Charlotte Parent August 2014

August 2014 • Free CharlotteParent.com

75 DOCTORS

Mom-Approved

BEAT

Back-to-School

JITTERS

PINT-SIZE

PROGRAMMERS

Teaching kids to code Common Core Questions A | Answered AUGUST 2014

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special advertising section

enrichment

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a u g u s t 2 0 14 29

features

24 Reading, Writing and ... Coding?

Why computer programming might be the next item in the classroom curriculum

29 The New Rules for Teen Dating

What you need to know before your child starts to play the dating game

32 A Superhero Start to School Five super school tools to start the year

34 Overcoming Back-to-School Jitters

What you can do to help them ease into the new school year

32

39 Common Core Conundrum

Answers to your questions from directors at the North Carolina Department of Instruction

40 Mom-Approved Doctors

See who local moms suggest as the best doctors around

in every issue

4 from the editor 9 family fyi 12 doc says 14 chalk talk 15 stay-at-home dudes 19 food for thought 20 mother of style 22 growing up 45 getting out 46 daily calendar 56 excursion 59 daddy derek 60 carolina smiles

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Photo by Maura MacKinnon macphotography9.weebly.com.

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August 2014 • Free CharlotteParent.com

34 75 DOCTORS

Mom-Approved

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BEAT

Back-to-School

JITTERS

PINT-SIZE

PROGRAMMERS

24

Teaching kids to code

39

Common Core Questions Answered

special advertising section

enrichment

FROM THE EDITOR MICHELE HUGGINS

Let the New School Year Begin

I

’m nervous. This is the year — now the month — that I walk my son down the hall for his first day of kindergarten. I can’t think about it too much or I get sad. Where did the past five years go? Really I shouldn’t be sad, but it’s a milestone, a big one.

This is the beginning of his educational career building on his foundation of ABCs and 123s. Honestly I’m not so nervous about the learning part of kindergarten, I’m nervous about the social aspect. Will he have no problem making new friends or bottle up in the corner? Will he ask questions and be curious? Will the other kids be nice? Will he be nice? There’s no way to know and there’s no way to know for sure during any stage of his school career, but this year, it’s all new — to him and to me.

But I’m ready. (I repeat to myself, “I’m ready!”). Any time you face change, I believe you should take the bull by the horns and face it with confidence. No looking back. Build on what you know.

Spread your wings and fly. Kids are quick to pick up on parents’ fears, so any fears or tears I share or shed will be away from the ears and eyes of my new kindergartener. Nonetheless, I’m going to pick up one of the books suggested in our story about helping kids beat back-to-school jitters, on page 33, and take to heart the reminder that each year is an “exercise in growth … he’ll be fine …. just breathe.” Good advice for so many of life’s challenges.

This issue is all about heading back to school. Find fun stuff to do to get kids excited about the start of school in the calendar on page 55. We also answer reader questions about Common Core on page 39; and have you heard about the trend toward inclusion of coding in classrooms? More on that on page 24. Until the first bell rings, enjoy the last long days of summer.

Cheers,

GROUP PUBLISHER Sharon Havranek

PUBLISHER/ EXECUTIVE EDITOR Eve White

EDITOR

Michele Huggins

ART DIRECTOR Melissa Stutts

DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER Susannah Carpenter

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Mikala Young

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Resa Goldberg

SALES TEAM LEADER Leslie Hatheway

lhatheway@charlotteparent.com

MEDIA CONSULTANT Jen Byrum

jbyrum@charlotteparent.com

Dawn Field dfield@charlotteparent.com

ADVERTISING SALES COORDINATOR Kia Moore

ads@charlotteparent.com

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Cher Wheeler

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Logan Eason

MORRIS VISITOR PUBLICATIONS REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT Karen Rodriguez

PRESIDENT

Donna Kessler

DIRECTOR OF MANUFACTURING Donald Horton

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR Shelonda West

PUBLICATION MANAGER Kris Miller

CONTACT US

Phone: 704-344-1980 | Fax: 704-344-1983 214 W. Tremont Ave., Suite 302 | Charlotte, NC 28203 advertising@charlotteparent.com | editorial@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.

A Publication of the Visitor Publications Division of Morris Communications Company, L.L.C. 725 Broad St., Augusta, GA 30901 Chairman and CEO President William S. Morris III Will S. Morris IV PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION

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2014 Bronze Award Winner Editorial Awards Competition

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what’s new at …

DAILY POST

CHARLOT TEPARENT.COM

Insight and opinon on parenting news headlines, plus updates on local news that affects parents and kids …/blogs.

Pin-spiration:

BACK-TO-SCHOOL WATERCOLOR AND GLUE ART Inspire school spirit making this quick-and easy decoration. Pinterest/CharlotteParent.

ENRICHMENT

DAYTRIPPING

MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS

Time to pick and choose after-school activities and enrichment for the new school year. Our online Enrichment Directory is loaded with ideas to stretch and grow young minds.

Before summer is over, enjoy a day with the kids exploring nearby museums and attractions. Use our online directory to search by distance from your neighborhood.

We ask local moms to tell us about their favorite local doctors, and why they are the best. See if your doc made the list, and comments on why moms in Charlotte approve.

…/directories

Pinterest.com/ CharlotteParent

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…/daytrips

Facebook.com/ Cltparent

…/favedocs

@CharlotteParent

CONTEST:

B AC K - TO - S C H O O L B AC K PAC K Win a backpack full of ready-to-use school supplies.

Contest ends Aug. 17. … /contests.

instagram.com/ CharlotteParent

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FAMILY

Book Swap

CMS Superintendent Heath Morrison, far left, and Michael Jordan, middle, were at the unveiling ceremony for the Charlotte Hornets Teacher Innovation Fund.

Basketball Legend Michael Jordan Scores Big With Teachers

M

ichelle Massey and Sarah Norris had big ideas for implementing new strategies and programs in their classrooms, but they didn’t have big funds to make it happen. That’s where basketball legend and Charlotte Hornets team owner Michael Jordan stepped in.

Earlier this summer, the Charlotte Hornets and Fox Sports Carolinas/SportSouth made an initial $250,000 investment for the creation of the Teacher Innovation Fund. It was unveiled at a publicity event at Hornets Nest Elementary School, where Massey and Norris — who teach third and first

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grades — each received a $5,000 donation, presented by Michael Jordan.

Massey wants to implement a Classroom iPad Library, a checkout system for students to access pre-downloaded educational apps and reading material on tablets. Norris seeks to provide calendar math journals and six magnet whiteboards.

“We want to support teachers’ creativity and innovation because we believe these aspects of teaching are vital to our community,” says Kim Henderson, executive director of the Charlotte Hornets Foundation.

Fox Sports Carolinas/ SportSouth and Lowe’s have

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already contributed to the fund and others are likely to join soon, say team officials.

The intention is to provide $70,000 a year in grants to local teachers to use for innovative approaches to teaching. Grants will focus on STEM, literacy, character education and cultural arts.

The grants, which range from $1,000 to $5,000 will be awarded twice a year—in November and March.

Michael Jordan, who has indicated he would use his name and the team’s popularity to attract other corporate donors, told The Charlotte Observer, that in order to have an impact on tomorrow, you must start by helping teachers today.

The Little Free Library movement is making its way to Charlotte. The take-a-book-returnanother-book concept recently opened at Atherton Mill in South End. It’s sponsored by Charlotte Center City Partners and the South End Neighborhood Association. To find others, visit littlefreelibrary.org

71% of parents think it’s OK for kids to play with toy guns.

Source: Parents.com poll

fyi : : COMMUNITY

*

good deed: Emma Hedinger

get real with

Greg Olsen Quick stats: 29, Carolina Panthers tight end …

Family tree: lives with wife Kara; son Tate, 3; twins TJ and Talbot, 20 months; dogs, Toby and Taylor; and fish, Sully … Favorite indulgence: Kilwins ice cream … Favorite outing: pizza on Friday nights with my family … Favorite local eats: Mellow Mushroom for family nights and Del Frisco’s for date nights … iPod: Kings of Leon and lots of country music; my wife and I are huge fans! …

Latest read: “Unbroken”

by Laura Hillenbrand …

DVR: “24,” “Blacklist,” “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse,” “Frozen” … In your bag: everything for the kids …

Can’t live without: my cell phone … Stress buster: going to yoga class with my wife every week.

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Emma Hedinger, a rising fifth-grader at Providence Day School, has always been motivated by her desire to help others.

She put her desire into action through the Twelve Good Deeds plan provided by the 12-in-12 Foundation, which began a pilot program last year at Providence Day School. Emma diligently worked her way through 12 deeds, which included activities such as collecting canned goods for Crisis Assistance Ministry and writing thank-you notes to school nurses. The last deed, “pick your own,” was most meaningful for her because she was able to generate funds from her lemonade stand to help the red wolves, an endangered species.

“The red wolves live in North Carolina and are very important to our ecosystem,” she says. twelvegooddeeds.org.  Emma Hedinger worked her way through 12 good deeds as part of the 12-in-12 plan.

Student Bags Seed Money for Bow-Tie Business Jake Johnson, 15, recently got a boost for his growing business, Beaux Up, when he won Warren Buffet’s Secret Millionaires Club’s Grow Your Own Business Challenge. The annual national competition inspires kids ages 7-14 to come up with new business ideas. “It was challenging to take what was really just an idea — mixing and matching interchangeable bow tie halves to create an edgy and unique look — and turn it into a business,” says Jake. He plans to use the $5,000 prize money to develop new products for Beaux Up. Jake, who also got a business deal on the TV show “Shark Tank” when he was 10, and made an impressive debut as the young Ricky Bobby in “Talladega Nights,” recently finished a pilot in Los Angeles for a reality show featuring young entrepreneurs.

Managing Middle School Madness Turn Middle School Madness into a “Middle School Makeover,” with Michele Icard’s new book for parents about guiding children through the tween and teen years. Icard, the Charlotte-based founder of middle school social skills courses Athena’s Path and Hero’s Pursuit, says the book “helps make middle school better for everyone involved.” Find it at Barnes and Noble, Park Road Books, and Amazon, $19.99.

598 education resources at the tip of your fingertips.

Literally.

2013-14

Education Guide App

A free, interactive app containing everything you need to know about Charlotte education options for grades PK-12. Now available for iPad.

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fyi : : WELLNESS What’s a Baseline Concussion Test and Does My Child Need One?

C

oncussions are common sports-related injuries, especially among high school students. Most of the time, when a child hits his or her head, the impact is low, and only a hematoma (a swelling DOC SAYS of clotted blood) forms outside of the

BY DR. KRISTINE UYESUGI AND DR. SHIVANI MEHTA skull causing the “goose egg” we see and feel. This eventually absorbs, and there are no further complications. Sometimes the structures inside of the skull are involved, including the brain, blood vessels, or skull bones. When these structures are injured, children can have mental and neurological symptoms that occur at the time of the injury or develop in the future. This is a concussion.

Many sports programs are requiring students to have a preseason, baseline concussion test to assess an athlete’s balance and brain function, which includes learning and memory skills; ability to concentrate; and how quickly he or she thinks and solves problems, as well as for the presence of any concussion symptoms. If a student sustains a concussion during play, the health care professional and athletic trainers can compare symptoms with the baseline test to determine the severity of the concussion, and follow the healing process to make safe decisions about when to return to school and to play.

During baseline testing, the health care professional asks questions targeting aspects in the student’s medical history that can be affected by concussion severity. This includes previous head injuries, learning disorders, psychiatric disorders, ADHD and migraines.

A neurologic physical exam looks for problems with movement, sensation, balance and coordination. Neuropsychological testing can be performed on paper or a computer program such as IMPACT – a standardized computer test specific to concussion evaluation – that examines cognitive functions, such as memory, problem-solving skills, processing speed and intelligence.

The mainstay of concussion treatment is brain rest in a low-stimulation environment, so it is important to give adequate time for the brain to rest and heal before resuming school and sports. Returning too soon may hinder the brain’s ability to heal properly and quickly, thus prolonging concussion symptoms, including headache, dizziness, sleep problems, vision problems, behavior changes, learning problems, and movement and coordination problems.

Baseline testing can be helpful when performed properly. However, some students are purposefully underperforming on baseline testing in order to return to play sooner after a concussion. This practice is strongly discouraged by health care providers and sports programs due to a significant increase in risk of major head injury when a child sustains a hit while recovering from a previous concussion.

Find more information about IMPACT testing at impacttest.com.

Dr. Kristine Uyesugi is a graduate of the pediatric residency program at Levine Children’s Hospital at Carolinas HealthCare System, and Dr. Shivani Mehta is a boardcertified pediatrician at CHS Myers Park Pediatrics.

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A recent study published in “Pediatrics” shows that parents are making errors in measuring medicine for their children, partly due to using a larger spoon when a dosage is listed by the teaspoon.

For accurate measurements, use the dosage tool that comes with the medicine and measure in milliliters.

