Charlotte Parent March 2013 by Charlotte Parent

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Inside!

March 2013 â&#x20AC;˘ Free CharlotteParent.com

225

THINGS TO DO IN MARCH!

COLLEGE PLANNING

Made Easy

10 Tips for Acing Applications Online Image Makeovers

SUPERSTAR

TEENS

The Best & The Brightest

Triathlete Michael Brienza

Leaders

GROWING

Celebrating 31 Years of Dance Excellence

“Dance the Difference”

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

WWW.CHARLOTTEPREP.ORG

Ballantyne/Blakeney Marvin

704-684-0005

704-845-1180

www.stepsnmotion.com

There are no limits

to a child’s imagination Summer Camps at Ivybrook for ages 2-6.

Come join Ivybrook Academy summer camp as we become pirates digging for buried treasure, create culinary delights like Emeril, take center stage for our creative dramatics workshop and venture into the world of dinosaurs and outer space.

Weddington Campus - 704.845.2310 • Fort Mill Campus - 803.802.2390 • www.IvybrookAcademy.com CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

Queen Charlotte can’t be wrong. Photo courtesy of Charlotte Nature Museum

Spring’s arriving early this year… book your appointment

now!

Douglas T. Hugh R. Black, II, C. Thomas Humphries, Vandana K. William S. Johnston, D.O. M.D. M.D., MBA Patel, M.D. Ashe, Jr., M.D. Arboretum 8045 Providence Rd., Suite 300 704-341-9600 Mallard Creek 10310 Mallard Creek Rd., Suite 101A 704-503-4888

Asthma & Allergy Specialists, PA

Matthews 855 Sam Newell Rd., Suite 206 704-321-2793

www.asthmanc.com

MARCH 2013

CharlotteParent.com

Total attention

to ADHD patients.

Focus is a new solution for the treatment of ADHD. Our doctor’s dedication and emphasis on the whole patient help move your family from frustration to focus. Contact us for more information or to make an appointment. Dr. R. Derek Brugman, DO

from frustration to…

Board Certified, Pediatrician

Jade Wright, PA-C

focus-md.com

Now Open 309 S. Sharon Amity Rd., Suite 204, Charlotte, NC 28211 704-900-0252 U www.focus-md.com

m a r c h 2 013 features

Terrific Teens

Meet some of Charlotte’s best and brightest teens

College Planning: Be Prepared

Top 10 tips to get ready for college applications

Getting to Know You – Online Social media do’s and don’ts when applying to college

Spring Consignment Sales The hot list of the biggest sales in town

in every issue

6 9 10 12 14 18 43 44 55 58 60

SALE 49

from the editor

family fyi doc says chalk talk step up food for thought growing up getting out daily calendar playground review a good sport carolina smiles

March 2013 • Free CharlotteParent.com

44 33

225

THINGS TO DO IN MARCH!

COLLEGE PLANNING

Made Easy

10 Tips for Acing Applications Online Image Makeovers

SUPERSTAR

TEENS

The Best & The Brightest

Triathlete Michael Brienza

About the Cover: Photo by Becca Bond Photography. beccabondphotography.com

CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

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FROM THE PUBLISHER EVE WHITE

Talking About Teens

eens get a bad rap. I know. I’ve been guilty of contributing to the stereotype myself with sarcastic commentary and conversations about raising a teen. There is nothing easy about raising a child, but teens seem to fall into a category everyone dreads. You know the profile: The sullen, snarky and emotional being who shows up one day at your house, grunts answers or ignores you, and seems the polar opposite of the sweet young child you remember from just moments before. It’s a universal stereotype. Ask anyone their thoughts on teens and you’ll get a snide remark. Imagine a world where the kids are alright! Teens are doing great things, and moms and dads are happy. That is what I’m trying to live out at our house everyday. I’m celebrating the good things, and if you are open, you will see them in your teen too. Recently, a friend told me a story of how Crawford did a good deed at school for a classmate. Then a mentor at church sought me out to tell me how he thoughtfully asked for prayers for his dad and grandfather. These expressions of his good character are not surprising to me. My teen is truly a great kid, with a good heart. So next time we lock horns over homework, I’ll focus on his positive qualities. In this issue, there are eight teens selected for their achievements, who are showing leadership, accomplishing great things and helping in their community. Our Terrific Teens on Page 21 are leaders making a mark in Charlotte. You’ll be amazed at how they shine a positive light on teens. It’s true the teen years are a delicate balance between support and independence, academics and social pursuits, and safety and risk taking, all bundled up in a package of peer pressure, hormonal changes and not enough sleep. For some teens, this results in depression, which should be a concern, but is not always a long-term condition. In our Doc Says column on Page 9, find out about some of these warning signs to help determine if your teen is just experiencing a passing mood or it’s something more serious. No matter what, being a good listener goes a long way. I guess that’s true when you are dealing with people in general – not just teens! Show some respect for what they have to say and strive to understand, not to be understood.

MARCH 2013

CharlotteParent.com

GROUP PUBLISHER Sharon Havranek

PUBLISHER/EDITOR Eve White

ASSOCIATE EDITOR/WEB EDITOR Michele Huggins

ART DIRECTOR Wade Baker

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Melissa Stutts

DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER Susannah Carpenter

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Katy LeGrand

SALES SR. MEDIA CONSULTANT Leslie Shinn leslies@charlotteparent.com

MEDIA CONSULTANTS Stephanie Hoffman shoffman@charlotteparent.com Jen Byrum jbyrum@charlotteparent.com Adrian Garson agarson@charlotteparent.com

BUSINESS OFFICE MANAGER Kara Lynn Mann karalynn@charlotteparent.com

BUSINESS OFFICE ASSOCIATE Elizabeth Day eday@charlotteparent.com

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

what’s new at …

CharlotteParent.com PLAYTIME

COLLEGE PLANNING

From playdate fun to playground reviews, Mom blogger Laurie Wragg shares best places to go and things to do with kids in the Queen City.

Help your tweens and teens get a head start on college planning with tips and tools to applying, financing and planning for college.

…/tweensteens

…/blogs

EASTER FUN

Bunny crafts, games, recipes and more to celebrate the spring season.

…/thingstodo

Pinterest.com/CharlotteParent

Facebook.com/Cltparent

@CharlotteParent

… and get in on conversations to get your family fit at #cltfitfam

CONTEST TICKETS TO THE WIZARD OF OZ BALLET Upload a photo of your child wearing ruby red slippers or ballet attire to win tickets to see the Charlotte Youth Ballet’s performance of The Wizard of Oz!

…/contests

“A tackle box is a great place to store Matchbox cars and other little toys, and is great to carry on a playdate.” CharlotteParent.com Parenting Tips blog

CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

fyi

FAMILY

get real with

Angela Guyer

Quick stats: 36, Change Management Consultant at Duke Energy and owner of guyerfamilyblog.com … Family tree: Lives in Dilworth with husband Walt and children; Jacob, 11, Lily Grace, 2, Townes, 7 months, and dog Layla ... Favorite indulgence: A glass of red wine and dark chocolate ... Favorite outing: The park, it’s free and fun for all, Layla included ... Favorite local eats: Bonterra ... iPod: Jack Johnson, Mumford and Sons, Adele and Old Crow Medicine Show … Latest read: “Happiest Toddler on the Block” … DVR: “Modern Family,” “Homeland,” “Newsroom,” and “Game of Thrones”, plus “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse,” and Dora, Diego and Strawberry Shortcake for the kids … In your bag: iPhone, wallet, coupon binder, lipgloss, latex-free bandaids, snacks and M&M or Skittles ... Can’t live without: My iPhone! I’d be lost without my baby-log app and I’m obsessed with Instagram and Ruzzle. I also use it to keep up with my favorite blogs and Facebook friends ... Stress buster: Yoga.

MARCH 2013

Photo provided by Girl Talk Foundation Inc.

Empowering Girls with Prom Style, Etiquette

or high school girls, finding the perfect dress and getting dressed up for the prom is exciting stuff, but it’s also pricey. Girl Talk Foundation, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and Off Broadway Shoes are teaming up to present the 11th annual Prom Project complete with a “girls day in” to help girls get prepped for the prom. The event takes place at ImaginOn April 6. Throughout March, Girl Talk volunteers are setting up Prom Project Road Shows in Charlotte-area high school cafeterias, where girls can register for the event. At the event, each attendee shops for a dress, accessories, and gets to see

CharlotteParent.com

the hottest in shoe fashions by Off Broadway Shoes, all free of charge. Before selecting a dress, participants are required to complete the etiquette course to encourage appropriate behavior on prom night, as well as beauty, fashion and prom safety tips. “Going to the prom is such a special part of a young girl’s high school experience, but the costs of dresses, shoes, tickets and dinner really add up,” says Janine Davis, founder and executive director of Girl Talk Foundation Inc. “We want to help every girl feel beautiful and well-prepared for her big day. Prom Project allows Girl Talk to continue our mission to empower every girl to be confident, smart,

proud and powerful.” If you have a gently used or new bridesmaid, cocktail or prom dress hanging in a closet, or some dazzling accessories and strappy sandals, consider donating to Prom Project. Items are being collected at six venues, including South Regional Library, North Regional Library, Morrison Regional Library, ImaginOn, WPEGFM and Saks Off 5th at Concord Mills Mall through April 5. If you think your daughter or someone you know is interested in participating, register online at girltalkfoundationinc.com or call ImaginOn, 704-416-4660.

COMMUNITY

Kelley Fluharty, via Facebook

good deed: Hawk Ridge Elementary

Last year, Hawk Ridge Elementary fourth graders Siddhant Doshi, Danielle Owens, Roman Peace, Jackie Stoehr, Bella Thews and Henry Wood grew 150 pounds of vegetables that they donated to the Harrison United Methodist Church food bank in Ballantyne. The school garden project was initiated by Jackie Stoehr and her mom Carrie Stoehr who applied for and received a $400 grant from Opal Apple’s 2012 beneficiary Katie’s Krops to revitalize the school’s four large and four small garden beds. The students were motivated to grow and share fresh produce after visiting the food bank and seeing mostly canned items. Throughout the spring and summer, students and their families helped tend the garden. The six who started the garden, now fifth graders, are passing the garden hoe to a group of fourth graders who will carry on tending the garden, and donating the produce each week to the food bank.

Charlotte National College Fair Students can gather information, attend workshops and talk to representatives from more than 160 schools at the Charlotte National College Fair March 17, noon to 4 p.m. at The Park Expo and Conference Center. Workshop topics include how to find scholarships, SAT and ACT testing, CFNC resources, admission into selective colleges and universities, planning for college as a middle school student, and college aid and affordability. For more information and a list of registered colleges and universities, go to nacacnet.org/college-fairs/SpringNCF and click on the Charlotte event. Register to attend the National College Fair at gotomyncf.com. Print the registration barcode so college representatives can scan it when you visit their booth.

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have taken a break from Facebook for a few weeks or more. Source: Pew Research Center

CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

Goggles aren’t just for the pool this summer! REGISTER NOW FOR

S I Z Z L I NG SUMMER CAMPS!

Warning: Your children may have TOO MUCH FUN! Wonder, discover and explore science with

EINSTEINZ LAB!

We offer ooey-gooey birthday parties, field trips, pre-school classes, after-school programs, scout workshops and more!

704-651-8989 einsteinzlab@gmail.com

MARCH 2013

CharlotteParent.com

Field of Dreams Adventure Summer Camp K - 5th Grade

Your children will be able to try new activities, see new places, find new talents, and make lasting friendships in our summer program. Some of the places we have gone during our summer camps include: Lazy 5 Ranch, Emerald Hollow Mine, Reed Gold Mine, Ray’s Splash Planet, Carolina Raptor Center, Lynnwood Equestrian Center, Riverbanks Zoo, Zuma Fun Center, Federal Reserve Bank, Discovery Place / IMAX, Edventure, U.S. Whitewater Center, Happy Zone, King’s Mountain State Park, Lansford Canal, Monkey Joes We will go and have some fun meals at places like Sakura Hibachi, CICI’s Pizza, Fuji Hibachi, Chuck E Cheese, and ChickFil-A. Many other fun activities include swimming, gymnastics, bowling, roller skating, music, art.

Call us at 803-396-0900 for more information.

