March 2020 | Indy's Child

MARCH 2020

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let them

PLAY Why play is so important in preschool

ROAD TRIP

spring break destinations

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2020

C A MP GUIDE

contents MARCH 2020

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16 departments In Every Issue

Travel

Special Needs

06 07 08 10

16 Let's Go on Spring

40 The Benefits of

Sponsored Content 11 Welcome to the Ninja

41 Special Needs Guide

18 Full Steam Ahead 24 Changing the World,

Letter from the Editor Upcoming Contests News & Notes Indy's Children

Break

Parenting 13 Parenting in the

Around Town 12

Hidden Gems: The Library Coffee Bar at the Indianapolis Art Center

14 Be Prepared:

Unpredictable Weather is Coming

Kidwest

28 Need a Mentor?

Go to Camp!

36 Teens & Tweens:

Teens and Climate Change

37 Disconnect to

Gardening with Children

Resources & Calendars 30 38 44 51

Camp Guide Education Guide March Events Fun & Wacky Calendar

Games

One Preschooler at a Time 24 Give Your Child a Summer of Fun at IUPUI Summer Day Camp

42 Traveling with Children

Reconnect

feature

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Let Them Play

Why play is so important in preschool.

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Founding Publisher Barbara Wynne barbara@indyschild.com Publisher Mary Wynne Cox mary@indyschild.com Marketing + Sales Development Trisha Brand trisha@indyschild.com Editor Nicole Sipe nicolesipe@indyschild.com

Come Out and Play We are in the last couple of months at our play-based preschool. Come May, we will have to say goodbye to the community of families that welcomed us, wholeheartedly and unconditionally, when we moved to Indy from California almost six years ago. Next stop for my youngest son: elementary school!

But I’m not going to write about how much I will miss our little cooperative nursery school.

Not yet, at least. We are still in the thick of it: playing, getting muddy, gluing, painting, building and sharing on the daily.

The other day, after I picked him up from another day of play, my son asked me why he doesn’t do any learning at his school. He has seen his older brother, a second grader, come home with worksheets full of math problems and assignments that have him creating slideshows about Antarctica. My youngest wanted to know why he wasn’t doing any real learning like that.

I tried to explain to my 5-year-old son that all the fun things he’s doing in school is learning.

When he plays games, he’s learning how to take turns and cooperate with others. When he’s building with blocks, he’s learning simple geometry and logic. When he’s squishing slime, he’s being introduced to science. But that is what’s so magical about play: Kids are learning and they don’t even realize it.

As you can imagine, our feature article in this issue, Let Them Play on page 20, is right up my alley. I am a big proponent of play in early childhood. (I’ve seen the benefits first-hand!)

This article will share with you many reasons why play — that oh-so-important thing that doesn’t always look so important when it is happening — is essential for a child’s development.

Fred Rogers said it better than I ever could: “Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.”

EDITOR

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NICOLESIPE@INDYSCHILD.COM INDYSCHILD.COM I March 2020

Production Manager Karen Ring karen@indyschild..com Creative Director Katie Clark katie@indyschild.com Digital Publisher + Events Wendy Hasser wendy@indyschild.com Business Development Brooke Litherland brooke@indyschild.com Editorial + Audience Development Tessa Judge tessa@indyschild.com Billing billing@indyschild.com Contributing Writers Rachael Dupree, Rebecca Hill, Riane Konc, Jennifer Murphy, Jennifer Thompson, Matt Todd Calendar of Events calendar@indyschild.com Indy's Child is published monthly. Copyright 2020 by 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.

Enter to win an Annual Family Membership to the Monon Community Center with one free personal trainer consultation and one free 30-minute session!

CONTEST RUNS MARCH 1-15.

Win tickets to see Paw Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure

Enter to win a $25 gift card to Sun King Brewery

To enter, visit INDYSCHILD.COM/CONTESTS.

follow us Facebook (@IndysChildMagazine) Twitter (@indyschild) // Instagram (@indyschild)

March 2020 I INDYSCHILD.COM

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NEWS & Notes

Our monthly roundup of news you can use

Plan a summer of fun in one day!

1766 THAT WAS THE YEAR THE FIRST OFFICIAL ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE WAS HELD IN NEW YORK CITY. THIS YEAR, HEAD TO DOWNTOWN INDY ON FRIDAY, MARCH 13 FOR THE 40TH ANNUAL ST. PATRICK'S DAY PARADE PRESENTED BY THE HOOSIER LOTTERY. 08

INDYSCHILD.COM I March 2020

DID YOU KNOW? The first day of spring is also known as the vernal equinox. The term vernal is Latin for “spring” and equinox is Latin for “equal night” (because this day has 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness). This year, the vernal equinox will fall on March 20.

Indy’s Child Summer Camp Fair is the one day each year when families from all over Central Indiana have the opportunity to explore more than 50 overnight camps, day camps, programs and summer fun opportunities. It’s the perfect time to plan a summer of fun all in one day! Visit the website below to register for this free event early and you'll automatically be entered for the chance to win $500 to your summer activity of choice!

March 7 | Park Tudor School | Noon-3 pm indyschild.com/2020-campfair

see rising musicians in action On Sunday, March 22, the award-winning Carmel High School Orchestra joins the Carmel Symphony Orchestra for a Side-by-Side concert that will not only inspire and motivate the rising generation of musicians, but all who attend. The concert will also feature the winner of the CSO’s 2019 Young Artist Competition. This is the perfect opportunity to foster your child’s love of music while also supporting the young musicians in our community.

March 22 | The Palladium | 4 pm | carmelsymphony.org

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INDY'S CHILDREN From playgrounds to museums, there are so many places in Indianapolis to have fun! Here are just some of the favorite spots where Indy kids play.

Parker (5) Smiley Indoor Playground

Daniel (8) at Geist Park

Leah (7) at The Indianapolis Children's Museum

WANT TO SEE YOUR CUTE KIDS ON THIS PAGE? National Siblings Day is April 10, so next month, we're all about brothers and sisters!

Email us photos of sweet siblings together (with the children's names and ages) to editor@indyschild.com, and your picture may appear here!

Elijah (3) at Chuck E. Cheese

Paxton (7) at Urban Air

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SPONSORED CONTENT

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Welcome to the Ninja Games It’s a chance for little ninjas to showcase their strength, speed and skill.

Like a pint-sized version of American Ninja Warrior, NinjaZone Ninja Games lets kids show off their skills as they maneuver through a series of obstacles, competing —against each other, but also against themselves — as family and friends cheer them on.

“If you watch American Ninja Warrior, literally no one wins — the fun part is watching them try,” Wohlschlaeger says. “We teach kids that all the people watching them — everyone in the audience, their friends, family, even strangers — are rooting for them to succeed. Teaching resilience to children is hard, and the Ninja Games is a full-body, kinesthetic way to do it.”

“The energy in the room during Ninja Games is truly electric,” says Danny Wohlschlaeger, director of curriculum and coach education for NinjaZone. “You can just feel the memories being made.”

“So much happens when children decide they’re willing to try, and then when they discover they can push through adversity to something bigger, magic happens,” Wohlschlaeger continues.

“Ultimately, that’s all that we want for these kids, and all kids.”

The skills that the ninjas perform during the Ninja Games look a lot like the skills and obstacles that they work on during class, but with several surprise challenges.

“Each combination requires children to use their upper, lower and core body strength to maneuver through a series of obstacles,” Wohlschlaeger says.

“They are judged on their speed, focus and precision through these courses. During this time, a coach is alongside them every step of the way, feeding their confidence and encouraging them to push harder.

Children have the freedom to be creative and choose the best way to move through the obstacles.”

Ninjas are working their bodies during Ninja Games, but their self-esteem and confidence are also getting a good workout, too.

“One of the biggest takeaways from participating in the Ninja Games is confidence,” Wohlschlaeger says.

“This is an opportunity for children to be the lone person on stage and in the spotlight. As adults, so many of us fear performing in front of a crowd. With the Ninja Games, we give children the opportunity to do it in a safe space — where falling just means it’s another opportunity to get back up.”

And the ninjas aren’t the only ones who get in on the action.

Participants are surrounded by friends, family, coaches and teammates that are literally screaming for them to keep going.

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“We want to show children that it’s not the competition that is most important, but the effort,” Wohlschlaeger says. “Parents bring signs, make t-shirts and cheer loudly.

Parents are often impressed with the level of energy that is brought by the NinjaZone coaching staff.”

The kids who do really well during Ninja Games and put on a great show get a trophy, but NinjaZone is also intentional about teaching that it’s not about getting a reward.

All currently enrolled NinjaZone members can choose to participate in the Ninja Games. Children as young as 3 years old can choose to participate in the games. The 2020 Ninja Games Winter Series runs through the end of March, with the Summer Series beginning in June.

Participation in the Ninja Games is always completely optional, but often, once a child competes in one event, they’re hooked! Game packages can be purchased at a discount in packs of three, or as single events. For more info about Ninja Games, visit theninja zone.com/2020-ninjagames-winter-series.

NINJAZONE

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HIDDEN GEMS

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

The Library Coffee Bar at the Indianapolis Art Center Good coffee, free Wi-Fi, multiple electrical outlets, a beautiful space surrounded by books and art: The Library Coffee Bar in Broad Ripple is the very definition of a hidden gem. Located in the Lilly Library inside the Indianapolis Art Center, the Library Coffee Bar came into being at the beginning of the year, and quietly opened to the community in a space that was converted from a library (hence, the name) into a great place where a work-fromhome parent can get some work done.

You don’t need to be a student or member of the Indianapolis Art Center to visit this coffee-barslash-co-working space. Everyone is welcome — including children.

There is a little comfy nook in the

large, open space that’s just for children, with little tables and multiple children’s books available for kids to browse while they sip on a hot chocolate.

The Library Coffee Bar is the brainchild of the people behind Broad Ripple ice cream shop BRICS — but although there aren’t any tasty BRICS frozen treats on the menu, there many other offerings, including local beverage favorites Tinker Coffee and Circle Kombucha. There is also a limited food menu that includes cookies and brownies from Indianapolis favorite 4 Birds Bakery.

If you need a place to work, meet up with other parents or just hang out by yourself and read a book, The Library Coffee Bar is the perfect place to do just that.

820 E. 67th St., Indianapolis indplsartcenter.org

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PARENTING IN THE KIDWEST

WORDS BY RIANE KONC

Frozen Fever Before this last Christmas, I lived in a pretty normal home. It was always messy, because a 4-year-old lives here, but otherwise, I had no complaints. My daughter had her toys, my husband and I had my belongings, and all of our things coexisted together messily, but more or less peacefully.

That was before Christmas, when times were simpler. But I no longer live in a normal home. I live in a home that is comprised entirely of Frozen II toys and merchandise. By my estimates, we now own approximately 93% of all Frozen II merchandise ever manufactured.

(And honestly, the remaining 7% is probably buried in the trunk of my car, which I still haven’t completely unpacked from holiday travels).

The inside of my home is now buried in icy blue merchandise, plush and plastic blonde and ginger sisters stacked in every conceivable corner.

And of all of her post-holiday Frozen II spoils, one of my daughter’s favorite gifts has turned out to be the plush bathrobe she received, with Anna and Elsa’s faces stamped all over it.

[Correction: She actually received TWO Frozen bathrobes. This is the kind of Frozen takeover situation we’re dealing with in my home.]

clothes during the day. She eats with them on and plays with them on. She sometimes even sleeps with them on, too.

The effect is that when she is wearing the bathrobe, something about her instantly transforms from a 4-year-old little girl to a debonair gentleman in his 50s. The other day, I could have sworn that I saw her wrapped in her cozy bathrobe, relaxing on the couch, puffing on a cigar. It turned out that she was just chewing on a pencil, but I couldn’t erase the image.

I swear that the bathrobes have fundamentally changed something about her. She now pads around the house, instead of scampering.

Instead of Goodnight Moon, at night, she relaxes with a copy of the New York Times, intermittently exclaiming, “Hmm!” and “Well, what do you know about that?” and “In THIS economy?” as she flips through the pages. Then she pauses to take a long drink of milk from a highball glass.

Or maybe I’m just imagining all of this. Maybe she’s just very cute and grownup-looking in her bathrobes, and I’ve gone completely delusional, driven mad by Frozen merchandise.

Maybe I’ve got Frozen fever — which, as everyone knows, is the title of a short story in the Frozen Storybook Collection, one of the 18,000 Frozen books that I read to a little girl wearing a bathrobe every single glorious night.

She only sometimes wears the bathrobes after an actual bath. In general, she likes them as a daily item of clothing. She now prefers wearing the bathrobes over her

FOLLOW RIANE

TWITTER @THEILLUSTRIOUS WEBSITE RIANEKONC.COM March 2020 I INDYSCHILD.COM

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AROUND TOWN

WORDS BY MATT TODD

Be Prepared: Unpredictable Weather is Coming People say if you don’t like Indiana’s weather, wait five minutes and it will change. We know that’s not entirely true.

Our weather doesn’t usually change that quickly. But there’s still a nugget of truth in the statement.

It is important to help our children understand changing weather and how to stay safe with unpredictable weather. “Children take comfort in knowing what to do in case of an emergency,” says Susan Michal, director of The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis’ preschool.

Go inside if you hear thunder.

Remind your child that if you can hear thunder, lightning is within striking distance. When you hear the first clap of thunder, get out of the pool immediately and wait at least 30 minutes before going back outside.

