March 2012
Fr e e
C H AT TA N O O G A
letters
Dear Chattanooga Parent,
March 2012 Volume VII • Issue 3 Advisory Board Becky Barnes Hamilton County Department of Health Dan Challener Public Education Foundation Mai Bell Hurley Community Volunteer Shawn Kurrelmeier-Lee Read 20
Michael Kull and Eva Nations, Publishers Jennifer Crutchfield Managing Editor Jenny Hammond Copy Editor Evan Faires Design & Production Eva Nations Business Manager Michael Kull Jennifer Crutchfield Advertising Sales
Alison Lebovitz President, One Clip at a Time Contributing Photographers David Andrews Bea Laurie Jennifer Crutchfield Girls, Inc. April Waggener Linda McReynolds Contributing Writers United Way of Greater Shannon Colbert Chattanooga Jennifer Crutchfield Shelley Headrick Bridget Huckabay Nicole Knauss Alison Lebovitz Henry Schulson Creative Discovery Museum Lu Lewis Rodney Van Valkenburg Edna Varner Ray Swoffard Kyle Waggener Hamilton County Peggy Wilkins, Ph.D. Department of Education Ellie Willis Mary Tanner University of Tennessee, Chattanooga OJ Morgan The Bright School
Parent publications are GREAT places to advertise! For more information, please call: (423) 643-8499. Contact Info: Phone: 423.643.8499 Fax: 888.457.9602 E-mail: info@ChattanoogaParentMagazine.com Chattanooga Parent is published monthly and is distributed throughout the city of Chattanooga and surrounding communities. North Georgia Parent is published monthly and is distributed throughout Walker and Catoosa Counties. Both publications are available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. No person without written permission from the publishers may take more than one copy per monthly issue. Both publications may be distributed only by authorized distributors.
Chattanooga Parent and North Georgia Parent are published by Chattanooga Parent, LLC P. O. Box 4070 Chattanooga, TN 37405, phone 423.643.8499 fax 888.457.9602 The entire contents of this publication are copyrighted and property of Chattanooga Parent, LLC. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner without the express written consent of the publishers. Chattanooga Parent and North Georgia Parent utilize freelance writers, and the views expressed within this publication are not necessarily the views of the publishers or editors. Chattanooga Parent takes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or other materials. Letters to the editor must include name, address and daytime phone number for verification. Chattanooga Parent and North Georga Parent reserve the right to edit letters for space and clarity. Please keep letters within 500 words in length.
My wife, Barbara and I enjoyed the article on the Frazier Avenue tech portraits. We have been viewing them from across the street. I believe I know who number six is. Rear Admiral Grace Hopper, a programming pioneer for the Navy, worked on the Mark I computer during WWII and later on various projects including the development of COBOL. She gave a speech at UTC in 1983 and I attended. Impressive woman. Felix Miller North Chattanooga Thanks for sharing the information about the Rescue Prom event. We donated last year and volunteered and it was great to see how many students were helped. We will be donating again this year! Barbara in Hixson I love your summer camp listings issue each year and last year I found a camp that my children loved! The Philanthropy Camp at the Jewish Federation was a great experience, and I recommend it to everyone. Brenda Grant Signal Mountain We welcome your letters! If you have a question or comment for Chattanooga Parent or North Georgia Parent, please e-mail it to Editor@ChattanoogaParentMagazine.com. Letters may be edited to meet space requirements.
contents
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House Calls: The 1.5 million person mystery
15 Family Excursions: Explore indoor waterparks,
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Sleepaway Summer Camps: To Day or to Sleepaway?
19 STEM & Academic Summer Camps: Put some
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Art Summer Camps: Paint your summer with art camps
22 Music Summer Camps: Music camps can be for
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The List: Ten Terrific Award Winnings Books
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Live and Learn
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Letters from Home
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The Kid’s Plate:
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Childwise: Smart advice about camps for parents
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History Mystery: Secrets, spies and ciphers
ghosts and underwater adventure. STEM in your summer the whole family
23 Outdoor & Athletic Summer Camps: Get moving
in the mountains
25 Special Needs Summer Camps: Get moving with
therapeutic riding, physical, cognitive & social summer camp opportunities
28 Because I said so 29 The Dad Dispatch: Happiness in hiking
on the cover:
Camp Juliette Low, a summer camp for girls in Northwest Georgia, teaches campers team-building, selfesteem and leadership with adventures in nature and activities and programs on site. Photo Courtesy Camp Juliette Low.
Read us on the Web (including the full page version)!
ChattanoogaParentOnline.com 3
March 2012
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March 2012
The 1.5 million-person mystery:
How to recognize and treat autism in children By Peggy Wilkins, Ph.D.
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nce thought to be relatively rare, autism affects as many as 1.5 million Americans. Although we know it is a developmental disability based in abnormal brain development, the exact cause remains a mystery. Up to 5 percent of cases are related to Fragile X, an identifiable genetic disorder. However, in the majority of children, the cause of autism is thought to be a possible combination of genetics and as-yet-unidentified environmental factors. Symptoms Autism clearly and significantly affects a child’s social and communication skills. Typical signs of autism, usually exhibited before age 3, include: • • • • • • • • •
poor eye contact, actively looking away from people, and social withdrawal. delayed language skills or the loss of language skills. “echoing” or copying what others say. using gestures instead of language. lack of imaginary play, or using toys in an unusual manner. flapping hands, spinning, or rocking the body. unusual or inappropriate emotional reactions to everyday situations. a strong need for routine and sameness. unusual sensitivity to touch, sound or smell.
Diagnosis and “red flags” Pediatricians, psychologists, neurologists or developmental specialists typically diagnose autism. Aside from the specific test for Fragile X there is no medical test to diagnose autism. There are three key elements for diagnosis: impaired social interaction; impaired communication; and restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential t to successful treatment of autism and can lead to amazing p improvements in a child’s overall a ability to communicate and Early diagnosis and intervention are essential o interact with others. to the successful treatment of autism and can r lead to amazing improvements in a child’s i overall ability to communicate and interact t with others. c Red flags include warnings that the child does not… c …babble or coo by 12 months h …gesture (point or wave) by 12 months g …say a single word by 16 months …say two-word phrases by 24 months c An additional “red flag” is the loss of language or social skills at any age, h especially before age 3. f Photo courtesy the Orange Grove Center
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S Treatment O The assessment and treatment of the autistic child will involve many different d people. Typically, the child will first be evaluated by the primary pediatrician. s Further assessment will be required by a psychologist, a speech therapist, an o occupational and/or physical therapist and a geneticist or neurologist. Each discipline adds vital information about the child’s level of delay and current functioning; this information is used to develop the best intervention for that child. b G The process can be long, stressful and tiring for the whole family. t Throughout the child’s education there will be regular reassessments to determine his or her progress and plan for future needs. Having a caring, consistent team of doctors, educators and therapists is critically important. These t professionals can advise parents and provide much-needed emotional support. At t the same time, parents are encouraged to be advocates for their children. While o autism has no current cure, early and consistent intervention can help autistic a children make great progress and become wonderful members of society. Editor’s note: Please visit page 25 and www.chattanoogaparentmagazine.com for listings of a summer camp programs for children with special needs. a a Peggy Wilkins, PhD is director of behavioral pediatrics at T.C. Thompson r Children’s Hospital at Erlanger. She is also an associate professor of pediatrics with the UT College of Medicine Chattanooga. For more information, calla Erlanger’s physician referral line at 423-778-LINK (5465).r
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March 2012
Sleepaway or Stay for the Day? Camp Juliette Low is a great experience for both campers and counselors. A balance of fun and enrichment helps campers achieve personal goals and move confidently toward their next year in school. photo courtesy Camp Juliette Low by CP and Shannon Colbert
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amilies have good intuitions about the right time for overnight camp and kids are the best gauges for timing. When their friends start talking about going away to camp your kids will suddenly be very excited about it. Having some research prepared about camps in your area can start the ball rolling toward the independence and self-reliance a child can learn at a well-prepared camp. “Most of what I know about parenting comes from being a camp counselor!” claims our own Alison Lebovitz. Arguably the greatest Mom in the area Alison is fond of recalling the lessons that she learned as a camp counselor that she has translated into successful and happy parenting. While you are researching camps be sure to talk with the staff about how they choose their counselors and how many of their counselors were veteran campers. Sometimes children are hesitant about going away to camp and facing new challenges in a different environment. The great news is that even though some homesick feelings are common at the beginning most children enjoy themselves and gain self-confidence at overnight camps. The key can be to spend time with your child preparing for camp by researching its website, talking to other families who have visited the camp and discussing how your child can recognize and cope with feelings of homesickness. Same Sex or Co-Ed Camps Once you’ve made the decision to explore sleepaway camps there is the inevitable decision about whether to choose a co-ed or same sex camp. Adding a singlesex environment to your checklist may be a valuable way to allow your child the opportunity to achieve at a higher level. According to academic research, sending your daughter to a single-sex camp may be the best way to make sure she gets the most out of her summer break. In 2002, Girls Inc. commissioned Harris Interactive Inc. to conduct a study that identified the benefits of single sex, and more specifically girls-only, programs. The study found that girls are more likely to say what they really feel, to feel like their voice is heard, to think of themselves as leaders, and to try new things when they are in groups with only girls. In addition, students who participated in girlsonly groups were more likely to report that they read books, play sports, like school, and plan to go to college than those who did not participate in such groups. The key is always to research the camp, ask the staff questions and talk to friends and family members about their experiences. Make sure that you and your family are comfortable with the choice you’ve made and prepare your child to enjoy their adventure. Most camps will have a list of families who welcome calls and can provide referrals who live in your city. Very often when you start asking people around you about camps you’ll hear stories you can share with your children and gain lots of referrals for camps you may not have hear about.
“Most of what I know about parenting comes from being a camp counselor!” claims our own Alison Lebovitz.” Overnight Camps Alpine Camp for Boys PO Box 297 Mentone, AL 35984 256-634-4404 clay@alpinecamp.com www.alpinecamp.com AQHA Camp It Up Day and overnight. Horseback riding, instruction. Lafollette, Tennessee, United States. 865-684-6489. Camp Ba Yo Ca Outdoor, sporting, and artistic activities taught by our qualified, full-time staff and counselors. 2320 Happy Hollow Road, Sevierville, TN 37862. 865-453-6274 or at camp@ campbayoca.com. Black Mountain Expeditions Wilderness adventure, trip and travel Camps MerriMac/Timberlake 1123 Montreat Rd. Black Mountain, NC 28711 828-669-8766 BlackMountainExpeditions. com Boy Scouts of America Cherokee Area Council sleepaway and day camps Boy Scouts only 423-892-8323 NMCMaste@BSAMail.org Camp Arrowwood 5 night residential camp open to campers between the ages
of 8-14. 3601 Lyon Springs Rd, Sevierville, TN 37862. Phone: 865-429-9105. www. camparrowwood.org/
321 Camp Juliette Low Rd. Cloudland, GA 30731 770-428-1062 CJL.org
Camp High Rocks Outdoor Adventure Camp Boys only, ages 8–16, AEE accredited P.O. 210 Cedar Mountain, NC 28718 828-885-2153 HighRocks.com
Camp Lookout, United Methodist Church Coed, ACA accredited 3130 Hwy. 157 Rising Fawn, GA 30738 706-820-1163 CampLookout.com
Camp John Knox Archery, arts & crafts, frisbee golf, nature center, and more! 591 West Rockwood Ferry Road. Ten Mile, TN 37880 865-376-2236 admin@kohnknoxcenter.org www.jonknoxcenter.org Camp Nakanawa 1084 Camp Nakanawa Road Crossville, TN 38571 931-277-3711 campnak@frontiernet.net www.campnakanawa.com Camp New Dawn New Dawn International Ministries Christian 226 S. Cedar Lane, Chickamauga, Ga 30707 Phone/fax: 706-539-2235/ 706539-2324* Web address: www. campnewdawnga.org Camp Juliette Low Girls’ traditional summer camp Girls only, ACA accredited
Camp Merri-Mac for Girls Traditional Christian camp Girls only, ACA accredited 1123 Montreat Rd. Black Mountain, NC 28711 828-669-8766 Merri-Mac.com Camp Riva-Lake Girls only. Tims Ford Lake in Winchester, Tennesee. info@ camprivalake.com. http://www. camprivalake.com. Camp Skyline Ranch PO Box 287 Mentone, AL 35984 800-448-9279 info@campskyline.com www.campskyline.com Camp Thunderbird Christian camp Coed, ACA accredited 5801 Champion Rd. Booker T. Washington State Park Chattanooga, TN 37416 615-226-6500, ext. 141
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Where Can You Save a City, Explore the World or Discover a Planet? Let your child’s imagination soar while discovering their inner genius at Camp Invention, a weeklong adventure hosted at a school near you (Summer 2012).
