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JULY 2020

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GETTING REAL ABOUT RACISM {One familyâ€™s story}

pregnant

during the

pandemic inside:

summer fun guide

contents JULY 2020

departments In Every Issue

Around Town

Special Needs

05 06 07 08

10 Help Your Child

24 Helping Children Work

Our Cover Kids Letter from the Editor Indy's Children News & Notes

Imagine Their Future

13 Hidden Gems:

Mounds State Park

28 Local Spotlight:

Riley Cheer Guild

Through Grief

Teens & Tweens 25 Coronavirus and College

Resources & Calendars 26 Education Guide 39 Fun & Wacky Calendar

Sponsored Content 12 Meet Kelly Lavengood, The Indy Realtor Extraordinaire

35 Indy Parks Summer

Concert and Movie Series Returns

features

Getting Real About Racism

Pregnant During the Pandemic

Moving on Your Mind

Summer Fun Guide

One local family's story of being black in America, plus encouragement for talking about race with your kids.

Pregnancy during the time of COVID-19 looks pretty different. Here's what you can do to make your experience go as smoothly as possible.

Tips for selling your home in today's market.

Summer isn't cancelled! Our top picks for hot-weather fun all around town.

INDYSCHILD.COM I July 2020

18 29

OUR COVER KIDS

DJENEBA + SOULEYMAN

[ages] 7 and 9 years old

[favorites] COLOR Black FOOD Oranges SPORT Football Sherbert ICE CREAM TV SHOW Little Lunch Hino Oishi RESTAURANT BOOK El Deafo MOVIE ET ACTIVITY Crafts

[interesting fact about djeneba] I love to help people and am passionate about being a part of the Best Buddies program!

[when I grow up] I want to be a doctor.

Black Salad Basketball Mint chocolate chip Chasing Monsters Hino Oishi Last Kids on Earth Pacific Rim Fishing

[interesting fact about souleyman] I'm on the swim team and got 1st place in the divisional championships in the 200 Yard Free Relay!

[when I grow up] I want to be an electronic engineer or NBA Player.

COVER PHOTO BY:

GC Photography gcphotography.com

July 2020 I INDYSCHILD.COM

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 Production Manager Karen Ring karen@indyschild..com Creative Director Katie Clark katie@indyschild.com

Do the Work I have been thinking a lot about the Ouattara family, who is featured in our cover story, “Getting Real About Racism,” on page 15. They are a mixed-

race family living in the Midwest, and I don’t want to give away too much about the article because you need to read it, but … their experience has not been the rosiest. Does this surprise you? Based on the conversations that the country has been having about racism these past several weeks — and the fact that racism is still very much a part of our society — the Ouattara family’s story shouldn’t be surprising. Not every Black or mixed-race family has had experiences like the Ouattaras have had. But many have, and that’s why this story is an important one to tell, especially right now: We need to shine a light on the racism that many families deal with on a daily basis. As a society, we like to think that we’ve evolved — and in many ways, we have. But if the recent protests and unrest in our country are any indication, as well as stories like the Ouattara family’s, we still have a lot of work to do.

So, what does that work look like for us as parents and caregivers? To echo Mother Teresa: “Love begins at home,” so there is much we can do within our families to be the change that we wish to see. In our article, Ibrahim Ouattara — father to the two adorable children on our cover, Souleyman and Djeneba — offers some wise advice: “Respect every creature and person you encounter, and respect yourself,” Ibrahim says. “Kids learn more from the way you live than by what you tell them. Learn more about the globe. Get out of where you’re from. See different worlds and cultures. Show them that there is beauty, wealth, love everywhere.” We’ve been given an unprecedented opportunity to evolve, as people who all share this world together. Let’s not waste it.

EDITOR

NICOLESIPE@INDYSCHILD.COM INDYSCHILD.COM I July 2020

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, Steffy McCourt, Kimberly Harms Robinson, Jennifer Thompson 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.

INDY'S CHILDREN Summer is in full swing, and we’re here for it! Take a gander at these Indy kids who are glad to be out in the warmer weather!

Oliver (6), Nicholas (9) and Adam (9)

Josh (8)

Penelope (2) and Sebastian (6)

WANT TO SEE YOUR CUTE KIDS ON THIS PAGE? Carson (10)

Let's keep the summer fun going! Email us a photo of your child enjoying themselves this summer to editor@indyschild.com, with the child’s first name, age and where the pic was taken, and your photo may appear here! Ferris (2)

Owen (3) and Avery (6)

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NEWS & Notes

Our monthly roundup of news you can use

Indy’s Child 2020

1 billion THAT’S HOW MANY DOLLARS AMERICANS SPEND ON FIREWORKS EACH YEAR, WITH ONLY 10% OF THAT SPENDING ON PROFESSIONAL DISPLAYS.

DID YOU KNOW? The designer of America’s 50-star flag was a teen from Lancaster, Ohio. In 1958, a history teacher assigned Robert Heft and his classmates at Lancaster High School to each redesign the national banner to recognize Alaska and Hawaii, both nearing statehood. Heft earned a B-. After he submitted his design to President Eisenhower and it was selected as the official national flag, Heft’s grade was rightfully changed to an A. Sources: The Columbus Dispatch; American Pyrotechnics Association

INDYSCHILD.COM I July 2020

SUMMER FUN GUIDE

is here!

Summer may look a little different this year, but there is still tons of safe summer fun to be had! Our annual Summer Fun Guide begins on page 29 of this issue and is packed with local outings, family-friendly bike trails and some of our favorite Hoosier road trips. For even more summer fun, head to indyschild.com/guides, where you’ll find up-to-date info on even more family fun – from camping trips to tubing destinations to can’t miss playgrounds that are well worth the drive.

enjoy an

Independence Day social The Fourth of July would not be the same without ice cream and good old-fashioned patriotic fun at the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site. Enjoy special “From the Front Porch” presentations every 30 minutes, pre-packaged BRICS ice cream available for purchase, vintage yard games and live music. Visit bhpsite.org/visit/events for more information and to purchase your tickets.

