Memphis Parent, January 2017

FRE E

JANUARY 2017

T H E E D U C AT I O N I S S U E

INTEREST VS INTERFERENCE

12 TIPS TO HELP PARENTS SURVIVE SCHOOLWORK

PLUS

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS FOR FAMILIES

AND

NEW TV GUIDELINES FOR TODDLERS & BIG KIDS

CURIOUS. CREATIVE. BRIGHT. SHE’S ST. MARY’S. Discover your daughter’s full potential. Our community cultivates creativity, celebrates individuality, and challenges girls to go beyond their perceived limits to be all they can be.

Set up a tour: www.stmarysschool.org or call 901-537-1405 ©2016 St. Mary’s Episcopal School. All rights reserved.

Senior Kindergarten The Senior Kindergarten Sneak-a-Peek is a morning for prospective senior kindergarten boys and their parents to learn more about PDS’s SK program. See how we teach boys, reach them, and channel their energies in positive and productive ways.

Boys will spend time in an SK classroom while parents hear from Debbie Isom, early childhood head, and SK teachers.

8:30-9:30am

Thursday, January 26 Registration is required. Space is limited.

Presbyterian Day School BUILDING BETTER BOYS 4025 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38111 901.842.4600 | pdsmemphis.org

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memphis-parent

memphisparent

memphisparent

memphisparent

THIS MONTH

Montessori School

FEATURES

OUR COVER KID

16

pe

by Harris Coo

r and Russell

Threshold

581 Ellsworth Memphis, TN 38111

901-327-4980

Gersten

“Building the Joy of Learning”

Hallie (7) with her Mom, Ericka Milford Photos: Louis Tucker

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18

by Christina Katz

by Michelle McKissack

The Joy of Resolutions

Favorite activity: Going shopping!

Favorite color: Green Favorite food: Crawfish

Is TN Ready for Testing?

Opening time 6:30 a.m.

Starting Students at 18 months.

Close to U of M, Midtown and East Memphis.

We accept DHS vouchers.

Visit us at ThresholdMontessori.com

DEPARTMENTS 6 #901Fun Basketball tricks, Movie madness, Lego love

22 Calendar & Events Indoor activities, Parenting workshops & more

8 What’s Cookin’ An old-fashioned cookie gets an update

31 Favorite Moments Cute pics of the kiddos

11 Health Matters New guidelines for kids’ screen time

OUR STAFF Editor Michelle McKissack Art Director Bryan Rollins Advertising Art Director Christopher Myers Advertising Graphic Designer Jeremiah Matthews Advertising Manager Sheryl Butler Production Operations Director Margie Neal Calendar Editor Meena Viswanathan Copy Editor Shara Clark STATEMENT OF PURPOSE Memphis Parent strives to provide information of value to all who are invested in our children’s future.

Memphis Parent is published by Contemporary Media, Inc. Publisher/CEO Kenneth Neill Director of New Business Development Jeffrey A. Goldberg Editorial Director Bruce VanWyngarden Chief Operating Officer Molly Willmott Events Manager Jackie Sparks-Davila Marketing/Communications Manager Kendrea Collins Email Marketing Manager Britt Ervin Distribution Manager Lynn Sparagowski Controller Ashley Haeger IT Director Joseph Carey 460 Tennessee Street, Suite 200 Memphis, TN 38103 p: 901.521.9000 • f: 901.521.0129 Send advertising queries to: sheryl@memphisparent.com Visit us online at memphisparent.com

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New

r ente C d hoo d l i h yC Earl

EDITOR’S NOTE MICHELLE McKISSACK

michelle@memphisparent.com

Academic Excellence since 1922 Schedule a visit and discover the ICCS Advantage.

Coed Preschool – 8th Grade New Early Childhood Center All-Girls High School 1695 Central Ave | Memphis

MyICCS.org

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TOWARD THE END OF LAST YEAR, in fact on the last day of school before winter break, I found myself that morning with no lunch food and my 5-year-old daughter, Bliss, refusing to eat at the school cafeteria as we left home. Despite running late, we made a quick pit stop at Miss Cordelia’s, our neighborhood grocery store, and we scurried through the aisles grabbing lunchmeat, a loaf of bread, juice drinks, and a sack of tangerines.

I even had to buy lunch baggies because we were out of those, too. Somehow we made it to school on time, and there in the classroom to the amusement of my daughter’s wonderful teacher, I assembled Bliss’ lunch. I patted myself on the back and called that a “win!” in the parenting category. Maybe it was an ugly win, but a win nonetheless. She didn’t go hungry.

I don’t know about you, but I was so ready for my kids to have a break from school, homework, and everything else, which also meant a little break for me, too. But we are refreshed now and ready to begin 2017 with fervor, and that includes tackling that homework. From my kindergartner to my middle schooler and even my son in high school, sometimes I feel like I’m going through school all over again with my kids. I wasn’t alone in this sentiment.

Ericka, the mom of our cover kid Hallie, and I had so much fun talking during the cover shoot (see below) about all sorts of things and homework was one of them. We both agree that homework is not what it used to be when we were in school.

In the “Homework 101” story (page 16) we have some tips to help your student get the most out of the assignments going into the second semester without you (me, too) going overboard in helping them. By the way, Ericka is not a helicopter parent in real life, she was just playing one for our story.

Also in this Education issue, now that class is back in session, we show how the state of Tennessee is tackling improving education and the testing of students in “Is TN Ready for Testing?” (page 18).

This new year brings new beginnings in many respects for a lot of people and that’s no different for us here at Memphis Parent.

Every now and then you have to mix up your family’s meals to keep dinner fresh and interesting to the palate. Well, we’re doing the same thing here at Memphis Parent. The department Family Table is now called What’s Cookin’ but it still features great recipes and the stories to go along with them, but the title reflects the on-the-go lifestyle we all seem to have these days, where sometimes you settle down for dinner at the table and sometimes you don’t. But regardless, what’s cookin’ always hits the spot.

Finally, another change you’ll notice is that the Around Town section is now called #901Fun. Again, still showcasing some of the awesome events pulled from our monthly calendar but embracing that pride in the “9-0-1” that parents in the greater Memphis area have of all the cool events happening around town. And who doesn’t love using a hashtag?! (LOL, ) Happy Parenting and Happy New Year!

WHAT AGE SHOULD CHILDREN

FIRST SEE THEIR PEDIATRIC DENTIST? AGE 5 AGE 3 AGE 1 Yes, that’s right!

Actually within 6 months of their first birthday!

Mw! o A X rT E eEn Unde lue) E FRr Childr 2 Va w Patie.nts Fo $6or Detaixlsp.irNese 1/31/e1i7ncurred a ( Call f Only. E s may b ases. c e al fe ual ition divid Add in in

Pediatric Dentists

Steven J. Fuson, D.D.S., M.S., John A. Acosta, D.D.S., Toddrick Smith, D.D.S., Ryan Wilson, D.D.S.

Family Dentists

Clayton Floriani, D.D.S., Natalie Carruth, D.D.S., Adam Fitzhugh, D.D.S.

Orthodontists

Bob Lorentz, D.D.S., M.S., Gregg Bouldien, D.D.S., M.S.

Germantown

901.453.4382 Kirby

www.pdg4kids.com

901.453.4383

Olive Branch

662.985.6047 Southaven

662.985.6048

SUCCESS

GROWS HERE Woodland combines small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and personalized instruction to help grow your child’s success.

Call 901-685-0976 to schedule a tour, or email admissions@woodlandschool.org.

A co-ed, 2-year-old – 8th grade independent school in the heart of East Memphis. | woodlandschool.org ©2016 Woodland Presbyterian School. All rights reserved.

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#901FUN

Apply Today

Get up, get out, and go have some #901Fun around town

Academics that inspire.

Legacies that endure.

PK - 5th • Germantown 6th - 12th • Cordova

FUN

Community Education

Saturday School Jan. 28 – March 4 | Ages 5–18 REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR ALL SPRING PROGRAMS

DRAWING PAINTING PHOTOGRAPHY SCULPTURE ILLUSTRATION FAMILY ART WORKSHOPS AFTER SCHOOL SESSIONS PRIVATE LESSONS AND MORE!

