Indys' Child // 01.2011

ur Sig n-Up fo r O slet te r a t We e k ly E-Ne w

m Ind ysChild .ceoven ts ly to have we e k t to delive red righ yo u r inbox!!!

January 2011 * indyschild.com

January 09

mommy makeover

Commentary & Parenting * Publisher’s Note: Good Intentions

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MOMMY MAGIC: Rediscovering YOU in 2011

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Dear teacher: Multitasking, Disinterest in Letters and Numbers and Making Reading Fun 35

NEWS & SHOPPING * News You Can Use: News, Contests, Celebrations and More

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knowing your child's skin

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Health & Wellness * WOMEN's Health: Six Weeks for a Healthy 2011

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PEDIATRIC HEALTH: Knowing Your Child's Skin

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PEDIATRIC HEALTH: Know the Truth About Child Abuse

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PEDIATRIC HEALTH: Beauty of Winter Only Skin Deep

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WOMEN's Health: Understanding Cervical Health

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special needs awareness: Encouraging the Arts for Children with Special Needs 27

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cervical health

Around Town * museum note: A Year Full of Fun at the Children's Museum

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family fun in indy: Super Bowl Super Scarves

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indy on a budget: Kids Eat Free (Or Cheap)

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* RESOURCES

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Encouraging arts & after-school enrichment

Child e xceptional

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special needs calendar

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special needs guide

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open house guide

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childcare & education directory

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calendar

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classifieds

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Ask the Staff: What is your favorite board game to play with your family on a cold winter's night?

Backgammon

Scrabble, but my youngest is 3, so we are limited to Candy Land for now.

Any trivia games...

I'm a nerd!

$$Monopoly$$

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the science behind autism treatments

arts & enrichment directory

R O X A N NE

indy on a budget 4 INDY’S CHILD * JANUARY 2011

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Sorry!

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We love to play dominoes! Great for all ages!

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K A R E N R I NG

Indy’s Child

Co mm e n ta ry & PARENTING

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Publisher’s Note

Good Intentions

FOUNDING PUBLISHER Barbara Wynne barbara@indyschild.com Publisher & President of Sales & Business Development Mary Wynne Cox publisher@indyschild.com Associate Publisher & Editor-in-Chief Lynette Rowland editor@indyschild.com sales and business development Jennica Zalewski jennica@indyschild.com Art Direction & Design Heather Lipe heather@indyschild.com Controller / ACCOUNTANT Roxanne Burns roxanne@indyschild.com OFFICE MANAGER Karen Ring karen@indyschild.com

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Making the Most of the New Year

ne of the best things about ringing in the New Year is that “Clean Slate” you should grant yourself. This new start challenges you to try harder at the things you do or ought to do.

Maybe it is an opportunity to practice forgiveness and give a fresh start in a personal relationship that has been strained for reasons you may not even remember.

the library shelves and chose books that develop their own interests. Your children can take out a stack of books at the library and peruse them at their own leisure. Maybe it isn’t so important that they write book reports about each book. What is more important is that they become independent readers and that the habit of reading is encouraged.

Do help them keep track of their books so returning them to the library or school doesn’t become a challenge.

As for me, my New Year’s resolutions always include dieting, being on time and finishing things that I start. Unfortunately, I gain. Maybe the goal of not gaining weight Do check the Internet for your library’s still lag at all of the above, but I have been seems redundant, but it helps keep us on a hours, other programs and classes they offer.

Indianapolis Marion County Public Library positive weight management journey. more successful at being on time. has a wonderful web site (www.imcpl.org) The Jordan Y has been helpful on my dieting I would love to encourage our readers to take and can also be used for homework help (click resolution by offering lots of activities I really a more active roll in the education of their on “Just For Kids” on the left). enjoy. In December, they offered a challenge: children. Volunteer at your child’s school! deposit $10 and if you don’t gain any weight In giving time to your child’s school, you let A very Happy New Year to all of our Indy’s over the holidays, you earn $25 Y bucks. the staff and teachers know you really care Child families. May 2011 bring only the best Those Y bucks are good for many different about their efforts. Your reward is better of health and happiness to your family. May classes or personal training. I joined the communication with teachers and your own you be totally successful with your Good challenge in early December and my weigh- child being proud of the role you have chosen. Intentions! Share your success stories with other Indy’s Child readers! in is the first week of January, so I will let you know my success story. Maybe the Y Make this year a “book year.” Going to the has a great idea, control your weight during library has never been more rewarding. You the toughest times and then if you don’t lose may love ordering your books through your at least you will feel satisfied that you didn’t Kindle, but your children need to explore

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY iStock Photography

Indy’s Child 921 E. 86th Street, Suite 130 Indianapolis, IN 46240 317.722.8500 (p) 317.722.8510 (f ) indyschild@indyschild.com Copyright: Indy’s Child Parenting Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2011-2011 by Indy’s Child Inc. and Midwest Parenting Publications, LLC. All rights reserved.

Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of products, commentary or services herein. For information on subscriptions, editorial guidelines, advertising rates and more visit www.indyschild.com.

INDYSCHILD.COM 5

NE WS & SHO PPING

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Win VIP Tickets to Miranda Cosgrove of Nickelodeon’s iCarley!

Most of you know what “Liking” something on Facebook means.

You’re essentially friending a business on Facebook so you see their announcements on your News Feed page. Here at Indy’s Child, we’re using our Facebook page to offer up exclusive contests to our fans. If you don’t have a Facebook account yet, you’ll want to sign up so you can become a potential winner to any of the contests we host throughout the month.

Some of the contests will be last minute, some will be in advance, but you won’t know what they are unless you’re a fan!

For the month of January, we encourage all of our readers to become fans of Indy’s Child on Facebook (you MUST have a Facebook account in order to become a Facebook fan) and we will be selecting two lucky families to win tickets to see Miranda Cosgrove of the famed iCarley on Nickelodeon. One family will receive a VIP package to Miranda Cosgrove at the Murat on January 29th which includes four tickets, valet parking and access the VIP Crown Room. One runner-up will receive a family 4-pack to the show. So get going, visit www.facebook.com and search for Indy’s Child in the search bar then LIKE us and we’ll pick two of our fans near the last week of the month!

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Arthouse Noblesville Encourages Arts Enrichment

news you can use HEALTHY START FOR YOUR CHILD’S SMILE Establishing good oral health habits during infancy is important for a lifetime of healthy smiles! Your child will begin getting their baby teeth around 6 months of age. As soon as your baby’s teeth begin to erupt (come in) it is important to start cleaning them with a damp cloth after feedings. Avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle or cup, as this puts their teeth at risk for decay. Your child’s first visit to the dentist should occur within six months of the eruption of the first tooth, but no later than their first birthday.Think of this

visit as a wellbaby check-up for your child’s teeth!

The dentist will do a thorough exam of your child’s mouth and provide valuable guidance on how to maintain your baby’s bright, healthy smile. Baby teeth are important for normal development in chewing, speaking and appearance, as well as holding space for the future permanent teeth. For more information, contact Erin F. Phillips, DDS, Diplomate American Board of Pediatric Dentistry at 317-872-7272 or visit www.IndyKidsDentist.com.

Local Writer and Illustrator Collaborate on New Children’s Book “Leelah loves spring because spring brings summer. And she really loves summer because then it’s time to go to the lake!”

Both living and working in Indianapolis, writer Pamela Fettig and illustrator Darren Strecker teamed up to create the newly published children’s book Leelah at the Lake, an adventure story that stars a mischievous little girl named Leelah.

Leelah loves the lake and can’t wait to get there! The lakeshore is filled with all kinds of fun things just waiting to be discovered. Leelah meets a frog and a worm for the first time. She

chases ducks and swims. And she looks for shooting stars. No matter what she’s doing, Leelah always has fun at the lake and never fails to make readers chuckle.

This book is a wonderful read for young children any time of year.

Leelah at the Lake is Pamela Fettig’s first children’s book. Dear to her heart, the book was inspired by her niece during a sunny weekend at a lake in northern Indiana.

Darren Strecker is a minimally known illustrator and graphic designer. See more of his work at www.darrenstrecker. blogspot.com. Book is available on Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com.

Arthouse is fast becoming the new home for art in Noblesville. Their mission is to enrich the community through art by offering a variety of art classes, exhibiting contemporary works, and home to artist’s studios. They open their doors to the community to share the joy in making new friends, creating art, and communicating through visual language.

Winter Art Classes: 7 Weeks: January 10 – February 21, 2011 Arthouse is now enrolling for winter class session. Classes are designed for all levels and ages. They welcome all students regardless of age or skill level! Each class meets once a week. Some classes require additional materials, and may have a minimum or maximum enrollment.

For a full description of classes visit website. www.arthousenoblesville. blogspot.com. 195 S 10th Street, Noblesville, IN 46060. 317-773-0038. arthousenoblesville@hotmail.com

Tutor Whisperer Re-Launches Web site to Assist Students The highly sought after tutor and educational expert, Julie Kamins, The Tutor Whisperer, has re-launched her site, www.thetutorwhisperer.com, the number one site bringing students, parents, educators, and curriculum together in an exclusive forum.

By approaching learning holistically and using her degrees in English, Sociology and Law, Julie reaches children intuitively, allowing them to develop their skills interactively through her site. Her students range in grade levels from developmental kindergarten to graduate school-a wide range of educational levels. In addition, she has developed specialized, alternate programs for those struggling with standard teaching methods. Kamins also works as a mentor and guide to collegebound students, coaching them through the maze of applications and essays.

The site offers an extensive array of learning tools including a learning strategy of the week, where Kamins contributes her preferred tools and resources, such as favorite learning websites, new perspectives on learning, and at-home strategies. Not only can you “meet Julie,” but you can also explore learning obstacles, visit the Student Lounge, read case studies, ask questions, and even buy some last Visit www.thetutorwhisperer. minute school supplies. com for complete details.

Co mm e n ta ry & Pa r e n t i n g

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mommy magic

Rediscovering YOU in 2011

Identifying Your Goals for the New Year Whether I know it or not, a New Year somehow always brings

a per m i s sion slip and writing a new “me” into the light. It happens so gradually that it is this column at hard to notice, but I encourage you to take note of all the ways the same time.

I have become, motherhood has made you evolve and grow this year. do to on-thejob training, an Several years ago, I had a New Year’s that was especially ex per t mu lt ithat came in certain moments over the year. Regardless, we exciting for my husband and me. I had my first baby 11 years tasker. always celebrate it and share how we want to grow in the year ago on January 5th. I thought she was going to be a New to come. By saying it out loud to my trusted friend, I usually feel Year’s Eve baby, but back in 2000, we were all so scared of Whether I know empowered and excited to evolve and grow in the upcoming the possibility of Y2K (remember that?) that I prayed for my it or not, a New year. For instance, last year I mentioned to her that I really baby to hold on a few extra days. She held on for a few more Year somehow always brings a new “me” into the light. It want to start cooking healthier for my family. Every so often days and I marked the new millennium with a new baby and happens so gradually that it is hard to notice, but I encourage she would send me a recipe, call me with a tip she saw or heard you to take note of all the ways motherhood has made you or even just flat out ask me how my goal for cooking healthier a new me. evolve and grow this year. If there are areas you want to was going. It helped me be more accountable to have her know We all know that becoming a mother changes everything. explore, now is the perfect time to identify what they are that this was something I really wanted to do for my family and It not only changes your heart (which I proudly wear on my and reinvent yourself in 2011! Whether it be learning how to me. Her interest in my goal only inspired me to stay with it and sleeve now), but it changes when you sleep, how you sleep or cook, taking an art class, joining a book club, reading more continue to reinvent myself into a better cook! They say that even if you sleep at all. For me, it changed my shoe size, my to your kids (or yourself ), going to church regularly, having the best way to be accountable to yourself is to tell others about hair color and I swear my nose got bigger every time I had a a date night, having a girls night, having a family night— your goals—you’re more inclined to follow through. baby. It also made me a more patient person, more tolerant of whatever it is, identify it and go for it this year! just about everything and eternally grateful for the gift of life.

Whatever it is that you want to do this year, look at is as an The week after New Year’s I always meet my best friend for opportunity to not only try something new, but to grow and In the chaos of motherhood, it’s sometimes hard to take the coffee. It has unknowingly become a tradition for us since maybe even reinvent yourself in a specific area in the New Year! time to slow down and really think of all the ways that we, as having kids. We recap the year together and talk about the Mary Susan Buhner is a Life Coach for Moms and women and moms, have evolved and changed over the years. highs the lows and what we learned from it all. In years past, author of “Mommy Magic: Tricks for Staying Sane in the Eleven years ago I could have never imagined that I could juggle we have sat and laughed about the madness of motherhood and Midst of Insanity” Visit www.Mommy-Magic.com for more information. Become a Fan of Mommy Magic on FaceBook! schedules and family chaos while typing an email, signing some years we have sat and cried from the pain or frustration

Happy New Year! If you are like me, you have taken a deep breathe from creating all the holiday magic and are looking forward to a great 2011. With a New Year comes the opportunity to recreate or even reinvent yourself. I always f ind it exciting to take note of the past year and make plans for the new one.

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When they become busy moms, women often lose sight of themselves. They are employees, care-givers, taxi drivers, team supporters, coaches, maids, tutors and guidance counselors. They may call themselves ‘super moms,’ but sometimes it’s easy to go on autopilot and begin to feel more like a robot. In the midst of it all, women often put their own health and happiness on the back burner. After a while the super mom persona can start to weigh heavy until one day they look in the mirror and realize that super mom has begun to look more like Robin Williams in Mrs. Doubtfire. The fact of the matter is, however, if you want to master the rest, sometimes you have to look out for number one.

The national report card for women’s health shows that far too many women are failing in the areas of health and wellness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 35% of women age 20 or older in the United States are obese, 33% suffer from hypertension and 14% of women 18 years and over are in fair to poor health. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Obviously, it’s time for busy women to put everything else aside and take action to improve this situation.

Nutrition Matters There is certainly no shortage of diet and nutrition advice. In fact, it seems new data, new fads and new books on the subject crop up daily. In addition, strategic marketing and labeling can also be misleading. For example, low fat may also mean high sugar and sugar free may mean high fat. With so much conflicting information and ambiguous food labels, it’s often difficult to discern the truth.

tips and discussion forums are also available. Also included is a food search engine featuring over 45,000 different fast food, brand name and generic foods with information on calories, carbs, proteins, sugars and other nutrients. MyFitnessPal.com is an online social network, of sorts, that allows users to add friends, share their daily exercise and food charts, share weight loss with friends, connects to Facebook for even further social support and is even available on the go on your iphone. Users can easily add food from a database that is user generated and keep track of daily calories and exercise goals.

Nutritionists and health care professionals agree, diet fads and expensive programs are not the way to go when one is trying to lose weight. The best bet is to set a goal to eat healthy and the rest will come in time.

The United States Department of Agriculture has developed a website to aid busy women in gaining a healthy nutritional balance. MyPyramid Tracker is an online nutrition and exercise assessment tool that provides information on diet quality and physical activity status. It works as an online food journal that evaluates and assesses your dietary information and compares the food you ate to the recommended guidelines, and then provides related nutrition guidance and links to nutrient and physical activity information. The tool is available at mypyramidtracker.gov.

MyCalorieCounter.com is a free online food journal and calorie counter. Nutrition facts, diet

The Indiana Healthy Weight Initiative (inhealthyweight.org) has a mission to “enhance

the health and quality of life of Hoosiers by promoting good nutrition, regular physical activity and a healthy weight through policy, environment and lifestyle change.” The nutrition part of the initiative is focused on providing access to nutritious options available to all schools, worksites and communities. Nutrition resources and strategies are also available.

Staying Fit According to the CDC, only 32% of women 18 years and over engage in regular leisure-time physical activity. Often one of the last things busy women want to do after spending a hectic day of work and caring for a family is exercise.

That’s because, to many, exercise just sounds like more work. The trick, however, is to change your mindset about exercise and inject some fun into your exercise routine.

Indiana Adventure Boot Camp is designed for women of all fitness levels, sizes and ages. Adventure Boot Camp is a four week indoor/outdoor fitness program that offers fitness instruction, nutritional counseling and motivational training combined with fun and energizing activities. Each day offers new activities so it never becomes tedious. Classes can be taken 3, 4, or 5 days per week and each session lasts for 1 hour. Activities include light INDYSCHILD.COM 9

running, weight training, obstacle courses, core training and jumping rope with additional fun activities thrown in from time to time. Adventure Boot Camp has locations in Carmel, Fishers and Zionsville, and now also offers co-ed and teen Boot Camps.

As part of the Indiana Healthy Weight Initiative, Governor Mitch Daniels began INShape Indiana to promote healthy lifestyles for Hoosiers. The program is designed to provide a framework for a personal or organized fitness regimen. Programs, events and resources are all available at in.gov/ inshape.

Many other websites offer tools and resources for nutrition, fitness and weight loss as well. Myfitnesspal.com provides a food diary, a calorie counter, calorie burn calculator, weight loss ticker as well as mobile apps.

Membership is free and customizable.

If you want to stay fit, it’s not necessary to spend a fortune on exercise machines or gym memberships. In fact, the most satisfying and beneficial way to exercise is to add extra physical activity to your daily routine. For example, go for a bike ride with your kids, take a walk with a friend or grab your partner and dance around the living room. It’s a double benefit of building on relationships while staying fit.

Get Your Beauty Rest The National Sleep Foundation recommends that adults receive 7-9 hours of sleep per night. However, a 2008 national poll reported the average American only receives approximately 6 hours a night. Results of the poll showed that 29% of respondents reported falling asleep or becoming very sleepy at work in the past month, 36% had fallen asleep or nodded off while driving in the past year, and 20% had lost interest in sex because they were too tired.

Not getting enough rest also endangers health and well-being because accidents and injuries are a possibility, in addition to health hazards including an increased risk for obesity and heart attack in women. Though diet an exercise are important pieces of the puzzle, doctors and experts agree

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that one of the simplest things one can do for their health and as well as appearance is to simply get enough rest.

Perfect Your Beauty Regimen You don’t have to cake on make-up and process your hair to keep a youthful appearance. Regular skin and hair care can do wonders to help women look and feel younger, and with so many beauty innovations available today, it is easy for women to look good and feel good.

For most of us, a simple regimen of cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing and using protection against the sun is all we need to keep a youthful glow. Some, however, prefer to take extra steps to pamper themselves and alleviate more serious skin issues such as sunspots and wrinkles.

Fortunately, these procedures can often be done simply and noninvasively at many local spas.

Ology Spa, with two locations at Clarian North and Clarian West Hospitals, offers a full range of spa treatments in a hospital setting. Ology Spa combines “western medicine and eastern spa rituals” in a hospital setting. “We offer the full gamut of what can be done,” says Dr. Barry Eppley, plastic surgeon and one of the co-founders of Ology Spa. “[We have] the usual spa treatments, as well as hydrotherapy, aesthetic laser and light micropigmentation, hair and tattoo removals, acupuncture and chiropractic services, as well as weight loss and anti-aging therapy.”

Ology Spa does offer more intensive treatments as well (see sidebar). Full details of services offered are available online at ologyspa.com.

If you’ve been neglecting number one for too long, it’s time to throw off that shiny, super mom cape and get back some of that youthful vigor.

Instead of super mom, it’s time to play ‘wonder woman’ for a while. In the Indianapolis area, there are unlimited options for moms who need to get back in touch with the woman inside or just spend a little time pampering themselves. Number one on every woman’s list should be to stay healthy; not just for her family, but also for herself.

Rebecca Todd is a freelance writer and author of the book "What's the Point? -- Looking for Logic in Modern America."

Going the extra mile For busy mommies looking to add polish to perfection, there are many local options for additional procedures and programs to regain a youthful appearance. In addition to traditional spa treatments, Ology Spa offers a full range of surgical procedures in addition to spa treatments. In office procedures include, but are not limited to, botox, scar revisions and “SmartLipo,” or laser-assisted liposuction, SmartLipo is done by inserting a tiny fiber optic cable, and using laser light directed into the targeted area during the liposuction procedure. The laser light melts the fat cells into a liquid, which can then be suctioned away, thus causing less pain and bruising and a quicker recovery period.

Hamilton Facial Plastic Surgery focuses on only facial plastic procedures and treatments. According to surgeon Dr. Mark Hamilton, “By focusing solely on procedures involving the head and neck, our goal is to provide an expert level of care and knowledge to all our patients.”

Hamilton FPS also offers a full range of skin care products as well as aesthetic services such as facials, microdermabrasion and laser treatments.

H e a lt h & W e lln e ss

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pediatric health

Six Weeks for a Healthy 2011

Small Changes Can Net Big Results

Many of us are inspired by the "New Year, New You" slogans, but past bad habits will return unless we make long term changes. Step one is to check with your doctor to discuss any limitations to your food and exercise plan. Step two: grab your calendar, and let's get started.

Week one: Keep a food diary. Write down everything that you eat and drink and all of your exercise time for at least one week. The truth about our habits will be revealed.

The key here is complete honesty.

Week two: Modify your fluids. Water is key to weight loss as it f lushes toxins from the body and improves hormonal and digestive signals. Start decreasing your caffeine and wean yourself from coffee and all sodas, drink mixes and f lavored waters.