Coming to Chattanooga! Go online for a location near you! Register your child @ www.campinvention.org or 800.968.4332 In partnership with: United States Patent and Trademark Office © 2011 Invent Now, Inc. All rights reserved.
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What is the summer slide? On average, students lose approximately 2.6 months of grade level equivalency in math over the summer months according to the Johns Hopkins University Center for Summer Learning. At Mathnasium, your child could not only retain his or her math, but gain ground and confidence for the next school year! That’s why we say...
Catch up, keep up, or get ahead this summer! Rising K through 12th grade May 28 - August 11, 2012 In Hamilton Town Center at 1919 Gunbarrel Road, Suite 153. Call or visit today!
423-899-2011 www.mathnasium.com/chattanooga K – 12 T H G R A D E S • S A T & A C T P R E P • H O M E W O R K H E L P • S U M M E R P R O G R A M S
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Art Camps Learning how to produce a summer workshop gave these campers the opportunity to learn about all of the facets of producing a theatre event.
Photo courtesy Chattanooga Girls Choir
by Rodney VanValkenburg
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ooking for quality activities for your child this summer? Activities that are fun and enriching? How about summer camps that will improve your child’s math scores, increase the likelihood that they will stay in school, add 100 points to their SAT scores, expand their attention span in class, provide a passport for a good job, and even increase the odds that they might be accepted to medical school? Is this a special tutoring service or academic academy that can have such an impact on your child’s academic success? No, we’re talking about arts camps. Summer arts camps like those held by the Hunter Museum, Association for Visual Arts, Ballet Tennessee, Bessie Smith Cultural Center, Creative Discovery Museum and the Chattanooga Theatre Centre are a low-risk way to introduce and explore the arts. New skills, new friends and new adventures are all part of the arts camp experience. Research has shown that we can’t underestimate the power of arts education as part of complete education for every child. Instruction in music and visual arts has been shown to increase math scores compared to students who do not take arts classes. Students who take arts classes also have been found to have higher SAT scores, and one study showed that music majors were accepted to medical school more than any other undergraduate major including biochemistry. Theatre students have demonstrated more focus and concentration in all of their academic courses as well as an increased attention span. Students involved in the arts are more likely to stay in school too. Employers are looking to hire those with 21st Century work skills: those that can communicate well and collaborate with diverse groups of people, and are creative to provide out-of-the box problem-solving to our rapidly changing economic environment. Creativity and imagination are traits that are valued by the business community and that are most likely developed through the arts. So, what do you think? If you want more information about the impact of the arts, here is a link to information provided by American for the Arts, http://www. americansforthearts.org/pdf/get_involved/advocacy/research/2011/artsed_facts11. pdf. In the meantime, sign up for an arts camp today!
Art Camps Association for Visual Arts AVA Art Camp 30 Frazier Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37405 423-265-4282 AVArts.org Ballet Tennessee and VanCura Ballet
Conservatory Summer dance camps 3202 Kelly’s Ferry Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37419 423-821-2055 BalletTennessee.org Barking Legs Theatre Brain Dance & Circus camp 1307 Dodds Ave.
Chattanooga, TN 37404 423-624-5347 BarkingLegs.org Cadek Conservatory of Music Suzuki Strings and Piano Summer Camp Cadek Hall, UTC 725 Oak St. Chattanooga, TN 37403
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March 2012 423-425-4624 UTC.edu/Outreach/ CadekConservatory Camp Invention Chattanooga June 4-8 Ooltewah Elementary June 11-15 Ganns Middle Valley Elementary June 18-22 Normal Park Upper Magnet School Camp Invention Knoxville June 4-8 A.L.Lotts Elementary Hardin Valley Elementary June 11-15 Karns Elementary Holston View Elementary (Bristol) Cedar Bluff Elementary June 18-22 West Hills Elementary June 25-29 Farragut Intermediate City of Chattanooga Parks and Recreation Department Programs All City Recreation Centers
Swimming, art, Special events, sports, wellness and Outdoor Recreation. www.chattanooga.gov/ parks&recreation Call Kim Battle at 423-6436052 City of Knoxville Parks and Recreation Division Summer Playground Program All City Recreation Centers 865-215-1414 www.ci.knoxville.tn.us/ recreation/ Creating A Musical Summer Workshop Chattanooga Girls Choir and the Chattanooga Theatre Centre Gender: Boys and Girls 400 River Street Chattanooga, TN 37405 423-296-1006 www.chattanoogagirlschoir. com Ages: 9 to 12 years old Time: 9am - 4pm Cost: $350 for 2 week camp Chattanooga Theatre Centre Summer Academy
400 River Street Chattanooga, TN 37405 423-267-8534 Summer Academy 2012 Registration @ www. TheatreCentre.com Creative Discovery Museum 321 Chestnut St. Chattanooga, TN 37402 423-648-6040 or 423-267-9344 CDMFun.org Hunter Museum summer camps 10 Bluff View Chattanooga, TN 37403 423-267-0968 HunterMuseum.org
Kindermusik at First Baptist Church of Fine Arts Adventures Camp 401 Gateway Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37402 423-265-2601 FBCChattanooga.org
La Petite Academy Summer Camp Knoxville, TN 37931 1-877-861-5078 www.lapetite.com
huntermuseum.org 423.752.2051
Summer Camp 2012 The Hunter offers exciting summer camps for children ages 4-12. Camps incorporate art making, physical activity and field trips to local parks and attractions. Each week of camp closes with an Art Exhibition. All supplies, snacks and a camp t-shirt are included. Learn more at huntermuseum.org or call to register: 423.752.2051.
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SWIMMING OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES ARTS & CRAFTS FIELD TRIPS
Girls Inc. of Chattanooga Summer Camps
Global Girl Meets American Girl (ages 6-8 & 9-11)
Global Girl (June) - Girls go on a cultural journey to learn about the unique characteristics of four diverse countries. American Girl (July) - Girls investigate the differences and similarities between the urban, rural and suburban ways of life in America.
Emma Wheeler Health Careers Academy (ages 12-15)
Girls learn about traditional and non-traditional health careers, meet female role models, and learn how to keep their bodies healthy, safe and strong. (June)
iGirl Media Technology Careers Academy (ages 12-15)
In July, this brand new career academy introduces girls to the exciting and ever changing worlds of print, radio, television and social media. (July) Visit www.GirlsIncOfChatt.org or call (423) 624-4757 for locations, cost and other information!
March 2012 City of Knoxville Art Camp Sessions for ages varying from 4 to 15-years-old. Knoxville Arts and Fine Crafts Center, 1127B Broadway Ave. Call 865-523-1401 or visit www. cityofknoxville.org/recreation/ arts for more information. City of Knoxville Summer Playground Program 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday thru Friday. Ages 6-12. Open to Knoxville residents, at each of its 14 recreation centers located in all sections of Knoxville. For more information, call 865-215-1414.
St. Andrews–Sewanee School, SAS Summer arts and sports camps 290 Quintard Rd. Sewanee, TN 37375 931-598-5651 SASWeb.org/SASSummer Studio Arts Judy Mogul 736 Intermont Road Chattanooga, TN 423-645-3418 studioarts846@gmail.com www.studioarts1.com
Masters Studio 423-883-9609 www.themastersstudio.com
Tate’s Day Camp 1031 North Cedar Bluff Road Knoxville, TN 37923 865-690-9208 www.tatescamp.com
Summer Fun Camps of MACC Theater, art, music, ballet 809 Kentucky Ave. Signal Mountain, TN 37377 423-886-1959
Camp Webb Specialty Camps 9800 Webb School Drive Knoxville, TN 37923 865-693-0011 www.webbschool.org
Pottery Studio at Warner Park 423-987-6692
Brainy Camp @ LearningRx of Chattanooga
www.LearningRX.com/ chattanooga-east 423-305-1599 The Montessori School Montessori Day Camp and Schools Out Special Educational and specialty camp 300 Montessori Way Chattanooga, TN 37404 423-622-6366 www.TheMontessoriSchool.net Primrose Schools of East Brainerd and Hixson K–5th day camp CITA/CASI accredited 1619 Gunbarrel Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37421 423-499-5584 1985 Northpoint Blvd. Hixson, TN 37343 423-870-4840 www.MyPrimroseSchool.com Scenic Land School Day camp 1200 Mountain Creek Rd., Ste. 300 Chattanooga, TN 37405 423-877-9711 www.ScenicLandSchool.org
EXPERIENCE!BAYLOR
SUMMER CAMP 2012 ! June 4 – July 27
AT BAYLOR SCHOOL
The Association for Visual Arts offers 8 week-long Art Camp sessions for ages 4-11 and 4 week-long sessions of the Summer Film Institues for ages 12-17.
Painting • Collage • Printmaking • Drawing • Film • Photography • Sculpture • Assemblage • Video Production
Want Maximum Fun? In addition to traditional day camps loaded with activities kids love, you can count on Baylor camps to provide a huge variety of offerings and schedules. AVA Art Camp! A variety of art and film activities for kids and teens ages 4-18. Enrichment! Dance and art classes, robotics, cooking (with visits to our very own organic garden), and even sailing! No question about it – this is the place for creative minds to mingle! Register by March 31 to take advantage of Early Bird discounts! Call (423) 757-2616 or visit www.baylorschool.org for easy online registration.
Maximum Fun A summer adventure for ages 5 through 18.
Register early to ensure a spot! Regstration ends May 15. Register online at www.Baylorschool.org/summer or www.avarts.org/artcamp. For more information contact AVA’s Director of Programs, Mark Bradley-Shoup, at 423.265.4282 ext. 104.
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March 2012
Ten Terrific Award Winning Books Compiled this month by Shelley Headrick Children’s Department, Chattanooga Public Library
A Ball for Daisy By Chris Raschka Reading level: PreK – 1st In this wordless book, Daisy’s beloved ball is destroyed. 2012 Caldecott Medal.
Me…Jane By Patrick McDonnell Reading level: PreK – 2nd Young Jane Goodall and her toy chimpanzee explore their world. 2012 Caldecott Honor Book.
Grandpa Green By Lane Smith Reading level: K – 2nd A boy tells about his great grandfather’s interesting life. 2012 Caldecott Honor Book.
Underground: Finding the Light to Freedom By Shane Evans Reading level: 1st – 4th A group of slaves escape along the Underground Railroad. 2012 Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award.