As the temperatures start to warm, prepare your children for what can happen:

Stay off the ice. Ponds and lakes

Tornado? Seek shelter! The

might have a thin layer of ice on the surface during the spring, making it look safe. It isn’t. A thin layer of ice will not hold your little one’s weight no matter how small they are. Encourage your child to stay off lake or pond surfaces, and if they see a friend or animal fall in, they should get help immediately and not try to save them.

safest place during a tornado is a storm cellar or basement. If you don’t have one of those, seek shelter in a windowless room, like a bathroom or closet, on the lowest f loor of your house.

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The Wild Weather exhibit at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis opens March 14.

It provides a great opportunity to discuss severe weather with your children and give them visual examples. You can discover the awe-inspiring power of some of nature’s most severe phenomena.

In the exhibit, families can ‘f ly’ on a hurricane research plane, discover the paths of major tornadoes, map lightning strikes, and explore extreme winter conditions. A family can also discuss tips on how to weather the next storm and develop safety plans in their homes.

Make sure you talk to them about what to do in different locations (school, store, grandparent or neighbor’s home). Practice emergency drills and use the buddy system. Understanding what to do will give your child confidence during a scary time.

Wild Weather is developed and produced by Science North in partnership with the Ontario Science Centre. Wild Weather is presented by Central Indiana Honda Dealers.

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TRAVEL

WORDS BY KAREN RING

Let's Go on Spring Break Family-friendly destinations just a short drive away!

exploring in Little KidSpace.

Now through May 25, children can discover their inner superhero in DC Super Heroes.

Make a weekend of it by spending the night and exploring all that Columbus has to offer — from a beautiful nature conservancy to an award-winning zoo.

Get out into the great outdoors

As the sunshine returns and spring break approaches, your family may be itching for a change of pace. Luckily, Indianapolis is surrounded by a number of family-friendly destinations to suit everyone’s interests. Here are just a few ideas for a quick trip this spring.

Take a step back in time Return to a simpler time in Metamora. Nestled in the beautiful countryside of southeastern Indiana, this charming town is best known for its preservation of Indiana’s oldest and still operating water-powered grist mill. Other attractions include a horse-drawn canal boat, the only working wood aqueduct in the country and more than 40 shops and restaurants. This

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is a great place to relax and enjoy a slower pace that is so hard to find these days. You can stroll the streets any time you like; shop hours vary.

Escape to a nearby city Fort Wayne is quickly making a name for itself as a hotbed of family-friendly fun. The recently opened Promenade Park is a case in point. Highlights of this urban green space along the banks of the St. Mary’s River include a tree canopy trail, relaxing all-ages swings, onsite craft beer and wine slushies from Trubble Riverside Café & Tap, riverfront amphitheater, double-side bandshell, interactive water features and a sleek, modern playground.

Other key attractions in Fort Wayne include Science Central, the Foellinger-Friemann Botanical Conservatory, the Fort Wayne Museum of Art and, of course, the

ultra-kid-friendly Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo (opens for the season April 18, 2020). While you are exploring keep an eye out for the many beautiful murals and innovative sculptures that dot the city.

Spend a day (or two) exploring science Located in Columbus, Ohio, COSI is a world-class children’s museum that makes learning fun. Get an unsurpassed glimpse at our universe in the planetarium. Come face-to-face with a 6-foot-long mechanical T. rex model, a full-scale model of an Oviraptor nest and a spectacular display of dinosaur casts in The Dinosaur Gallery. Test your courage while getting a hands-on lesson in counterweights on the High Wire Unicycle. And little ones under the age of 6 will feel right at home learning and

The narrow ridges, steep slopes and deep gullies of Brown County State Park transport Hoosiers to terrain that is rare in our typically flat state.

Nicknamed the “Little Smokies,” here you’ll find 16,000 acres of rugged hills, ridges and fogshrouded ravines perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway. The park’s rustic Abe Martin Lodge offers accommodations ranging from motel rooms to cabins. Or opt for one of their campsites that feature hiking and mountain biking trails, interpretive services and a saddle barn for guided horse rides. In the heart of Brown County, Nashville, Indiana, offers shops and restaurants galore that are perfect for rounding out your outdoor getaway.

Whether you are looking for a quick day trip or an extended weekend getaway, these drivable destinations have you covered this spring break!

SPONSORED CONTENT

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Full STEAM Ahead The Metropolitan School District (MSD) of Lawrence Township is finding creative ways to incorporate STEM/STEAM education into its classrooms.

Robotics learning at Indian Creek culminates in grade six with a Sumobot competition, in which students design and build competitive robot incorporating light and ultrasonic sensors.

Students in the MSD of Lawrence Township are getting a hands-on education in critical thinking and problem solving every day with a STEM/STEAM curriculum infused in to school life.

Below are ways that science, technology, engineering, and math are infused district-wide.

Robotics All elementary students have the opportunity to join a school-based robotics club where they participate in monthly friendly inter-school competition within the district. “We are the only district doing this,” Altemeyer says.

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“All students from grade 1 to 6 learn about the engineering design process while building everything from LEGO mosaics to robots,” says Bruce Nelson, Robotics & Design teacher at Indian Creek Elementary.

“The Robotics & Design Lab introduces many concepts, like Computer Aided Design (CAD) that are then integrated into various projects — many done in the classrooms. Students start with simple building and design lessons, and move quickly to programming robots. Combined with our computer science class, students are ready to take on any challenge.”

“Lawrence Township is broadly looked to as the model for preparing kids for STEM careers,” Altemeyer says. “We are proud to have graduated more college and career-ready students in 2019 than any other district in Marion County.”

For more information about MSD Lawrence Township schools, visit LTschools.org.

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At Indian Creek Elementary — the first STEM school in the district, and among the first in the state — robotics is taken to another level.

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“Students can also participate in regional and statewide competition.”

Lawrence Township has three elementary schools, one middle school, and the McKenzie Center for Innovation & Technology that are all STEM certified through the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) and three others that applied for certification this year.

“Students can go Kindergarten through senior year in a STEMcertified school,” says Altemeyer.

This certification indicates a commitment to providing integrated STEM opportunities to peak student interest in STEM careers. Through these STEMenriched educational opportunities, students are getting a head start at being career- and college-ready upon graduation.

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Model makerspaces — spaces dedicated to hands-on creativity and exploration — are established in two Lawrence Township elementary schools: Skiles Test and Indian Creek. These makerspaces have four dimensions; fabrication

Plans are underway to create makerspaces in all 11 Lawrence Township elementary schools.

Currently, elementary schools can make use of makerspace starter kits, which are comprised of materials donated by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

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(with 3D printers and laser cutters), virtual reality/augmented reality, a fully equipped robotics and automation space, and an “unplugged” area that serves as a multipurpose flexible learning space.

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Focusing on biomed, computer science and engineering, Project Lead the Way (PLTW) provides transformative learning experiences with hands-on activities. “We currently offer students in grades 1 through 6 at least one PLTW unit in their general education classes, says Director of Communications, Dr. Dana Altemeyer. “All teachers in grades 1 through 6 will be PLTW-certified by the end of the year.” The Indiana Department of Education has awarded the MSD of Lawrence Township over $200,000 in STEM grants to support this work.

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STEM Certification

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MSD LAWRENCE TOWNSHIP

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L E T

T H EM

PLAY

Why play is so important in preschool.

WORDS BY RACHAEL DUPREE

As your child emerges from toddlerhood and gets ready for preschool, you’re likely to have all the feels. Sadness over your baby growing up. Pride in your intelligent little human. Anxiety over getting their education started out on the right foot.

The Work of Children Believe or not, play is critical to a preschooler’s learning. As they say, “Play is the work of children,” and it’s true. Through play, children develop a number of critical skills that set them up for academic success in kindergarten and beyond, including: · Creativity · Communication

This last one is the clincher. Although pre-K enrollment isn’t mandatory for Indiana children, research shows it improves school readiness. The state has even expanded its pre-K voucher program, On My Way Pre-K, to help more families enroll their children into preschool programs. But the number and types of preschool programs available can be overwhelming: half-day, whole-day, full-week, partial-week, STEM curriculums, literacy-focused instruction. With all these things to think about may be easy to overlook one very important aspect of your child’s academic development that should be part of their preschool experience: play.

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· Complex language abilities · Problem-solving and reasoning · Relationship-building · Spatial awareness · Impulse control · Increased attention Yes, your child can really get all of that from playing with blocks and performing puppet shows — and research shows information may actually stick better in their brains that way. Play like this helps them follow their interests and build on their curiosities, helping them to better understand the world around them, says Erin Kissling, vice president of research & policy initiatives for Early Learning Indiana (earlylearningin. org). It can take a couple different forms in the classroom: child-selected play (aka free play) — think your child playing house or making mud pies — or adult-directed play, where maybe the teacher sets up stations to explore apples through counting games or apple stamps.

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“Through play, children develop a sense of self and learn how to interact with peers,” Kissling says. “Early essentials like curiosity, f lexible thinking, persistence and resilience are strengthened through play, preparing children for the rigorous academic learning of elementary school.”

Decisions, Decisions So back to making that difficult choice: Where to send your child to preschool?

As with all decisions, it’s important to figure out what you want out of the preschool experience. Every child has unique needs, and it may benefit you to list out some qualities you expect out of a program before you begin your search. If an emphasis on play is important to you — and if you believe the research, it should — be ready to ask questions of the various preschool programs you visit: What is the curriculum? A school that focuses heavily on academics and worksheets may not be the best environment for a child to engage in play.

What is the program’s philosophy on play? Do they consider play to be essential to learning in the early years? Is at least a third of the day (hopefully more) devoted to play?

What is the daily routine like?

“Ask to view the daily classroom schedule to understand how much of the day their child will be engaged in meaningful, self-directed activities,” Kissling says. “A schedule filled with large-group time may indicate a lack of play in the classroom environment.”

Do the teachers articulate a difference between child-led and directed play? Observe if the teachers are engaged and asking open-ended questions of children during play — this can be helpful in developing critical thinking. However, be skeptical of those that are too hands-off or overly involved in directing play.

Homework Time Regardless of where you send your child to preschool, your home is one of the richest leaning (and play!) environments for your child, so don’t let the fun stop when the school bell rings. Allow time on evenings and weekends to play as a family.

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“Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children play is serious learning.

Play is really the work of childhood.”

—MR. ROGERS First things first: Turn devices off. When your kids aren’t caught up in the drama of a television show or a video game, their imaginations have room to soar. Play doesn’t have to be overly complicated. There’s no need to “entertain” your kids, and you can include fun in some of the normal parts of your routine.

“There are numerous ways parents can encourage and participate in play with their children, from singing songs to cooking together,” Kissling says. “Even making silly faces together in a mirror and taking turns guessing each other’s pretend feelings is purposeful play.”

You can get more ideas for how to incorporate play into your family life by visiting Brighter Futures Indiana (brighterfuturesindiana.org).

But above all, enjoy being a family together. Before you know it, they will be off in the real world, and you’ll miss this cherished time.

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SPONSORED CONTENT

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Changing the World, One Preschooler at a Time Former non-profit administrator and Goddard School parent opens play-based learning preschool in Noblesville.

When Katy Bird — owner of the new Goddard School in Noblesville on Union Chapel Road — saw her daughter thrive at the Goddard School in Carmel, she wanted other children and families to have that same experience. After spending 10 years at Outside the Box, a non-profit organization, Bird saw that there was a need for a high-quality early childhood education program that provides a play-based learning experience in a nurturing environment. She decided to partner with the on-site owner of the Carmel school, Megan Greek, to expand the brand name in the Indianapolis area.

“I want each child to fall in love with learning and to know how deeply they are cared for by the faculty and staff, who have the privilege of being a part of their lives during their time with us,” Bird says. “I want children to leave The Goddard School with a passion for making a positive impact on the world and with the confidence to know how to do so.”

The new Goddard School in Noblesville will have a theme: Ordinary people change the world.

“We received permission from the writer, Brad Meltzer, and illustrator, Chris Eliopoulos, of that children’s book series to use their images to theme our classrooms,” Bird says.

“Each room will be named after a historical figure and a character attribute that they showed that we hope the children in our school learn and live.” For example, one of the classrooms will be themed “Bold” in honor of Helen Keller, the deaf-blind author, lecturer and political activist.

“For us, this school is more than just preparing children for their academic life,” Bird says. “We really want to not only make a difference in their lives, but also prepare them to make a positive impact on their world when they graduate from us.”

For more information about the Goddard School in Noblesville, visit goddardschool.com/ Noblesville-IIIIN.

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SPONSORED CONTENT

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Give Your Child a Summer of Fun at IUPUI Summer Day Camp “We take great pride in being a part of a wonderful university that offers so many opportunities,” Lord says.

What are my kids going to do this summer? It’s a question that many parents and caregivers ask themselves this time of year, as camp registration is in full swing. If you have kids ages 5 through 12, the easy — and fun — answer to that question is IUPUI Summer Day Camp, which begins the week of May 26.

Learn more about IUPUI Summer Day Camp by visiting camps. iupui.edu.

One of the highlights of the program is the opportunity for parents and caregivers to add an enrichment program to their camper's day. This year, there will be more than 20 enrichment options for families to choose from, and many of the offerings are university-led programs.

Located at Carroll Stadium at IUPUI in downtown Indianapolis, IUPUI Summer Day Camp incorporates age-appropriate activities to promote growth and development through sport, fitness and creative opportunities.

“We offer daily programming that includes a variety of field games emphasizing physical activity, table games that are not only fun but that highlight inquisitiveness, and arts and crafts that allow for each child to express their creative side,” says Richard Lord, assistant director of IUPUI Sports Complex.

Because the camp takes place at both the school’s large stadium and the IU Natatorium, campers have lots of room to engage in learning and fun, under the careful guidance of staff, many of whom are IUPUI

students majoring through the School of Education. Activity areas consist of two football-sized fields (one being turf), an additional softball field, an Olympic-sized track, as well as multiple tentcovered areas for the campers.

