Memphis Parent March 2020

M A R2020

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

|

F R E E

CA MP BOUND!

P L U S

SEPARATION ANXIETY

CAMP CONQUEST

LIKE YOU PODCAST

BEING A #GIRLDAD

This is not a waterpark.

THIS IS AN ALL-AGES ADVENTURE. Chill vibe or thrill ride, riding the wave or floating along a lazy river, SoundWaves fuses music and water to create an exclusive experience with something for the entire family. This is America’s first upscale indoor/outdoor resort water attraction. This is fantastic.

M A RC H

2020

BOOK YOUR PACKAGE TODAY AT SOUNDWAVESGO.COM

2

GET IN TUNE WITH NASHVILLE’S ONLY RESORT WATER EXPERIENCE

N LOC EW & N ATI

ONS O W DEP EE OSI KLY T

S!

Children as well as teens will build positive character values, develop new skills, and make new friends all while participating in a fun and healthy atmosphere!

Swimming/Water Activities Healthy Snack S.T.E.A.M. Activities Arts & Crafts Field Trip Once A Week!

Reading Enrichment Sports, Active Games & More!

REGISTER ONLINE at ymcamemphis.org/summercamp

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

Through YMCA summer programs, the social-emotional, cognitive, and physical development of all youth are nurtured and celebrated.

3

St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School

M A R C H

2020

SUMMER CAMPS

SUMMER CAMP 2020

PAG E 10

12

May 26 - July 24 Extended Hours: 7:00 am - 6:00 pm

For rising 3K - 8th grade

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

14

16

SUMMER CAMP SAFETY

SOOTHING CAMP SEPARATION CONQUEST ANXIETY Special needs

by Jamie Lober

by Jamie Lober

DOES YOUR TEEN WANT TO BE A CAMP Ways to ease campers conquer COUNSELOR? We’ve gathered homesickness and their dreams at some info to get smooth the this Millington them started. transition. destination.

Take proper measures to ensure a great experience.

PLUS

20

38

by Julia Baker

by Tyra Bridges

LIKE YOU

Local filmmaker launches a new podcast for kids.

by Tyra Bridges

6 901 Fun Art, dance, and more this month

DEPARTMENTS

26 Dad Libs What it’s like being a #GirlDad 28 Calendar and Events Family-friendly fun all month long

8 Dear Teacher Finding the best summer camp 24 Outstanding Teacher Celebrating unsung heroes

OUR STAFF

M A RC H

2020

Editor Shara Clark Art Director Bryan Rollins Advertising Art Director Christopher Myers Graphic Designer Rachel Li Production Operations Director Margie Neal Advertising Coordinator Jasmine Garner Account Executive Michelle Musolf Calendar Editor Meena Viswanathan Social Media Coordinator Kalena Matthews

Laurelwood Shopping Center 389 Perkins Ext 901.685.8417 @cottontailsmemphis @cotton.tails1

4

OUR COVER KID

MEMPHIS PARENT IS LOOKING FOR A PART-TIME ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE! Do you enjoy working from home and the ability to create your own schedule?

Join our creative culture and team.

CHECK PAGE 27 FOR DETAILS.

Caleb (11) with his lovely grandmother Mildred

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 Distribution Manager Carrie O’Guin Controller Ashley Haeger Digital Services Director Kristin Pawlowski Staff Writer Julia Baker 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

E D I TO R ’ S

Visit

N OT E

sgis.org

The way we weave it all together is what sets your child apart.

CAMP CONQUEST

Be a Gryphon for a Day on March 20.

Shadow a student, meet the teachers, and see our campus. RSVP today! sgis.org/come-visit-us

SPRING DREAMS

Shara Clark

Editor

BPACC YOUTH THEATRE

BYE BYE BIRDIE MARCH 13, 14 / 7:30PM – MARCH 15 / 2:30PM Loving musical send-up of 1960’s, small-town America, Teenagers and Rock & Roll.

GREAT FAMILY FUN !

TICKETS 901-385-5588 - BPACC.ORG 3663 Appling Road, Bartlett, TN

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

As I write this, it’s late February. In my office, a space heater churns out warmth at my feet. It’s cold and has been raining for what seems like weeks. Hopefully by the time you’re reading this, we’ll be seeing the first hints of spring — new blooms, more sun, and the type of weather that makes you want to hang out on a patio or roll the windows down, with the music turned up and the wind in your hair.

While we’re dreaming of spring, we’ve put together a warmer-weather issue for you, dedicated to summer camp season, which will be here before you know it. The time to plan is now for all those summer activities that will keep the kids active, engaged, and entertained when school lets out.

In this issue, we cover a lot of ground, from choosing the right camp for your children to soothing separation anxiety for those setting out to overnight camp.

We’ve also included some insight into camp counselor leads for teens who may be looking for a summer job or volunteering opportunity.

Staff writer Julia Baker introduces us to Camp Conquest in Millington, a summer camp dedicated specifically to children and adults with special needs. The camp serves people with a range of disabilities, including cerebral palsy and Down syndrome, and allows campers to zip line, canoe, and participate in other fun activities they may not otherwise be able to engage in. Read about the work of camp founders Amanda and Mark Price on page 16.

While flipping through this issue, pay special attention to our many advertisers — they’ve highlighted their summer fun and camp offerings to help you as you plan your kids’ adventures. Our Camp Guide on memphisparent.com is another great resource. There you’ll find a list of local and regional camps, along with detailed program descriptions, costs, and more to assist in your search.

Here’s to warmer weather and happy campers!

5

#901 F U N

1

Art, dance, and more this month!

SUNDAY

DISNEY’S ALADDIN

Sail away on a magic carpet ride with Aladdin at The Orpheum. Through March 8th. Show times: Wednesday through Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 2 & 8 p.m.; Sunday, 1 & 6:30 p.m. Friday, March 6th, is Kids Night on Broadway: Activities start at 6:30 p.m., performance at 7:30 p.m. Kids Night features pre-show crafts, a photo booth, special introduction-to-the-theater packet, and more. Specially priced tickets are $27.50 after savings. Buy an adult ticket and get a child’s ticket free. Limit four tickets per family. $29-$145. Call 525-3000 for more information.

6

FRIDAY

WOMEN IN THE ARTS

Dixon Gallery and Gardens hosts this free event, which celebrates the creativity and tenacity of makers, painters, actresses, dancers, musicians, women working in the arts, and creatives from across the community. March 6th and 7th. Hours: Friday, 5-8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Call 761-5250 for more info.

21

SATURDAY

PEANUT BUTTER & JAM: ¡JOSÉ!

Germantown Performing Arts Center hosts two shows on March 21st, at 9:30 & 10:30 a.m., ideal for ages 8 and under. ¡José! is New Ballet Ensemble & School’s newest touring show based on the life and work of the great modern dance master, José Limón. Inspired by the book José! Born to Dance, the show highlights flamenco, Spanish guitar, modern art, and other genres from this era in history. $8/child. Includes up to two adults. 751-7500.

22

SUNDAY

CHERRY BLOSSOM PICNIC

M A RC H

2020

From 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on March 22nd, Memphis Botanic Garden hosts this picnic, featuring live Shamisen music, bonsai information and sales with Brussel’s Bonsai, activity stations led by University of Memphis Japan Culture Club, and tours of the Japanese garden. Bring your own picnic or buy from food trucks on site. Free with admission. 636-4100.

6

28

SATURDAY

SPRING FLING – KIDS’ CORNER

Memphis Area Master Gardeners hosts this event from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Agricenter on March 28th. Young gardeners — preschool through grade 6 — take part in a variety of educational activities throughout the day. Kids’ Corner guests include Mr. Steve the Magician, Fairies and Frogs Face Painting with Amy Stone, Balloon Artist - Twisted Mr. Rogers, Wes Hopper with Germantown Parks and Recreation, and more. Free admission and parking.

752-1207.

Rising JK – 12th Grade

P

@ LAUSANNE

At Lausanne, we’re gearing up for our best summer ever! Party with a princess, shine as a superhero or build your backswing: there’s something for everyone. Explore them all and see how you can make a summer to remember at Lausanne!

Register today at lausanne360.com/summer.

1381 West Massey Road, Memphis, TN summers@lausanneschool.com

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

lausanne360.com/summer

7

D E A R

T E AC H E R

FINDING THE BEST SUMMER CAMP

By Marge Eberts & Peggy Gisler

How do I select the best camps for my children this summer? — Best Choices We offer fun camp experiences for your rising preschoolers through 12th graders to make this summer enriching for both their minds and bodies!

stemm

T H E AT R E

Sports A R T &.4 M O R E

M A RC H

2020

MUSIC

Robotics

Register at

cbhs.org

Safety should be your number one concern. You need to begin your hunt for a great camp by asking questions to make sure that you are totally comfortable with the camps you select. It is true that all camps have risks, but there are definitely questions you should be asking.

The first one should be: What licenses or accreditations does a camp have? Accreditation is far more important, as state standards are only likely to relate to health, cleanliness, and food service, which are obviously important. However, you want to find a camp accredited by the American Camp Association (acacamps.org), as it goes beyond state standards to camp staff, emergency management plans, health care, and camp management.