1930 Poplar Ave. | Overton Park | Memphis, TN 38104 901.272.5116 | commed@mca.edu | mca.edu 6 6

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The Original Harlem Globetrotters are preparing to return to Memphis, bringing their 2017 World Tour to the FedExForum on Saturday, Jan. 7, at 7 p.m. A starstudded roster will have fans on the edge of their seats to witness the ball-handling wizardry, basketball artistry, and one-of-a-kind family entertainment that thrills fans of all ages. New this season, the Globetrotters will debut basketball’s first 4-point line. It will be located 30 feet from the basket — that’s more than 6 feet beyond the top of the NBA’s current 3-point line. Visit harlemglobetrotters.com/ event/fedexforum for ticket info.

It doesn’t get any better than January 2017 at the Pink Palace Family of Museums.

A new planetarium show, exhibits, and IMAX films are all opening at the Museum and CTI 3D Giant Theater.

The Back to the Moon for Good planetarium show opens January 2; Wild Africa 3D opens January 7; and the Extreme Deep: Mission to the Abyss exhibit opens January 21. Oh wait, it does get better. Saturdays and Sundays in January, see all of the Lord of the Rings movies on the giant screen with a state-of-the-art sound system. Plus, The Birds and the Seeds Winter Workshop and Seed Swap takes place on January 28 at the Lichterman Nature Center. Explore memphismuseums.org for details on these events and so much more at the Pink Palace.

The LEGO Batman Build Event. Saturday, January 28, 4 p.m. Celebrate the release of The LEGO Batman Movie, collect two limited-edition trading cards, take part in make-and-play themed events with LEGO bricks and blocks, and enjoy giveaways.

Free. Barnes and Noble at Wolfchase Galleria, 2774 N. Germantown Parkway, 3862468.

There are many ways to help kids who stutter...

WHATEVER YOUR JOURNEY, WE’VE GOT YOUR BACK. At Briarcrest, we believe in the journey of discovery. The stops and starts. The challenges and the breakthroughs. Whether it’s academics, athletics, fine arts or missions, we are with your student all of the way. To schedule a tour, call 901.765.4605 or visit www.briarcrest.com.

F I N D

Y O U R

B A L A N C E

Doing nothing is not one of them!

THE

STUTTERING FOUNDATION

®

A Nonprofit Organization Since 1947—Helping Those Who Stutter

800-992-9392 StutteringHelp.org tartamudez.org

Open Houses: Houston Levee Elementary & Middle — Thurs. Jan. 12 @ 8:30 a.m.

School Wide (Houston Levee & East Memphis) — Sun. Jan. 29 @ 2:00 p.m.

M E M PH I S PA R ENT.COM

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WHAT’S COOKIN’

GOURMET OREO TRUFFLES Something old is new again

By ALEXANDRIA ROBINSON

It’s a new year and what better way to celebrate than with an old-fashioned cookie. The Oreo cookie, first created in 1912 by Nabisco, celebrates 105 years of delighting kids — and kids at heart — this year. Growing up, I loved coming home from school and enjoying the chocolatey goodness of an Oreo cookie with an ice-cold glass of milk. But here’s a twist on the Oreo that would be fun to make with your kids for an after-dinner treat: the Oreo Truffle. The kids will think they’re making something really special with a fancy name, but it is super easy to make and requires no baking.

INGREDIENTS 1 PACK AGE

of Oreo cookies

8 OZ. PACK AGE

of Philadelphia cream cheese filling

T WO 11.5 OZ. PACK AGES

of chocolate chips I like to use milk chocolate and white chocolate, but it’s really up to interpretation

DIRECTIONS First, crush the Oreos, with either a blender or a food processor. You want them to be finely crumbled. Then, mix (with a mixer/blender/food processor) the crumbled Oreos with the Philadelphia cream cheese until it’s nicely blended. This is the center of your truffle. Put the bowl with the Oreo cream cheese mixture in the refrigerator until it’s firm enough to be manipulated, about an hour (30 minutes in the freezer). Roll the mixture into cookiedough sized balls. You should have about 18-22 balls. Then, leave the balls in the refrigerator for as long as possible, so that they don’t melt when you dip them. Sometimes I do the prep work the evening before I plan to eat them, so I leave them in the fridge overnight. After your balls are sufficiently hard enough, melt the chocolate chips. If you’re like me and you don’t have a double boiler, create a makeshift one by boiling water in a pot and then putting your (heat-safe) bowl on top of the pot. Dip the balls in the melted chocolate. Set on wax paper until they’ve cooled, and then the Oreo Truffles are read to enjoy!

Alexandria Robinson is a freelance writer and sophomore at UNC-Chapel Hill. She loves making Oreo truffles for her family when she comes home to Memphis during her college breaks.

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OREO COOKIE

Fun Facts Oreos are the world’s best-selling cookie.

More than 25 varieties have been made to cater to tastes in other countries.

It takes 59 minutes to make one cookie.

If all the Oreos ever made were stacked, they would reach to the moon and back more than 5 times!

Source: Kraft Foods

OPEN HOUSE: SUNDAY, JANUARY 22 2-4PM

I found my True North .

Swimming Lessons

• Ages 6mo and Up • Baby & Me Classes • Private Swim Lessons • Group Lessons

Year ‘round in our HEATED indoor pool!

SCUBA RANGERS Come Join the Fun with Scuba Rangers Ages 8 - 11

• Scuba Skills • Accomplishment • Community Awareness • Teamwork • Goal setting • Snorkel & Scuba Classes • Confidence Gift Cards make great gifts!

999 South Yates, Memphis, TN 901-763-3483 www.diveshop1.com

Maybe it’s theatre. Or math. Or music. Whatever your child’s passion and inspiration, we will help them to discover and develop it. All in a Christcentered, nurturing environment that prepares them for their unique future.

7400 Getwell Road Southaven, MS 38672 662.349.5127 www.ncstrojans.com

Notice of Nondiscriminatory Policy as to Students Northpoint Christian School seeks to admit students of any race, color or ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally made available to our students. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admission policies, financial aid programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

M E M PH I S PA R ENT.COM

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The Primary Choice Boys & Girls, 2K-6th St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School

Learning Today Leading Tomorrow

Church Health

“Church Health saved my life”.

Linda, patient

caring from Crosstown begins February 2017

OPEN HOUSE Tuesday, January 31, 2017, 9:00a.m.-11:00a.m.

Grades 3K-8, Part-time Program Ages 2-4

Challenging classes and programs for advanced students Specialized programs to support students with learning differences

2100 N. Germantown Pkwy.

Cordova, TN 38016 901-388-7321 www.sfawolves.org

churchhealth.org/give

rock the presidents Memphisparent.ad.caringfrom.12.5.16.indd 1

“Sincerely entertaining for both kids and grownups!” -Phoenix New Times

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3 • 6:30pm HISTORIC ORPHEUM THEATRE Tickets: Orpheum-Memphis.com • (901) 525-3000 10

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Sponsored in part by:

12/5/2016 1:08:36 P

HEALTH MATTERS

RELAX! SOME SCREEN TIME IS NOT ALL BAD

New guidelines for screen time stress education & parental involvement

By JENNIFER WILLIAMS-FIELDS @JennifWFields

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recently released a new, more relaxed, set of guidelines for children and screen time. The original guidelines, set in 1999 before every home had an iPad and Wi-Fi, recommended no screen time for children under age two. The new guidelines acknowledge parents are going to let their children use technology and watch TV; they just want you to watch with them. The new AAP guidelines reinforce there should be no solo screen time for any age.

BABIES UNDER 18 MONTHS The AAP still recommends no screen time with the exception of live video chat such as Facetime or Skype. The report says there is no recognized evidence that babies benefit from video chat, yet parents consistently say video chat isn’t the same as in front of a television or iPad. Natalie Schwartz, a Memphis mother of three children under the age of seven, used Skype and video chat to help her kids stay connected to their grandparents while they were away on a 20-month mission trip.