Campers have three rotations in the morning and three in the afternoon. A daily swim lesson is included at the IUPUI Natatorium, and before and after care is free.

“For the summer of 2020, we have added exciting options, such as printmaking, painting and bookmaking with the Herron School of Art,” Lord says. Other new enrichment classes include forensics, coding, Snapology (perfect for kids who love to build with LEGO), and Jump Bunch, which incorporates sports and fitness. Some of the more popular enrichment classes — including cooking, balloon art, STEM, theatre, diving and cheerleading — are also being offered again this year.

Quick Facts About IUPUI Summer Day Camp * Kids are grouped in ages 5-6, 7-8, 9-12 * Base camp, or Jaguar Camp, runs May 26- July 31 * You can add enrichment classes onto the base camp experience for an additional fee * The camp day is 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. * Free before/after care starts at 7 a.m. and ends at 6 p.m. * Two healthy snacks are provided each day

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IUPUI DAY CAMPS

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PARENTING

WORDS BY THE AMERICAN CAMP ASSOCIATION

Need a Mentor?

Go to Camp!

Mentors are critical to the development of children and youth. And these positive relationships with mentors are developed and encouraged each year at camp.

The idea of a mentor is an ancient one. In Greek mythology, when Odysseus, King of Ithaca, went to battle in the Trojan War, he placed his friend, Mentor, in charge of his son and his kingdom. Today, a “mentor” has become synonymous with someone who imparts wisdom to and shares knowledge with a less experienced person. Mentoring relationships are special and often life-changing.

The camp experience is uniquely designed to foster these relationships. When counselors and camp staff engage with campers, they are not just teaching — they are using the core elements of positive mentoring relationships.

• Camp counselors share and teach through stories and anecdotes. They impart wisdom from their own successes and failures, and offer the insight that comes from experience.

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• Camp counselors model appropriate behaviors. They show campers how to play fairly, show empathy, and win and lose gracefully.

• Camp counselors guide campers through the learning landscape of life. They teach the things that cannot be taught in school, such as how to live with others, how to build friendships, how to lead and how to work as a team.

• Camp counselors support campers emotionally. They offer reassurance when situations become difficult or overwhelming. Counselors are there to not only lend a hand but to help campers work through difficult moments and feel the sense of accomplishment that comes from conquering obstacles.

These relationships aren’t just a nice addition to childhood and young adult development — kids need them. They need nurturing mentors — people outside of their family that take an interest in who they are, root for their successes, and help them learn that failures are critical stepping stones on the path of success. Each year, for millions of children and youth, those relationships are developed at camp.

PARENTING

5 Reasons to Attend Indy’s Child Summer Camp Fair It’s Convenient

Experience the Camp

Planning a whole summer of fun can seem overwhelming, but attending camp fair is the jump start you need to plan an entire summer in one day. You'll discover more camps in one hour than you will spending days researching online.

Many camps will bring small activities for kids and parents to try right at their booth. Get a sneak peek at some of the fun your children will experience this summer.

Save Money Find out about camp discounts, including early-registration discounts, sibling discounts, or discounts for referring friends or serving as a carpool driver.

Meet the Directors and Ask Questions Ask camp directors the questions you have on your list and really get a sense of what their camp is all about. Does your child have questions? Include them in the discussion to help ease their mind about trying out a new camp.

Fun and Games Future campers can participate in fun games and workshops, such as a potion workshop, tennis drills, a hands-on rocketry demonstration, teambuilding activities, capture the f lag and much more!

We hope to see you on March 7 from Noon-3 p.m. at Park Tudor School for Indy's Child 31st Annual Summer Camp Fair!

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IC SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 2020 A Children's Habitat Montessori A Children's Habitat Montessori Summer Camp 801 West 73rd Street, Indianapolis, IN; Phone: (317) 726-5584; email: info@ childrens-habitat.org; childrenshabitat.org/summercamp Dates: June 8-12, 15-19, 22-26, June 29-July 3, July 6-10, 13-17 • Hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM–12:00 PM • Ages: 3*-9 *Age 3 by June 1, 2020, and toilet trained Activities: June 8-12: Camping / June 15-19: Nature Discoveries / June 22-26: Spy School / June 29-July 3: Alice in Wonderland / July 6-10: Our 50th State / July 13-17: Summer Olympics

A Children's Habitat Montessori School offers 6 weeks of themed camp fun for children ages 3-9 years old. These multi-age, Montessoribased experiences offer childcentered activities in our Outdoor Classroom, led by experienced Montessori guides. Restrooms are indoors, and indoor classrooms will be used during inclement weather days.

Art Camps at the SullivanMunce Cultural Center 225 West Hawthorne, Zionsville, IN; Phone: (317) 873-4900; email: info@ sullivanmunce.org; sullivanmunce.org/ Dates: June-July • Hours: 9 am - 4 pm • Ages: 7-17 Activities: Art, including outdoor activities

Summer art camps for children ages 7-17. All-day and half-day art camps available. Indoor and outdoor

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activities. Campers will be introduced to a variety of art materials and techniques. Come ready to get dirty and have fun!

Ballet & Art Camp / Sleeping Beauty Camp 502 N. Capitol Ave, Suite B, Indianapolis, IN; Phone: (317) 955-7525; email: jkriscunas@indyballet.org; indyballet. org/summer-camps/ Dates: June 8-12, 2020 • Hours: 9:30 am-4:30 pm (Ballet & Art) / 9:30 am-noon (Sleeping Beauty Camp) • Ages 7-9 (Ballet & Art) / Ages 5-6 (Sleeping Beauty Camp) Activities: Ballet and tap class, arts and crafts, field trips, performance

Ballet & Art Camp (ages 7-9): Campers will be immersed in ballet, tap, art, and music classes aimed to spark creativity, build confidence, and strengthen dance skills.

Sleeping Beauty Camp (ages 5-6): Our fun half-day option includes dance class, storytelling, and crafts based on the classic ballet Sleeping Beauty! Both camps end with a treasured mini-performance.

Beth-El Zedeck Early Childhood Center Summer Camp 600 West 70th St., Indianapolis, IN; Phone: (317) 259-6854; email: jwaldman@bez613.org; bez613.org, You can register online!

Dates: Session 1: June 1– June 26; Session 2: June 29 – July 24 • Hours: Flexible hours (half days/full days) • Ages: 12 months+ through 5 years+ You can pick your days!

Activities: Weekly creative themes, arts and crafts, water fun at the Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Aquatic Complex for 3’s 4’s and 5’s. Water play for 12 months through 2’s. Music/Creative Movement, Entertainment, Field Trip Fridays for 4’s and 5’s.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! Our Program recognizes that children learn through play. During camp, the children will experiment and explore by using all five senses. Our campers will thrive on creativity, exploration, discovery, spontaneity and lots of love!

Bishop Chatard Summer Camps 5885 Crittenden Ave., Indianapolis, IN; Phone: (317) 251-1451; email: summercamp@BishopChatard.org; BishopChatard.org/camps/ Dates: June 11 - 14; June 18 - 21; June 25 - 28 • Hours: 9 am-noon; 12:30-3:30 pm; 8 am-3 pm • Ages: 1st - 8th grade Activities: Theatre; Community Service; Robotics; Coding; Art; Cooking; Improv Comedy; Creative Writing; Basketball, Baseball; Softball; Football; Lacrosse; Volleyball; Wrestling; Soccer; Cheerleading

Bishop Chatard High School offers a variety of camps that encourage 1st through 8th grade students to explore new interests, challenge their imaginations and hone current skills. Athletic and enrichment camps appeal to students interested in theatre, technology, music, sports, community service, art and more.

Half and full-day camps are available, or your child may bring a lunch and experience different camps in our morning and afternoon sessions. Early-bird and multiple camp discounts are available.

Bradford Woods 5040 State Rd 67 N, Martinsville, IN; Phone: (765) 349-5121; email: nyhunter@ indiana.edu; bradwoods.org Dates: May-August Activities: Horseback riding, arts and crafts, canoeing, hiking, sports

Bradford Woods is Indiana University's Outdoor Center. We provide experiential and therapeutic outdoor programs to people of all backgrounds and abilities on our 2,500-acre campus, located between Bloomington and Indianapolis.

Camp AYS 4701 N. Keystone Ave., Indianapolis; Phone: (317) 283-3817; email: crobinson@ayskids.org; ayskids.org/ camp Dates: May 26 - July 17 • Hours: 6:30am - 6:00pm, Monday - Friday • Ages: 5-12 Activities: Field trips, active games, STEM activities, hands-on projects, free play with friends, weekly themes, swimming, and much more!

As a parent, you are a superhero to your kids. This summer, Camp AYS will empower your kids to BE BRAVE and make them feel like their very own superheroes. So remove your cape and take a breath this summer.

We've got your back!

Camp Belzer 6102 Boy Scout Rd, Lawrence, IN; Phone: (317) 813-7086; email: campdirector@ campbelzer.org; campbelzer.org Dates: June 8-July 17 • Hours: Monday through Friday 8:30 am-4 pm • Ages: Kindergarten through 8th Grade

* SPONSORED LISTINGS

Activities: Wilderness Survival, STEAM, Swimming, Boating, BB Gun Shooting, Archery, Conservation, Crafts, and more

Camp Belzer is a traditional day camp which offers a wide array of programs and activities that will be fun, educational, and most importantly safe. Located on the northeast side of Indianapolis, Camp Belzer offers precare starting at 7:30am and aftercare ending at 6pm. With highly trained staff and leaders, all youth are welcome to come and enjoy a week or more at Camp Belzer.

Camp Carson YMCA 2034 Outer Lake Road, Princeton, IN 47670; Phone: (812) 385-3597; email: campinfo@ymcacampcarson.org; campcarson.org/ Dates: May 31-July 24 • Ages: 7-16 Activities: Horseback riding, dirt bikes, nature, arts & crafts, archery, climbing tower, riflery, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, fishing, soccer, basketball, mountain bikes, mountain boards, woodworking, radio station and more.

Fly from the zipline, create a clay pot, ride horses or dirt bikes. Build your confidence and self-esteem as you join campers and staff from

around the country and around the world in a camp family where all kids are Accepted, Challenged and Empowered. ALL new cabins built in 2014.

Camp Invention Multiple locations; Phone: (800) 968-4332; email: campinvention@ invent.org; invent.org/camp Ages: Grades K-6

Imaginations will soar in the all-new Camp Invention® program, Elevate! Campers in grades K-6 will collaborate in hands-on STEM activities exploring concepts of flight, Earth’s ecosystems and sports innovations! Visit invent. org/camp or call 800-968-4332 to register. Use promo code LOCAL25 to save $25 (expires 3/31) or LOCAL15 to save $15 (expires 5/12).

Camp JCC 6701 Hoover Rd, Indianapolis, IN; Phone: (317) 251-9467; email: info@jccindy.org; jccindy.org/camp-jcc Dates: June 1-July 31 • Hours: 9 am-4 pm • Ages: 5-14

For grades K-8. From friendship and confidence building to leadership and autonomy, CampJCC days are full of fun activities parents appreciate and kids love. We offer crafts and music as well as outdoor recreational fun at our water park and our wooded acreage. Our trained counselors instill in campers core values like kindness and appreciation. We have some overnights for younger campers and travel weeks for older campers. We also have specialty sports camps.

Non-member rates available. All are welcome.

Ready for the best summer ever?

We're your child’s summer camp destination! This year we're offering full- and half-day camps around themes of art, theatre, sports, nature, science and more.

We can’t wait for your kiddo to join us for a summer of fun!

Central Indiana Academy of Dance 14950 Greyhound Court, Suite #4, Carmel, IN; Phone: (317) 581-2423; ciaodance.com Dates: June 8 - July 31 • Ages: 3-teen

Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation Summer Camps 1235 Central Park Drive East, Carmel, IN, (317) 843-3865; jlazdins@ carmelclayparks.com, carmelclayparks.com/summercamps Full-Day Camp Dates: June 1 - July 31, 2020 • Half-Day Camp Dates: June 1 - August 7, 2020 • Hours: 7 a.m.-6 p.m. (hours vary by camp) • Ages: 4-15 years (ages vary by camp)

There's something for everyone this summer at CIAoD! The summer starts off in June with our popular young dancer day camps, featuring themes such as Frozen 2, ages 3-6! Themes change each week, as do the crafts and performance dances! Join us for our Youth Dance Camp for ages 6-10 and CIDE's two week Summer Intensive June 8 - 19 for the experienced dancer!

Activities: Hands-on, theme-based activities, field trips, visits to The Waterpark, and more!

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Code Ninjas - Carmel and Fishers

Indiana Montessori Academy

Indianapolis Healthplex Camp

2436 E 146th St, Carmel, IN; Phone: (812) 320-5265; email: CarmelIN@ CodeNinjas.com; codeninjas.com

2925 West 146th Street | Carmel, IN 46074 | (317) 569.1290.; email: info@ indianamontessoriacademy.org; indianamontessoriacademy.org

3660 Guion Rd, Indianapolis, IN; Phone: (317) 920-7400; email: reaston@indianapolishealthplex.com

Dates: June 1- August 3 • Hours: 9 am-noon and 1-4 pm • Ages: 7-14 Activities: Coding, STEM, Problem Solving, Teamwork, Game Building

Code Ninjas Camps offer an immersion environment for children to explore technology, develop new skills and have a great time with friends. From Roblox to JavaScript to Minecraft to Drones (and Scratch and Python!) - it's an unforgettably fun learning experience! Beginners to advanced coders have a place at Code Ninjas all summer long!