Finding accredited camps will narrow your choices to good choices.

The next question to consider is what type of camp is most suitable for your child. Should it be coed or girls- or boys-only? Decide which one would make your child more relaxed about social interactions. Then there is the question of whether a local day camp or an overnight camp would work best for your child. Generally speaking, younger children (7 or 8 years old) are best at day camps.

Certainly, a very important consideration is to find a camp that offers activities that appeal to your child. Think about whether the child would like a camp geared primarily to a specific area like a sport, a computer skill, or an academic subject, or one that has a wide variety of typical summer activities.

After studying camp brochures, do not finalize your camp decision until you have talked to the camp director to find out more about the camp, from the staff-to-camper ratio to how many campers return each year, as well as emergency concerns and visitation opportunities. Another very important consideration is taking into account exactly what your children would like to find in a summer camp. This is likely to result in a decision that is best for them.

Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@dearteacher.com or to the Dear Teacher website. ŠCompass Syndicate Corporation, 2020

8

A COMMUNITY BUILT ON TOGETHERNESS

Every mom-to-be deserves a comfortable, safe and smooth delivery. That’s why we offer everything you need to make a plan that’s right for you. Classes for expecting moms, lactation consultants and neonatal intensive care (NICU) will have you at ease when the special day arrives. Plus, our newly remodeled family-centric postpartum suites at our Memphis location and our Baby-Friendly designation at our Bartlett hospital provide you with the extras that can make all the difference in the birth of your child.

The expertise to plan a successful delivery.

The compassion to pamper both of you after.

Find the OB/GYN that’s right for you today by calling us at 866-681-2342 or visiting us at SaintFrancisHosp.com or SaintFrancisBartlett.com.

Home Loans

and other financial products & services for FedEx employees and their families.

fecca.com | 901.344.2500

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

You find the house, we’ll help make it your home.

9

FE ATU RE

WELCOME TO OUR

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

Now Registering for Summer Classes ‘‘Leading Provider of Inflatable FUN!‘‘

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

As little Newcomers welcome to drop in foras one FREE class $100 for all day Classes now in Midtown, East Memphis, Collierville, and Cordova FUN! Visit us on the web at www.memphisaardvarks.com or contact us at 871-0227 or info@memphisaardvarks.com

Call Us Today! 901-360-9000 10

Winne

r

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

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

Spring Registration now open!

Classes begin March 23rd.

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

• 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 871-0227 for more info

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

M A RC H

2020

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

1

MEMPHIS VOLLEYBALL DAY CAMP: June 1st-4th/Grades 5th-12th

JUNIOR HIGH TEAM CAMP: July 13th-15th/Grades 5th-8th

COLLEGE PREP CAMP: May 2nd/Grades 9th-12th

TIGER COLLEGE EXPERIENCE CAMP : July 11th-12th/Grades 9th-12th

HIGH SCHOOL TEAM CAMP: July 17th-18th/Grades 9th-12th

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

NIKE VOLLEYBALL CAMP: July 8th-10th/Grades 5th - 12th

11

C A M P

G U I D E

SUMMER CAMP SAFETY

Take proper measures to ensure a great experience.

By Jamie Lober Summer camp can be fun, educational, and a prime opportunity for growth. Kids can learn new skills and form new friendships. To make sure your child is ready for the experience, sometimes it can help to encourage sleepovers so he does not feel homesick being away for the first time at camp. Taking measures to ensure a healthy and safe experience can make all the difference.

M A RC H

2020

See the Camp and Do Your Research

10 2

Take time to tour the camp and see where your child will be residing. “All sleeping facilities at a campsite should have working smoke alarms or detectors spaced within their specifications for the best protection,” says Donald Pannell, assistant fire marshal at the Memphis Fire Department. Ask questions of parents of kids who have attended the camp before and talk to the counselors. Read online reviews and make sure the camp is accredited by the American Camp Association. The American Academy of Pediatrics says that a good camp will require campers to have a physical and be up to date on vaccinations. You may want to inquire as to whether there is a doctor or nurse on site and find out what happens if a child is injured or does not feel well.

You Are Number One

Talk to your child about good self-care. Safe Kids Worldwide says campers should stay hydrated and remember that it can still be hot and humid even if the sky is cloudy. By drinking adequate water, they can avoid troubles like dehydration and heat stroke.

Your child should also be mindful of his surroundings.

This means using the buddy system, looking both ways before crossing the street, and not swimming unless there is an adult supervising, like a lifeguard or counselor. Find out if there is a packing list and be sure to remember things like flip-flops for showers and sunscreen.

Get Your Feet Wet

One of the best gifts you can give your child in addition to the summer camp experience is swim lessons.

You want to consider age and maturity, as there is no right time to enroll. Safe Kids Worldwide says there are five water survival skills that kids should have before taking part in water-related activities at camp.

They should be able to step or jump into water over their head and return to the surface; float or tread water for one minute; turn around in a full circle and find an exit; swim 25 yards to exit the water; and exit the water.

Keep in mind that swimming in open water is different from swimming in a pool. Surfaces may be uneven, and sometimes there are currents. “There is nothing like a great day out on the water, but Memphians need to be aware of the danger of electricshock drowning and how it can be avoided, such as by not swimming near a boat, marina, or launching ramp,” says Pannell. The electrical current can put you at risk of electric-shock drowning. Learning CPR and other rescue skills can be life-saving.

Beware of Flames

A fun activity can become dangerous in a second without taking precautions. “Fire pits are known to

be a great source of warmth and ambiance, but with the popularity of them increasing, fire safety has become even more important,” says Pannell. Grilling is another common cause of concern. While some camps try to keep fireworks as a tradition in July, it is best to leave that up to the professionals and not use consumer fireworks. “To avoid the risk of injury and property damage associated with consumer fireworks, join other community members in attending a public display put on by trained and licensed professionals,” Pannell says.

Know the Weather and Be in Touch

This is something an accredited camp should be aware of, but kids can also monitor this through apps if they are allowed to use technology. Some camps allow your child to write or call home, while others may be technology-free. Be sure to find out the camp’s system for communication in advance so you know what to expect.

Have an Action Plan

Accidents happen, and campers should know what to do in case of a fire. “Stop, drop, cover, and roll has been one of the most recognizable fire safety messages for decades, and many adults remember the concept from being introduced to it as a young child,” says Pannell. You want to emphasize to your child that the motto is only relevant when your clothing or body is on fire, and if the fire is at camp or in a building, they need to get out quickly. Covering someone with a blanket can also smother the fire.

When you talk to your child about health and safety ahead of time, they will have an easier time getting through summer camp.

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

r e m m SuARDING

@H

I g H ard i n

THE #1

901!

rg/su L i o n s .o

mmer

DAY CAMP

Pool Time | Field Trips Service Projects

SPORTS CAMPS LEAP CAMPS JUNE 1–JULY 31

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

TECH CAMP

FOR AGES 7-19 Coding. Game dev. Robotics. Digital arts.

This isn’t just a camp. It’s an experience unlike any other. Here, you push past the boundaries of school, finding your squad and bonding over the latest tech. Led by expert instructors, you will build the skills needed to forge a brilliant future.

University of Memphis | The University of Alabama at Birmingham Washington University in St. Louis | NYU | Carnegie Mellon | Caltech

Request your brochure today!

iDTechCamps.com | 1-888-709-8324

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

HELD AT 150+ ELITE CAMPUSES INCLUDING:

13

C A M P

G U I D E

Focus on the Positives

Pick the camp carefully with your child. Make sure it focuses on inclusiveness and is filled with activities of interest. You also want to know who is running it. “It is very important that there is a schedule with handson activities that can make a kid grow, like STEM, which stands for science, technology, engineering and math,” says Brown.

Some camps offer field trips. The more fun, educational, and enriching programs the camp has, the less likely it is that a child will lose interest and want to go home. Do not ignore how your child is feeling.

Mike Bullard, admission marketing manager at Presbyterian Day School lists overreaction, excessive worrying, insomnia, and nightmares as red flags for separation anxiety. He finds that keeping an open attitude and encouraging your child to talk about how he feels, over a casual setting like dinner or a car ride, can make a difference. Remember all he is looking for is a little reassurance and to know that you will always come back for him and be there if you are needed.

Know the Communication Rules

SOOTHING SEPARATION ANXIETY Homesickness is normal, but there are ways to smooth the transition.

By Jamie Lober

M A RC H

2020

If you are worried about how your child will handle being away from home while he is at summer camp, you are not alone. The American Camp Association reports that 90 percent of children who attend overnight summer camp feel some level of homesickness while they are away. While it may sound inevitable, there are things you can do to make the transition easier.

The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests talking to your child about what to expect, practicing being away from home by sleeping at friends or relatives houses, letting your child know you feel confident he can handle being away from home, and not expressing any doubts or concerns about the experience he may have.

Everyone Is Special

Camp directors try to encourage celebrating all children. “I have had a rainbow of different children, and a lot of their anxiety comes from change in culture, economics, or parenting, so you have to make it comfortable,” says Daryl Brown, founder and director of Big Brown Summer Camp. Tell your child to be com1142

fortable in his own skin, be himself, and be accepting of others for who they are.

