Memphis Parent August 2019

AU G2019

BULLYING BEHAVIORS

BACKPACK SAFETY

STCC’S CHILD CARE PROGRAM

REPEATING A GRADE?

EASE BACK INTO SCHOOL — WITH AFFIRMATIONS.

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Maternity Fair

at Methodist Le Bonheur Germantown Hospital

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2019 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Methodist Le Bonheur Germantown Hospital • Pavilion • 7691 Poplar Ave. Prenatal information for expecting moms • Tour our Pavilion Breastfeeding 101 boot camp for new and expecting moms • Car seat checks Meet our maternity team and hospitalist OBGYNs Learn about the many maternity services and classes offered on our campus

For more information, visit www.methodisthealth.org/maternityfair or call 901.516.6764.

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GVXpress Tryouts GVXpress Tryouts Fall 2019

BACK TO SCHOOL

16 ENCOURAGING

COVER STORY

Fall 2019

EDUCATION

This school year, add new tools to your parenting tool belt.

By Carlissa Shaw

REPEATING A 17 GRADE? THAT’S OK.

Help build confidence in your child if they’ve been held back.

By Charday Wilson

Get Vertical Xpress--- JOIN THE TRADITION!

Get Vertical Xpress --JOIN THE TRADITION!

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Join the Get Vertical Xpress Travel Flag Football program.

This program is for highly skilled Athletes who wish to be involved in the ultimate team experience. Team travels to regional tournaments each season and play games in both competitive leagues, regional and national competitions. Each player will be a part of the Get Vertical Xpress family whose tradition is rich with success.

Classifications are for 9-10 Co-ed, 11-12 Co-ed, 13-14 Girls and 13-14 Boys.

Cut-off date is September 1st.

Try-Out’s for anyone interested in playing will be held Aug 17 at 9am Freeman Park in Bartlett. Registration for league play will be held at that time as well. Those who make the team will train and participate in one of the following events: NFL Flag Regional tournament New Orleans at the New Tryouts Facility Orleans GVXpress Saints Training Fall 2019 (November 2, 2019) and/or Houston at The Farm League Park (December 7, 2019).

Regional winners will compete in the National Championships Vertical Xpress--THE TRADITION! Fl. toGetbe held inJOINOrlando, Anyone interested in coaching please call 9012705165 or email: youthflagmemphis@ yahoo.com if you have questions.

Join the Get Vertical Xpress Travel Flag Football program. This program is for highly skilled Athletes who wish to be involved in the ultimate team experience.

Team travels to regional tournaments each season and play games in both competitive leagues, regional and national competitions. Each player will be a part of the Get Vertical Xpress family whose tradition is rich with success.

Classifications are for 9-10 Co-ed, 11-12 Co-ed, 13-14 Girls and 13-14 Boys.

Cut-off date is September 1st. Try-Out's for anyone interested in playing will be held Aug 17 at 9am Freeman Park in Bartlett. Registration for league play will be held at that time as well. Those who make the team will train and participate in one of the following events: NFL Flag Regional tournament New Orleans at the New Orleans Saints Training Facility (November 2, 2019) and/or Houston at The Farm League Park (December 7, 2019). Regional winners will compete in the National Championships to be held in Orlando, Fl. Anyone interested in coaching please call 9012705165 or email: youthflagmemphis@yahoo.com if you have questions.

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BULLYING BEHAVIORS

A guide for prevention and intervention.

by Dr. Rebekah Lemmons

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BACKPACK SAFETY

These tips can help maintain your child’s spinal health.

by Jamie Lober

GRADUATION CONNECTING CHILDREN WITH GOALS Southwest’s child care program helps parents attend classes.

by Avery Budin

DEPARTMENTS 7 901 Fun Bid summer farewell with these events

20 Dad Libs Getting back into the school groove

8 Dear Teacher Why kids should read nonfiction

24 Calendar and Events Family-friendly fun all month long

18 Outstanding Teacher Celebrating unsung heroes

30 Favorite Moments Kid funnies and photos

OUR STAFF Editor Shara Clark

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OUR COVER KID

Join the Get Vertical Xpress Travel Flag Football program. This program is for highly skilled Athletes who wish to be involved in the ultimate team experience.

Team travels to regional tournaments each season and play games in both competitive leagues, regional and national competitions. Each player will be a part of the Get Vertical Xpress family whose tradition is rich with success.

Classifications are for 9-10 Co-ed, 11-12 Co-ed, 13-14 Girls and 13-14 Boys.

Cut-off date is September 1st. Try-Out's for anyone interested in playing will be held Aug 17 at 9am Freeman Park in Bartlett. Registration for league play will be held at that time as well. Those who make the team will train and participate in one of the following events: NFL Flag Regional tournament New Orleans at the New Orleans Saints Training Facility (November 2, 2019) and/or Houston at The Farm League Park (December 7, 2019). Regional winners will compete in the National Championships to be held in Orlando, Fl. Anyone interested in coaching please call 9012705165 or email: youthflagmemphis@yahoo.com if you have questions.

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J A N U A R Y

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AUGUST 2019

DIVERSE BOOKS

NYT bestselling author Matt de la Peña shares his journey.

by Meena Viswanathan

Energetic Brennan (5) with his loving mom Monica

Photographer: Bryan Rollins

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE Memphis Parent strives to provide information of value to all who are invested in our children’s future.

Art Director Bryan Rollins Advertising Art Director Christopher Myers Graphic Designer Rachel Li Advertising Manager Sheryl Butler Account Executives Mary Ballard, Michelle Musolf Production Operations Director Margie Neal Calendar Editor Meena Viswanathan Social Media Coordinator Kalena Matthews

Memphis Parent is published byContemporary Media, Inc. CEO Anna Traverse Director of Business Development Jeffrey A. Goldberg Editorial Director Bruce VanWyngarden Special Projects Director Molly Willmott

Email Marketing Manager Britt Ervin Distribution Manager Carrie O’Guin Controller Ashley Haeger Digital Services Director Kristin Pawlowski IT Director Joseph Carey Editorial Assistant Julia Baker

P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101 • p: 901.521.9000 • f: 901.521.0129 Send advertising queries to: sheryl@memphisparent.com

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SAVED BY THE BELL Hear that? It’s the echo of the school bell ringing through the hallways.

Time to get to class!

Somehow the slow and easy days of summer seem to have flown by. But let’s be honest, they weren’t all slow and easy — with family trips, summer camps, activity schedules, and the inevitable boredom that comes with time off from school and homework, the return of routine might just be welcome.

We hope this issue can act as a guide as you ease back into the school schedule. While your child is entering a new grade with some new classmates, it’s important to be mindful of his or her well-being. Remember to check in on how their days go and whether or not relationships with peers are strained. In “Bullying Behaviors” (page 10), Youth Villages’ Dr. Rebekah Lemmons covers tips on recognizing the warning signs of bullying — and intervening if it occurs.

It’s also important to consider physical health, and one thing parents may overlook is backpack safety. On page 12, read tips from a Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital nurse on selecting the right backpack — and suggestions on proper use — to maintain your child’s spinal health.

For parents looking to go back to school themselves, Southwest Tennessee Community College offers discounted child care. Read about their CCAMPIS program — and how it can help single and working parents earn a degree — in “Graduation Goals” on page 16.

Finally, don’t forget that going back to school is not always easy for kids; homework and the pressure to do well and make good grades can be overwhelming. While discipline is crucial, remember that incentives — think an hour of TV time or a family trip to the movie theater — act as great motivators. Read (on page 16) about one local parent’s experience with using rewards to encourage education.

Is your child repeating a grade this year? If so, remind them that this is OK. Using empowering affirmations can help them regain their confidence and work through this school year with new vigor. Let them know you are proud of them no matter what.

