Bp summer issue 2

SUMMER 2016

MATERNITY LEAVE IS ENDING – NOW WHAT?

TO SPEND THE DAY TOGETHER

inside >>

Kindergarten readiness B L O O M I N G T O N PA R E N T M A G A Z I N E // s u m m e r 2 0 1 6

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CON TENTS

CONTENTS AG ES & STAG E S

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T H I S IS MY B A BY ?

W HY YO U R N E W B O R N’ S APPEA RA N C E M I GH T SUR PR I SE YO U

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W HO ’ S R EA DY F OR S C HO OL?

C HI L D R E N’ S B OOKS T HAT SUP P O RT S C HO OL RE A D I N E SS S K IL L S

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A LO O K AT STUTTE RI NG

S PE E CH DI F F IC U LT IE S ARE MO RE CO MMO N T H AN YO U MIG H T T H INK

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PA RE NTS WH O A L LOW UND E RAG E D RI NK I NG

H OW TO ADDRE SS T H E P R O B L E M W IT H YO U R T E E N

FAM ILY

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M AT E RN IT Y LEAV E IS E N D IN G — NOW WH AT?

LO CA L F E AT U R E S

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H I D D E N G E MS T H E B E ST FINDS ONLY THE LOCALS KNOW YO UR A MA Z I NG B RAIN! T H E LAT E ST WONDER LAB EXHI BI TI ON LOCAL SPOTLIGHT: A DOG WITH A SPECIAL PURPOSE HOW ONE FURRY FRIEND IS IMPACTING LOCAL LIVES

G UI DES

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B LOOMINGTON’S B EST PARKS

GR EAT DESTI NATI ONS FOR YOUR SUMMER BUCKET LI ST!

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WHAT’S COOL AFTER SCHOOL

FUN ACTI VI TI ES FOR YOUR STUDENT TO TRY !

W I L L YO U R E T U R N TO WO R K OR STAY H O ME ?

A L L A B OU T DA D SI X T E E N F U N WAYS TO S P E N D T H E DAY TO G E T H E R

T HE DOG DAYS OF S U MMER EV E RY DO G S H O U L D H AV E H I S DAY!

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I N EVERY I SSUE

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WACKY CALENDAR

A FEW DAYS WORTH CELEBR ATI NG THI S SUMMER !

ON THE COVER LY DI A S UE // AG E 2 This bubble fanatic toddler loves to watch Bubble Guppies, and Lion Guard. When she is not watching her favorite shows, she is having long conversations with her pet fish “Charley-Boy”, and riding her John Deer Gator around the yard.

P HOTO LY NETTE W EBER P HOTOG R A P HY

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GREETINGS

M E E T T H E S TA F F PUBLISHER Mary Wynne Cox | Mary@bloomingtonparentmagazine.com

E D I TO R Susan Bryant | Susan@bloomingtonparentmagazine.com

A S S O C I AT E P U B L I S H E R Jordan Dehaven | Jordan@bloomingtonparentmagazine.com

W E B D E V E LO P E R Wendy Cox | Wendy@bloomingtonparentmagazine.com

A DV E R T I S I N G C O O R D I N ATO R Karen RIng | Karen@bloomingtonparentmagazine.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kahlie Cannon | Kahlie@bloomingtonparentmagazine.com

B U S I N E S S M A N AG E R Roxanne Burns | Roxanne@bloomingtonparentmagazine.com

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SWEET SUMMERTIME

f your child had to describe their perfect summer day, what would it include? Bike rides, ice cream and a run through the sprinkler? Pool parties, sleepovers and a trip to the amusement park? What would yours look like? Mine would involve a lot less activity – I’m thinking a good book, a warm breeze and the soft sway of a porch swing would do it for me. That’s the great thing about a “perfect” summer day – there are so many ways to define it.

If you need a few ideas for making your summer great, we have plenty of inspiration in this issue! Our friends at Visit Bloomington have given us the lowdown on what to see and do all around town in Bloomington’s Best Parks.

Looking for some fun activities for the kids to do with Dad? We’ve got 16 suggestions for fatherly fun in All About Dad. And if your family includes a canine or two, you’ll want to read The Dog Days of Summer for a list of pup-friendly spots in our area.

INTERN Meg Wynne | Meg@bloomingtonparentmagazine.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Erica Frazier Stum, Melissa Glidden, K.F. Carlson, Carson Quinn, Jennifer Spencer, Greg Meitus, Louise Schlesinger, Kilah Galvan, and Julie Warren

What else can you find in this issue? We’re glad you asked! Info on newborns, tips on preschool readiness, afterschool activities, maternity leave issues…the list goes on. Our goal is to cover a range of interesting and helpful parenting topics, but let us know if you think we’ve missed something you would like to see. We would love to hear your suggestions!

Thank you for picking up the latest issue of Bloomington Parent (and please stop by our website and Facebook page!) Here’s hoping you soak up all the fun this season brings and each summer day is more perfect than the last.

S USA N BRYA N T E DI TO R su sa n @ b lo o min g to n p a re n tma g a z in e.co m

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S A L E S D I R E C TO R Macie Mulvaney | Macy@bloomingtonparentmagazine.com

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CA L E N DA R O F E V E N T S calendar@bloomingtonparentmagazine.com

C O N TAC T U S bloomingtonparent@bloomingtonparentmagazine.com

COPYRIGHT Bloomington Parent Magazine is published quarterly. Copyright 2016 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 bloomingtonparentmagazine.com.

SNIPPETS FUN FACT When do babies typically give their first real smile?

• 3 weeks old • 2 months old • 5 months old Expect that first adorable, toothless grin from your bundle of joy at about 2 months. Here’s a tip for coaxing a few more smiles: Hold your baby very close (think 8-12 inches away), smile big and talk in that sing-song voice little babies love.

Source: www.webmd.com/parenting

FORE! Did you know that golf is only one of two sports played on the moon? Apollo 14 member Alan Shepherd hit a ball with a six-iron in 1971. He had to swing onehanded because of his pressure suit.

(What was the other sport? A javelin throw!)

Source: www.blog.golfnow.com

WHAT? WE’RE NOT THE ONLY B-TOWN?!

It’s true. Here are some other cities that go by “our” name: Baltimore, Maryland Bloomington, Minnesota Burlington, North Carolina Billings, Montana Birmingham, England Berlin, Germany Bollywood, India Source: www.acronyms.thefreedictionary. com/B-town

list of everything to do in our area with your furry friend.