Be grateful for the life you have and do not judge others. “Kids may feel alienated fitting themselves into a situation that is new to them,” says Brown. He gives the example of one mother going to the Nike store to buy several shoes while another mother can barely purchase them at a discount store. Brown finds that kids isolate themselves for things like that, and it makes them homesick because they can feel like an outcast.

And some kids come from more structured schools than others. “Sometimes kids will taper down their knowledge because they do not want other kids to know they are smart — because that is isolating,” says Brown.

Some camps allow parents to visit, call, or write letters, while others have restrictions on technology usage.

“Communication depends on the open door policy of the camp, and the ones that let you make a phone call or visit are ones that do not have anything to hide and play by the rules and regulations,” Brown says.

By knowing your child and his needs, you can gauge what kind of policy will be the best match. If you cannot communicate with your child while he is away, Bullard suggests giving him something tangible to have with him, like a personalized pin or keychain on his bag as a reminder of home.

Get Involved

You know your child better than anyone. “If a child is sad, you have to know as a camp director that you are not a doctor or psychiatrist, and sometimes there may be something bad happening or a medical diagnosis, attention deficit disorder, or a mental disorder that pertains to some type of tragedy in their life,” says Brown.

As a parent, you should share any relevant information about your child so the camp staff can accommodate and understand him. “We have a file on each kid, and we try to assess their interests,” Brown says.

While separation anxiety can be a normal part of the camp experience, camp staff pride themselves on their contributions to kids’ lives.

“You cannot be successful if your heart is not into developing children — no matter what background, economic status, color, or disability,” Brown says. “It is something you have to have a passion for — to be an agent of change for the positive.”

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

Free Diabetes Camp for Kids Baptist has partnered with the Center for Courageous Kids to host Camp Day2Day at the CCK facility in Scottsville, Kentucky. Medical staff and camp chaperones will supervise this free, one-week overnight camp that helps children learn how to live with diabetes. Free roundtrip transportation from Memphis will be provided.

PARENT ORIENTATION AND INFORMATION SESSION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25 AT 6 P.M.

June 21–25, 2020

5-Day, 4-Night Camp Free for children 7–16 years old Center for Courageous Kids Scottsville, Kentucky

Baptist College of Health Sciences (in the former Hope and Healing Center building) 1115 Union Ave., Memphis, TN 38104

Space is limited. So register today at www.courageouskids.org For more information, please call Brenda Chandler, Center for Courageous Kids, at 270-618-2912.

Deadline for registration: May 29, 2020

Roundtrip transportation from Memphis provided

FOR COMPLETED

GRADES 3-12

SUMMER COOKING CAMPS O U T !

Kitchen’s Open WEEKLY CAMPS START JUNE 1 | memphis.edu/kwcicamps

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

S C H O O L ’ S

15

C A M P

G U I D E

CAMP CONQUEST M J AANRUCAHR Y 2 022002 0

Special needs children conquer their dreams at this Millington Camp.

16

By Julia Baker

Imagine being a physically or mentally disabled child and not being able to join your peers in physical activities. Mark Price and his wife Amanda had this in mind when they decided to found Camp Conquest, a summer camp dedicated specifically to children and adults with special needs.

The inspiration behind Camp Conquest came to the Prices when some friends of theirs told them they were having difficulties looking for summertime activities for their autistic children. Mark began searching for summer camps, and he found a special needs camp called Camp Barnabas in Purdy, Missouri. He became acquainted with the founder, who, after a handful of conversations, offered to come down and help the Prices start a special needs camp of their own.

“We had identified three different campgrounds that we could rent for our summer camps,” says Price. “So he and his wife came to Memphis and looked at those three properties. And they said The Grove at Red Oak Lake would be our best option.”

So, with the help of Camp Barnabas’ leadership team, the Prices were able to host their own camp in 2011 and 2012. And in 2013, they filed for nonprofit status as Camp Conquest.

“This was just a huge answer to prayer because with us knowing nothing about operating a camp, they brought their leadership team and taught us everything we needed to know that we could just absorb,” says Price.

The Prices have since bought a permanent property in Millington for Camp Conquest, where they are able to provide an “extraordinary camp” for “extraordinary people.” At this new location, children participating in the program will have the opportunity to

continued on 18

17

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

M J AANRUCAHR Y 2 022002 0

C A M P

18

continued from 16

G U I D E

partake in thrilling activities, like zip lining, rock climbing, horse riding, canoeing, and more.

“These kids see stuff like this and they think, boy, I wish I could do that,” says Price. “They see people go down the zip line or the lake slide — because most camps that you go to, they don’t have the ability to do this.”

According to Price, of the 3,000 summer camps in the U.S. that claim to take special needs kids, only 10 percent of them serve children with all disabilities, including cerebral palsy, down syndrome, and more. Camp Conquest is able to serve these children by obtaining the best safety equipment, such as specialized zip line chair harnesses, as well as implementing adequate safety protocols and bringing on a substantial number of qualified and verified staff members and volunteers to ensure children’s safety.

“There are always two people at the bottom of the lake when campers come off that lake slide to help get them out,” says Price. “They have to wear a life preserver and helmet. Same with the zip line: There are five people who are

checking and double checking every connection to make sure they’re ready to go. We don’t just set them up there and push them down.

We let them make that decision because that’s what builds their confidence after some time.”

Price reflects on the experience of one camper, named Amanda, who is confined to an electric wheelchair and has very limited use of her hands. “She said, ‘Okay, I’m ready,’” Price says. “And down the lake slide she went. She went home and learned Spanish and learned how to brush her hair because of that and how it impacted her.”

Amanda is not the only camper who has exhibited drastic improvements in confidence and ability following a week-long stay at Camp Conquest. “If anybody tries to start a conversation with many of the kids, they’re very, very bashful and shy,” says Price. “But parents say that after camp they see a big difference, and their kids will actually start conversations with people.”

It’s no wonder these campers exhibit higher levels of confidence, considering that after

Camp Conquest many of them are able to say they’ve now done something their parents might not have done before.

“At the end of camp, one of the things I always love to do is ask first-time parents, ‘How many of you have been down a zip line before?’” says Price. “One or two hands will go up. And I’ll say, ‘Okay kids, how many of you went down the zip line?’ And they all go up. So now these kids have something that they’ve done that their parents haven’t done.”

Right now, spots for this summer’s program are full, but the Prices are working on building more cabins, expanding into a nine-week summer program, and implementing weeklong spring and fall break camps to keep up with the high demand for campers. Visit campconquest.com to stay posted on registration for campers and volunteers, which rolls out in December.

Julia Baker, a second-generation journalist, is a staff writer for Memphis Parent magazine and a University of Memphis junior.

Ages 3-12

Dance, create and perform at New Ballet Ensemble and School!

June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 5:30-6:30 pm Beginner Hip Hop Ages 6-11 / $75

Classes take place on Mondays.

June 3, 10, 17, 24 5:30-6:30 pm

Intermediate Hip Hop Ages 12-15 / $60

Classes take place on Wednesdays.

Camps

Classes

summer June 22-26 or July 20-24 9-11 am Peter and the Wolf Camp Ages 3-5 / $135 Aftercare available for purchase from 11 am - 12 pm.

June 22-26 1-5 pm

Versatile Dance Camp Ages 6-9 & Ages 10-12 / $185

July 6-10 / 9 am-12:30 pm Musical Theatre Camp Ages 6-9 & Ages 10-12 / $170

July 6-10 / 1-5 pm

Peace, Love, and Hip Hop Camp Ages 6-9 & Ages 10-12 / $185

July 13-17 / 9 am-4 pm

Anansi and the Sky God Camp Ages 6-9 & Ages 10-12 / $275

Don’t miss your camper’s final performance!

All camps conclude with a performance for family and friends on the last day of camp!

For more information or to register visit newballet.org or call 901.726.9225.

New Ballet is located in the heart of Cooper-Young.

Saturday, March 14 | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Free

Register for Brooks Summer Art Camp Six sessions from late June through mid-July Ages 5 to 14 | brooksmuseum.org/camps

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

Memphis Brooks Museum of Art

19

C A M P

G U I D E

DOES YOUR TEEN WANT TO BE A CAMP COUNSELOR? Here is some info to get them started with the search.

By Tyra Bridges

Summer is right around the corner, and your teen might be looking for a fun job that involves the great outdoors, and hourly pay. A summer camp counselor might be just the job your teen needs.

Teens can begin working as camp counselors during their high school years and continue on during their summers in college if they choose. Some camps even offer the opportunity for younger pre-teens to begin as counselors-intraining during junior high years.

Where would they apply?

The Salvation Army, the fourth largest charity in the United States, is hiring assistant counselors and camp counselors. Assistant counselors have to be at least 16 years of age. An assistant counselors’ job is to assist the camp counselors. “They are charged with being a

continued on 22

BEAUTY & THE BEAST

SUMMER

June 22-26

JUNGLE BOOK

July 6 – 10 All Above Camps / M to F / 8:30AM to 12:30PM

I HATE SHAKESPEARE

N E S AC

12TH

fo r

gir l s

EST.