DeVeau's Summer Camps 9032 Technology Dr, Fishers, IN ; Phone: (317) 849-7744; deveaus.com/camps Dates: June 9-10; June 16-19; July 7-8 • Hours: Hours vary by camp • Ages: 3-18 (ages vary by camp)

At DeVeau's, summer camps are a fun, active way for kids to jump, run, play, and exercise in a fun environment with foam pits, trampolines, obstacle courses, and more! Not only will your child learn new skills, they will have a great time learning them. The themes for this year's 2-day preschool camps are Animal Safari (June 9-10) and Olympic Champions (July 7-8).

Duke Young Writers 8 East Campus Union Dr, Durham, NC; Phone: (919) 684-5387; email: youth@ duke.edu; learnmore.duke.edu/ youth/youngwriter Dates: June 14-June 26; June 28-July 10; July 12-July 24 • Hours: 9 am-4:30 pm • Ages: 11-17 Activities: program activities for residential campers

Our most beloved program to date, the Young Writers’ Program holds all the magic of a true “summer camp” experience. You’ll go home with a full notebook, a full heart, and new confidence in your skill as a writer.

Dates: June 1 - Aug 6; off the week of July 4 • Ages: 3-9

Come join us as we explore the Great Outdoors through construction, cooking, creating and more! Each week of camp will feature unique, exciting themes. Our days will be spent outdoors playing, learning and caring for our environment! Weekly sessions are available.

Indianapolis Art Center Summer Art Camps 820 E. 67th St., Indianapolis, IN; Phone: (317) 255-2464; email: jnieto@ indplsartcenter.org; indplsartcenter. org/camps Dates: June 8 - July 27 • Hours: Hours vary by camp • Ages: 4-18 Activities: Painting, Drawing, Glassblowing, Woodworking, Ceramics, and more!

Create, Play, Explore! Join the Indianapolis Art Center for a summer of art education, fun, and new friendships. Weeklong camps for ages 4-18 in a variety of art mediums including drawing, sculpture, jewelry, digital arts, glassblowing, and more! Morning, afternoon and full day options.

Creative Aftercare available too!

Register now!

Indianapolis Children’s Choir Choral Fest Butler University, 4600 Sunset Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46208; (317) 940-9640; Contact: Lauren Southard, email: lsouthar@icchoir.org, icchoir.org Dates: June 8-11 and July 20-24 • Hours: 9 am-4 pm • Ages: 1st grade 8th grade Activities: Singing, playing instruments, movement, games.

ICC’s Summer Choral Fest! A summer camp for kids who love music. The highest quality choral music experience woven in between fun musical activities and camp friendships! Includes a performance at the conclusion of camps. Financial assistance is available.

Dates: March 23-April • Hours: 8am-5pm • Ages: 5-12 Activities: Swimming, Basketball, Tennis, Taekwondo, Fitness, Nutrition, Arts & Crafts, and more!

Jill G. (Parent) - "The summer camp at Indianapolis Healthplex provides a great environment where a kid can explore several activities. My son enjoys having karate and tennis lessons, and loves swimming every day. Camp counselors are nurturing and provide a fun and safe environment, with lots of physical activity!"

IUPUI Day Camp 901 W. New York St., Indianapolis, IN; Phone: (317) 274-0336; email:Rilord@ iupui.edu; camps.iupui.edu

Myart Myart Carmel, 841 S. Rangeline Rd., Suite 300 | Myart Fishers, 11720 Olio Rd., Suite 300 | Myart Noblesville, 39 North 10th St | myartindy.com/ NoblesvilleCarmelArtSchool.htm Dates: Spring Camps, April 7-9 & Summer Camps June 8-August 3

Myart spring & summer camps are full of fun and creativity! Campers draw, paint and create amazing art all centered on a specific theme.

Campers will learn how to create using markers, oil and chalk pastels, colored pencil, acrylic, watercolors and jazz tempera paints. Every year we offer brand new projects so returning campers are always drawing something new. Camps are open to all ages 5 and up. Our camps run 3 days during spring break and all summer long starting June, 8th. Our 4-day weekly camps are 2.5 hrs. in the mornings and afternoons for ages 5&up and 2.5 hrs. in the afternoons for ages 11&up. The cost of each camp is $140 and includes all art supplies.

Our one day camps are 3 hrs.

Dates: May 26-July 31 • Hours: 9 a.m.

- 3:30 p.m. (before/after care available)

• Ages: 5-12

IUPUI Day Camps create a safe and encouraging environment where children develop healthy habits while engaging in individualized activities designed to support success at any age, skill, or level of ability. Camp includes free before & after care, plus a daily swim lesson at the world famous Indiana University Natatorium at IUPUI!

IUPUI Herron Community Learning Programs 735 W New York St, Indianapolis; Phone: (317) 278-9404; email: sschool@iupui. edu; herroncommunity.org Dates: June 8 - July 24 • Hours: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. | Full- and half-day • Ages: Grades 1 through recent HS graduates Activities: Art and design

Youth are invited to gain authentic art-making experiences at IUPUI Herron School of Art and Design through our Community Learning Programs, which foster creativity and self-expression and provide a welcoming, supportive environment. Youth Art Camps | June 8 – July 24 | Grades 1-5; Teen Intensives | June 6-26 | Grades 6-12; Herron Pre-College | June 15-26 | Juniors, Seniors, and recent graduates.

Park Tudor School 7200 North College Ave., Indianapolis, IN; (317) 415-2898; email: sgreiner@ parktudor.org; parktudor.org/summer Dates: June 1 - July 31 • Hours: 7:30 am - 6 pm • Ages: 3-18

Park Tudor School invites all central Indiana students ages 3-18 to attend its Summer Experience. We have camps for preschool, kindergarten, elementary school, middle school and high school! In keeping with the mission of Park Tudor School, you will find our summer programs offer small class sizes and varied experiences that will foster creativity and a joy for learning. Whether it's academics, enrichment, STEM, performing arts, athletics, Spanish, or more, you'll find the perfect summer camps for your child at Park Tudor. Experience Summer @ Park Tudor and discover the magic that happens when summer fun meets great teaching!

Summer U at University High School 2825 W. 116th St, Carmel, IN; Phone: (317) 733-4475; email: nnealy@ universityhighschool.org; universityhighschool.org/summer Dates: June 8-26 and July 6-24 • Hours: 9 am-4 pm with before and aftercare • Ages: grades 1-12 Activities: art, film, photography, creative writing, languages, sports,

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robotics, rocketry, programming, study and life skills, and more

University’s mission to expand the hearts and minds of students and to nurture excellence through academic, creative, and physical achievement doesn’t go on summer break. Summer U’s enrichment camps, including creative arts, sports, STEM, and more, are led by seasoned educators and designed to provide hands-on, enriching experiences for curious campers.

Summer Youth Workshops at Indiana Repertory Theatre 140 W Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN; Phone: (317) 916-4841; email:sgeis@ irtlive.com; irtlive.com/students-andeducators/summer-youthworkshops Dates: June 15-July 17 • Hours: 8 am - 4 pm • Ages: 8-18

IRT brings theatre to life for your child! With three-week, two-week, and one-week options, there’s something for everyone. Summer Workshops allow young actors ages 8 - 18 of all experience levels to participate in theatre classes taught by IRT artists. Scholarships and after-camp care available; see web for details.

styles arising from the hip-hop movement (students will be grouped by age and skill level).

The Children's House Summer Camp 2404 W. 62nd. St., Indianapolis, IN; Phone: (317) 253-3033; email: childrenshouse08@gmail.com; tchindy.org Date: June 8-August 14 • Hours: Camp Day 9 am-4pm, extended hours 7 am to 5:45 pm • Ages: 3-12 Activities: music, art, swimming, nature field trips, puppets, bird watching, games

The summer camp offers a relaxed camp environment for campers of all ages. Younger children generally follow and explore the same weekly themed activities as older campers.

We offer an environment free of competition. Camp activities include art, music, games, swimming, field trips, and many outdoor activities. Camp is limited to 30 campers each week.

The Etiquette and Leadership Institute of Indiana Phone: (888) 354-4639; email: info@ eliindiana.com; eliindiana.com

The Center for the Performing Arts Summer Camps 1 Center Green Carmel, IN, Phone: (317) 819-3516; email: Outreach@ TheCenterPresents.org; TheCenterPresents.org/camps2020 Dates: Jungle Jams June 8-12 | Anyone Can Dance July 20-24 | Hip-Hop Dance July 27-31 • Ages: 5-18 (varies by camp) • Hours: Jungle Jams 9-11:30 am | Anyone Can Dance 9am-noon | Hip-Hop Dance 9 am-2 pm

Jungle Jams (June 8-12) is a camp for ages 5-7, where campers learn about rhythm and groove through activities with drums, percussion, guitars, ukuleles and movement props.

Anyone Can Dance (July 20-24) is an immersive camp inspired by the children’s book Giraffes Can’t Dance that helps kids age 5-8 build character and confidence, and find their own voices through dance.

Hip Hop Dance Camp (July 27-31) gives students ages 6-18 a broader cultural perspective by exploring freestyle dance, party dances, popping, breakdancing and other

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Ages: 8 - 18 (varies by seminar)

Choose from the following seminars, held at Homewood Suites, 2501 East 86th, Indianapolis, IN. Visit eliindiana.com for more information.

Young Diplomat (ages 8-13), March 14, 21 & 22 Future Professionals (ages 14-18), March 14, 21 & 22 Little Ambassadors (ages 5-7), April 4 & 11 How to Raise a Gentleman Summer Camp (ages 8-15), July 13 – 17, 2020 & July 25 How to Raise a Lady Summer Camp (ages 8-15), July 20 – 24, 2020 & July 25, 2020

The Orchard School's Summer Camp 615 W. 64th Street. Indianapolis, IN; Phone: (317) 251-9253; email:rreams@ orchard.org; orchard.org/ extracurricular/summer-camp Date: June 1-July 24 • Hours: 9 am-4 pm (extended day options) • Ages: 3 years - 8th grade

Come enjoy The Orchard's Summer School Summer Camp 30th Year! We offer half-day and full-day options with varied experiences that foster creativity, a love of learning and opportunities to make friends. Campers can choose camps outdoors, in the gym, on the field or in the classroom. We have an option for everyone!

The Summer Experience at Traders Point Christian Schools 5770 Whitestown Parkway, Whitestown, IN; Phone: (317) 769-2450; email: summer@tpcs.org; tpcs.org/summer Dates: June 1-July 29 • Hours: 9 am - 4 pm with Before and After Care available • Ages: 3 - 8th Grade Activities: Aviation, Culinary Arts, Robotics, Pottery, Horseback Riding, American Girl, Super Heroes, Scuba, Zoology, Summer Stage Musical of Moana, Water Parks, Field Trips and more.

Join us for The Summer Experience at Traders Point Christian Schools.

Offering over 65 different full and half day summer camps for children ages 3 through 8th grade, in areas such as STEM, Aviation, Fine Arts, Outdoor Adventures, Sports, and Summer Fun. Daily chapel and extended care options are available. View our full camp catalog and register today at tpcs. org/summer.

University of Indianapolis MICI-AHEC Camps

Wright's Fundamentals Gymnastics & NinjaZone Camps Various locations - Westfield, Fishers, and Greenwood; Phone: (317) 888-4805; email: info@wrightsgyms. com; wrightsgymnastics.com Dates: Various dates throughout the summer • Ages: 3-11

Run, jump, kick, and flip off a wall during this FUN opportunity at the Wright's Fundamentals Gymnastics & NinjaZone Academy camps.

Campers, turned gymnasts and ninjas, will participate in daily challenges, learn some awesome skills, participate in games and crafts, and have tons of FUN while being active! Ages 3-11.

YMCA Camp Piomingo 1950 Otter Creek Park Road, Brandenburg KY 40108, Phone: (502) 942-2616 , email: piomingo@ ymcacamppiomingo.org, ymcacamppiomingo.org Dates: June 7 - August 1

At YMCA Camp Piomingo we believe in the potential of every child. That is why we strive to create an environment that brings out the best in each camper. With a variety of artistic, athletic and team-based activities, YMCA Camp Piomingo campers are given daily opportunities to find out who they are, who they want to be, and then — with the support of friends and our caring staff — develop the confidence and character to become that person.

(317) 788-2001, email: kerrmt@uindy. edu; uindy.edu/mici-ahec/ Dates: June 8- July 17 • Hours: 9 am-4 pm • Ages: 6th- 12th grade

The primary focus is to increase knowledge of a variety of healthcare fields through panel discussions, lab simulations, degree requirements and expectations for the different careers, how to know which health careers are right for them, demonstrate the practical application of science principles, and provide opportunities for unique and fun health-science activities.

BE PART OF NEXT MONTH'S GUIDE CONTACT

WENDY@INDYSCHILD.COM

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TEENS & TWEENS

WORDS BY REBECCA HILL

Teens and Climate Change Kids are opening their parents’ eyes about this hot subject.

When Indianapolis resident Marta Heimlich Carter’s daughter watched the documentary “Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret” in her environmental sciences class, she was so outraged that she became a vegetarian.

But she didn’t stop there. “My husband and I drastically cut our meat consumption to one to two times per week,” Carter says. “She was the one who influenced us to eat less meat.”

In the last year, Carter’s daughter joins thousands of other teens who are raising the specter of climate change. With the recent series of climate marches, young people are demonstrating the world’s lack of action on climate change and encouraging engagement. And though they are acting, they are scared too. After all, it is their future.

A recent Washington Post-Kaiser Family Foundation study found that most teens surveyed said that they were afraid, angry and felt helpless in the face of what 97% of all climate scientists are now telling us. Climate change will forever change their world — not our world, but their world. The good news: Like Carter’s daughter, teens are doing something about it.

