Memphis Parent - April 2021

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M E M P H I S PA R E N T.C O M

CA MP ’S IN SESSION!

P L U S

MEMPHIS YOUTH ARTS INITIATIVE

OUTSTANDING TEACHER

PANDEMIC FATIGUE

READING HELP

Does your child need a structured

summer program?

Lakeside Behavioral Health System can help.

The Brunswick Day Program is an Intensive Outpatient Program that treats children and adolescents with high functioning autism in a supportive environment. Our goal is to maintain continuity in students’ developmental and behavioral skills throughout the summer.

Our pattern-based curriculum includes:

The program was designed by parents, caregivers and clinical professionals and is led by licensed and trained therapists, certified special education teachers and certified activity therapists.

• Activity/recreational therapy

The five-week program is designed for elementary, middle and high school students and runs Monday through Friday from 9 am to 2 pm.

Students may attend one week or any number of consecutive weeks. Lunch will be provided.

June 21 – 25 July 6 – 9* July 19 - 23

• Social skills development • Sensory motor integration skills training • Educational/learning skills • Study skills/adaptive classroom behavior

Summer 2021 Dates: June 28 – July 2 July 12 – 16

*No program on July 5th

We can be the answer you are looking for. For more information, or to register, please contact Marceia Ashe Marceia.Ashe@uhsinc.com or call 901-373-0931.

2911 Brunswick Road | Memphis, Tennessee 38133 901-377-4733 | lakesidebhs.com

Physicians are on the medical staff of Lakeside Behavioral Health System, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Lakeside Behavioral Health System. The facility shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the non-discrimination notice, visit our website.

210138-0609 03/21

We Can

HELP

Call 901-377-4733 Contact us for a confidential, no-cost assessment, 24/7 M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

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2021

CAMP GUIDE READY, SET, CAMP! This roundup can help jump-start your search.

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Compiled by Matthew J. Harris

CAMP: A PANDEMIC ANTIDOTE Kids will thrive at camp this summer.

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By Andy Pritikin

MATH & MUSIC The two are structurally — and soulfully — intertwined.

10 explore play create swim adventure thoughtful team games grow healthy safe run art confidence learn social memorable sports together sing encourage craft build

By Krishnav Manga

ARTS IN ACTION Local group gives access to performing arts.

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By Matthew J. Harris

6 901 FUN Fun and learning lie ahead 8 DEAR TEACHER Insight on reading problems

Tutoring for Success

Over 30 years helping students learn

Math — Pre-Algebra, Algebra I, and Geometry ACT, SAT, GRE, PRAXIS, ISEE and more

NOW TUTORING ONLINE “Students Learn to Succeed” Pamela Palmer, M.S., M.A., Ed.D. 901.331.6082 • pam@pamelapalmer.com 2

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14 OUTSTANDING TEACHER Celebrating unsung heroes

28 CALENDAR AND EVENTS Family-friendly fun all month long

24 DAD LIBS Pandemic fatigue — how are you coping?

OUR COVER KID Crosby is ready to hit the pitch.

OUR STAFF Editor Shara Clark Art Director Bryan Rollins Advertising Art Director Christopher Myers Account Executive Michelle Musolf Production Operations Director Margie Neal Calendar Editor Julie Ray Social Media Coordinator Kalena Matthews

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. CEO Anna Traverse Fogle Director of Business Development Jeffrey A. Goldberg Editorial Director Bruce VanWyngarden Special Projects Director Molly Willmott Controller Ashley Haeger Digital Services Director Kristin Pawlowski P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101 p: 901.521.9000 • f: 901.521.0129 Send advertising queries to: margie@memphisparent.com

visit us at memphisparent.com memphisparent

memphis-parent

memphisparent

r e m m Su NG

I D R @ HA I H ar

901!

s s .o r g / n o i L g n di

ummer

DAY CAMP

In-house Field Trips Service Projects

SPORTS CAMPS LEAP CAMPS JUNE 1–JULY 30

East Memphis Extended Care Included HardingLions.org/summer 901-312-2836

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

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E D I T O R ’ S

N O T E

HELLO, SUNSHINE! As I write this, the first hints of spring are revealing themselves — the Bradford pear tree in my front yard sprouted its tiny white blooms over the weekend, my neighbors’ daffodils have shown their first blossoms, and the sun’s warm rays are easing us out of what became the harshest winter we Memphians have experienced in years. After a year-long (and counting) pandemic with lots of growing pains for us all, I’m welcoming the change of seasons with open arms.

With our sights set on summer, we’ve put together our annual Summer Camp Guide to help you plan. Whether your child is interested in outdoor activities, arts, or anything in between, there are plenty of options, locally and regionally, to choose

from. All are taking necessary COVID-19 precautions and following health department guidelines this year to keep your kids safe. Take a look at just a few of the places offering camp experiences in our camp roundup, beginning on page 16.

Also, mark your calendars now for Memphis Parent’s annual Camp Expo, which will be held on Saturday, April 17th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the FedEx Event Center at Shelby Farms Park. At the masked and socially distanced event, parents will have an opportunity to meet with camp staff and directors, ask questions, and take home informative materials on what’s on offer from area camps.

Visit memphisparentcampexpo.com

for a list of participating camps and to reserve an advanced visitor time slot. An online comprehensive camp guide, which lists programs and costs for a variety of venues, can also be found on our website at memphisparent.com. We know you’ll find something fun, safe, and exciting for your kids this summer!

By the time you read this, we’ll be well into spring. We hope you’ll enjoy every flower, every neighborhood stroll, and every moment of fun in the sun with family.

Take care!

Shara Clark

Editor

Every

HERO needs a

Looking for a farm and equine environment for your young people to play outdoors?

Has your child had horse lessons and is ready to learn more? Join us for summer camp at Panther Creek Stables, where we play, learn and grow with our equine friends and each other. New this year is our Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) Camp, an inclusive, fun time to learn social skills and co-regulation in partnership with horses. Campers aged 6-12 are welcome, as are Wranglers-In-Training aged 13-17.

mentor, every mentor needs a GUIDE.

8:30am-3pm Wrangler in Training WEEK: JUNE 7-11 WEEK 1: JUNE 21-25 • WEEK 2: JULY 5-9 WEEK 3: JULY 19-23 • EAL WEEK: JUNE 14-18 WEEK 4: AUGUST 2-6 Prices:

Main Camp $350 | WIT $375 | EAL $400 | Before Care $15/day

5750 Conger Rd. Nesbit, MS 38651 | (662) 912-5440 4

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memphisparent.com

Summer Camps for Mini Makers AGES 5-8, 9-13, & 14-17

D RAW I NG & PAI NT I NG, P HOTO G RAP HY, FAS HI O N , C E RAMI C S , P R I NTMAK I NG, AND MU C H MO R E Week long sessions taught by professional artists. Small class sizes. Multi-child and multi-sessions discounts. Scholarships available.

GET CREATIVE THIS SUMMER arrowcreative.org/summercamp2021 653 Philadelphia St, Memphis TN 38104 M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

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THURSDAY

EASTER EGG HUNT

Cedar Hill Farm (8 Love, Hernando, MS) hosts this event from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on April 1st. Enjoy egg hunts, pony rides, petting the animals, and pictures with the Easter Bunny. The Barn will be open for breakfast and brunch. $12. cedarhillfarm.com. 662-429-2540.

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SATURDAY

SPRING BLOOMS IN THE GARDEN: SPRING BULBS

Tiptoe through the tulips — and the daffodils, hyacinth, and more — at Memphis Botanic Garden (750 Cherry), from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on April 3rd.

Featuring activities for the whole family, horticultural features, and food trucks.

Free with Garden admission. memphisbotanicgarden.com. 636-4100.

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FRIDAY

On April 9th, Lichterman Nature Center (5992 Quince) offers an evening with hikes, outdoor activities, campfire, s’mores, a silent auction, and more.

