0717 hcf issuu

HAMILTON COUNTY

SUMMER ISSUE 2017

the go to resource for local families

summer

STEM

LOCAL science, technology, engineering and math programs

+

HAMILTON COUNTY

PARKS

our 2017 “best of” guide

O NE TA N K TRIPS 6 ideas for a quick family getaway

CONTENTS

INSIDE

// SUMMER

departments AGES & STAGES 12

BABIES The Benef its of Breast Milk

14

TODDLERS & PRESCHOOLERS Summertime Activities for Preschoolers

16

SCHOOL AGERS Summer STEM

21

TWEENS & TEENS Disliking a Teen's Romantic Interest

FAMILY 22

MOMS Prenatal Yoga

24

DADS Being a Father to a Child with Special Needs

in every issue 06 08 30 31

GREETINGS SNIPPETS RESOURCE GUIDE FUN & WACKY CALENDAR

columns + guides 11

Our 2017 "Best Of " Guide

19

16 11

26

A Dad Influence Kids Are Like Bad College Roommates

20

Should We Consider Changing Schools?

What to Think About Before Making a Decision

26

28

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT The Addie and Adam Show

29

ONE TANK TRIPS 6 Ideas for a Quick Family Getaway

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Hamilton County Parks

HIDDEN GEMS The Best Finds Only the Locals Know!

GREETINGS

WORDS BY // SUSAN BRYANT

meet the staff Publisher Mary Wynne Cox mary@hamiltoncountyfamily.com

Associate Publisher & Advertising Sales Jennica Zalewski jennica@hamiltoncountyfamily.com

Editor Susan Bryant susan@hamiltoncountyfamily.com

Advertising Coordinator Karen Ring karen@hamiltoncountyfamily.com

Creative Director Katie Clark katie@hamiltoncountyfamily.com

Hello Summer!

Business Manager Roxanne Burns roxanne@hamiltoncountyfamily.com

Summer officially lasts 94 days – how are you planning to spend it? Maybe a big vacation is in the works – or some local fun with a “staycation”? Are you scheduling lots of summer activities or does your family need some R & R after a busy school year? Whatever you’ve got planned, make the most of the kind of family fun that only summertime can provide.

If you’re looking for ways to keep your little ones occupied this summer, try reading our article on Summertime Activities for Preschoolers for local opportunities designed just for this crowd. And for older kids, STEM classes are all the rage. Get the low down on coding, programming, robotics and engineering camps available around town in Summer STEM. It’s no secret that the parks system in Hamilton County is top notch. Looking for the best spot for a picnic? How about the best place to hike some trails or cool off on a hot day? Check out our Hamilton County Parks Guide for our suggestions on “must visit” locations all over our area.

Public Relations and Events Wendy Hasser wendy@hamiltoncountyfamily.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Megan Bohrer, Lauren Lawson, Kim Dinan, Stephanie Lowe Burry, Holly Kline, Jennifer Thompson and Whitney Riggs

Contact Us Hamilton County Family 6340 Westfield Blvd., Ste. 200 Indianapolis, IN 46220 (317) 417-3031 or (317) 710-6622

on the cover Caiden Stanford – 5 1/2 years old

What’s summer break without a road trip? While big vacations are great, they’re not always in the budget. Good thing there are so many fun destinations to visit close to home. Take a look at our article on One Tank Trips for some ideas next time you want to jump in the car for a quick family getaway.

Cover Photographer Lisa Hezlep – Hezlep Photography www.HezlepPhotography.com

Here’s to summer! Every sun-soaked, water melon-eating, firefly-catching, lazy or crazy day of it! We hope you enjoy every minute.

Susan Bryant EDITOR susan@hamiltoncountyfamily.com

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Hamilton County Family Magazine is published quarterly.

Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited.

www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

07

SNIPPETS

// SUMMER

Bits of info you might not know!

DID YOU KNOW? David Boudia, Olympic gold medalist, grew up in Noblesville and trained at Forest Park Pool.

Could you eat

POP QUIZ How many golf holeS does Hamilton County have?

o 181 o 254 o 296

If you guessed 296, you’re correct!

14 pounds

of watermelon?

Apparently, yes! That’s how much of this favorite summer fruit Americans consume annually. Of course, the seed-spitting contests that follow are a summer rite of passage – what is the world record for longest launch? 68 feet 9 1/8 inches set by Lee Wheellis in 1989.

Sources: www.agmrc.org/commodities-products/ vegetables/watermelon/ and https://slave2myneedles.wordpress.com/ tag/guinness-world-record/

What are the

“Dog Days of Summer”?

This phrase refers to the Dog Star (Sirius) and encompasses the weeks between July 3 and August 11. The ancient Greeks blamed Sirius for the hot temperatures, discomfort and droughts that occurred during summer.