“Every Sunday evening we had family time over Facebook with my parents in Thailand. At the time, the baby was just two months old. But he would laugh and smile when he saw grandma on the screen,” she says.

Schwartz and her family surprised the grandparents at the airport on their return home.

“My baby, who at that point in his life had only seen my parents via a screen, knew who my parents were and willingly and excitedly ran up to them and let my mom hold him because she wasn't a stranger. She was just grandma, who was normally stuck in the screen,” remembers Schwartz. “That airport moment alone is worth it to let my young kids consistently video chat my parents.”

BABIES 18–24 MONTHS The AAP says parents should look for high-quality programming to introduce to their children.

Although the AAP doesn’t recommend specific programs, they do encourage parents to sit with their children and watch. Again, interaction between adult and child is key.

These new recommendations don’t address earlier studies that found children who started watching TV younger than one year old were six

times more likely to have language delays. The report does say that problems with excessive media-viewing happen when it replaces physical activity, sleep, and face-to-face social interaction.

Kayla Curlee, mom to 5-year-old Abigail, didn’t need the AAP to remind her to choose educational viewing. Curlee started playing iPad games alongside Abigail when she turned one year old.

“When she was younger, I would explain to her it was a cow, and a cow says ‘moo.’ It helped with her learning where she could see it, hear it, and play with it,” says Curlee. “It really is a great learning tool. And she definitely hasn’t had any learning delays because of it.”

In fact, the Mother’s Day Out Program her daughter attends has regular iPad learning time built into their schedule.

PRESCHOOL AGES 2–5 For those parents who have managed to hold off introducing technology to their babies, the AAP says screen use should be limited to one hour per day. At this age, the AAP says parents should help children apply what they are watching to the world around them. Watch the show with your child, talk about the show with your child, and apply the show to your family life.

Stephanie Biggs has successfully managed to keep television, iPads, and iPhones out of her young children’s life. She limits their TV time to one family show per week that they watch as a family. Although she started instilling in her children early to not rely on electronics for entertainment, with no Wi-Fi or cable in her house she says it actually hasn’t been much of a challenge to keep them unplugged, even though they are now elementary school-aged and surrounded by peers who watch TV.

“I chose this lifestyle because I wanted my kids to rely on their imagination,” says Biggs. “It’s worked because my kids never say they are bored.”

Although Biggs acknowledges what works for her family doesn’t necessarily work for everyone’s, she says she has encountered very little judgment from others about her low-tech family lifestyle.

“I don’t announce my family’s choices to everyone I meet, only when it’s appropriate and I know the other family well,” she says. “Most people can relate so really it’s not an issue.”

AGES 6 AND OLDER The new guidelines don’t lay out specific screenviewing time limits for school-age children. At this age, parents are cautioned to watch for a balance of media use with other healthy behaviors.

Be sure all screens are turned off at a designated time so as to not interfere with sleep Incorporate media-free family time, such as at dinner or in the car Schedule a daily dose of physical activity before any inactive screen time Have open and ongoing communication with your child about online bullying, safety, and respect for others Although most parents agree these new guidelines won’t change their family screen-time rules much, if at all, the new rules are a step in the direction of incorporating technology into modern family living.

To help parents define healthy boundaries for media time, the AAP created an online interactive Family Media Plan. Available in both English and Spanish, the plan allows parents and caregivers to designate screen-free times and zones, as well as set hourly limits per family member.

Jennifer Williams-Fields is passionate about writing, yoga, traveling, public speaking, and being a fabulous single momma to six super kids. Her first book, Creating A Joyful Life: The Lessons I Learned From Yoga and My Mom, is now available on Amazon. Find her on Facebook, Twitter (@JennifWFields), or her blog, Downdogs and Deadlines.

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ADVERTORIAL

Should my daughter receive the HPV vaccine?

As a local OBGYN known for using natural remedies and bio-identical hormone therapies, I get questions like this one all of the time. Most pediatricians in the area recommend starting the HPV vaccination series around age 9-12, long before young girls are exposed to the virus. Many mothers are disturbed to think that their very young daughters could be candidates for this vaccine at such a young age. Many turn to friends, family, the internet, and other doctors they trust for advice — I guess that’s where I come in.

HPV vaccines are marketed as a preventative medication for cervical cancer — a marketing strategy that makes them hard to say no to. After all, who would want their daughter to get a preventable cancer? What HPV vaccines really do is increase immunity to between two and nine different types of human papilloma virus (HPV), some of which are known to cause cervical cancers. There are actually more than forty types of HPV that infect the genital tract, fifteen of which are considered “high-risk” for cervical cancer.

The most common types are prevented by the HPV vaccines, and the goal is to prevent the majority of cervical cancers by stopping the spread of HPV. The reason that pediatricians want to start the vaccine so young is simple — the young are the most likely to get the virus. Many experts estimate that 75% of sexually active adolescents and young adults are infected with at least one strain of HPV. Condoms are not as useful in the prevention of the spread of HPV because the virus is spread primarily by contact and not by body fluid exchange. This makes all sexually active young people highly susceptible to infection and therefore good candidates for vaccination.

Balé Folclórico da Bahia Sunday, January 29, 2017 at 7:00 PM

The only professional folk dance company in Brazil, Balé Folclórico da Bahia is a 38-member troupe of dancers, musicians and singers that performs a spectacular repertory based on “Bahian” folkloric dances of African origin including capoeira (a form of martial arts), samba and those celebrating Carnival.

Funded in part by the Tennessee Arts Commission

So what advice do I give to my patients who are wondering whether to vaccinate?

My response is simple: HPV vaccines are no different than any other vaccine. All vaccines have very slight risks of side effects — most of which are mild. Vaccines also have benefits to both the individual and society at large by preventing the spread of infection.

As an OBGYN, though, I have particular concerns when it comes to HPV vaccination. My biggest concern is that women who have gotten the vaccine will feel overprotected. What do I mean by that? One example is that I have personally heard two different health care professionals say to large groups of physicians that if HPV vaccination were mandatory, we could virtually eliminate the need for pap smears. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Women who are vaccinated against some strains of HPV are still susceptible to other strains, and no vaccine is 100% effective. Women who go to their OBGYN annually for exams are much less likely to get cervical cancer because there are effective treatments for HPV if it is found early. Women who skip annual exams because they feel protected by the HPV vaccine may end up being more likely to get invasive cervical cancer.

There can be no doubt that vaccines have been a very positive development for our world, but marketing a vaccine as a cure for cervical cancer can be dangerous. I encourage my patients to know the risks and never to tell their daughters that they don’t have to worry about cervical cancer just because they got the vaccine!

Dr. Michael Podraza

Germantown Performing Arts Center GPACweb.com | 751-7500 12

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Dr. Michael Podraza is originally from South Dakota. He graduated from South Dakota School of Mines and Technology with a degree in Chemistry.

He attended Medical School at the University of Texas in Houston. Dr. Podraza went on to complete his residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology in Buffalo, NY. He received training in NaPro Technology at the Pope Paul IV Institute; after which he moved to Memphis with his wife and children to become Medical Director of Saint Francis Women’s Health & Fertility. Dr. Podraza is Board Certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology.

Becoming a parent is the most natural thing in the world.

Or at least it should be.

www.SFMP-Podraza.com For a new, more holistic approach to starting a family, turn to Saint Francis Women’s Health & Fertility.

Dr. Michael Podraza utilizes natural techniques and complementary therapies to improve feelings of well being in an effort to increase your opportunity for a successful pregnancy – without heavy doses of drugs or other highly expensive, invasive procedures.

At Women’s Health & Fertility, we focus on you: • • • • • • • • •

Gynecologic Care Prenatal Counseling/Care Miscarriage Prevention Pregnancy Care High Risk Pregnancy Vaginal Birth after a Caesarian (VBAC) Preterm Birth Prevention Post-Partum Depression Adolescent Care

• • • • • • • •

Menopause Management Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy Office Procedures Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery Support for Natural Family Planning Fertility Management IVF Alternatives Treating Infertility with NaPro Technology

We’re more than doctors. We’re your medical partners.

