green Day for me, Mickey Mouse for my son, Imagine Dragons for my daughter … Latest read: "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett … DVR: cooking shows from the Food Network and Cooking Channel … In your bag: gum, my iPad, my iPhone and pictures of my family … Can’t live without: my husband. He’s always there for our family no matter what … Stress buster: the gym — always helps me forget about everything else and focus on something that’s good for myself.

APRIL 2014

CharlotteParent.com

Tyler Howe, 7, has a heart the size of Mount Washington. He has collected canned goods for the Angels and Sparrows Soup Kitchen. He’s participated in a trike-a-thon for St. Jude’s Children's Research Hospital, the Jump Rope for Heart, the Alzheimer’s Walk and the Walk for Boston Children’s Hospital. Most recently he gave up $75 out of his $200 in savings to purchase a piece of pottery he made for a silent auction benefitting Charlotte’s Second Harvest Food Bank. He calculated that his contribution paid for 300 meals for those in need. Tyler is glad he could help, but he didn’t understand all the fuss that was made over him. “I still have $125 left and people can eat,” he says. Tyler Howe shows of f the pot ter y he made for a silent auc tion to benef it Second Har vest Food Bank.

Gather Your Clan for the Games Don your kilts for a day of Scottish games, dancing, music and food at the Rural Hill Scottish Festival and Loch Norman Games in Huntersville, April 12-13. In addition to piping band and strong man competitions, children can play in the Kids Zone. Pick up a Scottish Passport and collect stamps at various clan’s tents while learning about Scottish heritage. Athletic events, including a tug-of-war, tossing the broom and Kilted Mile Race, are open to ages 6 and older. Plus there are pony rides, a Flex Flyer and bounce houses for the younger set. Enjoy a Scotch egg while you’re there. $7-$10. ruralhill.net. Young clansmen run the Kids Kilted Race at Rural Hill

Mooresville Youth Council Makes a Difference

The Mooresville Youth Council is making a difference in its community. Recently the group, along with assistance from Mooresville Mayor Miles Atkins, Duke Energy Carolinas District Manager Randy Welch and staff from Youth Empowered Solutions (YES!) began work to revitalize a local park and create a new Mooresville farmers market. The group also contributes to Mooresville Town Council decisions about community investments, and has a direct role in shaping local policies and programs that affect local youth. Duke Energy awarded the councils a $25,000 grant with support and training from YES!

CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

fyi : : WELLNESS Broken Bones: Not All It’s Cracked Up to Be

usculoskeletal injuries are a major reason for pediatric emergency department visits each year, comprising

New changes in recommendations for well child visits by the American Academy of Pediatrics include screening newborns for congenital heart disease before leaving the hospital, cholesterol screenings for ages 9-11, and assessing risk of anemia in toddlers. Other recommendations include screening for adolescent alcohol and drug use, and screening for depression between ages 11-21.

DOC SAYS

approximately 12 percent of total visits. Children are prone to fractures because growing bones have not reached adult strength, and children are generally very active. An additional concern related to childhood fractures is that the weakest part of children’s bones is at the growth plates, located on each end of long bones of the arms and legs. If the growth plates are injured and do not heal correctly, the affected limb can have trouble growing or may grow at an incorrect angle. However, a young bone’s propensity for continued growth contributes to children’s incredibly fast rate of healing. If you suspect a broken bone after an injury, the first thing to do is to keep your child from moving the affected extremity. Although this is easier said than done, especially with very active children, it is very important to avoid excess movement, which can worsen a fracture. You can try using objects around the house to accomplish this task. For a shoulder or arm, you can use make a homemade sling out of a piece of cloth. A leg injury can be stabilized with padded boards or pillows wrapped around the leg. Avoiding applying weight to the affected extremity is also important, therefore you might have to carry your child until he or she can be seen by a doctor. Depending on the severity of the injury, drive your child to the primary care physician’s office, urgent care or emergency room. Concerning signs for fracture include tenderness over the bone itself, bones that look out of place, or the inability to tolerating walking if the affected limb is a leg. A physical exam focusing on the affected limb allows the provider to investigate the possibility of a fracture, and compare the affected limb to the unaffected side to assess for any differences. The management of broken bones depends on the location, but generally involves keeping the affected bone immobile while it heals. A broken bone may need surgery, but this is not always the case. The amount of time that casting is required depends on the injury, but varies from no casting at all to up to eight weeks. If no fracture is discovered, then your child will likely be diagnosed with a muscle strain or sprain. The treatment for muscle strains and sprains is illustrated with the acronym “RICE”, which stands for rest (limited activity), ice (cold packs to affected area), compression (ACE bandage for support and to decrease swelling), and elevation (raising up the affected area to help decrease swelling). Whatever the injury, nearly all children with broken bones recover fully. BY DR. JOEL GALLAGHER AND DR. SHIVANI MEHTA

Dr. Joel Gallagher is a pediatric resident at Levine Children’s Hospital at Carolinas Medical Center, and Dr. Shivani Mehta is a board-certified pediatrician at CHS Myers Park Pediatrics.

APRIL 2014

CharlotteParent.com

Twenty-five percent of U.S. children develop cavities before entering kindergarten. For this reason, the American Dental Association no longer recommends waiting until a child turns 2 to start brushing with fluoride toothpaste. The new rule of thumb: Use a rice-grain size smear on first teeth, moving up to a pea-sized amount once the child turns 3. Using small amounts of fluoride toothpaste prevents cavities and reduces the risk of fluorosis, a discoloration of the teeth when exposed to too much fluoride early in life.

Babies given a probiotic containing Lactobacillus reuteri in their first three months appear to suﬀer from colic less often. Although initial studies at Aldo Moro University in Italy look promising, there is not yet a consensus as to whether all babies 0-3 months old should take a probiotic.

Open House Join Us! ◀ Confident Independent Thinking Speaking Spanish

◀ Compassionate Heart

◀

ZACH

Hands on Science

April 15, 2014 April 16, 2014

704-237-5229

Age 2 to 6th Grade 7th to 12th Grade

9 a.m. 9 a.m.

www.davidsonday.org CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

2014

Readers’

FAVORITES

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14th Annual Charlotte Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 19, 10 am Latta Park, on Winthrop Ave., off of East Blvd. (see map below)

No registration necessary. Bring a picnic lunch. Face painting, balloon animals, MyGym, FREE doughnuts & juice!

What are your favorite places to...

play • party • eat shop • frolic • learn & relax in Charlotte

And we invite you to join us on ...

Easter Sunday, April 20 for worship at 9 or 10:30 am

Nominate your fave local businesses in www.uptownchurch.org

One lucky voter will win passes to SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium! thr op Av e.

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Map to UPTOWN CHURCH

926 Elizabeth Avenue, Suite 200, Charlotte, North Carolina 28204 CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

Join the Family at

2014

Readers’

Creating partnerships for happy, healthy children

FAVORITES

Come to our Open House April 26, 9am to 1pm ns — Pediatricia s ar over 19 ye d of combine e. experienc

tell, MD, FAAP

Dr. Christi Bar

ire, MD, FAAP Dr. Rebecca Alk

Wellness/Preventative Exams Sports/Camp Physicals Back to School Physicals Diagnosis and Treatment of Illnesses and Conditions Developmental Screenings Expectant Parent Visits Walk-Ins and Same Day Appointments Available Ages Birth to College

325 ARLINGTON AVE., SUITE 510, CHARLOTTE, NC 28203 704-774-3024 WWW.SOUTHENDPEDIATRICS.COM Located on South Blvd. in the Pink Building: Parking on Level 3 of Parking Deck

What are your favorite places to...

play • party • eat shop • frolic • learn & relax in Charlotte

2013

Nominate your fave local businesses in One lucky voter will win passes to SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium!

charlotteparent.com/favorites

SUMMER DANCE CAMPS for ages 4-8 Check out our camp information on our website!

A little bit of everything and a whole lot of fun! Serving South Charlotte and Fort Mill

Rea Village

704-889-TOES (8637) 11532 Providence Road, Suite O, Charlotte

Baxter Village

803-396-JAZZ (5299) 967 Market Street, Suite 100, Fort Mill

www.millerstreetdanceacademy.com CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

fyi : : EDUCATION

School News Charlotte Country Day School's lower school students recently received two MicroeyeDiscovery microscopes. Principally designed for unsupervised displays in museums, science centers, and zoos, CCDS is the first school in the U.S. to own the microscopes that allow students to easily zoom in and focus on objects that are projected onto a nearby monitor.

Tips to Tune up Listening Skills App Alert Quiz for Kids entertains and teaches with interesting questions and answers, and graphics that reference classic films, geographical landmarks, and cultural norms. Available in five languages, it covers topics from around the world. iOS and Android devices, $2.99.

Tip Have paper, crayons, glue and scissors handy for your child to make his own creations.

APRIL 2014

istening is not the same thing as hearing. Hearing is a passive activity. For example, children hear thunder, the car engine humming and CHALK TALK

BY MARGE EBERTS AND PEGGY GISLER

bees buzzing. Listening involves active participation of their brain, meaning what they hear must register in their brain. Many children struggle when it comes to learning how to listen, but it is an extremely important skill — one that is closely related to academic success in school. Help improve your children's listening skills through activities that are fun. Try some of these with your child to help him become a better listener:

CharlotteParent.com

1 // Make a habit of reading to your child and pausing to ask questions about what has been read. 2 // Make a deliberate error in what you are reading and see if your child catches it. For example, call the Cat in the Hat a dog in the hat. 3 // Play Simon Says, 20 Questions and Junior Trivial Pursuit. 4 // Share family activities at the dinner table. 5 // Talk to your child about activities that interest him or her. 6 // Clap your hands in diﬀerent patterns, and have your child imitate them. Then add thigh claps and/or head taps. 7 // Listen to a favorite TV program for a few minutes, then have your child shut his

or her eyes and identify the speakers. 8 // Start a story at the supper table. Each family member ends a sentence with “then.” The next person completes the sentence and ends it with “then” until everyone at the table has added something to the story. And with teaching any behavior, be a role model. Be sure that you listen to what your child is saying. Set a good example by making eye contact with your child and responding to what the child says. Marge Eberts and Peg gy Gisler are experienced teachers who have more than 60 publications to their credit.

LIFE

Secret Superheroes: Dads Dare Danger

uperheroes are everywhere. I’m not just talking about the superheroes you read in comic books, or see on movie screens or on television. Come to think of it, those pretty much are omnipresent these days. I’m actually STAY-AT-HOME DUDES talking about the superhero all dads BY RICHARD JONES see in the mirror. Most superheroes have a power, some extra-normal ability that sets them apart from the masses of humanity. Superman is, well, super. Spider-Man has spider powers. They’ve got one power set. That is, their powers are related to one another. We dads … our powers are from everywhere. Matter Eater Lad (yes, really) is a superhero in the future. He can eat anything. As Dad, it’s our job to eat all the burned French fries when we’re cooking burgers and dogs on the grill. My kids wouldn’t touch them, and I couldn’t let them all go to waste. Mr. Fantastic is the leader of the Fantastic Four. He can stretch. As Dad, we’re the ones who have to get stuﬀ that’s fallen behind the couch, between the fridge and the cabinet, or that somehow flew to the top of the wall unit. Not just stretching, but also making ourselves small enough to fit through cracks that keep a starving rat out. It’s amazing what we dads can do when the

fyi

alternative is telling a young child his favorite toy is lost for good and then suﬀering through the resulting screaming fit. Electro is a bad guy, but still with super powers, who controls electricity. As Dad, it’s our responsibility to install the ceiling fans and make other minor electrical repairs, and survive nearly being electrocuted. Fourarm is a mutant with four arms. Dads go through life like we have more than two arms. Just last week I saw a dad holding his daughter in his arm, shepherding her slightly older brother and moving them all through a buﬀet line. Without spilling anything. Tell me that’s not a superpower and I’ll call you a liar. Finally, it’s not so much a superpower as the idea that the Time Lords have nothing on us. Superheroes use a machine to fold dimensions, but we just do it. When we’re packing, we’re able to put so much inside a trunk or a suitcase that it’s almost as if it’s bigger on the inside than the outside. Hold your heads up, dads. We are the secret superheroes of the real world — and we don’t even have to wear our underwear on the outside.

Richard Jones and Barry Robert Ozer are the authors of “A Dude’s Guide to Babies: The New Dad’s Playbook.”

Turn Obsta ing cles in to Oppor tunit iesone s tep a ta time.

ADVERTISERS: Put your business in front of expectant and new parents who are looking for businesses like you in the Online Baby & Toddler Fair.

charlotteparent.com/babyfair Contact your media consultant for more information at 704-344-1980 or advertising@charlotteparent.com.