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AROUND TOWN

WORDS BY KIMBERLY HARMS ROBINSON, THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF INDIANAPOLIS

Help Your Child Imagine Their Future Most of us dream our children will grow up to be happy, healthy and productive adults, but we sometimes wonder how we can help them get there.

Families will see real-life counterparts to the dolls and learn information about their backgrounds, struggles and accomplishments, which they can then use to give little ones more context surrounding potential hobbies and careers.

Play is an important factor for children to experiment and learn about things they may want to do when they’re older. “Barbie dolls encourage the kind of imaginative play that teaches us that no matter our gender, ethnicity or background, we can make the world a better place by doing work that excites us, challenges us and brings us fulfillment,” says Dr. Jeffrey H. Patchen, president and CEO of The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.

A fun way to help kids imagine what type of future or career they may want to have is to encourage them to experience different roles, such as pilot, beekeeper, robot programmer, chef or wildlife photographer. As the original female empowerment brand, Barbie was created to show girls that they have choices. She has had more than 200 careers in her lifetime: astronaut, a gold-medal gymnast, a reporter, a baseball player, a paleontologist, and

a zoologist, to name a few. For over 60 years, Barbie has been on a mission to remind girls they can be anything. Parents and grandparents are encouraged to share special memories and join in the fun while role playing with the little ones.

Barbie™ You Can Be Anything: The Experience™, opens this summer at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, and will remain open until the spring of 2021. The exhibit celebrates Barbie’s rich history, allowing kids to experience various different careers that are based on character traits of various Barbie dolls such as adventurer, leader, nurturer, creator and problem solver.

Some of the real-life role models and inspiring women include Amelia Earhart (aviation pioneer), Ella Fitzgerald (jazz singer), Laurie Hernandez (Olympic gymnast), Katherine Johnson (NASA mathematician and physicist) and Florence Nightingale (pioneer of modern nursing). Families can make memories as they experience different featured careers and even capture the moment with a Barbie box photo opportunity so that decades from now, kids of today can share the memory with their own grandchildren.

Barbie™—You Can Be Anything: The Experience™ is supported by Franklin Pest Solutions.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY PHOTO CREDIT

INDYSCHILD.COM I July 2020

THE CHILDREN'S MUSEUM OF INDIANAPOLIS

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SPONSORED CONTENT

Meet Kelly Lavengood, The Indy Realtor Extraordinaire Clients first In Kelly Lavengood’s 13 years in the business, her clients describe her as being an advocate and guide. Kelly takes time to observe how clients use their space, learn what is most important to them, and understand their goals for the future. Being honest and direct without being harsh is a key part of her communication style. She does not tell clients what they want to hear. Instead, she tells them what they need to be successful in the buying and selling processes. Kelly’s priority is building a relationship with her clients and working toward their best outcomes, rather than a focus on the transaction. Sometimes this means being candid about inspection concerns on a potential home purchase even when a sale could easily be made. Helping someone purchase the right house is more important than selling a house quickly. Kelly also makes it a point to mentor a group of realtors who have been in the industry less than five years. She does it both to help young professionals find their way, as well as to stay fresh.

Each member of the team is a parent, so they maintain a calendar that includes family vacations and school breaks to make sure the team members can take time off and know their clients are well cared for. When the team does their annual business planning, it includes a holistic approach of setting business and personal goals.

And many of Kelly’s clients are accustomed to seeing her adorable 3.5-year-old son at some point in the process. He loves to show homes with mom during evenings and weekends, and he was recently spotted cruising in his power wheel car, helping to add a “SOLD” sign to a home’s ‘for sale’ sign.

Family focused Kelly takes a unique approach to managing her boutique-sized team and ensures her team has a positive work-life blend. The sales team currently includes Kelly and two experienced agents each with 5+ years in the real estate business. An integral part of the team is their transaction coordinator whose job could be summed up as a little bit of everything that helps a transaction go smoother.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

INDYSCHILD.COM I July 2020

Community Oriented A favorite facet of Kelly’s real estate business is that so many clients become friends during the sales process. Clients look forward to client appreciation events throughout the year, including Summer Movie Nights and an Annual Pie Giveaway. The Lavengood Team also participates in many local community events as a sponsor, including Tarkington Park Fest and the Broad Ripple Duck Race.

Kelly proudly donates a portion of her commission from each closing to her clients’ local charity of choice resulting in nearly $150,000 in donations to local organizations since the start of her real estate career. With the COVID 19 crisis impacting our community at every level, she recently decided to direct all giving at this time to organizations like the MLK Center, Second Helpings, Patachou Foundation, and the Julian Center, as they are providing direct and immediate support to keep our most vulnerable community members safe, fed, and housed. Kelly is so rooted in her local community that she recently purchased a 90+ yr old gas station at 38th & Central and is renovating it to become her future office. The English Cottage-style building with a limestone façade and blue tile roof is something of a local landmark and perfectly located in the heart of Midtown Indy, where Kelly and so many of her clients live.

Interested in buying or selling? Contact Kelly (kelly@goodliving indy.com).

HIDDEN GEMS

WORDS BY STEFFY MCCOURT

Mounds State Park If you’re looking for a short road trip destination this summer, then check out Mounds State Park in Anderson. Here, you’ll find 6 miles of easy-torugged hiking trails, picnic areas, family camping and an incredible visitor center, which houses animals, reptiles and fish that you might encounter at the park. Mounds is named after the 10 mounds built by the Adena and Hopewell cultures in 160 B.C. The mounds vary in size, but the biggest, which is aptly named The Great Mound, is the feature point of Trail 1. At the visitors’ center, an interpretive naturalist gave an educational talk to our group, which included two different models of the mounds. She then sent us out on a hike to see the mounds with a photo-scavenger hunt list and a promise that if we returned with images of everything on the list, we would get a special surprise.

images of rushing water, animal tracks by the river, colorful beetles and a water snake. After two hours of hiking, they eagerly brought their images back to the nature center. The naturalist enthusiastically looked at the images, and even brought out a field guide to identify the animals and insects. She brought out a large prize box overflowing with trinkets from which my children each carefully selected a prize. We left the visitors’ center promising that we would return, and maybe even try The GPS History Adventure, a self-guided technotrek through the past. Then we found a shady spot for a picnic to finish our day.