6005 Park Ave. Suite 828B, Memphis, TN 38119 • 901-254-8180 www.facebook.com/NFPMemphis M E M PH I S PA R ENT.COM

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active learning

Building a foundation that lasts a lifetime

agile teaching

Coed Pre-K3 – 8th grade

Open House

Monday, January 9, 2017 9:00 am – 12:00 pm to build disciplined minds, adventurous spirits, and brave hearts

4841 Park Avenue Memphis, TN 38117 901.685.1231 www.holyrosarymemphis.org

It’s time to apply!

Visit sgis.org/admissionevents for details.

ST. GEORGE’S INDEPENDENT SCHOOL Germantown Memphis Collierville

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PK—Grade 12

FEATURE

THE JOY OF RESOLUTIONS Create a great year for your family

By CHRISTINA KATZ

Illustration By SHANNON WRIGHT

New Year’s resolutions have become heavily commercialized. Messages coming from all directions would have you believe you are falling short as an acceptable human being in a multitude of ways. You are too poor, too unfit, too uneducated, too lonely, too busy, too selfish, too boring. You name it and you need to change it, preferably starting on January 1st. Parents need to be clear with kids — you’re special, and enough, just the way you are — or risk passing this annual habit of self-recrimination on to their children and grandchildren.

This year, resist external messages designed to make you and your family feel inadequate and flip New Year’s resolutions on their heads. Resolve to no longer let an annual holiday undermine your family’s sense of wholeness and worth. Resolution comes from the word resolve, meaning to make a decision or determination. This January, why not become determined to resist self-criticism altogether? Take some time over the New Year transition to assess everything you enjoy.

Here are a few family discussion topics that will help you focus on building your family up rather than tearing each other down. Because, of course, when you feel critical of yourself, nit-picking your kids swiftly follows. Start discussing these topics and watch the never-good-enough season transform into the joyful ringing in of the New Year every family craves.

Discuss what was joyful last year. What choices did family members make that brought them joy? Were there some decisions any family members made that created disappointment? You can learn as much from what did not work as you can from what did work, so

don’t be afraid to admit to any mistakes you feel you may have made. A balanced year is full of ups and downs.

Express feelings of joy. Have a deeper conversation about choices you made last year that brought you joy.

From your perspective, what were the smartest decisions you made? How did these positive choices make you feel? Would you make these same choices again? One of the best ways to milk more joy out of last year is to spend time discussing last year’s happiest moments before the New Year rolls in.

Imagine next year as even more joyful. Ask each family member to make up a story about what an even more joyful year would look like. They can make the story as ambitious or inspired as they like. For example, maybe one family member wants to get admitted to a college of her choice while another simply wants to maintain a long-time enjoyable activity. Remain nonjudgmental. Joy is not a competition and each person’s joy is unique to them. Each family member can tell the story that makes them feel the most content, and no one else in the family should interject their ideas or expectations.

Affirm each other’s visions. After everyone has shared, family members will feel motivated to help each other.

First affirm the validity of each family member’s dream. Make sure everyone feels supported by each other. Stressing teamwork in achieving shared individual goals can help reduce sibling rivalry. Kids who are empowered to be authentic don’t have to compete with anyone. Parents should take whatever actions they can throughout the year to support each family member’s dreams. And parents should expect support for their own dreams, as well. Don’t sit back and let the kids have all the fun!

You are the creator of your family traditions; you don’t have to go along with the crowd. So celebrate the New Year in positive, constructive ways that build family members up, rather than a negative, critical ways that tear family members down. When you teach your family members to use joy as a touchstone for making choices this year and every year, you give them the keys to creating personal satisfaction in their lives and you get to watch your family grow closer than ever every year.

RESOURCES FOR A MORE JOYOUS NEW YEAR Family Bucket Lists: Bring More Fun, Adventure & Camaraderie Into Every Day

by Laura Krupicka

Gracious Living in a New World, Finding Joy in Changing Times

by Alexandra Stoddard

Finding Joy: 101 Ways to Free Your Spirit and Dance with Life

by Charlotte Davis Kasl

Simple Abundance: A Daybook of Comfort and Joy

by Sarah Ban Breathnach ME EM MP PH H II S SP EN M PA AR RE NT T .. C CO OM M

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COVER STORY

How parents can help with assignm ents

By HARRIS COOPER and RUSSELL GERSTEN

Homework assignments typically serve one or more purposes. The most common purpose is to have students practice material already presented in class. Practice homework is meant to reinforce learning and help the student master specific skills.

Preparation homework introduces material that will be presented in future lessons. These assignments aim to help students better learn new material when it is covered in class. Extension homework asks students to apply skills they already have to new situations. Integration homework requires the student to apply many different skills to a single task, such as book reports, science projects, or creative writing.

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Research also shows that parent involvement can have either a positive or negative impact on the value of homework. Parent involvement can be used to speed up a child's learning. Homework can involve parents in the school process. It can enhance parents' appreciation of education.

It can give them an opportunity to express positive attitudes about the value of success in school.

But parent involvement may also interfere with learning. For example, parents can confuse children if the teaching techniques they use differ from those used in the classroom. Parent involvement in homework can turn into parent interference if parents complete tasks that the child is capable of completing alone.

When parents get involved with their children's homework, communication between the school and family can improve. It can clarify for parents what is expected of students. It can give parents a firsthand idea of what students are learning and how well their child is doing in school.

Research shows that if a child is having difficulty with homework, parents should become involved by paying close attention. They should expect more requests from teachers for their help. If a child is doing well in school, parents should consider shifting their efforts to providing

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HOMEWORK TIPS FOR PARENTS Make sure your child has a quiet, well-lit place to do homework.

Avoid having your child do homework with the television on or in places with other distractions, such as people coming and going.

Make sure the materials your child needs, such as paper, pencils, and a dictionary, are available. Ask your child if special materials will be needed for some projects and get them in advance.

Help your child with time management. Establish a set time each day for doing homework. Don't let your child leave homework until just before bedtime. Think about using a weekend morning or afternoon for working on big projects, especially if the project involves getting together with classmates.

Be positive about homework. Tell your child how important school is. The attitude you express about homework will be the attitude your child acquires.

When your child does homework, you do homework. Show your child that the skills they are learning are related to things you do as an adult. If your child is reading, you read too. If your child is doing math, balance your checkbook.

When your child asks for help, provide guidance, not answers.

Giving answers means your child will not learn the material. Too much help teaches your child that when the going gets rough, someone will do the work for him or her.

When the teacher asks that you play a role in homework, do it.

Cooperate with the teacher. It shows your child that the school and home are a team. Follow the directions given by the teacher.

support for their child's own choices about how to do homework.

Parents should avoid interfering in the independent completion of assignments.

Homework can be an effective way for students to improve their learning and for parents to communicate their appreciation of schooling. Because a great many things influence the impact of homework achievement, expectations for homework's effects, especially in the earlier grades, must be realistic.

Homework policies and practices should give teachers and parents the flexibility to take into account the unique needs and circumstances of their students. That way, they can maximize the positive effects of homework and minimize the negative ones.

If homework is meant to be done by your child alone, stay away.

Too much parent involvement can prevent homework from having positive effects. Homework is a great way for kids to develop independent, lifelong learning skills.

Stay informed. Talk with your child's teacher. Make sure you know the purpose of homework and what your child's class rules are.

Help your child figure out what is hard homework and what is easy homework. Have your child do the hard work first. This will mean he will be most alert when facing the biggest challenges. Easy material will seem to go fast when fatigue begins to set in.

Watch your child for signs of failure and frustration. Let your child take a short break if she is having trouble keeping her mind on an assignment.

Harris Cooper and Russell Gersten wrote this article for the U.S. Department of Education. It is printed with permission.