Source: www.cesar.com

WHO KNEW? The rare books collection in Indiana University’s Lilly Library has production scripts for Laugh In, Star Trek and Mission Impossible, among other famous television shows.

Source: www.newsinfo.iu.edu

OVER 200 No, that’s not how many times your child will say “I’m bored!” this summer. It’s how many miles of trails are available in Bloomington!

So get the whole family outside (and unplugged from their devices) to enjoy a hike together along one of the many beautiful paths in our area.

Source: www.visitbloomington.com

1 OUT OF 3 That’s how many pet owners admit to talking to their dogs over the answering machine! If you have a special bond with your pup, be sure to head to page 16 for a B L O O M I N G T O N PA R E N T M A G A Z I N E // s u m m e r 2 0 1 6

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BABIES

THIS IS MY BABY? WHY YOUR NEWBORN’S APPEARANCE MIGHT SURPRISE YOU

BY M EL I SSA G L I D D EN

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or months, expectant parents dream of the instant their newborn baby enters the world and is placed in their arms – an adorable chubby-cheeked cherub, just like in the magazines.

Instead, many new moms and dads are shocked when they’re handed babies with swollen faces, unexplained bruises, body hair and even heads that appear oddly cone-shaped. So what gives?

WHAT TO REALLY EXPECT Julie Kathman, Executive Director of Women and Children’s Services at Indiana University Health Bloomington Hospital, says that no two deliveries are the same, so all babies come out looking differently. “Media portrays chubby, wide awake, quiet newborns,” says Kathman, “but that is not usually the case.”

Kathman, who has been a nurse since 1989 and a clinical nurse specialist for women and children for almost ten years, breaks down some of the most common (and surprising) physical features of brand new babies.

VERNIX Not every newborn emerges from the womb covered in the white, cheese-textured substance called vernix caseosa, but when they do, it can be a little surprising. “Vernix begins to develop in the second half of pregnancy and is absorbed close to birth,” says Kathman, who explains that vernix has antibacterial properties and helps protect the baby’s skin from months of exposure to amniotic fluid in the mother’s womb. “Babies that are born early may have more vernix than those babies born later.”

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CONEHEADS “When you compare the size of a newborn’s head to the mother’s birth canal, you can begin to appreciate why a baby’s skull is made up of soft bony plates that can overlap and compress,” says Kathman. These flexible, bony plates are the reason why many babies are born with heads that are cone-shaped. “When a baby’s head settles into the pelvis early, or with long labors, the continuous pressure on the head leads to the cone shape, or molding,” says Kathman. The baby’s head will typically become more round within a short period of time after birth, but Kathman says parents can help facilitate the process. “Make sure you’re changing the baby’s position often while holding them, supervising tummy time and not leaving the baby for long periods in swings or seats.”

LANUGO Lanugo is the soft, downy hair that covers the baby’s body and appears around the fifth month of pregnancy. It holds vernix in place, provides insulation and helps keep the baby’s body temperature regulated, says Kathman. “For most babies, it falls

off right before birth, but if the baby is born early, lanugo will still be present.”

SWELLING AND UNEVEN SKIN TONE Giving birth is hard work, but so is being born. When you meet your baby for the first time, don’t be surprised if they look a little roughed up. Some swelling and bruising is common in newborns.

Many parents become concerned when they notice their newborn baby’s feet and hands look slightly blue, or that their skin appears to be very red. Kathman says not to worry. “[A newborn’s] color is usually very dark red, and sometimes purple, as they transition from circulation that is dependent on the mother before birth, to our normal circulation that uses lungs for oxygen supply.”

Kathman says the common, blueish appearance of a newborn’s hands and feet is called acrocyanosis, and can last for several weeks. “Once babies can adjust to the environmental temperature, they are able to control their blood flow better and hands and feet become pink.”

AND THAT’S NOT ALL… Your baby may arrive with more unexpected surprises as well. Here are some other common features among newborns: • MONGOLIAN SPOTS: Light, flat, bruise-like markings that appear on about 80% of babies born to parents of African-American, Asian or Indian descent, disappearing by around age 4 • “STORK-BITES”: Small, red patches on a baby’s face and neck resulting from small, immature blood vessels • MILIA: Tiny, white bumps on a baby’s nose (and sometimes the forehead or chin) that disappear on their own Source: Stanford Children’s Health, www.stanfordchildrens.org

The bottom line: your newborn probably won’t emerge from the womb ready for their close-up, but knowing what to expect can help new parents stay calm and enjoy the magic of falling in love at first sight.

What surprised you?

These local parents weigh in on what surprised them most about their newborns’ appearance .

“My daughter was in the birthing canal for so long that when she came out, she literally had a conehead...like the old SNL skit, the Coneheads! I must have looked concerned – my doctor quickly told me not to worry, that the conehead would go down. It did go down within 24 hours. She was the most beautiful baby.” - Naomi M. “When my second son was born via c-section, his ears were both folded down completely. I was worried, but the doctor said that some babies are born like that and they would pop into shape within a week or so. They did! Now my son is 8, with perfectly normal ears, though he thinks it’s pretty cool that he can fold the entire top of his ears down and tuck them in.” - Laura H. “I had a c-section, and when the nurse brought me my baby my first words were that he was huge! He had a conehead, but my husband assured me it would go away. I was mostly shocked by his size, and the amount of hair he had – my son came out needing a haircut!” - Jessica R.

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TODDLERS

WHO’S READY FOR SCHOOL? CHILDREN’S BOOKS THAT SUPPORT SCHOOL READINESS SKILLS

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BY ME L I SSA G L I DD E N

ooking for a tried and true recipe for readying your little scholar for kindergarten?

“One of the very best ways parents can prepare their children for kindergarten is by reading to them again and again,” says kindergarten teacher Donna Adkins, recipient of the 2004 Arkansas Teacher of the Year Award, in an article on GreatSchools.org entitled “Kindergarten: ready or not?”

It’s true. Far and wide, professionals in early childhood education say that reading daily with your child is a surefire way to help them be ready for school. What does kindergarten readiness look like exactly?

According to an April 2008 study published by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) entitled “School Readiness,” children who are ready for kindergarten should possess the following: • Physical well-being and motor development. Children beginning kindergarten should be reasonably healthy, and should be able to do things like hold a pencil or cut with scissors. They should also be starting to write their name.