Summer Camps! Offering both Half-Day and All-Day Camps: Spectacular Science Art and Action Cheerleading Soccer Basketball Volleyball American Doll Camp

July 21-July 25 | July 28-August 1 | August 4-August 8

Contact RANIA TSOPANAS at 704-321-1711 x137 or visit us online at www.socratesacademy.us

3909 Weddington Rd, Matthews, NC 28105-6673

Right Moves for Youth raises awareness and funds to support the at-risk youth in Charlotte.

Start/Finish line & festivities

Greek Language & Culture Legos Dr. Seuss Band

…and many more!

Socrates Academy

Hit the streets of Uptown Friday, May 9, 2014 7 P.M. Race Start to support the mission of Right Moves WELLS FARGO ATRIUM for Youth!

704.321.1711

FUN RUN for kids, Bouncy Houses & activities

rightmovesforyouth.org

t i ly F m fa i CHALLE

NGE &

The Twilight 5K is a Fit Family Challenge event

Worth 100 bonus points! See CharlotteParent.com for details. CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

APRIL 2014

CharlotteParent.com

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LIFE

TOP 5 Mobile apps for kids with special needs 1. Dexteria 2. Talk Tablet 3. Hidden Curriculum for Kids 4. Splingo’s Language Universe 5. Bugs and Buttons Source: care.com

fyi

Parenting Toolbox: Cooking With Kids Here are a few new cookbooks geared toward making healthy foods for kids that taste great! “Ella’s Kitchen: The Cookbook” (Hamlyn/Octopus Publishing, $19.99) is the first of a new cookbook series created by Paul Lindley for his daughter, Ella, and son, Paddy. Lindley approaches cooking from a child’s point of view and uses “simple, natural ingredients that ooze goodness” to create baby foods and packaging that “really connects with little ones — with flavors, colors, textures and even names that will appeal to all of their senses.” Recipes include Fruity Banana Bars, Mega Macaroni and Cheese, Smiley Spiral Apple Tarts and more. Dust off your juicing machine! “Best 100 Juices for Kids” by Jessica Fisher (Harvard Common Press, $16.95) offers 100 recipes creating nutritious alternatives to soda and sugar-laden, store-bought juices. Seventy of the 100 recipes consist of fruit- or vegetable-based ingredients, while the remaining 30 are for creating creamy smoothies, several of which are dairy-free. “Allergy-free Cooking for Kids” by Pamela Clark (Sterling Epicure, $14.95) offers relief for parents of children who have gluten, nut, dairy or egg allergies. Choose from 90 recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, afterschool snacks or pastries.

choices ... KIDFRIENDLY KITCHEN TOOLS

Temperatures are warming up, so it’s time to cool down with the new Zoku Fish Pops Popsicle Mold Set. It features fun shapes such as sharks, octopus, clownfish and scuba divers. $19.99, zokuhome.com.

For enterprising young chefs, nothing beats the Curious Chef’s 30-piece Caddy Collection. It includes a nonstick rolling pin, silicone mixing spoons, an ice cream scoop, pizza cutter and nylon plastic knives. $79.99, curiouschef.com.

Colorful Melamine Prep Bowl Set from Sur La Table helps kids stay organized and clean up quick. Dishwasher safe. $12.95, surlatable.com.

CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

APRIL 2014

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LIFE

fyi

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

BY HEIDI BILLOTTO

Make it Family Fondue Night

ons of family fun is in store when a cheese fondue dinner is on the menu. Don't have a fondue pot? Don't worry — a chafing dish warmed by sterno or a candle works just as well. Either way, start by preparing the fondue on the stovetop; then transfer the creamy cheese mix to the pot to serve warm at the table. Use long fondue forks or skewers to pierce the food and dip them in the cheese. Everybody dips into the same pot, so the challenge is in keeping your bite on the end of your skewer. Legend has it that when anyone at the table drops a piece of food into the pot, they have to kiss the cook!

CHEESE FONDUE • • • • •

1 cup chicken broth 1 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half 1 clove garlic, cut in half 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 2 cups fine shredded cheddar cheese (Muenster, Monterey Jack, Colby, cheddar and your favorite Swiss cheese – or a combination of cheese also works very well) • Salt and pepper • Splash or two of Worcestershire sauce • Assortment of vegetables, bread cubes and fruit Heat the broth with the heavy cream or half-and-half, garlic and mustard. Once the liquid comes to a simmer, remove the clove of garlic and discard. Begin to add the cheese 1/4 cup at a time stirring with each addition. When cheese is melted and mixture is smooth, season to taste with salt, pepper and Worcestershire sauce. Dip in cubes of bread and an assortment of cooked but still firm veggies such as cauliflower, broccoli, small potatoes and asparagus or apples.

Heidi Billotto is a culinary expert who hosts cooking classes throughout the Charlotte area. Find more at heidibillottofood.com. CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

APRIL 2014

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LIFE

fyi

MOTHER OF STYLE »»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» BY WHITLEY ADKINS HAMLIN Locally made Geoflora extra small powdercoated studs, $55, Geoflora at etsy.com.

Head to toe. From earrings to shoes and everything in between, this spring you will find something of everything fashioned in florals. Perhaps the most distinctive is a pair of flower patterned pumps, but it’s rather easy to style. Just pair your colorful shoes with your outfit, building around the colors in your shoe. In terms of flowers in jewelry, chandelier style earrings and petal studs are both hot for spring. ASOS, J. Crew and Net-APorter are a few of my favorite on-line shopping sites for great jewelry.

Photo courtesy of Joseph Bradley. josephbradleyphotography.com

Carolyne f loral-print high-heel halter pump by Manolo Blahnik, $685, available at Neiman Marcus.

Cynthia Rowley split neck fit-and-flare floral printed dress, $119, available at Belk.

Pushing Petals for Spring

As a lover of all things colorful and all things bright, one trend I never tire of is the use of floral prints in fashion. Spring is like waking up from a long cozy nap. Everything is refreshing, cheery and bright. This spring season, floral prints are blooming in perfect fashion. From microprints to jewel-encrusted dresses to large scale painted-on designs, this spring season shows no shortage of flower power masterfully arranged on all things wearable from head to toe. Here, I share a few thoughts in support of all things floral with my favorite floral-inspired frocks.

Floral pattern mixing. Nothing could be more fun than a color pattern flower explosion, but it can be risky if you’re not sure what you’re doing. Stay in the same color family, and don’t be too matchy-matchy. It’s OK to mix the same style of patterns in your outfit, but only if you choose diﬀerent scales of the pattern. Mixing pattern styles is perfectly acceptable, but you don’t want them to compete. The safest bet is to keep your outfit to two patterns max. How to accessorize. Your outfit

will likely be dominated by color and pattern stemming from the floral patterns. I always say that a dose of tension in any outfit is what creates an interesting look. You don’t want to go overboard, however. When it comes to polishing oﬀ your outfit, keep your

accessories to a minimum. Simple shoes reflecting your print’s color scheme, a structured bag, a few bangles, and studs or chandelier earrings are what this outfit needs to perfectly arrange your style bouquet.

Not just for the girls. Flowers

are girly, yes, but they don’t have to translate that way onto clothing. A lot of the florals seen on the spring/summer runway were in the form of structured and tailored silhouettes. Pair your flirty floral top with leather shorts or an A-line skirt. Who knew femininity and androgyny were such a perfect pair? Whitley Adkins Hamlin is a local stylist and mom to two boys under age 5. Read her Mother of Style blog at CharlotteParent.com/blogs. CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

fyi : : LIFE

Growing Up: Pushing Back Against Peer Pressure

eer-pressure, once thought of as a hallmark of high school, is showing up earlier and earlier. Recent research from the University of Maryland found that children can recognize group GROWING UP BY MALIA JACOBSON dynamics and feel pressured by peers as early as age 9. Widespread smartphone and social media use by children at earlier ages (the average age for a first cellphone is 11) mean that social pressure moves at a faster pace and can be harder for parents to detect. In the face of this new peer pressure, parents should intervene early and often to be sure that kids develop a strong sense of self and a healthy attitude toward peer influence to help keep pressure at bay.

Malia Jacobson is a nationally published health and parenting journalist and mom of three.

3-5 years

ESTEEM TEAM

Want to give your child a leg up to help him resist peer pressure in later years? Build self-esteem now. “High selfesteem can serve as a protective factor when dealing with negative peer pressure,” says certified parenting and family educator, and North Carolina Parenting Education Network board member, Virginia Rodillas. Allowing a young child to self-select clothing, accessories, and bedroom décor from a young age helps him learn to enjoy expressing his own personality, says Vicki Hoefle, mom of five and author of “Duct Tape Parenting.” Of course, oﬀering these kinds of choices to a preschooler may be inconvenient at first, especially for parents who are used to holding the reigns. Allowing a tot to don self-selected clothes admittedly takes longer than just picking out his duds yourself. But the payoﬀ is a child who knows who he is — and will be more able to stay true to himself in the face of peer pressure.

APRIL 2014

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6-12 years

SPEAK UP

Peers — and peer influences — take on a bigger role during elementary school. Establishing open lines of communication with your grade-schooler provides an outlet for questions, worries and concerns that spring up, and lays the foundation for a strong bond in years to come. “Children should feel comfortable approaching their parents and talking about any diﬃculties they face," says Rodillas. “Through this open and safe communication, children can develop a sense of assertiveness and ability to speak their own mind.” An icecream date, a shopping trip, even a car ride can be a springboard for meaningful conversation. Steer clear of yes or no questions; instead, dig deeper with inquiries like “Who’s your best friend right now?” When you notice a peer’s influence taking hold, take note. Querying your child in a friendly, casual way about the friend’s appeal, her choices, and her values gives you valuable insights and prompts your child think more critically about whether her peers are worthy of imitation.

ABOVE THE 13-18 INFLUENCE years

Ninety percent of teens admit to being influenced by friends and classmates. “We know from research that the likelihood of succumbing to peer pressure peaks around ninth grade,” says Wendy Grolnick, psychology professor at Clark University in Worchester, Mass. But peer pressure isn’t all bad. So-called “positive” peer pressure can motivate teens to exercise, volunteer and work harder at school. This type of peer pressure can deter a teen from trying drugs, engaging in risky behaviors, or making other poor decisions, says Rodillas. “Positive peer pressure motivates us to make good decisions, healthy changes, and can help us reach our goals.” It’s hard to argue that teammates or study partners can motivate a teen in ways a parent can’t. Help your teen harness the power of positive peer pressure by encouraging participation in athletics, community service organizations, and study groups.

Our 3 Locations: Cotswold/Midtown University & Davidson Phone: 704-377-3687 www.CltPediatricDentistry.com

CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

EATING OUT WITH KIDS

dinner out. APRIL 2014

AND

CARRY ON with these restaurant etiquette tips

BY CATHY DOWNS

ating out is supposed to be a break from the prepping, cooking and cleaning at home. Eating out with kids — especially young children — can, however, cause parents to feel more stress after the meal than before they sat down. But it doesn’t have to be like that, and the benefits of good restaurant etiquette extend beyond the dining table. Parents can use eating out as an opportunity to be role models and teach children how to socialize and behave in a restaurant environment. “You learn the socialization process and how to act throughout the entire meal,” says Patrick Whalen, operating partner at Nan and Byron’s restaurant in Southend. These skills not only reflect favorably on your child — and you as a parent — but helps your child develop life skills that can be used over and over again. With a bit of planning and preparation, dining out can be enjoyable for all ages. Here are suggestions for how to work on restaurant manners with your child before your family’s next

STAY CALM

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For a list of local familyfriendly restaurants in Charlotte, go to CharlotteParent.com/ familydining.

PRACTICE AT HOME Good table manners start at home. “Good etiquette is good etiquette,” says Alice Cunningham, owner of Alice’s Place, a teahouse in Winston-Salem that hosts tea parties that include lessons about manners. “You don’t separate restaurant behavior from day-to-day behavior. It’s not like a dress you can take on and off.” At home, Cunningham advises turning off the TV to fully enjoy a family meal and focus on good behavior and conversation. “If it’s done day-to-day, it’s not as traumatic when you go out in public,” she says. “What you do at home, you automatically do ‘out there.’” Susan Caldwell, founder of Lil’ Chef Kids Cooking Studios and mom to an 11-year-old daughter and an 8-year-old son, says “etiquette is a spin-off of what we do everyday.” She recommends roleplaying at home to prepare a child for dining out and to be sure and recognize good manners. “Kids feed off praise and recognition,” she says.

STEP AWAY If your baby or toddler begins screaming, take her out of the situation, says Cunningham. Likewise, if an older child causes a commotion, talk quietly and firmly to them at first. “If the behavior continues, then remove the child from the restaurant,” she says. “Don’t have [the behavior] continue for 10 minutes.” To reduce your own personal stress by watchful eyes of other restaurant patrons, take the child outside, weather permitting, to calm down. “People are

more willing to be forgiving if the parent is involved in the socialization of the children and correcting behavior, than if you’re disengaged and playing Angry Birds,” says Whalen.