Dead End in Norvelt By Jack Gantos Reading level: 5th – 9th When Jack is grounded for life, he is forced to help his neighbor type obituaries. Heart and Soul: The Story of America 2012 Newbery Medal. and African Americans By Kadir Nelson Reading level: 4th – 6th African Americans have endured much hardship, but their The Scorpio Races courage and hope By Maggie Stiefvater have persevered. Reading level: 8th – 12th 2012 Coretta Scott Puck, a feisty teen, King Author Award and 2012 Coretta enters her horse in a Scott King Illustrator Honor Book. dangerous race. 2012 Printz Honor Book. Breaking Stalin’s Nose By Eugene Yelchin Reading level: 4th – 6th After his father is arrested, a young Communist boy comes to terms with his life in the Where Things Come Back By John Whaley Soviet Union controlled by Stalin. 2012 Newbery Reading level: 6th – 12th During the summer Honor Book. before his senior year, life for Cullen becomes Inside Out & Back complicated. 2012 Printz Again Award. By Thanhha Lai Reading level: 4th – 8th A ten-year-old and her family leave Vietnam to make a new home in America. 2012 Newbery Honor Book.
For libary information in your area visit: www.lib.chattanooga.gov and http://blogs.knoxlib.org/
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March 2012
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Seeing things from the other side of the looking glass
verybody has a list — losing weight, gaining confidence, improving relationships, or saving money at the supermarket. We recently discussed a US News and World Report article, “50 Ways to Improve Your Life.” The tips were worth the price of the magazine; now you can Google the article and get the tips free. You can Google “50 Ways…,” and find suggestions for everything imaginable: “50 Ways to Help the Planet”; “50 Ways to Use Bacon”; “50 Fun Things to Do with your iPod”; “50 Ways to Beat the Reaper”; and the lyrics to Paul Simon’s “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover.” We wondered why so many of us are still hoping to find something we don’t already know. A better question may be, “Why haven’t we improved our lives by doing the 50 things we do know? Perhaps the answer lies in lines from a familiar tale, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland:
“You don’t have to live in Alice’s wonderland to make a world of wonder and creativity for your child.” glue and crayons, and let them create. On a rainy day, the stuff of invention can be paper clips, buttons, pieces of yarn, or the “thing-a-magig” you keep in a drawer, even though no one quite remembers what it is.
Lesson #2: Something Silly Alice in Wonderland is full of nonsense, yet it is still read, performed, studied and enjoyed by old and young alike. Some parts are downright silly, but silly is good. Give your child the gift of silly. Books that make children Alice: And how many hours a day did you do lessons? laugh uncontrollably are the best; the reduced stress, The Mock Turtle: Ten hours the first day, nine the next, the physical activity from rolling hysterically on the and so on. floor, and the loss of interest in television are all boAlice: What a curious plan! nuses. There are lots of great children’s books with The Gryphon: That’s the reason they’re called lessons, nonsense stories and rhymes. Start with Today I Feel Photo courtesy ThinkingSciFi.com because they lessen from day to day. Silly: And Other Moods That Make My Day by Jamie Lee We decided to try looking at things from the other side of the looking glass Curtis and Laura Cornell. where each day “the lessons lessen.” Here are two to think about this month. The two of us have long embraced change, but we think it may be better in smaller doses, so we are taking the wisdom of the Mock Turtle and the GryLu’s lessons for helping children enjoy childhood: phon to heart. If you find that 50 ways to do anything is a bit ambitious, feel You don’t have to live in Alice’s wonderland to make a world of wonder and free to join us here on the other side of the looking glass. creativity for your child. With so many rules and routines it’s no surprise some children are stressed before they finish kindergarten. Take some family breaks Veteran educators Lu Lewis and Edna Varner collaborate from the day-to-day and give your children the gift of serendipity. Lesson #1: No Directions Allow your child to create something from everyday objects—no directions, no plans, no right answers. Spend the afternoon in the yard, collecting whatever strikes their fancy. Bring in the treasures, put them on a table with safe scissors,
each month to address a topic of particular concern to area parents. If you have a concern you’d like them to discuss in print, send it to Lu and Edna at either ChattanoogaParent@ gmail.com or KnoxvilleParent@gmail.com.
After-Hours Urgent Care for Infants, Children & Young Adults
Open 6:30 p.m. - 12:30 a.m. Pediatric experienced and trained staff. Reduced wait times. Excellent alternative to the emergency room.
Telephone: 423-648-NITE (6483) Hamilton Place: 7446 Hamilton Office Park, Suite 103, Chattanooga Hixson: 1005 Executive Drive, Suite 101, Hixson
www.pmpediatrics.org
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March 2012
Real Troopers
Daisy Troop sends smiles and treats to soldiers By CP and Bridget Huckabay
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etters from home can feel like a lifeline for campers, especially important when children are away for the first time. The thrill of hearing their name during mail call can add layers of success to the independence and selfreliance that children develop as campers. Recently a local Daisy troop talked about being away from home and their leader decided to reverse the roles and give the Photo courtesy Marc Owens. scouts the opportunity to Soldiers from the 623rd QM Company in learn about homesickness Afghanistan got to have a Valentine’s Day party from the other perspective. from 7,000 miles away in Tennessee. Bridget Huckabay found a Quartermaster unit serving in Afghanistan and she and Daisy Troop 40552 sent a Valentine’s party in a box to 25 soldiers serving 7,000 miles away. The girls made Valentine’s, baked cookies and packed balloons and decorations for the soldiers while they found the 623rd Company’s location on a map. Seeing how far away the soldiers were from their family members taught the scouts valuable lessons. Learning about the toll that service takes on soldiers and their families made the work meaningful for the Daisy troop and the girls were all smiles when they got a picture of their new friends enjoying their party.
Photo courtesy Bridget Huckabay.
Sending your camper a package While summer camp rules vary regarding packages and gifts everyone enjoys letters and postcards and experts recommend keeping messages upbeat, newsy and encouraging. Not all camps allow packages with candy or baked goods and most camps recommend sending money directly to the camp business office. Books, cards, miniature board games, frisbees, comic books and other games are all things that your camper can enjoy and share with their cabin-mates. As you plan for your child’s camp experience consider following the example of Normal Park’s Daisy troop and send a care package to a unit from your area. One of your local military reserve offices will be able to give you a name and APO shipping address for a soldier in a unit from your area. Ask for an email address so that you can customize your box but we’ve included a few suggestions. The USPS offers free flat rate shipping materials and you can call 1-800-610-8734 to ask for a military shipping kit. Packages over 16 ounces The girls from Daisy Troop 40552 at Normal Park
“Recently a local Daisy troop talked about being away from home and their leader decided to reverse the roles and give the scouts the opportunity to learn about homesickness from the other perspective.” require a Customs form 2976-A that is available at your local post office. Baked goods and chocolate can be perishable but Marc Owens of the 623rd Company says that peanut butter M&M’s are very popular. Other popular items include: Food: Beef Jerky Coffee Sunflower/Pumpkin Seeds Granola Bars Protein Powder Powder Drink Mixes
Personal Comfort: Sunblock Bug Spray Baby Wipes Hand Sanitizer Eye Drops Lip Balm Multi-Vitamins
Entertainment: Frisbees Yo-Yo’s iTunes Gift Cards Pens, Pencils, Stationery Batteries Books Card/Card Games
Aleph Bet Children’s Center 5461 North Terrace Road Chattanooga, TN 37411
(423) 893-5486 www.aleph-bet.com * * * * * * * * *
A 3-Star rated program serving children ages 2,3 & Pre-K alephbet@jewishchattanooga.com Summer Pay by week or monthly options “We chose Aleph Bet Children’s Center Gold Sneaker Certified by TN Department of Health because we wanted a high quality In-house fieldtrips preschool that would nurture our New Play and Park Structures playground children's creativity, challenge their minds Low teacher to child ratios and also prepare them for kindergarten. Weekly Shabbat observance Aleph Bet did all of that and so much Special Summer weekly themes. more!” We welcome children of all faiths, nationalities and cultures. -Alison Lebovitz
Mention this ad receive $25 off registration fee with enrollment by June, 2012
Classical Ballet - Vaganova (Russian) Method Tap Dance - Broadway Tap Method Jazz Dance & Modern Dance Boy’s Exercise & Tap - Adult Exercise Classes - Private Lessons Ballroom Dance Lessons “An Evening of Dance” Group Lesson & General Ballroom Dancing Evening Held on the 4th Saturday of each month, 7:30 - 11:00 pm Join us for hors d’oeuvres and fun in our new facility!
8509A Hixson Pike Hixson, TN 37343 423-598-8786 hamiltonballet.com
Spring Semester 2012: January - May Summer 2012 Dance Camp: June 4 - June 29 July 2 - July 27 Fall Semester 2012: August - December Auditions for the Hamilton Ballet Comany (Senior & Junior) will be held 1:30 - 3 pm, March 3, 2012 Late enrollments are always welcome! Ages 3 - Senior Citizens
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Nutrition, food, and fun
Trail Mix Treats By CP
wl, and o b e g r a la her in t e too! g o t ix hings, M t e t ps i P r GOR na Chi r favo a u n a o y B • d s ad b Chip • Caro a s ol • TNut s, such as • Gran ed Coconut e m Shredd ts • Legu • r o s Nu peanut ybeans Brazil • h as o s, suc ashew, d e e baked s its S • Fru wer, c sunflo • Drief ate in ol pumpk • Choc s el • Pretz st Cereal fa • Break Liza Blair is arts manager for the Creative Discovery Museum in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Imagination is a great ingredient when you make trail mix with your family. Photo courtesy foodiewithfamily.com.
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rail mix is a sweet, healthy treat by any name. While some growers claim that the blend of nuts and raisins began in the 1960’s with hungry, healthy surfers similar recipes appear in European lore as early as the 17th century. When the main characters in Jack Kerouac’s 1958 novel described their trail mix it likely didn’t include the M&M’s that add color to so many of today’s healthy snack recipes. American hikers have carried G.O.R.P., “Good Old Peanuts and Raisins” for generations, the “Gobs of Raw Protein” fueling adventures along the way. Everything is delicious when you are outdoors and hungry but the sweet and salty, chewy and crunchy combinations make this treat as memorable as the adventures. Prepared together and bagged in single serving sizes this tasty treat is a lifesaver on spring break road trips, adventures, tours and hikes. It also makes a great high-protein snack for lunch boxes, goodie bags and playdates. Talk to your children about food groups, identifying which category items belong to as you mix them together in a large bowl. We’ve included some common ingredients here but making trail mix out of your family’s favorite things can be part of the fun! Imagination is a great ingredient.
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March 2012
Day camp is a great way to get your child used to lining up, waiting her turn, following a schedule, and making new friends! turn, following a schedule, and making new friends! She may even meet students who will be at her school for Kindergarten. The experience will ease her mind and give her the confidence that she will do just fine during the school day. (Editor’s Note: Please visit our listings section for information about summer camp programs in your area. Camp Invention offers programs for rising Kindergarten students at a variety of public schools, offering your child the opportunity to meet students who will be their schoolmates.)
Lots of these smiling faces were first time campers at Camp Vesper Point. They carried away great memories and lessons, guided by well trained counselors and veteran campers.
Dear Childwise: This is the first time my 4th grade son will be going to sleep-away camp. How can I best prepare him for this experience? Rebecca in Hixson, TN
Casey Jacobs is a school counselor. She nurtured her passion for working with children at Siskin’s Institute. She teaches character education and offers individual and group counseling for students at Normal Park. Casey was named Hamilton County’s Elementary Counselor of the Year. Please note: the responses provided are for general information only and are not intended to represent or replace professional consultation or intervention specific to a particular child or family. Do you have a parenting question? Send it to Childwise c/o Chattanooga Parent via e-mail: ChattanoogaParent@gmail.com, or to Childwise c/o Knoxville Parent via e-mail: KnoxvilleParent@ gmail.com.