• General knowledge and cognition. School-ready children should have a basic understanding of sound-letter association, number concepts and spatial relations.

If that seems like a lot, don’t fret! Try these book recommendations for a fun way to encourage these skills.

BOOKS THAT TEACH HEALTH, WELLNESS AND MOTOR SKILLS From Head to Toe

by Eric Carle This colorful book by Eric Carle invites children to kick their feet, wiggle their toes, shrug their shoulders and move like the animals featured in the book.

I Will Never Not Ever Eat a Tomato

by Lauren Child From the critically acclaimed Charlie and Lola series, this book features a young girl (Lola) who refuses to eat healthy foods until her brother (Charlie) shows her how fun they can be by giving the foods new, silly and creative names.

• Social and emotional skills. These skills include turn-taking, cooperation, empathy and the ability to use words to describe their emotions.

BOOKS THAT TEACH SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL SKILLS

• An enthusiasm for learning. A school-ready child should be expressing curiosity about their environment, family, friends and more.

Zen Ties

by Jon J. Muth

• Language development. Listening, speaking and vocabulary skills are important, as well as an awareness of printed letters, story structures and writing and drawing processes.

Stillwater the panda asks his nephew Koo, and Koo’s friends Addy, Michael and Karl to help someone who they believe is nothing but a grouchy old neighbor. The friends are hesitant, but helping their neighbor teaches them about compassion and connection.

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In My Heart: A Book of Feelings

by Jo Witek

turn to speak, and share their thoughts at more appropriate times.

Each colorful page of this book describes common feelings in unique and accessible ways. Children will be able to make connections between how emotions feel physically, and the words associated with those feelings.

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt

by Michael Rosen

BOOKS THAT PROMOTE AN ENTHUSIASM FOR LEARNING

This classic children’s book is fun to read with its rhythmic repetitions of the sounds of nature, like “swishy swashy” for the sound of grass in the wind and “splash splosh” for the sound of the river, which helps children begin to recognize letter sounds and speech patterns.

How Do Dinosaurs Go to School?

by Jane Yolen and Mark Teague

BOOKS THAT TEACH LETTERS AND NUMBERS

From the beloved “How Do Dinosaurs” series, this book not only gets children excited about attending school, but also helps teach them how to behave in class while empathetically taking into account a child’s naturally rambunctious nature.

The Magic School Bus

by Joanna Cole This classic series gets both parents and children excited to learn about everything from the solar system to the human body.

The enthusiasm of the students and their teacher, Ms. Frizzle, is infectious, and complex concepts are illustrated in ways that even preschoolers can understand and enjoy.

BOOKS THAT TEACH LANGUAGE SKILLS My Mouth is a Volcano!

by Julia Cook Louis has a difficult time being quiet and listening because all of his thoughts feel so important to him. This book helps children learn how to wait their

One Was Johnny

by Maurice Sendak Johnny is trying to enjoy a quiet evening by himself, but one by one, creatures and animals keep visiting him until he has to get them to leave. Children can count the creatures as they arrive, and as they depart, while also enjoying a fun story by acclaimed author Maurice Sendak (Where the Wild Things Are).

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom

by Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault Bright, lively little lowercase letters make their way up a coconut tree in this sing-song story that helps children begin identifying letters (both lowercase and uppercase) by sight. Will there be enough room in the coconut tree for all 26 letters?

Whether you choose titles from our list or have your own tried and true favorites, reading together has the power not only to strengthen the bond between parent and child, but help provide a solid foundation for academic success. So grab a book this summer, find a cozy spot and cuddle up with your little learner!

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SCHOOL AGE R S

Famous People Who Stutter

A LOOK AT STUTTERING

Nicole Kidman Elvis Presley Bruce Willis James Earl Jones Emily Blunt Shaquille O’Neal Tiger Woods Charles Darwin Joe Biden Marilyn Monroe Charlie Sheen Carly Simon Bill Walton John Updike Andrew Lloyd Webber Tim Gunn B.B. King Winston Churchill

SPEECH DIFFICULTIES ARE MORE COMMON THAN YOU MIGHT THINK

BY CARSON QUI N N

H

earing your child’s first words is something a parent never forgets.

When you really think about it, it’s amazing what it takes to go from imitating simple sounds to becoming completely fluent in a language. Along the way however, it’s not unusual to have a few bumps in the road.

Disfluency, which includes any breaks or irregularities in speech like stuttering, happens to many children as they learn to speak. Experts say the onset of stuttering is typically between 2 and 5 years of age, with the median age around 30 to 38 months.

“Some children go through periods of increased disfluency particularly during periods of rapid speech and language growth,” says Dr. Julie Anderson, Associate Professor and Coordinator of the Graduate Program in SpeechLanguage Pathology in the Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences at Indiana University. “These children, however, can be differentiated from children who are in the early stages of stuttering.”

About five percent of kids have a period during childhood when they stutter, many times lasting for six months or longer.

About 75 percent of those children will no longer having any difficulty by late childhood, with as few as one percent

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having a long term issue. That’s according to the Stuttering Foundation, a nonprofit organization focused on the prevention and treatment of stuttering. Despite these statistics, it can be quite worrisome if your child is the one having an issue.

“On average, approximately 50 percent of individuals who stutter have a family history of stuttering,” says Anderson. “This suggests that there may be a genetic component to stuttering for at least some individuals.”

What can you do if you have a child who is struggling with their speech? “I always tell parents that they should interact with their child like they would any child. That means, not interrupting or finishing their sentences, telling them to stop or slow down, think before you speak, etc.,” says Anderson. “In general, the best thing a parent can do to help their child is to slow their speaking rate down and avoid ‘talking over’ or interrupting their child’s speech.

This serves, among other things, to slow the overall pace of conversation down to a level that is more comfortable for the child, making them more likely to be fluent.”

If your child is avoiding saying certain words, not finishing their sentences or feeling self-conscious about their speech,

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Source: The Stuttering Foundation, www.stutteringhelp.org

schedule an evaluation. “The longer a child has been stuttering, the more likely it is to become chronic in nature,” says Anderson.

“If a child is still stuttering by the time they are 6 or 7 years of age, the odds are much higher that they will continue to stutter.

