MARCH 2013
The Right Stuff Sports equipment for summertime fun
in this is s and ente ue, r chance t for a o W IN
PRECIOUS CARGO
A PRIZE
Finding the RIGHT BABYSITTER
Win a prize— Who Dat & Who Don’t
COLORING CONTEST
Count th GOGGLE e S
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FUN FOR ALL Camps that make every day a vacation
ART ACTING SINGING COOKING SEWING CHEER & DANCE CERAMICS FASHION DESIGN SCIENCE MUSIC SPORTS SWIMMING & MORE!
SESSION I June 10 – June 28 SESSION II July 1 – July 19 FIELD TRIP SUPER WEEK! July 22 – July 26
URSULINE
ACADEMY
Learn more at ursulineneworleans.org or call 504.931.6999 2 | Gambit’s Kids issue
CONTENTS MARCH 2013 FUN FOR ALL Summer camps for toddlers to adults
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WHO DAT AND WHO DON’T Coloring contest — win a membership to the Louisiana Children’s Museum SITTING PRETTY Tips for finding the right babysitter
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BOREDOM BUSTERS Activities for kids and families KIDS OF SUMMER Equipment for the active days ahead
CONTEST! Find the goggles hidden in the pages of KIDS for a chance to win a six-week swimming session from Love Swimming (www.LoveSwimming.com). Tell us how many you counted at www.bestofneworleans.com/win or write us at Gambit Kids, 3923 Bienville St., New Orleans, LA 70119. A winner for the swimming lessons will be drawn from the correct responses. Deadline to enter is 5 p.m. March 31. GAMBIT’s KIDs IssUE | 3
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After-school
FUN
There are summer camps for every interest and age B y K A N D A C E P O W E R G R AV E S
INDEx
Adult camps............................................................................7 General/ Varied offerings.........................................7 Overnight camps/Outdoor adventures.......9 Specialty camps.................................................................9 Academics.........................................................................9 Architecture....................................................................10 Arts..........................................................................................10 Chess...................................................................................10 Dance...................................................................................11 Fashion................................................................................11 Gymnastics/tumbling............................................12 Music.....................................................................................12 Religion...............................................................................12 Science/nature............................................................12 Sports/fitness...............................................................13 Swimming.........................................................................14 Theater.................................................................................14 Visually impaired........................................................15
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CHilDReN leARN THAT SCieNCe CAN ummer should be a time for children to be FuN AT CReATiON SeNSATiON CAMp iN COViNGTON. recuperate from nine months of intense schoolwork and explore the outdoors, read books just for pleasure, meet new friends and try new things. Many parents want to find activities more structured than free play with a babysitter while mom and dad are at work, and the area’s vast offering of summer camps provides a wealth of options. Children can go to a camp with a wide range of activity choices, or one that focuses mainly on one area, whether it’s robotics, theater or chess. Camps are weekday-only unless otherwise stated, and many offer before- and after-care for a fee. Here is a compendium of summer camps in the New Orleans metropolitan area. page 7
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Registration $30 • Late Registration after May 6: $40
2013
2013
After care for camp-goers available until 6 PM.
Visit our website, www.mcacubs.com, for individual camp offerings and descriptions. Email summercamp@mcacubs.org or call 504.288.7626. 6 |MCA Gambit’s Kids issue SC Gambit_2013.indd 1
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Camps for adults Loyola Prep Adult Piano Camp Loyola University, 6363 St. Charles ave., (504) 865-3627; www.cmfa.loyno.edu/prep-arts Ages: Adult Dates: June 4-to be announced The 10-week camp for adults is designed for beginners who have previously studied piano but need a review of the basics. The non-credit course includes rhythm, note-reading, scales, chords, ear training and theory. Enrollment is limited to 12 students. Cost: $140
Loyola Prep Voice Camp for Adults Loyola University, 6363 St. Charles Ave., (504) 865-3627; www.cmfa.loyno.edu/prep-arts Ages: 18 and older Dates: Thursdays June 13-Aug. 8 (closed July 4) The eight-week voice class, which meets on Thursday nights, covers vocal techniques, breath support, posture, vowels and more. It’s good for beginners, members of choral ensembles and singers trying to refresh their technique. Cost: $150
GENEral/ VarIEd aCtIVItIEs ASH Day Camp for Boys Academy of the Sacred Heart, 4301 and 4521 St. Charles Ave., (504) 269-1230; www.ashrosary.org Ages: Kindergarten-fifth graders, boys Dates: July 15-26 The boys-only camp offers swimming and waterslides, a variety of sports, field trips and other activities. Cost: $195 per week
ASH Summer Fun Day Camp Academy of the Sacred Heart, 4301 and 4521 St. Charles Ave., (504) 269-1230; www.ashrosary.org Ages: Pre-kindergarten-fifth graders, girls Dates: June 10-July 26 (Closed July 4-5) The camp offers swimming, games, sports and art, and campers explore New Orleans through field trips. Cost: $195 per week, $135 July 1-3
Arden Cahill Academy’s Camp Corral 3101 Wall Blvd., Gretna, (504) 392-0902; www.ardencahillacademy.com Ages: 4 (by Sept. 30)-14, boys and girls Dates: June 3-Aug. 9 Camp Corral, which occupies 12 acres on the West Bank, offers horseback riding, swimming, art, theater, sports, games, a petting farm, computer lab, dances, fishing, campouts, archery, academic classes and more. Cost: Varies
Camp Cabrini Cabrini High School, 1400 Moss St., (504) 482-1193; www.cabrinihigh.com Ages: First-seventh graders, boys and girls Dates: May 27-June 28 The camp offers a diverse variety of activities including swimming, fishing, soccer, basketball, dance, cheerleading, ultimate football, arts and crafts, media, drama, painting and field trips. Cost: $130 per week, $50 registration
Camp Cricket University Montessori School, 7508 Burthe St., (504) 865-1659; www.umsnola.org Ages: 2-6 Dates: June 10-Aug. 16, boys and girls Half-day and full-day camps are offered and include activities such as arts and crafts, music, water play, outdoor play and time in the classroom. Cost: $120 per week half-day, $200 per week full day
Camp Kaleidoscope Cedarwood School, 607 Heavens Drive, Mandeville, (985) 845-7111; www.cedarwoodschool.com Ages: 2-5, girls and boys Dates: June 3-28 and July 8-26 Activities include mud, sand and water play, poetry and literature, puppets, plays, gardening and nature studies, computers, science, art, music, dancing games and visits by special guests. Sessions are two weeks long and run three or five days a week. Cost: $330 per session (three days), $450 (five days)
Camp Invention Academy of the Sacred Heart, 4301 and 4521 St. Charles Ave., (504) 269-1230; www.ashrosary.org Ages: First-sixth grades, boys and girls Dates: July 29-Aug. 2 The camp endeavors to expand children’s minds and teach them 21st century skills using problemsolving games, teamwork and hands-on activities. Cost: $225
Castletree St. George’s Episcopal School, 923 Napoleon Ave., (504) 891-5509; www.castletree.net Ages: Pre-kindergarten-sixth graders, boys and girls Dates: June 10-28 and July 8-26 The three-week camp sessions provide a variety of age-appropriate activities including outdoor games, water play, arts and crafts, music, gymnastics, yoga, cooking, sports, science, jewelry making, martial arts, photography, dance, musical theater and more. Reading sessions with a teacher are available for 4- and 5-year-olds for a fee. Cost: $700 a session full-day, $550 half-day program (available for ages 4-5 only)
Buras YMCA Summer Camp
Christian Brothers School Summer Camp
36342 Hwy. 11, Buras, (504) 564-0591; www.ymcaneworleans.org Ages: 3-12, boys and girls Dates: May 28-Aug. 2 Each week features a theme and a variety of activities including sports, swimming, art, outdoor play and more. Cost: $75 per week
8 Friederichs Ave., (504) 486-6770; www.cbs-no.org Ages: Third-seventh graders, girls and boys Dates: June 10-July 19 Certified instructors administer this camp, which includes water days, bounce days, field trips, cooking demonstrations, live reptile shows and more. Cost: $285 per session
Colossal — The Ultimate Camp Experience Cedarwood School, 607 Heavens Drive, Mandeville, (985) 845-7111; www.cedarwoodschool.com Ages: First-fifth graders Dates: June 3-28 and July 8-26 Each two-week session offers a variety of activities including making chocolate, making books, scrapbooking, cheerleading, yoga, dance, karate, singing, movie-making, cooking, computer games, Lego building, inflatable climbing toys, pottery, mosaic art and more. Half-day and wholeday camps available. Cost: $450 per two-week session
Creation Sensation Camp Christ Episcopal School, 80 Christwood Blvd., Covington, (985) 705-2577; www.creationsensationcamp.com Ages: Pre-kindergarten-seventh graders, boys and girls Dates: June 10-28 Pre-kindergarten through first-grade students have daily schedules of activities including cooking, science, movement and music, exploration, art and more. Campers in second through eighth grades chose activities that vary from week to week and include art, athletics, drama, robotics, stop-motion animation and photography. Cost: $225 per week
Crescent City Summer Camp Crescent City Christian School, 4828 Utica St., Metairie, (504) 885-4700; www.ccchristian.net Ages: 4-14, boys and girls Dates: May 28-to be announced The all-inclusive camp offers daily arts and crafts, a Wii room, a game room, movie theater, gym, outdoor play, an indoor swimming pool, waterslides, weekly field trips and more. Cost: $140 per week
Curious Jane Louise S. McGehee School, 2343 Prytania St., (504) 274-4912; www.curiousjanecamp.com Ages: 5-11, girls Dates: June 3-July 19 The project-based summer camp has themes that revolve around writing, design, engineering and science. Project themes include toy design, “Gadgets and Gears,” costuming, storyboarding, graphic novels, DIY your room, photography, video and more. Cost: $285 per week
DominiCamp St. Mary’s Dominican High School, 7701 Walmsley Ave., (504) 865-9401 ext. 4129; www.stmarysdominican.org Ages: Fourth-eighth graders Dates: June 3-21 There are a variety of activities to keep girls active and engaged during the summer. Cost: Starts at $150 per week, $225 two weeks, $325 for three weeks.
Dragon Camp St. George’s Episcopal School, 923 Napoleon Ave., (504) 891-5509; www.castletree.net Ages: 1-3, boys and girls Dates: June 10-28 and July 8-26, boys and girls Small-group, whole group and outside play activities are scheduled as well as art, music, free play, storytelling, movement, water play and more.
There are full-day and half-day options as well as two-, three- and five-day-a-week options. Cost: $400-$700
East Jefferson Family YMCA 6691 Riverside Drive, Metairie, (504) 888-9622; www.ymcaneworleans.org Ages: 5-12, boys and girls Dates: May 27-Aug. 9 The camps offer a variety of activities including swimming, sports, arts, drama, martial arts, outdoor play and more. Cost: $150 per week, $125 YMCA members
Elmwood Park Summer Camp Elmwood Park Academy, 1517 Carol Sue Ave., Terrytown, (504) 392-0217 Ages: 3-14, girls and boys Dates: June 3-28 Campers swim daily, and swimming lessons are available for a fee. They also go on a field trip each week and participate in arts and crafts projects and more. Cost: $80 per week 9 a.m.-3 p.m., $120 per week 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
Hermann-Grima House Summer Camp 820 St. Louis St., (504) 274-0751; www.hgghh.org Ages: 6-10, boys and girls Dates: May 28-31, Aug. 5-9 The camps focus on teaching young people about life in the 19th century. The May session features cooking and gardening in the 1800s, and the August session is on 19th-century lifestyles and art. Cost: $250 per session, $225 HermannGrima members
JCC Summer Day Camps — Chaverim Jewish Community Center, 3747 W. Esplanade Ave., Metairie, (504) 887-5158; 5342 St. Charles Ave., (504) 897-0143; www.nojcc.org Ages: 3-4, boys and girls Dates: June 10-Aug. 2 At the four-week sessions of Chaverim (friends) camp, preschoolers can take swimming lessons, learn songs, play sports and other games and create arts and crafts. (Children must be potty-trained.) Cost: $670 per session
JCC Summer Day Camps — K’ton ton Jewish Community Center, 5342 St. Charles Ave., (504) 897-0143; www.nojcc.org Ages: 21-36 months, boys and girls Dates: June 10-Aug. 2 Designed for first-time campers, K’ton ton (little ones) is similar to nursery school and features active exploration, independent play, teacher-directed activities, water play, art, stories, songs, educational play and more. Sessions last four weeks; three- and five-daya-week options are available. Cost: $415 three days, $555 five days. (Check website for availability and rates for six- and eightweek sessions.)