Dear Rebecca, How exciting! You are making the best choice by preparing him for camp. I have a few tips to make the experience a little easier. First, familiarize yourself and your son with the camp and their daily schedule so there are few surprises. Also, make sure to discuss the parent/child communication policy so you both will know how you will get to communicate. You could even practice letter writing (and sneak a few notes in his bag for him to find)! Homesickness is extremely common and camp staff is trained to handle these types of emotions. Speak openly about this possibility and create a plan for your child if they feel uncomfortable. Remember to review your child’s strengths regularly and explain how they will have the opportunity to build on these strengths and develop new ones. Have confidence that your child will have a great summer full of many exciting new experiences. Happy camping!”
&
Parent/Child Preschool/Kindergarten Grade School Gymnastics
Remember to review your child’s strengths regularly and explain how they will have the opportunity to A running, skipping, twirling, rolling, galloping, build on these strengths and develop new ones. Dear Childwise: leaping, jumping, My daughter is going to be starting Kindergarten this coming year and head start! she’s nervous about being in class all day long. She has not gone to a formal daycare or pre-k program and I am starting to get a little nervous. Do you think that day summer camp experiences might help her get used to the school routine? Nervous East TN Mom Dear Nervous, Absolutely! Day camp is a great way to get your child used to lining up, waiting her
$10 Off
Awesome Birthday Bash Party Expires 12/31/12 Membership not required. Cannot be combined with other offer.
The lessons your child learns at The Little Gym will fill you both with pride: How to reach higher. How to listen better. How to tackle challenges with confidence and a smile.
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Enrollment
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Expires 12/31/12 Valid for new enrollments only. Cannot be combined with other offer.
7540 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421 Phone: 423-296-9001 or www.thelittlegym.com
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March 2012
Secrets, signals, spies and ciphers By Jennifer Crutchfield
S
ecrets and spies are a staple of war, ferreting out facts and cloaking figures in disinformation. As America entered the war between brothers an official spy network was not in place. During the first few years of conflict espionage efforts were characterized by dramatic figures with little organized systems for using the information they gleaned from their enemy prey. As the war progressed both the Union and Confederate armies developed ways to collect, transmit and use information collected from across the land. President Lincoln had his own spy who traveled behind enemy lines, collecting answers to the President’s questions and Flags, flares and high reporting personally or with notes that elevations were the tools of his family delivered to the nation’s Chief. wig-wag signalmen, sending Abraham Lincoln established the War messages from mountain Department Telegraph Office where he could heights all over Tennessee. actively engage in battles by communicating Photo: US Army Center of with Generals and their signal corpsmen. Military History. They used a precursor to the code we recognize as dots and dashes. American Morse was a complex multi-element code that was often transmitted by cipher-operators working in wagons at
“Abraham Lincoln established the War Department Telegraph Office where he could actively engage in battles by communicating with Generals and their signal corpsmen.” Camp Juliette Low Atop Beautiful Lookout Mountain In Cloudland, Georgia
For Girls 7 - 17 June 3 - July 28, 2012 horseback riding * ropes course * climbing wall * archery * tennis * hiking * overnights sailing * canoeing * swimming * diving * crafts * OLS * campfires
Camp Juliette Low, Inc. (770) 428-1062 www.CJL.org * info@CJL.org
battlefronts and de-ciphered under the watchful eye of the President. President Davis also employed a spy, an educated former slave who served in the Confederate White House as a favor to her former master, a Southern woman who believed fiercely in freedom. Elizabeth Van Lew used her family’s fortune to comfort Union prisoners of war and to maintain a spy network that kept Union leaders well informed and sometimes even supplied them with produce and flowers from her farms and gardens. More than 16,000 miles of telegraph lines were strung by both armies and signal corps linemen became valuable assets for their skills at retrieving information their leaders can exploit and at providing disinformation to enemy commands. Telegraphers were often attached to cavalry commands, leading the way into occupied territory and tapping into lines along the way. These early spies used de-ciphered code to switch military traffic to wrong destinations, transmit false orders to enemy commanders and to exploit the information they learned. Confederate soldiers scoured the countryside in May of 1863 as they searched for Union spies between Knoxville and Chattanooga. Confederate General Joseph E. Johnson was under siege in Vicksburg and Union Major General William S. Rosecrans wanted to know if General Bragg was going to send troops to his aid. Morning dew on the telegraph line sparked a warning to the Confederate General and launched a search for the Union spies. Frank VanValkenburgh, who has descendants living in Chattanooga, was sent to the region with Pat Mullarkey with instructions and supplies from General Rosecrans. Armed with pulley blocks, telegraph line and pocket telegraph keys these secret soldiers spent 33 days behind enemy lines. They obtained the needed information and spread disinformation, middle Tennessee being reclaimed for the Union in the wake of the coming battles. Whether they were using flares and flags from mountaintop heights, sending signals on tapped lines or listening to generals as they served their meals spies played an important role in the Civil War. Their personalities made some figures of lore and legend while others quietly heralded advances in technology and communications. The Union Cipher Disk had two concentric disks revolving on a central pivot. The initials A.J.M. represent the Chief Signal Officer General Albert J. Myer. Each disk had a control number used for accountability. Photo: National Cryptologic Museum.
Jennifer Crutchfield, managing editor of Chattanooga Parent, chases mysteries along with her boys George, Will and Max. Contact Jennifer at JCrutchfield@ChattanoogaParentMagazine.com
Family
O N I S S ! R U C X E
v a * c a * t i o n (noun)
an extended period of recreation, especially one spent away from home or in traveling a period spent away from home of business in travel or recreation
Family Adventures in Tennessee by Jennifer Crutchfield
I
confess. The word ‘vacation’ strikes terror in my heart. It conjures memories of scary airports, sketchy countries, hours of driving and the inevitable pretzel formation that was the ride home. Our family vacations always ended with my brother and I making room for the rocking chair or brass milk jugs that had to come home with us. As an Army family we got to live in lots of states and travel to some really neat countries and my parents were really eager to make sure that we got to experience the culture of the places we were and the countries or states around it. As a mom I want those same things for my sons; expanding horizons, finding recreation in our region and exploring our geographic boundaries. We try to make sure that we have adventures and experiences, avoiding grueling drives, lines, and things that take the fun out of the recreation! The southeast Tennessee region has been a hub since prehistoric days, many of our well-worn paths and highways originally traversed by ancient herds and people. Our central location allows the opportunity to plan a vacation, whether it’s a week or a weekend, that doesn’t break the bank and doesn’t take a whole day to get to. The combination of places to stay, things to do and experiences to have together can fill a scrapbook, or Facebook page, with fun memories.
Surfing, Sun and Wilderness Fun in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Hang 10 and surf ’s up were the most-heard phrases when we traveled to Pigeon’s Forge and visited the indoor waterpark at Wilderness at the Smokies.
It was cold outside but Alexander Tuttle was hanging 10 at the Wilderness Inn Indoor Waterpark at Pigeon Forge. Photo courtesy Jennifer Crutchfield The combination of convenience, fun and a great facility made this an amazing adventure for our family. Wilderness at the Smokies (www.wildernessatthesmokies. com) has everything to keep a family happy, without even leaving the property! Spring 2012 is the grand opening of the Adventure Forest indoor dry park that features a 3-story ropes course, a 25-foot spring ride, a laser maze, interactive playhouse, birthday party rooms, black light mini golf, mini bowling and an arcade room. This new area will have special rooms for birthday parties and special bundles and packages make more fun affordable. The indoor waterpark is just amazing! As a parent it was an absolute joy to watch my boys have so much fun. I love taking my sons to the beach but the open water always makes me a little nervous and that heightened state of alert doesn’t make for a relaxing time for me. The indoor waterpark at Wilderness at the Smokies had lifeguards, restaurants and a professional staff that made my experience as a parent enjoyable. The boys got to surf, loved the wave pool and were absolutely wild over the waterslide rides. Needless to say, they all slept very well and the rooms accommodated our group comfortably. It was the first time my sons had seen a “Murphy Bed” and it and the couches that turned into beds made sleeping an adventure too. The kitchen had everything that I needed so that we could have snacks and simple meals in between other activities. We enjoyed the terrific restaurants on site and I loved that they had so many “kids eat free” deals. The wireless internet worked throughout the facility and the fitness center was well appointed and very clean. Between the free kid’s meal, the arcades and the indoor and outdoor waterparks it was hard to get my children to go home! The combination of family accommodations, convenience and flat out fun make Wilderness in the Smokies a terrific family adventure. Be sure to bring your sunscreen (even in the indoor park
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on an overcast winter day!), pack snacks (see our trail mix recipes in this issue) and be prepared to leave happy, smiling and tired. The Lost Sea 423-337-6616 140 Lost Sea Road Sweetwater, Tennessee 37874 Wilderness at the Smokies 1-877-325- WILD (9453) www.wildernessatthesmokies.com
The Lost Sea, its lessons and legends
The Lost Sea (www.thelostsea.com) is a terrific adventure for families. The caves, history, nature and science of the experience are a perfect example of learning cloaked in entertainment. Proud children will regale you with facts about stalagmites, stalagtites, columns, bats, mold and other exciting science after this tour. The guides are great, very knowledgable and happy to answer questions. Children learning about physical sciences and geology will find that the tour is the real-life of what they learned and students who are about to learn those lessons will carry them confidently to share with their teachers and peer students. The lessons of time, erosion, tectonic plates, the Civil War gunpower production are tangible experiences in these caves. The underwater lake and its inhabitants are an exciting mystery in nature that illustrates things children have (or will have) learned in class. The albino trout represent an animal changing because of its environmental influences, growing larger because of a lack of predators and losing pigment because of a lack of sunlight. Learning together is fun and providing a real life experience that illustrates a school lesson reinforces learning while building family memories. The Lost Sea is easily accessible from the highway. There is ample parking and lots of picnic benches so that you can bring lunch to have after your tour. Their gift shop is terrific and several art vendors are usually on site.
Ghosts, underwater adventure and absolute luxury in Chattanooga, Tennessee
It’s hard to go wrong in Chattanooga because there is always something to do and something new to experience. Do you remember the old adage “when Mother is happy everyone is happy”? Choosing the Chattanoogan Hotel as your base of operations is going to make everyone happy, especially Mom. When the Chattanoogan says that they are a AAA Four Diamond rated property they really mean it. The beds are luxurious, the property is pristine and the restaurants on site are taste treats. The Sunday brunch was so amazing I watched
in delight as my boys put away plate after plate of healthy and delicious food. They were so excited by the beautiful presentation and savory smells they were adventurous in their selections and discovered that they liked foods I have been trying to get them to eat for years! Whether they were staff or visitors everyone there smiled and when a mom is traveling with three boys smiles are important! The Chattanoogan Hotel (www.chattanooganhotel.com) has Spring Break special offers that include family passes to the Tennessee Aquarium and the location is so central that there is always something fun to do in walking distance or with a fun, free electric CARTA shuttle bus ride. The art tour on the property was fascinating and the historic forges provided interesting glimpses into what was happening on the same site over a hundred years ago. The pool was warm, inviting and relaxing with an amazing view of Lookout Mountain and was a perfect way to end a fun day of exploring. Visiting the River Journey and Ocean Journey at the Tennessee Aquarium (www. tnaqua.org) is a wonderful way to explore with children. Tickets allow entrance over a 2-day period so that families can enjoy both sites and the the electric CARTA buses provide for easy access to other adventures that will build memories. The River Gorge Explorer (www.tnaqua.org) is a breathtaking adventure on a revolutionary wakeless watercraft. Traveling through the Grand Canyon of the South you and your family will see birds of prey, magnificent mountains and a series of vistas that have drawn travelers and pioneers for hundreds of years. The IMAX experience beginning March is The Last Reef 3-D and is sure to be an inspiration to budding naturalists and future adventurers. The Tennessee Aquarium’s spring break program, Keeper’s Kids, is a really neat way for children to experience the behind-the-scenes action, interacting with the staff and the wildlife while Mom and Dad explore other Chattanooga attractions. Restaurants abound in walking distance of the Chattanoogan Hotel and the electric CARTA buses are an adventure for everyone. The Vaudeville Cafe (www.funnydinner.com) combines dinner with entertainment and is a neat opportunity to laugh with your kids as you join in the story with a delicious dinner. Ghosts are hard for anyone to resist and when we scanned the opportunities for a vacation evening activity the Chattanooga Ghost Tours (www. chattanoogaghosttours.com) was an instant must-see. Chattanooga’s downtown is a great place for walking and the Chattanooga Ghost Tour was a huge success. Our guide was a wonderfully engaging storyteller, Hope Holloway, and she led us on an adventure through the ghosts, mysteries and history that make Chattanooga such an engaging city to visit. From the Hunter Museum to the Sheraton Read House we were led on an exciting tour of Chattanooga’s past and present.