6-9 p.m. $25/adult (includes tickets for two glasses of wine), $15/youth. memphismuseums.org. 767-7322.

DINOS AFTER DARK

Join the Memphis Zoo (2000 Prentiss Place) on April 9th (also Sat., April 10th) from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. to explore the zoo at night, featuring visits from some of the zoo animal ambassadors and hands-on activities. For ages 5 and up. $25-$30. memphiszoo.org. 333-6500.

MONDAY

GIRLS LEADERSHIP: GIRL & GROWN-UP WORKSHOP

Teaches girls to exercise the power of their voice. Workshops are a fun and brave space for girls and their grown-ups to laugh and have fun together while learning key social-emotional skills. $50.

For grades 6th, 7th, & 8th. Workshop is 6:30 to 8 p.m. on April 12th (also Wednesdays; April 7th, 21st, and 28th). girlsleadership.org. 866-744-9102.

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WEDNESDAY

VIRTUAL FAMILY STORY TIME

Memphis Library hosts this fun, interactive story time from librarians who look forward to reading, singing, and visiting with your family, every second Wednesday of each month. 10:30 a.m. Free. memphislibrary.org. 415-2700.

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FRIDAY

ART IN THE LOOP

Outdoor market at Ridgeway Loop (between Briarcrest and Ridge Bend), featuring works of fine craft in metal, glass, wood, clay, and fiber, as well as 2-D disciplines. Food trucks will be available.

April 16th, 1-6 p.m. Also on Sat., April 17th, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; and Sun., April 18th, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free to attend. artintheloop.com.

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NATURE BY FIRELIGHT

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Outdoors or in, lots of fun — and learning — lies ahead.

WEDNESDAY

EARTH DAY ONLINE

On April 21st, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., Superintendent Cash and Spokesperson Dana Soehn will share updates from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including discussion of the challenges and successes of managing a park through the pandemic and the importance of public lands over the past year as a refuge for all. Free. wolfriver.org. 452-6500.

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FRIDAY

FAMILY NIGHT AT THE GROVE

Germantown Performing Arts Center (1801 Exeter) hosts this in-person performance of Mary Poppins by dance students on April 23rd. Food trucks will be on site. 5 p.m., $10. gpacweb.com.

751-7500.

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THURSDAY

DISNEY’S LITTLE MERMAID

A talented cast of young actors brings Disney’s story of Ariel the mermaid to life on the stage at Bartlett Performing Arts and Conference Center (3663 Appling) on April 30th at 7:30 p.m.

Additional performances on Sat., May 1st, at 7:30 p.m.; and Sun., May 2nd, at 2 p.m. bpacc.org. 385-6440.

ONGOING

“TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES: SECRETS OF THE SEWER”

Through April 11th. Families will be transported to the underground home of the crime-fighting heroes to see what really happens in their secret hideaway, featuring hands-on experiences at the Children’s Museum of Memphis (2525 Central). cmom.com. 458-2678.

VIRTUAL-OLOGY

On Saturdays, 1:30-2 p.m., Dixon Gallery and Gardens provides youngsters ages 10-13 a chance to discover new interests and build on social, critical thinking, artmaking, and community skills. Every month follows a new theme, from drawing to printmaking to gardening and more. Free with registration. dixon.org. 761-5250.

DISTANCE LEARNING “LIVE” DANCE CLASSES

Ballet On Wheels, online. MondaysThursdays and Saturdays. Classes in various dance genres including ballet, jazz, hip-hop, and more. The online dance curriculum includes weekly bonus classes that are not typically offered as a part of the normal schedule. Financial aid available. To enroll, visit balletonwheels.org.

LITERACY MID-SOUTH’S FAMILIES: SAFER AT HOME RESOURCES

Provides resources for families with elementary-aged students at home. Includes reading tips, guides, at-home interactive literacy activities, and ideas. literacymidsouth.org.

STORY TIME WITH LA ABUELA TOMASA

Tuesdays on Facebook Live. Visit Cazateatro Bilingual Theatre Group’s Facebook to watch.

For more information, visit cazateatro.org.

INTERNATIONAL STORY TIME

Every other Thursday on the Crosstown Concourse Facebook page. Kids are invited to watch videos and hear stories they may be familiar with in a language they have never heard before. crosstownconcourse.com.

Jennifer Young Elementary STEM Teacher

OPEN HOUSE:

April 18, 2pm Schoolwide

BS from Georgia Tech MS Ed from Georgia State Industrial Engineer Teaching Certified in: Science, Chemistry, Particle Dynamics, Electromagnetism, Physics, Optics

CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

901.765.4600 briarcrest.com

Briarcrest welcomes students without regard to race, ethnicity, color, creed, national origin or religious affiliation.

Our teachers are superheroes.

R E G I S T E R AT C b h s . o r g M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

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D E A R

T E A C H E R

By Marge Eberts and Peggy Gisler

BEGINNING READING PROBLEM When my child reads, she has trouble recognizing words that have short vowels.

For example, she might confuse let, lot, and lit. She is in first grade. Is this a common problem?

— Reading Problem Having problems with short vowel sounds is not unusual for beginning readers. Not knowing the short vowel sounds can make spelling difficult, too. Here’s why: Consonant sounds are generally sounded out easily, as they are largely crisp, clear sounds. On the other hand, there are small differences between how short vowels are said.

The word family approach can make learning the short vowel sounds easier. For example, the “an” family teaches the short “a” sound as different consonants are placed in front of it to produce van, man, tan, and can.

We have developed 126 short word family stories with games called Skinny Books that will help your child learn short vowel sounds and to read hundreds of words. You can find out more about them on the Dear Teacher website.

IS MY CHILD’S READING PROBLEM AN EYE PROBLEM? I just read the parent letter sent to you about a second grader’s choppy reading. This sounded exactly like what my son experienced. The school reading intervention program did not result in improvements, so I took him to a pediatric ophthalmologist who determined that he had an ocular misalignment.

One of his eyes didn’t immediately focus on the word, so he had to look at each word until it came into focus. The problem was easily fixed within 90 days at no cost with daily vision exercises. Please get back to this parent and recommend an eye exam with a pediatric ophthalmologist (non-pediatric ophthalmologists may miss the problem).

Our doctor told us that if this is not addressed at an early age, it is irreversible.

— Solution Found

Whenever a young child has a reading problem, both eyes and ears should definitely be checked out. Thanks for the good advice for our readers.

However, keep in mind that most reading problems are not caused by a medical problem.

Choppy reading in second grade can occur because students did not learn their basic phonics and sufficient sight words in first grade, or due to a fluency problem. Improving reading fluency is a big part of the language-arts process. Not only does it improve comprehension, it also makes children confident oral readers in the classroom. Plus, fluency is one skill that is relatively simple to improve in students who don’t have serious reading or communication disorders.

Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@dearteacher.com or to the Dear Teacher website. ©Compass Syndicate Corporation, 2021 8

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summer at St. George s Athletics | Gymnastics | ST

EM | Woods & Water | Robo tics | ACT Prep | Jazz and Ja Video Game Design | Sewing m | Pottery | Chess | BattleBots | Cook ing | and more!

• Full-day & half-day camps • Drop-ins welcome at Camp Gryphon, if space available

June 7 – August 6

Grades PK – 12

‘

sgis.org/summer

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

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F E AT U R E

C

F Dm

B

G

Am

D

Em Bm

Gm Cm

E

A

Fm Cm

Fm Bm

A

Em

D

E

Gm

G

B

C

The two are structurally — and soulfully — intertwined.

How many times have we told ourselves that math is tough and we will never use math in the real world? Also, how many of us love music, whether it is listening or singing or just enjoying music in general? To many of us, math may seem cold and soulless, while music seems warm and soulful. Believe it or not, math is in fact the heart and soul of music.