Now take a few deep breaths before things kick back into high gear — you and your kids are going to do great this year!

Shara Clark Editor

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#901FUN

Bid summer farewell with food, music, and back-to-school events.

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THURSDAY AGRICENTER FARMERS MARKET

Shop for farm-raised, home-grown, handcrafted items at this Agricenter market, open six days a week: Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., and Saturday, 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m. There is no admission fee. Visit agricenter.org/farmersmarket for details.

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SATURDAY MOMMY & ME BABY EXPO

From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 3rd, Southwest Tennessee Community College hosts this event, which features free health screenings, prenatal information, breastfeeding education, prenatal yoga demonstrations, games for kids, and healthy snacks.

Enter for a chance to win a car seat and stroller, Memphis Zoo membership, and more. Free. Visit methodisthealth.org/babyexpo for more information.

SCHOOL IS BACK IN SESSION

Macedonia MB Church hosts this back-to-school event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, August 3rd. The free community event features face painting, free food, backpacks filled with supplies, game truck, and vendors. Call 244-8166 for details.

FRIDAY SOULIN’ ON THE RIVER

Lucky 7 Brass Band performs at this Mud Island River Park free event, which runs from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, August 9th. With the Mighty Mississippi as the backdrop, the Soulin’ on the River series presents a sample of the new sounds of Memphis soul with bands performing in The Grove. Visit facebook.com/memriverparks for details.

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CRITICAL THINKERS

SATURDAY BACK-TO-SCHOOL FAIR

From 9 a.m. until noon on Saturday, August 10th, Baptist Women’s Hospital hosts this free family event, which features health screenings, door prizes, craft activities for children, and more. Visit baptistonline.org/pediatrics for more info.

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St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School

SATURDAY DOG DAYS OF SUMMER

This Metal Museum event, held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, August 17th, features treats for dogs and humans alike, adoptable pups to socialize with, and metalsmithing activities. Free admission; price varies for activities. Call 774-6380 for more information.

Children learn best when they are actively involved in learning. SFA has partnered with Project Lead The Way to transform our students into skilled problem-solvers and creative thinkers. Let us inspire your child to discover the genius within them and to view their future as a world of opportunities.

Grades PreK-8, Part-time program ages 2-4

Call 901-388-7321 for more information or visit sfawolves.org

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

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DEAR TEACHER By Marge Eberts & Peggy Gisler

READING NONFICTION

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Classes: Ballet-Royal Academy of Dance-International Syllabus, Jazz & Modern.

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Start Tues. Aug. 27th, 2019

Q I hear that children, starting in

kindergarten and continuing through high school, are going to be required to read more nonfiction, from news articles to historic documents. What is the reason for this new emphasis on reading nonfiction materials? — Changing Times

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Active LEARNI NG Agile TEACH I NG

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to build disciplined minds, adventurous spirits, and brave hearts

GIVE To help me hear and learn to talk.

What has happened is the realization that both college classes and many careers require the ability to read more complex materials. Out in the work world, most of what people read requires the ability to understand informational text.

Back in 2005, only 51 percent of ACT-tested high school students were ready for college-level reading. Furthermore, current research is showing that many college and junior college students need to take remedial courses. This lack of reading readiness for college is one of the indicators for why so many freshmen are dropping out of school.

Until the enactment of Common Core Standards, rigorous reading standards were close to nonexistent. The standards expect that in elementary and middle school at least half of what students read should be nonfiction. This figure will accelerate to 70 percent of reading material by 12th grade.

While classrooms from kindergarten through high school are now having students read more nonfiction material, not all states have adopted the standards. Plus, it is important that teachers instruct students in how to read this material — not all do. One thing for sure is that parents need to be encouraging more nonfiction reading at home. Here are a few ways they can do this:  Give children who are interested in specific sports or hobbies magazines on these topics.  Introduce new board games and have children read the rules and explain them to the players.  Have them follow a topic of interest on Twitter.  Engage children in the process of researching places to visit on a family trip.  Have them follow favorite sports teams online and in newspapers.

Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@dearteacher.com or to the Dear Teacher website.

Compass Syndicate Corporation, 2019 Distributed by King Features Syndicate

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This offer cannot be combined with any other offers or redeemed online. Free arcade play will be added to a FUNcard (as bonus value) or a game card (as credits) and is valid for arcade game play only. Cannot be used as cash or payment towards other activities, food, beverage, group events or refunded for cash (unless required by law). Valid at all Main Event locations. Offer expires 9/30/19.

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9

BULLYING BEHAVIORS A guide for prevention and intervention.

by DR. REBEKAH LEMMONS

As children and families prepare for their upcoming school schedules, new activities and groups can put your child at risk for becoming a victim of bullying.

It is important for parents and caregivers to be aware of what to do if their child is being bullied and how to identify bullying behaviors.

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Tips for parents and caregivers:  Become familiar with bullying policies and prevention efforts at schools, community centers, sports leagues, and other places that your child may go. Checking in on how bullying is prevented and addressed at schools and community centers can provide a gauge on the culture of the activity or program for your child.  Ensure adult supervision is available and consistent at events and activities your child may attend. This allows for immediate redirection of any bullying behaviors noticed by supervising adults.  Check in with your child daily by asking about their day and how it went.

Build a strong relationship with open communication between you and your child. This can help you to become aware of any issues early.

 Teach your children about appropriate behaviors early — both how you want them to behave and how others should be treating them. Children need to know that healthy boundaries are important and valued. Teach your children lessons on kindness, empathy, sharing, and what to do if someone bullies them.

Warning signs that your child might be being bullied: Parents and caregivers can spot potential bullying by noticing and checking on any observed changes in their child, including: changes in the friend group, mood, habits, or sleeping patterns.

What can I do if my child is bullied?  If your child is bullied, reassure them that it is not their fault that he/she is being bullied. Validate your child’s feelings by listening and using a

warm and kind tone. It can also be helpful to label what your child is going through. Let your child know that this is bullying and normalize that others have been through this, too. Offer hope that you will work through this together and find a solution to help address this issue.  Take a minute to manage your own reactions to the bullying incident before taking action. Take a few deep breaths or do something relaxing. You may also want to get support from family or friends to have an outlet for your reactions. It can be hard to not take this personally or to make matters worse by retaliating against the bully. A calm demeanor will help you be available for your child and help you to manage the situation well.  Talk to your child about how to handle bullying and how to ask for help if the bullying continues. Reach out to school administrators or the school counselor to help problemsolve this issue and ensure that the bullying behavior is addressed.  Check in with your child often to ensure that the bullying behaviors have been stopped and follow up on any feelings they may still have about the incident(s).

CHILDREN NEED TO KNOW THAT HEALTHY BOUNDARIES ARE IMPORTANT AND VALUED.

Dr. Rebekah Lemmons is a clinical consultant with Youth Villages, a national nonprofit that helps emotionally and behavoirally troubled children and their families live successfully with intensive, proven treatments and programs. Learn more at youthvillages.org.

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M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

HEALTH MATTERS

BACKPACK SAFETY

These tips can help maintain your child’s spinal health.

BY JAMIE LOBER

A U G U S T

Jamie Lober, author of Pink Power (getpinkpower.com), is dedicated to providing information on women’s and pediatric health topics.

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I L LUS T R AT I O N BY B RYA N R O L L I N S

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As you prepare your child for yet another school year, your checklist may include new gym shoes, a fresh haircut, and the perfect backpack. Even as an adult you may find yourself carrying a backpack when you pack for family vacation or even go to your workplace. What backpack you choose and how you carry it makes a world of difference to your health and safety.