Hop a Chattanooga Choo-Choo for the afternoon at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a must-see trip for families. The TVRM (www.tvrail.com) is an important part of Chattanooga and its history.
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Chattanooga and Knoxville were strategic points on the railroad system during the Civil War and this museum preserves some of those lines and has an amazing stable of historic trains to ride on and explore. There are a variety of seasonal specials, promotions and events, please visit them at www.tvrail.com for schedules and pricing. The experience of riding the train, watching the engine spin around for the return journey and seeing the historic collection of cars and engines is thrilling for even the biggest kid! Traveling with children can be daunting, exhausting and frustrating. It can also be relaxing, enjoyable and create lasting memories of bonding moments. We always recommend that you talk to your children about some of the options for your family adventures. Consider that sometimes a few days in town doing things that you wouldn’t ordinarily do together combined with an overnight or weekend adventure can make for a very affordable experience. The Chattanoogan Hotel 1-888-253-1628 www.chattanooganhotel.com
Tennessee Aquarium 1-800-262-0695 www.tnaqua.com
Chattanooga Ghost Tours www.chattanoogaghosttours.com 423-821-7125
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum 4119 Cromwell Rd Chattanooga, TN 37421 423.894.8028
Creative Discovery Museum info@cdmfun.org www.cdmfun.org 423-756-2738
Come visit America's largest underground lake! Registered National Landmark Open every day but Christmas day Group rates available Special Wild Cave Tours available 140 Lost Sea Road, Sweetwater, TN 37874 • (423) 337-6616 www.TheLostSea.com
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Academic/Enrichment Camps
March 2012
“My son came out of Philanthropy Camp with a new view of things. For the first time, he really saw himself as someone who could—and should—make a difference in the world.” 423-877-1289 www.bereanacademy.net
Learning STEM (Science, Technology, Math and Engineering) concepts in a space ship replica is fun for children and inspires them to heights of success on Earth and in space! Photo courtesy of UTC Challenger Center
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oday’s parents face the challenge of preparing their children for a rewarding and fulfilling future while working hard to support the present. Summer can present schedules challenges that frazzle hard-working parents. The answers to both questions can lie in the academic and enrichment summer programs available in our region. Like a perfect Chinese dinner you can choose between categories of camps to provide your children with a well-rounded schedule of day or overnight camps that can inspire, educate and entertain. One mother who shared an experience with us, said “My son came out of Philanthropy Camp with a new view of things. For the first time, he really saw himself as someone who could—and should—make a difference in the world.” The National Assessment of Educational Progress reports that less than one third of eighth graders in the United States show proficiency in science and math. A report from the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) notes ”many American students conclude early in their education that STEM subjects are boring, too difficult, or unwelcoming, leaving them ill-prepared to meet the challenges that will face their generation.” According the U.S. Department of Education, only one in six college students in Tennessee and Georgia enroll in science, technology, engineering, or math degree programs and experts warn that the United States’ workforce is facing a looming shortage of talent in STEM fields. The PCAST report concludes “in order to improve STEM education, we must focus on both preparation and inspiration”. STEM initiatives improve standardized test scores and promote college readiness. Project-based STEM learning engages students, teaches towards a higher level of thinking, improves problem-solving skills, and builds learners for life. Created as a living memorial to the seven astronauts of the 1986 Challenger 51-L crew, the Challenger Center at UTC uses students’ natural enthusiasm for space to create innovative learning experiences for imaginative young minds. Building good citizens, broadening young horizons and expanding the future can define your child’s summer and between vacations and school physicals you will be rewarded with the changes you see. Enrichment comes in all forms and a wellbalanced camp schedule can prepare a child for the new grade and expectations ahead.
Academic/ Enrichment Camps Avondale Seventh Day Adventist Enrichment program, reading and math skills
camps 1201 N. Orchard Knob Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37406 423-698-5028
171 Baylor School Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37405 423-757-2616 BaylorSchool.org
Baylor School Summer Enrichment Programs
Berean Baptist Daycare 441 Berean Lane Hixson, TN 37343
Boyd-Buchanan School Summer Academic & Sports Camps 4626 Bonnieway Drive Chattanooga, TN 37411 423-624-9064 x248 hhughes@bbschool.org www.bbschool.org Brainerd Baptist Summer Camp 300 Brookfield Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37411 423-622-3873 ccreed@brainerdbaptist.org www.brainerdbaptistschool.org Brainy Camp @ LearningRx of Chattanooga www.learningrx.com/ chattanooga-east 423-305-1599 Bright School Bright Summer Funstitute Day camp, specialty camps, pre-k camp SAACS accredited 1950 Hixson Pk. Chattanooga, TN 37405 423-267-8546 BrightSchool.com Bridgemont Ministries 3620 Katy Hollar Road Sevierville, TN 37862 865-453-8841 Camp Big Fish www.campbigfish.org 423-400-1504 Camp Invention Chattanooga June 4-8 Ooltewah Elementary June 11-15 Ganns Middle Valley Elementary June 18-22 Normal Park Upper Magnet School Camp Invention Knoxville June 4-8 A.L.Lotts Elementary
Hardin Valley Elementary June 11-15 Karns Elementary Holston View Elementary (Bristol) Cedar Bluff Elementary June 18-22 West Hills Elementary June 25-29 Farragut Intermediate Camp New Dawn New Dawn International Ministries Day & Sleepaway Address: 226 S. Cedar Lane, Chickamauga, GA 30707 Phone/fax: 706-539-2235/ 706539-2324* Web address: www. campnewdawnga.org. Camp Webb Specialty Camps 9800 Webb School Drive Knoxville, TN 37923 865-693-0011 www.webbschool.org Camp Zoo-Ability Chattanooga Zoo @ Warner Park City’s Therapeutic Recreation Program week-long day camp for individuals with cognitive or physical disabilities. 3 One-week Sessions Call Elaine Adams @ 697-1345 Adams_e@chattanooga.gov Chattanooga Arboretum and Nature Center 400 Garden Road Chattanooga, TN 37419 423-821-1160 kwaggener@chattanature.org www.chattanooganaturecenter. org Chattanooga School of Language Language camps for children and families. 423-802-2040 info@chattanoogalanguage. com wwww.chattanoogalanguage. com Chattanooga Theatre Center Academic Summer Camps
400 River Street Chattanooga, TN 37405 423-267-8534 www.theatrecentre.com Christian Academy of Knoxville CAK offers a wide variety of programs over the summer, including athletic and academic camps. 529 Academy Way, Knoxville, Tennessee 37923. 865-690-4721. www. cakwarriors.com. City of Chattanooga Parks & Recreation Department Kidz Kamp All City Recreation Centers Swimming, the Spray & Play at Warner Park, Special Events, Sports, Art, Wellness, Outdoor recreation, field trips and more. Register your child for the entire summer and save money! 4 two-week sessions Call Kim Battle at 643-6052 www.chattanooga.gov/ parks&recreation City of Knoxville Parks and Recreation Division Summer Playground Program All City Recreation Centers 865-215-1414 www.ci.knoxville.tn.us/ recreation/ UTC Challenger Learning Center Cosmic Space Quest Space/STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) 855 E. 5th St. Chattanooga, TN 37403 423-425-4126 UTC.edu/ChallengerCenter Creative Discovery Museum Spring Break & Summer Camps 321 Chestnut Street Chattanooga, TN 37405 423-756-2738 alb@cdmfun.org www.cdmfun.org
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March 2012 Creative Discovery Museum Science Theatre Multi-disciplinary science camp 255 Northgate Mall Chattanooga, TN 37415 423-875-8522 or 423-875-0818 CDMScienceTheatre.com Folk School Music Camp The Folk School of Chattanooga (formerly the Mountain Music Folk School) Music Day Camp
250 Forest Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37405 www.chattanoogafolk.com 423-827-8906 Girls Incorporated of Chattanooga Teen Career Academies Journalism, law, entrepreneurship and health SciGirls Summer Camp Summer day camp focusing on science. Girls aged 13–18 Various locations, downtown
Chattanooga. 423-624-4757 GirlsIncChattBlog.com Girls Preparatory School GPS Summer Programs Athletic/academic/ enrichment 205 Island Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37405 423-634-3457 GPS.edu/Camps Hickory Valley Christian School Summer Camp 6605 Shallowford Road Chattanooga, TN 37421
423-894-3200. info@hvcs.org www.hvcs.org The Little Gym of Knoxville A variety of daytime camps including: Secret Agent: Gyms Bond!, Cheerleading!, X-treme Sports of ALL Sorts , Hip-Hop Karate Chop!, The Little Gym Olympics. 7240 Kingston Pike, Unit 212, Knoxville, TN 37919. (865) 583-1166. www.thelittlegym. com/KnoxvilleTN/Pages/campschedules.aspx Knoxville Computer and Film Camp First Cumberland Presbyterian Church, Knoxville TN, 37919, 865-692-8385
Outdoor Chattanooga’s Overnight Expedition Camps New Skills. New Friends. Unforgettable Adventure. Appalachian Adventure Camp June 25-29 Ages 10-14 Tennessee River Gorge Adventure Camp July 23-27 Ages 12-16
www.outdoorchattanooga.com (423) 643-6888
Arnstein Jewish Community Center Knoxville Jewish Alliance Summer Camps 6800 Deane Hill Drive Knoxville, TN 37919 (865) 690-6343 www.jewishknoxville.org
McCallie School Summer Camps McCallie School 500 Dodds Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37404 423-493-5426 wce@mccallie.org www.summer.mccallie.org The Montessori School Montessori Day Camp and Schools Out Special Educational and specialty camp 300 Montessori Way Chattanooga, TN 37404 423-622-6366 TheMontessoriSchool.net Notre Dame Summer Camp 2701 Vermont Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37404 ACT/SAT Prep, Dance, Drama, Sports, Microsoft IT Academy Camp, Cooking, Art, Spiritual enrichment 423-624-4618 summercamp@myndhs.com www.myndhs.com OLPH Summer Camps & Programs
505 South Moore Road Chattanooga, TN 37412 622-1481 ksumrell@catholicweb.com www.olph.us Philanthropy Camp One-week day camp providing elementary-age children with opportunities to give back to their community. Jewish Federation of Greater Chattanooga, 5461 North Terrace Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37411. Phone: (423) 493-0270 www.jewishchattanooga.com Primrose Schools of East Brainerd and Hixson K–5th day camp CITA/CASI accredited 1619 Gunbarrel Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37421 423-499-5584 1985 Northpoint Blvd. Hixson, TN 37343 423-870-4840 MyPrimroseSchool.com Summer Camp program outdoor activities, arts and crafts, free-play, field trips including swimming, roller-
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Scan to learn more!