WELLNESS

Teenage Depression or Typical Teen?

oday’s teenagers often get a bad rap about being unmotivated, isolated or wanting to sleep all day. They also carry stressful burdens that previous generations can’t relate to. Plus, adolescents’ physical bodies have demanding needs during the transition to adulthood (for example, teenagers should sleep more than young children and adults). Add DOC SAYS BY DR. MARK COLLINS each part of the equation and it’s easy to see why parents have a difficult time knowing whether their teen’s behavior qualifies as typical teenage moodiness or clinical teenage depression. Teenage depression is common and seems to be on the rise. According to teenagedepression.org, approximately 20 percent of teens experience an episode of depression before reaching adulthood, with each episode lasting about eight months. Straightforward symptoms of teenage depression include tearfulness, sadness, crying and feeling hopeless. These symptoms most commonly present themselves in females. Males demonstrate more irritability, anger and frustration and are often mislabeled as aggressive. As outsiders looking in, parents should also watch for more severe warning signs: changes in eating and sleeping habits, dropping grades, a disintegrating social life, plummeting energy levels, increased fatigue, unusual disconnect and isolation from family, and increased substance abuse. As a parent of four children (two being teens), I can spot at least one straightforward sign of depression around my house each day, but the days following are

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almost always filled with rebounded joy and jubilation. The tried and true test to knowing whether a child or teen needs medical attention for depression is if symptoms present a persistent pattern of behavior. The only way to correctly identify the abnormal is by knowing the ins and outs of each youth’s “normal” — it’s all about communication. Coincidentally, communication is also the first step toward helping a teen overcome depression. Pick an adult who has a healthy, positive relationship with the teen — if not a parent, try a teacher, counselor or church leader. Then, arrange for the pair to have a safe, nonjudgmental conversation, encouraging the teen to express his or her feelings. Realize that the process may take days or weeks but is well worth the effort. Once the teen opens up, have the adult and teen meet with a trusted pediatrician or family physician. The practitioner will ask the teen questions, and the adult can contribute another layer of information and perspective. Next, the physician will make suggestions, which could include anything from testing for anemia, thyroid issues or mono, to psychotherapy or antidepressant medication. Regardless of the treatment path, active, nonjudgmental listening and open communication between teens and parents is always suggested. In fact, prioritizing talk time can help in every aspect of teenage depression — preventing, identifying and overcoming. So, whether it’s typical teenage moodiness or clinical depression, be sure to talk about it. — Mark Collins is a family practice physician at Cotswold Medical Center-Arboretum.

South Charlotte Baptist Academy Independent Quaker education for grades K-5

Friends School of Charlotte is pleased to announce our

NEW LOCATION

in NoDa, near Uptown Charlotte beginning Fall 2013

Call 704-567-9445 to schedule a tour. Or visit www.FriendsSchoolofCharlotte.org

SUMMER CAMP

AFFORDABLE CAMPS FOR KIDS 3-12 June 10 - August 9 7:30a m - 6pm Full Day-$130/week Half Day-$90/week Academy Now Enrolling K3 to Grade 12 for Fall 2013!

www.SCBAcademy.org

ER SUM M A F UN IN TIANNT! CHRIS E M N O ENVIRSPORTS FTS CRA ARTS + R DAYS WATED TRIPS FIEL ME F UN SO WHOLE UDE INCL S RATESCTIVITIE ALL A

CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

fyi : : EDUCATION

Reading Tip Help emerging readers identify words and build word association by labeling items throughout your home, such as doors, furniture and household items.

Homeschooling Can Be Right for Some Children

Get Organized Set an alarm clock for the same time each night to remind less organized children to get their backpacks ready for the next day, and to build organization skills and habits.

ome children, albeit bright, don’t thrive in a traditional classroom setting, but instead learn better with more hands-on opportunities that link arts, CHALK TALK

BY PEGGY GISLER AND MARGE EBERTS

App Alert: Weird But True Learning is fun with the hundreds of wild, wacky facts from National Geographic Kids. For iPhone and iPad. Free.

MARCH 2013

music and sports passions to their studies. Homeschooling can be a good option for these students if it’s a good fit for the entire family. Being homeschooled gives a student more time to pursue current interests, and even to acquire and pursue new interests. One significant advantage to homeschooling is that children do not need to spend as much time on schoolwork in this

CharlotteParent.com

environment largely because they are working one-on-one with a parent instead of sharing a teacher’s time with 20 or even more than 30 other students. Another big advantage of homeschooling is that each lesson can be tailored exactly to the child’s needs and interests. In regular classrooms, the teacher is trying to help children with a wide range of abilities, which often means that many lessons will not be appropriate for your child. In the homeschooling atmosphere, children can learn rapidly. Most will outscore their classroom peers on standardized tests. Homeschool cooperatives are very diverse. No two

are exactly alike, because the participating families determine what each cooperative will be like. Some are limited to field trips, study of a specific subject, or music, art or sports groups. Others offer a variety of options. Most meet once a week. A few offer a complete program of classes taught by parents and others, especially retired teachers. Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts are former teachers and have co-authored more than 100 books.

Find local homescool resources at CharlotteParent.com/directories/education

CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

fyi : : LIFE The Divorced Parents Meet-Up

veryone knows the cliché scene from an action movie where the girlfriend of the hero is being held hostage by the enemy and they arrange a meeting to trade STEP UP

BY KAREN ALLEY

the girl for information, money or some other important material. You know that look of terror in the girlfriend’s face? That’s the look you will see on the face of children of divorce when they’re being traded from one parent to another. But it doesn’t have to be that way. It’s up to us, as adults, to make these transitions smooth for everyone. Keep conversation to a minimum. It’s not unusual

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for divorced couples to argue when they’re together. After all, there’s a reason you’re not still married. It’s important to try not to argue in front of the children, and one way to do that is just not to talk about much. The parent who is bringing the kids back can pass on important information, such as what the kids ate, or if one was sick. You don’t need to document your weekend, and this is especially not the time to bring up big decisions such as making changes in the custody schedule or talking about the children’s behavior and deciding on punishments. Those discussions are better left for another time when the kids aren’t around, or better

yet, over the phone. Meet at a neutral place. For many families of divorce it is easier to arrange a meeting place, such as a fast-food restaurant or bookstore that is between the two households. This way each of you share the driving, and you don’t have to deal with any emotions that might arise if your ex-spouse is in your old house. Turn the drive time into quality time. If you live more than a few miles from your ex-spouse, getting the kids to the other parent’s home means time in the car. This is a great time to catch up on what’s going on in your child’s life, especially for teens. Kids are

much more likely to open up and talk when they’re staring out the windshield and not looking right into your face. Include stepparents in the transitions. Once you’ve remarried, making a blended family gel is a challenge. Let your new spouse come with you on the drop-offs, or even let him or her take over some of the driving time. It will not only be a good example to the kids of how two people in a marriage share responsibilities, but can even create some good time for the kids to get to know this new member of their family. Karen Alley lives in the Triad and is proud to be part of a blended family.

IS YOUR CHILD’S AVERAGE PULLED DOWN BY ONE GRADE?

SUBJECT TUTORING Pre-algebra Algebra Physics Geometry Trigonometry Pre-calculus Calculus Biology Chemistry Earth Science Here’s how Huntington helps: • Programs are tailored to address each student’s needs • Highly trained tutors work individually with students • Lessons are taught at the student’s pace

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©2013 Huntington Mar, LLC. Independently Owned and Operated. SAT and PSAT are registered trademarks of the College Entrance Examination Board.ACT is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc. The College Entrance Examination Board and ACT, Inc. were not involved in the production of, and do not endorse, this program. *Offer valid for Academic Evaluation or Tuition, new students only. Not valid with any other offer.

MARCH 2013

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CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

fyi : : LIFE

Bunny Easter Basket Supplies:

• • • •

2 12-by-18 inch sheets craft foam 3 pipe cleaners (trimmed to 8 inches) 2 fuzzy pipe cleaners 2 large googly eyes

Trim one sheet of craft foam to a 12-inch square. Measure 3 inches in from each corner and mark lightly. Fold up sides and vertically staple each corner where the 3-inch marks meet. Cut 1.5-inch wide handle along the 18-inch length of second piece of craft foam. Cut two 6-8 inch bunny ears out of remaining foam. Tip: You can draw your ear shape on paper first and then trace onto foam so both ears look

• • • • •

1 small pom-pom 2 large pom-poms Scissors Ruler Tacky craft glue or glue gun (with parental supervision)

the same. Then, glue fuzzy pipe cleaner around the edge of each foam ear. Make face by gluing on eyes, pipe cleaner whiskers, and pom pom nose and cheeks on one side of basket. Glue finished ears inside basket behind face. Glue handle strip inside basket from left to right. Fill with Easter grass and goodies and you’re all set! - Renee Canada

Slumber Party Sweet Treats

lumber parties are a time-honored tradition among teens. Along with the music, chatter, phoning, texting and late-night fun, you really must include a taste or two of something terrific to eat. Both of my recipes this month FOOD FOR THOUGHT BY HEIDI BILLOTTO fit the bill. Make them ahead of time or include the prep time and cooking as a part of the evening’s activities. The coffee in the brownies is optional, but its inclusion offers a richer, more chocolaty finish to each and every bite.

Heidi Billotto is a culinary expert who hosts cooking classes throughout the Charlotte area.

Find a recipe for Old Fashioned Popcorn Balls online at CharlotteParent.com/recipes

You’ll be ready for Easter with this cute and easy-to-make bunny basket. You can customize using your color choice of foam and accessories.

MARCH 2013

CharlotteParent.com

Quick Candy Bar Brownies • • • • •

1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons water 1/3 cup vegetable oil 2 large eggs 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons espresso powder (optional) 1 (19.8-ounce) your favorite box

Line a 9-by-13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Whisk 1/3 cup of water, oil, eggs, and 2 tablespoons espresso powder in a large bowl to blend. Add the brownie mix. Stir until well-blended. Stir in the broken candy pieces. Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan. Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven until a toothpick inserted into the center of the brownies comes out with a few moist

• • • •

brownie mix 1 cup your favorite candy bar, broken into small pieces 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, room temperature

crumbs attached, about 35 minutes. Cool completely. Meanwhile, dissolve the remaining 2 teaspoons of espresso powder in the remaining 2 tablespoons of water in a medium bowl. Whisk in the vanilla. Add the powdered sugar and butter and whisk until smooth. Pour the glaze over the brownies. Refrigerate until the glaze is set. Cut into bite-sized pieces and enjoy!

Peter Rabbitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Garden Adventure March 23 & 24 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Meet Peter Rabbit, Farmer McGregor and all the characters from this beloved childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tale. Photos with Live Bunnies will also be taken. 6500 South New Hope Road Belmont, NC 704.825.4490 www.DSBG.org

CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

fyi : : LIFE

BY WHITLEY ADKINS HAMLIN

Amp Up Your Weekend,Mommy Style! Turn heads. An outfit does not need to be (nor should it be) head-to-toe

matchy-matchy. Mix high and low, vintage with discount pieces, designer labels, and casual brands. Create a look that’s functional, comfortable, even glamorous.

“Pair form-fitting tailored silhouettes with comfortable pieces. Take risks even if it means you miss. You’ll be remembered (and admired) for your uniqueness.”

Kick the trend. Everyone loves boots, and what’s not to love? They’re functional, comfortable and cute. Riding boots are particularly fun, but we don’t all need to look the same. How about a cool pair of cowgirl boots? They’re a timeless classic. Don’t skimp on the details

Create even more interest by adding unique accessories. Mix and match a stack of oddly paired bangles or layer your baubles around your neck. Throw on a wildly patterned scarf. Top off your look with a cute floppy hat or fedora, and don’t forget a cute pair of sunglasses to round out the chic factor.

Tousle your tresses. We seldom have time to spare on the weekends, so thank heavens for the trusty elastic. Keep the hair tie, but ditch the ponytail. Give your locks a little more love by styling a loose bun and incorporating a small braid on one side of your head. Tuck the braid into the elastic for an easy but playful update to your tresses. Find more style tips for moms in our Mother of Style blog at CharlotteParent.com/blogs.

MARCH 2013

CharlotteParent.com

Whitley Adkins Hamlin strives for style while being a mom to two under age 4. See her blog at CharlotteParent.com/blogs.

The Male Leadership Academy of Charlotte

Enrolling Now!

“Preparing Boys to be Men of Character”

www.MLA-Charlotte.org | 704-405-2012 012

Now Enrolling K-4th Grade

Looking for Education Options? CharlotteParent.com/educationguide

We personalize learning so each child can achieve more. Dynamic international curriculum providing unlimited opportunities for success.

British American School of Charlotte Empowering Individual Achievement

704.341.3236 e.causier@wclschools.org www.britishschoolofcharlotte.org

Christ Lutheran Children’s Center 4519 Providence Road

To tour, call 704-365-8687

Join us for a

CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

fyi : : LIFE Growing Up: Entitlement

e all love giving to our children; there’s nothing like witnessing the joy on a child’s face when he receives a coveted toy, a favorite meal or the latest gadget. But parental generosity has an ugly downside. Experts warn that by giving children too much too often, parents can encourage an inflated sense GROWING UP of entitlement that snowballs into demands like BY MALIA JACOBSON “But I want it … now!” In today’s abundant, instant-gratification society, parents must be intentional about raising children who don’t have a sense of entitlement, says Karen Deerwester, parenting coach and author of “The EntitlementFree Child: Raising Confident and Responsible Kids in a ‘Me, Mine, Now!’ Culture.” “Our entitlement climate promotes quick fixes and easy answers that sabotage effective parenting,” she says. Want to raise a responsible child who doesn’t demand constant gratification? Read on for expert tips on curbing entitlement, from toddlerhood to the teen years.