A good speech language pathologist can not only assess whether the child is exhibiting signs and symptoms of stuttering, but also determine the likelihood that that child will continue to stutter. It is important for children who are at a high risk for continuing to stutter to receive intervention sooner rather than later in hopes of preventing it from becoming a chronic problem and the child from developing negative reactions to it.”

While a period of stuttering or other speech difficulties is not uncommon among children, it can be a source of embarrassment and feeling self-conscious about talking – which only adds to the problem. If you have any concerns about your child’s speech, consult with your pediatrician or a speech language pathologist for next steps. If intervention is warranted, the sooner it begins the sooner progress can be made.

Books about Stuttering for Young Readers Emily Umily

by Kathy Corrigan

Jeremy and the Hippo

by Gail Wilson Lew

Ben Has Something to Say: A Story About Stuttering

by Laurie Lears

The Legend of the Veery Bird

by Kathleen Hague

Glue Fingers

by Matt Christopher

Mary Marony Series

by Suzie Kline

The Adventures of Phil Carrot

by Michael Sugarman and Kim C. Swain

Sometimes I Just Stutter

by Eelco de Geus

T EENS

PARENTS WHO ALLOW UNDERAGE DRINKING

BY JEN N I F ER SP EN C ER , P H D

My 16-year-old son recently went to a party at his best friend’s house where kids were drinking. The parents were home and seemed to take the philosophy of “kids will be kids” – apparently being unconcerned about the potential risks involved. To complicate matters, these are family friends of ours. How do we address this issue with our son – and them?

DEVELOPMENTAL ISSUES

Some parents believe that their adolescents will be drinking, regardless of the parents’ rules. Their thought is generally that if the kid is going to do it anyway, at least they will be off the road and safe at home.

Parents need to be very aware that adolescents are pushing boundaries as part of their development, and if parents allow drinking, it is easy for kids to assume they can do what they want in other areas too.

LEGAL CONSEQUENCES

VALUES

This is a dangerous game for your children to be playing. Adolescents will tell their other friends they can drink at that house.

All kinds of bad outcomes can result with the home becoming known as the “party house” where there is little or no oversight.

The police may be called by another teen’s parents or a neighbor, and the adults in the home can be charged legally. The children can also be charged with underage drinking. What they view as a fun night can change into your child having a juvenile criminal history.

You are also modeling your own ethics and values for your teen. If you are too afraid to talk to your family friends about them allowing children to drink in their home, you also need to think about the model this presents to your son. Do you want him to dismiss his own values because it is uncomfortable or awkward? Do you want your son to be afraid to stand up for his own beliefs for fear someone won’t like him? Isn’t this what you are doing if you don’t talk to your own friends about your discomfort with their behavior? If you have concerns about your son’s safety

Your adolescent is learning how to navigate in the adult world, and still needs your help. The model you set as a parent is never more important than during the teen years. A parent who condones children breaking the rules, or in this case the law, is sending a message that this is okay and that the parent is no longer an authority.

or well-being, and do not intervene, this sets an example for him about protecting himself that he could follow as an adult.

It also sends the message that your own friendship with the other child’s parents is more important to you than your son’s safety.

WHAT SHOULD I DO? The most obvious place to start is to talk to your friends. Tell them you are not comfortable with your underage son drinking at their house. Ask them if they are willing to stop allowing this so that your son can visit. Their position is difficult to defend, and it is likely they will simply stop, as requested. If they really are your friends, they will respect your wishes about this. However, if they say no, offer to host your son’s friends at your house instead.

The other important discussion is with your son. Explain to him that you can’t have him drinking at this age, pointing out reasons why this is risky for him. This should be a conversation, where you listen to his

concerns and feelings, and validate the difficult position this may put him in with his friends. This does not mean you allow the behavior, but only that you show him you understand the issue is hard for him.

He may be angry, but it is possible that he is also uncomfortable with the situation.

He may actually be relieved to tell his friends that he is not allowed to be at these parties. Either way, it is your job as his parent to help him negotiate these tough situations, and give him the tools he needs to manage them successfully.

Dr. Spencer is a psychologist with twenty five years in practice. She is the owner of Spencer Psychology, a group practice in Bloomington that sees adults, adolescents and children. The practice focuses on research validated treatments including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and a neurological reprocessing technique (EMDR) for clients who have experienced trauma.

More information is available at www.spencerpsychology.com.

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MOMS

Are both partners on board with one parent staying home?

In order for this situation to be successful, both parents have to be behind the decision. The stay-at-home parent and the parent who will be working outside the home each need to understand and appreciate the importance of the role the other plays. Communication will be important to make sure no one feels undervalued and that each person feels supported.

What will you miss from your job?

MATERNITY LEAVE IS ENDING – NOW WHAT? CONSIDERING A DECISION TO RETURN TO WORK OR STAY HOME

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BY ER I C A F R A ZI ER ST UM

hese weeks off from work with your new baby have been a whirlwind.

Now that your leave is almost over, how do you feel about going back to your job? Some moms know that when leave is up, they will be ready to return to work (or that quitting their job is not financially possible.) Other moms may feel that now is the right time to stay home full time. Both paths impact the whole family in important ways. Here are a few things to consider in your decision-making process.

STAYING HOME Is it financially possible for one parent to stay home full time?

First things first, sit down and consider a realistic weekly, monthly and annual budget.

Getting the opinion of a financial advisor may be worthwhile as he or she can help you think of unexpected expenses and how this decision may affect your long term goals.

John Laughlin, CPA, CFP® and financial planner, says his number one tip is to make sure your family has adequate insurance. Disability, life and liability insurance should be considered in the event that something were to happen to the primary income earner.

Also, consider if the sole income earner is able to contribute financially to an IRA or RothIRA retirement fund for the parent staying home.

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Staying home to be with your baby can be wonderful and incredibly fulfilling. It can also be repetitive and isolating. Think hard about what this change will mean to you. Will you miss the interaction of your coworkers? If you plan to return to work eventually, are you comfortable with how this decision will impact your career advancement? Are you interested in keeping some aspect of your job on a part-time basis? Talk with other moms who have made this transition for their input on what they did and didn’t expect.

RETURNING TO WORK If you plan to go back to work but would like your job to coordinate better with your new responsibilities as a parent, consider this:

Can your work schedule be adjusted?

Be brave and ask. Is there an opportunity to job share? Can you work from home part time? Can hours be adjusted from a typical 8 to 5 schedule? If your goal is to have more flexibility in your position, think about what you need and how this can work for your employer. Then approach your boss – you never know what’s possible unless you ask.

