Indy's Child August 2014

AUGUST 2014 // FREE

ANNUAL

BACK TO

SCHOOL ISSUE

ONLINE LEARNING

PREPPING FOR PRESCHOOL perfectionist

KIDS

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PLUS KIDS EAT FREE GUIDE

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contents IN EVERY ISSUE

// AUGUST 2014

INDYSCHILD.COM

AROUND TOWN 16 44

CHINESE TEACHERS-IN-RESIDENCE ADVENTURES AT THE ZOO CONTINUE INTO COOLER MONTHS

C O M M E N TA R Y & PA R E N T I N G 26

ASK THE TEACHER

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RESEARCH TO REAL WORLD

C H I L D R E N ' S H E A LT H 12

BACK TO SCHOOL: TIPS FOR A GOOD START

IN EVERY ISSUE 06 EDITOR'S NOTE 08 COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT 10

ONLINE BUZZ

F E AT U R E S

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CAN'T MISS SUMMER EVENTS So much to do downtown in August!

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MAKING A MOVE

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THE FIVE W'S OF ONLINE SCHOOL

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PREPPING FOR PRESCHOOL

Adjusting to a new home, new school and new friends

The who, what, where, when and why of virtual learning

Getting ready for that big first day!

RESOURCES & CALENDARS 28

EDUCATION & CHILDCARE GUIDE

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SPECIAL NEEDS CALENDAR

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SPECIAL NEEDS GUIDE

40 AFTER SCHOOL & ENRICHMENT GUIDE 49 KIDS EAT FREE GUIDE 50

DAILY EVENTS

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ONGOING EVENTS

54 MARKETPLACE 55

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PERFECTIONIST KIDS

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10 TIPS FOR TALKING TO TWEENS

FUN & WACKY CALENDAR

When only an A+ will do

Laying the groundwork for positive communication

SPECIAL NEEDS 32 GOING GLUTEN & CASEIN FREE 34 OLDER KIDS AND THE IEP

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EDITOR'S NOTE

M eet the S taff FOUNDING PUBLISHER Barbara Wynne | barbara@indyschild.com

PUBLISHER Mary Wynne Cox | mary@indyschild.com

EDITOR Susan Bryant | susan@indyschild.com

SALES & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Jennica Zalewski | jennica@indyschild.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Katie Clark | katie@indyschild.com

WEB EDITOR Wendy Cox | wendy@indyschild.com

Back to... you know what!

BUSINESS MANAGER Roxanne Burns | roxanne@indyschild.com

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Jennifer Beahrs | jbeahrs@indyschild.com

I

t’s August – and although flip flops and tank tops are still the season’s dress code, there’s no denying the sudden appearance of backpacks and three ring binders filling the store shelves.

Back to school season is officially upon us, and whether you’re ready for the regular routine that school provides or wishing summer lasted a little bit longer, the first day is just around the corner.

If this school year is your little one’s very first, congratulations! Entering preschool is a major milestone for children and marks the beginning of a new era for them and you. Most likely you’re both feeling a combination of excitement and worry about this new adventure. Check out our article Prepping for Preschool for some helpful tips on getting your little learner off to a great start.

Is your child the “new kid on the block” this year?

If you’ve recently moved to Indy, or just moved across town, adjusting to a different school and community can be difficult – especially for kids.

Try reading Making a Move for expert advice on how to make this transition a successful one for your child.

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A new school year means higher academic expectations, and some students feel the pressure to achieve good grades as soon as the first bell rings. If you have a child who considers anything less than an A+ unacceptable, our article Perfectionist Kids can help your student gain some perspective in seeing the “big picture” when it comes to their educational career.

Finally, “back to school” doesn’t necessarily require a trip on a school bus anymore.

Opportunities for virtual learning exist for just about every type of learner and situation. Take a look at Online Schools for a primer on what these educational programs can offer your student.

This month, as pool parties and popsicles give way to car pools and pop quizzes, we hope you and your family enjoy these last days of summer vacation.

Here’s wishing you a great beginning to a new school year!

EDITOR

WEBSITE DESIGN & GRAPHICS ASSISTANT Maria Tancredi | maria@indyschild.com

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Wendy Schrepferman | s.wendy@indyschild.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Trisha Shepherd, Michelle Shirk, Karen Ring, Megan Noel, Steffy McCourt, Jennifer Garcia, Sarah Bricker-Hunt, Pete Gilbert, Deb Krupowicz, Kelly Blewett, Tonya Bergeson-Dana, Courtney Green of Indianapolis Downtown Inc., Leslie Olsen of The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

CONTACT US 921 E. 86th Street., Suite 130 | Indianapolis, IN 46240 PHONE: 317.722.8500 | FAX: 317.722.8510 EMAIL: info@indyschild.com

COPYRIGHT Indy’s Child Parenting Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2014 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. For information on subscriptions, editorial guidelines, advertising rates and more visit www. indyschild.com.

on the cover photo by Hannah Hilliard PHOTOGRAPHY // hannahhilliard.com

CANNON HOOPS

AGE: 9

// FAVO R I T E S . . . s ch o ol s u bject: Art c ol o r : Blue m ov i e : Cars fo o d : Grilled artichoke with remoulade to dip re s ta u ra n t: O'Charley's tv s h ow : Handy Manny s p o r t : Basketball i c e c re a m: Mint chip b o ok : The Elephant & PIggie series c a n d y ba r: M&M's toy : iPad! s u p e r h e ro: Captain America

// I NT E R E ST I NG FAC T. . .

Cannon is a world traveler!

He's been to Italy, Greece, Turkey & Japan.

A VA L O N H O O P S

AGE: 2

// FAVO R I T E S . . . c ol o r : Red b o ok s : First 100 Words fo o d : Watermelon re s ta u ra n t: Bazbeaux Pizza tv s h ow : Mickey Mouse Clubhouse s p o r t : Climbing i c e c re a m: Any flavor! m ov i e : The Three Musketeers featuring Mickey, Donald & Goofy

c a n d y ba r: M&M's toy : Toy piano with speakers s u p e r h e ro: Mickey Mouse!

// I NT E R E ST I NG FAC T. . .

Avalon is named after the Island of Avalon in Arthurian Legend.

AUGUST 2014 // INDYSCHILD.COM

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IN EVERY ISSUE

COMMUNIT Y

spotlight

NEW ELEC T RONIC OF F ER INGS AT T HE INDI A NAPOL IS PUBL IC L IBR ARY Library patrons can now access award-winning documentaries, feature films, international films, children's movies and popular TV series using the new e-Video.

Other recent additions to the Library's digital collection include Zinio, a suite of full color, interactive popular magazines and Tumblebook, an online interactive library of eBooks and audiobooks for children and teens.

Indy Library cardholders can simply visit www.indypl.org to begin a search for materials.

PUN T, PA SS A ND K ICK IS BACK Kids, lace up your cleats and prepare for some friendly competition at the upcoming NFL Punt, Pass and Kick event! Boys and girls ages 6 - 15 will compete based on age and gender in punting, passing and kicking contests. The top scorer in each age division will then advance from the local to the sectional competitions. Check out the program format and rules by visiting www.nflppk.com and complete a pre-registration. Participants must bring a copy of their birth certificate on competition day.

Thursday, August 7, 2014 from 4:00 - 5:00 pm

PULL ING FOR A PURPOSE The 2014 Plane Pull Challenge raises funds and awareness for more than 11,000 Special Olympics athletes in Indiana.

Teams of up to 20 people will compete to pull a jumbo jet a distance of 12 feet across the tarmac in the least amount of time! Along with supporting Special Olympics, this event provides a wonderful team-building experience for coworkers, friends and family. Form a team today!

Mudsock Fields: 12160 Packers Avenue, Fishers | FREE Saturday, September 6, 2014 Indianapolis International Airport

Are you ready to Dig IN? Local farmers, chefs, brewers, vintners and food enthusiasts will gather at Indiana’s largest farm-to-fork festival. The fourth annual Dig IN: A Taste of Indiana festival will feature tastings of Indiana food, beer, wine and other local refreshments plus live entertainment, discussion panels and cooking demonstrations.

Dig IN: A Taste of Indiana Sunday, August 17, 2014 from 11:00 am - 5:00 pm White River State Park: 801 W. Washington St., Indianapolis Tickets are available at www.digindiana.org and at the gate. $35 for General Admission ($45 after August 13) $55 for Early Admission at 11 am ($65 after August 13) Ultimate VIP experience tickets are also available. Visit site for details.

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Visit www.soindiana.org or call 1-800-742-0612 for registration details, to volunteer or sponsor a team.

SUPPORT BRE A ST F EEDING MOM S August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month. The Indy Breastfeeding Moms organization offers free gatherings for pregnant and nursing mothers and their families, ranging from breastfeeding support meetings to informal monthly playgroups and other get-togethers. The group is currently seeking volunteers for the Indiana State Fair WIC Lactation Station which provides a clean, comfortable place for breastfeeding moms and families during the Indiana State Fair. Visit www.indybreastfeedingmoms.org to learn more about improving the health of our community's moms and babies!

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IN EVERY ISSUE

buzz ONLINE

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// FACEBOOK TALK WE ASKED:

Which age was tougher to parent: 2 or 3?

Is " The Terrible Twos" a myth?

Beef & Boards Passes

YOU SAID: Threenagers are the toughest! – Mandy M. I think age 3 was harder... Actually I think every year after age 2 is tougher... lol! – Susan P. I have a 10 year old, 8 year old and 6 year old. With every age comes a new set of challenges! – Deanna M. 3 is the worst. Whoever said "terrible twos" didn't have a 3 year old yet. – Alison L. Terrible 2's is a breeze compared to 3's! – Dawn M. The "terrorist threes!" My boy is a nut, but I do not negotiate with terrorists, lol! – Tori B.

Indianapolis Indians Tickets

THREE! We used to get comments when we went out about how well behaved my daughter was.

She's now almost 4, and we are now THAT family. The one whose child you can hear screaming in Meijer through the ENTIRE store (and probably in the parking lot too)! – Samantha S. 3 is a nightmare! – Katrina P. 3 is waaaaaay worse than 2! – Bobbi C. “ L ike ” us on F acebook to J oin the C onversation . . .

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C H I LD R E N ' S H E A LT H / / BR ANDED CONTENT

Back to School // Tips for a good start After a summer of fun and freedom, going back to school can feel like cruel punishment to a child.

Fortunately, most kids are great at adjusting to school life after a week or two. But what if your child still struggles with the new routine after a couple of weeks, or even a month?

N ot- S o - S mooth S ailing Seeing your little one struggle socially or academically at school – especially if past school years were problem-free – can be confusing and downright heartbreaking. You might assume there’s something wrong with your child, but it’s important not to jump to

conclusions or pin blame on someone, be it your child, yourself, your child’s peers or the school.

Instead, take a positive, proactive approach. Here are a few ways you can address the problem: • Wait it out. Some children get back into the swing of school in a day or two, but others may take up to a few weeks to fully switch gears.

If your child is naturally sensitive or introverted, be patient. With observation, you should be able to tell if “first-week jitters” turn into chronic anxiety. If your child loses sleep over school or cries and screams every morning at the bus stop, it may be time to take action.

• Identify the problem.

If your child’s grades are slipping, remember: The real problem isn’t the slipping grades. Poor academic performance is almost always due to an underlying behavioral or social problem. It’s easy to assume attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or some other learning disorder is the cause for your kid’s D’s and F’s. In reality, low grades could be the result of unrelated social or family problems. Being bullied or teased at school is another common trigger of a sudden decline in academic performance.

Then, share tips with your child about how to deal with bullies.

Stopbullying.gov offers the following advice for kids:

• Share your concerns

5. Tell an adult you trust, such as a teacher.

with the school counselor.

The American School Counselor Association recommends parents meet with their child’s school counselor at least three times per school year – even if their child isn’t experiencing problems.

Sharing your concerns can reveal new information and allow the two of you to work together to identify underlying issues and develop strategies.