1956

PK2

OL

PK2

INIC OM S D

HO

1851

MY

EST.

C

DE

3663 Appling Road Bartlett, TN 38133 901.385.5588 | BPACC.org

ARTS • ACADEMICS • ATHLETICS ADVENTURE BOYS & GIRLS PREKINDERGARTEN - 8TH GRADE

AG

A

AGES 7 to 16/Camps Vary in Fee/Visit BPACC.org

CAMP SAA-SDS.ORG

T

ST. AGNES ACADEMY ST. DOMINIC SCHOOL

Missoula Children’s Theatre June 15-19

July 20 – 24 / Teen Camp M-F / 8:30AM to 3:30PM

20 20

2020

SA I N

MMAARRCCHH 2 2002 200

June 8-12

KING ARTHUR’S QUEST

T

ALICE IN WONDERLAND

SAIN

YOUTH THEATRE CAMPS

8TH

fo r

b oy s

DOES YOUR CHILD NEED A STRUCTURED SUMMER PROGRAM? Lakeside Behavioral Health System can help.

OUR PATTERN-BASED CURRICULUM INCLUDES: • Social skills development • Sensory motor integration skills training • Educational/learning skills • Study skills/adaptive classroom behavior • Activity/recreational therapy The six-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.

Summer

Æ Æ Æ Æ Æ Æ

2020 dates:

June 8 - 12 June 15 - 19 June 22 - 26 June 29 - July 3 July 6 - 10 July 13 - 17

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

This is an intensive outpatient program and most insurance is accepted, based upon medical necessity. Self-payment arrangements can be made.

2911 Brunswick Road | Memphis, TN 38133 901-377-4733 | 800-232-LAKE | lakesidebhs.com

With limited exceptions, physicians are not employees or agents of this hospital. Model representations of real patients are shown. Actual patients cannot be divulged due to HIPAA regulations. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the non-discrimination notice, visit our website.

200251-1209 2/20

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

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.

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.

21

C A M P

MMAARRCCHH 22002200

These are just a few options available to teens and young adults to get involved with local and regional summer camps.

22 22

continued from 20

G U I D E

positive Christian influence for each of their campers, ages 8 to 12,” according to the Salvation Army.

The Salvation Army camp counselors have to be at least 18 years of age, with experience working with children. The counselors are responsible for all the campers within their cabin, including the assistant counselor. The deadline to apply for these positions is in February, so be on the lookout for applications to open next year.

YMCA of Memphis and the Mid-South is also looking for summer camp counselors. Your teen has to be at least 18 years of age. The deadline to apply is May 5th.

Also younger YMCA camp leaders may want to ask about Counselors-in-Training or CITs. CITs are the oldest campers who typically want to apply for a job at camp next summer, maybe as a Junior Counselor or some other supporting role. This job will help your teen to learn more specific skills for working with kids and co-workers. It will also give your teen more experience planning and leading activities.

Both programs give kids age-appropriate challenges that build their skills, confidence, and capacity for working with people of all ages.

Lifetime Inc., a Collierville health club, is looking for summer camp counselors with at least one year of experience. At Lifetime Inc., a kids camp counselor leads children through a variety of activities including rock climbing, swimming, weekly field trips, arts, and crafts.

There is no deadline to apply.

If your teen is looking to travel, Camp Cobbossee for boys is offering an internship.

Cobbossee offers teenage counselors travel stipends so they can spend four weeks in Maine. “We have our own private island,” says camp director Matt Jones. “We only hire 18-year-old ex-campers and 19 year olds for formal positions.”

These are just a few options available to teens and young adults to get involved with local and regional summer camps. Be sure to visit memphisparent.com and check out our Camp Guide to see a list of camps — and have your teen call to find out if there are any paid or volunteer positions open this season.  Tyra Bridges is a LeMoyne-Owen College senior and Memphis Parent intern.

Help your child see clearer in 2020!

901-722-3250 eyecentermemphis.com

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

Schedule an appointment today!

1225 Madison Ave., in the Midtown Medical District

23

O U T S TA N D I N G

T E AC H E R

by Julia Baker

KATHLEEN TOWNER

M A RC H

2020

Kathleen Towner, a “Little Hive,” or preschool, teacher at Hutchison School has made a lasting impression on many of her students and their parents with her passion and flair for teaching.

Throughout high school and some of college, Towner thought she wanted to begin a career in fashion merchandising, but, ultimately, she decided that that route wasn’t for her.

“I thought, maybe this is not the direction I want to go,” she says. “Just by encouragement from friends, I took a children’s literature class, one of my favorite courses, and I thought, this is what I want to do.”

Towner had previously spent some time working with children babysitting and helping with vacation bible school at her church, so she knew she had a knack and a passion for working with children already.

She changed her major at the University of Tennessee from fashion merchandising to K-8 Education with an endorsement in Early Childhood Education.

Of the 39 years Towner has been teaching, she has spent nearly 30 years teaching kindergarten and preschool at Hutchison.

“It’s a wonderful place to work,” she says. “I feel supported by the administration. They really care about us. And if you feel like the administration cares about you, you want to perform well. It’s like a family here.”

In the classroom, Towner and her colleagues follow the Reggio

Emilia approach, a style of teaching typically applied to preschool education that involves teachers acting as co-learners or collaborators and designing curricula around childrens’ interests and needs.

“Everything is individualized, and the kids are all different, especially at this stage,” she says. “Some are 3 before they come, and then some don’t turn 3 until May. And that’s a huge growth area for each child during that time of development.”

Towner implements certain strategies and methods to help each child learn individually and at their own pace. One involves asking students to tell her “secrets” about the lesson they’ve learned each day.

“Often, if you ask them the question and one person says something, they all say it,” she says. “So I ask them to tell me a secret in the morning, and then we’ll all find out.

And just the fact that they could almost tell me verbatim what it says in the book, it’s like, wow, they get it. It’s about finding something that they’re interested in.”

Towner says that it is important to find where students’ interests lie and to figure out what their learning needs are, whether they are visual, tactile, or auditory learners.

The main thing is to love the children, and love them well.

“I remember growing up, thinking, ‘I don’t get this,’ but that’s the only way it was taught,” she says.

“And to see how far we’ve come in education and how we teach to each child’s needs and learning styles, it’s amazing, these opportunities for children.”

Towner makes it a point to include parents on students’ progress by posting Instagram photos and publishing blog posts to share what students learn each week.

“It makes you feel connected,” she says. “A lot of children don’t verbalize when they get home about what they did at school. I list questions of what the parents can ask their children about what they’ve learned that week, specific things

I know the children will be able to answer, just to get that conversation going from school to home.”

Towner credits her former fourth grade teacher for being an exemplary role model who shaped her teaching methods today.

“Everybody said my fourth grade teacher was the mean teacher,” she says. “I felt like she knew that I thought that, and she went the extra mile and made me feel loved. It was like she got me. And I think about her often in my teaching.”

Towner offers some solid advice for other teachers. “The main thing is to love the children,” she says. “And love them well.”

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.

24

open to all soccer players!

First-time players, rec players, and competitive players regardless of club affiliation or level of play.

Outdoor Soccer Camps June 8-12

July 27-August 31

WC Johnson Turf fields / Collierville

Mike Rose Soccer Complex

Strikers vs.

Keepers Camp 9 am - 11 am: Ages 4 - 6 9 am - 12 pm: Ages 6 - 14

Strikers learn the proper form and technique building up to work on every area where scoring chances occur, including all types of shooting and finishing situations. Goalkeepers are challenged to refine their technique and push themselves to reach a higher level of performance. Free Dry-Fit T-Shirt for every player! $160 per player. Special discounts for teams.

Capelli Pre-Season Camp 8 - 11 am: Ages 7 - 10 (Birth years: 2010-2013) 5 - 8 pm: Ages 11 - 14 (Birth years: 2007-2009)

The Memphis pre-season soccer experience!

The camp concentrates on developing players’ technical ability, tactical concepts, physical training, and psychological techniques. Professional level coaches create a structured playing environment that promotes learning, competing, and enjoyment of the game. $150 per player.

Indoor Soccer Camps

Avoid The Summer Heat!

PSI Indoor / 237 Woodland Lake Dr, Cordova June 15-19, June 22-26, July 6-10 and July 13-17

First Touch soccer skills camp Full-day: 9 am - 3 pm / Half-day: 9 am - 12 pm

Players ages 3 to 18 train on close ball control, turns, skills and fakes, moving the ball fluidly as a team, increase speed and agility, improve decision making and work on developing a competitive mentality. Individual & small group tactics (1v1, 2v1, 2v2).

Small-sided games and much more! Full-day $225 per week / Half-day: $130 per week.

7:30 am early drop-off and 4 pm late pick available.

9 am - 12 pm

1-4 pm

Players ages 6 to 18 train in all areas of goalkeeping throughout the week and training will progress accordingly with players’ ability. Lobos Rush believes that the modern game demands that goalkeepers be astute not only in the goal but on the field as well. Players will train with this in mind at every session. $130 per player.