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Parents can also listen when their teen comes to talk to them about their concerns about climate change, remembering that their teen may be feeling emotional about what’s happening. “We need to listen to our kids when they come to us with information about climate change,” Widhalm says.

“We can start by talking about what we can do in our own households and community to make a difference.”

Iowa State University’s Kathryn Stevenson, author of the study “Children can foster climate change concern among their parents,” found that children can be influencers when it comes to climate change. They can even change their parents’ and other’s minds. “I think that kids are wanting to be more activist and are trying to figure out how to contribute,” Stevenson says.

“Having these conversations at home is one thing that they can do.”

But they are also doing other things, says Melissa Widhalm, operations manager for the Purdue Climate Change Research Center.

In the past year, Widhalm has received more requests from youth groups interested in making changes in their own community for climate change reasons. Seven cities in Indiana have passed youth-led climate resolutions in their local city councils.

At school and in their communities, teens are leading recycling efforts, efforts to reduce cafeteria food waste or waste in supplies used at their schools, or even introducing vehicle idling programs to reduce emissions in school parking lots. Kids are talking to scientists, city councils, mayors and writing resolutions to make these changes in their communities, Widhalm says.

So how can parents encourage their teens when they have strong views on climate change, especially if they as parents don’t necessarily agree? First, parents can educate themselves about the facts on climate change, Widhalm says. For a good starting point, Purdue University’s Climate Change Center shares on its website the current assessment of climate change in Indiana: ag.purdue.edu/climate. Other sources with basic facts include NASA’s Global Climate Change site: climate.nasa.gov.

For teens who want to be part of making changes, environmental volunteerism is a great way to get involved. “There are a growing number of student groups to get involved in,” Stevenson says. Kids can start small with projects that they feel called to do, like starting a home garden, or making a list of plastic items that families can avoid buying, or using reusable water bottles in place of plastic single-use bottles. They can start a club at school, too. Climate change affects every aspect of our lives, Widhalm says, and teens are motivated and want to know what they can do about this.

PARENTING

WORDS BY JENNIFER MURPHY, CENTERPOINT COUNSELING

Disconnect to Reconnect With the busyness of family schedules in our culture, children (and parents) today are truly in need of simplicity. In

As you plan for that upcoming spring break, be creative, yet simple. Disconnect in order to reconnect. Here are just a few ways to do that.

her book, Simple Happy Parenting, Denaye Barahona, Ph.D. explains, “When we buy everything and do everything, we do not end up with happier kids.” She goes on to discuss that children feel and ref lect the emotions of their parents, telling us that stressed and overwhelmed parents create stressed and overwhelmed children. While electronics, fancy toys, camps and vacations are awesome and adventurous, continuous stimulation and activities negatively affect our emotional well-being.

Additionally, mobile devices have taken over quality family time. So much so that University of Michigan pediatrician and researcher, Jenny Radesky, revealed in a study that parents of young children pick up their phones an average of 70 times per day, which is probably an underestimated number.

Therefore, maybe it is time to consider taking family fun back to the basics. Rest, play and moments of simple connection are essential for both adults and children, and transform into some of the best memories. What a parent may feel is just frivolous free play, is actually positively contributing to the development of children’s emotional, physical and social well-being.

* Turn off notifications on your phone to minimize playtime interruptions. * If you do need to use your phone during family time, tell the children what you are doing and why (and keep it short). * Get creative and make artwork or crafts from items already in your home. * Instead of outings to museums or other places, have a scavenger hunt in your home or neighborhood. * Go camping…under the dining room table or in the back yard. * Cook a meal together while dancing in the kitchen. * Color.

Regardless of what you choose to do, keep it relaxed. Just play. Just be. Your mind will thank you later for the break.

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IC EDUCATION GUIDE CARMEL

Carmel Montessori Schools Carmel Montessori School is located on the NE corner of Main St. and Meridian in Carmel. Our directress is American Montessori Certified with 18 years head-teaching experience and we a a full member of the American Montessori Society. We offer a beautiful, peaceful and positive Montessori learning environment. Extended days available. • 1402 W. Main St., Carmel, IN

46032, Contact: Emily & Scott Rudicel, Phone: 317-580-0699, Email: info@ carmelmontessori.com, carmelmontessori.com

Carmel United Methodist Preschool Carmel United Methodist Preschool has provided high quality preschool experiences for the families of Carmel and the surrounding area for 45 years. We offer classes for children 18 months through 5 years old. Our students enjoy learning through inquiry based play, while interacting with their peers to create positive emotional and social learning experiences. • 621 S. Rangeline Road,

Carmel, IN, Contact: Tiffany Lehman, Phone: 317-844-1958, Email: tlehman@ carmelumc.org, carmelumc.org/ preschool/

today to learn more about our early education and preschool opportunities that will fit the need of your family Currently enrolling, space is limited. •

13096 Moultrie Street, Carmel, IN 46032.

Contact: Kendra Dunagan, 317-873-0123. primrosewestclay.com

The Primrose School at West Carmel The Primrose School at West Carmel is an accredited early education and care school serving infants through kindergarten as well as before and after school services for elementary age students. We offer a Balanced Learning approach, which nurtures curiosity, confidence, creativity and compassion.

Research also shows that 90% of Primrose Students perform twice the level of their peer group. Please call us today to learn more about our early education and preschool opportunities that will fit the need of your family.

Currently enrolling, space is limited. • 3746 West 98th Street, Carmel, IN 46032.

Contact: Lisa Housh, 317-876-0123, primrosewestcarmel.com

Starting Line Preschool

The Right Start for A Lifelong Love of Learning! Our strong academicbased curriculum prepares and encourages your child to succeed in school while discovering learning is fun! All of our classes focus on an The Little Lamb Christian introduction to colors, number and School letters with exciting art and science projects. Math, social studies and The Little Lamb Christian School is a sight words are taught in the older home away from home for children 6 classes.Develop Social Awareness & weeks to pre-kindergarten. Since Friendships, Build Confidence and 1987, we have been the go-to private Master Academic Skills for Kinderpreschool for Carmel families who garten. • 110 Third Ave NE, Carmel, IN are interested in a Christian 46032, Contact: Diane Atkins, Phone: education. We are a place where 317-753-9397, Email: dkatkins22@msn. children can learn, explore, create, com, startinglinepreschool.com grow and play! • 1609 Greyhound Pass, Carmel, IN 46032, Phone: 317-848-3580, Email: kayley@thelittlelamb.com, thelittlelamb.com/, 6 weeks to Pre-Kindergarten and after school care

The Primrose School at WestClay An accredited early education and care school serving infants through kindergarten as well as before and after school services for elementary age students. We offer a Balanced Learning approach, which nurtures curiosity, confidence, creativity and compassion.

Research also shows that 90% of Primrose Students perform twice the level of their peer group. Please call us

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INDYSCHILD.COM I March 2020

DOWNTOWN

IUPUI Center for Young Children The IUPUI Center for Young Children offers childcare and early childhood education for children ages six weeks to six years old and believe children learn through play, experiences, and interaction with their environment and peers. • 321 Limestone St.,

Indianapolis, IN 46202, Phone: 317-2743508, childcare.iupui.edu/index.html

Paramount Brookside Paramount Brookside is a tuition-free K-8 charter school that educates students in an innovative environment that instills high expectations for success. Founded in 2010, Paramount Schools of Excellence accomplish its mission and teaches the mastery of Indiana Academic Standards through an emphasis on rigorous academics and experiential learning activities.

Integral to the school’s approach to education are project-based investigations, community partnerships and three on-site Discovery Centers – an Eco Center, Space Center with planetarium and an operating farm.

Paramount Brookside is designated a 2018 Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education and a Four-Star and an “A” school by the Indiana Department of Education. • 3020 Nowland Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46201 Contact: Connor Schultheis, contact@PSOEBrookside.org, 317.775.6660, paramountindy.org

EAST

Paramount Community Heights Paramount Community Heights serves K-4th grade students as a tuition-free charter school. Founded in 2010, Paramount Schools of Excellence accomplishes its mission and teaches the mastery of Indiana Academic Standards through an emphasis on rigorous academics and experiential learning activities. Paramount’s flagship Brookside campus is designated a 2018 Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education and a Four-Star and an “A” school by the Indiana Department of Education. • 1525 N. Ritter Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46219, 317.671.1229, Contact: Sarah Shaffer, contact@PSOECommunity.org, paramountindy.org

Paramount Englewood Paramount Englewood is now accepting enrollment of 5-8th students for the 2019-2020 school year. The new middle school campus is an extension of Paramount Schools of Excellence successful education model. The flagship Brookside campus is designated a 2018 Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education and a Four-Star and an “A” school by the Indiana Department of Education.

Founded in 2010, Paramount accomplishes its mission and teaches the mastery of Indiana Academic Standards through an

emphasis on rigorous academics and experiential learning activities. • 1849 Pleasant Run Parkway South Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46203, 317.741.9589, Contact Peggy Purvis, contact@PSO Eenglewood.org. paramountindy.org

INDIANAPOLIS – NORTH

Beth-El Zedeck Early Childhood Center

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! Type of School: Early Childhood Cost/Tuition: Please call or email for full brochure Hours/ Dates: Flexible Hours. Full Time/ Part-Time available. Ages/Grades: 12 months old+, 18 months old+, 2s+, 3s+, 4s+, Pre-Kindergarten (Kindergarten Readiness Class) (3 day or 5 day option) Before/After School Care: Before and After School Care always available as needed.

Early drop off as early as 7:30 am and late pick up anytime up until 6:00pm/5:30 pm on Fridays. • 600 W. 70th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Joanie Waldman, Phone: 317-259-6854, Fax: 317-259- 6849, Email: jwaldman@ bez613.org, bez613.org

Bilingual Day Care LLC Family owned home license daycare with 19 years of experience, soon to be a preschool. Located in the North side of Indianapolis minutes from 465.

Infants $225, 17 months & up to age 5 $200 weekly rate Monday- Friday 7-5:30pm. • Call to take a tour:

317-249-7217 bdcindianapolis@yahoo.com

Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School seeks to prepare the next generation of leaders with the intellectual and technological competence, loving and open hearts, faith inspiration and social responsibility to bring about a more just, humane and loving world.

Students from all backgrounds, faiths, and ethnicities are welcome at Brebeuf Jesuit, where all are called to discover and cultivate the fullness of their God-given talents. Each student is therefore challenged and inspired to strive for academic excellence, to engage whole-heartedly in cocurricular activities, to develop confidence in leadership abilities, and

* SPONSORED LISTINGS

to discover God’s presence in everyday life through serving others.

• 2801 W 86th St, Indianapolis, IN 46268, Contact: Colleen Cannon, Director of Admissions, Phone: 317-524-7090, Email: admissions@brebeuf.org, brebeuf.org

Children’s Circle Preschool at Second Presbyterian Church Children’s Circle Preschool is a developmentally appropriate, activity based, Christian preschool. We offer classes for children ages 9 months to 5 years old. We meet the needs of the whole child in a creative and loving environment. Our experienced staff embraces excellence in education by nurturing the whole child- physically, emotionally, spiritually, and intellectually.

Please call for more information or to set up a tour. • 7700 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Cara Paul, Director, 317-252-5517, cpaul@ secondchurch.org, childrenscircle.org

Children’s Day In Nursery School and Traditional Preschool Children's Day In Nursery School and Traditional Preschool is a fully inclusive early childhood program with an emphasis on Christian values and learning through play. It is designed to offer children ages 9 months to 5 years a positive and developmentally appropriate first school experience in the care of experienced and loving caregivers. We play and learn! Classes are offered weekdays from 9 am to 2:30 pm. For the older kids, our program Includes weekly Christian Life Skills, Music class taught by Indianapolis Children’s Choir instructors and Book Club. Please call, e-mail or visit for further information and registration Forms. Tours are individually set up at your convenience! • 5500 N. Meridian

St., Indianapolis, IN 46208, Contact: Christy Whaley, Phone: 317-253-0472, cwhaley@meridianstreet.org, meridianstreet.org/cdi

Early Childhood Center, The Church at the Crossing Parents Day Out (16-35 mos) and Part Day Preschool (3 yrs-PreK5) provide relaxed, secure, playful environments that nurture creativity and the exploration of God’s world. A variety of learning materials & readiness skills are woven into each unit. Oldest classrooms utilize “Handwriting Without Tears” curriculum. Various days, 9am-2pm. Some extended days.

Need longer hours? Try our All Day Classes designed for 16 mos – Pre K5 with class times 6:30am-6pm • 9111 N. Haverstick Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46240, Contact: John Drake, Phone: 317-5756508, Email: ecc@golove.org

Huntington Learning Center Huntington Learning Center Indianapolis. We do tutoring with state certified teachers for kids k-12 and we do ACT and SAT test prep. • 2635 E 62nd Street Ste 2020, Indianapolis, IN; Phone: (317) 420-8885; Email: fraserl@ hlcmail.com

The Orchard School The Orchard School, an independent, non-sectarian, progressive school, emphasizing 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, NAEYC accredited. • 615 W. 64th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Jessica Aiyasami, Admissions Coordinator, Phone: 317-713-5717, Fax: 317-254-8454, Email: jaiyasami@orchard.org, orchard.org

The Sapling School The Sapling School offers a year round Reggio-inspired preschool for children ages 3 to 5 in conjunction with extended after care hours for working families. We empower children to discover themselves and the world around them as they become critical thinkers, creative problem-solvers, and collaborative community members. We value our students and their passions, curiosities, and joys. Their interests guide the holistic, emergent curriculum and our learning environment. Look for our teachers and students around the Broad Ripple area interacting with neighbors as they learn the unique ways they are capable of enriching their community. • For more

information or to explore our virtual tour please visit saplingschoolindy.com or facebook.com/saplingschoolindy. To schedule a private tour please call (317) 319-8228. Contact: Kelsey Livingston.