JCC Summer Day Camps — Maccabee Jewish Community Center, 5342 St. Charles Ave., (504) 897-0143; www.nojcc.org Ages: Kindergarten-first graders Dates: June 10-Aug. 2 page 8
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The four-week sessions include field trips, swimming lessons, sports, music, arts and crafts, drama and more. Cost: $670 per session
JCC Summer Day Camps — Sabra Jewish Community Center, 5342 St. Charles Ave., (504) 897-0143; www.nojcc.org Ages: Second-third graders, boys and girls Dates: June 10-Aug. 2 There’s a variety of activities during the four-week sessions, including swimming lessons, sports, music, science, arts and crafts, dance, cooking, dodgeball, weekly field trips and an overnight at the Jewish Community Center. Cost: $670 per session
JCC Summer Day Camps — Zion Jewish Community Center, 3747 W. Esplanade Ave., Metairie, (504) 887-5158; 5342 St.Charles Ave., (504) 897-0143; www.nojcc.org Ages: Fourth-fifth graders, boys and girls Dates: June 10-Aug. 2 During each four-week session, campers have an opportunity to serve as role models to younger children (and their peers) attending camps at the Jewish Community Center. The Zion camp offers swimming lessons, a trip to Blue Bayou Water Park, weekly field trips, an overnight at the JCC, sports, swimming, science, games, art, drama and more. Cost: $750 per session
JCC Taglit Teen Camp Jewish Community Center, 3747 W. Esplanade Ave., Metairie, (504) 887-5158; www.nojcc.org Ages: Sixth-eighth graders Dates: June 10-Aug. 2 The weeklong, weekday camp is designed for teens with busy schedules. Each week has a different theme, and attendees can choose from a variety of activities ranging from cooking and fitness to art and field trips. Specialists in the various topics offered meet with campers in the mornings. Other offerings include swimming, sports and socializing. Cost: $275 per week ($100 off total tuition if registered for four or more weeks)
Jumpin’ for Joy Camp St. Mary’s Dominican High School, 7701 Walmsley Ave., (504) 865-9401 ext. 4129; www.stmarysdominican.org Ages: First-fourth graders, girls Dates: June 3-21 There is a variety of activities to keep girls active and engaged. Cost: Starts at $150 per week, $225 two weeks, $325 for three weeks.
Kidcam Camps Timberlane Country Club, 1 Timberlane Drive, Gretna; Woodlake Country Club, 82 Sequoia St., Kenner; Pinewood Country Club, 405 Country Club Blvd., Slidell; Beach Club, 6000 Cleveland Place, Metairie, (877) 454-3226; www.kidcamcamps.com Ages: 3-13, boys and girls Dates: May 28-Aug. 2 These Kidcam locations offer swimming, tennis, outdoor activities as well as arts and crafts, games and more. Cost: $140 per week, $130 Pinewood camp
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Kidcam City Park 1 Palm Drive, (877) 454-3226; www.kidcamcamps.com Ages: 3-13, boys and girls Dates: May 28-Aug. 2 Campers have access to amusement park rides on Thursday and Friday, plus they also can play at Storyland, on the great lawn, the large playground area and more. They swim each week at Woodlake Country Club. Cost: $175 per week
Kiddie Kids Daycare Adventure Camp 6142 St. Claude Ave., (504) 279-5900 Ages: 3-12 Dates: June 3-Aug. 9 There is a variety of activities for young children and pre-teens. Cost: $90 per week
Memorial Baptist Summer Camp 5701 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, (504) 887-0533; www.mbsmetairie.org Ages: 5-12, boys and girls Dates: June 3-Aug. 2 (closed July 4) The camp has a sports program, on-site swimming pool, a movie room, arcade room and arts and crafts activities. Cost: $95 per week (three-week minimum); registration $25 single child, $45 family
Mount Carmel Academy Summer Camp 2013 7027 Milne Blvd., (504) 288-7626; www.mcacubs.org Ages: Fifth-ninth graders (regular camp), secondfifth graders (junior camp) Dates: June 3-28 Camps offer a variety of activities including art, athletics, cheerleading, dance, life skills, theater, film and music. Cost: Registration $30, $40 after May 6
St. Andrew’s Cardinal Camp St. Andrew’s Episcopal School, 8012 Oak St. (504) 861-3743; www.standrewsepiscopalschool.org Ages: Kindergarten-eighth graders, boys and girls Dates: June 3-28 The camp features daily sports activities, music, art, science and water play, as well as laser tag, special guests and a weekly field trip. Cost: $200 per week
St. Martin’s Summer Cottage Camp St. Martin’s Episcopal School, 225 Green Acres Road, Metairie, (504) 736-9925; www.stmsaints.com/summer Ages: 2-3, boys and girls Dates: June 3-July 26 The school’s 18-acre campus offers plenty of room for outdoor and indoor activities including arts and crafts, water play, music, body movement and more. The camp also has pony rides, magic shows and more. Cost: n/a
St. Louis King of France Camp Crusader 1600 Lake Ave., Metairie, (504) 833-8224; www.slkfschool.com
Ages: 4 years-seventh grade, boys and girls Dates: May 28-July 26 The camp has a swimming pool on site and offers sports, special presentations, fine arts, computer instruction, science projects and learning about food. Cost: $130 per week, $360 for three-week session
St. Mary Magdalen Cougar Camp 6421 W. Metairie Ave., (504) 733-1433 Ages: Pre-kindergarten and third-eighth graders, boys and girls There’s a variety of activities offered at this nineweek camp. Cost: $135 per week, $975 for nine weeks; $35 registration
Stuart Hall Summer Camp Stuart Hall School for Boys, 2032 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 861-1954; www.stuarthall.org Ages: Pre-kindergarten-fifth graders, boys and girls Dates: June 3-July 12 There are half-day and full-day programs with daily activities including indoor play, art activities, sports, recreational games and water play. Special activities such as waterslides, gymnastics, rock climbing, obstacle courses, woodworking, bowling, magic shows and presentations about wetlands, bugs and zoo animals also are planned. Cost: Prices will be posted on the school website in May
EACH ENCORE DISNEY CAMP ENDS WITH A STAGE PRODUTION BY THE STUDENTS.
Summergate at McGehee Louise S. McGehee School, 2343 Prytania St., (504) 274-4912; www.mcgeheeschool.com Ages: Kindergarten-fourth graders Dates: July 29-Aug. 9 The camp focuses on music, arts and crafts, sports, water games, field trips and teamwork challenges. Cost: $250 per week, $480 two weeks
Trinity Summer Camp 2013 1315 Jackson Ave., (504) 525-8661; www.trinitynola.com Ages: Pre-kindergarten-eighth graders, boys and girls Dates: June 3-28 The wide-ranging offerings include ballet, sports and fitness, cheerleading, dance, creative construction, critter costuming, decoupage and collage, movies, arts and crafts, fashion design, games, recreation, improv and movement, acting, jewelry making, drawing, science, etiquette, robotics, math, music, art and more. Cost: $240, full-day camp; $120 half-day camp; $10 registration
The Waldorf School of New Orleans Summer Camp 517 Soraparu St., (504) 525-2420; www.waldorfnola.org Ages: 3 1/2-8, boys and girls Dates: June 7-July 5 The one-session camp features experienced teachers leading small groups for activities, a media-free environment, healthy snacks, field trips, painting, cooking, sewing, woodworking and more. Cost: $450
West St. Tammany YMCA Camp 71256 Francis Road, Covington, (985) 8939622; www.ymcaneworleans.org Ages: 5-15, boys and girls Dates: May 28-Aug. 9 The camp offers archery, swimming, arts and crafts, weekly field trips, sports activities, robotics, reading, science and health and nutrition information. Cost: To be announced
OVERNIGHT CAMPS/ OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
SPECIAlTy CAMPS AcAdemics Camp Lango Ecole Bilingue, 821 Gen. Pershing St.; 5818 Perrier St., (504) 344-1661; www.langoneworleans.com Ages: 18 months-14, boys and girls Dates: June 3-Aug. 2 The foreign language immersion adventure camps offer two-week sessions in language options including French, Spanish, Mandarin and German. There is a full range of fun and educational activities each day. Cost: $429 per session
Jump Start I Academy of the Sacred Heart, 4301 and 4521 St. Charles Ave., (504) 269-1230; www.ashrosary.org Ages: Kindergarten-fourth grade, girls Dates: July 29-Aug. 2 The camp features fundamental language arts, math and creative arts in preparation for the coming school year. Kindergarteners have a half-day morning camp. First through fourth graders have a whole day. Cost: $125 half day, $200 whole day
Jump Start II Camp Abbey 77002 KC Camp Road, Covington, (985) 327-7240; www.campabbey.org Ages: Second-eighth graders, boys and girls Dates: June 9-29 boys, July 7-27 girls Campers spend a week at the Camp Abbey grounds with activities including swimming, boating, team sports, arts and crafts, archery, rock climbing, fishing, music and more. Children of all faiths are welcome; the camp offers Catholic Mass and sacraments. Cost: $395 per week
Camp Stanislaus 304 S. Beach Blvd., Bay St. Louis, Miss., (228) 467-9057; www.campstanislaus.com Ages: 8-15, boys Dates: June 9-July 6 Campers stay in a dormitory on the St. Stanislaus beachfront campus and participate in water sports including skiing, sailing, swimming and fishing, as well as archery, dodgeball, laser tag and field trips to Zephyrs games and the Audubon zoo. There also are academic electives including marine science and chemistry. Cost: $650 one week, $1,200 two weeks, $1,750 three weeks, $2,300 four weeks
Cheley Colorado Camps 3960 Fish Creek Road, Estes Park, Colo., (303) 377-3616 or (970) 586-4244; www.cheley.com Ages: 9-17, boys and girls Dates: June 19-July 15 and July 17-Aug. 12 This camp in the Rocky Mountains offers hiking, backpacking, horseback riding, mountain biking, rafting, technical climbing and more. Cost: $4,850 per session
Academy of the Sacred Heart, 4301 and 4521 St. Charles Ave., (504) 269-1230; www.ashrosary.org Ages: Fifth-eighth graders, girls Dates: July 29-Aug. 2 There are fun activities geared toward easing students into the coming school year. There are art projects and games to hone listening skills, writing projects, oratory, academics and more. Cost: $200
St. James Language Arts Camp St. James Methodist Church, 1925 Ursulines Ave., (504) 822-8138 or (504) 715-5069; www.stjamesmc-no.org Ages: 3-11, boys and girls Dates: June 3-July 12 Reading, math, science, vocals, instrumental music, piano, swimming, library day and more are offered at this camp. Registration is April 2-May 28. Cost: $65 per week, $30 registration, $25 per week for before- and after-care
St. Martin’s Summer Experience — Spanish Camp St. Martin’s Episcopal School, 225 Green Acres Road, Metairie, (504) 736-9966; www.stmsaints.com/summer Ages: Kindergarten-second graders and thirdfifth graders, boys and girls Dates: June 10-14 The Spanish immersion camp focuses on learning the language and the culture of people who speak it through hands-on projects. Activities include games, singing and more. Morning sessions are for kindergartners-second graders; afternoon sessions are for campers in third-fifth grades. Cost: $170 page 10
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Sophie B. Wright Summer School 1426 Napoleon Ave., (504) 304-3916; www.sophiebwrightschool.com Ages: High school students, boys and girls Dates: June 3-July 5 The charter school offers high school summer school classes in Spanish I, algebra I and II, geometry, physics, chemistry, physical science, biology, world geography, civics, U.S. history and English I, II, III and IV. Cost: $225 per course
Architecture Studio Longue Vue Art-chitecture Camp Longue Vue House and Gardens, 7 Bamboo Road, (504) 488-5488; www.longuevue.com Ages: 8-12, boys and girls Dates: July 22-26 Campers will explore architecture while planning and building a city. They will learn about New Orleans’ architectural history and current greenbuilding methods. Campers will draw, design, build and display their creations at a gallery opening at the end of the week. Cost: $175, $150 Longue Vue members
ArtS Art Time Summer Camp 705 Asbury Drive, Mandeville, (985) 674-2023; www.arttime.biz Ages: 4-14, boys and girls Dates: June 3-Aug. 2 The weeklong camps offer three options: Real Art camp in which students complete five art projects covering marker, pen and ink, watercolor and oil pastels; 3D camp, where students work on a metal embossing project and four other 3-D projects; and JAM camp in which students study Japanese and American animation and work on animation in several media. Cost: $150 per week for third graders-14, $100 second graders and younger