Children may be consuming more than the recommended daily value of vitamins from eating cereal. The Environmental Working Group analyzed nutrition labels of more than 1,500 breakfast cereals and found 114 fortified cereals contain a large percentage of vitamin A, niacin and zinc. By eating more than one serving combined with other foods or a daily vitamin, kids may be exceeding what they need and that can lead to gastrointestinal issues, with long-term potential for liver and skeletal damage.

To prevent sports injuries at late-summer practices, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends drinking plenty of fluids before, during and after exercising. Water is the best choice.

Dress in light clothing, and always wear suggested protective gear.

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fyi : : EDUCATION

School News Gaston Day School rising senior Kendall Carter was recently selected to display one of her works of art in the N.C. General Assembly Art Exhibit. At the opening reception she met members of the General Assembly and N.C. Senator Kathy Harrington. Selected artworks will be displayed during the year-long exhibit.

When Children Resist Going to School

App Alert: Shiny Circus The Shiny Circus is coming to town! Help Charlie and the clowns prepare for the big show and learn math concepts through this interactive, read-along storybook-style app. Kids can sort objects, identify measurement qualities, and experiment with weight and distance.

Shiny Toys, iPhone and iPad. $2.99.

Tip To help ease your child’s back-to-school fears, take advantage of the school’s open house, take him on a tour, and talk to his teachers.

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S

chool provides opportunities for children to spread their wings and achieve CHALK TALK independence,

BY JENNIFER REID make friends, and feed natural curiosity.

Frustrations in learning and socializing can make school a place to be avoided.

Children resist going to school when challenges outweigh pleasurable aspects.

If a child who was once comfortable in school suddenly resists going, explore environmental factors, both at school and at home. Is there an undesirable social situation, an unfavorable child-teacher match, or some other stressful classroom issue? School resistance can

CharlotteParent.com

occur at the start of school year, in a new school setting, or also after a prolonged period at home. It can also be a reaction to a family loss or stress. Such environmental situations are best addressed by identifying the issue with the child, developing good lines of communication and providing extra support. Repeated or prolonged resistance benefits from a three-step approach: • Maintain a kind, but firm, insistence that your child attend school. Some parents consider homeschooling, but that runs the risk of accommodating rather than solving the problem.

• Acknowledge that you understand he has feelings

that he is unable to work out right now. Assure him that he will one day be able to manage these feelings.

• Get help from a mental health professional who can conduct an evaluation to determine the basis of the child’s difficulties. An assessment can determine appropriate options for addressing the situation.

School resistance is trying and discouraging for everyone. With assistance and perseverance, feel confident that your child will one day look forward to school with confidence and enthusiasm.

Jennifer Reid is a therapeutic teacher and the associate director of education at the Lucy Daniels Center.

LIFE

::

fyi

What Babies Are Best at and How to Stop it

B

abies suck. No, literally, they suck — a lot. That’s how they eat, after all. Come on, people. Did you really think I’d be so unkind as to denigrate little babies? (Don’t answer that.) Moving on. Babies either latch on to a STAY-AT-HOME DUDE

BY RICHARD “ED” JONES bottle’s nipple or the other kind of nipple, and, once attached, just start sucking for all they’re worth.

If you’ve ever seen the blissed-out smile on a baby’s face after a good deal of sucking, then you understand just how much they suck and how much they love sucking. However, you can’t feed a baby all day, every day.

But you are going to want to.

Because babies have approximately three things they do well when they

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are born. They sleep, eat and poop and scream. It’s this last one they do best and most often. They scream if they’re hungry or tired. In fact, unless things in BabyWorld aren’t absolutely perfect, it’s ScreamTime for baby.

While you’re going to love the little darling, you will dread that screech. The mere hint of raised voice and you’ll flinch like you did just before your older brother stood in front of you, fist raised and yelled, “Two for flinching.”

There is, however, good news.

No, I’m not talking about surgically covering your earholes with a skin graft. And, yes, I did look into that but, no, most surgeons won’t do it.

The good news is that babies love to suck. Which is when you’ll love the

binky, a.k.a. the pacifier.

Once your baby gloms onto a binky and quiet descends, you’ll understand the necessity for having at least three with you at all times. One for the baby and two back-ups. Just in case. Because the alternative is simply too horrific to contemplate.

Binkies are awesome. Well, awesome until you realize your 6-year-old is tying his own shoelaces while sucking on the binky.

Eventually, binkies have to go.

Which can get really quite traumatic. Fear not, I’ll be back next time with some helpful hints.

Richard “Ed” Jones and Barry Robert Ozer are the authors of “A Dude’s Guide to Babies: The New Dad’s Playbook,” a fast and funny how-to book for new dads.

fyi : : LIFE

TOP 5 Items on School Supply Lists

Parenting Toolbox: 5 Ways To Preserve Your Child’s Artwork It’s too wonderful to throw away but the sheer volume of it is taking over your house. It’s not trash or clutter, or knickknacks. It’s your chilren’s colorful, imaginative … dare we say genius works of art. What to do with it all? Here are several ideas that will save space and jumpstart your own creativity.

• Turn it into jewelry. Send your child’s masterpiece to a company such as KidzCanDesign, which will send it back re-imagined as a sterling silver necklace, bookmark, or keychain. kidzcandesign.com.

• Create postage stamp art. Scan a piece of artwork or take a digital picture of

1. No. 2 pencils

it and upload from your computer to a website such as pictureitpostage.com.

You’ll get real U.S. postage stamps designed by your child printed on 8.5-by5.5-inch sheets. Want more? Moo.com lets you create personalized postcards, sticker books, notecards and calling cards with children’s art.

2. Folders 3. Facial tissues

• Pop art. Create a Warhol-esque piece of pop art. This idea works best with a

4. Crayons

single image, a face or a thing, and turns it into a multipanel stunner to hang on the wall. photowow.com.

5. Markers Source: TeacherLists.com, The National School Supply Lists Directory

• Personal puzzle. Develop a puzzle from your child’s painting by simply

cutting it into age-appropriate shapes. Or produce a deck of playing cards with your son or daughter’s design on the back at snapfish.com.

• Get high-tech. Tag and organize artwork by date and grade with artkive.com.

Store and share her sketches on a free personal website such as art-3000.com.

R i n g e r To s s p h o t o c o u r t e s y o f To d d A d a m s . t o d d a d a m s p h o t o g ra p h y. co m

choices ... CHAIRS FOR KIDS

Kids like it because it’s squishy, but it looks sleek and functions as well indoors as out. The new Softblock Kids Collection chair has a removable, washable cover that is quick drying and UV resistant. The cushion is mildew resistant too. $352, softblockdesign.com.

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Just hanging around? Do it in a Hanging Crow’s Nest Joki, a soft, indoor swing suitable for children ages 3-9. The large cotton seat can be removed. $110, lasiesta.com.

Beanbags have come a long way. The Fatboy Jr. defies its name suffix with a whopping 40-by-50 inches of robust stuff to lounge on. It adjusts perfectly to kids’ bodies and comes in 20 bold colors. $159, fatboyusa.com.

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fyi : : LIFE

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

BY HEIDI BILLOTTO

Sweet and Saucy Sabayon

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ocal eggs take the cake in this gluten-free dessert.

This custard-topped baked fruit dish is a great flourless alternative to late summer fruit cobbler.

Yolks from local eggs (readily available at local farmer’s markets) will cook up lighter and faster than the yolks from commercially-purchased eggs.

GLAZED SABAYON WITH LOCAL PEACHES AND BLUEBERRIES FOR THE GLAZE: • 6 local egg yolks • 1 cup apple juice or cider • 1/4 cup organic sugar • 1/2 cup heavy cream • Your favorite fresh fruit. I like peaches, blueberries and apples.

1 Combine the eggs, apple juice and sugar in a large stainless steel bowl.

2 Carefully place the bowl over a saucepan of hot (not boiling) water to make a double boiler of sorts.

3 Whisk the egg mixture constantly for 4-5 minutes or more to cook the sauce until it has thickened to the consistency of lightly whipped cream.

Note: You need to whisk constantly, keeping your whisk touching the bottom of the bowl, or the eggs will scramble and the sauce will curdle.

4 Once the sauce starts to thicken, taste the sauce and make it less sweet by adding in a few drops of lemon juice; if you need to make it sweeter, add a bit more sugar.

5 When the sauce is thick and foamy and tripled in volume it becomes a sabayon! Remove the bowl from on top of the saucepan and set it down into a larger bowl of ice water, so that the cooking will stop and the sauce will cool quickly. Be careful, at first the bottom of the stainless steel bowl will be hot!

6 Once the sabayon or egg sauce has cooled, whip the cream and fold the whipped cream into the chilled sabayon.

7 Arrange fresh sliced peaches, blueberries or sliced Granny Smith apples in an oven-to-table serving dish. Spoon the sauce over the fruit so that the fruit is completely covered.

8 Set the dish under the broiler, broil for a minute or two with the door open so that you can watch it, turning the dish as needed for even browning. Serve immediately.

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

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fyi : : LIFE

MOTHER OF STYLE »»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» BY WHITLEY ADKINS HAMLIN Photo courtesy of Donna Jernigan. momentsbydonna.com

Must Have Pieces For Every Mom

Signature accessory. Accessorizing

We live in a world of excess and fuss. There is something for everything, and we really only need a tiny fraction of any of it. When it comes to your wardrobe, keep your mind and closet uncluttered by dialing it back a bit and rely on this handful of year round basics.

T-shirt dress. Comfortable, stylish and totally cute, whether you are knocking

around with the kids, running errands, or lunch dating with your girlfriends, the t-shirt dress is perfect weekend attire. Pair it with a brown chunky belt, gladiators or wedges and shades during the summer months and transition this piece into fall wearing the same belt with cowboy boots, a denim jacket and simple metal jewels.

Perfect pair of jeans. We are lucky living here in the Queen City with options for

a whole lot of everything, everywhere we turn. And now, with Denim House located in the heart of Myers Park on Selwyn Avenue, we have an entire store dedicated to offering you the very best pair of jeans for your shape and size.

Yes, the little black dress. This one really is a no-brainer. With so many little

black dress options out there, the important thing is to find one that is right for your body shape. The most versatile style, one that hits at the knee cap and just covers the shoulders, will take any working mom from day to night; simply swap out your bag and jewels for cocktails after hours.

Wrap it up. Just like your signature accessory, every mama needs and deserves a

great coat. A lightweight four-season piece is a great piece in which to invest. A quality made coat will allow you to show your personality, and it will last a lifetime.

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.

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is the easiest way to make an outfit or look all your own. When you’re getting decked out for a special occasion, it’s fun to reach for something you don’t always wear. Just the same, when you are stepping out to tackle everyday tasks, do it wearing your own signature piece. At present, I love my handmade gold wire hoops wrapped with recycled T-shirt. They are perfect every day with everything I wear! Everyday Earrings by Lettees $38, available at backyardbaby.com. 

Keep it together. Every Mom deserves a great bag. Rebecca Minkoff’s Medium M.A.B Tote is just the right size, designed with ample slots, pockets and zippers. The bag’s classic shape will stand the test of time. $265, available at Nordstrom. 

Find a BALANCED approach TO YOUR

BUSY LIFE

17th

moms@work

FRIDAY, SEPT. 26 Charlotte Convention Center, 7:30 – 11:45 a.m.

charlotteparent

Join us for expert-led breakout sessions on stress management and work-life balance, plus a continental breakfast, exhibitors and door prizes! Learn, laugh and make new connections as we celebrate working moms and the N.C. Family-Friendly 50 companies.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! $40/person $375/group of 10

featuring:

SONJA GANTT

CARSON TATE

PAULA GUILFOYLE

Broadcast Veteran and anchor at WCNC-TV

Founder and Principal of Working Simple

Owner and President of Claim Leadership

CharlotteParent.com/MomsAtWork Sponsorships and exhibitor space available. Contact 704-344-1980 or advertising@charlotteparent.com.

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fyi : : LIFE Growing Up: Taming Anxiety

S

ometimes, anxiety and childhood go hand in hand. Kids are constantly growing, and growth can mean new experiences, unfamiliar feelings, and confusing situations — GROWING UP it’s enough to make anyone

BY MALIA JACOBSON anxious. One in eight children has an anxiety disorder, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, but all children experience anxiety from time to time. Whether your child feels nervous about a family change, a new school, or a rocky friendship, you can help. Read on for ageappropriate strategies to calm jangled nerves, halt racing thoughts, and soothe overgrown worries, so kids can simply enjoy being kids.

Malia Jacobson is an award-winning health and parenting journalist and mom of three.