“Backpacks can strain muscles and moving in tight spaces, he could hit joints, cause back pain, and develop others,” Helms says. poor posture if not used properly The American Academy of or if they are too heavy,” says Pediatrics (AAP) offers some tips Susan A. Helms, nurse and director on how to prevent injury when of injury prevention and Safe Kids wearing a backpack, like always at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. using both shoulder straps and While focusing on color, style, tightening the straps so the pack is and popularity of the backpack, do close to the body, two inches above not overlook what is most the waist. They suggest that kids important. “You want to select a pack lightly and use all backpack that is lightweight with compartments. two wide, padded shoulder straps, a “A lot of students try to carry all padded back, and multiple of their books so they do not have compartments to help distribute to go back to their locker all the weight evenly,” Helms says. The time,” says Helms. But AAP heaviest items should be placed stresses scheduling time to stop at closest to the back. the locker throughout the day.

Knowing how to wear this Bending using both knees and not accessory is equally important. bending over at the waist is helpful.

“We recommend that you wear it Finally, learning back-strengthening correctly using both shoulder exercises to build up the muscles straps that should not be too loose can make a difference. but allow for you to put on or take Some schools permit backpacks off the backpack without difficulty on wheels, which are great, and for the backpack to rest on the especially when the weight of the middle of the back,” Helms says. backpack is more than it should be.

“Sometimes we see children and Some strategies like good posture adults using just one strap, which can be worked on at home. “A lot keeps the weight to one side of slouching happens, so you can and can lead to poor posture show your child how to sit properly and strains.” in a chair and stand straight, which Pick up the backpack the right they often forget to do,” says way. “As far as lifting, just grab it, Helms. “You can also get advice but the best way is to gauge it from a physical therapist who can before lifting, bend at the knees, help you choose the right kind for and pull it up close to the body,” body shape and size — especially if says Helms. “You should not load your child has physical limitations more than 10 to 15 percent of your — and can help with special body weight and always keep the adaptations and also with posture heavy items closest to your back.” problems, treating improper This means the recommendations backpack use, and overall fitness.” are different for every child.

Taking this information into For example, if you weigh 50 account should help your child stay pounds, you should have no more healthier and safer during the than 7.5 pounds in your backpack. If school year. “The common injuries you weigh 80 pounds, you should of straining muscles and joints, have no more than 12 pounds in back pain, and developing poor your backpack. A backpack that is posture that go hand in hand with too large or bulky can be poor backpack use are treatable by troublesome, too. “If you have too physical therapists or pediatricians,” large of a backpack, it can lead to says Helms. When you stay ahead more injuries because there is extra of the game and include your child space, like if a student is getting on in the quest for the best backpack, a bus and turning around or if he is the spine will say thank you.

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Please visit bchs.edu/MyCalling and find the career that’s right for you.

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GR ADUATION GOALS

Southwest’s child care program helps parents attend classes.

BY AVERY BUDIN

A U G U S T

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Southwest Tennessee Community College (STCC) is making strides to help working and single-parent students achieve their goal of obtaining a college degree.

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Because so many of the students on program. The college’s child care centers me to get work done without any campus are the first generation in their are located on the Union Avenue and distractions.” Casey has attended the family to pursue a higher education Macon Cove campuses, and both center for nearly a year, and her mother degree, Southwest hopes to offer as received 3-star ratings from Tennessee’s says she looks forward to coming in many resources as possible to make their Star Quality Program. The Union Avenue every day. goal of graduation become a reality. campus has been awarded accreditation As part of a larger early childhood Attending classes and finding time to by the National Association for the education center curriculum, the complete assignments can be even more Education of Young Children. children participating follow a daily difficult when caring for a child, and for Despite the challenges most students schedule. Children spend an average of that reason, STCC has implemented a face in obtaining a higher education six to 10 hours in the child care center child care program that helps support degree, student-parents in a community per day while their parents attend these motivated students. college in particular are persisting in classes on campus or online. Each day, In 2017, STCC was awarded a four-year their education with the help of children engage with the “interest areas,” grant by the U.S. Department of resources like the CCAMPIS program. which include computers, manipulatives, Education to support its Child Care This program provides parents and puzzles, games, etc. Employees also have Access Means Parents in times to meet with School (CCAMPIS) children to discuss the THE FACT TH AT THE ST UDENTS H AV E program. The $800,000 topics of the week grant helps fund child and teach numbers THE OPPORTUNIT Y TO GO TO CL ASS A ND care for children ages and letters.

2 ½ to 5 years old at a Students FEEL CONFIDENT TH AT THEIR K IDS AR E discounted rate. To studying early BEING TAK EN CAR E OF BY PEOPLE WHO participate, students in childhood development the program must be also use the space for R EALLY CAR E ABOUT THEM [M AK ES THE Pell-eligible students their practicum hours, pursuing an associate engaging with the PROGR A M UNIQUE]. degree, either in the children on site. classroom or at home.

Employees working Parents must prove that they are families with opportunities to afford a full-time are required by the Department enrolled in classes and bring better quality of life for their children. of Human services to have their Child documentation before being eligible to Shameka Street is one of the students Development Associate (CDA) enroll their child. Currently the grant who takes advantage of the child care certification and be trained in safety and covers 90 percent of the child care cost, services. Street is a double major in trauma, etc., in order to best watch over with students paying the other 10 radiology and business administration the children in their care. percent. “We have students who pay as and takes her 4-year-old A’Mery Casey “The fact that the students have the little as $12.50 a week,” says director to day care at the center in order to opportunity to go to class and feel of campus child care programs attend classes and concentrate on work. confident that their kids are being taken Mary Palmer.

Street says the CCAMPIS program is care of by people who really care about Being a fairly new program, CCAMPIS great. “The fee I would normally pay them [makes the program unique],” had a slow start, but this past year alone, would be $75 per week, and this is Palmer says. With several students the program accommodated a total of cheaper,” she says. “It allows me to drop having finished their degrees and an 45 children. STCC is the only college in my daughter off when I have class, and expected increase in enrollment, the West Tennessee to offer this child care on the days I don’t have class, it allows future looks bright for CCAMPIS.

Healthy vision is essential to your child’s learning!

Schedule your child’s back-to-school eye exam today!

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This school year, add new tools to your parenting tool belt.

By CARLISSA SHAW

A U G U S T

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Summertime was always my favorite as a child. Warm weather, summer camp, neighborhood friends, water fights, and I could usually count on a fantastic summer vacation. My parents and I had a deal. If I made the honor roll for two consecutive school years, they would reward me with a trip to Disney. It was then that I established that incentives are my motivation. I worked diligently to achieve the academic goals set by my parents, with the reward of a vacation as my motivation.

I will never forget when I made my first C. I was in the fourth grade and worked hard that report card period.

However, I did not make the grade. I was so disappointed in myself. More than anything, I wanted to go to Disney World.

That day, I had a panic attack. Not because I was afraid of what would happen when I got home; I was scared of what was not going to happen. I am so thankful my parents explained to me that they understood I had given my all and they would still honor our agreement.

In my parenting, I spend countless hours period. Using our paycheck, we can buy debating between discipline and reward. I ourselves whatever “incentives” we please. believe that each is important in the Incentives are a significant motivator for development of a child. However, when I some children. All children are different, think about learning and education, I believe and different things will work, but I that incentives should be at the forefront of encourage parents to attempt incentivemotivation for children. Incentive-based based motivation in the upcoming school motivation requires that the child and the year. It doesn’t have to be a trip to Disney parent enter into a contract at the — small rewards, like an outing to the movies beginning of the school year that outlines or an extra hour of TV time, can suffice. the incentives and expectations for a grade, Another helpful tool to try this school conduct, and attendance scores. year is positive affirmation. I do not have Another fond memory from Snowden much hindsight insight into this strategy. My Elementary School was fund-raising, and I parents were generally encouraging, but I remember the silly incentives to sell a can’t say there was any form of specific dollar amount. I was the kid who intentionality behind their affirmation. I matched my performance in the fund-raiser suggest this strategy because I have to the incentive I was attempting to reach. incorporated positive affirmation in my If the pizza party required the student to everyday adult life, and I use it with my sell $50 worth of popcorn, I would sell toddler daughter. exactly $50 in popcorn.