PLAN AHEAD “Advanced preparation is key,” says Caldwell. Keep little ones busy with a backpack of items: toys, paper, pen, crayons, books and headphones for any electronics. “I try to be prepared for whatever’s thrown my way,” she says. “Be engaged with what your kids are doing — it’s part of the social process,” says Whalen, who has a 3-year-old son and 4-month-old daughter. “You can’t just hand them an iPhone and have them disengage. It’s good to learn how to deal with impatience or not getting exactly what they want to eat. They need to learn the rules of the restaurant.”

TO CLEAN UP OR NOT? The jury is out on this one. Whalen doesn’t think parents need to clean up messes made by a baby or toddler when dining out because, “the whole point of going to a restaurant is to be taken care of,” he says. Caldwell, however, suggests parents attempt to clean up. She says if she can’t clean up the mess, she compensates by leaving a little larger tip. Whalen says a bigger tip is nice but not necessary. “Families may not be in a position to pay more,” he says. “So don’t add to it by increasing the tip.”

Table Manners

Alice Cunningham, owner of Alice’s Place in WinstonSalem, and Susan Caldwell, founder of Lil’ Chef Kids Cooking Studios, recommend the following for teaching good table manners. Always put your napkin in your lap. Chew with your mouth closed. Don’t slurp your drink. Cut your food into small pieces. Eat small bits of food with a fork. Don’t bang utensils or other items on the table. Start from the outside in when using utensils. Hold the chair for ladies. Cross your legs at your ankles.

ORDER INDEPENDENTLY Children’s readiness to order their own food depends on their personality, age and developmental stage. Whalen advises that parents take over when their child is hesitant or takes longer than 10-20 seconds. “It’s not quantifiable,” he says, but can occur “when the child feels comfortable to speak publically without infringing on the server’s ability to do their job.” Teaching manners “builds selfesteem and it encourages self confidence,” says Caldwell. “A good foundation gives [children] the opportunity to learn and practice leadership skills … We all need manners if we’re going to move forward in life.” Cathy Downs is a Triangle-based freelance writer.

We asked Charlotte Parent Facebook friends if they clean up af ter their children when dining out. Here's what they had to say: We try very hard not to make too big of a mess. I clean up all I can, and if it is an unusually big mess, I leave a bigger tip! — Becky Booth Baucom

I clean up after my child. It may be the wait staff ’s job to clear a table, but not necessarily to clean up a huge mess, especially one my child may have made. — Angela King

I d e f i n i te l y m a k e t h e e f fo r t to c l e a n u p a ny t h i n g e xc e s s i ve. I h ave wo r k e d i n re s t a u r a n t s. I k n ow w h a t i t i s l i k e f ro m b o t h s i d e s. A n d, i t ' s j u s t t h e d e c e n t t h i n g to d o. — Te a n n e G r a g g

I think if you teach them good manners at home they carry on to public places. If I notice that my 18-month-old is not hungry, then I stop giving her food. I think some people just give them food to keep them entertained, and that's when they make a mess. — Claudia William Caballero

CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

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CONQUERING THE

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››››››››››››››››››››››››› Table 'convenience' foods for quick, healthy morning meals

BY TAMMY HOLOMAN

e’ve all been taught that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but because most families’ mornings are a rush to get ready for work and school, many of us grab something to eat as we head out the door. Unfortunately, packaged “convenience” foods are often not the best choices, and preparing a nutritious homemade breakfast in a world of to-go toaster pastries and sugary cereals can feel like yet another early morning challenge. “It really doesn’t have to be,” says Yvette Garfield, founder of The Handstand Kids Cookbook Co. Even when they have to be

eaten on the go, healthy breakfasts can be delicious and simple.

Make Educated Choices Of course, kids’ varying ages and tastes play big roles in breakfast planning as well, but there are ways to educate and empower them that may help ease the transition to new foods and menu plans if necessary. Talk to younger kids about breakfast ideas and what sounds good to them. Taking them along to the grocery store or farmers market to see where vegetables, fruits and other foods come from is a great next step.

“We’ve become what’s called a ‘macn-cheese’ society, where kids won’t eat anything unless it’s covered in cheese,” says Garfield. “Kids need to know that a chicken doesn’t really look like a nugget. When we learn at an early age, we ask the right questions, and we eventually make better choices as adults.” Gardening is another eﬀective way for children to learn about food and seasonings for all meals. “It’s like magic for a child to plant a seed and see what it becomes,” she says. CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

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We’re local, social and just like you.

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PARENTING BLOGS

Laugh, cry and find inspiration with local parents.

Single Mom • Stay-at-Home Dads • Crafts • Home with Kids • Beauty & Style

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APRIL 2014

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Over 50 different camps to choose from!

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Read the Label

Take a Family Approach

Reading food labels at an age-appropriate level can also be enlightening. Sara Erickson, a pediatric dietitian in Charlotte, agrees, particularly where prepackaged breakfast foods and breakfast ingredients are concerned. When you buy prepackaged items, know what to look for, she says. “One example I use is granola bars, which are very popular with kids. There is a wide variety out there, and we shouldn’t assume that they are all healthy,” says Erickson. “When foods are highly processed, they are not whole foods anymore. So they can be high-calorie and have low nutritional value as well. Yogurt, cereals and oatmeal with fruit and granola can be good choices, provided that they’re not loaded with sugar.” When reading labels in the grocery store, use the 5 and 20 percent rule. “When you’re looking at the sodium and fat levels on a label, you should aim for just 5 percent of the daily value. When it comes to fiber, vitamins, iron and calcium, you want to see 20 percent or better. That’s one simple way to tell whether a food is a healthy choice.”

Planning and preparing breakfast and other meals together whenever possible is a great way to help your family implement a healthier lifestyle. Tweens and teens, whose tastes typically change from their younger days, are usually forthcoming with any breakfast requests (good, or not so good). Ask for their input. If you plan to make scrambled eggs, omelettes, fruit salad or a make-ahead panini sandwich, use it as an opportunity for them to customize their own entree, or present them with a few combinations and have them help (or entirely) prepare that item. “You don’t want to create a huge project for yourself when you’re preparing a meal, morning or evening, but allowing a child to have a hand in planning the menu, shopping, preparation or even cooking ahead of time can remove what I call the ‘icky factor’ of certain foods and open up a new world,” she says. Tammy Holoman is a freelance writer from Winston-Salem.

For more information on The Handstand Kids, go to handstandkids.com. Receive a 10 percent discount on purchases by entering the code HSK20 at checkout.

YEAR OF THE MONKEY MANGO SMOOTHIES INGREDIENTS • 6 ounces silken tofu, drained • 1 medium banana, peeled and cut in half • 1 mango • 1 cup milk (your preference) • 1 handful spinach • 1 handful ice cubes

TOOLS • Cutting board • Knife • Measuring cups • Measuring spoons • Fine grater • Blender • Tall drinking glasses

INSTRUCTIONS 1 // Cut the mango by placing one flat side resting on the cutting board. Slice it lengthwise along the flat side next to the seed. Turn mango over and repeat on the other side. You will have two halves of the mango with pulp inside. Carefully cut lengthwise through the mango pulp down to the skin, being careful not to cut through the skin. Turn sideways and cut lengthwise again until you have a cross-hatch pattern. Turn the mango inside out using your thumbs to press the pulp outward. Carefully slice out the diced pulp by cutting between the cubed mango pulp and the skin. Discard the skin and seed. 2 // Place banana, mango, tofu, milk and spinach into the blender. Blend on medium speed for 30 seconds. Alternative: Add 2/3 3 // Add ice cubes and blend again until smooth. 4 // Pour into two frosty, tall drinking glasses. Enjoy! Courtesy of The Handstand Kids Co.

cup plain yogurt if tofu is not available. And if you prefer a sweeter drink, add a squeeze of honey.

CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

: E G N E L L A H C Y L I FIT FAM

CHALLENGE

Join the Challenge With Your Family! Sign up to track your family's healthy habits for prizes! Opens April 1. CharlotteParent.com/ Fitfamilychallenge

Get Moving! ZAPPLEY FAMILY STATS

WHO: Marlo Zappley, 38; Christion, 12; Ariana, 8 LIVES IN: Charlotte OCCUPATION: full-time stay-at-home mom GOALS/CHALLENGES: find and choose healthy food options when dining out; eat more organic food; learn to make healthy meals everyone in the family likes, find activities that engage both kids while having fun!

APRIL 2014

Marlo Zappley (in middle) races with her children Christion, 12, and Ariana, 8.

Photo by Maura MacKinnon | macphotography9.weebly.com.

PART

t i F i fam ly

BY LISA HASSELL

Two local families take the Challenge

ur 2014 Fit Family Challenge is here. This month we introduce you to our first spotlight family, and will introduce the second spotlight family in the May issue. For three months, the two families will share their challenges, triumphs, and the advice they get from a panel of experts. Best of all, you have the opportunity to participate alongside them in getting fit and healthier this year.

MEET THE ZAPPLEYS Marlo Zappley is a busy single mom to two children, Christion Zappley, 12, and Ariana Zappley, 8. She is currently a stay-at-home mom who keeps up with a daily routine while attempting to fit in visits to the gym before the kids get home from school. An active member of the YMCA, Marlo's main goal is to find physical activities she and her children can do together. “I find that it is sometimes diﬃcult to incorporate activities centered on everyone's

CharlotteParent.com

interests,” says Marlo. “It's important that my son, who is a preteen, remain active and stimulated by outdoor activities rather than just technology, she says. “In addition, I would like to create an environment surrounding routine and family fitness activities that we can enjoy and share together.” Marlo wants to explore diﬀerent foods from local producers and farms, while also participating in physical activities that engage the whole family. “One of the most diﬃcult challenges for me is creating meals plans suitable for my whole family's liking,” she says. Her son made a decision a year ago to stop eating pork after he watched a disturbing video about the pork industry. “The divided opinions over our food choices [lead] me to cook less or cook the same routine meals like chicken or pasta.” Marlo's favorite quote comes from children's author, Dr. Seuss. “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It's not.” With Marlo's determination and the caring help from the Fit Family Challenge team of experts, a whole awful lot should get better for the Zappleys this spring. Lisa Hassell is a freelance writer who lives just outside Charlotte with her 4-year-old son.

MEET THE EXPERTS For eight weeks, a team of experts, including doctors, dietitians, fitness trainers and a life coach, will work with the spotlight families to help them create healthier lifestyles. We introduce three of the team of experts below. Meet the other experts — Dr. Tara Branton, registered dietitian Kelsey Knasel, and fitness expert Devan Kline — in our May issue. Samuel Adkins, MD, is a physician with Cabarrus Family Medicine-Prosperity Crossing, part of Carolinas HealthCare System. He is board certified in family medicine, sports medicine and geriatric medicine. Dr. Adkins is committed to keeping Charlotte families healthy and welcomes conversation with his patients on the importance of healthy, active lifestyles. Tonda Gridley is a registered dietitian and nutritionist with Cabarrus Family MedicineConcord, part of Carolinas HealthCare System. She specializes in the management of chronic conditions, such as obesity, hypertension and diabetes. She has a bachelor’s degree in medical dietetics from Pennsylvania State University and a master’s in clinical/community psychology from Mansfield University.

SAMUEL ADKINS, MD

TONDA GRIDLEY, RD

KIM JACOBS

momapproved

DOCTORS Follow them online at

CharlotteParent.com/blogs Kim Jacobs, host of the Telly Award-winning talk show Daily Balance with Kim Jacobs, will help the Fit Family Challenge spotlight families find time to live with balance and purpose. She is a mother of five children, a pastor's wife, and the founder of a nonprofit organization.

Finding a doctor you can trust is a top priority, but not always an easy task. That’s why we are asking you (the experts) who you think provides the best health care for children and families in the Charlotte area. Make a recommendation for other parents by telling us the doctors that have earned your trust, admiration and respect; and why they deserve to be on Charlotte Parent’s Mom-Approved Doctors list.

charlotteparent.com/favedocs

CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

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APRIL 2014

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fastmed.com

Celebrating at the Girls on the Run finish line.

Fit family CHALLENGE // PART 1

KID FIT:

Silly Squat Lots of giggles can be had while making your lower body strong. The Silly Squat works your quadriceps, hamstrings and gluteus maximus (two words kids love saying). How to do it: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart. Bend your knees and push your hips back pretending to sit on a chair. Hold it and then stand up. Be sure knees do not extend over toes. Add the silliness by pretending the chair is super hot and “Ouch!” burns your gluteus maximus. Then pretend the chair has ice cream on it and “Yikes” is so cold! Get creative about what’s on the chair: ice cubes, ants, or whatever your kids suggest. Extra challenge: Perform the Silly Squat pretending the chair is “Just Right.” See how long you can sit in your pretend chair. Make it a contest. Kid Fit move provided by Cherie Berens, owner of Launch Your Kid. Find more fun exercise moves for kids at launchyourkid.com.