Danielle Englert, a Bloomington nurse and mother, told us that at the end of her leave she returned to work full time. She quickly realized she wanted to be available more for her daughter. It took about a year, but Danielle is now able to work part time.

Danielle says, “Let your desires be known about decreasing your time; this allows you to be considered if a position comes up.”

What childcare will you have in place?

There are many possibilities when it comes to childcare – what options work for your situation? If you are counting on family to step in, will that always be a reliable source? If you are choosing a daycare, what extended hours do they offer and is it close to work? Feeling good about whatever decision you make will allow you to be mentally present at work instead of worrying about your child.

What type of support system do you have in place?

Returning to work after having a baby is emotional – even if you like your job and are looking forward to getting back into your professional groove. Is your partner sensitive to the situation? Do you have friends, family or coworkers you can talk to about any struggles you face? Think about who you can count on during this time and don’t hesitate to reach out to them when you need to.

The end of maternity leave can be a time when many moms reevaluate their personal and professional life. Whether you decide to stay home or return to work, know that your child will benefit the most from having a parent who is genuinely happy with whatever choice they have made.

DADS

ALL ABOUT DAD 16 FUN WAYS TO SPEND THE DAY TOGETHER

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BY K I L A H G A LVA N

Park Pool or Mills Pool. IU Outdoor Pool offers lap lanes, diving boards and a smaller kid-sized pool. Bryan Park Pool is complete with waterslides and a zero depth activity pool. Kids at Mills Pool will love the 57-foot waterslide and water basketball. www.indiana.edu,

here is nothing quite like a day out with Dad, and with all that Bloomington has to offer, it’s easy to find an outing to match any interest. Here are a few ideas for activities dads and kids are sure to love.

www.bloomington.in.gov/bryant-park, www.bloomington.in.gov/mills-pool

For those seeking a little adventure, head over to Hoosier Heights indoor rock climbing; great for beginners and experienced climbers alike. Children of all ages can climb with a guardian present – and what’s more fun than challenging Dad to a rock climbing race?

www.hoosierheights.com

If you want to combine arcade fun with some physical activity, make a trip to Jump-n-Joey’s for games and bouncing.

Or hit up LaserLite for arcade games plus laser tag. www.jumpatjoeys.com,

www.lasertagandfun.com

Perhaps golf is a favorite pastime of Dad’s? Mix it up with a round of glow-inthe-dark golf! Check out Glow Golf at the College Mall for a new spin on classic fun. www.opryglowgolf.com

Want to express your creative side?

Drop into Wine and Canvas for their Cookie and Canvas class. Or visit be.CAUSE art gallery and studio and make a masterpiece together. www.wineandcanvas.com, www.becausebloomington.com

If story time is more your pace, head to the Monroe County Public Library where several fun activities occur

each week, divvied up by age group.

Barnes & Noble also offers a fantastic story time on Wednesdays at 11 a.m. and Fridays at 7 p.m., complete with a free snack and craft. www.mcpl.info, www.stores.barnesandnoble.com

Music is always a joy to share with your kids! Most Tuesdays this summer, free concerts will be held at People’s Park from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Check with Bloomington Parks and Recreation for specific shows and dates.

www.bloomington.in.gov

If you’re looking for a way to play out of the heat, the Banneker Community Center is a great play space with a large room full of toys

and adventures on the third floor – and it’s absolutely free to the public. www.bloomington.in.gov/banneker

The WonderLab should not be missed!

This hands-on kids’ science museum will engage children of all ages for hours, and Dad will likely get lost in play as well! www.wonderlab.org

Indiana University is not just for college students. Take a leisurely stroll together through the beautiful campus or make a trek through the greenhouses at Jordan Hall. Also, the Eskenazi Museum of Art is sure to excite curious scholars of all ages. www.bio.indiana.edu, wwww.artmuseum.indiana.edu

Last, but not least, grab a bite together at the Farmer’s Market at the Shower’s Plaza on Saturday mornings from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. or on Tuesday at the corner of 6th and Madison from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Or, pair your snack with music from local bands on Food Truck Fridays in the parking lot of The Chocolate Moose (and be sure to grab an ice cream cone while you’re at it!) www.bloomington.in.gov, www.moosebtown.com

So grab Dad and make a day of it! With so much to do close to home, there’s no shortage of “dad friendly” fun for everyone.

Kids love to play with Dad in the water!

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P ETS

THE DOG DAYS OF SUMMER BECAUSE EVERY DOG SHOULD HAVE HIS DAY!

BY K. F. C A R L SON

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t’s good to be a dog in Bloomington – our area caters to canines! And if you’re a real pet lover, your hound is a true member of the family. So why not treat him to a “doggie’s day out” this summer?

BARK PARKS

Don’t let sleeping dogs lie! As they say, “A tired dog is a happy dog.” Grab the ball and head outdoors!

Ferguson Dog Park www.bloomington.in.gov/dogpark Located at 4300 N. Stone Mill Road, this 18.7 acre park is sure to be a pup crowd pleaser. Drinking fountains and dog wash stations are included!

Karst Farm Dog Park www.mcparksandrec.org This park provides two separate enclosures and six-foot fence with double gates for dogs to roam safely. Check the “play time” hours to connect with other members and meet up for pooch playdates.

MOBILE GROOMERS Got a dirty dog after your big day at the park? These groomers can suds him up right at home.

Doggie Styles www.facebook.com/doggiestylesbloomington Doggie Styles is a local leader in pup pampering, so get your hound looking his best!

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Wash and Wag www.washandwagmobile.com

Bone Appetit Bakery www.barkingood.com

A highly regarded pet stylist, reviews suggest affordable pricing, efficiency and punctuality.

Hop in the car and head to Nashville where you can find a dog bakery specializing in all natural gourmet dog treats.

(Cat treats available too!)

DOG DAYCARE AND BOARDING Maybe your pooch wants to keep the fun going with a few other furry friends?

(And you need to get back to your humans!) Try these facilities to keep him busy, happy and safe.

BloomingPaws www.bloomingpaws.net Does your dog like to swim and splash? Play with friends? Then Bloomingpaws is for him! With several options to customize his time at daycare, he will never be bored or lonely at home during your work day.

The DogHouse www.trydoghouse.com Another home away from home option for your best friend, The DogHouse offers doggie care six days a week.