2-5 years

CALM CUES

First, know that some anxiety is a normal part of early childhood. “It is quite typical for preschool-aged children to show some hesitation, or anxiety, in new situations,” says Kim Painter, licensed psychologist and family therapist in Summit, New Jersey. Whether the stressor is a new teacher, a new preschool class, or a new food, most children will “warm up” over time. The time required varies widely kid to kid, says Painter. Some children need to be exposed to something new only a couple of times for anxiety to fade, while others might need up to 10 experiences with something or someone in order to feel comfortable. Parents can soothe an anxious tot by remaining calm themselves. Brief statements of encouragement are fine, but excessive reassurance only serves to “grow” the anxiety. It’s important to note that you can’t save a child from experiencing some anxiety, says Painter. “Don’t walk on eggshells to try to prevent it. Instead, help a child face it.”

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6-12 years

SOCIAL STRESS

As children enter elementary and middle school, their social world grows — and so can anxiety about friendships, crushes and family relationships. The school years present specific situations that can stir up anxiety, says Painter. “In middle school, students try to find where they fit in socially, and academic demands increase. This is uncharted territory for most children.

They’re expected to do more with more independence.” Family conflict can be especially stressful for school-age children, who are just beginning to understand relationship dynamics. Parental feuds and high-conflict divorces can fuel anxiety that negatively impacts a child’s schoolwork, social life, sleep, and overall well-being, says attorney Nadia A. Margherio of Sodoma Law. “Talking negatively about the other parent can cause serious anxiety, stress, and social problems.” Minimize social stress by maintaining open communication, and when conflicts arise, never bad-mouth the other party.

ANXIETY OVERLOAD 13-18 years

For teens, changing bodies and churning hormones aren’t the only things upping the anxiety ante, says Painter. Increasing academic demands, peer pressure and concerns about fitting in socially can all add up to extra angst.

Occasional anxiety over something like a poor grade or a relationship problem is called “typical anxiety,” and it’s just that — typical. But if your teen experiences intense, frequent bouts of worry and nerves that affect schoolwork, relationships, or work, it might be time to consult with a licensed psychologist.

Anxiety-related mental illness often begins during the teen years. Social Anxiety Disorder, which affects 15 million adults, typically appears around age 13.

The good news: Anxiety is treatable, notes Painter. “With the appropriate help and support, overly anxious teens can get back to living a healthy life.”

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and Coding? and Coding?

Creating the next generation of programmers

BY MARTY MINCHIN

C

oding, the practice of writing languages that computers understand, is an increasingly important skill that is being taught in schools around the nation. Job reports show that the information technology field is a consistently strong market.

Technology-related jobs are expected to be one of the fastest-growing fields through 2022, according the 2014 Best Jobs report in “U.S. News & World Report.”

Thanks in large part to the nonprofit code.org, whose goal is to expose every student in the U.S. to coding, millions of students nationwide have tried programming.

Hadi Partovi, founder of code. org, refers to coding as a “critically foundational field.” The organization is working with school districts nationwide to introduce students and teachers to the skill, and it plans to reach at least 2 million students through its programs.

Fluency in coding can lead to lucrative jobs in the informational technology field, whether it’s programming computers or designing video games. It also can help kids develop valuable problem-solving and critical-thinking skills through its emphasis on breaking large problems down into a sequence of smaller problems, starting as young as 4 or 5 years old.

“The way we think about the world is evolving,” says Jo Anne

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Honeycutt, career and technical education director for the N.C. Department of Public Instruction. “I think so much of what will happen in technical careers will require some understanding of programming.”

Coding in the Classroom In recent years, computer programming has become more integrated into school programs.

Toys and programs that teach the basics of coding are even available for children in kindergarten. Teachers also are learning that they don’t have to be experts to teach coding. With some basic instruction, most students can use their own creativity to apply coding to many types of projects.

Writing computer programs teaches students to solve problems themselves — when their program doesn’t work, they must examine their code to figure out what they did wrong. Successfully creating a computer program gives students a sense of mastery over the skill, motivating them to keep learning.

Margaret Rudisill, a middle school science teacher at Trinity Episcopal School in Charlotte teaches basic coding in her science classes.

Her students have created computer programs that show how hurricanes move and to illustrate parts of cells.

Last year, Rudisill began a technology club that drew 23 of the school’s

50 sixth-graders. Rudisill thinks it benefits her students because they learn how to create projects together using coding, and they build off each other’s creativity and ideas to write more complex programs.

Many Trinity Episcopal School students have participated in code. org’s Hour of Code tutorials for all ages that teach students skills, such as how to build an iPhone game, write a program to guide a robot, and make drawings using basic JavaScript.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools offers camps, robotics clubs and other extracurricular activities centered on coding. During the 2013-2014 school year, 40 Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools participated in the Hour of Code. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools also is working with IT-oLogy, a local

Coding Vocabulary Computer programming: Developing and implementing instructions to make a computer perform a task.

Application: Software designed for users.

Programming language: A formal language that gives computers a set of instructions.

Basic: A common computer programming language.

JavaScript: A computer language used to design websites.

nonprofit that helps students think about preparing for careers in IT, and provides Saturday coding sessions for older students.

Pamela Lilley, the media specialist at Cornelius Elementary, is integrating coding into computer lab “specials” at her school. She originally knew little about coding herself, but understood the importance of it after watching an online video produced by coding. org, and after attending a summer conference held by the International Society for Technology in Education.

“I would like for it to be something that’s done with all students K-5 on a regular basis,” says Lilley. “When you have a computer lab, you should be learning computer skills. It forces students to use their

brains in ways they never have before.”

A Path to IT Jobs The N.C. Department of Public Instruction has undertaken several initiatives to up the interest in coding, which includes increasing awareness of what coding is in middle schools, and streamlining licensure requirements for teachers who want to teach computer programming.

During the 2013-14 school year, about 2,000 students statewide took a level-one computer programming course that was offered online and in high schools. Enrollment in computer programming courses increased after a game development course was introduced, and teachers received more resources to teach coding. “We

These websites, products and organizations offer coding tutorials and instruction for children preschool age and older: Code.org: Provides Hour of Code lessons and updated tutorials on aspects of coding.

Tynker: A website with basic programming instruction and visual art tools for kids to create animation and games, tynker.com.

Daisy the Dinosaur: A website with a basic introduction to computer programming, appropriate for children as young as 4, daisythedinosaur.com.

Hopscotch: An iPad app that allows children to create games, stories, animations and other interactive projects by dragging and dropping colorful blocks of code, gethopscotch.com.

IT-oLogy: A nonprofit group that organizes IT meet-ups and Cyber Saturdays in Charlotte where kids can learn to code, it-ology.org.

Bee-Bot: Robots designed for young children that teach sequencing, estimation and problem-solving, bee-bot.us.

made it a course that kids really want to be in, where they learn a skill and think it’s fun,” says Honeycutt.

Instructors statewide are impressing upon students how learning to program computers could affect their future job prospects.

At Apex High School’s Academy of Information Technology, which is a school within a school, 90 rising ninth-graders are chosen from hundreds who apply to be in the program through a lottery system to study computer programming and applications.

Students in Apex High’s Academy of Information Technology are taught business skills along with technical skills, and are required to complete a 135-hour internship during high school. Many students work with technology companies in the Research Triangle Park, such as IBM and SAS. “We want to make sure our students are an asset to these companies,” says John Evans, director of the school’s Academy of Information Technology. Many stay in touch with the companies they intern with and sometimes are hired fulltime after college.

David Oates learned basic HTML/ CSS in sixth and seventh grades at Trinity Episcopal School. He then began building websites for local businesses in Charlotte. Now he works as a product designer at HubSpot, a software company in Cambridge.

“Being exposed to coding at Trinity opened doors for me and ultimately led me to where I am now,” says Oates.

Marty Minchin is a freelance writer based in Charlotte. She has two children in elementary school.

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THE New Rules FOR

E T E N TEEN

DATING N A D T I G TEEN

BY SUZANNE M. WOOD

DATING

f you’re the parent of a child who’s recently started middle school, get ready for a decidedly new dating scene. “It’s not your parents’ dating anymore,” says Robin Gurwitch, a clinical psychologist at the Duke Center for Child and Family Health. “We don’t have

the vocabulary and we don’t have the experiences to be able to help. We’re learning this at the same time our children are navigating through it.” What follows is a teen-dating primer to help your child — and you — forge the valley between child and young adult.

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Th e Ne w ‘ T a l k ing’ P h as e o f D ating Kids today don’t plunge into dating without first going through the “talking to each other” phase. This means a boy and girl who feel an attraction spend time together, whether alone or in groups, then text and/or Snapchat in-between. A fairly high bar stands between this phase and actual “dating,” wherein one member of the couple — still usually the boy — officially asks the other out.

Megan*, a senior at Myers Park High School, says only about 20 percent of these relationships result in an official couple.

Jennifer*, a junior at Sanderson High School in Raleigh, notes that while it’s not cool to “talk” to more than one person at a time, some people go from one talking relationship to another without actually dating anyone, which tends to explain the relatively low numbers of actual couples. For instance, among Megan’s circle of about seven close girlfriends, only two have boyfriends. The rest are either completely single or talking to someone.

“Maybe among the younger girls it’s more important to have a boyfriend, but as we’ve gotten older, it’s just not as important,” she says.

Parents should try to stay on top of who their child is talking to or dating, and why — especially with younger teens. This is a prime opportunity to find out what they find appropriate and desirable in a romantic partner, says Crystal Reardon, director of counseling for Wake County Public Schools. “There is a balance there. You have to respect your children’s feelings but also want to help keep them safe.”

What to watch for: Girls usually don’t want to bring someone they’re just talking to home to their parents, say both Megan and Jennifer, so be prepared for some flak if you insist.

Gr o u p E x p e r i e n c e s Your teen doesn’t have to be dating or talking to anyone to have a date to the prom, winter formal or Sadie Hawkins dance. That’s because most kids go in large groups and are couples in name only. Johnny may still ask Suzy to be his date, but only after

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the group has decided who will go with whom. The group eats dinner together, poses for pictures together and attends the dance together. Of course, kids who already have relationships — and even some still in the talking phase — will go with that special person, but still as part of a group. As Megan puts it: “It’s not, ‘Who’s your date? But, ‘What group are you going with?’”

What to watch for: Officially, it’s OK for kids who aren’t part of a large friend group to go with just a date or with another couple, and it’s OK for kids to go “stag.” Unofficially, there are unwritten rules that your teen knows might discourage him from attending even if he wants to. If that’s the case, the only thing you can do is offer support and perhaps plan a trip or outing for that night.

‘Hooking Up’ is C ommon a nd Accepted To college students, hooking up means having casual sex. For high schoolers, it can mean that, too, but usually refers to making out at parties or get-togethers. Kids hook up with people they’ve just met, casual acquaintances and even friends. For most teens, there are no strings attached. Jennifer, when asked if hooking up with a guy meant a girl had a crush on him, says dismissively, “Nope.”

And Megan concurs: “It would seem very strange to me that a girl would think there’s something there” after a hook-up.

What to watch for: It’s time to have the “values and expectations” talk if you haven’t already. This can mean a frank talk about abstinence, birth control and sexually transmitted diseases. Case in point: There’s a myth in teen circles that you can’t get STDs from oral sex, says Gurwitch. She says as cringe-inducing as this conversation will be, it has to get done. “Try it while you’re driving,” she advises. “There’s something about not sitting next to each other on a couch that makes this easier for both you and your child.”

Plug in, watch for signs and remember that regardless of how the rules change, love evokes the same positive and negative emotions it always has, regardless of what decade it is.

Suzanne Wood is a Raleigh-based freelance writer and mother of three.

* In some cases, names were changed to protect identities.

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1 // A DC Heroes Grid Journal provides a place for them to keep track of assignments and afterschool activities, or just jot down whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on their minds. $14.99, superherostuff.com.

2 // A superhero iPad mini case is the perfect accessory to keep their digital device out of harmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way. $24, etsy.com/shop/punchbackcases.

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3 // Personalize backpacks, lunchboxes and jackets with Pin Pals superhero pins. $5, pinpalskids. com or available at J.Crew.

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4 // The SuperME Hero Backpack comes with an attached cape and reflective buckles for added safety on dim-lit mornings by the bus stop. $39.90, supermehero.com.

5 // Made of rugged, water resistant fabric, the Superman Classic Lunchbag is perfect for the daily power-packed lunch, and can be personalized. $24.99, potterybarnkids.com

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OVERCOMING BACK-TO-SCHOOL

Jitters What to do when your child is nervous about the first day of school

T

he first day of school is a landmark day at any age, but especially if it’s the day he enters kindergarten, or she enters middle school. It’s normal to have questions, doubts, and even a few fears related to those big days. “What will my teacher be like? Will I get lost? Will I make a friend?” These are just a few of the questions your child may be asking and worrying about.

What can you do to help your child manage these normal, but a bit scary feelings?

Here are five tips to help you navigate the jitters this school year.

1. A week or two before school begins, change your schedule back to your family’s normal school day routine. Go to bed earlier and get up earlier. Practice being ready to be out the door at the normal school time.

Up the reading schedule each day and do a little review of basic learning skills such as handwriting and math facts. Get into school mode and that first day won’t come as such a shock.