Malia Jacobson is a nationally published freelance writer who specializes in parenting.

0-5 years

WATCHING GAME

Over-entitlement begins in toddlerhood, because 2-year-olds are naturally self-interested — it’s normal and natural for them to be concerned with “me, mine and now.” It’s when parents actually give in to tots’ “now” demands that entitlement can begin to build. “If we constantly overdo and rescue children, they don’t learn to live with those uncomfortable feelings of wanting something and not always getting it,” says Deerwester. One key to self-control is the ability to wait, a skill strongly correlated with future success. In the famous “marshmallow experiment” first conducted at Stanford University in 1972, researchers offered children a choice between receiving one marshmallow now or two marshmallows after a short wait. Children who were able to delay gratification had more success later in life. “Asking a young child to sit still for a few minutes so you can talk to the doctor is age-appropriate and builds those waiting skills,” says Deerwester.

MARCH 2013

CharlotteParent.com

6-10 years

SCHOOL RULES

Often, the first clues of over-entitled behavior in school-aged children come via a phone call from the child’s teacher or school. “Parents will hear from their child’s teacher that the child has difficulty following directions or challenges authority a lot,” says Barbara Lowe-Greenlee, a licensed psychologist in private practice in Chapel Hill. These red flags can be signs of a child used to getting things her own way — now. While it’s healthy for children to be assertive, challenging authority on a regular basis signals a problem. Parents can encourage children to question authority in appropriate ways, like asking questions of a doctor at a well-child checkup. “But sometimes, we need to tell children that they need to simply follow the rules, as long as the authority figure isn’t asking them to do anything wrong or illegal,” says Lowe-Greenlee.

GIVING BACK 11-18 years

It’s not too late to dial down entitled behavior in a possessions-obsessed teen or older child. But adolescents will feel rightfully jilted if parents implement too many changes too quickly. If parents have always given in to a child’s wants instead of teaching him to deal with conflicts and mistakes, they need to help teens build those skills, says Deerwester. “It’s about starting where you are.” One way to encourage a less self-centered worldview? Encourage teens’ natural altruism by asking them to think of ways to contribute to their community. When tweens and teens understand that they can make a worthwhile contribution, their life may stop revolving around the iGizmo, fancy vacation or designer jeans. “Tweens and teens should understand that we all have a responsibility to our family and our community,” says Lowe-Greenlee. “And we don’t just take, we give back.”

CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

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Inspiration from eight 18 or under BY MARTY MINCHIN

ard-working and humble, dedicated and motivated, driven, compassionate, dependable, articulate and engaging – these are just a few of the descriptive words nominators chose to distinguish the eight teens selected as this year’s Charlotte Parent Terrific Teens. The teens being recognized include a fencing champion, Harvard-bound basketball star, an engineering whiz, acclaimed jazz pianist, a Cadet Second Lieutenant in the Civil Air Patrol, an award-winning

mural artist, a dedicated community volunteer, and nationally ranked triathlete. Some began honing their skills as early as age 6, and not one is idly doing just one thing. These teens are maintaining stellar grade point averages while taking college-level classes; engaging in the community, school activities and athletics; and are actively pursuing their dreams. There is no doubt that they are going places, and they aren’t the only ones. We received more than 120 worthy nominations from teachers, school counselors, coaches and parents

in the community. We asked for three descriptive words that distinguish the teens in academics, athletics, arts or community service from his or her peers. Choosing only eight was tough, as we read nominations and learned more about so many talented students throughout the Charlotte region. Now’s your chance to seek inspiration in the eight 18 and under that we think deserve a moment in the spotlight. Kudos to all the teens who are working hard to make a difference for themselves and their communities. CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

Senior at Charlotte Christian School Parents: Hessard and Kim Bailey Gisele Bailey began playing basketball at age 10 simply because at 5 feet, 10 inches, she towered over her peers. Seven years later, Bailey’s academic achievements and basketball prowess have earned her a spot at Harvard University, where she will play on the women’s basketball team this fall. “Gigi is a determined and competitive young woman with a heart as big as her smile — and an amazing scholar and athlete,” says Candace Gowan, Charlotte Christian School communications specialist. “She is well-known for her basketball abilities but quick to share what her mother tells her: ‘Books before basketball.’ ” Bailey, now 6 feet, 4 inches, plays forward-center with the North Carolina Spartans and at Charlotte Christian School, where she recently broke the school’s scoring record at a game early in the season. She describes herself as a finesse player who can be aggressive and who likes to work with her teammates to win. “I know it works better when everyone’s involved,” she says. Bailey chose Harvard out of the more than 70 colleges that actively recruited her because the school fits with her academic goals and she meshes with the basketball team, which she met on a school visit in the fall. Bailey is a member of the National Honor Society and the National Spanish Honor Society, and she is president of Charlotte Christian’s Health Careers Club. She also is a summa cum laude honors student, an AP scholar and the recipient of a Scholastic Writing Award for Poetry. Bailey plans to major in pre-med with a focus in biology at Harvard and then enroll in medical school. Inspired by her mother, who is a nurse, Bailey wants to be a doctor. “I love working with kids, so I thought pediatrician would be the best fit for me.”

MARCH 2013

CharlotteParent.com

Gisele Bailey

BRILLIANT | HUMBLE | DEDICATED

Senior at Cannon School Parents: Christopher and Eileen Pope Michael Pope got his love of music from his family; at age 5 he began taking piano lessons from his father, and later he was so inspired by his brother’s piano playing that he switched his focus from classical to jazz piano. He now plays in his school ensemble and for local groups, including gigs at jazz festivals at UNC Charlotte and UNC Wilmington. Pope says that he loves jazz piano because of the mental concentration it takes and the freedom he feels while playing. “After all the thought, you kind of just sink into it, and it’s something that you feel,” he says. He sings with Cannon School’s a capella group and teaches piano lessons to children in his neighborhood. Also an athlete, Pope has been a starter for high school football, swimming and track teams. He plans for a career in engineering. “He is an exceptional scholar and a top student in all subjects who was invited to do research with the optics and fibers department at UNCC,” says Anne Shandley, Cannon School director of college counseling. “Michael’s a positive and influential role model for many.” A longtime leader in his school community, Pope now serves as student body president. “Generally, the things I like to do involve being involved at school and helping out with that community,” says Pope, who has been a student at Cannon School since sixth grade. Driven by his belief that quality learning should be accessible to everyone, Pope has helped with community service projects that benefit education, including a school supply drive at the YMCA. He received recognition for his leadership in ninth grade with the Core Value Award from his school, and in 2012 he received the Vulcan Materials Leadership award for academic, athletic and leadership excellence.

Michael Pope AUTHENTIC | LEADER | RESILIENT

CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

MARCH 2013

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Senior at Charlotte Latin School Parents: Robert and Susan Johnson Emily Johnson will graduate from high school having logged more than 600 hours of community service doing everything from serving dinner to families at the Ronald McDonald House to working with Habitat for Humanity in El Salvador. “When a daily school announcement is made requesting volunteers, Emily Johnson not only often answers the call, she also brings others along with her,” says Kim Stodghill, Charlotte Latin co-director of college counseling. “Emily is easily recognized as one of the most philanthropic young women in our school.” Johnson says that she focuses on community service because she likes making a difference in the lives of others and building friendships with the people she serves alongside. “There’s a connection that you make with people that you can’t find anywhere else,” she says. Much of her volunteer work has focused on the Ronald McDonald House in Charlotte, where she serves on the Teen Volunteer Board, helps families staying at the house and organizes fundraisers. As a member of the Teen IMPACT Fund, Johnson was one of 20 teenagers who spent a year reviewing grant applications and choosing three nonprofit organizations to receive grant money. “The experience has enhanced Emily’s leadership skills and given her an opportunity for civic engagement,” says Stodghill. Johnson also has taken several overseas service trips with Overland, a national organization that offers summer programs for students. At Charlotte Latin School, Johnson serves on the executive council of the school’s service organization and as a senior class representative on the student council, and has played on the tennis team. She is factoring in the availability of service opportunities as she is selecting a college, and she hopes to one day have a career that focuses on working with people.

Emily Johnson

COMPASSIONATE | PHILANTHROPIC | BRIGHT

CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

Stephen Moore FOCUSED | MOTIVATED | DRIVEN

Freshman at South Point High School Parents: Michael and Judy Moore Stephen Moore is following a career aspiration instilled in him at age 6: serving in the U.S. Air Force. He joined the Civil Air Patrol when he was 12, and in two years he has completed three encampments, held the staff positions of flight sergeant and first sergeant for CAP squadron, and ranked up to Cadet Second Lieutenant. Moore was deployed for five days on a Hurricane Irene disaster relief mission, where he and several other cadets set up supply distribution stations along the North Carolina coast. “We handed out food and water and thousands of things that went in a matter of hours,” says Moore. He missed the first week of eighth grade for the mission, but his mother, who originally suggested that he consider the U.S. Air Force, felt that the trip “was a better thing to do.” Moore earned a CAP achievement award for his service with N.C. Emergency Management and the National Guard during the mission. He now serves on the statewide CAP Cadet Advisory Council and was named the 2011 Gastonia Squadron Cadet of the Year. Moore is also a competitive all-star cheerleader, which he says he enjoys because it’s a physically demanding sport that keeps him in shape. He cheers for two teams and has won multiple state, national and regional titles. Moore plays the trumpet in the South Point High School Pride of the Tribe Marching Band and volunteers for the Pride’s Pit Crew. He began taking flying lessons at age 11 and has logged 10 hours in the air. Moore’s great-grandfather was in the U.S. Air Force, and Moore says that flying comes naturally to him. He plans to attend the United States Air Force Academy and serve in the military as a pilot and aeronautical engineer.

MARCH 2013

CharlotteParent.com

Kathryn Grace Almon ARTICULATE | ENGAGING | PHILANTHROPIC

Senior at Charlotte Catholic High School Parents: Robert and Faye Almon The first time Kathryn Grace Almon saw a fencing practice, she was hooked. Almon was in sixth grade with a growing interest in “Star Wars,” and her mom thought the sport might be a good extension of her daughter’s newfound obsession. “Nothing captured me like fencing did,” says Almon, who recently ranked in the top 16 in the Division III women’s national championship. She describes fencing as a “physical game of chess” and says that she loves the independence and power she feels competing on the fencing strip. Almon practices twice a week for at least two hours with the Charlotte Fencing Club and competes in several national tournaments each year. She also focuses on community service and has logged more than 200 volunteer hours with Carolinas Medical Center. After serving weekly in the neonatal unit, Almon became a volunteer leader at CMC. She has served two terms on the March of Dimes Youth Council, where she helps publicize the nonprofit organization’s cause and raise money for birth defects research. In 2012, she led a team for the March of Dimes March for Babies walk named after her cousin Christopher, who died from a birth defect, and raised more than $1,200. She has also served in former N.C. Rep. Sue Myrick’s Youth Advisory Council and recently gathered hundreds of signatures from students and faculty for a get-well poster sent to a CCHS alumnus who was critically injured in an accident in Brazil. She ranks second in her class out of 328 seniors, is a member of the National Honor Society and has taken eight advanced placement courses. “She loves learning and academic challenges,” says Cathy Grady, a counselor at Charlotte Catholic High School. “(That’s) just one reason why she is so highly regarded by the faculty.” She is a member of her school’s book club and retreat team. Almon hopes to pursue a career in biomedical engineering, inspired by the technology that has helped her best friend, who has a heart condition. “The one thing that most people would say about me is that I’m a very happy person,” says Almon. “People stress out about grades and school, and I do too, but I try to keep grounded in faith and just be happy.” CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

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Senior at Mallard Creek High School Parents: Timothy and Lisa Roddey Jalen Roddey knew he liked math and that he liked to solve problems, so as a freshman he decided to try the Academy of Engineering pilot program at Mallard Creek High School. “I thought it would be a good way to figure out if I wanted to be an engineer,” says Roddey. Four years later, he is a member of the first graduating class of the Mallard Creek AOE, which is part of a nationwide program that provides high school students with a focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics. “He is really outstanding,” says Kristin Soulier, Mallard Creek High School counselor. In 2011, he was chosen to introduce Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools Superintendent Heath Morrison at an event at his school. Roddey also is an ambassador with the YBM Leadership Alliance, which focuses on leadership development and college preparation for young black men, and he helps with the organization’s service activities. He tutors a student weekly at Reedy Creek Elementary School and serves as a youth leader at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, where he also helps with the Room in the Inn ministry to people who are homeless. Roddey says that his faith in God inspires him to do the right thing and help others, and he says it is important for him to be humble and “know where you are, where you want to go and how you want to live your life.” Roddey is co-captain of the Mallard Creek High School men’s varsity tennis team, president of the National Technical Honor Society and a member of the National Honor Society and the Technical Student Association. He works for Velocity Sneaker Boutique in the University area and is involved with Alpha Beautillion. He plans to attend N.C. A&T University and major in industrial engineering.