Reward progress in homework. If your child has been successful in homework completion and is working hard, celebrate that success with a special event (e.g., pizza, a walk, a trip to the park) to reinforce the positive effort.

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FEATURE

IMPACTING GLOBALLY.

Students at Lausanne embrace our culturally diverse environment and can see first-hand learning has no boundaries.

With the opening of our second campus in Xiamen, China, Lausanne shows by example how to collaborate with people around the world.

Visit lausanneschool.com to schedule a tour of our Memphis campus to learn how we can help prepare your student for college and for life in a global environment.

1381 West Massey Road, Memphis, TN 901.474.1030 admission@lausanneschool.com lausanneschool.com

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IS TN READY FOR TESTING?

A new education campaign is underway to prepare students for academic success.

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Through a challenging academic curriculum and a supportive environment we cultivate a love for learning that inspires girls to reach their full potential.

By MICHELLE McKISSACK

Ericka Sanders patiently waits at a table in the cafeteria at Downtown Elementary in Memphis for her kindergartner to enter for lunchtime. She finally catches a glimpse of her among the pint-sized students. A smile comes across her daughter’s face at the same time as she realizes her Mom has brought her a special lunch today, “just because.”

For more information contact us at 901-435-5819 or Admissions@saa-sds.org.

ST. AGNES ACADEMY-ST. DOMINIC SCHOOL 4830 Walnut Grove Road • Memphis, Tennessee 38117

WWW.SAA-SDS.ORG

LEARNERS TO LEADERS A Catholic tradition since 1851

ST. AGNES ACADEMY 2K-12

ST. DOMINIC SCHOOL 2K-8

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BORNBLUM JEWISH COMMUNITY SCHOOL PRESENTS

Child Psychologist, Author, Speaker & Syndicated Columnist

John

Rosemond Parenting with Love & Leadership Sunday Afternoon, January 22nd, 2:00pm-5:00pm

Parenting The Strong-Willed Teen Monday Evening, January 23rd, 7:00pm-8:30pm

Classroom Management & Leadership Monday Afternoon, January 23rd, 3:45pm-5:15pm (for educators)

For Tickets & More Information

Open to the Public/Combo & VIP Tickets Available

www.BORNBLUM.org 901-747-2665

Sponsored by Dr. and Mrs. Scott Baum

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THE PINK PALACE IS OPEN! January 22 - May 7, 2017

January 7 - March 3, 2017 Locally presented by:

Produced by Evergreen Exhibitions in collaboration with the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

P!NK PALACE MUSEUM 20

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© BBC Worldwide

JANUARY 2017

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“I enjoy having lunch with my daughter. It gives me a chance to check on her and see how her day is going,” says Sanders, who also has a fourth grader at the school.

It’s those sorts of encounters that educators, including Tennessee Department of Education commissioner Dr. Candice McQueen, say have a big impact on the education of a child. McQueen came to Memphis — to Douglass High School — a few weeks ago as part of a statewide listening and feedback tour to discuss taking education to a new level in the state.

“We can’t change the level of education for kids by ourselves,” McQueen says. “But if we work through the districts and schools, we can put children on a pathway for success.”

That pathway is now going through a new federal K-12 law called the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).

“Under ESSA, we will focus on the whole child and how that supports academics,” says McQueen. “We want to address the whole child from before the school day to afterwards. Engaging students in extracurriculars gets them more excited about academics.”

Academics — specifically the testing that shows how well their children are performing overall — are very much top of mind for many parents and educators.

The majority of the TN Ready standardized testing had to be cancelled across the state last year due to computer problems related to administering it.

“Last year we had a challenge with the testing, but we have fixed those problems,” says McQueen. “We have a very strong partner to deliver the tests, and we have reduced testing time by 30 percent.”

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Through a commitment to academic excellence and a dedication to Study, Prayer, Community and Service — we prepare boys to be leaders who will make the world a better place.

“ WE WANT TO ADDRESS THE WHOLE CHILD FROM BEFORE THE SCHOOL DAY TO AF TERWARDS .”

Amy Dickson, a parent attending the feedback session at Douglass, says “I’m not happy with the entire testing process; there’s too much emphasis on testing.”

McQueen maintains that more rigorous testing is essential in creating an educated job force.

“Tennessee’s students are growing into problem solvers and critical thinkers, and they are rising to meet the higher standards that are based on what our colleges and employers expect,” she says. “We expected scores to be lower in this first year of a more rigorous assessment, but we also expect that scores will rebound over time as all students grow to meet these higher expectations — just as we have seen in the past.”

Tennessee students are seeing some progress. According to the 2015 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), commonly known as the Nation’s Report Card, Tennessee students are the fastest improving in the nation. For example, 4th graders in Tennessee rose to the top half of states in fourth-grade math, ranking 25th — the first time Tennessee has ever ranked in the top half of states in any subject or grade.

That’s a key takeaway that Dr. McQueen emphasizes: “We spend a lot of time focusing on our weaknesses; we need to also focus on our success, to see what we can build upon on the strengths to spur innovation in education.”

The Tennessee Department of Education is still looking to get feedback from parents across the state on the success plan that will be implemented in the 2017-2018 school year. Visit tn.gov/education for an online feedback form.

For more information contact us at 901-435-5819 or Admissions@saa-sds.org.

ST. AGNES ACADEMY-ST. DOMINIC SCHOOL 4830 Walnut Grove Road • Memphis, Tennessee 38117

WWW.SAA-SDS.ORG

LEARNERS TO LEADERS A Catholic tradition since 1851

ST. AGNES ACADEMY 2K-12

ST. DOMINIC SCHOOL 2K-8

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JANUARY CALENDAR

by MEENA VISWANATHAN

Balé Folclórico da Bahia Germantown Performing Arts Center Sunday, January 29, from 7 to 9 p.m.

Features a 38-member troupe of dancers, musicians, and singers performing a repertory based on "Bahian" folkloric dances of African origin.

Tickets start at $38. Reservations required. 751-7500.

3 ∙ TUESDAY

Mini Masters. Dixon Gallery and Gardens.

Tuesdays, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Parent-child workshop designed for toddlers features story time, art activity, and snack. $8/child.

Call 761-5250 to pre-register and pre-pay by Monday at noon before the class.

Wild Lunch at Lichterman. Lichterman Nature Center. Noon. Watch the Backyard Wildlife Center's animal keepers feed the animals. Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday: Box Turtle. Wednesday: Hawk. Friday: Snakes.

Free with admission. 636-2210.

7 ∙ SATURDAY

Chucalissa Family Day. C.H. Nash Museum at Chucalissa. Saturdays at 10 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. Family programs and craft activities change weekly. Jan. 7: Stone Tools & Weapons/Talking Sticks. Jan. 14: Mystery Box/Beading. Jan. 21: Music/Coloring Book.

Jan. 28: Trash Talks/Snake Painting. Activities include museum tour, throwing darts with an atlatl, scavenger hunt, the hands-on-lab tour, an educational program, and creating a keepsake craft to take home. $6/adult. $4/ child (ages 4-11). 785-3160.

Family Studio. Dixon Gallery and Gardens.

10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Drop in at the Dixon to create unique works of art, open-studio style.

Music for Aardvarks. Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women. Monday & Friday, 10:30- Free. 761-5250.

11:30 a.m. An interactive music program for Free Family Art Workshop: Monsters. children 6 months to 5 years and their parents, featuring live guitar and storytelling, Memphis College of Art. 2-4 p.m. Open to all singing, dancing, and instrumental play. Free. ages and experience levels. Workshops include drawing, painting, and sculpture. Free, 227-9558.

6 ∙ FRIDAY

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donations go toward youth scholarship fund (recommended donation is $10 per family).

Walk-ins are welcome on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit mca.edu/calendar for details and online registration.

2D Repertory Films at CTI 3D Giant Theater.

Pink Palace Museum. Saturdays and Sundays at 4 p.m. Movie changes weekly. Jan. 7 & 8: The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey. Jan. 14 & 15: The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug. Jan. 21 & 22: The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies. Jan. 28 & 29: The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring. $9/adult. $7/child ages 3 and up. 636-2362.