2. Do a trial run at the school. Get permission to tour the building if it’s new or just visit the playground and spend a little time there. You may have the opportunity to actually meet the new teacher in person or say hello to office staff. Just seeing the facility may help to calm fears of the unknown.

3. Talk about first day fears. Let your child know that teachers are a bit nervous and excited on the first day of school too. Read

a book about back to school, such as “First Day Jitters” by Julie Danneberg or “Brandnew Pencils, Brand-new Books” by Diane deGroat. Voicing fears and talking about them is a way to diffuse the tension and turn fears into a positive “looking forward to” kind of feeling.

4. Display confidence in your child’s abilities and coping skills. Kids are quick to pick up on parents’ fears for their safety or success.

Show your child you are fully confident that she will be fine and that the school year will be a great one. You’re not worried.

5. Let go. Easy to say, but hard to do. Each new school year is an exercise in growth and independence. A few rough patches in the road won’t overcome all the love and support you’ve given your child over the years. He’ll be fine. She’ll be fine. Just breathe.

Jan Pierce is a retired teacher and freelance writer.

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Books to help ease into the new school year Pick up these books to help your child adjust to the new school year, as suggested by Emily Nanney, children’s services coordinator at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

“The Night Before Kindergarten”

by Natasha Wing (2014) Told in traditional rhyme format, Wing shares how children might feel before starting kindergarten. Colorful illustrations depict children getting ready for school, saying goodbye to parents, and enjoying circle time. It doesn’t take long for the class to learn how exciting school can be with books, music and play time. Families are sure to enjoy other rhyming books in this series about starting preschool and first grade.

“The One and Only Stuey Lewis”

by Jane Schoenberg (2011) Stuey Lewis is worried about starting second grade and that his secret of being a struggling reader will be discovered. Stuey doesn’t want his teacher, classmates or especially his best friend, who is a voracious reader, to learn his secret. It is almost too much to deal with when Stuey’s teacher announces that the second-grade class is going to have weekly reading buddy sessions with sixth-graders. With the help of an empathetic teacher and caring friend, Stuey is sure to conquer second grade.

“Middle School Is Worse Than Meatloaf: A Year Told Through Stuff”

by Jennifer Holm (2007) Ginny is starting seventh grade and she has lots on her to-do list, such as finding a new dad, winning back her best friend, and seeing her grandfather on spring break. Seventh grade is going to be a challenge, but Ginny is up to writing papers, making lists and dealing with her family. This story, laid out in a journal and scrapbook format, makes for a quick read for upper elementary students. Readers may want to check out other books in this school series

by Holm.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

guide to

ENRICHMENT Find more enrichment options at CharlotteParent.com/directories Allegro Studios

8240 Tifton Road 704-287-5424 playmusicwithus.com All ages | $30 per half hour Studio and in-home piano lessons for all ages and levels. Lessons available seven days a week. Randy Jones, in-home piano lessons, 704-287-5424 or email rsjpiano@gmail.com. Keiko Aloe, violin and piano studio lessons, 704-968-2440 or email keikoaloe@gmail.com.

Carolina Dance Capital

12210 Copper Way (Ballantyne area) 704-542-4998 carolinadancecapital.com Ages 2 and up | Call for rates Fall session begins Sept. 2. Ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, hip-hop, gymnastics, cheer and gym. Classes for beginner to advanced. Injury-prevention floors, observation windows, spacious waiting area. A top 10 studio in the Southeast region (Federation of Dance Competitions).

Charlotte Ballet Academy

701 N. Tryon St. 704-372-3900 charlotteballet.org Ages 3 and up | Call for rates Charlotte Ballet Academy offers programs for students in a range of ages and with different levels of ability. School-year programs include the highest quality of instruction in ballet, modern and jazz technique.

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BB Dance Productions Inc.

5323-B E. Independence Blvd.

704-563-8693 bbdance.com Ages 2-1/2 to high school | Call for rates BB Dance Productions provides each dancer the opportunity to reach individual potential. We teach dance as an art form; and encourage creativity, discipline and individuality. Dancers experience teamwork by dancing with a group, and develop confidence to be self-reliant individuals. Join us for open houses Aug. 9 and 23 from noon to 2 p.m.

Charlotte Martial Arts Academy

2228 Hawkins St. 704-333-4155 charlottemartialartsacademy.com Ages 4-100 | $69.99 for first month At Charlotte Martial Arts Academy, we want to help you reach your goals. Offering programs for students from age 4 to adult, we are proud to be Charlotte’s leading martial arts school.

Charlotte Music School

10210 Berkeley Drive, Suite 150 704-295-7676 charlottemusicschool.com Ages 4 to adult | $29.50 per 45-minute lesson Lessons that last a lifetime! Piano, violin, guitar, voice, drums, ukulele, accordion, brass, woodwinds, pre-k music makers, ensembles, summer music camps and more. Awardwinning teachers and staff. Call us today for more information.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Dance Davidson

140 Jackson St. Davidson 704-892-5632 davidsondance.com Ages 3 to adults | Starting at $59 per week More than 30 years of excellence, offering instruction and creative expression for children and adults.

Small classes, discipline and fun. Register now for 2014-15 classes.

Creative movement, tap, ballet, modern dance, point and jazz.

Glory Cheerleading Experience

8702 Statesville Road, Suite O 704-968-5926 glorycheerleading.com Ages 4 to adult | $40 per month Offers cheerleading and tumbling classes, competitive cheerleading, and private cheerleading camps.

Provides a safe and fun environment where students learn about all aspects of cheerleading. Fitness classes for adults are also available.

Little Otter Swim School

8200 Tower Point Drive 704-846-7946 littleotterswim.com 6 months to 8 years | $70 per month Little Otter Swim School provides families with unique swimming lessons. We conduct year‑round, small-group instruction in our warm indoor swimming pools. Parents can watch their children’s progress from a comfortable viewing gallery.

Music Quarters

7845 Colony Road, Suite C3 704-840-4754 musicquarterscharlotte.com Ages 5-Adult | $26 per session Music Quarters specialty is private music lessons. The instruments we offer are guitar, piano, drums, voice, bass guitar, and violin. We have the best music instructors offering fun, quality lessons to our students.

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Community School of the Arts

345 N. College St. 704-377-4187 csarts.org Ages 3 and up | $100 and up With 45 years of experience in arts education, Community School of the Arts teaches music and art in group classes, private lessons, workshops, camps and outreach programs to students of all ages in Charlotte.

Eowyn’s Voice Studio

9308 University City Blvd.

864-680-6132 Ages 6 and up | $20/30 minutes; $40/one-hour Private voice instruction with an experienced teacher and performer.

Fun lessons that meet your individual needs. Free evaluation and short lesson on first visit.

Lanti Music

323 Unionville-Indian Trail Road, Suite E, Indian Trail 704-269-8420 lantimusic.com Ages 6 mos.-adult | $40-$225 per month Create. Enrich. Inspire. LANTI Music studio brings music to students of all ages! We offer private and group lessons, early childhood classes, local performance opportunities, and summer programs. Contact us today for more information.

Miller Street Dance Academy

11532 Providence Road, Suite O 704-889-8637 millerstreetdanceacademy.com Ages 2-1/2 to young adult | See tuition scale on website Miller Street Dance Academy was founded in 1994 with the aim of providing quality, tasteful dance instruction in a positive environment. Our goal is to cultivate young dancers into well-rounded individuals.

PlaySpanish

Call for locations and schedule 704-442-5616 playspanish.com Preschool through high school | $9 per session PlaySpanish™ is a program designed to introduce children to the Spanish language and culture through a play‑based curriculum. While in class, children participate in a activities like arts, crafts, story-telling, puppetry, music, dance and games.

ENRICHMENT

Children’s Theatre of Charlotte

300 E. 7th St. 704-973-2838 ctcharlotte.org Grades Pre-K to 12 | Call for rates We offer creative drama classes, workshops and a School of Theatre training program. Each program is designed for students to find their own artistic voice in a creative environment. Visit our website today for fall, winter and spring sessions.

ENRICHMENT

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Providence Equestrian Center

424 Waxhaw Indian Trail Road, Waxhaw 704-843-5215 providenceequestrian.com Call for ages and rates We provide safe, quality instruction in Hunt seat and jumping for all levels of riders, both children and adults. Offering leasing, showing, IEA team, camps and birthday parties. Beautiful barn in a convenient Wesley Chapel location.

Southeastern Gymnastics

13601 Providence Road, Weddington 704-847-0785 southeasterngymnastics.com Call for rates Designated 2014 Club of the Year by USA Gymnastics. Registration now open for 2014-2015 school year. Gymnastics and tumbling classes for toddlers through school-age children. Professional coaches teach safe and correct fundamentals.

Starter Studios

107 South Old Statesville Road, Huntersville 704-727-0983 starterstudios.net Ages 18 mos.-13 | $15, open studio; $60 and up per month Unlock your child’s imagination and grow their creativity with semester classes in painting, drawing, 3D art, mixed media and art exploration for younger children. Saturday open studio features self-directed art for ages 3-13.

Stonehaven Stables

424 Waxhaw Indian Trail Road, Waxhaw 704-843-5215 providenceequestrian.com Call for ages and rates Fall registration for the upcoming school year has begun for horseback riding lessons! In addition, we specialize in quality show horse sales and leasing. We also provide premier boarding, training and showing services.

Y Guides

One Thunderbird Lane, Lake Wylie, S.C. 704-716-6296 yguides.org Ages 3-10 | Annual fees depend on age and membership type Join us for the How How Luau to kick off the Y-Guides season! Enjoy beach music, paddle-boarding, Wet Wylie, slip-and-slide and lots of “lei-d back” tropical fun at the YMCA Camp Thunderbird.

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Common Core CONUNDRUM CONUNDRUM How does the nationwide curriculum affect your child?

BY CAROLYN CAGGIA

P

roponents say Common Core State Standards help students who move during their K-12 years by maintaining a consistent curriculum across the states. Those against the Common Core curriculum have concerns about ageappropriate teaching material and increased standardized testing. We opened up the floor to Charlotte Parent readers to ask questions about the Common Core State Standards. Tammy Howard, director of accountability services for North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) and Robin McCoy, director of K-12 curriculum and instruction for NCDPI, provided the answers.

What are some of the strengths of the Common Core?

McCoy: The Common Core State Standards are standards for English language arts (ELA) and mathematics. â&#x20AC;Ś They encourage higher-level thinking skills, including problem solving and reasoning skills. They allow for students with high mobility to be more successful, since school

Federal Decision or State Choice?

On July 22, N.C. Governor Pat McCrory signed into law a bill that calls for review and revision of Common Core math and reading standards for N.C public schools. The State Board of Education, which is responsible for adoption of standards for N.C. public schools, will make modifications based on recommendations from an 11-member standards advisory panel.

Until changes are adopted by the State Board of Education, current curriculum remains in place. The South Carolina State Department of Education is also in the process of developing new state standards in reading and math with the intent of replacing Common Core curriculum in the 2015-16 school year.

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districts across states will be using the same set of standards in ELA and math.

How were the End-of-Grade (EOG) and End-of-Course (EOC) tests changed to adapt to the Common Core State Standards?

Howard: As with any shift to new content standards, new tests were developed and first implemented in 2012-13. The impact on the test is the rigor of the content standards. The tests are aligned to the content standards, thus measuring whether students have learned the standards. The percent of students (who are) proficient has decreased, but that is expected anytime there are new content standards and a shift in what is taught.

What constitutes changes in math due to the Common Core State Standards?

McCoy: There are three main shifts in the math standards. First, there is greater focus on fewer topics so that students gain a strong foundation and solid understanding of concepts, a high degree of procedural skill and the ability to apply math to real-world problems. Second, there is a greater emphasis on coherence or linking knowledge and skill development across grades so that learning is a progression rather than disconnected topics or memorization. Third, there is greater rigor, meaning that conceptual understanding, procedural skills and fluency and application are given equal intensity so that students gain a deep command of mathematical concepts.

At the high school level, our math courses are now titled Math I, Math II and Math III. The courses include the same concepts and skills included in the courses

we previously called Algebra I, Geometry and Algebra II. However, the Math I, II and III courses reorganize the concepts and skills into a more integrated course of study that leads to a greater conceptual understanding of mathematics.

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to know more about Read To Achieve. Is this part of Common Core, or was it implemented as a separate initiative?

Howard: This is not part of Common Core. It is a reading initiative enacted by the General Assembly in 2012.

I want to know when to expect testing and whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expected in kindergarten related to the new curriculum.

McCoy: During the kindergarten year, information collected during the first 60 days of enrollment creates a Kindergarten Child Profile, capturing a snapshot of each child at the beginning of kindergarten. To create the profile, the teacher intentionally collects evidence about what children can say, do, make or write across five areas of learning and development: approaches to learning, cognitive, emotional-social, language and communication, and health and physical. ... The evidence collected is then used to help the teacher understand where a child may be in his or her learning.