Jalen Roddey KIND | INTELLIGENT | FRIENDLY

CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

Senior at Myers Park High School Parents: Bob and Meredith Sherrill When Ellison Sherrill’s mother volunteered to hang up students’ art at Selwyn Elementary one day, she noticed that one picture of a frog was especially good. She pulled the artwork out of the stack and showed it to the school’s art teacher, asking which student had drawn it. The answer? “Your daughter.” A fifth-grade teacher soon recommended Sherrill for a summer arts camp, and her interest in visual arts took off. Sherrill took private art lessons through middle school, and she ran a five-day summer art camp for fifth-grade girls as part of her involvement in the IB program at Myers Park High School. In 2012, Sherrill was chosen to paint a series of murals at Barringer Academic Center, where she spent part of the summer painting one 7-foot-by-12-foot mural and several smaller designs on the school’s hallways. “When they walk down the halls, it’s not just white, plain concrete (anymore),” says Sherrill. “It inspires them.” Now working on a series of black-and-white paintings of laundry and clothes hanging on a line for her IB portfolio, Sherrill plans to attend Hamilton College in New York and become an art teacher. “Whether she is leading the National Art Honor Society as vice president, participating in school activities or volunteering in the community, Ellison works to her fullest potential,” says Lynn Wu, Myers Park High School art department chairwoman. “I can’t imagine anything that Ellison cannot accomplish once her mind is set.” Sherrill has played lacrosse since sixth grade, including starting four years on the Myers Park High School varsity team, and she will play lacrosse at Hamilton College. She also plays on the high school girls’ basketball team, which currently is one of the top ranked teams in North Carolina, and is co-president of the Key Club.

MARCH 2013

CharlotteParent.com

Ellison Sherrill DEPENDABLE | INTELLIGENT | CREATIVE

Michael Brienza

HARD-WORKING | ENVIRONMENTALIST | ATHLETIC

Junior at Charlotte Country Day School Parents: John and Robin Brienza When Michael Brienza heard a conservationist talk at the Schiele Museum about bats, he was so moved by the plight of the flying mammals that he was motivated to action. “He made me realize how unfair it is for bats,” says Brienza. “They are great for the environment and good for farmers, and they are being killed by people who are afraid of them.” Brienza began his own bat conservation program, raising money to buy bat houses where up to 300 bats can reside. In 2012, he interned as a bat expert at the Charlotte Nature Museum and in return received a $1,000 grant for his program. He has now erected 10 bat houses: nine on the South Carolina coast where his family owns a beach house and one at the Charlotte Nature Museum. “Michael has always been an active community volunteer, having dedicated more than 400 hours on his two great passions — the health and welfare of our environment, and children in our community,” says Brienza’s mother, Robin Brienza. Also a nationally ranked triathlete in his age group, Brienza has used his sports expertise to help coach Special Olympics athletes in track and swimming. He has founded several programs to help the community, including an annual book drive for area YMCA reading programs, and he volunteers regularly at Carolinas Medical Center. Since 2010, he has baked and sold all-natural “Brienza’s Bow Wow Biscuits” for dogs at Christmas to raise money for Cookies for Kids’ Cancer and pediatric cancer research. Brienza is an honor student, vice chairman of his school’s Honor Council, and has attended courses at Duke and Cornell universities. He has also completed the requirements for the U.S. Congressional Gold Medal. All profiles written by Marty Minchin, a mom of two children and freelance writer based in Charlotte.

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B E PREPA RED

applications

10 TOP TIPS

to Get Ready for College Applications By Karen M. Alley

or many high school students, choosing where to go to college is one of the biggest decisions they will make in their young lives. For some, the process of

applying to schools, thinking about leaving home and deciding where to go can be a bit overwhelming. Luckily, students can make the application process easier if they lay the groundwork early in high school, and even middle school. Here are steps students can take to help make the college application process smoother and to reduce some of the stress related to the critical final years of high school.

Take charge of the school experience.

It is important for kids to understand that their actions have consequences, especially when it comes to how actions can impact their future. Those who learn to effectively solve problems, advocate for themselves and motivate themselves may complete the college application period more smoothly, as well as the transition to college. This development starts at a young age and can be fostered as early as middle school, if not earlier. “Allow children to make some mistakes in middle school, where they experience the consequences in their grades,” says Brian Crisp of Crisp Consulting & Coaching in Raleigh. “They need to see what happens if they don’t study, and when they get to high school the actual grade they make in class matters more.”

Start early.

Rather than waiting until the junior year of high school, students should start preparing for

college application as early as the ninth grade. That’s when it’s important to choose a course load that will meet college admissions requirements. It’s also important for students to make a list of necessary steps to follow to prepare to apply to college, and do something each year of high school. “If you put everything off to your senior year, you can still get through it, but it feels really stressful,” says Bobbie Tillet, lead counselor at North Mecklenburg High School in Huntersville. “The sooner you can start putting things together, the better.”

Pursue your interests.

Parents, teachers, guidance counselors and even students who have recently gone through the college application process and are now in college agree that it’s important to focus on a few extracurricular activities rather than to dabble in several. “We encourage students to take electives that feed into their interests, and from there they can get involved in clubs and organizations where they get the chance to develop

leadership and presentation skills,” says Tillet.

Get to know yourself.

Choosing where you want to apply to school means being aware of your own interests and goals. Some useful online tools help students get started in this direction, including resources on CFNC.org through the Planning for a Career subhead and BigFuture.org from the College Board. Many school guidance counselors or student services departments also give aptitude tests and talk with students about the results.

P TI “Plan on applying to a lot of schools, so that when notification time comes around you’re not stuck choosing between one or two schools but will hopefully have many options to choose from.” — Esther Neumark, first year at UNC-Chapel Hill, from Elkin.

CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

applications

Build relationships early.

It’s important for students to have good relationships with their teachers and guidance counselors. Both will serve as important resources in applying to college and writing recommendation letters. “I tell my students that from the moment they start high school they need to start building a relationship with one or two teachers whom they might later ask to write a recommendation for them,” says Lisa Saintsing, a teacher at Our Lady of Grace middle school in Greensboro who has had three children apply to college. “No one knows them like their English teachers, because they not only know how well they can read and write, but they also know how and about what they think.” Also, with the large number of students assigned to each guidance counselor at some schools, it’s a good idea to set up an appointment to meet one-on-one during the freshman or sophomore year to talk about individual. “I suggest making an appointment with your guidance counselor every couple of months to talk over things and get information on scholarships,” Crisp says.

Discuss finances as a family.

It’s a good idea to sit down together as a family early in the process and discuss the cost of an education and what the family can afford. Keep in mind travel costs to and from school and how often

you expect to see your children once they go to college. All of these factors will influence where the student ends up applying to college. Keep in mind that some schools, such as small liberal arts colleges, often have a lot to offer in terms of financial aid through grants and scholarships.

Get organized.

Whether your student works best with a day planner, a file box, a notebook with pockets or files on a computer, it’s smart to start early with an organization system that works well for that student. Use it to keep up with awards, activities, recommendations, notes and even information from colleges so that everything is in one place when it’s time to fill out the applications.

Visit colleges early and often.

“I recommend to parents that any time you’re on a trip somewhere and there’s a college campus close by, it’s a good idea to visit,” Tillet says. Campus visits not only instill in students that the family supports their decision to go to college, it also helps them see what different colleges have to offer.

Map out a plan for testing.

Knowing when to take college entrance exams and which ones to take is a big question for high school students. Brian Crisp

recommends taking both the PSAT and the PLAN during the sophomore year to get a feel for which test a student performs better on. Then choose the SAT or the ACT during the junior year and take it at least twice, if not three times. “Admissions offices look at the SAT and ACT equally, so what I recommend is taking which test is better for your aptitude,” Crisp says. Don’t forget to take the PSAT again the fall of junior year for possible National Merit Scholarship consideration.

Read.

Nothing will better prepare students to take college entrance exams — and be ready for the college workload — than reading. “One way to build vocabularies is to read literature from the 19th century,” Saintsing says. “Students should also read a wide variety of genres such as magazines like National Geographic and The Atlantic, as well as biographies, newspapers and nonfiction.” Karen M. Alley, a freelance writer in Elkin, has lived through some of the struggles of preparing kids for college applications as a stepmom, and she can fully attest to the advice to start planning and communicating early.

See more college planning tips at CharlotteParent.com/tweensteens

MARCH 2013

CharlotteParent.com

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college planning

ONLINE

GETTING TO KNOW YOU—

Pay attention to virtual profiles

By Carolyn Jabs

ollege admissions officers have discovered Facebook. Most treat it as a recruiting tool, but a growing number also use it to check up on applicants, according to a 2012 survey by Kaplan Test Prep. Though it

isn’t yet routine, a quarter of admissions officers reported visiting the Facebook pages of applicants, up from 10 percent in 2008.

Only 15 percent of the schools surveyed had an official policy about how admissions officers should use social media. As a result, there’s wide variation. Some believe offers of admission should be based solely on what’s in the application packet. For them, using social media seems like eavesdropping or stalking. Others argue that what happens online is public information. They prefer students who are digitally literate and penalize those who show poor judgment in how they present themselves online. This inconsistency means students who put time and thought into college applications should back it up with careful attention to how they present themselves on Facebook, Twitter and

other social media. Even if college admissions officers aren’t looking, the information available there may very well influence scholarship committees, teachers writing letters of recommendation, employers offering internships and even future roommates. Parents can help high school students use social media to polish rather than tarnish their images. Here are some tips: Pay attention to privacy. Facebook offers many options, clearly described under Privacy Settings. At the very least, encourage your child to restrict who can see information beyond the profile page. Remind your student that privacy restrictions won’t provide complete security because friends can tag and share whatever your child posts. Review friends. Many students have hundreds of friends on Facebook. Although Facebook allows users to create lists so some of what they share goes only to an inner circle, most teens don’t have the discipline to evaluate every post. During application season, they should think twice before posting. Regardless of precautions taken by students, damaging information on Facebook has a way of leaking out. Other

students may get or send Facebook invitations to connect with influential adults. Students need to remember that becoming online “friends” means that everything on Facebook, including comments from friends, will be under scrutiny. Chisel the profile. Although your child can hide his or her profile, it may be better to keep it public — and professional. Be sure it features a photo that’s friendly and wholesome. Review the Favorites that appear on the profile page. Remind your student that choices about music, books, movies, TV shows, websites and quotations create an impression. Be sure it’s positive. Take control of tags. The default setting on Facebook allows tags, so photos taken by your child’s friends can show up on his or her wall. Encourage your child to change the privacy setting so he or she can review tagged photos before they are posted. Accent accomplishments. Encourage your child to use social media to promote positive accomplishments. Include links to blogs and YouTube videos that showcase talent. Be law-abiding. If your child has the bad judgment to speed, text while driving, use illegal drugs or participate in underage drinking, be sure he or she doesn’t boast about it online. School officials don’t want to see photos of inebriated students. continued on Page 38 CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

Getting to Know continued from Page 37

MARCH 17

Nix negativity. It’s tempting, but unwise, to use Facebook to vent about problems. Be especially careful about critiquing colleges. One admissions officer changed his mind about a promising student after she made disparaging remarks about her campus visit.

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the NatioNal College Fair iN Charlotte Students can gather information, attend workshops and talk to representatives from more than 160 schools at the National College Fair, March 17, noon-4 p.m. at The Park Expo and Conference Center. Register to attend at gotomyncf.com.

Remember that character counts. Avoid photos and posts that are rude, vulgar or sexually suggestive. Remember that colleges are trying to create a climate of tolerance. A student may think it’s funny to join an “I Hate …” group, but a college admissions officer may see it as evidence of bullying or bias. In addition to encouraging your

child to burnish his or her image on Facebook, do an online Google search for your child’s name. This will usually reveal other social media activity and what is publicly available on these accounts. In Kaplan’s study, a quarter of admissions officers had done just that, and 35 percent found something that made them disqualify an applicant. If something especially embarrassing pops up, ask for it to be removed from the original website. If that’s not possible, try to bury it in an avalanche of positive results. Carolyn Jabs raised three computersavvy kids and has been writing about growing up with technology for 10 years.