March 2012 skating, bowling, Putt-Putt, movies, Knoxville Zoo, etc. 711 Northshore Drive, Knoxville, TN 37919. Phone: 865.588.0415 Fax: 865.558.4139 Scenic Land School Day camp 1200 Mountain Creek Rd., Ste. 300 Chattanooga, TN 37405 423-877-9711 ScenicLandSchool.org St. Andrews Campo Coneccion de Puntos Education camp for Spanishspeaking children 1918 Union Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37404 423-432-8230 St. Jude School Summer Camp 930 Ashland Terrace Chattanooga, TN 37415 423-877-6022. ketherton@ stjudechattanooga.org. www. stjudechattanooga.org St. Nicholas School Summer Camp 7525 Min Tom Drive
Chattanooga, TN 37421 423-894-6485. kleckendy@stns. org. www.stns.org Stellar Therapy Services Occupational Therapy & Speech Therapy Handwriting, Socialization, Speech, Sensory, Fine Motor and Reading 6172 Airways Blvd, Suite 131 Chattanooga, TN 37421 423-622-1551 www.stellartherapy.com Sylvan Learning Center of Chattanooga 4295 Cromwell Road, Suite 309 Two-week camps are offered for students K-12 to provide supplemental and enrichment skill development in reading, writing and math. Chattanooga, TN 37421. 423894-8333. sylvanchattanooga@ yahoo.com. www. sylvanchattanooga.com La Petite Academy Summer Camp Knoxville, TN 37931 1-877-861-5078 www.lapetite.com
Sacred Heart Cathedral School 711 Northshore Drive Knoxville, TN 37919 Phone: 865.588.0415 www.shcschool.org St. Andrews–Sewanee School SAS Summer arts and sports camps 290 Quintard Rd. Sewanee, TN 37375 931-598-5651 SASWeb.org/SASSummer Tate’s Day Camp 1031 North Cedar Bluff Road Knoxville, TN 37923 865-690-9208 www.tatescamp.com
Summer camp SportS • FiNe artS • acaDemic
Notre Dame HigH ScHooL 423 624-4618 2701 Vermont Avenue, Chattanooga, TN 37404
Christian Summer Day Camp. Register online now!
Tennessee Aquarium Keeper’s Kids Spring Break & Summer Camps 800-262-0695 www.tnaqua.org West Side YMCA Summer Day Camp 400 North Winston Road, Knoxville, TN 37909 (865) 690-9622 www.ymcaknoxville.org
Learn more at www.myndhs.com
Pre-K 4 - 7th grade
Abba’s House, Hixson Eastwood Church, Ooltewah
www.campbigfish.org
(423) 400-1504
y a K Mc y a K Mc USED B
Be
RE S & MO , MOV IE ’S D C , O OK S
230 Papermill Pl Way Knoxville
immersed in the Arts.
E & MOR OV IES M , ’S CD 7734 Lee B Hwy O OK S , USED Chattanooga
NEXT TO THUNDER CREEK HARLEY DAVIDSON
STORE HOURS 9am-9pm Mon-Thurs 9am-10pm Fri/Sat 11am-7pm Sun
Admissions Open House Thursday, January 26, 2012 8:30 a.m. until noon Please call 423.267.8549 to make your reservation.
(SEASONLY STORE HOURS WILL VARY) MCKAYBOOKS.COM
1950 Hixson Pike · Chattanooga TN 37405 423.267.-8546 · www.brightschool.com
explore with your child!
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Music and movement!
Music, choral and dance camps can energize your summer by CP & Nicole Knauss
Summer Classes, Dance Camps And Intensives For All Ages! Founding Artistic Directors: Anna Baker-VanCura & Barry VanCura
Music & Dance Camps WWW.BalletTennessee.org (423) 821-2055 3202 Kelly’s Ferry Road, Chattanooga, TN 37419
I
t is easy to understand that the activities children and teens are involved in shape their lives and choosing the programs that will most significantly impact their overall development is daunting. Since there is a national focus on the importance of children leading a healthy and active life, there is an emphasis on sports and outdoor activities in today’s curriculum plans. What is publicized less in our society is how programs like choir, dance programs, music camps or theatre can be educational while also Choir was an uplifting experience for all of promoting physical health. Families these students, their musical development should consider summer programs that focus on both the mind and the just a part of the lessons they learned. body. In the past decade there have been many studies, research and articles dedicated to the impact of music education on children. The research agrees that music education, especially during the developmental years, nurtures a life long appreciation of music and helps develop self-esteem, teamwork, community building, cultural understanding and overall enhancement of academic skills in general. Studies across the globe are now proving a connection between singing in a group setting, enhanced health and positive emotional benefits. Researchers in Germany and California are making connections between performing and an increase in a singer’s level of immunity building proteins. In the UK’s Journal of the Royal Society for the Promotion of Health, there was a report about improved lung capacity, high energy, relieved asthma, better posture, and enhanced feelings of relaxation, mood, and confidence in singers. Even with proven benefits, music education as part of the school curricula has been on the decline. Faced with strict core class goals and budget cuts, more and more schools are scaling back or eliminating music programs from elementary and middle school curriculum. As cuts like this take place, the importance of educational activities outside of school programming is increasing. A well-organized program allows students to be actively and creatively engaged in learning in a group setting. The activities not only increase knowledge and understanding of the subject, they also promote an appreciation of the art form and build community within its participants. Summer arts programs are time well-spent for participants Photo: Chattanooga Girls Choir
Ballet Tennessee and VanCura Ballet Conservatory Summer dance camps 3202 Kelly’s Ferry Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37419 423-821-2055 BalletTennessee.org
Barking Legs Theatre Brain Dance & Circus camp 1307 Dodds Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37404 423-624-5347 BarkingLegs.org Cadek Conservatory of Music Suzuki Strings and Piano Summer Camp
Cadek Hall, UTC 725 Oak St. Chattanooga, TN 37403 423-425-4624 UTC.edu/Outreach/ CadekConservatory Chattanooga Boys Choir 423-634-2299 www.chattanoogaboyschoir.org
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Outdoor, Nature, & Adventure Camps
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“Summer Camp programs that emphasize nature, the outdoors and athletics teach children more than just facts, they instill healthy habits and attitudes that can shape their lives.” 423-629-7610 or 423-508-2218 BBSchool.org Camp Big Fish Abba’s House 423-400-1504 www.campbigfish.org
Photo: Outdoor Chattanooga
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generation ago 75% of children spent daily time playing freely in the outdoors. Reports from the National Wildlife Federation indicate that today only 25% of American children play outside on a regular basis. An alarming number of children spend up to 7 hours each day using electronic media. Childhood obesity rates have more than doubled. The U.S. has become the largest consumer of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) medications in the world and the pediatric use of antidepressants continues to rise. Exposure to natural settings may “widely effective” in reducing ADHD symptoms in children, according to researchers at the University of Illinois. Spending time outside is good for children. Jaime Matyas, the Executive Vice President of the National Wildlife Federation, says “Some say it takes a village to raise a child. NWF says it takes a backyard, a playground, a park.” Children who spend time reap rewards that impact socialization, learning and their future. Summer Camp programs that emphasize nature, the outdoors and athletics teach children more than just facts, they instill healthy habits and attitudes that can shape their lives. The National Wildlife Federation shares the following research: 1. Children who spend time outdoors as kids are more likely to care about wild things and wild places as adults. 2. Sunshine helps kids’ bodies create Vitamin D, essential to building strong bones and preventing disease. 3. In today’s over-scheduled world, kids need more R&R. Research shows stress levels fall within minutes of being outside. 4. When kids play outdoors they tend to foster compassion and improve social bonds. Free play in nature encourages positive social interactions and strengthen bonds with peers. 5. Overweight and obese children may have shorter life spans. Their risk for high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma, joint problems and fatty liver disease can shorten life spans. Exposing them to outdoor activities can help them maintain a healthy weight. 6. Kids who spend time outdoors learn teamwork and problem-solving skills. They also score higher on cognitive and standardized tests.
Outdoor, Nature & Adventure Camps
423-479-4523 or 423-472-2718 BachmanAcademy.org
Bachman Academy K–8 Camp Academic a.m./adventure p.m. 414 Brymer Creek Rd. McDonald, TN 37353
Baylor School Raider Days and All Sports camps 171 Baylor School Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37405 423-757-2616
BaylorSchool.org Boyd-Buchanan School Summer Camps Athletic and academic enrichment camps Half day or all day 4626 Bonnieway Dr. Chattanooga, TN 37411
Camp Hidden Hollow Christian, nature-oriented day camp 385 Hidden Hollow Ln. Chickamauga, GA 30707 706-539-1129
Boys, girls, & overnight. Archery, Art, Basketball, Environmental/Marine Biology, Football, Soccer, Swimming, Volleyball. 62 4-H Center Drive, Crossville, TN 38572. Phone : 931-788-2288. Fax: 931788-6003
Camp Vesper Point Office Address: 554 McCallie Ave Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 648-7936 info@vesperpoint.org
Camp Wesley Woods Residential camp that focuses on small group camping which encourages family values, group building, and developing relationships with God. 329 Wesley Woods Road, Townsend, TN 37882. Phone: (865) 448-2246. Phone: (865) 448-6556 Fax: (865) 448-3904. www. campwesleywoods.com.
Camp at Clyde M York 4-H Center.
Champions Club Tennis camp
423-870-3112 Lourenco_O@mail. Chattanooga.gov Chattanooga Arboretum & Nature Center 400 Garden Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37419 423-821-1160 ChattanoogaNatureCenter.org Chattanooga Basketball Camp for Boys Baylor School campus P.O. Box 4043 Chattanooga, TN 37405 423-425-4592 Cheri-Thomas@UTC.edu For brochure and application call 1-877-254-0028.
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Kiger Ranch Camp • Complete working ranch camp for youth 8-18 • General ranch work from the barn to the fence row • Basic horsemanship and cow work from the ground up • Practical ranch roping, cow penning, and cow cutting • 6-8 campers per session, lots of time in the saddle • A variety of horses to ride, or bring your own! Contact us today for more information or a visit: Kiger Ranch Camp 1141 Taliaferro Springs Rd Lyerly, Ga 30730 roknhorse0603@aol.com
706-506-5526 • facebook: Kiger Ranch Camp
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March 2012 Chattanooga Christian School Athletic camps 423-664-1238 GHenegar@CCSK12.com Chattanooga Little Gym 7540 E Brainerd Rd # 102 Chattanooga, TN 37421-3181 296-9001 www.thelittlegym.com
City of Knoxville Summer Payground Program a wide variety of recreational activities, including swimming, canoeing and field trips to the Knoxville Arts and Fine Crafts Center. For more information, call 865-215-1414.
Chattanooga Rowing Introduction to Rowing Coed, ages 13–18 William G. Raoul Boathouse 1001 Riverside Dr. Chattanooga, TN 37406 423-267-7059 ChattanoogaJuniorRowing.org; RowCJR.org
Clean Water Camp for kids TenneSEA, North Chickamauga Creek Conservancy & South Chickamauga Creek Greenway Alliance Leah Crisp, Program Coordinator Hamilton County Water Quality Program ph. 423-209-7851 hotline 423-209-7888
Chattanooga Zoo Zoo Summer Camp 1101 McCallie Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37404 423-643-5780 www.chattzoo.org
Eagle’s Rest Ranch Therapeutic Riding Tiftonia, Georgia 423-421-3205 ginger@eaglesrestranch. www.eaglesrestranch.com
City of Knoxville Junior Tennis Camps sessions for 6-13 years-old and Rising 8th grade-high school. Tyson Park and West Hills Park. Call 865-522-3303 for more information.