Positive affirmation techniques require If we think about it, as adults, we use that parents develop several short sayings incentives in just about every area of our or affirmations that the child uses to lives. We work our jobs, not because it is the combat negative energy or emotion. For right thing to do, but because we anticipate my toddler, we use the following being compensated at the end of the pay affirmations:

You are smart.

You are powerful.

You are creative.

You can do anything.

You are kind.

We repeat these affirmations just about every morning. Admittedly, some days, I am busy, and I forget. The point is to make sure that you are intentionally building your child’s self-esteem. The bonus for the parent is being able to affirm yourself while affirming your child. There are days when I feel our positive affirmation sessions are more for me than they are for my daughter.

I also love positive affirmation because, in such a negative world, it is necessary to set aside time to remind your child how awesome they are. Often as adults, we forget how hard those playgrounds days can be.

As the school year starts, above all, remember to be flexible and forgiving with yourself and your child. We parents need to be flexible, and our tool belts should have several tools.

Carlissa Shaw is a local attorney and mother of one daughter, age 2.

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Help build confidence in your child if they’ve been held back.

by CHARDAY WILSON

Nothing changes your nature like being a parent.

What you want for your own life ends up taking a backseat for the things that you want for your child’s life.

We often think of all the things we are going to do for them and all the things that we want to give them.

Carefully planning what they are going to need at each stage of life, we prepare the best that we can for their success.

I’m sure that I’m not the only one who stockpiled unnecessary toys, learning games, classes, and summer regimens to get them off to a good start in life. We prepare for success without considering the things that won’t happen and the things we won’t be able to do or fix for them. What about the challenges that she will have to carry mostly on her own? What about the tough stuff that can’t be jumped over and the only way out is through?

Dealing with repeating a grade can be tough for your child and you. Especially when the child is in a grade that doesn’t offer other options like summer school.

I wish that there was a magic potion for getting through it easily, but this is one of those take-it-day-by-day things. No parent wants to see their child disappointed, unhappy, or feeling down about themselves. We want to shield them. This, however, will be something that you’ll grow through together.

As I reflect on how it was for my daughter and me, there are two things I would have done a little differently.

Number one: I would have been more prepared for questions from others regarding her age and grade. Some people will wonder but won’t ask or pry. You can read their body language or facial expression that will suggest they want an answer from you. Don’t feel obligated to answer their curiosity —

I LEARNED TO CULTIVATE THE JOY IN THE DAY, REGARDLESS OF WHAT THE DAY BRINGS.

because you’re not. If it is something that you would like to discuss, just be prepared to answer in a way that makes you feel comfortable. And refrain from the conversation if your kid is around. It may make them uncomfortable if the person you are conversing with is not someone he loves and trusts.

The second thing I would have done differently: Take the harsh blame off of myself. Toiling over what you could have done better won’t change anything. The truth is no one is exempt from having a few stumbling blocks along the way.

Not even our babies. Many kids struggle at one point or another in their education. It could be reading, math, making friends, social or learning disorders, or simply not being disciplined enough to get work in on time. We don’t have to place a fairy-tale blanket over our children and then beat ourselves up because it doesn’t come true. These types of struggles only make us stronger and more resilient.

We may bend, but we don’t have to break. We become better parents, and our kids become better little people.

Here are a few tips for parents whose children have had to repeat a grade.  Be honest with your kid and encourage them through it.  Always tell them how well they’re doing. They’ll need to rebuild their confidence.  Share areas of your life where you didn’t get the result you wanted but kept pushing.  Let them know they are not alone and that this happens to many children every year.  Ask for a different teacher so your kid can still have a new experience.  Allow them to participate in things that boost their confidence so they can focus on more positive and reinforcing things.  Let them know that you love them and are proud of them, no matter what.

The challenge really is making the most of where you are instead of making your days about what could have been. I learned to cultivate the joy in the day, regardless of what the day brings, and to share those moments of growth with my daughter. Millions of students have to repeat a grade at least once. You are not alone. You didn’t do anything wrong. These things just happen sometimes.

Move forward with patience and joy. You’re raising a wonderful human being.

Charday Wilson lives in Memphis and is the mom of three children, Malachi (13), Ni'yma (9), and Isaiah (7).

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

REPEATING A GRADE? THAT’S OK.

17

KARA KREITLEIN

by JULIA BAKER

A U G U S T

20 1 9

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou Kara Kreitlein, a rising second grade teacher at Willow Oaks Elementary School, lives by this quote every day.

She originally studied journalism at Arkansas Tech University but came to realize that journalism wasn’t her life’s calling. So she changed her major to early childhood education.

Graduating in 2011, she went on to join the Teach for America program.

“I was drawn to their message that no matter a child’s race, socioeconomic status, or geographical location, they deserve a quality education,” she says, adding that Memphis was her first choice for a community in which to serve.

In 2012, she relocated to Memphis, interviewed with Shelby County Schools, and landed a job with Lucy Campbell Elementary School teaching kindergarten. “I joined the team during the first year of the school’s implementation of the iZone model,” she says. The iZone — or Innovation Zone — is a program aimed at turning around underperforming schools, moving them from the bottom 5 percent of schools, achievement-wise, to at least 25 percent by means of high-quality teachers and principals, extended learning days, and a direct support team.

Once Kreitlein saw to her first school’s turnaround, she saw an ad on Facebook about a teaching opportunity in Shanghai, China. “I love traveling,” she says. “So, on a whim, I applied for it.” She was accepted, and she moved on to work teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) to children ages 3 to 16 years old.

“I didn’t want to be in China forever, though,” she says. “I just needed a bit of a breather, and I needed to regroup. I was ready to come back to the United States.”

Once she returned, Kreitlein got a job with Willow Oaks Elementary School, where she still works today. “Half of our student population is Spanish-speaking,” she says. “So all of those skills I learned in China, like how to communicate and create a vocabulary-rich curriculum,

transferred to my ability to teach my ESL students here.”

Although some teachers at Willow Oaks specialize in teaching ESL oneon-one to children, teachers like Kreitlein incorporate full-immersion techniques into their general lessons.

“ESL students are mixed in with native English speakers,” she says. “Giving them opportunities to work together on online group projects or activities really helps them pick up on language. This way, they learn how to use the language naturally in conversation versus me drilling them with vocabulary words.”

Kreitlein says her favorite subject to teach is phonics. “I love seeing that ah-ha moment where students are beginning to make sense of what they’re reading and are able to put down on paper what they’re speaking,” she says.

Kreitlein makes a point to revolve her curriculum around students’ abilities and interests, often thinking on the spot as she goes. “For instance, if a kid shows an interest in fireflies, I’ll go down a rabbit hole of teaching them about bioluminescent creatures or nocturnal animals,” she says. “You can’t be afraid to jump off that path for a second and show them how to look for something that they’re interested in.”

Educating children can be a puzzle.

“You have to be very crafty as a teacher to figure it out,” she says. “Where is the time? Where are the resources? How can I get my kids what they need?”

During the 2018-19 school year, Kreitlein noticed that only three of her students purchased books at the school’s book fair. So she took it upon herself to rig up her own version of a book fair. “I decided I’d create a mock book fair and provide students books for free,” she says. “I created a wish list on Amazon and posted it to a Facebook group. People shared my cause, and 150 books were donated. The kids loved it.

Every one of them picked up books and sat down to read them.”