Week three: Overhaul breakfast. Skipping breakfast is associated with 300% risk of obesity. Add in a small amount of lean protein, start eliminating sugars and artif icial sweeteners from your diet. Skip the OJ and eat the whole fruit instead.

Week 4: Start your exercise program. Begin with 30 minutes a day. Start slowly and alternate activities to prevent muscle overload. We lose both muscle mass and f lexibility as we age, so add in weights or resistance bands and stretch before and after your workout.

Week 5: Overhaul lunch. Time to brownbag it. You'll save both calories and dollars. Treat yourself to a cup of green tea at the bookstore and check out Rena Tosco's "The Eat Clean Diet" for ideas of what to pack in your cooler.

Week 6: Overhaul dinner. Sit down and plan ten meals of foods that are healthy, low calorie and low in sugars and that you enjoy. Preplanning will help you stay on track.

At the end of week six, repeat your food diary to see your progress and make adjustments.

Apply the 80/20 rule: eat healthy eighty percent of the time in order to allow for the occasional night out or special treat.

Eating and exercise habits come from decades of beliefs and conditioning, so be gentle with yourself. Instituting small changes will take you a long way toward your goal. Be your own cheerleader and by this time next year you'll be celebrating a healthy "New You." Angela LaSalle, MD is board certified in family medicine and practices integrative medicine with Indiana Health Group in Carmel, IN. 317-843-9922. www.angelalasallemd.com INDYSCHILD.COM 11

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pediatric health

Knowing Your Child's Skin

Common (and Uncommon) Childhood Skin Conditions it is inherited, her baby sister “I don’t remember having it, and my parents didn’t say anything,” Tiffany says, so she had no idea what was Tamara also has the condition. happening to her baby. “When I had it, they didn’t know “I actually grew out of it when what it was.”

I was two, but ever y case is different,” Tiffany says – her With Tamara, they were able to prescreen for EB, and daughters could have EB their Tiffany had a C-section. entire lives.

Tiffany plans to organize a walk or similar event this year There is no treatment or cure for to help raise awareness about EB. Both girls were also the girls. Tiffany relies on needles involved in a study last year at Children’s Memorial Hospital to drain the blisters, antibiotics in Chicago to develop a topical treatment to help reduce and other topical creams to try EB’s effects. to prevent infections when the blisters burst, and both girls are Dr. Anita Haggstrom is the director of pediatric dermatology on prescription painkillers – at Indiana University, and one of the girls’ doctors. “They’re Oxycontin for MaKayla, Tylenol complicated, so they see a lot of people,” Dr. Haggstrom says. with codeine for Tamara.

“They’re in constant pain all the time,” she says, and she worries about the possibilities of addiction and the girls eventually needing stronger drugs because Five-year-old MaKayla Jordan can’t wait to their bodies have gotten used to their current painkillers. start kindergarten next year. Her mother, Tiffany, is a bit more apprehensive. In addition to the usual parental When MaKayla was born, she had no skin on her hands or concerns, MaKayla has epidermolysis bullosa, a skin feet – blisters there had burst from the force of being pushed condition that causes blisters to form on her body. Because through the birth canal.

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Fortunately, EB is rare – but there are plenty of more common, and less severe, skin conditions that aff lict children.

“Acne’s the number-one reason I see kids in the off ice,” said dermatologist Beth Brogan, adding that it can start as young as 8, but peaks in the teen years.

“Dermatitis” refers to any inf lammation of the skin from contact dermatitis – an allergy-like reaction to things like

poison ivy/sumac/oak – to atopic dermatitis, a form of common in infants, generally not itchy or eczema that Dr. Brogan says affects about one in ten kids, uncomfortable and is gone by age 6 months to 1 year. causing red, itchy dry patches.

“These are kids that just have sensitive skin to certain “It’s the same thing that causes adults to have environmental factors,” she says. “About 90 percent of kids dandruff,” Dr. Brogan says, recommending an ol ive oi l massage, fol lowed by grow out of their atopic dermatitis.” shampooing.

While many skin conditions are not harmful or go away on their own, Dr. Brogan says certain factors are cause for Heat rash, which manifests as small red or concern – if there are blisters, or a fever accompanies the pink pimples, is just what it sounds like – a rash. Scarlet fever, for example, is strep throat combined baby is too warmly dressed, or too close to heat source. Removing the extra clothing or with a f ine red sandpaper-textured rash. the heat source should quickly resolve the problem.

Allison Tyra is a graduate of Indiana “The last time I saw it was in my own son,” Dr. Brogan says.

University's School of Journalism. An Indianapolis Besides bacterial and viral, a skin condition can also be native, she spends most of her time freelancing for As anyone who’s read “Little Women” knows, used to be fungal (and treated with anti-fungals), like ringworm – an various Midwest-based publications, watching too fatal. Fortunately, antibiotics can now cure scarlet fever, but itchy red patch that turns into a ring with raised, blistery or much Glee/Grey's Anatomy and giving into her cats' demands scaly edges. It can be passed between humans and animals for attention. if ignored, it can lead to serious complications. from skin-to-skin contact, Another fever-related condition is Roseola, a viral infection or by sharing things like caused by the human herpes virus types 6 and 7 and very spor t s equ ipment a nd common in children 6-months- to 2-years-old. A high fever towels. is followed by a pinkish-red rash on the abdomen.

“It’s caused by the same Hives is also often a reaction to a viral infection, or possibly fungus that causes athletes new medications, and usually goes away on its own. Warts, foot,” Dr. Brogan says. on the other hand, are caused by HPV. They are not inherently harmful, and can be taken care of at home with It’s a lso impor tant to a salicylic acid formula like Compound W, or at a doctor’s maintain booster shots for things like chicken pox, off ice with liquid nitrogen.

Dr. Brogan warns, so that Dr. Haggstrom says that joint pain or swelling can also situations like September’s outbreak among Zionsville accompany a rash, and is cause for a visit to the doctor.

High School students don’t Thankfully, many conditions are fairly benign – cradle happen again. cap, which causes scaliness and redness on the scalp, is

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pediatric health

Know the Truth About Child Abuse Facts About Child Abuse May Be Shocking * * *

Poor hygiene When it comes to child abuse, there is a lot abused. According to Dr. Coffey, it could be your voice and intervention that is the one thing that we don’t know.

Craves affection saves a child.

Physical or emotional delays For example, many people believe that child abuse is not very prevalent. But, according to Shannon Coffey, M.D., co-medical director of the Child So, what can you do?

Sexual: Pain/swelling or bruising/bleeding of Protection Team at Peyton Manning Children’s First of all, know the signs and symptoms of child genital area Hospital at St. Vincent, the unfortunate truth is that abuse. Dr. Coffey has provided a list of some of the with 109,000 suspected cases last year in Indiana most common effects or behaviors associated with Inappropriate sexual play or acting out (and those are only the reported ones), child abuse physical abuse, neglect and sexual abuse.

High-risk behaviors is far from rare. In fact, a breakdown of the number of confirmed cases translates into two to three child Suicide attempts victims in every Indiana classroom.

Physical: Emotional delays Unexplained bruises (in various stages of healing) Others want to believe that child abuse happens, but Secondly, if you suspect a child is being abused or “not in my neighborhood.” Again, not true. Child neglected, call the Department of Child Services at Unexplained fractures, lacerations or abuse crosses all geographic, economic, educational 1-800-800-5556. Your call can be anonymous, and abrasions and racial levels. the hotline is open 24/7.

Burns by cigarettes

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And when it comes to sexual abuse, there’s a Evidence of delayed or inappropriate treatment for injuries misperception that it really only happens to girls.

While it’s true that sexual abuse is more prevalent Self-destructive or violent behavior with girls (or, at least there are more reported cases Abnormal amount of absences involving girls), statistics show boys are very much at risk, as well. In fact, one in every four to six boys are sexually abused.

Neglect: Lack of supervision Perhaps the most damaging myth people believe is Regularly hungry/hoards food that there’s nothing they can do to help a child being

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14 INDY’S CHILD * JANUARY 2011

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and after-diagnosis care and support,” Dr. Coffey shares.

How to order: You can order the plate by requesting it at your neighborhood Bureau of Motor Vehicles.

If renewing your license plate by mail or online, simply indicate on the renewal form that you would like to purchase the Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent plate.

Cost: The cost of the plate is $40 annually. $25 will benefit the Child Protection Team at Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent.

Drive out child abuse Another way you can help child abuse victims is by ordering a Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at Questions? Call 317-233-6000, or visit the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles.

St.Vincent license plate.

“The monies from the sale of plates support the hospital’s Child Protection Team, which provides all aspects of child abuse care, from prevention, education and community outreach, to diagnosis

Shannon

Coffey, M.D., co-medical director of the Child Protection Team at Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent

H e a lt h & W e lln e ss

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pediatric health

Beauty of Winter Only Skin Deep Managing Eczema in Children

mattress covers on beds. Wash mattress covers weekly and Sledding and snowmen might be on your child’s dry with high heat. mind as the calendar turns to January. But winter’s cold temperatures and dry air can wreak havoc on delicate young skin—especially if your child suffers from a condition known By taking these steps, you can help protect your child’s skin from as eczema. Proper skin care and medication can help alleviate winter’s wrath while enjoying all of the season’s charms. symptoms and prevent f lare-ups—during the winter months and year-round.

For more information, please visit rileyhospital.org.

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition in which the skin is dry, itchy and inf lamed. Between 10 and 15 percent of people have eczema. The condition is most common in children and generally appears during the f irst year.

Anita Haggstrom is director of Pediatric Dermatology, Riley Hospital for Children

Symptoms include patches of red, scaly and itchy skin. In infants, eczema often appears on the face, stomach, arms and legs. In toddlers, it frequently appears on the insides of the knees and elbows.

Looking beneath the surface Eczema is not contagious. Nor is it curable. It’s a chronic condition. However, practicing good skin care and understanding the triggers that cause eczema to flare will help you manage your child’s condition.

No single factor causes eczema. Environmental and food allergens may be important triggers in some children.

Genetics also may play a role. Children diagnosed with eczema generally have a family member with the condition or related disorders such as asthma, hay fever or other allergies.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, about 40 percent of children with eczema will outgrow the condition by the time they’re young adults. But relapses may occur later in life. Seeking medical treatment early is the best course of action.

Tips for managing eczema Your pediatrician, family physician or dermatologist will determine the best treatment approach for your child’s eczema. Most often, this will include a combination of gentle skin care, lifestyle modifications and medication, including a topical steroid.

Good skin care and lifestyle modifications will help lessen the frequency and severity of symptoms. These practices include the following:

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Hydrating the skin with frequent soaking baths.

- Soak your child in a lukewarm bath for 10 to 20 minutes every day.

- Use a mild, unscented soap for bathing.

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- Pat dry with a cotton towel.

After bathing, apply a thick, unscented moisturizer (such as Vaseline®, Cetaphil®, Vanicream® or Aquaphor®).

Applying moisturizer twice daily, including once after bathing.

Using mild, fragrance-free soaps and detergents.

Wearing cotton clothing.

Preventing or minimizing environmental triggers, including dust mites and pet dander. For example, use INDYSCHILD.COM 15

H e a lt h & W e lln e ss

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women's health

Understanding Cervical Health

Knowing the Facts Can Be Life Changing at Any Age At only a few square centimeters, the cervix is a small and often overlooked body part, but cervical health is an important concern that, if ignored, can lead to serious repercussions.

Over the past 40 years, cer vical cancer deaths have dropped dramatically in the United States, but thousands of women still die ever y year and thousands more are diagnosed and treated.

O f t he 12 0 t y pe s of t he hu m a n papil loma vir us, 15 have been found to be oncogen ic, or cancer-causing.

Of those, 70 percent of cervical cancer cases are caused by types 16 and 18, says Dr. Elizabeth Fer r ies-Rowe, assistant professor of obstetrics and g ynecolog y with the IU med school, and the chief of obstetrics and g ynecolog y with Wishard Health Services.

The vaccines are recommended for ages 9 to 26. Dr. Hubert Fornalik, a gynecologic oncologist with St. Vincent, says the best time to get any vaccine is before potential infection, and therefore, before sexual contact if possible.

“I have three daughters. I’ll get them vaccinated when they’re old enough,” Dr. Ferries-Rowe says of her 2-, 6- and 8-yearolds.

Dr. Fornalik’s daughters are still a bit young to be vaccinated, as well – the oldest is 5.

“I’ve seen enough patients with cancer,” he says; the youngest patient he’s ever had die was 18. “That’s the key – to catch those people early.”

The vaccines are the surest way to prevent HPV transmission, Dr. Fornalik says, as it can pass from close genital contact, even The pr imar y d if ference bet ween the without intercourse and even if the man is two HPV vaccines on the market is that wearing a condom.

Cervarix prevents only types 16 and 18, while Gardasil also prevents types 6 and Some people may be reluctant to have their 11, which cause (often precancerous) child vaccinated because HPV is a sexuallygenital warts. transmitted infection, but Dr. Ferries-

16 INDY’S CHILD * January 2011

Rowe doubts that the vaccine increases “It takes a long time, from the initial sexual activity. infections of HPV to cancer,” Dr. Fornalik says. “We can diagnose it early, and we can Males can also get the vaccine to help treat it early.” prevent the spread of the virus.

Other potentia l r isk factors include “I think it’s really benef icial to provide it to immunosuppression – such as HIV/AIDS men, too,” Dr. Fornalik says. “Most women or chronic steroid use for another condition – and smoking. In advanced cases, there get their HPV from men.” may be abnormal non-menstrual bleeding, A slight association has been found between lower-back pain, bleeding during or after HPV and penile cancer, though this link intercourse and blood in the stool or urine. is not nearly as strong as its connection to Many women are less inclined to come in cervical cancer. for an exam on the years they don’t need An estimated 23 million women, and plenty a Pap smear, but the exam should also of men, in the United States have HPV, but include a clinical breast exam, listening to only 15 of the more than 120 HPV types are the heart and lungs, checking the thyroid and abdomen, updating the patient’s chart not carcinogenic. and checking on any prescriptions.

“The vast majority of women will test positive,” Dr. Ferries-Rowe says. “Many “Most people assume that any time a people who have HPV don’t have abnormal speculum goes in, they’re getting a Pap smear, and that’s not the case,” Dr. FerriesPap smears.”

Rowe says.

After the vaccine, a Pap smear is the most effective recourse in f ighting cer vical The pelvic exam includes a look-and-feel cancer. A single Pap smear actually contains approach – using the speculum to visually samples of three different segments – the examine, and a bi-manual (two-f ingered) outer ectocervix, the inner endocervix, and tactile examination. Dr. Fornalik says some the transformation zone between them, as precancerous lesions can be seen with the cancers can originate in either end. Unless speculum exam. a woman has certain risk factors, like a previous abnormal Pap result, she only Though uncommon as a cause of infertility needs to get a Pap smear every two years in women, problems in the cervix can make in her 20s and every three years in her 30s conception and pregnancy more diff icult.

Treatment for conditions like cer vical and beyond.

cancer can have the same effect.

Over the past 40 years, cervical cancer deaths have

“The usua l dose of radiation is high enough to sterilize ovaries,” Dr. Fornalik says.

THousands of women still die every year

dropped dramatically in the United States, but

and thousands more are diagnosed and treated.

Cer vical dysplasia is an abnormal and often precancerous growth of cells on the cervical wall; excising, or cutting away, these growths can damage the cervix’s mucus glands. Because the mucus in the cervix creates a sort of reservoir for sperm between the vagina and uterus, too little mucus or too-thick mucus can make it diff icult for the sperm to pass through. This is one way birth control pills help prevent pregnancy – in addition to af fecting ovulation, the progesterone in the pills thickens the cervical mucus, making it diff icult for sperm to make it through to the uterus.

Whatever the problem, knowledge is an important tool in keeping yourself healthy – your whole self.

Allison

Tyra is a graduate of Indiana University's School of Journalism. An Indianapolis native, she spends most of her time freelancing for various Midwest-based publications, watching too much Glee/Grey's Anatomy and giving into her cats' demands for attention.

During pregnancy, there is a risk of cervical insuff iciency (or “incompetency” ), in which the cervix is not strong enough to hold the fetus inside the uterus.

“It’s usually identif ied in one pregnancy and treated in the next,” Dr. FerriesRowe says.

The most common solution is a procedure known as a cerclage, which acts as sort of drawstring to hold the cervix open, but tight enough to support the fetus.

INDYSCHILD.COM 17

18 INDY’S CHILD * January 2011

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museum note

A Year Full of Fun at the Children's Museum What to Expect in 2011

5…4…3…2…1…Happy New Year! As the New Year begins, many new and exciting possibilities lay ahead. This is often a time when we look ahead to the coming year with excitement and interest in all that lies before us. At The Children’s Museum, we are also looking forward to the coming year with excitement for all the upcoming exhibits and events we will be offering this year.

New Exhibits In 2011, several new and exciting exhibits will debut at the museum including Dora & Diego–Let’s Explore!, Incredible Costumes from Film and TV, and National Geographic Treasures of the Earth. These three different and unique exhibits are sure to be fun and educational experiences for your entire family.

Your preschooler will delight in exploring the worlds of Dora & Diego as they play along and learn how to be a good friend.

Just in time for spring break, Incredible Costumes from Film and TV will offer families a look at some famous costumes from both the big and small screen. And debuting in June, the newest permanent exhibit at The Children’s Museum – National Geographic Treasures of the Earth – will provide families a look at the fascinating world of archeology through three unique excavations: the tomb of Seti I in Egypt, the Terra Cotta Warriors in China, and the underwater excavation of the shipwreck of Captain Kidd in the Dominican Republic.

Programs for the Entire Family Was your New Year resolution this year to spend more time as a family? In addition to all the museum exhibits and events

Member Play Late Evenings allow members a chance to enjoy the entire museum during the evening hours.

These evenings are a benefit of museum membership and are offered at no additional Or, for a different hands-on experience, join the museum’s cost. family dinosaur dig that takes place each summer in the South Dakota badlands. This trip provides families an opportunity to Museum take part in a real dinosaur fossil hunt and dig! Family program Memberships topics change throughout the year – more information on topics Memberships are a great and prices for these programs may be found online at www. way to enjoy The Children’s childrensmuseum.org.

Museum year-round. For one low price, your family can visit the museum as many times throughout the year as you Evening Hours If your family wants to visit the museum, but often can’t make it would like and stay as long as you want. This is a great way to take during regular museum hours, several evening hours are offered. advantage of everything the museum offers in a year – and with The first Thursday of each month, visitors are welcomed during discounts on many of the museum offerings, memberships really Target Free Family Night from 4-8 p.m. During these monthly pay for themselves. hours, the museum opens free of charge thanks to the generosity of Target. Each month features activities centered on a different This year, there are lots of ways to take advantage of your trip theme – from exhibit openings such as Dora & Diego–Let’s to The Children’s Museum. We are excited by everything we Explore!, to seasonal topics such as Fall Festival, themes vary are offering you and look forward to seeing you this year at The throughout the year and offer new and interesting ways to explore Children’s Museum of Indianapolis!

The Children’s Museum.

Jaclyn Falkenstein is public relations In addition to the monthly Target Free Family Nights, special coordinator at the Children's Museum of evening hours are also offered just for members. Held quarterly, Indianapolis. taking place throughout the year, The Children’s Museum offers programs the entire family can participate in together. Programs include topics such as Beyond the Paleo Window – a look at the world of paleontology in the museum’s Paleo Prep Lab, Girls in Science – learning how science helps us change the world, and Let’s Explore! – discovering adventures within the museum.

INDYSCHILD.COM 19

EncouraGinG Arts & After-School Enrichment Local Arts and Enrichment Programs Benefit Youth

20 INDY’S CHILD * JANUARY 2011

Given recent budget cuts for many schools, the opportunity for children and teens to participate in arts, enrichment and physical education programs as part of their school's daily programming has dwindled. Because these programs have become low-priority or even nonexistent within school's curriculum, a spark of interest in a child can often go unkindled.

may not be taught through core academics in a traditional Fortunately for local youth, many organizations offer affordable classroom setting. classes and workshops in arts, enrichment and physical education to supplement regular classroom curriculum. Whether your child Similarly, a positive relationship between physical activity and is interested in music, art, karate or football, there’s something for academic performance has been explored through several studies everyone in the Indianapolis area. conducted throughout the U.S. These studies suggest that the more a child participates in physical activity, the greater his Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre (formerly Indianapolis Civic academic performance. This is related to the fact that youth Theatre) offers vocal, dance and acting classes for ages three to A strong arts curriculum is essential to a well-rounded education. participating in physical activity have shown increased brain teen through its Jr. Civic Education Program. Classes present Exposure to the arts through participation and practice creates function, higher concentration levels, increased self-esteem and students the opportunity to explore their creativity, improve lessons in abstract thinking, commitment, and hard work that better behavior. self-confidence and expand their skill sets with the support of Many recent studies have confirmed that children involved in the arts also show improved social growth and the ability to work cooperatively with others. In addition, studies such as the recent “Learning, Arts and the Brain,” a three-year, multi-university study conducted by The Dana Foundation, confirm a link between arts education and cognitive development including memory, organization, motivation and attention to detail.

Five Seasons Family Sports Clubs Bring this to your new club and enjoy yourself for a day!

There will be no guest charge when you bring this in!