Today I want to talk about two of my passions and the relation between them. One of the best athletes to ever play basketball, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, said, “Music rhythms are mathematical patterns. When you hear a song and your body starts moving with it, your body is doing math.” This quote really resonated with me. I happen to love both math and music. My intense passion for math and percussion set me to seek the connection between the two. Although math and music may seem like complete opposites and the connection may not be obvious, they share a very close relationship.

When most kids think math, they will likely reminisce about 10

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sitting in a classroom solving problems that they did not want to solve because, for many of us, math is a paradox. And what happens when we think about music? Music tends to bring many emotions out of us. Music definitely has a soul, and I believe that soul is math. The two are related, and math is used extensively to describe and teach music.

Let me give you an example: Einstein used to sit and play music when he was stuck on a mathematical problem. By concentrating on the problem at hand (left brain) while playing the piano or violin (right brain), he was able to strengthen the communication between the two hemispheres of his brain and

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

By Krishnav Manga

Now Registering for Summer Classes

A Kid’s Music Class that Really Rocks

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

Come Jam with Music for Aardvarks, Memphis!

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

Newcomers welcome to drop in for one FREE class

Spring Registration happening now!

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

Ask us about hosting an outdoor class at your home!

• Great Music • Fun for parents too!

• Live guitar and storytelling, singing and dancing • Great for birthday parties, special events, and 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 901-218-4695 for more info

increase brain power. Recent studies show that the Mozart Effect, as it is known, has very little to do with listening to Mozart and more to do with listening to any music that activates a certain portion of the brain.

My personal experience in combining the two has been beneficial. I find myself drumming with my pencil when I am trying to solve a complicated math problem.

Believe me, it really helps. Math and music together engage both the left and the right hemispheres of the brain, and the brain’s capacity is doubled. Even something as simple as listening to soft music on my headphones while doing math helps me increase focus and endurance.

Last year, I auditioned as a percussionist for a competitive music concert called All-West. One of the main requirements is to look at a piece of music for only 30 seconds and then play it to the best of your ability. Quickly using fractions in my head, I was able to stay on beat and calculate the rhythm accurately in the allotted time,

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F E AT U R E

explore

SUMMER

CAMP

JUNE 7-JULY 30

ARTS • ACADEMICS • ATHLETICS • ADVENTURE

BOYS & GIRLS PRE KINDERGARTEN - 8TH GRADE

SAA-SDS.ORG

JOIN IN THE FUN!

and I placed in the top 10 out of more than 100 participants. Math was one of the main reasons I did well in the audition, as it helped me quickly calculate the beats per measure and play the music well. This proved to me how music really revolved around math and that music and math are in fact interwoven.

Mathematics and music share a concern with numbers and patterns of change. In music, these patterns are called rhythm. The golden section — expressed

by Fibonacci ratios — is either used to generate rhythmic changes or to develop a melody line. Also, the climax of many songs is often found near the golden ratio, which is equal to 61.8 percent. A scale consists of eight notes, of which the fifth and third notes create the basic foundation of all chords. Geniuses from Mozart to Leonardo da Vinci have used the Fibonacci Sequence.

For most people, mathematics is an unsolvable puzzle characterized by the impression of numbers and calculations taught in school. It is often associated with feelings of rejection and disinterest. So next time when you think of math as boring and tough but music as joyful, please remember that math is one of the main reasons music is enjoyable.

I invite you to look at math as the foundational bridge between music and its pleasurable rhythms. I invite you to let the musician in you reach out to math. I invite you to join me in connecting music to its soul — math!

Krishnav Manga is a 9th grader at Lausanne Collegiate School and is also the co-founder of 901PLEDGE. He won the “Keeper of the Dream” award from the National Civil Rights Museum for the work he has been doing with the refugee resettlement in Memphis and with Mid-South Food Bank. 901PLEDGE was recently honored

by Volunteer Memphis as the “Non-Profit Impact Memphis Volunteer Project” for its work to help refugee children through literacy, among other causes. Krishnav is passionate about math and music and a huge fan of the Memphis Grizzlies.

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O U T S TA N D I N G

T E A C H E R

MARY FUNES “When I was a little kid, me and my best friend always dreamed we’d become teachers,” says Mary Funes, a second grade teacher at Tara Oaks Elementary. “I knew I wanted to work with kids. It’s just something that I always knew I wanted to do.

And as my own kids grew up, I knew that teaching was where I was going to.”

Funes is a longtime Memphian who grew up in the Collierville area. Though she did not formally begin teaching until later in life, she was always finding ways to teach others. “I was always involved in church and taught Sunday school,” she says. “I would also do a Wednesday support class at church, so I’ve just continually worked with kids.”

While Funes enjoyed working with kids, there was a deeper layer to the work she was doing. When she began teaching, reflection on what various teachers had done for her in the past was a big part of helping Funes define her teaching style.

“Some teachers really stuck out to me as wonderful, amazing teachers, but then you also have those who didn’t really understand [some students’ needs],” she says. “So one of my things is that some kids need a little bit extra, or kids who struggle with certain things need to know that I love to help them. I have patience and empathy, and that goes a long way. And I feel

like that’s where sometimes the parents and I can really connect, because they understand that I’m here for the kids and I’m not just teaching them academically. I truly believe in the whole — the whole self.”

Part of her drive to work with kids in the classroom comes from her own struggles as a student.

At a young age, Funes struggled in classes but says that her teachers always pushed her to do her best. In her classes today, Funes works to

By Matthew J. Harris

try and meet students at points where they are struggling and push them to accomplish more.

“My goal is to meet the students’ needs, where they need to be met,” she says. “This past year with COVID has been completely different. There are more challenges out there, like not being able to work one-on-one, or being able to work with small groups. I love being able to see where they’re lacking, but also where they are when they succeed. Especially with kids who struggle, it’s so important to take each step, even if it’s a baby step, and just let them know that that’s a huge accomplishment.”

At Tara Oaks, Funes has put her philosophy into practice. One of the main jobs of the second grade teacher is teaching reading, something that can be hit or miss for many students.

“I’ve had several kids who really struggle with reading,” Funes says. “When the light bulb turns on, and when they see how excited you are for them, they get this sense of pride. And that is when I feel the best, when I see that they feel they have exceeded and succeeded.”

Another thing Funes tries to encourage in her classroom is being okay with making mistakes and focusing on how to move past them.

Students who struggle in her class are never chastised; she instead works to try to build up their spirits.

“Sometimes my classroom might seem a little strict, but each kid knows that they are loved,” she says. “One of my biggest mottos is, ‘It is okay to make mistakes.’ I let them know all the time that I am full of mistakes; I make them on a daily basis, but what we want to do is learn from those mistakes and grow. I want to be extended grace when I make mistakes, so I’m going to extend grace when my students do.”

While the University of Memphis graduate attributes some of her success to the college’s education program, a large part of her success relates to her general love of teaching. “I love going to work every single day. I love getting up.

Those kids are the highlight of my day,” Funes says. “If you really feel that you should go into the teaching profession, then absolutely follow your dream. It’s not for everybody, but it’s so rewarding.”

We want to shine a light on your child’s teacher, or even a teacher who made a difference in your life.

Submit your nomination today by emailing teacher@memphisparent.com.

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ai16158438799_Camp Expo - 2.25x9.875_final.pdf 1 3/15/2021 4:31:26 PM

WE HAVE SOMETHING

FOR EVERYONE. ALL AGES. ALL DAY.

ALL SUMMER.

Camp Timberwolf

SUMMER CAMP

June 1 - July 30 Extended Hours: 7:00 am - 5:30 pm

C

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Y

For rising 3K - 8th grade

For more information visit sfawolves.org/summer/ or call 901-381-2595

CM

MY

CY

CMY

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hutchisonschool.org/summer

You Belong at the Brooks.

brooksmuseum.org M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

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READY, SET, CAMP! This roundup of summer camps can help jump-start your search.