4306 Mounds Rd., Anderson in.gov/dnr/parklake/2977.htm

We hiked trails 1-3, and my children loved seeing the mounds. Even more, though, they loved the photo-scavenger list. They captured

July 2020 I INDYSCHILD.COM

INDYSCHILD.COM I July 2020

GETTING REAL

ABOUT RACISM One local family’s story of being black in America, plus encouragement for talking about race with your kids. WORDS BY TESSA JUDGE // ILLUSTRATION BY LYDIA BIRD

et’s start with a story, in the words of Kelly Ouattara, wife of Ibrahim Ouattara, mother of 9-year-old Souleyman and 7-year-old Djeneba:

“My kids were about 3 and 4 years old and we were at a park. A little boy came up to Souleyman and said, ‘Why is your skin that color? You need to change that color. You need to be white.’ I didn’t want to panic my kids, so I quickly picked up all our belongings and headed to the car, but I knew I would be so full of regret if I didn’t say something to the mother. I quickly walked back with my kids. I was shaking, but I told her what her son said to my son before saying, ‘I do not blame your kid. It is not his fault. I blame you. You have taught him this. You need to do better.’ And then we quickly left the park. I remember never wanting my child to feel that again and vowing to teach my kids to be proud of who they are so they can face people like that.”

When Kelly and Ibrahim met one day out and about in Broad Ripple, they were engaged just three weeks later. “We didn’t get married for another year, but yes,” Kelly says, sheepishly. “We were engaged after three weeks.”

Fourteen years later, the couple is still happily married, now with a son and daughter in the mix. While their lives are full of love, laughs and lake days, the Ouattara’s also face the unique challenges that come along with being in a biracial marriage and family. Kelly is a white woman, born and raised in Indiana. Ibrahim is a black man, born and raised in the West African country of Mali.

July 2020 I INDYSCHILD.COM

Speaking from experience, Kelly and Ibrahim have some thoughts on how and when parents should teach their kids about race and racism in the United States: KELLY: It’s a conversation that parents need to have with kids no matter what, sooner rather than later. I hear white parents say, “But I don’t want them to see color.” You can and you should see color. I don’t like when white parents think that they shouldn’t talk about racism with their kids because “that might teach them to think like that,” because you should also be living by example. If they’re seeing you treat people right every day, they’re going to do the same thing. But they need to know about race and racism because it’s there. It’s our world, so we have to start talking about it early. You can explain all sides! Kids understand good guys and bad guys. There are bad guys who treat people differently because of their skin color. But there are good guys who do the right thing, treat people fairly and try to help. Those are the people you should teach them to be. “In many places when you’re an interracial couple, you get more attention,” Ibrahim says. “People’s eyes stay with you, and sometimes you can see them talking about you. It makes you feel like you don’t belong, like you’re not accepted. Also as an interracial couple, you never feel like you fully belong to either side, and you have to teach your kids that they will stand out.”

As a black man in America, Ibrahim experiences bias and racism. He recalls walking into a Chick-Fil-A with the family and feeling all eyes bore into him, while a girl fawned over their young daughter, gushing about how much she “loved mixed babies.” He tells story after story of being pulled over for no reason, only to be asked by the police officers where he’s going and why. He remembers going to a wedding and being stuck in a conversation with a white man who insisted on telling him about every black person he’d ever met. This seems to be the Black Man in America Starter Pack, and the Ouattara’s do their best to stay positive about it.

“We get angry about these things sometimes, but we also try to see the positive. Brownsburg is pretty diverse now, but we do have neighbors that we know are not used to it yet, based on what they post on Facebook. But they have been nothing but nice to us face-to-face, so we try to ignore what we see online and go by how they treat us,” Kelly explained. “We hope that we can be the people — especially my husband — who expose them to black and multiracial people in a positive way.”

If this seems like a large burden for a family to bear, it is. Luckily, every family has the opportunity to help lighten their load. Explaining what’s going on in the world to kids can feel really difficult for many parents, especially white parents. But what families are now understanding is that it’s never too early to start honest conversations about race in your home.

IBRAHIM: Lead by example. Abide by the code of respect. Respect every creature and person you encounter, and respect yourself. The kids learn more from the way you live than by what you tell them. Every decision you make is going to affect someone somewhere, whether you like it or not. If you’re always talking badly about a specific group, your kids are going to naturally assume they are bad. So, be kind. As parents, it’s your responsibility to teach your kids, so you need to self-educate. If you’re not teaching yourself, what are you going to teach your kids? Learn more about the globe. Get out of where you’re from. See different worlds and cultures. Sign your kids up for student exchange programs so they can see other parts of the world. Show them that there is beauty, wealth, love everywhere. For example, Americans usually associate Africa with poverty, disease, war, illiteracy, nothing good. But that’s not what Africa is. I know that.

This is a ground-shifting moment in our country’s history. We have an obligation - especially those of us who have benefitted from the systemic racism that has for so long held black and brown communities back - to shift with it. It probably won’t be perfect and you definitely won’t have all the answers, but you can and should start the conversation about race with your kids today. In doing so, you’re helping to build a brighter and more just world for every race. A world in which a child isn’t confused by another child’s skin color on the playground. A world in which black mothers don’t worry about seeing their child’s death on the national news.

Because yes, all lives matter. But all lives don’t matter until Black Lives Matter.

INDYSCHILD.COM I July 2020

Books to Help You Talk to Your Kids About Racism To help encourage honest and productive conversations about race and racism in your own home, we’ve compiled a list of books that are worth diving into and learning from. From picture books to graphic novels to memoirs and personal essays, there’s a book on this list for every reading and maturity level. BONUS: Support your community by seeing what's available for curbside pickup at your favorite library branch or local bookstore! And if your bookstore doesn't have it in stock, they can likely have it shipped directly to your house from their warehouse.