www.ashrosary.org Ages: Kindergarten-fifth graders, girls Dates: June 10-28 The three-week session challenges girls to explore their artistic side with ceramics, painting, sculpture, music, drama, illustration, creative writing, jewelry making, gardening and more. Cost: $675
Creative Leadership Camp Academy of the Sacred Heart, 4301 and 4521 St. Charles Ave., (504) 269-1230; www.ashrosary.org Ages: Fifth-ninth graders, girls A visiting artist leads the camp that focuses on helping girls recognize and nurture their strengths and talents through art projects, creative writing, poetry and interactive games. Cost: $225 per week
camp culminates in a student-curated exhibit. Cost: $275, $250 Ogden members
Ogden Museum Photography Camp 925 Camp St., (504) 539-9608; www.ogdenmuseum.org Ages: Eighth-12th graders, boys and girls Dates: June 17-28 Campers will learn basic elements and foundations of photography, including composition, lighting, exposure, using manual camera settings and how to expand the way they look at the world. They will take photographs inspired by the photography collection at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art and the city of New Orleans. The camp culminates in a student-curated photography exhibit. Cost: $275, $250 Ogden members
St. Martin’s Summer Experience — Visual Arts Camp St. Martin’s Espiscopal School, 225 Green Acres Road, Metairie, (504) 736-9925; www.stmsaints.com/summer Ages: 4-14, boys and girls Dates: July 8-26 The camp inspires creativity through cake decorating, painting, papier mache, photography and more. The session culminates with a student art show. Other activities include sports, science, swimming, field trips and more. Cost: n/a
Loyola Kids’ Art Loyola University Art Studios, 7214 Dominican St., (504) 865-3627; www.cmfa.loyno.edu/ prep-arts/kids-art Ages: 7-14 Dates: July 8-19 The curriculum is history-based and provides hands-on experience in painting, drawing, printmaking, ceramics and sculpture. The two-week session ends with an art exhibit for family and friends. Cost: $350
St. Mary’s Dominican Studio Art Camp St. Mary’s Dominican High School, 7701 Walmsley Ave., (504) 865-9401 ext. 4129; www.stmarysdominican.org Ages: Fifth-ninth grades Dates: June 10-14 Campers learn the basics of art in a variety of media. Cost: Starts at $150 per week, $225 two weeks, $325 for three weeks.
CAC Summer Arts Camp Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp St., (504) 528-3805; www.cacno.org Ages: 6-14, boys and girls Dates: July 8-Aug. 2 The camp features classes taught by local artists in the visual arts, theater, dance, music and the culinary arts. Campers present their creations in a weekly student showcase. Cost: $220 per week, $190 per week CAC members.
Ceramics Camp
Lusher Summer Arts Intensive 5624 Freret St., (504) 324-7313; www.lusherschool.org Ages: Fourth-12th graders, boys and girls Dates: June 3-28 The camp offers in-depth concentrated study in dance, music, theater, stagecraft, visual arts, media arts and creative writing. High School Institutes for eighth-12 graders are offered, as well as classes in all disciplines in the arts. There also are guest artist visits and music performances. Cost: $650, $550 Lusher students
Southern Art Society Fine Arts Camp 2619 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 909-4278 Ages: 9-13, boys and girls Dates: June 3-28 and July 8-Aug. 2 During the two-week sessions students will produce as many as 10 artworks in pencil, charcoal, pen and ink, watercolor, pastels, acrylics and oil paints. Cost: $275 per two-week session
Summer Art Camp at NOMA Academy of the Sacred Heart, 4301 and 4521 St. Charles Ave., (504) 269-1230; www.ashrosary.org Ages: Fifth-ninth grades, girls and boys Dates: July 8-19 The two-week session teaches campers various methods of creating functional sculptural ceramic pieces as well as the art of glazing. Items they make will be kiln-fired. Cost: $450
Creative Hearts Camp Academy of the Sacred Heart, 4301 and 4521 St. Charles Ave., (504) 269-1230;
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Ogden Museum Visual Culture Camp 925 Camp St., (504) 539-9608; www.ogdenmuseum.org Ages: Eighth-12th graders, boys and girls Dates: June 17-28 Campers need a basic understanding of photography (See Ogden Museum Photography Camp listing) to enroll in this camp and will use that artistic medium to explore how images affect people and how artists communicate their ideas visually, as well as investigating connections between art making, social justice and social change. The
1638 Clio St., (504) 569-2700; www.3rcp.com Ages: 6-10, boys and girls Dates: July 8-Aug. 16 Sponsored by 3 Ring Circus Arts Education Center, the summer arts program offers instruction by professional teaching artists and hands-on learning about topics including fabric art, sound design, puppetry, drumming and more. Children can enroll in one or both of the two halfday camps offered each weekday. Each week includes a half-day morning session dedicated to visual arts. Performance arts camps are offered afternoons. Each week concludes with a performance and/or exhibit for the parents. Enrollment is limited. Cost: Each half-day camp $100 per week, $75 for 3 Ring Circus members
Summer ’Scapes Summer Camp
Kuumba Institute Ashe Cultural Arts Center, 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., (504) 569-9070; www.ashecac.org Ages: 6-16, girls and boys Dates: June 3-July 19 Students receive specialized training in visual arts, dance, voice, stepping, yoga, martial arts, photography, poetry, arts and crafts, drama, African drumming and capoeira, a Brazilian martial art that combines dance and music. There also are field trips to performances, the IMAX Theater, Aquarium of the Americas and other places. Cost: $250 single camper, $350 two campers, $450 three campers; $40 per child registration
Summer Arts Program at The Big Top
New Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins C. Diboll Circle, (504) 658-4128; www.noma.org/learn Ages: 5-12, boys and girls Dates: June 3-Aug. 2 The weekly sessions include exploring the permanent collection and special exhibits at NOMA and creating projects in an array of media with the help of professional teaching artists. Visual arts camps are 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., and performance arts camps are 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Cost: $150 per week, $120 for NOMA members (if registering before May 17); $170, $140 for NOMA members (after May 17)
Longue Vue House and Gardens, 7 Bamboo Road, (504) 488-5488; www.longuevue.com Ages: 5-7, boys and girls Dates: June 10-28 and July 15-19 Each week presents a different mini camp. The Shades of Summer Art Camp June 10-14 features artist Rachel Brown teaching the basics of drawing, painting, printmaking and working with clay through art projects inspired by nature. There’s an art reception at the end of the week. The Nature of Art Camp June 17-21 features artist Jane Hill leading campers on an exploration of art through touch and sight, while playing in the Discovery Garden. A Bug’s Life eco-art camp June 24-28 features educator Jen Cohn leading the interdisciplinary art and biology camp. The Garden Adventures camp July 15-19 has educator Carly Levin leading crafts projects inspired by the gardens and exploring harvest herbs, creating edibles, painting pots, planting flowers, digging for worms, catching tadpoles and playing games. Cost: $175, $150 Longue Vue members
Ursuline Academy Summer Arts Camp 2635 State St., (504) 931-6999; www.ursulineneworleans.org Ages: 3-eighth grade, girls Dates: June 10-28, July 1-19 and July 22-26 The three sessions, the third called Super Week, explores creative and performing arts with classes in visual arts, dance, drama, singing, science, cooking, sewing, cheerleading, music, gym games and more. There also are performances by visiting artists and swimming. Each session ends with performances and artwork displays by campers. Super Week includes field trips to places such as the Entergy IMAX theater, skating, bowling, swimming and more. Cost: $695 one session, $1,290 both sessions, $275 Super Week
cheSS St. Martin’s Summer Experience — Chess Camp St. Martin’s Episcopal School, 225 Green Acres Road, Metairie, (504) 736-9966; www.stmsaints.com/summer Ages: 5-15, boys and girls Dates: July 29-Aug. 2 Campers can choose mornings, afternoons, or all-day session for youngsters interested in
chess, with all levels of competency welcome. USA Chess administers the camp, which includes chess instruction and play. Tuition includes trophy and chess set. Register through USA Chess at www.activelearningcamps.com. Cost: $260 half days, $280 after June 15; $410 all day, $435 after June 15.
DANCE (Also see Art and Theater categories) LAAPA Summer Dance Camp 2002 Dickory Ave., Harahan, (504) 7383050; www.laapa.com Ages: 5-16, boys and girls Dates: July 8-26 The Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts hosts the dance camp featuring ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop and creative movement. Cost: $250 per week, $15 registration
New Orleans Ballet Theatre Summer Intensive 900 Camp St., (504) 210-0222; www.nobt.org Ages: 9-18, boys and girls Dates: June 3-28 The cross-disciplinary program is designed to provide highly focused dancers an opportunity to work with professional dancers of the New Orleans Ballet Theatre in levels ranging from beginner to pre-professional, with daily classes in ballet technique, pointe, variations, character, composition, partner dancing, yoga, Pilates and modern dance. Cost: n/a
NOBA Tuition-free Summer Dance Camps Various locations in Orleans and Jefferson parishes, (504) 522-0996 ext. 207;
DwiGhT RhODeN, ARTiSTiC DiReCTOR Of COMPLexiONS CONTeMPORARy BALLeT, wiLL Be A MASTeR GUeST ARTiST AT New ORLeANS BALLeT ASSOCiATiON’S SUMMeR iNTeNSive CAMP iN JULy. www.nobadance.com Ages: 6-18, boys and girls Dates: June and July The New Orleans Ballet Association and its partners present the camps, providing nationally award-winning dance instructors and guest artists for students at every level of competency. Cost: Tuition is free, supply fees vary
The Ultimate Dance Camp Experience New Orleans Dance Academy, 5956 Magazine St., (504) 899-3780; www.thenoda.com Ages: 3-16, boys and girls Dates: To be announced Campers will receive instruction in various forms of dance, with an emphasis on ballet, taught by award-winning dance professionals. Cost: To be announced
FASHION Camp Girl Biz & Fashion Design Locations in Mandeville and Metairie, (985) 705-9288; www.campgirlbiz.com Ages: 7 and older, girls Dates: May 27-June 21 Mandeville, June 24-28 Metairie Girls learn how to develop a business, and they create their own products that they sell on Market Day. Campers also learn about fashion design by sketching, constructing and executing their own look, which they will model during a fashion show. page 12
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horse, as well as games and arts and crafts. Cost: $35 per day, $160 per week for full-day camp; $20 per day or $90 per week for half-day camp
MUSIC
grooming skills and responsible pet ownership. Activities include animal-related arts and crafts, making toys and treats for the animals at the shelter, presentations about animals and pets — and lots of time with puppies and kittens. Cost: $185
LAAPA Music Camps LA/SPCA Care Cadet Camp Covington School of Music, 100 N. Tyler St., (985) 590-4545; Mandeville School of Music, 316 Girod St., (985) 674-2992; www.laapa.com Ages: 5-16, boys and girls Dates: July 8-26 The Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts hosts music camps offering instruction in guitar, piano, voice, percussion, wind, brass, movement, jazz and orchestra ensembles, violin and bass guitar. Cost: $250 per week, $15 registration
St. Mary’s Dominican Band Camp 7701 Walmsley Ave., (504) 865-9401 ext. 4129; www.stmarysdominican.org Ages: Fourth-eighth graders Dates: June 3-7 The afternoon sessions offer lessons in music and band. Cost: Starts at $150 per week, $225 two weeks, $325 three weeks.