Maddie Behrens, 6, demonstrates how to do the Silly Squat.

EARN POINTS Sign up April 1 and join the fun. Go online to earn points and win! Come to Charlotte Parent's table at these select events for 100 instant bonus points.

APRIL 25-26 Tuck Fest U.S. National Whitewater Center tuckfest.org

APRIL 27

BikeFEST Plaza-Midwood, Thomas Avenue bikecharlotte.org

MAY 3

Girls on the Run 5K Huntersville gotrcharlotte.org

Girl Power & Running

What do girls, smiles and running have in common? Girls on the Run. The Charlotte-based BY EVE WHITE program, founded by the unstoppable Molly Barker, is more than 18 years old, reaching 130,000+ girls, grades 3-8, in 200 cities with a message of self-respect and joy. Girls on the Run is not just a running program. It is transformational. Using the platform of physical activity to empower, it nurtures physical, emotional and spiritual health and teaches character to young girls with a culminating 5K to celebrate the power of accomplishment. Each year in May, hundreds of Girls on the Run participants line up gleefully at the starting line -- all smiles, colored beads, painted hair and exuberant energy -- to embark on their 5k journey. Whether they walk or run, each girl crosses the finish line with confidence and hopefully, a lifetime appreciation for health and fitness. Girls on the Run Charlotte serves Cabarrus and Mecklenburg counties. Small teams of 8-20 girls meet twice weekly at schools, Ys and various locations to learn life skills through 24 interactive lessons and running games. Program registration for the 2014 Fall season begins September 2014. The Girls on the Run 5K on May 3, and is open to all runners 2014. Find out more at gotrcharlotte.org.

CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

Welcome S p e c i a l

A d v e r t i s i n g

S e c t i o n

Shower Me With Love Community Easter Celebration What is “God‘s Dream for the World?” April 20, 2014 at 11 a.m. Come to the community-family Easter service fancy, come casual, just come! We will have child care on the playground, and infant care at 2101 Belvedere Ave. Every child present receives a small gift. Midwood Park 2100 Wilhelmina Ave. 704-334-7348 kilgoumc.com

Spring is here! It’s time to get outside and move. Save 20 percent on all strollers at Shower Me With Love Wednesday, April 16 through Sunday, April 19. Shower Me With Love has all your child essentials this Spring. Shower Me With Love 532 Governor Morrison St. 704-302-1555 showermewithlove.com

Tiger World Grow Your Own Groceries!

Community Garden (a.k.a. Family Camp) Under the guidance of Billy Styles, renowned organic gardener, even a novice can succeed. April-September, ages 2-92. Summer on the Farm! Kids experience the sights, sounds and smells of life on the farm as they milk the cow, feed the animals, play on the tire swing and fish in the pond. June-August, half-day camp for ages 7-12. The Hunter Farm 13624 Providence Road, Weddington 704-846-7975 hunterfarm.org

Autism Aware Fare Attend the 12th Annual Autism Aware Fare on Tuesday, April 22 and support the autism community in Mecklenburg County. Dine in or take out at any of the fabulous participating restaurants and a portion of the day’s proceeds go to the local chapter of the Autism Society of NC. “What’s Raised Here Stays Here!” Autism Aware Fare Participating restaurants 704-904-0456 autismawarefare.org

APRIL 2014

CharlotteParent.com

Tiger World is a nonprofit animal conservation and educational center dedicated to rescue, rehabilitation, and preservation of exotic animals and endangered species. Enjoy educational guided tours and walkabout self-guided tours. Visitors see the animals in a natural setting and have the opportunity to observe them running, playing, swimming, eating, sleeping, and interacting with their handlers. Tiger World 4400 Cook Road, Rockwell 704-279-6363 tigerworld.us

Rural Hill Scottish Festival The Rural Hill Scottish Festival on April 12 and 13 offers a huge Kid’s Zone, cultural and educational opportunities galore, live Celtic music, Scottish clans, bag pipes, highland dancing competitions, Scottish country dancing, massed bagpipe band performances, professional heavy athletics, Saturday night Celtic Jam, and so much more! Rural Hill Scottish Festival Historic Rural Hill, 4431 Neck Road, Huntersville 704-875-3113 ruralhillscottishfestivals.net

S p e c i a l

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Breakfast 8am-noon | Lunch 11am-4pm | Dinner 4pm-10pm

13105 S. Tryon

•

Charlotte, NC

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A d v e r t i s i n g

S e c t i o n

FAMILY DINING Everyone deserves a break from cooking and cleaning now and then. Search our Family Dining and Kids Eat Free directory for restaurants near you. And when you decide on a whim to dine out, you can also search by day of the week for restaurants with Kids Eat Free deals.

For great restaurant ideas 24/7, check out our Family Dining directory at CharlotteParent.com/familydining.

CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

Epic fun for families in Uptown Charlotte, brought to you by EPICENTRE.

There’s lots for families to do in Uptown Charlotte and EPICENTRE wants you to know about it.

EPIC KIDS CLUB EVENT The Epic Easter Trail EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St.

Sat., April 19, 1-3pm

The Easter bunny + kids crafts + Charlotte Parent + Radio Disney Charlotte = an Epic Easter. Hop along the bunny trail as you make your own Easter basket and then fill it with all sorts of fun stuff. The Easter Bunny will be here with free digital photos . . . and you can bring your own camera, too! FREE.

The EPICENTRE also recommends the following Uptown family events: Reptile Fun Discovery Place, 301 N. Tryon St

Fri., April 4, 10am

Join a bunch of different critters and discover their cool adaptations. Kids will be able to make a piece of art to take home. $10-$12, includes museum admission.

Bechtler Family Day Bechtler Museum, 420 S. Tryon St.

Sat., April 5, Noon-4:30pm

Kids and families can spend the day creating whimsical art projects including a Niki de Saint Phalle-inspired dream catcher, a geometric storybook and a pictograph stamp. Ages 5 and up. Adults $4, FREE for Kids.

Comet Creations Discovery Place, 301 N. Tryon St.

Sat., April 5, 11am, 2pm and 4:30pm

Learn about comets and how they form. Watch how a comet is created. $10-$12, includes admission.

Bird Lore and More Discovery Place, 301 N. Tryon St.

Fri., April 11, 1-4pm

Get nose-to-beak with our fine feathered friends and learn about the fascinating world of birds and meet with local experts. There will also be a short documentary. Guests should enter on level three of the parking deck. FREE.

Sunday Fun Day: Cool and Contemporary Mint Museum Uptown, 500 S. Tryon St.

Sun., April 13, 1-4pm

Enjoy family-friendly craft projects, gallery visits, Let’s Move! healthy living activities, and artist demonstrations. Adults $5, FREE for Kids.

Blue Man Group Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St.

Fri., April 18, 8pm

Impossible to describe, people of all ages agree that BLUE MAN GROUP is an intensely exciting and wildly outrageous show that leaves the entire audience in a blissful, euphoric state. This unique experience is a form of entertainment like nothing else; guaranteed to be an outing you will never forget! $20-$80.

Easter Egg Hunt at Romare Bearden Park Romare Bearden Park, 300 S. Church St.

Fri., April 18, 11am-2pm

Bring the family and friends to enjoy an egg hunt, music and fun and games at this park wide eggstravaganza. FREE.

Van Gogh Alive Discovery Place, 301 N. Tryon St.

Fri., April 25, 9am-4pm

Synchronized to a powerful classical score, more than 3,000 Van Gogh images at enormous scale create a display that fills giant screens, walls, columns, ceilings and even the floor. $18-$20.

LYNX BLUE LINE: Your low cost route to EPIC UPTOWN FUN Roll into one of these Park and Ride Stations: Scaleybark, Woodlawn, or Tyvola and jump on the Lynx Blue Line Light Rail. Your next stop-- EPICENTRE Kids Club Fun! EPICENTRE has a walkway from the CTC/Arena Station (Charlotte Transit Center Station) that makes for an easy walk to your family’s favorite Uptown destinations. Make every weekend EPIC family fun at the EPICENTRE!

APRIL 2014

CharlotteParent.com

G O! ETTING UT

COMPILED BY MIKALA YOUNG

Don't Tell Me I Can't Fly Original artwork by Della Wells. | Mini Masters Workshop: Royal Africa photo courtesy of Mint Museum. | International Polar Bear Day photo courtesy of Discovery Place.

April 2014 go. see. play.

The NC Science Festival is in town! Families are invited to the Engineering for All event, which focuses on careers in engineering. Because this event takes place at a school, kids can walk from each classroom to experience demonstrations from actual engineers and learn first hand what it takes to be an engineer. Bonus fun: Families must work as a team to complete a series of challenging events! 6pm. Free. Coltrane-Webb STEM Elementary 61 Spring St. NW, Concord ncsciencefestival.org/2014_ event/efa/

What’s it like to wander the night sky and experience the universe up close? Find out at Star Gazer: A Trek Into Outerspace. Caroline Calouche dancers take you through the stars and back through the eyes of little Stella. Dancers spin in the air on red silk as Jupiter’s red eye. Each dancer embodies the stars’ constellations like the Great Bear and Pegasus. This is a family-friendly performance that you don’t want to miss. 1 and 4pm. $17-$25. Booth Playhouse 130 N. Tryon St. 704-844-0449 carolinecalouche.org

McDowell Nature Center 1555 York Road 704-588-5224 parkandrec.com

Tuck Center 105 Sports Lane, Mount Holly 704-951-0159 mtholly.us

Today is the day to take extra care of our planet! The Family Earth Day Celebration invites guests for an open house party. Join in a guided nature hike through one of the many trails on site, participate in a recycle relay race, and build a recycled bird feeder to put in your very own backyard. 3-6pm. Free.

Nothing says a good time like the Mount Holly Springfest Preschool Playday. Toddlers between the ages of 4 and 5 can enjoy a variety of activities. Experience art, music and snack time. “Sparky” the Fire Dog will be in attendance to celebrate the day and have play time with all his friends. Make sure to RSVP. 9am. Free.

CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

1 TUESDAY American Girl Book Club. Learn about historical periods related to this month’s dolls, Cecile and MariGrace. Free. 4pm. Mint Hill Public Library, 6840 Matthew-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill. 704-416-5200. cmlibrary.org. Operation College Launch. Learn about college loans, grants and scholarships available. There will also be a demonstration on how to complete a FAFSA. Ages 12 and up. Registration required. Free. 4pm. Beatties Ford Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. 704-416-3000. cmlibrary.org. Paws to Read. Boost reading skills and confidence by reading aloud to a volunteer therapy dog. Ages 5-11. Free. 5:30pm. Mountain Island Library, 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way. 704-416-5600. cmlibrary.org.

2 WEDNESDAY Reptile Fun. Join a bunch of different critters and discover their cool adaptations, and make a piece of art to take home. $10-$12, includes museum admission. 10am. Discovery Place, 301 N. Tryon St. 704-372-6261. discoveryplace.org.

3 THURSDAY Art-Rageous Books. Join Miss Amy and use an illustrator’s style to inspire unique creations. Ages 6-8. Free. 4:30-5:30pm. York County Library, 138 E. Black St., Rock Hill, SC. 803-981-5858. yclibrary.org/. Engineering for All. Engineers will be on hand to talk about their jobs. Activities and demonstrations included. Free. 6pm. Coltrane-Webb STEM Elementary, 61 Spring St. NW, Concord. ncsciencefestival. org/2014_event/efa/. Operation College Launch. Learn about college loans, grants and scholarships available. There will also be a demonstration on how to complete a FAFSA. Ages 12 and

APRIL 2014

up. Registration required. Free. 4pm. Independence Regional Library, 6000 Conference Drive. 704-416-4800. cmlibrary.org.