• Don’t rule out bullying.

If you suspect bullying, asking your child directly may not elicit an honest answer. Instead, ask your child if there are any kids at school who seem mean. This way, your child can name the bully without having to directly admit he or she is the recipient of this meanness.

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1. Calmly and directly tell the bully to stop.

2. When threatened, laugh it off. This response can throw the bully off guard.

3. Just walk away.

4. Stick close to friends at times when bullying tends to happen.

To find a developmentalbehavioral therapist at Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent, call 317-338-KIDS or visit stvincent.org/peytonmanning.

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CAN'T MISS summer events // So much to do downtown in August!

Courtney Green, Indianapolis Downtown, Inc.

Just because summer is winding down doesn’t mean there aren’t still great activities happening in downtown Indy. From games to exhibits, you won’t want to miss out on these familyfriendly experiences.

Stop by Indy Reads Books for free and fun activities for kids.

Every first and third Saturday children can participate in Paws to Read and read to a very special reading dog. Indy Reads Books also hosts Chess Club for Kids every summer Tuesday. Expect a friendly tournament or to learn a fun variation of chess.

August is a busy month at the Indianapolis Public Library, packed with free events ideal for the family.

Be sure to visit the Library for Community Arts Day, Summer Showtime movie series, Classical Concerts and more.

To make sure you don’t miss any of the excitement, go to the 14

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Indianapolis Public Library’s website for a full list of activities.

It’s a celebration! Take the family to the Indiana State Fair August 1 - 17 and enjoy a variety of attractions, exhibits, food and more. Nationally-known artists are scheduled to perform, and many of the concerts are free. Catch Bridgit Mendler on August 4 (free), Phillip Phillips on August 5, Josh Kaufman on August 7 (free) and Hunter Hayes on August 9. American Idol Live! is coming to the State Fair on August 6. With a full schedule of concerts, activities, competitions and parade, the Fair will not disappoint.

Get your dose of summer sports!

Cheer on the Indiana Fever August 5, 8, 14 and 16 at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. After just one home game in July, the Indy Eleven return with four home games at Michael A. Carroll Stadium in August. The Colts are back! Head over to Lucas Oil Stadium to catch the preseason action August 16 and 23.

Summer vacation isn’t complete without a visit to the Indianapolis Zoo. Several exhibits and attractions are great for families with children of all ages, including Zoo Babies, Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center and dolphin shows. The Zoo also has activities specifically for kids and families including science workshops on select Saturdays, family overnights and zoo camps to name a few.

Don’t overlook these activities: Enjoy a refreshing scoop of ice cream at the 39th Annual Ice Cream Social on August 23 at the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site.

IndyFringe is celebrating 10 years of outrageous fun with the Fringe Festival August 14 – 24 on Mass Ave. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is filled with fun, interactive exhibits!

Scienceworks, Biotech Lab, Dinosphere, Take Me There® China and the current traveling exhibit, Terra Cotta Warriors: The Emperor’s Painted Army, are sure to excite visitors.

So take advantage of everything summer still has to offer! Downtown Indy is the place to be for all your family fun!

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AROUND TOWN

Chinese Teachers-in-Residence Leslie Olsen, Public Relations Manager, The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

A Chinese proverb says, “Teachers open the door, but you must enter by yourself.”

Take Me There: China ®, the new Chinese cultural immersion exhibit at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis provides children a wonderful opportunity to literally and figuratively enter the exhibit on their own (via a jet airliner) and take control of their own learning – but two extraordinary Chinese teachers help guide the way.

Art and tradition are central to Chinese culture. To give families and children a more authentic experience, the Confucius Institute of Indianapolis provided funding for two young teachers from China, who specialize in music, calligraphy and Chinese as a second language, to come to The Children’s Museum for one year to share their talents with visitors.

Meet Chen Lin and Ma Lan Chen Lin is the museum’s Calligrapher-in-Residence. Using the tiniest of calligraphy brushes and ink or a giant brush and water to demonstrate “street” painting, Chen Lin draws delicate, complicated and beautiful Chinese characters. Find her in the Take Me There: China exhibit

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and she can show you and your children how to do it too.

About Chen Lin • Born in China’s Guizhou Province • Speaks several languages and earned a Master’s degree in Teaching Chinese as a Second Language • Chinese artistic skills include music, dance, paper-cutting, calligraphy, Chinese cooking and painting • Fun Fact: She LOVES the Indianapolis Colts. She watches the Colts through the internet while in China.

Ma Lan is the museum’s Musician-inResidence. Like Chen Lin, Ma Lan’s area of academic study is teaching Chinese as a second language, but her passion is traditional Chinese music. In the exhibit space, you will find her wistfully playing or demonstrating how to play the hulusi, a gourd flute or the guzheng, a long stringed instrument. She will invite you to play them too!

About Ma Lan • Born in Huaibei, Anhui • Certified to teach Chinese as a second language

• Chinese artistic skills include calligraphy, paper-cutting, Chinese music, Chinese cooking and Chinese knots.

• Fun Fact: She loves Breaking Bad and Spiderman movies.

When you visit Take Me There: China, be sure to look for our knowledgeable teachers. You will learn from them and they will learn from you. They love to talk and share stories about their culturally-rich homeland.

And by now, they are probably a bit homesick, so any chance to share with you will bring them pride, joy and happiness.

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M A K I N G A

M O V E

Sarah Bricker-Hunt

Adjusting to a new home, new school and new friends Moving is difficult – it takes real strength to pack one’s life into boxes and endure the exhausting process of hauling it through town, to the next state or across the country. Even when the last dish is unpacked, the emotional journey has not yet ended.

Adjusting to a new location can be particularly difficult for kids. In the 2010 study “Residential Mobility, Well-Being and Mortality” published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, researchers found that children who move, especially those who move frequently, often perform worse in school and display more behavioral problems than peers who have not experienced relocation.

The good news is that parents can help shape the experience of moving into a positive one for the whole family.

Jennifer Layden, a mental health therapist at Community Hospital, discusses the importance of facing the potential anxiety of a relocation as a family unit. “Dealing with a move is stressful on everyone,” she says.

“Identify positive things about being in a new situation. As a family, explore your new surroundings and identify ways to pursue old interests.”

Younger children may be apprehensive about attending a new school and not knowing other students. Layden

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adolescent already has a feeling of belonging is important.”

Sometimes, despite parents’ earnest efforts, a child struggles beyond a typical stress level when dealing with a move. Layden suggests parents watch for behavior changes that might indicate a larger problem. “A parent should become concerned when their formally talkative child is suddenly spending most days in his room and choosing not to engage in any family activities,” she says. Other signs to watch for include drastic changes in appearance and a drop in grades.

suggests doing some preliminary research to find clubs, sports teams and church youth groups to become involved with. She also recommends asking the school to identify a student who could serve a mentor – someone to sit with at lunch and help with the transition to a new social group.

“I think it is important that parents acknowledge that the move is a loss for their children,” Layden says. “They have left a school, friends, activities and a comfort zone that was comfortable and easy for a situation that is largely unknown.”

High schoolers are likely to have the hardest time transitioning to a new

area, Layden says, but it can be a positive experience. “The ability to reinvent themselves is often something I hear adolescents voice as a benefit of a new school,” she points out. In the meantime, she suggests reminding teens and tweens that they can visit old friends and use the internet to keep in touch. This can help to alleviate feelings of alienation and being “pulled away from everything.”

“Parents need to understand that at this age kids need independence and a sense of belonging almost equally,” she explains. “I think as adults we forget how important lunch time is for this age group – who you are sitting with, what is said, who is going out with whom.

So, identifying a group where the

Layden also stresses the importance of modeling a positive attitude. “Parents need to be mindful of how they are talking about the relocation,” she says.

“Initially, being as positive and optimistic as possible is essential to helping kids feel like it is a good change for the family.” Conversely, kids might feel more negative if parents are expressing too many frustrations about adjusting to the new location.

While it is important to move forward and gradually adjust to life in your new area, be sure to also reflect on the good memories of your past home.

Consider a project that celebrates your evolving family life, like a picture collage. Give kids the tools they need to stay in contact with the loved ones and friends they miss while embracing the new connections they will make in their current home.

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THE FIVE

W's

O F O N L I NE S C H O O L The who, what, where, when & why of virtual learning Michelle Shirk

B

rick and mortar education is so old school. Today’s online academic programs allow Indiana students to learn anywhere life takes them. New to the concept of online school? We’ve outlined the basics to help you decide whether this alternative educational style might be a good fit for your family.

WHO Indiana students of all ages can find an online school to suit their needs.

For this article, we enlisted the help of Hoosier Academies, which serves students from kindergarten through 12th grade, as well as the Indiana Virtual Academy (IndVA) and Indiana University High School (IUHS), which offer high school courses.

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Jim Johnson, Director of Student Services at IUHS, believes online education can be a good fit for many different types of students. The school serves athletes who require a flexible schedule, individuals facing health issues and students playing “catchup” or seeking early graduation.

Dr. Byron Ernest, Head of School at Hoosier Academies. Lessons are presented using textbooks, videos, CDs and manipulatives. Students can also interact directly with their teachers by phone or online.

Where What Tuition-free Hoosier Academies, a full-time public school, allows families to choose between a completely online school and a “blended learning” model where students receive face-to-face instruction twice per week at one of two Indianapolis learning centers. IUHS offers both a full-time program and individual course enrollment. IndVA exclusively provides supplemental courses to students enrolled in other schools.

Online schools use a variety of methods to deliver course material to their students. The K12 curriculum used by Hoosier Academies includes both online and offline content, says

In online education, flexibility is the name of the game. At IndVA, “Students can complete coursework anywhere they have internet access,” says Brooke Straber, Program Coordinator.

Some online schools also offer opportunities for in-person interaction.

Hoosier Academies families and staff get together monthly at various locations across the state for activities such as bowling, library outings and museum visits, says Ernest. The school also hosts clubs and events at its Indianapolis learning centers.

When Online schools typically allow students to set their own schedules. Hoosier Academies students can do schoolwork at non-traditional times of the day, says Ernest. This means a gymnast who practices five hours daily can schedule school around her practice schedule, or a student whose family is on vacation can work from the road.

Of course, students attending school online must still put in the effort necessary to complete their coursework. “Learning takes time,” explains Johnson. Hoosier Academies students are required to log at least 25 hours per week, says Ernest. Although IndVA courses are self-paced, students must complete each course within 15 weeks, says Straber.

Why In addition to flexibility, benefits of online education include consistency and standardization, says Mike Beam,

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Director/Principal of IUHS. “Most online schools like IUHS are really curriculum-centric and learning objective-centric.” He believes this consistency provides teachers with targeted feedback from a wide variety of students and helps them understand when students need extra attention paid to a particular topic.

Benefits aside, however, parents must understand that this form of school differs from a brick and mortar experience, says Beam. He observes that parents and students sometimes experience frustration because the online school doesn’t feel like their local high school. “And that’s exactly true, it doesn’t. It is a different kind of engagement with thinking and learning.”

In an era where an ever-increasing number of daily tasks can be performed online, this new approach to education will likely continue to grow in popularity. If you find yourself intrigued by the idea of taking some

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or all of your child’s school experience online, check out the sample schedules outlined here.

A peek into the life of an online school student Curious what online education actually looks like? Courtesy of Hoosier Academies and K12, take a look at these schedules for two sample days in the life of a high school student enrolled in this type of program.