RELIGION Paul’s Dangerous Journey
GIRLS hONE ThEIR SOCCER SKILLS AT ST. MARy’S DOMINICAN SPORTS CAMP.
GYMNASTICS/TUMBLING
St. Angela Merici Catholic Church, 901 Beverly Garden Drive, Metairie, (504) 835-0324; www.stangela.org Ages: 4 years old-seventh graders, boys and girls Dates: June 3-14 The half-day camp is themed on Paul’s journeys in Greece and incorporates music, art, Bible readings, arts and crafts and more. Cost: $50 per week
Crescent City Gymnastics Camp Cost: $200 per week (all supplies included), $20 registration
Ogden Museum Art & Design Camp 925 Camp St., (504) 539-9608; www.ogdenmuseum.org Ages: Second-fifth graders Dates: June 24-July 5 Campers will explore art and design through decorative arts including jewelry making and fashion and will create functional objects that will be exhibited in a student gallery show. Cost: $275, $250 Ogden members
Ogden Museum Fashion Camp 925 Camp St., (504) 539-9608; www.ogdenmuseum.org Ages: Seventh graders and older Dates: July 15-26 The two-week intensive camp for wearable art is led by designer Veronica Cho and culminates in a runway show in which campers model their own designs. Campers can create a signature style, build a professional dress form, customize a runway-ready garment using basic clothing templates and sewing techniques and learn fashion illustration and design. Cost: $275, $250 Ogden members
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7800 Earhart Blvd., (504) 861-1740; www.crescentcitygymnastics.com Ages: 3-13, boys and girls Dates: June 3-Aug. 9 The camp offers youngsters instruction in tumbling, parallel bars, balance beam, vault and other gymnastics. There also are arts and crafts activities, games and more. Cost: $170 per week, $640 four weeks
Elmwood Gymnastics, Tumble and Cheer 700C Elmwood Park Blvd., (504) 733-4496; www.elmwoodfitness.com Ages: 3 and older, boys and girls Dates: May 26-Aug. 9 Gymnastics experience is not required, but children must be potty-trained to attend any of the 11 weekly sessions. Programming includes basic cheerleading skills, tumbling, trampoline, gymnastics vault, balance beam, bars and floor exercises. Campers also can swim, play on a water slide, do arts and crafts and play games. Cost: $165, $155 Elmwood Fitness members
SCIENCE/NATURE CSI Rocket Camp 540 S. Military Road, Slidell, (985) 641-3033 or (504) 232-6208; www.cypresscoveelementary.stpsb.org Ages: Third-seventh graders, boys and girls Dates: June 10-14 Campers will construct, design and launch several different types of rockets at the camp sponsored by the 1912 Northshore Robotics Team and Stennis Space Center. Cost: $125
1700 Mardi Gras Blvd., (504) 368-5191; www.la-spca.org/camps Ages: Sixth-seventh graders, boys and girls Dates: June 10-28 The program teaches youngsters to be humane educators to their peers through presentations from shelter managers, veterinarians, exotic pet experts, a therapy dog handler, service dog trainer and more. There are field trips to a horse stable to learn about large animals and Southeast Veterinary Specialists to learn about rehabilitation and specialty care. Cadets are tested weekly and teams are assigned a shelter animal to train. Those who complete the course can become volunteers at the shelter. Cost: $400
LA/SPCA Veterinarians of the Future Camp 1700 Mardi Gras Blvd., (504) 368-5191; www.la-spca.org/camps Ages: 10th-12th graders, boys and girls Dates: July 8-19 This camp is for students who are seriously interested in a veterinary medicine career, including small animals, large animals, emergency and shelter medicine. Students will assist the LA/ SPCA veterinarian in morning rounds and will participate in lessons on subjects including vaccinations, spaying/neutering, pet first aid, CPR, drawing blood, microscopes and more. Students are tested weekly. Cost: $525
St. Martin’s Summer Experience — Robotics Camp St. Martin’s Episcopal School, 225 Green Acres Road, Metairie, (504) 736-9966; www.stmsaints.com/summer Ages: Second-sixth graders, boys and girls Dates: June 17-21 Campers will build simple machines using Legos and will learn about machines that move, cars, drumming machines, robots and robotic programming. Cost: $295
CSI Science Camp
St. Martin’s Summer Experience — Space Camp
540 S. Military Road, Slidell, (985) 641-3033 or (504) 232-6208; www.cypresscoveelementary. stpsb.org Ages: 5-12, girls and boys Dates: June 3-7 The one-week science camp features science investigations, lots of science experiments, dry ice, robotics and visits from CSI and FBI agents. Cost: $125
St. Martin’s Episcopal School, 225 Green Acres Road, Metairie, (504) 736-9966; www.stmsaints.com/summer Ages: Kindergarten-third graders Dates: June 10-14 Campers learn about the planets, solar system, object sin space and more. They’ll create models, play games and build a model planet and a rocket. Cost: $295
Ivanov’s Gymnastics Academy
LA/SPCA Camp Luv-A-Pet
3930 Barron St., Metairie, (504) 889-9800; www.ivanovsgymnastics.com Ages: 3-15, boys and girls Dates: May 28-Aug. 16 Full- and half-day camps are available, focusing on tumbling and gymnastics in all areas, including bars, balance beam, floor exercise and pommel
1700 Mardi Gras Blvd., (504) 368-5191; www.la-spca.org/camps Ages: Second-third graders, boys and girls Dates: Aug. 5-9 The program teaches youngsters about the LA/ SPCA and animal care. Campers are taught about safety with animals, pet handling and care,
Summer ’Scapes Intern and Volunteer Exploration Camp Longue Vue House and Gardens, 7 Bamboo Road, (504) 488-5488; www.longuevue.com Ages: 14 and older, boys and girls Dates: vary Teenagers will learn about Longue Vue and the museum environment and will choose a depart-
ment in which they will intern, including education, community relations, the garden, sales and operations, membership, maintenance, the museum, gift shop and hospitality. Cost: Free
and fundamentals of basketball, baseball, football, soccer and kickball. Other activities include swimming in an outdoor pool, an overnight at the Jewish Community Center and a trip to Blue Bayou Water Park. Cost: $750 per session
Zoo Explorer Summer Camp Audubon Zoo, 6500 Magazine St., (504) 861-5103; www.auduboninstitute.org Ages: Fifth graders-seventh graders, boys and girls Dates: June 3-Aug. 2 Campers will take field trips, learn and interact with animals at the zoo and perform hands-on science and nature activities. Cost: $300, $250 Audubon members
SPORTS/ FITNESS
JCC Sports Specialty Camp Jewish Community Center, 5342 St. Charles Ave., (504) 897-0143; www.nojcc.org Ages: Sixth-eighth graders, girls and boys Dates: June 10-July 5 The sports specialty camp includes a full day of programming. Mornings feature a focus on tennis tenchniques including forehand backhand, serve and volley; afternoons include swimming, athletic activities for all skill levels and more. Cost: $275 per week
Belle Chasse YMCA 8101 Hwy. 23, Belle Chasse, (504) 3929622; www.facebook.com/bellechasseymca Ages: 3-13, boys and girls Dates: May 28-Aug 9 (closed July 4) Campers can take swimming lessons and there’s a field trip each week, plus other sports activities, arts and crafts and more. Cost: $175 per week ($20 upfront deposits weekly), $130 per week YMCA members ($20 upfront deposits weekly), $45 annual fee nonmembers
Kidcam Pelican Park
Brother Martin Crusader Summer Camp
Kidcam Zephyr Field
Brother Martin High School, 4401 Elysian Fields Ave., (504) 483-1561; www.brothermartin.com Ages: 6-12, boys Dates: June 3-July 12 (closed July 4) This all-day sports camp offers weekly enrollment and there are three two-week sessions that have concentrations in sports ranging from baseball to wrestling. Other activities include a rock-climbing wall, swimming, kickball and a field trip each week. Concentrations for Session I (June 3-14) are baseball, soccer and flag football; Session II (June 17-28) wrestling, basketball and soccer; Session III (July 1-12) baseball, basketball and flag football. Cost: $140 one week, $280 two-week session, $520 two sessions, $720 three sessions; discounts for multiple campers; $25 per week for lunch; $30 per week after-care
Elmwood Fitness Centers Youth Fitness Camp 1200 S. Clearview Pkwy., Suite 1200, Harahan, (504) 842-9542; www.elmwoodfitness.com Ages: 10 and older, boys and girls Dates: May 26-Aug. 9 There are 10 weekly sessions offering strength training; classes in Zumba, spinning, cardio kickboxing, Pilates and yoga. Other activities including swimming, a water slide and interactive gaming. Cost: $165 per week, $155 Elmwood Fitness members (there’s a discount for registering by April 30)
JCC Sports Camp Jewish Community Center, 5342 St.Charles Ave., (504) 897-0143; www.nojcc.org Ages: Third-fifth graders, boys and girls Dates: June 10-Aug. 2 The four-week sessions focus on playing a range of sports with a focus on sportsmanship, rules, positive attitude, how to listen and learn
Pelican Park, 63350 Pelican Drive, Mandeville, (877) 454-3226; www.kidcamcamps.com Ages: 3-13, boys and girls Dates: May 28-July 26 The park offers a variety of athletic fields, covered pavilions, green space and baseball batting cages. The camps offer a range of activities, arts and crafts and more. Cost: $150 per week
Zephyr Field, 6000 Airline Drive, Metairie, (877) 454-3226; www.kidcamcamps.com Ages: 3-13, boys and girls Dates: May 28-July 26 There’s swimming at the baseball stadium, a large playground and green areas for sports and more. There are also batting cages and air-conditioned areas for arts and crafts and other activities. Cost: $140 per week
Kidsports Summer Camp Elmwood Fitness Center, 1200 S. Clearview Pkwy., Harahan, (504) 733-1200; www.elmwoodfitness.com Ages: 3-13, boys and girls Dates: May 22-Aug. 16 There are 12 weekly sessions with indoor and outdoor sports, obstacle courses, swimming, interactive gaming and arts and crafts. Campers ages 5-12 also will take field trips to places like a movie theater, Audubon Insectarium and the New Orleans Saints practice facility. Cost: $165 per week, $155 Elmwood Fitness members (there’s a discount for registering by April 30)
McGehee Summer Sports Camp Louise S. McGehee School, 2343 Prytania St., (504) 274-4912; www.mcgeheeschool.com Ages: Second-eighth graders, girls Dates: June 20-26 The one-week sessions have morning and afternoon options in which campers work out with varisty coaches and staff to sharpen their skills and acquire new ones. Second through eighth graders can choose volleyball or soccer. Girls in fifth though eighth grades also can choose basketball and speed and agility. Cost: $150 per session
Nike Tennis Camp at Tulane University Tulane University, (800)-645-3226; PAGE 14
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www.ussportscamps.com/tennis Ages: 9-18, boys and girls Dates: June 3-14 The two-week tennis camp is directed by college coaches and tennis professionals. Campers have opportunities to hone their tennis skills and improve their games. Cost: $385
St. Martin’s Summer Experience — Athletics St. Martin’s Episcopal School, 225 Green Acres Road, Metairie, (504) 733-0353; www.stmsaints.com/summer Ages: 6-13, boys and girls Dates: June 3-28 and July 8-19 The camp focuses on baseball, basketball, a sports academy and Top Gun. Cost: $185 per week
St. Martin’s Summer Experience — Health & Fitness St. Martin’s Episcopal School, 225 Green Acres Road, Metairie, (504) 733-0353; www.stmsaints.com/summer Ages: 4-14, boys and girls Dates: June 24-July 5 The camp uses a range of activities aimed at developing life skills, including teamwork, character, leadership and health and fitness. Campers can participate in a variety of physical and mental challenges to develop communication skills and more. Cost: n/a
St. Mary’s Dominican Sports Camps 7701 Walmsley Ave., (504) 865-9401 ext. 4129; www.stmarysdominican.org Ages: Fifth-ninth graders Dates: June 3-21 and July 29-Aug. 2 Dominican offers a variety of one-week half-day sports camps in volleyball (June 3-7), basketball (June 10-14), softball (June 17-21) and soccer (July 29-Aug. 2), staffed by Dominican staff, students and alumni. Cost: Starts at $150 per week, $225 two weeks, $325 for three weeks.