These are just a few of the local and regional camps taking place this season. Check out our camp guide on memphisparent.com for a full list of camps and programs. And be sure to attend Memphis Parent’s 4th annual Camp Expo to meet with camp staff and directors to help make the best choice for your child this summer!

Arrow Creative Arrow will continue the legacy of Memphis College of Art’s Youth Summer Camp by collaborating with past MCA teachers and other local artists and educators. The camp will host approximately 48 sessions over an eight-week period, ranging from drawing and painting to ceramics and digital design. They will work with teachers and staff to ensure that the artmaking at each level fits the needs of the students while allowing them to work with one another, encourage one another, and grow in their understanding of their artistic endeavors. Register at arrowcreative.org/ summercamp2021.

Christian Brothers High School CBHS offers fun summer camp experiences for your rising preschool to 12th graders that enrich the mind and body. In addition to the popular sports camps, this year they will host a two-week band camp and a series of academic enrichment camps called Brothers LEAD for middle schoolers. Camps are held throughout June and July, offered to both boys and girls.

Register at camps.cbhs.org.

Briarcrest Christian School Briarcamp serves BCS students in Little Saints through 6th grade by providing a safe, healthy, and fun recreational experience for children in a Christian environment. Briarcamp is available beginning June 1 and runs until July 23, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with early- and after-care provided at an additional charge. A half-day option is available from 9 a.m. to noon or noon to 3 p.m.

Briarcamp will adhere to physical distancing and DOE guidelines. Will only be open to BCS students with a signed contract for the fall of 2021-2022. Should the status of COVID improve, they may consider opening Briarcamp to non-BCS families.

Evangelical Christian School Summer at ECS, June 7-July 30, 9 a.m.3 p.m., with before- and after-care available.

Camps: All Day Camp, Athletic Camps, and Specialty Camps. Registration costs range from $125 to $245. To register, visit ecseagles.com or contact Camp Director Cate Foy at cfoy@ ecseagles.com or at 754-7217.

Brooks Summer Art Camp Brooks is offering art camps for children ages 5 through 11, inspiring young minds to explore art and creativity. Camp includes active learning in the galleries, looking at original works of art, creating studio projects, active play outdoors, and more. Visit brooksmuseum.org/camps for more information. Camp runs WednesdayFriday, June 30-July 2, July 7-9, and July 14-16, 9:30 a.m. drop-off, 3:30 p.m. pick-up.

Members: $150 per week/nonmembers: $180 per week.

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Collage Dance Collective Collage Dance Collective will be hosting a variety of sessions this summer. Register at collagedance.org/summer-programs.

Hutchison School Build a dollhouse, experiment with elephant toothpaste, dance your heart out, create your first comic book, and more! Hutchison Center for Excellence and SPARK Day Camp, June 1-August 14. For girls and boys entering grades JK-12. SPARK Day Camp runs daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with early care starting at 7:30 a.m. and late care available until 6 p.m. The Center for Excellence (CFE) offers unique full- or half-day camps and workshops for boys and girls of all ages. Make a day of it with a CFE/SPARK crossover. Discounts are available for multi-week campers, siblings, and crossover campers. For more information, visit hutchisonschool.org/summer.

Harding Academy Join the Day Camp to make new friends, take in-house field trips, and participate in service projects. Sign up for Sports Camps to work on

your swing/shot/kick. Or take a LEAP class to learn how to write code, play the piano, and more. Whatever you choose, you’ll make great summer memories this year at Harding. For details and registration, visit hardingacademy. squarespace.com/campus-life/summerprograms.

Contact for Day Camp & LEAP Camp: Brenda Stewart, stewart.brenda@ hardingacademymemphis.org, 312-2836.

Contact for Sports Camp: Cody Nelson, nelson.cody@ hardingacademymemphis.org, 312-2837.

Kroc Center From virtual learning childcare to seasonal break camps and after-school activities, Kroc child and youth development programs are designed to provide enrichment and variety to keep kids active, academically engaged, and socially connected. Kroc kids learn, grow, and thrive in a nurturing environment that focuses on Christian values. To register, visit krocmemphis.org/youth-activities/campsafterschool.

Lausanne Collegiate Operating June 1-August 13, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with both morning, afternoon, and fullday options. Closed the week of July 5-9. To register, visit lausanneschool.com.

Little Medical School MidSouth From birthday parties, CPR/First Aid, and Scout badge classes, after-school programs, in-school field trips, homeschool programs, mini camps, to summer camps. Little Medical School is a STEM-based enrichment program for children and youth aged 4-15 that teaches greater health awareness through educational roleplay and introduces them to careers in healthcare in an exciting way. To register, visit littlemedicalschool.com/midsouth

Compiled by Matthew J. Harris

Memphis Zoo Zoo Camp runs June 7-August 6, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. $235, members/$265, nonmembers.

Offering camps for grades JK through 5th, with reduced overall capacity. Camps with a focus on nature exploration will foster an appreciation for the outdoors and encourage creativity, observation, and positive interactions with the natural world. Select camp grade level according to the grade level your child will enter in the 2021-2022 school year.

Memphis Jewish Community Center MJCC Camp is open to all children ages 3 through 10th grade. Facilities include an outdoor water park, indoor pool, expansive field space, and much more.

Register at jccmemphis.org/camp.

MUS Owls Memphis University School’s all-new Camp U will offer an immersive, high-energy day camp experience for boys entering 1st through 7th grades. Week-long whole-day or half-day sessions begin June 7 and 14 and July 12 and 19. Enjoy indoor and outdoor games, science experiments, makerspace activities, arts and crafts, and more. MUS will also offer sports camps, including baseball, basketball, soccer, and lacrosse. For more details on all camps, visit musowls.org/summer.

Memphis Botanic Garden On-Site Camps: June 7-11, June 14-18, June 21-25, and July 12-16 Garden on the Go!: June 14-18, June 21-25, June 28-July 2, July 12-16, July 19-23, and July 26-30 Summer fun is blooming at the Garden!

Nature camps are dedicated to connecting kids with nature. Whether they’re exploring 96 acres during on-site camps or taking activities home with Garden on the Go, aspiring naturelovers and adventurers are covered. Learn more at memphisbotanicgarden.com/camps.

AGES 7-18 CAMPS FOR ALL SKILL LEVELS 15 UNIQUE CAMPS OFFERED ACROSS 3 MEMPHIS AREA LOCATIONS VIEW FULL SCHEDULE AND ENROLL AT: SCHOOLOFROCK.COM/MUSIC-CAMPS Summer music camps are a great way for your child to start their musical journey. From beginner camps to songwriting and themed camps, School of Rock offers a wide variety of topics to ensure your child is engaged and has an amazing, immersive experience. Our camps utilize School of Rock's performance based curriculum, which emphasizes performance as the primary way to build musicianship. Camp students will learn to play by rehearsing in a safe and fun in-school environment, culminating with a live performacne at week’s end. Sign up your child now and watch them become a musician this summer.

. 400 PERKINS EX T. MEMPHIS, TN 38117 . 901.730.4380 MEMPHIS GERMANTOWN . 9309 POPLAR AVE. GERMANTOWN, TN 38138 . 901.209.4170 . . 901.425.7625 WOLFCHASE 8385 US HW Y 64. MEMPHIS, TN 38133

Orpheum Camps may be virtual this year. Please check the Orpheum website for up-to-date information. Orpheum camp options include: Camp Collaborate, Arts Explore!, Story Lab, Mending Hearts Camp, and Musical Theatre Intensive. For details and pricing, visit orpheum-memphis.com.

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YOUTH THEATRE CAMPS

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST June 7 – 11 / Grade 1 to 6

MISSOULA CHILDREN’S THEATRE HANZEL AND GRETEL June 14 – 18 / Grade 1 to 12

STORYTELLING WITH ALICE IN WONDERLAND June 21 – 25 / Grade 3 to 9

JUNGLEBOOK

July 12 – 16 / Grade 1 to 6

I HATE SHAKESPEARE July 19 – 23 / Grade 6 to 12

Monday to Friday / 9AM-1PM Missoula / 9AM – 1:30PM

COVID SAFE CAMPS Info & Registration Forms Visit BPACC.org 3663 Appling Road Bartlett, TN 38133 901.385.5588 | BPACC.org

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

Year ‘round in our HEATED indoor pool!