Five Seasons is an unparalleled experience that solves the athletics and fitness needs of an individual while providing country club service and social programming. Five Seasons is an exclusive club that has many things to offer you, your family and friends. These include:

Poolside Restaurant Café & Bar Volleyball/Sand Volleyball Racquetball & Squash Banquet Rooms Indoor & Outdoor Heated Pools Indoor & Outdoor Tennis (including clay courts) Trotter/Hammer Strength Free Weight Equipment Cardiovascular Equipment and Cardio Theater Massage Therapy Indoor & Outdoor Basketball Spinning Classes

Free Towels and Lockers Kids Zone Indoor Running Track Nursery/Day Camps Aerobics Zumba Classes Whirlpool/Steam/Sauna Beauty Salon/Spa Tanning Personal Training Yoga / Pilates Kickboxing

And much more…

Five Seasons Family Sports Club 1300 East 96th Street Indianapolis, IN 46240 317-582-1550 Fiveseasonsfamilysportsclub. com

INDYSCHILD.COM 21

their peers and theatre professionals. Brent E. Marty, Director of Music and Education for Civic, stresses the importance of the arts as part of a child’s educational experience. “Beyond the myriads of studies that have been done showing that young students exposed to the arts (whether through performance or actual engagement) will unquestionably improve learning skills, there is something about observing the moment when a child is moved by an artistic experience that leaves no doubt in my mind that [the arts] play a vital part of every school day,” he says. “All one has to do is attend an arts event with children. Observe their excitement and level of curiosity. Then talk to their teachers or sponsors. Ask them what this sort of experience does for their classroom or group. I would wager that any observations will tell how important it is for young people to have the opportunity to experience their culture, their world and their own lives through this special lens. It can truly change a life.”

Beginning in January, Jr. Civic offers Winter Intensive classes for kindergarten through grade 9. February marks the beginning of the very popular Musical Theatre Saturdays class, which introduces children grades 1 through 9 to the various styles of music, dance and acting employed in American musical theatre. For dates, times or more information on all Jr. Civic classes, visit civictheatre.org.

Personal Trainer Tod Esquivel hosts a plethora of fitness camps and courses for children. His Indy Fit Kids (indyfitkids.com), available through Cardinal Fitness Centers downtown, at Eagle Creek and in Castleton, is a place for kids ages 5-15 to “get healthy by making better self-esteem, fitness, eating and mental choices.” Programs are individually designed and focus on exercise and making nutritional food choices. Family fitness and personal, in-home programs are also available.

Spectrum sports is a great place for kids to enrich themselves with physical activity. From two years old and up, kids with all abilities are able to participate in physical activity. Spectrum offers many programs that will not only get kids moving but will also help to build a child's confidence!

No matter what your child’s sports interest, YMCA of Greater Indianapolis has it all. With over a dozen locations around town, families should have no problem finding a sports program close to home. In addition, The YMCA offers a program known as SPARK (Sports, Play and Recreation for Kids), an after school program for schools that have had to cut back on their physical education programs, that is dedicated to improving the quantity and quality of physical activity for children. The SPARK recreation program promotes structured, quality, daily activity for kids and offers children the opportunity to stay active in a non-competitive environment, have fun and develop a life long love of active recreation.

The Indianapolis Art Center offers classes for all age groups in everything from digital photography to glass blowing and acting. Mommy and Me classes are even available for children as young as age 2. “Art education has many values and benefits,” says Anne Minnich-Beck, Associate Director of Education at the Art Center. “The arts promote creativity as well as provide affirmation and help to develop enhanced self-esteem and self-confidence. The arts also teach flexibility and the ability to learn new things as well as providing the experience of being competent at doing something well just for its own sake. The arts allow students to touch a private and personal sense of self-expression which then, in turn, enhances all areas of their daily lives.” A full listing of courses is available at IndplsArtCenter.org.

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis offers educational enrichment programs in the form of Family Outreach Nights, wherein instructors from the museum travel to schools for a family evening of interactive learning. The programs are for children in grades K-5 and their parents (all outreach programs are family-oriented), and provide learning exercises about water, dinosaurs and fossils, glass art, modern-day Egypt, and health and fitness. More information is available online at childrensmuseum.org/teachers/outreach.htm.

Adamson’s Karate has 6 locations around town in Noblesville, Carmel, Zionsville, Brownsburg, Avon and Greenwood. Classes are available for ages 4 through adult. According to John Adamson, one of the Head Instructors of Adamson’s Karate, beyond the physical activity of karate, the focus is on building confidence. “It’s a balance,” he says. “There’s a balance between the physical and character development. There’s value in doing things the right way, feeling the success and building selfdiscipline. With that comes self-confidence.” Information on classes is available at adamsonkarate.com or by calling 317-844-0657.

Mad Science offers a large selection of after-school, preschool, summer and vacation workshops. Created by two teenager brothers in Montreal, Canada in 1985, Mad Science now has over 200 locations in 20 countries. The idea behind the franchise is that with declining school budgets, science is often neglected. A Washington Post article recently reported that, according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress, more than 80 percent of high school students in the United States lacked basic scientific proficiency. Mad Science strives to evoke enthusiasm for science and fill the need for quality science education. After school enrichment classes are offered where children participate in hands-on activities such as building rockets, periscopes, Mad Science putty and much more. In-class field trips are also offered to enhance teachers’ lesson plans. More information is available at MadScience.org.

Though so many recent studies agree that the arts, enrichment courses and physical education courses absolutely enhance cognitive abilities and confidence in children, the main reason for children to participate in these types of activities is to explore new avenues for growth.

Far from suggesting over-scheduling your child, the point here is to fan the flames of creativity and ability in children who don’t always get the opportunity to explore their areas of interest in an average school day.

Rebecca Todd is a freelance writer and author of the book "What's the Point? -- Looking for Logic in Modern America."

Check out our Arts & Enrichment Features in 2011!!!

Indys' Child will be highlighting local arts and enrichment in our January, April and August issues.

To advertise your arts or enrichment organization, contact Jennica at Jennica@IndysChild.com 22 INDY’S CHILD * January 2011

Arts & Enrichment Guide Sports Team Witsken Tennis Address: 1130 Racquet Club North Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46260 Contact: Rick Witsken/Director Phone: 317-848-2023 Email: info@teamwitsken.com www.teamwitsken.com Team Witsken Tennis teaches classes and private lessons and offers tournament play to kids and adults of all ages. Players of all skill levels are welcome! No experience necessary to start developing the skills necessary for this life-long sport! Contact us for more information!

Music Kindermusik by Musical Beginnings 606 S. Union Street, Westfield, IN 46074 Kim Bemis 317-867-3077 kimusik@musicalbeginnings.com www.musicalbeginnings.com Music & Instrument Performance Locations in Hamilton, Boone & Northern Marion Counties Kindermusik is a music and movement program for children, ages 0-7. You’ll play, listen and dance

to music that will impact your child in profound ways. That’s because every song, story and twostep has a carefully chosen purpose in this creative curriculum - one that’s designed to stimulate and strengthen the vital neural wiring taking place in your child’s mind right now. A Kindermusik educator will guide you every step of the way so you know how each activity contributes to your child’s overall growth and development. You can learn more about Kindermusik classes by browsing our site or calling our office.

Teresa Siegrist Piano Studio Address: 11653 Bradford Place (Near 116th and Keystone), Carmel, IN 46033 Contact: Teresa Siegrist Phone: 317-844-1583 Email: was11653@aol.com Piano teacher with years of experience offering morning, afternoon, and weekend lessons for ages 4 to adult. Home schoolers welcome. Private piano lessons also offered for students with highfunctioning autism and Asperger's Syndrome.

Students learn in a very positive, nurturing atmosphere as they progress at their own pace.

References available.

"Voices in Time" Guitar Lessons & Singalong Sessions Address: 6516 N. Cornell Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46230

Contact: Janet Gilray Phone: 317-919-6188 or 251-7363 Email: jgilray@sbcglobal.net Website: www.voicesintime.org Giving a Guitar as a Gift? Include an "I Can Play!"

Lesson Certificate with (3) 1/2 hour sessions for only $65. Plan now to host your Holiday Party Sing-along with Ms. Melody, our Award Winning Songleader & Guitarist . Choose from American Girl, Cowboy Christmas, or Old-Fashioned Caroling themes. As little as $2 each entertains your guests with all age fun. Kid parties, family, church, school and social club events. Call Janet today for more info and 10% off booking with mention of this ad!

Art & Enrichment Draw with Adam Seif, children's author Address: 2219 Tam-O-Shanter Court, Carmel, IN 46032 Contact: Adam Seif Phone: 317-538-6995 Email: adam10spro@hotmail.com Learn to draw 3D with children's author, Adam Seif! Classes are forming in Carmel. For dates and class pricing, call Adam at (317) 538-6995. Children that attend will get Adam's newest comic book: All About Spencer! Just want to order an autographed copy of the comic book? It is only $5.

Indianapolis Art Center Address: 820 E. 67th St., Indianapolis, IN 46220 Phone: 317-255-2464 Email: info@indplsartcenter.org Creativity enriches every aspect of life and is integral to cognitive growth. The Art Center offers quality art classes for toddlers through teens in a variety of art mediums, including glass blowing (ages 10 and up), ceramics, sculpture, jewelry making, fiber arts, painting and drawing. Or take a class with your kids!

JCC 6701 Hoover Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46260 317-251-9467 lbaier@JCCindy.org www.JCCindy.org The JCC welcomes families and individuals of all faiths and backgrounds. More than three generations have grown up in the JCC’s early childhood education and camp programs. Thousands walk through the JCC’s doors each week to work out in the modern fitness center, participate in leagues and exercise classes, swim, enjoy family programs and so much more. The JCC – Good for life!

YOUR LISTING HERE! Contact Jennica Jennica@IndysChild.com

INDYSCHILD.COM 23

d l i h e xceptional C In life, there’s a natural order to things. First you walk, then you run. You learn your letters, then you read. You receive a medical diagnosis, then you receive a treatment plan. Unless, that is, if your child is diagnosed with autism. Parents who receive a diagnosis of autism for their child often get the news and are left to discern the best course of treatment for themselves. It can understandably be overwhelming. Thanks to the National Autism Center and others, however, there is some help for parents wading in the sea of touted treatments.

hippotherapy to specialized diets, even interventions involving bottles of energy. Albeit none of these appear under the established category of treatments according to the National Standards Project.

One new type of intervention has made its way to the area. Called Brain Balance, it is a national program of learning centers. Brad Ralston, D.C. D.A.C.B.N., executive director of the Brain Balance in Indianapolis, says it is a brain-based learning center that provides a treatment, not a therapy, for various kids with special needs, including those with high-functioning autism.

Patients come in for three one-hour sessions per week “There are so many treatments that are suggested to for 12 weeks. parents that it’s hard to know which ones are likely to produce benefit. That’s one of the reasons we did the Ralston explains the theory behind Brain Balance, or National Standards Project,” says Susan Wilczynski, more generically hemisphere integration therapy, is Ph.D., B.C.B.A., executive director of the National that behavioral problems are caused by imbalances on the right side of the brain and learning problems are Autism Center. caused by imbalances on the left side. The treatment The National Standards Project offers families a focuses on the child’s weaknesses to essentially bring comprehensive analysis of treatments that have been the identified weak skills up to par with typical peers. shown to be effective for children and adolescents with autism. Published in September 2009, Wilczynski “Our core mission statement is optimal function for says the center does its best to update the information the child in the physical, cognitive and social realms. every three to four years. Currently the report, We aren’t saying eliminate autism, but take the child which can be found at www.nationalautismcenter. and make them function at their maximum in these org, points to 11 treatments field experts consider to three areas by balancing their weaknesses,” he says. be established interventions and to produce beneficial Brain Balance isolates its patient’s weaknesses and outcomes for people on the autism spectrum. Most works intensively on those things. At this time, no of these established treatments fall within the realm research is published on the efficacy of hemisphere of behavioral therapy. This concurs with the U.S. integration therapy, though the center can provide Surgeon General’s support of applied behavior analysis anecdotal evidence. as an effective autism therapy as well.

Tread Lightly into Treatments Tim Courtney, M.S., Defining Behavioral Therapy Laura Grant, M.A., B.C.B.A., clinical director at Little Star Center, says B.C.B.A., behavior analyst with the Applied Behavior he is seeing an increase in alternative therapies being Center for Autism, describes applied behavior analysis offered to autism patients. “There are more and more as the applied science of human behavior. She says treatments and a lot are hypothesized interventions there are more than 70 years worth of research that that are not yet proven to be effective,” he says. supports the science. Therapists are trained to observe behavior, measure it and analyze the data following Carl Sundberg, Ph.D., B.C.B.A.-D., executive specific environmental changes so they can make director at the Behavior Analysis Center for Autism, decisions based on those data to ensure the most has also seen his fair share of alternative therapies come and go throughout his years as a behavioral progress is being made in the least amount of time. therapist. His advice? If somebody stands to make a “Our goal is to teach behaviors that are going to lot of money and there is no peer reviewed research increase each individual’s quality of life and eliminate that is published to back up its science, parents should likely stay away from it. behaviors that decrease quality of life,” says Grant.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND

Autism Treatment & Therapy 24 INDY’S CHILD * January 2011

Rather, it is his experience that the main treatment is teaching. “As of now, there’s no magic pill,” he says. Proven interventions are all therapies that involve teaching something, he points out. Social skills need to be taught, occupational therapy and speech therapy In addition to applied behavior analysis, other common teach things, and so on. interventions for children with autism include speech therapy, occupational therapy and social skills therapy, Both Courtney and Sundberg recommend families which are all behavioral interventions that use core look at the website for the Association for Science behavior principals to shape their learner’s behavior. and Autism (www.asatonline.org) for further research They often go hand-in-hand with applied behavior into autism interventions. “That [website] covers just about every treatment out there and the science that analysis. backs it. So you don’t have to make up your own A Balancing Act While behavioral therapy is well mind,” says Sundberg. regarded, it is not the only treatment option available for autism. Not by a long shot. Area families can In other words, tread lightly before buying into a find treatments ranging from sensory integration to treatment.

She advises parents to look for a therapist who is truly versed in behavior analysis and behavior psychology.

It’s also a good idea to get an understanding of their experience and education.

INDYSCHILD.COM 25

Emerging Treatments While applied behavior analysis and related therapies identified in the National Standards Project are currently considered the established forms of intervention, Wilczynski says there are other promising treatments around the corner. Specifically she calls attention to picture exchange communication system (PECS) and augmentative and alternative communication devices (AAC), both of which are available through speech language pathologists in school or healthcare settings. While AAC has been around awhile, PECS is a newer treatment largely developed through the Delaware Autism Program. “Our goal is to identify treatments that are effective so families can have as many choices as possible,” Wilczynski says.

Options, undeniably, will also help families make better decisions on their child’s course of treatment. For instance, many of the treatments that are shown to be effective are time intensive so making that treatment work within a family’s lifestyle can be challenging.

As such, some might choose treatments that have little or no effect but work more conveniently for the family. “It’s important to remember that if there isn’t scientific evidence supporting the treatment, it may work, it may be neutral or it could even produce harm,” Wilczynski says.

26 INDY’S CHILD * January 2011

World-Class Autism Research in Indy’s Backyard In addition to reviewing the National Standards Project, Wilczynski, who spoke last month at the eighth annual Christian Sarkine Autsm Treatment Center conference, recommends families in Indianapolis contact the Department of Psychiatry at the Indiana University School of Medicine. She says they are among the top researchers in the world for the treatment of autism and have published what she describes as some of the most relevant literature on biomedical treatments.

“When working with people who are the top researchers in the world, they are going to help facilitate a conversation on the topic so families can make the best decisions for themselves,” says Wilczynski.

Among the best is Craig Erickson, M.D., chief of the Christian Sarkine Autism Treatment Center at Riley Hospital for Children, who confirms the Christian Sarkine Autism Treatment Center at the IU School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry is a cutting edge research center for new medical treatments.

Several studies are currently underway.

One federally funded project involves an investigational study medication, social skills training, and clinic visits with a child psychiatrist and research staff. Another project is a 24-week parent training research study. Families interested in participating in these or other research

programs need simply call the center directly.

Beyond its research, however, the center offers medication management services, behavioral services, communitybased therapy, supportive counseling, traditional diagnostic interviews and co-treatment therapy models. It’s a resource the community is proud of and families with children who have autism can look to for top-notch help and information.

Prioritizing Data-Driven Therapies As parents research the best interventions for their child with autism and family as a whole, many experts agree it’s important to look for evidence-based treatments that collect data that will track change in symptoms. Data will not only help pinpoint and fine tune interventions that are working, it will help prevent a patient from spinning wheels on an ineffective treatment.

“Irrespective of the treatment you select, in the end you should have data that are showing that it is this and only this treatment that is making the difference,” Wilczynski says.

Carrie Bishop is a freelance writer and mother of two young sons whose daily antics inspire her work and her life. Contact her at freelancewritercarrie@gmail.com.

The 11 Established Treatments According to the National Standards Project: According to the National Standards Project, established treatments “produce beneficial outcomes and are known to be effective for individuals on the autism spectrum. The overwhelming majority of these interventions were developed in the behavioral literature.”

* * * * * * * * * * *

Antecedent Package Behavioral Package

Comprehensive Behavioral Treatment for Young Children Joint Attention Intervention Modeling

Naturalistic Teaching Strategies

Peer Training Package Pivotal Response Treatment Schedules

Self-management

Story- based Intervention Package

The report considers emerging treatments to “have some evidence of effectiveness.”

Identified emerging treatments include:

*

Augmentative and Alternative Communication Device

*

Cognitive Behavioral Intervention Package

*

Developmental Relationship-based Treatment

* * *

*

Exercise

Exposure Package

*

Imitation-based Interaction Initiation Training

* *

Language Training

Massage/Touch Therapy

Multi-component Package

* * * * * * * * * * *

Music Therapy

Peer-mediated Instructional Arrangement Picture Exchange Communication System Reductive Package Scripting

Sign Instruction

Social Communication Intervention Social Skills Package Structured Teaching Technology-based Treatment

Theory of Mind Training

EncouraGinG the Arts

for Children with Special Needs Local Programs Encourage Self-Expression Through Art

an one class teach children with special needs means of self-expression, life skills, coordination and literacy while also bringing guaranteed success? Area art teachers say it’s not only possible, but also standard in art programs. Anne MinnichBeck, associate director of education at the Indianapolis Art Center, says that kids with special needs experience more failures and disappointments in everyday life than their typical peers. Yet art is one sure way they can find success. “In art there’s really no way to do anything wrong. There’s no way to fail... We’ve found that kids with special needs just blossom in our classes,” she says.

The Indianapolis Art Center, which has year-round visual arts programming for ages 2 and up, mainstreams kids with special needs into its programs. “No matter what their challenge, they can go into any of our classes,” says Minnich-Beck. The center makes every effort to accommodate students with special needs so they can fully participate in the class.

Parents will find that the Broad Ripple-based art center teaches a large group of children of varying abilities. In the summer, the center even hires a part-time counselor educated specifically in working with kids who have special needs due to the high demand for their art classes from this unique community.

The art center is not the only artistic outlet for area children. Among several other programs is the longstanding VSA Indiana, which is affiliated with VSA arts, an international educational program of the John F. Kennedy

INDYSCHILD.COM 27

relationship with VSA Indiana as a “wonderful marriage of perspectives. It has been a cross-language exchange and VSA went out of their way to meet our children’s needs. Our connection with our artist in residence, Barb Zech, provided an opportunity to create new friendships and exchange art perspectives. Barb ended up taking a sign language class in order to enhance her ability to work closely with the students.

The program is really a way to bridge two languages through exploring art.” Unfortunately, due to funding issues and other reasons, the six-year teaching partnership is currently on hiatus. Beyond partnering with school art “In art there’s really no way to do anything wrong. teachers like Zwicker and special education teachers, VSA Indiana also conducts training There’s no way to fail... We’ve found that kids with special and professional development for educators on needs just blossom in our classes." —Anne Minnich-Beck, how to better reach students who have special needs. Other programs include its Lolly Project associate director of education at the Indianapolis Art Center in which teaching artists visit sick children in area hospitals, an Urban Artisans program that helps kids with and without special needs transition key. “We serve people with disabilities in an inclusive way,” from high school into the workplace, a comprehensive suite says Holtman. As an example, children who are deaf will of community art courses, and more. work alongside kids who may have autism or are even of typical ability.

Importantly Holtman says art gives VSA “So much of what we do is not about the art. We use high Indiana students opportunities to do what they want to do quality supplies. We are treating our folks with respect and not and make choices they want to make. In the school setting, dumbing it down. The art is a for instance, art can give children the opportunity to be right means of personal exploration and experience something positive that grabs their attention, and development and once we helps get them engaged and serves as a positive reinforcement. all are more self-realized or VSA Indiana master teaching artist Barbara Zech says art actualized, then we are more also teaches children valuable transferable skills. She says that involved in our community while some may see the child as just making art, the child is and more connected to really expressing himself creatively, learning problem solving our community, and the skills, learning responsibility by setting up and cleaning up, community is stronger,” says and getting a grasp on time management. One area school Holtman. Art organizations VSA Indiana has had a long-term relationship with is the and professionals are clearly Indiana School for the Deaf. There, Zech partnered with passionate about what art can art teacher Scotty Zwicker. Zwicker describes the school’s do for children, in particular Center for the Performing Arts. Gayle Holtman, president and CEO of VSA Indiana, firmly believes the arts are valuable means of self-expression, community building and learning for everyone, especially for kids with special needs. “For a lot of our kids who may not be verbal or have limited means of self-expression, the arts are a win-win for them because they can be introduced to the tools and whatever media they are in use those to express something they may never otherwise be able to express,” she says.