What has Kreitlein taken away from her teaching career so far? “The most important thing is to put your students first,” she says. “There’s no one way to teach. You really have to tune in to what your students need and be able to be flexible with that.”

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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19

DAD LIBS

BACK TO BASICS The school year brings routine — and that’s a good thing.

By JEFF HULETT

Is it really time to go back to school already? I feel like my kids just started summer break, and our family was just beginning to hit our summer groove. While the time has flown by, I’m honestly ready to get back into a healthy, more consistent routine.

“ A U G U S T

20 1 9

EVEN THOUGH THE KIDS WILL RESIST THE SUDDEN CHANGE, THEY WILL WELCOME IT IN TIME.

Face it, we all crave and need routine. It helps frame our lives and gives us meaning and focus.

Sure, it’s fun to go off script for a bit, but predictable living isn’t so bad either. I know it’s a bummer to have to pack lunches for school again every single day. And trust me, I know the morning struggle is real, and waking up the kids and getting them fed and ready for school can be a total nightmare.

Oh, the tantrums I’ve seen. But, in the end, it’s going to be okay.

Even though the kids will resist the sudden change, they will welcome it in time.

The school schedule also provides some things to look forward to. Just remember, fall break isn’t that far off. Then there’s Halloween and the holiday march to close out the year. But let me not get ahead of myself.

Our summer has been filled with travel, play dates, swimming, fun with family and friends, and late nights. Oh, the late nights we’ve had! This will be the hardest thing to curb as we enter another school year. Not to mention the extra TV we’ve been allowing our girls. “Can we watch one more, please daddy?” Let’s just say that saying “no” hasn’t been a recurring theme in the Hulett household this summer.

During the school year, we are strict with TV and only allow the girls TV during the weekend. This philosophy has flown right out the window as we’ve all relaxed into a loosey-goosey summer schedule.

I know we should be more stern and vigilant, but it’s easy for parents to fall into the summer break trance, too. Not to mention, my wife is a teacher and has been off work most of the summer as well. The good news is that all of this can be fixed and put back into a tidy routine. Here are a few ideas to get you back on track.  Don’t wait. Plan your routine before school starts back.  Don’t scramble. Talk to your kids about what types of food they want in their lunches.  Limit TV to just the weekend.  Reduce the sugar rush.  Set a reasonable bedtime.  Check the weather forecast.

These are just a few suggestions to start the process of school re-entry. It’s not just hard on the kids, it’s hard on the whole family.

If there’s one consistency we’ve maintained this summer, it has to be inconsistency in our routine.

With a little tweaking and reframing, your family will be back on their healthy school routine in no time!

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 dog Chalupa.

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21

CONNECTING CHILDREN WITH DIVERSE BOOKS NYT bestselling author Matt de la Peña shares his journey.

by MEENA VISWANATHAN

A U G U S T

20 1 9

The other day I was reading Matt de la Peña’s Last Stop on Market Street with my 16-year-old “screenager.” He hardly ever picks a book to read, but after finishing this one, he asked if we owned the picture book.

22

This was truly a surprise to me! I figured he was in for the visual imagery created by the rhythmic text — “When CJ listened to the man playing guitar and singing on the bus, I felt the magic of music.”

Through this extraordinary tale, Matt de la Peña has captured my son’s attention.

The 2016 Newbery Medalwinning picture book is a celebration of the love between CJ and his nana as they discover the world on a bus ride to Market Street. The intergenerational connection portrayed in the story makes this a family read-aloud — speaking to

children on many levels, conveying messages of beauty, diversity, and gratitude.

New York Times bestselling author Matt de la Peña has penned seven young adult novels and five picture books. He believes in the transformative nature of literature and, during his visits to schools and colleges nationwide, talks about the power of reading. He serves on the honorary advisory board of We Need Diverse Books, a grassroots organization of children’s book lovers that advocates for putting diverse books into the hands of all children.

Memphis Parent reached out to Matt de la Peña to find out what it takes to connect children with books.

Memphis Parent: Your mission is to see children of all ages have access to books, especially to those that are reflections of themselves. Why is that so important? Have you noticed a shift in the publishing industry?

Matt de la Peña: I can honestly say that, for the first time in my 15-year career, I'm seeing a significant shift in the publishing industry when it comes to racial representation. We are seeing more books that reflect the changing population in this country. This is important for two reasons. One, more kids are now able to see themselves in a book, which is a validating experience. But diversity is also great for readers who are part of the majority. There's

We complain kids aren’t reading, but maybe it’s the other way around — perhaps there aren’t books/role models to steer them in that direction?

I think kids are still reading, they just aren’t reading the way we think they should be reading. They are reading articles online, graphic novels, manga, and video game narratives. They’re reading the world around them. I think it’s our job to help them make the jump to books. But in order to do that we have to give them choice and present them with stories that hit them where they live.

I often think about entry points. As a former reluctant reader myself, I was never very interested in the books we read in school. When a librarian gave me a book about basketball legend Larry Bird, though, I gobbled it up.

When a teacher gave me The House on Mango Street, I was genuinely moved.

It’s all about giving kids a choice of books that interest them.

Reading has a new meaning now. Your junior high librarian knew Basketball Digest also counted as reading and let you read them sneakily. What counts as reading?

I’ve met so many savvy teachers and librarians over the years. They know their students well enough to hand them the right book at the right time.

Donalyn Miller wrote an important book for educators called The Book Whisperer that explores the importance of seeing our students and knowing the world of books well enough to be a matchmaker. At a certain point, I made

There's no better path to empathy than moving through a story via someone else's point of view. the leap from basketball articles to books. We’re all capable of this leap.

You were one of the self-defined non-readers who spent all day reading the world. What is the defining moment that changed your life?

There are two instances that changed my literacy trajectory, and both times it was an educator who made the difference.

The first time was in high school. A teacher was so intent on proving to me that I was a good writer, she didn’t allow me to take the final in her English class.

Instead, she told me my job was to write whatever came to mind for the

two hours. That was a powerful message she sent. She valued education over standards.

The second time was in college. A professor gave me The Color Purple and said I didn’t have to take a test on the book, nor did I have to write an essay.

“Just promise me you’ll read it,” she said.

“And when you finish, come talk to me.”

The book moved me tremendously.

And we had a powerful conversation about class structures in her office.

That moment changed my life. It made me want to be a writer.

With your writing, you are looking to provide a “secret place to feel.” What books do you think offer that kind of freedom? Do you have recommendations for a must-read diverse book list?

Here are some great books to start with (though there are so many others, of course): PICTURE BOOKS A Different Pond by Bao Phi Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson Alma and How She Got Her Name

by Juana Martinez-Neal MIDDLE GRADE Bud, Not Buddy

by Christopher Paul Curtis Inside Out and Back Again

by Thanhha Lai Where the Mountain Meets the Moon

by Grace Lin YOUNG ADULT American Born Chinese

by Gene Luen Yang Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds Boy Meets Boy by David Levithan

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

no better path to empathy than moving through a story via someone else’s point of view.

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AUGUST CALENDAR

By MEENA VISWANATHAN

Kids in the Garden DIXON GALLERY AND GARDENS SATURDAY, AUGUST 10, FROM 10:30 A.M. UNTIL NOON.

Children ages 7-10 learn the basics about horticulture and the flora around them.

FREE. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. 761-5250.

1∙ THURSDAY

Farmers Market at The Agricenter. The Agricenter. Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Saturday, 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Shop for items farm-raised, home-grown, or handcrafted at this local market, open six days each week. Free. Visit agricenter.org/ farmersmarket for details.

Germantown Farmers Market. C.O. Franklin Park. Thursdays, 4-7:30 p.m. This weekly farmers market features area produce vendors, chef cooking demos, and food trucks. Call 483-0505 for details.