This helps the teacher and student make immediate and ongoing adjustments to instruction and learning.

Learn more about the standards and international benchmarks at corestandards.org.

Carolyn Caggia is an editorial intern with Carolina Parent magazine and student at N.C. State University.

mom-approved

DOCTORS A L L E R G Y/A S T H M A

mom-approved

Khiani, Sanjay MD Family Allergy Asthma and Sinus Care allergyforall.com 704-817-2022

Jenny, Christopher PA-C Carolina Family Healthcare carolinafamilyhealthcare.com 704-544-1123

ceenta.com 704-295-3475

nhelizabethpediatrics.org 704-384-1000

Mallonee, Michael S. MD Charlotte Eye Ear Nose and Throat Associates ceenta.com 704-295-3500

Berger, Erica MD University Pediatrics Prosperity Crossing carolinashealthcare.org/universitypediatrics 704-863-9910

DOCTORS

Norris, John G. MD Carolina Asthma and Allergy Center carolinaasthma.com 704-372-7900

ENDOCRINOLOGY Vanderwel, Mark MD Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes Specialists pedsendo-diabetes.org 704-512-3636

Acampora, Matthew D. MD Internal Medicine Associates of Charlotte imacharlotte.com 704-366-0080 Alexanian, Aram MD Lakeside Family Physicians nhlakesidefamilyphysicians.org 704-316-1265 Anderson, Keith A. MD Cotswold Medical Clinic nhcotswoldmedicalclinic.org 704-384-8680 Gilchrist, Steven L. MD Blakeney Novant Health nhblakeneyfamilyphysicians.org 704-316-2080 AUGUST 2014

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Jung, Ki Soo, MD Northlake Neurology, Huntersville northlakeneurology.com 704-316-5388

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Morris, Christopher MD Providence OB/GYN nhprovidenceobgyn.org 704-372-4000 Schneider, Scott M. MD Bradford Clinic bradfordclinic.com 704-731-1014

ORTHOPAEDIC Gill, Lowell H. MD Gill Orthopaedic Clinic 704-342-3544

OTOL ARYNGOLOGY Heavner, S. Brett MD Charlotte Eye Ear Nose and Throat Associates

CharlotteParent.com

Silver, J. Robert MD Charlotte Eye Ear Nose and Throat Associates ceenta.com 704-295-3550

P E D I A T R I C S

Belle, Beverly A. MD Midtown OB/GYN nhmidtownobgyn.org 704-316-5270

FA M I LY D O C TO R S

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N E U R O L O G Y

Adams, Bryan C. MD University Pediatrics carolinashealthcare.org/universitypediatrics 704-717-2000 Anderson, Jack D. MD South Charlotte Primary Care carolinashealthcare.org/southcharlotte-primary-care 704-667-4150 Attorri, Robert J. MD Pediatric Surgical Associates pedsurgical.com 704-370-0223 Baker, Marty A. MD Charlotte Pediatric Clinic carolinashealthcare.org/charlottepediatric-clinic 704-367-7400 Ball, Joy K. MD Elizabeth Pediatrics

Bernal, Steven D. MD Steelecroft Pediatrics nhsteelecroftpediatrics.org 704-316-1080 Blanton, Charles M. MD Matthews Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Clinic nhmatthewschildrensclinic.org 704-384-1080 Brody, Michelle E. DO Southlake Pediatrics-Mountain Island carolinashealthcare.org/south-lakepediatrics 704-801-3097 Carter, Lucretia MD Indian Land Pediatrics, Indian Land, SC indianlandpediatrics.com 803-396-1090 Cleveland, Jeffrey A. MD Charlotte Pediatric Clinic carolinashealthcare.org/charlottepediatric-clinic 704-512-6820 Cofie, Abelard K. MD Novant Health nhmedicalplazapediatrics.org 704-384-1570

Note: Inclusion in this list does not imply endorsement by Charlotte Parent. Official Stuff: All doctors listed were in good standing with the North Carolina Medical Board at the time of publication.

mom-approved We know that moms know best, and that’s why we ask local moms to tell us about the doctors that have earned their trust and respect in the Charlotte area. Doctors listed here are all nominated by Charlotte Parent readers, and only doctors with recommendations and in good standing with the North Carolina Medical Board are included.

(No doctors bought their way onto this list).

DOCTORS Condon, Annie P. MD Davidson Clinic, Davidson davidsonclinic.org 704-801-7900

Glass, Larry T. MD South Charlotte Primary Care carolinashealthcare.org/southcharlotte-primary-care 704-667-4130

carolinashealthcare.org/universitypediatrics 704-863-9910

mom-approved

Coyler, Jennifer L. MD Southlake Pediatrics Mountain Island Lake carolinashealthcare.org/south-lakepediatrics 704-801-3097

Golembe, Barry L. MD Charlotte Pediatric Clinic carolinashealthcare.org/charlottepediatric-clinic 704-367-7400

Kochmond, Jonathan MD Dilworth Pediatrics nhdilworthpediatrics.com 704-384-1866

DOCTORS

Dorsey, S. Elliott MD Arboretum Pediatrics carolinashealthcare.org/arboretumpediatrics 704-512-2610

Downing, Wilma T. MD Providence Pediatrics carolinashealthcare.org/providencepediatrics 704-667-2600 Evers, Sameena MD Dilworth Pediatrics nhdilworthpediatrics.com 704-384-1866 Ezzo, Stephen MD Matthews Children’s Clinic nhmatthewschildrensclinic.org 704-384-1080 Felkner, Mary B. MD Eastover Pediatrics nheastoverpediatrics.org 704-384-8800 Ficenec, Michael C. MD South Lake Pediatrics carolinashealthcare.org/south-lakepediatrics 704-801-3097

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Goss, Laurie O. MD Matthews Children’s Clinic, Matthews nhmatthewschildrensclinic.org 704-384-1080 Gunter, Andrew W. MD University Pediatrics carolinashealthcare.org/universitypediatrics 704-717-2000 Higgins, Shellee T. MD University Pediatrics carolinashealthcare.org/universitypediatrics 704-717-2000 Hight, Nicole B. MD Arboretum Pediatrics carolinashealthcare.org/arboretumpediatrics 704-512-2610 Jaeckel, Kerrith L. MD Ballantyne Pediatrics nhballantynepediatrics.org 704-384-1950 Knutson, Heather MD University Pediatrics Prosperity Crossing

CharlotteParent.com

Kukreja, Neeta MD South Charlotte Pediatrics southcharlottepediatrics.com 704-540-6860 Leonard, Anitha M. MD South Charlotte Primary Care Pediatrics carolinashealthcare.org/southcharlotte-primary-care 704-667-4130 Lods, Stephen Christopher MD Suburban Pediatrics, Davidson carolinashealthcare.org/suburbanpediatrics 704-439-3700 Lye, James S. MD Novant Health Eastover Pediatrics nheastoverpediatrics.org 704-384-8800 Mehta, Anita V. MD Hickory Grove Pediatrics 704-509-0933 Mock, Laura Jean- MD Cabarrus Pediatrics, Concord carolinashealthcare.org/cabarruspediatrics 704-403-7720

Musgrave, Elizabeth M. MD Matthews Children’s Clinic, Matthews nhmatthewschildrensclinic.org 704-384-1080 Nguyen, Ngoc-Diep Thi MD Charlotte Pediatric Clinic carolinashealthcare.org/charlottepediatric-clinic 704-512-6100 Ohmstede, Catherine MD Dilworth Pediatrics nhdilworthpediatrics.org 704-384-1866 Pacicco, Elaine G. MD Arboretum Pediatrics carolinashealthcare.org/arboretumpediatrics 704-512-2610 Parish, Michele M. MD Matthews Children’s Clinic, Matthews nhmatthewschildrensclinic.org 704-384-1080 Patt, Rhonda MD Charlotte Pediatric Clinic carolinashealthcare.org/charlottepediatric-clinic 704- 367-7400

To read comments from moms about the doctors in this list, go to CharlotteParent.com/ favedocs.

DOCTORS mom-approved mom-approved

DOCTORS DOCTORS mom-approved

Paxtor, Carlos G. MD Sunshine Pediatrics, Rock Hill mysunshinepeds.com 803-980-7337

DOCTORS

Richter, Stephanie R. MD Charlotte Pediatric Clinic carolinashealthcare.org/charlottepediatric-clinic 704-367-7400 Ryan, Amy G. MD Eastover Pediatrics nheastoverpediatrics.org 704-384-8800

704-439-3700 carolinashealthcare.org/suburbanpediatrics Smith, Holly G. MD Kids First Pediatrics kidsfirst-nc.com 704-542-5540 Smolen, Paul M. MD Providence Pediatrics carolinashealthcare.org/providencepediatrics Spies, Robert S. MD Matthews Children’s Clinic, Matthews nhmatthewschildrensclinic.org 704-384-1080

Samarel, Matthew D. MD Kids First Pediatrics kidsfirst-nc.com 704-542-5540 Satterfield, Jamison MD Arboretum Pediatrics carolinashealthcare.org/arboretumpediatrics 704-512-2610 Semple, Roxanne D. MD Southlake PediatricsMountain Island Lake carolinashealthcare.org/south-lakepediatrics 704-801-2025 Sherrill, Stephanie MD Surburban Pediatrics, Davidson

Strange, Kristin MD Center for Child and Adolescent Medicine, Monroe 704-384-8460 nhchildandadolescentmg.org Stoffel, Elisabeth MD Lakeside Family Physicians, Denver lakesidefamilyphysicians.com 704-316-4930 Sullivan, Sharon B. MD Arboretum Pediatrics carolinashealthcare.org/arboretumpediatrics 704-512-2610

Takahashi, Rebecca L. MD University Pediatrics Prosperity Crossing carolinashealthcare.org/universitypediatrics 704-863-9910 Temple, Ana-Maria MD Charlotte Pediatrics carolinashealthcare.org/charlottepediatric-clinic 704-512-5060 Walker, Anne E. MD Walker Pediatrics nhwalkerpediatrics.org 704-384-1056 Webb, Thomas S. MD Huntersville Pediatrics, Huntersville nhhuntersvillepedsandim.org 704-384-8720 White, Janelle MD University Pediatrics carolinashealthcare.org/universitypediatrics 704-717-2000 Wiese, Rachel L. MD Charlotte Pediatric Clinic carolinashealthcare.org/charlottepediatric-clinic 704-512-6820 Wyrick, Susan D. MD SouthPark Pediatrics

southparkpediatrics.net 704-522-6656

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY Jamison, Matt DDS Eastover Pediatric Dentistry eastoverpediatricdentistry.com 704-372-0432 Moore, David DDS Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry cltpediatricdentistry.com 704-377-3687 Young, Robert L. Jr. DDS Young and Polite Children’s Dentistry youngandpolite.com 980-245-3451

P O D I A T R Y Strauss, Kristine MD Charlotte Foot and Ankle Specialists charlottefootankle.com 704-504-4000

T H E R A P I S T S Cyphert, Nicole OTR/L (occupational therapy) Integration Station myintegrationstation.com 704-595-9363

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G O! ETTING UT

COMPILED BY MIKALA YOUNG

August 2014 go. see. play.

2

With the new school year approaching, it’s time to prepare for that first day back to class.

Make the process fun by taking your young brood to the Back 2 School Bash. Students can get a new haircut, school supplies, new shoes and have loads fun.

Activities include bounce houses, music and free food. Get there early! 9am-3pm. Free.

Mooresville High School, Magnolia Campus 659 E. Center Ave., Mooresville

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7

The 1970s Saturday morning cartoon series that had children singing about history, grammar, math and politics is alive on stage with School House Rock Live!

Jr. The musical, based around a young school teacher who is nervous about his first day on the job, will have you singing and swaying along to songs like “Preamble to the Constitution,” “Unpack Your Adjectives,” and “Interjections.” 6pm. $5.

Levine Jewish Community Center 5007 Providence Road 704-944-6835 charlottejcc.org

CharlotteParent.com

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Children with peanut allergies can get in the action watching the Charlotte Knights play ball at a Peanut-Controlled Game. The Power Alley, sections 124-126 , will be designated the peanut-free zone. No peanuts will be consumed for the duration of the day in the sections, and signage will be posted alerting other fans that it is the peanut-free zone. Advance tickets, $8. When ordering online use promo code “peanutfree.”

BB&T Ballpark 324 S. Mint St. 704-357-8071 charlotteknights.com

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Kick off the Labor Day weekend with live music and lots of familybased activities throughout the weekend at the Romare Bearden Birthday Bash. There will be food and open space for children and parents to roam and explore under the uptown skyline. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs to stretch out and relax. Ongoing through Aug. 31.

Free.

Romare Bearden Park 300 S. Church St. 704-336-3509 parkandrec.com

1 FRIDAY

Executive Editor and Publisher Eve White at the Once Upon a Time exhibit with her niece.