Phone: 317-319-8228. Email: kelsey@ saplingschoolindy.com, saplingschoolindy.com

Sycamore School At Sycamore School, Indiana's only accredited, independent, private school for Preschool - 8th grade gifted students, teachers trained in gifted education deliver a curriculum designed to challenge and engage gifted learners. Art, music, Spanish, physical education, technology, extensive field trips, athletics, financial aid, and after school activities are offered. • 1750 W. 64th Street,

Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact:

Dr. Susan Karpicke, Director of Admissions, 317-202-2500, Email: karpicke.susan@sycamoreschool.org, sycamoreschool.org

aboyd@primrosegeist.com, primrosegeist.com, 6 weeks old through Pre-K and before and after school up to age 12

INDIANAPOLIS – NORTHEAST

INDIANAPOLIS – SOUTH

MSD of Lawrence Township

The ninth largest and one of the fastest growing school district in the state, the MSD of Lawrence Township serves approximately 16,000 students across four Early Learning Centers, eleven Elementary Schools, two Middle Schools, two High Schools and a Center for Innovation and Technology, and an alternative setting high school. Lawrence Township strives to be the district of destination, a reputation built over the years based on the district’s award-winning staff, accomplished administrators, high-achieving students, supportive community, and innovative educational programs. To learn more, please contact our Welcome Center at 317-423-8375. Pre-K through Grade 12. Tours available at all buildings by appointment. Please contact your building of interest directly. • 6501

Sunnyside Road, Indianapolis, IN 46236.

Phone: 317-423-8200, LTschools.org

Curtis Wilson Primary School and Academy

Curtis Wilson Primary School and Academy, a division of Beech Tree House Center for Child Development, Inc., promotes the emotional, physical, intellectual, social, and spiritual development of each child. Our exceptional teaching staff is dedicated to presenting a challenging and enthusiastic learning environment that recognizes each unique learner. With a dedication to personal excellence, all members of our school family are challenged to practice and exhibit love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control in daily life. Stateaccredited with exemplary ratings.

Preschool - Sixth Grade. • 7850 South Emerson Ave., Indianapolis , 46237, 317-882-8636, jhaywood-rollins@ beechtreehouse.com, cwpsa.com

WESTFIELD

Polly Panda Preschool Polly Panda provides a safe and healthy environment which enhances each child’s total growth. Our theme-based hands-on preschool program provides a wide-range of experiences that foster learning, creativity and problem solving in all areas. A child’s sense of self-worth, independence and growth in social skills are developed through positive interaction with peers and our well-qualified and loving staff. • 2944 E.

56th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46220, Contact: Gail Hacker and Tammy Clark, Phone: 317-257-9127, Email: thepanda@ polly panda.com, pollypanda.com

Primrose School of Geist Provides high-quality, educational experiences to support children’s social-emotional, cognitive, creative and physical development. It is made up of an exclusive standards-based curriculum that enables teachers to help children gain the knowledge and skills that will enable them to move successfully from one level of development to the next as well rounded individuals. Our school offers developmentally-appropriate materials and equipment for all classrooms; multiple forms of assessment; and extensive training for teachers. We believe the right foundation to build active minds, healthy bodies, and happy hearts® starts in the younger years. Call for more information or to schedule a tour! • 7615 Oaklandon Road,

Montessori School of Westfield, Inc. 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. The Montessori School of Westfield serves children from Indianapolis, Fishers, Carmel, Zionsville, Westfield, Sheridan, Noblesville, Cicero and Tipton. We serve children ages 18 months to 15 years. • 800 E. Sycamore Street,

Westfield, IN 46074, Contact: Mary Lyman, Directress, Phone: 317-867-0158, Fax: 317-896-5945, Email: montessori westfield@gmail.com, montessori schoolofwestfield.com

The Primrose School at Bridgewater An accredited early education and care school serving infants through kindergarten as well as before and after school services for elementary age students. We offer a Balanced Learning approach, which nurtures curiosity, confidence, creativity and compassion.

Research also shows that 90% of Primrose Students perform twice the level of their peer group. Please call us today to learn more about our early education and preschool opportunities that will fit the need of your family.

Currently enrolling, space is limited. • 14711 North Gray Road, Westfield, IN 46062, Contact: Nikki Knott, 317-8480123. primrosebridgewater.com

Indianapolis, IN 46236. Contact: Anita Boyd. Phone: 317-855-7808. Email:

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SPECIAL NEEDS

WORDS BY JENNIFER THOMPSON

The Benefits of Gardening with Children Kids with special needs can bloom by getting their hands in the soil. * Prepare them for the next steps.

After the holes are dug and the seeds are planted, remind them it will take a while before they will see the food. Consider planting things that will grow at different times — some may grow fairly quickly and others will take more time. Talk about watering the garden, and the importance of the sun and the rain for growth.

There is something therapeutic about gardening for both young and old alike.

Maybe it’s the feel of the dirt between your fingers. Maybe it’s the sun shining down and the feel of the wind blowing. Or maybe it’s the work that is put into the garden, sometimes daily, and the reward of seeing (and tasting) the literal fruits of your labor.

Whatever it is, gardening does have positive effects on a person’s mental, physical and emotional health, and can be an excellent tool for the development of children with special needs.

According to the American Autism Association, “Gardening can help individuals with autism develop social, behavioral and sensorimotor skills. Through gardening, individuals with autism learn to communicate with others, cooperate with others and engage in sensory activities. In many horticultural therapy sessions, individuals with autism are given instructions with multiple tasks while they garden.”

In addition to these benefits, gardening also helps children develop new skills, gain confidence and improve overall well-being.

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* Add birdfeeders, brightly colored flowers, non-toxic scented plants like lavender, mint or jasmine to add different sensory experiences.

What if your child doesn’t like the foods that would be grown in a garden? Some children with Autism Spectrum Disorder have a difficult time with certain foods.

They may be bothered by the texture, or smell, or maybe they only have a couple of foods they will eat consistently. The act of gardening may help to expand your child’s interest in new foods as they participate in the process of their growth.

If the idea of creating a garden sounds appealing to you, here are some things to consider: * If your child struggles with a disruption in routine, you may want to take time talking about, and planning, the garden for a little while before the process begins. Create a schedule, or storyboard, showing the

different steps. You also may want to write on the calendar what times and days you will be tending the garden. Talk about the steps that will be repetitious, such as watering. * Read books about gardening and show your child images of gardens, and the tools needed to create the garden. Consider showing images of a garden at different stages, so they can anticipate what it will look like at different times. * If your child does not like getting dirty, or the feel of something new, talk about how dirt may feel and introduce it to them in small doses. Let them know they can wear gloves, and use shovels to dig holes if they don’t want to put their hands in the dirt.

* If you are not able to create a full garden, consider potting plants in pots, hanging planters or wooden boxes.

Another wonderful thing about gardening with your child is that developing a love for gardening at a young age can be carried on, and benefit, children with special needs as they grow into adulthood.

Not only will they be able to grow and maintain a garden for the purpose of food, but also can use the skills learned to gain employment by growing food later in life, if interested.

IC SPECIAL NEEDS GUIDE Bierman ABA Autism Center We work with children with autism spectrum disorders up to the age of 13. We specialize in providing early intervention, personalized and intensive Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Speech & OT programs. Our early intensive intervention programs (EIBI) are designed to help children learn skills across many different developmental domains in order to be happy and successful in any environment, whether that be in the home, community or the classroom.

Whether your child was just recently diagnosed or has been in a traditional school setting but unable to make adequate progress, we deeply believe every child is capable of learning with the right programming in place. We are positive our dedicated and talented team can make a difference.

Locations in Broad Ripple, Westfield and Avon. • 6060 N College Avenue, Indianapolis IN 46220, Phone: (317) 815-5501, Email: info@biermanaba.com; biermanaba.com

Children's Therapy Connection Children's Therapy Connection offers a variety of engaging playgroups to help connect your child with their potential. Speech Therapy groups focus on improving communication and language skills. Social Skills playgroups encourage peer interaction through preschool preparation. Gross motor playgroups develop strength, balance, and coordination. Contact our office at (317) 288-7606 or follow us on Facebook for enrollment details. We strive to be the provider of choice in central Indiana for quality, comprehensive, and family-centered pediatric therapy services for families of children with disabilities. Visit our website to learn more about all of our noteworthy programs and services! •

7478 Shadeland Station Way, Indianapolis, IN 46256, Phone: 317-288-7606, Email: info@childrenstherapyconnection.com, childrenstherapyconnection.com

Easterseals Crossroads

LittleStar ABA Therapy

Offering comprehensive disability services for people of all ages. Early Intervention, Autism Services, PT, OT, Speech Therapy, Feeding/ Swallowing issues, Augmentative Comm-unication, Assistive Technology, Multi-sensory Therapy Rooms, Summer Camps, Life/Social Skills Groups, Deaf Community Services, Autism Family Resource Center. • 4740 Kingsway Drive,

LittleStar ABA Therapy (formerly Little Star Center) was the first center-based ABA provider in the state and is a not-for-profit. We strive to be the best, not the biggest. Our clinical team is led by two PhDs, who make sure each person we serve is reaching their maximum potential and successful every place they go.

We offer clean, bright, well maintained centers and excellent customer service. LittleStar is often imitated but never duplicated! Your loved one with autism deserves the best services and the best possible outcomes and that’s what they’ll get at LittleStar. Come see the LittleStar difference! • 12650 Hamilton Crossing

Indianapolis, IN 46205, Phone: 317- 4661000, Email: info@eastersealscrossroads. org, eastersealscrossroads.org

K1ds Count, LLC K1ds Count, LLC is a local pediatric therapy provider offering ABA therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy services to children on and off the autism spectrum in the Brownsburg, Avon, Danville, Crawfordsville, and Indianapolis areas. • Phone: (317) 520-4748; Email:

frank@kidscounttherapy.com, kidscounttherapy.com

Blvd. Carmel, IN 46032, Phone: 317-249-2242, E-mail: victoria@ littlestaraba.org, littlestaraba.org

BE PART OF OUR MONTHLY GUIDE CONTACT WENDY@INDYSCHILD.COM

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SPONSORED CONTENT

WORDS BY TRACY M. GALE, PSYD, HSPP, AND EMMALEIGH BADEAUX, MA, LMHCA, EASTERSEALS CROSSROADS

Traveling with Children

For many parents, traveling with children can be anxiety provoking and overwhelming.

Not only do you need to pack for more people, but preparing children for staying away from home, changing routines, and anticipating delays can seem almost impossible. Here are some strategies for preparing to travel with children: 1. Prepare a special box full of things your child really loves but does not get to access regularly. Your child may enjoy helping identify activities or toys to put into the box. Use the box while waiting and traveling.

For younger children, rotate access to these items throughout the trip.

2. Write a story about your trip. This will help you explain to your child what will happen while away from home. You might include details about transportation, the fun activity box, the travel location, and when you will get back. Adding pictures to this story can help a child better understand what will happen during your time away.

3. Start small. It might be best for the first time away to do a quick trip near home and build up from there. If your child is anxious about your time away, starting small and gradually increasing to longer trips will allow your child to adjust one step at a time.

Preparing your child can not only help your child know what to expect, but it can also help ease your mind, allowing you to relax and truly enjoy your trip.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

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THINGS TO DO

March february sun 01 CHUCK E. CHEESE SENSORY SENSITIVE SUNDAYS

Chuck E. Cheese is proud to support families who have children with autism and other special needs.

They offer a sensory-friendly experience on the first Sunday of every month at participating locations, opening stores two hours before their normal opening time. • Location: Chuck E. Cheese Castleton, Time: 9-11 am, chuckecheese.com/ events/sensory-sensitive-Sundays *SN

FAMILY FUN DAY WITH INDY FUEL

Join the Fuel for an afternoon the whole family can enjoy, complete with a post-game skate with the team! Bring your own skates, or take advantage of free skate rental on a first come, first served basis. • Location: Indiana Farmers Coliseum, Time: 3:05 pm, indyfuelhockey.com/ games

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mon 02 READ & PLAY STORYTIME

Babies, toddlers and preschoolers with an adult are invited for interactive stories, songs and finger plays followed by playtime. •

Location: East Washington Branch, Time: 10:30-11:30 am. attend.indypl.org/ event/3705552 FREE

tues 03 STORYTIME AT PIKE

Babies, toddlers, preschoolers and an adult are invited for stories, songs, fingerplays and play time. • Location: Pike Branch Library, Time: 10:15-11:15 am, attend.indypl.org/ event/3673049 FREE

TODDLER & PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT NORA

Children ages 2-5 and an adult are invited for stories, songs and rhymes. • Location: Nora Branch

Library, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, attend. indypl.org/event/3713387 FREE

FREE Free for families! *Ongoing A recurring event

wed 04 ZUMBINI WITH KATIE SATTLER

Babies, toddlers and preschoolers with an adult are invited to get a taste of the Zumbini program at the library! Licensed Zumbini instructor Katie Sattler will present this program. • Location: Nora Branch Library, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, attend. indypl.org/event/3325320 FREE

L.E.A.R.N.: LEGO ENGINEERING AND ROBOTICS NIGHT

Explore science, technology, engineering, art and math through guided and open-ended LEGO projects. Work individually or with friends and family on short and long-term projects. Activities will be best for LEGO engineers over 6.

Children under 12 must bring an adult. • Location: Central Library, Time: 5:30-7:30 pm, attend.indypl.org/ event/3997687 FREE

*SN Special needs friendly An Indy's Child favorite!