SUMMER LEARNING The Goddard School® develops unique learning experiences for children through age-appropriate and innovative resources and activities. If your child wants to explore new territory, and you want to provide a safe and nurturing learning experience…

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NOW ENROLLING! 10 LOCATIONS IN THE CHARLOTTE AREA GoddardSchool.com The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, Inc. program is AdvancED accredited. © Goddard Systems Inc. 2012

MARCH 2013

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Get kids into the camp spirit at the Summer Camp Expo. It’s a one-stop shop to meet camp representatives and get information from day and residential camps, summer classes and programs. Plus there will be onstage demos, kids’ entertainment, prizes and giveaways throughout the day. 11am-4pm. Free. Carolina Place Mall 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy, Pineville 704-543-9300 carolinaplace.com

Celebrate St. Paddy’s Day with the family at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Charlotte Goes Green Festival. This year’s parade route extends down Tryon Street, turning onto Third Street to Caldwell Street. Expect local dance groups, marching bands, bagpipe troupes and much more. Get your fill of St. Paddy’s Day fun with a Celtic Kids Zone, live music, Irish dance performers and food and drink at the festival. 10:30am-6:30pm, parade kicks off at 11am. Free. Uptown Charlotte charlottestpatsday.com

23-24 23 Take a trip down the yellow brick road with Charlotte Youth Ballet’s performance of “The Wizard of Oz.” Join Dorothy for tea Saturday at 4:30pm. Special discounted tickets for Girl Scouts and Charlotte Parent readers (see page 24). Sat., 2 and 7pm; Sun., 2pm. $11-25. Knight Theater 430 S. Tryon St. 704-372-1000 charlotteyouthballet.org

The Harlem Globetrotters “You Write the Rules Tour” is in town for one day only. Fan favorites Flight Time, Big Easy and Dizzy bring their trick shots and best b-ball game, plus 7-foot, 8-inch Tiny Sturgess – the world’s tallest pro basketball player – and female star T-Time Brawner are on the roster. Get the “magic pass” to try out tricks with the team, and get autographs and photos before the game. 1pm. Tickets start at $23. Time Warner Cable Arena 333 E. Trade St. 704-688-9000 harlemglobetrotters.com

CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

1 FRIDAY Paws to Read. Boost reading skills and confidence by reading aloud to a volunteer therapy dog. 5-11 years. Free. Friday 3:45-4:30pm. Morrison Regional Library, 7015 Morrison Blvd. 704-416-5400. cmlibrary.org. Puzzles: Challenge Friday. Test your logic and reasoning skills with a selfpaced puzzle activity. 12-18 years. Free. 3pm. Independence Regional Library, 6000 Conference Drive. 704416-4800. cmlibrary.org. RAY’s Jr. Explorers. Educaton adventures related to weather/ seasons, hibernating animals and plant life. 2-6 years. $2. 10-11am. Mallard Creek Recreation Center, 2530 Johnston-Oehler Road. 704-548-8234. parkandrec.com. Wacky Holidays: Dr Seuss’ Birthday. Celebrate this nontraditional fun day with classic Dr. Seuss stories, arts and crafts, and group activities. Registration required. 1-6 years. $1. 10:30-11:15am. Berewick Recreation Center, 5910 Dixie River Road. 704432-4934. parkandrec.com.

2 SATURDAY Animal Talks. Get up-close and handson with your favorite resident at the nature center. Free. Saturday 10am and 2pm. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road, Charlotte. 704-5885224. parkandrec.com. Artisan Event. Smell the sweet aroma of open-hearth cooking, observe a blacksmithing demonstration and enjoy spinning and weaving demos. $5-$7. 10am-4pm. Latta Plantation, 5225 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704875-2312. lattaplantation.org. Daddy ’n’ Me Story Time. Give mom a break and join a fun journey of great stories and songs with dad. Free. 11am. Barnes & Noble, Arboretum, 3327 Pineville-Matthews Road. 704341-9365. barnesandnoble.com. Guiding Parents to Services ASD Workshop. A program within Smart

MARCH 2013

Start providing a parent workshop for families of young children with an autism spectrum diagnosis. Free. 11:30am. ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St.. 704-416-4600. cmlibrary.org. Nature Art. Create a masterpiece with supplies from nature. Registration required. Free. 10-11am. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704-432-6460. parkandrec.com. Operation College Launch. Learn how to better prepare for the SAT admission exam with an official Kaplan instructor. 15-18 years. Registration required. Free. 10-11:30am. Steele Creek Library, 13620 Steele Creek Road. 704-4166800. cmlibrary.org. Paws to Read. Boost reading skills and confidence by reading aloud to a therapy dog. 3-11 years. Free. 10:30am. Matthews Library, 230 Matthew Station St., Matthews. 704416-5000. cmlibrary.org. Saturday Art Session: Mayan Scratch Art. Explore the rich and colorful designs of Mayan art and create your own Ancient American-inspired scratch art design. $5. 10am-3pm. Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Road. 704-337-2098. mintmuseum.org. “The Seder on Planet Matzah Ball.” A movie about the fuzzy puppets of Planet Matzah Ball who learn the Jewish traditions of Passover, then capture an Earthling, Oogy, who can lead them in their newly remembered traditions. Free. 10:30am. Levine JCC, 5007 Providence Road. 704-366-5007. charlottejewishfilm.com. Soccer Clinic. Learn the basics of soccer. 4-12 years. Free. 10am-noon. Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School, 500 Bilmark Ave. 704-618-4306. masysa.com.

3 SUNDAY Artisan Event. Smell the sweet aroma of open-hearth cooking, observe a

CharlotteParent.com

blacksmithing demonstration, and enjoy spinning and weaving demos. $5-$7. 1-4pm. Latta Plantation, 5225 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-8752312. lattaplantation.org. Bubbles. Enjoy interactive bubble fun and create some bubble art. $3. 1:30-2:30pm. Latta Plantation Nature Center, 5226 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-875-1391. parkandrec.com. Spring Family Fun Hike. Investigate the early signs of spring in a walk through the nature preserve. Free. 3:30-4:30pm. Latta Plantation Nature Center, 5226 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-875-1391. parkandrec.com.

4 MONDAY Krafty Kids. Have fun learning and painting while making themed crafts. 2-6 years. Registration required. $3. 10-11am. Mallard Creek Recreation Center, 2530 Johnston-Oehler Road. 704-548-1330. parkandrec.com. Nature Story Corner. Learn about the nature wonders of the world and hike to explore the story’s topic. 3-12 years. Free. 10-11am. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704432-6459. parkandrec.com. Parent and Tot Splash Time. Parents and toddlers can enjoy valuable time together in the pool. No registration required. 1-5 years. $3. 10am-3pm. Ray Splash Planet, 215 N. Sycamore St.. 704-432-4729. raysplashplanet.com.

5 TUESDAY Art Adventures. Learn the language of art as you explore drawing, painting, collage and construction. 5-10 years. $3. 2:45-4pm. Tom Sykes Recreation Center, 1501 Euclid Ave. 704-4324803. parkandrec.com. Family Fun Day. Juggling and entertainment by The Fettucini Brothers. Free. 11am-noon. Carolina Place Mall, 11025 Carolina Place

Parkway, Pineville. 704-542-4111. carolinaplace.com. Math Investigations. Experience the same hands-on approach to learning math that CMS students receive in the classroom. Free. 5:30pm. Paw Creek Elementary, 1300 Cathey Road. 980-343-6256. cmsparentuniversity.org. Toddler Tuesday Story Time. Gather for great tales and songs. Free. 9:30am. Barnes & Noble, Arboretum, 3327 Pineville-Matthews Road. 704341-9365. barnesandnoble.com. Understanding the College Savings Program. Learn about college savings options, with a focus on what North Carolina offers residents. Free. 6:30pm. McClintock Middle, 2101 Rama Road. 980-343-6256. cmsparentuniversity.org.

6 WEDNESDAY Afternoon Adventures. Develop literacy and critical thinking skills through books and hands-on activities. 5-11 years. Free. 4pm. Sugar Creek Library, 4045 N. Tryon St.. 704416-7000. cmlibrary.org. Wee Wednesdays. Enjoy stories, movement with music and a special craft. Infant-3 years. $5. Wednesday 10:30am-11am. Main Street Children’s Museum, 133 E. Main St., Rock Hill. 803-909-7218. chmuseums.org.

7 THURSDAY How Parents Can Help Their Child Read to Succeed. Learn the importance and lifelong impact of literacy. Free. 6:30pm. Statesville Road Elementary, 5833 Millhaven Lane. 980343-6256. cmsparentuniversity.org. Interactive Gaming. Sharpen skills through interactive video games. 5-10 years. $2. 2:45-5pm. Tom Sykes Recreation Center, 1501 Euclid Ave. 704-432-4803. parkandrec.com. Preparing for End of Grade Tests. Learn what the EOG tests involve, why they are administered by the state, what they mean and how

= Easter Events

daily calendar parents can help. Free. 6:30pm. Myers Park Traditional, 2132 Radcliffe Ave. 980-343-6256. cmsparentuniversity. org.

8 FRIDAY A Walk on the Wild Side. Spy a bug, hug a tree or simply dig through some leaves while being led by a staff member on the greenway. $5. 10-10:45am. Anne Springs Close Greenway, 1604 US 21, Fort Mill. 803547-4575. ascgreenway.org. Paws to Read. Boost reading skills and confidence by reading aloud to a therapy dog. 5-11 years. Free. Friday 3:45-4:30pm. Morrison Regional Library, 7015 Morrison Blvd. 704-416-5400. cmlibrary.org. Preschool Pioneer Series: Bouncing Bunnies. Ageappropriate games, stories, animal encounters and more. 4-6 years. $3. 9:30am-10:15am and 11-11:45am. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 704-5885224. parkandrec.com. RAY’s Jr. Explorers. Join in education adventures about weather/seasons, hibernating animals, and plant life. 2-6 years. $2. 10-11am. Mallard Creek Recreation Center, 2530 Johnston-Oehler Road. 704-548-8234. parkandrec.com. Soccer Shootout. Test your soccer skills and compete to score as many goals as possible. 6-12 years. Free. 4:306pm. Ivory Baker Recreation Center, 1920 Stroud Park Court. 704-432-4580. parkandrec.com. Tiny Tots Story Time. Enjoy interactive story time followed by an activity. 2-5 years. Free. 11am-noon. Ivory Baker Recreation Center, 1920 Stroud Park Court. 704-432-4580. parkandrec.com. Wacky Holidays: Porky Pig’s Birthday. Celebrate this nontraditional fun day with games and crafts. 1-6 years. $1. 10:30-11:15am. Berewick Recreation Center, 5910 Dixie River Road. 704-432-4934. parkandrec.com.

9 SATURDAY Animal Care Behind-the-Scenes. Enjoy a moderatelypaced hike through winding trails and look for signs of spring along the way. Registration required. Free. 12:30-2:30pm. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 704-588-5224. parkandrec.com. Girl Scout Birthday Celebration. Learn about environmental education topics and participate in art activities. Registration required. Free. 10am-5pm. Carolina Raptor Center, 6000 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-875-6521. carolinaraptorcenter.org. JAARS Day. Events and displays include plane, helicopter, boat and 4-by-4 vehicle rides. Cost for food, and aviation and 4-by-4 rides. Free. 9am-4pm. JAARS , 7405

JAARS Road, Waxhaw. 704-843-6130. jaars.org/events/ jaarsday. Paws to Read. Boost reading skills and confidence by reading aloud to a therapy dog. 3-11 years. Free. Saturday 10:30am. Matthews Library, 230 Matthew Station St., Matthews. 704-416-5000. cmlibrary.org. Soccer Clinic. Learn soccer basics. Call for details. Registration required. 4-12 years. Free. 10am-noon. Mason Wallace Park, 7301 Monroe Road. 704-6184306. masysa.com. Summer Camp Expo. Get information about area day and residential camps, summer classes and other programs from camp representatives. Plus demos, prizes and giveaways. Free. 11am-4pm. Carolina Place Mall, 11025 Carolina Place Parkway, Pineville. 704-5424111. carolinaplace.com.

10 SUNDAY Spring Forward Workday. Help get the Center get into shape for the busy spring. Registration required. Free. 2-5pm. Carolina Raptor Center, 6000 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-875-6521. carolinaraptorcenter.org. Spring Scavenger Hunt. Look for signs of spring during the scavenger hunt for nature. Must be able to walk 1-2 miles on uneven terrain. Not stroller accessible. Free. 2-3pm. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704-432-6460. parkandrec.com.

11 MONDAY Little Explorers Series: Is Mother Nature Irish. Discover nature together through crafts, games, songs, animals and outdoor exploration. 2-3 years. $3. 9:3010:15am and 11-11:45am. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 704-582-1284. parkandrec.com. Marvelous Monday Story Time. Hear the story “Walking Dragons” by Jane Yolen, followed by a fun activity. Free. Monday 10am. Barnes & Noble, Carolina Place Mall, 11025 Carolina Place, Pineville. 704-5449985. barnesandnoble.com.