Picture Books/Early Readers 1. The Undefeated Written by Kwame Alexander; Illustrated Kadir Nelson

8. We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga Written by Traci Sorell; Illustrated by Frané Lessac

9. Sulwe Written by Lupita Nyong'o; Illustrated by Vashti Harrison

10. Malcolm Little: The Boy Who Grew Up To Become Malcolm X Written by Ilyasah Shabazz; Illustrated by A.G. Ford

Chapter Books/Middle Grade 1. My Family Divided: One Girl's Journey of Home, Loss, and Hope Written by Diane Guerrero

2. Claudette Colvin: Twice Toward Justice Written by Phillip Hoose

3. To Kill a Mockingbird Written by Harper Lee

4. Esperanza Rising

2. Black Is a Rainbow Color

Written by Pam Muñoz Ryan

Written by Angela Joy; Illustrated by Ekua Holmes

5. What is Race? Who are Racists? Why Does Skin Colour Matter? And Other Big Questions

3. Saturday Written and illustrated by Oge Mora

4. Hair Love Written by Matthew A. Cherry; Illustrated by Vashti Harrison

5. Something Happened in Our Town: A Child's Story about Racial Injustice Written by Marianne Celano, Marietta Collins, Ann Hazzard; Illustrated by Jennifer Zivoin

6. My Hair is a Garden Written and illustrated by Cozbi A. Cabrera

7. Separate Is Never Equal: Sylvia Méndez and Her Family's Fight for Desegregation Written by Duncan Tonatiuh

Written by Claire L. Heuchan and Nikesh Shukla

6. Maniac Magee Written by Jerry Spinelli

7. Bud, Not Buddy Written by Christopher Paul Curtis

8. The Skin I'm In Written by Sharon G. Flake

9. Ghost Boys Written by Jewell Parker Rhodes

10. Miles Morales: Spider-Man Written by Jason Reynolds

For the complete list, including options for teens and adults, visit indyschild.com/books- about-racism.

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PREGNANT DURING t h e

PANDEMIC

Pregnancy during the time of COVID-19 looks pretty different. Here’s what you can do to make your experience go as smoothly as possible. WORDS BY RACHAEL DUPREE

Masks. Telehealth appointments. Cancelled birth classes. Forced isolation. For mothers preparing to give birth in the year 2020, things have looked a lot different than they did not all that long ago. The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has turned the birthing experience upside down, filling what would normally be an exciting, joyous time with anxiety and uncertainty. Jennifer Brilliant of Indianapolis — who was 30 weeks pregnant with her third child when we talked in May, just as coronavirus restrictions were beginning to lift across the country — had complications with her first two pregnancies. “A lot of me felt like this was a chance at a normal pregnancy, and I quickly realized that wasn’t going to be the case,” she says.

Brilliant’s feelings of uncertainty are not unique to pregnant mothers during this pandemic. On one hand, quarantine restrictions have provided time for extra rest and preparation for baby, while at the same time throwing in new hurdles to pioneer. Perhaps one of the hardest things about pregnancy during the time of COVID-19 has been not knowing what to expect day-to-day. With government guidelines and hospital policies changing seemingly every day in response to the mysterious and unpredictable disease, pregnant mothers have had difficulty making solid plans for their prenatal care and birth.

So Let’s Get Talking Now more than ever, communication between you and your care provider and support team — along with a healthy dose of flexibility — is critical. With the conversation changing every day, here are some things you should consider discussing with your partner and birth team as you prepare for birthing day.

PRENATAL CARE Early on in the pandemic, before testing was available, she got sick. “It was scary, because they didn’t do an ultrasound or flu swab,” she says. “I felt like I was on an island, and I was worried about the level of care that would be available.”

INDYSCHILD.COM I July 2020

Many care providers are adjusting their office spaces and schedules to minimize the risk of disease spread. You may be asked to space out your in-person appointments or do appointments that don’t require lab work via telehealth. During the most restricted times, partners haven’t been

able to attend ultrasounds. If any of these things don’t feel right, ask your provider about options. Maybe you can continue visits in-person on a normal schedule, or allow family members to participate in other ways, such as calling in to appointments or viewing the ultrasound via video chat.

HOSPITAL EXPERIENCE What it will be like to show up to the hospital in labor can perhaps be one of the most nerve-wracking parts of planning for birth during COVID-19. Pregnant moms have had many concerns: Will I be alone at birth? Where do I enter the hospital? Will I get tested for COVID before I can enter? Policies on entrance procedures, the visitors, movement through the hospital, and the duration of your stay will differ among hospitals and at different stages of the pandemic. If you have concerns about anything, talk to your provider more about your options. As testing capabilities increase, many hospitals, like Brilliant’s, are scheduling COVID tests for Cesarean sections and inductions, and are performing tests on laboring women when they show up at the hospital. Hospitals typically have a separate birthing space and restrictions for COVID-positive mothers, so discuss with your provider ahead of time if you have concerns.

BRINGING HOME BABY Talk to your pediatrician prior to birthing day about when and how to introduce baby to family and friends. Some families are choosing to do drive-by visits with the baby on the front-lawn, while others may be more comfortable allowing visitors in the house if they’ve quarantined or follow certain hygiene practices. It’s always a good idea to talk to your pediatrician about signs of newborn illness, but with the risk of COVID, it’s particularly important.

YOUR SUPPORT Don’t overlook your own prenatal and postnatal mental health as you navigate pregnancy and birth, recommends Tamrha Richardson, a doula and director of Circle City Doulas in Indianapolis. In-person supports, such as birthing classes, new-parent groups and family visits, are limited during the pandemic, and this can take a mental toll.

“Postpartum support is so important, but here’s a situation where we should be socially distancing,” Richardson says. “Yet our mamas need that care and support.” Talking to your provider about virtual birth classes and support groups, and doing things like having a friend set up a meal train, can help to make you feel less alone. Also, by learning the signs of postpartum depression and setting up lines of support ahead of time, you can easily get help if you need it.