Source: www.factretriever.com/summer-facts

Summer Selfies While Hamilton County is loaded with great places to take a picture, can you guess what destination is one of the most Instagrammed places in Indiana?

Klipsch Music Center! It’s no surprise really, since Klipsch is ranked among the most popular amphitheaters in the world. (So buy that $50 concert t-shirt and snap a pic at a show this summer!)

Source: www.pollstar.com/article/pollstars-2015- year-end-stats-analysis-43924

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A tenderloin sandwich sounds good right about now, doesn’t it?

Good thing there are over 50 restaurants close to home that can serve one up for you! Want a list of where to find this Hoosier classic?

Take a look at the Tenderloin Trail on the Hamilton County Tourism website – and while you’re there get a tutorial on the specific strategies for tackling this oversized sandwich.

Source: www.visithamiltoncounty.com/ restaurants/tenderloin-trail/

www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

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Hamilton County Parks Our 2017 “Best of” Guide WORDS BY // Whitney Riggs, Communications Coordinator, Hamilton County Tourism

As a resident of Hamilton County, you know how incredible our parks system is. Here we’ve rounded up a “best of ” list highlighting just a few of the many fun destinations in our area perfect for a summer day.

BEST PICNIC SPOT

BEST KID-FRIENDLY PARK

BEST NEW PARK

Flat Fork Creek Park, Fishers

Federal Hill Commons, Noblesville

Kids can burn some energy at Flat Fork Creek Park with five miles of trails, three treehouses connected by a paved trail system, boardwalk and a fishing pond. In the winter months, try the 50foot sledding hill.

Federal Hill Commons opened earlier this year and expects to be filled with crowds of concertgoers, farmers market shoppers and festival attendees. The new area has an amphitheater called First Merchants Pavilion, which has musical instruments for the public to try, a modern playground, a shelter and an event facility.

Coxhall Gardens, Carmel The 125-acre park is a prime spot to bring your blanket and picnic basket while catching a view of the beautiful gardens, water and flowers. After lunch, take a stroll and listen to the sweet sounds of the Carillon Bell Towers.

BEST TRAILS Richey Woods Nature Preserve, Fishers Richey Woods Nature Preserve, which spans 127 acres and has a state-designated nature preserve, offers more than two miles of walking trails and a boardwalk. Cheeney Creek also meanders through the north end of the property and can be viewed from the Creek Ridge Trail.

BEST PLACE TO TAKE PHOTOS MacGregor Park, Westfield The 99-acre nature park consists of rolling hillsides, natural woodlands, a meandering creek and native prairies. MacGregor Park also has walking trails, wetlands and bridges and platforms over the creek – excellent for that Instagrammable nature shot.

BEST ADVENTURE DESTINATION Strawtown Koteewi Park, Noblesville At this park you can try your hand at archery, ride a horse or pony on a guided tour, hike the trails or fly through the treetops. Your adventurous side won’t be disappointed when you visit the 750 acres of Strawtown Koteewi Park.

BEST PLACE TO COOL OFF Forest Park, Noblesville Besides the putt-putt golf course, the “Little Beauty” carousel and the playground, Forest Park has an aquatic center – perfect for those hot summer days. It features an Olympic-size pool, a slide, diving boards and an infant and toddler area. Kiddos must try the “Leapin’ Lizzie” pink frog slide.

BEST PLAYGROUND West Commons Playground at Central Park, Carmel With 25,000 square feet of playground space, kids can swing, slide, climb and explore for hours.

The playground includes towers and bridges, tunnels and coves and age-appropriate areas with a rubber safety surface.

BEST CONCERT SPOT Cool Creek Park & Nature Center, Westfield What better way to hear live music than in a natural setting. Bands will be playing all summer long during the Cool Creek Concert Series, where you can spend an evening outdoors listening to good music for just $5 for adults and no cost to kids 12 and under.

OPPOSITE PAGE // Photo Credit: Hamilton County Tourism

www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

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BABIES

WORDS BY // LAUREN LAWSON

The Benefits of Breast Milk Good for you, your baby and those infants in greatest need The phrase “breast is best” is something many new moms hear – and rightfully so. With so many benefits for both mother and child, breastfeeding is considered to be the best option when it comes to feeding baby. Just what makes this “liquid gold” so special? And what can be done for babies who need it most?

What’s in it for BABY?

Research shows numerous health benefits for a child that is breastfed. According to Sarah Long, IBCLC, Director of Clinical Operations for The Milk Bank, a not-forprofit organization that provides human milk to premature babies in neonatal and newborn intensive care units, breast milk contains cells, hormones and antibodies that protect babies from illness. “This protection is unique and changes every day to meet your baby’ s growing needs,” says Long. The La Leche League, an international organization that promotes breastfeeding, states that breast milk contains thousands of different elements that support a child’s immune system. Some are very specific to protect against a particular bacteria or virus, while others have a more general function. The advantages for breastfed babies can be far-reaching as well.