SCUBA RANGERS

Come Join the Fun with Scuba Rangers: Ages 8 - 11 Scuba Skills • Teamwork • Goal setting • Confidence • Accomplishment Community Awareness • Snorkel & Scuba Classes Gift Certificates make great gifts!

999 South Yates, Memphis, TN • 901-763-3483 • www.diveshop1.com 18

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Panther Creek Stables Panther Creek Stables is proud to offer a safe and fun summer day camp for ages 6-17. Riding lessons, games on horseback, cow work, horsey crafts, swimming in the lake, and more await.

Go to panthercreekstables.simpletix.com for more information and to register.

School of Rock School of Rock | Memphis - 400 Perkins Ext. • memphis.schoolofrock.com School of Rock | Germantown - 9309 Poplar Ave., Ste 102, Germantown • germantown.schoolofrock.com School of Rock | Wolfchase - 8385 Hwy. 64, Ste. 111, Memphis • wolfchase.schoolofrock.com This comprehensive camp experience is designed to hone music performance and ensemble skills in a creative and fun environment.

Playing in a band situation speeds learning and creates “seasoned” musicians. Even relatively advanced musicians are amazed at the amount of progress they make when regularly playing with other musicians. Students work in a handson atmosphere.

St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School For rising 3K-8th graders, Camp Timberwolf offers the opportunity for kids to learn and try new things while having fun. June 1-July 30, extended hours: 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m. For more information, visit sfawolves.org/summer or call 901-381-2595.

St. Mary’s Episcopal School At St. Mary’s, summer equals fun for artists and princesses, athletes and astronauts, with a variety of activities for boys and girls of all ages.

June 1-August 6. To register, visit stmarysschool.org/summer or call 901-537-1415.

St. Agnes Academy / St. Dominic School Open to the community and offering a catalog of over 70 professionally run and highly rewarding camps for PK-12th grade students. From drama and fine arts to sports and all-day camps, there is something for everyone. Choose from Junior Day Camp for rising PK-K students and Day Camp for rising 1st-6th grade students.

Auxiliary Camps for all students (rising PK-12th grade), as well as partial or extended day care before and after camp programs (rising PK-6th grade students). June 1-July 31.

Main school number: 901-767-1356 Summer front desk: 901-435-5893 Visit saa-sds.org/summer for more info.

Our Biggest Summer Ever!

A DV E N T UR E BEGI NS HERE

Explore STEAM projects. Play Games.

Read for fun. Hone your Sports skills.

Pick up some tech pointers. Get wet!

More than 60 fantastic camps to beat summer boredom.

For boys & girls in rising PK - 6th Grades Register now: pdsmemphis.org/summer

Get ready to have a BLAST this summer!

Woodland Presbyterian School offers a variety of Creative, Academic, and Athletic day camps for 2K through 8th grade. Camps run from June 1 to July 30.

For more information or to register, scan the QR code or visit www.woodlandschool.org.

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

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G U I D E

© Chernetskaya | Dreamstime.com

C A M P

SUMMER CAMP: A PANDEMIC ANTIDOTE Kids will thrive at camp this season.

For two decades, I’ve been heralding the importance of summer camp to families who have never attended.

Years before COVID-19, there existed a worldwide outbreak among our youth in technology addiction, social skill deficiency, indoors isolation, and overparenting. And now, since March 2020, our kids have been living an increasingly bizarre, unnatural life of screens and quarantines, hybrid schooling (if they’re lucky), and enough fear and disappointment to last them into adulthood. However, in the midst of the insanity, we learned that summer camp can become a beacon of hope, a lifeline towing them back to their normal selves.

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More than 1,000 lucky children and 250 staff attended Liberty Lake Day Camp in summer 2020. While strict safety guidelines and a modified program were necessary, the fundamental essence of camp remained intact: kids playing together, mentored by caring staff, and in most cases — outdoors. According to the campers, parents, and staff at camps that ran last summer, it was by far their most meaningful camp experience ever, as well as an impactful life event. And think about it — that was after only four months of screens and quarantines. Imagine what it’s going to be like in 2021? Wowza!

In 2020, 70 percent of camps didn’t open, many due to government restrictions, others by choice. The camps that did open showed great resilience and creativity in adapting and flourishing within their new parameters, doing it better than most schools. While some families and staff chose to postpone their camp attendance until 2021 — most didn’t want to miss out, even in the midst of a pandemic, despite apprehensions. What were these people, crazy? Absolutely not. They strongly believed that the benefits outweighed the perceived risk. This season, after two compromised school years and everything that’s gone along with it, our children’s need for the benefits of summer camp will be crucially important.

By Andy Pritikin

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

(c) M o d f o s | D r e a m s t i m e . c o m

REAL HUMAN CONNECTION — Zoom and remote learning have saved us in so many ways. But there’s no substitute for real human connection. Making and strengthening relationships while being guided by loving people is what camp is all about. The essence of camp is in the friendships we forge, something we are all lacking and craving these days.

REACQUAINTING OURSELVES WITH NATURE — While society has been trapped indoors for the past year, most of the world is outdoors, and it is amazingly beautiful, and fills our souls with joy. From picture-perfect days to “liquid sunshine” washouts, it’s real living — the way our ancestors lived for thousands of years, until the advent of central air, video screens, and the internet. Our bodies yearn for the outdoors, and that’s where most summer camps happen.

RESILIENCY — Our kids are certainly developing it; experiencing disappointments that will make them stronger. Learning to be brave and confronting challenges and fears are also important facets of resiliency. It’s easier to stay at home and stare at screens — but we want our kids to grow up with the kind of courage and “cando” attitude that our healthcare, essential workers, and superhero school teachers have learned and cultivated.

MENTAL HEALTH — While summer camp is widely known for its physical health benefits, according to the CDC, “Children’s mental health during public health emergencies can have both short- and long-term consequences to their overall health and well-being,” so it’s no surprise that hospital visits related to mental health have risen dramatically for schoolage children and adolescents.

Kids are resilient and can bounce back quickly.

But a year and a half of stress and anxiety is bound to leave a mark. Extroverted kids are suffering, missing the energy of their peers. Introverted kids may seem to enjoy sitting in their homes, away from life’s normal pressures — but they need social interaction just as much.

We had a depressed young camper last summer who hadn’t left his apartment nor gotten fully dressed in months. By his third day of camp, his parents thanked us for “returning his childhood to him.” For many kids, camp is a more important social-emotional antidote than the actual vaccine.

Why Can Summer Camps Be Successful During a Pandemic?

Good camps breed creative adaptability, and get things done — we always have.

How do you get a group of third-grade boys to listen? What do we do about the incoming storm? The bus is running late, animals got into the supplies, no electricity in the kitchen, kid pooped in the pool …

COLLAGEDANCE.ORG (901) 800-1873 CLASSES BEGIN IN AUGUST M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

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Christ-Centered Residential Summer Camp for Ages 7-17

Register Online Today!

www.CampoftheRisingSon.com • 662-547-6169

G U I D E

Camp people don’t complain — we figure it out and make it happen.

Last summer, we were able to facilitate 99 percent of what we normally do at camp — including lunches, bussing, instructional swimming, and assemblies.

Were they a little different than usual?

Sure — but all were accomplished, with smiles and appreciation.

Camp offers kids the unique opportunity to step back into a simpler time, with no internet connection or mute button needed. A place where a small community can have faith in the human spirit and support from one another without judgment, simply because it’s the right thing to do. Our kids need to be out of our homes, playing with other kids, and camps have proven that it can be done safely, even under the most challenging circumstances.