Remember the Big Picture Preparing to give birth is a profound and intimate time for your family. As you go head-to-head with changing hospital policies and other obstacles to your ideal birth, remember that many of these things are put in place to help keep hospital workers and you safe. But that doesn’t mean you don’t have a voice. Continue to ask questions and advocate for yourself and your baby. If that means switching to a provider that better aligns with your concerns or birthing at home because it makes you feel safer, that is OK and things many mothers-to-be are doing during this time. This is your family and your birth — and no virus, not even COVID-19, can take that from you.

DO YOUR HOMEWORK Check out these resources to keep abreast of the covid-19 and how it will affect your pregnancy and birth: Periodically check your hospital’s website for updates on their COVID-19 policies. Get the latest coronavirus guidance via the CDC (cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019- ncov/need-extra-precautions/ pregnancy-breastfeeding.html) and American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists (acog.org/en/Topics/ COVID-19). For a resource page listing the latest in COVID-19 research as it relates to pregnancy and birth, check out Evidence Based Birth (evidencebasedbirth.com/ covid19).

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MOVING ON YOUR MIND Tips for selling your home in today’s market. WORDS BY JENNIFER THOMPSON

A re y o u c o n sid e rin g se llin g y o u r h o m e ? If so , y o u m a y b e w o n d e rin g w h a t to d o in to d a y ’s m a rke t. T h e se d a y s, s tre ss fu l d e c isio n s — like w h e th e r o r n o t to m o v e — c a n se e m e v e n m o re s tre ss fu l th a n b e fo re . To help ease some of that anxiety, Indy’s Child talked to two local realtors to learn some tips that will help you prepare your home for the day when the For Sale sign is up and the showings begin. Caroline Cinamon has been a realtor with F.C. Tucker for 15 years, and Lynn Gottschalk has been with RE/MAX Ability Plus in Carmel and has been selling real estate in the Indianapolis metropolitan area for 10 years.

INDYSCHILD.COM I July 2020

What is the No. 1 suggestion you have for someone who is trying to sell their home right now? Cinamon: Meet with a real estate agent right when you think about selling. Sometimes I meet with clients months, or even years, in advance. We can set up a home selling plan including meeting with a stager and get a plan and timeline together.

Gottschalk: Price it right. If you are priced at or above market, your listing will get a lot of initial attention, many showings right up front and possibly multiple offers. The alternative is to possibly overprice the home, and then not get much tension at the beginning. Then when the seller does come down to a good market price, the listing is already perceived as older and buyers wonder why this home didn't sell right away. We are in a seller's market with an inventory shortage, and homes that look move-in ready and are priced right are selling very quickly, and at the highest possible price.

What home projects will get you the most bang for your buck? Cinamon: I recommend cleaning, decluttering and painting. Also, anything in the kitchen or bathrooms. A kitchen countertop upgrade along with a new backsplash will typically get you a faster sale and more money.

Gottschalk: Kitchen and bathroom renovations typically produce the greatest return on investment, although you often don't have to spend that much to get your home to market. I recommend my clients clean and touch-up woodwork and walls so the house looks move-in ready and not at all “rough.” If the seller has a little money to spend, I recommend they invest in modern light fixtures, faucets and towel bars. The most important thing may be to fix anything that is broken. Starting at the mailbox, walk through your house and ask yourself what you see that looks broken, worn or in need of repair.

What home projects do not usually get the best return for the investment? Cinamon: Keep in mind improvements typically only “last” in the marketplace around 7 years and then feel dated again. So, if a homeowner wants to make a crazy improvement, but knows they will be in the house for 10 years, and are willing to change it again before they sell, then go for it.

Gottschalk: Unless you are moving out of your house before you put it on the market, don't invest in new carpet. New wood, manufactured hardwood, wood laminate or vinyl plank flooring is a good investment, but getting new carpet while you're living on it does not count in the buyer’s mind as new carpet. And painting is only a benefit if you are going to paint neutral, fairly light colors like gray, beige or greige. Don’t invest large chunks of money in things that buyers don't notice, like new windows, a new furnace or a new roof.

Any other words of advice? Cinamon: Keep your home maintained. Maintenance items are not upgrades or improvements. Items like having the HVAC system serviced, or the exterior painted, need to be completed to keep a house in good condition to make for a good sale when you are ready.

Gottschalk: You are moving, so pack. Pack up all of your personal photographs and knickknacks. Leave one pretty bowl, candlestick, piece of pottery or art on each surface. Pack half or more of what is in your closets and your kitchen cabinets. Put half of your furniture in your garage if your home is cluttered. Pack all the boxes you can and put them in the garage because buyers expect your garage to be cluttered with moving boxes when you are getting ready to move. If you plan to sell your home, tell yourself it’s not your home anymore and prepare it for the market as if it already belongs to someone else.

July 2020 I INDYSCHILD.COM

SPECIAL NEEDS

WORDS BY JENNIFER THOMPSON

Helping Children Work Through Grief How to support your child with special needs during a time of loss. At what point should a parent consider a counselor?

Grief is defined as a “deep sorrow, especially that caused by someone’s death.” It is a complicated mixture of emotions that comes in waves and can be challenging for people to recognize and deal with. This is true for everyone, and can be especially true for children with autism.

We spoke to three therapists at Brooke’s Place — an Indianapolis organization that provides support groups, therapy services and community education — to find suggestions on how to help children deal with this difficult, and important, response to loss. Erica O’Neil, LCSW, is a grief therapist; Carol Braden, LMHC, is clinical director of programs and services; and Marisa Willard, LMHC, is a grief therapist.

How do parents help their children with autism who are grieving? O’Neil: Remember to listen, observe and hold space. Affirm the grieving individual, and try to provide safety and security through routines and concrete information. Social stories may be helpful in explaining a death and the rituals that may occur following a death, such as a funeral.

INDYSCHILD.COM I July 2020

O’Neil: A parent might consider counseling for their child if they notice significant changes impacting the child's daily functioning.