Similar to the Indianapolis Art Center, VSA Indiana considers inclusion

those with special needs, and encourage parents to help get their children involved in some sort of art program.

Zwicker, for one, advises parents to take their children to nearby art events and exhibits to help peak their interest in what may lead to great things. “People think that art is just for fun, but, in fact, can become a career for many children. In the last five years, we have had 11 of our graduates pursue majors in art at colleges and tech programs,” he says. Minnich-Beck encourages parents to stop by the Indianapolis Art Center with their child to take a look around. The admission is free seven days a week and there are always exhibitions throughout the building. Parents and kids can even check out what other children are working on by touring the building and classes or by sitting in on a class for an hour and meeting the teacher. Beyond simply getting involved in art programs at school or in the community, Zwicker adds that parents can support their legislators by voting for those who support the arts. “Teachers cannot do it alone. We want parental involvement and creative thinking,” he says. To that end, isn’t creative thinking skills what art can ultimately spur for children?

Carrie Bishop is a freelance writer and mother of two young sons whose daily antics inspire her work and her life.

Contact her at freelancewritercarrie@gmail.com.

Ten Top Ways to Help Build Confidence in a Child with Special Needs with special needs already feel different than * Children others. While self-esteem comes from a child’s own

developing inner strength, parents have the power to help foster and reinforce a positive self image in their child.

* • Provide a loving home.

* • Spend time with your child.

* • Recognize your child’s talents and build on them. * • Involve the child in household chores. * • Give your child choices. * • Complement your child on jobs well done. * • Get your child involved in the arts. * • Give your child opportunities to lead or teach others. * • Allow your child to work in a group setting. * • Consider the classroom setting carefully.

28 INDY’S CHILD * JANUARY 2011

RESOURCES

January 2011 Special Needs Calendar

*

special needs calendar

Check out what’s happening in Indianapolis this month for the special needs community...

Autism Family Resource Center Spanish-Speaking Support Group

Where: Whiskey Creek Woodfire Grill, Kokomo Cost: Free Contact: Mehida Perez at Mehida@dsindiana.org or 317-925-7617, R.S.V.P. to register@dsindiana.org

Cuenta Conmigo Hispanic Parent Group meeting

Down Syndrome Indiana parent network meeting

Contact: Brooke Taflinger at btaflinger@ carmelclayparks.com

Easter Seals Crossroads Parents’ Night Out, North

When: Jan. 19, 6 p.m.

When: Jan. 25, 6 - 8:30 p.m.

When: 3rd Friday of every Where: The Marott Where: St. Luke’s United month, 6-10 p.m.

Special Needs Tae Where: Trinity Wesleyan Community Room, Indianapolis Methodist Church, Indianapolis Kwon Do at the Monon Cost: Free Cost: Free Church (Kids Kastle), Fishers Community Center Contact: Mehida Perez Contact: Mehida Perez Cost: Free Contact: Anna Marie at Mehida@dsindiana.org at Mehida@dsindiana.org Tuesdays and Thursdays When: Karaoke Night at the Monon House at 317-466-2006 or 317-925-7617, R.S.V.P. or 317-925-7617, R.S.V.P. in January, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Community Center to register@dsindiana.org to register@dsindiana.org Where: Monon Community Easter Seals Crossroads When: Jan. 14, 6-7:30 p.m.

Center, Carmel Dads Appreciating Down STAR Autism Support Training Teen Night Out at the Where: Monon Community Parents’ Night Out, West Cost: $84 Syndrome (D.A.D.S.) meeting Center, Carmel Monon Community Center Contact: Brooke When: Jan. 20 and 21, When: 4th Friday Cost: $6 Taflinger at btaflinger@ When: Jan. 11, 6 p.m.

8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. of every month When: Jan. 28, 5-9 p.m.

Contact: Brooke Taflinger at carmelclayparks.com Where: George’s Where: Central Indiana Where: Monon Community Where: Speedway United btaflinger@carmelclayparks.com Neighborhood Grill in Avalon Educational Services Center, Carmel Methodist Church, Speedway Easter Seals Crossroads Crossing, Indianapolis Center, Indianapolis Cost: Free Cost: Free Minority Family Down Cost: Free to fathers, uncles, Cost: $300, registration Parents’ Night Out, East Contact: Brooke Taflinger at Contact: Anna Marie Syndrome Network meeting brothers and friends of individuals required btaflinger@carmelclayparks.com House at 317-466-2006 When: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, Contact: Visit www. with Down syndrome When: Jan. 18, 6 p.m.

4th Friday of every Contact: Mehida Perez at iidc.indiana.edu for more Muscle-Up at the Monon Game Night at the Monon Where: The Marott Community month, 6-10 p.m. or 317-925-7617, R.S.V.P. information, or contact Kim Room, Indianapolis Community Center Community Center Where: Easter Seals to register@dsindiana.org Davis at kdavis@indiana.

Cost: Free Crossroads, Indianapolis Tuesdays and Thursdays Wednesdays in When: When: edu or 812-855-6508 with Contact: Mehida Perez Cost: Free in January, 3-4 p.m.

January, 6-7 p.m. content-related questions; for Autism Family Resource Center at Mehida@dsindiana.org or Contact: Anna Marie Where: Monon Community Where: Monon Community registration contact Donna Grandparents’ Support Group 317-925-7617, R.S.V.P. to House at 317-466-2006 Center, Carmel Center, Carmel Beasley at dbeasley@indiana. register@dsindiana.org When: Jan. 12, 5:30-7 p.m.

Cost: $30 Cost: $20 edu or 812-855-6508 Easter Seals Crossroads Where: Easter Seals Contact: Brooke Taflinger at Contact: Brooke Taflinger at Autism Family Resource Center Crossroads, Indianapolis Parents’ Night Out, South btaflinger@carmelclayparks.com btaflinger@carmelclayparks.com Fantastic Fridays at the Parents’ Support Group Cost: Free When: 1st Friday of every Monon Community Center Contact: Diane Quillico Gym Games at the Monon Know of an upcoming event When: Jan. 19, 5:30-7 p.m. month, 6-10 p.m.

Jan. 21, 6-8:30 p.m. at 317-882-1914 or Linda When: Where: Easter Seals Community Center benefitting Indianapolis’ Where: Indian Creek Where: Monon Community Knoderer at 317-816-1381 Crossroads, Indianapolis special needs community?

Christian Church, Indianapolis Wednesdays in When: Center, Carmel Cost: Free Email Carrie Bishop at Cost: Free January, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Cost: $10 Down Syndrome Indiana Contact: Erica O’Neil or freelancewritercarrie@ Contact: Anna Marie Where: Monon Community Contact: Brooke Taflinger at Kokomo parent group meeting Katy Messuri at 317-466-1000 gmail.com.

House at 317-466-2006 Center, Carmel btaflinger@carmelclayparks.com When: Jan. 13, 6 p.m.

Cost: $20 When: Jan. 5, 6-8 p.m.

Where: Easter Seals Crossroads, Indianapolis Cost: Free Contact: Dana Renay at 317-658-2973

His answer:

“You.“

Who can help the many Indiana children in need of foster parents?

Ask a kid what he needs from a parent, and his answer might surprise you.

It’s not a big house filled with toys or video games. He just wants someone who cares. Make a difference in a child’s life. www.DamarFosterCare.org

Damar Foster Care Services 6067 Decatur Boulevard | Indianapolis, IN 46241 | 317.856.5201

FOSTER CARE INDYSCHILD.COM 29

Special Needs Guide Applied behavior center www.appliedbehaviorcenter.org

6060 Castleway West Drive Indianapolis, IN 46250-1970 (317) 849-5437 The mission of the Applied Behavior Center for Autism is to provide high quality ABA and Verbal Behavior therapy and consulting services to children and their families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders by using researched based ABA methodology delivered by highly qualified and certified professionals to increase language skills, social skills, academic skills, and reduce problematic behavior.

Applied Behavior Center

450 S. State Road 135, Greenwood, IN 46142 Contact: Kyle Mitchell-Board Certified Behavior Analyst Phone: 317-889-KIDS Email: kyle@ appliedbehaviorcenter.org www.appliedbehaviorcenter.org

To provide the highest quality ABA and Verbal Behavior therapy and consulting services to children and their families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders and Down Syndrome. We do this by providing proven researched based ABA methodologies delivered by highly qualified and certified professionals. Our programs focus on increasing language skills, social skills, academic skills, and reducing problematic behavior.

The Arc of Indiana

107 N. Pennsylvania St., Suite 800, Indianapolis, IN 46204 Phone: 317-977-2375 or 800-382-9100 Email: thearc@arcind.org www.arcind.org

The Arc of Indiana, established in 1956 by parents of children with developmental disabilities, works every day to empower families with information and resources, empower people with disabilities to be as independent as possible, and inspire positive change in public policy and public attitudes. Contact us. We’re here to help.

30 INDY’S CHILD * JANUARY 2011

Autism Parent Care, LLC 395 S 9th St Noblesville, Indianapolis, IN 46020 Contact: Dr. Jane Yip Phone: 317-503-1296 Email: aileda88@hotmail.com

www.developmentalphysiopsychologydisorders.com

Offering one to one intervention to children and adults with autism. Academic subjects and ABA included. Insurance Billable.

Autism Society of Indiana 13295 Illinois Street, Suite 110, Carmel, IN 46032 Contact: Dana Renay 800-609-8449 Fax: 317-663-1047 Email: info@inautism.org www.inautism.org

We strive to improve the lives of everyone affected by autism in Indiana. We provide information and support, referral to resources, policy and educational advocacy, training, awareness, family programs, Spanish-speaking support group, summer camp programs, and oversight on the Indiana Comprehensive Plan of Lifetime Supports for Individuals with Autism.

Behavior Analysis Center for Autism

11902 Lakeside Dr., Fishers, IN 46038 Devon Sundberg 317-288-5232 dsundberg@thebaca.com www.thebaca.com

The Behavior Analysis Center (BACA) was established by Dr. Carl Sundberg and a group of highly trained Behavior Analysts who have worked with Dr. Sundberg for years. BACA uses Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to teach language, social, academic, and life skills to children with autism and other related disabilities.

Brain Balance Achievement Center Indianapolis

9302 N. Meridian Street Ste. 355, Indianapolis, IN 46260 Contact: Julie Peterson/

Clinic Director Phone: 317-843-9200 Email: julie.peterson@live.com www.brainbalancecenters.com

Contact: Dr. Mary VanHoy, Developmental Optometrist Phone: (317) 818-0541 Fax: (317) 818-1756 Email: drvanhoy@ eyes4wellness.com www./eyes4wellness.com

Brain Balance Achievement Centers work with children who suffer from Developmental Disorders such as Autism Spectrum, Asperger's, ADD/ADHD, Dyslexia, Tourette's and other neurological disorders.

The Brain Balance Program is unique in that it utilizes a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach designed specifically to address the various difficulties exhibited or experienced by each child.

Dr. VanHoy is a developmental optometrist who evaluates and treats with optometric vision therapy children with autistic spectrum disorder, physical and mental challenges, and infants and toddlers with delays in visual function that interfere with acts of daily living.

Cornerstone Autism Center

Homefront Learning Center

360 Polk Street, Greenwood, IN 46143 Contact: David Ide, Executive Director Phone: (317) 888-1557 www.cornerstoneautismcenter.com

Cornerstone Autism Center is an intensive day treatment clinic dedicated to maximizing the potential of children with autism. Utilizing the science-based approach of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), trained therapists work 1:1 with the children to improve language skills, address their academic and social needs and reduce any maladaptive behavior.

Dr. Jennifer Satterfield-Siegel

Contact: Jennifer SatterfieldSiegel, D.D.S. Phone: 317 269-0025 Email: drsatterfieldsiegel@ gmail.com

Dr. Satterfield-Siegel is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist specializing in providing dental care for infants, children and patients that have special needs. We provide routine dental care, fillings, in office sedations and hospital dentistry for all of our patients.

We build long lasting relationships with our families through active listening and understanding. New patients are welcomed!

Eyes For Wellness

Address: 2920 E. 96th Street, Suite B, Indianapolis, IN 46240

625 N. Union, Kokomo, IN 46901 Contact: Jamy Wisher, ABA supervisor Phone: 765-454-9748 Email: jnwisher@umail.iu.edu www.homefrontlearning.com

Homefront Learning Center is an Occupational, Speech, Physical, and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy provider servicing Indianapolis and the surrounding areas. Homefront offers both in-clinic and in-home therapy for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other special needs.

Indianapolis Pediatric Dentistry

Address: 8433 Harcourt Road, Suite 307, Indianapolis, IN 46260 Contact: Dr. Erin Phillips Phone: 317-872-7272 Email: info@IndyKidsDentist.com www.IndyKidsDentist.com We have a unique dental practice. As pediatric dentists, we are specially trained in the dental care of infants, children and teens, including those patients with special medical needs.

At Indianapolis Pediatric Dentistry, we treat your kids like our own. We pay special attention to each patient’s needs and we take the time to make sure they’re comfortable. We go to great lengths to make sure that both the patient and parents understand what we’re doing, why we’re doing it and the long-term benefits.

Little Star Center

12726 Hamilton Crossing Blvd, Carmel, IN 46032 Mary Rosswurm, Executive Director 317-249-2242 maryr@littlestarcenter.org

www.littlestarcenter.org Little Star is a structured, sensoryfriendly place where children with autism receive intense, individualized oneon-one therapeutic intervention based on the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA). Little Star has a “family first” philosophy and offers a supportive community of parents and professionals.

Indiana’s original ABA center – providing services since 2002.

Worthmore Academy

3535 Kessler Blvd. East, Indianapolis, IN 46220 Contact: Brenda J. Jackson/ Founder & Director Phone: 877-700-6516

Private full-time alternative school for children with specific learning disabilities (Dyslexia, ADD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum.

Asperger's Syndrome, PDD-NOS...) K-12th grade. 3:1 student:teacher ratio focusing on academic, social and emotional skills. A place where kids can feel "worth more!"

YOUR LISTING HERE!!!

Contact Jennica at Jennica@ indyschild.com

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family fun in indy

Super Bowl Super Scarves

Join a Sip and Knit to Gear Up for Super Bowl 2012 Knit one, purl two, here’s something for Mommy to do. While Junior wants you to watch the same DVD for the umpteenth time, you can cuddle up next to him and create something special. Or better yet, here’s a hobby you can share with your kids that could also help them earn a badge for scouting. Creating a scarf is a great craft that can also keep them warm.

To make it even easier, several Indianapolis area libraries are hosting learn-to-knit clinics. And you can even join in the fun at one of the local Sip & Knits like the one hosted at Creation Café. At one of these events I met people who had just returned from serving in the Peace Corps, a mother and daughter team, sisters, college friends and co-workers who were all looking to learn how to knit, get together for hot cocoa or wine, and meet some new friends.

The only cost at these events is for the yarn and food or beverage.

Hundreds of volunteers To check out the schedule and find out when one is scheduled near are knitting, you, go to www.indianapolissuperbowl.com/super-scarves. crocheting or weaving blue and white While all the scarves need to be in the designated blue and white scarves for the Super colors, there is a lot of room for creativity. A Minnesota woman, Bowl. Indianapolis known as Goodnight Gram, crafted one called “flag on the play” in is hosting the big which the scarf appears to be the long arm of a referee throwing a game in 2012 and flag. Another one of her creations appeared to be a kickers’ shoe as it these scarves will is booting a football at the end of a scarf. Still others are variations of become part of age old stitches and patterns that bring back memories of snowball the volunteers’ fights and snowman making. There are knitters who are seven to uniform. It’s one 101 years old. While they come with all different skill levels, the way for you to wrap goal is the same—each want to be a part of the biggest game this your arms around a fun project that will help city will host and to be able to say they created part of the memories. keep the volunteers a little warmer in February 2012.

And it’s a great way to spend quality time learning a Kimberly Harms has four children (5-24) along craft with your children. The goal is to knit 8,000 with a grandchild and is the Associate Director of scarves for 8,000 volunteers. Those scarves will then Media Relations at the Indianapolis Convention be sent to the Women’s Prison, where official Super & Visitors Association, www.visitindy.com. You Bowl patches will be sewn on them. can follow her on Twitter @kimberlyharms.

INDYSCHILD.COM 31

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indy on a budget

Kids Eat Free (Or Cheap)

Pinching Pennies in the Family Budget with Local Restaurant Deals Eating out offers us a night off from dishes, thinking about food and letting someone else serve us. As a former waitress and appreciator of all things luxurious, we tip the server according to what we would’ve spent prior to the coupon or free meal promotion, as is common courtesy.

Devour Downtown is a great excuse for a date night and an affordable way to try something new without breaking the bank.

Devour Downtown began on January 24th and will run through February 5th. The website has a full list of participating restaurants at devourdowntown. org. Guests will enjoy a 3-course meal for $30, or 2-course meal for $30, where noted.

Fast food offerings Fast food eateries love kids and it shows. Growing up, McDonald’s was a treat not a staple. So, for fast food restaurants to offer a free kids night, the goal is to make their menu a part of your meal plan.

Fast

One of the f irst authors to publish the phrase “penny-pinching” was Charles Dickens who wrote, “On Christmas Eve, penny-pinching Ebenezer Scrooge was his usual miserly self, chasing off solicitors.”

Now that the holidays are over and our wallets thin, could we ourselves be “Scrooged” at the thought of any more turkey and stuff ing or cold ham sandwiches for dinner?

There is hope for your tired dishpan hands and leftover meal madness. Eating out can be affordable if you plan ahead and mark your calendar for Indianapolis’ greatest deals.

Will work for FOOD I could list dozens of restaurants, but I would rather share one fun way our children have earned their own free meal—by reading. Many libraries offer winter break reading contests that reward “outstanding readers” a coupon for a free meal with the purchase of an adult entree.

The same can be said for the bookworms of summer who win similar library prizes or free books. Of course, other prizes are available.

32 INDY’S CHILD * JANUARY 2011

food

restaurants are franchised, allowing owners to donate goods There is hope for your tired dishpan hands and leftover meal and services to madness. Eating out can be affordable if you plan ahead the community.

That’s a real and mark your calendar for Indianapolis’ greatest deals. warm and fuzzy feeling for parents with school-aged children knowing they are giving back in dollars Let your kids save their allowance for a special meal of and support to our cities and towns. their choice. I’m pretty sure their meal will taste better Chick-f il-A, for example, a friendly, clean, Christianthan if you buy it. oriented fast food chain has a mascot I see almost monthly at local events. Their Kids Eat For Free night in Sit-down restaurants Restaurants that offer “Kids Eat Free” promotions have Noblesville is Tuesday (locations vary), and not only do I strategically scheduled free meal nights when most of us get to have a night off, one of our three kids gets a free have to be in three places at once. That can work to your meal and some entertainment in the form of face painting advantage, especially if Mother Hubbard’s cupboard is or a craft. I won’t even divulge how many hours I’ve spent bare. Generally speaking, eateries require one adult meal on Mommy lunch dates at Chick-f il-A thanks to their to be purchased to earn a free meal for one child under the toddler playground and free meal coupons. age of 12. Depending on your family size, that could mean an entrée split between two adults and their child eats free Search “kids eat for free Indianapolis” online and you’ll for a total of around $15. For a family of four, that’s still a f ind a several resources including eateries and their promotions and keep your Monday through Wednesday buy-one, get-one price. nights open for a free meal now and then.

Personally I rarely sit down for dinner at home with our Keever party of f ive and not calculate the per-plate cost.

Nikki Keever is a freelance writer living in Breakfast for dinner is a big hit with the wallet and the Noblesville, IN with her husband, three children and kids coming in at 50 cents per plate. So, to eat out to save two dogs. She can be reached at jnkeever2@gmail. money, well, that’s really not why we do it. com.

Captain D’s: On Thursday get 2 free kid’s meals with any adult entree purchase at regular price. Dine in only.

Denny's: Kids at free every Tuesday from 4-10 p.m. and some locations Saturday too.

Lonestar Steakhouse: Kids meal specials on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Kids eat free all day on Tuesdays with the purchase of an adult meal and on Saturdays from 11-4 p.m. Two kids per adult entree.

McAlister’s Deli: Kids 12 and under eat free on Monday with the purchase of an adult entree.

Scotty’s Brewhouse: Sunday and Tuesday kids eat free all day Fazoli’s: Tuesday’s 5-8 p.m. tables are reserved just for kids.

Kid’s meals are with the purchase of one adult entree. Dine in only.

Call your nearest location to verify participation in kid’s night.

Johnny Rockets: Monday, Tuesday And Wednesday 4-9pm

Chick-fil-A: Tuesday nights kids eat for free with the purchase of an adult entree.

Old Country Buffet: Monday-Saturday kids 12 and under eat for $1.99 Please call each restaurant beforehand to verify information is still accurate.