Your pup can enjoy the 3,000 square feet of backyard or lounge in one of five playrooms.

DOG TREATS Now that Spot is spotless, head out for a treat at a place meant just for pups.

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EXTRA DOG FUN Yappie Hours Series Save the date for September 30th for a community showing of the movie Bolt at the Ferguson Dog Park. Bring your whole family, let your dog play and enjoy an outdoor showing of this family flick together!

Get involved with the Monroe County Humane Association Help with special events and projects or look into becoming a registered pet therapy team to work in the community with your dog.

Volunteer with the Bloomington Animal Shelter Dog lovers are needed to take dogs for walks, assess canine personalities and take pictures of available animals to help with their adoption. You can even just borrow a dog for an hour to head out for some fun together!

There’s a reason dogs are called “man’s best friend” – they ask for so little and give so much. Show your pooch how much he means to your family with a day meant just for him. He’ll feel like a lucky dog… and so will you!

* B R A N D ED C ON T EN T

HIDDEN GEMS

CURRENT WONDERLAB EXHIBITION ILLUMINATES YOUR AMAZING BRAIN!

THE BEST FINDS ONLY THE LOCALS KNOW!

BY JULIE WA RREN , D I R EC TOR OF TOUR I SM , V I S I T B LO O M I N GTO N

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RI DD L E P O I N T PA R K

ummertime in Bloomington brings to mind two things: no college students and hot weather. It’s a reprieve from the congestion and high energy that the IU students bring, which is an asset most of the year. The heat usually takes hold in July and doesn’t let up until well after school starts, but thankfully Bloomington is filled with numerous swimming holes, plus a few indoor places to escape the heat. This summer, try out a couple of these hidden gems to cool off.

RIDDLE POINT PARK This little park on the shores of Lake Lemon offers all the beach amenities you want, but without the big crowds at Monroe. You’ll find it at the end of Tunnel Road, a scenic drive just east of Bloomington. The park features a swimming beach, bathhouse, shelter house and a short nature trail. At only $7 per car, Riddle Point Park is a great destination for a day of fun at the lake!

RIDDL E POIN T PA R K B EA C H

BY G R E G ME IT US, M ARK ET I NG D I RECTO R, WO N DE R L A B M U S E U M OF SCI ENCE, HEALT H AND T ECHNO LO GY

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onderLab’s vision is to build curious and creative problem solvers, inspired by the wonder of science. While it is often thought of as a “children’s museum,” its 65+ exhibits engage visitors of all ages.

PHOTO: LYNETTE WEBER PHOTOGRAPHY

MONROE COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY Although the library is not all that hidden (taking up a city block on busy Kirkwood Avenue) many parents aren’t familiar with everything the library offers. It’s more than just books! There’s a great toddler play room with age-appropriate toys, games and puzzles, and a cool resource center called The Ground Floor where teens can hang with their friends and use the digital creativity equipment on hand. The library also offers special programs for all age groups and unique exhibits – like a recent one featuring the artwork of Maurice Sendak. And of course there’s air conditioning, which always helps on a hot summer day!

M ONROE COU N TY PUBL IC L IB R A RY

“WonderLab offers visitors serious science, but we try to make the learning process fun,” says Karen Jepson-Innes, the Museum’s Associate Executive Director. “As we plan and design exhibits, we are always thinking about ways we can engage multiple generations of learners.”

WonderLab is constantly evolving to bring new hands-on science experiences to its visitors. “Your Amazing Brain!” is a special exhibition that runs through September 28. It is made up of a dozen separate exhibits that allow participants to view human and animal brains, measure their own reaction time, test their memory and sense of smell, view a model MRI machine and navigate a maze. They can also compete in the popular “Mindball” game, where

participants move a ball through the power of brain waves.

“Your Amazing Brain!” is the product of a collaborative process with scientists from Indiana University, who received grants to help create several of the exhibits. The exhibition also features colored photographs of neurons and other microscopic brain structures, provided by Indiana University faculty, that line the museum’s stairwell.

In addition to its special and permanent exhibits, WonderLab offers a variety of programs designed to engage participants in hands-on science learning. Each Tuesday in July, at 1 p.m., visitors will have the opportunity to explore “littleBits,” easy-to-use electronic building blocks that empower users to create various electronic devices without soldering, wiring or programming. In October, WonderLab will launch its next special exhibition, “Run! Jump! Fly!,” which will provide fun activities that demonstrate the positive health effects of physical activity.

WonderLab Museum of Science, Health and Technology is located at 308 W. Fourth St. on the B-Line trail. For more information, visit wonderlab.org

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LOCAL SP OT L I G HT

A DOG WITH A SPECIAL PURPOSE HOW ONE FURRY FRIEND IS IMPACTING LOCAL LIVES

BY LOUI SE SC HL ESI N G ER

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anika! It’s Kanika! The excited greetings echo down the hall of Grandview Elementary School as Kathy Morrison and Kanika, a golden retriever-black lab mix, make their weekly visit to the K-6 special education classroom. Kathy and Kanika are trained to provide animal-assisted therapy – a service they offer voluntarily in multiple Bloomington locations. At Grandview, the pair spend time with students who have disabilities engaging in activities designed to help each child reach his or her developmental goals.

One child delights in throwing a ball for Kanika to retrieve. To the student this is play, but the activity is also building her motor skills, her ability to follow directions and her awareness of cause and effect. Another child guides Kanika through halls crowded with kids from other classrooms. Through this activity, the boy is learning about appropriate behavior and engaging with his peers. “We’re laying down the foundation for learning,” says Kathy. “You cannot predict what these children will accomplish, but you can do everything in your power now to help them reach their full potential.”

Kanika became a part of the Morrison family as a service dog for their daughter Erin, who lived with cerebral palsy. Service dogs are highly trained to perform specific tasks – open doors, turn on lights, deliver requested items – for people with disabilities. Erin’s daily physical therapy to stretch her muscles was much more entertaining when it involved stroking Kanika’s back. She also relished the comfort of cuddling with her constant companion.

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KA N I KA A N D KATH Y MO RRI SO N

Kathy believes that Kanika’s most important role to Erin, however, was to serve as an icebreaker with other people.

Erin used a wheelchair, and Kathy noticed when they were out in public that her daughter was often looked at with sadness. But when Kanika was beside Erin, people smiled and approached her to pet and talk about the dog. “Kanika gave Erin a lot of social interaction, whether that was with adults or with peers at school,” says Kathy. “Erin had some limitations for experiencing the world, but Kanika brought the world to her.”