DOG MAN: THE MUSICAL

A hilarious new production based on the bestselling series from Dav Pilkey, the creator of Captain Underpants. Best buds George and Harold have been creating comics for years, but now that they’re in 5th grade, they figure it's time to level up and write a musical based on their favorite character, Dog Man, the crime-biting sensation who is part dog, part man, and ALL HERO! How hard could it be? Find out in this epic musical adventure. • Location: Clowes Memorial Hall, Time: 10 am & Noon, butlerartscenter.org

thurs 05 FIRST THURSDAY NIGHT

It’s fun for everyone! Visit at a discount from 4-8 p.m. on the first Thursday of every month. Choose from Riley Children's Health Sports Legends Experience ($5), the museum ($5) or a combo ticket ($7).

• Location: The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, Time: 4-8 pm, childrensmuseum.org

THE ONE AND ONLY IVAN

Enter the mind of a remarkable hero in this unforgettable story of enduring friendship, drawn from true events. For 27 years, the world of Ivan the gorilla was a dull cage in a roadside shopping mall. But when he meets Ruby, a baby elephant captured in the wild, Ivan’s ambitions and imagination must grow to meet the challenge of rescuing his endangered new companion. • Location: Clowes

Memorial Hall, Time: 10 am & Noon, butlerartscenter.org

thurs 05-07 INDY KIDS SALE SPRING MEGA POP-UP EVENT

Shop and save 50% to 90% off retail! Browse through thousands of great deals on children's clothing, toys and gear! • Location: Hamilton County 4-H Fairgrounds, Time: March 5, 9 am-6 pm; March 6, 9 am-5 pm; March 7, 8 am-1 pm, indykidssale.com

fri 06 PAJAMA-RAMA

Put on your cutest pair of pajamas, grab your favorite teddy bear and pack up an old blanket! Families looking for a fun program to enjoy with their toddlers and preschoolers will love the music educator from Moriah Music, who will lead you in songs and stories about some of our favorite animals.

This program is best for children ages 1-7. • Location: Cool Creek Nature Center, Time: 7-7:45 pm, myhamiltoncountyparks.com FREE

FAMILY NIGHT OUT: CRAZY CONTRAPTIONS

Explore the Rube Goldberg experience after hours to be inspired by the world of the wacky.

Create crazy machines, join in the deconstruction zone where you can take apart everyday objects, and play with gears and levers. •

Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 6-8 pm, indianamuseum.org

BLOOM: A SPRING EXHIBITION

A special reception with special performances by IPS student musicians. These young, budding artists from local IPS schools are using the spring season as inspiration for their works. View a selection of nature-themed artwork by these mini Monets in a variety of 2D and 3D mediums. • Location: Garfield Park Arts Center, Time: Noon-1:30 pm, gpacarts.org FREE

sat 07 CHILDREN’S ENTERTAINMENT SERIES

Singing, dancing and musical exploration in the beautiful Lilly Theater! Lift your voice, lift your spirit, clap, shout, stomp and holler along with local children’s musicians who’ll share songs for kids and their families. • Location:

Conner Prairie, Time: 10:30 am, 11:30 am & 12:30 pm, connerprairie.org

INDY’S CHILD 31ST ANNUAL CAMP FAIR

Indy’s Child Annual Camp Fair is the one day every year when families from all over Central Indiana have the opportunity to explore more than 60 overnight camps, day camps, programs, and summer fun opportunities. It’s the perfect time to plan a summer of fun all in one day! • Location: Park

Tudor School, Time: Noon-3 pm, indyschild.com/events/indys-child31st-annual-camp-fair FREE

LITERACY DAY

Enjoy a day of stories at Literacy Day! From interactive read-alongs in the galleries to storytelling performances, explore books with Indiana connections and maybe even find a new favorite. Storytimes will also be offered in Spanish and ASL. For families with children age 6 and younger. • Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 10 am-5 pm, indianamuseum.org

CREATIVE THEATRE FOR KIDS

Explore theatre like you never have before! Create your own plays, work as an ensemble and most importantly, have fun! Devised theatre is a chance to work without a script (or create your own) and explore some of the most pressing questions of life. Ages 8-12. $10. • Location: Garfield Park Arts Center, Time: 1-2 pm, gpacarts.org

on hand in case anyone needs assistance. Price: adults & youth $4, free for members. • Location: Conner Prairie, Time: 10 am-Noon, connerprairie.org *SN

10TH ANNUAL PIRATES AND PRINCESSES

This event gives girls and boys of all ages the unique opportunity to feel like a real life princess or pirate for a day, while giving back to other children battling cancer in their community. • Location: Community Life Center, Time 11 am-3 pm, flashesofhope.org

mon 09 SECOND MONDAYS CHESS @ IRVINGTON

Chess players of all skill levels are invited to play chess and meet others in the local chess community. Chess boards and pieces are provided. Players may bring their own chess clocks. • Location: Irvington Branch Library, Time: 6-7:45 pm, attend.indypl.org/ event/3735821

tues 10 JUNGLE TALES

Bring your preschooler to this program with a focus on the natural world. Join them for a different nature-related story, activity and craft each month.

Registration required. • Location:

Garfield Conservatory, Time: 10-11 am, indyparks.org

FAMILY PLAY DAYS

Families are invited to bring their imaginations to the children's area for engaging and fun activities designed to encourage discussion and build the vocabulary of young children. • Location:

wed 11 INDY’S CHILD POP-UP PLAYDATE: DEVEAU'S SCHOOL OF GYMNASTICS

Join Indy’s Child Magazine and DeVeau’s School of Gymnastics for a fun, safe and educational experience! Introduce your little ones to the world of movement and exercise. Let them learn to explore their capabilities under the guidance of instructional experts in an intimate class. No previous gymnastics experience required.

Two 1-hour sessions are available, a free ticket is required. Ages walking- 5 years old. • Location:

DeVeau’s School of Gymnastics, Time: 11:30 am- 12:30 pm OR 1-2 pm FREE

thurs 12 GREENING OF THE CANAL

For the 23rd straight year, the Hoosier Lottery will help Indianapolis celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by making the downtown canal run green! • Location: Canal

Walk Downtown Indianapolis, Time: 5 pm, indystpats.com FREE

fri 13 SUPERHERO APPRECIATION

Join the Broad Ripple superhero team Benevolent Brandon, Awesome Ashley and Cosmic Christy as they show their appreciation to superheroes around the world! Become junior heroes in training and don your best superhero attire for a fun-filled time. Snacks will be provided.

Pre-registration is required! • Location: Broad Ripple Park, Time: 10:30- 11:30 am, indyparks.org

Decatur Branch Library, Time: 10 am, attend.indypl.org/ event/4000187 FREE

sun 08 SENSORY-FRIENDLY MORNING AT CONNER PRAIRIE

The first Sunday of every month is sensory friendly! Exhibit components that make noise will be turned off (the Dry Goods Store in Civil War Journey will be off, but the building will remain open for guests.) All quiet spaces can be utilized, and staff trained in sensory-friendly practices will be

FRI 13

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40TH ANNUAL ST. PATRICK'S DAY PARADE

Join over 40 organizations, schools and corporations as they march down Pennsylvania & Meridian Streets to celebrate Irish Heritage. • Location: Downtown Indianapolis, Time: 11:30 am, indystpats.com FREE

sat 14 NATIONAL PI DAY

You don’t have to be a mathematician to love Pi – a number that keeps our universe running correctly. Join them for a day of Pi-related fun as you explore this useful number and celebrate Albert Einstein’s birthday! Celebrate at 3 p.m. with — of course — pie. • Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 10 am-5 pm, indianamuseum.org

PI DAY AT NEWFIELDS

Join them for interactive and delicious activities in the Pop Up: Pie Shop and throughout the museum. Enjoy dessert and math-based tours through the galleries, write a Pi-Ku (a haiku, but more delicious) and more. • Location: Newfields, Time: 11 am-3 pm, discovernewfields.org

PASSPORT TO HI TECH

Come to Conner Prairie and get your hands on the future of STEM! Get your passport stamped as you visit with exhibitors to learn about real-world STEM applications and try some fun hands-on activities. •

Location: Conner Prairie, Time: 10 am-5 pm, connerprairie.org

RILEY CHILDREN’S HEALTH SPORTS LEGENDS EXPERIENCE OPENS

Dust off those sneakers, put on your game face, and join them as they celebrate the start of the second season of the Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience. • Location: The Children's

Museum of Indianapolis, Time: 10 am-3 pm, childrensmuseum.org

POWER RECYCLING DAY

Visitors can drop off their old electronics in the Zoo’s parking lot.

Staff from Technology Recyclers will be available to make vehicle unloading fast and simple. Plus, as a way to say thanks for their environmental stewardship, all participants will receive a coupon

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for $2 off Zoo admission. • Location: Indianapolis Zoo, Time: 9 am-2 pm, indianapoliszoo.com

MONSTER ENERGY AMA SUPERCROSS

Monster Energy Supercross is an indoor dirt bike racing championship. Supercross races are made from dirt hauled into stadiums. The track takes all the exciting obstacles of outdoor riding — jumps, turns and bumps — amplifies them, and puts them in easy view of spectators. • Location:

FRI 13

ST. PATRICK'S DAY PARADE

Lucas Oil Stadium, Time: 6:30 pm, supercrosslive.com

sun 15 HOT JAZZ FOR COOL KIDS

Children and families are invited to a series of free performances by Indy's leading jazz musicians. It's a way to share jazz music with children that will be fun for everyone! • Location: Central Library,

Time: 3-4 pm, attend.indypl.org/ event/3696515 FREE

PEKING ACROBATS

The troupe of approximately 20 acrobats is accompanied by colorful lighting effects and several musicians playing traditional Chinese instruments, evoking the festive pageantry of a Chinese carnival. • Location: The Center for the

Performing Arts, Time: 3 pm, thecenterpresents.org

FAMILY FUN DAY WITH INDY FUEL

Join the Fuel for an afternoon the whole family can enjoy, complete with a post-game skate with the team! Bring your own skates, or take advantage of free skate rental on a first come, first served basis. •

Location: Indiana Farmers Coliseum, Time: 3:05 pm, indyfuelhockey.com/ games

mon 16

PAWS TO READ AT BEECH GROVE

School-aged children who are beginning or reluctant readers are invited to read to a non-judgmental registered therapy dog who loves to listen to stories. Spaces are limited. Visit the Beech Grove Branch to register your young reader in person. • Location: Beech Grove Branch Library, Time 6-7 pm, attend.indypl.org/event/3936181

FREE

STORY TIME WITH WESTFIELD MAYOR ANDY COOK

Enjoy stories, songs, finger-plays, rhymes and puppets with special guest reader Westfield Mayor Andy Cook! Strengthen early literacy skills and encourage the joy of learning. Each program ends with a fun craft or an activity. For ages 18 months-K. • Location: Westfield

INDY STORY SLAM

A fun night for storytellers of every skill level, designed as an afterworks event to relax and unwind.

The theme this month is Off the Grid. The host, Celestine Bloomfield, will pick 10 names from a hat to determine the evening’s lineup. • Location: Garfield Park Arts

Center, Time: 7-8:30 pm, storytellingarts.org

Washington Public Library, Time: 10:30 am, wwpl.lib.in.us FREE

thurs 19

tues 17

LITTLE DUCKLINGS: BLACK & WHITE BIRDS

SMALL WONDERS: RAINBOWS

Learn easy ways to engage your preschooler in nature and scientific exploration. Each class introduces a new topic through hands-on activities, hikes and crafts, and provides ideas for exploring at home. Classes are designed for children and their caregiver. Ages 3-5. • Location: Holliday Park, Time:

9:30-10:30 am, indyparks.org

LITTLE GARDENERS: LET'S FLY A KITE

Let's go fly a kite! Celebrate spring by making and (hopefully) flying some kites today! • Location: Broad Ripple Park, Time: 10-11 am, indyparks.org

wed 18 CHARLOTTE'S WEB

Charlotte's Web is based on E.B. White's loving story of the friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a little gray spider named Charlotte. Wilbur has a problem: how to avoid winding up as pork chops! Charlotte, a fine writer and true friend, hits on a plan to fool Farmer Zuckerman. • Location: Clowes Memorial Hall, Time: 10 am-Noon, butlerartscenter.org

Learn easy ways to engage your preschooler in nature and encourage their curiosity in the natural world. A new topic will be introduced each class through hands-on activities, hikes, stories and take-home ideas for continuing the exploration at home. • Location:

Eagle Creek Ornithology Center, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, indyparks.org

INDY’S CHILD POP-UP PLAYDATE: GOLDFISH SWIM SCHOOL GREENWOOD

Join Indy's Child at Goldfish Swim School Greenwood for a fun afternoon of swimming, cookies and a special spring-themed craft!

• Location: Goldfish Swim SchoolGreenwood, Time: 4-5:30 pm, FREE

HAMILTON COUNTY TRANSITION FAIR

The Arc Advocacy Network will have information about Medicaid waivers, government programs and services, guardianship and alternatives, The Arc Master Trust, the Erskine Green Training Institute and a variety of other topics available for families and selfadvocates. • Location: Carmel High

School, Time: 6-7:30 pm, arcind.org/ event/hamilton-county-transitionfair-3/ FREE *SN

thurs 19–fri 20 DIARY OF ANNE FRANK

In 1941 Amsterdam, 13-year-old Anne Frank goes into hiding with her family from the Nazis. For the next two years, she never leaves the attic where her family is concealed.