DAY 1

DAY 2

9:00 – Wake up

8:30 – Wake up

9:15 – Breakfast

8:50 – Breakfast

9:30 – Log in to the online school (OLS), check/respond to e-mails, review class announcements and determine tasks for the day

9:10 – Log in to OLS, check/respond to e-mails, review class announcements and determine tasks for the day

10:00 – Help Mom with her homebased business

9:20 – Complete two English lessons

12:00 – Lunch

10:00 – Complete U.S. History lesson and reading guide

12:30 – Government ClassConnect (live educational session)

11:00 – Complete Biology lessons and study guide

1:30 – Work on English essays

11:30 – Make lunch for self and siblings

3:00 – Complete Government for the day 4:00 – Dinner 5:00 – Complete English assignments 6:30 – Done for the day

Source s: www.iuhighschool.iu.edu/ www.indva.com/ www.k12.com/ha

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P RE P P I N G F O R

PRESCHOOL Get ting ready for that big first day!

Megan Noel

a

s a former preschool teacher myself, the first day of school was always full of emotion – excitement, apprehension and maybe even a few tears. With the beginning of something new there’s always a level of uncertainty and anxiety, and the transition to a daily schedule, with nonparent adults, in an unfamiliar environment can be scary.

Shanon Martin, preschool teacher at the Warren Early Childhood Center, encourages parents to “relax, and try to remember that even if your child seems sad initially they will have lots of fun while they’re at school and within a few days, and with a few simple tricks, your child will adjust in no time.” Here’s a few suggestions for getting your little learner off to a good start.

Ta ke a to u r When selecting a preschool, you will often take a tour of the facility and talk with the director, and maybe even your child’s future teacher. If possible, bring your child along during this tour or return several weeks prior to the first day of school and make a visit then. If you know that your child has a

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particularly hard time with new situations, consider bringing a camera with you. Take pictures of the building, the playground, teachers, etc. You can print these pictures later and put them in a photo album for your child to look at in the weeks leading up to the first day of school.

Get so m e th i n g sp eci a l Take your child to the store and pick out something special just for school such as a backpack, a character notebook or folder or a new shirt. This activity will be a reminder of the upcoming start of school, and help create excitement about the big day.

and possibly have a snack,” suggests KinderCare teacher Sylvia Noel.

M a ke n e w fr i e n ds Be sure to inquire about any before school activities and events that your child’s school offers. “Our preschool has summer play dates which give kids the opportunity to connect with classmates and even meet their teacher before school begins. Having familiar, friendly faces greet you at the door makes drop-offs easier on everyone,” says Megan Raymont, parent of a preschooler at Northeast Cooperative Preschool.

Re a d a ll a b o ut it De velo p a ro uti n e During your tour of the school, or through a phone call to the preschool, inquire about your child’s daily schedule. Once you determine the schedule and expectations, you can begin implementing a few routines in your day so that your child finds them familiar when he starts school. “A good routine to start in August is a great bedtime routine. Start calming down in the evening, get into pajamas

Reading books about going off to preschool can help a child prepare for what they’re going to experience.

Spend 15-20 minutes each night reading to your child and talking about what preschool will be like. The following books are all great choices for the first time school goer: • The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn • I’m Absolutely Too Small for School

by Lauren Child

• Will You Come Back for Me? by Ann Tompert • What to Expect at Preschool by Heidi Murkoff • Countdown to the First Day of School by AnnMarie Harris • The Night Before Preschool by Natasha Wingfut Parents are often just as anxious as their children about the first day of school. Pinpoint what is making you the most nervous, and address those concerns, too! “Try to use this time to recharge your own batteries and do something special for yourself when they’re off at school,” says Madeline Ross, parent of a Lawrence Township preschooler.

Preschool is just the start of many future new beginnings for your child – by embracing these changes yourself you provide a valuable lesson to your little one about how to manage all the exciting, scary and wonderful challenges that lay before them.

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C O M M E N TA R Y & PA R E N T I N G

Ask the Teacher // Smooth back to school transitions, speech self-consciousness and vacation absences Deb Krupowicz

Q:

One of the things that my son dreads most about the beginning of school is going back to speech. He likes the speech therapist, but he is very self-conscious about his speech struggles and his classmates’ teasing. Should I consider taking him out of speech?

A:

Whether or not your son should be pulled from speech is a decision that must be weighed with the speech therapist and based upon the severity of his impediment. Early and effective intervention can help children overcome speech struggles and eliminate the concern for a lifetime. The ultimate goal likely outweighs the current challenges your son is experiencing.

Q:

The first few weeks of school seem to wreak havoc on my family. What can I do to make it go more smoothly?

A:

Getting back into a routine after many carefree weeks is a challenge. Fortunately, there are several things that you can do to make the process easier on your children and on you, too.

time a few days ahead of school will help with all aspects of the start-up.

Re-establishing school-day bedtimes before school starts is key. Having a late night or two is not a big deal, and it is important to enjoy every bit of summer! But keep in mind that it is physically tough to get through a school day without a good night’s rest, and without that nothing else will work. Making sure that your child is well rested and in the routine of a reasonable bedtime and wake up

Simplify schedules as much as possible for those first few weeks.

Cancel the non-essentials like extra-curricular lessons and optional activities. Keep Sunday evenings free to get organized for the upcoming week. Using that time to review schedules, plan lunches and clothes, and identify best homework times will help everyone in the family start the week feeling in control.

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If leaving class to attend speech is causing your son some stress, talk with the teacher and the speech therapist about the timing of his sessions. Perhaps a better time for him to leave class can be identified.

Some schools offer therapy before or after school. Or, it may be possible to arrange private sessions outside of the school day through your pediatrician.

Perhaps the actual speech difficulty is what is eliciting the teasing.

Empower your son to stand tall in the face of these taunts by helping him

practice appropriate come-backs.

Consider reactions like “Speech is tough for me, but I am working on it” or “I’ve accepted the challenge of improving” or “I choose to focus on people’s strengths.” Encourage him to keep it positive and not defensive.

Explain to him that teasing almost always starts with a lack of understanding of what someone else is dealing with so that he can use the experience as a tool in building his own character.

Q:

We are in the process of planning a family vacation in October and are thinking of taking our kids out of school for a few days. A neighbor shared that she experienced a great deal of flack from her child’s teacher for doing that.

Is it really that big of a deal to miss a few days?

A:

There are several things to consider as you make your plans. First, recognize that missing school creates challenges for all involved.

Take into account your children’s own ability to handle some stress, as they will be doing school doubletime on either end of the trip depending upon your school’s policy. Can you help compensate for lost instructional time that your

children’s teachers will not be able to reproduce?

Timing is an important factor. Does your trip fall at the beginning, middle or end of a unit? How will missing a few days impact your children’s understanding of the curriculum?

Acknowledge the extra effort required of the teacher when a student is absent; it takes 20-30 minutes to prepare a “make-up” plan for each missed day. The younger the child, the more time required as more instruction of tasks is necessary. Realize that the list of assignments, even carefully completed, only accounts for a portion of what students who are

in class learn from teacher explanations, class discussions and activities.

After considering those things, the importance of this vacation may outweigh the challenges it presents.

If so, consider contacting the teacher well ahead of time. A considerate notification goes a long way in avoiding a negative reaction caused by a surprise.

Consult the school office for the school’s policies about vacation absences. Typically, there are forms to be filled out ahead of time that allow work to be completed without penalty.

// ASK THE TEACHER is written by Deb Krupowicz, a mother of four and current teacher. Deb holds a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction and has over twenty years of experience teaching preschool, elementary and middle school students. Please send your questions to her at asktheteacher@indyschild.com.

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E D U C AT I O N R E S O U R C E S

T H E E D U C AT I O N A N D CHILDCARE GUIDE [ S C H O O L S & E D U C AT I O N ] carmel Carmel Montessori Schools, Inc. Carmel Montessori School is located on the beautiful campus at St. Christopher’s Church on the NE corner of Main St. and Meridian in Carmel. Our directress is American Montessori Certified with 16 years headteaching experience. 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

Clay Montessori A Montessori school offering morning, afternoon, and full-day programs. Available for ages 3-6 years old. Call for more information. (Affiliated with Fisher’s Montessori) 463 East Main St., Carmel, IN 46032, Contact: Peggy White, 317-849-9519 or 317-580-1850

Starting Line Preschool The Right Start for A Lifelong Love of Learning! Our strong academic-based curriculum prepares and encourages your child to succeed in school while discoving learning is fun! * Develop Social Awareness & Friendships, Build Confidence and Master Academic Skills for Kindergarten. All of our classes focus on an introduction to colors, number and letters with exciting art and science projects. Math, social studies and sight words are taught in the older classes. 110 Third Ave NE, Carmel, IN 46032. Contact: Diane Atkins. Phone: 317-753-9397.

Email: dkatkins22@msn.com. www.startinglinepreschool.com

fishers Fall Creek Montessori Academy Fall Creek Montessori Academy is a culturally diverse environment where children grow and develop their unique talents and gifts. Through child-centered learning, children excel physically, academically and emotionally. Conveniently located one mile east of I-69 on 96th St. FCMA serves children at all levels. Programs are available two to five days per week. 8888 Fitness Ln, Fishers, IN 46037, Contact: Diana Brugh, Phone: (317) 436-8606, Email: diana@fallcreekmontessori.com, www.fallcreekmontessori.com

Fishers Montessori A quality learning environment offering preschool, kindergarten and elementary. Certification through American Montessori Society. 12806 Ford Rd and 131st and Allisonville Rd., Fishers, IN 46038, Contact: Peggy White, 317-849-9519 or 317-580-1850 28

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indianapolis // D OWN TOWN PARAMOUNT SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE Paramount School of Excellence is a tuition-free K-8 charter school that educates students in an innovative environment that instills high expectations for success.

Paramount accomplishes its mission and teaches the mastery of Indiana State Standards through an emphasis on rigorous academics, technology and the environment.

Integral to the school’s approach to education is school-wide use of computer technology, a green initiative, project-based investigations, community partnerships and three on-site Discovery Centers – an indoor Eco Center, Time and Space Center with a planetarium, and an urban farm. 3020 Nowland Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46201 Contact: Peggy Purvis, 317.775.6660, school@paramountindy.org, www.paramountindy.org.

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

Jesuit school, provides an excellent college preparatory education for a lifetime of service by forming leaders who are intellectually competent, open to growth, loving, religious and committed to promoting justice.

Fostering a culture of understanding and dialogue, Brebeuf Jesuit seeks and welcomes students from diverse religious, ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds.

Students at Brebeuf Jesuit are called to discover and cultivate the fullness of their God-given talents as a responsibility and as an act of worship. CORE VALUES: Education of the Whole Person, A Caring and Diverse Community, The Greater Glory of God. 2801 W 86th St, Indianapolis, IN 46268. Contact: Liz Otteson, Director of Admissions. Phone: 317-5247090. Email: admissions@brebeuf.org, www.brebeuf.org

Bureau of Jewish Education The BJE challenges your child through a nurturing environment that stimulates creativity, community, learning through nature and outstanding academic programming. Highly trained teachers emphasize both group and individualized learning in the classroom with specialized area staff. Active learning and discovery are encouraged throughout. 6711 Hoover Road, Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Elaine Fairfield, Phone: 317-255-3124, Email: efairfield@bjeindy.org, www.bjeindy.org

Children’s Day In Nursery School and Traditional Preschool

Beth-El Zedeck Early Childhood Center Fall School Year. 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, Full Time/Part-Time/Flexible Hours, Ages: 12 months old+, 18 months old+, 2’s+, 3’s+, 4’s/PreK (3 day or 5 day program) and Full Day Kindergarten (5 full-day program) (8:50 am to 3:00 pm) Before School/After School Care available daily as needed for all ages: Early drop off as early as 7:30 am and late pick up anytime up until 6:00 pm/5:30 pm on Fridays. Call or email for brochure. 600 W. 70th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Joanie Waldman, Phone: 317-259-6854, Fax: 317-259-6849, Email: jwaldman@bez613.org, www.bez613.org in.us

Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School You are invited to visit the only Catholic Jesuit school in the state of Indiana that has been educating students in the Jesuit tradition for more than 50 years. Brebeuf Jesuit’s Mission Statement: Brebeuf Jesuit, a Catholic and