Players ages 6 to 18 train on proper striking techniques, close ball control, turns, skills, and fakes, variations of passing and receiving, striking and finishing in different situations, shooting and accuracy, shooting with power, shooting with crosses and on breakaways, as well as volleying, free-kicks, and penalties. $130 per player.

Reflex Goalkeeping Camp

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 May 26 to July 29.

For more information or to register, visit www.woodlandschool.org.

Touch Striker Camp

Multiplayer Discounts!

For more information or to register visit lobosrush.com or call 901.854.8724. Limited spots available.

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

July 20-24

25

DA D

L I B S

with Jeff Hulett

GIRL DAD

Local dads sound off on the special role they play.

By Jeff Hulett

In light of the untimely death of Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna, lovingly called “Gigi,” along with the tragic losses of John, Keri, and Alyssa Altobelli, Sarah and Payton Chester, Christina Mauser, and Ara Zobayan, we are all mourning and trying to make sense of it.

M J AANRUCAHR Y 2 022002 0

The outpouring of support on social media and the media in general for those who lost their lives in the heartbreaking helicopter crash has been unparalleled. The tributes and real tears by superstars, celebrities, and family members and friends have been moving, to say the least.

One of the tributes in particular has resonated with me. It was by ESPN journalist Elle Duncan who met Kobe Bryant at an event where she had to get a picture with the then-soon-to-be Hall of Famer. She laments about his kindness and sincere interest in her eight-month pregnant belly and whether she knew the sex of her new addition yet. She said it was going to be a girl. That’s when Kobe shared with her his thoughts about how girls are the best and how he loves being a girl dad.

I, too, love being a girl dad. I grew up with a brother, and my wife had three older brothers. We are learning on the fly over here, but I will tell you this: I wouldn’t trade anything about being a #girldad. There’s something about it that makes me feel special. It’s hard to put into words, but I feel I have an important role to play.

I’ve polled some other girl dads in my universe to share their thoughts about being dads of daughters. I hope you enjoy their remarks.

Luke Hall: One of my big things is to show Ramona how she is supposed to be treated by men, to instill in her the knowledge that she deserves to be respected and treated well by members of the opposite sex.

Maybe that’s an outdated notion, but I feel like if she is treated respectfully by me then she will expect other men to treat her the same.

David Cienfuegos: I’m looking forward to being a positive influence during her life and understanding the meaning of sacrifice as much as all parents do.

Mike Quay: Being a father to a daughter is special beyond just being a parent.

As a father, you are the basis for how your daughter will see how a man is

supposed to treat a woman.

As a parent, of course, you are supposed to love your children and keep them safe, but it is also the parents’ responsibility to help their children become adults and prepare them for their independence.

Jeremy Williams: My daughter is 10, going on 17. To me, being a #girldad means striving to be an example through my words and actions. Treating everyone fairly and equally, regardless of their gender. And sometimes it means keeping a watchful eye on kids who tease or treat her differently than her younger brother.

It means trying to communicate clearly with her about setting boundaries with people, respecting and loving

herself for who she is, and encouraging her to surround herself with people who will respect and love her as well.

We’ve come a long way, but the world still isn’t an even playing field for girls, and I want to arm and inform her so that she can tackle any challenge that the world throws in her path.

Matt Timberlake: I’ve got two young daughters, and if I was told 10 years ago this would be the case, I would have prepared myself to be disappointed with not being able to have the father/son experience in the Dad role.

But since the first was born almost eight years ago, such thoughts have never crossed my mind. Sure, we play with Barbies and do each other’s hair.

I’ve even been known to frolic to Katy

Perry with clumsily applied makeup on my face. But we also go on wild adventures, build X-Wings out of Legos, and play wiffle ball.

Ken Patterson: You get to have dance parties at the house and listen to music that might normally make you look extra weird, but since it’s your daughter, it’s totally acceptable.

Also, they keep you on the up-andup when it comes to the new lingo.

Clark Ortkiese: Being a girl dad is great. You get an inside view of the female mind.

I asked mine why she didn’t play with boys. She said, “Well, I haven’t figured out how to control them yet.”

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.

26

A Chance to Dance Summer Camps Junior Camp Tues. & Thurs. 4-6, Sat. 9-11am Ballet, Jazz/Creative & Stretch

Senior Camp Mon. & Wed. 4-6pm, Sat.11-1:00pm Ballet, Variations & Pilates

July 13th-31st | Call 901-301-3262 | Register by June 30th www.dancersinc.us | Life Member Royal Academy of Dance

All Saints Episcopal Church 1508 S. White Station at Quince. 38117

MEMPHIS PARENT IS LOOKING FOR A PART TIME ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE! Do you enjoy working from home and the ability to create your own schedule?

Join our creative culture and team.

• Experience in B2B sales • Cold-calling • Marketing-minded • Negotiation skills • Google Suite experience • Excellent communication skills (written and oral) • Must be a self-starter • Detail oriented and highly organized

To apply, please send an email with resume and a brief note introducing yourself to hr@contemporary-media.com. No phone calls, please.

Contemporary Media Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS BUT NOT REQUIRED:

27

M A R C H

C A L E N DA R

with Meena Viswanathan

16 ∙ MONDAY

Family Studio

Family Snack Attack: Veggie Burger Sliders. Church Health Nutrition Hub. 5:30-6:15 p.m. Ages 6 and up. Handson cooking class presented by The Well at Church Health. $3/participant. At least one parent or guardian must accompany children. Space limited.

Reservations required. 272-0003.

SATURDAY, MARCH 7 10 A.M. UNTIL NOON.

20 ∙ FRIDAY

Dixon Gallery and Gardens Families drop in to create works of art, open-studio style.

FREE. 761-5250.

1 ∙ SUNDAY

Disney’s Aladdin. The Orpheum. Through March 8. Wednesday through Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 2 & 8 p.m.; Sunday, 1 & 6:30 p.m. The producers of The Lion King present the timeless tale of Aladdin. $29$145. Call 525-3000 for tickets.

2 ∙ MONDAY

Tea & Toddlers. Universal Parenting Place (UPP) @ Christ Community Health Services. On Mondays, from noon until 2:45 p.m. Parents join for a weekly parenting topic while tots enjoy toddler time over refreshments. Free. RSVP to brittany.hart@christchs.org or call 701-2871 for details.

F E B R U A R Y

M A RC H

2020

202 0

3 ∙ TUESDAY

28

28

Caterpillar Club. Memphis Botanic Garden (MBG). On select Tuesdays & Wednesdays (March 3 or 4 and 17 or 18), 10-11 a.m. Choose Tuesday or Wednesday session. Parents with children ages 2-5 join to share stories, play games, create crafts, and explore the natural world. Six-class semester fee: $75. Call 636-4122 to register.

Jazz Week. ComboNation opens the Jazz Week at Newby’s on Highland at 7 p.m. Jazz Week (March 4-7) takes place at Harris Concert Hall @ University of Memphis (U of M) at 7:30 p.m. The schedule includes Mar. 4 - Faculty Jazz Players. Mar. 5 - U of M Jazz Singers.

Mar. 6 - 901 Jazz Band. Mar. 7 - High School Honor Jazz Bands. Free. 678-2541.

4 ∙ WEDNESDAY

Toddler Time. UPP @ Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women. On Wednesdays, from 10:30 a.m. until noon. Playgroup geared for parents and toddlers. Free.

227-9558.

Music for Aardvarks. UPP @ Christ Community Health Services. On select Wednesdays (Mar. 4 & 18), from noon until 1 p.m. Bring your children ages 6 months to 6 years for this Early Childhood Music class. Free. Call 701-2871 for details or RSVP to brittany.hart@christchs.org.

6 ∙ FRIDAY

Fab Fridays Laser Music Shows & Giant Screen Movies. Pink Palace Museum.

Fridays, 6-9 p.m. The March lineup includes Laser Hypnotica (techno rave style), Best of Laser Pink Floyd, Laser Beatles, and A Hard Day’s Night (2D). 636-2362.

Disney’s Aladdin – Kids Night on Broadway. The Orpheum. Activities start at 6:30 p.m. and performance at 7:30 p.m. Kids Night on Broadway features pre-show crafts, a photo booth, special introduction-to-the-theater packet, and more. Specially priced tickets are $27.50 after savings. Buy an adult ticket and get a child’s ticket free. Limit four tickets per family. 525-3000.

7 ∙ SATURDAY

Chucalissa Family Day. C.H. Nash Museum at Chucalissa. Saturdays, at 10 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. Family programs and craft activities change weekly. Mar. 7:

Sports & Hunting/Talking Sticks. Mar. 14: Stone Tools/Pottery. Mar. 21: Mystery Box/Beading. Mar. 28: Music/Coloring.

Family Day 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. Free for children 3 and under. 785-3160.

Family Studio. Dixon Gallery and Gardens. 10 a.m. until noon. Families drop in at the Dixon to create works of art, open-studio style. Free. 761-5250.

Sesame Street Birthday Party.

DeafConnect. 1-3 p.m. Ages 2 and up.

Celebrate with games, crafts, activities, and refreshments. Free. 278-9307.