Based on Long’s research from the Office of Women’s Health at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, breastfed babies have lower risks of asthma, childhood leukemia, childhood obesity, ear infections, eczema, diarrhea and vomiting, respiratory infections, SIDS, necrotizing enterocolitis and Type 2 diabetes.

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What’s in it for mom?

From weight loss to disease prevention, breastfeeding does wonders for a woman’s body. Fit Pregnancy and Baby, a health and pregnancy website, notes that moms who breastfeed lower their risks for breast cancer, ovarian cancer, postmenopausal osteoporosis and even cardiovascular disease. Breastfeeding can also speed up postpartum recovery by helping the uterus to return to normal size through the release of the hormone oxytocin.

Long adds that breastfeeding mothers are less likely to develop postpartum depression because the increased amounts of oxytocin in their system helps to encourage relaxation and bonding.

Health benefits aside, breastfeeding can be very economical for families – providing a savings up to $1,200 to $1, 500 a year, which is the yearly cost of formula according to

the United States Breastfeeding Committee.

Breastfeeding can also offer a way for moms to connect and relate to each other, as meet ups and breastfeeding support groups become increasingly popular.

Helping babies in need

Some moms have difficulty making or sustaining a supply of breast milk, especially if their infants are born prematurely. And babies who are dealing with health issues can benefit enormously from donated milk. To help these infants, The Milk Bank, the first and only donor human milk bank in Indiana, receives human milk from screened donors and then pasteurizes and freezes this milk, distributing it throughout the United States.

“Human milk is important for all babies.

But, for medically fragile or premature infants, human milk is even more critical,” says Long. “It can help babies grow, avoid illness and leave the NICU sooner.” Long also notes that when a mother’s own milk is unavailable for premature infants, pasteurized donor breast milk is truly the next best thing.

For those interested in donating milk, The Milk Bank is seeking healthy, lactating mothers with an excess supply of breast milk.

In order to volunteer, women go through a screening process and must be: • Currently lactating • In good general health • Willing to undergo a blood test (at the expense of Mother’s Milk Bank) • Free of medication or herbal supplements (with some exceptions) • Willing to donate at least 200 ounces of milk (no requirement for bereaved mothers)

Looking to get involved with the cause of breastfeeding in a different way? The Breastfeeding Coalition of Hamilton County is a group of parents and health care professionals passionate about breastfeeding. Their goal is to create a breastfeeding culture in Hamilton County through education, community outreach and support for breastfeeding moms. This local nonprofit works with pharmacies to open free baby weight checks and community businesses to encourage breastfeeding in their stores. For more information, visit www.breastfeed hamilton.org.

Whether moms bottle or breastfeed, this time spent together can provide a special time to bond and feel connected. For those moms who breastfeed, donating your milk can be an invaluable way to share the many health benef its breast milk provides to babies who need it most.

Celebrate World Breastfeeding Week with The Milk Bank August 1-7 July 28 Pints for Preemies

August 5 Highlighted Sponsor at Indy Eleven

August 4-20 Visit the air-conditioned RV for lactation purposes at the Indiana State Fair

Drop off locations for The Milk Bank in Hamilton County RIVERVIEW HEALTH 395 Westf ield Rd., Noblesville (317) 770-2959 INDIANA BLOOD CENTER: FISHERS 7458 E. Fishers Station Dr., Fishers (317) 576- 9680 INDIANA BLOOD CENTER: CARMEL 726 Adams St, Ste 150, Carmel (317) 844 – 0313

www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

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TODDLERS& PRESCHOOLERS

WORDS BY // JENNIFER THOMPSON

Summertime Activities for Preschoolers Hamilton County fun perfect for little ones Have an energetic, inquisitive preschooler at home? Plan a few activities this summer to make playing and learning go hand in hand.

New experiences can promote social interaction, gross and fine motor skills, memory and reasoning for these tots – and be a whole lot of fun! Check out these local opportunities designed with the preschool crowd in mind.

A Plus Gymnastics Center 9625 East 150th Street, Noblesville

(317) 773-7266 www.aplusgymnastics.com

Preschool size equipment and age-appropriate activities make A Plus Gymnastics a safe and exciting place for your child to learn basic tumbling skills and try the beam, mini-vault and bars. The Mighty Tots class is intended for children ages 3 1/2 - 5 years old. Have younger siblings who would like to participate as well? A Plus offers different classes beginning for children as young as 18 months so everyone can join in on the fun.

Carmel Ice Skadium 1040 3rd Avenue Southwest, Carmel

(317) 844-8889 www.carmeliceskadium.com

Need to escape the heat for a while? Head to Carmel Ice Skadium where kids ages 3 and up can take part in Learn to Skate or Learn to Play Hockey lessons. With enrollment in Learn to Skate weekly lessons, you also will receive: three free public skate passes, free admission to public skate on your lesson day,

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30-minute practice time either before or after a lesson and an opportunity to participate in the annual ice show and competition.