The Children’s Day In traditional preschool and nursery school program provides a fully inclusive early childhood program with an emphasis on Christian values in a play based setting. It is designed to offer children ages 9 months to 5 years a positive and developmentally appropriate experience in the care of experienced teachers and caregivers. We play and learn! Classes are offered weekdays from 9 am to 2:30 pm. Children attend up to 3 days a week. 5500 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46208, Contact: Christy Whaley, 317-253-0472, cwhaley@meridianstreet.org, www.meridianstreet.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 childphysically, 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, www.childrenscircle.org

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Early Childhood Center, The Church at the Crossing Our Mothers Day Out (12-35 mos) and Preschool (3 yrs-PreK’s) programs provide relaxed, playful, secure environments that nurture creativity and encourage the exploration of God’s world, with a wide variety of learning materials & readiness skills woven through each unit. Need longer hours? Try our child care ministry, The Neighborhood, designed for 16 mosPreK. 9111 N. Haverstick Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46240, Contact: John Drake or Kelly Belt, Phone: 317-5756508, Fax: 317-575-6509, Email: jdrake@golove.org or kbelt@golove.org

Park Tudor School Financial Aid: $15,330 for Jr. Kindergarten; $17, 760 for Sr. Kindergarten-Grade; and $18,830 for Grades 6-12. Ages/Grades: Junior Kindergarten (ages 3-5) Grade 12. Uniforms/Dress Code: Dress code varies by grade level.Before/After School Care: Before- and after-school care offered. Open House Dates: Visit web site for a complete listing. 7200 N. College Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46240, Contact: Cathy Chapelle, Phone: 317-415-2700, Fax: 317-254-2714, info@ parktudor.org, www.parktudor.org

St. Luke’s Early Childhood Programs Heritage Christian School Established in 1965, accredited through ACSI and NCA. HCS is the choice in college preparatory discipleship Christian education for 1,400 students each year grades Prep K – 12. Advanced, Honors and AP classes. Full Fine Arts and 2A IHSAA Athletics. HCS is training up the next generation of Christian leaders through challenging, Biblically taught curriculum including internships and service to others. Bus transportation available. Schedule a tour today! 6401 E. 75th Street, Indianapolis, In 46250, Contact: Rhyan Smith, Director of Admissions, 317-8493441, Admissions@heritagechristian.net, www.heritagechristian.net

St Luke’s Community Preschool is a weekday, developmentally appropriate and experience based program. Two well-trained, degreed teachers are in each classroom. Parents’ Day Out is a structured play experience that provides parents some time for themselves on a regular basis on M, W, Th, F. We provide a warm and loving Christian environment in which children can learn and grow. Tours available upon request. Visitors welcome. 100 West 86th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Mollie Smith, Director, 317-844-3399, smithm@stlukesecp.com, www.stlukesumc.com

St. Richard’s Episcopal School Meridian Hills Cooperative Nursery School Share your love of learning with your children. Founded in 1960 by involved parents like you, Meridian Hills Cooperative provides a positive, nurturing environment wherein children explore and learn by doing. Spacious classrooms. Beautiful, wooded playground. Caring, experienced staff of trained and degreed lead teachers.

Adult/child ratios 1:4 - 1:6. Find us on Facebook. 7171 N. Pennsylvania, Indianapolis, IN 46240, Contact: See Admissions/Tours Info Online, Phone: 317-721-2322, www.meridianhillscoop.org

Montessori Centres Peace and respect for all is our main goal. Montessori Centres has worked with children to develop criticalthinking and time-management skills since 1966.

Montessori-certified lead teachers serve children aged 3-3rd grade. Classroom structure and materials allow children to be self-directed and self-paced. Our well-rounded curriculum includes French and Spanish, art, science, computer skilles, grace and courtesy, social studies, nature and outdoor gardening. 563 West Westfield Blvd., Indianapolis, IN 46208, Contact: Lynn Boone, Director, Phone:317-257-2224, Fax: 317-2573034, Email: montessoricentres@sbcglobal.net, www.montessoricentres.com/

SRES strives for academic excellence through its classic curriculum with innovative teaching methods; it also provides preparation and knowledge in areas such as faith, leadership, civic responsibility, and global readiness. St. Richard’s offers a rigorous academic curriculum, three world languages, public speaking and leadership opportunities, a strong fine arts program and organized athletics for continued lifetime success. Our newly redesigned Early Childhood Program uses brain-based research and proven instructional practices that lay the foundation in math and literacy skills. The program features unique field experiences, community partnerships, year-round offerings, and a full-day curriculum along with part-time options. 33 E. 33rd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205, Contact: Abby Williams, Director of Admission and Communications, 317-9260425 x134, Fax: 317-921-3367, awilliams@ strichardsschool.org, www.strichardsschool.org

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Polly Panda Preschool & Bridgford Kindergarten

Polly Panda provides a safe and healthy environment which enhances each child’s total growth. Our themebased hands-on preschool program provides a widerange of experiences that foster learning, creativity and problem solving in all areas. A child’s sense of selfworth, 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: pollypandaindy@sbcglobal.net, www.pollypanda.com

indianapolis // south The Children's Cottage The Children's Cottage is a privately owned preschool, providing a loving and playful environment for toddlers thru school age children. Our compassionate and experienced staff offers a developmentally appropriate curriculum that stimulates creativity and promotes learning through play. Our small classrooms provide the individual attention your child needs and deserves. We are a paths to quality level three. Please call for more information or to set up a tour. 5935 S. Shelby St, Indianapolis, IN 46227, Contact Ann Derheimer or Echo Shepheard 317-787-2990

multiple locations Indiana Council of Preschool Cooperatives: ICPC Indianapolis Area Preschool and Kindergarten Cooperatives Preschools: great for your child, great for you!

Children and parents learn and grow together in the classroom with caring, experienced teachers. Multiple Locations in Indianapolis Area, ICPC Line: 317-767-7596

Sycamore School At Sycamore, teachers trained in gifted education deliver a curriculum designed to challenge and engage gifted learners. Art, music, Spanish, PE and technology are taught at all levels. Extensive field trips, athletics, child care, financial aid, and a wide variety of after school activities are offered. 1750 W. 64th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Dr. Susan Karpicke, Director of Admissions.

317-202-2500, Fax: 317-202-2501, skarpicke@ sycamoreschool.org, www.sycamoreschool.org

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, NAEYS accredited. 615 W. 64th St., Indianapolis, IN 46260, Contact: Kristen Hein, Director of Admissions, Phone: 317-713-5705, Fax: 317-254-8454, Email: khein@ orchard.org, www.orchard.org

Swan, Phone: 317-335-1158, Email: kswangma@gmail. com, Type of School: Montessori, Ages/Grades: 3-5 years, Before/After School Care: yes, www.gmacademy.org

indianapolis // northeast Geist Montessori Academy The mission of Geist Montessori Academy's Pre-K program is to provide an environment where children can develop to their highest potential academically, emotionally, physically, morally and socially. We offer half day and full day programs for children ages three to five. Our Pre-K directress is AMS certified with nineteen years experience.

13942 E 96th St, McCordsville, IN 46055, Contact: Karen

Maria Montessori International Academy Maria Montessori International Academy offers a child centered Montessori program allowing children to learn at their own pace and to be treated with respect. Children learn how to think for themselves and how to solve problems in original and creative ways and have a positive self-image.

Children participate in math, language, music, art, practical life, science, geography, and foreign language.

The lead teachers possess bachelor degree and certification in Montessori Education. Offering programs for infants, pre-k, kindergarten and elementary. Indianapolis - 7507 N. Michigan Rd. - 317-291-5557, Zionsville - 4370 Weston Pointe - 317-769-2220, Carmel - 3500 106th St. & Shelborne - 317-733-9204, indymontessori@msn.com, www.mariamontessori-intl.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: 317-8670158, Fax: 317-896-5945, Email: montessoriwestfield@gmail.com, www.montessorischoolof westfield.com

z ionsville Advent Lutheran Preschool Advent offers a Christian learning environment for children ages 2 through 5, including a half-day kindergarten. Our well-balanced program supports emotional, social, cognitive, physical and spiritual development. All children, regardless of faith or church affiliation, are welcome. Call to schedule a tour. Registration is open for the 2014-15 school year. 11250 N. Michigan Rd., Zionsville, IN 46077, Contact: Deb Trewartha, Phone:

317-873-6318, Email: dtrewartha@ adventlutheran.org, www.advent lutheran.org/298544.ihtml; Type of School: Early Childhood; Hours/Dates: Mornings and afternoons Monday through Friday. See website for details; Ages/Grades: Ages 2-5; Mom's Morning Out, Preschool, Pre-K and day Kindergarten; Open House Dates: Call to schedule a tour.

Zionsville Community Schools Universal Preschool The ZCS Universal Preschool provides a hands-on learning experience, focused on the whole child, in an inclusive and supportive environment that ensures maximum child growth, for life-long learning.We will provide a quality program through: Organizing the environment so it is conducive to success, Providing specific directions and instructions, Acknowledging and encouraging each child’s efforts, Creating challenges and supporting children in extending their capabilities. The Indiana Foundations for Young Children will be a resource/framework for UP. Preschool Sites are at Boone Meadow, Pleasant View and Union Elementary Schools.

900 Mulberry St., Zionsville, IN 46077, Phone: 317-873-1251, Email: GROW@ zcs.k12.in.us, http://zcsgrow.zcs. k12.in.us

[ childcare ] Peanut Butter and Jelly 24/7 Childcare PB&J is a childcare that is a safe, nurturing environment where your child will get the attention and care that he or she needs. We are licensed and always working to meet and exceed all health and safety guidelines. You can rest assured that your child will be cared for with the utmost kindness, love and respect . Open late for lots of flexiblity. Stop in for more info. Follow us on twitter @ pbj247childcare. 5501 E. 71st Street #7B, Indianapolis, IN 46220, Contact: Anita Beck. Phone: 317-205-9211, Email: peanutbutter_jelly18@yahoo.com, www.peanutbutterjelly.info

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GOING GLUTEN & CASEIN FREE // Does this diet affect those with autism?

Karen Ring

overlook other key factors that may be contributing to changes in behavior. “We support the families we work with in their decisions, but we also want our families to be educated consumers,” Minshawi-Patterson said.

The gluten-free/casein-free (GFCF) diet is gaining popularity as an alternative treatment for children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). When it comes to determining the diet’s effectiveness in this regard, however, the jury is still out.

Despite the lack of consensus on the diet’s role in treating autism, most practitioners agree that it may benefit children with ASDs who also suffer gluten sensitivity disorders, such as celiac disease. Parents of children who are experiencing gastrointestinal distress are advised to consult a gastroenterologist to determine if gluten could be the culprit.

The GFCF diet is a strict elimination program in which all items containing gluten (found in wheat, barley and rye) and casein (found in milk and dairy products) are removed from one’s daily food intake.

The interest in this regimen is due in part to the widespread theory that gastrointestinal abnormalities influence autism-related behaviors through gut-brain interactions.

Proponents of this theory believe that children with ASDs are unable to break down the dietary proteins in gluten and casein, resulting in the formation of opioid-like peptides (amino acids that are similar to proteins). Gut-brain advocates also tend to believe that children with ASDs suffer from a permeable or “leaky” gut, which in turn allows these peptides to enter the bloodstream, travel to the brain and contribute to the neurobehavioral symptoms associated with autism.

Staci Small, MA, RD, owner of The Wellness Philosophy Inc., is experienced in implementing the GFCF diet for children with ASDs and has found that many of the families she works with see exceptional improvements in their child.

“Most parents are interested in trying the gluten and casein free diet because they have heard positive testimonies from other parents who

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have also tried the diet. Once parents, teachers and caregivers observe the positive results, they become believers,” Small said. She noted that the most common positive outcomes parents tend to observe are increased speech, less difficult behavior, better sleep, more comfortable stools and increased interest in trying new and healthier foods.