Birthday Party for Sparky the Fire Dog! Morton Museum of Collierville History.

10:30-11:30 a.m. Celebrate Sparky’s birthday with a party and a visit from a fire truck. Free. 457-2650.

Family Campfire Party. MBG. 6-8 p.m.

Families join for cozy campfire dinner and kids activities at the garden. Hot dogs, s’mores, and drinks provided. $15.

Reservations required. 636-4100.

21 ∙ SATURDAY

Peanut Butter & Jam: ¡José! By New Ballet Ensemble. Germantown Performing Arts Center (GPAC). 9:30 & 10:30 a.m. Ages 8 and under. Debuting in 2019-2020, ¡José! is New Ballet Ensemble & School’s newest touring show based on the life and work of the great modern dance master, José Limón.

Inspired by the book José! Born to Dance, this show highlights flamenco, Spanish guitar, modern art, and other genres from this era in history. $8/child. Includes up to two adults. 751-7500.

13 ∙ FRIDAY

Bye Bye Birdie. Bartlett Performing Arts & Conference Center (BPACC).

Through March 15. Friday & Saturday, 7:30-9:30 p.m.; Sunday, 2:30-4:30 p.m. BPACC Youth Theatre presents this comedy for family audiences. $15/adult. $10/child. 385-5588.

14 ∙ SATURDAY

Diary of a Wombat (A Sensory-Friendly Performance). The Orpheum. 10 a.m.

This non-verbal adaptation of the awardwinning picture book features puppetry, movement, and live cello music from a team of revered artists. $15/person.

525-3000.

Black Violin. The Orpheum. 7 p.m. Wil B and Kev Marcus, classically trained viola and violin players, are returning to the Orpheum for another toe-tapping performance. DJ SPS and drummer Nat Stokes join the duo on stage. $25-$45.

Call 525-3000 for tickets.

Dinosaurs Twilight Tour. Memphis Zoo. 7-10 p.m. Ages 5 and up. Experienced tour

QUESTIONS/REGISTRATION: CAMP DIRECTOR: 901.729.8089 EMAIL: kenyota.ward@uss.salvationarmy.org WEB: www.krocmemphis.org/camp

800 East parkway south memphis, tn 38104

JUNE 1-JULY 31, 2020 AGES 4 -12 MBG Summer Camp 2020 Memphis Parent.pdf 1 2/11/2020 11:43:07 AM

MEMPHIS BOTANIC GARDEN 2020

SUMMER

CAMPS C

M

Our nature camps are dedicated to connecting kids and nature and explore all 96 acres that

Y

CM

MY

CY

LETS “WING” IT!

TEENS AT THE GARDEN

GROSSOLOGY

HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW?

Ages 4 & 5 • June 8-12

Ages 12-15 • July 13-17

CMY

Ages 6-9 • July 6-10 Ages 6-9 • July 15-19

Ages 4-5 • July 20 -24

NATURE EXPLORES Ages 6-9 • June 22-26

WEEK-LONG DAY CAMPS FOR KIDS AGED 4-15 CALL 636-4126 FOR INFORMATION MEMPHISBOTANICGARDEN.COM/CAMPS

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

K

29

C A L E N DA R guide leads you through dino territory to meet live animals, peek into dinosaur diets, and become paleontologists. $25/ person. Reservations required.

333-6500.

22 ∙ SUNDAY

Cherry Blossom Picnic. MBG. 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Features live Shamisen music, bonsai information and sales with Brussel’s Bonsai, activity stations led by University of Memphis Japan Culture Club, and tours of the Japanese Garden.

Bring your own picnic or buy from food trucks on site. Free with admission.

636-4100.

28 ∙ SATURDAY

O N G O I N G

E V E N T S

with Germantown Parks and Recreation, and more. Free admission and parking.

752-1207.

Memphis International Guitar Festival Concert. Harris Concert Hall @ U of M. 7:30 p.m. Features performances by classical guitarist William Kanengiser on March 28 and classical guitarists Andrea Dieci and Lily Afshar on March 29. Call 678-2541 for tickets.

29 ∙ SUNDAY

at the corn hole toss, slide down the giant slide, get lucky at the cake walk or bingo, and take a wagon ride. Also includes an Easter egg hunt for the little ones and fun games for all ages, and a LeBonheuROO! auction. Bring chairs or blankets, pack your own picnic or enjoy a barbecue lunch provided by Canale Farms. $40/person. Free admission for kids ages 2 and under. Deadline for ticket purchase is March 27. Rain Date: April 5, 1-5 p.m. Go to lebonheurclub.org or call 682-9905 to purchase tickets.

The Flying Karamazov Brothers.

Buckman Arts Center at St. Mary’s.

7 p.m. The Flying Karamazov Brothers bring a combination of juggling, music, and off-kilter clowning skills to entertain families at the Buckman. $35/adult. $30/ child. 537-1483.

Looking Ahead

ONGOING EVENTS Museums and Exhibits

The Pink Palace Museum. Tiger Hoops. March 7 through October 4.

Experience over 100 years of Tiger Men’s and Women’s Basketball from their beginnings as the West Tennessee State Normal School to the present. Race to the End of the Earth. Through May 17.

Exhibit focuses on the challenges faced by the two leaders, Norwegian Roald Amundsen and British Robert Falcon Scott, as they compete to reach the South Pole. City of Hope: Resurrection City and the 1968 Poor People’s Campaign poster exhibition. Through June 21. Sun, Earth, Universe. Ongoing. 636-2362.

CTI 3D Giant Theater. Dinosaurs of Antarctica. Now showing. The film follows a team of paleo ecologists on a quest to understand the southern continent’s profound transformation, from a warm and biodiverse Mesozoic to the frozen desert known today. Superpower Dogs.

APRIL

4 ∙ SATURDAY

Le BonheuROO! Festival. Canale Farms in Oakland, TN. Event takes place from noon until 4 p.m. Try your hand

RATING EB

M

CA

MP

CEL

Memphis Area Master Gardeners Spring Fling – Kids’ Corner. The Agricenter.

9 a.m.-4 p.m. Preschool through grade 6. Young gardeners take part in a variety of educational activities throughout the day. Kids’ Corner guests include Mr. Steve the Magician, Fairies and Frogs Face Painting with Amy Stone, Balloon Artist - Twisted Mr. Rogers, Wes Hopper

&

J C C D AY

M CC

r e m m u S 0 2 0 2 p m a C ust 7 June 1–Athug Grade

F E B R U A R Y

M A RC H

2020

202 0

Ages 3–10 Open to All

It’s time for an adventure! The Little Gym’s summer camps help kids to exercise their muscles, and imaginations! Plus, flexible scheduling options allow you to sign your Super Kid up for several weeks, a single week or even just a day at a time!

GO WI LD! LEARN MORE & EN RO LL NOW @

jccmemphis.org/c am

p

30

30

The Little Gym of Germantown,TN www.tlggermantowntn.com 901-755-1323

6560 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38138 (901) 761-0810 • jccmemphis.org/camp

Memphis Zoo. Dinosaurs. Through July 5. Walk through a wooded trail and experience life-sized animatronic dinosaurs in this exhibit. $5. Group discounts available. 333-6576.

Other Programs

Women in the Arts. Dixon Gallery and Gardens. March 6 & 7. Friday, 5-8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Event celebrates the creativity and tenacity of makers, painters, actresses, dancers, musicians, women working in the arts, and creatives from across the community.

Free. 761-5250.

Southern Women’s Show. The Agricenter.

Through March 8. Friday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Girls Night Out on Friday evening:

Agricenter’s Ag Day Student Art Contest & Exhibition. The Agricenter.

Submissions accepted through March 13. Open to grades 3-12 in Shelby or DeSoto Counties. Theme: Ag Brings Everyone to the Table - Exploring Ag Careers. Artwork can be submitted by any media including the following: drawing, painting, collage, photography, graphic design, and short video. First place winners: $100.

Second place winners: $50. Third place winners: $25.

AGES 4 – 5 YEARS OLD (must be potty confident) May 18 – 22 • 9 am – 12 pm

WOMEN IN THE ARTS Dixon Gallery and Gardens. March 6 & 7. Friday, 5-8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.4 p.m. Event celebrates the creativity and tenacity of makers, painters, actresses, dancers, musicians, women working in the arts, and creatives from across the community. Free. 761-5250.

AGES 6 – 12 YEARS OLD May 26 – 29 • June 1 – 5 • June 8 – 12 9 am – 3 pm

Grab a lab coat and experiment with nature at Lichterman Nature Center this summer! Meet live animals and hike in nature while participating in true experimental science. Come over to the wild side of science!

For registration forms and info, visit www.memphismuseums.org, call reservations at 901-636-2221, email nature.reservations@memphistn.gov or contact our camp director, Dr. Dawn Manning at 901-636-2226 dawn.manning@memphistn.gov.

WWW.MEMPHISMUSEUMS.ORG 5992 Quince Rd, Memphis, TN 38119

901.636.2211

31

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

AutoZone Dome at the Sharpe Planetarium. The Sun, Our Living Star.