24 ∙ TUESDAY

Caterpillar Club: Snowy Pines. Memphis Botanic Garden. Also on Wednesday, 10-11 a.m. Choose Tuesday or Wednesday session.

Children ages 2-5 are invited to join for stories, music and movement, nature-inspired art, and adventure hikes in My Big Backyard.

A Kids’ Music Class that Really Rocks Come Jam with Music for Aardvarks, Memphis!

An interactive music program for children 6 months to 5 years and their parents/caregivers

• Straight from New York City • Great music • Live guitar and storytelling, singing and dancing • Fun for parents too!

Newcomers welcome to drop in for one FREE class

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A Kid’s Music Class that Really Rocks Come Jam with Music for Aardvarks, Memphis!

An interactive music program for children 6 months to 5 years and their parents/caregivers

Winter Registration Now Open!

Classes now in Midtown, East Memphis, Collierville, and Cordova Visit us on the web at www.memphisaardvarks.com or contact us at 871-0227 or info@memphisaardvarks.com

• Great Music • Live guitar and storytelling, singing and dancing • Fun for parents too!

• Great for birthday parties, special events, & school programs Newcomers welcome to drop in for one FREE class CLASSES IN MIDTOWN AND EAST MEMPHIS Visit us at www.memphisaardvarks.com or call 871-0227 for more info

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THE HOTTEST BIRTHDAY PARTY IN TOWN! Two hours of fun Climb into a real firetruck • Try on a real uniform Slide down a real brass fire pole into our Play Room Experience the heat in the Fire Room Talk with Ol’ Billy from the horse-drawn era of firefighting Request a visit by the Memphis Fire & Safety dogs!

118 Adams Avenue, Memphis, TN 38103 (901) 636-5650 | www.firemuseum.com

Open Jar Institute Broadway Workshop Halloran Centre @ The Orpheum Saturday, January 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Semester theme: Garden Wishes.

Six-class semester fee: $75. Call 636-4122 to register.

26 ∙ THURSDAY

Hattiloo at the Library. North Branch Library. 4-5 p.m. HAL (Hattiloo at the Library) presents "Shel-e-bration," a dramatic presentation of beloved children poems by Shel Silverstein. Free.

525-0009.

27 ∙ FRIDAY

Youth Classical Concert. Buckman Arts Center @ St. Mary's School. 7-8:15 p.m.

Join Ballet on Wheels Dance Company, PRIZM Ensemble, and Cordova High School Orchestra for an evening of classical music and dance. Free.

Reservations required. 870-4348.

28 ∙ SATURDAY

S.E. Academy Christian Private School

January 3, 2017 — February 25, 2017

The Birds & The Seeds - Winter Workshops and Seed Swap. Lichterman Nature Center. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Highlights include gardening & bird watching workshops, activity stations, and seed swap. Participants take home a pamphlet filled with birding and gardening information. Free. 636-2210.

(901) 729-6021 School Office (901) 497-1504 School Admin

IRIS Orchestra's Free Family Concert.

Learning is our FIRST PRIORITY! Scholarships available now.

Sign Up BEGINS

5960 Knight Arnold Rd. Ext., Memphis, TN 38115 weloveseacademy.com • (901) 729-6021 24 4 2

Magic Carpet: Chinese New Year Celebration. Buckman Arts Center @ St. Mary's School. 10 a.m. Children ages 2 to 8 years old are invited to grab their magic carpet for a Chinese adventure celebrating the year of the rooster! $5/ child. Free to adults. 537-1483.

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Germantown Community Library. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Features an interactive concert and instrument petting zoo where children get first-hand experiences with the instruments. Free.

751-7669.

Animated Film: The Bugs Bunny/Road Runner Movie. Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. 2 p.m. A compilation of classic Looney Tunes shorts including the masterpieces Duck Amuck and What's Opera, Doc? For tickets, call 544-6200.

LOOKING AHEAD

FEBRUARY

4 ∙ SATURDAY

IRIS Orchestra's Free Family Concert.

Germantown Performing Arts Center (GPAC). 9:30-11 a.m. Features an interactive concert and instrument petting zoo where children get firsthand experiences with the instruments.

Free. 751-7669.

ONGOING EVENTS

MUSEUMS AND EXHIBITS

Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. Brooks Outside: Intrude. January 18-29.

Exhibit open 11 a.m.-8 p.m. A public art installation on the museum grounds features five giant glowing rabbits created by Australian artist Amanda Parer. Free. 544-6200.

800 E. PARKWAY SOUTH | MEMPHIS, TN 38104

REGISTRATION FEE THROUGH JAN. 31

Where Learning Begins and Scholars Attend...

• Infant, Toddler, Preschool & before- and after-school programs • Advanced Preschool Curriculum • Christian education • High Quality Infant/Toddler Program 1639 & 1643 Madison Ave. • Preschool Reading Program Memphis, TN 38104 • We Offer Gymnastics and Taekwondo & Office: 901-276-8781 Spanish www.theacademyonmadison.com • Game Room for before- and after-school programs Center Hours: 6:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

Private Pay & DHS Certificates Welcome Open House for prospective parents every Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. & Thursday evenings at 5:30 p.m.

HIGH QUALITY CHILDCARE AND SCHOOL AGED CARE

A New Kids TV Channel is coming January 16th from WKNO featuring 24/7 Programming for Kids!

Re-Scan your TV to receive WKNO PBS KIDS 24/7on Channel 10.3.

Also Available on Comcast Channel 912 and streamed on pbskids.org.

Join your friends anytime!

PBS KIDS and the PBS KIDS Logo are registered trademarks of Public Broadcasting Service. Used with permission. ODD SQUAD © 2016 The Fred Rogers Company. All Rights Reserved. DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD © 2016 The Fred Rogers Company. All rights reserved. Wild Kratts® © 2016 Kratt Brothers Co. Ltd./ 9 Story Media Group Inc. Wild Kratts®, Creature Power® are owned by Kratt Brothers Company Ltd. All rights reserved. SPLASH AND BUBBLES TM & © 2016 The Jim Henson Company. All Rights Reserved.

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OPEN HOUSE Sunday, January 29th, 2017

12:00-1:30 pm

© A M A N D A PA R E R S T U D I O S

Join us to see what sets us apart from the rest!

One year olds-8th Grade

The Pink Palace Museum. EXTREME DEEP: Mission into the Abyss. January 21 through May 6. Exhibit offers opportunities for hands-on exploration of life at the bottom of the sea. 636-2362.

Scholastic Excellence Meets Spiritual Virtue

360 Bray Station Road Collierville 853.7804 goICS.org

CTI 3D Giant Theater. Wild Africa 3D. January 7 through March 3. Take a trip to Africa and explore the places and creatures of the continent. Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Secret Ocean 3D. Through March 3. National Parks Adventure 3D. Through March 3. 636-2362.

AutoZone Dome at the Sharpe Planetarium. Back to the Moon for Good. January 2 through June 2. The program reflects on the U.S. mission to the moon 50 years ago and looks to the future, motivated by the Google X-Prize. Black Holes. Through March 31. Winter Seasonal Stargazing. Through March 19. One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure. Through September 2. 636-2362.

OTHER PROGRAMS

The Pool School’s UNDER THREE SWIMBOREE A NEW SELF-PACED, INTERACTIVE APPROACH TO PARENT/TOT SWIM LESSONS BEGIN YOUR CHILDS WATER EDUCATION IN A FUN, NONTHREATENING ATMOSPHERE WATER TEMPERATURE 90 DEGREES YEAR AROUND CLASSES SATURDAY MORNINGS TO ENROLL, GO TO: WWW.SWIMPOOLSCHOOL.COM, CLICK ON ENROLL HERE CLASSES BEGIN MONTHLY

FOR ADDITIONAL INFO CALL: 901-386-1999 26 6 2

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Mallory-Neely House Tour. Mallory-Neely House, 652 Adams Avenue. Fridays & Saturdays, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Step back in time to the Victorian Era touring this mansion, built in 1852, that showcases original furniture and interior decorations. $7/adult. $5/child (ages 3 and up). Reservations required. 523-1484.