A HappilyEver-Afternoon G at ImaginOn

BY EVE WHITE

etting kids excited about going to the library this summer is easy with the interactive exhibit Once Upon a Time … Exploring the World of Fairy Tales at ImaginOn. The exhibit explores seven favorite multicultural fairy tales and folk tales, bringing them to life with engaging activities especially targeted for ages 2-10.

In this magical storybook playground, children can climb up the beanstalk and slide down into the lair of the giant, just like young Jack in “Jack and the Beanstalk,” or explore the jungle from “Ansasi and the Talking Melon,” sitting on the throne of the Monkey King. Little girls can don a yellow princess dress with a tiara, and be transported into the story of “Beauty and the Beast,” to stand on the palace balcony waving to subjects below, or sit down at the beast’s banquet table to dine.

In each area, giant pages of the tales offer a chance for parents to read to their kids as they interact with the props and costumes. Older children can create their own fairy tale at a computer kiosk by selecting scenes and illustrations to write a custom happily-ever-after tale.

One of the favorite activities on my recent visit with my nieces, ages 4 and 2, was Cinderella’s carriage, complete with Cinderella and Prince Charming costumes, and a glass slipper to try on. Seated in the carriage, they joined other children and watched as the imaginary scenery rolled by. Judging by the smiles on their little faces, this world of fairy tales is a big hit.

The exhibit is free and runs through Sept. 7. It is open during ImaginOn’s summer hours, and parent supervision is required for children under 8. Admittance is limited to the exhibit, so you may have to wait in line. However, on our weekday visit there was no wait, and we spent an hour exploring all the activities.

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Britax Car Seat Checks. Learn the correct way to install your child seat, plus safety recommendations.

No appointment needed. Free.

8-11:30am. Britax North American Headquarters, 4140 Pleasant Road, Fort Mill. 704-409-1695. britaxusa.com.

Rookie Science. Discover the world of science through books, handson, educational activities and experiments. Ages 5-11. Free. 11am, 2pm. ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St. 704416-4600. imaginon.org.

Worm Racing. Race worms to claim the title of Ultimate Worm Wrangler.

Grades K-6. Free. 2:30pm. Mooresville Public Library, 304 South Main St., Mooresville. 704-664-2927. ci.mooresville.nc.us/225/Library.

OnStage: 12 Angry Jurors; Sweeney Todd: School Edition. See page 50.

2 SATURDAY Hiking 101. Plan and enjoy the perfect family hike. Must be able to hike one mile on uneven terrain. Ages 6 and up. $1. 10am. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704432-6459. parkandrec.com.

Home Depot Kids Workshop. Build a mini-crate pencil holder. Ages 5-12. Registration required. Free.

9am-noon. Home Depot Locations. workshops.homedepot.com/ workshops/kids-workshops.

McCarthy Kids and Preschool Triathlon. Compete in a 75-yard swim, a two-mile bike adventure and a half-mile run. No training wheels; children must be able to swim unassisted and helmets are required.

Ages 3-12. $. 7:30-9:30am. Harris YMCA, 5900 Quail Hollow Road. 704716-6800 . ymcacharlotte.org.

Saturday Stories. Enjoy stories and laughter. Free. 10:30am.

Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville. 704-664-2927. ci.mooresville.nc.us/225/Library.

Share God’s Love Day. Learn how to honor others through a Bible lesson and craft time. Free. 10amNoon. Billy Graham Library, 4330 Westmont Drive. 704-401-3263. billygrahamlibrary.org.

Story Explorers. Explore books and stories in creative ways through interactive activities, including math, science and games. Ages 5-11.

Free. 11am. Matthews Library, 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews. 704416-5000. cmlibrary.org.

Summer Keychain and Bracelet. Make a one-of-a-kind key chain or bracelet.

Ages 3 and up. $2, 30-minute session.

10am-noon. All Michael’s locations. michaels.com.

Tools of Stone. Visit the Aboriginal Studies Center and see live demonstrations of stone-tool making. $6-$10, includes museum admission.

1-3pm. The Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704-8666900. schielemuseum.org.

Wild Wings. Observe, ask questions and help release hummingbirds. $6-$12, includes garden admission.

11am-2pm. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont. 704-825-4490. dsbg.org.

Writing Workshop. Meet nationally acclaimed author Kwame Alexander and participate in a special poetrywriting program. Younger kids can participate in a special book-making workshop. $7-$9, includes museum admission. 11am-2pm. The Harvey B. Gantt Center, 551 S. Tryon St. 704-5473700. ganttcenter.org.

OnStage: 12 Angry Jurors; Sweeney Todd: School Edition. See page 50.

3 SUNDAY Reptile and Amphibian Hunt. Learn how to identify these creatures and why they are important. Registration required. Free. 2-3:30pm. Cowan Fords Wildlife Refuge, Latta Plantation Nature Center, 6211 Sample

daily calendar Road, Huntersville. 704-875-1391. parkandrec.com.

The Art of Papermaking. Repurpose old paper into new paper 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: 12 Angry Jurors; Sweeney Todd: School Edition. See page 50.

4 MONDAY Children’s Writing Group. Give and receive feedback and support others through the writing process. Ages 8-11. Free. 3:30pm. University City Regional Library, 301 E. W.T. Harris Blvd., Charlotte. 704-416-7200. cmlibrary.org.

Chunkin’ Pumpkins. Make a catapult and chunk a toy pumpkin across the room. This program is related to the “Fizz Boom Read” theme. Ages 5-11. Free. 2pm. Myers Park Library, 1361 Queens Road. 704-416-5800. cmlibrary.org.

Ice Cream Science. Use root-beer floats to learn the states of matter. Ages 5-11. Registration required. Free. 2pm.

Cornelius Library, 21105 Catawba Ave., Cornelius. 704-416-3800. cmlibrary.org.

Mother Goose on the Loose. Nursery rhymes, finger-plays, lap-sits, flannelboards and music. Ages 2 and under.

Free. 10:30am. Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville.

704-664-2927. ci.mooresville.nc.us/225/ Library.

Nature Story Corner. Get comfortable as a variety of nature-based stories are read. Puppets may accompany stories. Ages 3 and up. Free. 10-11am.

Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704-432-6459. parkandrec.com.

5 TUESDAY

Free. 1pm. Mountain Island Library, 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way. 704-416-5600. cmlibrary.org.

Geometrics and Pizza. Have a pizza slice, and learn how spirographs are used with math and everyday fun.

Ages 8-11. Registration required.

Free. 2pm. Cornelius Library, 21105 Catawba Ave., Cornelius. 704-4163800. cmlibrary.org.

Ice Cream Social and Games. Wrap up this year’s summer reading program and celebrate readers with ice cream.

Play board games and LEGOS. Free.

3pm. Independence Regional Library, 6000 Conference Drive. 704-416-4800. cmlibrary.org.

Mini Model Build. Learn how to build a LEGO monkey mini-model and take it home. Quantities are limited while supplies last. Ages 6-14. Free. 5pm.

The LEGO Store, Concord Mills, 8111 Concord Mills Blvd., Concord. 704979-5708. stores.lego.com.

Preschool Storytime: Listen and Move. Stories, songs and movement activities that build both gross and fine motor skills. Ages 3-5. Free. 2pm.

ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St. 704-4164600. imaginon.org.

Science Saturday Guy Matthew. A special science program based on books. Ages 5-11. Free. 10:30am.

Davidson Library, 119 S. Main St., Davidson. 704-416-400. cmlibrary.org.

Terrific Tuesday: Cold Blooded Encounters. Get up close and personal with live, wriggling reptiles.

Ages 5 and up. Registration required.

Free. 11am, 1pm. ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St. imaginon.org.

You Can Build It. Join Discovery Place staff in using the popular Build It! blocks to create buildings and structures such as bridges, towers, and more. Ages 5-11. Registration required. Free. 3pm. Mint Hill Library, 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road. 704416-5200. cmlibrary.org.

Afternoon Adventures Activity Table: Minecraft Origami. Ages 3-11.

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6 WEDNESDAY

A Time to Garden. Harvest veggies, water plants and enjoy a gardenthemed craft. $8, includes garden admission. 10am-noon. Wing Haven Gardens, 248 Ridgewood Ave. 704331-0664. winghavengardens.com.

African Drumming. Thomas Tillman introduces the African culture through the Diembe drum. Ages 5-11. Free. 11am. West Boulevard Library, 2157 West Blvd. 704-416-7400. cmlibrary.org.

Ice Cream Social. Learn about the history of ice cream, sample treats and listen to stories. Ages 6-11.

Free. 3pm. South County Regional Library, 5801 Rea Road. 704-416-6600. cmlibrary.org.

Modern Survival Series: Signaling for Rescue. Learn about life-saving techniques. Ages 8 and up. Free.

2-3pm. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704-432-6459. parkandrec.com.

The Balloon Lady. Have fun making and creating balloons. Free. 2pm. Myers Park Library, 1361 Queens Road. 704416-5800. cmlibrary.org.

Wonderful Wednesday. Investigate insects all around us, while sharing the message that insects are incredible. $3-$5. 10:30am. Museum of York County, 4621 Mt. Gallant Road, Rock Hill. 803-329-2121. chmuseums.org.

7 THURSDAY Insect Madness. Learn about buzzing bugs and try to catch some. Free.

10-11am. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704-432-6459. parkandrec.com.

Thursday Night Flights. Chill out to live acoustic music while watching birds take flight. Come with an empty stomach to try out the food truck. $10, free for children. 6-8pm.

Carolina Raptor Center, 6000 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-875-6521. carolinaraptorcenter.org.

OnStage: Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr. See page 50.

8 FRIDAY Movies in the Park: “The Nut Job.” Come out and watch a familyfriendly movie. Listen to live music performances before the movies.

Free. 8:45pm. Village Park, 700 W. C St., Kannapolis. 704-920-4343. cityofkannapolis.com.

Rookie Science. Discover the world of science through books, handson educational activities and experiments. Ages 5-11. Free. 2pm.

ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St. 704-4164600. imaginon.org.

9 SATURDAY Charlotte Mothers of Multiples Fall/Winter 2014 Consignment Sale. Shop the thousands of gently used children’s and baby clothing, equipment, furniture, toys, games, and maternity wear. Free.

8:30am-12:15pm; 12:45-3pm. The Park Expo and Conference Center, 800 Briar Creek Road. charlottemultiples.com.

Circle K Back-to-School Monster Truck Bash. See monster trucks like Stone Crusher, Hooked and Big Foot compete in the region’s longest obstacle tour. $10-$25. 4pm. The Dirt Track at Charlotte, 5555 Concord Pkwy. S., Concord. 800-455-FANS. charlottemotorspeedway.com/dirt.

JAARS Day. Learn about how transportation, technology and media make global Bible translation possible.

Free. 9am-4pm. JAARS Center, 7405 Jaars Road, Waxhaw. 704-843-6130. jaars.org.

Krafty Kidz. Have fun learning while making nature-themed and related crafts. Ages 2-7. $2. 11am-noon.

Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704-432-6459. parkandrec.com.

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Radio Disney Jr. Dress like your favorite princess or pirate. Play games, dance to music and win cool prizes. Free.

Noon-2pm. Monroe Crossing, 2115290 W. Roosevelt Blvd., Monroe. 704289-6547. shopmonroecrossing.com.

10 SUNDAY Davidson Concerts On the Green.

Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and picnics for a night of live music. Free.

6-8pm. Davidson’s Village Green, Main Street and Concord Road, Davidson. concertsonthegreen.com/about.htm.

Reptile and Amphibian Day. Get up close and personal with a wide variety of reptiles and amphibians from around the globe. $6-$10, includes museum admission. 1-4pm.

The Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704-866-6908. schielemuseum.org.

11 MONDAY NASA Space Camp. Discover the world of science through books, hands-on educational activities, and experiments. Ages 5-11. Registration required. Free. 10am. Beatties Ford Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. 704-416-3000. cmlibrary.org.

Shark Week at Discovery Place.

Dig for shark teeth and observe dissections. $12-$15, includes museum admission. 11am, 2pm.

Discovery Place, 301 N. Tryon St. 704372-6261. discoveryplace.org.

12 TUESDAY Free Tuesday sponsored by Duke Energy. Enjoy late afternoon learning about some of the animal collections and learn what they do to stay cool in the hot summer sun.

Free. 4-8pm. Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704-8666900. schielemuseum.org.

Shark Week at Discovery Place.

Dig for shark teeth and observe dissections. $12-$15, includes museum admission. 11am, 2pm.

Aliens on exhibit at Alien Worlds and Androids at Discovery Place.

Discovery Place, 301 N. Tryon St. 704372-6261. discoveryplace.org.

13 WEDNESDAY A Time to Garden. Harvest veggies, and enjoy a garden-themed craft. $8, includes garden admission.

10am-noon. Wing Haven Gardens, 248 Ridgewood Ave. 704-331-0664. winghavengardens.com.

Studio Movie Grill Presents: “Madagascar 3.” Watch as four friends go on a comedic, adventurous ride to get back to the city. $2. 11am.