Now showing. Seasonal Stargazing. Now showing. One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure. Until further notice.

636-2362.

tickets are $5 after 5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.: Mother-Daughter Day. Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Show includes three days of non-stop shopping, food, fashion, health, and beauty. Highlights include an appearance from Dancing with the Stars reality star Maks Chmerkovskiy on Saturday, March 7. $13/adult. $6/ child ages 6-12. Kids under 6 are free with a paying adult. Advance discount tickets available for $10 online. Advance group discount tickets available for $9 online. Call (800)849-0248 or visit southernshows.com/wme for more information.

MEMPHISPARENT.COM

Now showing. Apollo 11: First Steps Edition. Now showing. 636-2362.

31

O N G O I N G

E V E N T S

“FROM AN AMERICAN PERSPECTIVE” WITH GUEST ARTIST ANNE-AKIKO MEYERS, VIOLIN

Instructors will teach the ASL alphabet, numbers and common words and phrases and introduce campers to deaf culture.

Children will learn American Sign Language through games, crafts and other activities at the three-day Summer Signing Camp hosted by DeafConnect of the Mid-South.

The camp will be held June 23-25 at DeafConnect, 6045 Shelby Oaks Drive.

Each day children ages 6-10 will attend from 9:00 a.m. – noon, and children ages 11-15 will attend from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

To register, call 901.278.9307 The cost for the first student in a household is $30; additional students from the same household are $15.

GPAC. Saturday, March 7, 7:3010 p.m. IRIS Orchestra gave American composer Adam Schoenberg his first orchestral commission with “Finding Rothko” in 2007. Special guest violinist AnneAkiko Meyers performs Schoenberg’s most recent concerto in this program. $45-$70. Call 751-7669 for tickets.

Teachers of all first place winners receive $100. Contact Tim Roberts at trobert6@ utk.edu or call 435-7109 for more information.

Greater Memphis National College Fair. The Agricenter. Thursday, March 26, 9-11:30 a.m. & 6-8 p.m. The National College Fairs Department, a branch of the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), hosts National College Fair programs annually to help students and families nationwide explore higher education options. Free and open to the public. Visit nacacfairs.org for details.

F E B R U A R Y

M A RC H

2020

202 0

Classes & Workshops

This performing arts day camp is for children who have experienced the death of one or both parents.

Surrounded by a community of peers who have experienced a similar loss, campers explore their creativity through acting, music, movement, and design classes.

Grades 3-5

Grades 6-8

June 22-26 + June 29-July 1

July 6-10 + July 13-17

Registration is open & scholarships are available:

Orpheum-Memphis.com/MendingHearts

32

32

Registration Open for Camp SAY Across the USA: Memphis. Halloran Centre @ The Orpheum. Registration is open now until spots are filled. This free two-day camp helps young people who stutter (ages 8-18) develop self-confidence, improve communication skills, and build community. The camp offers teambuilding and confidence-building exercises, with games and group activities to choose from, ranging from improvisation to arts and crafts. Camp details: March 28 & 29, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. each day at the Halloran Centre. Free. For details, visit orpheum-memphis.com.

Family Metalsmithing: Copper Flower Centerpieces. Metal Museum. Sunday, March 1, 2-4 p.m. Create botanical centerpieces out of copper using hammers and texturing tools. $30/family.

Reservations required. 774-6380.

Zumba Fitness. UPP @ Christ Community Health Services. On select Tuesdays (March 3 & 17), from noon until 1 p.m. This family fitness class combines music, dance, and exercise. Free. RSVP to Brittany at brittany.hart@christchs.org or call 701-2871 for details.

Breastfeeding Class. Baptist Women’s Hospital. Thursday, March 5, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Class covers information on getting started with breastfeeding, how to be successful, and resources. $30. Call 226-5764 to register.

Saturday Childbirth Class. Baptist Women’s Hospital. Saturday (Mar. 7 & 21), 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Class covers information on labor/delivery, childbirth, and infant and new mom care. $75. Call 226-5764 to register.

African Family Drum Circle. UPP @ Christ Community Health Services. On select Tuesdays (March 10 & 24), 3-4 p.m.

A creative family engagement activity that 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.

Mini Metalsmiths: Pipe Cleaner Bugs.

Metal Museum. Wednesday, March 11, 3:45-4:45 p.m. Ages 3-6 years. Mini metalsmiths use pipe cleaners and recycled materials to create bugs. $10.

Reservations required. 774-6380.

Mid-Day Mindfulness in Motion Yoga.

UPP @ Christ Community Health

N LOC EW & N ATIO O DEP WEE NS OSI KLY TS!

Through YMCA summer programs, the social-emotional, cognitive, and physical development of all youth are nurtured and celebrated.

Children as well as teens will build positive character values, develop new skills, and make new friends all while participating in a fun and healthy atmosphere!

Swimming/Water Activities Healthy Snack S.T.E.A.M. Activities Arts & Crafts Field Trip Once A Week! Reading Enrichment Sports, Active Games & More!

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

REGISTER ONLINE at ymcamemphis.org/summercamp

33

O N G O I N G

E V E N T S

Services. On select Fridays (March 13 & 27), 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.

Panther Creek stables provides an inclusive environment with instruction in both Englishand Western disciplines for Campers ages 6-12 and Wranglers In Training ages 13-17.

Sessions run daily 8:30am-3pm, before care is also available starting at 7:30am.

WIT WEEK: JUNE 1-5 MAIN CAMP WEEK 1: JUNE 15-19 MAIN CAMP WEEK 2: JUNE 22-26 MAIN CAMP WEEK 3: JULY 13-17 MAIN CAMP WEEK 4: JULY 27-31 Prices:

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

DDARD SCHO GO O HE

Call today to enroll!

POWERED BY STEAM. FUELED BY FUN!

NOW ENROLLING! COLLIERVILLE • 901-861-0108 CORDOVA • 901-708-3338 34

34

Young Coppersmiths: Form Folded Origami Frogs. Metal Museum. Saturday, March 14, 2:30-4 p.m. Ages 11-13 years.

Young coppersmiths create copper frogs using the technique and process of fold forming. $15. Reservations required. 774-6380.

ACT Workshop. Collierville Burch Library. Friday, March 20, 10:30 a.m.4:30 p.m. Grades 9-12. This one-day workshop introduces students to unique academic methods designed specifically for improving ACT scores. Students bring their own lunch. Drinks and snacks provided. Registration fee: $50. Register and pre-pay Memphis ACT Tutors before March 13. Go to memphisacttutors.com for details.

Spring Theatre School. Playhouse on the Square. March 21 through May 9.

Eight-week session meets on Saturdays, from 9 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Class times vary. Open to pre-K through grade 12. Classes give students the opportunity to develop and expand their performance skills, including character development, movement, and voice. $50$125 (varies per course). Register online at playhouseonthesquare.org or call 937-6475 for details.

N CRAYO

202 0 F E B R U A R Y

2020

RA YO

M A RC H

CRAYON N

C

The Goddard School’s Summer Camp offers a broad range of programs and mini camps crafted to pique the interest and curiosity of every child; there is something for everybody!

CR

AY ON

L®

T

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

Junior Artisans: Colored Embossed Copper Tiles. Metal Museum. Saturday, March 14, from 10:30 a.m. until noon.

Ages 7-10 years. Junior artisans create copper tiles using the embossing process and explore concepts like texture and pattern. $15. Reservations required.

774-6380.

GoddardSchool.com The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, Inc. program is AdvancED accredited. © Goddard Systems, Inc. 2020

Fairies and Pirates Drama Day. SunFish Children’s Theatre. Saturday, March 28, from 10 a.m. until noon. Ages 3-6. Go on a treasure hunt, have a tea party, and create a magical garden. $35. Includes lesson, craft, and snack. For details, visit sunfishct.com.

Make Your Own: Recycled Tin Jewelry.

Metal Museum. Saturday. March 28. Two sessions offered from 10 until noon and 2:30-4:30 p.m. Ages 15 and up. The class teaches how to use a circle cutter and dapping punch to turn recycled tin and

bottle caps into pieces of jewelry. $15.

Reservations required. 774-6380.

Home School Classes

Home School Day. Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. Thursday, March 12, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Ages 5-14. Student tours at 10:30 a.m. Drop in at the art studio, take guided tours, and participate in gallery activities. Free. 544-6243.

Home School Days: Spring Chickens.

MBG. Wednesday, March 18, 2-3:30 p.m.

Children ages 5 and up join for hands-on learning experience at the garden. $5.

Garden admission not included. Call 636-4100 to register and pre-pay.

Fundraisers

35th Annual “Bowlin’ on the River” BowlA-Thon. Participating bowling centers include Billy Hardwick’s All-Star Lanes and Funquest Bowling. Through April 30.

Teams of five raise a minimum of $375, and each member receives a souvenir T-shirt. Benefits Junior Achievement’s educational programs. Contact Ellen Celosky at 366-7800 to reserve your lanes. Visit bowlathon.com for details.