Golden Corral: Children 3 and under eat free with the purchase of an adult buffet meal. Kid’s meal specials are available daily.

PAradise Bakery: All week long, kids eat free with the purchase of an adult meal.

McAllister’s Deli: On Mondays kids 12 and under eat free with the purchase of an adult meal.

Skyline Chili: On Friday nights from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. kids 10 and under eat free with the purchase of an adult meal.

Grindstone Charley’s: Wednesday Kids Night Where Children Eat Free And Are Entertained Max and Ermas: Kids eat free on Tuesdays.

Stir Crazy: Kids Eat Free Tuesday and Thursday Nights after 4 p.m.

INDYSCHILD.COM 33

Special Needs Guide

34 INDY’S CHILD * JANUARY 2011

Co mm e n ta ry & Pa r e n t i n g

*

dear teacher

Multitasking, Disinterest in Letters and Numbers and Making Reading Fun Your Questions of Teachers—Answered!

Do Homework and Multitasking Work Well Together?

lasting. They would do better to study for 20 to 30 minutes and then take an electronic break.

Question: We're having a battle at our home. I This is especially true if they are working with tell the children that they'd be able to do homework difficult material that they wish to remember for and prepare for tests better and faster if they stopped a long time. text messaging their friends at the same time. They tell me that they are good at multitasking and can There does seem to be one exception to easily do more than one thing at a time. Are they multitasking pitfalls. Listening to background right? - Against Multitasking music while studying may actually improve concentration by masking distracting noises.

Answer: People can walk and chew gum at the same time. And they can talk on a cell phone and sort Preschooler Is Disinterested clothes. But there are limitations to multitasking in Letters and Numbers when tasks are more demanding, because you Question: My preschooler has absolutely no aren't really doing two tasks simultaneously but interest in doing any kind of schoolwork. She switching rapidly from one to the other. doesn’t seem to be learning anything at school.

I try to teach her letters and numbers, but she Researchers have used brain imaging to see what soon forgets them. Otherwise, she is doing well is happening when young people multitask. Their in school and is well-liked by the teacher and her studies have shown that the ability to do more than classmates. Do you think that she has a learning just mindless tasks at the same time is a myth. Your disability? I’m afraid that she may have problems children cannot focus on their schoolwork and text next year in kindergarten? – No Letters or Numbers message at the same time. Their brains shift between these tasks. And the more difficult the tasks are, the Answer: Young children change so fast. What longer it takes to readjust between them. they can’t or don’t want to do today, they may easily do in a month or two. We are not saying While children can learn while multitasking, that you shouldn’t be exposing your child to their learning is far less efficient and less long-

letters and numbers now. However, keep in mind that she’ll be introduced to them formally in kindergarten. Instead of worrying about teaching her letters and numbers now, do things that are fun and will prepare her to learn to read and handle numbers. Work now on increasing her natural desire to learn. Plan diverse activities that will let her learn what the world is like.

Forcing your child to work with letters and numbers now could turn her off learning them before she even gets to kindergarten. Instead, read to your daughter every day and teach her rhymes. It is also a good idea to read signs to her when you see them. And call her attention to words in story books so she begins to get the idea that print has meaning. As far as math goes, the first steps to learning this subject are the sorting, ordering, matching, and counting of objects.

Onomatopoeia Makes Learning to Read Fun Question: In talking about children learning to read, don't forget the joys of onomatopoeia – words that imitate the sounds they are describing. My 6-yearold son loves comic books, and he always has the job of reading "woof," "zap" and "pow." Actually, I think his fascination with these words marked a significant increase in his reading skills. - Making Reading Fun Answer: Children love to use onomatopoeia. These words are simply fun to say, as they are so descriptive.

There's the vroom of car engines, the beep or honk of cars, the clang of a trolley car, and the tick tock of clocks. Many animal sounds are examples of onomatopoeia. The words "meow," "quack," "chirp," "oink," "neigh," "ribbet" and "roar" truly sound like the sounds those animals make. What's great about all these words – plus additional ones like "boom," "zoom," "buzz," "bang" and "click" – is that children can shout them out or say them with a lot of expression.

Turn your kids loose to read these words once they become familiar with them in frequently read comics or books.

Your child is actually learning a lot in preschool.

She has learned how to get along with the teacher and her classmates, and she is learning how to behave at school. When she gets to kindergarten, you will find that some children are very skilled with letters and numbers, and others are not. Let Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@dearteacher.com or ask them on the her set the pace in learning them for now. columnists’ Web site at www.dearteacher.com.

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Open House Guide The Orchard School Address: 615 W. 64th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260 Phone: 317-251-9253 Website: http://www.orchard.org/ Open House Dates: January 24, 2011 from 8:30a.m.-10:30a.m.

At our next Prospective Parents Preview on January 24, 2011, you will have an opportunity to hear testimonials from our students beginning at 8:30a.m., followed by a presentation by our head of school and parent-guided tours to our lively classrooms. You can also schedule a private tour.

Visit http://www.orchard.org/admissions/toursand-open-houses/index.aspx to schedule a time.

The Orchard School, an independent, non-sectarian, progressive school, emphasized experiential learning. Orchard teachers engage the natural curiosity of children, develop academic excellence, and provide leadership experience through well-rounded education.

The Howe School 5755 North State Rd. 9, Howe, IN 46746 Contact: Charles Grady 888-462-4693 admissions@thehoweschool.org http://www.thehoweschool.org Open House Dates: Sunday, January 9, 2011 Campus Preview Days enable you and your family the opportunity to see our school first hand. The Admissions Office is open Monday through Friday for campus visits, as well.

Please RSVP before the Friday prior to each Campus Preview

36 INDY’S CHILD * JANUARY 2011

Day at 1-888-GO-2-HOWE (1-888-462-4693) or email us at admissions@thehoweschool.org. All Campus Preview Days begin at 10:00 A.M. EST.

Heritage Christian School 6401 East 75th Street, Indianapolis, In 46250 Contact: Emily Iglendza 849-3441 Admissions@heritagechristian.net heritagechristian.net Open House Dates: Prep K & Kindergarten Info Night: Thursday, Jan 13 at 5:30pm Campus Day: Thursday, Feb 10 at 9:00am Established in 1965 Tuition: $3839 - $9130 Financial aid available for qualified families, Biblical worldview learning, Bus Transportation Available, Before and After School Care, High Ability Learners Program Honors and AP classes, Fine Arts and IHSAA Athletics Accredited by the Association ofChristian Schools International (ACSI) & NCA, Prep K - 12th Grade college preparatory, Christian school. Non-denominational & independent.

The mission of HCS is is to glorify God through the discipleship of students and the pursuit of excellence in education with the Bible as the foundation and Jesus Christ as our focus.

Kingsway Christian School Address: 7979 E. County Rd. 100 N., Avon, IN 46123 Contact: Jeff Niemeyer Phone: 317-272-2227

Fax: 317-272-3412 Email: jniemeyer@kingswayschool.org Website: http://kingswayschool.org Open House Dates: February 13, 2011 (numbered applications handed out at 7 AM, Open Enrollment and tours at 2 PM) It would be our pleasure to give your family a personal tour of our facility. We invite you to meet our staff and observe how KCS lays the foundation for the next generation through a strong academic curriculum built upon biblical truths. Call today to schedule your tour.

Brebeuf Jesuit, which is Catholic, Jesuit and Interfaith and provides an excellent college-preparatory education, will host two Open House dates second semester: Thursday, Jan. 20; and Thursday, March 10. Open Houses run from 9 am to 7 pm, so families can “Come See Us in Motion.” RSVP at www.brebeuf.org.

Sycamore School

1750 W. 64th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260 Phone: 317-202-2519 Open House Dates: Call to schedule a prospective parent tour; Middle School Open House April 19, 2011 from 5:30-7:30 pm.

For 25 years, Sycamore has offered gifted kids a special kind

Traders Point Christian Academy of education with: active involvement in learning; a chal6600 S. Indianapolis Rd, Whitestown, IN 46077 Phone: 317-769-2450 Open House Dates: February 2: K - 5; February 9: 6th - 8th; February 16: High School TPCA serves 560 students preschool - college preparatory high school grade 12. Spanish, Technology, Fine Arts, AP, and College Credit classes, Interscholastic Athletics, PE, national and international travel, clubs, before/after care, community service, electives – education built on a Biblical foundation. Located at I-65 North/SR 334, convenient to NW Indianapolis, Zionsville, Brownsburg, Carmel, and Lebanon.

Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School

2801 W 86th St, Indianapolis, IN 46268 Phone: (317) 524-7050 http://www.brebeuf.org Open House Dates: Jan. 20, March 10

lenging, enriched curriculum designed for gifted learners; teachers trained, experienced in gifted education; an understanding of their academic, social, emotional needs; a learning environment of peers who think and learn like they do.

St. Richard's School

Address: 33 E. 33rd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205 Phone: 317-926-0425 Open House Dates: Early Childhood Open House: Saturday, Jan 22 9:00 am-10:30 am Middle School Open House: Thursday, January 20 from 6:00-7:00 pm

St. Richard's School develops articulate, respectful students who are critical thinkers. Our graduates know how to study, how to manage their time, and how to put forth their personal best. Art, music, physical education, and French begin in Pre-Kindergarten with Latin and Spanish added in grades 6-8. Come see us. You'll be glad you did!

Childcare & Education Directory Child Care East

Children of America 10830 Pendleton Pike Suite A, Indianapolis, IN 46236 Contact: Nicole Davis Phone: 317-826-0399 Email: coalawrencein@childrenofamerica.com www.childrenofamerica.com Type of School: Preschool/Kindergarten Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: See school Director for Fee Schedule Hours/Dates: 6:00 AM – 6:30 PM Monday - Friday Field Trips: Yes Ages/Grades: 6 wks thru 12 yrs Before/After School Care: Yes with Transportation provided to Lawrence schools Open House Dates: July 31, 2011 The Children of America difference is our commitment to your child's future. Innovation and creativity are the hallmarks of our teaching and the foundation of our infrastructure. With our qualified teachers and proprietary curriculum we provide your child with an unsurpassed learning experience.

Kidz Luv Bilingual Academy & Educational Childcare 4118 N Sheridan Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46226\ Tumikia Gilbert

317-547-7323 tumgilbert@aol.com www.kidzluv.daycarematch.com Home: East: Christian - Catholic Monday - Friday, 6 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Kidz Luv has provided early childhood education to families for 10 years. Our Educational Childcare cares for children Infant-3 years and our Bilingual Academy implements Spanish and Sign Language into our preschool cirriculum, and is for children ages 3-5. We are NAFCC Accredited, State Licensed and CCDF is accepted.

M eridian K essler Wee Folk Child Care

Meridian Kessler Neighborhood Indianapolis 317-926-3640 Ages: 4 weeks+ Quality in-home child care serving caring families for 20 years. (CPR, 1st aid certified, and state licensed). Two meals and one snack provided daily along with baby food and regular formula. We provide quality learning through play in a non-smoking Christian environment. Preschool program providing Kindergarten prep is available. $130/ week. 7:15-5:30 M-F.

North

Peanut Butter and Jelly Childcare 2421 Butterfield Dr., Indianapolis, IN 46220 Mrs. Hatcher 317-205-9211 peanut_jelly@att.net www.peanutbutterjelly.info

Low flexible rates vary with age. CCDF accepted; monthly specials. $50.00 registration fee. Drop in services available, Parent’s Night Out. Please call for more information!

7 DAYS A WEEK 24 HOURS A DAY Home Childcare Field trips to the Children’s Museum, The Indianapolis Zoo, Chuck E. Cheese’s, Monkey Joe’s, Snapperz and more!

Ages 4 weeks through 4 years old

Schools C

armel

Carmel Montessori Schools, Inc. Emily & Scott Rudicel 1402 W. Main St. Carmel, IN 317-580-0699 info@carmelmontessori.com carmelmontessori.com Ages: Pre-school through Kindergarten.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Childcare offers a “home away from home” within a learning enviornment, and our professional caregivers provide quality care that kids deserve while also being allowed to be kids. Licensed, CPR certified, first aid, universal precautions, drug and criminal checks. Daily hot home cooked meals. Daily progress reports, kindergarten prep.

Carmel Montessori School is located on the beautiful campus at St. Christopher’s Church on the NE corner of Main St. and Meridian in Carmel. Our directress is American Montessori Certified with 10 years head-teaching experience. We offer a beautiful, peaceful and positive Montessori learning environment. Extended days available.

SeekingSitters

Clay Montessori

1950 E. Greyhound Pass, Ste 18301, Carmel, IN 46033 Kristin Slade 317-985-9505 kristins@seekingsitters www.seekingsitters.com Agency SeekingSitters Indianapolis North is the solution for all of your childcare needs. We are an on-demand service for families seeking babysitters. Whether your need is last minute, one-time, part-time, or full-time, we can solve your childcare dilemma. Visit SeekingSitters.com for more information and to sign up!

Peggy White 463 East Main St. Carmel 317-849-9519 or 317-580-1850 Ages: 3-6 Call for more information. (Affiliated with Fisher’s Montessori). Morning, afternoon and full-day programs.

Gymboree Play & Music 12524 N. Gray Rd, Carmel, IN 46033 Phone: 317-574-9626 carmelin@gymboreeclasses.com Gymboree offers unique Play & Learn, Music or Art events & parties. These events are lead by our professional teach-

INDYSCHILD.COM 37

ers in our clean, creative and colorful environment. We can also bring the event to you with our mobile program.

Ages birth - 5 years.

The Montessori Learning Center Elizabeth Williams 1402 W. Main St. Carmel 317-846-8182 elizabeth@ themontessorilearningcenter.com

themontessorilearningcenter.com

Ages: Grades 1-3 The Montessori Learning Center Elementary program focuses on developing the whole child through interaction with an interdisciplinary curriculum. Our program specifically meets the needs of each child and is aligned with Indiana State Standards.

Fishers

Fall Creek Montessori Academy

Address: 8888 Fitness Ln, Fishers, IN 46037 Contact: Diana Brugh Phone: (317) 436-8606 Email: diana@fallcreekmontessori.com Website: http://www. fallcreekmontessori.com Type of School: Montessori Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: $89 to $174 per week Hours/Dates: 7:00 am to 5:30 pm Ages/Grades: 18 months to kindergarten Religious Affiliation: NONE Before/After School Care: Before school care: 7:00am to 8:30am. After school care: 3:00pm to 5:30pm Open House Dates: Feb 10th, check website for times. Please call to set up a tour any other time.

Fall Creek Montessori Academy is a culturally diverse environment where children grow and develop their unique talents and gifts. Through child-centered learning, children excel physically, academically and emotionally.

Conveniently located one mile east of I-69 on 96th St. FCMA serves children at all levels. Programs are available two to five days per week.

Fishers Montessori Peggy White

38 INDY’S CHILD * JANUARY 2011

12806 Ford Rd and 131st and Allisonville Rd. Fishers 317-849-9519 or 317-580-1850 Ages: 3-9 A quality learning environment offering preschool, kindergarten and elementary. Certification through American Montessori Society. 9-12, 12:30-3, 9-3.

Woodlands Montessori Address: 10305 Allisonville Road Suite 110, FIshers, IN 46038 Contact: Cynthia Thompson Phone: 317-845-9035 Email: woodlandsinfo@att.net woodlandsmontessori.org Type of School: Montessori Hours/Dates: Traditional Calendar - August thru May Ages/Grades: 3 months - Kindergarten Before/After School Care: Before and After Care available Open House Dates: Open House Saturday, January 6 & January 13, 11:00 - 4:00!

Offering Montessori preschool education two to five days per week. Small class size and individualized instruction in a nurturing environment.

Geist

My Backyard Fine Arts Preschool at Geist Sports Academy 11960 East 62nd Street Indianapolis 317-823-7734 geistsportsacademy.com Ages: 2 year-Pre K (5 year) NOW ENROLLING! Children will discover their unique selves and learn about the world around them through exploring the visual arts, creative movement and music appreciation. 9-11:45 a.m. M-Fri; MWF 9-1:30pm.

Multiple Locations

Indiana Council of Preschool Cooperatives: ICPC Multiple Locations in Indianapolis Area For schools, see below. ICPC Line: 317-767-7596 Ages: Preschool classes for ages 2-5;

other programs vary - Kindergarten, Stay & Play, Enrichment/Extended Days.

Indianapolis Area Preschool and Kindergarten Cooperatives Cooperative Preschools: great for your child, great for you! Children and parents learn and grow together in the classroom with caring, experienced teachers. Indiana Council of Preschool Cooperatives (ICPC) member schools are: Apple House: 6121 E. County Rd 100 S, Avon, 797-5925 Butler: 2411 Indianapolis Ave, Indy, 226-4287 Downey: 111 S. Downey Rd, Indy, 359-5304 Edgewood: 4040 E. Thompson Rd, Indy, 767-7730 Fishers Point: 9959 E. 126th St, Fishers, 767-4312 Geist Orchard: 7879 N. 700 West, McCordsville, 336-7008 Meridian Hills Nursery School and Kindergarten: 7171 N. Pennsylvania, Indy, 255-0831 Meridian Street: 5500 N. Meridian St, Indy, 767-3003 Northeast Cooperative Preschool and Kindergarten: 5805 E. 56th St, Indy, 592-9790 Parkview: 4550 central Ave, Indy, 380-0628 Speedway: 3000 N. High School Rd, Indy, 356-2804 Willowcreek: 8170 Hague Rd, Indy, 578-5488

Noblesville

Primrose School at Bridgewater 14711 N. Gray Road, Noblesville, IN 46062 317-848-0123 Julie Bowman jbowman@primrosebridgewater.com primrosebridgewater.com Please call to schedule a tour and to get tuition information.

We are open Monday through Friday 6:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.

We take many exciting fieldtrips so please call to learn more specific details.

Our programs are offered to students ages 6 weeks through 12 years of age.

Students in pre-kindergarten and kindergarten are required to wear school uniforms.

Before/After School Care: We offer before and after school programs, including transportation, to students up to 12 years of age.

The Primrose School at Bridgewater is dedicated to providing outstanding educational care to students ages 6 weeks through 12 years of age. Our curriculum is NCA accredited and offers many extras such as Spanish, tech-

nology, sign language, character development, music appreciation, art appreciation, science, social studies, reading, English, and math. Please call today to learn how more than 90% of Primrose students out performed the national average.

Primrose School of Noblesville Address: 15707 North Point Blvd., Noblesville, IN 46060 Contact: Jackie Bell Phone: 317-773-4900 Fax: 317-773-4433 Email: jbell@primrosenoblesville.com Type of School: Early Childhood Hours/Dates: 6:30 am to 6:00 pm Ages/Grades: Infant through Kindergarten Before/After School Care: We transport to and from both Noblesville and Hamilton Southeastern Schools Primrose School of Noblesville distinguishes itself by creating a safe and nurturing environment where children will take their first steps toward a lifetime of achievement.

You will find certified, professional staff and many programs such as spanish, technology, music and physical fitness that will consistently challenge your child.

North

Arthur M. Glick JCC 6701 Hoover Road, Indianapolis, IN 46260 317-251-9467 emills@JCCindy.org JCCindy.org Ages: 6 weeks - Grade K Our loving caregivers and teachers demonstrate by example and encourage children to behave according to these values as the children are learning, playing and socializing with one another. The JCC embraces a learning-throughplay teaching method to engage children in activities that promote creativity, accelerate learning and stimulate social interaction, all at each child’s individual pace.

Beth-El Zedeck Early Childhood Center 600 W. 70th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260 Joanie Waldman

317-259-6854 jwaldman@bez613.org Ages/Grades: 12 mos.+, 18 mos.+, 2’s+ (8:50 am to 12:30 pm or 3:00 pm and choice of days).

3’s+ (8:50 am to 3:00 pm and choice of days).

4’s+/PreK (3 or 5 day option)and Kindergarten (5 full-day program 8:50 am to 3:00 pm) OPTIONS FOR ALL: Flexible hours. Availibility 7:30am-6pm, until 5:30 on Fridays.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. Full Academic Curriculum and Innovative Arts’ Enrichment. Our Program recognizes that intellectual, social, emotional and physical development are interwoven. Our children will thrive on exploration, creativity, curiosity, discovery, spontaneity and more important, lots of love!

Children’s Day In Nursery School and Traditional Preschool Address: 5500 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46208 Contact: Christy Whaley Phone: 317-253-0472 Fax: 317-253-5513 Email: cwhaley@meridianstreet.org Website: www.meridianstreet.org Type of School: Early Childhood Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: Cost varies. Financial aid not available.

Hours/Dates: School year is from Labor Day to Memorial Day weekdays from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Summer Camp CDI from the first Tuesday in June through the second Thursday in July on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 am to 1 pm.

Field Trips: Yes, preschool classes only.

Religious Affiliation: Methodist Uniforms/Dress Code: No Before/After School Care: No Programs: Nursery School and Preschool Enrollment: Registration begins in February for summer and fall with open enrollment throughout the year based on availability.

The Children's Day In Nursery School is a fully inclusive early childhood program with an emphasis on Christian values. It is designed to offer children ages 9 months to 3 years a positive and developmentally appropriate experience in the care of experienced caregivers. We play and learn! Classes are offered weekdays from 9 am to 2:30 pm.