To find an excellent camp for your kids this summer, use the American Camp Association’s Find a Camp search.

Andy Pritikin is the director of Liberty Lake Day Camp in Mansfield Township, NJ (libertylakedaycamp.com), as well as founding partner of Everwood Day Camp, in Sharon, Massachusetts, past president of the American Camp Association, NY/NJ, and host of the Day Camp Podcast.

Reprinted by permission of the American Camp Association. ©2021, American Camping Association, Inc. About American Camp Association: The American Camp Association® (ACA) is a national organization with more than 12,000 individual members and 3,100 member camps. ACA is committed to collaborating with those who believe in quality camp and outdoor experiences for children, youth, and adults. ACA provides advocacy, evidence-based education, and professional development, and is the only independent national accrediting body for the organized camp experience. ACA accredits more than 2,400 diverse U.S. camps. ACA Accreditation provides public evidence of a camp’s voluntary commitment to the health, safety, risk management, and overall well-being of campers and staff. For more information, visit ACAcamps.org or call 800-428-2267.

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Kashif Latif, MD Endocrinologist We celebrate 15 years with Kashif Latif, MD, Founder of the Sugar Run 5K in his annual presentation of research funds at this year's Virtual JDRF Gala.

We want to thank our sponsors, participants and volunteers for their faithful support.

M CC

Summer Camp June 7–August 6

Ages 3–10th Grade • Open to All  3025 Kate Bond Road  901-384-0665  www.amdiabetes.net

Learn more and register at

www.jccmemphis.org/camp 6560 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38138 (901) 761-0810 • jccmemphis.org M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM 23

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L I B S

By Jeff Hulett

THE MANY FACES OF PANDEMIC FATIGUE

How are you coping?

Pandemic fatigue is like a Monday after a long weekend. Pandemic fatigue is like the Sunday before returning to work after a long vacation.

Pandemic fatigue is living in that space where there’s nothing to look forward to or be excited about. It’s where malaise and anxiety cloud everything, and while everything is generally fine, you still feel things could go off the rails at any moment. Not to mention the weight of everything that just sits on top of the insufferable fatigue.

Pandemic fatigue is something we all experience. It binds us. Every line of work and industry is affected, and no one gets a free pass. Including our neighbors in need who are living on the streets or those on the brink of poverty. We are all literally in this together, whether we act like it or not.

Sorry planners, pandemic fatigue is ubiquitous, and there is no finish line. *Friendly reminder: mask up, social distance, get vaccinated.

Clearly, pandemic fatigue is many things to many different people. In the end, after all the house projects are done and you’ve purged the attic and basement to make your home seem less cluttered, pandemic fatigue is still there to mock you.

Okay, enough darkness, I come to you in hopes of providing solutions and recommendations from many Memphians trying to make the most out of a strange time. I polled some friends and family recently to see how they are coping with the endless Groundhog’s Day nature of life in 2021, and here is what I learned.

For some, it’s all about nature and enjoying the outdoors. From hiking to slow strolls with man’s best friend, one friend said walking without her phone every day is key to staying grounded.

Others have extolled the virtues of riding their bikes and shooting hoops or throwing the pigskin. I agree that exercise is paramount to staying sane. Personally, I try to move in some way every day. Maybe I’ll join my wife Annie for some living room yoga soon.

Others have said it’s all about staying connected via FaceTime, Zoom, or other group apps or visiting with friends and family in safe and responsible ways. Fire pits and porch hangs are all the rage. I can attest that it’s one way to feel social

without feeling COVID-compromised.

Learning new skills, like knitting or speaking a different language or cooking, is another way to make good use of this homebound time. I grill at least once a week and even pulled off my first brisket on New Year’s Day. I probably would have never accomplished that feat in normal times.

In terms of a common theme, mental health above all seems to be the most important. From meditating to intentional breathing, as well as regular therapy sessions, many are focused on navigating this brave new world with as many tools in their toolkit as possible. I, for one, can confirm the importance of speaking with a non-biased partner in health. It can really do wonders.

As we surpass a full year dealing with COVID-19 and its restrictions on normal life, I think it’s fair to say that most people are fatigued with the day-to-day monotony of living in a global pandemic. Here’s to hoping that finish line comes into view real soon.

Jeff Hulett is a freelance writer, musician, and PR consultant in Memphis. He lives in the Vollintine Evergreen neighborhood with his wife Annie, two girls Ella and Beatrice, and two dogs Chalupa and Princess Freckles.

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Saturday, April 17th 10am-2pm Fedex Event Center at Shelby Farms Park Meet staff and leadership of area camps and learn more about summer enrichment programs for your child at this fun, safe, and FREE event!

hosted by

memphisparentcampexpo.com

Masks are required and distancing will be enforced at this FREE event!

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F E AT U R E

Arts in Action Memphis Youth Arts Initiative gives local kids access to performing arts.

The Memphis Youth Arts Initiative (MYAI) is not your typical after-school group. On any given weekday afternoon, the facility’s parking lot is filled with a drumline practicing, majorettes dancing, and a color guard honing their craft.

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By Matthew J. Harris

I wanted to take the energy I had been putting into becoming a band director and put it into the community.

Instructors and advisors from all walks of life observe the kids and guide them in making corrections as needed. Most of Memphis Youth Arts Initiative’s members do not go to the same school. In fact, most of them do not live in the same neighborhood, but they are all drawn together by the same goal as that of the group’s founder, Corey Travis — to create an accessible hub for music and performing arts in the city.

Travis founded the Memphis Youth Arts Initiative in July 2019, but his love of music and teaching extends far beyond that. Before founding the program, Travis had previously spent 10 years working to become a band director in his local school district.

“When I was working to be a band director, I spent a lot of time and money being told that I couldn’t do something that I knew I could,” he says. “I had to really wrestle with myself and push past a lot of personal barriers that were telling me that I couldn’t do it. I wanted to take the energy I had been putting into becoming a band director and put it into the community.”

Since its inception, the MYAI has grown to serve around 85 members, aged 6 to 17, and continues expanding its listing of music and performance options. Even with the difficulties mounted by COVID19, the group has been able to remain around a constant 70 members and has not had a single COVID-19 case among them since mid-August. Travis attributes some of their success in operating during COVID to a general sense of understanding among the members.

“At our facility, we operate socially distanced, but really our members just get it. We don’t have to remind them over and over to be safe,” he says. “They want to be there. The hardest part for us right now is the size of our facility. If we have all the groups practicing at the same time, it becomes hard for groups to work without overlapping one another.”

Lack of performances due to COVID19 has been a problem as well, says Travis.

Because of venue restrictions and limits on the number of spectators for events, finding places for MYAI to perform has

posed a challenge. Travis says the group has had to get creative.

“It’s been hard to keep the calendar full sometimes,” Travis says. “Recently, we have been taking groups out to perform and fundraise. I try to keep them busy and look for opportunities for them to perform.”

In the past, they have offered marching auxiliary band, urban dance, majorette, flag corps, color guard, and percussion ensemble classes but are looking to expand to theater and cheerleading. The plan going forward is to have the theater department create a performance as one of their annual productions and then leverage the other programs in MYAI to put those performances into motion.

MYAI is not just about music and performance. A big part of the program is fostering confidence and leadership skills.

Participants are put in charge of running their parts of the band and given the opportunity to help make decisions on how performances should look. But this is only the beginning of Travis’ vision. MYAI is in the process of developing its student leadership program. In the program, students would be holistically examined and given leadership opportunities. These members would also be on a special leadership council.

MYAI also has a strong sense of tradition, despite the organization’s age. Their annual award ceremony is a large affair in which parents are honored for their contributions to the program, recognitions are given out to members, and a most improved boy and girl are chosen. MYAI also does a yearly trip out of state to allow members to experience a new city without having to perform or compete like they would during their band season.

When Travis thinks back on the process of forming MYAI, he says that although it was a long journey, sometimes things happen for a reason.