4 FRIDAY Chalk on Main. Cover Main Street with your best chalk art. Supplies provided. Part of the Come-See-Me Festival. Free. 4:30-7:30pm. Main Street, downtown Rock Hill, Rock Hill, SC. 803-329-7625. comeseeme.org. Homeschool Game Time. Play several board games with nature themes at various levels of difficulty. Ages 4-14. $3. 1:30-2:30pm. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 704-5885224. parkandrec.com. Latta Homeschools: Fishing. Learn the basics of fishing, including baiting the hook, casting, and removing the fish from the hook. All equipment and bait provided. Meet at Shelter No. 2. Ages 9-12. $3. 10am-noon. Latta Plantation Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-8751391. parkandrec.com. Middle School Madness. Music, dancing, hoops, contests and video games are just the beginning. Ages 11-13. Members $5, Nonmembers $8. 8-11pm. Lake Norman YMCA, 21300 Davidson St., Cornelius. 704-716-4400. ymcacharlotte.org. Mix It Up Crafts. Make a variety of arts and crafts to take home. Ages 3-5. Free. 11am. Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville. 704-6642927. http://ci.mooresville.nc.us/ portal/library. Reptile Fun. Join a bunch of different critters and discover their cool adaptations. Kids will be able to make a piece of art to take home. $10-$12, includes museum admission. 10am. Discovery Place, 704-372-6261.301 N. Tryon St. discoveryplace.org. Statewide Star Party: UNC Charlotte. Meet at the observatory to see details of the Moon’s surface, Jupiter, and star clusters. The event is cancelled in the

CharlotteParent.com

event of cloudy weather. Free. 8pm. UNC Charlotte Observatory, 9201 University City Blvd. observatory.uncc. edu/StatewideStarParty/. OnStage: Fun with Stem; James and the Giant Peach; Peter Pan; Seussical and Spelling 2-5-5. See Page 41.

5 SATURDAY Bechtler Family Day. Create whimsical art projects including a Niki de Saint Phalle-inspired dream catcher, a geometric storybook and a pictograph stamp. Ages 5 and up. Free-$4. Noon-4:30pm. Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, 420 S. Tryon St. 704-353-9200. bechtler.org. Comet Creations. Learn about comets and how they form. $10-$12, includes museum admission. 11am, 2 and 4:30pm. Discovery Place, 301 N. Tryon St. 704-372-6261. discoveryplace.org. Earth Day Celebration. Make some earth magic at the festival this year and learn how to protect the Earth’s precious resources. Food vendors will be on site. $6-$10, includes museum admission. 10am-3pm. The Schiele Museum, 1500 East Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704-866-6923. schielemuseum.org. Family First: Antoine Williams, Artists at Work. Williams leads a workshop designed for kids. $6-$8, includes museum admission. 11am-1pm. The Harvey B. Gantt Center for AfricanAmerican Arts + Culture, 551 S. Tryon St. 704-547-3700. ganttcenter.org. Guiding Parents to Services ASD Workshop. An interactive program for families of young children with an Autism Spectrum diagnosis. Free. 10:30am. ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St. 704-416-4630. imaginon.org. HINTS Home School Informational Tea. For parents who need information and encouragement about homeschool. There will be a main speaker, a question-and-answer session and light refreshments. Free.

2-4pm. Christ Covenant Church, 800 Fullwood Lane, Matthews. 773-4544177. hintsonline.org. Home Depot: Build a Birdbath/ Birdfeeder. A hands-on workshop that teaches kids do-it-yourself skills. Ages 5-12. Free. 9am-noon. Home Depot Locations. workshops. homedepot.com/workshops/kidsworkshops. International TableTop Day. Playing a variety of table-top board games and participate in tournaments. Ages 8 and up. Free. 1-6pm. Spandex City, 2914-A Mt. Holly-Huntersville Road. 704-909-7168. spandexcity.com/ tabletopday.html. Matthews Earth Day. Interactive displays, animals, food, music, prizes, and much more. Tree huggers encouraged to attend. Free. 10am-1pm. Stumptown Park, 120 S. Trade St., Matthews. 704-321-7275. matthewsfun.com. Nature Scavenger Hunt. A great way to take in the spring weather and see things that you may not have noticed before. Ages 4 and up. Registration required. Free. 3:30-4:30pm. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 704-588-5224. parkandrec.com. Romeo and Juliet Live. An interactive balcony scene experience from the classic tale by Shakespeare. Free. 2pm. Gaston County Library, 1555 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704-8682164. gastonlibary.org. Saturday Art Session: Black and White Nature Paints. Capture nature in a striking black-and-white print and view black-and-white photographs of New York City. $5-$10, includes museum admission. 11am-3pm. Mint Museum Uptown, 500 S Tryon St. 704-337-2000. mintmuseum.org. Science Family Fun Night. Hands-on experience featuring science activities and story time. Free. 1pm. ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St. ncsciencefestival.org.

daily calendar Shakespeare Craft Day. A family fun day inspired by Shakespeare. Drop in and enjoy crafts celebrating the Elizabethan era. Free. 10am-5pm. Gaston County Library, 1555 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704-868-2164. gastonlibrary.org. Signs of Spring Family Hike. Walk on the trails and enjoy the early signs of spring. Ages 5 and up. Free. 3-4pm. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road.704- 432-6459. parkandrec.com. Statewide Star Party: Schiele Museum. Look at the moon, planets and anything that can be found through a telescope. Don’t forget to check out the planetarium nightwatch exhibition. $7. 7pm. Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704-8666900. schielemuseum.org. The Earth’s Greenest Heroes. Discover the super powers of the Earth with Captain Conservation and other green heroes. Create a comic book and go on a scavenger hunt. $3. 3pm. Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704-866-6900. schielemuseum.org. Zucchini 500 Vegetable Race. Build a pinewood derbystyle racecar to compete for titles and prizes, plus activity stations and fun for parents. Free. 10:30am. Hilbish Ford, 2600 S. Cannon Blvd., Kannapolis. ncsciencefestival.org. OnStage: Fun with Stem; James and the Giant Peach; Peter Pan; Seussical; Spelling 2-5-5. See Page 41.

sundae. Part of the Come-See-Me Festival. Free. 2-5pm. Glencairn Garden, 725 Crest Street, Rock Hill. comseeme.org. Text Me When Dinner is Ready: Parent Seminar. Learn how to communicate and build trust with your teen; deal with lying, drama and sulking. Registration required. Free. 10am. Jewish Family Services, 5007 Providence Road.704-364-6594. jfscharlotte.org. Yellow Brick Road. A family-friendly walk to support the work of Charlotte Family Housing. The walk concludes with a family-friendly celebration. Registration required. Free. 2-5pm. Plaza Place, 2410 Plaza Ave. charlottefamilyhousing.org/gallery/yellow-brick-roadfundraiser/. OnStage: Fun with Stem; James and the Giant Peach; Peter Pan; Seussical; Spelling 2-5-5. See Page 41.

6 SUNDAY

8 TUESDAY

Charlotte Youth Cycling Race. Gives children the opportunity to have a great mountain bike race experience in a fun, safe and low-cost setting. Ages 6-18. $15-$20; Kids 6 and under free. View website for race times. North Mecklenburg Park, 16131 Old Statesville Road, Huntersville. charlotteyouthcycling.org. Family Fun Day Open Studio. A unique way to spend time with the family while exploring everyone’s creative side. All ages. $5-$10. 1-4pm. Morrison Family YMCA, 9405 Bryant Farms Road. 704-41-4650. ymcacharlotte.org. Find Your Passion: Lunch and Learn For Teens and Parents. Vanessa Van Petten shares advice with teens on finding their passions and acting on them. Registration required. $5, includes lunch. 1pm. Jewish Family Services, 5007 Providence Road. 704-364-6594. jfscharlotte.org. Sundaes with Glen and Mother Goose. Share storytime with Mother Goose and enjoy a $2

Homeschool Map and Compass. Improve navigation skills by learning how to use and read these oldfashioned tools. Kids will be able to test their skills on a trekking challenge. Ages 8-12. $3. 1:30-3:30pm. McDowell Nature Center, 1555 York Road. 704-5885224. parkandrec.com. Story Explorers: Book Nuts. Explore books and stories in creative ways through interactive activities including math, science and games. Ages 5-8. Registration required. Free. 4pm. Matthews Library, 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews. 704- 416-5000. cmlibrary.org. Teddy Bear Tea Party. Bring a favorite stuffed animal for a spring party. Guaranteed entry with a new or gently used toy to give to a local shelter. Part of the Come-See-Me Festival. Free. 3:30-4:30pm. Winthrop University Campus Green, Corner of Alumni Drive and Founders Lane, Rock Hill, SC. comeseeme.org.

7 MONDAY First Monday Family Nights. Bring the entire family out to enjoy stories, songs and movement activities that support early literacy skill development and help foster a love of books. All ages. Free. 6:30pm. Hickory Grove Library, 5935 Hickory Grove Road. 704-4164400. cmlibrary.org. Spy Science. Learn how to make and break secret codes and messages. Ages 7-12. Free. 4pm. Cabarrus County Public Library, 850 Mountain St., Kannapolis. ncsciencefestival.org.

CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

CHRISTIAN MONTESSORI CLASSROOMS FOR INFANTS THROUGH SIXTH GRADE.

Infant 6 weeks-12 months Primary 3-6 years old

Toddler 18 months-3 years Elementary Grades 1-6

5-STAR RATED CALL TO SCHEDULE A TOUR

WHERE STUDENTS GROW IN LOVE WITH LEARNING AND GOD!

CHRISTIAN MONTESSORI SCHOOL AT LAKE

NORMAN

14101 STUMPTOWN RD., HUNTERSVILLE, NC CHRISTIANMONTESSORISCHOOL.ORG 704-875-1801

Sumtmtehre KBEElPa! st a

* Daily rotations in art station, P.E station and education station * 11 weekly sessions starting June 11th * Groups separated by age * Weekly field trips * Ages 5-13

Near Concord Mills 7526 Ruben Linker Rd. NW, Concord, NC 28027

704-721-5940 www.kingskeep.net

APRIL 2014

CharlotteParent.com

9 WEDNESDAY

11 FRIDAY

Jumping Jeepers Frog Crafts. Make and take Glen and Glenda’s favorite art activity. Ages 12 and under. Registration required. Part of the Come-See-Me Festival. Free. 10am, 6pm. York County Library, 138 E. Black St., Rock Hill, SC. 803-981-5858. yclibrary.org. Nature Detectives: Pollination Ecology. Investigate and learn about things that are found in the woods. Features stories, games, and activities. Ages 4-6. $3. 1:30-3:30pm. Latta Plantation Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-4326460. parkandrec.com. Operation College Launch: ACT vs SAT. Colleges accept either test but learn which one is a better fit? Princeton Review will be on hand to help make that decision. Ages 12 and up. Registration required. Free. 6pm. Beatties Ford Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. 704-416-3000. cmlibrary.org. Young Explorers: Frogs. Discover nature with your little one through stories, crafts and activities related to the program’s topic. Ages 2-3. $3. 10:15-11am. Latta Plantation Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road. 704-8751391. parkandrec.com.

Bird Lore and More. Get nose-to-beak with our fine-feathered friends, and learn about the fascinating world of birds from local experts. Enter on Level 3 of the Parking Deck. Free. 1-4pm. Discovery Place, 301 N. Tryon St. 704-372-6261. discoveryplace.org. Middle School Madness. Music, dancing, hoops, contests and video games. Ages 11-13. $7. 7-9:30pm. Southwest Middle School, 13624 Steele Creek Road. 980-343-5006. ymcacharlotte.org. STEM Open House. A high energy, hands-on event that features more than 40 interactive demonstrations representing college programs and other local STEM related organizations. Free. 2pm. RowanCabarrus Community College at the North Carolina Research Campus, 399 Biotechnology Lane, Kannapolis. ncsciencefestival.org. Teen Open Mic Night. For experienced groups that love to play in front of people or a new musician that wants to try something new. Ages 11 and up. Free. 8-10pm. The Blackbox Theatre, The Ballantyne Arts Center, 11318 N. Community House Road. 704-716-4650. ymcacharlotte.org. Onstage: The Reluctant Dragon. See Page 41.

10 THURSDAY Creating with Books. Listen to stories and extend learning through a variety of hands-on activities. 5-11. Free. 4pm. Morrison Regional Library, 7015 Morrison Blvd. 704-416-5400. cmlibrary.org. Eggs-perimental Drop Competition. Create an egg container at home or at the library. Remember the container must protect an egg dropped from the top of a Kannapolis Fire Truck. Free. 5pm. Kannapolis Library, 850 Mountain St., Kannapolis. ncsciencefestival.org/. Stream Search. Wear water shoes and prepare to get wet, searching for aquatic critters in the stream. Ages 2-8. Free. 10:30-11:30am. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 704588-5224. parkandrec.com.

12 SATURDAY 4th and 5th Grade Fun Night. Listen to music, dance, play games, enjoy concessions and hang out with friends. Ages 9-11. $5-$7. 7-9:30pm. Teen Activity Center, Harris YMCA, 5900 Quail Hollow Road. 704-7166910. ymcacharlotte.org. Bilingual Storytime and Music. Features fun and interactive Spanish and English music, plays and stories. Ages 2-8. $5/adults, free for children. 11am. Mint Museum, 2730 Randolph Road. 704-337-2000. mintmuseum.com. Dilworth Criterium. Join in a day of bicycle races for all ages, including adult tricyle races. Ages 2-12 can race on anything with a seat and wheels. Free. 7:15am-6pm. Race starts

PARENTING

on the go? March 2014 • Free CharlotteParent.com

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APRIL 2014

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9 WEDNESDAY

11 FRIDAY

Teaching kids to swim since 1996.