CLASSES & WORKSHOPS

Toddler Time. Baptist Women’s Hospital. Meets Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m. until noon. Toddler Time is a time for parents and children to discover the joy and challenges of parenting toddlers while in a safe environment. Free.

Visit shelbycountyupp.com or call 227-9558.

Kaleidoscope Club. Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m. Ages 5-9.

Children participate in projects that spark interest in horticulture, art, or literature. $8. Snack provided. Call 761-5250 to register.

Breastfeeding Class. Baptist Women's Hospital. Thursday, January 5, 6:30-8:30 p.m. $30. Call 226-5764 to register.

Girl Talk. Women's & Children's Pavilion @ Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare.

Friday, January 6, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. for moms only. Saturday, January 7, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for moms and daughters. Get Together for Girl Talk — an educational program to enhance open communication between mothers and daughters ages 9-12 years. $60 for parent & child. $40 for additional child. Call 516-6645 to register.

Childbirth Class. Baptist Women's Hospital. Meets first and third Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. All-day class covers childbirth, anesthesia, breastfeeding, and newborn care. $75. Call 226-5764 to register.

Open Jar Institute Broadway Workshop. Halloran Centre @ The Orpheum.

Saturday, January 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Open to high school and college theatre students. Guest artists working on Broadway teach a four-hour masterclass geared toward perfecting audition skills. At the end of the Masterclass,

Parenting Workshops with Dr. John Rosemond.

Bornblum Jewish Community School. Workshop 1 offered on Sunday, January 22, 2-5 p.m.: “Parenting with Love and Leadership” for parents of children up to 12 years old. Cost: $25/person. Also offered on Monday, January 23: Workshop 2: “Classroom Management and Leadership” for teachers, 3:45-5:15 p.m. Cost: $10/teacher. Workshop 3: “Parenting the Strong-Willed Teen” for parents of teenagers, 7-8:30 p.m. Cost: $15/person. Combo ticket for Workshops 1 & 3: $35/person. VIP package: $100. Includes tickets to Workshops 1 & 3, a signed book, and meet & greet with Dr. Rosemond. Reservations required. Register online at bornblum.org or call 747-2665.

Figure Drawing. Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. Wednesday, January 25, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Join artist and teacher Juan Rojo and learn how to draw from a clothed model in museum galleries. Free or $5 donation to use museum supplies. 544-6200.

Expectant Parents Class. Baptist Women's Hospital.

Saturday, January 28, from 9 a.m. until noon. Covers newborn care. $30. Call 226-5764 to register.

Memphis Brooks Museum of Art Brooks Outside: Intrude January 18-29 Exhibit open 11 a.m.-8 p.m. students will have an opportunity to participate in an optional audition for this year’s Open Jar Summer Intensive in New York City. $75. Go to openjarinstitute.com for details.

register online.

Home School PE and Art. YMCA at Schilling Farms.

January 23 through March 7 (7 weeks). Homeschool PE for ages 5-12 and Homeschool Art for ages 5-15.

PE meets on Wednesdays from 2 to 3 p.m. Art meets Thursdays 1:15-2:15 for ages 5 to 8 and 2:30-3:30 p.m. for ages 9 to 15. PE focuses on water safety skills and swimming skills through playing games. Art includes watercolor and mixed media. $50/child. $25 for additional children. Call 850-9622 to register.

AUDITIONS

Auditions for You Can't Take It With You. Germantown Community Theater. January 7 & 8, from 2 to 4 p.m.

Open to ages 6-18. Auditions for this George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart comedy presented by All Children's Theatre. Rehearsals begin in May with performances June 23-25 and June 30-July 2. Bring a headshot and a resume. 453-7449.

THEATRE PERFORMANCES

Dynamic Dads. Baptist Women's Hospital. Saturday, January 28, 1-4 p.m. Fathers learn how to be involved in the lives of a newborn. Free. 227-9873.

Tedeschi Trucks Band. The Orpheum. Tuesday, January 17, 7:30 p.m. This 12-piece group driven by Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi includes dual drummers, two vocalists, a three-piece horn section, bass, and a multi-instrumentalist keyboard player. $19.50-$79.50 For tickets, call 525-3000.

After School Class: The Audition - Is this Real Life? Is this Just Fantasy? Germantown Community Theatre (GCT). January 31 through March 9. Meets Tuesdays and Thursdays 4-5 p.m. Open to grades 4-12. Discover how careful preparation of monologues, songs, and resumes can get you through an audition and help land a role. $85. For details, call 233-4347.

The Bodyguard. The Orpheum. January 24-29. Tuesday through Thursday at 7:30 p.m. Friday at 8 p.m.

Saturday at 2 & 8 p.m. Sunday at 1 & 6:30 p.m. This award-winning musical based on the hit film features R&B superstar Deborah Cox and includes hit numbers such as “I Will Always Love You.” $25-$125. For tickets, call 525-3000.

Parent/Child Swim Lessons. YMCA at Schilling Farms.

January 9 through February 1. Meets Mondays, Guy Talk. Women's & Children's Pavilion @ Methodist 10:30-11 a.m. Ages 6 months-3 years. Teaches water Le Bonheur Healthcare. Friday, February 3, 6:30-8:30 safety and water adaptation through songs and games. p.m. for parents only. Saturday, February 4, 9 a.m.-4 $50. One parent per child in the water. Children not p.m. for parent and son. Guy Talk is an educational potty-trained must wear swim diapers. Call 850-9622 program to enhance open communication between to register. fathers (mothers) and sons ages 9-12 years. $60 for parent & child. $40 for additional child. Call 516-6645 School of the Rock. Christ United Methodist Church. to register.

January 11 through April 5. Meets Wednesdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Open to Pre K-5th grade. Classes offered include art, drama, creative cooking, outdoor HOME SCHOOL CLASSES adventure, and breakin’ dance and culminate in a Home School Academy. Memphis Zoo. January 9-13. showcase event for families to attend. No fee; Themes: Kindergarten-2nd grade: ZOOperheroes. requested donation $10/child to cover supply cost. Go 3rd-5th grade: Animal Detectives. 6th-8th grade: to cumcmemphis.org/register to register online.

Wild North America. 9th-12th grade: Exploration Ecology. Cost: K-8th grade: $135. 9th-12th grade: Boys Hip-Hop Class. Ballet on Wheels Dance School & $150. Visit memphiszoo.org/homeschoolprograms to Company. January 11 through March 22. Meets on Wednesday evenings, 6-7 p.m. The class geared for ages 5-10 includes footwork, building a foundation of basic hip-hop movements, across-the-floor exercises, and short combinations to today’s popular music.

Session includes last-class, in-studio formal performance for family and friends. Students can join at any time. Tuition is $135 per semester. Visit balletonwheels.org/dance-school/boys-hip-hopsession or call 870-4348 for details.

Balé Folclórico da Bahia. Germantown Performing Arts Center. Sunday, January 29, from 7 to 9 p.m.

Features a 38-member troupe of dancers, musicians, and singers performing a repertory based on "Bahian" folkloric dances of African origin. Tickets start at $38.

Reservations required. 751-7500.

Wild Cities. Harris Concert Hall @ University of Memphis. Monday, January 30, at 7:30 p.m. Violinist Francesca Anderegg and pianist Brent Funderburk perform new music by American composers. Free.

678-2541.

Mark Nizer in 4D. Buckman Arts Center @ St. Mary’s School. Friday, February 3, 7 p.m. Mark Nizer comes to entertain the audience with his magical performance. $25/adult. $20/child. 537-1483.

Sibling Class. Baptist Women's Hospital. Saturday, January 14, from 10 a.m. until noon. Interactive class for children ages 3-10 and their parents. $20/ child. $25 for two or more in the same family. Call 226-5764 to register.