St. Paul’s Sports Camps 917 S. Jahncke Ave., Covington, (985) 373-0225; www.stpaulswolves.com Ages: 8-14, boys Dates: June 3-July 26 The school offers a variety of sports camps: baseball (June 3-7), football skills (June 10-14), wrestling (June 17-21), basketball (June 24-28 and July 22-26), lacrosse (July 8-12) and soccer (July 15-19). Cost: $195 per week
SWIMMING Elmwood Fitness Center Swim Camp 1200 S. Clearview Pkwy., Harahan, (504) 842-6240; www.elmwoodfitness.com Ages: 6-14, boys and girls Dates: May 26-Aug. 2 There are nine weekly sessions designed for competitive swimmers who have participated on a year-around team for at least a year. The camps focus on developing individual
14 | Gambit’s Kids issue
swimmers’ abilities to compete at their top level through technical instruction, stretching, dry-land training, training principles and stroke development. Cost: $165 per week, $155 Elmwood Fitness members (there’s a discount for registering by April 30)
THEATER (Also see Art, Dance and Music categories) ASH Theatre Camp Academy of the Sacred Heart, 4301 and 4521 St. Charles Ave., (504) 269-1230; www.ashrosary.org Ages: Second-fifth graders and sixth-ninth graders, boys and girls Dates: July 8-26, boys and girls Campers in second through sixth grades will work on the play A Year With Frog and Toad at this three-week session, and sixth through ninth graders will learn Into the Woods. Students in both camps will learn all aspects of drama production, including costumes, stage sets and acting. The camp culminates with a performance by students. Cost: $675
Broadway SMASH — Encore Musical Theatre Intensive 1999 Hickory Ave., Harahan, (504) 737-5977; www.dancetumblemusic.com Ages: Sixth graders and older, boys and girls Dates: July 8-28 The three-week intensive gives youngsters in musical theater an opportunity to work with professional choreographers and musical directors on a musical showcase. Campers will perform in solos, duets, trios or group production numbers from Broadway hits. Cost: $425
Code: Longue Vue — A Theatrical Scavenger Hunt Longue Vue House and Gardens, 7 Bamboo Road, (504) 488-5488; www.longuevue.com Ages: 7-9, boys and girls Dates: July 8-12 Actor/artist Kate Adair Labouisse teaches skills of detection and code-cracking (hidden passages, invisible ink, riddles and disguises) while campers build their skills as performers. They will play theater games to get to the next clue on a weeklong scavenger hunt at Longue Vue House and Gardens. Cost: $175, $150 Longue Vue members
Disney on Broadway — Encore’s Summer Musical Theatre Camp 1999 Hickory Ave., Harahan, (504) 737-5977; www.dancetumblemusic.com Ages: Third graders and older, boys and girls Dates: June 3-23 The three-week musical theater camp ends with a main stage production. Campers will learn about the process of staging a musical, work with professional choreographers and musical directors and learn valuable skills and techniques. Cost: $425
Frank Levy Playmakers Camps Playmakers Theater, 19106 Playmakers Road, Covington, (985) 892-9767; Sans Souci
Forest, Covington, (985) 892-9767; Greater Covington Center, 317 N. Jefferson Ave., Covington, (985) 626-2605; www.storiesinmotion.com Ages: 5-16, girls and boys Dates: May 24-June 19, July 15-20 and July 23-Aug. 4 Hours: 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. weekdays, plus weekend performances No acting experience is necessary for this camp run by award-winning professional director Frank Levy, but children will get experience because each session includes full theatrical productions staged in real theaters. Every camper has lines, gets to choose a part and has an opportunity to participate in dance scenes. Costumes are provided, and every camp production will appear on TV. Session I (May 24-June 19) ends with performances of Treasure Island the last Friday, Saturday and Sunday at Playmakers Theater. Session II (July 15-20) culminates in performances of Aladdin the last Friday and Saturday at the Greater Covington Center and Session III (July 23-Aug. 4) ends with performances of The Sword in the Stone the last Friday, Saturday and Sunday at Playmakers Theater. Cost: $300 Session I, $175 Session II, $250 Session III
Loyola Theatre Arts and Southern Rep Summer Camps 6363 St. Charles Ave., (504) 523-9857; www.southernrep.com Ages: 9-18, boys and girls Dates: June 3-15, June 24-July 6 (closed July 4) and July 22-Aug. 3 All campers in the program learn about auditions, acting techniques, musicality and dance — and are cast in a play. The first session features Guys and Dolls Jr. and is for campers ages 9-12, Session II is Once On This Island Jr. for campers ages 13-18 and Session III is Pirates of Penzance Jr. for ages 9-18. Cost: $300 (does not include costumes or makeup)
MADD Camp — Music, Art, Drama and Dance Camp 607 Heavens Drive, Mandeville, (985) 845-7111; www.cedarwoodschool.com Ages: First-seventh graders Dates: June 17-28 and July 8-19 Campers design and create their own sets and costumes and experiment with stage makeup and lighting. Each two-week session culminates in a theater performance. The camp also offers swimming and other recreational activities. Cost: $455 per session
The NOLA Project High School Intensive 503 Williams Blvd., Kenner, (504) 289-2634; www.nolaproject.com Ages: 13-18, boys and girls Dates: July 8-28 Admission to this three-week, full-time conservatory-style theater training camp is by audition. Professional actors, directors and designers who work with the NOLA Project theater company conduct classes covering technique, character, voice, movement, stage combat, film acting, Shakespeare, audition techniques and more. The camp culminates in a professionally mounted student production. Cost: $695
NORD/Crescent City Lights Youth Theater NORD Ty Tracy Theatre, Gallier Hall, 545 St. Charles Ave., First floor; (504) 598-3800; www.crescentcitylights.org Ages: Fourth-12th graders, boys and girls Dates: May 28-July 21 and July 23-Aug. 25 The Crescent City Lights Youth Theatre stages two summer musicals. Each session of this camp consists of intensive rehearsals of acting, singing and dancing, culminating in a public performance. Application is followed by auditions in April. Cost: $325 per session, $10 audition application fee
Ogden Museum Art & Drama Camp 925 Camp St., (504) 539-9608; www.ogdenmuseum.org/education/index.html#camp Ages: Second-fifth graders, boys and girls Dates: June 10-21 Local artists and actors teach campers basic art and performance skills as well as how to create scripts, props and scenery. The camp culminates with an original multiple-act play performed on the last day. Cost: $275, $250 Ogden members
St. Martin’s Summer Experience — Performing Arts Camp 225 Green Acres Road, Metairie, (504) 736-9925 or (504) 736-9966; www.stmsaints.com/summer Ages: 4-14, boys and girls Dates: June 3-21 The theme camp focuses on performing arts and the session ends with a student production of High School Musical. Other activities include sports, science, swimming, field trips and more. Cost: n/a
NIKE TENNIS CAMPS
St. Mary’s Dominican Drama Camp 7701 Walmsley Ave., (504) 865-9401 ext. 4129; www.stmarysdominican.org Ages: Fifth-ninth graders Dates: June 17-21 Campers learn the basics of drama and more. Cost: Starts at $150 per week, $225 two weeks, $325 for three weeks.
SERIOUS. FUN.
Southern Rep Youth Summer Camp Carrollton United Methodist Church, 921 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 523-9857; www.southernrep.com Ages: 4-8, boys and girls Dates: June 10-22 and July 8-20 Disney’s Cinderella KIDS sessions teach youngsters about auditions, productions, acting techniques, musicality and dance. Cost: $300 per session
VISUALLY IMPAIRED Camp Lighthouse Louisiana 123 State St., (504) 899-4501; www.lighthouselouisiana.org Ages: First-12th graders, boys and girls Dates: June 3-28 Campers must be legally blind to qualify for the program, with activities designed exclusively for children with vision impairment. Cost: Free
Tulane universiTy Directed by Head Women’s Coach, Terri Sisk Boys & Girls, Ages 9-18 All Ability Levels Welcome Day Camp (9 a.m.- 4 p.m.) June 3-7 & June 10-14
USSportsCamps.com All Rights reserved. Nike and the Swoosh design are registered trademarks of Nike, Inc. and its affiliates, and are used under license. Nike is the title sponsor of the camps and has no control over the operation of the camps or the acts or omissions of US Sports Camps.
New_orleans_gambit.indd 1
1-800-NIKE CAMP
(1-800-645-3226)
GAMBIT’s KIDs IssUE | 15 2/27/13 11:31 AM
16 | Gambit’s Kids issue
and
WhoDat
COLORING CONTEST!
WhoDon’t
Il lu st ratI on
Enter to win a family membership to the Louisiana Children’s Museum.
by ly n br an tl ey
r o l o c us!
coNtest rules ANd iNformAtioN Must be 11 years old or younger to enter. Entries must contain the child’s name, age and a guardian’s contact information (telephone/ email). Color the page and mail it to Gambit Kids, 3923 Bienville
Name: Age:
St., New Orleans, LA, 70119, or take a photo of the colored page and email it to vip@gambitweekly.com. Our favorite entry will win
Parent/Guardian info: (phone and/or email)
a one-year family membership to the Louisiana Children’s Museum. Deadline for submissions is 5 p.m. March 31.