“Some of the stuff we do at MYAI, there is no way I could have gotten done at Shelby County Schools,” Travis reflects.

To read more about the Memphis Youth Arts Initiative programs, visit memphisyoutharts.org.

C o u r t e s y o f MYA I

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C A L E N DA R

JOIN US FOR THE 4TH ANNUAL

SATURDAY, APRIL 17TH, 10 A.M.-2 P.M.

Save the date and join us for a day of learning about camps and summer activities for all ages. We’re hosting a safe event to help parents meet camp staff and directors and find out more information to help you make good choices for your child this summer!

FEDEX EVENT CENTER AT SHELBY FARMS PARK Our annual Camp Expo will follow all Shelby County Health Department safety protocols.

This is a masked and safe event!

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By Julie Ray

1 ∙ THURSDAY

Easter Egg Hunt. Cedar Hill Farm, 8 Love, Hernando, MS. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Enjoy a full day at the farm with egg hunts, pony rides, petting the animals, and pictures with the Easter Bunny. The Barn will be open for breakfast and brunch. $12. cedarhillfarm.com. 662-429-2540.

Zoo Stroll: F is for Farm. Memphis Zoo, 2000 Prentiss Place. 8-9 a.m. Take a guided tour stroll before the gates open. Fun and interactive program designed for a 1:1 ratio of 1 stroller + 1 caregiver. $15 members, $19 nonmembers. memphiszoo.org. 333-6500.

Camping 101. Pinecrest Camp, 21430 Highway 57, Moscow, TN. First-timers will experience the fun of a good old-fashioned campout with skilled staff members. $25 adults, $20 children. Includes dinner, s’mores, and breakfast. Call or email to RSVP. charity@ camppinecrest.org. 878-1247.

2 ∙ FRIDAY

The Night Watcher. Hattiloo Theatre, 37 S. Cooper. The story of a woman who chooses not to have children, only to be pulled into the real-life struggles of kids of all ages, races, and backgrounds. Fri., Apr. 2, 7:30 p.m.; Sat.Sun., Apr. 3-4, 2 p.m. $150 for four seats. hattiloo.org. 502-3486.

3 ∙ SATURDAY

Spring Blooms in the Garden: Spring Bulbs.

Memphis Botanic Garden, 750 Cherry.

11 a.m.-4 p.m. Tiptoe through the tulips — and the daffodils, hyacinth, and more. Featuring activities for the whole family, horticultural features, and food trucks. Free with Garden admission. memphisbotanicgarden.com.

636-4100.

7 ∙ WEDNESDAY

Girls Leadership: Girl & Grown-Up Workshop Grades 6th, 7th, & 8th. 6:30-8 p.m. Teaches girls to exercise the power of their voice.

Workshops are a fun and brave space for girls and their grown-ups to laugh and have fun together while learning key social-emotional skills. $50. girlsleadership.org. 866-744-9102.

9 ∙ FRIDAY

Little Explorers: Caring for the Earth.

Pinecrest Camp, 21430 Highway 57, Moscow, TN. 10 a.m. Learn about plants that are good for West Tennessee and plants that are not good. Recommended ages 4-6. $6 per child.

One adult helper free per child. Call or email to RSVP. charity@camppinecrest.org. 878-1247.

vignettes, activities for the whole family, horticultural features, and food trucks. Free with Garden admission. memphisbotanicgarden.com. 636-4100.

12 ∙ MONDAY

Zoo Stroll: M is for Monkey. Memphis Zoo, 2000 Prentiss Place. 8-9 a.m. Take a guided tour stroll before the gates open. Fun and interactive program designed for a 1:1 ratio of 1 stroller + 1 caregiver. $15 members, $19 nonmembers. memphiszoo.org. 333-6500.

Girls Leadership: Girl & Grown-Up Workshop Grades 6th, 7th, & 8th. 6:30-8 p.m. Teaches girls to exercise the power of their voice.

Workshops are a fun and brave space for girls and their grown-ups to laugh and have fun together while learning key social-emotional skills. $50. girlsleadership.org. 866-744-9102.

Nature by Firelight. Lichterman Nature Center, 5992 Quince. 6-9 p.m. Enjoy a hike, outdoor activities, campfire, s’mores, a silent auction, and more. $25 adult (includes tickets for two glasses of wine), $15 youth. memphismuseums.org. 767-7322.

Dinos After Dark. Memphis Zoo, 2000 Prentiss Place. Fri.-Sat., 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Explore the zoo at night with a fun-packed evening featuring visits from some of the zoo animal ambassadors, a sneak peek into the zoo at night, and some hands-on activities. For ages 5 and up. $25-$30. memphiszoo.org.

333-6500.

10 ∙ SATURDAY

Saturday Hike with the Biologist. Pinecrest Camp, 21430 Highway 57, Moscow, TN. 10 a.m.-noon. Discover the treasures of the forest with the adjunct professor of biology at UT Martin, Richard Rucker. $5 suggested donation per person. Call or email to RSVP. charity@camppinecrest.org. 878-1247.

Spring Blooms in the Garden: Southern Delights. Memphis Botanic Garden, 750 Cherry. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Enjoy azaleas, dogwoods, and other plants that thrive in a Southern landscape, featuring expert tips, curated

14 ∙ WEDNESDAY

Virtual Family Story Time. 10:30 a.m. Fun, interactive story time from librarians who look forward to reading, singing, and visiting with your family, every second Wednesday of each month. Free. memphislibrary.org. 415-2700.

15 ∙ THURSDAY

Plant Sale: Dixon Garden Fair. Dixon Gallery and Gardens, 4339 Park. Thursday, April 15, 3-7 p.m. (member preview); Friday, April 16, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; and Saturday, April 17, 9 a.m.2 p.m. dixon.org. 761-5250.

16 ∙ FRIDAY

Neat. The story of an urban African-American girl bursting into adulthood, experiencing first love, and embracing both Black pride and feminism. Opens Friday, April 16. Saturdays, Sundays, 2 p.m.; and Fridays, 7:30 p.m.

Continues through May 9. $150 for four seats. hattiloo.org. 502-3486.

Art in the Loop. Ridgeway Loop (between Briarcrest and Ridge Bend). Fri., 1-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; and Sun., 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Outdoor market featuring works of fine craft in metal, glass, wood, clay, and fiber, as well as 2-D disciplines. Food trucks will be available.

Free. artintheloop.com.

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C A L E N DA R Mountains National Park, including discussion of the challenges and successes of managing a park through the pandemic and the importance of public lands over the past year as a refuge for all. Free. wolfriver.org. 452-6500.

17 ∙ SATURDAY

Spring Blooms in the Garden: Irises. Memphis Botanic Garden, 750 Cherry. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Celebrate Tennessee’s state flower in the Iris Garden. Learn more about some of Tennessee’s other state treasures and enjoy activities for the whole family, horticultural features, and food trucks. Free with Garden admission. memphisbotanicgarden.com. 636-4100.

23 ∙ FRIDAY

Family Night at The Grove. Germantown Performing Arts Center, 1801 Exeter. 5 p.m.

In-person performance of Mary Poppins by dance students. Food trucks will be on site. $10. gpacweb.com. 751-7500.

29 ∙ THURSDAY

Zoo Stroll: B is for Bears. Memphis Zoo, 2000 Prentiss Place. 8-9 a.m. Take a guided tour stroll before the gates open. Fun and interactive program designed for a 1:1 ratio of 1 stroller + 1 caregiver. $15 members, $19 nonmembers. memphiszoo.org. 333-6500.

Disney’s Little Mermaid. Bartlett Performing Arts and Conference Center, 3663 Appling.

A talented cast of young actors brings Disney’s story of Ariel the mermaid to life on the stage.

Fri., Apr. 30, 7:30 p.m.; Sat., May 1, 7:30 p.m.; and Sun., May 2, 2 p.m. bpacc.org. 385-6440.