Braden: Don’t make assumptions about what your child with autism is thinking and feeling, or not thinking and feeling, about an important person who has died. Continue to bring up the name of the person and the relationship of the person who died to your child. Communicate that it is OK to be sad, happy, afraid, angry and confused. Offer ways your child can actively express memories. Create something in memory of the child's loved one. Take a grief tour of your home and share memories with your child that they had with their loved one who died. Be very specific with your child with autism when speaking about death, which will help them better understand.

Willard: It’s important to recognize that each individual grieves in their own way, and there are many different ways kids express grief. It’s also important not to compare one child's grief with another's or assume one is doing it the “right” way and another the “wrong” way. It is important for the parent to meet their child where they are, and in their most comfortable way to communicate. Using artwork or writing could be a helpful way for a child to express themselves in other ways besides direct verbal communication.

Braden: Even if there are no adverse impacts on daily functioning, your child with autism might still benefit from having a special time with a grief therapist to express and work through understanding their grief even more, learn ways of remembering and having more healthy coping strategies.

When considering the grieving process, O’Neil says: “It is so important to remember that grief is unique to each individual. Although we will all experience death and loss at some point in our lives, the experience of grief is different for everyone. In addition, grief is one's natural reaction to the death of a loved one, and we all have a natural capacity to heal.”

The loss of a loved one can be devastating and create a deep well of grief for those who are left to mourn. But with the right resources, emotional support and the passing of time, healing is possible.

TEENS & TWEENS

WORDS BY REBECCA HILL

Coronavirus and College Amid all the uncertainty, one thing is certain: This school year will look different. Starting college is hard. And because we’re living during a pandemic, incoming college freshmen will enter college at a time of uncertainty. Although many colleges in the U.S. are preparing for these challenges, college will not be the same experience in 2020 that it was in 2019 or other years. For first-year college students, adapting and planning for uncertainty must be their part of their college plan.

According to Denise Hughley Hayes, director of counseling at Indiana University, students are experiencing a lot of uncertainty about the fall. Financial concerns, especially for student workers, are a big concern, she says. Because of these uncertainties, many students are considering community college or even taking a gap year to work.

Returning to work on campus raises the question of whether social distancing works in the work environment. Recently, the Chronicle of Higher Education has tracked reopening plans for this fall. In an unscientific poll, they asked more than 300 students about what worries them for the fall. Among the responses were students who were worried about staying safe at work.

As parents, we need to also continuously share with our students that we, as adults, are in the same place that they are in at this moment in time. “Very few people are alive today that have experienced anything like this,” Hughley Hayes says. “It is scary to everyone.” Students need to acknowledge that they can’t always control what is going to happen and permit themselves to creatively manage their uncertainty.

Other students did not mesh well with online learning, so they had doubts about returning to online classes. The Art & Science Group, a higher education consulting firm, conducted a poll of more than 450 students and found that many high school seniors are switching up their immediate plans for college. Thirty-five percent expected to take either a gap year or attend community college.

Online learning appears to be a consistent component for returning to campus. In Indiana, several schools have announced that there will be an online component for classes after Thanksgiving break.

Students, too, should plan for things like orientation and campus visits to be different. At Indiana University, orientation will be virtual, Hughley Hayes says. Parents and students will be able to see welcome videos online.

Campus tours will have a “GoPro” look to them. Hughley Hayes will even present Facebook Live shows where she can answer questions in real-time. So, how can incoming students prepare for this uncertainty? The first thing that a student needs to do is to “recognize and act upon the pockets of control that we do have,” says Dr. Heather ServatySeib, a professor in counseling psychology at Purdue University. Before heading to campus, students must familiarize themselves with the college’s COVID-19 restrictions. They should educate themselves on mask policies and sanitation requirements. Students should know about the organizational and disciplinary skills they’ll need to tackle online classes, the restrictions on student social gatherings, and the college’s testing, counseling and other support services.

Students should also affirm and acknowledge their feelings of uncertainty. Parents can help by listening and sharing their feelings. “Don’t freak out about being anxious,” Hughley Hayes says. “Find ways to cope with anxiety.”

Many schools have tele-counseling available to students. They also have webinars on mindfulness or workshops to work with support groups, or even COVID-19 support groups. When students take these measures before getting to campus, their anxiety will ease. Above all else, they should remember, we are all in the same boat.

July 2020 I INDYSCHILD.COM

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

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 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,

INDYSCHILD.COM I July 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, public charter school that educates K-8 grade students in an innovative environment. Integral to the school’s approach to education are projectbased investigations, community partnerships, and three on-site Discovery Centers – an Eco-Center, Space Center with a planetarium, and an operating farm. Paramount Brookside is designated a 2018 Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education and an “A” school by the Indiana Department of Education. • 3020 Nowland Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46201 Contact: Amie Smith at 317-775-6660 or contact@ PSOEBrookside.org; paramountindy.org

Paramount Cottage Home Paramount Cottage Home 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. The 2019 ILEARN results placed the school among the top-performers statewide. Due to continued student growth, this Fall, the school will be relocating to Cottage Home. The new, state-of-the-art facility will feature bright, spacious classrooms with contemporary furnishings, advanced technology capabilities, and unique student discovery centers. • 1203 E. St. Clair Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202, Contact: Angie Cazares at 317-617-3067 or contact@PSOECommunity.org; paramountindy.org

EAST

Paramount Englewood Paramount Englewood, a tuition-free public school, is now accepting enrollment of 5-8th grade students for the 2020-21 school year. Englewood is excited to be relocating to a state-of-the-art permanent campus in August 2020. This move accommodates the schools’ continued growth. The P.R. Mallory campus will house Paramount Englewood and Purdue Polytechnic High School. Paramount Englewood is an extension of Paramount Schools of Excellence’s successful education model. The flagship campus is designated a 2018 Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education and an “A” school by the Indiana Department of Education for six consecutive years. • 3005 E. Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46201, 317-741-9589. Contact Peggy Purvis, contact@PSOEenglewood.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

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 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 * SPONSORED LISTINGS

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

INDIANAPOLIS – NORTHEAST

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

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@pollypanda. 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,

Indianapolis, IN 46236. Contact: Anita Boyd. Phone: 317-855-7808. Email: aboyd@ primrosegeist.com, primrosegeist.com, 6 weeks old through Pre-K and before and after school up to age 12