The Learn to Play Hockey lessons include: a jersey, free public skate on your lesson day, two free public skate passes and 35 minutes of free skate time weekly.

Goldfish Swim School 271 Merchants Square Drive, Suite A-110 11581 Geist Pavilion Drive, Suite 114

(317) 810-0790 www.goldfishswimschool.com

Splish! Splash! Your little one will have a blast learning how to swim at Goldfish Swim School. Thirty minute lessons are offered to kids of all ages and skill levels. With a limit of four children per class, your child will receive the attention necessary to quickly advance in skill and water safety.

Gymboree Play & Music 12524 North Gray Road, Carmel

(317) 574-9626 www.gymboreeclasses.com

With over 700 locations in 40 countries, Gymboree is the global leader in early child development programs. Gymboree offers a wide variety of classes for preschoolers including: Play & Learn, Music, Art, School Skills (for children ages 3 to 5) and family classes where the entire family can have fun playing and learning together.

Lil’ Kickers Carmel location: Off the Wall Sports, 1423 Chase Court, Carmel Zionsville location: 5720 South 700 East, Whitestown

(317) 580-5900 www.lilkickers.com

Aspiring soccer players can get their start at Lil’ Kickers where staff are focused on the overall development, growth and well-being of their young participants. Their highenergy approach to teaching soccer teaches physical skills while boosting confidence.

Convenient class times are available and registration is always open.

Master Yoo’s World Class Tae Kwon Do Noblesville location: 14765 Hazel Dell Crossing

(317) 706-8800

Fishers location: 11760 Olio Road Suite 400

(317) 845-2800 http://masteryootkd.com

Does your preschooler have some excess energy to burn? Or are they a bit shy and reserved? Could he or she use a little boost in self-confidence? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, then Tae Kwon Do may be just what you’re looking for. Tae Kwon Do can help develop balance, coordination, strength, focus, confidence and listening skills. Master Yoo’s offers the Little Tigers Program for children ages 4 and 5. Looking for something to do together as a family?

Try the family class where everyone can train together.

Ninja Zone 19000 Grand Park Boulevard, Westf ield

(317) 763-1980 www.theninjazone.com

Would gymnastics, obstacle course training, martial arts or street dance appeal to your little one? If so, check out the Ninja Zone. The Lil’ Ninjas class is structured for children ages 3 - 5 and can help develop your child’s strength, agility, creativity, total body control and discipline.

The Urban Chalkboard 452 East Carmel Drive, Carmel

(317) 815-5711 www.theurbanchalkboard.com

The Urban Chalkboard Learning Studios and Play CafÊ offers preschoolers and parents a place where they can play, learn, socialize and enjoy a bite to eat. Stop by for up to three hours of play time during a Drop-in Play Session. During this time, your child can take part in any of the activities being offered – such as Process Art, Fiber Optic Sensory Exploration, Books & Boogie and the extremely popular Mr. Daniel LIVE! music experience. All are available this summer and included with admission.

Pick an activity (or two) for your preschooler this summer and enjoy this special time with your little learner!

www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

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SCHOOL AGERS

WORDS BY // MEGAN BOHRER

Summer STEM Local opportunities for science, technology, engineering and math programs Is your child…

• constantly taking things apart to see how something works?

• responsible for teaching everyone in the family how to operate their smartphone?

• always turning your living room into their design studio or construction zone?

If so, then you have a perfect candidate for a STEM summer activity.

STEM, an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, is a movement to encourage critical thinking skills, problem-solving ability and science and technology literacy in young people. STEM programs are popping up all over in school curriculums and afterschool activities. Hamilton County has many STEM offerings available this summer as well – here are a few to look into.

Monon Community Center, Carmel The Monon offers a variety of STEM enrichment courses over the summer. The following courses are led by Codelicious, a Carmel-based organization that “is on a mission to help students discover how to think about and speak the language of technology.”

Future Coders (I and II) & Future Web Developers Eight to twelve year olds are invited to step into the world of coding and web development in these week-long summer enrichment classes.

In addition to developing a basic understanding of programming and web building, students will learn about internet safety and collaboration.

Intro to Digital Design, Intro to Web Design & Video Game Creators Thirteen to seventeen year olds can learn about the fundamentals of graphic design and interpreting content into visual design for webbased programs as well as the basics of animation and design principles for video game creation. This curriculum is supplemented with important real-world skills such as collaboration and teamwork.

The Monon Center also has course offerings from local organization “Engineering for Kids.”