Your child will be Healthier Smarter Safer

w! ll no o r n E

704.341.9673

info@charlotteaquatics.com

www.charlotteaquatics.com

9 WEDNESDAY

11 FRIDAY

10 THURSDAY Piano, A cappella, Rock Band, Art and Theatre Camps, including two fully-staged productions of Beauty and the Beast, Jr. and Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella.

Call today and ask about our Early Bird Discount!

www.charlotteacademyofmusic.com

APRIL 2014

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704.545.7400

Creating with Books. Listen to stories and extend learning through a variety of hands-on activities. 5-11. Free. 4pm. Morrison Regional Library, 7015 Morrison Blvd. 704-416-5400. cmlibrary.org. Eggs-perimental Drop Competition. Create an egg container at home or at the library. Remember the container must protect an egg dropped from the top of a Kannapolis Fire Truck. Free. 5pm. Kannapolis Library, 850 Mountain St., Kannapolis. ncsciencefestival.org/. Stream Search. Wear water shoes and prepare to get wet, searching for aquatic critters in the stream. Ages 2-8. Free. 10:30-11:30am. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 704588-5224. parkandrec.com.

between Myrtle Avenue and Romany Road. dilworthcrit.com/. Eggs-perimental Drop Competion. Bring the whole family out to drop the engineered egg container off of a Kannapolis Fire Truck. See who "eggsterminated" the competition. Free. 3pm. Kannapolis Library, 850 Mountain St., Kannapolis. ncsciencefestival.org. Harrisburg 5K and Spring Market. Enjoy two annual family events together as Harrisburg Parks and Recreation partners with the Harrisburg YMCA for a great day of family fun. Free. 3pm. Veteran’s Park, 4100 Main St., Harrisburg. harrisburgnc.org/. HSBC Young Veterarians’ Day. Take a behind-the-scenes tour, see live bird presentations, and join in raptor medicine-themed activities to learn what it takes to care for animals. $6-$10, includes museum admission. Noon-4pm. Carolina Raptor Center, 6000 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704875-6521. carolinaraptorcenter.org. Krafty Kidz. Have fun learning while making nature-themed related crafts. Ages 2-7. $2. 11am-noon. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704-432-6459. parkandrec.com. Parent and Me Tot Trots. Experience nature with your child and hike sensory-based trails. Find ways to use nature as a learning platform. Ages 1-2. Free. 9:30am. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704432-6459. parkandrec.com. Sheep Shearing Day. Hands-on demonstrations of the processes of washing, carding, spinning, dying and weaving to turn raw wool into finished garments. $3-$6, includes museum admission. 10am-4pm. Historic Brattonsville, 1444 Brattonsville Road, McConnells. 803-684-2327. chmuseums.org. Trans Jam BMX. Over 200 competitors take part in BMX competition ramp and flatland races. Free. 4-9pm. Trade and Tryon Square. transjambmx.com/.

on stage

Onstage: The Reluctant Dragon; Star Gazer. See Page 41.

ARMOUR STREET THEATRE

13 SUNDAY

James and the Giant Peach. A young boy's journey of escape from his loathsome aunt's watchful eye brought to life on stage. $10. Through April 6. Fri., 7pm; Sat.-Sun., 1 and 4pm. 704-892-7953. davidsoncommunityplayers.org. 307 Armour St., Davidson.

NC Science Festival: Nature Experiments. Explore nature and learn about its powers through a series of nature-based experiments. Ages 6 and up. Free. 2-3pm. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704-432-6459. parkandrec.com. Sunday Fun Day: Cool and Contemporary. Enjoy family-friendly craft projects, gallery visits, Let’s Move! Healthy-living activities and artist demonstrations. Free-$5. 1-4pm. Mint Museum Uptown, 500 S. Tryon St.704337-2000. mintmuseum.org. UNC Charlotte Science and Technology Expo. Experience more than 70 science and technology activities, displays and events. Free. 10am. The Student Union, 9201 University City Blvd. 704-687-8622. ncsciencefestival.uncc.edu/. Webelos Forester and Naturalist Activity Badges. Complete the requirements to earn both the Forester and Naturalist Activity Badges. Ages 9-11. $5. 1:30-4pm. Latta Planation Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-875-1391. parkandrec.com. Onstage: The Reluctant Dragon. See Page 41.

14 MONDAY Nature Story Corner. Get comfortable as a variety of nature-based stories are read. Stories may be accompanied by puppets. Ages 3 and up. Free. 10-11am. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704-432-6459. parkandrec.com.

15 TUESDAY Creating with Books. Listen to stories and extend learning through a variety of hands-on activities. This month’s focus is on mixing textures. Ages 5-11. Free. 4:30pm. Mountain Island Public Library, 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way. 704416-5600. cmlibrary.org.

BLUMENTHAL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Blue Man Group. Impossible to describe, people of all ages can enjoy this exciting and wildly outrageous show that leaves the entire audience in a blissful, euphoric state. $20 and up. April 15-20. See website for showtimes. 704-372-1000. blumenthalarts.org. Fun With Stem. Features a spectacular, multimedia blend of live action, magic, comedy, robotic puppets, live music, juggling and unicycling with national variety performer, Cory the Clown. $18. Through April 6. Fri.-Sat., 2 and 7:30pm; Sun. 2 and 6:30pm. Star Gazer: A Trek Into Outer Space. Aerial dancers from Caroline Calouche and Co. present this original dance work that takes you to the stars and back through the eyes of little Stella. $17-$25. April 12. 1 and 4pm. 704-372-1000. blumenthalarts.org. 130 N. Tryon St.

CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CHARLOTTE The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark. Conquer your fear of the dark with a gentle and reassuring tale about an owl who must overome his fears and worries. Ages 3-adult. $10. April 19-27. Saturday 11am and 1pm. 704-416-6000. ctcharlotte.org. The Reluctant Dragon. Enjoy the heart-warming comedy about a not so typical dragon who would rather drink tea, and spout out poetry. Ages 5-adult. $12+. April 11-May 4. Fri.-Sun., 7:30pm. 704-416-6000. ctcharlotte.org. Spelling 2-5-5. A story about two brothers, one who is shown favoritism and the other with autism, and how they learn to share the spotlight. Ages 8-adult. $14+. Through April 6. Fri-Sun., 1pm and 3pm. 704-416-6000. ctcharlotte.org. 300 E. 7th St.

FULLWOOD THEATER Peter Pan. Relive the adventure into Neverland to battle Captain Hook and his band of pirates. $9-$10. Through April 6. Fri., 7:30pm, Sat., 2 and 7:30pm, Sun., 2pm. 704-8468343. matthewsplayhouse.com. 100 McDowell St. East, Matthews.

HALTON THEATER Dances of India. Experience traditional Indian dance, music and costume that tell the story of ancient India. $5-$10. April 26. 4pm. 704-330-6840. tix.cpcc.edu/events. 1206 Elizabeth Ave.

KNIGHT THEATER Little Red Riding Hood. Presented by the Charlotte Symphony and theatre students from Northwest School of the Arts. $15.50-$24.50. April 5. 11am. 704-972-2000. charlottesymphony.org. Peter and The Starcatcher. A prequel to Peter Pan, this musical play takes a hilarious romp through Neverland. Ages 10+. $20 and up. April 29 – May 4. See website for showtimes. 704-372-1000. blumenthalarts.org. Tosco Music Party. See more than 15 scheduled musical acts. $15.30-$23.30. April 12. 7:30pm. 704-372-1000. toscomusicparty.org. 430 S. Tryon St.

SPIRIT SQUARE Dancing Through Latin America. See performances from 15 different Latin American countries. $12-$17. April 26. 7pm. 704-449-8868. bluementhalcenter.org. 345 N. College St.

CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

Easter

Happenings 5 SATURDAY Easter Egg Hunt at Historic Rosedale. Registration required. $10 per child, free for two accompanying adults. 11am and noon. Historic Rosedale Plantation, 3427 N. Tryon St. 704-335-0325. historicrosedale.org. Easter Eggstravaganza. Free. Begins at 1pm. Register online or at event. Bags provided and no outside baskets permitted. Walter Elisha Park, 345 N. White St., Fort Mill. lifepointecc.com. Elizabeth Community Easter Egg Hunt. Free. 10am. Upper Independence Park, 300 Hawthorne Lane. elizabethcommunity.com/community/events/easter-egghunt. Where’s My Egg Scavenger Hunt. Free. 9am-4pm. Latta Plantation Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-875-1391. parkandrec.com.

11 FRIDAY Lunch with the Easter Bunny. Ages 2-5. $7. 11am-noon. Matthews Community Center, 100 McDowell St., Matthews. 704-321-7275. matthewsfun.com. Ray’s Splash Planet Underwater Easter Egg Hunt. Wear a swimsuit. Ages 12 and under. $5-$11. 5:30-8pm. Ray’s Splash Planet, 215 N. Sycamore St. 704-432-1141. parkandrec.com.

12 SATURDAY Annual Easter Celebration. Ages 3 and up. $5. 10am-noon. The Billy Graham Library, 4330 Westmont Drive. 704-4013200. billygrahamlibrary.org. Easter Egg-stravaganza. Free. 1-5pm. Cornelius Road Park, 247 Cornelius Road, Mooresville. 704-799-4281. ci.mooresville.nc.us.

APRIL 2014

CharlotteParent.com

Hop Into Spring. Free. 2-4pm. Bailey Road Park, 11536 Bailey Road, Cornelius. 704-892-6031. cornelius.org. Nature Egg Hunt. Space is limited. Registration required. $3. 1:30pm. McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 York Road. 704-588-5224. parkandrec.com. Town of Matthews Easter Eggstravaganza. Ages 12 and under. Free. 11am-2pm. Stumptown Park, 120 South Trade St., Matthews. 704-321-7275. matthewsfun.com.

Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt. Ages 10 and under. Free. 6:30pm. Davis Park, 204 Park Drive, Belmont. 704-8258191. cityofbelmont.org.

Creative Journaling. Learn about writing and self-expression by journaling them with words, photos, collages, and other art forms. Ages 12-18. Free. 6pm. Mountain Island Library, 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way. 704416-5600. cmlibrary.org. Read a Book, Learn to Cook. Investigate cookbooks and learn about measurements. Explore how healthy cooking and eating come together. Ages 8-11. Free. 5pm. Beatties Ford Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. 704-416-3000. cmlibrary.org. Robotics: LEGO Mindstorm. Develop technology skills by building robots. Ages 12-18. Free. 3:30pm. West Boulevard Library, 2157 West Blvd. 704-416-7400. cmlibrary.org. OnStage: Blue Man Group. See Page 41.

18 FRIDAY

16 WEDNESDAY

Easter Egg Hunt at Romare Bearden Park. Free. 11am-2pm. Romare Bearden Park, 300 S. Church St. parkandrec.com. McCrorey YMCA Easter Egg Hunt. Free. Noon-2pm. McCrorey YMCA, 3801 Beatties Ford Road. 704-416-6538. ymcacharlotte.org.

Latta Homeschoolers: Geocaching. Take a look at the behind-thescenes work of hiding a geocache. Bring plenty of water and a snack. Registration required. Ages 9-12. $6. 1-4pm. Latta Plantation Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704875-1391. parkandrec.com. Pancakes and Poetry. Celebrate National Poetry Month by sharing original poetry or bringing something from a favorite poet to read in exchange for a pancake. Ages 12-18. Free. 12:30pm. Mountain Island Library, 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way. 704416-5600. cmlibrary.org. OnStage: Blue Man Group. See Page 41.

13 SUNDAY Gaston County Museum Easter Egg Hunt. Ages 10 and under. Free. 1:30-3pm. Dallas Town Square and The Gaston County Museum, 210 N. Holland St., Dallas. 704922-3176. gastoncountymuseum.org.

16 WEDNESDAY Toddler Easter Egg Hunt. Ages 5 and under. Free. 10am. Tuckaseege Park, 165 Broome St., Mount Holly. 704-9513006. mtholly.us.