Kanika spent the first two years of her life training to be a service dog with Canine Companions for Independence, a national nonprofit organization. Selected for her gentle temperament, she learned to refrain from barking, remain calm even when startled and respond to thirty distinct commands. She was matched with Erin over a two-week period, during which Kathy and Erin spent eight hours a day learning how to work with Kanika.

that petting Kanika provides physical benefits for those who suffer from arthritis and that many residents enjoy reminiscing about their own pets while rubbing Kanika’s soft ears.

There is a growing body of scientific research documenting the physical and mental health benefits of animal-assisted therapy. Interactions between dogs and humans are credited with lowering people’s blood pressure, easing pain or anxiety, enhancing memory, encouraging socialization, decreasing stress and improving motor skills.

With Kathy and Kanika, it’s obvious that these two have the unique ability to spread happiness wherever they go.

P H OTO C RE DIT: LOU I S E S C H L E S I NGE R

When Erin passed away, Kathy felt a responsibility to keep Kanika’s extraordinary skills current and put them to use in the community. In addition to their weekly visits to Grandview, Kathy and Kanika regularly call on residents at Bell Trace Assisted Living Center. Kathy points out

GRANDVI EW ELEM ENTARY ST UD ENT MASO N HAY ES GETS READY TO WALK KANI KA T HRO UGH T HE SCHO O L HALLS.

Want to learn more?

Many different kinds of animals can be trained for animal-assisted therapy, but dogs are most commonly used. In order to be certified by a national organization, such as Pet Partners, or a local organization, such as the Monroe County Humane Association’s VIPaws program, both the animal and the handler must first be evaluated as having the appropriate disposition for the work. Extensive training follows and often includes investing in special equipment for the dog.

In addition to training and certification, animal-assisted therapy organizations also provide liability insurance for registered volunteers as they visit nursing homes, healthcare facilities, libraries, schools, camps, university classrooms and dormitories. The Bloomington-based VIPaws program, which also registers cat therapy teams, matches requests from local organizations with their active animal-assisted therapy teams. If you are interested in exploring this volunteer service opportunity, learn more at www.monroehumane.org or contact Leslie Hudson, Humane Education and Outreach Coordinator, at (812) 333-6242 or lhudson@monroehumane.org.

Therapy dogs provide comfort and joy to improve people’s lives. They often have specific training, such as the Monroe County Public Library’s program, ARF! – Animal Reading Friends.

Service dogs receive the most rigorous level of training to perform specific tasks for individuals with physical or mental challenges. Service dogs are allowed by federal law to go with the person they serve into public places.

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GUIDES

BLOOMINGTON’S BEST PARKS GREAT DESTINATIONS FOR YOUR SUMMER BUCKET LIST!

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ummers are meant to be spent outdoors, and our community is fortunate to have a plethora of outdoor recreational opportunities. Whether your family is into hiking the wilderness, hitting the playground or riding water slides at the pool, you’ve got multiple options all around town. So many options, in fact, that it may be hard to sort through them!

We’ve done the legwork for you, with our list of the best local parks and outdoor recreational spaces for families.

BRYAN PARK

BY JUL I E WA R R EN , D I R EC TO R O F TO U R I S M , V I S I T B LO O M I N GTO N

1100 S. Woodlawn Ave. The crown jewel in the Bloomington Parks & Recreation Department’s very large inventory of great parks, Bryan Park has more amenities than we can fit here but the highlights include a huge pool with slides, three playgrounds and lots of grassy fields for games. This 33-acre park is conveniently located close to the center of town. Families love this park because of the variety of amenities and age-specific playgrounds and swimming areas. It’s also a perfect venue for parties since the pool and shelters are available for rent. Be sure to mark your calendar for the Sunday evening concerts hosted by the parks department this summer too.

KARST FARM PARK 2450 S. Endwright Rd.

KARST FA RM PARK

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The Monroe County Parks & Recreation Department doesn’t have quite as many parks as the city, but they certainly have some outstanding ones, including the massive 122-acre Karst Farm Park. This park features three playgrounds with areas designed for smaller kids and exciting slides for bigger siblings. A disc golf course, a dog park (membership required), a walking trail, and an especially cool (and free) splash pad with spray features are also available.

motorized boats allowed) and the 1,200 acres of quiet forest surrounding it that make for a magical setting, all just a few minutes from the busy downtown area.

The nearly 11 miles of trails are rated from easy to moderate difficulty, so even little ones can hoof it. The boathouse rents canoes and kayaks from spring through fall for even more active recreational options.

PAYNETOWN STATE RECREATION AREA Off of St. Rd. 446 Monroe Lake offers a number of recreational opportunities, but Paynetown SRA is a great pick for the best all-in-one destination. You can find a swimming

LOWER CASCADES PA R K

UPPER & LOWER CASCADES PARKS 2602 N. Kinser Pike & 2851 N. Old St. Rd. 37 Lower Cascades Park was the first city park, dedicated in 1924, and continues to be one of the most popular. It features a huge playground with some intense slides and a challenging climbing apparatus for older kids, plus equipment for the younger set. The limestone shelter houses are great for parties, and there’s a waterfall nestled in the trees that kids love to see (or splash in, despite protests from parents).

Upper Cascades has the city’s only skate park, plus a fun playground surrounded by trees and a golf course.

SHERWOOD OAKS PARK 1600 E. Elliston Dr. This park could be on the Hidden Gems list, as very few residents seem to know it exists. The Sherwood Oaks Park offers a playground, tennis courts, basketball goals and one shelter, plus connections to the Jackson Creek trail. One unique attribute here that kids will love are the

beach, boat rentals, hiking trails, plus primitive and RV camping with a playground nearby. One of the best things about this SRA is all the programming those goes on year-round, from guided tours highlighting the wildlife in the area to arts and crafts projects. There’s a $7 gate fee from spring through fall, or you can buy a DNR annual pass for $50 and have access to all the state parks.

There’s no shortage of fun to be had at our area parks – so get outside and make the most of it with your crew this summer!

Visit your “tried and true” destinations and explore a new park or two to discover a new family favorite. Enjoy!

butterflies that are attracted to the native plant garden. Even when it’s not filled with butterflies, the garden is a great educational opportunity, complete with interpretive signs.