• Location: Clowes Memorial Hall, Time: See website for times, butlerartscenter.org

thurs 19–sun 22 WHALE OF SALE SPRING 2020

Indiana’s largest kids’ consignment event featuring baby to teen clothing, toys, strollers, books, sporting goods, furniture and more from 500+ families. • Location: Grand

Park, Time: See website for times, whale-sale.com/westfield

fri 20 TEDDY BEAR CONCERT SERIES WITH THE INDIANAPOLIS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Preschoolers and kindergarteners with their families are invited to learn about the orchestra through story, movement and live music. ISO violinist Victoria Griswold has written each story, two of which are available as picture books, to be performed by five ISO musicians.

Teddy bears welcome! • Location:

Central Library, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, attend.indypl.org/event/3556535 FREE

PLAYTIME ON THE PRAIRIE: WHAT’S THE WEATHER?

Let's discover the weather in spring!

How does the weather change and why? Which one is your favorite?

Playtime on the Prairie is an early childhood experience tailored for their youngest guests. • Location:

BUTTERFLY KALEIDOSCOPE OPENING DAY

Immerse yourself in the beauty of butterflies as these wonderful winged insects return to The Hilbert Conservatory. A dazzling array of colors will fill every corner of the conservatory in this new show. A breathtaking mobile of giant proportions will twirl overhead as a rainbow of light shimmers in through stained glass panels. • Location: Indianapolis Zoo, Time: 9am-4pm Monday-Thursday, 9am-5pm Friday-Sunday, indianapoliszoo.com

LUCAS OIL FAMILY NIGHT WITH THE PACERS

Tickets include your Pacers game ticket, a Chick-fil-A meal voucher, a voucher for a Pacers branded hat, and an opportunity to shoot a free throw on the main court after the game. • Location: Bankers Life

Fieldhouse, Time: 7 pm, nba.com/ pacers/tickets/2019-20-family-night

sat 21–sun 22 BRICKWORLD

Bring the entire family for an afternoon of fun! See more than 65,000 square feet of spectacular creations all built from LEGO bricks by local LEGO enthusiasts, enjoy interactive activities, seek and finds, fighting robots and more. • Location:

Indiana State Fairgrounds, Sat., 10 am-6 pm; Sun., 10 am-5 pm, brickworld.com

mon 23 MESSY MONDAYS

Get a little messy and have a ton of fun while exploring a variety of science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) topics. Ages 2-5. • Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 1-2 pm, indianamuseum.org

Conner Prairie, Time: 9:30-10:30 am, connerprairie.org

sat 21 ROCK YOUR SOCKS: WORLD DOWN SYNDROME DAY

Grab your best 1980s gear and dance the night away to raise awareness and celebrate our loved ones with Down syndrome on World Down Syndrome Day. There will be dancing, snacks, crafts, a photo booth, costume contest and more! #WDSD20 #LotsOfSocks • Location: Gigi’s Playhouse, Time: 3 pm, gigisplayhouse.org *SN

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tues 24 LITTLE GARDENERS: FAIRY GARDENS

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by creating your own Fairy Garden. • Location: Broad Ripple Park, Time: 10- 11 am, indyparks.org

wed 25 FROGTIME STORYTIME

Preschoolers ages 2-6 are invited to learn about frogs with puppets, stories and songs. Professor Watermelon will show how these slippery amphibians live in and out of the water! • Location: Franklin Road Branch Library, Time: 11:15 am-12:15 am, attend.indypl.org/ event/3741713 FREE

thurs 26 DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD LIVE: NEIGHBOR DAY

Go on an interactive adventure to the Neighborhood of Make-Believe, share stories of friendship, help others and celebrate new experiences. The live show features new songs and fan-favorites, including the beloved “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” The live theatrical production is filled with music, dancing and wonderful surprises that will warm the hearts of preschoolers, parents and grandparents alike. • Location: Clowes Memorial Hall, Time: 6 pm, butlerartscenter.org

fri 27 FRIDAY CAMPFIRE COYOTES

Join them for a fun Friday night around the campfire. Enjoy a sweet treat by the fire, learn something new, and experience night hiking!

Roasting sticks and s'mores provided. Bring your own hot dog dinner and make a meal of it! • Location: Holliday Park, Time: 6:30-8 pm, indyparks.org

sat 28 TINKERFEST

A hands-on, experiential opportunity designed to engage and inspire Indiana’s designers, builders, coders, makers and tinkerers of all ages. Then, join in the fun with hands-on activities that will allow everyone to tinker, make, invent, create, play and imagine. This event is free for all registered participants and is

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included with purchase of general admission. • Location: Indiana State Museum, Time: 10 am- 5 pm, indianamuseum.org

PEANUT BUTTER & JAM: DORIN!

Featuring whimsical lyrics and memorable melodies, this family-friendly band engages both children and adults for a fun listening experience. Designed for children ages 1-7, Peanut Butter & Jam encourages young children to become engaged in the arts. •

Location: The Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts, Time: 10:30 am, thecenterpresents.org

TREASURE ISLAND

A family-friendly musical adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel. Treasure Island follows young Jim Hawkins on a swashbuckling West Indies adventure, downplaying the book’s rum-soaked violence in favor of its fun, action and moral foundation. • Location: The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts, Time: 1 pm, thecenterpresents.org

sat 28 – sun 29 BREAKFAST WITH BUNNYSAURUS REX

Spring has sprung and so have Bunnysaurus Rex eggs! It’s a dinosaur egg hunt of prehistoric proportions! Enjoy breakfast with your family, take a picture with Bunnysaurus Rex, make your own edible dinosaur egg nest, and decorate your egg collecting bag before heading outside to the Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience to grab the eggs that Bunnysaurus Rex has left behind. • Location: The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, Time: 8-10 am, childrensmuseum.org

PAW PATROL LIVE - THE GREAT PIRATE ADVENTURE

The heroic pups from the top-rated animated preschool series PAW Patrol, produced by Spin Master Entertainment, embark on a pirate-themed adventure to uncover hidden treasure during the hit live stage show. • Location: Old

National Centre, Time: Saturday at 10 am & Sunday at 2 pm, pawpatrol live.com

sun 29 CENTRAL INDIANA DANCE ENSEMBLE PRESENTS MIXED REP

Classic, modern and contemporary pieces thread together for one show only as Central Indiana Dance Ensemble performs Mixed Rep! Featuring innovative and breathtaking original choreography by world-renowned artists, Mixed Rep has something for everyone! •

Location: The Center for the Performing Arts, Time: 4-6 pm, thecenter presents.org

INDY VEGFEST

Taste and buy delicious food from local and regional food vendors, learn how to make your own during the cooking demonstrations, support small businesses who offer vegan and cruelty-free products and services and more! • Location:

Bankers Life Fieldhouse, Time: 3-7 pm, indyvegfest.com

MESSY MONDAYS

This program allows children and their grown-ups to explore STEAM topics through messy yet fun activities. There will be several stations that children and adults can explore that promote learning through play. • Location: Indiana

State Museum, Time: 10-11 am or 1-2 pm, indianamuseum.org

tues 31 LITTLE GARDENERS: FROGS & BUTTERFLIES

Learn about the life cycles of frogs and butterflies. Fun crafts and surprises, as well! • Location: Broad Ripple Park, Time: 10-11 am, indyparks.org

ONGOING EVENTS SPRING BLOOMS

KIDS DAY AT INDY CD & VINYL

The last Sunday of every month is Kids Day, featuring live music for the whole family, free musicinfluenced arts and crafts, discounts on kids’ music and donations benefitting children’s charities in Indy. • Location: Indy CD

& Vinyl, Time: 3-5 pm, indycdandvinyl.com

KIDS DAY WITH THE EASTER BUNNY

Bring the kiddos out to see the Easter Bunny! Have their picture taken with the Easter Bunny and visit with the other farm animals.

They will also have other fun activities for the kids! • Location:

Blackhawk Winery and Vineyard, Time: 2-5 pm, blackhawkwinery.com FREE

mon 30 TORTILLA COOKING CLASS FOR KIDS

Children ages 6-12 are invited to join Nutrition Services of the Marion County Health Department for a hands-on tortilla-making experience and cooking lesson. •

Location: Garfield Park Branch Library, Time: 2-3 pm, attend.indypl.org/ event/3862944

March 20-May 17

Defrost your winter-weary self and watch the magic of spring unfold with half a million blooms in The Garden and the galleries. At Newfields, the season begins with beautiful displays of orchids, along with small, outdoor floral gems.

Then come the daffodils and hyacinths. Pansies, peonies and cool-season veggies. Wildflowers in the woods. Don’t miss the crescendo, typically in April, when redbuds, dogwoods and lilacs fill The Garden with a floral haze. • Location: Newfields, discovernewfields.org

GOOD ENOUGH TO EAT Through May 26

An exhibit about some of our favorite foods in miniature, from preparation to iconic packaging.

On display are hundreds of items, from metal kitchen sets to coffee creamers the size of BBs. Even in miniature, these treats look good enough to eat! This special exhibit is in addition to seven rooms of displays of items from the museum's permanent collection, including dozens of miniature houses, more than 40 room settings, and collections of tiny paintings, machinery, furniture and more. • Location: The Museum of

Miniature Houses and Other Collections, museumofminiatures.org

POLKADOTS: THE COOL KIDS MUSICAL March 14-April 19

Eight-year old Lily Polkadot has just moved to the “Squares Only” town of Rockaway. As the first Polkadot in an all-Square school, Lily seeks acceptance from her peers. But from bullying to segregated drinking fountains, things seem hopeless until she meets Sky, a shy Square boy whose curiosity about her unique polkadot skin blooms into pal-ship.

Free with general admission. • Location: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis Lilly Theatre, childrensmuseum.org

THE PIGEON AND PALS! A MO WILLEMS ART AND PLAY EXHIBIT Through May 10

Visit the whimsical world of Mo Willems and his cast of loveable characters, including best friend duo Elephant Gerald and Piggie, faithful companion Knuffle Bunny, and The Pigeon, the wily city bird best known for his antics in Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! • Location: The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, childrensmuseum.org

RUBE GOLDBERG: THE WORLD OF HILARIOUS INVENTION EXHIBIT Through May 10

This exhibit showcases Pulitzer Prize-winning humorist and inventor Rube Goldberg’s iconic contraptions and celebrates his imaginative techniques, humorous storytelling and inventive skills.

Like Goldberg, you can activate and create crazy chain-reaction contraptions that use everyday objects to complete simple tasks in the most overcomplicated, inefficient and hilarious ways possible! • Location: Indiana State

CHOCOLATE SLIDE Through April 11

There will be gumdrops and lollipops, and the museum’s Sunburst Atrium will be decorated like a whirly-twirly candy land. Kids and their grown-ups can zoom down a slide that looks like a river of chocolate! Afterward, top off the fun with sweet treats and tasty eats from the Chocolate Café. • Location: The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, childrensmuseum.org

WILD WEATHER Through January 10, 2021

Discover how to weather the storm as you learn about emerging technologies and recent scientific discoveries that are improving our ability to forecast severe weather and enhance our awareness of global weather phenomena including hurricanes, blizzards, severe heat, and climate change. •

Location: The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, childrensmuseum.org

CATS Through April 5

The record-breaking musical spectacular by Andrew Lloyd Webber that has captivated audiences in over 30 countries and 15 languages, is now on tour across North America! • Location: Clowes Memorial Hall of Butler University, indianapolis.broadway.com

XZOOBERANCE Through April 12

The festival features live entertainment at two different stage locations, a cheer garden offering beer, pretzels, treats and kidfriendly refreshments, and a whimsical garden of remarkable topiaries fit for a Zoo. • Location: Indianapolis Zoo, indianapolis zoo.com

Museum, indianamuseum.org

POP UP: PIE Through May 24

Slide into a diner booth, order a sweet or savory pie, and pair it with a classic mug of coffee or vanilla milkshake at Pop Up: Pie. Newfields’ newest culinary experience re-creates a vintage vibe while exploring the history of pie in America and throughout the world. Each handcrafted, personal-sized pie is priced individually, and vegan options are available, too. • Location: Newfields,

discovernewfields.org

BE HEARD: WOMEN’S VOICES IN INDIANA Through April 4

This exhibit highlights the contributions Hoosier women — both ordinary and extraordinary — have made throughout Indiana’s history. • Location: Indiana Historical Society, indianahistory.org

PLEASE NOTE At Indy's Child, we work hard to ensure our calendar and guide inform- ation is accurate. Occasionally, event specifics change after we go to press. Therefore, we encourage our readers to call locations or visit them on the web to verify information.

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fun and WACKY INDY'S CHILD

CALENDAR 03.2020

SUN

MON

TUES

2

1 READ ACROSS AMERICA DAY

BARISTA DAY

8

WEDS

MEATBALL DAY

MARCHING BAND DAY

WORLD PLUMBING DAY

SAT

5 CHEESE DOODLE DAY

11

10 PACK YOUR LUNCH DAY

FRI

4

3 DR. SEUSS DAY

9

THURS

6 DRESS IN BLUE DAY

12 GIRL SCOUT DAY

7 BE HEARD DAY

14

13 WORLD SLEEP DAY

PI DAY

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS BEGINS

15 BUZZARDS DAY

22 WORLD WATER DAY

29

WORLD PIANO DAY

16

17 ST. PATRICK’S DAY

NO SELFIES DAY

23 PUPPY DAY

30 TAKE A WALK IN THE PARK DAY

SOURCE: daysoftheyear.com SOURCE: daysoftheyear.com

24 CHOCOLATE COVERED RAISINS DAY

31 EIFFEL TOWER DAY

18 AWKWARD MOMENTS DAY

19 FIRST DAY OF SPRING

25 MANATEE APPRECIATION DAY

26

PURPLE DAY

20 HUFFLEPUFF PRIDE DAY

27

WORLD THEATER DAY

21 QUILTING DAY

28 SOMETHING ON A STICK DAY