Others are not so quick to make the gut-brain connection. According to Noha MinshawiPatterson, PhD, Clinical Director of the Riley Hospital for Children at IU Health Christian Sarkine Autism Treatment Center, the gut-brain connection as it relates to autism has yet to be substantiated. She added that the evidence used to support the implementation of the GFCF diet in those with ASDs is strictly anecdotal.

Noha Minshawi-Patterson was quick to point out that this is not intended to discredit those who are seeing results. She believes, however, that it is important to take a deeper look into what is truly causing those results so as not to

Regardless of the reasoning for implementing a GFCF diet, Small strongly encourages families to consult a health care provider when making any dietary change for their child. She performs a detailed nutrition assessment with each of her clients before beginning any special diet in order to monitor potential nutrient deficiencies.

“Essential nutrients such as calcium need to be replaced when removing all sources of dairy.

The B vitamins and essential minerals derived from grains can still be obtained through gluten-free grains such as quinoa, rice and amaranth,” Small added.

There is still much to be learned about the role, if any, the GFCF diet plays in the treatment of autism. As with any treatment option, it is essential that parents work closely with their team of health care providers to determine what is in the best interest of their child.

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OLDER KIDS AND THE IEP

// Getting tweens and teens involved in the process Trisha Shepherd

If you are raising a tween or teen who is on the autism spectrum, chances are you’ve given lots of thought to how their life will look once they’re adults. Special education experts say getting these children personally involved with creating their own Individualized Education Plan (IEP) can be a big factor in their success in school and beyond.

Focus on vision Every public school student in the United States who receives special education services must have an IEP, a tool that helps teachers, parents and school administrators work together to improve the child’s education. Focusing on the future is the key to a successful IEP, according to Cathy Pratt with the Indiana Resource Center for Autism. Pratt trains educators across the state and connects families with autism resources for their child. “We sit down with the individual and ask, ‘Where do you see yourself being in a few years?’” explains Pratt. She says the teen’s own input is a critical ingredient in a successful IEP. “If they are engaged in the process of developing the next steps for themselves, the likelihood of success is greater.

A group of people my age sitting around the table may not have the same set of expectations.”

Dr. Karol Farrell is director of Special Services for the Metropolitan School District of Washington Township on Indianapolis’ north side. Her program serves approximately 215 students with autism. “Our teachers do a very nice job seeking out information from students prior to the conference,” explains Dr. Farrell. “It empowers the student to have a voice for him or 34

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herself.” If the child is non-verbal or has difficulty communicating, Dr. Farrell says adults should look for other ways to determine what the child likes, wants and needs. “A particular child may not necessarily use the words we use, or the kind of communication we use, but all students communicate,” says Dr. Farrell.

Pratt says with the unemployment rate for people on the autism spectrum currently at 75%, it’s important for family members to help their teens make connections that ultimately open doors to employment. After all, as she points out, “A lot of us have opportunities because of the connections we have.”

Establish realistic career goals

And when students with autism have the right tools to support their journeys, educators like Dr. Farrell find immense joy in seeing the positive results. “Nothing makes your day better than hearing a success story.”

Many teens with autism have special interest areas that they may hope to turn into a career.

“The trick is, an interest area does not always turn into a job,” says Pratt. “A lot of kids on the autism spectrum really want to design video games. I don’t know that the world has room for that many people who want to work on video games. It’s a process of finding out what their desires are, but also finding out what are reasonable and realistic career goals.”

Push doors open Real experience in the workforce is a powerful tool to equip your teen for a successful future.

“During the school years, we can be putting students in job sites and helping build their resumes for them,” says Pratt. She points to programs like Project Search, which links students with special needs to hospital jobs that can evolve into permanent jobs. As kids get older, Pratt says their Individualized Transition Plan (ITP) should start driving what is in their IEP. “Don’t wait until your child is ready to leave school to start thinking about transition planning.

Preparation is key,” advises Pratt. “Too often I get phone calls from families that say, ‘My child is 24, he is unemployed.’ We want these individuals as adults to be successful.”

Families who want more guidance in the IEP development process may also want to consider investing in expert support services. The non-profit Autism Society of Indiana (ASI) offers a Special Education Ally service for a cost of $1,000. The program includes consultation, review of educational records, writing and reviewing letters, reviewing IEP’s and following up on implementation, attending the Case Conference Meeting and providing follow-up support. ASI says IEP development and implementation is one of its highest-demand services today.

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AUGUST SPECIAL NEEDS EVENTS

SPECIAL NEEDS CALENDAR 0 6 W E DNE SDAY

baca Z’ s “Fun in the Sun” with Lakeshore Learning Materials Time: 4:30 PM Price: Free Location: BACA-Z , Zionsville

Cuenta Conmigo Time: 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM Price: Free Location: Down Syndrome Indiana

07 T H U R SDAY

Down Syndrome Indiana's Madison Hancock Playgroup Time: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Price: Free Location: Pendleton Park

09 S AT U RDAY

8th Annual Open House, Fly-In and Air Race Benefiting Down Syndrome Indiana Time: 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM Price: Free Admission Location: Indianapolis Executive Airport www.montgomeryaviation.net A day of flying, food, fun and family all supporting an important cause. There will be an airplane air race, hot dog lunch, parachute fly-in, face painting, magic, and more.

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1 2 T U E SDAY

Down Syndrome Indiana's D. A . D. S. Time: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Price: DADS covers meals, but not alcoholic drinks Location: George's Neighborhood Grill

14 T H U R SDAY

19 T U E SDAY

The Villages of Indiana information session for potential foster parents Time: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Location: The Villages, Indianapolis

20 W E DN E SDAY

Roadmap to Special Education: Laws and Process, Indianapolis

Autism Family Resource Center Parents’ Support Group

Time: 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM Price: Free Location: Speedway United Methodist Church This workshop, combining the Article 7 Special Education Law and Individualized Education Program (IEP) training, is all day training that offers basic information about special education laws and regulations for Indiana children ages 3-21. In addition, this training will provide information on how to prepare for a case conference and write an IEP.

Time: 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM Price: Free Location: Easter Seals Crossroads

21 T H U R SDAY

Madison Hancock Playgroup Time: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Price: Free Location: Mt. Comfort United Methodist Church

The Role of Enzymes in Autism, Food Intolerances and Gut Issues Time: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM Price: Free and open to the public Location: Cornerstone Autism Center, Greenwood

15 F R IDAY

Autism Family Resource Center Parents' Night Out: North Time: 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM Price: Free Location: Trinity Wesleyan Church (Kids Kastle)

2 3 S AT U RDAY

Living Without's Gluten-Free Allergy Fest Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 AM Price: $15 Location: Indiana State Fairgrounds Agriculture Horticulture Building www.gffafest.com Come celebrate Living Well. Sample tons of gluten-free, allergy-friendly foods, learn from experts in the community, and "hang out with others who understand our world."

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INDY 'S CHILD SPECIAL NEEDS SECTION

SPECIAL NEEDS RESOURCES

SPECIAL NEEDS GUIDE ABA Autism Services by Damar ABA provides proven research-based treatments and interventions for children with Autism and their families, ensuring that children learn, gain confidence and purpose, and engage in meaningful interactions in their everyday lives. 9905 Fall Creek Road, Indianapolis, IN 46256, Contact: Kristin Dovenmuehle, Director, Phone: 317-813-4690, Email: info@damar.org, www.DamarABA.org

Applied Behavior Center for Autism Carmel The mission of the Applied Behavior Center for Autism is to provide high quality ABA and Verbal Behavior therapy and consulting services to children and their families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders by using researched based ABA methodology delivered by highly qualified and certified professionals to increase language skills, social skills, academic skills, and reduce problematic behavior. 13431 Old Meridian St, Carmel, IN 46032, Contact: Jenny Lanham, Phone: 317-573-KIDS, Email: jennyL@appliedbehaviorcenter.org, www.appliedbehaviorcenter.org

Applied Behavior Center for Autism Indy North

Behavior Analysis Center for Autism BACA

The mission of the Applied Behavior Center for Autism is to provide high quality ABA and Verbal Behavior therapy and consulting services to children and their families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders by using researched based ABA methodology delivered by highly qualified and certified professionals to increase language skills, social skills, academic skills, and reduce problematic behavior. 7901 E. 88th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46256, Contact: Jenny Lanham, Phone: 317-849-5437, ext 112, Email: jennyL@appliedbehaviorcenter.org, www.appliedbehaviorcenter.org

The Behavior Analysis Center for Autism (BACA) has four locations throughout Indiana. This includes BACA 1 and Prep in Fishers, BACA Z in Zionsville and BACA Hart in Elkhart. BACA uses the principles and procedures of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to teach language, social, self-help, academic, daily living and life skills to children ages 2-21 with autism and related disorders. BACA was established by Dr. Carl Sundberg and a group of highly trained Board Certified Behavior Analysts. 11902 Lakeside Drive, Fishers, IN 46038, Contact: Devon Sundberg, Phone: 317-288-5232, Email: dsundberg@thebaca.com, www.thebaca.com

Applied Behavior Center for Autism Indy West

Children's Dentistry of Indianapolis

The mission of the Applied Behavior Center for Autism is to provide high quality ABA and Verbal Behavior therapy and consulting services to children and their families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders by using researched based ABA methodology delivered by highly qualified and certified professionals to increase language skills, social skills, academic skills, and reduce problematic behavior. 6865 Parkdale Place, Indianapolis, IN 46254, Contact: Jenny Lanham, Phone: 317-849-5437 ext 112, Email: jennyL@appliedbehaviorcenter.org, www.appliedbehaviorcenter.org

ASD Services of Indiana Applied Behavior Center for Autism Early Childhood Center This center houses some of our clients ages 2 to 6. At the Early Childhood Center, typical peers are also present, and therapeutic opportunities for interaction are incorporated into many of the children's individualized treatment plans. A program designed to facilitate transition into an on-site behavior analytic preschool program with typical peers is also offered to appropriate candidates. 7857 E. 88th St, Indianapolis, IN 46256, Contact: Jenny Lanham, Phone: 317.849.KIDS ext 112, Email: jennyL@appliedbehaviorcenter.org, www.appliedbehaviorcenter.org

Applied Behavior Center for Autism Greenwood The mission of the Applied Behavior Center for Autism is to provide high quality ABA and Verbal Behavior therapy and consulting services to children and their families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders by using researched based ABA methodology delivered by highly qualified and certified professionals to increase language skills, social skills, academic skills, and reduce problematic behavior. Address: 374 Meridian Parke Lane, Greenwood, IN 46142, Contact: Jenny Lanham, Phone: 317-889-KIDS, Email: jennyL@appliedbehaviorcenter.org, www.appliedbehaviorcenter.org

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ASD Services is dedicated to serving children through adults with autism or other diagnosis in their homes and in the community. Our mission is to teach each individual the skills they need to lead their most independent life. Contact: Leah McKenzie, MS, BCBA Executive Director, Phone: 317-695-7876, Fax: 317-7477786, Email: lmckenzie@asdservicesofindiana.org, www.asdservicesofindiana.org

Pediatric dentistry for children and special needs patients of all ages. Our main priority is to make every patient & parent/guardian feel comfortable and deliver the highest quality of care based on individual needs. We treat you like family! 9240 N. Meridian ste 120, Indianapolis, IN, Contact: Tina, Practice Manager, Phone: 317-580-9199, Email: childrensdentistrystaff@yahoo.com, www.indychildrensdentist.com

Children's Therapy Connection

Children’s Therapy Connection is a therapist-owned and family-operated pediatric therapy provider in Indianapolis. We strive to be the provider of choice in central Indiana for quality, comprehensive, and family-centered pediatric therapy services for families of children with disabilities. Services we offer include: First Steps, private PT, OT, and Speech Therapy, Social Skills/Communication/Gross Motor Playgroups, Feeding Groups, Kindermusik, Apraxia Groups, Hanen Programs, and Therapeutic Yoga for Kids. Visit our website or follow us on Facebook to see how we are Connecting Kids with Their Potential!