Engineering Courses: Apprentice & Junior Civil Engineering, Apprentice & Junior Marine Engineering From exploring and designing bridges to creating and refining submarines, eight to ten year olds can step into the world of engineering in a hands-on course designed for apprentices. Five and six years olds are

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able to participate in the junior classes to build a house that can withstand the big bad wolf and make a sailboat that floats.

Robotics Courses: Apprentice Robotics 101, Apprentice Robo Battles and Junior Robotics-Amazing Mechanisms & Wild Animals At the apprentice level, eight to ten year olds will learn to design and build robots to complete specific tasks as well as to compete in challenges. At the junior level, five to six year olds will use LEGO bricks to create robotic animals and machines while learning to program and control them from their laptops.

YMCA of Greater Indianapolis In addition to the traditional day camps and sports camps, the YMCA is offering enrichment camps in a variety of STEM related subjects.

Can You Build It? Campers will learn basic engineering by repurposing household items for building projects. Offered at north and northeast locations.

Crafting Codes Campers will work in teams to learn basic coding and complete a coding project. Offered at north locations.

CSI Inquisitive campers will use science to help them solve mysteries.

Offered at northeast locations.

LEGO Campers will learn about architecture and building using LEGO building blocks. Offered at north and northeast locations.

Robotics Using a hands-on approach, campers will learn about the different mechanical techniques for creating robots.

Offered at northeast locations.

Rocketry Campers will learn about rockets using demonstrations and hands-on building. Offered at northeast locations.

Hamilton East Public Library, Noblesville Even the youngest learners are being encouraged to get excited about STEM in the library’s class Scien-tots Build a Better World, designed for older two year olds through four year olds. Toddlers and preschoolers will explore STEM concepts in relation to the summer reading theme of “Build a Better World.”

Sylvan Edge at Sylvan Learning of NE Indianapolis Students are able to advance their knowledge of STEM subjects in the Sylvan Edge program, which has course offerings in Robotics, Coding, Engineering and Math Edge. From animating LEGO robots to designing video games to building prototypes of race cars, kids will have fun learning valuable skills that can also give them an advantage academically when the school year starts.

Play Lab at Gymboree, Carmel Play Lab is Gymboree’s new STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) based program encouraging young children to experiment, discover and play. The spin lab has activities designed to teach kids the scientific properties behind circular motion while incorporating scientific thinking, problem solving and design – in a fun environment for children ages 2-5.

MYART

IUPUI Center for Young Children, Indianapolis The STEM program at the IUPUI Center for Young Children is designed for children ages 4 - 6 and provides a setting in which children can wonder, solve, learn and grow. Children are introduced to the scientific method, life, earth and space sciences and engineering processes.

Whether your child is already interested in STEM activities, or you’d like to introduce them to this type of learning, the summer is a great time to try out a program. With so many possibilities available, you’re sure to f ind something that sparks their creativity and imagination! www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

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WORDS BY // PETE GILBERT

A Dad Influence Kids Are Like Bad College Roommates The more I'm around my kids, the more I feel like I'm back in college. My children remind me an awful lot about what it was like to live with my old roommates.

Dishes. My kids leave their dishes wherever they took their last bite of food. Whether it be the couch, the floor in front of the television or the kitchen table, it's easy to figure out where my child or former college roommates ate their last meal. And why is there a plate in the bathroom? Gross.

Cups. How many cups do my kids need at bedtime?

If you use my daughter's room as an example, the answer is nine. Cups are stacked up pyramid style on the nightstand making it look like a carnival game.

Add beer cans in place of water cups and place them all over the house, and it's exactly what college looked like.

Clothes. I'm beginning to think my kids don't change their clothes, they shed them. Clothes just sort of fall off their bodies. This “shedding� is often in the kitchen, the hallway or on the stairs, but rarely near clothes hampers in bedrooms. And kids and college roommates: Can we all agree to stop shoving socks in the couch cushions?

Food thieves. Have you ever tried to hide a snack from your kids? The Girl Scout cookies we bought this year lasted approximately three days, and we bought six boxes! I remember trying to hide the occasional delicacy when I was back in college. I'd spend $8 of my $20 weekly grocery budget on Oreos, only to come home at night and find my roommate asleep on a pile of cookie crumbs.

Yes, living with kids is a lot like living with bad college roommates, however there is one advantage of cohabitating with the latter. At least you only had to live with your roommate for a year before you could agree to part ways! facebook.com/adadinfluence, Twitter: @adadinfluence, Instagram: @a_dad_influence

www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

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WORDS BY // SUSAN BRYANT

Should We Consider Changing Schools?

What to think about before making a decision At some point, nearly every parent has heard their child say, “I hate school!” And while this sentiment often passes, sometimes it doesn’t and parents are left to wonder if their student would be better off in a different educational environment. Transitioning to another school is a big decision however, affecting not only the child but the entire family. Before making this move, here are few questions to consider.