Saturday Sketch. Dixon Gallery and Gardens.

Saturday, January 14, 10-11 a.m. Ages 15 and up. Bring your sketchbook and pencils to learn sketching techniques from an instructor. Walk-in program. Free with admission. 761-5250.

Grandparents Class. Baptist Women's Hospital.

Saturday, January 14, 1-3 p.m. Prepares grandparents for the arrival of a newborn. $30. Call 226-5764 to register.

Toddler Time Baptist Women’s Hospital Meets Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m. until noon.

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CALENDAR

S

er.

PEOPLE REAL PEOPLE REAL PEOPLE REAL NEEDS NEEDS REAL NEEDS REAL SOLUTIONS REAL SOLUTIONS REAL SOLUTIONS

Visit mifa.org mifa.org to Visit mifa.org to volunteer.

Visit tovolunteer. volunteer.

®

The Art of Dining in Memphis 3

A New Restaurant Guide with signature recipes by

Joy Bateman

author of The Art of Dining® Series: Memphis  Nashville  Knoxville New Orleans  Amelia Island

$22.95 www.joysartofdining.com 28 2 8

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Tedeschi Trucks Band The Orpheum Tuesday, January 17, 7:30 p.m.

IRIS Orchestra Concert: A River Runs Through It. GPAC. February 4 & 5.

Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m.

Performance features American classical music. The Memphis College of Art has joined with the Orchestra to create works inspired by the program, and the art is on exhibit in the GPAC lobby. Rush-hour tickets (purchased an hour before the show): $10/student.

Advance tickets: $44-$65. For tickets, call 751-7500.

Costume Story Time: Maisy visits Barnes & Noble! Sunday, January 22, 3 p.m. Ages 2-8. Meet Maisy and take pictures at this special story time. Free.

The LEGO Batman Event. Saturday, January 28, 4 p.m. Celebrate the release of The LEGO Batman Movie by collecting two limited-edition trading cards, taking part in make-and-play with LEGO bricks and blocks, and enjoying giveaways. Free.

®

The Art of Dining in Memphis 3

THE BOOKSELLERS AT LAURELWOOD 387 Perkins Rd. Ext., 683-9801 A New Restaurant Guide with signature recipes Story time with Miss Marjorie every Tuesday and Thursday at 11 a.m.

STORY TIME AT AREA BOOKSTORES AND MUSEUMS

by

Joy Bateman

BARNES & NOBLE BOOKSELLERS The Avenue Carriage Crossing Mall, 853-3264 Saturdays at 11 a.m. Ages 1-6.

®

Nick Bruel at The Booksellers.

Wednesday, January 18, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. An opportunity to meet New York Times bestselling author of the Bad Kitty series. Nick Bruel signs his new book, Bad Kitty Takes the Test. Free.

author of TheBOOKSELLERS Art of Dining Series: BARNES & NOBLE Story Time at Morton Museum of 2774 N. Memphis Germantown Pkwy., 386-2468  Nashville  Knoxville Collierville History Tuesdays and Saturdays at 11 a.m. Ages Fridays from 10:30 to 11 a.m. Ages 8 and Pre K-6. New Orleans  Amelia Island under. A new story theme each week with songs, related craft, and snack.

My Favorite Teacher Contest Launch.

Free. 457-2650.

Monday, January 2, from 11 to 11:30 a.m.

Middle and high school students are GERMANTOWN COMMUNITY invited to express their appreciation for LIBRARY their teachers through an essay or 1925 Exeter Rd., 757-7323 letter. Winning student and teacher Tolkien Birthday Party. Tuesday, receive prizes. Free. Go to January 3, 4:30 p.m. Celebrate Tolkien barnesandnoble.com/h/my-favoriteReading Day by learning to write your teacher for details. name in Elvish, enjoying refreshments LEGO Architecture Build Event. of "Ent Draught" and "Lembas Bread," Thursday, January 5, 9 a.m. Open to and watching a Tolkien-esque film. Free. middle and high school students and adults. Participants help build the Wild Wednesday. On select London and Chicago skylines with Wednesdays (January 4 & 18) at 4:30 LEGOS. Free. p.m. Children ages 5-10 exercise their www.joysartofdining.com STREAM skills, learn basic home

$22.95

Every

HERO needs a

economics practices, and have fun literacy experiences.

Friday Frenzy. Friday, January 6, 4:30 p.m. Children ages 5-10 join for an afternoon of arts and crafts. Free.

Whole Foods Story Time @ Whole Foods of Germantown. Fridays at 10 a.m. beginning January 13. Children ages 5 and under are invited to listen to stories, participate in interactive songs, and enjoy snacks. Free.

MEMPHIS LIBRARY EVENTS

For a complete listing of library events, stop by your local branch and pick up “Infodates,” the library’s monthly calendar, or go to memphislibrary.org CENTRAL 3030 Poplar Ave., 415-2700 CLOUD901 Classes & Events: CLOUD901 is the library’s state-of-theart Teen Learning Lab that includes a music studio, a video production lab, an art studio, Makerspace, gaming zone, and a performance stage. Open to teens ages 13-18 with a Memphis library card. Go to memphislibrary.org/ cloud901 for a class list.

CORDOVA 8457 Trinity Rd., 754-8443 • Let’s Dance! Saturday, January 14, from 11 a.m. until noon. Enjoy a free lesson with teachers from E. Studio dancing to music from Frozen.

• International Story Time Celebrating Nigeria. Saturday, January 21, from 11 a.m. until noon. Celebrate the country and culture of this so-called “Giant of Africa” with stories, music, crafts, and food. ∙ Travel the Seas with Pirate Captain Davy. Saturday, January 28, from 11 a.m. until noon. Learn about pirates and sail the high seas with Pirate Captain Davy sharing stories, crafts, and music.

mentor, every mentor needs a GUIDE. memphisparent.com

NORTH 1192 Vollintine, 276-6631 • Wacky Wednesdays. On select Wednesdays (January 4, 11, & 25) from 4 to 5 p.m. Jan. 4: Game Day. Jan. 11: Music Appreciation. Jan. 25: Movie and Snacks.

PARKWAY VILLAGE 4655 Knight Arnold, 363-8923 • Winter Craft. On select Thursdays (January 12 & 19) from 4 to 5:30 p.m.

Join for children’s art and craft program with a winter theme.

SOUTH 1929 S. Third St., 946-8518 • Gadget Lab for Kids. Tuesdays from 4 • Martin Luther King Day - Create and Commemorate. Saturday, January 14, to 6 p.m. Join Ms. Luna and learn about from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. cool apps and games for kids available Celebrate Dr. King’s life and work with on the library’s Kindle Fires. arts and crafts.

• Crafternoon. Thursdays, 4-6 p.m.

Children ages 6-11 enjoy 90 minutes of • Chinese New Year. Saturday, January 28, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. stories and crafts.

Welcome the Year of the Rooster with • Read with Me, Sign with Me. Saturday, stories, crafts, and food.

January 7, from 11 a.m. until noon.

Enjoy a family story time program incorporating American Sign Language, stories, activities, and crafts.

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Sensory learning, neuromuscular activities, and spatial awareness, otherwise referred to as,

The Little Gym helps children reach their greatest potential.

From 4 months through 12 years, classes promote development and build confidence during each stage of childhood.

Open Enrollment Year Round The Little Gym of Germantown www.tlggermantowntn.com 901-755-1323

Can you imagine... a world without children?

We Can’t.

Call 1-800-996-4100 to help.

www.stjude.org

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YOUR CHILD

SHOULD BE HERE! Send us your kid funnies, photos, or artwork via email with Favorite Moments in the subject line to michelle@memphisparent.com

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Make a pediatrician part of your family.

Pediatricians are skilled at diagnosing and treating childhood issues. They’re also experts on child development. The more they see your child and get to know your family, the better they can serve each of you. At Le Bonheur we believe every child matters, and it matters to have a pediatrician involved at every step in your child’s health. lebonheur.org

Where Every Child Matters

Dr. Patrice Reed Memphis Pediatrics