2 ∙ FRIDAY

A U G U S T

20 1 9

Fun Fridays. Memphis Botanic Garden (MBG). Fridays in August, from 10 a.m. until noon. Stop by the Fun Friday station in My Big Backyard for a hands-on activity. Dropin activity, free with admission. 636-4100.

Frozen Fridays at River Garden. River Garden at Mississippi River Park. Fridays, 4:30-6 p.m. Join for free paletas beginning at 4:30 p.m., until supplies last.

Free. Visit the Frozen Fridays event on Facebook for details.

FAB Fridays Laser Shows & Giant Screen Movies. Memphis Pink Palace Museum.

Join for laser shows at the AutoZone Dome

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Planetarium and movies at the CTI Giant Screen Theater every Friday at the Pink Palace Museum. Laser Beatles – 7 p.m.

Laser Rock – 8 p.m. Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon – 9 p.m. August 2 & 23: Star Wars Episode 4: A New Hope – 7 p.m. August 9 & 30: Star Wars Episode 5: The Empire Strikes Back – 7 p.m. August 16: Star Wars Episode 6: Return of the Jedi – 7 p.m. August 30: Star Wars Episode 6: Return of the Jedi – 9:30 p.m. Box office closes at 4 p.m. and reopens at 6 p.m. Visit memphismuseums.org for details.

Movies at the Orpheum: Angels in the Outfield (PG-13). The Orpheum. 7 p.m.

The Orpheum launches a new year-round series titled Movies at the Orpheum beginning this year. $8/adult. $6/child ages 12 and under. Group discounts available. 525-3000.

3 ∙ SATURDAY

Memphis Farmers Market (MFM) 2019 Season. MFM @ Central Train Station Pavilion. Saturdays from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. Shop for fresh produce, take part in a children’s activity, listen to live music, and more! Free. Visit the website memphisfarmersmarket.org for details.

Family Studio. Dixon Gallery and Gardens.

10 a.m. until noon. Families are invited to drop in at the Dixon to create works of art open-studio style. Free. 761-5250.

Chucalissa Family Days. C.H. Nash Museum at Chucalissa. Saturdays at 10 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. Family programs and craft activities change weekly. Aug. 3: Mystery Box/ Beading. Aug. 10: Sports & Hunting/ Pottery. Aug. 17: Stone Tools/Talking Sticks. Aug. 24: Trash Talks/Snake Painting.

Aug. 31: Music/Coloring Books. 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.

Mommy & Me Baby Expo. Southwest Tennessee Community College. 11 a.m.2 p.m. Features free health screenings plus prenatal information, breastfeeding education, prenatal yoga demonstration, games for kids, and healthy snacks. Enter for a chance to win a car seat and stroller, Memphis Zoo membership, and more. Free.

Visit methodisthealth.org/babyexpo for more information.

School Is Back In Session. Macedonia MB Church. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. This event features face painting, free food, backpacks filled

with supplies, game truck, and vendors.

Free. Call 244-8166 for details.

activities, and fun. Free.

227-9558.

4 ∙ SUNDAY

17 ∙ SATURDAY

Social Sundays. Mud Island River Park. 2-4 p.m. Drop in on your afternoon walk in the park to enjoy free, kidfriendly activities in the River Garden pavilion on the first Sunday of the month. Free.

Visit the Social Sunday event on Facebook for details.

MINI METALSMITHS: TEXTURED CLAY BOWLS Metal Museum. Wednesday, August 14, 3:45-4:45 p.m. Children ages 3-6 create stamping tools with dowels and foam shapes and use these tools and specialized hammers to form clay into a small vessel. $10. Reservations required. 774-6380.

Mom and Baby Yoga.

Universal Parenting Place (UPP) @ Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women. On select Mondays (August 5, 12, & 19), 10-11 a.m. Geared for children ages 1 and under. A class where mom and baby can bond and increase emotional and physical well-being. Free. 227-9558.

Mudpie Mondays. MBG. Mondays from 10 a.m. until noon. Join on the Little Garden Patio and use dishes, spoons, and nature’s decorations to “bake” your own pie creations. Drop-in activity, free with admission. 636-4100.

Whitehaven Farmers Market. Methodist South Hospital. Through September 30. Noon until 5 p.m. Shop for fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables. Visit the University of Tennessee Extension booth, Farmers Market Fresh for children’s activities, food demonstrations, recipes, and more. Call 516-3580 for details.

music class for children ages 6 months to 6 years.

Free. RSVP to brittany.hart@christchs.org or call 701-2871 for details.

9 ∙ FRIDAY

Soulin’ on the River - Lucky 7 Brass Band. Mud Island River Park. 6-8 p.m. With the Mighty Mississippi as the backdrop, Soulin’ on the River is a bi-weekly sample of the new sounds of Memphis soul featuring bands in The Grove. For details, visit facebook.com/memriverparks.

10 ∙ SATURDAY

Baptist Children’s Hospital Back-to-School Fair.

Baptist Women’s Hospital. 9 a.m. until noon.

This family event features health screenings, door prizes, craft activities for children, and more.

Free. Visit baptistonline.org/pediatrics for details.

Tea & Toddlers. UPP @ Christ Community Health Services. Mondays from noon until 2:45 p.m.

While tots enjoy toddler time, participate in a weekly parenting topic over refreshments. Free.

RSVP to brittany.hart@christchs.org or call 701-2871 for details.

2019 Train Heritage Day. Morton Museum of Collierville History. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Celebrate Collierville’s long connection to trains by checking out model train displays and taking a tour of train cars on Town Square. Free.

457-2650.

7 ∙ WEDNESDAY

16 ∙ FRIDAY

Toddler Time. UPP @ Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women. Meets Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m. until noon. Play group for parents and toddlers.

Free. 227-9558.

Music for Aardvarks. UPP @ Christ Community Health Services. On select Wednesdays (August 7 & 21), from noon until 1 p.m. Early childhood

Stroller Strides. UPP @ Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women. Meets on select Fridays (August 16, 23, & 30), 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Stroller Strides® is a functional, total-body conditioning workout designed for moms with kids in tow. Each 45-minute workout is comprised of strength training, cardio, and core restoration, all while entertaining the little ones with songs,

Dog Days of Summer.

Metal Museum.

10 a.m.-4 p.m.

The event features treats for dogs and humans alike, adoptable pups to socialize with, and metalsmithing activities. Free admission; price varies for activities. 774-6380.

Buckman Dance Conservatory Open House.

Buckman Arts Center at St. Mary’s. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Buckman Dance Conservatory will offer a number of opportunities for the community to learn about St. Mary’s new dance school — Magic Carpet Explores Ballet, Intermediate and Advanced Dance Previews with Mandy Possel, and Jazz Preview with Steven Prince Tate. Free.

537-1483.

Pajama Party Family Night. Dixon Gallery and Gardens. 5-8 p.m. Celebrate the end of summer at Dixon with blanket forts, sleepover treats, games and crafts, stories and songs, and more.

Free. 761-5250.

24 ∙ SATURDAY

Playhouse on the Square Theatre School Open House. Playhouse on the Square. 2-5 p.m.

Playhouse on the Square’s Department of Theatre Education invites potential students to participate in theatre school classes for youth and adults.

Free. Reservations required. 726-4656.

A Vibe on the Island. Mud Island River Park.

6-8 p.m. Join for a monthly series dedicated to original music makers in Memphis. Bring a blanket or pack a lawn chair to enjoy summer tunes by the river. Go to A Vibe on the Island event on Facebook to RSVP.

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

5 ∙ MONDAY

Magic Carpet Explores The Nutcracker with the Sugar Plum Fairy.

Buckman Arts Center at St. Mary’s. 10 a.m.