Studio Movie Grill, 210 E. Trade St. 704972-1062. studiomoviegrill.com.

OnStage: Uh-Oh! by PlayPlay !

Theatre. See page 50.

14 THURSDAY Eager Eaglets Preschool Art Program. Enjoy making a craft, painting, or other type of small art project to take home. Ages 3-5. $6-10, free for kids 4 and under. Thursday 10am-3pm. Carolina Raptor Center, 6000 Sample Road, Huntersvillle. 704875-6521. carolinaraptorcenter.org.

Summer Concert Series. Enjoy an evening of music with the family, and visit the True Crafted Pizza food truck. Free. 6pm. Anne Springs Close Greenway, 288 Dairy Barn Lane, Fort Mill. 803-547-4575. ascgreenway.org.

Tarheel Kids Consignment Sale.

Seasonal sale features children’s clothing sizes infant through juniors, toys and maternity items. Free.

6-9pm. Cabarrus Arena, 4751 US Hwy. 49 N., Concord. 704-920-3976. tarheelkidsconsignment.com.

Thursday Night Flights. Chill out to live acoustic music while watching birds take flight. Come with an empty stomach to try out the food truck. $10, free for children. 6-8pm.

Carolina Raptor Center, 6000 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-875-6521. carolinaraptorcenter.org.

OnStage: Uh-Oh! by PlayPlay!

Theatre. See page 50.

on exhibit DANIEL STOWE BOTANICAL GARDEN ZimSculpt. View more than 100 sculptures spanning from the Savannahs of Zimbabwe to its tropical mountains. $6-$12, includes garden admission. 9am-5pm.

Through Aug. 28. 704-825-4490. dsbg.org. 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont.

DISCOVERY PLACE Alien Worlds and Androids. Join scientists in their search for alien life within and beyond our solar system, discover strange alien-like creatures found here on Earth, and learn about technologies used to explore remote solar systems and extreme environments found on Earth. $12-$15, includes museum admission. Through Sept. 14. Mon.-Fri., 9am-4pm; Sat., 10am-6pm; Sun., noon-5pm. 704-372-6261. discoveryplace.org. 301 N. Tryon St.

IMAGINON: THE JOE AND JOAN MARTIN CENTER Once Upon a Time … Exploring the World of Fairy Tales. Step inside seven beloved stories in this hands-on exhibit that brings favorite multicultural fairy tales and folks tales to life. Free. Through Sept. 7. Tues.-Thurs., 10am-7pm; Fri.-Sat., 10am-5pm. 704-416-4600. imaginon.org. 300 E. 7th St.

LEVINE MUSEUM OF THE NEW SOUTH Faces of Freedom Summer. View and explore 102 photographs taken by Herbert Randall in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. These images document the struggles and triumphs of Civil Rights activists and African-American voters during the summer of 1964. $5-$8, includes museum admission. Through Aug. 17. Mon.-Sat., 10am-5pm; Sun., noon-5pm. 704-333-1887. museumofthenewsouth.org.

200 E. 7th St.

NASCAR HALL OF FAME Rockin’ and Racin’ Exhibit. Explore racing artifacts, including the 1959 Chevrolet Corvette featured in a famous country star’s music video. Starting at $17.95, free for children under 5. Mon.-Sun., 10am-6pm. Through Jan. 2, 2015. 704-654-4400. nascarhall.com. 400 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

THE SCHIELE MUSEUM Woodland Indians. Visit the Catawba Village to discover how local American Indians used plants, animals and the earth itself to provide tools, clothing, food and shelter. $9-$10, includes admission; free for members. Through Aug. 10. Tues.-Sat., 10am, 2:30pm. 704-866-6908. schielemuseum.org. 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia.

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Interacting with the audience at PlayPlay! Theatre at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte.

15 FRIDAY

on stage ARMOUR STREET THEATRE 12 Angry Jurors. Davidson Community Players brings to life characters based on the provocative film, “Twelve Angry Men,” concerning bigotry and justice in America in a bonus youth production. $10. Aug. 1-3. Fri.-Sat., 7pm; Sun., 2pm. 704-892-7953. davidsoncommunityplayers.org. 307 Armour St., Davidson.

CAROWINDS The Fresh Beat Band. Laugh, sing and dance along to trendy tunes. Stick around to enjoy an all-day adventure at the park. $38 and up. Aug. 23. Doors open at 2pm.

704-588-2600. freshbeatbandlive.com. 14523 Carowinds Blvd.

CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CHARLOTTE Sweeney Todd: School Edition. Watch this twisted comedy about the infamous homicidal career of the unjustly exiled barber who returns to 19th-century London seeking revenge. 12 and up. $10. Aug. 1-3. Fri., 7pm; Sat., 2 and 7pm; Sun., 2pm. ctcharlotte.org.

Uh-Oh! by PlayPlay! Theatre. Engage and ignite the little ones’ curiosities through pieces of paper, balls, scarves and more. Ages 35 mos. and under. $12. Aug 13-23.

See website for list of times. 704-973-2828. ctcharlotte.org. 300 E. 7th St.

DALE F. HALTON THEATER The Wizard of Oz. Follow the Scarecrow, the Tinman, the Cowardly Lion and Toto as each of them travel the universe of Dorothy’s imagination. Presented by Main Street Dance Works. $10. Aug. 16. 4pm. 704-330-6868. tix.cpcc.edu.

1206 Elizabeth Ave.

LEVINE JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr. A musical, educational piece presented by the Summer Performance Arts Camp. $5. Aug. 7. 6pm. 704-944-6835. charlottejcc.org. 5007 Providence Road.

CALENDAR POLICY: Theand Charlotte low-cost

Parent calendar lists free 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.

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Symphony Park Movie Series.

Watch “The LEGO Movie,” have fun with activities and listen to musical performances. 7pm. Symphony Park, 4400 Sharon Road. 704-364-4411. simon.com/mall/southpark.

Tarheel Kids Consignment Sale.

Seasonal sale features children’s clothing sizes infant through juniors, toys and maternity items. Free.

9-4pm, 6:30-9pm. Cabarrus Arena, 4751 US Hwy. 49 N., Concord. 704920-3976. tarheelkidsconsignment.com.

OnStage: Uh-Oh! by PlayPlay!

Theatre. See page 50.

16 SATURDAY Nature Creations: Toad Abodes.

Create whimsical boats, faces flowers, collages and forts. Ages 4 and up.

Registration required. $3. 1:30-2:30pm.

McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 704-588-5224. parkandrec.com.

Tarheel Kids Consignment Sale.

Seasonal sale features children’s clothing sizes infant through juniors, toys and maternity items. Free.

9am-5pm. Cabarrus Arena, 4751 US Hwy. 49 N., Concord. 704-920-3976. tarheelkidsconsignment.com.

Wild in the Water. Explore aquatic habitats and get to know different animals that live in North Carolina waters from the mountains to the coast. $8, includes museum admission. 10am-1pm.

Charlotte Nature Museum, 1658 Sterling Road. 704-372-6261. charlottenaturemuseum.org.

OnStage: The Wizard of Oz; Uh-Oh!

by PlayPlay! Theatre. See page 50.

17 SUNDAY Fluttering Butterflies. Learn about these creatures that start as a caterpillar, and go out on the preserve to catch a few. Free. 2-3pm. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704-432-6459. parkandrec.com.

Tarheel Kids Consignment Sale.

Seasonal sale features children’s

clothing sizes infant through juniors, toys and maternity items. Free.

9am-3pm. Cabarrus Arena, 4751 US Hwy. 49 N., Concord. 704-920-3976. tarheelkidsconsignment.com.

18 MONDAY Nature Story Corner. Get comfortable as a variety of nature-based stories are read. Puppets may accompany stories. Ages 3 and up. Free. 10-11am.

Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704-432-6459. parkandrec.com.

Studio Movie Grill Presents: “The Rugrats Movie.” Watch the popular characters from the 90s TV series. $2.

11am. Studio Movie Grill, 210 E. Trade St. 704-972-1062. studiomoviegrill.com.

19 TUESDAY Family Storytime: Bedtime Math.

Share stories, songs and movement activities that support literacy and math skills with the whole family.

Ages 3-11. Free. 6:30pm. Sugar Creek Library, 4045 N. Tryon St., Ste. A. 704416-7000. cmlibrary.org.

Read with Baron the Dog. Come to the library and read a book to Baron, the lovable longhaired German Shepherd, a certified therapy dog.

Free. 3:30pm. Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville.

704-664-2927. ci.mooresville.nc.us/ portal/library.

20 WEDNESDAY Family Storytime. Children can enjoy favorite stories, songs, and movement activities that support early literacy skills. Free. 10:30am. ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St. 704-416-4600. imaginon.org.

Studio Movie Grill Presents: “The Rugrats Movie.” Watch the popular characters from the 90s TV series. $2.

11am. Studio Movie Grill, 210 E. Trade St. 704-972-1062. studiomoviegrill.com.

OnStage: Uh-Oh! by PlayPlay!

Theatre. See page 50.

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Eager Eaglets Preschool Art Program. Enjoy making a craft, painting, or other type of small art project to take home. Ages 3-5. $6-10, free for kids 4 and under. 10am-3pm.

Carolina Raptor Center, 6000 Sample Road, Huntersvillle. 704-875-6521. carolinaraptorcenter.org.

Family Storytime. Children can enjoy favorite stories, songs, and movement activities that support early literacy skills. Free. 10:30am. ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St. 704-416-4600. imaginon.org.

OnStage: Uh-Oh! by PlayPlay!

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LEGO Picnic. Dine with the library while learning mathematical concepts of sorting, building and geometry using LEGO building blocks. Bring your best build-from-home for a contest. Ages 5-11. Free. 1pm. Mountain Island Library, 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way. 704416-5600. cmlibrary.org.

Symphony Park Movie Series. Watch “Frozen,” and enjoy activities and musical performances. Free. 7pm.

Symphony Park, 4400 Sharon Road.

704-364-4411. simon.com/mall/ southpark.

OnStage: Uh-Oh! by PlayPlay!

Theatre. See page 50.

23 SATURDAY Hummingbird Festival. Celebrate the ruby-throated hummingbird with arts and crafts, nature walks, storytelling and exhibits. Free. 10am-4pm. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704-432-6459. parkandrec.com.

Lowe’s Build and Grow. Using tools and crafts, create a Monster’s vs. Aliens robot. Registration required. Free.

10-11am. Lowe’s Home Improvement locations. lowesbuildandgrow.com.

Movies in the Park. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets to this night of family fun, to watch “The Smurfs 2.”

Free. 6:30pm. Tuckaseege Park, 165 Broome St., Mount Holly. 704-9513035. mtholly.us.

Reptile and Exotic Animal Show.

Features vendors offering reptile

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pets, supplies, feeders, cages, and merchandise. $5-$10, free for children 4 and under. 10am-4pm. Cabarrus Arena and Events Center, 4751 Hwy 49 North, Concord. 863-268-4273. repticon.com/charlotte.html.

Sensory Storytime. Filled with songs, stories and movement specifically designed for children with autism spectrum disorders, sensory integration issues or other developmental disabilities. Ages 3-7.

Registration required. Free. 10:15am.

South County Regional Library, 5801 Rea Road.704-416-6600. cmlibrary.org.

Stories Under the Stars. Enjoy this unique literary performing arts event that features juggling and magic.

Free. 7pm. Kannapolis Branch Library, 850 Mountain St., Kannapolis. 704920-4343. cityofkannapolis.com.

York Summerfest. Celebrate summer with live music, watching sports tournaments, plus a petting zoo, inflatables and a climbing wall. Free.

9am-5pm. N. Congress St., York. 803684-2590. yorksummerfest.com.

OnStage: The Fresh Beat Band; Uh-Oh! by PlayPlay! Theatre.

See page 50.

24 SUNDAY Fantastic Fish. Learn more about why fish are unique, and go fishing in Mountain Island Lake. Ages 5-12. $4.

2-4pm. Latta Plantation Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704875-1391. parkandrec.com.

Kids Club Central. Play games with Radio Disney Charlotte, Concentra Urgent Care and Charlotte Parent magazine. Free. 1-3pm. EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. 704-688-5980. epicentrenc.com.

Reedy Creek Eco Race. Test your will and wit through a mini-adventure race after learning to use a compass.

Ages 10 and up. Free. 2:30-4pm.

Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704-432-6459. parkandrec.com.

Reptile and Exotic Animal Show.

Features vendors offering reptile pets, supplies, feeders, cages, and merchandise. $5-$10, free for children

4 and under. 10am-4pm. Cabarrus Arena and Events Center, 4751 Hwy 49 N., Concord. 863-268-4273. repticon.com/charlotte.html.

Under the Shade Tree. Have a lazy day of pastimes, including watermelon eating, seed-spitting contests, games and amusements enjoyed by early settlers in the late 1700s. $6-$10.

1-5pm. The Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704-8666908. schielemuseum.org.