The Children's Day In Traditional Preschool program provides a quality developmentally appropriate education for 3, 4 and 5 year olds. Our program includes weekly Christian Life Skills, First Steps in Music (ICC) and Book Club.

Our 3's Preschool meets on Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Our 4/5's Preschool meets on Monday, Wednesday and Friday or Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Summer Camp CDI is our 6-week summer program for children ages 9 months to age 5 years. Classes are offered on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Summer Camp CDI begins the first Tuesday in June and ends the second Thursday in July. Please call, E-mail or visit for further information and registration forms..

Children’s Circle Preschool at Second Presbyterian Church 7700 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46260 Regina Covey for Registration; Director Cara Paul for Curriculum 317-252-5517 rcovey@secondchurch.org Ages/Grades: 9 months to 5 years Now accepting applications.

Children’s Circle Preschool is a weekday, developmentally appropriate, activity-based Christian program. We meet the needs of the whole child in a fun, creative, nurturing

environment. Here, children can develop the skills necessary to live in today’s world. Our experienced faculty leads children toward discovery of who they are and what they can do. We embrace excellence in education by nurturing the whole child -- physically, emotionally, spiritually and intellectually.

Early Childhood Center, The Church at the Crossing John Drake or Kelly Belt 9111 N. Haverstick Rd. Indianapolis 317-575-6508 jdrake@churchatthecrossing.org churchatthecrossing.org Ages: 12mos - Pre-K 5’s Our Mothers Day Out (12-35mos) 9:15-2:30 and Preschool (3yrs-PreK’s) programs provide relaxed, playful, secure environments that nurture creativity and encourage the exploration of God’s world, a wide variety of learning materials, & friendships, with readiness activities woven through each study unit. Need longer hours? Try our childcare ministry, The Neighborhood designed for 2-PreK 6:30-6pm M-F. Call for information and to schedule tours.

Fairview Early Childhood Program Melissa Peterson 4609 N. Capital Ave. Indianapolis 317-253-4990 mpeterson@fairviewpresbyterian.org fairviewpresbyterian.org Ages: 12 mo-5 yrs. (or up to Kindergarten) Fairview ECP has a developmental, experienced based curriculum in a warm and inclusive environment. Curriculum is designed to promote positive social behavior, respect for diversity, positive self-concept, independence, creativity and critical thinking skills. Come and visit us!

The Independence Academy of Indiana, Inc. 612 West 42nd Street Susan Le Vay 317-926-0043 susanlevay@IAindiana.org www.IAindiana.org

Ages/Grades: Grades 5 - 12 Hours/Dates: 8am - 3:30pm M-F August - May Field Trips: Field trips average 1 per month (for curriculum and life skills enhancement) Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: $11,250. No financial aid currently available. We accept students with high-functioning autism, including Asperger’s Syndrome, who are able to work in a small group setting. Uniforms/Dress Code: Yes Before/After School Care: After school care available from 3:30 - 5:30pm.

Open House Dates: Call us for a consultation and tour Created specifically for students with high-functioning autism and Asperger Syndrome, The Independence Academy helps students achieve their highest level of independence and academic success. Dedicated and trained staff teach math, sciences, language arts, global studies, social and life skills, and more. Very small classes. Beautiful campus. A place to belong.

nic backgrounds and an International Baccalaureate-driven curriculum all work together to foster critical and independent thought. $12,860 pre-k through 8th grade and $13.600 for High School. Financial aid available for qualifiers.

Meridian Hills Cooperative Nursery School Address: 7171 N. Pennsylvania, Indianapolis, IN 46240 Contact: See �Admissions/Tours� webpage Phone: 317-255-0831 www.meridianhillscoop.org Type of School: Cooperative Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: $48 - 233/ month, limited tuition assistance available Field Trips: 3 - K Ages/Grades: Ages 2, 3, 4 & Kindergarten Religious Affiliation: None Open House Dates: Tours scheduled all year Share your love of learning with your children. Founded in 1960 by involved parents like you, Meridian Hills Cooperative provides a positive, nurturing environment wherein children explore and learn by doing. Spacious classrooms.

Beautiful, wooded playground. Caring, experienced staff.

Adult/child ratios 1:4 - 1:6. Find us on Facebook.

tuition. Every effort is made to provide financial assistance where needed. Tuition is all-inclusive.

Hours/Dates: School hours are 8:10 am to 3:20 pm. Before- and After-School Care available.

Field Trips: Middle School: 5th Grade to Cherokee, NC, 6th Grade to St. Louis, 7th Grade to Chicago, 8th Grade to Washington, D.C./Williamsburg, Science Shadow Day. Elementary School: Various field trips throughout the year.

Ages/Grades: Preschool 3/4 through Grade 8 Religious Affiliation: None Uniforms/Dress Code: Dress code described in Family Handbook. (No Uniforms) Before/After School Care: Before/after care available. 7-8 a.mm. and 3:30-6 p.m. Ranges from $5.25-$7.25 per day.

Open House Dates: Call to schedule a personal tour, and check our Web site for the date and time of our annual Open House.

The Orchard School, an independent, non-sectarian, progressive school, emphasized experiential learning. Orchard teachers engage the natural curiosity of children, develop academic excellence, and provide leadership experience through well-rounded education. Orchard's diverse community and commitment to multicultural education inspires responsible, global citizenship. Founded in 1922.

NAIS, ISACS, NAEYS accredited.

montessori Centres Lynne Boone, Director 563 Westfield Blvd. W. Dr. Indianapolis 317-257-2224 montessoricentres@sbcglobal.net Ages: 2 1/2-3rd grade Stressing peace and respect for all, we’ve worked with children to develop critical-thinking and time-management skills since 1966. Montessori-certified lead teachers serve children aged 2 1/2-3rd grade. Our classroom structure and materials allow children to be self-directed and selfpaced. Our well-rounded curriculum includes French and Spanish, art, and computer labs. True Montessori environment serving children at all levels from gifted to special needs. Pre/K: 8:30-11:30 or 8:30-3:15.

The Orchard School 615 W. 64th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260 Contact: Kristen Hein, Director of Admissions Phone: 317-713-5705 Fax: 317-254-8454 Email: khein@orchard.org Category of School: Private Independent Type of School: Preschool - Middle School Religious Affiliation: N/A Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: Applicants are selected without regard to their ability to pay

Park Tudor 7200 N. College Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46240 David Amstutz 317-415-2777 nfo@parktudor.org www.parktudor.org Private Independent: Preschool - High School Jr. KG (full-day) $13,300; Sr. KG-Grade 5-$15,630; Grades 6-12-$16,570 Trips for all grade levels, ranging from local to national and international depending on age.

Ages/Grades: Junior Kindergarten (ages 3-5) - Grade 12 Dress code varies by grade level.

Before- and after-school care offered.

Visit web site for a complete admissions calendar.

Park Tudor School’s exceptional educators and extraordinary opportunities prepare students to become confident and resourceful lifelong learners. The school community creates an inspiring college-preparatory learning environment for highly motivated young people. Two-year Global Scholars program for juniors and seniors; 19 AP classes; full-day kindergarten; Spanish beginning at age 3.

International School of Indiana Cathy Blitzer, Director 4330 N. Michigan Road Indianapolis 317-923-1951 isind.org Ages: 3 years old-12th grade ISI is founded on the belief that an introduction to a second language, exposure to different nationalities and eth-

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St. Luke’s Early Childhood Programs 100 West 86th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260 Bobbi Main-Jackson, Dir. 317-844-3399 mainb@stlukesumc.com stlukesumc.com Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: Available upon request Labor Day-Memorial Day 9am-1pm with Summer Programs available Preschool 3 yrs (by Sept 1 of school year)-5 yrs, Parents’ Day Out 10 mos (by Sept 1 of school year)-3 yrs Tours available upon request.

St Luke’s Community Preschool is a weekday, developmentally appropriate and experience based program. Two welltrained, degreed teachers are in each classroom. Parents’ Day Out is a structured play experience that provides parents some time for themselves on a regular basis on M, Th, F. We provide a warm and loving Christian environment in which children can learn and grow. Tours available upon request.

Visitors welcome.

St. Richard’s School 33 E. 33rd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205 Melinda W. Fisher 317-926-0425 x134 mfisher@strichardsschool.org strichardsschool.org Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: PK-Grade Four $13,115 Grades Five-Eight $13,715 2009 FA: $450,000 Multiple field trips per grade level offered each year Age three (3) through Grade Eight Prefer student to be three years old prior to June 1st for Pre-Kindergarten.

Before/After School Care: Before Care: 7:00 - 8:00 a.m. After Care: 3:30 - 6:00 p.m.

Independent Episcopal day school offering a community filled with academic rigor, faith based ecumenism and longstanding traditions. Its mission is to instill knowledge and values for a lifetime through the implementation of five Pillars for Success: Faith, Classic Curriculum, Leadership, Civic Responsibility, and Global Readiness. Pre-Kindergarten (3) through Grade 8.

Sycamore School 1750 W. 64th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260 Dr. Susan Karpicke, Director of Admissions 317-202-2500 skarpicke@sycamoreschool.org sycamoreschool.org 1/2 day programs range from $5,030 to $8010; Full-day PreK through 8th grade is $13,495 for 2009-2011. Financial assistance is available.

Please contact dridings@sycamoreschool.org.

M -TH 8:15 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.; F 8:15 a.m.2:15 p.m. Parent Tours: Please call 317202-2519 to schedule a parent tour.

2 yrs. 8 mos. - 8th grade At Sycamore, teachers trained in gifted education deliver a curriculum designed to challenge and engage gifted learners. Art, music, Spanish, PE and technology are taught at all levels. Extensive field trips, athletics, child care, financial aid, and a wide variety of after school activities are offered.

Northeast

Heritage Christian School 6401 E. 75th Street, Indianapolis, In 46250 Contact: Emily Iglendza, Director of Enrollment Management Phone: 317-849-3441 Email: Admissions@heritagechristian.net www.heritagechristian.net 40 INDY’S CHILD * JANUARY 2011

Open House Dates: Thursday, Nov 10 Prep K & Kindergarten Info Night: Thursday, Jan 13 Tuition: $3839 - $9130 Financial aid available for qualified families Biblical worldview learning Bus Transportation Available Before and After School Care High Ability Learners Program Honors and AP classes Fine Arts and IHSAA Atletics Accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) & NCA Prep K - 12th Grade college preparatory, Christian school. Non-denominational & independent.

The mission of HCS is is to glorify God through the discipleship of students and the pursuit of excellence in education with the Bible as the foundation and Jesus Christ as our focus.

Indianapolis Jr. Academy 2910 East 62nd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46220 Phone: 317-251-0560 Email: ijacademy@comcast.net www.ijacademy.org Private Independent: Preschool - Middle School Religious Affiliation: Christian - Protestant/Other Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: egistration Fees - $250 Pre-school Registration - $125 Tuition: $3,515 Pre-School - $5,750 Hours/Dates: 8:00am - 3:30pm MonThurs 8:00am - 12:30pm Fridays Before/After School Care: 7:00am8:00am Mon-Friday, 3:30pm-6:00pm Mon-Thurs 12:30pm-5:30pm Fridays Founded in 1963, Indianapolis Jr. Academy provides a wellrounded educational program with emphasis on spiritual, mental, physical, and social development. Our teachers are dedicated Christians who desire to prepare children academically and socially in an accepting environment where Christian principles are modeled and taught. The teachers enjoy enhancing the curriculum with thematic units, hands-on activities, and field trips to interesting places in our area. We currently offer grades Pre-K to 8th, along with a 3-year old Pre-School program.

Northwest

International Montessori School, Inc. 2150 West 96th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260 Ranee Dhadialla 317-575-8733 rkd1948@sbcglobal.net intlmontessori.com Please call for more information on tuition 9 AM - 12 Noon or 9 AM - 3 PM with options for 7-9 AM, 3-6 PM Field Trips: Yes 3 - 9 years Before/After School Care: Yes Call to schedule a tour A unique & warm place for children ages 3-9 years providing quality Montessori Education including exposure to diverse cultures, languages, art, music and more.. Now enrolling for Summer and Fall 2011!

The Children’s House 2404 W. 62nd St. (near Michigan Rd.), Indianapolis, IN 46268 Susan Catania or Mary Sexson 317-253-3033 childrenshouse08@gmail.com2404 W. 62nd St. (near Michigan Rd.), Indianapolis, IN 46268 Susan Catania or Mary Sexson 317-253-3033

childrenshouse08@gmail.com thechildrenshouseindianapolis.com Ages/Grades: 2 1/2 years - 14 years of age The Children’s House offers a Montessori preschool. The four areas of our preschool are practical life, sensorial, math and language. The Montessori preschool is available on a nine or twelve month calendar. The elementary level is an ungraded, continuous-progress school where children discover and pursue their unique talents and needs. Each child is provided with an individual learning experience based on the assumption that children are naturally inquisitive and want to learn. The Children’s House has helped shape the lives of hundreds of Indianapolis Children since its founding under a Lilly Endowment grant in 1971.

Serving toddlers, preschoolers, kindergartners and 1st-4th graders, MGA builds children's selfconfidence and nurtures their natural curiosity. It's different from traditional child care and early education because children "learn by doing" to achieve a sense of pride and independence. Early on, children learn to cooperate with each other and resolve their own conflicts respectfully. Rather than a "cookie cutter" approach, MGA’s caring teachers and individualized attention enable each child to reach his or her highest potential. Early childhood is a precious window of time when kids are most receptive to learning. Help build a strong foundation for your child or grandchild by investing in a rich learning environment now.

The Children's Cottage Traders Point Christian Academy 6600 S. Indianapolis Rd, Whitestown, IN 46075 Contact: Toni Kanzler Phone: 317-769-2450 Fax: 317-769-2456 Email: tkanzler@tpcs.org www.tpcs.org Type of School: Private Independent Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: Preschool: $1665 - $3525, Elementary: $4528 - $6917, Middle School: $8237, High School: $9790 Financial aid is available for qualified families Hours/Dates: Traditional calendar: Preschool: 2 - 4 days per week for 3 hours per day, morning and afternoon classes;extended hour options available. KG - 12th grade: M - F 8:10am - 3:30pm Field Trips: Preschool - 12th various during the year. In addition: 5th grade to Bradford Woods, 6th grade to Cincinnati, 7th grade to Chicago, 8th grade to Washington DC/New York/Gettysburg, PA, 9th-10th to Nicaragua/Mexico Ages/Grades: Two years old - 12th grade. Half-day, extended-day and full-day kindergarten options.

Restrictions: Preschool - KG age cut-off is August 1. Academic performance must be at or above grade level. Biblical Worldview instruction. Fine Arts, Spanish KG - 12th, interscholastic athletics, AP classes, laptop computer program, college preparatory.

Religious Affiliation: Christian - Protestant Before/After School Care: Before and After School Care available M - F at 7 am before school and to 6pm after school.

Open House Dates: KG - 5th: January 6 and February 2. Middle School: January 13 and February 9. High School: January 27 and February 16. KG Round Up January 26.

Fully accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), NCA and State of Indiana (Freeway); college preparatory, nondenominational Christian school.

TPCA’s mission: to challenge/educate students within a Biblical worldview, leading them to a personal faith and transformed life in Jesus Christ.

South

Montessori Garden Academy 4141 S. East Street, Indianapolis, In 46227 Contact: Kelly Sikora, Director of Admissions Phone: 317-782-9990 Email: kelly@montessorigardenacademy.org www.montessorigardenacademy.org Type of School: Preschool - Secondary School Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: $425-$850 per Month Hours/Dates: Monday-Friday 6:30 am -6:00 pm Field Trips: Yes Ages/Grades: 18 Months- 4th Grade Uniforms/Dress Code: No Before/After School Care: Yes

Address: 5935 S. Shelby, Indianapolis, IN 46227 Contact: Ann Derheimer Phone: 317-787-2990 Email: aderheimer@acsrestoration.com Type of School: Early Childhood Cost/Tuition/Financial Aid: Tuition varies with age of child. CCDF accepted Hours/Dates: 7 am - 6 pm Field Trips: Weekly field trips Ages/Grades: Toddler thru 12 years old Before/After School Care: Before and After school care available. Transportation available to area Perry Township schools.

Open House Dates: January 13, 2011 Discover the difference at The Children's Cottage. Our Learning thru Play teaching methods encourage creativity and problem solving as well as nutures their natural curiosity.

Our weekly fiedtrips and dedicated teachers inspire responsibility and respect. Come visit our family owned preschool.

Your children deserve this home away from home.

West

Imagine Indiana Life Sciences Academy—West 4950 W. 34th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46224 Keith Marsh 317-297-9100 keith.marsh@imagineschools.com Charter: Kindergarten - Middle School Free tuition Hours/Dates: 8 am - 3pm Ages/Grades: k-7 Before care 6:30 am- 7:30 After care 3 pm - 6pm Imagine having a choice to decide what is the best school option for your child, regardles of where you live. By choosing Imagine Life Sciences Academy West, you provide your child with a challenging education rich in math, arts, science and technology, with teachers who use innovative teaching techniques that prepare students for success.

Westfield

Montessori School of Westfield, Inc. 800 E. Sycamore Street, Westfield Mary Lyman, Directress 317-867-0158 montessoriwestfield@gmail.com Ages/Grades: Toddler- 15 months to 3 years; Ages 3-Kindergarten; Elementary 1: Grade 1-3; Elementary 2: Grade 4-8 Located on 3 wooded acres in Central Indiana, the Montessori School of Westfield adheres to the academic traditions of Montessori while serving the present day child.

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Sunday

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Saturday 1

E-mail editor@indyschild.com images of your family participating in one of these fun days and/or send us your day of the month ideas and we will include them in an upcoming issue!

Celebration Idea: Commit to doing something to move in the direction of achieving your dreams today!

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Celebration Idea: Have cheese at every meal! Scrambled eggs with cheese, grilled cheese, mac and cheese...

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Celebration Idea: Over dinner, talk about one thing at which you could work harder. Is it math? Being on time? Cleaning your room?

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Dress Up Your Pet Day!

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Make Your13 Dreams Come True Day

Bubble Bath Day

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Cuddle Up Day Celebration Idea: It's a great day for hot cocoa and snuggling together on the couch!

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Celebration Idea: Use a straw for everything you drink today.

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Celebration Idea: Have a family puzzle night!

Jigsaw, crossword, etc...

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Celebration Idea: Breakfast for dinner.

Shirts inside out. Use the backwards version of your name.

JANUARY IS... Blood donor month - thank you month - stay healthy month - national be on-purpose month - get organized month - clean up your computer month - birth defects month - bath safety month - soup month - hot tea month...

Sources: familycrafts.about.com, brownielocks.com, holidayinsights.com, holidaysforeveryday.com & thenibble.com

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January 2011 Saturday 1 New Year’s Day at the IMA

Meridian St., Greenwood. www.greenwood. lib.in.us/. 317-881-1953.

Wipe Out! Winter Break is almost over, so we’re headed to the beach where there’s plenty of sunshine and warm stories. We’ll enjoy some sunny books, a Lilo and Stitch movie, and wrap it all up with a Hawaiian craft. 2 p.m. Johnson County Public Library: Clark Pleasant Branch. 530 Tracy Rd., Ste. 250, New Whiteland. www.jcplin.org/.

317-535-6206.

Tuesday 4 The Museum is offering special hours this year and will be open from 11:00-5:00 pm on New Years day. Andy Warhol Enterprises closes on January 2, 2011 and we don’t want you to miss it! The Lilly House and Elder Greenhouse will remain closed. Indianapolis Museum of Art. 4000 Michigan Rd, Indianapolis. www. imamuseum.org. 317-920-2659.

Gingerbread Village Jan 1 and 2. Tempt your taste buds and unleash your imagination as you stroll through this yummy gingerbread village created by both amateurs and professionals. Your whole family will love counting all the gumdrops, peppermints and colorful candies used to make these icing-covered masterpieces. Then stop

by Discovery Station, our indoor play area, and create some holiday magic of your own.

Admission is $5/adults, $5/youth (ages 2-12), free for members and youth under 2. For more information call 317.776.6006 or visit www. connerprairie.org.

Sunday 2 Indianapolis Colts vs.

Tennessee Titans 1 p.m. Lucas Oil Stadium. 500 S. Capitol Ave., Indianapolis. www.lucasoilstadium.com.

317-262-3452.

Community Tuesday Enjoy discount admission to the museum.

Indiana State Museum. 650 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. www.in.gov/ism. 317-232-1637.

Thursday 6 Home Work Lounge School-age children and teens are invited to use the library’s Home Work Lounge to work on their assignments. 4 p.m. Fountain Square Library. 1066 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4390.

How To Thursdays Know any cool magic tricks or are you a champion knitter that no one knows about? The YA Department is looking for teens with talent.

Receive volunteer hours for demonstrating your skills to other teens. Sign up at the Young Adult Desk to reserve your spot for this volunteer opportunity. 4-5 p.m. Carmel Clay Public Library. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www. carmel.lib.in.us.

Home Work Lounge School-age children and teens are invited to use the library’s Home Work Lounge to work on their assignments. 4 p.m. Fountain Square Library. 1066 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4390.

Mosaic Mania!

Come experiment with the art of mosaic!

You will have the option of making several types of mosaic art to take home with you. 4 p.m. Johnson County Public Library: Franklin Branch. 401 State St., Franklin. www.jcplin. org. 317-738-2833.