12 TUESDAY Becoming Your Child’s Best and Most Effective Advocate. Learn how to effectively advocate for your child’s needs. Free. 6pm. Cochrane Collegiate Academy, 6200 Starhaven Drive. 980-343-6256. cmsparentuniversity.org. Birding Walks. Stroll the gardens to spot winter residents birds. $6-$12; children free under 4. 9am-5pm. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont. 704-825-4490. dsbg.org.

CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

Tuesday Afternoons at The Schiele. All the museum’s exhibits and nature trail will be available for exploration at no charge. Free. 4-8pm. The Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704-866-6923. schielemuseum.org. Toddler Tuesday Story Time. Gather for great tales and songs. Free. 9:30am. Barnes & Noble, Arboretum, 3327 Pineville-Matthews Road. 704341-9365. barnesandnoble.com.

13 WEDNESDAY Cooking: Mini Chefs. Learn the importance of eating smart, staying active and improving your health through this hands-on cooking class. 3-6 years. $4. 11:30am-12:30pm. Arbor Glen Outreach Center, 1520 Clanton Road, Charlotte. 704-432-1531. parkandrec.com. Wee Wednesdays. Enjoy stories, movement with music and a special craft. Infant-3 years. $5. 10:30-11am. Main Street Children’s Museum, 133 E. Main St., Rock Hill. 803-909-7218. chmuseums.org.

14 THURSDAY Art: Sponge Painting. Get messy and creative with paint. This is a parentguided class. 3-5 years. $2. 10-11am. Hickory Grove Recreation Center, 6709 Pence Road. 704-432-4811. parkandrec.com. From Beginning to Middle. Learn how to help your child make a smooth transition to middle school. Free. 6pm. Northeast Middle School, 5960 Brickstone Drive. 980-343-6256. cmsparentuniversity.org. Sizzling Sports Afternoons. Learn the basics of a various sports, such as soccer, football, basketball and some nontraditional games. 5-10 years. $5. 2:45-5pm. Tom Sykes Recreation Center, 1501 Euclid Ave. 704-4324806. parkandrec.com.

15 FRIDAY Family Campfire. Learn how to build a fire, roast s’mores and visit familyfavorite places in the preserve. Free.

MARCH 2013

6-7pm. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 704-588-5224. parkandrec.com. Family Game Night. Socialize with friends and family while playing a variety of games and activities. 5-adult. Free. 5-7:30pm. Albemarle Road Recreation Center, 5027 Idlewild Road N., Mint Hill. 704-567-1941. parkandrec.com. Paws to Read. Boost reading skills and confidence by reading aloud to a therapy dog. 5-11 years. Free. Friday 3:45-4:30pm. Morrison Regional Library, 7015 Morrison Blvd. 704-4165400. cmlibrary.org. Preschool Pioneer Series: Is Mother Nature Irish. Age-appropriate games, stories, animal encounters and more. 4-6 years. $3. 9:30am-10:15am and 11-11:45am. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 704-5885224. parkandrec.com. RAY’s Jr. Explorers. Education adventures feature weather/seasons, hibernating animals, and plant life. 2-6 years. $2. 10-11am. Mallard Creek Recreation Center, 2530 Johnston-Oehler Road. 704-548-8234. parkandrec.com. Wacky Holidays: Butterfly Day. Celebrate this nontraditional fun day with games and activities. 1-6 years. $1. 10:30-11:15am. Berewick Recreation Center, 5910 Dixie River Road. 704-432-4934. parkandrec.com.

16 SATURDAY Bouncing Bunnies and Hares. Meet Harriet and pet a few of her bunny friends, and learn the differences between rabbits and hares. $6. 10am-1pm. Charlotte Nature Museum, 1658 Sterling Road. 704-372-6261. charlottenaturemuseum.org. Daddy ’n’ Me Story Time. Join a fun journey of great stories and songs with dad. Free. 11am. Barnes & Noble, Arboretum, 3327 Pineville-Matthews Road. 704-341-9365. barnesandnoble. com. Etiquette Class. Receive instruction on common courtesy, table manners,

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telephone and text etiquette, health and hygiene, peer pressure and good sportsmanship. 12-18 years. Free. 1-3pm. Arbor Glen Outreach Center, 1520 Clanton Road. 704-432-1531. parkandrec.com. Family Concert with Roger Day. Live family performance by an awardwinning kids’ musician, songwriter, recording artist and entertainer. Free. 2pm. Gaston County Public Library, 1555 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704868-2164. gastonlibrary.org. Green River Revival. Live music, games, entertainment and bright-green whitewater rapids. Free. 1-5pm. US National Whitewater Center, 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway. 704-3913900. usnwc.org. Latta Celtic Festival. Enjoy live music, Celtic history, Celtic vendors and food. $5-$7. 10am-4pm. Latta Plantation, 5225 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704875-2312. lattaplantation.org. Learn, Connect, Play: Board Games. Participate in board games that encourage cooperation, problem solving, and letter and word recognition. 5-11 years. Registration required. Free. 2pm. South County Regional Library, 5801 Rea Road. 704416-6600. cmlibrary.org. Paws to Read. Boost reading skills and confidence by reading aloud to a therapy dog. 3-11 years. Free. 10:30am. Matthews Library, 230 Matthew Station St., Matthews. 704416-5000. cmlibrary.org. Spring Family Festival. Carnival games with prizes, clowns, magicians, crafts and a ringmaster. Free. 11am-2pm. Carolina Place Mall, 11025 Carolina Place Parkway, Pineville. 704-542-4111. carolinaplace.com. St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Charlotte Goes Green Festival. Expect green-clad floats, Irish dancers and bagpipers, plus a children’s activity area and live music at the festival. Free. 10:30am-6:30pm; parade kicks off at 11am. Uptown Charlotte. charlottestpatsday.com.

17 SUNDAY St. Patrick’s Day Charlotte Youth Cycling Race. A mountain bike race scaled to fit different ages and ability levels of each child in a fun, safe, low-cost setting. 6-18 years. Registration required. $15-$20; Kids 6 and under free. See website for race times. Fisher Farm Park, 21215 Shearer Road, Davidson. charlotteyouthcycling.org. Latta Celtic Festival. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and learn about Celtic people throughout history. Enjoy live music, Celtic vendors and food. $5-$7. 10am-4pm. Latta Plantation, 5225 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-8752312. lattaplantation.org. National College Fair. Meet college representatives from more than 150 universities and colleges. Free. Noon-4pm. The Park Expo, 2500 E. Independence Blvd. nacacnet.org. St. Patrick’s Day on Main. Enjoy Irish music and merriment, including amusements for the wee ones. Free. 4:30-9:30pm. Main Street, Rock Hill. 803-329-3827. onlyinoldtown.com. Sunday Fun Day: Maze of Memories. Design a marble maze, make a meditative zen-tangle drawing, and take a karate lesson. Registration required. Free-$5 1-4pm. Mint Museum Uptown, 500 S. Tryon St. 704-337-2000. mintmuseum.org.

18 MONDAY Krafty Kids. Have fun learning and painting while making theme-related crafts. 2-6 years. Registration required. $3. 10-11am. Mallard Creek Recreation Center, 2530 Johnston-Oehler Road. 704-548-1330. parkandrec.com. Little Explorers Series: Whoo’s in These Woods. Discover nature together through crafts, games, songs and outdoor exploration. 2-3 years. $3. 9:30-10:15am and 11-11:45am. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 704-582-1284. parkandrec.com. Parent and Tot Splash Time. Parents and toddlers can enjoy valuable play time together at the splash park. No registration required. 1-5 years. $3.

10am-3pm. Ray Splash Planet, 215 N. Sycamore St. 704-432-4729. raysplashplanet.com.

19 TUESDAY Art Adventures. Learn the language of art as you explore drawing, painting, collage and construction. 5-10 years. $3. 2:45-4pm. Tom Sykes Recreation Center, 1501 Euclid Ave. 704-432-4803. parkandrec.com. Meeting Your Child’s Needs with a PEP. Learn about Personalized Education Plans for students who are experiencing difficulties in literacy and language arts. Free. 6pm. Bailey Middle School, 11900 Bailey Road, Cornelius. 980-343-6256. cmsparentuniversity.org. Toddler Tuesday Story Time. Gather for stories and songs. Free. 9:30am. Barnes & Noble, Arboretum, 3327 Pineville-Matthews Road. 704-341-9365. barnesandnoble.com.

20 WEDNESDAY First Day of Spring Wee Wednesdays. Enjoy stories, movement with music and a special craft. Infant-3 years. $5. 10:30-11am. Main Street Children’s Museum, 133 E. Main St., Rock Hill. 803-909-7218. chmuseums.org. Working Together to Prevent Bullying. Learn how to recognize, define and prevent bullying. Free. 4:30pm. Albemarle Road Elementary, 7800 Riding Trail Road. 980-343-6256. cmsparentuniversity.org.

21 THURSDAY Cooking: Mini Chefs. Learn the importance of eating smart, staying active and improving your health through this hands-on cooking class. 3-6 years. $4. 10:30-11:30am. Mallard Creek Recreation Center, 2530 Johnston-Oehler Road. 704-548-8234. parkandrec.com. Preparing Your Child for Kindergarten. Learn how to balance academic readiness and play for a preschooler. Free. 6pm. Montclaire Elementary, 5801 Farmbrook Drive. 980-343-6256. cmsparentuniversity.org.

22 FRIDAY Cooking: Mini Chefs. Learn the importance of eating smart, staying active and improving your health through this hands-on cooking class. 3-6 years. $4. 10:30-11:30am. Hickory Grove Recreation Center, 6709 Pence Road. 704-432-4811. parkandrec.com. Jump Buddies. Learn how to jump, in a music-filled, noncompetitive, self-paced environment. 4-6 years. $1. 10-11am and 11am-noon. Mallard Creek Recreation Center, 2530 Johnston-Oehler Road. 704-548-8234. parkandrec.com. Lunch with the Easter Bunny. Includes crafts and photo opportunities. Tickets are available at the Matthews Community Center. 2-5 years. $7. 11am-noon. Matthews Community Center, 100

McDowell St., Matthews. 704-321-7275. matthewsfun. com. Preschool Pioneer Series: Whoo’s in These Woods. Age-appropriate games, stories, animal encounters and more. 4-6 years. $3. 9:30am-10:15am and 11-11:45am. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road, Charlotte. 704-588-5224. parkandrec.com. Wacky Holidays: Big Bird’s Birthday. Celebrate this nontraditional holiday with activities and games. 1-6 years. $1. 10:30-11:15am. Berewick Recreation Center, 5910 Dixie River Road. 704-432-4934. parkandrec.com.

23 SATURDAY Adventure Landing Easter Egg Hunt. Annual Easter Egg hunts on the mini golf courses. $3 donation benefits Cancer Services of Gaston County. 10am. Adventure Landing, 2600 E. Franklin Blvd., Gastonia. 704-866-4242. adventurelanding.com. Andrew Jackson Birthday Celebration. A day of living-history demonstrations. $2 adults; free if under age 15. 10am-4pm. Andrew Jackson State Park, 196 Andrew Jackson Park Road, Lancaster. 803-285-3344. southcarolinaparks.com. Bette Rae Thomas Easter Egg Hunt. Bring your own basket. 5-18 years. Free. 11am-1pm. Albemarle Road Recreation Center , 2921 Tuckaseegee Road. 704-393-7333. parkandrec.com. Camp Open House. Check out the Hemby Program Center and learn more about the camps that the YMCA offers. Free. 3-4pm. Camp Eagle Rock, 9760 Happy Valley Drive. 704-716-4329. ymcacharlotte.org. Children’s Day on the Farm. Enjoy hands-on children’s activities relating to Colonial and antebellum farm life, and meet the farm’s baby lambs. $3-$6. 10am-4pm. Historic Brattonsvilles, 1444 Brattonsville Road, McConnells, S.C. chmuseums.org. Easter Celebration. Activities, story time and art exhibits. $5; free for children under 2. 10am-noon. Billy Graham Library, 4330 Westmont Drive. 704-401-3256. billygrahamlibrary.org. Easter Egg-stravaganza. Enjoy live music, Fairy Tail Trail, face painting, balloon magic and more. Bring a basket for the Easter Egg Dash. Free. 2-5pm. Cornelius Road Park, 247 Cornelius Road, Mooresville. 704-7994281. ci.mooresville.nc.us. Easter Eggstravaganza. Participants can play exciting carnival games, win prizes and bounce around on inflatables. 3-12 years. $5. 11am-2pm. Stumptown Park, 120 S. Trade St., Matthews. 704-8474411. matthewsfun.com. Harlem Globetrotters. Flight Time, Big Easy and Dizzy bring their trick shots and best b-ball game to town. Tickets start at $23. 1pm. Time Warner Cable Arena, 333 E. Trade St. 704-688-9000. harlemglobetrotters.com.

CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

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MARCH 2013

CharlotteParent.com

Harrisburg Easter Egg Hunt. Bring your own basket and join in the hunt for 25,000 eggs. Enjoy face painting, inflatables and the Easter Bunny. Free. 9am. Harrisburg Park, 191 Sims Parkway, Harrisburg. 704-455-5614. harrisburgnc.org. Historic Rosedale Easter Egg Hunt. Bring your basket and join in the annual egg hunt Annual Easter. Registration required. $5. 11-12:45pm. Historic Rosedale Plantation, 3427 N. Tryon St. 704-335-0325. historicrosedale.org.

Hop into Spring. Expect a visit from Peter Cottontail and bring your basket to collect toy-filled eggs. Free. 2-4pm. Bailey Road Park, 11536 Bailey Road, Cornelius. 704-892-6031. cornelius.org. Hop To It Easter Egg Hunt. Have a picture taken with the Easter Bunny and search for hidden eggs. Free. 10-11am. Crossing Paths Park, 120 Blythe Drive, Indian Trail. Paws to Read. Boost reading skills and confidence by reading aloud to a therapy dog. 3-11 years. Free. 10:30am. Matthews Library, 230

Matthew Station St., Matthews. 704416-5000. cmlibrary.org. Peter Rabbit’s Garden Adventure. Meet Peter Rabbit, participate in activities and listen to readings from the timeless classic. $6-$12; free for children under 4. 9am-3pm. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont. 704-825-4490. dsbg.org. The Great Easter Egg Roll and Hop. Follow Big Bunny throughout the mall to collect prizes, enjoy activities, and participate in the Great Easter Egg Roll. $5, free for Kidgits

members. 10am-1pm. SouthPark Mall, 4400 Sharon Road. simon.com/kidgits.

24 SUNDAY Bird Nests. Learn how to identify common nests and make a takehome craft that benefits birds in your own backyard. Registration required. Free. 2:30-4pm. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 704-5885224. parkandrec.com. Camp Thunderbird Tour Date. Meet camp directors and walk around the entire campus. Free. 1-4pm. Camp Thunderbird, 1 Thunderbird

spring consignment sales

See sale websites for schedules and special entry hours for consignors and volunteers.

FEB. 28 – MARCH 2 Harrison UMC Children’s Consignment Sale. Harrison UMC, 15008 Lancaster Highway, Pineville. 704-737-7146. humcfaithcircle.org.

MARCH 2 Kids Konsignment Sale. Harris YMCA, 5900 Quail Hollow Road. 704-7166843. ymcacharlotte.org. Second Blessings Spring Consignment Sale. First United Methodist Church, 807 S. Point Road, Belmont. 704-825-2106. fumcbelmont.org. The Posh Closet Fine Children’s Consignment Sale. South Charlotte Banquet Center, 9009 Bryant Farms Road. 704-341-3312. theposhclosetsale.com. UCUMC Spring Children’s Consignment Sale. University City United Methodist Church, 3825 W. WT Harris Blvd. 704-369-8000. ucumc.org.

MARCH 6-9 Kats Kid Sale. Rosedale Shopping Center, 13015 Rosedale Hill Ave., Huntersville. katskidsale.com.

MARCH 8-9 Cloud 9 Consign. Southbrook Church, 5607 Monroe-Weddington Road,

Weddington. 704-814-7372. cloud9consign.blogspot.com. Weddington Kids Consignment Sale. Weddington United Methodist Church, 13901 Providence Road, Weddington. weddingtonkidsconsignment.com.

MARCH 15-16

Green Jean Consignment. Queens Sports Complex, 2229 Tyvola Road. greenjeanssale.com.

Assurance UMC Children’s Consignment Sale. Assurance United Methodist Church, 9700 Mount Holly-Huntersville Road, Huntersville. 704-391-9567. assuranceumc.org. PWS Children’s Consignment Sale. First Presbyterian Church Gastonia, 1621 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704864-2651. presbyterianweekdayschool. org.

MARCH 9

MARCH 15-17

MARCH 8-10

Blair Road UMC Children’s Consignment Sale. Blair Road UMC, 9135 Blair Road, Mint Hill. 704-5456785. blairroadumc.org. The Posh Closet Fine Children’s Consignment Sale. Kenton Place, 17111 Kenton Drive, Cornelius. 704299-3097. theposhclosetsale.com.

MARCH 13-16 Sail Again Children’s Consignment Sale. The Palace at Kenton Place, 8325 Copley Place, Cornelius. 704765-2117. sailagainlkn.com.

MARCH 14-17 The Upscale Wee Sale. The House of Bread, 4124 Celanese Road, Rock Hill. 803-322-2980. upscaleweesale.com .

Trade St., Matthews. 704-815-1945. reducereuseconsign.com. Sardis Weekday School Consignment Sale. Sardis Presbyterian Church, 6100 Sardis Road. 704-366-1854. sardis.org.

MARCH 17-23 Teri Kidz Consignment. Beside the empty Bottom Dollar Store, 314 E. Plaza Drive, Mooresville. terikidzconsign.com.

MARCH 22-23

Kids Exchange. Kennedy Charter School Gym, 1717 Sharon Road. kidsexchange.net/charlotte. TTB Kidz Consignment Sale. Metrolina Tradeshow Expo, 7100 Statesville Road. 704-507-7615. ttbkidz.com.

First Baptist Church Indian Trail Spring/Summer Kids Consignment Sale. First Baptist Church Indian Trail, 732 Indian TrailFairview Road, Indian Trail. 704-8932654. fbcit.org.

MARCH 23

MARCH 16 Covenant Presbyterian Preschool Consignment Sale. Covenant Presbyterian Church, 100 E. Morehead St. 704-333-9071. convenantpresby.org. Harrisburg UMC Children’s Consignment Sale. Harrisburg United Methodist Church, 4560 Highway 49 S., Harrisburg. 704-4552311. harrisburgumc.org. Matthews UMC Children & Teen Consignment Sale. Matthews United Methodist Church, 801 S.

Children’s Spring Consignment Sale. Denver United Methodist Church, 3910 US Highway 16 North Business, Denver. 704-483-1601. denvermethodist.org.

APRIL 5-6 Back on the Rack Spring Consignment Sale. Monroe Agricultural Center, 3230 Presson Drive, Monroe. 704-283-3822. botrconsignment.com.

CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

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CharlotteParent.com

Lane, Lake Wylie. 800-732-3855. ymcacharlotte.org. Gaston County Easter Egg Hunt. Bring your own basket for an exciting afternoon of crafts, games and activities. 1-10 years. Free. 1:30-3pm. Gaston County Museum, 131 W. Main St., Dallas. 704-922-7681. gastoncountymuseum.org. Peter Rabbit’s Garden Adventure. Meet Peter Rabbit, participate in activities and listen to readings from the timeless classic. $6-$12; free for children under 4. 9am-3pm. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont. 704-825-4490. dsbg.org. Touch-a-Truck. Take pictures and explore everything about police cars, ambulances, fire trucks, dumptrucks and cranes. Donations accepted to benefit The Ronald McDonald House. $5. Noon-5pm. Adventure Landing, 10400 Cadillac St., Pineville. 704-5527888. adventurelanding.com.

25 MONDAY Little Explorers Series: Signs of Spring. Discover nature together through crafts, games, songs, animals and outdoor exploration. 2-3 years. $3. 9:30-10:15am and 11-11:45am. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road, Charlotte. 704-582-1284. parkandrec.com. Marvelous Monday Story Time. Hear the story “Walking Dragons” by Jane Yolen, followed by a fun activity. Free. 10am. Barnes & Noble, Carolina Place Mall, 11025 Carolina Place, Pineville. 704-544-9985. barnesandnoble.com.

26 TUESDAY Easter Egg Explosion. Decorate eggs and then launch them at different targets. 10-14 years. $2. 4:306pm. Ivory Baker Recreation Center, 1920 Stroud Park Court. 704-432-4580. parkandrec.com. Mallard Creek Easter Egg Hunt. Make crafts, play games, see the Easter Bunny and have fun hunting for eggs. 2-6 years. $3. 10-11:30am. Mallard Creek Recreation Center, 2530

Johnston-Oehler Road. 704-548-8234. parkandrec.com. Ready, Set, Read. Gather activities, resources and ideas for making reading a family event. Free. 6pm. First Ward Elementary, 8801 Eaglewind Drive. 980-343-6256. cmsparentuniversity.org. Terrific Toddler Tuesday. Learn about decorative eggs and then make your own, plus egg games and songs. 1-4 years. $2. 10-11am. Gaston County Museum of Art & History, 131 W. Main St., Dallas. 704-922-7681. gastoncountymuseum.org.

27 WEDNESDAY Afternoon Clay Play Day. Investigate gallery art and explore ageappropriate art techniques. Registration required. $10-$15. 1:302:45pm. Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Road. 704-337-2000. mintmuseum.org. Cooking: Mini Chefs. Learn the importance of eating smart, staying active and improving your health through this hands-on cooking class. 3-6 years. $4. 11:30am-12:30pm. Arbor Glen Outreach Center, 1520 Clanton Road. 704-432-1531. parkandrec.com. Egg Hunt. Bring your own basket. 1-5 years. Free. 10am. Tuckaseegee Park, 105 Sports Lane, Mount Holly. 704825-3581. gastonlibrary.org. Morning Clay Play Day. Explore the rich and colorful designs of Mayan art and create your own Ancient American-inspired scratch art design. Registration required. $10-$15. 10:3011:45am. Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Road. 704-337-2000. mintmuseum.org. Wee Wednesdays. Enjoy stories, movement with music and a special craft. Infant-3 years. $5. Wednesday 10:30am-11am. Main Street Children’s Museum, 133 E. Main St., Rock Hill. 803-909-7218. chmuseums.org.

28 THURSDAY Art: Sponge Painting. Get messy and creative with paint. A parent-guided class. 3-5 years. $2. 10-11am. Hickory

Grove Recreation Center, 6709 Pence Road. 704-432-4811. parkandrec.com. Egg Hunt. Bring our own basket. 1-5 years. Free. 10am. Kiser School Gym, 311 E. College St., Stanley. 704-2634166. gastonlibrary.org. Family Game Night. Play games to enhance skills such as attention, processing speed, memory, logic and reasoning, and visual and auditory processing. Free. 6-8pm. The Brain Trainer, 11030 Golf Links Drive. 704541-1373. thebraintrainer.com. In the Dark Egg Hunt. Search for eggs in the dark inside and outside. Bring your basket and flashlight. 1-6 years. Free. 6:30-6:45pm. Hickory Grove Recreation Center, 6709 Pence Road. 704-432-4811. parkandrec.com. Ready, Set, Read. Gather activities, resources and ideas for making reading a family event. Free. 6pm. Huntingtowne Farms Elementary, 2520 Huntingtowne Farms Lane. 980343-6256. cmsparentuniversity.org.

Sizzling Sports Afternoons. Learn the basics of different sports, such as soccer, football, basketball and some nontraditional sports. 5-10 years. $5. 2:45-5pm . Tom Sykes Recreation Center, 1501 Euclid Ave. 704-432-4806. parkandrec.com. Wallace Pruitt Easter Egg Hunt. Make crafts, play games, see the Easter Bunny and have fun hunting for eggs. 2-6 years. $3. 10am-2pm. Wallace Pruitt Recreation Center, 440 Tuckaseegee Road. 704-432-6775. parkandrec.com.

29 FRIDAY Easter Bunny Brunch. Make a craft and meet the Easter Bunny while enjoying brunch, followed by an Easter Egg hunt. 2-6 years. Registration required. $6. 10-11am. Tom Sykes Recreation Center, 1501 Euclid Ave. 704-432-4803. parkandrec.com.

on exhibit

CAROLINAS AVIATION MUSEUM Red Tails Exhibit. The Tuskegee Airmen Red Tails Exhibit returns. $8-$12. Through March 2. Mon.-Fri., 10am-4pm; Sat.,10am-5pm; Sun. 1-5pm. 704-359-8442. carolinasaviation. org. 4672 First Flight Drive.

DISCOVERY PLACE Strange Matter. Get a close look at materials science, like the shoes you wear, dishes you eat from and the bike you ride. $10-$12. Through May 5. 704-372-6261. discoveryplace.org. 301 N. Tryon St.

HARVEY B. GANTT CENTER FOR AMERICAN ARTS + CULTURE America I AM: The African American Imprint. This exhibit celebrates nearly 500 years of African American contributions to the United States. $8-$10; Free under age 2. Through March 3. Tues.-Sat. 10am-5pm; Sun. 1-5pm. 704-547-3700. ganttcenter.org. 551 S. Tryon St.