25 MONDAY Marvelous Monday Storytime. Hear an engaging story, followed by an activity. Free. Monday 10:30am.

Barnes and Noble, Carolina Place Mall, 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy., Pineville.

704-544-9985. barnesandnoble.com.

26 TUESDAY Read with Baron the Dog. Come to the library and read a book to Baron, the lovable longhaired German Shepherd, a certified therapy dog.

Free. 3:30pm. Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville.

704-664-2927. ci.mooresville.nc.us/225/ library.

Toddler Tuesday Storytime. Gather together for great tales and songs.

Free. Tuesday 9:30am. Barnes and Noble, The Arboretum, 3327 PinevilleMatthews Road. 704-341-9365. barnesandnoble.com.

27 WEDNESDAY Family Storytime. Enjoy favorite stories, songs, and movement activities that support early literacy skills. All ages.

Free. 10:30am. ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St. 704-416-4600. imaginon.org.

28 THURSDAY Eager Eaglets Preschool Art Program. Enjoy making a craft, painting, or other type of small art project to take home. Ages 3-5. $6-10, free for kids 4 and under. 10am-3pm.

Carolina Raptor Center, 6000 Sample Road, Huntersvillle. 704-875-6521. carolinaraptorcenter.org.

Family Storytime. Children can enjoy favorite stories, songs and movement activities that support early literacy

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skills. All ages. Free. 10:30am.

ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St. 704-4164600. imaginon.org.

29 FRIDAY Matthews Alive!. Celebrate Labor Day weekend with rides, amusements, carnival midway and games all dedicated to the support of local nonprofit organizations. Free entry; $1 per ticket for rides. 6-10pm.

Downtown Matthews, corner of John and Trade streets. matthewsalive.org.

Bearden Birthday Bash. In celebration of Romare Beardenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Birthday, enjoy loads of musical entertainment, dance and art. Family-friendly activities throughout the day. Free.

Visit website for times. Romare Bearden Park, 300 S. Church St. 704-336-3509. romarebeardenpark. charmeck.org.

30 SATURDAY Campfire Roast. Enjoy roasting marshmallows and hot dogs, and ask a naturalist questions about the preserve. $3. 2-3pm. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road.

704-432-6459. parkandrec.com.

Education Workshop Day. Engage in hands-on activities that focus on an aviation topic. $8-$12. 11am-2pm.

Carolinas Aviation Museum, 4672 First Flight Drive. 704-359-8442. carolinasaviation.org.

Family Storytime. Enjoy favorite stories, songs, and movement activities that support early literacy skills. Free.

10:30am. ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St. 704416-4600. imaginon.org.

Family Campfire. Learn how to build a fire, roast sâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;mores, and visit familyfavorite places in the preserve. Free.

6-9pm. Latta Plantation Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704875-1391. parkandrec.com.

Matthews Alive!. Celebrate Labor Day weekend with rides, amusements, carnival midway and games all dedicated to the support of local nonprofit organizations. $1 per ticket for rides. 9am-9pm. Downtown Matthews, corner of John and Trade streets. matthewsalive.org.

CharlotteParent.com

Outdoor Skills. Learn hands-on skill practice about the seven priorities of wilderness survival. Ages 14 and up. $3. 2-5pm. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 704-588-5224. parkandrec.com.

Bearden Birthday Bash. In celebration of Romare Bearden’s Birthday, enjoy loads of musical entertainment, dance and art. Family-friendly activities throughout the day. Free.

Visit website for times. Romare Bearden Park, 300 S. Church St. 704-336-3509. romarebeardenpark. charmeck.org.

31 SUNDAY Gnome Homes and Fairy Houses.

Build a special fairy house or gnome home with natural supplies. Free.

2-3pm. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704-432-6459. parkandrec.com.

Labor Day Celebration. Participate in a trail race, enjoy live music, and end the day with a fireworks show. $5, parking fee. 9am-10pm. U.S. National Whitewater Center, 5000 Whitewater Pkwy. 704-391-3900. usnwc.org.

Matthews Alive!. Celebrate Labor Day weekend with rides, amusements, carnival midway and games all dedicated to the support of local non-profit organizations. $1 per ticket for rides. Noon-9pm. Downtown Matthews, corner of John and Trade streets. matthewsalive.org.

Outdoor Skills. Learn hands-on skill practice about wilderness emergencies. Ages 14 and up. $3.

2-5pm. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 704-588-5224. parkandrec.com.

Bearden Birthday Bash. In celebration of Romare Bearden’s Birthday, enjoy loads of musical entertainment, dance and art. Family-friendly activities throughout the day. Free.

Visit website for times. Romare Bearden Park, 300 S. Church St. 704-336-3509. romarebeardenpark. charmeck.org.

Wild Edibles and Medicinal Plants.

Enjoy a two- to three-mile hike to learn about some of the plants in the woods. Ages 7 and up. Free. 2-4pm.

Latta Plantation Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-8751391. parkandrec.com.

For more things to do and to see what’s happening next month ... go to ... /calendar

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back-to-school 2 SATURDAY

Back 2 School Bash. Hang out with other kids, get free school supplies and hop on carnival-style attraction rides. Free. 9am-3pm. Mooresville High School, Magnolia Campus, Mooresville. 704-928-6083. b2sb.org.

SWAG Back to School Event. Stock up on school supplies, including free backpacks, plus haircuts, dental screenings and immunizations. Free. 11am-3pm. BB&T Ballpark, 324 S. Mint St. schools.cms.k12.nc.us.

4 MONDAY Get Set for Kindergarten: Gus the Bus. Learn about bus safety skills by a visit from Gus the Bus, and have a chance to board a real bus. Ages 3-5. Registration required.

Free. 2pm. Mint Hill Library, 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road. 704-416-5200. cmlibrary.org.

7 THURSDAY Countdown to Kindergarten. Learn how to safely board a bus, free dental screenings, games and a special concert by children’s musician Roger Day. Free. 5-7pm. Main Street Children’s Museum, 133 E. Main St., Rock Hill. 803-327-6400. chmuseumus.org/ childrens.

9 SATURDAY Bounce Boot Camp Back-to-School. Invigorating fun with inflatable obstacle courses, castles, and slides, in addition to a fitness and educational program for kids. Ages 5-14.

Registration required. $10. 9:15am. Huntersville Family Fitness and Aquatics Center, 11725 Verhoeff Drive, Huntersville. 704-766-2222. hffa.com.

15 FRIDAY Countdown to Kindergarten. Visit a mock classroom, practice carrying a lunch tray and learn scissor safety. Stick around for activities and informative sessions. For rising kindergarten students. Free. 5-8pm. Discovery Place KIDS-Huntersville, 105 Gilead Road, Huntersville. 704-348-1972. huntersville.discoveryplacekids.org.

16 SATURDAY Back to School Summer Festival. Explore entertaining and educational programs and receive free school supplies. Free. Registration begins at 9am. Hickory Grove Public Library, 5935 Hickory Grove Road; and Sugar Creek Public Library, 4045 N. Tryon St., Ste. A. 704-416-4400; 704-416-6800. cmlibrary.org.

18 MONDAY Getting Ready for Kindergarten. Join in literacy-based activities that help prepare children for kindergarten. Ages 4-5. Free. 11am. Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville. 704-664-2927. ci.mooresville.nc.us/portal/library.

19 TUESDAY Back-To-School Basics 4-H Summer Fling. Get back into the mode of learning through STEM and teamwork challenges, and make a gift for your new teacher. Bring lunch. $15. 9am-3pm. N.C. Cooperative Extension’s Cabarrus County Center, 715 Cabarrus Ave. W., Concord. 704-920-3310. cabarrus.ces.ncsu.edu.

22 FRIDAY Back-to-School Bash. Free haircuts, school supplies and lots of activities, including a skateboard competition for different age groups. Free. 1pm. Naomi Drenan Recreation Center, 750 Beal St. 704-432-5231. parkandrec.com.

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Excursion Dan Nicholas Park

BY MICHELE HUGGINS

an Nicholas Park in Salisbury is a little bit amusement and a little bit park. About an hour from center city, the park is more than the trees, a playground and picnic tables (though there is plenty of that too). Kids can take a ride on a giraffe or zebra on Haden’s Carousel, and then walk over to the Rowan Wildlife Adventures area to see live deer, foxes and skunks.

Nearby the carousel is the Hurley Train Station, the depot where you can purchase tickets for the train, and for other park attractions. The train, driven by an engineer in typical striped engineer overalls, follows a winding path through the woods and goes through two tunnels where it stops for brief, local history lessons.

Wedged between the carousel and wildlife area is

D

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the Hurley Water Plaza, a great splashground to play in with plenty of surrounding dry bench seating for mom and dad. More water fun is found by the lake. Lake Murtis is a focal point of the park. Hop aboard a sparkly paddleboat or bring your tackle to fish. Stop

by Lakeside Concession’s store, on the path to the lake, to get a fishing license ($2.50 for out-ofcounty residents). While there, grab an ice-cream cone, bait to hook a bass, and some food to feed the ducks.

A wooden cutout painted with a barn scene makes a good family photo opportunity before entering into the Stanback Barnyard area — you just have to choose who gets to the be the farmer and who gets to be the goat, donkey, sheep or cow. Inside the barnyard, see a donkey, goats, a peacock,

CharlotteParent.com

turkey and more — enough to excite little ones, but maybe not enough to keep big kids engaged.

Buy yourself a bucket of gems at the Miner Moose Gem Mine, and then wash the stones in one of four flumes.

Stop by the gem mine shack to have your gems identified or even turned into a piece of jewelry.

Don’t miss out on a game of mini-golf on one of the two 18-hole courses. The courses are remarkably wellmanicured and fun to play. A large playground, divided into three sections appropriate for different ages, is located beside the mini-golf courses.

Though there is no entrance fee, there are fees associated with the various attractions. Train and carousel

TOP: A wooden

farmyard cut-out rides are $1 makes for fun photos. each, free for CENTER: Take a spin on Haden’s Carousel. children 12 months and younger. It costs 50 cents to enter the Stanback Barnyard, and fees vary for a bucket of gems. A game of mini-golf is $4, but free for children under the age of 3. Paddleboats are $2 per person for 30 minutes, and free for children under age 3 with an adult.t It’s easy to turn the daytrip into an overnighter by pitching a tent or renting a cabin at the 70-site campground. Find more information, including camping fees, at dannicholas.net.

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DADDY DEREK

BY DEREK JAMES

Tyler, 5, enjoys a good game of Parcheesi.

Mom, We Want a Wii

W

hen I was 4 or 5, we got an Atari 2600 for Christmas. It easily went down in history as my favorite childhood gift because it was my introduction to home video games. For my boys, who are both under the age of 7, their first gaming experiences came through a LeapPad and an iPhone. So, when my son Tyler recently asked for a Wii U for his sixth birthday, the thought actually crossed my mind.

Yes, he’s only 6 and I get that too much time spent playing video games isn’t a good thing. I did a story a few years back on WCCB where a psychologist explained that in moderation there’s nothing wrong with your toddler getting some video game time in. I tried to justify buying Tyler a Wii U (and more realistically,

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my wife Kristen) time and time again.

I had a video game system young and I turned out all right. I even played the computer game “Doom” and still ended up a relatively mentally sound person. I haven’t been addicted for the past 30 or so years. Up until my kids got old enough, I had hardly played any video games in years. I’ve never played newer games like “Grand Theft Auto” or “Call of Duty.”

I had images of Tyler and I bonding over Mario, Yoshi and Sonic.

I’d show him how to warp levels, tricks to beating Dr. Robotnik, and which are the best power ups on “Mario Kart.” He’d show me the secrets to all the new more complicated games.

Years later, I’d be the cool dad who was pretty good at video games and wasn’t clueless when it came to the

latest and greatest tech. Over a game of “Madden,” Tyler would tell me how school was really going and talk about girls with me like he does with his friends. Even so, Kristen was right.

Tyler is 6 and didn’t need an expensive game system yet.

My wife explained that we could still bond over video games without spending $300. She recommended pulling her old original Nintendo Entertainment System out of a box in the attic to see if we could get it to work. Initially it didn’t, so I watched a YouTube video on how to clean an NES and its games. After taking it apart, cleaning it and putting it back together we were up and playing “Super Mario Bros.” like it was 1985 again.

Tyler thought Mario looked weird at first, but within a few minutes he was hooked. I think seeing how excited we were to go back to our childhoods helped. When the kids earn it, we play together. My wife is showing Tyler how good she is (was) at “Ducktales” and I’m pumped to take turns playing “Megaman” with him.

In the end, my want for Tyler to get a Wii U really came down to my want for Tyler to have a “great childhood.” Thing is, he already does.

He has two parents who are dedicated to spending time with him, making memories with him, and giving him unconditional love. A cool video game system isn’t going to make any difference in 20 years. Plus, old school is pretty cool too and $300 cheaper.

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.

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Upload your smiles at CharlotteParent.com/photogallery. Choose Reader Photos.

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