Before changing schools, think carefully about the specific problems you feel your child is experiencing and give your school a chance to address these issues. You may find that once a conversation is initiated, there are resources available you were unaware of and supportive staff who care about resolving the problem.

• By switching schools, is my child missing an important opportunity to learn how to work through a difficult situation?

• Research a variety of school options and attend open houses or set up meetings with administration at each school you are considering.

• Have I talked with my child’s teacher and principal about my concerns? Have they been receptive to helping us find a solution?

• Ask if your child can shadow a day at a prospective school or you can sit in on a classroom. Attend a few school

functions to get a sense of the culture and community of the places you’re interested in.

• Are there things about our current school that my child does like? Will we be able to find these attributes in our next school?

• If my child is ahead academically, or behind, has my current school stepped in with the resources or support systems in place to help him or her?

• If we are contemplating homeschooling or online school, have we evaluated what kind of commitment or lifestyle changes this decision might require?

• How will going to a new school affect the rest of our family in terms of morning or after school routines, drive time, coordinating schedules, etc.?

If you do decide to change schools:

• When evaluating new schools, take your child’s opinions into account but don’t leave the final decision of where to attend up to him or her. As their parent, this is ultimately your decision as you carefully weigh the pros and cons of each school you are evaluating.

Once you’ve chosen a new school, talk with your child about the importance of going in with a positive attitude and being patient with the process of settling in. It may take some time for your child, and you, to make the adjustment. Having an ongoing dialogue with your student and setting realistic expectations for the new year can help make this transition a success for everyone involved.

For information on school ratings, reviews and other information, visit www.greatschools. org and www.enrollindy.org.

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TWEENS & TEENS

WORDS BY // Stephanie Lowe BURRY, LCSW

The Counselor’s Corner Disliking a teen’s romantic interest My 16 year-old son has his first girlfriend and I can’t say I’m too crazy about her. Although he seems smitten, I find her personality (and appearance) a real turn off.

She’s not exactly rude, but she barely converses with us when we’re all together. When she does talk, she strikes me as rather negative and self-centered. I think my son could find a better match but the last thing I want to do is say something that would put a wedge between us and drive him closer to her. How do you suggest I handle this situation?

Your hunch is a good one that if you told your son exactly what you thought, you might be putting him in a position of feeling like he had to defend his new girlfriend and your worst fears of cementing that relationship would be realized. Criticizing a girlfriend or boyfriend and stating why you don’t think the relationship will work can make a child stay in it just to prove a point. You are wise to think carefully about how to best handle this situation.

Another strategy you could try is to talk about relation-specific topics – as opposed to girlfriend-specific topics. Wonder with him how he would know if a relationship was healthy or unhealthy. Or how having a girlfriend or boyfriend can sometimes be difficult to balance with the demands of school, sports or other extracurricular activities. You could also talk about the relationships he sees among his friends and his impression of how well matched those partners are.

Your goal now is to establish that you are someone he can come to when he wants to talk about this relationship or the many relationships he will have in the future. Letting your son see that you can help him process his thoughts and feelings in a positive way will encourage him to seek you out for discussion and advice – a much better dynamic than having him feel that he must be defensive or secretive about the important people in his life.

Stephanie D. Lowe Burry is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with Centerpoint Counseling and Baume Psychological Services. She has nearly twenty years of experience helping adults, teens and children develop healthy skills to manage life’s challenges.

First, realize that learning how to be in a relationship takes practice.

Think of this experience as a practice round for him (and you, too). The best way to support your son now is to help him increase his awareness and understanding of what being a boyfriend, and having a girlfriend, is all about. If you can talk with him about his choices without him feeling defensive, he will gain valuable insight and learn to make good decisions for himself.

Also, remember where your son is developmentally. His job, at this stage in life, is to “try on” different thoughts, feelings and behaviors that help him learn about the person he is becoming. He does not yet have a good sense of self, let alone what type of partner might be best suited for him in the future.

Two key phrases will help you have positive conversations with your son – without igniting a negative reaction. They are “I notice” and “I wonder.” Beginning a sentence with “I notice” is a way to let your son know that you have an interest in what’s going on with him, but feels less threatening than a “why” question – like “Why are you dating her?”

Using “I wonder” in a conversation does not assume judgement or a right answer because you are “just wondering” about something. For example, to open up a dialogue you could say, “I noticed that you and your girlfriend were talking about your six month anniversary. I wonder what it has been like for you?”

www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

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MOMS

WORDS BY // KIM DINAN

Prenatal Yoga The benefits are much more than physical Expectant mothers will attest that pregnancy is a time filled with excitement and anticipation, but those nine months are not always without stress.

From hip and lower back pain to the emotional strains of preparing for a little one, a growing number of pregnant women are turning to prenatal yoga for some relief.