7424 Shadeland Station Way, Indianapolis, IN 46256, Phone: 317-288-7606, Email: info childrenstherapy connection.com, www.childrenstherapyconnection.com

Autism Consultation Individually designed behavior and academic support and intervention strategies for families and children dealing with Autism Spectrum Disorders. With 35+ years experience in special education in public schools I am comfortable attending IEP meetings to advocate for the family and child.

Introductory meeting at no charge. Providing service to central Indiana, Contact: Mika Adams, Phone: 866-9683698, Email: mikaadams@sbcglobal.net, www.autismconsultation.net

[ C O N TA C T ] JENNICA@INDYSCHILD.COM T O H AV E YO U R L I S T I N G INCLUDED!

Special Smiles Pediatric Dentistry Dr. Satterfield-Siegel is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist specializing in providing dental care for infants, children and patients that have special needs. We provide routine dental care, fillings, in office sedations and hospital dentistry for all of our patients. We build long-lasting relationships with our families through active listening and understanding. New patients are welcomed! 10801 N Michigan Rd Suite 210, Carmel, IN 46077, Contact: Jennifer Satterfield-Siegel, D.D.S., Phone: (317) 873 3448, Email: info@specialsmilesdentistry.com, www.specialsmilesdentistry.com

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ENRICHMENT RESOURCES

AFTER SCHOOL & ENRICHMENT GUIDE Crouching Tigers Over 70 locations in Central Indiana Contact: Olivia Roney, President Phone: (888) 761-5151 Email: info@crouchingtigers.com www.crouchingtigers.com Crouching Tigers offers mindful martial arts classes for ages 2-8.

Join our resilience program in the fall of 2014 to experience our positive approach to peer aggression prevention.

D a n c e C l a s s St u d i o 154 Medical Drive, Carmel, IN 46032 Contact: Rhonda Kaspar Phone: 317-566-9960 Fax: 317-733-9641 Email: danceclassstudio@yahoo. com www.danceclasscarmel.com Join the little studio that makes a BIG difference. Always age appropriate costumes, movements, & music. We respect you and your child. Great recreational classes for children, teens and adults. Award Winning Competition Teams also available. Classes start in August, Register Today!

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Fox Hill Dance Ac a d e m y , I n c .

2255 Fox Hill Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46228 Contact: Betty Wright, President Phone: 317-255-0173 Fax: 317-731-4093 Email: Bjzwdancer@gmail.com www.foxhilldanceacademy.com Ballet, tap, hiphop. Adults and children. Walk in registration Mon. & Fri. 1-5 and Weds. 2-6.

G l e n d a l e S o cc e r League 3975 E. 79th St. (Wyandotte School), Indianapolis, IN Contact: Mike Shannon Phone: 317-281-6747 Email: glendalesoccer@yahoo. com www.glendalesoccer.org An all volunteer, community based recreational soccer league for all ages. Promotes fun, exercise and community spirit.

Legacy Music Lessons

MYAR T

Contact: Irini Jennings Phone: 317-946-3020 Email: contact@ legacymusiclessons.com www.legacymusiclessons.com

Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville & Zionsville Contact: Barb Hegeman, Zionsville/Sylvia Runningen, Carmel, Fishers & Noblesville Phone: Barb 317-7743729(DRAW), Sylvia 317-443-6831 Email: barb@myartindy.com, sylvia@myartindy.com www.myartindy.com

We provide music lessons at students' homes in Indianapolis and its suburbs. Professional teachers instructing in various instruments such as piano, violin, voice, guitar and more.

Meridian Music 12725 Old Meridian Street, Carmel, IN 46032 Contact: Hillary Blake, Director of Education Phone: 317-575-9588 Email: hblake@meridianmusic. com www.meridianmusic.com Meridian Music offers private lessons on almost every intrument.

Harmony Road courses are also offered for children between the ages of 18 months and 6 years.

Myart offers weekly art classes for all ages from 4 to beginner adult.

Students learn drawing and painting and are taught how to work in a variety of mediums including markers, oil and chalk pastels, watercolor, acrylics, colored pencil and charcoal.

Classes are ongoing so you may start anytime. Myart also offers school break art camps & workshops, painting events for adults and children, private painting parties, birthday parties, and classes for scout troops.

Locations: 622 South Rangeline Road, Suite M, Carmel /12244 E. 116th St., Fishers /39 North 10th St., Noblesville/80 W. Pine St., Zionsville

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Forest Dale Elementary School in Carmel, says, “When reviewing class assignments, the focus needs to be on what the child learned rather than the letter grade or percentage earned.”

p e r fe ctio nist

KIDS W h e n o n ly a n A + w i l l d o Steffy McCourt

i

t seems like a problem that really isn’t one – a child who is obsessed with achieving top grades in school. The irony is that this preoccupation often gets in the way of real learning.

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Compounding the situation, with technology keeping the classroom door open 24 hours a day, a parent can see a child’s grades on homework, quizzes and tests as soon as they are posted. The child’s grades then become the primary topic of parent-child conversations about school. In contrast, Cindy Senseman, a fourth grade teacher at

Dr. Jinger Atteberry, clinical psychologist and registered play therapist in Indianapolis, says “I think parents today are under a great deal of pressure to have children who make good grades, as if a child's grades have become the best measure of good parenting. This focus on this arbitrary and subjective measure causes parents to check a child's homework, have them correct it and then turn in 'perfect' homework. Thus, homework doesn't become about a child learning and making mistakes, but a ‘finished product’. The message to children is that there is little room in childhood for experimentation and learning and mistakes.”

For kids (and parents) fixated solely on achievement, the stakes become even higher as children progress into high school, where grades are seen as the measuring stick that colleges and universities use to decide whether or not to accept a student.

A recent article by journalist David A. Graham which appeared in The Atlantic looked at what it takes to get into Harvard these days. Hint: It’s more than grades. “’We could fill our class twice over with valedictorians,’ Harvard President Drew Gilpin Faust told an audience at the Aspen Ideas Festival, sponsored by the Aspen Institute and The Atlantic… That means admissions officers rely on intangibles like interesting essays or particularly unusual recommendations to decide who comprises the 5.9 percent of applicants who get in.

Faust's top tip for raising a Harvard man or woman: ‘Make your children interesting!’”

And to make a child “interesting” a child must be interested in learning, not necessarily in achieving the highest grade possible.

Some kids are getting the message.

McKenna Kirkwood, a recent graduate of Guerin Catholic High School in Noblesville, says “It really isn't about the GPA. I would be happy with any grades I earned as long as I knew I was doing everything I could to try my best. So really the accomplishment is seeing myself grow into a stronger student than I thought I was. My motivation is not to achieve good grades, but to learn for the sake of learning. I enjoy presenting my ideas and engaging in classroom discussions. This has helped me to grow in confidence and motivation and know with hard work comes the reward of learning so much about the world and about myself.”

McKenna’s father, Martin Kirkwood, is the head of guidance at Guerin Catholic High School. He has this to say about helping a student develop a healthy attitude about school: “I would stress effort over performance. If a student has done all they can then they should be pleased with what they have accomplished.

I would stress that it is the effort that they can control and to encourage them to focus on this and not the things outside of their control.”

By changing the focus from performance to effort and emphasizing learning over letter grades, parents can help their report card-conscious kids develop a healthy attitude not only about school, but the many other endeavors they will pursue in life.

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AROUND TOWN

Adventures at the Zoo Continue into Cooler Months // Special programs make learning fun for the whole family Can’t get enough of the Indianapolis Zoo this summer? Continue your animal adventures this fall and winter with several new programs and a few memorable favorites.

Saturday Science Children can learn what it’s like to think like a true scientist while experiencing hands-on activities and behind-thescenes opportunities with the Zoo’s Saturday Science Workshops. Led by an education instructor, participants will use the scientific method to investigate zoological situations in a variety of three-hour programs.

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Upcoming sessions are available for multiple age groups from 6 to 12 with topics sure to delight everyone.

Participants can learn about the world of primates, investigate sharks, rays and eels, or take a closer look at coldclimate animals. Sessions are $25 for Zoo members and $30 for nonmembers.

discovering the world of a zoo veterinarian or dolphin trainer, or learning how zookeepers use science every day.

Zoo Explorers

Fall Family Overnight

If your children love the summer camp experience then the Zoo Explorer programs were created just for them!

Available programs are designed to examine what it takes to work with animals in a zoo. Options include

The kids can’t have all the fun by themselves, though. The whole family can spend quality time together during a Fall Family Overnight Adventure on Friday, October 17th. Enjoy ZooBoo presented by Central Indiana Honda

Zoo Explorer programs will be available in both October for fall break and January during winter break.

PHOTO CREDIT// Doug McSchooler

Dealers and learn what treats Zoo animals love as well as what tricks they use to survive in the wild. Families will participate in a variety of different activities, including pumpkin carving, games, animal stories and a special after-hours Zoo tour along with a visit to the bat exhibit.

Registration for fall and winter programs will begin on August 11th. Visit IndianapolisZoo.com for more information or to register.

C O M M E N TA R Y & PA R E N T I N G

Research to Real World: Mommy, Daddy, Read It Again!

Tonya Bergeson-Dana, PhD

Most of the current efforts for providing books and support for shared-reading programs are geared to high-risk, low-income young children. But, frankly, most American families could use some extra convincing to read aloud with their young children: According to the 2011-2012 National Survey of Children’s Health, 60% of highincome and 34% of low-income American families read to their children daily. Although it is exhausting to say goodnight to the light and the red balloon just one more time, another shared reading of Good Night Moon with your child is just what the doctor ordered.

You may have seen the newest recommendation from the American Academy of Pediatrics that pediatricians include reading to babies and young children in their long list of healthy to-dos for young parents, along with more expected recommendations such as putting babies to sleep on their backs and getting healthy proportions of fruits and vegetables. But what exactly is the scientific reason for reading Good Night Moon over and over again to your baby or toddler who may not be talking, let alone reading?

The claim is that reading aloud with very young children will not only enhance the social-emotional connections between parents and children, but will also enhance language-learning and early literacy skills. The more caregivers talk to their infants, the better their infants’ later language skills. Reading from books is one way to boost the amount of talk we provide to our children, and it can also enrich the vocabulary and complexity of their language.

Moreover, shared book reading provides a model for book reading that children will begin to imitate even prior to learning their ABCs. In one study, researchers from New York University followed a group of low-income mother-infant pairs. They measured the number of books in the home and the frequency of shared reading at 6 and 18 months. They found that reading aloud more than 4 days a week at 6 months decreased the need for early intervention services, and a greater number of books in the house at 18 months

predicted increased cognition (e.g., memory and fine motor skills) and language (e.g., auditory comprehension and producing vocalizations) at 21 months.

Of course, it might be easier to show improvement in low-income families than middle- or high-income families, who have been shown to provide more babytalk and potentially more shared reading to their infants. A 2005 study out of Vanderbilt University, however, asked middleclass parents to complete book reading and language development questionnaires and assessments when their infants were 4, 8, 12 and 16 months of age. They found that shared book reading at 8 months predicted infant language skills such as babbling or producing words at 12 and 16 months of age. Moreover, book reading at 4 months predicted

book reading at 8 months, suggesting that parents were relatively consistent in shared book reading over time.

During the preschool years, parents can build upon shared book reading by directing their child’s attention to the printed words on the page. In an effort to learn how attention to print affects literacy development, researchers from Ohio and Virginia teamed up along with teachers in 85 preschool classrooms. Teachers were randomly assigned to one of two groups, one of which was asked to reference the print (e.g., “did you see the letter A?” or using a finger to follow along the words) while reading, and the other did not reference the print. Children in the first group, with the print references, had better early literacy skills in reading, spelling and comprehension, than children in the no-print-reference group.