17 THURSDAY

19 SATURDAY 14th Annual Charlotte Easter Egg Hunt. Free. 10am. Latta Park, 601 E. Park Ave, Charlotte. 704-432-4280. parkandrec.com. Breakfast with the Bunny. Registration required. Free. 9-10:30am. Monroe Crossing Chick-Fil-A, 2115 W. Roosevelt Blvd. #105, Monroe. 704-289-6547 ext.26. chickfil-a.com/monroemall. Hop to It. Free. 10-11:30am. Indian Trail Cultural Arts Center, 100 Navajo Trail, Indian Trail. indiantrail.org. Kids Club Central: The Epic Easter Trail. Free. 1-3pm. Epicentre, 210 E. Trade St. epicentrenc.com. Latta Plantation Easter Egg Hunt. Ages 10 and under. Registration required. $5. 10am-2pm. Latta Plantation, 5225 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-875-2312. lattaplantation.org. Rural Hill Easter Egg Hunt. Registration required. Free. 10am-2pm. Historic Rural Hill, 4431 Neck Road, Huntersville. 704-875-3113. ruralhill.net. Stallings Easter Egg Hunt. Ages 12 and under. $1 for nonresidents. 10am-Noon. Stallings Elementary School Ball Fields, 3501 Stallings Road, Stallings. 704-821-8557 ext. 227. stallingsnc.org.

17 THURSDAY Latta Homeschoolers: Gone Fishing. Bring a beginning anglerand and learn the basics of fishing. All equipment and bait provided. Ages 6-8. $3. 10am-noon. Latta Plantation Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-875-1391. parkandrec.com. OnStage: Blue Man Group. See Page 41.

18 FRIDAY Fun With Science: Ectoplasm. Learn the science behind what makes materials glow in the dark while creating your own ectoplasm. Ages 12-18. Free. 3:30pm. Mountain Island Library, 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way. 704-416-5600. cmlibrary.org Teen Ping Pong Tournament. Join friends for a table match. Winners receive a prize. $5-$7. 7-10:30pm. Morrison Family YMCA, 9405 Bryant Farms Road. 704-716-4650. ymcacharlotte.org. School Break Special: Despicable Me Film Fest. This school-age program features both films. Snacks included. Ages 5-11. Free. Noon. Mountain Island Library, 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way. 704-416-5600. cmlibrary.org Onstage: Blue Man Group, The Reluctant Dragon. See Page 41.

19 SATURDAY Earth Day Play Date. Observe demonstrations on backyard gardening for kids, creating backyard wildlife habitats or just enjoy mucking in the mud in the mud cafe. $6, includes museum admission. 10am-1pm. Charlotte Nature Museum, 1658 Sterling Road. 704-372-6261. charlottenaturemuseum.org. Family Storytime: For Me, for You, for Later. The whole family can learn how people, things and money have value. Free. 10:30am. ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center, 300 E. Seventh St. 704-416-4600. cmlibrary.org. Fort Building. Bring your family and friends to build forts in the woods. Registration required. Free. 1-2pm. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 704-588-5224. parkandrec.com. Sensory Storytime. Filled with stories, songs, and activities specifically designed for children with autism spectrum disorders, sensory integration issues, or other developmental disabilities. Ages 3-7. Registration required. Free. 10:30am. South County Regional Library, 5801 Rea Road. 704-416-6600. cmlibrary.org.

Story Explorers. Explore books and stories in creative ways through interactive activities including math, science and games. Ages 3-5. Registration required. Free. 3pm. Mint Hill Library, 6840 Matthews - Mint Hill Road. 704-416-5200. cmlibrary.org. Onstage: Blue Man Group; The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark; The Reluctant Dragon. See Page 41.

FREE a publication

2013-2

Family Fun Day Open Studio. A unique way to spend time with the family while exploring everyone’s creative side. $5-$10. 1-4pm. Morrison Family YMCA, 9405 Bryant Farms Road. 70441-4650. ymcacharlotte.org. Turtles, Tortoises, and Terrapins, Oh My. Visit with Peter the box turtle and his friends to learn about these creatures. Ages 3 and up. Free. 2-3pm. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704-432-6459. parkandrec.com. Onstage: Blue Man Group; The Reluctant Dragon. See Page 41.

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21 MONDAY Aim Athletics Grand Opening. Tour the cheerleading facility and meet the coaches. Games, prizes and food. Free. 4:30-8:30pm. Old Hickory Business Park, 3033 Eaton Ave., Indian Trail. 704980-8246. aim-athletics.net. Every Child Ready to Read: Fun with Math and Science. Learn about the five early literacy practices, along with interactive science and math activities to help your child learn more about the world, gain new vocabulary, and develop other literacy skills. Free. 11am. Beatties Ford Road Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. 704416-3000. cmlibrary.org. Power Hour: Growing Food in the Greenhouse. Gain STEM skills by learning how to create a greenhouse suitable for plant growth. Ages 8-11. Free. 3:30pm. Beatties Ford Road Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. 704-416-3000. cmlibrary.org.

CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

on exhibit CORNELIUS ARTS CENTER Markers of Our Lives: A Community Mandala Project. Explore how artist Bryant Holsenbeck builds mandala-shaped, three-dimensional structures to create beautiful spaces out of recycled bottle caps. Free. Through April 30. Mon.-Thurs., 9am-5pm; Fri.-Sat., 9am-noon. 704-892-6031. cornelius.org. 19725 Oak St., Unit 1, Cornelius.

DISCOVERY PLACE 101 Inventions That Changed the World. With more than 6,000 different video files, 40 projectors and floor-to-ceiling walls that display crystal clear images, experience a multisensory presentation on a spectacular journey of inventions. $18-$20, includes museum admission. Through April 21. Mon.-Fri., 9am-4pm; Sat.,10am-6pm; Sun., noon-5pm. 704-372-6261. discoveryplace.org. Hubble. Narrated by Leonardo DiCaprio, watch as the Hubble Space Telescope provides unprecedented views of the universe. $5-$10. Through May 30. Call or go to website for showtimes. 704-372-6261. discoveryplace.org. Van Gogh Alive. Synchronized to a powerful classical score, more than 3,000 Van Gogh images at an enormous scale create a display that fills giant screens, walls, columns, ceilings and even the floor. $18-$20. April 25-June 1. Mon.-Fri., 9am-4pm; Sat., 10am-6pm; Sun., noon-5pm. 704-372-6261. discoveryplace.org. 301 N. Tryon St.

LEVINE MUSEUM OF THE NEW SOUTH Faces of Freedom Summer. View 102 photographs taken by Herbert Randall in Hattiesburg, Miss. that document the struggles and triumphs of civil rights activists and African-American voters during the summer of 1964. $5-$8, includes museum admission. Through August 17. Mon.-Sat., 10am-5pm; Sun., Noon-5pm. 704-3331887. museumofthenewsouth.org. Out of the Shadows: Undocumented and Unafraid. Explore how art can be a deliberative and imaginative forum for exploring complex issues about immigrant labor, education, and legal status. $5-$8, includes museum admission. Through June 29. Mon.-Sat., 10am-5pm; Sun., noon-5pm. 704-333-1887. museumofthenewsouth. org. 200 E. 7th St.

MUSEUM OF YORK COUNTY Way Back When: Ice Age Beasts of Carolina. Travel back in time to the Carolina Piedmont during the Ice Ages when massive mastodons browsed woodlands, and giant ground sloths ambled along the forest edge. $3-$5. Through July 31. Tues.Sat.,10am-5pm; Sun. 1-5om . 803-329-2121. chmuseums.org. 4621 Mt. Gallant Road, Rock Hill, SC.

SCHIELE MUSEUM Farmers, Warriors, Builders: The Hidden Lives of Ants. With the aid of a macro lens and the insights of ant expert and photographer Mark Moffett the incredible world of ants is explored in this Smithsonian Traveling Exhibition. $6-$10, includes museum admission. Through April 6. Mon.-Sat., 9am-5pm; Sun.,1-5pm. 704-866-6908. schielemuseum.org. 1500 E. Garrison Blvd, Gastonia.

The Charlotte Parent calendar lists free and low-cost local events targeted to children and families. Time, dates and details subject to change. Call venue to confirm. Want to get listed? Go to CharlotteParent.com/calendar, then click on Submit an Event.

CALENDAR POLICY: 44

APRIL 2014

CharlotteParent.com

22 TUESDAY Autism Aware Fare. Dine in or order out from a variety of restaurants to support the Autism Society of North Carolinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mecklenburg County chapter. Participating restaurants. 704904-0456. autismawarefare.org. Earth Day. Learn how to treat the world so everyone can enjoy the planet. Includes a storytime followed by an Earth-related craft. $8, includes museum admission. 9am-5pm. Discovery Place KIDS, 105 Gilead Road, Huntersville. 704-372-6261. discoveryplacekids.org. Family Earth Day Celebration. Participate in a Recycle Relay Race and build a recycled bird feeder, plus a guided hike through the trails. Refreshments provided. Ages 5 and up. Free. 3-6pm. McDowell Nature Center, 1555 York Road. 704-588-5224. parkandrec.com. Rookie Science. Discover the world of science through books, handson educational activities, and experiments. Ages 8-11. Free. 5pm. Beatties Ford Road Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road.704-4163000. cmlibrary.org. Wordplay Activities. Develop literacy, critical thinking, and teamwork skills by participating in a variety of activities and board games like Scrabble and Bananagrams. Ages1218. Free. 6pm. Mountain Island Library, 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way. 704416-5600. cmlibrary.org.

23 WEDNESDAY Green Fire Movie. See the first documentary film ever made about legendary conservationist Aldo Leopold and his environmental legacy. Ages 10 and up. Free. 6-8pm. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704-432-6459. parkandrec.com. Mini-Masters Art Workshop: Wild Things. Go on a safari through the museum searching for wild animals in the art and play with texture rubbings and sponge painting to craft a crocodile. Ages 3-5. Registration required. $12-$16. 10:30-11:45am.

Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Road. 704-337-2000. mintmuseum.org/tags/minimasters-workshop. Nature Detectives: Flower Power. Learn about fun things that are found in the woods. Features stories, games, and activities. Ages 4-6. $3. 1:30-3:30pm. Latta Plantation Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-432-6460. parkandrec.com. Young Explorers: Hummingbirds. Discover nature with your little one through stories, crafts and activities related to the programâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s topic. Ages 2-3. $3. 10:15-11am. Latta Plantation Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road. 704-875-1391. parkandrec.com.

24 THURSDAY Teens and Risk Management. Learn how to monitor what your child does without imposing too much in their life. Registration required. Free. 7:30pm. Levine JCC, 5007 Providence Road. 704-366-5007. charlottejcc.org.

25 FRIDAY Best Buy Teen Movie Night. Bring friends and enjoy a night out watching a feature film. Kids should bring cash for concessions. Free for Members; $5, Nonmembers. 7-9pm. Morrison Family YMCA, 9405 Bryant Farms Road. 704-716-4650 . ymcacharlotte.org. Play Again. A documentary that follows six teens who spend five to 16 hours a day behind screens. Watch their first wilderness adventure without any electricity and cellphone connection. $8-$9. 6:30-9pm. The Cornelius Arts Center, 19725 Oak St., Unit 1, Cornelius. 704-996-7724. cornelius.org. Onstage: The Reluctant Dragon. See Page 41.

26 SATURDAY Art on the Green. Enjoy art, live music, and food. Free. 10am-5pm. The Village Green, S. Main St., Davidson. davidsoncommunitycalendar.org/ event/art-on-the-green/.

PLAYGROUND REVIEW OLDE PROVIDENCE PARK 3800 Rea Road

Playtime at Olde Providence Park

If your older kids ask to go to the park, try out the trio of playgrounds at Olde Providence Park. On the grounds of Olde Providence Elementary School, these separate playground areas on diﬀerent sides of the school are designed for kids ages 5-12, each oﬀering lots of climbing, jumping and balancing activities for this age group. One has a 10-station fitness course; another a rock wall, large jungle gym and balance beams; the other a variety of climbing equipment, balancing platforms and basketball courts. All the equipment is in good condition — one of the playground's equipment was replaced just last year — and they all have lots of wood mulch underneath. Despite being at an elementary school, one parent says the park is not overly crowded after school or on the weekends. One area has a walking track along with a large tree and picnic tables; the other areas don't have shade or many areas for sitting. — Heather Bailey

Leaders

GROWING

CHARLOTTE PREPARATORY SCHOOL PLEASE JOIN US FOR A CAMPUS TOUR Spending time on our campus is the best way to experience Charlotte Prep. We host drop-in tours every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. - no appointment necessary!