According to the Mayo Clinic, research shows that prenatal yoga provides a wide array of physical benefits, including improved sleep, reduced stress and anxiety, increased flexibility and a decrease in common pregnancy discomforts like nausea, lower back pain and carpel tunnel syndrome. Prenatal yoga is also helpful for pregnant women as they anticipate labor.

“It’s a great addition to any birthing class that an expectant mother might have already registered for,” says Mary Evans, Fitness Supervisor at the Monon Community Center in Carmel.

“Prenatal yoga takes breathing and relaxation techniques and helps mothers hone them as they prepare for their babies. It also reduces stress and lengthens certain muscles that aid in delivering a baby.”

But prenatal yoga practitioners often find that the physical benefits for expectant moms are secondary to other less-anticipated rewards like learning the fundamentals of meditation and strengthening the bond between mother and baby. “Prenatal yoga helps create the mind-body connection between mother and baby and helps mom bond with the baby while pregnant,” says Jamie Gunn, owner of Source Yoga in Fishers.

Pregnant women do not need prior yoga experience before joining a prenatal yoga class, though Gunn suggests that expectant mothers consult with their doctor to make sure they are not having a high-risk pregnancy. Evans agrees, saying to “check with your doctor before you take prenatal yoga. It may not be safe for women at risk for premature labor.”

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Women interested in taking a prenatal yoga class should also make certain that their instructor is certified to teach prenatal yoga.

can lead to emotional ups and downs but prenatal yoga helps expectant moms “stay calm and grounded while pregnant” says Gunn.

A typical prenatal yoga class will be made up of participants at different stages of their pregnancy, each coping with different discomforts and energy levels. “As women go through the pregnancy process they may experience lower back pain,” says Gunn. But the alignment work pregnant women do in class “will help create space and strengthen their flexibility and balance.”

One of the greatest benefits of prenatal yoga is the supportive community that many pregnant women find in their prenatal yoga classes. Gunn says that during the prenatal yoga classes at her studio, her prenatal yoga instructor, Lauren, takes time to create a community of moms, building a support system for the women in the class. “Often the people that come to classes connect with each other and share resources as they have children,” she says. This creates a sense of community that can last long after the prenatal yoga class has ended.

“Women want to know how prenatal yoga is different than typical yoga classes,” says Evans.

Poses are modified with the pregnant body in mind, often focusing on positions that will help with labor and delivery like hip openers and breathing exercises. But, as Gunn points out, prenatal yoga is about so much more than that.

“Prenatal yoga helps women develop awareness about their changing bodies. They learn to ask, ‘When do I need to rest? When do I need to eat well?’ The breathing practices can help to prepare them for childbirth as well.” Pregnant women are also dealing with changing hormones which

Prenatal yoga can help pregnant women not only manage the short-term changes happening to their physical and mental state but also continue to serve them long after their baby has been born. As Gunn explains, “Pregnancy is a time of really taking good care of yourself and learning that you have to take care of yourself first before you can take care of baby. Women learn to nurture themselves as they prepare to nurture an infant.”

DADS

WORDS BY // Megan Bohrer

Being a Father to a Child with Special Needs Learning to embrace a different path

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TOP // The Byron Family – Mike, Laura, Anne, Whitney and Ashley BOTTOM // Patrick and Colin Schooley

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WORDS BY // MEGAN BOHRER

ONE TANK TRIPS 6 ideas for a q uick family getaway No time (or budget) for a week-long vacation this summer? Don’t despair! There are plenty of great destinations close to home perfect for a little family excursion. Check out a few of our favorites here.

Get down and dirty

INDIANA CAVE TRAIL Have a little explorer at home? The Indiana Cave Trail lets families discover four distinct caves in southern Indiana and northern Kentucky. From the subterranean river cruise of Bluespring Caverns to gemstone mining in Marengo Cave, this is a fun trip for kids of all ages. If you have the day, plan on seeing two caves. If you have an entire weekend, it’s pos-

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sible to visit all four. Register for a cave trail passport and earn a t-shirt when you do!

More info: www.indianacavetrail.com

Ride the rapids

EAST RACE WATERWAY Just a little over two hours away in downtown South Bend is the East Race Waterway, a 1,900-foot-long, man-made whitewater rafting park. Beginners are welcome; the only requirements are being 54 inches to ride and children under age 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The Waterway is open to the public on weekends and costs only $5 per person per ride. While visiting, guests can also enjoy a climbing wall, bicycle rentals, fishing, playgrounds and expansive walking paths.

More info: www.http://sbvpa.org/parks/ east-race-waterway/

Hit the big city

CHICAGO Chicago is your spot for urban adventure. Start at Navy Pier to get the true tourist experience and admire the views of Lake Michigan. Next, hop on an architectural boat tour of the windy city. Adults will appreciate the history, while kids will simply love cruising around the water.