Cognitive psychologist Tonya BergesonDana combines her real world experience as a mother with her professional training as a researcher to provide parents with a practical way to apply the most current findings in childhood development research to their everyday life. Tonya is also a co-founder of The Urban Chalkboard playcafe, and welcome questions and feedback from readers at experiencematters@ theurbanchalkboard.com.

To read the full article outlining the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations, follow this link: http:// pediatrics.aappublications.org/ content/early/2014/06/19/peds.20141384.full.pdf

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10 tips for

T a l k i n g t o Tw e e n s L ay i ng th e g r ou n dwo r k fo r p os itive co m m u n ic atio n Jennifer Garcia

A

s any parent of a tween knows, this stage of development comes with its own unique set of challenges.

Tweens operate in that gray area between child and full blown teenager - straddling both worlds simultaneously. Some days their interests and actions are definitely childlike; other days their adolescent self is fully revealed. All of this can make relating to them more than a little difficult. The time to establish positive communication skills with your tween is now, in order to set the stage for future conversations when the consequences of their actions become even more important. What can parents do to start this process in the right direction?

1.

Model the behavior you want to see. Parents earn their children’s respect and admiration by acting with honesty, integrity and follow through. “If the parent makes promises that aren’t kept, it will erode any respect the child has for them,” says Brenda Truax, LMFT, marriage and family therapist with Families First Indiana, Inc. When difficult conversations come up, answer questions honestly – even on subjects about your own past.

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2.

Educate yourself.

Children glean their information from friends, television, magazines and the internet – and it’s hardly all accurate or unbiased. Don’t wait for your kids to come to you with questions, because they might not.

Truax suggests providing your tween with age-appropriate books on puberty, drugs and sex and read them yourself so you understand the issues that affect them.

3.

Focus on strengths.

4.

Try not to judge.

Think of yourself as your child’s coach. “A good coach tries to bring out the best in each team member, and gives direction in strengthening things that need improvement,” Truax says.

You may not understand why your tween made a decision, but you can talk about what they learned from their choice. “The brain does not fully develop until the mid-20s, and the last area to develop could loosely be called ‘judgment’” Truax says. When your tween makes a poor decision, help them work through how to make better choices in the future.

5.

Don’t let them off the hook. Boys may not always be the best communicators – keep them talking anyway. Girls tend to become less active during puberty – keep them active. Don’t let their excuses, or your own, get in the way of skills they need to be developing.

6.

Listen, listen, listen.

Conflicts arise when one or both sides feel they aren’t heard. Give your child the chance to tell their side of the story and clearly and calmly explain your point of view.

Try a technique called “reflective listening” in which you paraphrase what your child says back to them to demonstrate that you have really heard what they’ve said.

7.

Be open to change.

Talk as a family about rules and expectations, and consider tweaking old rules. “This gives the tween a little bit more control of their life,” says Truax. For example, if they want a later bedtime, let them stay up an extra 30 minutes for a week. If it works out well, this can become the new bedtime; if not, explain why they’ll be going back to the old bedtime.

8.

Let go – just a little. Children need to be

equipped to deal with the world outside of your home, and this can only happen when they are allowed to make some of their own decisions and see the consequences. “Parents and caregivers who keep this in mind will be better able to begin that process of letting go in small steps,” says Truax.

9.

Give them some space. Most children need some downtime when they get home from school – just like adults. When they’re ready to talk, ask specific, open-ended questions to encourage communication. For example, “What was the best thing that happened today?” will get a better response than “How was your day?”

10.

Get help if necessary. If communicating with your tween is going nowhere and you feel your relationship slipping, don’t hesitate to enlist some professional help. A family therapist can help identify conflicts, develop strategies for resolving problems and teach families how to improve their communication skills.

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KI D S EAT F REE GUIDE

Chili's Kids eat free Tuesdays

Greenwood: 1251 US Highway 31 North (317) 881-6240

Various participating locations

“ L e t ’ s e a t o u t ! ”. . . three words that every parent loves, particularly when kids can dine for free! Check out these twenty Indianapolis area restaurants that offer free kids meals! Restaurants typically require the purchase of an adult entree, and don’t forget to call ahead or check online to confirm as deals change periodically.

Applebees Kids eat free on Monday nights Various participating locations

E arth Fare Kids eat free Thursdays 4-8 pm Greenwood: 2110 East County Line Road (828) 281-4800 Carmel: 1392 S. Rangeline Road (317) 575-1741 Noblesvile: 13145 Levinson Lane (317) 773-3271

Various participating locations

Champps Americana Kids eat free on Tuesdays (excludes downtown and airport locations) Indy: 8711 N. River Crossing (317) 574-0333

Cheeseburger In Par adise Kids eat free on Tuesdays Indy: 4670 Southport Crossings Drive (317-883-4386) Fishers: 9770 Crosspoint Boulevard (317) 585-0247

Kids eat free Sundays and Tuesdays

L atitude 39

Indy: 3905 East 96th Street (317) 574-0101

Kids eat and bowl free on Monday nights 4-9 pm

Indy downtown: 1 Virginia Avenue (317) 571-0808

Indy: 4016 East 82nd Street (317) 813-6565

Carmel: 110 West Main Street (317) 644-3456

MCL

St e a k ' n S h a k e

Kids eat free Monday - Wednesday

Kids eat free Saturdays and Sundays (dine in only)

Indy: Castleton, Township Line Rd, 10th Street, Broad Ripple, Arlington, Speedway, also Avon and Carmel

Various participating locations

Granite City Kids eat free Sundays after 5 pm (excludes downtown location) Indy: 150 West 96th Street (317) 218-7185

Bo b E va n s Kids eat free Tuesday nights

Sc o tt y ' s Brewhouse

I l l i n o i s St r e e t Food Emporium Kids eat free on Fridays after 4:30 pm Indy: 5550 North Illinois Street (317) 253-9513

M a x a n d E r m a’s Kids eat free Tuesdays Greenwood: 8817 US 31 (317) 882-4477

T.G . I . F r i days Kids 3 & under eat free on Mondays and Tuesdays (excludes downtown location) Various participating locations

Carmel: 12195 North Meridian (317) 705-9788

Three Wisemen Brewery Moe’s Southwest Grill Sundays and Wednesdays after 4 pm

Kids eat free on Tuesdays Indy: 1021 Broad Ripple Avenue (317) 255-5151

Various participating locations

IHOP Kids eat free daily 4-8 pm

P e n n St a t i o n

Various participating locations

Kids eat free Tuesdays 5 pm - close Various participating locations

Johnny Rockets Kids eat free Wednesday 5-9 pm (excludes downtown location)

Red Robin

Castleton: 6020 East 82nd Street (317) 849-9993

Various participating locations

Would you like to see your restaur ant listed in our Kids Eat Free guides ?

Email Wendy at s.wendy@ indyschild.com.

Kids eat free on Tuesday nights

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D A I LY E V E N T S / / A U G U S T 2 0 1 4

calendar 01 F R IDAY Glow in the Park Time: 9-11 p.m.

Price: $25- $55 Phone: 313-304-0903 Location: Eagle Creek Park http://glowintheparkrun.com/ indianapolis2014/ The best way to light up the night. The ultimate party fun run. But most importantly, it’s the freakin’ awesome foam-pitsfluorescent-colors-blacklights-glowingwarpaint-dance-moves night you’ll never forget. A portion of our proceeds will benefit the American Diabetes Association.

Movies in the Park – Despicable Me 2 Time: 9:30-11 p.m.

Price: Free Location: West Park http://carmelclayparks.com/be-active/ events#movies-in-the-park Pack up the family, grab your snacks, and enjoy the fresh air while you watch a movie on the big screen. Movies begin at sundown.

Kona Ice will be selling shaved ice for your enjoyment.

An annual fund raising event for Riley Children's Hospital, open to kids from infant to 5 year-olds. There are four categories for participation: Beautiful, Comical, Fashionable and Precious. All contestants get a professional photo shoot. And winners are awarded trophies and a chance to win a modeling contract.

03 SUN DAY IMA ANIMATION DAY: FILM & ART-MAKING WORKSHOP Time: 1-4 p.m.

Price: $2 IMA Members | $5 Public | Free for children 6 and under Location: Indianapolis Museum of Art http://www.imamuseum.org/film/ animation-day-film-art-making-work Academy Award® nominee for Best Animated Feature, Ernest & Celestine will bring a smile to faces and warmth to hearts. It is well known that mice and bears are never to mingle, however an unlikely pair become fast friends as they turn each other’s worlds upside down by simply being themselves. Be inspired to create your own watercolor friend after the film. This program is recommended for ages 6 and up.

05 T U E SDAY 02 S AT U RDAY Kidz Fun Run 5k and Pool Party Times: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Price: $10.00 Phone: 317-582-1550 Location: Five Seasons Sports Club Indy www.kidzfunrun.com The inaugural Kids Fun Run 5K and Pool Party, benefiting Riley Hospital for Children, will kick off the month of August in an exciting way! For just $10, children can race, and then attend the best pool party in town.

In addition to swimming, kids will enjoy bounce houses, hair painting, water games, live music and more! Interested in volunteering for the event? Call Jaclyn at 317-575-1783.

2014 Indianapolis' Most Photogenic Babies Through Sunday, August 3rd Time: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Price: $35 Phone: 904-608-4818 Location: Sheraton/Fashion Mall http://photogenicbaby.com/home.html 50

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$2 Taste of the State Fair Time: 8 a.m.-11 p.m.

Price: $10 General Admission Location: Indiana Fair Grounds www.in.gov/statefair/fair/gen_info/ special_days.html $2 food specials all around the Fairgrounds at the Indiana State Fair.

Community Tuesday at the Indiana State Museum Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Location: Indiana State Muesum www.indianamuseum.org Guests will receive a 50% discount off standard admission fees on the first Tuesday of the month. Please note that this discount is good for full-fee admissions only, and cannot be redeemed in conjunction with any other discount or promotion.

07 T H U R SDAY Show Choir Phone: 317-844-3363 Location: Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room

// AUGUST 2014 www.carmel.lib.in.us For children ages 4-6 on their own.

9:30-10:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

Come sing and dance in a show choir class for little ones! During this fun workshop presented by the International Talent Academy, children will learn fun dances and songs from different cultures around the world! Free registration is required and begins Thursday, July 31, online, in person, or by calling 844-3363.

Free Admission Night at The Children's Museum!

Time: 4-8 p.m.

Price: FREE Location: The Children's Museum https://www.childrensmuseum.org Explore the world’s biggest and best children’s museum for free! Come one, come all!This is a place where you’ll make discoveries, spark your creativity, be transported to other times and places, get your hands in sand and water, climb and jump.. and have a ball doing it all.

Prairie Tykes: "Teddy Bear Picnic" Time: 9:30-11 a.m.

Price: $12/youth; $11/youth member Phone: 317-776-6000 Location: Conner Prairie Interactive History Park http://connerprairie.org/ Bond with your little ones during these fun children’s classes that include crafts, stories, games and hands-on activities. Bring your teddy bear and head outside to enjoy the sun and play historical games. Decorate a frame and we’ll take a picture of you and your teddy bear to take home.

09 S AT U RDAY 8th Annual Open House, Fly-In and Air Race Benefiting Down Syndrome Indiana Time: 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Price: Free Admission Location: Indianapolis Executive Airport www.montgomeryaviation.net A day of flying, food, fun and family all supporting an important cause. There will be an airplane air race, hot dog lunch, parachute fly-in, face painting, magic, and more.

National Amphibian Expo (NAE) Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Price: $8 General Admission (Senior and Student Discounts Available) Phone: 410-960-5255 Location: Atherton Student Union (Reilly Room) www.naexpo.org Show and sale of captive born amphibians, tropical plants, and supplies for captive care.

All proceeds from this event will benefit Amphibian Ark. VINTAGE VEHICLE EXPO Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Price: FREE Location: Cool Creek Park http://do317.com/events/2014/8/9/ vintage-vehicle-expo Enjoy classic vehicles, fun entertainment and exciting giveaways..old-fashioned fun for all ages!