Ages 2 and up. With the help of Buckman Dance Conservatory dancers, children explore ballet and this holiday classic with interactive storytelling and creative movement. $5/child. Free to adults.

537-1483.

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Preparing Boys and Girls to Become Creative Problem Solvers, Confident Lifelong Learners, and Responsible Citizens in their Communities and the World

ONGOING EVENTS MUSEUMS AND EXHIBITS

Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. Bouguereau & America. Through September 22. This exhibition of around 40 works by the French academic painter William-Adolphé Bouguereau focuses on his U.S. collections and how they reflect the tastes, beliefs, and ambitions of America’s elite. 544-6200.

PRESCHOOL

Little Lukers (Age 2) Pre-Kindergarten (Age 3) Junior Kindergarten (Age 4)

LOWER SCHOOL

Senior Kindergarten-4th Grade

MIDDLE SCHOOL 5th-8th Grade

Coed | Age 2 - Grade 8 | Midtown gslschool.org • 246 S. Belvedere Blvd., Memphis, TN 38104 901.278.0200 • learnmore@gslschool.org

The Pink Palace Museum. Sun, Earth, Universe. In collaboration with NASA, the National Informal STEM Education Network (NISE Net) presents this interactive exhibit about Earth and space. The exhibit features hands-on and engaging activities for families with children ages 6-12. Making Memphis: 200 Years of Community. Through October 20. The bicentennial exhibit interprets events of the past 200 years that have shaped Memphis’ past and present and form the basis for our future. 636-2362.

Delivering to businesses & residents of Memphis & surrounding areas

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CTI 3D Giant Theater. Walking with Dinosaurs: Prehistoric Planet 3D. Now showing. Spin back in time to Alaska in the Cretaceous period and experience a year in the life of dinosaurs fighting, feeding, migrating, playing, and hunting.

Apollo 11: First Steps Edition. Now showing. Film celebrates the 50th anniversary of NASA’s Apollo 11 mission and showcases the real-life moments of humankind’s first steps on the moon. 636-2362.

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throughout summer. Dozens of exquisite wedding gowns spanning from the 1830s to 1960s are on display sharing a unique story from right here in Memphis. 523-1484.

OTHER PROGRAMS

Twilight Thursdays. MBG. Thursdays, May through September. Enjoy extended hours at the garden learning everything from plants to pets. Free with admission. Visit memphisbotanicgarden.com for details.

Teacher’s Back-to-School Chat & Chew. Playhouse on the Square. Friday, August 2, 6-7:30 p.m. Teachers will enjoy wine and hors d’oeuvres while Playhouse on the Square/The Circuit Playhouse previews its new season filled with shows perfect for school field trips. The Department of Theatre Education and Arts Memphis shares methods to make live professional theatre accessible to school. Free. Reservations required.

726-4656.

Bicentennial History Hikes.

Lichterman Nature Center. Tuesdays at 2 p.m. Meet at the guest services desk in the visitor center for this weekly hike at Lichterman. Free.

636-2211.

Memphis Area Homeschool Expo.

Bellevue Baptist Church - West Entrance. Thursday, August 8, 4-8 p.m. An opportunity to attend informative workshops and learn about tutorials/co-ops, classes, music lessons, sports, youth organizations, tutors, support groups, and more. Free. Visit mymhea.org for more information.

AutoZone Dome at the Sharpe Planetarium. Legends of the Night Sky: Perseus and Andromeda. Now showing. Using colorful laser light system, this is a lighthearted and imaginative retelling of one of the most famous constellation stories.

Lest We Forget Commemoration.

Back to the Moon: For Good. Now Hattiloo Theatre. Monday, August 26 showing. Show opens with the first - Family Reunion Dinner. 5:30-7:30 era of space exploration in the late p.m. Hattiloo curates an eight-month 1960s and early 1970s. Also shares long commemoration remembering the story of Google X-Prize and the African-American community’s its goal to inspire young engineers achievements, rejoicings, and to send a robotic mission to the struggles. The series uses theatre, moon. Seasonal Stargazing. Now film, scholarship, and music to share showing. One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure. Until further notice. the 400-year history (1619-2019).

Free. Reservations recommended.

636-2362.

Email Elizabeth Baines at events@ Mallory-Neely House. Wedding Belles hattilootheatre.org to make your reservations. on Millionaire’s Row Exhibit. Showing

Friday, March 1st 8:00am-7:00pm

Saturday, March 2nd 8:00am-12:00 noon Many items half price on Saturday ACCEPTED

Gently Used Name Brand Spring Clothing Children’s Shoes • Baby Equipment & Furniture Infant/Toddler Toys & Outside Toys

PHILADANCO. Buckman Arts Center @ St. Mary’s School. Friday, February 8, 8 p.m. This world-renowned touring company comes for an electrifying performance on the Buckman stage. $28/adult. $25/child. 537-1483.

HAYDEN THE MAGICIAN The Orpheum. Saturday, August 3, 8 p.m. Experience an evening of interactive sleight of hand and psychology with award-winning magician Hayden. $24.50-$29.50. Call 525-3000 for tickets.

Breastfeeding Class. Baptist Women’s Hospital. Thursday, August 1, 6:30-8:30 p.m. $30. Call 227-9873 to register.

Mid-Day Mindfulness in Motion Yoga. UPP @ Christ Community Health Services. On select Fridays (August 2, 16, & 30), from noon until 1 p.m. Features simple dynamic movement, gentle balance exercises, deep breathing, and guided relaxation. Free. RSVP to brittany.hart@christchs.org or call 701-2871 for details.

Saturday Childbirth Class. Baptist Women’s Hospital. On select Saturdays (August 3 & 17), 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $75. Call 227-9873 to register.

Saturday Morning Unwind Sessions.

Church Health Meditation Chapel.

Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. Join mindfulness experts Greg Graber or Eric Gottlieb on Saturday mornings at the Church Health Chapel. Free.

Go to churchhealth.org for details.

Family Metalsmithing: Caster Pewter Coins. Metal Museum.

Sunday, August 4, 2-4 p.m. Families learn how to cast coins out of pewter as a keepsake or pocket charm. $30/family. Reservations required.

774-6380.

Namaste at the Park. River Garden at Mississippi River Park. Tuesdays, 6-7 p.m. Instructor Charlie Baxter Hayden leads this yoga event Downtown. Free and open to

everyone. Bring your own mat or towel – yoga surface is in the grassy area. Follow Downtown Memphis on Facebook for updates.

Junior Artisans: Aluminum Sculptures. Metal Museum. Saturday, August 10, from 10:30 a.m. until noon. Children ages 7-10 learn to forge sculptures out of aluminum using specialty hammers. $15.

Reservations required. 774-6380.

Kids in the Garden. Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Saturday, August 10, from 10:30 a.m. until noon. Children ages 7-10 learn the basics about horticulture and the flora around them. Free. Reservations required.

761-5250.

Young Coppersmiths: Enameled Jewelry. Metal Museum. Saturday, August 10, 2:30-4 p.m. Children ages 11-13 make jewelry using enameling techniques. $15. Reservations required. 774-6380.

Cooking with Kids at the Garden.

MBG. Sunday, August 11, 2-4 p.m.

Children go on a culinary tour of the herb garden and learn to make their own salsa and tacos. $15. Call 636-4115 to register by August 5.

African Family Drum Circle. UPP @ Christ Community Health Services.

On select Tuesdays (August 13 & 27), 3-4 p.m. Offers children the tools for developing lifelong safety, health, and learning habits. Free. RSVP to brittany.hart@christchs.org or call 701-2871 for details.

Can you imagine... a world without children?

We Can’t.