INDIANAPOLIS – SOUTH

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

NOBLESVILLE

Guerin Catholic High School St. Theodore Guerin High School is a Roman Catholic college preparatory school located on 72 acres one mile north of 146th Street in Hamilton County. Guerin Catholic has the largest number of students participating in the IB Programme in the State of Indiana. The school

serves students from diverse backgrounds and prepares them to be servant leaders through authentic faith formation, academic excellence, and student life opportunities. • 15300 Gray Road Noblesville, IN 46062, Phone: 317-582-0120, Email: admissions@ guerincatholic.org, guerincatholic.org

WESTFIELD

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

RESIDENTIAL

P.A.C.E at National Louis University

P.A.C.E. at NLU is a three-year post-secondary program which is designed to meet the transitional needs for young adults with multiple intellectual, learning and developmental disabilities. P.A.C.E. is one of the leading residential-based programs in the country that integrates employment preparation, independent living skills coaching, functional academic courses and social development into a curriculum that prepares students for independent living through experiential learning. Quarterly Saturday Open House Dates. • 122 s

Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL; Phone: (312) 261-3245; email: epotter3@nl.edu; nl.edu/ paceatnlu; Virtual Program Experience Available: calendly.com/paceatnlu/ discoverytour

July 2020 I INDYSCHILD.COM

AROUND TOWN

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Local Spotlight: Riley Cheer Guild Providing comfort and joy to patients and caregivers at Riley Children’s Health and IU Health hospitals. Before Riley Children’s Health opened in 1924, a group of community women came together to ensure that the future young patients of the hospital would have some of the comforts of home at the hospital to cheer them up. Thus began the Riley Cheer Guild, and by the time the hospital opened in November of that year, the Riley Cheer Guild had provided a roomful of toys and scrapbooks ready for kids to enjoy, as well as furnished a library full of children’s books. The Riley Cheer Guild continues to this day, and now includes more than 450 members who support child-centered programs within Riley Children’s Health and Indiana University Health hospitals. Indy’s Child spoke to Ann Hannan, director of the Riley Cheer Guild, about how the organization makes a difference in the lives of the children who visit these hospitals.

What does the Riley Cheer Guild do to help children who visit Riley and IU Health? Members participate in toy drives, make items such as fleece blankets and tote bags, and contribute financial support.

INDYSCHILD.COM I July 2020

The pandemic has required that many organizations pivot how they do things. What has your organization been doing differently?

Our members also help support our programs, both financially through dues and donations, and through in-kind donations. Our programs include the Toy Room at Riley Hospital, Music Therapy at Riley, and support of music therapy and art therapy through the CompleteLife program at University Hospital. These programs are funded through membership dues and donations, online fundraising, event fundraising and gift shop sales at any one of nine shops across the downtown hospitals and at IU North, including the new Schwarz Cancer Center. (Visit rileycheerguild.org/gift-shops to find the locations of Riley Cheer Guild gift shops around Indy.) The Toy Room is our longest running program. We accept new, unused toys for the patients we serve. We safety check all items, and make them available in the Toy Room for child life specialists and other clinicians to select from for

During the initial stay-at-home orders, the Riley Cheer Guild served as the contact point and helped to coordinate the Riley Staff Food Donations Committee. Community members and local organizations came forward to honor and support hospital workers during the first few months of the pandemic. Some of the donations included snacks, drinks, desserts and whole meals. A few of the donations were for all 3,000 Riley team members across central Indiana, many helped to support several units or clinics at a time, and all were so appreciated by Riley staff.

the patients they see. In addition to using donated items, financial donations are used to purchase the most needed items. On average, approximately 14,000 items are distributed from the Toy Room monthly! Our Riley Cheer Guild Music Therapy program began in September 2000, and we also financially support the CompleteLife program, which includes music therapy, art therapy, massage therapy, yoga therapy and therapeutic cosmetology.

Our Riley Social Work team has now spearheaded a team member food pantry which debuted in May, and is being supported internally by Riley staff and throughout the community with group and individual sponsors.

How can people join or help the Riley Cheer Guild? Riley Cheer Guild values each contribution of time, expertise and financial or in-kind gift from community members. To learn more about how you can make a difference, visit rileycheerguild. org and click on “How to Help.”

2020

Indy's Child

SUMMER FUN GUIDE

[contents] 32

10 PLACES TO EXPLORE IN INDIANA

OUR FAVORITE BIKE PATHS

SUMMER FUN LISTINGS

10 PL ACES

TO IN 6

The Hoosier state is packed with activities and destinations for everyone, whether you’re a family of thrill seekers or nature lovers ― or both! Check ahead for any new safety restrictions that may be in place before you plan your family getaway.

eXplore Brown County

Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari

2620 Valley Branch Rd., Nashville, IN

812-365-2705

marengocave.com

812-988-7750

explorebrowncounty.com With 12 ziplines, paintball, ATV tours, mountain biking, fishing, campsites and more, eXplore Brown County (EBC) is a one-stop shop for outdoor family adventure.

452 E. Christmas Blvd., Santa Claus, IN 821-937-4401

holidayworld.com

Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari is Indiana’s amusement park destination, giving you some of the best roller coasters and water park rides in the world. The smaller family members have lots of fun rides just for them, as well. And with free sunscreen and soda all day long, you’re set for a day of theme park fun in the sun! 2

Pine Lake Water Park

4640 Indiana Highway 218, Berne, IN 260-334-5649

pinelakewaterpark.com

What was once a beloved swimming hole has evolved into a lake waterpark, complete with slides, a splash pad, zipline, jump tower, log walk and more! Pack a lunch, don’t forget your towels and enjoy all things lake life.

INDY'S CHILD

Fort Wayne Children's Zoo

3411 Sherman Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 260-427-6800

kidszoo.org

With a mission of “connecting kids and animals, strengthening families, and inspiring people to care,” the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo is worth the drive from Indy. Broken up into four quadrants ‒ Australian Adventure, Indonesian Rain Forest, African Journey and Central Zoo ‒ visitors will come nose-to-nose with some of the world’s coolest creatures.