GAMBIT’s KIDs IssUE | 17
2013 Crusader Summer Camp Brother Martin High School 4401 Elysian Fields Avenue • New Orleans, Louisiana 70122 • www.brothermartin.com • 504-283-1561 ext. 3022 Session 1
(Boys 6-12 Years Old) Week 1 - June 3 - 7 Week 2 - June 10 - 14
Session 2
(Boys 6-12 Years Old) Week 3 - June 17 - 21 Week 4 - June 24 - 28 Sport Concentration: Wrestling, Basketball, Soccer
Sport Concentration: Baseball, Soccer, Flag Football
Session 3
(Boys 6-12 Years Old) Week 5 - July 1 - 5 (Holiday July 4) Week 6 - July 8 - 12 Sport Concentration: Baseball, Basketball, Flag Football
Audubon Zoo
Daily Schedule
8 a.m. - 9 a.m. – Morning Activity 9 a.m. - Noon – Sport Camp Noon - 1 p.m. – Lunch 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. – Afternoon Activity/Field Trip
Possible Activities
Swimming at UNO • Movies • Inflatables • Kickball • Dodgeball Outdoor Field Day • Climbing Rock Wall • Wiffle Ball • Speed Ball
Camp Hours
• 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. • Campers can arrive as early as 7:30 a.m. at no charge. • After care until 5:30 p.m. is available, by the week only, at a cost of $30 per week • Late pick-up will be charged $5 per 15 minutes
Lunch
Kid-friendly boxed lunch, including a drink, will be available for purchase at $25 per week
Field Trips
Week 1 – Laser Tag • Week 2 – Bowling Week 3 – Audubon Zoo • Week 4 – Zephyr’s Game Week 5 – Water Day on Campus • Week 6 – Global Wildlife
Cost
Go to www.brothermartin.com for more information or to register online
18 | Gambit’s Kids issue
$140 per week • $280 per session Discounts for multiple campers. 2 campers at $255 per session. 3 or more campers at $230 per session.
Sitter
How to find the right caregiver. BY CARRIE MARKS
M
SAVVY
any parents face the difficult question: Whom do you trust to watch your children when you’re not around? The ideal caregiver is competent, trustworthy and fun — and can seem to be the stuff of legends. You may not find Mary Poppins, but local families dwelling outside of Fantasyland have multiple resources for ensuring that the people you entrust with your children are capable and reliable. Dr. Diana Peterson, a pediatrician at Ochsner Health System and a mother to twin 11-month-old girls, credits word-of-mouth referrals as the ultimate resource for parents. Oftentimes, fellow parents only recommend a babysitter if they’ve had a positive firsthand experience and found the caregiver to be “good and trustworthy,” she says. Many families turn to the Internet to widen their access to experienced caregivers. Sites like Care.com and Sittercity. com focus on connecting babysitters with the families who need them, and Craigslist has an entire section devoted to domestic jobs. When posting an ad seeking a sitter, be specific about your requirements — what you pay hourly, whether you prefer a college-educated sitter or someone younger — so applicants know whether they fit your criteria, potentially saving you the time and energy of wading through a sea of not-quite-right candidates. Peterson recommends taking precautions before introducing someone you found online into your family mix. “It’s always a good idea to meet in person with someone from the Internet beforehand,” she says, and don’t be timid in asking about their child care experience, their attitudes toward children and where their comfort zone lies in terms of ages and and number of children. “Multiple ages at the same time can be kind of overwhelming,” says Julie Smith-Price, director of the Newcomb Children’s Center (NCC). “Ask for three or four references, and check them out.” Smith-Price also recommends keying in to a caregiver’s personality traits to see if his or her disposition will mesh well with your child’s. “Make sure they have a positive attitude toward children and play,” she says. “Find out how they feel about kids being active and if they’re the kind of person who will engage instead of just sitting around on the phone or watching TV.” Peterson says that as a parent, you should “go with your gut.” When selecting a caregiver for her twins, she invited a potential nanny to spend a day with the family while Peterson
was there. “It wasn’t like I was watching her all day, but I was able to observe her and to guide her a little bit in the way that we did things in our house,” she says. This way you can catch on early to elements that need adjusting and ensure there’s not a disconnect between the way things are when you’re home — and how they’re done when you’re not. Parents still wary of the Internet can opt for a background check — many of the aforementioned sites offer the option — or use a local service like Agenda for Children, which keeps files on caregivers and helps match a family with the right person or agency. Mommy Mixer, a national company, hosts regular events designed to bring parents with young children and college students or recent grads together in one room. Sitters have a chance to talk with parents and exchange phone numbers, and both parties get a feel for each others’ personality and dynamics in a neutral setting. Parents with younger children also may consider group child care like the NCC offers for ages 1 through 5. SmithPrice says she believes a group setting offers benefits for a child’s development. “Children have an opportunity to socialize with other kids their own age, work through problem situations and use language and communication skills,” she says. Even the games at the NCC are educational; something as simple as a group playing with building blocks is actually teaching kids mathematics, physics and balance skills, she says.
working in child care centers like the NCC, Smith-Price says, but people who babysit in private homes also can get certified through training programs at almost any local health care institution. She says Safesitter.org, a physicianfounded site specializing in basic medical training for young sitters, is a reliable way to find CPR classes. Peterson says he also puts a high priority on having a “basic knowledge” of pediatric illnesses, and a good understanding of when an issue requires more serious medical attention. Above all, Peterson says, clear expectations are the crux of a successful relationship between a parent, an outside caregiver and a child. “You have to be able to trust the person,” she says.
When you find a sitter, be sure to leave contact numbers and specific directions regarding anything that may need to be addressed while you’re away. “Leave a reliable number, of course, but also make sure to keep [the sitter’s] number with you as well,” Smith-Price says. If something unusual happens and your child needs to take medicine while you’re not there, check with the caregiver beforehand and make sure he or she is comfortable administering it and leave detailed written instructions. Nowadays, CPR and First Aid certification are required for people
GAMBIT’s KIDs IssUE | 19
20 | Gambit’s Kids issue
Boredom
BUSTERS Activities to keep you and your child busy and happy
B Y K A N D A C E P O W E R G R AV E S
TAKE A RIDE ON THE NEW BLACK AND GOLD MINIATURE TRAIN AT CITY PARK.
There is no excuse for boredom in New Orleans; there is almost always something going on — a parade, street party or outdoor concert. For those days when there isn’t something special, here are some options for keeping kids amused, active and interested in the world around them. ART/ HISTORY/ MUSIC Blaine Kern’s Mardi Gras World 1380 P ort o f N ew O rleans P lace, (504) 361-7821; www.mardigrasworld.com All ages See Mardi Gras floats up close on a tour of the legendary float-making business and learn about the artistry and technology involved in staging a Carnival parade. The guided tour includes the screening of an exclusive Mardi Gras video and a refreshment break with king cake. The facility also includes a restaurant with a view of the Mississippi River. Open 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. (Closed Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter and Mardi Gras). Admission $19.95 adults, $15.95 seniors and students with college ID, $12.95 children ages 2-11, children 2 and younger free.
The Cabildo, Louisiana State Museum 701 Chartres St., (504) 568-6968; www.crt.state.la.us/museum/properties/cabildo.aspx All ages Built in the late 1700s for the municipal government, this National Historic Landmark was the site of the Louisiana Purchase transfer in 1803 — the table used for the occasion is on display. The
Louisiana Supreme Court issued the landmark Plessy v. Ferguson decision while housed there. The Marquis de Lafayette lived at the Cabildo when he visited the city in 1825, and the building at one time served as a prison. It now houses a comprehensive exhibit about Louisiana’s early history. Open 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Closed holidays. Admission is $6 adults; $5 seniors, students and active military personnel; free for children 12 and younger.
French QuarTour Kids (504) 975-5355; www.frenchquartourkids.com Ages 6-17 The company provides hourlong walking tours in the French Quarter designed for kids. The Port, the Pirates & All the Rest! tour retraces Louisiana’s history — and the role its location and geography played. The Creole Kids Tour explores 1830s New Orleans, including how children lived, what people wore, etiquette of the time and more. The tour includes a visit to the courtyard of the Hermann-Grima House. Admission to the adjoining museum is available at a discount. Tours are offered Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. Admission is $12 per person (cash only), free for children 5 and younger. Children must be accompanied by an adult (one per four kids). PAGE 23
GAMBIT’s KIDs IssUE | 21
Trinity Summer Camp Uniquely Fun and Friendly
Four Week-Long Camps, June 3 - June 28 Full and Half Day Options
Rocketry • Sports & Fitness • Cheer & Dance Manners & Etiquette • Young Artists • Fashion Design Let’s Draw • Percussion • Music Video • Superstar Voice Hip Hop Dance • Video Production • Math Fun 4 Kids Creative Construction • Paper Crafts • Science Fun 4 Kids Dessert and a Movie • She’s Crafty • Art Smart Mad Science • Spa Specialists • Robotics I • Robotics II Junior Titans • Soft Sculpture • Papier Maché • Pillow Talk Critter Costuming • Games & Recreation Improv & Movement\Intro To Acting Flicks! Fun! Food! • Cherry Blossoms & Mount Fuji Catching New Orleans • Strut Yo’ Stuff • Volleyball • Door Décor Scrapbooking & Crafty Cards • Decoupage & Collage Painting with Acrylics • Painting with Watercolors • Ballet Jewelry Making • Tumbling • Spanish Fiesta • Soccer • Bling
1315 Jackson Avenue • New Orleans, Louisiana 70130 • www.trinitynola.com
22 | Gambit’s Kids issue
BABY&KIDS’ BRANDS FOR LESS at 3501 Severn Avenue in Metairie
5
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A $30 PURCHASE* *Must present coupon. Not good with other offers. Exp: 04/07/13. CPNGAM0413
PAGE 21
Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and Preserve Laura C. Hudson Visitor Center 419 Decatur St., (504) 589-2636; www.nps.gov All ages The visitor center in the French Quarter houses exhibits and murals illustrating the importance waterways like the Mississippi River have played in the formation of Louisiana and its culture. Other exhibits and interactive displays focus on plants and animals in the area, food, culture and festivals. Ranger-led walking tours of the French Quarter start at 9:30 a.m. Children’s author and musician Johnette Downing performs at the visitor center once a month. Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (except Christmas and Mardi Gras). Free admission.
National World War II Museum 945 Magazine St., (504) 528-1944; www.nationalww2museum.org All ages The renowned museum has everything children love: tanks, planes, guns, love stories, movies, fashions, video-taped stories, the themed American Sector restaurant, the Stage Door Canteen’s song and dance venue, movies and more. Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission $22 adults; $19 seniors 65 and older; $13 children kindergarten12th grade, students with college ID and active military with ID; children 5 and younger free.
New Orleans Museum of Art City Park, 1 Collins C. Diboll Circle, (504) 658-4100; www.noma.org All ages Admission is free for Louisiana residents on Wednesdays. In addition to permanent and changing exhibitions of paintings, drawings, photographs, sculptures, Faberge eggs and more, the museum hosts programs for children and families including art classes for children ages 5-12 and Where Y’Art Fridays (5 p.m. to 9 p.m.), which features performances, art activities and more. The programs are free with regular museum admission. Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday. Admission $10 adults; $8 seniors, active military personnel, university students with ID; $6 children 7-17 years old; children 6 and younger free.
Old U.S. Mint 400 Esplanade Ave., (504) 568-6993; www.crt.state.la.us/museum/properties/usmint All ages This building began producing coins in 1838 and continued (with some lapses) until 1909. It now houses the Louisiana State Museum’s New Orleans Jazz Club Collections, the Louisiana Historical Center and a performing arts center. Check the website for events such as music and yoga classes, frequent music offerings and the free Satchmo Summer Fest. Open 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Closed holidays. Admission $6 adults; $5 seniors, students and active military personnel; children 12 and younger free.
The Presbytere, Louisiana State Museum Jackson Square, 751 Chartres St., (504) 568-6968; www.crt.state.la.us/museum/ properties/presbytere All ages Mardi Gras is always exciting for children, and the permanent exhibit Mardi Gras: It’s Carnival Time
in Louisiana provides eye candy and fun, tracing New Orleans’ parades and Carnival balls from their beginnings to today. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Closed holidays. Admission is $6 adults; $5 seniors, students and active military personnel; free for children 12 and younger. Admission includes other exhibits in the museum.