First Tee of Chattanooga P.O. Box 80153 Chattanooga, TN 37414 423-855-8535 TheFirstTeeChattanooga.org
Gym, Swim, and More Summer Camp! Gymnastics Center of Chattanooga and Ooltewah Swim Center Week-long Fun & Fitness Day Camps 6855 Mountain View Road, Ooltewah, TN 37363 Phone: 423-238-5258 Fax: 423238-5005 Web Address: www.gymcc.com Green’s Karate Traditional Karate Camp Martial arts 423-432-5280 GreensKarate.com Gymnastics Center of Chattanooga and Ooltewah Swim Center Gym, Swim and More Summer Camp 6855 Mountain View Rd. Ooltewah, TN 37363 423-238-5258 or 423-238-5005 Girls Incorporated of Chattanooga Summer Camps and Academies Girls only 709 Greenwood Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37404 423-624-4757 GirlsIncOfChatt.org
Girls Preparatory School GPS Summer Programs Athletic/academic/enrichment 205 Island Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37405 423-634-3457 GPS.edu/Camps Hamilton Heights Christian Academy Athletic camps 423-894-0597 DukeStone@HamiltonHeights. net Ijams Nature Center Camps sessions for ages varying from 4 to 18-years-old. Ijams Nature Center, 2915 Island Home Ave. Call 865-577-4717 or visit www. ijams.org for more information. Kids Camp City of Chattanooga Parks and Recreation Summer outdoor and art camps All 14 city recreation centers 423-643-6052 Kiger Ranch Camp Lyerly, GA 706-506-5526 roknhorse0603@aol.com Kyzer’s Soccer Center Soccer camp, UTC campus 423-425-2102. GoMocs.com The Little Gym of Knoxville A variety of daytime camps including: Secret Agent: Gyms Bond!, Cheerleading!, X-treme Sports of ALL Sorts , Hip-Hop Karate Chop!, The Little Gym Olympics. 7240 Kingston Pike, Unit 212, Knoxville, TN 37919. (865) 583-1166. www.thelittlegym. com/KnoxvilleTN/Pages/campschedules.aspx McCallie Summer Programs General camps, ahletic camps, special camps Day & sleepaway, some coed 500 Dodds Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37404 423-493-5852 or 493-5426 McCallie.org Milton Collins Day Camp Knoxville Jewish Alliance 6800 Deane Hill Drive, Knoxville, TN 37919. Tel. (865) 690-6343 Fax (865) 694-4861. http://www. jewishknoxville.org
National Horse Camp 1050 Ray Hixson Rd. Dunlap, TN 37327 (423)554-4677 Summer www.tnhorsevacation.com Notre Dame High School Discover the Spirit! Sports/fine arts/ academic/ spiritual enrichment 2701 Vermont Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37404 423-624-4618 MyNDHS.com Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic School Summer Fun @ OLPH Drama, art, music, sports, enrichment, nature, cheerleading, creative movement & after-camp care 505 S. Moore Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37412 423-622-1481 MyOLPH.com Outdoor Chattanooga Overnight Expedition Camps Appalachian Adventure Camp Tennessee River Gorge Adventure Camp 423-643-6888 www.outdoorchattanooga.com Peavine Creek Horse Camp Horseback riding camp Day and sleepaway camps P.O. Box 5631 Ft. Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-937-5359 Saddlebred-Horses.com Picture Perfect Swing Sports camp 2655 Sydney St. Chattanooga, TN 37408 423-321-3999 PicturePerfectSwing.com Rick Hall’s Tae Kwon Do Plus Summer Karate Camp 5145 Hixson Pike, Hixson, TN 37343. 423-877-3451 Sacred Heart Young Folks Summer Camp program outdoor activities, arts and crafts, free-play, field trips including swimming, rollerskating, bowling, Putt-Putt, movies, Knoxville Zoo, etc. 711 Northshore Drive, Knoxville, TN 37919. Phone: 865.588.0415 Fax: 865.558.4139 Sports Barn Spirit Camps 1790 Hamill Rd. Hixson, TN 37343 423-877-5433
SpiritBarnCheer.com St. Nicholas Summer Camp Day camp for 4- to 12-year-olds 7525 Mintom Dr., Chattanooga, TN 37421. 423-894-6485 or 423899-0109. StNS.org KLeckenby@StNS.org Tate’s Day Camp Traditional camp activities like swimming, arts & crafts, music, hands-on nature study, archery, boating, fishing, sports, games, and group initiative activities. 9215 Bob Gray. Knoxville, TN 37923. Phone: (865) 6909208. Fax: (865) 670-9229. Email: info@tatescamp.com. Facebook: www.facebook.com/ TatesCamp Tennessee Academy of Gymnastics TAG Fun Camp Gymnastic instruction, arts and crafts. 2501 Riverside Dr. Chattanooga, TN 37406 423-824-1924. TAGGym.com Tennessee Aquarium Keeper Kids Camp One Broad Street, Chattanooga, TN 37402 800-262-0695 University of Tennessee, Chattanooga Youth University Summer Enrichment Program UTC campus. 423-425-4344 Ginny-Reese@UTC.edu Urban Rocks Summer Camp 1007 Appling Street, Chattanooga, TN. 423-475-6578 www.urbanrocksgym.com UTC Summer Camps Softball Skills Camp for Girls ACA accredited. Warner Park 423-425-2107. UTC Lady Mocs Basketball Camp, Girls only. UTC campus. 423-425-4456 UTC Volleyball Camp. Girls only. 423-425-2227. GoMocs. com Webb School Sports, Adventure, and Specialty Camps Boys and girls, entering kindergarten through 7th grade. Various activities. 9800 Webb School Drive. Knoxville, TN 37923-3399. (865) 693-0011. www.webbschool.org
Special Needs Camps The Spirit Horse curriculum uses the specific methods used to restart the development of a brain hemisphere are now being used successfully with patients with traumatic brain injury, stroke, and cerebral palsy. Photo courtesy of Spirit Hourse Ranch
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he American Association of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry estimates that one in 10 schoolchildren are affected by a learning disorder like dyslexia, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or Asberger’s Syndrome, one of the autism spectrum disorders. Resources for children with special needs are a crucial component of the educational mix both in school settings and as a part of the summer experience. There are quality summer programs for children with special needs that include fun physical activity, cognitive programming and which address the issues particular to autism spectrum disorders. Eagles Rest Ranch, a wonderful local opportunity, uses the SpiritHorse curriculum developed by Charles Fletcher, providing services for individuals with mental, physical developmental disabilities, spinal cord and brain injuries, social disorders or youth at risk, as well as support for their families. “Summer camp programs are a great boost to confidence for children with special needs. When a program is tailored to children with special needs, they receive added support, structure, and a higher staff to participant ratio. In our programs, we use what we call “failure-free” activities. These activities are designed to be adaptable to different skill levels so that each child can enjoy success while experiencing a “just-right” challenge that boosts their confidence and self-esteem. When children experience success, they are more willing to take risks, which in turn leads to greater learning opportunities,” says Melissa Christopher, Occupational Therapist with Stellar Therapy.
Special Needs Camps Amputee Coalition’s Paddy Rossbach Youth Camp Ages 10-17 who have lost arms and/or legs or who were born with limb differences. The Joy Outdoor Education Center, 10117 Old 3 C Clarksville, OH 45113. 888/267-5669 ext. 8143, or e-mail camp@amputeecoalition.org. Bachman Academy Horse Camp at Bachman Academy BASEcamp at Bachman Academy 414 Brymer Creek Road McDonald, TN 37353 866-397-2267 (CAMP)
423-479-4523 horsecamp@bachmanacademy. org. BASEcamp@ bachmanacaemy.org Camp Zooability City of Chattanooga Chattanooga Zoo 423-697-1345 Elaine Adams - adams_e@ chattanooga.gov Chattanooga Therapeutic Riding Center Riding camp for children with disabilities 8395 Morin Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37421 423-899-9407 NARHA.org Creative Discovery Museum Friends Discover Camp
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“When a program is tailored to children with special needs, children receive added support, structure, and a higher staff to participant ratio. In our programs, we use what we call “failure-free” activities.” East Tennessee Children’s Hospital Rehabilitation Center 1025 Children’s Way Knoxville, TN 37922 865-690-8961 www.etch.com awoodle@etch.com Epilepsy Foundation of SE Tennessee One Siskin Plaza Chattanooga, TN 37403 866-570-1789 www.epilepsy-setn.org info@epilepsy-setn.org Fit One of Ooltewah Camp Awesome Special needs day camp 6857 Mountain View Rd. Ooltewah, TN 37363 423-238-5999 FitOneGym.com
Little TN Valley Educational Cooperative Birth to Three Pam Potocik 422 Ellis Avenue Maryville, TN 37804 800-481-9891 www.ltvec.org littletnvalley@bellsouth.net MDA Summer Camp Muscular Dystrophy Association Courtney Crawford 6408 Papermill Drive, Suite 230 Knoxville, TN 37919 865-588-1632 ccrawford@mdausa.org www.mda.org MDA Chattanooga Courtney Crawford 2115 Chapman Road, Suite 163 Chattanooga, TN 37421 423-855-0645. www.mdausa.org
Open Doors Tennessee Steve Johnson PO Box 58 Powell, TN 37849 865-437-77666 www.opendoorstn.com Rivers Way Outdoor Adventure Camp Tom Hanlon 889 Stoney Hollow Road Bluff City, TN 37618 423-538-0405 www.riversway.org Scenic Land School Aleta Kinsey 1200 Mountain Creek Road, Suite 300 Chattanooga, TN 37405 423-876-0398 akinsey@sceniclandschool.org www.sceniclandschool.org
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Does your child love animals? Be sure to check out Zoo Camp!
Half-day inclusive camp designed for children with autism 321 Chestnut St. Chattanooga, TN 37402 423-648-6040 or 423-267-9344 CDMFun.org Eagles Rest Ranch ERR has SpiritHorse Certified Equine-Assisted Healthcare Instructors and is a licensed 501(c)3 non-profit SpiritHorse Therapeutic Riding facility. www.eaglesrestranchriding. webs.com Ginger Brown SpiritHorse Therapeutic Riding Eagles Rest Ranch 423-421-3205 ginger@eaglesrestranch.com
Give your children language, and you give them the world.
Learn side-by-side your child in our new, integrative Parent-Child class! Take what you learn in class and make it a part of your daily lives at home.