Caves 5

Indiana Caverns

1267 Green Acres Dr. SW, Corydon, IN 812-734-1200

indianacaverns.com

Explore the Midwest’s longest cave! Families can learn about the cave’s history during the walking tour, explore the cave on a more in-depth adventure tour (which includes kayaking in the cave!), enjoy a little gemstone mining, ride the Bat Chaser roller coaster and more.

SUMMER FUN GUIDE

Marengo Cave

400 East State Road 64, Marengo, IN

Thrills & Attractions 1

INDIANA

This U.S. National Landmark is definitely one to add to the bucket list. Marengo Cave has been giving tours since its discovery by schoolchildren in 1883. In addition to the cave tours, one of the most popular attractions is “The Crawl”, which allows kids to feel like they are discovering the cave for the first time!

State Parks 7

Turkey Run State Park

8121 Park Rd., Marshall, IN 765-597-2635

turkeyrunstatepark.com Nestled along State Road 47 southwest of Crawfordsville, Turkey Run State Park is a Hoosier treasure. Walk in the footsteps of the Miami Indians along breathtaking trails that wind through cliffs and gorges. You can also rent canoes, kayaks and tubes on Sugar Creek, stopping to hunt for rocks and fossils along the way.

Spring Mill State Park

3333 IN-60 E., Mitchell, IN

812-849-3534

This state park links nature and culture in a big way. A stop along the Indiana Birding Trail, enjoy its beautiful hiking trails and scenery before heading to the Nature Center, Pioneer Village and Twin Caves Boat Tour.

Overnight Getaways 9

French Lick Resort

8670 IN-56, French Lick, IN 812-936-9300

frenchlick.com

Step back in time at one of two historic hotels at the French Lick Resort. Families can enjoy bowling, organized family and kids activities, five miles of hiking trails, horse and pony rides, the Big Splash Adventure Indoor Water Park & Resort and a scenic ride on the French Lick Scenic Railway.

Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort

campjellystone.com/find-park This network of campgrounds focuses on providing a fun, family-friendly outdoor vacation! There are six Jellystone Parks in Indiana: Bloomington-Lake Monroe, Fremont, Knightstown, Pierceton, Plymouth and Scottsburg. Find one near you and enjoy all the family activities it has to offer. Plus, keep an eye out for a visit from Yogi and his friends!

July 2020 I INDYSCHILD.COM

OUR FAVORITE]

B I K E

IN INDIANAPOLIS

Strapping on your helmet and hopping on your bike is a great way to get some fresh air and get your body moving. Fill up your water bottles and explore Indianapolis on two wheels this summer!

The Big-4 Rail Trail Heritage Trail Park off CR 875 East to the bridge over Eagle Creek south of Starkey Avenue, Zionsville

One day, this nearly 4-mile trail will stretch over 50 miles from Zionsville to Lafayette. For now, the trail connects to numerous Zionsville parks and takes riders through beautiful natural scenery. Hop off the path for a quick stop into downtown Zionsville before continuing on.

Central Canal Towpath Guilford Avenue and Westfield Boulevard to West 30th Street and North Harding Street near Riverside Park, Indianapolis

Also known as the IWC Canal Greenway, this beautiful 5-mile trail hits Butler University’s campus, Holcomb Gardens and Newfields. Keep your eyes peeled for critters in the canal and along the path!

White River Wapahani Trail West 38th Street and White River Pkwy W Drive to West Raymond Street and South White River Pkwy W Drive, Indianapolis

This 7-mile trail picks up where the Central Canal Towpath leaves off! Leading into downtown, this path takes riders to White River State Park and the Indianapolis Zoo. Riders can also veer off and hop on the Indianapolis Cultural Trail at Washington Street.

Indianapolis Cultural Trail Downtown Indianapolis

This 8-mile trail is a true pride and joy of the city. Connecting all 6 of Indy’s Cultural Districts, this paved path is one of the safest and most fun ways to explore Indianapolis. Seasonal tours are offered if you’re looking to learn more about the history of the trail, otherwise it’s always open for you to enjoy at your leisure!

Eagle Creek Trail Eagle Creek Pkwy and Falcon Talon Lane to West 56th Street; Reed Street and West Raymond Street to Tip Street north of I-70, Indianapolis

PAT H S

This 7-mile paved trail weaves riders through beautiful land and gardens, with scenes of forests and wildlife. Eventually this path will stretch 50 miles and connect to many other trails around the city, but until then, pack a lunch and enjoy the ride.

Fall Creek Trail George E. Kessler Park to Fort Harrison State Park, Indianapolis

This trail mixes natural, wooded scenery with an urban setting. The 7 miles will take you along Fall Creek, ride past the Indiana State Fairgrounds, wind you through cool neighborhoods and connect you to the Monon Trail.

[BONUS] Mountain Biking Trails We Love Town Run Trail Park 5325 E. 96th St., Indianapolis

With about 7 miles of packed dirt trails and skills areas within this 127-acre park, Town Run Trail is a mountain biker’s paradise. Beginner and intermediate level trails available, so riders can improve their skills in a safe environment.

Monon Rail Trail Sheridan to downtown Indianapolis

Southwestway Park

Stretching 26 miles from the northern town of Sheridan to Mass Ave in downtown Indy with several access points, this historic trail is one of the best ways to get a comprehensive look at the city. Pick a few miles of trail each week and ride the whole thing by the end of summer!

8400 S. Mann Rd., Indianapolis

This park is second in size only to Eagle Creek Park and offers about 4 miles of mountain biking trails. The northern loop has some trickier spots, while the southern loop contains no technical features and is great for kids and beginners. Don’t forget to mind the horses who share the trail!

Schoen Creek Trail Fort Harrison State Park, 6000 N. Post Rd., Indianapolis

Located within Fort Harrison State Park, this path is just over 3 miles and is shared by bikers and hikers. Stay alert, enjoy the dips and try not to get too distracted by the beautiful surroundings!

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