28 ∙ WEDNESDAY

21 ∙ WEDNESDAY

Earth Day Online. 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Superintendent Cash and Spokesperson Dana Soehn will share updates from Great Smoky

O N G O I N G

Girls Leadership: Girl & Grown-Up Workshop Grades 6th, 7th, & 8th. 6:30-8 p.m. Teaches girls to exercise the power of their voice.

Workshops are a fun and brave space for girls and their grown-ups to laugh and have fun together while learning key social-emotional skills. $50. girlsleadership.org. 866-744-9102.

and their grown-ups to laugh and have fun together while learning key social-emotional skills. $50. girlsleadership.org. 866-744-9102.

Girls Leadership: Girl & Grown-Up Workshop Grades 6th, 7th, & 8th. 6:30-8 p.m. Teaches girls to exercise the power of their voice.

Workshops are a fun and brave space for girls

E V E N T S

Museums and Exhibits

“Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Secrets of the Sewer.” Children’s Museum of Memphis, 2525 Central. Through April 11. Families will be transported to the underground home of the crime-fighting heroes to see what really happens in their secret hideaway, featuring hands-on experiences. cmom.com. 458-2678.

Fratelli’s Restaurant inside the Memphis Botanic Garden. “Beauty in Isolation: Perspectives from a Father and Son.” April 1-30. Exhibition of watercolors and pen and ink work by father and son artists David and Jared Rawlinson. memphisbotanicgarden.com. 636-4100.

The Dixon Gallery and Gardens. “America’s Impressionism: Echoes of a Revolution.”

Through May 8. Exhibition of work by late nineteenth century to World War II American impressionism painters. dixon.org. 761-5250.

The Dixon Gallery and Gardens. “The Charging Station.” Through May 9. An interactive exhibit that encourages pause and the search to reconnect with self and others through reflection, movement, music, laughter, and more. dixon.org. 761-5250.

The Dixon Gallery and Gardens. “Signs & Wonders.” April 11-July 11. Exhibition of work that will include photo collage as well as largescale work that incorporates assemblage and textile design by Memphis artist Brittney Boyd Bullock. dixon.org. 761-5250.

Other Programs Virtual-ology. Dixon Gallery and Gardens, Saturdays, 1:30-2 p.m. Provides youngsters

ages 10-13 a chance to discover new interests and build on social, critical thinking, artmaking, and community skills. Every month follows a new theme from drawing to printmaking to gardening and more. Free with registration. dixon.org. 761-5250.

Virtual Kaleidoscope Club. Dixon Gallery and Gardens, Wednesdays, 4 p.m. Children ages 5-9 participate in projects that spark interest in horticulture, art, or literature. Free with registration. dixon.org. 761-5250.

18Karat Tour. Metal Museum, 374 Metal Museum Drive. A one-of-a-kind museum experience for small groups of 3-6. Schedule a tour to listen to a 20-minute guided tour. Learn about the history of the museum, artwork in the Sculpture Garden, and special programs.

Each tour concludes with a group activity, where you’ll create your own stamped copper cuff bracelet. $20 per person. metalmuseum.org.

774-6380.

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A P R I L

C A L E N DA R

Classes & Workshops

Horseback Riding Lessons. Pony Dream Farms Riding School, 11241 Holly Springs, Hernando, MS. Private lessons are available for ages 6 to adult, beginner to intermediate. English, Western, and pleasure/ trail. facebook.com/ponydreamfarms. 827-2429.

Skate School. Society Memphis, 583 Scott. Every Saturday, 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. Let your child learn in a safe and encouraging environment. As kids advance in their ability, they will be taught to handle faster speeds, how to connect lines, fakie, frontside, backside, switch, and introduction to the ollie. $25. societymemphis.com.

Distance Learning “Live” Dance Classes. Ballet On Wheels, online. Mondays-Thursdays and Saturdays. Classes in various dance genres including ballet, jazz, hip-hop, and more. The online dance curriculum includes weekly bonus classes that are not normally offered as a part of the normal schedule. Financial aid available. To enroll, visit balletonwheels.org.

Dixon at Home Series. JT Willbanks, art instructor at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens, shows children how to create art projects without having to leave their house or backyard. Check out Visual Art Adventures via Facebook and Instagram live. dixon.org.

Homeschool Classes

Play-Shop <Online>. Online from Playhouse on the Square, playhouseonthesquare.org. Each workshop is led by an industry professional, currently working at Playhouse on the Square. Videos range from dance to puppetry, from stage management to theater history, and much more on-demand. 937-6415.

Literacy Mid-South’s Families: Safer at Home Resources. Provides resources for families with elementary-aged students at home.

Includes reading tips, guides, at-home interactive literacy activities, and ideas. literacymidsouth.org.

National Civil Rights Museum E-Learning Activities. Educator resources provide tools to engage students by prompting them to reflect on big questions about the human experience and how the history relates to contemporary events and everyday life. civilrightsmuseum.org.

Tennessee Aquarium’s Educational Series. Offers activities for families who are staying #SaferAtHome. Weekday Wonders is a series designed for parents interested in engaging children in science at home. Explore Mr. Bill’s Naturalist’s Notebook written

by Bill Haley, the Tennessee Aquarium’s education outreach coordinator. Also, visit the Tennessee Aquarium Facebook page each morning to find out the topic and timing of the daily stream for #AquariumAtHome each weekday at 1 p.m. tnaqua.org.

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The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art Online Lessons. For teachers (and now parents) of children in grades K-12. Follow Brooks Museum on Facebook and Instagram for updates on virtual programs. brooksmuseum.org.

Story Time

Story Time with la Abuela Tomasa. Tuesdays on Facebook Live. Visit Cazateatro Bilingual Theatre Group’s Facebook to watch. For more information, visit cazateatro.org.

International Story Time. Every other Thursday on Crosstown Concourse Facebook page. Kids are invited to watch videos and hear stories they may be familiar with in a language they have never heard before, as well as ex-pats and immigrants who miss hearing their native language and friends from all over who want to try something new. crosstownconcourse.com.

Literacy Mid-South’s Interactive Read-Aloud Videos. Memphians read a book from the Read901 Libib Lending Library. This also includes links to a lesson plan and activities that families can use to follow along with the story. literacymidsouth.org.

National Civil Rights Museum’s Small but Mighty Story Time Video Series. Read along with K-12 museum educator Dory Lerner on the NCRM Facebook page. civilrightsmuseum.org.

Morton Museum presents Virtual Story Time with Miss Susan.

Every Friday, 10 a.m. Miss Susan reads stories and shares craft ideas each week from her backyard on the Morton Museum of Collierville History Facebook page. colliervillemuseum.org.

Family-Friendly

Get Growing This Spring Plant Sale. Lichterman Nature Center, 5992 Quince. Apr. 16-May 29. Beautify your garden with hearty, healthy plants grown right here in Memphis by horticulture experts.

Thousands of plants will be available for sale via online and on-site shopping by appointment. Email or call for an on-site appointment. memphismuseums.org. 636-2211.

Crosstown Arts: Against the Grain. An online platform where viewers can watch new, made-at-home videos of performances by Memphis musicians and donate to the artists with virtual tickets. crosstownarts.org.

Family-Friendly Virtual and Remote Volunteer Opportunities.

Search for opportunities like food-box packing with Catholic Charities, T-shirt sales with WYXR, and garden days with Memphis Rox or Memphis Botanic Garden, there is something for everyone. Find an experience that fits your schedule and impacts your community.

Online from Volunteer Odyssey, volunteerodyssey.com.

The Best Place for Kids.

Always.

You can always rely on Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. Now more than ever, kids need great care, and we are taking even more precautions to keep you and your family safe. We do it by limiting and screening all visitors, requiring all visitors and employees to wear masks, and following strict guidelines for cleaning and sanitizing our facilities.

When it comes to providing the best for your children, there is no substitute for the care, expertise and attention you’ll find only at Le Bonheur.

lebonheur.org