Library Kids Adventures: Crafts Galore For children in grades 3-5. Think of it like Crafts Channel TV - all crafts, all the time!.

6:30-7:30 p.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us.

Teen Advisory Board Monthly meeting for the Fishers Teen Advisory Board. Open to anyone in grades 7-12. Refreshments will be provided. 6:30 p.m. Hamilton East Library (Fishers). Five Municipal Dr., Fishers. www.hepl.lib.in.us/.

317-579-0300.

Tales for 2s & 3s For children ages 2-3 & their caregivers. 10:0010:30 a.m. and 11:00-11:30 a.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us.

Teen Advisory Board Monthly meeting for the Noblesville Teen Advisory Board. Open to anyone in grades 7-12. Refreshments will be provided. 7-8 p.m. Free. Noblesville Library. One Library Plaza, Noblesville. www.hepl.lib.in.us.

317-773-1384.

Friday 7 Indiana Pacers vs. San Antonio Spurs 7 p.m. $10 - $200. Conseco Fieldhouse.

125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www. consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500.

Indianapolis Ice vs.

Muskegon Lumberjacks 7 p.m. Pepsi Coliseum. 1202 E. 38th St., Indianapolis. www.indianastatefair.com.

317-927-7536.

Wednesday 5 Monday 3 Bookworms: Smitten with Mittens For children in grades 1 & 2.

4:00-4:45 p.m. and 6:30-7:15 p.m. With the weather outside so frightful, come in here where it’s so delightful!

We’ve planned a warm and fuzzy program for you.

Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www. carmel.lib.in.us.

TEEN ADVISORY BOARD MEETING Teen Advisory Board is the coolest club at the library! It’s your chance to plan programs, make crazy videos after hours, and help at Library events.

Free pizza is served at every meeting, and TAB looks awesome on college applications.

Applications are available online at www. greenwoodlibrary.us/tab.asp or in the Young Adult room on the second floor of the Library. 5:30 p.m. Greenwood Library. 310 S. 42 INDY’S CHILD * JANUARY 2011

Baby Lapsit Storytime Babies and toddlers with an adult are invited for stories, songs and rhymes, followed by playtime and interaction with children their own age. 11 a.m. Fountain Square Library. 1066 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org.

317-275-4390.

Little "Ones" For children ages 12-24 months & their caregivers. 10:00-10:25 a.m., 11:00-11:25 a.m., and 12:00-12:25 p.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us.

Indianapolis Area Step-Parents Coffee Talk This is a group that hopes to provide a place for step-parents to support, give advice, ask questions, vent and get to know others that are in this unique, challenging and exciting position The first and third Wednesday of every month. Venues will change regularly and notification of location will be sent out the weekend before each meetup. A chance to just get together to meet, talk and vent with other step parents. 6 a.m.-8 p.m. Will change for each meeting. www.meetup.com/Indy-StepParents/calendar/14443121/, Indianapolis. www.meetup.com/Indy-Step-Parents/.

317-555-5555.

Free Public Family Tours

Saturday 8 Community Drumming Circle Native American Drum Circle every Saturday at the Eiteljorg Museum : Tony Showa (Navajo) brings a holistic approach to release stress and anxiety from everyday living. Tony, a Sweat Lodge Leader, a Pow Wow drummer and drum maker, will do his best to help you through group drumming to stay focused and strong on your path. Come, drum, and walk in beauty.[(Main Area)]. 12:30 p.m. Eiteljorg Museum. 500 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. www.eiteljorg.org/. 317-636-WEST. FAMILY NATURE DAYS Bring the family by for fun nature activities and crafts. Each month will have a different topic. For January it is Reptiles. Ages: 3+ / $1, Register by calling 317-3277580. 2 p.m. Garfield Park Conservatory.

2505 Conservatory Dr., Indianapolis. www.garfieldgardensconservatory.org/.

317-327-7184.

Indianapolis Ice vs.

Chicago Steel 7 p.m. Pepsi Coliseum. 1202 E. 38th St., Indianapolis. www.indianastatefair.com.

317-927-7536.

The IMA offers free, 30-minute tours for families with children of all ages on the second and fourth Saturday of each month.

FREE. Indianapolis Museum of Art. 4000 Michigan Road, Indianapolis. imamuseum.org.

317-923-1331.

Sunday 9 Winter Tree ID Bundle up and join us for a basic lesson on winter tree identification using twigs, nuts, and bark. We will then put into practice our new knowledge to explore the park’s winter landscape. Ages: 14+ / $3. Please pre-register at 317.327-7580. 2 p.m. Garfield Park Conservatory.

2505 Conservatory Dr., Indianapolis. www. g a r f i e l d g a r d e n s c o n s e r v a t o r y.o r g /.

317-327-7184.

Monday 10 Play Date Preschool Storytime Preschoolers and an adult are invited for stories, games and crafts and a chance to meet other children. 11 a.m. Fountain Square Library. 1066 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org.

317-275-4390.

Bookworms: Penguins!

For children in grades 1 & 2. 4:00-4:45 p.m. and 6:30-7:15 p.m. Ever shuffle like a penguin while balancing an egg on your feet? Ever dress a penguin in a bowling shirt? After today, you’ll be able to say, "You betcha!". Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us.

How to Raise a Money Smart Child This program will be presented by financial advisor Corey Sylvester. Registration is required.Contact: To register, please visit www.hnpl.lib.in.us. For information, call Sheri at 317-984-5623. 6 p.m. Hamilton North Public Library, Cicero Branch. 209 W. Brinton St., Cicero. www.hnpl.lib.in.us/.

317-984-5623.

Tales for Tails Improve literacy skills and gain confidence by reading to a registered Delta Society Pet Partner!

Sign up for 15 minutes of reading time at the Children’s Reference Desk or by calling 8851330. 6-8 p.m. Johnson County Public Library: White River Branch. 1664 Library Blvd., Greenwood. www.jcplin.org. 317-885-1330.

Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) Coffee Talk - North Come and receive some extra support or to chat all topics related to autism and meet other TACA families. (Located at Hamilton Town Center Mall, exit 10 off I-69). 7-9 p.m. FREE. Paradise Bakery and Cafe. 13230 Harrell Parkway, Suite 400, Noblesville. www.tacanow.org. 949640-4401 Foundation Office-.

Tuesday 11 Home Work Lounge at Fountain Square School-age children and teens are invited to use the library’s Home Work Lounge to work on their assignments. 4 p.m. Fountain Square Library. 1066 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4390.

BOTTLE CAP MAGNETS Teen Program. Learn how to make cool refrigerator magnets out of bottle caps! Let your imagination run wild with this fun and easy afternoon craft. Snacks provided. 4 p.m.

Greenwood Library. 310 S. Meridian St., Greenwood. www.greenwood.lib.in.us/.

317-881-1953.

JUNGLE TALES

nonameportermcshirley.com. 4:30 p.m.

Johnson County Public Library: Trafalgar Branch. 424 Tower Street, Trafalgar. www. jcplin.org. 317-878-9560.

Fishers Parks & Recreation: Snow Much Fun Celebrate winter with "cool" crafts, stories, songs, and games including an indoor snowball fight (which is a child favorite) and yummy hot chocolate to keep us warm. For ages 3-7. DropOff Class, please see page 18. Min 8/Max 10.

10-11:30 a.m. R$12/NR$18. Billericay Park Building. 12690 Promise Road, Fishers. www. fishers.in.us/parks. 317-595-3133.

Green All Year series: Stuck Inside All Winter!

We’re kicking off a new series that will feature cool ways you can help make a planet a greener place. This month, we’re focusing on bedrooms and neat ways you can give your room an earthfriendly makeover. Join us for stories featuring Pinch the Pack Rat, and sisters Charlie and Lola, who are on a mission to win a recycling contest.

Then we’ll watch a Disney movie before making a draft stopper what will help you chase away the winter chill. 4:30 p.m. Johnson County Public Library: Clark Pleasant Branch. 530 Tracy Rd., Ste. 250, New Whiteland. www.jcplin.org/.

317-535-6206.

weaning. Pregnant or breastfeeding mothers with questions are encouraged to attend. La Leche League offers mother-to-mother support and information about breastfeeding. A lending library of books on childbirth, breastfeeding, parenting, and nutrition will be available. free.

Methodist Medical Plaza, Community Room.

8830 South Meridian St., Greenwood. www. llli.org. 317-784-8286.

Thursday 13 Books and Beans Book Discussion Group Come join other book lovers at the Hamilton East Public Library each month to discuss some of the latest best sellers and most talked about books. This month’s read is A Town like Alice

by Nevil Shute. 7 p.m. Hamilton East Library (Fishers). Five Municipal Dr., Fishers. www. hepl.lib.in.us/. 317-579-0300.

Magic Show with Don Miller Now you see it, now you don’t! Families are invited to enjoy the antics of magician Don Miller. 6:30 p.m. Irvington Library. 5625 E. Washington St, Indianapolis. www.imcpl. org. 317-275-4450.

Children’s Craft Classes

Indiana Pacers vs.

Dallas Mavericks 7 p.m. $10 - $200. Conseco Fieldhouse.

125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www. consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500.

This popular preschool program returns with a focus on the rainforest and the world around us. Join us for nature-related stories, activities and crafts. Activities may be messy or involve going outdoors, so dress appropriately. This program fills up fast and pre-registration is required, SO REGISTER TODAY! Bring your preschooler to this program with a focus on the natural world around us. Join us for a different nature-related story, activity and craft each month. Call early to pre-register: 317.327.7580.

10 a.m. Garfield Park Conservatory.

2505 Conservatory Dr., Indianapolis. www.garfieldgardensconservatory.org/.

317-327-7184.

Library Kids Adventures: Wheel of Fortune For children in grades 3-5. We’ll play Pat and Vanna; you play the wheel! If you just love the alphabet and puzzles, this is Your Special Night.

6:30-7:30 p.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us.

Wednesday 12 Art IS Everywhere: Drawing 101 Johnson County author and illustrator, Noname Porter-McShirley, will provide hands-on experience and instruction for those who wish to draw. Her poetry book Pebbles, Blisters, and Handfuls of Sunlight is available at the library.

Visit her websites: www.rifll.com or www.

Sofiya Inger Reception Meet the artist and join us for refreshments.

Sofiya’s first solo show in America, "Looking at the Sky," took place in 1999 at the JCC, so her new show is a homecoming of sorts. Sofiya’s work evokes feelings of master artist Marc Chagall. Inger received her Fine Arts degree from the Kirov School of Art in Russia and studied textile design at the Fashion Institute of Technology (F.I.T.) in New York City. 5:30 p.m. Jewish Community Center. 6701 Hoover Road, Indianapolis. www.jccindy.org. (317) 251-9467.

Greenwood La Leche League series meeting Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children are invited to the Greenwood La Leche League monthly meeting Wednesday, November 11, at 9:30 a.m. Discussion topics include the advantages of breastfeeding, the family and the breastfed baby, the art of breastfeeding and avoiding difficulties, and nutrition and

Saturday 15 Family Storytime: Messy & Clean For young children & their caregivers. 10:0010:30 a.m. and 11:00-11:30. Bring the whole family to share literature through stories, rhymes, and songs. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us.

Pop-Up Card Workshop Children ages 8 and up are invited as artist Sofiya Inger leads them in a workshop on paper engineering and making a one-of-a-kind popup card for home. Younger children may need an adult or older sibling to help them with their craft. 2 p.m. Pike Library. 6525 Zionsville Rd, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4480.

Sunday 16

Indianapois Ice vs.Waterloo Black Hawks 7 p.m. Pepsi Coliseum. 1202 E. 38th St., Indianapolis. www.indianastatefair.com.

317-927-7536.

Play It Again Wednesdays: Match Game Competing with the Best! Drop by the Young Adult Department Lounge to play group games or compete in tournaments for a chance to win prizes. 4-5 p.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Young Adult Desk. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us.

through Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation, either online at carmelclayparks.com, in person at the Monon Community Center, by calling 848-7275, or by mailing the registration form to MCC East at 1235 Central Park Drive East. The registration deadline is one week prior to the start date of the program. Minimum/maximum: 10/30 children. Monon Community Center Multi-Purpose Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. 317-848-7275.

The Greenwood Parks and Recreation Department is offering craft classes for children ages 10 and up. The craft classes will be held at the Greenwood Community Center the second Thursday of every month from 6:30pm8:30pm. Please register one week in advance.

Call 317-881-4545 to find out what craft is being offered each month and the cost. Varies.

Greenwood Community Center. 100 Surina Way, Greenwood. www.greenwood.in.gov.

317-881-4545.

The Music of Paul McCartney at the ISO Paul’s going solo! Tony Kishman, one of the stars of Classical Mystery Tour, has created an all-new show celebrating the music of Paul McCartney, the most successful song writer in history, from his iconic Beatles songs to the Wings years and his decades-long solo career.

Tony’s joined by his Classical Mystery Tour bandmates Jim Owen and Chris Camelleri for everything from “Hey Jude” to “Band on the Run” to “Live and Let Die.” Also playing on Friday, January 14 2011, 8:00 pm a n d Saturday, January 15, 2011, 8:00 pm. 3 p.m.

Hilbert Circle Theatre. 45 Monument Circle, Indianapolis.

Monday 17 Baking Day Camp (Boys and Girls)

Friday 14 Indiana Pacers vs. Chicago Bulls 7 p.m. $10 - $200. Conseco Fieldhouse.

125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www. consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500.

Storytime Express @ the Monon: Winter Wonderland For children ages 2-5 & their caregivers. 11:0011:25 a.m. This fast-paced interactive mix of fun-filled stories, rhymes, and songs paired with a simple craft is designed to introduce and practice critical early literacy skills. The shorter length and fast pace make it perfect for active children with short attention spans. Younger siblings are welcome. Registration is required

Jan. 17 - Mon - Baking Day (boys and girls).

Come make homemade bread and find out what it means to be a baker. We will be making and wearing baker’s hats and our aprons as we prepare the dough. We will eat our homemade

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bread as our snack in the afternoon. Every Camp includes a well-balanced lunch, crafts, games, and of course gym time. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

InterActive Academy. 3795 s us 421, Zionsville. www.interactiveacademy.org.

317-7333000.

Bookworms: Winter Hawaiian Luau For children in grades 1 & 2. 4:004:45 p.m. and 6:30-7:15 p.m. Let’s thaw this place out! Island music aplenty, limbo mania guaranteed, and flower leis all around. He mea iki!. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room.

55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us.

DIY Mondays: Duct Tape Wallets Saving the Planet stylishly! Learn how to turn ordinary items into artwork.

4-5 p.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Young Adult Lounge. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration

FREE with donation of a canned food item. Join the museum’s celebration honoring the life of visionary civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The day’s festivities include documentary films, performances and free admission to the museum galleries. All donated food items will be given to Gleaners Food Bank. Indiana State Museum. 650 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. www.in.gov/ism.

317-232-1637.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day at the Zoo Once again, the Indianapolis Zoo will join with its White River State Park partners to celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday, January 17, 2011. Weather permitting, the Zoo will open on that day (we normally are closed on Mondays & Tuesdays in January and February) and we are offering free admission with the donation of a canned food item to be donated to Gleaner’s Food Bank. Indianapolis Zoo. 1200 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. www. indyzoo.com. 317-630-2001.

Tuesday 18 Family Game Night at Fountain Square Families are invited to play a variety of fun and educational board games with their children. 6 p.m. Fountain Square Library. 1066 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org.

317-275-4390.

44 INDY’S CHILD * JANUARY 2011

Home Work Lounge at Fountain Square School-age children and teens are invited to use the library’s Home Work Lounge to work on their assignments. 4 p.m. Fountain Square Library.

1066 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4390.

ConstRuction Day Camp (Boys and Girls) Jan. 18 - Tues - Construction Day (boys and girls). Have you ever wondered what it would be like to build a skyscraper? Come find out about building with different kinds of materials. We will explore wood, dough, metal, sand and much more. Every Camp includes a wellbalanced lunch, crafts, games, and of course gym time. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

InterActive Academy.

3795 s us 421, Zionsville. www.interactiveacademy. org. 317-733-3000.

Envision Your Best Life You CAN live your best life. But how do you begin?

Start by participating in this workshop where you’ll create a vision for your best life. Use your creativity to discover the overall vision for your best life and identify the components that make up that vision.

You’ll work through exercises, complete worksheets, and leave with "homework" assignments that will help you create YOUR personalized vision. You CAN live your best life, and it all begins with a personalized vision. Seating is limited so reserve your spot today. 7-8 p.m. Hamilton East Library (Fishers).

Five Municipal Dr., Fishers. www.hepl.lib.in.us/.

317-579-0300.

Library Kids Adventures: Pizza, Pizza, Pizza For children in grades 3-5. Mamma Mia! Come vote for your favorite pizza. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us.

The Elvis Project One of Indiana’s premier professional dance companies, Dance Kaleidoscope (DK) presents a flashy look ath the life and music of the King of Rock and Roll. This educational traveling company is a group of gifted and athletic dancers trained in Martha Graham’s rigorous modern dance technique - as well as classical ballet. David Hohoy and guest choreographer Cynthia Pratt celebrate their favorite Elvis tunes in this brand new show! Registration can be made by contacting the PPAC Director at 317.216.5450. 9:30 a.m. Pike Performing Arts Center. 6701 Zionsville Rd, Indianapolis. www. pike.k12.in.us. 317-216-5450.

Winter Wonderland Join us at the Franklin Branch as we learn all about snowflakes. We’ll create a winter wonderland using puffy paints. 4 p.m. Johnson County Public Library: Franklin Branch. 401 State St., Franklin. www. jcplin.org. 317-738-2833.

Wednesday 19 Mystery Loves Company Book Discussion Group This monthly book discussion group discusses specific titles as well as mystery genres. This month, participants are asked to read any mystery by Archer Mayor in

his Joe Gunther series. For title suggestions, check at the Library’s Reference Desk or online at www. mysteryguide.com. 7 p.m. Hamilton East Library (Fishers). Five Municipal Dr., Fishers. www.hepl.lib. in.us/. 317-579-0300.

Thursday 20 American Pianists Association (APA) Jazz Finalist Aaron Diehl Concert 7 - 9 p.m.; auditorium or great hall; Admission free (tentative; call or check web for updates). Indiana State Museum. 650 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. www. in.gov/ism. 317-232-1637.

Home Work Lounge at Fountain Square School-age children and teens are invited to use the library’s Home Work Lounge to work on their assignments. 4 p.m. Fountain Square Library. 1066 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org.

317-275-4390.

Resmer Orthodontics Candy Exchange Dr. Lindsay Resmer, of Resmer Orthodontics, will be an official site for the Smiles Change Lives National Candy Exchange. This free event is to encourage kids of the community to think about healthier alternatives to candy and become more aware of the importance of oral health and oral hygiene. The duration of the event will be November 1st 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm at Resmer Orthodontics (16000 Prosperity Dr, Suite 500, Noblesville, IN). This event will benefit Smiles Change Lives (SCL), a national orthodontic charity that provides affordable braces for kids from low-income families in the community. Dr. Resmer donates her time and services to help kids achieve a healthier smile that will be a positive impact in that child’s life forever. . 3-6 p.m. 16000 Prosperity Dr. Ste. 500, Noblesville. www.ResmerOrthodontics.com. 317-774-8480.

Teen Book Club Teens are invited to discuss the book of the month over snacks. Sign up at the Reference Desk to receive a copy of each month’s book. 3:30 p.m. Pike Library.

6525 Zionsville Rd, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org.

317-275-4480.

Friday 21 Indianapois Ice vs.

Waterloo Black Hawks 7 p.m. Pepsi Coliseum. 1202 E. 38th St., Indianapolis. www.indianastatefair.com. 317-927-7536.

Jungle Tales told by Antonio Rocha Take a wild trip into the jungles of Brazil and Africa with Antonio Rocha. This Parent’s Choice Gold Award winner draws from his repertoire of animal tales which evoke the sights and sounds of the rainforest and its wildly entertaining inhabitants. 7-8 p.m. $5 for children ages 5 - 12 and $10 for adults. Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center. 450 W. Ohio St, INDIANAPOLIS. www.storytellingarts.org. 317576-9848.

Saturday 22 100-Year Celebration 100 Years. 100 Miles. 100 Parks. TAKE THE CHALLENGE. Join us for the 100-Year Celebration Kick-Off event. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Garfield Park Conservatory. 2505 Conservatory Dr., Indianapolis. www.garfieldgardensconservatory.org/.

317-327-7184.

Brazilian Extravaganza told by Antonio Rocha Combining the elements of storytelling, mime and physical comedy, Antonio Rocha will perform in Indy.

A native of Brazil, Antonio Rocha leaves audiences spellbound by the myths, the absurd and the poetic.

His physical comedy - with exaggerated movements and facial muggings - is similar to the antics of comedy shows. In 1988, Antonio received a grant to come to the United States to perform and deepen his mime skills with Master Tony Montanaro. Since then he graduated Summa Cum Laude with a bachelor’s degree in Theater from University of Southern Maine and studied with Master Marcel Marceau. Antonio’s unique solo shows of stories and mime have been performed from Singapore to Hawaii and many places in between, including ten countries on five continents. He performed for Indianapolis audiences in 2001 and 2003. 7:30-9:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 in advance; $25 at the door. Frank and Katrina Basile Theater, Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center. 450 W. Ohio St., Indianapolis, Indianapolis. www.storytellingarts.org. 317-5769848.