Call 1-800-996-4100 to help.

www.stjude.org

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CLASSES & WORKSHOPS

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U R G E N T C A R E F O R L I C E R E M O VA L

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MEMPHIS OFFICE 2182 WEST STREET, GERMANTOWN, TN 38138 901-512-5780 • WWW.LICEREMOVALTN.COM

SUN, EARTH, UNIVERSE

The Pink Palace Museum. In collaboration with NASA, the National Informal STEM Education Network (NISE Net) presents this interactive exhibit about Earth and space. The exhibit features hands-on and engaging activities for families with children ages 6-12.

Mini Metalsmiths: Textured Clay Bowls. Metal Museum. Wednesday, August 14, 3:45-4:45 p.m. Children ages 3-6 create stamping tools with dowels and foam shapes and use them and specialized hammers to form clay into a small vessel. $10.

Reservations required. 774-6380.

Family Snack Attack: Tropical Green Monster Smoothies. Church Health Nutrition Hub. Monday, August 19, 5:30 p.m. Hands-on cooking class. $3/person. At least one parent or guardian must accompany children.

Space limited, pre-registration required. Go to churchhealth.org for details.

GALA 2019

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TO BENEFIT THE HUMANE SOCIETY OF MEMPHIS & SHELBY COUNTY

Live and Silent Auction, Dinner and Dancing

SATURDAY, AUGUST 24, 2019 SIX O’CLOCK IN THE EVENING FEDEX EVENT CENTER SHELBY FARMS

INDIVIDUAL TICKET $150 | TABLE FOR TEN $1,500

PURCHASE TICKETS ONLINE: MEMPHISHUMANE.ORG

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Make Your Own: Copper Cuff. Metal Museum. Saturday, August 31. Two sessions offered from 10 a.m. until noon and 2:30-4:30 p.m. Ages 10 and up. Families will create copper cuff-style bracelets using a hammer and steel surface. $10. Reservations required. 774-6380.

FUND-RAISERS

The Art of Dinner: Chef Josh’s Birthday Favorites. Church Health Nutrition Hub. Friday, August 2, 6 p.m. In this interactive cooking class, Chef Joshua House guides through a three-course menu. $65. Benefits the nutrition programming at the Church Health Nutrition Hub. Go to churchhealth.org for tickets.

Youth Villages’ 14th Annual Dodge This Dodgeball Tournament.

Memphis Metro Volleyball. Saturday, August 3, 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Step on the floor with some serious talent while helping fund Youth Villages’ programs for children and families. $180 per team of six. Reservations required. Visit youthvillages.org.

20th Annual Meritan Moonlight Classic Bike Tour and Tailgate.

Richard and Annette Bloch Cancer Survivors Park. Saturday, August 24, 8 p.m. to midnight. Tailgate pre-race party begins at 8 p.m. and features local food, prizes, and entertainment, all highlighted with “Bling Yourself,” “Bling Your Corner,” and “Bling Your Bike” contests. The Bike Tour begins at 10 p.m. and will encompass two routes — a 7-mile ride and a 19-mile ride — under the light of the summer moon and the watchful eye of the Memphis Police Department. Race Day: $45 per person. Early discounts available.

Visit meritan.org for details.

AUDITIONS

Open Auditions for The Memphis Boychoir, Inc. Saint John’s Episcopal Church. August 1-31. Boys and girls grades 2-6 can audition for The Memphis Boychoir Inc. Free. Call 323-8597 or email bcampbell@ stjohnsmemphis.org to schedule an appointment.

Live at the Garden Summer Concert Series. MBG. Doors open at 6 p.m. Live at the Garden Summer Concert Series presents singer/songwriter Lionel Richie on August 2 and country powerhouse Toby Keith on August 31.

Visit liveatthegarden.com for details Hayden the Magician. The Orpheum. Saturday, August 3, 8 p.m. Experience an evening of interactive sleight of hand and psychology with award-winning magician Hayden. $24.50-$29.50.

Call 525-3000 for tickets.

Memphis Made - Center Stage presents Star & Micey. Buckman Arts Center at St. Mary’s. Friday, August 16, 8 p.m. Buckman opens the third Memphis Made - Center Stage season with band Star & Micey. $20/adult. $10/child.

537-1483.

Ostrander Awards. The Orpheum. Sunday, August 25, 6 p.m. Awards event highlights the best performances of the 2018-2019 theater season and honors excellence in Community Theatre and College Theatre divisions. Tickets start at $15.

Go to memphisostranders. com for details.

STORY TIME AT AREA BOOKSTORES AND MUSEUMS

Barnes & Noble Booksellers The Avenue Carriage Crossing Mall, 853-3264 Saturdays at 11 a.m. Ages 1-6.

Barnes & Noble Booksellers 2774 N. Germantown Pkwy., 386-2468 Tuesdays and Saturdays at 11 a.m.

Ages 2-8. August 3 & 6: The Pigeon HAS to Go to School. August 10 & 13: Story time featuring Dear Girl and Dear Boy. August 17 & 20: The Color Monster. August 24 & 27: Dog Breath and Where’s Waldo. August 31: Tale of Two Tribes. Free.

Baby & Me Story Time. Sundays, 1111:30 a.m. Ages 2 and under. August

4: Busy Bees Who Goes Roar?

August 11: ABCs of Engineering.

August 18: ABCs of Space. August 25: ABCs of Biology. Free.

Book signing with Chauna Payne.

Saturday, August 10, 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Chauna Payne, author of the picture book Heavenly Hair Ever After, comes in full fairy costume to entertain kids. Free.

Kids’ Book Hangout. Saturday, August 10, 2-2:30 p.m. Ages 7-12.

The Kids’ Book Hangout highlights new books and activities. Free.

Love.

Think.

Live.

Book signing with Karen Meadows.

Saturday, August 17, 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Karen Meadows, author of Corn Dog, comes to visit children.

Free.

History Bee Young Reader Event.

Saturday, August 17, 2-2:30 p.m.

Ages 7-12. Young readers join for a special History Bee event. Free.

Character Story Time: Cat in the Hat. Sunday, August 18, 3-3:30 p.m. Ages 2-8. Special story time, activities, and photo op with Cat in the Hat. Free.

Novel.

387 Perkins Ext., 922-5526 Story Time with Marjorie Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11 a.m.

Ages 3 and under.

Author Event and Book Signing.

Saturday, August 3, 4 p.m. Ages 3-6. Derrick Barnes, author of the picture book Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut, presents his new picture book The King of Kindergarten. Free.

Author Event and Book Signing.

Tuesday, August 6, 6 p.m. Ages 12 and up. Memphis YA author Erin A. Craig discusses and signs her debut novel House of Salt and Sorrows, an eerie retelling of the classic fairy tale The Twelve Dancing Princesses.

Free.

Morton Museum of Collierville History 196 N. Main St., 457-2650 Story Time. Fridays, 10:30-11 a.m.

Ages 5 and under. Enjoy a new story theme each week with songs, related craft, and snack. Free.

Love. Think. Live. These three words are

the heart of our mission at Harding Academy. We teach students to love others as Christ loves them, to think creatively and learn with open minds, and to live courageously to the glory of God. Schedule a tour today to see that mission in action.

Schedule a tour

901-767-4494 | hardinglions.org/visit 18 mos.–Jr. K (East Memphis & Cordova) Sr. K–Grade 12 (East Memphis)

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THEATRE PERFORMANCES

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YOUR CHILD SHOULD BE HERE!

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Send us your kid funnies, photos, or artwork via email with Favorite Moments in the subject line to shara@memphisparent.com

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You want what’s best for your kids.

That’s us.

Le Bonheur is proud to be recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of the nation’s best children’s hospitals for the ninth consecutive year. In fact, this year we received our highest honors ever.

We believe it’s because we have always put kids first.

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

Where Every Child Matters lebonheur.org