WALDRON, HILL & BUSKIRK PARK 331 S. Washington St. This park isn’t especially big, nor does it have huge playgrounds or fancy equipment, but the downtown location makes it an awesome choice when the kids need some space to run around when you’re in between dinner and a show. The playground has multiage apparatuses, and green space for games or free play. On Friday evenings in the summer, the park hosts free concerts on the outdoor stage, and that green grass makes for a great dance floor!

GRIFFY LAKE NATURE PRESERVE 3300 N. Headley Rd. This little lake packs a big punch with kids!

There’s something about the still water (no

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GUIDES

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ant to spark a new interest in your child? The Bloomington area has an abundance of after school programs kids can get excited about. Here are a few you’ll want to check out:

WHAT’S COOL AFTER SCHOOL FUN ACTIVITIES FOR YOUR STUDENT TO TRY!

BY K . F. C A R L S O N

beCAUSE Art Gallery and Studio is a local favorite for art classes. The studio is located in the basement of another area favorite, the Pourhouse, so parents can relax with a cup of coffee upstairs while kids learn the fundamentals of artistic expression. www.becausebloomington.com

Bloomington United Gymnastics School, or BUGS, offers tumbling, gymnastics and soccer. Competitive team gymnastics is also available for levels 3-10. www.bugsgym.com Girls Inc. has many options for girls K-12 for summer and after school enrichment, educational programs and organized sports leagues. Activities are available between

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Stafford Music Academy lets your child discover a love of music through a host of instruments including piano, guitar, drums, violin, trumpet…to name just a few! Inhome lessons are also available. www.staffordmusicacademy.com Stages Bloomington provides quality theater education and performance opportunities in acting, dance and music for children and teens. A “Teen Artists in Residence” program also exists for older kids. www.stagesbloomington.com Up-N-Over Stables is designed for your horse-loving child. They offer horseback riding lessons for beginners up to experienced riders. Private and group lessons are available. www.upnoverstable.com

Bloomington ATA Martial Arts offers a “Karate for Kids” program based on traditional Taekwondo. The course also emphasizes the development of life skills such as self-control, confidence, perseverance and integrity. www.bloomingtonata.com Bloomington Parks and Recreation offers the whole family a host of activities from organized team sports to age-specific programming to special events throughout the year. www.bloomington.in.gov

open gym times available too. www.risingstargymnasticsclub.com

3:00-6:00 p.m. every day, with transport from MSCSCC school system. www.girlsinc-monroe.org Kicks Unlimited is a popular dance studio in Bloomington providing hip hop, tap and cheer dance lessons. Children can participate in classes as young as one year old. Summer camps and regular parent nights out are available too. www.kicksdance.com Monroe Country Public Library has many unique programs promoting literacy at its two locations. Lego club and pajama story times are great for young children while older kids can play ping pong or read a book in the teen lounge. Homework help

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is also available for kids and teens. www.mcpl.info Monroe County YMCA offers an array of after school programs: soccer, basketball, tee ball at the main gymnasiums and dance class and gymnastic programs at the gymnastics center. Swim lessons are also available. Programs accommodate most children from preschool to high school. The YMCA also offers adapted programs for children with disabilities. www.monroecountyymca.org Rising Star provides developmental, recreational and competitive gymnastics for both boys and girls and competitive teams for levels 3-10. Birthday parties and

Windfall Dancers gives students a comprehensive introduction to dance.

Classes include ballet, tap, hip hop, modern, jazz and musical theater. Children as young as three can start in the Creative Movement class to learn beginning dance elements. www.windfalldancers.wordpress.com Bloomington kids are fortunate to live in a city where there are so many more exciting things to do after school than watch TV! The right after school activity can engage a student in ways that their traditional school day may not – so find something your child finds appealing and see where their new interest takes them!

A WACKY CALENDAR FOR SUMMER

AUGUST 8/2

ICE CREAM SANDWICH DAY THE BEST KIND OF SANDWICH THERE IS!

8/3 WATERMELON DAY DID YOU KNOW THAT THERE IS AN OFFICIAL HOLIDAY FOR JUST ABOUT ANYTHING YOU CAN THINK OF? HERE ARE A FEW FUN DAYS WORTH CELEBRATING THIS SUMMER!

JULY 7/3

COMPLIMENT YOUR MIRROR DAY BECAUSE YOU REALLY DO LOOK WONDERFUL!

7/6 FRIED CHICKEN DAY WITH A SIDE OF MASHED POTATOES PERHAPS?

7/7

STRAWBERRY SUNDAE DAY DON’T FORGET THE WHIPPED CREAM!

7/10 TEDDY BEAR PICNIC DAY WHAT IS TEDDY’S FAVORITE SNACK?

HOW FAR CAN YOU SPIT THE SEEDS?

8/6 WIGGLE YOUR TOES DAY BECAUSE THEY NEED EXERCISE TOO!

8/7 FRIENDSHIP DAY TELL YOUR FRIEND WHY HE OR SHE IS SO SPECIAL.

7/20

8/9

WORLD JUMP DAY

BOOK LOVERS DAY

HOW HIGH CAN YOU JUMP TODAY?

HEAD TO THE LIBRARY WITH THE OTHER BIBLIOPHILES!

8/16

HAMMOCK DAY

TELL A JOKE DAY

7/26

COUSINS DAY HOW MANY COUSINS CAN YOU CELEBRATE WITH?

9/2 COLLEGE COLORS DAY

7/22 AHHH….A SNOOZE DOES SOUND GOOD.

SEPTEMBER

KNOCK, KNOCK…

GET THE CREAM AND CRIMSON OUT!

9/5

BE LATE FOR SOMETHING DAY YOU HAVE A VALID EXCUSE!

9/6

8/25 KISS & MAKE UP DAY LET’S DO THIS EVERY DAY!

FIGHT PROCRASTINATION DAY OR MAYBE JUST CELEBRATE TOMORROW . . .

9/13

KIDS TAKE OVER THE KITCHEN DAY STEP ASIDE MOM AND DAD!

9/16 PLAY DOH DAY WHAT WILL YOU MAKE?

9/19 TALK LIKE A PIRATE DAY AHOY, MATEY! TIME TO WALK THE PLANK!

9/26 BATMAN DAY SAME BAT TIME, SAME BAT CHANNEL. SOURCE WW.DAYSOFTHEYEAR.COM

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