Visit our website for a list of current language classes offered. www.chattanoogalanguage.com 423.802.2040
Mattress and Furniture Clearance Center Brand Name Mattresses and Bedroom Furniture 50-80% Off Retail Can Deliver
By Appointment Only 423-400-6233 Mention this ad for 10% off any item over $300.00
Hamilton Skate Place 7414 Goodwin Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421
423-899-1788
Siskin Early Learning Center Sarah Briggs 1602 Gunbarrel Road Chattanooga, TN 37421 423-643-4059 siskin.eastbrainerd@siskin.org The Speech and Hearing Center Pre-Reading, Sounds to Read Club 600 N. Holtzclaw Ave., Ste. 200 Chattanooga, TN 37404 423-622-6900 SpeechHearing.com The Speech Language Reading Center
Speech/language camps 1200 Mountain Creek Rd., Ste. 380 Chattanooga, TN 37405 423-877-5042 SLRCenter.net Stellar Therapy Services Specializing in language impairments, sensory integration, fine motor development, early literacy, autism, attention deficit disorder, handwriting, and other developmental issues. 6172 Airways Blvd, Suite 122 Chattanooga, TN 37414 423-622-1551 phone www.stellartherapy.com
Tennessee Camp for Diabetic Children Overnight diabetic camp 2622 Lee Pk. Soddy-Daisy, TN 37379 423-843-5006 TNCDC.org Tennessee Jaycee’s Camp Discovery Located on the Flynn’s Creek area of Cordell Hull Lake in Jackson County, Tennessee. Contact Paul Ottinger at 615556-3887 for more information. TN Jaycees Foundation, Inc. University Tower- Suite 600 651 East Fourth Street Chattanooga, TN 37403
SCENIC LAND SCHOOL
www.hamiltonskate.com e Int
nsive Inter v en
nP
rogram
Reading, Math & Writing
tio
THE HILL CENTER
8:
HOURS PER DAY
ACADEMIC SUMMER PROGRAM
1:5
TO 11:30 30
3
May 29 to Jun. 29
FACULTY TO STUDENT RATIO
AM
5 Week Program Limited Space Available
Eagles Rest Ranch Spirit Horse Therapeutic Riding www.eaglesrestranch.com 423-421-3205
Learning Differences & Remediation
(423) 877-9711
www.ScenicLandSchool.org
1200 Mtn. Creek Rd. Suite 300 Chattanooga, TN 37405
Posh Diggs, Inc.
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...continued from page 5 Camp Timberlake for Boys Christian camp, ACA accredited 1123 Montreat Rd. Black Mountain, NC 28711 828-669-8766 CampTimberlake.com Camp Quest of the Smoly Mountains Contact Jonas Holdeman 1056 Lovell Road Knoxville, Tennessee 37932. (865) 966-6478. www. rationalists.org/cq/index.php. Camp Vesper Point Ministry of First Presbyterian Church Summer Christian camp 3216 Lee Pk. Soddy Daisy, TN 37379 423-648-7936. VesperPoint.org Camp Wesley Woods Residential camp that focuses on small group camping which encourages family values, group building, and
developing relationships with God. 329 Wesley Woods Road, Townsend, TN 37882. Phone: (865) 448-2246. Phone: (865) 448-6556 Fax: (865) 448-3904. www. campwesleywoods.com.
37882. 865-448-6709 Mastering Skills in Mountains Wilderness adventure camp 931-598-5651. 290 Quintard Road Sewanee, Tennessee 37375. SASWeb.org
Camp Woodmont Coed, ACA accredited 381 Moonlight Dr. Cloudland, GA 30731 706-398-0833 CampWoodmont.com
Riverview Camp for Girls 757 County Road 614 Mentone, AL 35984 800-882-0722 info@riverviewcamp.com www.riverviewcamp.com
Darlington School Darlington Summer Programs Specialty sports, scholastic, traditional day and sleepaway camps. 1014 Cave Spring Rd. Rome, GA 30161 706-235-6051 or 800-368-4437 DarlingtonSchool.org/Summer
Sports International Erron Kinny Football Camp Boys only, ages 8–18 Lipscomb University campus Nashville, TN 800-555-0801 FootballCamps.com
Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont Coed. General Outdoors, Backpacking, Hiking, Science, General Arts and Crafts. 9275 Tremont Road, Townsend TN,
UT Knoxville Volleyball Camps Camp I: Setting Camp Date:July 9 (9:00am-12:00pm). Camp II: Hitter Camp - July 9, (1:00pm-4:00pm), Camp III: Team Camp I - July 9-12, Camp IV: Serving Camp July 20 (1:00pm-4:00pm), Camp V: Overnight Individual - July 20-23, Camp VI: Team
Camp II - July 23-25. (865)-9748847. utvbcamp@hotmail.com. https://tennesseesportcamps. com/womensvolleyball/camps. php Valley View Ranch Equestrian Camp Girls only, CHA accredited 606 Valley View Ranch Rd. Cloudland, GA 30731 706-862-2231
ValleyViewRanch.com YMCA Camp Ocoee Coed, ACA accredited 111 YMCA Dr. Ocoee, TN 37361 423-338-5588 info@campocoee.com CampOcoee.com
St. Andrews - Sewanee School (SAS) Summer 290 Quintard Road Sewanee, TN 37375 931-598-5651 sassummer@sasweb.org www.sasweb.org/sassummer
Playing It 4.5 million children are injured at home each year. How safe is your home? Safe & Sound at Children’s Hospital encourages you to follow these tips to make your home a safe haven. • Install smoke detectors on every level and test them monthly. • Prepare a fire escape plan to identify at least one exit out of every room and a meeting place outside. • Remain in the kitchen while food is cooking on the stovetop. • Post the Poison Control Hotline (1-800-222-1222) along with other important numbers by each phone. • Install child locks on all cabinets used to store dangerous items such as knives, matches, cleaning supplies, and medications. • Always supervise children in around pools, ponds, bathtubs, and buckets • Keep the water heater less than 120 degrees. For more information call (423) 778-6691 or visit safekids.org.
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H
The Pile High Club
ello, my name is Alison, and I am a pile-oholic. It has been twenty-one days since my last pile and I truly believe that I am finally on a path towards a clutter-free life. When I was twenty-four and living in Chicago, my best friend took me to her grandparents’ house for dinner one night. When I asked her grandfather what he did for a living he replied, “Well, the Mrs. and I are both pilots.” A little shocked and very impressed I replied, “Really? You are both pilots. That’s amazing!” He laughed and said, “Oh yes, just look around our house. We pile it here, we pile it there, we pile it everywhere.” At the time I was single, living in a 610-square-foot studio apartment and didn’t have the need, much less the luxury, to pile anything anywhere, except for my clothes on the floor of my closet. I never imagined that someday I would become a pilot too. As a mother of three, I have to keep up with the countless papers, bills, magazines, invitations, solicitations and junk mail that are the necessary evils of my daily life, while simultaneously contending with the many notes, worksheets, artwork, notices and other surprises that come home in our kids’ backpacks on a daily basis. And no matter what I do, it all ends up in piles on our kitchen counter. Sometimes the piles are strategically organized according to owner. Sometimes I try to stack them according to theme – school piles,
“But three weeks ago I had a cluttervention. While having dinner with a group of women, I started confessing my sins as a proven pileoholic and then asked my friend Lisa if she happened to suffer from the same syndrome.”
work piles, personal piles, no idea what to do with them piles. But these tactics only prove futile and frustrating. So I usually end up consolidating everything into one huge pile and arranging the documents in order of priority, with the more time sensitive papers on top. And while this minimizes the number of piles it also yields a tower so tall that it threatens to topple at the slightest touch. Unfortunately, the kitchen counter is merely the first stop along a series of piles carefully constructed and strategically placed around our house. It is essentially the initial port of entry to a sea of endless sorting and piling that ultimately leads to either a final resting place or, more likely, the recycling bin. But three weeks ago I had a cluttervention. While having dinner with a group of women, I started confessing my sins as a proven pile-oholic and then asked my friend Lisa if she happened to suffer from the same syndrome. Not wanting to hurt my feelings, she reluctantly admitted that she was actually pretty tidy and that her house was essentially clutter-free. “You have zero clutter? No piles? No stacks? How do you do it?” I begged. I had to know her secret and somehow learn from her example. She told me, “It’s all because of my mother’s one-touch rule.” She went on to explain that her mom had always required them to find a place for everything in their house on the first touch, and Lisa has since carried on that tradition. For instance, when she wakes up in the morning and pulls the sheets down, she then gets out of bed and, still holding onto the sheet, proceeds to make the bed. One touch. When she gets the mail she promptly sorts it, putting the trash in the recycling bin, the bills in a special basket and all other materials where they need to be without waiting until later. One touch. And even when she does laundry the clothes go from the dryer to folded stacks that are instantly put into drawers. Once again, one touch. This sounded so simple and yet completely revolutionary. Our boys have always followed a strict “one-touch” rule as well, but theirs entails grabbing clothes out of their drawers and throwing them onto the floor if they don’t feel like wearing them that day. Not quite the same “one touch” she was suggesting. That night I came home and immediately sorted through every pile in ever corner of my house. I decided that my house would start to mirror my cutlery drawer and I would find a consistent, neatly organized and appropriate place for everything in it. By midnight I could finally see things I hadn’t been able to view in years – including my kitchen counter, the laundry room shelf and even the desk in my office, which apparently is made of glass and not copy paper. Instead of a twelve-step program, I have been following the one-touch rule ever since. My husband came home from work a few days ago and joked, “I am really sick of not seeing any more piles around here.” Luckily he hasn’t seen my closet.
Got feedback for Alison? Contact her at AlisonLebovitz.com or post feedback to her column at ChattanoogaParentOnline.com.
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A father’s role—Fostering love for the natural world By Kyle Waggener
M
y wife and I have always loved the outdoors, often going hiking, camping, backpacking or birding. When our daughter was born, I wondered what impact this new addition would have on our outdoor pursuits. We read many books about child rearing in the months leading up to Rhiannon’s birth. All of the authors encouraged new parents to go about their lives, business as usual, and take your child along. So that’s what we did. We wanted to foster a love for the natural world in our daughter. Recent studies have shown that the two most important factors are positive, direct experiences in nature and being taken outdoors by an adult close to the child. Unstructured free play time outdoors comes with many other benefits for children. Research shows that children who play in nature Photo courtesy April Waggener. experience cognitive benefits including creativity, problem-solving skills, increased focus, and selfdiscipline. The social benefits of outdoor play include better cooperation, flexibility, and self-awareness. The emotional benefits include stress reduction, reduced aggression, and increased happiness. Outdoor experiences kept us pursuing our hobbies and the experts said that it was good for our daughter’s well-being. From an early age Rhiannon went along on hiking and camping trips with us. We had a baby carrier backpack and she often fell asleep to the motion of the backpack as we hiked. The few moments that she was awake, I would notice the fascinated look in her eyes as she looked up to the trees along the path. One of the keys to fostering a love for nature is unstructured play time in nature. This comes naturally for children and Rhiannon has never had a problem finding something to play with in nature. This seems odd to me because she has a lot of toys at home but often complains of being bored. sNot so when we’re outside. When we go camping and sit around the campfire Rhiannon loves to play restaurant. She gets a stick and a piece of bark and takes our meal and drink orders. Then she’ll go behind a log and pretend to cook our meal. She brings us rocks, acorns and other natural objects on a big leaf that serves as the plate. Somehow her imaginary restaurant always seems to be out of what I’ve ordered and she gives me something else and tells me to eat it anyway. But I’m a good customer and never complain. When she joins me on bird walks that I lead Rhiannon disappears into the tall grass, only her hat visible, pretending to be a Serengeti lion sneaking up on her prey. I feel like our efforts have paid off. When Rhiannon was four, we went on an overnight backpacking trip to Savage Gulf. We had just packed up to hike back to the car after breakfast in a beautiful campsite overlooking Big Creek Gulf Kyle is the Director of Education at the Chattanooga Arboretum and Nature Center. He and his wife April celebrate their family outdoors as often as they can while he teaches the community how to do that in their own families.
“When she joins me on bird walks that I lead, Rhiannon disappears into the tall grass, only her hat visible, pretending to be a Serengeti lion sneaking up on her prey.”
and Rhiannon and I were hiking along the trail holding hands. About 10 minutes down the trail she started crying. I thought that it was way too soon for her to be tired from hiking so I stopped and asked her what was wrong. Through her sobs she said “I don’t want to leave.”
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