THE SCHIELE MUSEUM A Natural View 2013. See the wonder, grandeur and fragility of our natural world in works by artists from Cleveland, Gaston, Lincoln and Mecklenburg counties. $6-$7. Through March 24. Mon.-Sat., 9am-5pm; Sun. 1-5pm. 704-866-6900. schielemuseum. org. 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

KIDS WORK LIFE Does your company help working parents juggle it all? We are looking for employers who are leaders in family-friendly company policies. Go to NCFamilyFriendly.com to find out about the 2013 NC Family-Friendly 50 search process. Submission deadline April 15. To qualify, a company representative must answer our workplace questionnaire. Questions? Call Charlotte Parent at 704-344-1980.

parent CAROLINA

Grandparents-Grandkids Easter Basket Making. $2. 11am-1pm. Methodist Home Recreation Center, 00 Shamrock Drive. 704-432-6455. parkandrec.com. I Spy Friday. Explore the museum to find objects in a self-guided scavenger hunt. Parent participation required. 3-6 years. $5. 10am-5pm. Main Street Children’s Museum, 133 E. Main St., Rock Hill. 803-909-7218. chmuseums. org. Underwater Easter Egg Hunt. Explore the water to find as many Easter eggs as possible. Please bring a (waterproof) basket. Children will be separated into age groups. 1-14 years. $6-$8. 10am-noon. Ray’s Splash Planet, 215 N. Sycamore St.. 704-4324729. rayssplashplanet.com.

30 SATURDAY Adventure Landing Easter Egg Hunt. Three age groups. Bring your own basket. $3 donation to benefit Cancer Services of Gaston County. 10am. Adventure Landing, 10400 Cadiallac St., Pineville. 704-552-7888. adventurelanding.com. Albermarle Road Easter Egg Hunt. Bring your basket to collect colorful eggs. 5-18 years. Free. 1-3pm. Albemarle Road Recreation Center , 5027 Idlewild Road N., Mint Hill. 704567-1941. parkandrec.com. Charlotte Easter Egg Hunt. Face painting, balloon animals and big egg hunt. Bring a picnic lunch. Free. Latta Park, 601 E. Park Ave. uptownchurch.org Easter Egg Jam. Bring your basket to collect colorful egg, plus games, food and prizes. Free. Noon-4pm. Arbor Glen Outreach Center, 1520 Clanton Road. 704-432-1531. parkandrec.com. Easter Egg Scrambler. Collect as many eggs as you can, make an

Find a complete listing of events in your area at CharlotteParent.com/calender

MARCH 2013

CharlotteParent.com

Easter craft and dance the Bunny Hop. 2-6 years. $2. 10am-noon. Ivory Baker Recreation Center, 1920 Stroud Park Court. 704-432-4580. parkandrec.com. Elon Easter Egg Hunt. Bring your own basket. 5-18 years. Free. 10am-noon. Elon Recreation Center, 11401 Ardrey Kell Road. 704-540-2426. parkandrec.com. Latta Plantation Easter Egg Hunt. Hunt for toy- and candy-filled eggs, enjoy live children’s music and meet the Easter Bunny. Registration required. 1-10 years. $5. 10am-2pm. Latta Plantation, 5225 Sample Road, Huntersville. 704-875-2312. lattaplantation.org. Methodist Home Easter Egg Hunt. Bring your own basket. Free. Noon2pm. Methodist Home Recreation Center, 3200 Shamrock Drive. 704432-6455. parkandrec.com. Naomi Drenan Easter Egg Hunt. Bring your own basket. 5-18 years. Free. 1-3pm. Naomi Drenan Recreation Center, 750 Beal St. 704432-5231. parkandrec.com. Paws to Read. Boost reading skills and confidence by reading aloud to a therapy dog. 3-11 years. Free. Saturday 10:30am. Matthews Library, 230 Matthew Station St., Matthews. 704-416-5000. cmlibrary.org. Sensory Friendly Film. See “The Croods.” with lights up, the sound turned down. Audience members can get up and dance, walk, shout or sing. $5. 10am. AMC Concord Mills 24, 8421 Concord Mills Blvd., Concord. 704-9790200. amctheatres.com/concordmills. Underwater Easter Egg Hunt. Kids will jump in and explore the water to find as many Easter eggs as possible. Please bring a (waterproof) basket. Children will be separated into age groups. 1-14 years. $6-$8. 6-8pm. Ray’s

CALENDAR POLICY The Charlotte Parent calendar lists free and low-cost local events targeted to children and families. Want to get listed? CharlotteParent.com/calendar, click on Submit an Event. Get weekend events at CharlotteParent.com/newsletters.

on stage CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CHARLOTTE Barker Bill’s Wagtime Revue: A Steadfast Tale. Barker Bill’s one-ring circus is a fading breed in a high-tech world. Can the canines persevere and survive the trials and tribulations of a dog’s life on the road? $14. March 23-24. The Red Badge of Courage. A fresh spin on the tale of war and regret. This musical version tells the story of Henry, a soldier who flees from the field of battle. Overcome with shame, he reflects on courage, cowardice, mayhem and his first encounter with death. $18. Through March 16. The True Story of the Three Little Pigs. In this parody of “The Three Little Pigs,” the Big Bad Wolf tells his version of the story, and the audience becomes the jury and helps decide who is guilty. $20. Through March 10. 704-973-2800. ctcharlotte.org. ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St.

CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Disney’s The Aristocats. Presented by Charlotte Christian School’s lower school, “The Aristocats” features Madame’s jealous butler and his band of rag-tag alleycats. $7-$10. Through March 2. Oklahoma! A musical set in the Western territory about high-spirited farmers and cowboys that rival over a handsome cowboy and winsome farm girl and their love story. $7-$10. March 14-16. 704-845-2887. charlottechristian.com. 7301 Sardis Road.

HALTON THEATER Youth Orchestra Winter Concert. Hear more than 200 young musicians from more than 60 schools in the charlotte area and part of the Charlotte Symphony Youth Orchestra and Junior Youth Orchestra perform, led by Charlotte Symphony violinist Dr. Ernest Pereira. $6-$8. March 24, 3:30pm. 704-972-2000. charlottesymphony.org. CPCC, 1206 Elizabeth Ave.

KNIGHT THEATER Peter Pan. Escape to Neverland with North Carolina Dance Theater and mischievous Peter Pan, who never wants to grow up, his sassy sidekick Tinker Bell and frightful Captain Hook. $39. March 7-17. The Wizard of Oz. Slip on your ruby red slippers and head down the yellow brick road to enjoy this classic story presented by the Charlotte Youth Ballet. $11-25. March 22-24. 704-372-1000. blumenthalarts.org. 430 S. Tryon St.

MATTHEWS PLAYHOUSE Diary of a Worm, a Spider and a Fly. See what school is like for a worm, spider and fly as they begin first grade and sing and dance their way into your heart. $9-$10. Through March 3. Wind in the Willows. The Junior Acting company brings this classic story to life with the adventures of Toad, Rat, Mole, Badger and their friends. $9-$10. March 2, 11am and 4pm. 704-846-8343. matthewsplayhouse.com. Matthews Community Center, 100 E. McDowell St., Matthews.

CharlotteParent.com | MARCH 2013

Splash Planet, 215 N. Sycamore St.. 704-432-4729. rayssplashplanet.com. West Charlotte Easter Egg Hunt. Bring your own basket. 5-18 years. Free. 10am-noon. West Charlotte Recreation Center, 2401 Kendall Drive. 704-432-6474. parkandrec.com.

31 MARCH Easter Eggstravaganza. Hunt for eggs, and learn how to dye with natural dyes. Registration required. $2. 2:30-4pm. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704-432-6459. parkandrec.com.

early april 1 MONDAY Krafty Kids. Have fun learning and painting while making theme related crafts. 2-6 years. Registration required. $3. 10-11am. Mallard Creek Recreation Center, 2530 Johnston-Oehler Road. 704-548-1330. parkandrec.com. Nature Story Corner. Learn about the nature wonders of the world and hike to explore the story’s topic. 3-12 years. Free. 10-11am. Reedy Creek Nature Center, 2900 Rocky River Road. 704-432-6459. parkandrec.com.

2 TUESDAY

Just in case you missed a day...

Family Fun Day. Hula Hoop with Cara Zara and crafts from small hands, big art. Free. 11am-noon. Carolina Place Mall, 11025 Carolina Place Parkway, Pineville. 704-5424111. carolinaplace.com. Toddler Tuesday Story Time. Gather together for great tales and songs. Free. Tuesday 9:30am. Barnes & Noble, Arboretum, 3327 Pineville-Matthews Road. 704341-9365. barnesandnoble.com.

4 THURSDAY American Girl Mini Camp. Spend spring break living as your favorite American Girl and learn how children lived in Rosedale, from Colonial days to more modern times. Registration required. $25. 10am-1pm. Historic Rosedale Plantation, 3427 N. Tryon St. 704-335-0325. historicrosedale.org.

5 FRIDAY RAY’s Jr. Explorers. Go on an education adventure and learn about weather/seasons, hibernating animals and plant life. 2-6 years. $2. 10-11am. Mallard Creek Recreation Center, 2530 Johnston-Oehler Road. 704-548-8234. parkandrec.com.

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MARCH 2013

CharlotteParent.com

Behind THE Scenes

With Jamie Dee, who stars as Tinker Bell in NC Dance Theatre’s “Peter Pan.” CharlotteParent.com/community

Photo by Jeff Cravotta.

PLAZA FIESTA

Playtime at ‘Plaza Fiesta’

Crossroads Mall, 3700 Avenue of the Carolinas, Fort Mill, S.C. plazafiestacarolinas.com BY LAURIE WRAGG

I recently made the trek to Plaza Fiesta after my sister-in-law took her 18-month-old, and said it was super-fun. She went on a weekday, and nobody was there. Because of my job, we had to go on the weekend, and it was packed! Plaza Fiesta is a six-story play area with slides, soft structures and obstacle courses, all in a big roped-off area totaling 5,000 square feet. It costs $5 for three hours during the week, or 1 hour and 45 minutes on the weekend. The play area is in the food court of Crossroads Mall. There is also an arcade where you have to pay, so be prepared. We had to wait in line for 20 minutes with two kids under 3, right next to the arcade. Thank goodness for the Disney Jr. app on my phone. All and all it’s a fun experience, but if you have a younger child you will need to do the slides and everything with them, though there is a separate toddler area with soft and safe mini-slides. We worked up a bit of a sweat and had to bribe them out with ice cream to leave. I think this is best suited for the BATHROOMS 5-and-up age group. Officially it is BABY SWINGS open to ages under 1 to age 12. SHADE , indoors PARKING Laurie Wragg is a, teacher, wife STROLLER-FRIENDLY and mom of two under age 4. PICNIC SHELTER FENCE

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The Battle for the Remote

thought I had left this all behind me. I am an adult male (at least in age), so why does it seem so hard for me to watch my TV shows? Why do my kids usually win the battle for the remote? A GOOD SPORT

BY BRUCE SNYDER

Don’t get me wrong. Many of the cartoons and children’s shows do an excellent job of not only entertaining, but teaching as well. The other day, after watching the Bubble Guppies talk about the solar system, Sage wanted to talk with me about the coldest planet (Neptune), biggest planet (Jupiter) and the planet that is – to quote her – “not too hot, not too cold, and not too burnt, but is just

MARCH 2013

right.” (Mars … kidding, Earth). Meanwhile during an episode of “Super Why,” when a character said goodbye, Brayden shook both arms and waived bye-bye. So I get it. There are great shows on, but it seems like they are on 24-7, and many times the cartoons run opposite March Madness Basketball Games or the big NASCAR Race. Let’s face it, I watch the games and not just recreationally, but for my profession. When I change the channel to sports, I tend to get a lot of crying, whining and complaining, and then I feel like the bad guy. My children get plenty of outside time, so this is not a question of too much television,

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but rather what to watch when the television is on. I bet many of you have a similar problem. So I would like to ask you a question. Am I spoiling my kids if I let them watch their TV shows constantly, or am I being a bad parent if I don’t let them watch? Feel free to email me your comments (brucesnyder01@gmail.com) and we’ll print some of them in a future column. As for right now, this month’s column is finished and the kids have just gone to sleep. I think I’ll check out the end of the game. That is, if my wife is done watching the “Real Housewives.” Bruce Snyder is a longtime sports newscaster, and dad to Sage, 5, and Brayden, 2.

t r a d it io t of n . 13th Annual Charlotte Easter Egg Hunt

“Creating Beautiful, Healthy Smiles That Change Lives” Orthodontics for the entire family

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Photo by Lenn Long

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March 30, 2013

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10 am - Noon. Bring a picnic lunch. Face painting, balloon animals, MyGym, FREE doughnuts and juice

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CAROLINAsmiles

More cute pictures from our readers. We love seeing the smiles. See more at CharlotteParent.com/community/photogallery.

Send your smiles to Photos@CharlotteParent.com. Include the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first and last name, and age. Non-professional photos only. Photos must be high-resolution.

MARCH 2013

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