Preservation Hall 726 St. Peter St., (504) 522-2841; www.preservationhall.com All ages Policies barring drinking and smoking make this legendary traditional jazz club kid-friendly and gives youngsters a rare chance to hear jazz being performed as it was in its early decades. The intimate nature of the club gives the audience a close-up of performing jazz musicians. Open 8 p.m. daily (shows start at 8:15 p.m.). Admission $15.
Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden 1 Colin Diboll Circle, City Park; www.noma.org All ages Stroll through a 5-acre garden with walking paths, pedestrian bridges and reflecting pools. Help your child find the 60 sculptures by European, American, Israeli and Japanese artists that are on display throughout the garden. A free audio tour is available. Open 10 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. daily and 10 a.m. to 8:45 p.m. Friday. Free admission.
AMUSEMENTS/ RIDES/ GAMES Carousel Gardens Amusement Park City Park, 1 Palm Drive, (504) 483-9383 All ages Home to one of only 100 wooden carousels remaining in the U.S., the amusement park is open seasonally, starting with weekends in March. It has rides, a 40-foot slide, a Ferris wheel, Tilt-AWhirl and kiddie rides. Minimum height for rides is 3 feet. The park just added a third miniature train — the Black and Gold — to take passengers on a 2-mile ride through City Park. Open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. From May 28-Aug. 11, hours are 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission $3, children under 3 feet free; ride tickets are $3 each or $17 per person for unlimited rides. Check website for dates and times.
NOLA Motorsports 11075 Nicolle Blvd., Avondale, (504) 302-4875; www.nolamotor.com Minors must be accompanied by an adult This large complex for riding go-carts, motorcycles and race cars has miles of tracks in a variety of configurations, a 7-acre paddock, state-of-theart safety features, dining facilities and vehicle rentals. Open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Call for costs and track availability.
Ages 4 and older The equestrian center at City Park offers riding lessons, camps and field trips and hosts birthday parties. Show riders train at Equest, which also boards privately owned horses. Group rides are available by appointment. Hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Contact the stables for prices.
INDOOR PLAYGROUNDS/ ATTRACTIONS Audubon Aquarium of the Americas 1 Canal St., (504) 581-4629; www.auduboninstitute.org All ages This state-of-the-art indoor aquarium includes a walk-through arch aquarium and houses about 600 species of sea creatures, including sharks, penguins, alligators, frogs, fish and a special parakeet exhibit. The aquarium also has a petting tank, demonstrations, hands-on activities and play spaces. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Admission $22.50 adults, $17 seniors, $16 ages 2-12, children under 2 free.
Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium
HORSEBACK RIDING
U.S. Custom House, 423 Canal St., (504) 581-4629; www.auduboninstitute.org All ages The intriguing world of butterflies and insects is explored through bigger-than-life displays and interactive exhibits housed in the U.S. Customs House. There’s also a restaurant featuring tasty treats made with bugs and an enclosed walkthrough butterfly garden. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Admission $16.50, $13 seniors 65 and older, $12 children ages 2-12, children under 2 free
Equest Farm
Bookoo Bounce
1001 Filmore Ave., (504) 483-9398; www.equestfarm.com
5604 Blessey St., Harahan, (504) 835-6424; www.bookoobounce.com
WALK THROUGH PARAKEET POINTE AT THE AQUARIUM OF THE AMERICAS AND SEE HUNDREDS OF PARAKEETS IN ALL COLORS PHOTO COURTESY AUDUBON INSTITUTE
Ages 2-11 This 8,300-square-foot indoor playground filled with inflatable equipment, obstacle courses, bouncing rooms, slides and more provides lots of options for children ages 2 to 11. The facility often is booked for special events so call for walk-in availability, but generally it is available 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays. There’s a concession area and high-definition TVs broadcasting sports events for adults accompanying children. Admission is $8 for 90 minutes.
Entergy IMAX Theater 1 Canal St., (504) 581-4629; www.auduboninstitute.org All ages Adjacent to Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, the theater has a five-and-a-half-story-high screen and shows films about nature and other topics. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, with films starting every hour. Admission $10.50 adults, $9.50 seniors, $8 children ages 2-12, $5 Audubon members, children under 2 free.
Louisiana Children’s Museum 420Julia St., (504) 523-1357; www.lcm.org All ages This fun-filled educational facility features interactive exhibits that turn learning into playtime. Some attractions in the 30,000-square-foot facility include a bubble station, miniature grocery store, transportation display, exhibits about the body, a literacy project and more. Summer hours are 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Call for schedule. Admission $8 per person, children under 1 and Louisiana Children’s Museum members free. PAGE 24
GAMBIT’s KIDs IssUE | 23
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The Monkey Room Indoor Playground 1501 Religious St., Suite C, (504) 301-2695; www.monkeyroom.net Toddlers to pre-teens Kids can play full-out on a tube slide, punching bags, threelane speed slide, ball room, crawl-through bridge, climbing structures, foam rollers and more. There’s also a toddlers-only play area and a snack bar. Children must wear socks to enter the playground. Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Monday, unless a special event is scheduled (check the calendar on the website). Admission $9 general, $7 toddlers area only, adults free.
Palm Tree Playground 3011 N. I-10 Service Road, Metairie, (504) 828-8164; www.palmtreeplayground.com Toddlers to pre-teens The beach-themed indoor playground offers a fully enclosed, 500-square-foot toddlers’ area with soft play equipment; for older kids there’s a large structure with spiral slides, a mini basketball arena, wave decks, an obstacle course and more. There’s also a cafe with a coffee bar for adults. Call before you go; the playground sometimes is closed for parties, but it’s generally open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission $8 ages 4 and older, $6 ages 3 and younger, adults and babies under 6 months old free.
Playmakers Indoor Sports 800 Windward Drive, Covington, (985) 898-2809; 6124 Jefferson Hwy., Harahan, (504) 305-6078; www.playmakersindoor.com All ages The facility organizes leagues in soccer, lacrosse, flag football and more and the teams play on indoor turf. Playmakers also offers developmental sports programs for children as young as 18 months. Call for a schedule. Annual memberships are $25 family, $20 adults, $15 youth.
R/C Racing Station 1401 Fulton St., Kenner, (504) 305-4551; www.rcracingstation.com The indoor racetrack for radio-controlled cars has mostly carpet racing, off-road racing for short-course trucks and a variety of classes. Call for hours and admission.
OutdOOr Parks & activities Audubon Zoo 6500 Magazine St., (800) 774-7394; www.auduboninstitute.org All ages Children can see (and sometimes touch) ani-
24 | GAMBIT’S KIDS ISSUE
KIdS PLAy On A TRAnSPORTATIOn exHIBIT AT THe LOuISIAnA CHILdRen’S MuSeuM.
mals indigenous to Louisiana as well as exotic animals from all over the world. The zoo has a miniature railroad that runs through the property, a splash park (admission is extra), innovative natural habitats for the animals, special education programs, play stops, the Monkey Hill play area, a dinosaur exhibit and more. Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission $17.50 adults, $13 seniors 65 and older, $12 children ages 2-12, children under 2 free.
Bayou Kayaks (504) 814-0551; www.bayoukayaks.com Ages depend on skills This kayak rental company is operated by avid and experienced kayakers. It launches on Bayou St. John near the corner of Moss Street and Florida Avenue. Rentals are available 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday through Monday March 10 through Sept. 31, with sessions starting at 9 a.m., noon, 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Rates $10 per hour. Call for rental information.
Botanical Gardens City Park, 1 Palm Terrace, (504) 483-9386; www.neworleanscitypark.com All ages Walking paths take visitors through lush gardens of flowers, trees, indigenous plants and other foliage designed around fountains statues and benches. There’s a goldfish pond, a conservatory with a “Living Fossil” section, a simulated rainforest and other educational features. Watch for special children’s programming. Open 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Admission $6 adults, $3 children ages 5-12, children 4 and under free.
only) are 9:45 a.m. and 2 p.m., and rentals start at $54 per person.
Kayak-Iti-Yat 3840 Bienville St., (985) 778-5034; www.kayakitiyat.com Age depends on skills The company offers kayaking tours along Bayou St. John to Lake Pontchartrain and guides point out the sights, wildlife, fauna and history of the area. They provide the kayak, safety jacket and wet bag. The four-hour Paddle Pontchartrain tour is $60 per person, and the two-hour Big Easy Bayou Tour is $40 per person.
Cool Zoo
Lagoon, Lafreniere Park
Audubon Zoo, 6500 Magazine St., (800) 774-7394; www.auduboninstitute.org Toddlers through pre-teens The splash park opens March 30 and offers waterspouts, an alligator water slide, a spider monkey soaker and more in three splash zones and an area just for toddlers. Admission $8, $6 Audubon members. Splash park tickets are not included in regular zoo admission.
Lafreniere Park, 3000 Downs Blvd., Metairie, (504) 838-4389; www.jeffparish.net or www.lafrenierepark.org All ages The 20-acre lagoon stretches through various areas of the park, and has turtles and several species of fish as well as ducks and geese. Free admission. Park gates are open 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Longue Vue House and Gardens
Lafreniere Park, 3000 Downs Blvd., Metairie, (504) 895-7512 or (504) 456-1851; www. jeffparish.net or www.lafrenierepark.org All ages There are 24 holes on the disc golf course on the north and east sides of Lafreniere Park. The course is open to the public, and admission is free. Park gates are open 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
7 Bamboo Road, (504) 488-5488; www.longuevue.com All ages Children can roam through the 8 acres of gardens designed by 20th-century landscape architects. The Classical Revival-style mansion, which is open for tours, illustrates life as it was long ago. Longue Vue’s Lucy C. Roussel Discovery Garden provides children with a place to dig and learn about gardening and nature. House tours start every hour until 4 p.m. Check the website for special programming. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission starts at $10 adults ($7 gardens only), $9 seniors 65 and older and military personnel, $5 children 3 and older ($4 gardens only), children 2 and younger free.
Global Wildlife Center
Marsh Island
26389 Hwy 40, Folsom, (985) 796-3585; www.globalwildlife.com All ages The more than 4,000 exotic, threatened and endangered animals from around the globe who are housed on the wildlife preserve are allowed to roam freely in the natural environment. The preserve is open daily all year around. Tours generally begin at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m., but schedules can change due to private events, so call first. Admission $17 adults, $15 seniors 63 and older, $11 children ages 2-11, children ages 2 and under free. Private tours are available.
Lafreniere Park, 3000 Downs Blvd., Metairie; www.jeffparish.net or www.lafrenierepark.org All ages All of Lafreniere Park is a dedicated bird sanctuary, but Marsh Island also is bountiful in Louisiana’s indigenous vegetation and animal life. It’s a favorite spot for feeding the swans, ducks and geese that live there. An elevated walkway leads to a gazebo. Free admission.
Disc Golf at City Park City Park, 1 Palm Drive, (504) 482-4888; www.neworleanscitypark.com All ages The 18-hole disc golf course opened in 2010 and is open to the public and fun for all ages. Tee times aren’t normally required (unless there’s a tournament). Free admission. Open daily.
Disc Golf at Lafreniere Park
Jean Lafitte Swamp and Airboat Tours 6601 Leo Kerner Lafitte Pkwy., Marrero, (504) 689-4186; www.jeanlafitteswamptour.com All ages Tour a swamp in a Cajun-style flat boat or on an airboat and see the Spanish moss and other flora native to south Louisiana swamps as well as wildlife including alligators, snakes, egrets, deer, mink, nutria and more. Tour times change seasonally but for the spring are 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. daily. Admission $25 adults, $12 children ages 3-12. Airboat tour times (ages 9 and older
SpRiing for nola kids
HAASE’S
HAS ‘EM!
The Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Riverwalk Marketplace, 1 Poydras St., (504) 529-4567; www.creolequeen.com All ages An authentic paddlewheeler, the Creole Queen offers the nostalgia of times past and the comforts of the modern world, featuring a climate-controlled interior with plush decor and outer decks clad with wrought-iron trims. There’s a dance floor, music, private rooms, dining options and more. Tours include the Chalmette Battlefield cruise from 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily and a three-hour dinner jazz cruise from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. (check for cruise dates). Chalmette Battlefield cruise tickets $25 adults, $13 children ages 6-12, children 5 and younger free. Jazz cruise tickets start at $40 adults, $20 children ages 6-12, $10 children 3-5 years (dinner included), children 3 and younger free. page 27
orient expressed • 3905 magazine mon-sat 10am -5pm • 504.899.3060 www.orientexpressed.com
Children’s Clothing • Shoes • Accessories Embroidery Available
8119-21 OAK ST
504-866-9944 • HAASES.COM
GAMBIT’s KIDs IssUE | 25
JCC 2013 SUMMER DAY CAMPS
REGISTRATION OPENS TO THE COMMUNITY MARCH 11
JUNE 10 - AUGUST 2 early childhood 21 MONTHS TO 4 YEARS general day camp ENTERING GRADES K - 5 sports camp ENTERING GRADES 3 - 5 tennis camp ENTERING GRADES 6 - 8 taglit teen camp ENTERING GRADES 6 - 8 Taglit (Tahg-leet) combines traditional camp fun with the opportunity to focus on a special, week-long topic led by local professionals. CULINARY ARTS
ADVENTURE TRIPS
VISUAL ARTS
COLOR WARS
NOLA MIX DJ WEEK
STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING
Jewish Community Center - Uptown Goldring-Woldenberg JCC - Metairie 5342 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans, LA 70115 3747 W. Esplanade Ave., Metairie, LA 70002 504.887.5158 504.897.0143
www.nojcc.org
26 | Gambit’s Kids issue
We are now accepting registration for Summer Camp
HOME OF US NATIONAL TEAM AND INTERNATIONAL ATHLETES
An Official USA Gymnastics Member Club Crescent City Gymnastics offers Classes for ages 2 1/2 - Adult
Owners, Gawain DuPree and Julie DuPree, are both US National Champions and World Team Members
WE HAVE PRESCHOOL BASIC • INTERMEDIATE & TUMBLING CLASSES We also have Competitive Gymnastics and Acrobatics Teams
Our gym offers a positive training program for athletes of all skill levels.
7800 EARHART BLVD. NEW ORLEANS, LA
(504) 861-1740 M-F 3:30 - 8:30PM SAT 10AM - 2PM
PAGE 25
Picnic Island & Waterfall
Need something to smile about?
Lafreniere Park, 3000 Downs Blvd., Metairie, (504) 838-4389; www.jeffparish.net or www.lafrenierepark.org All ages Take a lunch or snack to Picnic Island and eat with a backdrop of a lovely man-made waterfall. There are picnic tables, and shelters can be reserved.
Spray Park Lafreniere Park, 3000 Downs Blvd., Metairie, (504) 838-4389; www.jeffparish.net or www.lafrenierepark.org Ages 10 and younger Opened July 13, the new Spray Park adjacent to the carousel features in-ground and aboveground water spray attractions and three water cannons in about 4,000 square feet of space. The water park is open noon to 7 p.m. daily. Admission is $5 per person (exact cash only) for 45 minutes, with sessions starting on the hour. There is a 75-person capacity.
LEEANN EVANS orthodontist
504.301.3413
evansorthonola.com
5700 Citrus Boulevard | Suite C | New Orleans LA 70123
Steamboat Natchez 1 Toulouse St., (504) 586-8777; www.steamboatnatchez.com All ages A classic Mississippi River steamboat, the Natchez offers daytime jazz tours, leaving from the French Quarter daily for a two-hour cruise around the port. Most cruises include a calliope concert or jazz music, and Creole lunch fare is available. Boarding is 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets $27.50 adults, $12.25 children ages 6-12, children five and younger free.
Storyland City Park, 1 Palm Drive, (504) 483-9383; www.neworleanscitypark.com Toddlers-pre-teens Children will see their favorite fairy tales represented in brightly colored sculptures designed for whimsical play, climbing and exploring. There are more than 26 storybook exhibits including Captain Hook’s pirate ship from Peter Pan, Pinocchio, Jack and Jill, Little Miss Muffet, Cinderella and more. Open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Admission $3.
Zephyrs Baseball 6000 Airline Drive, Metairie, (504) 734-5155; www.zephyrsbaseball.com All ages This family-friendly baseball club’s facility includes a swimming pool for fans to stay cool during hot games, lots of dining choices and a host of special activities for children at halftime, fireworks displays and more. Check website for scheduled dates and special promotions. Admissions starts at $9.
SPECIAL PROGRAMS/ CLASSES City Park Movement & Art 4300 Dumaine St., 390-7482 (movement), 333-3449 (art); www.cityparkmovementandart.com Movement classes include ballet, yoga, acrobatics, creative movement, jazz, tap and more. Children also can take art classes, have parties or attend kids’ night at the studio.
ENJOY A DAY ON THE WATER ABOARD THE STEAMBOAT NATCHEZ.
Gymboree Play & Music 1876 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, (985) 773-3992; www.gymboreeclasses.com Ages birth-5 years Classes are offered in music, play, art, sports, school skills and more. Curricula are created by national experts to help children hone cognitive, physical and social skills as they play. Call for schedules and prices.
RHINO Contemporary Crafts Co. The Shops at Canal Place, 333 Canal St., Second level, (504) 523-7945; www.rhinocrafts.com All ages The artist co-op holds monthly arts workshops for children. The workshops are taught by the artists who create items sold in the Right Here In New Orleans Gallery. The workshops are free. Visit the website for dates, times and topics.
Southern Food & Beverage Museum Riverwalk Marketplace, 500 Port of Orleans Place, Suite 169, (504) 569-0405; www.southernfood.org Ages: varies One Saturday every month, the Southern Food and Beverage Museum holds a kids’ culinary camp in which children learn cooking and food handling through hands-on activites. Children get to eat the lunch they prepare. Look for the museum to move to a new location this year. Check website for dates and availability.
BABY BOOKS THE LOCALS LOVE
BOOKS ARE AVAILABLE ONLINE AT WWW.LILSQUIRTS.COM AND VARIOUS RETAILERS IN THE CITY AND STATE
• CONTACT US NOLABABY@LILSQUIRTS.NET GAMBIT’s KIDs IssUE | 27
Shop Uptown 2048 MAGAZINE STREET
ys entering For girls & bo 7 grades 1 thru
Shop Online TRASHYDIVA.COM 504.299.3939
Dates: May 27 – 31 • June 3 – 7 • June 10 –14 June 17 – 21 • June 24 – 28 9:00 a.m to 3:00 p.m. Cabrini High School Campus 1400 Moss Street, New Orleans, LA 70119 Phone: 504-482-1193 • Fax: 504-483-8671 Email: campcabrini@cabrinihigh.com Before & after care are available. Camp fees & deadlines: $130 per week $50 non-refundable registration fee All fees due May 15
Visit cabrinihigh.com to apply Cabrini High School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its policies.
Infants & Toddlers Elementary Children Teenagers Adults Private Instruction: all ages—all levels
Piano • Voice • Guitar • Violin
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Activities include: Swimming Fishing Field trips Volleyball Soccer Movies Media Kickball Ultimate football Drama Painting & MORE!
o g n a L Camp 504.831.3008 www.LafarguePianos.com 1828 VETERANS BLVD., METAIRIE, LA 70005
Kids of Summer
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Running, jumping and skipping demand a lightweight but sturdy shoe. Brooks Kids PureFlow has dynamic cushioning for comfort, a reinforced toe and is very flexible. A stretchable Nav Band over the inset gives strong arch support and stability, and the Brooks’ “Ideal Heel” curvature helps align joints and reduce stress, $60 at SOUTHERN RUNNER (6112 Magazine St., 504-8919999; www.southernrunner.com).
Gear to keep them moving from morning until night.
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The simplest toys can become the biggest hits. Easy to catch and throw, BeamO flying hoops are lightweight, appeal to all ages and are easy to use. These big, soft, flying hoops come in 30-inch ($25) and 20-inch ($20) sizes at THE MAGIC BOX, 5508 Magazine St., 504-899-0117; www.magicboxneworleans.com.
BY EILEEN LOH
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This Sector 9 Cloud 9 longboard is smooth and comfortable for street cruising, but suitable for light skatepark use as well. With a wide nose and kick tail, its easy riding deck is great for when you need to ollie a pothole. $160 at MASSEY’S PROFESSIONAL OUTFITTERS (509 N. Carrollton Ave., 504-648-0292; 816 N. Hwy. 190, Covington, 985-809-7544; 3363 Severn Ave., Metairie, 504-885-1144; www.masseysoutfitters.com).
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Offering great comfort in a streamlined design and flashy colors, Asics Gel DS Trainer is the summer sneaker perfect for strutting. It’s a high-performance running shoe with plenty of flex from heel to toe and a Wet Grip outsole for super traction on rainy days, $115 at SOUTHERN RUNNER. PAGE 31
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GAMBIT’s KIDs IssUE | 29
DI R A •M DES I R E AR AM OG N Z S Z S ORT TS • JA FEST • P S • TH EIGNE ZZ U A E J O T• M Y E B A S E • G E S M TR TS Photo• Contest S R O ES GRA NTS GANolaSMilestone S P M T A E of your NewSOrleans I H G kid us N a picture G S T I • SA S YOUT • BESend L N I hitting their NolaA milestones and you could win a L A S photo session L Owith-BMilestone R • N BAL I GRAS S Photography and receiveC aA • D T R • E free framed wall portrait. A M TRE NETS • DES I S R Prize Value: IGwill$350 TS E CAR Z FEST B The winning photo also AIN • Z •S appear in the July 30th S • JA H E issueI ofD Gambit Kids. OR N T S S U •TO EMAIL YOUR YO RTPHOTO GRA A S I E M D VIP@GAMBITWEEKLY.COM F • S MAR I CAR TO ENTER TO WIN. A AR R C ZZ G D T A S J R E E3 • E NT ER: RT TO MARCH 31T, R 201 MADEA DLINE O • ST P S S E S E F • GAM S YOUTH GNETS S JAZZ ES I E L ID BAL AS • BE TS GAM TCAR R SN R Milestone Photography • DI G S • SAIN STREE Z FEST M • • Z E S A D E L J • RI AL AM S B G E CA T O S M E T N A S R E • TR TS G H SPO S F N • I SA TS AZZ UT
KIDS
Digital photos should be a high resolution, 300 dpi but should not exceed 5MB. By sending your photo, you agree to have your photo posted on bestofneworleans.com and Gambit Communications Inc. reserves the right to reuse the photo in future issues for marketing purposes without compensation to the entrant. Photos may be edited to accommodate space and color. 3735 Florida Ave, Kenner 504-463-0662 • www.milestonephotography.com
30 | Gambit’s Kids issue
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This new twist on ring toss uses two sticks to launch a plastic ring through the air — and catch it again. Waterproof and sturdy, Ring Stix is the summer toy that will survive hours of outdoor fun, $20. There’s also a larger, glow-in-the dark version, $35; both at THE MAGIC BOX. The Specialized Hotrock 20 Coaster is a sturdy BMX with features to keep youngsters safe, $240 at BAYOU BICYCLES (3530 Toulouse St., 504488-1946; www. bayoubicycles.com).
For younger kids not ready for carving and grinding on a skateboard or a big kids’ bicycle, there’s the YBike Glider Deluxe Scooter with three wheels, brakes, a wide ribbed deck and a rubbery grip to build balance skills and stability in children as young as 2, $100 at THE MAGIC BOX .
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