Thrill seekers won’t want to miss a trip to the Ledge at Skydeck Chicago which allows guests to step out 1,353 feet above the ground for breathtaking views of the city. And don’t leave town without grabbing a slice of world famous Chicago-style deep dish pizza. Staying for the weekend? Add these family favorites to your itinerary: The Field Museum of Natural History, Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, The LEGO Store, American Girl Place, The Bean at Millennium Park and Lincoln Park Zoo More info: www.choosechicago.com

Dive right in

PINE LAKE WATERPARK Looking to cool off from the summer heat but tired of the neighborhood pool? Hop in the car and head less than 100 miles north to Berne, Indiana, home of the Pine Lake Waterpark. The beautiful lake, sandy beach and multiple fun attractions are sure to make this one of your family’s favorite summer destinations. The park features a splash pad, a log walk, numerous slides (including kiddie slides) and a tower to leap from into the lake.

What’s even better is that a family of five can attend the park for less than $50.

More info: www.pinelakewaterpark.com

Shop till you drop

SHIPSHEWANA FLEA MARKET Everyone in the family is sure to find a few treasures at the Shipshewana Flea Market, the largest of its kind in the Midwest. Located in Amish country in northern Indiana, the Shipshewana Flea Market has just about

everything. During the summer months, guests can enjoy the “FLEA”ture, a special vendor village in the heart of the market featuring some of the most coveted items, with themes from “shabby chic” to “junk in the trunk.” Make the trip even more fun by creating a flea market scavenger hunt for the kids and wrap up the day with a delicious Hoosier tenderloin sandwich from the food court. Want to make it a weekend? Book a room at the Farmstead Inn and give yourself time to take in all the beauty of the Amish countryside.

More info: http://shipshewanatradingplace. com/flea-market

Drift down the river

vessel. Guests can enjoy themselves on one of three decks, all surrounded by Victorian decor, during a sightseeing cruise or a lunch or dinner cruise. Looking for something more kid-specific? Throughout the summer BB Riverboats offers fun excursions such as Ice Cream Social Sundays, Pirates of the Ohio Cruises, a Princess Cruise and a Super Hero Cruise. Staying the weekend? Be sure to head over to the Newport Aquarium for more maritime fun and visit the new Stingray Hideaway exhibit.

More info: www.bbriverboats.com and www. newportaquarium.com

Summer only lasts so long – so fill the tank, pack a bag and jump in the car for a little family adventure soon!

BB RIVERBOAT CRUISES Venture back to yesteryear when riverboats were the height of sophistication and travel and embark on a cruise with BB Riverboats out of the Port of Cincinnati in Newport, Kentucky. Float down the Ohio River on the Belle of Cincinnati, the company’s flagship

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LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

WORDS BY // HOLLY KLINE

hidden gems

of hamilton countY

WORDS BY // Whitney Riggs, Communications Coordinator, Hamilton County Tourism

The best finds only the locals know!

Jamaican Reggae Grill 622 S. Rangeline Road, Carmel (Monon Square Shopping Center)

(317) 663-7630 http://jamaicanreggaegrill.com Experience the taste of the islands at Jamaican Reggae Grill where you can find real jerk chicken or pork, authentic Jamaican patties and a variety of stews on the menu. The restaurant, which opened in 2015, sits next to Union Brewing Company and guests are welcome to order take-out from Reggae Grill to pair with a beer next door. Both patios are located right off the Monon Trail, perfect after a summer day’s bike ride.

The Quirky Feather Confectionery 890 E. 116th St. #125, Carmel

(317) 660-1615 www.thequirkyfeather.com Cookies, coffee or cocktail? The Quirky Feather Confectionery has pretty much anything you’re craving.

Founded by two local sisters, this is a place to study after school, gather with friends or relax in the evening. It’s a confectionary and café with a full liquor license and stays open until midnight. Try a treat from the bakery, a caffeine fix from the café or the cocktail of the week.

Alexander’s on the Square 864 Logan Street, Noblesville

(317) 773-9177 www.alexandersicecream.com Who doesn’t love ice cream on a hot summer day? And what better way to enjoy it than on the beautiful square of downtown Noblesville. At Alexander’s you can try one of the 36 flavors of hand dipped ice cream or a milkshake, malt or old-fashioned soda. Lunch and dinner options are also available and include cheeseburgers, salads, wraps and jumbo tenderloin sandwiches.

PHOTO CREDIT // Hamilton County Tourism

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RESOURCES

FITN ESS & EN R ICHMEN T

RESOURCE DIRECTORY THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR FAMILIES IN HAMILTON COUNTY AFTER-SCHOOL CLASSES 路 CAMPS 路 CHILDCARE EARLY EDUCATION 路 ENTERTAINMENT 路 and more!

PR ESCHOOL

PA R K S & R ECR E ATION

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TOY STOR E

FUN &

WACKY

JULY

CALEN DA R

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

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