1 2 T U E SDAY 08 F R IDAY Play Nintendo Tour Through Sunday, August 10th Time: 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Price: Free Location: Castleton Square Mall Nintendo is hosting its three-month national “Play Nintendo Tour” in Indianapolis! The event will bring a giant video game playground to life and give attendees the opportunity to play popular Nintendo 2DS games featuring their favorite characters!

Attendees will also have the chance to meet costumed Nintendo characters.

20 Min Pick a Park Cardio Blast Workout Time: 11-11:30 a.m.

Price: FREE Phone: 317-274-3432 Location: Check the NIFS facebook page on Mondays for the park location of the week www.facebook.com/NIFSindy FREE twenty minute workout with instructors from the National Institute for Fitness and Sport (NIFS) in downtown Indianapolis. Check out the NIFS Facebook page for weekly updates on location.

14 T H U R SDAY Back to School Night with the Indiana Fever Time: 7 p.m.

Price: Tickets start around $11 Location: Bankers Life Fieldhouse www.wnba.com/fever/tickets/2014single-game-tickets.html Two for One Thursday presented by Indiana Members Credit Union!

15 F R IDAY Holliday Park Family Friday Night Campfire: Bats Time: 7-8:30 p.m.

Price: $5/individual Phone: 317-327-7180 Location: Holliday Park Nature Center www.hollidaypark.org Tired of spending your Friday night in front of the TV? Come share in a fun adventure for the whole family. We will start with time around the campfire and then focus on the topic of the evening. We will provide roasting sticks and s'mores, you are welcome to bring hot dogs and make a meal of it! All ages, pre-registration required.

16 S AT U RDAY Playfit Back to School Time: 10 a.m.

Location: The Children's Museum www.childrensmuseum.org Start your school year the right way by learning how to stay healthy and happy with fitness activities and nutritional information.

Pottery: Hand Building and Wood Firing Time: 1-5 p.m.

Price: $115/non-member ($105/member) Phone: 317-776-6000 Location: Conner Prairie Interactive History Park www.connerprairie.org Learn techniques of basic hand building, with a focus on coil building and decorating redware pottery. Study Native American designs for inspiration to make your own vessel. Then work with your classmates to wood fire the dried pots using a traditional pit-firing method. The firing will take place on Saturday, September 6, from 8 am-12 pm.

Ages 14+.

17 SUNDAY Dig In, A Taste of Indiana Time: 12-5 p.m.

Price: $35 ($45 after Aug. 13) Location: White River State Park http://digindiana.org

35+ Indiana chefs, brewers, vintners and food artisans, food trucks, and vendors will showcase a bevy of prepared dishes and beverages.

19 T U E SDAY Indiana Historical Society Author Series Time: 12-1 p.m.

Price: Free Phone: 317-232-1882 Location: Indiana Historical Society www.indianahistory.org Writing Local History Today guides local historians through the process of researching, writing and publishing their work. Author Thomas Mason presents a step-by-step advice to guide aspiring authors to a successful publication and focus – not only on how to write well– but also how to market and sell their work.

20 W E DN E SDAY Butterfly & Natural Habitat Gardens Time: 7:30 p.m.

Phone: 317-844-3362 Location: John Hensel Government Center www.carmel.lib.in.us By using the right kinds of plants and flowers that butterflies love to feed on, you can have a yard full of butterflies throughout the growing season. David Richey, Master Gardener with the Hamilton County Master Gardener Association, will help you learn how to design your own butterfly garden. No registration is required. For more information, call the Carmel Library’s Reference desk at 844-3362.

22 F R IDAY Pre-School Splash Bash Time: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Price: $10/adult - Kids Free Location: The Waterpark, Monon Center http://carmelclayparks.com/be-active/ events#pre-school-splash-bash Splash and play the morning away at The Waterpark. While the big kids are back in school and The Waterpark begins post-season hours, we open it back up for one more morning where you and your kiddos can take over. Swim in the kiddle pool, activity pool, and lazy river, along with fun games and crafts all morning. Don’t miss out on the fun.

2 3 S AT U RDAY Back to Football Colts 5K Time: 8 a.m.-12 p.m.

Price: : Register before June 30th at 11:59pm EDT for $35 Phone: 317-262-8600 Location: Lucas Oil Stadium

www.colts.com/fanzone/events/run. html#start Experience the thrill of NFL football when you finish across the 50 yard line at Lucas Oil Stadium All participants receive a Colts 5K t-shirt. Kids can also join in the fun by participating in the Kid’s PLAY 60 Fun Run for just $15 A portion of the proceeds will benefit the IU Health Simon Cancer Center.

Color in Motion 5K Time: 9 a.m.

Price: Pre-registraion: $27.50, Day of Race: $50 Location: Indiana Fair Grounds http://colorinmotion5k.com/Indianapolis Join The Color Movement™ with us as we party at the Indiana State Fairgrounds! As it gets closer to the event prices will rise!

Register now so you don't miss out on all the fun & color!

Living Without's GlutenFree Food Allergy Fest Through Sunday, August 24th Time: 10-5 a.m.

Price: $15 Location: Indiana State Fairgrounds www.gffafest.com/ Sample tons of gluten-free, allergy-friendly foods, learn from experts in the community, and "hang out with others who understand our world." Come celebrate Living Well.

25 MON DAY Mother-Daughter Book Club Time: 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Phone: 317-844-3363 Location: Carmel Clay Public Library Book Club Room www.carmel.lib.in.us For girls in grades 4-5 & their mothers. We will meet to discuss Escaping the Giant Wave

by Peg Kehret. Kyle thinks a family vacation on the coast will be great until the evening his parents leave him in charge of his younger sister, BeeBee, and an earthquake starts a fire in their hotel! As they flee, a giant tsunami wave crashes over the hotel and the town, charging up the hillside where the children are running for their lives.

27 W E DN E SDAY Drop-In Play Date Time: 10-11:30 a.m.

Location: Carmel Clay Public Library Storytime Room www.carmel.lib.in.us For children ages 0-3 & their caregivers.

Looking for a fun, informal outing with your children and friends? We’re having a play date in the Storytime Room! Bring your babies and toddlers and pick your favorite

activities – you’ll have plenty to choose from.

No registration is required.

28 T H U R SDAY Little Green Thumbs Time: 10-11 a.m.

Price: $5 Location: Garfield Park Conservatory www.garfieldgardensconservatory.org Bring your little gardener to get their hands dirty in the Children's Garden. Participants will have the opportunity to plant, care for, and harvest crops in the Garden. Registration required.

29 F R IDAY Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve Time: 8:30-10:30 p.m.

Price: Reservations/$4 No Reservations/$6 Phone: 317-595-3150 Location: Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve www.fishers.in.us/Index.aspx?NID=157 Nothing says summertime like an evening with the family around the campfire. Pack up your campfire favorites and spend the evening with us! Enjoy roasting hot dogs or making s’mores (we will provide marshmallows) then explore a topic during the remainder of the evening.

30 S AT U RDAY Cattle Auction Time: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Price: Included in admission: $15 adults, $10 youth 2-12, free under 2 & membe Phone: 317-776-6000 Location: Conner Prairie Interactive History Park www.connerprairie.org Come learn about the cattle of Prairietown as the townspeople get ready to put their prize cattle up for auction. Help with the grooming of the cattle to prepare them for sale and take them through an obstacle course to see which ones are easiest to drive. Be a judge at the butter making contest. Will you have a winning bid at this (fictitious) auction?

Activities starting at 10am, auction at 2pm.

NOTE // At Indy's Child, we work hard to ensure our calendar and guide information is accurate.

Occasionally, event specifics change after we go to press.

Therefore, we encourage our readers to call locations or visit them on the web to verify information.

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// ONGOING EVENTS Indiana State Fair Occurring Daily Beginning August 1st through 17th Time: 8 a.m.-11:30 p.m.

Price: General Admission: $10, Children 5 & under FREE Location: Indiana Fair Grounds www.in.gov/statefair/ Summer is culminated at the Indiana State Fair as we relish unforgettable time spent with family and friends each year. The Indiana State Fair continues to exemplify the very best in Indiana from our grand 4-H competition to the beautiful draft horse shows to daily concerts on stages throughout the grounds.

Terra Cotta Warriors Exhibit Through Sunday, November 2nd Cost: See website for ticket pricing Phone: (317) 334-3322 Where: The Children's Museum of Indianapolis www.childrensmuseum.org/ An army of thousands, buried for centuries, protecting an emperor's tomb - come see the Terra Cotta Warriors in their only U.S. appearance in 2014! Examine more than 100 ancient artifacts and enjoy hands-on interactives that will let families become part of the research team and explore the scientific research underway that helps us picture the army in its original vibrant colors.

Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation Junior Master Naturalist Occurring Daily through August 8th Time: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Phone: 317-848-7275 Location: Carmel Clay Parks www.carmelclayparks.com Earn your Junior Master Naturalist certificate and pin. The mission of this program is to bring together natural resource specialists with young people to foster an understanding of Indiana's plants, water, soils and wildlife, and promote volunteer service in local communities.

Gen Con Gaming Convention Occurring Daily Beginning August 14th through 17th Location: Indiana Convention Center www.gencon.com Gen Con is the original, longest-running, best-attended, gaming convention in the world!

Featuring hundreds of game companies, award-winning authors and artists, costumed attendees, more than 10,000 events, a Family Fun Pavilion, and the debut of exciting new games, Gen Con truly is The Best Four Days in Gaming™!

Devour Downtown Summerfest in Indianapolis Occurring Daiy Beginning August 18th through 31st Location: 70 downtown Indy restaurants www.devourdowntown.org Some 70 downtown Indy restaurants offer 3-course, value-priced menus.

Friday Parties on the Farm Occurring Each Friday Time: 5-9 p.m.

Phone: 317-733-1700 Location: Traders Point Creamery www.traderspointcreamery.com Come celebrate summer at our Friday night parties, all season long. Nothing says a Hoosier Friday night like our open-air dining and drinks under the big Indiana sky. Join us for fresh air and farm fare at our Dinner on the Deck (5-9pm).

Guests can gather on our garden lawn to listen to live music, visit our bar, and relax on our umbrella pallets. Enjoy farm-to-table food fresh from the garden and hot off the grill and roasting pit. And shop at our Green Market (5-8pm), where local vendors offer sustainable fare and artisan wares to fill your own kitchens.

Animals and All That Jazz Occurring Each Thursday Through August 14th Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Price: Included with regular Zoo admission and free for Zoo members Phone: 317-630-2035 Location: Indianapolis Zoo www.indianapoliszoo.com/ Animals and All That Jazz presented by Indiana Members Credit Union will allow you to sit back, relax, and enjoy music and fun with animals and rides available until 7pm. This season the new International Orangutan Center will serve as the backdrop in the middle of Zoo grounds. Picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and lawn chairs are welcome.

Ice Age Giants: The Mystery of Mammoths & Mastodons Through Sunday, August 17th Cost: included with admission Where: Indiana State Museum Phone: 317-232-1637 www.indianamuseum.org/ The exhibition explores Ice Age animals and their environments, what happens at a real dig site and the research that helps us to understand prehistoric mammals. The exhibit also features real mounted skeletons and casts of Ice Age animals, as well as fossil tusks and skulls.

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M O N T H LY M A R K E T P L A C E

MARKETPLACE E N T E R TA I N M E N T + S E RVI C E S + C HI L D C A R E + S T UDI E S + CLASSES...

A ND M O R E

FOOD

E N T E R TA I N M E N T

DE VE LOP ME NT S TUDY

CHILDCARE

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D E N TA L S E R V I C E S

CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE

FA M I LY R E C R E AT I O N

FUN &WACKY I N D Y ' S C H I L D // A U G U S T 2 0 1 4

sun

mon

tues

weds

Sources // familycrafts.about.com, brownielocks.com, holidayinsights.com, zanyholidays.com & thenibble.com

thurs

fri sat

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