Free Public Family Tours The IMA offers free, 30-minute tours for families with children of all ages on the second and fourth Saturday of each month. FREE. Indianapolis Museum of Art. 4000 Michigan Road, Indianapolis. imamuseum.org.

317-923-1331.

Girls Night Out Massage, Hand Treatments, Foot Treatments, Chair Massage, Facial Massage, Brow Wax, Food & Fun. Bring a friend and come hang with the girls. Choose 3 services for $30. Eden’s Pathway. 5496 Emerson Way, Indianapolis. www.edenspathway.com.

317.205.9377.

Sunday 23 Holliday Park: Meet the Nature Center Animals Get up close and personal with the animals who call the nature center home. We’ll learn about what makes each animal unique, as well as how our naturalists keep them happy and healthy. All ages, no registration required.

1:30-2:30 p.m. Free. Holliday Park Nature Center. 6363 Spring Mill Road, Indianapolis. www.hollidaypark. org. 3173277180.

Monday 24 Afternoon Movie “Flipped” rated (PG) A coming-of-age romantic comedy adapted from the book by Wendelin Van Drannen. Free popcorn!. 3 p.m. Hamilton North Public Library, Atlanta Branch. 100 S. Walnut St., Atlanta. www.hnpl.lib.in.us/. 765-292-2521.

Family Films For young children & their caregivers. 10:00-10:30 a.m. and 11:00-11:30 a.m. Bear Snores On; Happy Birthday, Moon; Tops & Bottoms. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www. carmel.lib.in.us.

Mad Scientist Party Still need convincing that science is fun? Join us for some fun and easy science experiments, and discover that science is FUNdamental! For grades Kindergarten to 5th grade. Space is limited, so register today!. 7 p.m. Free. Noblesville Library. One Library Plaza, Noblesville. www.hepl.lib.in.us. 317-773-1384.

Tuesday 25 Cool Wintertime Craft: Crafty Kids Club Oh, the weather outside may be frightful, so come into the library where it’s warm and delightful. We’ll be making a cool craft to chase away the wintertime blahs.

Drop in anytime between 4:00 & 5:30 p.m. Johnson

County Public Library: Trafalgar Branch. 424 Tower Street, Trafalgar. www.jcplin.org. 317-878-9560.

Home Work Lounge at Fountain Square School-age children and teens are invited to use the library’s Home Work Lounge to work on their assignments. 4 p.m. Fountain Square Library. 1066 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org.

317-275-4390.

Indianapolis Ice vs.

Muskegon Lumberjacks 7 p.m. Pepsi Coliseum. 1202 E. 38th St., Indianapolis. www.indianastatefair.com. 317-927-7536.

Storytime Express @ the Monon: Hooray for Snow For children ages 2-5 & their caregivers. 11:00-11:25 a.m.This fast-paced interactive mix of fun-filled stories, rhymes, and songs paired with a simple craft is designed to introduce and practice critical early literacy skills.The shorter length and fast pace make it perfect for active children with short attention spans.Younger siblings are welcome. Registration is required through Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation, either online at carmelclayparks. com, in person at the Monon Community Center, by calling 848-7275, or by mailing the registration form to MCC East at 1235 Central Park Drive East. The registration deadline is one week prior to the start date of the program. Minimum/maximum: 10/30 children.

Monon Community Center Multi-Purpose Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. 317-848-7275.

Wednesday 26 Family Films For young children & their caregivers. 10:00-10:30 a.m., 11:00-11:30 a.m., and 7:00-7:30 p.m. Bear Snores On; Happy Birthday, Moon; Tops & Bottoms. Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us.

Indiana Pacers vs. Orlando Magic 7 p.m. $10 - $200. Conseco Fieldhouse.

125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www.consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500.

Mad Scientist Party Still need convincing that science is fun? Join us for some fun and easy science experiments, and discover that science is FUNdamental! For grades Kindergarten to 5th grade. Space is limited, so register today. Register by calling the Youth Services Department at 579-0304 or online at www.hepl.lib.in.us. 7 p.m. Hamilton East Library (Fishers). Five Municipal Dr., Fishers. www.hepl.lib.in.us/. 317-579-0300.

Teen Gaming Night - Wii We’re bringing out the Wii, bring your friends and come game. We’ve got Guitar Hero, Sports and more!. 6-8 p.m. Hamilton East Library (Fishers). Five Municipal Dr., Fishers. www.hepl.lib.in.us/. 317579-0300.

Teen Knitting Club It’s time to knit and pearl while relaxing with your friends. Bring along your knitting needles, creativity and conversation.The Library will even supply the yarn. 6-8 p.m. Hamilton East Library (Fishers). Five Municipal Dr., Fishers. www.hepl.lib.in.us/. 317-579-0300.

Thursday 27 Estate and Financial Planning for Families with Dependents with Special Needs As the direction of Medicaid and SSI becomes difficult to predict and benefits often prove inadequate, it has become critical for parents to plan for the future of their child or dependent with Special Needs. This Workshop covers Legal Issues, including Wills, Trusts, Special Needs Trusts, and Guardianship. Financial Issues, such as Special Needs Trust Funding, Medicaid and SSI. Family Issues, including Letter of Intent and Family involvement in the process. Presented by MetLife Center for Special Needs Planning Special Needs Financial Planner, and parent, Gordon Homes, CFP. 7-8:30 p.m. free. NAMI - East Side Support Group. 1640 N. Ritter Ave., Indpls. www.gordonhomes.com.

317-567-2005.

Home Work Lounge at Fountain Square School-age children and teens are invited to use the library’s Home Work Lounge to work on their assignments. 4 p.m. Fountain Square Library. 1066 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org.

317-275-4390.

RANDOM FILM FESTIVAL: TOY STORY 3 Random Film Festival brings you the best in family friendly movies! Woody, Buzz, and the whole gang are back, As their owner Andy prepares to depart for college, his loyal toys find themselves in daycare where untamed tots with their sticky fingers do not play nice.

So, it’s all for one and one for all as they join Barbie’s counterpart Ken, a thespian hedgehog named Mr. Pricklepants, and a pink, strawberry scented teddy bear called Lots-o’-Huggin’ Bear to plan their great escape.

(Free popcorn and drinks for all attendees.). 6 p.m.

Greenwood Library. 310 S. Meridian St., Greenwood. www.greenwood.lib.in.us/. 317-881-1953.

Stella Artois Happy Hour at the Symphony 6:30 p.m. $20. Hilbert Circle Theatre.

45 Monument Circle, Indianapolis. www.indianapolissymphony.org.

Teen Book Club Young people ages 12 - 17 are invited to be a part of this monthly book discussion club. 4 p.m. Brightwood Library. 2435 N. Sherman Dr, Indianapolis. www. imcpl.org/about/locations/westindianapolis. html. 317-275-4310.

Friday 28 Homeschool Book Bunch: Dreaming of Summer For children in grades K-5. 10:30-11:15 a.m. Join the Book Bunch reading club! Each month we will meet for a brief book discussion, snacks, and fun activities based on the selected theme. Book lists with titles based on our theme for January, "Dreaming of Summer," will be Miranda Cosgrove available at the Children’s Reference Like Us. Miranda Cosgrove has made a name for s.

Desk upon registration. For a herself starring as the title character of WIn Prize d on hil more meaningful experience, Nickelodeon’s No. 1 cable show iCarly.

E Indy's C ter to IK L we recommend that participants nd en Although she’s been performing since a k o o b Face read their selected book or have ch as a she was a child, she only discovered prizes su the in w it read to them prior to the e to her passion for making music after g a ck a P VIP ve program. Please remember to ro g s recording the iCarly theme song. Now o C a Mirand bring your book with you to the is your chance to see her perform oncert!

C program, which will take place in live!. 7 p.m. Old National Center the Storytime Room. Registration (Formerly Murat). 502 N. New will begin on Friday, January 7, in person, Jersey St., Indianapolis. www. online, or by calling 844-3363. Carmel Clay livenation.com/murat. 317-632-7469.

Public Library Storytime Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Paws to Read at Lawrence Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us. 317-844-3363.

School-age children who are reluctant readers are invited to read to a registered therapy dog who loves Indiana Pacers vs. New Jersey Nets to listen to stories! It’s a great way to improve a child’s 7 p.m. $10 - $200. Conseco Fieldhouse. reading skills and self-confidence. Call 275-4460 to 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www. register. 1 p.m. Lawrence Library. 7898 N. Hague Rd, consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500.

Indianapolis. www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4460.

Ladies’ Night Out Ladies, take an evening away from the stresses of life and enjoy some time for yourself at the OWC Our Ladies’ Night features a variety of wellness services from the best natural wellness businesses in our community. This month, we’re pleased to offer the following services: massage therapy, facials, all-natural nail care, reiki, foot bath detoxification, ear candling, waxing (eyebrows), complimentary skin consultations, and complimentary stress analysis. Please call OWC at (317) 870-7220. 5-9 p.m. Services begin at $10 please call for pricing details. Optimal Wellness Center.

4545 Northwestern Dr, Ste. a, Zionsville. www.

WeCreateWellness.com. 317-870-7220.

Saturday 29 American Girl Party For children in grades 1-5. 11:00 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

American girls of today are active and involved. They like to learn and do and have fun. The American Girl program we have planned will let you do all those things while learning about science, nutrition, and exercise. Free tickets are required and will be available beginning Saturday, January 22, online or at the Children’s Reference Desk. Each person must have a ticket to enter the Program Room. Carmel Clay Public Library Program Room. 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel. www.carmel.lib.in.us.

Curls, Cornrows & Combovers: Investigating the Do’s, Don’ts & Science of Hair From Beehives to Bobs and Mohawks to Mullets, explore the science and culture of hair. Top stylists will demonstrate their sought-after skills, while the scientist in you can explore the mysteries of human hair. Learn about the effects of heat, water and air, and leave with tips on preventing hair damage. Discover how Hoosier beauty mogul Madame C.J. Walker changed the lives and hair of African Americans around the world. Study an elaborate hair wreath and find out how you can preserve hair as a keepsake or as artwork. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Indiana State Museum. 650 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. www.in.gov/ism.

317-232-1637.

Science Day Sharpen your investigation skills! Make predictions, record observations, and use science tools as you learn about science around the museum. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The Children’s Museum. 3000 N. Meridian St, Indianapolis. www.childrensmuseum.org/. (317) 334-3322.

Sunday 30 Chamber Music Society at the Palladium The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center opens the inaugural Classics Series at The Palladium. Noted as the premier repertory company for chamber music in the United States and around the world, the Chamber Music Society has continually brought together the finest soloists and chamber ensembles to perform the full gamut of chamber music written over the past three centuries. The Center for the Performing Arts. 355 W. City Center Dr., Carmel. www. performingartscarmel.com. 317-660-3373.

Monday 31 Fancy Nancy Tea Party Ooh la la! We’re having a tea party! Come enjoy fancy crafts, games and treats. Be sure to dress up for this elegant event! Hurry, limited space available!. 4:30 p.m. Johnson County Public Library: White River Branch. 1664 Library Blvd., Greenwood. www. jcplin.org. 317-885-1330.

Indiana Pacers vs.

Toronto Raptors 7 p.m. $10 - $200. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. www. consecofieldhouse.com. 317-917-2500.

Play Date Preschool Storytime at Fountain Square Preschoolers and an adult are invited for stories, games and crafts and a chance to meet other children. 11 a.m. Fountain Square Library. 1066 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis. http://www.imcpl. org. 317-275-4390.

INDYSCHILD.COM 45

ONGOING EVENTS Hearthside Suppers Occurring Every Sun, Fri & Sat Beginning Saturday, January 08, 2011 Through Sunday, January 30, 2011. Weekends in January, experience an intimate, authentic 19th-century dinner served by costumed hosts in the Conner House, Central Indiana's f irst brick home. Help with preparations by the hearth, sip on hot cider and indulge in a delicious multicourse meal. Recommended for ages 10-adult. Reservations are required. Call 317.776.6006 or 800.966.1836. $60/person ($55/member). 13400 Allisonville Rd., Fishers, IN 46038 http://www.connerprairie.org/

Wii Love Gaming at Wayne Occurring Each Tuesday Beginning Tuesday, January 04, 2011 Through Tuesday, January 25, 2011. Teens ages 12 - 17 are invited to make new friends and improve their skills at such games as Rock Band, Dance Dance Revolution, Super Mario Brothers Smash Brawl or Mario Cart. 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Wayne Library. 198 S. Girls School Rd, Indianapolis. http:// www.imcpl.org. 317-275-4530.

”The Diary of Anne Frank”

Occurring Daily Beginning Tuesday, January 18, 2011 Through Thursday, February 24, 2011. Now it’s history; once, it was a young girl’s life. The Diary of Anne Frank is such a literary landmark that it’s easy to forget how it started out: as the personal journal of a young girl striving to become a woman. Written while she and her family hid from Nazis in Amsterdam, Anne Frank’s diary stands as a tribute to the human spirit. This lyrical new adaptation celebrates creativity’s power while, at the same time, remembering the young girl at the heart of the history. Ticket prices start at $20 for preview performances. Indiana Repertory Theatre. 140 West Washington Street, Indianapolis. www.irtlive.com.

3179164834.

9 to 5, The Musical Occurring Daily Beginning Tuesday, January 11, 2011 Through Sunday, January 16, 2011. A hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era. This new musical comedy, direct from Broadway, is based on the hit movie and features DOLLY PARTON’s original hit title song along with her new Tony Award -and Grammy-nominated score.

The book is by PATRICIA RESNICK (co-writer of the original screenplay). Clowes Memorial Hall. 4600 Sunset Ave, Indianapolis. http://ww.broadwayacrossamerica. com/. 800.793.7469.

Disney On Ice : Disney Pixar’s Toy Story 3

visits with Santa. Have fun with Jingles and his friends! Explore "outdoor" fun at the Snow Castle and Ice Fishing holes. Warm up your imagination with lots of cookie fun in the kitchen, and help Santa’s reindeer prepare for their flight! www.childrensmuseum. org. Free with museum admission. The Children’s Museum. 3000 N. Meridian St, Indianapolis. http://www.childrensmuseum. org/. (317) 334-3322.

Museum Gallery Search: Iconic Indiana Occurring Daily Beginning Saturday, January 's Child LIKE Indy 01, 2011 Through Monday, January 31, 2011. ook and on Faceb s What is Indiana? What def ines our state? e z in pri enter to w a Depending on who you ask, a lot of things. Ask s such a to ts e a foodie, and it’s a breaded pork tenderloin and Occurring Daily Beginning Wednesday, k Tic ICe! sugar cream pie. Ask a sports fan, and it could be January 19, 2011 Through Sunday, January Disney on basketball, football or racing. Ask an artist, a farmer 23, 2011. Have you heard the buzz? The toys or a scientist and again you’ll f ind new answers. Uncover are back in town! Disney On Ice presents Disney/Pixar’s Toy Story 3! The summer’s biggest hit movie, Toy Story 3, and some of our state’s unique contributions as you investigate memorable moments from Toy Story and Toy Story 2 are hitting the Indiana icons. Indiana State Museum. 650 W. Washington St, ice in this sensational live production coming to your hometown! Indianapolis. http://www.in.gov/ism. 317-232-1637.

Rediscover the humor, friendship and charm of Toy Story when Disney On Ice presents Disney/Pixar’s Toy Story 3 takes family fun to infinity and beyond! See them live at Conseco Fieldhouse with Odd Indiana all new dates of January 19-23, 2011. Ticket Link: http://www. Occurring Daily Through Saturday, February 12, 2011. $7 ticketmaster.com/search?tm_link=tm_header_search&q=c adult; $6.50 Senior; $4 children 3 -12. Indiana State Museum. onseco+fieldhouse+Disney+on+ice. $73.95 (Rink side), $53.95 650 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. http://www.in.gov/ (VIP), $27 (Lower Level), $22 - $27 (. Conseco Fieldhouse. 125 S. ism. 317-232-1637.

Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. http://www.consecofieldhouse. com. 317-917-2500.

Teen Wii Gaming Occurring Each Tuesday Beginning Tuesday, January 04, 2011 Through Tuesday, January 25, 2011. We’re bringing Jingle Rails: The Great Western out the Wii, bring your friends and come game. We’ve got Adventure at the Eiteljorg Museum of Guitar Hero, Sports, Mario Kart, Super Smash Bros Brawl, American Indians and Western Art Occurring Daily Through Sunday, January 09, 2011. The museum’s and more. 3-5 p.m. Free. Noblesville Library. One Library Clowes Sculpture Court will be transformed into a locomotive Plaza, Noblesville. www.hepl.lib.in.us. 317-773-1384. wonderland, a network of trestles, bridges and tunnels with chugging trains and detailed replicas of national treasures, all wrapped up in holiday trimming. JingleRails will be a journey to the Great The 25th Annual Putnam American West - the real West and the West of the imagination. County Spelling Bee Eiteljorg Museum. 500 W. Washington St, Indianapolis. http:// Occurring Daily Beginning Wednesday, December 29, 2011 www.eiteljorg.org/. 317-636-WEST. Through Sunday, January 30, 2011. Excitement begins with a Bee as Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre opens its 38th Season early with a bold Broadway show that’s new to its stage.

Competitive overachievers in the throes of puberty face off Jolly Days at The Children’s in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Although Museum of Indianapolis they’re struggling to f it in most of the time, a spelling bee is the one place these quirky adolescents want to stand out.

Growing up isn’t easy, and these six outsiders are overseen by adults who’ve barely managed to escape childhood themselves. There are 35 performances of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee in the intimate atmosphere of Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre and all performances include Chef Odell Ward’s specially prepared dinner buffet, fruit and salad bar, coffee and tea. Full bar service and gourmet desserts are also available. This show is being given a "PG-13" rating. $36 to $59. Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre. 9301 N. Michigan Occurring Daily Through Sunday, January 09, 2011. Enjoy Rd, Indianapolis. http://www.beefandboards.com. 317traditional holiday favorites such as the Yule Slide (two story slide 872-9664. from second floor down to the first), Jingles the Jolly Bear and Like Us. s.

WIn Prize

Visit our website at www.IndysChild.com for more calendar events!

46 INDY’S CHILD * JANUARY 2011

Tuesday Night at the Movies for Teens Occurring Each Tuesday Beginning Tuesday, January 11, 2011 Through Tuesday, January 25, 2011. Join us for movies on the big screen and free munchies! No registration is required, but you must be between the ages of 12 and 19. 6-8 p.m. Free.

Noblesville Library. One Library Plaza, Noblesville. www. hepl.lib.in.us. 317-773-1384.

Carmel Clay Public Library 2011 Family Read Aloud Program Occurring Daily Beginning Sunday, January 02, 2011 Through Monday, January 31, 2011.

Come to the Children's & Youth Services Department beginning Sunday, January 2 to sign up and you will receive your family's Read Aloud record and snowmen to decorate.

Read Aloud: Choose any books that you would like to read as a family. Try to make it a daily routine. Ask the Children's & Youth Services staff for recommendations! Color on your family's Read Aloud record, each space counts for 15 minutes of time spent reading aloud together. Along the path, you will see 4 complete snowmen and on these spaces, you can choose to do a special activity OR read for 15 minutes. Make sure to bring in your completed record (4 hours of reading) to the Children's & Youth Services Department no later than Monday, January 31. When you turn in your completed record, your family will receive a snowman craft to make

together. Each child will also receive a hot cocoa packet and two prizes from our treasure chest. Phone: 317-844-3363 55 4th Avenue S.E., Carmel, IN 46032 http://www.carmel. lib.in.us

in create-a-story. Registration is required. Register by calling the Youth Services Department at 579-0304 or online at www.hepl.lib.in.us. Phone: 317-579-0300 Location: Five Municipal Dr., Fishers, IN 46038 http://www.hepl. lib.in.us/

Family Literacy Workshops Occurring Each Wednesday Beginning Wednesday, January 12, 2011 Through Wednesday, February 09, 2011. Early literacy training for children ages 2 to 5 and parents. Each week features a book which will be sent home with children.

The cost is $50 for a six week session. Make checks payable to Franklin College. Times: 5:30 PM Phone: 317-881-1953 310 S. Meridian St., Greenwood, IN 46143 http://www.greenwood.lib.in.us/

H-Club series: A Lion to Guard Us by Clyde Robert Bulla Occurring Each Thursday Beginning Thursday, January 06, 2011 Through Thursday, January 27, 2011 at 10:00AM. Join us for the H-Club - short for our weekly homeschool club. We will start the hour with the reading of A Lion to Guard Us. Phone: 317-878-9560Location: 424 Tower Street, Trafalgar, IN 46181Website: http://www.jcplin.org Visit www.indyschild.com for even more great ideas on things to do!!!

Create-a-Story Occurring Each Thursday Beginning Thursday, January 13, 2011 Through Thursday, January 27, 2011 at 4:30PM. Create-a-story is a wacky combination of poetry, games, reader's theater and crafts. Kids are encouraged to f ire up their imaginations and tell their own stories. Expect the unexpected

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Contact Jennica at Jennica@indyschild.com

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