WWW.CHARLOTTEPREP.ORG

THE

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PARKING in school parking lots RESTROOMS WATER FOUNTAINS BABY SWINGS STROLLER-FRIENDLY FENCE PICNIC SHELTER SHADE limited

Photos courtesy of Heather Bailey

CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

Celebrate Spring at Come-SeeMe Festival

BY MIKALA YOUNG

or more than 50 years, the ComeSee-Me Festival in Rock Hill has been attracting visitors from all over the Carolinas. More than 100,000 visitors are expected at this year's festival, happening April 3-12. The festival kicks off with the Blooming Gardens parade that celebrates the many colors of spring throughout the city, followed by 10 days of family-friendly events held at various venues. Artists of all ages come together to showcase their best art through the use of chalk at the Chalk on Main event. The Beach Bash is an evening of fun, food and of course the sounds of beach music, plus handson music stations and a Children's Kazoo Parade. The Teddy Bear Tea Party on Winthrop University’s campus is a favorite for little ones who can treat their favorite stuffed animal like a king or queen as they partake in light refreshments and play time with the other guests. Children ages of 3 and 6 get in free if they bring a new or gently used toy to donate to a local children’s charity. For just $2 a cup, everyone can enjoy ice cream along with story time by Mother Goose at the Sundaes With Glen and Mother Goose event. Story time alone makes this event a hit, but it gets even better with balloon twisting and more kid-friendly activities. The last day of the festival offers something for all ages, including a Grand Car Show, Healthy Kid Zone, Everything Trucks and Fireworks Extravaganza. Visit comeseeme.org for a full schedule of events.

APRIL 2014

CharlotteParent.com

Earth Day Birthday. Games, activities, and a 4-H petting zoo, plus education exhibits. Pony rides and family-friendly foods onsite for a fee. Free. 10am-3pm. Museum of York County, 4621 Mt. Gallant Road, Rock Hill. 803-329-2121. chmuseums.org. Kids Bicycle Safety and Educational Rodeo. Children can learn and practice bicycle safety. Bikes and a limited supply of helmets provided. Ages 7-12. Free. 10am-2pm. University YMCA, 8100 Old Mallard Creek Road. 704-503-0138. bikecharlotte.org. Middle School Madness. Music, dancing, hoops, contests and video games. Ages 11-13. $5 for members, $8 non-members. 7-10:30pm. Morrison Family YMCA, 9405 Bryant Farms Road. 704-716-4650. ymcacharlotte.org. The Art of Papermaking. Repurpose old paper into new paper that can be used for note cards and letters. Ages 6 and up. Registration required. Free. 2-3pm. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704-432-6459. parkandrec.com. Onstage: The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark;The Reluctant Dragon. See Page 41.

27 SUNDAY BikeFEST. Enjoy a Kids Bicycle Safety Rodeo, Bus Cycles, B Cycle Bikes, Cargo Challenge, Bike Wash and Lube Station, Flat Tire Challenge, music, food, kids crafts and activities. Free. 2-5pm. Thomas Avenue in Plaza-Midwood. bikecharlotte.org. Charlotte Youth Cycling Race. Gives children the opportunity to have a great mountain bike race experience in a fun, safe and low cost setting. Ages 6-18. Registration required. $15-$20; Kids 6 and under free. View website for race times. Fisher Farm Park, 21215 Shearer Road, Davidson. charlotteyouthcycling.org. KinderMourn’s 10th Annual Hope Floats Duck Race. One of the "quackiest" races in town. Prizes awarded to the first ducks who cross the finish line. Part of Tuck Fest. Free. 2-5pm. U.S. National Whitewater Center, 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy. 704-3762580. kindermourn.org. Onstage: The Reluctant Dragon. See Page 41.

28 MONDAY Nature Story Corner. Get comfortable as a variety of nature-based stories are read. Stories may be accompanied by puppets. Ages 3 and up. Free. 10-11am. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704432-6459. parkandrec.com. Retro Weaponry. Build a catapult and trebuchet to use as springboards for discussion on acceleration, gravity, physics and energy. Ages 8-11. Free. 3:30pm. Beatties Ford Road Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. 704-416-3000. cmlibrary.org.

29 TUESDAY Afternoon Adventures Puzzle Tower. Come play this giant, Jenga-like game of tumbling blocks that test mental skills and manual dexterity. Ages 8-11. Free. 4:30pm. Mountain Island Library, 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way. 704416-5600. cmlibrary.org. Turtlevision 2: Sammys Escape. Two turtles find their way in a strange aquarium. Find out how they orchestrate a magical escape. $10-$12, includes museum admission. Mon.-Fri.,9am-4pm; Sat., 10am-6pm; Sun., noon-5pm. Discovery Place, 301 N. Tryon St. 704-372-6261. discoveryplace.org. Onstage: Peter and the Starcatcher. See Page 41.

30 WEDNESDAY Latta Homeschoolers: Jetton Park Geocaching. Join this high-tech adventure and learn the functions of a basic GPS unit and the different types of caches and how to locate them throughout the park. Ages 6-8. $6. 1-4pm. Latta Plantation Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704875-1391. parkandrec.com. Mount Holly Springfest Preschool Playday. Enjoy art, music and snack time, and play time with "Sparky" the fire dog. Ages 4-5. Free. 9am. Tuck Center, 105 Sports Lane, Mount Holly. 704-951-0159. mtholly.us. Spring 2014 Scott Clark Toyota: Kat Country Jam. Various artists perform hit songs the whole family can enjoy. Proceeds benefit the St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital. $9.69. Doors open at 6:30pm. The Filmore, 1000 NC Music Factory Blvd. wkktfm.com.

Excursion

Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens BY ELIZABETH DAY

ocated about 90 miles from Charlotte's city center, Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens makes for a fun and easy day trip for Charlotte area families. Recently my family of four took a day trip to the Riverbanks Zoo. After purchasing our tickets and renting a double stroller, we started oﬀ on our zoo adventure. The zoo itself is smaller than the North Carolina Zoo at Asheboro and a flatter landscape, which means less walking and an easier day for families with young children. Despite being a smaller zoo, it represents considerably more species, including hyenas, tigers, siamang apes, kangaroos and koalas. Favorites for my boys were the Aquarium Reptile Complex, or ARC, and the Lorikeet Aviary. The ARC is

huge, with tons of unusual creatures than can be viewed up close, including a King Cobra and a beautiful snake with gleaming iridescent scales. The Lorikeet Aviary is free to enter, but you can purchase cups of nectar for $2 each, and I highly recommend doing so. Both of my boys loved the experience of having the colorful birds perch on them and drink nectar as they held the cups. Be careful, though, the birds are on a high volume liquid diet all day long, so be aware of what's above you. Other animals at the zoo include elephants, gorillas, lions, penguins and lemurs. There is also a carousel, a children's train ride and pony rides for a break in the animal action. A ride wristband is available

for $20, or individual rides cost between $2 and $5 in addition to zoo admission fees. We stayed at the zoo for more than four hours, and were able to see almost all of the animals, however we didn't have time for the gardens. Hailed as one of the 20 best public gardens in America by HGTV, and featuring several themed gardens, including the Old Rose Garden, Asian Garden, Play Garden, and more, we will definitely be back to check them out on a return visit. Admission is reasonable, $11.75 for adult tickets, $9.25 for ages 3-12 and free for children 2 and under. Riverbanks Zoo has reciprocal membership agreements with several other zoos and aquariums.

TOP: Inside the Aquarium Reptile Complex.

Because we CENTER: Elephants are members at the zoo. of the North Carolina Zoo, our admission was half price. If you belong to another facility, be sure and do some research before you purchase full price tickets. Be forewarned: There are no restrooms available outside the gate, and you may have to stand in line before entering, so plan accordingly. Elizabeth Day performs with The Village Washer Wenches at the Carolina Renaissance Festival each year and throughout Charlotte, and lives with her husband and two boys in Kannapolis.

CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

Charlotte World Parade and Festival

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AutoFair. Thousands of automobiles and collector cars, plus a massive Midway and Kids Play Zone. $10; free for children 13 and under. April 3-6. Charlotte Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Pkwy. S, Concord. 800-455-3267. charlottemotorspeedway.com. BikeFEST. Enjoy a Kids Bicycle Safety Rodeo, Bus

Cycles, B Cycle Bikes, Cargo Challenge, Bike Wash and Lube Station, Flat Tire Challenge, music, food, kids crafts and activities. Free. April 27. 2-5pm. Thomas Avenue in Plaza-Midwood. bikecharlotte.org.

Come-See-Me Festival. Ten days of family fun. See Page 46 for details. Price varies per event. April 3-12. Various locations through Rock Hill. 803-329-7625. comeseeme.org Rural Hill Scottish Festival and Loch Norman Highland Games. Features bounce houses, bagpipes and other kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; activities. More details on Page 10. April 12-13. $7-$25. Historic Rural Hill, 4431 Neck Road, Huntersville. 704875-3113. ruralhillscottishfestival.net.

Rural Hill Scottish Festival and Loch Norman Highland Games

Rural Hill, 4431 Neck Road, Huntersville. 704-8753113. ruralhill.net. Charlotte World Parade and Festival. Continental games, ethnic foods, cultural displays, and a parade of nations that showcases native dress from around the world. Free. April 26. 11am-6pm. Freedom Park, 1900 East Blvd. 704-246-7619. worldparadefestival.org. Kaleidoscope Cultural Arts Festival. Magicians, musicians and live painting. Free. April 26. Noon-4pm. Downtown Kannapolis, 216 West Ave., Kannapolis. 828-231-5037. kannapolisarts.com. 5th Annual Strawberry Festival. Pick-yourown strawberries and pony rides. Free. April 27. 9am-4pm. Bush-N-Vine Farm, 1650 Filbert Hwy, York, SC. 803-684-2732. bushnvinefarm.com. Tuck Fest. Enjoy live music, more than 20 competitions and demonstrations featuring outdoor sports and recreation, and the Hope Floats race. Free admission, $5 parking fee. April 25-27. Fri., 5-8pm; Sat., 8am-7:15pm; Sun., 8:30am-4pm. U.S. National Whitewater Center, 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy. 704-391-3900. usnwc.org.

Beach Fest Matthews. Includes live beach music and carnival rides. Free. April 25-26. Park, 232 Matthews Station St., Matthews. 704321-7275. beachfestmatthews.com. Bark in the Park. Bring your pooch for contests and more. Free. April 26. 10am-4pm. Historic

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DADDY DEREK

BY DEREK JAMES

April Showers Means Games for Hours Tyler, 5, enjoys a good game of Parcheesi.

hen the April rain is heavy or it's too wet to go outside and play in the backyard, as a parent you have a few options. While I would prefer everyone take a nap, that rarely happens. If my boys had their way, they'd veg on the couch with the “Turbo” movie and Star Wars Angry Birds on the iPhone for hours, ad nausem. In moderation, those things are fine. The rainy day go-tos in our house are board games and card games. My wife and I love game shows, so gaming is in our blood. When Tyler, our oldest, turned 3 we started playing board games. My beautiful bride says the real reason we got immersed in games was because she was sick of playing cars with us. Family game night isn’t a oncea-month event, we play some sort of game almost every day, even if only for 10 minutes. We also started taking card games with us when we go out to eat.

The boys are much more engaged and talk a lot more about their day when you are playing cards than when they have their face stuck in a screen. You also get fewer nasty looks from other diners. There is some sort of law that’s been in place since the 1960s that your child’s first board game must be Candy Land. If you don’t buy the Milton Bradley classic, King Candy and half the cast of “Wreck It Ralph” will haunt you. By the way, in the game it’s “King Kandy” with a “K” and in the movie candy is spelled with a “C.” I assume Candy Land is the classic choice for a first game because it requires no reading. If you’re looking for good early card games, you can’t go wrong with Go Fish and Uno. You may need to lose some of the skip and wild cards at the beginning to make it easier. Fast-forward two years and our closet is filled with no less than two dozen games. We have other classics like Chutes and Ladders and Operation

along with newer games including Sorry!, Sliders, and Pop the Pig. I have also given in and allowed Tyler to get a couple of Angry Birds board games. He’s gotten better at building things and following directions thanks to those. Over the course of our game nights, my wife taught Tyler and me how to play Parcheesi. I have no idea how I missed that one growing up. While initially it was intended as a simple family-bonding experience, game time has become much more. It’s a great educational piece. From counting to reading to reasoning and risk taking, board games have been a useful tool in the preschool years. Candy Land is great for colors, Zingo for reading, and Hi Ho Cherry-O for motor development. Like most kids, our two boys struggle with taking turns, patience and working together. Playing games has helped them make strides there too. Thanks to playing games, Tyler was all-in-all a good sport before we even stepped on the tee-ball field. He had a good sense of winning and losing, and how to handle disappointment. It doesn’t hurt that Tyler still beats me in Yahtzee Junior 85 percent of the time. We did have to have a talk about his cheating during Go Fish and Crazy Eights. He pretended he didn’t have the cards I was looking for, meaning he may make a really good Poker player one day. Win or lose, through all of our game playing our boys have learned that the reason Daddy loves games is the play itself, not the win. The rainy-day nap can wait; I’ve got two boys who say we have some Hungry, Hungry Hippos to feed. Derek James is a host on WCCB News Rising, and lives with his wife and two sons, ages 3 and 5. Read more from James in his Daddy Derek blog at CharlotteParent.com/blogs. CharlotteParent.com | APRIL 2014

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