Dennis H. Jones Living Well Network Mental Health Breakfast. Hilton Memphis. Tuesday, March 10, 7:3010:30 a.m. Keynote speakers share their true story of hope, suicide survival, and the impact one person can have on the life of another. Benefits the Dennis H. Jones Living Well Network, a resource to help individuals navigate depression, stress, and other challenges of life. Visit methodisthealth.org for details.

Theater Performances

F in Detention: Tales of a High School Queer. TheatreWorks @ The Evergreen.

March 6-8. Friday & Saturday, 7 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. Ages 12 and up. High school can be hard enough on its own, but being rejected by your family, friends, and even teachers makes it tougher. Watch the show to find out how an outsider and openly gay high school junior goes through a day in detention among a group of stereotypes. $10 (child & adult).

937-6477.

“From an American Perspective” with guest artist Anne-Akiko Meyers, violin.

GPAC. Saturday, March 7, 7:30-10 p.m.

IRIS Orchestra gave American composer Adam Schoenberg his first orchestral commission with “Finding Rothko” in 2007. Special guest violinist Anne-Akiko

g n i r o t u T S uyecarcs heelpisngs for

Ove r 30 students learn TEST PREP

ACT • SAT • PSAT • GRE PRAXIS ... and more

School Subjects • Study Skills Test-Taking • Writing

SWIMMING LESSONS

Year ‘round in our HEATED indoor pool!

Pamela Palmer M.S., M.A., Ed.D.

DO GOOD. BETTER.

901.726.5725 momentumnonprofit.org We help Mid-South nonprofits succeed.

We have swim packages for all age groups. SAVE MONEY! We have small class ratios...

Do you need SPECIALTY Training?

We are definitely the place for you!

CALL SWIM SCHOOLS (Ms Deborah) 901.763.3483 Gift Cards make great gifts!

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

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

901.331.6082 / pam@pamelapalmer.com

35

O N G O I N G

E V E N T S Meyers performs Schoenberg’s most recent concerto in this program. $45-$70.

Call 751-7669 for tickets.

IRIS at the Brooks. Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. Sunday, March 8, 3-5 p.m. Violinist Anne-Akiko Meyers performs pieces by Beethoven and others alongside IRIS musicians at the Hohenberg Auditorium. Each concert is paired with a featured Brooks Museum exhibition and a reception. The featured exhibition is Native Voices: Art for a New Understanding, 1950s to Now. $40. Call 751-7669 for tickets.

MEMPHIS AREA MASTER GARDENERS SPRING FLING – KIDS’ CORNER.

F E B R U A R Y

M A RC H

2020

202 0

The Agricenter. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Preschool through grade 6. Young gardeners take part in a variety of educational activities throughout the day. Kids’ Corner guests include Mr. Steve the Magician, Fairies and Frogs Face Painting with Amy Stone, Balloon Artist - Twisted Mr. Rogers, Wes Hopper with Germantown Parks and Recreation, and more. Free admission and parking. 752-1207.

36

36

Ballet 5:8 presents The Space in Between.

The Halloran Centre. Saturday, March 21, 7 p.m. The one-act ballet inspired by C. S. Lewis’ novel The Great Divorce explores the nature of eternity and the joy found on its shores. Also included artistic director Julianna Rubio Slager’s popular work “Meditations,” on light and perspective, based on C.S. Lewis’ essay “Meditations in a Toolshed,” and Slager’s “Of Splendors and Horrors,” inspired by C.S. Lewis’ book The Weight of Glory. $25/person.

525-3000.

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 • Baby & Me Story Time. Sundays, 11-11:30 a.m. Ages 2 and under. Mar. 1: Mr. Brown Can Moo. Mar. 8: My First Peeka-Boo Animals. Mar. 15: My First I See You: A Mirror Book. Mar. 22: The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Mar. 29: Can You Guess?: Animals with The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

• Encore Story time and Activities Celebrating Dr. Seuss. Tuesday, March 3, 11-11:30 a.m. Ages 2-8. Celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday with some classics and fun activities. Free.

• Story Time. Tuesdays and Saturdays at 11 a.m. Ages 2-8. Mar. 7 & 10: How to Catch a Dinosaur and How to Catch a Unicorn. Mar. 14 & 17: Pete the Cat: The Great Leprechaun Chase. Mar. 21 & 24: Pig the Tourist. Mar. 28 & 31: Macca the Alpaca.

Novel.

387 Perkins Ext., 922-5526 • Story Time with Marjorie Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11 a.m. Ages 3 and under.

• Author Presentation and Book Signing with Astronomer David A. Aguilar.

Wednesday, March 4, 6 p.m. Ages 9-12.

Join for a presentation with astronomer David A. Aguilar as he signs copies of his book LUNA: The Science and Stories of Our Moon. Free.

Crosstown Concourse 1350 Concourse Story Time with Memphis Public Libraries (MPL). March 5 & 19, from 11 a.m. until noon. MPL’s Children’s Department and the Connect Crew host this story time in partnership with Crosstown Concourse at the big stairs on the second floor. Enjoy a colorthemed story followed by a family crafting activity. Free. For more information, visit memphislibrary.org.

BALLET 5:8 PRESENTS THE SPACE IN BETWEEN. The Halloran Centre. Saturday, March 21, 7 p.m. The one-act ballet inspired by C. S. Lewis’ novel The Great Divorce explores the nature of eternity and the joy found on its shores. Also included artistic director Julianna Rubio Slager’s popular work “Meditations,” on light and perspective, based on C.S. Lewis’ essay “Meditations in a Toolshed,” and Slager’s “Of Splendors and Horrors,” inspired by C.S. Lewis’ book The Weight of Glory. $25/person. 525-3000.

37

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

• Book signing with SissyMarySue. Saturday, March 14, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Join for a chat with SissyMarySue as she signs copies of her books, Jelly Beans the Cheetah and Hope and Empathy Airlines.

Morton Museum of Collierville History 196 N. Main, 457-2650 Preschool Story Time On select Fridays (March 6 & 27), 10:3011:30 a.m. Children under 5 join for theme-based stories, craft, snack, and free play.

MEMPHISPARENT.COM

• Wings of Fire FanWing Fan Fest.

Saturday, March 7, 2-2:30 p.m. Ages 7-12.

This special celebration for the newest book in the beloved Wings of Fire: Legends series features a scavenger hunt, activities, giveaways, and more. Free.

37

F E AT U R E

LIKE YOU Local filmmaker launches new podcast for kids.

by Tyra Bridges

M A RC H

2020

Like You is a children’s mindfulness podcast created by award-winning filmmaker, father, and Memphis resident, Noah Glenn.

Like You, which launched in late January, is inspired by Glenn’s personal hero, Fred Rogers. Glenn grew up watching Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. “I always had a fondness for his calming and gentle presence, but it wasn’t until I became a father and started re-watching his show with my kids that I really began to consider him a hero,” Glenn says.

“That’s because I discovered that the lessons I learned from him and his show were really effective in helping me be a better parent. I began reading about his life and his motivations for creating his television show, and it inspired me to pursue some of the same goals of carrying a message to children that their lives have value, they can be loved just the way they are, and also to help them understand their feelings and navigate the challenges of growing up.”

Just like Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, Glenn’s weekly episodes will focus on things like kindness, friendship, and empathy.

“From the child’s perspective, the podcast is focused on imagination, relaxation, and positive thoughts, so the term ‘mindfulness’ is more about

something I thought the parents would be able to latch onto as a shorthand for what happens on the podcast, which includes breathing exercises, makebelieve, positive affirmations, discussions about feelings and empathy, calming music, and songs that help summarize all those things,” Glenn says.

The goal of the podcast is to create a calming listening experience for children ages 3 to 8 that helps them develop a positive sense of self and loving outlook toward others. Glenn says this podcast is not only for children but also adults, parents, and even grandparents who want to get in touch with their inner child.

“I created this podcast because each day I get to relive the experience of childhood through my children’s eyes,” says Glenn.

The title of the podcast is only two words, but those two words have multiple meanings that reflect the messages of the show. The first meaning is, “I like you just the way you are.” This is a positive affirmation. The second meaning is, “I was just like you.” This implies parents and adults sharing their childhood experiences to help a child

feel understood. The next is “Like you.”

This encourages a child to like themselves. Lastly, “Others are like you.”

This represents the fact that many emotions and challenges of childhood are universal.

“Childhood is filled with plenty of joy and wonder, but it’s also filled with things that are hard,” says Glenn. “Like learning to understand our feelings, learning to understand others, and figuring out how we fit into a great big world.”

To get more information about Like You or to listen to the most recent podcast, visit likeyoupodcast.com.

Like You also has a Patreon account, which allows listeners and parents to support the podcast. “By profession, I’m a full-time freelance filmmaker, so I don’t have any sort of media company or organization funding the podcast,” Glenn says. “It’s all done by me and my wife out of a passion for creating the work. I hope parents will appreciate the podcast enough to offer their support.

“I hope over time to build a sustainable model for producing the podcast and continue to develop other children’s media like books, music, and even one day television or movies.”

Tyra Bridges is a LeMoyne-Owen College senior and Memphis Parent intern.

38

39

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

You want what’s best for your kids.

That’s us.

Le Bonheur is proud to be recognized by U.S. News & 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